bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cardiac abnormalities from 12‐Lead ECG signals prediction based on deep convolutional neural network optimized with nomadic people optimization algorithm
Authors: Sonia S. V. Evangelin , Nedunchezhian R. , Rajalakshmi M.
Published: January 2024

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a most dangerous disease in the world. Early accurate and automated identification helps the medical professional make a correct diagnosis and administer fast treatment and saving many lives. Several studies have been suggested in this area, but no one yield the expected outcomes owing to data imbalance issue in the medical and healthcare industries. To overcome this problem, a Deep Convolutional Neural Network Optimized with Nomadic People Optimization for Cardiac Abnormalities from 12‐Lead ECG Signals Prediction (CCA‐12L ECG‐DCNN‐NPO) is proposed in this manuscript. At first, the input data is pre‐processed under Morphological filtering and Extended Empirical wavelet transformation (MF‐EEWT) for removing the noise. Then one hot encoding technique is used to improve the predictions and classification accuracy of the method. Afterward, Residual Exemplars Local Binary Pattern (RELBP) based Feature extraction is used to extract the morphological and statistical features. These extracted features are given to DCNN classifier. It contains fully convolutional neural network (FCN) and encoder with decoder framework, which activates pixel‐wise categorization to exactly identify Cardiac abnormalities from 12‐Lead ECG signals. The visual geometry group network (VGGNet) is considered as a backbone of FCN for end‐to‐end training. Generally, DCNN method does not adopt any optimization modes to define the optimum parameters and to assure exact detection. Therefore, Nomadic People Optimization (NPO) is considered to enhance the DCNN weight parameters. The CCA‐12L ECG‐DCNN‐NPO technique is implemented in python and the efficacy is analyzed under performance metrics, such as sensitivity, precision, F‐Score, specificity, accuracy and error rate. From the analysis, the proposed technique attains higher accuracy 27.5%, 10.32%, and 16.65%, higher f‐score 30.93%, 11.14% and 15.3%, lower error rate 36.31%, 15.78%, and 28.08% compared with the existing methods, such as Detecting Cardiac Abnormalities from 12‐lead ECG Signals Under Feature Selection, Feature Extraction, and deep Learning Classification (CCA‐12L ECG‐RFC), Channel self‐attention deep learning framework for multi‐cardiac abnormality diagnosis from varied‐lead ECG signals (CCA‐12L ECG‐CSA‐DNN) and Cardiac disease categorization by electrocardiogram sensing utilizing deep neural network (CCA‐12L ECG‐DNN) respectively.
2, 1, 3‐Benzothiadiazole Derivative Small Molecule Fluorophores for NIR‐II Bioimaging
Authors: Hu Zhen , Feng Lili , Yang Piaoping
Published: January 2024

Second near‐infrared (NIR‐II) bioimaging technology shows broad application prospects in the field of biomedical due to its significant superiority in deep tissue penetration and high signal‐to‐background ratio. Among them, organic small molecule fluorophores have received progressively more consideration due to their low biotoxicity, high biocompatibility, rapid clearance, and good modification properties. As the key acceptor core, 2, 1, 3‐benzothiadiazole (BTD) derivative plays an essential role in the construction of donor‐acceptor‐donor type NIR‐II fluorophores. This mini‐review summarizes the research development of NIR‐II small molecule fluorophores based on BTD derivatives in the field of bioimaging, focusing on molecular design and photophysical properties, and introduces a part of the applications in the biological field. Furthermore, the challenges of BTD‐based NIR‐II fluorophores in the future development and application are discussed
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An Interfacial‐Assembled Self‐Supporting Nanofilm Induced by Strong Intermolecular Interaction between Silk Fibroin and Lysozyme
Authors: Miao Bianliang , Wang Yushu , Liu Yi , Da Gaohuan , Wang Yu , Chen Xin , Shao Zhengzhong
Published: January 2024

Organic ultrathin nanofilms are increasingly favored in a wide range of applications, including flexible photonics and electronics, smart skin devices, sensing, and bioinspired designs, due to their high flexibility, chemical activity, and stimuli‐responsiveness. To create large‐area, robust, and freestanding nanofilms efficiently, a protein interfacial cooperative assembly technique that utilizes silk fibroin and lysozyme as building blocks is developed. The strong intermolecular interaction between these two proteins, coupled with the abundant intra‐ and intermolecular β‐sheets, confers remarkable mechanical robustness to the nanofilms with thicknesses as low as 50 nm. Consequently, these nanofilms exhibit the unique ability to stand freely in the air and can be conformally transferred to substrates of different types and topographies, forming stable, and versatile nanocoatings. The advantageous attributes of their ultrathinness, large‐scale homogeneity, robustness, and rapid and tunable responsiveness facilitate the construction of ultrasensitive photonic architectures and organic–inorganic hybrid multilayers with outstanding optical and mechanical properties. It is envisioned that these all‐protein‐based robust nanofilms with unique nanoscale effects can be easily integrated into various advanced technological platforms to enable adaptive, multifunctional, and intelligent systems with exceptional mechanical strength.
Sub‐1‐Volt Electrically Programmable Optical Modulator Based on Active Tamm Plasmon
Authors: Ko Joo Hwan , Seo Dong Hyun , Jeong Hyeon‐Ho , Kim Sejeong , Song Young Min
Published: January 2024

Reconfigurable optical devices hold great promise for advancing high‐density optical interconnects, photonic switching, and memory applications. While many optical modulators based on active materials have been demonstrated, it is challenging to achieve a high modulation depth with a low operation voltage in the near‐infrared (NIR) range, which is a highly sought‐after wavelength window for free‐space communication and imaging applications. Here, electrically switchable Tamm plasmon coupled with poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) is introduced. The device allows for a high modulation depth across the entire NIR range by fully absorbing incident light even under epsilon near zero conditions. Optical modulation exceeding 88% is achieved using a CMOS‐compatible voltage of ±1 V. This modulation is facilitated by precise electrical control of the charge carrier density through an electrochemical doping/dedoping process. Additionally, the potential applications of the device are extended for a non‐volatile multi‐memory state optical device, capable of rewritable optical memory storage and exhibiting long‐term potentiation/depression properties with neuromorphic behavior.
ACE2 Receptor‐Targeted Inhaled Nanoemulsions Inhibit SARS‐CoV‐2 and Attenuate Inflammatory Responses
Authors: Wang Hairui , Luo Shuang , Xie Mingxin , Chen Zhao , Zhang Yunming , Xie Zhiqiang , Zhang Yongshun , Zhang Yu , Yang Lan , Wu Fuhua , Chen Xiaoyan , Du Guangsheng , Zhao Jincun , Sun Xun
Published: January 2024

Three kinds of coronaviruses are highly pathogenic to humans, and two of them mainly infect humans through Angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2 （ACE2）receptors. Therefore, specifically blocking ACE2 binding at the interface with the receptor‐binding domain is promising to achieve both preventive and therapeutic effects of coronaviruses. Alternatively, drug‐targeted delivery based on ACE2 receptors can further improve the efficacy and safety of inhalation drugs. Here, these two approaches are innovatively combined by designing a nanoemulsion (NE) drug delivery system (termed NE‐AYQ) for inhalation that targets binding to ACE2 receptors. This inhalation‐delivered remdesivir nanoemulsion (termed RDSV‐NE‐AYQ) effectively inhibits the infection of target cells by both wild‐type and mutant viruses. The RDSV‐NE‐AYQ strongly inhibits Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 at two dimensions: they not only block the binding of the virus to host cells at the cell surface but also restrict virus replication intracellularly. Furthermore, in the mouse model of acute lung injury, the inhaled drug delivery system loaded with anti‐inflammatory drugs (TPCA‐1‐NE‐AYQ) can significantly alleviate the lung tissue injury of mice. This smart combination provides a new choice for dealing with possible emergencies in the future and for the rapid development of inhaled drugs for the treatment of respiratory diseases.
Micro‐Casting/Assembly Technology Based on Bismuth‐Based Liquid Metal
Authors: Zhang Huimin , Li Chunwei , Li Yuqing , Sun Xiao , Li Qian , Gui Lin
Published: January 2024

Complex and precise 3D microfabrication technology is the basis for the development of fields including chip‐based bioassay, microelectronic communication, and micromachine manufacturing. Among them, assembled 3D structures provide new ideas to the development of 3D integration of 2D components due to their convenience and high efficiency. In this work, a micro‐casting/assembly technique that can create 3D micro devices is provided with bismuth‐based liquid metal (LM). The liquid metal is first injected into a micro‐mold. The micro‐mold is made by polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and porous polycarbonate track‐etched (PCTE) membranes. The mold is then treated with ethanol and deionized water to release the inner injected 2D micro metal components. The effect of each parameter on the generated metal structures is experimentally validated and a LM line with a minimum width of 10 µm is also obtained. For making more functional components, the 2D structures are assembled into 3D. To demonstrate the potential of the technique, reconfigurable micro‐antennas and 3D flow sensors are fabricated and tested at the end of this work, demonstrating potential applications for the micro casting/assembly technology.
Deciphering the Origin of Interface‐Induced High Li and Na Ion Conductivity in Nanocomposite Solid Electrolytes Using X‐Ray Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: de Kort Laura M. , Lazemi Masoud , Longo Alessandro , Gulino Valerio , Rodenburg Henrik P. , Blanchard Didier , Sahle Christoph , Sundermann Martin , Gretarsson Hlynur , van der Eerden Ad M. J. , Elnaggar Hebatalla , de Groot Frank M. F. , Ngene Peter
Published: January 2024

Solid‐state electrolytes (SSEs) with high ionic conductivities are crucial for safer and high‐capacity batteries. Interface effects in nanocomposites of SSEs and insulators can lead to profound increases in conductivity. Understanding the composition of the interface is crucial for tuning the conductivity of composite solid electrolytes. Herein, X‐ray Raman Scattering (XRS) spectroscopy is used for the first time to unravel the nature of the interface effects responsible for conductivity enhancements in nanocomposites of complex hydride‐based electrolytes (LiBH4, NaBH4, and NaNH2) and oxides. XRS probe of the Li, Na, and B local environments reveals that the interface consists of highly distorted/defected and structurally distinct phase(s) compared to the original compounds. Interestingly, nanocomposites with higher concentrations of the interface compounds exhibit higher conductivities. Clear differences are observed in the interface composition of SiO2‐ and Al2O3‐based nanocomposites, attributed to differences in the reactivity of their surface groups. These results demonstrate that interfacial reactions play a dominant role in conductivity enhancement in composite solid electrolytes. This work showcases the potential of XRS in investigating interface interactions, providing valuable insights into the often complex ion conductor/insulator interfaces, especially for systems containing light elements such as Li, B, and Na present in most SSEs and batteries.
Effect of no‐tillage on soil redistribution estimated by beryllium‐7, soil moisture, and carbon fractions loss in central Benin
Authors: Akplo Tobi Moriaque , Kouelo Alladassi Félix , Zoundji Mahougnon Charlotte Carmelle , Fulajtar Emil , Benmansour Moncef , Rabesiranana Naïvo , Akinseye Folorunso Mathew , Houngnandan Pascal
Published: January 2024

Soil erosion has become one of the most common environmental problems and threatens food security. This study assessed the short‐term effect of tillage and mulch on soil redistribution using the beryllium‐7 method, soil moisture distribution, and soil organic carbon loss through soil erosion in typical agroecological conditions of Benin. The experiment was conducted on acrisols (at Dan) and ferralsols (at Za‐zounmè) in central Benin. Three tillage practices slope ridging (SR), contour ridging (CR), and no‐tillage (NT), and three mulch doses 0 (0 M), 3 (3 M), and 7 t ha−1 (7 M) on soil erosion under maize were investigated. The results showed a tillage and mulch interaction significantly (p < 0.05) influencing the soil redistribution, the loss of total carbon, the carbon of the particulate organic matter (C_POM), and the carbon content of the fine organic matter (C_MOM). High soil erosion was observed under SR0M (−10.19 t ha−1) at Dan and under NT0M (−7.36 t ha−1) at Za‐zounmè. NT7M (0.80 t ha−1), SR7M (0.69 t ha−1), CR3M (2.07 t ha−1), and CR7M (4.05 t ha−1) showed deposition at Dan, while SR7M (0.23 t ha−1), NT7M (1.69 t ha−1), and CR7M (3.93 t ha−1) showed deposition at Za‐zounmè. C_MOM was lost on both sites. Mulch increases soil moisture for all three tillage treatments, and this effect is well pronounced especially if the amount of mulch is great. This study revealed useful information to be taken into consideration when developing soil and water conservation management strategies in Benin.
Twins‐like nanodrugs synchronously transport in blood and coalesce inside tumors for sensitive ultrasound imaging and triggerable penetrative drug delivery
Authors: Cai Yujun , Chen Gengjia , Lin Minzhao , Li Bo , Zhong Huihai , Li Tan , Xiao Zecong , Wang Yong , Shuai Xintao
Published: January 2024

Nanodrugs capable of aggregating in the tumor microenvironment (TME) have demonstrated great efficiency in improving the therapeutic outcome. Among various approaches, the strategy utilizing electrostatic interaction as a driving force to achieve intratumor aggregation of nanodrugs has attracted great attention. However, the great difference between the two nanodrugs with varied physicochemical properties makes their synchronous transport in blood circulation and equal‐opportunity tumor uptake impossible, which significantly detracts from the beneficial effects of nanodrug aggregation inside tumors. We herein propose a new strategy to construct a pair of extremely similar nanodrugs, referred to as “twins‐like nanodrugs (TLNs)”, which have identical physicochemical properties including the same morphology, size, and electroneutrality to render them the same blood circulation time and tumor entrance. The 1:1 mixture of TLNs (TLNs‐Mix) intravenously injected into a mouse model efficiently accumulates in tumor sites and then transfers to oppositely charged nanodrugs for electrostatic interaction‐driven coalescence via responding to matrix metalloproteinase‐2 (MMP‐2) enriched in tumor. In addition to enhanced tumor retention, the thus‐formed micron‐sized aggregates show high echo intensity essential for ultrasound imaging as well as ultrasound‐triggered penetrative drug delivery. Owing to their distinctive features, the TLNs‐Mix carrying sonosensitizer, immune adjuvant, and ultrasound contrast agent exert potent sonodynamic immunotherapy against hypovascular hepatoma, demonstrating their great potential in treating solid malignancies.
Organoids in concert: engineering in vitro models toward enhanced fidelity
Authors: Chen Zhengkun , Sugimura Ryohichi , Zhang Yu Shrike , Ruan Changshun , Wen Chunyi
Published: January 2024

Organoids have emerged as a powerful platform for studying complex biological processes and diseases in vitro. However, most studies have focused on individual organoids, overlooking the inter‐organ interactions in vivo and limiting the physiological relevance of the models. To address this limitation, the development of a multi‐organoid system has gained considerable attention. This system aims to recapitulate inter‐organ communication and enable the study of complex physiological processes. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the recent advancements in organoid engineering and the emerging strategies for constructing a multi‐organoid system. First, we highlight the critical mechanical, structural, and biochemical factors involved in designing suitable materials for the growth of different organoids. Additionally, we discuss the incorporation of dynamic culture environments to enhance organoid culture and enable inter‐organoid communication. Furthermore, we explore techniques for manipulating organoid morphogenesis and spatial positioning of organoids to establish effective inter‐organoid communication networks. We summarize the achievements in utilizing organoids to recapitulate inter‐organ communication in vitro, including assembloids and microfluidic multi‐organoid platforms. Lastly, we discuss the existing challenges and opportunities in developing a multi‐organoid system from its technical bottlenecks in scalability to its applications toward complex human diseases.
A panoramic perspective of recent progress in 2D and 3D covalent organic frameworks for drug delivery
Authors: Mehvari Fariba , Ramezanzade Vahid , Asadi Parvin , Singh Nem , Kim Jaewon , Dinari Mohammad , Kim Jong Seung
Published: January 2024

The development of efficient drug delivery systems is essential for improving the efficacy and safety of cancer drugs, particularly for aggressive and difficult‐to‐treat cancers. Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) are emerging as innovative porous nanomaterials in drug delivery systems (DDS), due to their unique properties, including the metal‐free organic skeleton, predetermined structures and pore geometries, high porosity, large surface area, facile surface modification potential, and good biocompatibility. These characteristics make COFs excellent candidates for improving drug delivery by enhancing drug loading capacity and enabling precise encapsulation. This review emphasizes the importance of donor‐acceptor‐based COFs, which provide channels for charge transportation, and we also explore how the π‐conjugated skeleton of COFs enhances its long‐acting fluorescent properties and facilitates drug uptake via cell endocytosis. While this review primarily focuses on recent advancements in COF‐based targeted DDS, it also acknowledges the challenges posed by the diverse pore geometries in porous materials and discusses potential solutions. Further, it underlines the potential of developing future drug carriers that can successfully and specifically target cancer cells, improving treatment efficiency while reducing adverse side effects.
An in situ dressing material containing a multi‐armed antibiotic for healing irregular wounds
Authors: Dong Ruihua , Chen Mian , Jia Yuexiao , Tang Hao , Xiong Ziyin , Long Yunze , Jiang Xingyu
Published: January 2024

Acute and infected wounds resulting from accidents, battlefield trauma, or surgical interventions have become a global healthcare burden due to the complex bacterial infection environment. However, conventional gauze dressings present insufficient contact with irregular wounds and lack antibacterial activity against multi‐drug‐resistant bacteria. In this study, we develop in situ nanofibrous dressings tailored to fit wounds of various shapes and sizes while providing nanoscale comfort and excellent antibacterial properties. Our approach involves the fabrication of these dressings using a handheld electrospinning device that allows for the direct deposition of nanofiber dressings onto specific irregular wound sites, resulting in perfect conformal wound closure without any mismatch in 2 min. The nanofibrous dressings are loaded with multi‐armed antibiotics that exhibit outstanding antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and methicillin‐resistant S. aureus. Compared to conventional vancomycin, this in situ nanofibrous dressing shows great antibacterial performance against up to 98% of multi‐drug‐resistant bacteria. In vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrate the ability of in situ nanofibrous dressings to prevent multi‐drug‐resistant bacterial infection, greatly alleviate inflammation, and promote wound healing. Our findings highlight the potential of these personalized nanofibrous dressings for clinical applications, including emergency, accident, and surgical healthcare treatment.
Technical note: A volumetric method for measuring the longitudinal arch of human tracks and feet
Authors: Hatala Kevin G. , Gatesy Stephen M. , Manafzadeh Armita R. , Lusardi Elizabeth M. , Falkingham Peter L.
Published: January 2024

Fossil footprints (i.e., tracks) were believed to document arch anatomical evolution, although our recent work has shown that track arches record foot kinematics instead. Analyses of track arches can thereby inform the evolution of human locomotion, although quantifying this 3‐D aspect of track morphology is difficult. Here, we present a volumetric method for measuring the arches of 3‐D models of human tracks and feet, using both Autodesk Maya and Blender software. The method involves generation of a 3‐D object that represents the space beneath the longitudinal arch, and measurement of that arch object's geometry and spatial orientation. We provide relevant tools and guidance for users to apply this technique to their own data. We present three case studies to demonstrate potential applications. These include, (1) measuring the arches of static and dynamic human feet, (2) comparing the arches of human tracks with the arches of the feet that made them, and (3) direct comparisons of human track and foot arch morphology throughout simulated track formation. The volumetric measurement tool proved robust for measuring 3‐D models of human tracks and feet, in static and dynamic contexts. This tool enables researchers to quantitatively compare arches of fossil hominin tracks, in order to derive biomechanical interpretations from them, and/or offers a different approach for quantifying foot morphology in living humans.
Purification for Hybrid Entanglement between Discrete‐ and Continuous‐Variable States
Authors: Luo Cheng‐Chen , Zhou Lan , Zhong Wei , Du Ming‐Ming , Li Xi‐Yun , Sheng Yu‐Bo
Published: January 2024

Hybrid entangled states (HES) have attracted significant attention and been utilized in various quantum information processing applications. However, like many other entangled states, maximally entangled HES may degrade to mixed states due to environmental noise and operational imperfections. In this paper, a hybrid entanglement purification protocol (HEPP) for the HES, which consists of photon‐number state and coherent state is proposed. This HEPP is designed to effectively purify a bit‐flip error occurring in any qubit of the HES. Furthermore, HEPP is extended to a general condition, say, the multi‐party scenario, and integrates the generation of HES into the HEPP. Moreover, if different initial mixed states are chosen, then the residual entanglement can be utilized to distill high‐quality entanglement. The HEPP has important applications in the future quantum information processing field.
Zein/polyvinyl alcohol‐based electrospun nanofibrous films reinforced with nano‐hydroxyapatite for efficient Cu(II) adsorption
Authors: Ma Na , Li Ke , Xu Bo , Tian Huafeng , Ma Songbai , Li Jinlong , Ouyang Yuge , Liu Qian , Liu Dagang , Kumar Rakesh
Published: January 2024

To solve the problem of the presence of heavy metals in water causing water pollution, the biodegradable film based on zein/polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) with the incorporation of nano‐hydroxyapatite (nHAP) was fabricated through an electrospinning technique. The copper ion was taken as the representative of heavy metal ions in this study. The result showed that the incorporated nHAP nanoparticles were dispersed within the zein/PVA matrix, and strong hydrogen bonding interactions were formed between the filler and matrix, improving the hydrophobicity of the nanofibrous films and maintaining thermal stability. The adsorption mechanism was analyzed by fitting the adsorption process with pseudo‐first‐order model and pseudo‐second‐order model. Based on the ion exchange effect, electrostatic interaction, and complexation, the adsorption capacities of nanofibrous films for Cu(II) were significantly increased after adding nHAP. When the nHAP content was 20 wt.%, the Cu(II) adsorption capacity reached up to 23.86 mg/g, and the adsorption efficiency was 13.94% higher than that of neat zein/PVA nanofibers. This work suggests the potential of the electrospun zein/PVA/nHAP nanofibrous films as desirable eco‐friendly materials in metal removal applications.
Effect of irradiation modification above melting point on the wear resistance of polytetrafluoroethylene
Authors: Bekbolatovich Sagin Abay , Wang Xiaojie , Zheng Xiuting , Zhou Shuangquan , Huang Yao , Xu Hong , Skopincev I. , Wu Daming , Gao Xiaolong
Published: January 2024

The cross‐linked polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and PTFE/carbon fiber (CF) composites were synthesized through electron beam irradiation in the molten state of PTFE at a controlled temperature of 340 ± 3°C under an inert gas atmosphere for this study. The wear resistance of raw (raw‐PTFE), irradiated modified PTFE (RM‐PTFE), and CF‐reinforced PTFE composites were evaluated using a friction and wear testing machine. The testing was conducted under varying ambient temperatures and dynamic loads. After irradiation, the samples were sectioned into specific sizes for subsequent testing purposes. Under the test conditions of 4.64 MPa positive pressure, 800 rpm speed, and a duration of 300 s at 20°C, the wear amount of PTFE after irradiation modification is significantly reduced from 1.4103 mm to only 0.0233 mm, representing a remarkable reduction by a factor of 60. Similarly, under the test conditions of 4.64 MPa positive pressure, 200 rpm speed, and a duration of 300 s at 20°C, the friction coefficient of PTFE after irradiation modification is substantially decreased from an initial value of 0.13 to just 0.03. The observed improvement can be attributed to the transformation of PTFE's crystalline form into spherulite, accompanied by a significant enhancement in the degree of cross‐linking within its molecular chain. The PTFE was supplemented with 10% CF prior to irradiation. Under the test conditions of a positive pressure of 4.64 MPa, rotation speed of 800 rpm, and a duration time of 300 s at 20°C, the wear amount of the composite material measured only 0.0007 mm, representing a reduction by a factor of 2000 compared to that observed for pure PTFE. This improvement can be attributed to the CF filler's high wear resistance properties and the composite's enhanced thermal conductivity.
Surface modification of commercial carbon black by silane coupling agents for improving dispersibility in rubber compounds
Authors: Jaberi Mofrad Farzaneh , Ostad Movahed Saeed , Ahmadpour Ali
Published: January 2024

The dispersion of a filler in a rubber matrix is a crucial parameter affecting the mechanical and dynamical properties of a rubber compound. It is the current issue of the rubber compounding industry because, most fillers are categorized as a mineral, while the rubber is an organic material. The surface modification of the filler has been accepted as an effective technique for the improvement of the abovementioned parameter. First, the surface premodification of commercial carbon black with a grade of N660 (CB) was implemented by four different oxidation methods. After that, among of used methods, the oxidation method using citric acid was selected to produce modified carbon black (CB‐Oxi) for further treatment. Subsequently, the coupling agent, Bis[3‐(triethoxysilyl)propyl] tetrasulfide (TESPT) was functionalized on the surface of CB‐Oxi to produce modified‐CB‐Oxi. Also, for comparison purposes, the TESPT functionalization was accomplished on untreated CB to form modified‐CB. The FTIR spectra of CB‐Oxi showed using the premodification method introduced the hydroxyl and carboxyl groups on the surface of CB. The correspondent spectra for modified‐CB‐Oxi confirmed the existence of silane groups on the surface of the carbon black. However, the mentioned silane groups were not observed on the surface of modified‐CB. The findings were strengthened by several characteristic techniques including, FESEM, XRD, EDS, CHNS elemental analysis, and RAMAN spectra. The FESEM graphs and elemental mapping showed homogeneous dispersion and uniform distribution of sulfur and silicon elements on the modified‐CB‐Oxi surface. According to RAMAN spectra, the disturbance in the structure of carbon black graphite was reduced after surface modification. modified‐CB‐Oxi is proposed as a potential substitute filler for current commercial carbon black in rubber compounding.
Numerical simulation for bubble growth during supercritical CO2 foaming epoxy resin process based on chemorheology
Authors: Ling Yijie , Chen Yichong , Yao Shun , Xi Zhenhao , Hu Dongdong , Zhao Ling
Published: January 2024

The bubble growth process of epoxy resin foams has been evaluated through a combination of numerical simulation and chemorheology. It was discovered that rheological properties play an essential role in forecasting bubble growth during supercritical CO2 epoxy resin foaming. Time–cure superposition was conducted revealing that shear storage modulus increased from 10−3 to 106 Pa during the curing reaction process. The complex viscosity increased up to 105 Pa s and the characteristic relaxation time increased up to 53.1 s with the curing degree. The epoxy resin with high rigid modulus could effectively inhibit bubble growth. Furthermore, the simulation results indicated that the bubble growth process for epoxy resin foams was influenced by both the CO2 content and CO2 plasticization on rheology properties.
The fantasies of money
Authors: Eisold Kenneth
Published: January 2024

We tend to think of money as concrete and simple, a thing, but in fact it is multi‐faceted and complex, more symbolic than actual. In the modern world it has come to take such a variety of forms that economists can no longer define it. On the other hand, our reliance on it causes us to invest it with a stability it does not and, probably, cannot have. Our ideas about money are, essentially, social defenses, and the money we think we have in our pockets or in our bank accounts is based on widely shared fantasies. The anxieties underlying these defenses spring from two sources: awareness that money's fixed values are unreliable, unable to protect us from loss, and an opposite irrational optimism about its capacity to grow magically. This paper suggests that the understanding psychoanalysis can offer about such common fantasies inextricably woven around money can provide the groundwork for an interdisciplinary collaboration with economics and the social sciences.
L2‐gain analysis and fault‐tolerant control for uncertain nonlinear switched system with actuator saturation and time‐varying delay
Authors: Chen Wenxiang , Li Huiju , Zhang Xinquan
Published: January 2024

For the nonlinear continuous‐time switched system with input saturation and time‐varying delay, the problem of actuator failure is investigated in the presence of external disturbances. First, the sufficient conditions for the tolerance disturbances of system are obtained by using the multiple augmented Lyapunov Krasovskii functionals method combined with the Wirtinger integral inequality method and the reciprocally convex combination inequality. Second, the restricted
‐gain is analyzed. Third, the switching law and the disturbance suppression fault‐tolerant controllers are designed to obtain the maximum value of tolerance disturbance and the minimum upper bound on the restricted
‐gain. Finally, the numerical examples are given to verified the effectiveness of the proposed method by comparing the state trajectories under the action of the fault‐tolerant controllers and the standard controllers.
‘Populism’ and competing epistemic communities in English educational policy: A response to Craske and Watson
Authors: Menzies Loic
Published: January 2024

This article constitutes a ‘reply and alternative’ to two papers that appeared in a 2021 Special Issue of British Educational Research Journal. Both articles drew on theories of populism as a political logic to explain recent trends in England's education policy. I begin by highlighting how the contributors mobilise ‘populist’ political logics within their own ‘anti‐populist’ discourse. I then argue that the theory of epistemic communities, borrowed from the field of public policy analysis, offers an alternative interpretation of the dynamics described in (and exemplified by) the two articles. This alternative interpretation foregrounds the values, beliefs and policy enterprises of two rival communities that seek to influence education policy through the supply of expertise. I argue that attending to how these communities function helps explain how a new group of policy entrepreneurs has come to constitute an increasingly influential ‘counter‐epistemic community’ and established a mutually beneficial trade in legitimacy with English policy makers. To date, the theory of epistemic communities has been under‐utilised in the study of education policy, but applying the theory to education policy in England provides new insights into how these communities function when the nature of expertise is contested. England's educational policy context also exemplifies the importance of ‘fit’ between policy makers and experts’ beliefs, and the role of policy makers in assembling and curating communities of experts.
More than a bystander: RNAs specify multifaceted behaviors of liquid‐liquid phase‐separated biomolecular condensates
Authors: Zheng Hui , Zhang Hong
Published: January 2024

Cells contain a myriad of membraneless ribonucleoprotein (RNP) condensates with distinct compositions of proteins and RNAs. RNP condensates participate in different cellular activities, including RNA storage, mRNA translation or decay, stress response, etc. RNP condensates are assembled via liquid‐liquid phase separation (LLPS) driven by multivalent interactions. Transition of RNP condensates into bodies with abnormal material properties, such as solid‐like amyloid structures, is associated with the pathogenesis of various diseases. In this review, we focus on how RNAs regulate multiple aspects of RNP condensates, such as dynamic assembly and/or disassembly and biophysical properties. RNA properties – including concentration, sequence, length and structure – also determine the phase behaviors of RNP condensates. RNA is also involved in specifying autophagic degradation of RNP condensates. Unraveling the role of RNA in RNPs provides novel insights into pathological accumulation of RNPs in various diseases. This new understanding can potentially be harnessed to develop therapeutic strategies.
External wrist ratio is not a proxy for internal carpal tunnel shape: Implications for evaluating carpal tunnel syndrome risk
Authors: Loomis Katherine J. , Roll Shawn C.
Published: January 2024

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is highly prevalent, resulting in decreased function and increased need for costly healthcare services. External wrist ratio (depth/width >0.70) is a strong predictor of the development of CTS and has been suggested to be a proxy for internal carpal tunnel (CT) shape. Conversely, sonography can more directly evaluate CT shape. The purpose of our study was to explore the relationship between wrist ratio and sonographic CT measurements to (1) evaluate the reliability of sonographic CT measurements and (2) explore how external wrist measures relate to anthropometric features of the CT. We used sonographic imaging on a sample of healthy participants (n = 226) to measure CT cross‐sectional area, depth, width, and depth/width ratio. We conducted exploratory correlation and regression analyses to identify relationships of these measures with external wrist ratio. Reliability for dominant and nondominant sonographic CT measures ranged from good to excellent (0.79–0.95). Despite a moderate correlation between CT width and depth and their external wrist counterparts (0.33–0.41, p < 0.001), wrist ratio and CT ratio demonstrated weak to no correlation (dominant: r = 0.12, p = 0.053; nondominant: r = 0.20, p = 0.002) and the mean CT ratio was far lower than the mean wrist ratio (0.45 vs. 0.71 bilaterally). Supporting this, we observed several key differences in the relationship between external wrist measures compared to corresponding CT measures. Additionally, regression analyses combining participant factors and CT measurements produced models accounting for less than 15% of the variability in external wrist ratio (linear models) or correctly predicting less than 68% of wrist ratio‐based risk categorization (logistic models). Overall, among healthy young adults, wrist shape is not an adequate proxy for CT shape.
Evaluation of breast skin and tissue stiffness using a non‐invasive aspiration device and impact of clinical predictors
Authors: Duraes Martha , Briot Noemie , Connesson Nathanael , Chagnon Gregory , Payan Yohan , Duflos Claire , Rathat Gauthier , Captier Guillaume , Subsol Gerard , Herlin Christian
Published: January 2024

A personalized 3D breast model could present a real benefit for preoperative discussion with patients, surgical planning, and guidance. Breast tissue biomechanical properties have been poorly studied in vivo, although they are important for breast deformation simulation. The main objective of our study was to determine breast skin thickness and breast skin and adipose/fibroglandular tissue stiffness. The secondary objective was to assess clinical predictors of elasticity and thickness: age, smoking status, body mass index, contraception, pregnancies, breastfeeding, menopausal status, history of radiotherapy or breast surgery. Participants were included at the Montpellier University Breast Surgery Department from March to May 2022. Breast skin thickness was measured by ultrasonography, breast skin and adipose/fibroglandular tissue stiffnesses were determined with a VLASTIC non‐invasive aspiration device at three different sites (breast segments I–III). Multivariable linear models were used to assess clinical predictors of elasticity and thickness. In this cohort of 196 women, the mean breast skin and adipose/fibroglandular tissue stiffness values were 39 and 3 kPa, respectively. The mean breast skin thickness was 1.83 mm. Only menopausal status was significantly correlated with breast skin thickness and adipose/fibroglandular tissue stiffness. The next step will be to implement these stiffness and thickness values in a biomechanical breast model and to evaluate its capacity to predict breast tissue deformations.
Anticandidal Effect of New Imidazole Derivatives Over Aspartic Protease Inhibition
Authors: S Jeevitha , A Manikandan , P Pavan , G Rubalakshmi
Published: January 2024

Candidiasis is one of the most serious microbial infections in the world. One of the main virulence factors for Candida albicans is the crucial secretion of aspartic proteases (Saps). Saps are hydrolytic enzymes that play a major role in many fungal pathophysiological processes as well as in many levels of the associations between the fungus and its host. In this work, we report on the synthesis, characterization, and anti‐candida agent evaluation of a family of 13 imidazolidine‐based aspartate protease inhibitors. In vitro and in silico enzyme inhibition studies have confirmed these compounds′ ability to inhibit fungal aspartate protease. Based on the molecular mechanistic value scores from molecular docking and MD simulations, we selected the top compounds 5b (binding energy −13.90 kcal/mol) and 5m (binding energy −12.94 kcal/mol) from among 5a–l based on the molecular mechanistic value scores from molecular docking and MD simulations for use in in vitro validations. In the results, imidazolidine derivatives showed strong aspartic protease inhibition activity. In conclusion, compounds 5b and 5m were found as potent anti‐candida agents and screened for further pre‐clinical and clinical validations.
Combined ultrasound and angiographic guidance to facilitate transradial access procedures
Authors: Bianchini Francesco , Lombardi Marco , Ricchiuto Alfredo , Paraggio Lazzaro , Aurigemma Cristina , Romagnoli Enrico , Trani Carlo , Burzotta Francesco
Published: January 2024

The introduction of transradial access for percutaneous coronary diagnostic and interventional procedures has led to a decrease in access site complications. The aim of this paper is to propose a combined stepwise technical approach where real time ultrasound (“echo‐first” approach) can be used to select the best vascular access and, together with angiography, to manage the potential obstacles that may occur during transradial procedures. In each section, we summarize some tips and tricks based on both our experience and current literature that can be easily implemented in daily practice to increase the success of transradial procedures.
Stepwise Functionalization of a Pillar[5]arene‐Containing [2]Rotaxane with Pentafluorophenyl Ester Stoppers
Authors: Becharguia Nihed , Wasielewski Emeric , Abidi Rym , Nierengarten Iwona , Nierengarten Jean‐François
Published: January 2024

Invited for the cover of this issue are the group of Iwona and Jean‐François Nierengarten from the University of Strasbourg (LIMA, UMR 7042, CNRS) and collaborators from the University of Carthage. The image depicts a sky of umbrellas floating in the air to illustrate the protective effect allowing the efficient mono‐acylation of a symmetrical rotaxane building block with two pentafluorophenyl ester stoppers. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/chem.2023003501.
AKR1C3 silencing inhibits autophagy‐dependent glycolysis in thyroid cancer cells by inactivating ERK signaling
Authors: Gao Ying , Tao Weijie , Wang Shoujun , Duan Ran , Zhang Zhendong
Published: January 2024

Thyroid cancer is a highly differentiated and poorly malignant tumor. Interfering with glycolysis has become an effective means of controlling cancer progression and autophagy is negatively correlated with glycolysis. Aldo‐keto reductase family 1 member C3 (AKR1C3) has been demonstrated to be highly expressed in thyroid cancer tissue and the higher AKR1C3 expression predicted the worse prognosis. We aimed to explore whether AKR1C3 could affect thyroid cancer progression by regulating autophagy‐dependent glycolysis. AKR1C3 expression in thyroid cancer cells was detected by western blot. Then, AKR1C3 was knocked down by transfection with short hairpin RNA specific to AKR1C3 in the absence or presence of 3‐methyladenine (3‐MA) or PMA treatment. Cell cycle and apoptosis was detected by flow cytometry. Immunofluorescence staining was used to analyze LC3B expression. Extracellular acidification, glucose uptake and lactic acid secretion were detected. To evaluate the tumorigenicity of AKR1C3 insufficiency on thyroid cancer in vivo, TPC‐1 cells with AKR1C3 knockdown were injected subcutaneously into nude mice. Then, cyclinD1 and Ki67 expression in tumorous tissues was measured by immunohistochemical analysis. Apoptosis was assessed by terminal‐deoxynucleoitidyl transferase mediated nick end labeling staining. Additionally, the expression of proteins related to cell cycle, apoptosis, glycolysis, autophagy, and extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK) signaling in cells and tumor tissues was assessed by western blot. Highly expressed AKR1C3 was observed in thyroid cancer cells. AKR1C3 knockdown induced cell cycle arrest and apoptosis of TPC‐1 cells. Besides, autophagy was activated and glycolysis was inhibited following AKR1C3 silencing, and 3‐MA treatment restored the impacts of AKR1C3 silencing on glycolysis. The further experiments revealed that AKR1C3 insufficiency inhibited ERK signaling and PMA application reversed AKR1C3 silencing‐induced autophagy in TPC‐1 cells. The in vivo results suggested that AKR1C3 knockdown inhibited the development of subcutaneous TPC‐1 tumors in nude mice and inactivated the ERK signaling. Collectively, AKR1C3 silencing inhibited autophagy‐dependent glycolysis in thyroid cancer by inactivating ERK signaling.
Enhancing the efficiency of lung cancer cell capture using microfluidic dielectrophoresis and aptamer‐based surface modification
Authors: Lin Shu‐Hui , Su Tzu‐Cheng , Huang Shuo Jie , Jen Chun‐Ping
Published: January 2024

Metastasis remains a significant cause to cancer‐related mortality, underscoring the critical need for early detection and analysis of circulating tumor cells (CTCs). This study presents a novel microfluidic chip designed to efficiently capture A549 lung cancer cells by combining dielectrophoresis (DEP) and aptamer‐based binding, thereby enhancing capture efficiency and specificity. The microchip features interdigitated electrodes made of indium‐tin‐oxide that generate a nonuniform electric field to manipulate CTCs. Following three chip design, scenarios were investigated: (A) bare glass surface, (B) glass modified with gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) only, and (C) glass modified with both AuNPs and aptamers. Experimental results demonstrate that AuNPs significantly enhance capture efficiency under DEP, with scenarios (B) and (C) exhibiting similar performance. Notably, scenario (C) stands out as aptamer‐functionalized surfaces resisting fluid shear forces, achieving CTCs retention even after electric field deactivation. Additionally, an innovative reverse pumping method mitigates inlet clogging, enhancing experimental efficiency. This research offers valuable insights into optimizing surface modifications and understanding key factors influencing cell capture, contributing to the development of efficient cell manipulation techniques with potential applications in cancer research and personalized treatment options.
Application of model updating to a large‐scale hybrid simulation
Authors: Cheng Mao , Ruiz Maria Camila Lopez , Becker Tracy C.
Published: January 2024

Model updating can enhance hybrid simulation by utilizing the experimental data from the physically tested substructure to update the parameters of like‐components in the numerical substructure throughout the test, improving the overall accuracy and reducing the extent of the experimental setup. Identifying and updating parameters can be challenging, especially when coupling between degrees of freedom (DOF) must be considered or the specimen experiences loading scenarios which result in newly observed behavior. To explore the performance of model updating under these challenging conditions, a large‐scale hybrid simulation was conducted using a model of a major toll bridge with seismic isolation lead rubber bearings (LRB). One LRB is physically tested considering axial, shear, and rotational loading, while the remainder of the bearings are simulated and updated with a phenomenological model within the numerical substructure. A weighted adaptive constrained unscented Kalman filter is applied as the online model updating algorithm. The study explored the effect of learning over different loading patterns, the selection of initial model parameters, and the selection of the physically tested substructure. The improvement of numerical model hysteresis performance accuracy of the force prediction demonstrates the benefits of model updating in large‐scale hybrid simulation.