bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantitative single-molecule study reveals site-specific photo-oxidation activities and kinetics on 2D g-C3N4
Authors: Wu Shuyang , Madridejos Jenica Marie L. , Lee Jinn-Kye , Xu Rong , Lu Yunpeng , Zhang Zhengyang
Published: March 2023

Single-molecule fluorescence imaging was applied to in situ quantify the photo-oxidation activities and kinetics at individual structural features of g-C3N4 at the nanoscale.
Amorphous vs. nanocrystalline calcium phosphate as efficient nanocarriers of elicitors in vineyards
Authors: Parra-Torrejón Belén , Salvachúa-de la Fuente Marta , Giménez-Bañón Maria J. , Moreno-Olivares Juan D. , Paladines-Quezada Diego F. , Bleda-Sánchez Juan A. , Gil-Muñoz Rocío , Ramírez-Rodríguez Gloria B. , Delgado-López José M.
Published: March 2023

The impact of the morphology, crystalline structure and surface charge of two calcium phosphate phases (i.e., amorphous, ACP and apatite, Ap) on their performance and efficiency as elicitor nanocarriers has been investigated in vineyards.
Surface basicity controls C–C coupling rates during carbon dioxide-assisted methane coupling over bifunctional Ca/ZnO catalysts
Authors: Filardi Leah R. , Yang Feipeng , Guo Jinghua , Kronawitter Coleman X. , Runnebaum Ron C.
Published: March 2023

Introduction of less than 1 mol% of calcium onto zinc oxide surfaces forms a moderately basic interface site with dramatically improved C–C coupling performance.
Diamondoid ether clusters in helium nanodroplets
Authors: Alić Jasna , Messner Roman , Alešković Marija , Küstner Florian , Rubčić Mirta , Lackner Florian , Ernst Wolfgang E. , Šekutor Marina
Published: March 2023

Self-assembly behavior of diamondoid ethers in helium nanodroplets is governed by interplay of London dispersion and hydrogen bonding.
Improvement of carbon dioxide electroreduction by crystal surface modification of ZIF-8
Authors: Zhang Ting , Liu Hong , Han Xu , Biset-Peiró Martí , Yang Yunhui , Imaz Inhar , Maspoch Daniel , Yang Bo , Morante Joan Ramon , Arbiol Jordi
Published: March 2023

Through the use of 2,5-dihydroxyterephthalic acid (DOBDC) as both an etching and a doping agent, a surface modified ZIF-8 (denoted as ZIF-8-5%) has been synthesized and used in the eCO2RR, showing a 2.5 times higher partial current and boosted faradaic efficiency.
Kinetics and products study of the reaction of Cl atoms with methyl dichloroacetate: reactivity, mechanism, and environmental implications
Authors: Straccia C Vianni G. , Rivela Cynthia B. , Blanco María B. , Teruel Mariano A.
Published: March 2023

Polychlorinated esters released to the atmosphere can suffer photooxidation, that lead persistent Cl-containing compounds, with harmful effects to the environment at local, regional and global scale.
Facile construction of a 3D tumor model with multiple biomimetic characteristics using a micropatterned chip for large-scale chemotherapy investigation
Authors: Sun Meilin , Zhang Jinwei , Fu Wenzhu , Xuanyuan Tingting , Liu Wenming
Published: March 2023

We present a simple, controllable, stable, and massive production of 3D tumors with dimensional-uniformity and multiple biomimetic characteristics using a micropatterned chip.
Chiral-induced spin selectivity in biomolecules, hybrid organic–inorganic perovskites and inorganic materials: a comprehensive review on recent progress
Authors: Xu Yingdan , Mi Wenbo
Published: March 2023

The spin polarized transport properties of chiral organic biomolecules, hybrid organic–inorganic materials and inorganic materials are reviewed, where the theoretical mechanisms and experimental techniques of chiral induced spin selectivity are summarized.
Monitoring magnetic nanoparticle clustering and immobilization with thermal noise magnetometry using optically pumped magnetometers
Authors: Everaert Katrijn , Sander Tilmann , Körber Rainer , Löwa Norbert , Van Waeyenberge Bartel , Leliaert Jonathan , Wiekhorst Frank
Published: March 2023

We demonstrate the possibility of tracking clustering, aggregation, and immobilization processes of magnetic nanoparticles with high sensitivity by measuring their thermal magnetic noise spectra with optically pumped magnetometers.
Hydrophilic–hydrophobic hybrid gel for effective humidity capture and response
Authors: Ma Shu-Hua , Zeng Feng-Lian , Jin Xue-Ting , Dong Hui , Liu Min , Luo Yang-Hui
Published: March 2023

Efficient atmospheric water harvesting has been a focal point in the broad spectrum of water collection sources, to alleviate the challenges caused by water shortage.
Indirect electrochemical reductive cyclization ofo-halophenylacrylamides mediated by phenanthrene
Authors: Zhou Xue-Qi , Chen Pei-Bo , Xia Qiang , Xiong Ting-Kai , Li Xue-Jun , Pan Ying-Ming , He Mu-Xue , Liang Ying
Published: March 2023

We report a synthesis method for the selective 6-endocyclization ofo-phenylacrylamides to obtain 3,4-dihydroquinolinonesviaaryl anions formed by two-electron reduction under electrochemistry using phenanthrene as the reduction mediator.
Expression of concern: Natural steroid-based cationic copolymers cholesterol/diosgenin-r-PDMAEMAs and their pDNA nanoplexes: impact of steroid structures and hydrophobic/hydrophilic ratios on pDNA delivery
Authors: Wang Zhao , Sun Jingjing , Li Mingrui , Luo Ting , Shen Yulin , Cao Amin , Sheng Ruilong
Published: March 2023

Expression of concern for ‘Natural steroid-based cationic copolymers cholesterol/diosgenin-r-PDMAEMAs and their pDNA nanoplexes: impact of steroid structures and hydrophobic/hydrophilic ratios on pDNA delivery’ by Zhao Wang et al., RSC Adv., 2021, 11, 19450–19460, DOI: https://doi.org/10.1039/D1RA00223F.
A field guide to flow chemistry for synthetic organic chemists
Authors: Capaldo Luca , Wen Zhenghui , Noël Timothy
Published: March 2023

This review explores the benefits of flow chemistry and dispels the notion that it is a mysterious “black box”, demonstrating how it can push the boundaries of organic synthesis through the understanding of its governing principles.
Electronic and ionic effects of sulphur and other acidic adsorbates on the surface of an SOFC cathode material
Authors: Siebenhofer Matthäus , Nenning Andreas , Wilson George E. , Kilner John A. , Rameshan Christoph , Kubicek Markus , Fleig Jürgen , Blaha Peter
Published: March 2023

A combined experimental and computational approach reveals electronic and ionic effects of acidic adsorbates on mixed conducting oxide surfaces.
A transparent composite electrode composed of AgCr and Mo-doped GaZnO to realize flexible bottom-emitting OLEDs
Authors: Chiu Meng-Hsuan , Huang Dun-Cheng , Ho Cheng-Yung , Chuang I-Hsuan , Chen Yi-Ching , Hsiao Tzu-Hsin , Chang Chih-Hao
Published: March 2023

We propose a new flexible transparent composite electrode that uses an ultra-thin silver-chromium (AgCr) alloy film to increase the conductivity of a Mo-doped GaZnO (MGZO) thin film and to maintain high transmittance.
Wastewater-based surveillance of COVID-19 and removal of SARS-CoV-2 RNA across a major wastewater treatment plant in San Antonio, Texas
Authors: Al-Duroobi Haya , Vadde Kiran Kumar , Phan Duc C. , Moghadam Sina V. , Jafarzadeh Arash , Matta Akanksha , Giacomoni Marcio , Kapoor Vikram
Published: March 2023

This study contributes to the collective evaluation of SARS-CoV-2 RNA persistence and removal along the wastewater treatment stages of a treatment plant in San Antonio, Texas.
Macropinocytosis: mechanisms and regulation
Authors: Salloum Gilbert , Bresnick Anne R. , Backer Jonathan M.
Published: March 2023

Macropinocytosis is defined as an actin-dependent but coat- and dynamin-independent endocytic uptake process, which generates large intracellular vesicles (macropinosomes) containing a non-selective sampling of extracellular fluid. Macropinocytosis provides an important mechanism of immune surveillance by dendritic cells and macrophages, but also serves as an essential nutrient uptake pathway for unicellular organisms and tumor cells. This review examines the cell biological mechanisms that drive macropinocytosis, as well as the complex signaling pathways — GTPases, lipid and protein kinases and phosphatases, and actin regulatory proteins — that regulate macropinosome formation, internalization, and disposition.
Multi‐resonance dual‐polarised symmetrically cross‐slotted square patch antenna for 5G millimetre‐wave broadband applications
Authors: Wu Qi , Yu Haipeng , Yu Yiming , Gao Songtao , Yu Chen , Wang Haiming
Published: March 2023

A dual‐polarised symmetrically cross‐slotted square patch (SCSSP) antenna with multimode resonance is proposed for 5G millimetre‐wave broadband applications. A symmetrical cross‐slot is etched on the square patch surface to change the original E‐field distribution where a whole square patch is cut into four disconnected equal parts. For both polarisations, this etching also tunes the resonance frequencies of the two modes to be sufficiently close to each other. Therefore, the antenna can realize good impedance performance within the wide designated bandwidth. Dual‐polarised radiation of the SCSSP is vertically excited by three bow‐tie‐shaped slots and fed by two orthogonal substrate integrated coaxial lines. Simulated and measured results show that the fabricated prototype achieves a broad overlapped impedance bandwidth of 50.0% (24–40 GHz), isolation higher than 30 dB between the two input ports, stable radiation pattern, and low cross‐polarisation over the operating band. Moreover, the proposed SCSSP antenna with compact size, planar shape, and simple vertical feeding is very well‐suited for two‐dimensional array design.
Impact of smart photovoltaic inverter control modes on medium‐voltage grid voltage and inverter lifetime: An experimental approach
Authors: Mohamed Ahmed , Saadeh George , Kaviani Ali Kashefi
Published: March 2023

This study relies on an experimental approach, utilising real data from multiple photovoltaic (PV) sites located in the US Northeaster region, to inspect how different inverter reactive and active power settings impact gird voltage regulation and inverter life expectancy. These voltage regulation schemes come at a cost for the operator. Data from different solar sites with inverters running at different reactive and active power settings were analysed to compare operational trade‐offs. These trade‐offs range from production losses to shortening the lifetime of the inverters. Voltage versus reactive power plots were analysed to show production losses, while the thermal analysis was used to correlate with the inverter life expectancy.
Identification of key immune‐related genes and immune infiltration in diabetic nephropathy based on machine learning algorithms
Authors: Sun Yue , Dai Weiran , He Wenwen
Published: March 2023

Background

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a complication of diabetes. This study aimed to identify potential diagnostic markers of DN and explore the significance of immune cell infiltration in this pathology.

Methods

The GSE30528, GSE96804, and GSE1009 datasets were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified by merging the GSE30528 and GSE96804 datasets. Enrichment analyses of the DEGs were performed. A LASSO regression model, support vector machine recursive feature elimination analysis and random forest analysis methods were performed to identify candidate biomarkers. The CIBERSORT algorithm was utilised to compare immune infiltration between DN and normal controls.

Results

In total, 115 DEGs were obtained. The enrichment analysis showed that the DEGs were prominent in immune and inflammatory responses. The DEGs were closely related to kidney disease, urinary system disease, kidney cancer etc. CXCR2, DUSP1, and LPL were recognised as diagnostic markers of DN. The immune cell infiltration analysis indicated that DN patients contained a higher ratio of memory B cells, gamma delta T cells, M1 macrophages, M2 macrophages etc. cells than normal people.

Conclusion

Immune cell infiltration is important for the occurrence of DN. CXCR2, DUSP1, and LPL may become novel diagnostic markers of DN.
Forschung und Wissenschaft – Auch ein Abenteuer in der
medizinischen Radiologietechnologie?
Authors: Wiertz Michael
Published: March 2023

Das Motto des 104. Deutschen Röntgenkongresses 2023 lautet
„Abenteuer Forschung“. Auf den ersten Blick mögen
sich Angehörige der Berufsgruppe der MTRA wenig angesprochen
fühlen. Dies ist jedoch vorschnell geurteilt und ein Trugschluss,
wie der nachfolgende Artikel erläutert.
Wirksamkeit von Kinesiotape-Anlagen bei mechanisch induzierten Nackenschmerzen – ein systematischer Review
Authors: Tscharnke Tim , Loudovici-Krug Dana , Lemhöfer Christina , Best Norman
Published: March 2023

Hintergrund Dieser Artikel bietet eine Zusammenfassung des Wissensstandes zum Thema der sportspezifischen Anwendung einer Kinesiotape-Intervention bei Nackenschmerz, welcher durch die Halte- bzw. Sitzposition beim Radsport hervorgerufen wird. Die vorliegende Übersicht fasst die Forschungsliteratur über die Wirksamkeit von Kinesiotape-Anlagen (KTA) auf das Schmerzempfinden, die Druckschmerzschwelle und den Bewegungsumfang im Bereich der Nackenmuskulatur bzw. des Musculus trapezius zusammen. Der Fokus lag konkret auf Studien im Radsportbereich.

Methoden Die Literaturrecherche erfolgte in den Datenbanken PubMed und Google Scholar. Die in Kombination genutzten Suchbegriffe waren „kinesio-tape“ und „backpain“, „neck-pain“, „kinesio-tape“ und „Musculus trapezius“ sowie „kinesio-tape“ und „cycling“.

Ergebnisse Insgesamt hat die Kombination der Schlüsselwörter 892 Ergebnisse geliefert. Davon hat die Suche in der Online-Datenbank von PubMed 192 Ergebnisse und in der Online-Datenbank von Google Scholar 700 Ergebnisse angezeigt. 874 Publikationen wurden aufgrund fehlender Spezifik und einem nicht den Anforderungen entsprechenden Anwendungsgebiet aussortiert. Drei weitere Studien sind als ,,doppelt“ eliminiert worden. 15 Studien haben die Einschlusskriterien erfüllt. Diese wurden inhaltlich und detailliert analysiert. Lediglich eine Studie setzt sich mit der Problematik des mechanisch induzierten Nackenschmerzes beim Radfahren auseinander. Die Wirkung des Kinesiotapes bezieht sich dabei auf eine Reduktion der Schmerzwahrnehmung und eine Aufrechterhaltung des zervikalen Bewegungsumfangs.

Schlussfolgerung Zahlreiche Studien befassen sich mit der Problematik von Schmerzzuständen und wie diesen mithilfe einer geeigneten KTA entgegengewirkt werden kann. Nur ein geringer Teil bietet Einblicke über die Wirksamkeit einer geeigneten Anwendung des Kinesiotapes bei mechanisch induzierten Nackenschmerzen.
Evaluation of Tuberculosis Risk under Interleukin-1 Inhibitor Agents
in Patients with Autoinflammatory Diseases: Experience from a Region with
Moderate Tuberculosis Prevalence
Authors: Karakaş Özlem , Dogan İsmail , Güven Serdar Can , Erel Şule , Erten Sukran
Published: March 2023

Background We aimed to investigate the rate of TBC reactivation in
patients with autoinflammatory conditions who had been followed up under
treatment with IL-1 antagonists in our clinic. We further aimed to evaluate
whether latent TBC screening and isoniazid prophylaxis before IL-1 inhibitor
treatment is beneficial in the prevention of reactivation.

Patients and Methods This study was designed as a cross-sectional and
observational study. It received the approval of the local ethics committee and
was therefore performed in accordance with the ethical standards laid down in
the 1964 Declaration of Helsinki and its later amendments. Adult patients who
had been followed up in our clinic under treatment with IL-1 antagonists were
evaluated with regard to whether they had a TBC infection before and after these
treatments and whether they had been screened for latent TBC infection before
IL-1 antagonist treatment and received prophylaxis. Clinical and laboratory data
were obtained from hospital records and via telephone interviews after the
patients had given their verbal consent to participate.

Results Fifty-nine patients under IL-1 antagonists were consecutively
enrolled. 58 were under follow-up with the diagnosis of familial Mediterranean
fever and one patient with a diagnosis of adult-onset Still’s disease.
35 patients (59.3%) were treated with anakinra and 24 (40.7%)
were treated with canakinumab. 12 (50%) of the canakinumab users had
previously received anakinra treatment and were switched to canakinumab due to
side-effects or ineffectiveness. The number of patients who underwent latent
tuberculosisc infection (LTBI) screening before treatment was 37
(62.7%); the number of patients who received prophylaxis was 13
(22%). None of the patients receiving IL-1 antagonists developed active
tuberculosis.

Conclusion Blocking the IL-1 pathway may be safe regarding the activation
of LTBI or development of a new tuberculosis infection even in locations with a
high geographical risk.
Generalized Infantile Myofibromatosis with Extensive Small Bowel
Involvement in a Neonate
Authors: Schubert Judit Pauline , Wößmann Wilhelm , Königs Ingo , Clauditz Till , Kordes Uwe , Reinshagen Konrad
Published: March 2023

Infantile myofibromatosis is a rare benign congenital tumour that often regresses
spontaneously but may pose therapeutic challenges in its widespread visceral
form. We present the case of a full-term neonate with generalized infantile
myofibromatosis including ubiquitous subcutaneous and muscular nodules, a tumour
in the mastoid and disseminated intestinal involvement. The intestinal tumours
led to a mechanical ileus with intestinal perforation within the first days of
life. After partial small bowel resection and necessary proximal jejunostomy the
boy was dependent on total parenteral nutrition. Chemotherapy with vinblastine
and methotrexate was started and was temporarily supplemented with imatinib.
Feeding stayed impossible despite tumour shrinkage. At the age of 4.5 months,
restoration of intestinal continuity with further stricturoplasties was
performed which – for the first time – allowed complete oral
feeding. Chemotherapy was continued for further two months. Currently, the child
is in good general condition with growth and further disease regression. This
report suggests that massive visceral involvement of infantile myofibromatosis
may require extensive intestinal surgery, as conservative therapy cannot resolve
the disease and its sequelae.
Assessment of YouTube Videos about Urethral Stricture and Its Management
Authors: Tokuc Emre , Kayar Ridvan , Artuk Ilker , Koc Senem , Topaktas Ramazan , Akyuz Mehmet , Kanberoglu Huseyin , Öztürk Metin İshak
Published: March 2023

Purpose To evaluate the reliability, transparency, usability and technical quality of videos about urethral stricture and its management in the most common video-sharing website “YouTube”.

Methods We performed a video search on YouTube using the keywords “Urethral Stricture”, “Internal Urethrotomy” and “Urethroplasty”. After excluding the videos that did not meet the inclusion criteria, demographic data of each video was recorded and assessed with the validated DISCERN questionnaire, the Journal of the American Medical Association Benchmark Score (JAMAs) and the Global Quality Score (GQS). Additionally, the Urethral Stricture Video Score was developed by two experienced surgeons to assess the technical aspects. Videos were also compared with a view to their source of upload.

Results A total of 177 videos were analysed. Videos from “University” and “Other” had a significantly higher view ratio and video power index (VPI) than the rest (all p<0.05). For all mentioned scores, even though the video sources of “Society” and “University” had significantly higher scores than the rest (all p<0.05), all scores remained at a low to moderate level at each group.

Conclusion Even though universities, societies and organisations tend to upload better videos about the management of urethral stricture in terms of general quality, reliability, transparency and technical aspects, the online visual content about urethral stricture and its management needs to be improved in order to provide more reliable and qualified information for both clinicians and patients.
HOPE and DREAM: A Two-Clinic NICU Follow-up Model
Authors: Carlton Katherine , Adams Samuel , Fischer Elizabeth , Foy Andrew , Heffelfinger Amy , Jozwik Jenna , Kim Irene , Koop Jennifer , Miller Lauren , Stibb Stacy , Cohen Susan
Published: March 2023

Objective The natural extension of inpatient-focused neonatal neurocritical care (NNCC) programs is the evaluation of long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes in the same patient population.

Clinical Design A dedicated and collaborative team of neonatologists, neonatal neurologists, neuropsychologists, neurosurgeons, physical medicine and rehabilitation physicians, and psychologists are necessary to provide personalized medicine, developmental assessments, and parental education for NNCC graduates. To achieve this goal, we devised a two-clinic follow-up model at Children's Wisconsin: HOPE (Healthy Outcomes Post-ICU Engagement) and DREAM: Developmentally Ready: Engagement for Achievement of Milestones) clinics. Those infants with significant neurologic diagnoses attend DREAM clinic, while all other high-risk neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) infants are seen in the HOPE clinic.

Conclusion These clinic models allow for a targeted approach to post-NICU care, which has improved family engagement and perceptions of value.

Key Points
Exposure to Maternal Diabetes during Pregnancy Is Associated with Aggravated Short-Term Neonatal and Neurological Outcomes following Perinatal Hypoxic–Ischemic Encephalopathy
Authors: Laval Nancy , Paquette Mariane , Talsmat Hamza , Marandyuk Bohdana , Wintermark Pia , Birca Ala , Pinchefsky Elana F , Tremblay Sophie
Published: March 2023

Objective Infants of diabetic mothers (IDM) are at higher risk of perinatal morbidities and glycemic instability, but the impact of maternal diabetes on neonatal and neurological short-term outcomes of neonates with hypoxic–ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) remains poorly described. Our objective was to determine the impact of maternal diabetes on neonatal and neurological short-term outcomes following neonatal HIE.

Study Design This was a retrospective single-center study including 102 term neonates with HIE who received therapeutic hypothermia (TH) treatment between 2013 and 2020. Multiple regression analysis was used to assess the relationship between the presence of maternal diabetes and short-term outcomes.

Results Neonates with HIE and maternal diabetes exposure had a significantly lower gestational age at birth (38.6 vs. 39.7 weeks of gestation, p = 0.005) and a significantly higher mean birth weight (3,588 ± 752 vs. 3,214 ± 514 g, p = 0.012). IDM with HIE were ventilated for longer duration (8 vs. 4 days, p = 0.0047) and had a longer neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) stay (18 vs. 11 days, p = 0.0483) as well as took longer time to reach full oral feed (15 vs. 7 days, p = 0.0432) compared with neonates of nondiabetic mother. Maternal diabetes was also associated with an increased risk of death or abnormal neurological examination at discharge in neonates with HIE (odds ratio: 6.41 [1.54–26.32]).

Conclusion In neonates with HIE, maternal diabetes is associated with an increased risk of death or short-term neonatal morbidities, such as longer duration of ventilation, prolonged neonatal stay, greater need for tube feeding, and being discharged with an abnormal neurological examination. Strategies to prevent, reduce, or better control maternal diabetes during pregnancy should be prioritized to minimize complications after perinatal asphyxia.

Key Points
Correlation of Meconium-Stained Amniotic Fluid and Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes between 37 to 39 and 40 to 42 Weeks of Gestational Age
Authors: Lavie Anat , Fisch Shira , Reicher Lee , Zohav Eyal , Maslovitz Sharon
Published: March 2023

Objective We aimed at assessing the association between meconium-stained amniotic fluid (MSAF) and adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes in early-term versus late-term pregnancies.

Study Design Early-term pregnancies (37–39 weeks of gestation) presented with MSAF were compared with late-term (40–42 weeks of gestation) pregnancies with MSAF. The groups were compared with respect to background characteristics, maternal outcomes, and neonatal outcomes. The composite neonatal outcome was the primary outcome of the study, and secondary outcomes included maternal and neonatal outcomes.

Results The early-term group comprised 239 women, compared with 362 women in the late-term group. The primary outcome did not differ between groups. We found a higher prevalence of gestational diabetes (8.37 vs. 3%, p < 0.05), a shorter second stage of labor (45.61 ± 54.67 vs. 65.82 ± 62.99 minutes, p < 0.05), and a longer hospital stay (2.84 ± 2.21 vs. 2.53 ± 1.26 days, p < 0.05) in the early-term group. Other maternal and neonatal characteristics and outcomes were not significantly different between the two groups.

Conclusion In term pregnancies complicated by MSAF, adverse neonatal and maternal delivery outcomes are equivalent, regardless of gestational age, and therefore, any term pregnancy complicated by MSAF should be considered high risk and managed appropriately.

Key Points
On the Reaction Mechanism of the Selective C(sp3)–H Functionalization of N-Benzylpiperidines Mediated by TEMPO Oxoammonium Cation
Authors: Romero-Ibañez Julio , Sandoval-Lira Jacinto , Sartillo-Piscil Fernando , Cruz-Gregorio Silvano , Hernández-Pérez Julio M. , Quintero Leticia
Published: March 2023

The selective and dual C(sp3)–H oxidation of N-heterocycles to their corresponding 3-alkoxyamino lactams mediated by TEMPO oxoammonium cation (TEMPO+) is turning into a convenient nonmetallic strategy for the rapid functionalization of piperidines and pyrrolidines to bioactive alkaloids. Mechanistic proposal suggests that TEMPO+ prefers to oxidize the endocyclic C–Hα bond of either N-substituted piperidines or pyrrolidines to their corresponding endocyclic iminium intermediates, which are transformed into enamine intermediates, and then trapped by oxoammonium cation. Although the product formation seems to be in concordance with this mechanistic rationale, neither experimental evidence nor theoretical calculations have been reported. Accordingly, the current investigation provides computational findings explaining that the origin of the selective C–Hα oxidation can be attributed to an unprecedented C–H···π interaction between two hydrogen atoms of TEMPO+ with the aromatic ring of the piperidine benzyl group. To prove the existence of the enamine intermediate, we developed an unprecedented transition-metal-free tetra C–H oxidation of two N-benzyl-4-methylenepiperidines. Accordingly, the existence of the elusive enamine intermediate was attained by generating a transitory dienamine intermediate, which was trapped by TEMPO+ and NaClO2­ to give the corresponding 4-(aminooxymethyl)-3,4-epoxy-2-piperidone.
Photocatalyst-Free, Visible-Light-Mediated C–H Perfluoroalkylation of Quinazolin-4(3H)-ones with perfluoroalkyl Iodides
Authors: Fruit Corinne , Delouche Thomas , Gadiry-Diallo Abdoul , Besson Thierry , Ogoshi Sensuke
Published: March 2023

A practical and sustainable photocatalyst-free protocol for photoinduced synthesis of perfluoroalkylated quinazolin-4(3H)-ones is described starting from quinazolin-4(3H)-ones. A wide range of substituted or fused-quinazolinones is found to be compatible, providing the corresponding mono- and bis-perfluoroalkylated compounds in moderate yields. This visible-light-mediated C–H perfluoroalkylation allows an environmentally friendly and straightforward access to an array of unprecedented functionalized quinazolinone scaffolds, presenting attractive features for drug discovery. Control experiments demonstrated that a radical mechanism is involved in the reaction mechanism.
An Abbreviated History of Aldosterone Metabolism, Current and Future
Challenges
Authors: Gomez-Sanchez Celso E , Gomez-Sanchez Elise P
Published: March 2023

The initial isolation of adrenal steroids from large quantities of animal
adrenals resulted in an amorphous fraction resistant to crystallization and
identification and had potent effects on electrolyte transport. Aldosterone was
eventually isolated and identified in the fraction and was soon shown to cause
hypertension when in excess. The autonomous and excessive production of
aldosterone, primary aldosteronism, is the most common cause of secondary
hypertension. Aldosterone is metabolized in the liver and kidney, and its
metabolites are conjugated with glucuronic acid for excretion. The most common
liver metabolite is 3α,5β-tetrahydroaldosterone-3-glucuronide,
while that of the kidney is aldosterone-18-oxo-glucuronide. In terms of their
value, especially the aldosterone-18-oxo-glucuronide, is commonly used for the
diagnosis of primary aldosteronism because they provide an integrated value of
the total daily production of aldosterone. Conversion of aldosterone to
18-oxo-glucuronide is impeded by drugs, like some common non-steroidal
anti-inflammatory drugs that compete for UDP-glucuronosyltransferase-2B7, the
most important glucuronosyltransferase for aldosterone metabolism.
Tetrahydroaldosterone is the most abundant metabolite and the most reliable for
the diagnosis of primary aldosteronism, but it is not commonly measured.
Recent Trends in Incidence and Outcomes for Acute Myocarditis in Children in the United States
Authors: Singh Kalpana , Lutfi Riad , Parent John J. , Rogerson Colin , Yabrodi Mouhammad
Published: March 2023

Lack of defined diagnostic criteria for acute myocarditis makes its diagnosis dependent on clinical suspicion. The objective of this study was to the current trends in demographics, clinical manifestations, treatments, and outcomes in the United States for children hospitalized with acute myocarditis. This retrospective study was conducted using data collected from the Pediatric Health Information System database for the years 2014 to 2020. We included patients 21 years of age or younger with acute myocarditis. The statistical analysis was performed using chi-squared test and continuous variables using Mann–Whitney's U-test for continuous data comparisons. We found 1,199 patients with acute myocarditis. About 60% of patients required admission to the intensive care unit (ICU). The median hospital length of stay was 4 days for all patients and 6 days for ICU patients. Two hundred sixty-five (22.1%) patients required invasive mechanical ventilation, 127 (10.6%) required extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, 33 (2.8%) required ventricular assist device, and 22 (1.8%) required cardiac transplantations. Milrinone was the most used vasoactive agent. The overall hospital mortality was 2.3%. Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) infusion use decreased during the study period. On multivariate analysis, vasoactive medication use (p < 0.01) and arrhythmia (p = 0.02) were independently associated with increased odds of mortality. IVIG use (p = 0.01) was associated with decreased odds of mortality. Despite high morbidity and frequent need for advanced life support measures, the survival outcomes of acute myocarditis in children are favorable. Vasoactive medication support and occurrence of arrythmia were independently associated with mortality, most likely due to disease severity. Administration of IVIG was independently associated with reduced mortality. The Clinical trial registration is not applicable.
Confirmation of Safety of Titanium Wire in Sternotomy Closure, A Randomized Prospective Study
Authors: Eraqi Mohamed , Diab Abdel Hannan , Matschke Klaus , Alexiou Konstantin
Published: March 2023

Background There are many factors that are known to increase the risk of sternal wound infection (SWI); some studies have reported that nickel is a risk factor for SWI. Titanium wires have only been used as an alternative to steel wires in patients with known allergy to nickel. However, there is a paucity of literature regarding the safety of using titanium wires compared to that on the safety of steel wires for sternum closure after cardiac surgery. Therefore, this study aimed to demonstrate the noninferiority of titanium wires, even in patients without a known allergy.

Methods A total of 322 patients who underwent elective full median sternotomy were randomly assigned to sternal closure either by titanium wires (n = 161) or by stainless steel wires.

Results Fourteen patients had sternal instability, six (3.7%) patients in the titanium group and eight (5%) patients in the stainless steel group (p = 0.585). There was no statistically significant difference between both groups in terms of postoperative wound infection (p = 0.147). Patients in the titanium group experienced statistically significant lower postoperative pain than those in the stainless steel group (p = 0.024). The wire type was not an independent risk factor for SI, as shown by univariate and logistic regression analyses.

Conclusion Titanium wires are a good alternative and have been proven to be safe and effective for sternal closure. The surgeon should be aware of the possibility of developing an allergic reaction to the wires, especially in patients with previous multiple allergic histories.
Intersectionality: Understanding the Interdependent Systems of Discrimination and Disadvantage
Authors: King-Mullins Erin , Maccou Elana , Miller Pringl
Published: March 2023

The fight for gender equity in surgery extends well beyond the simplistic binary construct of man versus woman. Professor Kimberlé Crenshaw coined the term “intersectionality,” which is used to describe the dynamic associations between the concepts of race, class, gender, and other individualized characteristics and their real-time interaction with one another in our society. Our review of intersectional identities among medical professionals attempts to examine the trends of difficulties at the intersections of an individual's identity within academic surgery, leadership in academic surgery, and the effects on patient outcomes in the United States. Specifically, we will focus on the interaction of race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, family, disability, and international status. Much more research focused specifically on intersectional groups is required to statistically identify to what degree overlapping identities impact professional and patient care outcomes. Recognition of the problem and candid discussions will allow for vast improvements not only in surgical culture, but also in surgical care.
Assessment of the Web Site Availability and Content of Pediatric Ophthalmology Fellowship Programs: A Cross-Sectional Nationwide Study
Authors: Kim Anne B. , Cheng Brian T. , Chan Kyle S. , Kurup Sudhi P.
Published: March 2023

Background Fellowship program Web sites are a crucial source of information for prospective pediatric ophthalmology applicants, especially in light of the restrictions on in-person interactions due to the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic.

Objective This study examined all pediatric ophthalmology fellowship Web sites for availability and presented recruitment and training content.

Methods A full list of all pediatric ophthalmology and strabismus (POAS) fellowship programs were compiled from the Association of University Professors of Ophthalmology (AUPO) directory and the San Francisco Match (SFMatch) application listing. Each fellowship was queried by Google Internet search to identify the program's corresponding Web site. The content of Web sites was evaluated using 20 predetermined recruitment and training criteria. All data were collected in February 2022. Kruskal–Wallis and Mann–Whitney U tests were constructed to examine differences by geographic location, program size, number of teaching faculty, and affiliation with a top ophthalmology residency program.

Results There were 45 pediatric ophthalmology fellowships identified from the AUPO and SFMatch. All pediatric ophthalmology fellowships had an available program Web site. However, there was significant variability in content, and the average Web site had approximately half of the evaluated criteria. POAS Web sites reported a greater number of recruitment criteria than program training criteria. There were no differences by program size, number of faculty, affiliation with a top residency program, or geographic location in the number of observed criteria.

Conclusions This study provides data to drive efforts to improve pediatric ophthalmology fellowship Web sites. Pediatric ophthalmology fellowship Web sites are missing important information, and there are opportunities to improve program Web sites, regardless of program size, number of faculty, affiliation with a top residency, and geographic location. Informative, accurate Web sites may attract qualified candidates, and as a result, elevate the likelihood that interviewed candidates are well-suited to the program. As such, improvements to fellowship Web sites can streamline the application process and increase a program's success rate in the match.
Laser induced emission of NdAlO3 nanocrystals in vacuum, air, and liquid N2
Authors: Gonçalves J. M. , Stefanski M. , Tomala R. , Stręk W.
Published: March 2023

The broadband laser induced white emission (LIWE) spectra of NdAlO3 nanocrystals in vacuum, air, and liquid N2 were explored. In particular, their dependence on excitation laser power was investigated. It was found that the LIWE spectra intensity increased exponentially the with laser power above the excitation threshold in all three cases. The process for NdAlO3 nanocrystals was discussed in terms of multiphoton ionization assisted by ejection of hot electrons. Two differences were observed depending on the conditions: the number of photons involved in the emission was higher in liquid N2 due to additional multiphoton ionization contribution of N2. Also, threshold value for LIWE showed an increasing behavior in air and liquid N2, discussed in terms of relative permittivity and thermal dissipation.
Exploring the impact of structure-sensitive factors on luminescence and absorption of trivalent rare earth embedded in disordered crystal structures of Gd3Ga5O12–Gd3Al5O12 and Lu2SiO5–Gd2SiO5 solid solution crystals
Authors: Lisiecki R. , Komar J. , Macalik B. , Strzęp A. , Berkowski M. , Ryba-Romanowski W.
Published: March 2023

High resolution spectra of optical absorption and luminescence were recorded at temperatures below 6 K for Pr3+, Sm3+, Er3+, and Yb3+ ions embedded in Gd3Ga5O12–Gd3Al5O12 and Lu2SiO5–Gd2SiO5 solid solution crystals fabricated by the Czochralski method. Detailed analysis of acquired spectral bands related to transitions between the lowest energy components (0–0) lines of initial and terminal multiplets provided quantitative information regarding bandwidths, peak transition energies and number of band components. Combination of these data with structural peculiarities of the hosts made it possible to propose the interpretation of optical interaction in systems under study.
Mixtures of ultracold atomic gases in optical lattices with nonzero pair or counterflow hopping
Authors: Anufriiev S. , Zaleski T. A.
Published: March 2023

We study the critical behavior of a mixture of two species of lattice bosons described by the extended Bose–Hubbard model. Our goal is to analyze in which conditions exotic orderings like pair superfluid or counterflow superfluid could be detected. We use a numerical method based on mean field approximation to calculate the phase diagram of the system, along with particle density, and order parameter profiles in selected multicritical points. We observe that the phase diagram becomes significantly renormalized in the presence of pair flow or counterflow. Furthermore, a critical particle density emerges, which isolates a new region of the phase diagram, in which the exotic order parameter exists for any value of single-particle hopping.
Demonstration of self-aligned β-Ga2O3 δ-doped MOSFETs with current density >550 mA/mm
Authors: Kalarickal Nidhin Kurian , Dheenan Ashok , McGlone Joe F. , Dhara Sushovan , Brenner Mark , Ringel Steven A. , Rajan Siddharth
Published: March 2023

We report on the design and fabrication of β-Ga2O3 self-aligned lateral MOSFETs by utilizing a heavily doped β-Ga2O3 cap layer. The fabrication of the self-aligned device used a combination of in situ Ga etching for damage free gate recess, in situ growth of Al2O3 for gate dielectric, and atomic layer deposited Al2O3 based sidewall spacers to form highly scaled (<100 nm) source–gate and gate–drain access regions. The fabricated device showed a record high DC drain current density of 560 mA/mm at a drain bias of 5 V. The DC current density was found to be limited by excessive self-heating resulting in premature current saturation in the device. Pulsed I–V measurements of the device showed a record high current density of 895 mA/mm and a high transconductance of 43 mS/mm, thanks to reduced self-heating in the device. The high current densities obtained in this work are promising for the development of high power density devices based on β-Ga2O3.
Dynamic modulation of thermal emission—A Tutorial
Authors: Picardi Michela F. , Nimje Kartika N. , Papadakis Georgia T.
Published: March 2023

Thermal emission is typically associated with a blackbody at a temperature above absolute zero, which exchanges energy with its environment in the form of radiation. Blackbody thermal emission is largely incoherent both spatially and temporally. Using principles in nanophotonics, thermal emission with characteristics that differ considerably from those of a blackbody has been demonstrated. In particular, by leveraging intrinsic properties of emerging materials or via nanostructuring at the wavelength or sub-wavelength scale, one can gain control over the directionality, temporal coherence, and other more exotic properties of thermal radiation. Typically, however, these are fixed at the time of fabrication. Gaining dynamic control of thermal emission requires exploiting external mechanisms that actively modulate radiative properties. Numerous applications can benefit from such thermal emission control, for example, in solar energy harvesting, thermo-photovoltaic energy conversion, radiative cooling, sensing, spectroscopy, imaging, and thermal camouflage. In this Tutorial, we introduce thermal emission in two domains: the far-field and the near-field, and we outline experimental approaches for probing thermal radiation in both ranges. We discuss ways for tailoring the spatial and temporal coherence of thermal emission and present available mechanisms to actively tune these characteristics.
Machine learned interatomic potential for dispersion strengthened plasma facing components
Authors: Sikorski E. L. , Cusentino M. A. , McCarthy M. J. , Tranchida J. , Wood M. A. , Thompson A. P.
Published: March 2023

Tungsten (W) is a material of choice for the divertor material due to its high melting temperature, thermal conductivity, and sputtering threshold. However, W has a very high brittle-to-ductile transition temperature, and at fusion reactor temperatures (≥1000 K), it may undergo recrystallization and grain growth. Dispersion-strengthening W with zirconium carbide (ZrC) can improve ductility and limit grain growth, but much of the effects of the dispersoids on microstructural evolution and thermomechanical properties at high temperatures are still unknown. We present a machine learned Spectral Neighbor Analysis Potential for W–ZrC that can now be used to study these materials. In order to construct a potential suitable for large-scale atomistic simulations at fusion reactor temperatures, it is necessary to train on ab initio data generated for a diverse set of structures, chemical environments, and temperatures. Further accuracy and stability tests of the potential were achieved using objective functions for both material properties and high temperature stability. Validation of lattice parameters, surface energies, bulk moduli, and thermal expansion is confirmed on the optimized potential. Tensile tests of W/ZrC bicrystals show that although the W(110)–ZrC(111) C-terminated bicrystal has the highest ultimate tensile strength (UTS) at room temperature, observed strength decreases with increasing temperature. At 2500 K, the terminating C layer diffuses into the W, resulting in a weaker W–Zr interface. Meanwhile, the W(110)–ZrC(111) Zr-terminated bicrystal has the highest UTS at 2500 K.
Shear strain stabilized high-temperature metallic monoclinic VO2 variants with symmetry permission
Authors: Ji Yanda , Pan Rui , Chen Hanyang , Zhang Hongmeng , Zhao Run , Yuan Ye , Yang Hao
Published: March 2023

In this work, temperature-dependent in situ x-ray diffraction reciprocal space mappings are employed to reveal three-dimensional lattice shear deformation in epitaxial VO2 variants, and linear Lagrangian strain tensors of epitaxial lattices are deduced by metric tensors of the reciprocal space at various temperatures. An equilibrium modulated-monoclinic phase is identified above the critical temperature, which is permitted in a translationengleiche subgroup from high symmetry with an index of 4. Being different from the conventional low-temperature monoclinic phase, the high-temperature monoclinic phase presents a specific metallic feature, which is ascribed to the Mott–Hubbard and charge density wave mechanisms. Under the proposed general procedure, which precisely identifies the normal and shear strain status of deformed lattices, it is demonstrated that the structural symmetry reduction under shear deformation unambiguously acts as the origin of unexpected metallic modulated-monoclinic VO2 at high temperatures. Our results highlight the significance of precise detection and contribution of shear deformation in various fields of physics.
Microwave driven atmospheric water harvesting with common sorbents
Authors: Nepal Suman , Shahrokhian Aida , King Hunter
Published: March 2023

Using sorbent materials to separate and concentrate ambient humidity is a promising option for atmospheric water harvesting in the face of impending worldwide freshwater scarcity. The method of cycled sorption and forced release can facilitate efficient condensation, but performance strongly depends on device-scale issues of heat and mass transfer. We examine the potential of using microwave radiation to liberate sorbed vapor, in proof-of-concept experiments with hygroscopic salt-infused paper towel as simple sorbents. We quantify performance as a function of tunable system parameters and ambient humidity. Our results demonstrate promising aspects: both rapid desorption and regeneration, owing to water-tuned dielectric heating and directing flow through fibrous sorbent, respectively; substantial efficiency of moisture separation toward very low (∼25%) relative humidity; and robust repeatability over many cycles, due to the targeted energy input and retention of hygroscopic salt within the paper scaffold.
Organic photovoltaics: The current challenges
Authors: Lowrie William , Westbrook Robert J. E. , Guo Junjun , Gonev Hristo Ivov , Marin-Beloqui Jose , Clarke Tracey M.
Published: March 2023

Organic photovoltaics are remarkably close to reaching a landmark power conversion efficiency of 20%. Given the current urgent concerns regarding climate change, research into renewable energy solutions is crucially important. In this perspective article, we highlight several key aspects of organic photovoltaics, ranging from fundamental understanding to implementation, that need to be addressed to ensure the success of this promising technology. We cover the intriguing ability of some acceptors to undergo efficient charge photogeneration in the absence of an energetic driving force and the effects of the resulting state hybridization. We explore one of the primary loss mechanisms of organic photovoltaics—non-radiative voltage losses—and the influence of the energy gap law. Triplet states are becoming increasingly relevant owing to their presence in even the most efficient non-fullerene blends, and we assess their role as both a loss mechanism and a potential strategy to enhance efficiency. Finally, two ways in which the implementation of organic photovoltaics can be simplified are addressed. The standard bulk heterojunction architecture could be superseded by either single material photovoltaics or sequentially deposited heterojunctions, and the attributes of both are considered. While several important challenges still lie ahead for organic photovoltaics, their future is, indeed, bright.