bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel Insights into Enhanced Stability of Li‐Rich Layered and High‐Voltage Olivine Phosphate Cathodes for Advanced Batteries through Surface Modification and Electron Structure Design
Authors: Liang Zhili , Baubaid Abdulaziz , Radtke Mariusz , Mellin Maximilian , Maheu Clément , Maiti Sandipan , Sclar Hadar , Píš Igor , Nappini Silvia , Magnano Elena , Bondino Federica , Winkler Robert , Hausbrand René , Hess Christian , Alff Lambert , Markovsky Boris , Aurbach Doron , Jaegermann Wolfram , Cherkashinin Gennady
Published: December 2024

The design of cathode/electrolyte interfaces in high‐energy density Li‐ion batteries is critical to protect the surface against undesirable oxygen release from the cathodes when batteries are charged to high voltage. However, the involvement of the engineered interface in the cationic and anionic redox reactions associated with (de‐)lithiation is often ignored, mostly due to the difficulty to separate these processes from chemical/catalytic reactions at the cathode/electrolyte interface. Here, a new electron energy band diagrams concept is developed that includes the examination of the electrochemical‐ and ionization‐ potentials evolution upon batteries cycling. The approach enables to forecast the intrinsic stability of the cathodes and discriminate the reaction pathways associated with interfacial electronic charge‐transfer mechanisms. Specifically, light is shed on the evolution of cationic and anionic redox in high‐energy density lithium‐rich 0.33Li2MnO3·0.67LiNi0.4Co0.2Mn0.4O2 (HE‐NCM) cathodes, particularly those that undergo surface modification through SO2 and NH3 double‐gas treatment to suppress the structural degradation. The chemical composition and energy distribution of the occupied and unoccupied electronic states at the different charging/discharging states are quantitatively estimated by using advanced spectroscopy techniques, including operando Raman spectroscopy. The concept is successfully demonstrated in designing artificial interfaces for high‐voltage olivine structure cathodes enabling stable battery operation up to 5.1 V versus Li+/Li.
Optical Properties of Spin‐Coated Solution Processed MoS2
Authors: Almansoori Muntaser Abdelrahman , Abdul Hadi Sabina , Rezk Ayman , Askar Khalid , Nayfeh Ammar
Published: December 2024

In this study, the optical and structural properties of solution‐processed molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) thin films are explored. MoS2 is synthesized via chemical exfoliation and deposited on fused silica and silicon substrates using a spin‐coating technique. The morphology and structural properties of the films are characterized using scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy. Optical properties are examined through UV–vis and Raman spectroscopy. In the results, it is shown that the MoS2 thin films exhibit an indirect bandgap of 1.40 eV with over 60% absorption between 400 and 710 nm. Also, physics‐based optical modeling predicts a potential current generation of 25 mA cm−2 with full coverage of MoS2, indicating significant potential for solution‐processed MoS2 as an absorber layer in optoelectronic applications.
Confined water accelerated alkene epoxidation inside channels of Ti‐beta zeolite
Authors: Lin Dong , Zheng Xiuhui , Zong Ze , Xu Yang , He Qiuming , Ma Zhe , Chen De , Yang Chaohe , Feng Xiang
Published: December 2024

Comprehensive mechanistic explorations and profound understandings of the interactions between water molecules and active intermediates harbors tremendous significance in the field of zeolite catalysis. Herein, we envision a strategy to accelerate alkene epoxidation reactions (e.g., 1‐pentene, 1‐hexene, cyclohexene, cyclooctene) with preformed H2O2 inside confined channels of Ti‐beta by water molecules. Combined with in situ UV–vis, kinetic experiments, and DFT calculations, it is found that keen control of water molecules could effectively enhance H2O2 adsorption and stabilize crucial oxygen intermediates (Ti‐OOH) by hydrogen bonding interactions. As a result, the yields of corresponding epoxides increased up to 20.5%. However, excessive water clusters construct a dense and robust hydrogen‐bond network, blocking the activation of reactants and further epoxidation over Ti sites. This finding not only sheds new light on the mechanism of water‐accelerated reaction, but also opens up new opportunities to enhance the efficiency of industrial epoxidation reactions involving H2O2.
Electrochemical Dicarboxylation of Vinyl Epoxide with CO2 for the Facile and Selective Synthesis of Diacids
Authors: Yang Deyong , Sun Ying , Feng Nan , Zhong Yuqing , Zhou Jian , Zhou Feng
Published: December 2024

We present a novel electrochemical dicarboxylation of epoxides with CO2, characterized by the cleavage of two C−O single bonds. Not only are vinyl epoxides viable, but cyclic carbonates also serve as effective substrates, facilitating the synthesis of E‐configured adipic and octanedioic acids with high chemo‐, regio‐, and stereoselectivity. The synthetic practicality is further highlighted by the diverse functionalizations of the resulting multifunctional diacids. Mechanistic studies support the single‐electron transfer reduction of CO2 to its radical anion, which undergoes radical addition to the vinyl moiety of epoxides. The subsequent reductive cleavage of two C−O bonds, coupled with a nucleophilic attack on CO2, culminates in the formation of the desired diacid products.
Fabric Reinforced Polybenzoxazine Aerogel Composite With Lightweight, High Compressive Strength, and High‐Temperature Resistance to 1100°C
Authors: Liu Chun , Ji Hui , Wang Jing , Wang Mingkang , Xiao Yunyun , Zhang Sizhao , Ding Feng
Published: December 2024

High‐temperature resistance polymer composites are crucial for application in aerospace field. Polybenzoxazine (PBz) aerogel is a novel insulation material with excellent mechanical properties, low bulk density, and low thermal conductivity, which has potential application in thermal protection systems. However, the improvement of high residual char rates for shape‐keeping purposes at high‐temperature is still a critical challenge. Herein, a novel kind of PBz aerogel composite reinforced with mullite‐fiber fabric (PBZ‐MF) is prepared by sol‐immersion‐gel strategy. The prepared composite integrates the nanoporous structure of aerogel with the fascinating properties of mullite‐fiber fabric, resulting in relatively low thermal conductivity (0.0557–0.0647 W m−1 K−1 at 25°C and normal pressure), lightweight (0.41–0.47 g cm−3), outstanding flame resistance (self‐extinguishing time as short as 0.7 s), and high compressive modulus (20.611–32.656 MPa). Furthermore, PBz‐MF demonstrates exceptional high‐temperature resistance and shape‐keeping properties even at 1100°C. This work provides valuable insights into the development of lightweight insulation materials and expands the potential applications of aerogel composites in thermal protection systems within the aerospace field.
Effects of Infill Strategies on the Tensile Properties and Fracture Behavior of 3D‐Printed Polylactic Acid
Authors: Li Fazong , Ji Yingping , Wang Fei , Long Liangping , Huang Heng
Published: December 2024

In this study, eight infill strategies with multiple infilling modes (line, grid, and honeycomb) were used in manufacturing 3D printing of a polylactic acid (PLA) by fused deposition modeling (FDM) process, and the resulting surface topographies and tensile properties were reported. The results showed that the grid/line/grid and honeycomb/line/ honeycomb samples with sandwich structures had the best tensile fracture resistance, which depended directly on the degree of quality of the interlayer. Based on the analysis of the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of the fracture surface, the improving tensile properties of 3D samples in sandwich structures with line in core were attributed to effective raster, layer bonding, and fewer voids. The finite element (FE) simulation was performed on 3D‐printed parts to predict von Mises stress and tensile strength, which made it possible to reduce the design time to improve the tensile behavior of 3D‐printed structures.
Dopamine‐Assisted Polyethyleneimine Deposition Modification of Hypercrosslinked Polystyrene for Enhanced Adsorption of the Dye Congo Red
Authors: Huang Suning , Xie Zicheng , Zhu Haixin , Jiang Shanshan , Lu Sheng , Huang Yuewen , Wang Bin
Published: December 2024

Congo red dye wastewater is highly toxic and nondegradable, posing a significant threat to the environment. Hypercrosslinked porous materials (HCP) are effective candidates for the removal of dyes from wastewater. In this study, hypercrosslinked polystyrene (HCPS) with high specific area (1073.08 m2/g) was synthesized by using waste expanded polystyrene (EPS) as starting material. HCPS was then modified through a simple dopamine‐assisted deposition of polyethyleneimine, resulting in the modified material HCPS@PDA/PEI, which retained a significant specific surface area of 738.36 m2/g and a porous structure with abundant functional groups. HCPS@PDA/PEI exhibits remarkable efficacy as a high‐performance adsorbent for the removal of Congo red (CR) from aqueous solutions. The adsorption process of CR conforms to the pseudo‐second‐order kinetic model. Further fitting with the Langmuir isotherm model elucidates that the adsorption of CR occurs as a monolayer chemical adsorption, with a maximum adsorption capacity of 1030.31 mg/g, which is triple that of the unmodified HCPS (291.54 mg/g). The adsorption activation energy and thermodynamic parameters substantiate that the adsorption process is chemical in nature, spontaneous, and endothermic. Consequently, HCPS@PDA/PEI holds considerable promise for applications in the treatment of dye‐contaminated wastewater.
Deoxyvasicinone hybrids in the management of Alzheimer's disease: Recent advances on manmade derivatives, pharmacological activities, and structure–activity relationship
Authors: Gaur Ankur , Singh Yash Pal , Sharma Rajiv , Bainsal Neeraj
Published: December 2024

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a prevalent neurological illness that affects over 80% of aged adults globally in cases of dementia. Although the exact pathophysiological causes of AD remain unclear, its pathogenesis is primarily driven by several distinct biochemical alterations: (i) the accumulation of toxic Aβ plaques, (ii) the hyperphosphorylation of tau proteins, (iii) oxidative stress resulting in cell death, and (iv) an imbalance between the two main neurotransmitters, glutamate and acetylcholine (ACh). Currently, there are very few medications available and no treatment. Presently marketed medications include memantine, an N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate receptor (NMDA) antagonist, and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitors: rivastigmine, donepezil, and galantamine. Unfortunately, these medications are only useful in the initial stages of AD. The mentioned medications only provide symptomatic relief and do not slow down the disease progression in the advanced stages. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop potential candidates to treat AD, symptomatically and therapeutically. Many research groups focus on natural products due to their diverse therapeutic profiles and easy availability. One such natural product is deoxyvasicinone, isolated from Adhatoda vasica. Given its broad pharmacological profile, various researchers have developed semisynthetic hybrids of deoxyvasicinone to address multifaceted diseases like AD. In this review article, we tried to summarize the semisynthetic hybrids of deoxyvasicinone developed over the past decade (2014–2024) for managing AD. We focus on their design, pharmacological activity, and structure–activity relationship (SAR) analysis. We hope this review enhances the reader's understanding of future exploratory options for deoxyvasicinone hybrids in AD management.
College students' credibility assessments of GenAI‐generated information for academic tasks: An interview study
Authors: Choi Wonchan , Bak Hyerin , An Jiaxin , Zhang Yan , Stvilia Besiki
Published: December 2024

The study explored college students' use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools, such as ChatGPT, for academic tasks and their perceptions and behaviors in assessing the credibility of GenAI‐generated information. Semistructured interviews were conducted with 25 college students in the United States. Interview transcripts were analyzed using the qualitative content analysis method. The study identified various types of academic tasks for which students used ChatGPT, including writing, programming, and learning. Guided by two models of credibility assessment Hilligoss and Rieh (2008); Metzger (2007), six factors influencing students' motivation and ability to assess the credibility of GenAI‐generated information were identified (e.g., task salience, social pressure). We also identified 9 constructs (e.g., refinedness, explainability), 5 heuristics (e.g., inter‐ and intrasystem consistency heuristics), and 10 cues (e.g., version and tone) used by students to assess the credibility of GenAI‐generated information. This study provides theoretical and empirical findings regarding students' use of GenAI tools in the academic context and credibility evaluation of the system outputs using rich, qualitative interview data.
Acoustic Exaggeration Enhances Speech Discrimination in Young Autistic Children
Authors: Yu Luodi , Ban Lizhi , Yi Aiwen , Xin Jing , Li Suping , Wang Suiping , Mottron Laurent
Published: December 2024

Child‐directed speech (CDS), which amplifies acoustic and social features of speech during interactions with young children, promotes typical phonetic and language development. In autism, both behavioral and brain data indicate reduced sensitivity to human speech, which predicts absent, decreased, or atypical benefits of exaggerated speech signals such as CDS. This study investigates the impact of exaggerated fundamental frequency (F0) and voice‐onset time on the neural processing of speech sounds in 22 Chinese‐speaking autistic children aged 2–7 years old with a history of speech delays, compared with 25 typically developing (TD) peers. Electroencephalography (EEG) data were collected during passive listening to exaggerated and non‐exaggerated syllables. A time‐resolved multivariate pattern analysis (MVPA) was used to evaluate the potential effects of acoustic exaggeration on syllable discrimination in terms of neural decoding accuracy. For non‐exaggerated syllables, neither the autism nor the TD group achieved above‐chance decoding accuracy. In contrast, for exaggerated syllables, both groups achieved above‐chance decoding, indicating significant syllable discrimination, with no difference in accuracy between the autism and TD groups. However, the temporal generalization patterns in the MVPA results revealed distinct neural mechanisms supporting syllable discrimination between the groups. Although the TD group demonstrated a left‐hemisphere advantage for decoding and generalization, the autism group displayed similar decoding patterns between hemispheres. These findings highlight the potential of selective acoustic exaggeration to support speech learning in autistic children, underscoring the importance of tailored, sensory‐based interventions.
Associations of Serum Manganese, Zinc, Copper, and Selenium Concentrations With Autism Spectrum Disorders in Chinese Children: A Case–Control Study
Authors: Zhang Yong , Xie Fang , Li Sheng , Li Ying , Yang Liting , Wang Zhen , Lei Jinlin , Guo Huailan
Published: December 2024

Imbalances in several trace elements related to antioxidant function may lead to autism spectrum disorder (ASD)‐related physiological dysfunction. Nonetheless, contradictory results have been found on the connection between these elements and ASD, and studies of their joint effects and interactions have been insufficient. We therefore designed a case–control study of 152 ASD children and 152 age‐ and sex‐matched typically developing (TD) children to explore the individual and combined associations of manganese (Mn), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), and selenium (Se) with ASD. Compared with TD, ASD has lower Zn and Se levels and higher Cu levels. The restricted cubic spline model showed J‐shaped non‐linearity, L‐shaped non‐linearity, and positive linearity correlations between Mn, Zn, Cu, and ASD. Zn and Cu were negatively and positively correlated with ASD symptoms, respectively. The superoxide dismutase (SOD) mediated 50.53% and 39.07% of the association between Zn, Se, and ASD, respectively. Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) confirmed a U‐shaped correlation between the element mixtures and ASD. Interactions of Mn with the other three elements and Cu with Zn were also observed. Our results confirm that the independent and combined exposure to the four trace elements was associated with ASD, with oxidative stress being an important mechanism. Due to the potential interactions between the elements, further research is needed to explore their involvement in the pathogenesis and progression of ASD from a combined perspective, as well as the beneficial and harmful concentration ranges.
Poa annua ecology, biology, and integrated weed management practices in turfgrass
Authors: McCurdy James D. , Bowling Rebecca G. , de Castro Edicarlos B. , Patton Aaron J. , Kowalewski Alec R. , Mattox Clint M. , Brosnan James T. , Ervin David E. , Askew Shawn D. , Goncalves Clebson G. , Elmore Matthew T. , McElroy J. Scott , McNally Brandon C. , Pritchard Benjamin D. , Kaminski John E. , Gannon Travis W. , Unruh J. Bryan , Bagavathiannan Muthukumar V.
Published: December 2024

Poa annua L. is one of the most widespread and troublesome weeds of turfgrass. It persists as both an annual and perennial and is adaptable to almost any static maintenance regime, including adaptation to mowing heights and evolution of herbicide resistance. This management guide is intended to provide stakeholders with a summary of new and existing knowledge on integrated Poa annua management. Here we review the basic biology and ecology, as well as practical integrated weed management (IWM) strategies developed for its control.
High Performance of Cs2AgBiBr6 Perovskite‐based Photodetectors by Adding DEAC
Authors: Minjie Wu , Teng Chen , Xuedan Chen , Maoxue Wang , Chen LV , Kai Meng , Shuanglong Yuan
Published: December 2024

Perovskite‐based photodetectors (PDs) are broadly utilized in optical communication, non‐destructive testing, and smart wearable devices due to their ability to convert light into electrical signals. However, toxicity and instability hold back their mass production and commercialization. The lead‐free Cs2AgBiBr6 double perovskite film, promised to be an alternative, is fabricated by electrophoretic deposition (EPD), which compromises film quality. Herein, we improved the quality of the Cs2AgBiBr6 films and the performance of PDs by adding N‐acetylethylenediamine (DEAC) to Cs2AgBiBr6 perovskite precursor for EPD, in which the ligand DEAC provides a pair of lone electrons to Bi3+, forming coordinate covalent bonds. The optimized PDs have high detectivity, up to 4.4×1012 Jones, and high stability in the air. The high‐performance, flexible Cs2AgBiBr6 perovskite PDs were fabricated on this basis, it also achieved the detectivity up to 3.2×1012 Jones with excellent bending cycle stability. These results propose a feasible approach to improving the crystallization of double perovskite thin films by introducing ligands during the EPD process. Furthermore, they demonstrate enhanced optoelectronic performance, indicating that this method is also applicable to halide perovskites, offering an effective strategy to improve their film quality.
Property Tuning in N‐Methylpyrrole Azo‐Photoswitches via Modification of the Peripheral Substituents
Authors: Jelínková Veronika , Dellai Angela , Verwaerde Lauryne , Rodriguez Vincent , Fecková Michaela , Vachtlová Martina , Podlesný Jan , Klikar Milan , Sempé Bixente , Hugget Matt , Pařík Patrik , Pytela Oldřich , Castet Frédéric , Růžičková Zdeňka , Bureš Filip
Published: December 2024

Differently substituted pyrrole‐azo–benzene molecular photoswitches were prepared in a straightforward synthetic way. Their fundamental properties were investigated by XRD analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis, cyclic voltammetry, UV–Vis absorption spectroscopy, Hyper‐Rayleigh Scattering, and NMR spectroscopy; the experimental results were further corroborated by DFT calculations. Thermal robustness, the HOMO/LUMO levels, and the absorption properties were altered mostly by substituting the N–methylpyrrole moiety and further fine‐tuned by modifying the benzene substituents. The pyrrole substituent also proved crucial for the second‐order non–linear optical (NLO) response as well as the photoswitching performance. Both fast and slow molecular switches can be designed with the half–life of the (Z) –isomer ranging from 48 seconds to 23.28 hours and the E/Z molar ratio up to 12/88. This comprehensive study allowed elucidation of the fundamental structure‐property relationships and subsequently addresses the key aspects of the property tuning via substitution in molecular azo‐photoswitches.
Total Synthesis of the Conjugation‐Ready Hexasaccharides of Pseudomonas aeruginosa Serotype O17 O‐Antigen via One‐Pot Glycosylation
Authors: Tian Guangzong , Bao Jialong , Chen Guodong , Zou Xiaopeng , Qin Chunjun , Hu Jing , Yin Jian
Published: December 2024

Comprehensive Summary

The eradication of Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections is becoming increasingly complex due to the emergence of multidrug‐resistant strains, underscoring the urgent need for novel therapeutic strategies. Currently, no vaccine is available to prevent P. aeruginosa infections and the development of glycoconjugate vaccines based on P. aeruginosa lipopolysaccharides (LPS) presents significant challenges. To explore the immunological activity of the serotype O17 O‐antigen, we present the first chemical synthesis of two hexasaccharides derived from the O17 O‐antigen of P. aeruginosa, which possess distinct sequences. The synthesis of these two target hexasaccharides was accomplished using a chemoselective one‐pot [2+2+2] assembly strategy and a common step‐wise synthesis, respectively. The formation of β‐mannosamine glycosidic linkages in products 1 and 2, was achieved through a direct stereoselective 1,2‐cis‐glycosylation involving 4,6‐O‐benzylidene‐induced conformational locking facilitated by Ph2SO/Tf2O pre‐activation, and an indirect 1,2‐trans‐β‐glycosylation alongside SN2 substitution of azide groups at C2, respectively. The efficient synthesis of these conjugation‐ready oligosaccharides from the O‐antigen of P. aeruginosa serotype O17 will provide foundational materials for identifying key antigens and developing glycoconjugate vaccines.
POP‐REFINE: A Comprehensive Framework for Evaluating and Optimizing Representativeness in Clinical Trials
Authors: Benedum Corey M. , Sarkar Somnath , Bozkurt Selen , Bhagat Ruma , Richie Nicole , Lavery Bea , Griffith Sandra D.
Published: December 2024

Clinical research has historically failed to include representative levels of historically underrepresented populations and these inequities continue to persist. Ensuring representativeness in clinical trials is crucial for patients to receive clinically appropriate treatment and have equitable access to novel therapies; enhancing the generalizability of study results; and reducing the need for post‐marketing commitments focused on underrepresented groups. As demonstrated by recent legislation and guidance documents, regulatory agencies have shown an increased interest in understanding how novel therapies will impact the patient population that will receive them. Despite these efforts, a systematic approach to measure and optimize representativeness remains underdeveloped. Here, we introduce the novel Population Optimization, Representativeness Evaluation, and Fine‐tuning Framework, designed to quantify and enhance representativeness. Our framework includes methods for evaluating overall and subgroup representativeness, identifying drivers of non‐representativeness, and optimizing eligibility criteria to achieve representative populations. We demonstrate our framework by selecting patients who met the eligibility criteria for nine oncology clinical trials from a nationwide electronic health record‐derived de‐identified database and quantifying the representativeness of each trial's eligible population. This framework addresses gaps in current literature by providing a comprehensive, data‐driven approach to enhance the representativeness of clinical trials, thereby supporting regulatory and internal decision‐making processes. This framework is adaptable to various disease indications and can be extended to evaluate enrolled study samples, ensuring that clinical trials are representative.
Deficiency of ATF3 facilitates both angiotensin II‐induced and spontaneously formed aortic aneurysm and dissection development by activating cGAS–STING pathway
Authors: Du Yifan , Hu Poyi , Ding Xiangchao , Wang Dashuai , Luo Jingjing , Le Sheng , Ren Lingyun , Chen Manhua , Ye Ping , Xia Jiahong
Published: December 2024

Background

Sporadic aortic aneurysm and dissection (AAD) is a critical condition characterised by the progressive loss of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) and the breakdown of the extracellular matrix. However, the molecular mechanisms responsible for the phenotypic switch and loss of VSMCs in AAD are not fully understood.

Methods and results

In this study, we employed a discovery‐driven, unbiased approach. This approach encourages us to explore the unknown functions of activating transcription factor 3 (ATF3) rather than merely confirming existing hypotheses, while no assumptions were made about ATF3 prior to the experiments. We ensured the unbiased nature of our assessment by conducting morphological evaluations with two independent observers in a blinded manner. We identified elevated expression of ATF3 in both human sporadic AAD tissues and mouse AAD models. VSMC‐specific ATF3 conditional knockout (Atf3 cKO) mice showed notable enlargement, dissection and rupture in both thoracic and abdominal aortic regions after exposure to Ang II. Interestingly, older Atf3 cKO mice exhibited spontaneous aortic dissections and senescence of the aortic wall. Mechanistically, ATF3 deficiency led to the degradation of P21 through ubiquitination. Impaired DNA repair in VSMCs resulted in micronuclei formation in the cytoplasm, activating the  cyclicGMP‐AMP synthase‐ stimulator of interferon genes (cGAS–STING) pathway and inducing VSMC phenotypic switching and apoptosis. Finally, both pharmacological complementation of P21 function and knockdown of STING expression alleviated ATF3 deficiency‐induced AAD.

Conclusions

Our study indicates that ATF3 is essential for genomic DNA stability in VSMCs through the P21–cGAS–STING pathway, suggesting that enhancing ATF3 expression in VSMCs could help prevent sporadic AAD.

Key points

ATF3 deficiency led to degradation of P21 through ubiquitination, which abolished the G1 phase arrest.

VSMCs had no time window to repair the damaged DNA, leading to generation of micronuclei in cytoplasm.

Cytoplasmic micronuclei facilitating the activation of cGAS–STING pathway, thus inducing the phenotypic switch and apoptosis of VSMCs
Enhancing IoT‐Enabled Healthcare Applications by Efficient Cluster Head and Path Selection Using Fuzzy Logic and Enhanced Particle Swarm Optimization
Authors: Othmen Salwa , Khdhir Radhia , Belghith Aymen , Hamouid Khaled , Lhioui Chahira , Elmourssi Doaa
Published: December 2024

Leveraging Internet of Things (IoT) technologies in healthcare, including wireless sensor networks (WSN) and new generation networks, facilitates the integration of diverse medical equipment and enables smart interactions among them. This innovation contributes significantly in meeting the needs of healthcare professionals and improving the quality of life of patients. However, ensuring efficient communication within IoT systems is crucial to meet the critical demands of healthcare, such as real‐time monitoring and emergency situations. This paper proposes a novel approach for determining cluster heads and selecting efficient paths in IoT‐enabled healthcare applications. The cluster head selection process utilizes a fuzzy logic mechanism, considering factors like energy, distance, and latency. Subsequently, the particle swarm optimization (PSO) technique is employed to identify optimal pathways for routing. MATLAB‐based simulations have been conducted to evaluate the proposed approach in terms of several key metrics, including average delay, packet delivery ratio, energy efficiency, and throughput. The results of the evaluation demonstrate significant improvements over comparable works. Specifically, our solution achieves a packet delivery ratio of 91.3%, an average delay of 0.12 s, a throughput of 60.1 bps, and an energy efficiency of 8.9 J/bit. These findings underscore the effectiveness of our proposed approach in meeting the stringent requirements of IoT‐enabled healthcare systems, particularly by achieving lower delays and higher throughput.
Carboxylic Acid‐Catalysed Transamidation of Boc‐Protected Diketopiperazines (Boc‐DKPs) for Peptide Synthesis
Authors: Kon Kazumasa , Yamamoto Hisashi
Published: December 2024

A carboxylic acid‐catalysed transamidation of Boc‐protected diketopiperazines (Boc‐DKPs) was developed in this study, which allowed access to various tripeptides featuring a D‐proline residue in good‐to‐high yields within 30 min. Subsequent coupling reactions between the Boc‐DKPs and di‐, tri‐, and tetrapeptide esters were successfully performed, furnishing the corresponding tetra‐, penta‐, and hexapeptides.
A Logic‐Driven Battery Balancing Technique for Second‐Life Battery Application in Small‐Scale Grid System
Authors: Lee Jun Yin , Ramasamy Agileswari K. , Ong Kam Hoe , Verayiah Renuga , Mokhlis Hazlie
Published: December 2024

When an EV battery reaches an estimated percentage of 70 to 80% of its state‐of‐ health, it is often termed a second‐life battery (SLB). With the remaining usable life (RUL) of the SLB that is no longer able to perform its service over transportation applications, it can be repurposed to provide grid support within smaller communities. Despite having less power capability and energy capacity than its predecessor, this can be addressed with a more optimal battery balancing technique from the battery management system (BMS). The main contribution of this research is the development of a low cost, simple, high‐efficiency logic‐driven battery balancing technique of a BMS to improve power transfer capabilities in both operations of the SLB modules. It is observable that the proposed battery balancing technique yields a high‐efficiency energy distribution between modules ranging from 88.28% to 99.33% with low losses during battery balancing under a tolerable speed. Notably, the proposed battery balancing technique exhibits a remarkable performance for small‐grid applications when both its charging and discharging rates fall within the range of 0.3–1.5 and 0.3–0.5 respectively.
The use of plant based materials in architecture: A review
Authors: Yildiz Ali , Koçak Ahmet Burak
Published: December 2024

Due to the rapidly increasing human population since the beginning of the 20th century, and with the rapid development of industrialization, the use of raw materials has increased significantly in the last century. As a result, limited resources began to decrease rapidly. The destruction on the natural environment, environmental pollution and the effects of global warming have reached alarming levels. On the other hand, the need for raw materials and energy continues to increase. At this point, it is extremely important to meet today's needs in a sustainable way, without causing environmental pollution and without consuming limited resources. In order to meet the need for sustainable building materials, studies on the use of plant biomass in the production of building materials are increasing due to reasons, such as having low environmental impact, low cost, and renewable. Since building materials produced from plant biomass are largely biodegradable, they also contribute to the prevention of environmental pollution. In this context, the plants examined in the study were examined in detail in an order from woody plants to herbaceous plants and from plants commonly used in architecture to less commonly used plants.
The Cognitive Profile in Adolescents With Anorexia Nervosa and the Relationship With Autism and ADHD: A Pilot Study
Authors: Dobrescu Sandra Rydberg , Dahlin Karin , Karjalainen Louise , Montonen Annelie Bördal , Klint Helena , Stenberg Ingrid , Karlsson Gunilla Paulson , Wentz Elisabet
Published: December 2024

Objective

We aimed to examine the cognitive profile in adolescents with anorexia nervosa (AN) and its association with traits of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and ADHD. In addition, resemblance in the cognitive profile between youths with AN and their parents was explored.

Methods

Adolescent females with acute AN (n = 20) and a healthy comparison group (n = 28) completed neuropsychological tasks of set‐shifting (Trail making test, Wisconsin Card Sorting Test) and central coherence (Rey Complex Figures Task, Group Embedded Figures Test, object assembly subtest). In the AN group, mothers and fathers (n = 31) also completed the neuropsychological tasks. Traits of ASD and ADHD were assessed. The AN group was reassessed after weight gain.

Results

Weight‐restored AN adolescents scored higher on the Group Embedded Figures Test than a comparison group (p < 0.001). No other set‐shifting and central coherence differences were found across groups. A father‐child correlation emerged in the object assembly subtest (r = 0.53, p = 0.035). ASD and ADHD traits were common in the AN group and not only related to starvation. No associations were found between neuropsychological deficits and traits of ASD and ADHD.

Conclusions

Scant support was found for weaker central coherence in weight‐recovered adolescents with AN. Set‐shifting impairments could not be observed in young females with acute AN or after weight recovery.
Of Fire and Water Microarchaeological Evidence of Mining, Rituals and Floods in North Tyrol's Kropfsberg Mine (Austria)
Authors: Cereda Susanna , Goldenberg Gert , Staudt Markus , Tropper Peter
Published: December 2024

Kropfsberg, located near Reith im Alpbachtal, in North Tyrol (Austria), has been exploited for its copper ores for centuries, since at least the Early Iron Age. Excavations conducted in 2020 by the University of Innsbruck exposed the detailed stratigraphic sequence of the mine, leading to a surprising discovery: what was initially believed to be only a site for mineral extraction showed clear indications of ritual use during the Roman period and Late Antiquity. These cultic layers are characterised by abundant charcoals, animal bones and almost 200 votive coins, and suggest that the mine served during this period as a Mithraeum. Using micromorphology and µXRF, along with macroscopic, hydro‐ and geomorphological information about the mine and its surroundings, we reconstructed the processes that led to the deposition of sediments within this artificial cave. Our analyses indicate that remains of ceremonial fires and offerings were deposited within a cultic pit, rather than being spread over the floor. Also, evidence suggests that the cultic use of the mine likely ceased before the area surrounding the mine was flooded, potentially due to the damming of the Inn River caused by a significant rock fall during the Roman period. We also traced the phases following the inundation, including the cave's reopening after a period of abandonment, and identified a sequence of mining backfills that provide evidence of the site's subsequent secular use. Ultimately, the study sheds new light on the cultural and geomorphological dynamics of the Inn Valley during the Roman Period and the Late Antiquity, while underscoring the importance of integrating microarchaeological approaches to disentangle the complex interaction of cultural and environmental influences, even in historical (artificial) cave contexts.
One‐Day Brentuximab–Bendamustine (120 mg/m2) Every 21 Days is a Feasible, Safe and Effective Treatment for Relapsed/Refractory Hodgkin Lymphoma
Authors: Moatti H. , Brice P. , Laroque M‐C. , Di Blasi R. , Wencel J. , Delory T. , Madelaine‐Chambrin I. , Schmidt‐Hieber C. , Ravdan O. , Thieblemont C. , Renaud L.
Published: December 2024

Brentuximab vedotin (BV)‐bendamustine (90 or 120 mg/m2 day 1 and 2) every 28 days is an effective treatment for relapsed/refractory Hodgkin lymphoma (R/R HL) but associated to high toxicity especially for elderly patients. We conducted in St Louis Hospital, Paris, between 2015 and 2021 a retrospective single‐center analysis of 44 patients with R/R HL treated with one‐day BV‐bendamustine (120 mg/m2) every 21 days. Sixteen percent of patients were ≥ 60 years old (yo). Seventy‐three percent of patients received total number of cycles without interruption nor adaptation. No patient ≥ 70 yo required treatment interruption. Dose adjustment was necessary for 18% of patients. Infusion‐related reaction (36%) occurred always at cycle 2 and was the only cause of treatment interruption. One febrile neutropenia, one non‐documented septic shock, one pyelonephritis on transplanted kidney and one COVID complicated by cytopenias were reported. Sixteen percent patients presented a peripheral sensory neuropathy, 7% and 4% respectively grade 3–4 neutropenia and thrombocytopenia. Overall response was 84%, with 73% of complete remission. Median progression‐free survival was of 19.8 months (95% CI 13.1‐NR) and median overall survival was not reached with a median follow‐up of 31 months. We suggest that one‐day BV‐bendamustine (120 mg/m2) ever 21 days is a safe and feasible treatment for R/R HL especially for elderly patients.
Analyzing the mother and father's parenthood behaviors in the early postpartum period
Authors: Ünlü Suvari Güzin , Aktaş Demir Selinay , Uludağ Dilek Sinem , Margirit Coşkun Anayit
Published: December 2024

Objective

This study aimed to examine the parenting behaviors of mothers and fathers during the postpartum period.

Methods

This descriptive cross‐sectional study was conducted on 200 married individuals who had healthy babies between February 2019‐September 2020 at a hospital. This study used introductory information forms for parents, “Postpartum Parenting Behavior Scale (PPBS)” and “Marital Adjustment Scale (MAS)”.

Results

Mothers had higher PPBS scores than fathers. Higher scores were observed in parents who intentionally had children, married for love, had income exceeding expenses, younger fathers, fewer children, and high MAS scores. Fathers’ PPBS scores were lower in cases of cesarean delivery and longer marriage durations. Mothers’ scores were unaffected by marital adjustment, number of miscarriages/abortions, age at marriage, number of children, infant sex, family structure, region, residence, social security, employment status, or education level.

Conclusion

Mothers had high PPBS scores, and fathers had moderate scores. Their PPBS scores were affected by their desire to have children, the manner of marriage, and income level. Additionally, that of the fathers was influenced by age, number of children, marital adjustment, and mode of delivery.
The long‐term risk of immune‐related conditions in survivors of diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma: A Danish nationwide registry study
Authors: Pedersen Laura Schou , Klausen Nadja Nørholm , Jensen Jonas Faartoft , Bacevičius Emilis Danielsen , Brown Peter , Mészáros Jørgensen Judit , Larsen Thomas Stauffer , Poulsen Christian Bjørn , Clausen Michael Roost , Schou Pedersen Robert , Gang Anne Ortved , Westermann Rasmus , Kristensen Salome , Dreyer Lene Wohlfahrt , El‐Galaly Tarec Christoffer , Jakobsen Lasse Hjort
Published: December 2024

Background

There is limited knowledge of the long‐term effects on the immune system after treatment for diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL).

Methods

This study included DLBCL patients from the Danish Lymphoma Registry who obtained complete remission (CR) after (R)‐CHOP (cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, prednisolone)‐like immunochemotherapy. Each R+ CHOP‐like treated patient was matched to five comparators from the Danish background population and furthermore compared to R− CHOP‐like treated patients. Incidence rate ratios (IRRs) and risk differences (RDs) were calculated for a wide range of infections, autoimmune conditions, and immune deficiencies (AC‐IDs) combined and by subtypes.

Results

R+ CHOP‐like treated patients had a higher risk of infections overall (IRR 1.5, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.4–1.7: 10‐year RD 5.0%, 95% CI 2.2%–7.8%) and for a majority of the subtypes than matched comparators. Likewise, they had a higher risk of AC‐IDs overall (IRR 1.4, 95% CI 1.1–1.7; RD 0.8%, 95% CI 0.7%–2.2%) than matched comparators, however only of clinical relevance for three subtypes; autoimmune diseases of the endocrine system, sarcoidosis and immune deficiencies. The addition of rituximab to CHOP‐like therapy did not alter the incidence rates (IR) of infections overall (IRR 1.1, 95% CI 0.9–1.3) or AC‐IDs overall (IRR 0.8, 95% CI 0.5–1.3) compared to CHOP‐like therapy alone, although the IR for respiratory infections was significantly elevated (IRR 1.5, 95% CI 1.1–2.1). However, an increased use of IVIG treatment was observed among R+ CHOP survivors.

Conclusion

R‐CHOP‐like treated patients face an increased risk of infections and AC‐IDs overall compared with the background population. The risk of infections and AC‐IDs did not change overall after the addition of rituximab to CHOP, however, an increased risk of respiratory infections is notable. These findings could highlight the need for expanded vigilance and prophylaxis strategies.
An Atlas of Anatomical Variants of the Human Talus
Authors: Cockerill Samuel James , Arnay‐de‐la‐Rosa Matilde , González‐Reimers Emilio
Published: December 2024

Anatomical variants can be used effectively to identify relationships between individuals in kinship analysis and they may be useful during surgical procedures. These procedures can be better implemented when the cause, appearance and location are understood. Clear representations and definitions of anatomical traits are necessary. A similar morphology of pathologies and variations of normal morphology can lead to confusion and unnecessary intervention. Therefore, there is a considerable need for an anatomical atlas of the particular skeletal elements, such as the talus bone. We have analyzed a total of 925 tali, 591 belonging to different modern and pre‐Hispanic samples. Furthermore, 334 tali were analyzed from a reference collection from Athens. We have identified and defined the anatomical variants of the talus bone, of which only some have been mentioned by other researchers. We propose standardized methods that may potentially improve future research in human skeleton anatomy and its applications. We provide information on anatomical variants with the aim of improving their identification, classification and use in medical professions and bioanthropology.
Moderate‐ and High‐Speed Treadmill Running Exercise Have Minimal Impact on Rat Achilles Tendon
Authors: Tamburro Margaret K. , Bonilla Kelsey A. , Shetye Snehal S. , Leahy Thomas P. , Eekhoff Jeremy D. , Kim Min‐Soo , Petucci Christopher , Tobias John W. , Farber Daniel C. , Soslowsky Louis J.
Published: December 2024

Exercise influences clinical Achilles tendon health in humans, but animal models of exercise‐related Achilles tendon changes are lacking. Moreover, previous investigations of the effects of treadmill running exercise on rat Achilles tendon demonstrate variable outcomes. Our objective was to assess the functional, structural, cellular, and biomechanical impacts of treadmill running exercise on rat Achilles tendon with sensitive in and ex vivo approaches. Three running levels were assessed over the course of 8 weeks: control (cage activity), moderate‐speed (treadmill running at 10 m/min, no incline), and high‐speed (treadmill running at 20 m/min, 10° incline). We hypothesized that moderate‐speed treadmill running would beneficially impact tendon biomechanics through increased tenocyte cellularity, metabolism, and anabolism whereas high‐speed treadmill running would cause a tendinopathic phenotype with compromised tendon biomechanics due to pathologic tenocyte differentiation, metabolism, and catabolism. Contrary to our hypothesis, treadmill running exercise at these speeds had a nominal effect on the rat Achilles tendon. Treadmill running modestly influenced tenocyte metabolism and nuclear aspect ratio as well as viscoelastic tendon properties but did not cause a tendinopathic phenotype. These findings highlight the need for improved models of exercise‐ and loading‐related tendon changes that can be leveraged to develop strategies for tendinopathy prevention and treatment.
Prediction of chronic severe intestinal failure–associated liver disease by current criteria in adults: A descriptive cohort study
Authors: Cipriano Claudia , Deutsch Liat , Kopczynska Maja , Rabinowich Liane , Sasdelli Anna Simona , Pironi Loris , Lal Simon
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Intestinal failure–associated liver disease covers a spectrum of conditions from mild to end‐stage disease. Currently, there are 9 diagnostic criteria divided to four categories: cholestasis, steatosis, fibrosis, and unclassified. Our aim was to evaluate the application of these criteria to patients with chronic severe liver disease in patients with intestinal failure.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional study of patients attending the home parenteral nutrition clinic of a national UK reference intestinal failure center from March 2015 to December 2019. Exclusion criteria included active malignancy, home parenteral nutrition for <6 months duration, and liver transplantation. Clinically significant intestinal failure–associated liver disease was defined as moderate‐severe fibrosis or cirrhosis on liver biopsy and/or radiological imaging compatible with liver cirrhosis.

Results

Two hundred and twenty‐one patients were included (age at home parenteral nutrition initiation: 50 ± 16.0 years; 63.6% female). There was a wide range of intestinal failure–associated liver disease point prevalence depending on the established criteria used (2.9%–35.1%). Twenty‐three patients (9.5%) were diagnosed with clinically significant intestinal failure–associated liver disease, but no patient with clinically significant intestinal failure–associated liver disease met all diagnostic criteria, and 6 of 23 (26.1%) did not fit any of the established criteria.

Conclusions

Intestinal failure–associated liver disease is a poorly defined medical condition, and current noninvasive diagnostic methods are unreliable in predicting disease severity. Further studies are needed to develop the definition to reflect that intestinal failure–associated liver disease is a spectrum of disease that includes chronic severe liver disease and improve methods of disease diagnosis.