bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantitative Raman Spectroscopy of Urea and Thiourea in the Reaction Mixtures of Allantoin and 4,5‐Dihydroxyimidazolidine‐2‐Tione Formation
Authors: Kalichkina L. E. , Krivolapenko P. K. , Tuguldurova V. P.
Published: September 2024

The present work introduces a new approach to quantitative determine the reagent concentrations (thiourea and urea) using in situ Raman spectroscopy in the reaction mixture exemplified by the reactions of formation of allantoin and 4,5‐dihydroxyimidazolidine‐2‐thione. The approach comprises the use of a commercially available immersion probe (MarqMetrix Process Elite BallProbe with sapphire lens) as a standard for the immersion probe band at 790 cm−1 of optical glass. This leads to a linear dependence of the ratio of the intensity of non‐overlapping analyte bands at 1003 cm−1 of ‐C‐N‐ vibrations in urea to the one of the 790 cm−1 immersion probe band on the concentration of urea in the test solution. The definable method parameters such as precision (repeatability and reproducibility), linearity, limit of detection (LoD), limit of quantitation (LoQ), and accuracy were determined. The quantitative Raman spectroscopy method is linear, precise within the range of determined concentrations from 0.75 to 2.00 M and can be used to calculate the kinetics of allantoin formation. Using thiourea as an example, it is shown that despite the partial overlap of the analyte band at 730 cm−1 of the ‐C=S vibrations of thiourea with the immersion probe band at 790 cm−1, the method to determine thiourea in the reaction of 4,5‐dihydroxyimidazolidine‐2‐thione preparation is also linear and precise in the range of determined concentrations from 0.10 to 1.57 M.
Measuring Atrial Size, Shape, and Contractility of the Fetal Heart Using FetalHQ
Authors: DeVore Greggory R.
Published: September 2024

Measurements of fetal atrial size, shape, and contractility have been previously reported using the TomTec fetal heart speckle tracking analysis software, which currently is no longer available in the marketplace. At the present time, the only software available for speckle‐tracking analysis of the fetal heart is fetalHQ, which analyzes the fetal heart ventricles using the same algorithms as the TomTec software used for speckle‐tracking analysis. This communication will review how to use the fetalHQ software to measure the size, shape, and contractility of the atrial chambers.
Recyclable and Stable Strain Sensors Based on Semi‐Wrapped Structure of Silver Nanowires in Polyvinyl Alcohol for Human Motion Monitoring
Authors: Chen Yiyi , Li Yanlin , Zhang Qi , Peng Ting , Yu Huangzhong , Shi Shengwei
Published: September 2024

Highly sensitive strain sensors have been widely used in human motion monitoring, medical treatment, soft robots, and human–computer interaction, and the recycling of functional materials is in a huge demand for eco‐friendly and sustainable electronics. However, the manufacturing of recyclable strain sensors still remains challenging. Here, a semi‐wrapped structure based on silver nanowires and polyvinyl alcohol is proposed to realize a recyclable and stable strain sensor. It has shown excellent sensitivity, fast response, high stretchability and good environmental stability, and is successfully applied for human motion monitoring. In addition, a simple strategy is developed to effectively recycle silver nanowires in an eco‐friendly manner. The recyclable and stable strain sensor demonstrates potential applications in wearable and stretchable electronics, and the recycling strategy can be extended to other noble metal nanomaterials.
Localized operators on weighted Herz spaces
Authors: Ho Kwok‐Pun
Published: September 2024

We introduce the notion of localized operators. We extend the boundedness of the localized operators from the weighted Lebesgue spaces to the weighted Herz spaces. The localized operators include the Hardy operator, the Riemann–Liouville fractional integrals, the general Hardy‐type operators, the geometric mean operator, and the one‐sided maximal function. Therefore, this paper extends the mapping properties of the the Hardy operator, the Riemann–Liouville fractional integrals, the general Hardy‐type operators, the geometric mean operator, and the one‐sided maximal function to the weighted Herz spaces.
A Novel Heterozygous Intronic FBN1 Variant Contributes to Aberrant RNA Splicing in Marfan Syndrome
Authors: Dougarem Djouhayna , Chen Yi‐Xiao , Sun Yi‐Na , Huang He‐Feng , Luo Qiong
Published: September 2024

Background

Marfan syndrome (MFS) is a complex genetic systemic connective tissue disorder. It is well known that genetic factors play a critical role in the progression of MFS, with nearly all cases attributed to variants in the FBN1 gene.

Methods

We investigated a Chinese family with MFS spanning two generations. Whole exome sequencing, in silico analysis, minigene constructs, transfection, RT‐PCR, and protein secondary structure analysis were used to analyze the genotype of the proband and his father.

Results

The main clinical manifestations of the proband and his father were subluxation of the left lens and high myopia with pectus deformity. Whole exome sequencing identified a novel single nucleotide variant (SNV) in the FBN1 gene at a non‐canonical splice site, c.443‐3C>G. This variant resulted in two abnormal mRNA transcripts, leading to a frameshift and an in‐frame insertion. Further in vitro experiments indicated that the c.443‐3C>G variant in FBN1 was pathogenic and functionally harmful.

Conclusion

This research identified a novel intronic pathogenic FBN1: c.443‐3C>G gene variant, which led to two different aberrant splicing effects. Further functional analysis expands the variant spectrum and provides a strong indication and sufficient basis for preimplantation genetic testing for monogenic disease (PGT‐M).
Management of a Complex, Recurrent Case of Medial Thigh Sarcoma With Pedicled Deep Inferior Epigastric Artery Perforator (DIEP) Lymphatic Flow‐Through (LyFT) Flap and Secondary Anterolateral Thigh (ALT) Free Flap With Innervated Vastus Lateralis Anastomosed to Synthetic Artery Graft: A Case Report
Authors: Martini Federica , Meroni Matteo , Scaglioni Mario F.
Published: September 2024

Soft‐tissue sarcomas (STS) are rare solid tumors of mesenchymal cell origin and account for only 1% of adult malignancies. They tend to occur most commonly in the lower extremities. Reconstruction after sarcoma resection can be challenging, especially when important structures are involved and recurrences occur. Additionally, more attention is now being paid to reconstructing the lymphatic system to prevent lymphatic complications. In this case report, we presented the management of recurrent medial thigh sarcoma that necessitated multiple challenging reconstructions to provide valuable insights for lectures on similar cases. A 50‐year‐old male patient was diagnosed with an undifferentiated pleomorphic cell sarcoma (UPS) of the anteromedial thigh. After preoperative radiotherapy, a mass of 23 × 15 cm was removed, and reconstruction with a pedicled deep inferior epigastric artery perforator (p‐DIEP) flap‐based lymphatic flow through (LyFT) was performed. Six months later, the patient developed the first local recurrence with the presence of a distant metastasis. Following the tumor resection, the medial part of the DIEP flap was de‐epithelized and buried in the defect for dead space obliteration. Another local recurrence arose 7 months after the second surgery. Therefore, a major debulking surgery involving the femoral neurovascular bundle was performed. The femoral artery was reconstructed with a synthetic graft, and the femoral vein with the great saphenous vein harvested from the contralateral thigh. A composite myocutaneous neurotized anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap from the contralateral thigh was used to obliterate the defect and restore the loss of function of the quadriceps femoris. Two lymphaticovenular anastomoses (LVAs) were performed at the ankle to reduce the risk of lymphatic sequelae. This case report highlights the importance of integrating various techniques to create a tailored approach that effectively addresses complex surgical requirements to avoid limb amputation and maintain functionality.
QRAGE—Simultaneous multiparametric quantitative MRI of water content, T1, T2*, and magnetic susceptibility at ultrahigh field strength
Authors: Zimmermann Markus , Abbas Zaheer , Sommer Yannic , Lewin Alexander , Ramkiran Shukti , Felder Jörg , Worthoff Wieland A. , Oros‐Peusquens Ana‐Maria , Yun Seong Dae , Shah N. Jon
Published: September 2024

Purpose

To introduce quantitative rapid gradient‐echo (QRAGE), a novel approach for the simultaneous mapping of multiple quantitative MRI parameters, including water content, T1, T2*, and magnetic susceptibility at ultrahigh field strength.

Methods

QRAGE leverages a newly developed multi‐echo MPnRAGE sequence, facilitating the acquisition of 171 distinct contrast images across a range of TI and TE points. To maintain a short acquisition time, we introduce MIRAGE2, a novel model‐based reconstruction method that exploits prior knowledge of temporal signal evolution, represented as damped complex exponentials. MIRAGE2 minimizes local Block‐Hankel and Casorati matrices. Parameter maps are derived from the reconstructed contrast images through postprocessing steps. We validate QRAGE through extensive simulations, phantom studies, and in vivo experiments, demonstrating its capability for high‐precision imaging.

Results

In vivo brain measurements show the promising performance of QRAGE, with test–retest SDs and deviations from reference methods of < 0.8% for water content, < 17 ms for T1, and < 0.7 ms for T2*. QRAGE achieves whole‐brain coverage at a 1‐mm isotropic resolution in just 7 min and 15 s, comparable to the acquisition time of an MP2RAGE scan. In addition, QRAGE generates a contrast image akin to the UNI image produced by MP2RAGE.

Conclusion

QRAGE is a new, successful approach for simultaneously mapping multiple MR parameters at ultrahigh field.
A 32‐channel high‐impedance honeycomb‐shaped receive array for temporal lobes exploration at 11.7T
Authors: Gapais Paul‐François , Luong Michel , Giacomini Eric , Guillot Jules , Djaballah Elias , Gunamony Shajan , Chu Son , Hosseinnezhadian Sajad , Amadon Alexis
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The newly operational 11.7T Iseult scanner provides an improved global SNR in the human brain. This gain in SNR can be pushed even further locally by designing region‐focused dense receive arrays. The temporal lobes are particularly interesting to neuroscientists as they are associated with language and concept recognition. Our main goal was to maximize the SNR in the temporal lobes and provide high‐acceleration capabilities for fMRI studies.

Methods

We designed and developed a 32‐channel receive array made of non‐overlapped hexagonal loops. The loops were arranged in a honeycomb pattern and targeted the temporal lobes. They were placed on a flexible neoprene cap closely fitting the head. A new stripline design with a high impedance was proposed and applied for the first time at 11.7T. Specific homebuilt miniaturized low‐impedance preamplifiers were directly mounted on the loops, providing preamplifier decoupling in a compact and modular design. Using an anatomical phantom, we experimentally compared the SNR and parallel imaging performance of the region‐focused cap to a 32‐channel whole‐brain receive array at 11.7T.

Results

The experimental results showed a 1.7‐time higher SNR on average in the temporal lobes compared to the whole brain receive array. The g‐factor is also improved when undersampling in the antero‐posterior and head‐foot directions.

Conclusion

A significant SNR boost in the temporal lobes was demonstrated at 11.7T compared to the whole‐brain receive array. The parallel imaging capabilities were also improved in the temporal lobes in some acceleration directions.
Three contrasts in 3 min: Rapid, high‐resolution, and bone‐selective UTE MRI for craniofacial imaging with automated deep‐learning skull segmentation
Authors: Vu Brian‐Tinh Duc , Kamona Nada , Kim Yohan , Ng Jinggang J. , Jones Brandon C. , Wehrli Felix W. , Song Hee Kwon , Bartlett Scott P. , Lee Hyunyeol , Rajapakse Chamith S.
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Ultrashort echo time (UTE) MRI can be a radiation‐free alternative to CT for craniofacial imaging of pediatric patients. However, unlike CT, bone‐specific MR imaging is limited by long scan times, relatively low spatial resolution, and a time‐consuming bone segmentation workflow.

Methods

A rapid, high‐resolution UTE technique for brain and skull imaging in conjunction with an automatic segmentation pipeline was developed. A dual‐RF, dual‐echo UTE sequence was optimized for rapid scan time (3 min) and smaller voxel size (0.65 mm3). A weighted least‐squares conjugate gradient method for computing the bone‐selective image improves bone specificity while retaining bone sensitivity. Additionally, a deep‐learning U‐Net model was trained to automatically segment the skull from the bone‐selective images. Ten healthy adult volunteers (six male, age 31.5 ± 10 years) and three pediatric patients (two male, ages 12 to 15 years) were scanned at 3 T. Clinical CT for the three patients were obtained for validation. Similarities in 3D skull reconstructions relative to clinical standard CT were evaluated based on the Dice similarity coefficient and Hausdorff distance. Craniometric measurements were used to assess geometric accuracy of the 3D skull renderings.

Results

The weighted least‐squares method produces images with enhanced bone specificity, suppression of soft tissue, and separation from air at the sinuses when validated against CT in pediatric patients. Dice similarity coefficient overlap was 0.86 ± 0.05, and the 95th percentile Hausdorff distance was 1.77 ± 0.49 mm between the full‐skull binary masks of the optimized UTE and CT in the testing dataset.

Conclusion

An optimized MRI acquisition, reconstruction, and segmentation workflow for craniofacial imaging was developed.
A diffusion‐prepared reduced FOV sequence for prostate MRI near metallic implants
Authors: Lee Philip K. , Hess Jeremiah J. , Gomella Andrew A. , Loening Andreas M. , Hargreaves Brian A.
Published: September 2024

Purpose

To enable diffusion weighted imaging in prostate patients with metallic total hip replacements in clinically feasible scan times for prostate cancer screening, and avoid distortion and dropout artifacts present in the conventionally used Echo Planar Imaging (EPI).

Methods

A reduced field of view (FOV) diffusion‐prepared sequence that is robust to the B inhomogeneities produced by total hip replacements was achieved using high radiofrequency (RF) bandwidth pulses and manipulation for stimulated echo pathways. The reduced FOV along the A/P direction was obtained using slice‐select gradient reversal, and the prepared magnetization was imaged with a three‐dimensional RF‐spoiled gradient echo readout. The sequence was validated in phantom experiments, in vivo in healthy volunteers with and without total hip replacements, and in vivo in patients undergoing a standard MRI prostate exam.

Results

The proposed sequence is robust to shading and distortion artifacts that are encountered by standard diffusion‐weighted EPI in the presence of moderate off‐resonance. Apparent diffusion coefficient estimates obtained by the proposed sequence were comparable to those obtained with diffusion‐weighted EPI.

Conclusion

Acquisition of distortionless diffusion weighted images of the prostate is feasible in patients with total hip replacements on conventional, whole‐body 3T MRI, using a b‐value of 800 and nominal resolution of 1.7 1.7 4 mm3 in scan times of 6 min.
T1 and T2 measurements across multiple 0.55T MRI systems using open‐source vendor‐neutral sequences
Authors: Keenan Kathryn E. , Tasdelen Bilal , Javed Ahsan , Ramasawmy Rajiv , Rizzo Rudy , Martin Michele N. , Stupic Karl F. , Seiberlich Nicole , Campbell‐Washburn Adrienne E. , Nayak Krishna S.
Published: September 2024

Purpose

To compare T1 and T2 measurements across commercial and prototype 0.55T MRI systems in both phantom and healthy participants using the same vendor‐neutral pulse sequences, reconstruction, and analysis methods.

Methods

Standard spin echo measurements and abbreviated protocol measurements of T1, B1, and T2 were made on two prototype 0.55 T systems and two commercial 0.55T systems using an ISMRM/NIST system phantom. Additionally, five healthy participants were imaged at each system using the abbreviated protocol for T1, B1, and T2 measurement. The phantom measurements were compared to NMR‐based reference measurements to determine accuracy, and both phantom and in vivo measurements were compared to assess reproducibility and differences between the prototype and commercial systems.

Results

Vendor‐neutral sequences were implemented across all four systems, and the code for pulse sequences and reconstruction is freely available. For participants, there was no difference in the mean T1 and T2 relaxation times between the prototype and commercial systems. In the phantom, there were no significant differences between the prototype and commercial systems for T1 and T2 measurements using the abbreviated protocol.

Conclusion

Quantitative T1 and T2 measurements at 0.55T in phantom and healthy participants are not statistically different across the prototype and commercial systems.
Automated MRI‐based segmentation of intracranial arterial calcification by restricting feature complexity
Authors: Wang Xin , Canton Gador , Guo Yin , Zhang Kaiyu , Akcicek Halit , Yaman Akcicek Ebru , Hatsukami Thomas , Zhang Jin , Sun Beibei , Zhao Huilin , Zhou Yan , Shapiro Linda , Mossa‐Basha Mahmud , Yuan Chun , Balu Niranjan
Published: September 2024

Purpose

To develop an automated deep learning model for MRI‐based segmentation and detection of intracranial arterial calcification.

Methods

A novel deep learning model under the variational autoencoder framework was developed. A theoretically grounded dissimilarity loss was proposed to refine network features extracted from MRI and restrict their complexity, enabling the model to learn more generalizable MR features that enhance segmentation accuracy and robustness for detecting calcification on MRI.

Results

The proposed method was compared with nine baseline methods on a dataset of 113 subjects and showed superior performance (for segmentation, Dice similarity coefficient: 0.620, area under precision‐recall curve [PR‐AUC]: 0.660, 95% Hausdorff Distance: 0.848 mm, Average Symmetric Surface Distance: 0.692 mm; for slice‐wise detection, F1 score: 0.823, recall: 0.764, precision: 0.892, PR‐AUC: 0.853). For clinical needs, statistical tests confirmed agreement between the true calcification volumes and predicted values using the proposed approach. Various MR sequences, namely T1, time‐of‐flight, and SNAP, were assessed as inputs to the model, and SNAP provided unique and essential information pertaining to calcification structures.

Conclusion

The proposed deep learning model with a dissimilarity loss to reduce feature complexity effectively improves MRI‐based identification of intracranial arterial calcification. It could help establish a more comprehensive and powerful pipeline for vascular image analysis on MRI.
Superlinear Krylov convergence under streamline diffusion FEM for convection‐dominated elliptic operators
Authors: Karátson János
Published: September 2024

This paper studies the superlinear convergence of Krylov iterations under the streamline‐diffusion preconditioning operator for convection‐dominated elliptic problems. First, convergence results are given involving the diffusion parameter . Then the limiting case is studied on the operator level, and the convergence results are extended to this situation under some conditions, in spite of the lack of compactness of the perturbation operators. An explicit rate is also given.
The perceptions and experiences of caregivers of patients with dysphagia: A qualitative meta‐synthesis
Authors: Yi QiaoLi , Mao LiYe , Li WenYao , Shen Fan , Liao ZongFeng , Huang HaiShan , Li Ling
Published: September 2024

Aims

To understand the perceptions and experiences of family caregivers of adult patients with dysphagia.

Background

Dysphagia is a common symptom and burdens caregivers greatly. There is a growing body of studies concentrating on caregivers and caregiving experiences. However, no qualitative meta‐synthesis has been conducted to explore the perceptions and experiences of family caregivers.

Design

A qualitative meta‐ethnography.

Methods

A search was conducted for relevant articles in six electronic databases (PubMed, Web of Science, CINAHL, Ovid, Cochrane Library, ProQuest) and two Chinese databases (CNKI, Wanfang Data) from inception to February 2023. The Joanna Briggs Institute Qualitative Assessment and Review Instrument (JBI‐QARI) was used to evaluate study quality. The meta‐ethnographic method was used to synthesize data from qualitative studies. The study was reported according to EQUATOR guidelines.

Results

Eleven studies were included and three themes emerged: (1) emotion and perception, (2) change and challenge (3) adaption and coping.

Conclusion

This review highlighted the challenges and positive coping experienced by caregivers. Findings directly inform the development and implementation of supportive interventions to reduce caregivers' stress and promote adaptive coping.

Relevance to clinical practice

Pay attention to the needs of family caregivers of dysphagia. Family caregivers' perceived severity of dysphagia requires assessment. Caregivers need knowledge, support, and guidance to reduce their burden and fulfill their role.
A geographical paradox: microbiological profile and antibiotic resistance of diabetic foot infection in North West England
Authors: Balakrishnan Theenesh , Amarasena Danuksha K. , Bilal Ahmad , Nath Upamanyu , Ariff Amir , Pillai Anand
Published: September 2024

Background: The microbiological composition of diabetic foot infection (DFI) and its antimicrobial resistance exhibit variations in different parts of the world.

Aims: This study aimed to shed light on the microbial load associated with DFI and the patterns of antibiotic resistance in Northwest England.

Methods: This was a retrospective descriptive study that included 67 patients (55 male [78.6%]). The mean age at diagnosis was 45.6 years (standard deviation, 15.8). The culture of deep tissue samples was analysed together with antibiotic resistance.

Results: A total of 114 causative pathogens were identified. Of note, 40 patients (60.00%) had polymicrobial infections. Moreover, 58.77% of the microbial cohort was composed of gram‐positive bacteria. Staphylococcus spp. were found in 32 patients (47.76%) and were the most prevalent pathogen in our cohort. Anaerobic bacteria were found in 17 patients (25.37%) and were the second most common pathogen in our cohort. Corynebacterium spp., Streptococcus spp. and Enterococcus spp. were identified in 11 (16.42%), 10 (14.93%) and 9 (13.43%) patients, respectively. Among the gram‐negative bacteria, Escherichia spp. were found in 7 patients (10.45%), Enterobacter spp. were found in 6 patients (8.96%), Klebsiella spp. were found in 4 patients (5.97%), Proteus spp. were found in 4 patients (5.97%) and Alcaligenes spp. were found in 2 patients (2.99%). The remaining less common organisms collectively accounted for 1.49% prevalence. Regarding antibiotic therapy, the highest resistance was observed for ciprofloxacin (12 [17.91%]), followed by amoxicillin (11 [16.42%]), penicillin (10 [14.93%]), clarithromycin (7 [10.45%]), trimethoprim (7 [10.45%]), doxycycline (6 [8.96%]) and piperacillin/tazobactam (5 [7.46%]).

Conclusions: In contrast to the predominant aerobic gram‐negative bacteria in Asia, the Middle East and Africa, our study found a paradoxically higher prevalence of gram‐positive and anaerobic bacteria in North West England. Moreover, our study found a high incidence of resistance to ciprofloxacin and amoxicillin.
The importance of image quality in AI visual inspection systems
Authors: Dolberg Sagi
Published: September 2024

The use of AI for visual inspection is currently making great strides in sectors like automotive, metals and machinery manufacturing. However, those investing in the technology not only expect a system that will be superior to manual inspection, but an error rate close to zero in defect detection. Let us look at the importance of image quality and why the variability in the production environment is the single greatest challenge that AI engineers must face.
Increasing productivity by combining laser processes
Authors: Hofele Markus , Buser Matthias
Published: September 2024

Increasing the material ablation rate in micromachining of precise geometries by ultrashort‐pulsed laser treatment with high average power causes a decrease of achievable surface quality due to heat accumulation. To overcome this drawback, combined laser processes offer a significant increase of the overall productivity by the implementation of laser cleaning and polishing processes that require negligible additional processing time, but allow material removal to be performed with maximum process efficiency.
Innovations and challenges in modern optical design
Authors: Picot‐Clémente Jérémy
Published: September 2024

Optical designers are constantly pushing the boundaries of technology, developing new materials, techniques, and software tools to improve the design and optimization of optical systems – crucial for continued growth and innovation in areas such as virtual reality, autonomous vehicles, and quantum technologies.
“Be prepared to be humbled, to listen, and learn a lot”
Authors: Picot‐Clémente Jérémy
Published: September 2024

The head of the German producer of photonics packaging and integration technology shares his insights with EPIC's photonics technologies program manager.
AdheScan – adhesive failure surface inspection system
Authors: Kuhlmann Luca , Lamott André , Thomsen Armin , Mühlenfeld‐Keßler Heiko , Knigge Anja
Published: September 2024

Adhesive bonding is an established joining technique with many applications in for example aerospace, lightweight construction, and the automotive industry. It places particularly high demands on materials, processes, and quality assurance, requiring extensive development and qualification procedures. Many process samples generated for testing are still evaluated manually by experts. The AdheScan provides a quantifiable, simplified and more accurate evaluation of adhesive failure surfaces.
Understanding the mechanisms of food effect on omaveloxolone pharmacokinetics through physiologically based biopharmaceutics modeling
Authors: Pepin Xavier J. H. , Hynes Scott M. , Zahir Hamim , Walker Deborah , Semmens Lois Q. , Suarez‐Sharp Sandra
Published: September 2024

Omaveloxolone is a nuclear factor (erythroid‐derived 2)‐like 2 activator approved in the United States and the European Union for the treatment of patients with Friedreich ataxia aged ≥16 years, with a recommended dosage of 150 mg orally once daily on an empty stomach. The effect of the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) high‐fat breakfast on the pharmacokinetic profile of omaveloxolone observed in study 408‐C‐1703 (NCT03664453) deviated from the usual linear correlation between fed/fasted maximum plasma concentration (Cmax) and area under the concentration–time curve (AUC) ratios reported for various oral drugs across 323 food effect studies. Here, physiologically based biopharmaceutics modeling (PBBM) was implemented to predict and explain the effect of the FDA high‐fat breakfast on a 150‐mg dose of omaveloxolone. The model was developed and validated based on dissolution and pharmacokinetic data available across dose‐ranging, food effect, and drug–drug interaction clinical studies. PBBM predictions support clinical observations of the unique effect of a high‐fat meal on omaveloxolone pharmacokinetic profile, in which the Cmax increased by 350% with only a 15% increase in the AUC. Key parameters influencing omaveloxolone pharmacokinetics in the fasted state based on a parameter sensitivity analysis included bile salt solubilization, CYP3A4 activity, drug substance particle size distribution, and permeability. Mechanistically, in vivo omaveloxolone absorption was solubility and dissolution rate limited. However, in the fed state, higher bile salt solubilization led to more rapid dissolution with predominant absorption in the upper gastrointestinal tract, resulting in increased susceptibility to first‐pass gut extraction; this accounts for the lack of correlation between Cmax and AUC for omaveloxolone.
Accounting for black carbon refractive index in atmospheric radiation
Authors: Li Jiangnan , Digby Ruth , von Salzen Knut
Published: September 2024

Because of the fractal aggregated structure of black carbon (BC), black carbon refractive index measurements are difficult. There are substantial differences among the over 40 existing measurement schemes and no two schemes are the same. Three typical BC refractive index schemes are chosen to explore the difference in black carbon optical properties and the consequences of the radiative effect. Two schemes are widely used in climate models, and the third is from a newer measurement in 2016. It is shown that black carbon optical properties are sensitive to different refractive indices. The relative differences in extinction coefficient and single scattering albedo can be over 100%. In addition, by using Maxwell–Garnett and Bruggeman mixing rules, it has been found that the effect of internal mixing on aerosol optical properties depends strongly on the choice of refractive index. Using a one‐dimensional radiative transfer model under clear‐sky conditions, we demonstrate that the choice of black carbon refractive index influences the inferred radiative effect. Using the more recent (2016) scheme for pure black carbon can increase the top‐of‐atmosphere radiative effect by 20% relative to the currently widely used lowest‐absorbing scheme. For internally mixed aerosol, the sign of the radiative effect can change depending on which refractive index is used.
The biostimulatory effect of humic‐based soil amendment on plant growth, root nodulation, symbiotic nitrogen fixation and yield of field pea (Pisum sativum L.)
Authors: Rathor Pramod , Upadhyay Punita , Ullah Aman , Warkentin Thomas D. , Gorim Linda Yuya , Thilakarathna Malinda S.
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Pea is one of the most important pulse legumes globally due to its high protein, which is due to its ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen through a symbiotic relationship with nitrogen‐fixing rhizobia. Symbiotic nitrogen fixation (SNF) should be optimized to maximize nitrogen fixation and achieve higher yields with more grain protein. The use of humic‐based soil amendments in crop production has garnered considerable attention in recent years due to their biostimulatory effect in improving plant growth, yield, nutritional quality and soil health. This study examines the impact of a humic‐based soil amendment (Humalite) on root nodulation, SNF, plant growth, yield and grain protein of pea.

Materials and Methods

Chemical characterization was performed using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Pea plants inoculated with Rhizobia were grown in pots under greenhouse conditions with five different Humalite rates (0, 200, 400, 800 and 1600 kg ha−1). SNF capacity was assessed using the 15N‐isotope dilution method.

Results

FTIR analysis revealed the abundant presence of hydroxyl (‐OH) and carboxyl (‐CO) functional groups in Humalite. Plants treated with Humalite displayed augmented root traits [root length (21%–50%), root surface area (24%–51%), volume (26%–53%), average nodule weight (11%–91%)], plant biomass [shoots (13%–29%) and roots (29%–54%)], shoot nitrogen concentration (12%–33%), shoot total nitrogen content (38%–53%), percentage nitrogen derived from the atmosphere (8%–14%) and total shoot nitrogen fixed (48%–80%) compared to the control plants at the flowering stage. Furthermore, at seed maturity stage, plants treated with Humalite at 400 and 1600 kg ha−1 exhibited a significant increase in plant biomass (4%–14%), number of seeds (8%–16%), seed weight (3%–11%), seed nitrogen content (8%–20%) and total seed nitrogen fixed (7%–22%) compared to the control plants.

Conclusions

These findings demonstrate that humic‐based soil amendment can effectively enhance plant growth, root nodulation, SNF and seed yield, thereby supporting sustainable agricultural practices.
Multi‐Biomarker Profiling for Precision Diagnosis of Lung Cancer
Authors: Seo Dongkwon , Choi Byeong Hyeon , La Ju A , Kim Youngjae , Kang Taewook , Kim Hyun Koo , Choi Yeonho
Published: September 2024

Multi‐biomarker analysis can enhance the accuracy of the single‐biomarker analysis by reducing the errors caused by genetic and environmental differences. For this reason, multi‐biomarker analysis shows higher accuracy in early and precision diagnosis. However, conventional analysis methods have limitations for multi‐biomarker analysis because of their long pre‐processing times, inconsistent results, and large sample requirements. To solve these, a fast and accurate precision diagnostic method is introduced for lung cancer by multi‐biomarker profiling using a single drop of blood. For this, surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopic immunoassay (SERSIA) is employed for the accurate, quick, and reliable quantification of biomarkers. Then, it is checked the statistical relation of the multi‐biomarkers to differentiate between healthy controls and lung cancer patients. This approach has proven effective; with 20 µL of blood serum, lung cancer is diagnosed with 92% accuracy. It also accurately identifies the type and stage of cancer with 87% and 85%, respectively. These results show the importance of multi‐biomarker analysis in overcoming the challenges posed by single‐biomarker diagnostics. Furthermore, it markedly improves multi‐biomarker‐based analysis methods, illustrating its important impact on clinical diagnostics.
Tethering Cobalt Ions to BiVO4 Surface via Robust Organic Bifunctional Linker for Efficient Photoelectrochemical Water Splitting
Authors: Jahangir Tahir Naveed , Ahmed Tauqir , Ullah Nisar , Kandiel Tarek A.
Published: September 2024

In the quest for efficient and stable oxygen evolution catalysts (OECs) for photoelectrochemical water splitting, the surface modification of BiVO4 is a crucial step. In this study, a novel and robust OEC, based on 3‐(bis(pyridin‐2‐ylmethyl) amino) propanoic acid bifunctional linker known as dipicolyl alanine acid (DPAA) and cobalt ions, is prepared and fully characterized. The DPAA is anchored to the surface of BiVO4 and utilized to tether cobalt ions. The Co‐DPAA/BiVO4 photoanode exhibits remarkable stability and efficiency toward photoelectrochemical water oxidation. Specifically, it showed anodic photocurrent increase of 7.1, 5.0, 3.0, and 1.3‐fold at 1.23 VRHE as compared to pristine BiVO4, DPAA/BiVO4, Co‐BiVO4, and Co‐Pi/BiVO4 photoanodes, respectively. The photoelectrochemical and IMPS studies revealed that the Co‐DPAA/BiVO4 photoanode exhibits a longer transient decay time for surface‐trapped holes, higher charge transfer kinetics, and charge separation efficiency compared to Co‐Pi/BiVO4 and pristine BiVO4 photoelectrodes. This indicates that the Co‐DPAA effectively reduces surface recombination and facilitates charge transfer. Moreover, at 1.23 VRHE, the Co‐DPAA/BiVO4 photoanode achieved a faradic efficiency of 92% for oxygen evolution reaction and could retain a turnover frequency of 3.65 s−1. The exhibited efficiency is higher than most of the efficient molecular oxygen evolution catalysts based on Ru.
Stable Persistent Room‐Temperature Phosphorescent Hydrogels Based on Ionically Crosslinked Nonaromatic Carboxylate Polymers
Authors: Xiao Jinsheng , Deng Junwen , Wang Xiushan , Ho Hiolam , Bai Chenhao , Bai Yunhao , Wang Huiliang
Published: September 2024

Developing pure organic room‐temperature phosphorescent (RTP) hydrogels is important for expanding the practical applications of phosphorescent materials. However, most of the reported RTP hydrogels containing aromatic phosphors suffer from short phosphorescent lifetimes, unstable underwater RTP emissions, and complex preparation processes. Herein, novel nonaromatic RTP hydrogels are prepared by using two types of non‐traditional luminescent polymers, sodium alginate and a polymeric carboxylate, which are not RTP emissive or very weakly emissive in aqueous environments. The prepared hydrogels exhibit the following features: I) color‐tunable RTP emissions with ultra‐long lifetimes up to 451.1 ms, II) excellent anti‐swelling properties and stable persistent RTP emission even after being immersed in deionized water for months, III) efficient and large‐scale preparation of hydrogel fibers by wet spinning technique. Experiment results and theoretical calculations show that the stable and long‐lifetime RTP emissions of the hydrogels originate from the introduction of more nonconventional chromophores which are strongly crosslinked with ionic bonding between carboxylate groups and calcium ions and enhanced through‐space interactions between them. This work provides a reliable strategy for designing nonaromatic hydrogels with stable and persistent RTP.
From Friction to Function: A High‐Voltage Sliding Triboelectric Nanogenerator for Highly Efficient Energy Autonomous IoTs and Self‐Powered Actuation
Authors: Das Jyoti Prakash , Nardekar Swapnil Shital , Ravichandran Vishwanathan , Kim Sang‐Jae
Published: September 2024

An advanced energy autonomous system that simultaneously harnesses and stores energy on the same platform offers exciting opportunities for the near‐future self‐powered miniature electronics. However, achieving optimal synchronization between the power output of an energy harvester and the storage unit or integrating it seamlessly with real‐time microelectronics to build a highly efficient energy autonomous system remains challenging. Herein, a unique bimetallic layered double hydroxide (LDH) based tribo‐positive layer is introduced for a high‐voltage sliding triboelectric nanogenerator (S‐TENG) with an output voltage of ≈1485 V and power output of 250 µW, respectively. To demonstrate the potential of a self‐charging power system, S‐TENG is integrated with on‐chip micro‐supercapacitors (MSCs) as a storage unit. The MSC array effectively self‐charged up to 4.8 V (within 220s), providing ample power to support micro‐sensory systems. In addition, by utilizing the high‐voltage output of the S‐TENG, the efficient operation of electrostatic actuators and digital microfluidic (DMF) systems driven directly by simple mechanical motion is further demonstrated. Overall, this work can provide a solid foundation for the advancement of next‐generation energy‐autonomous systems.
Vacancy Manipulation by Ordered Mesoporous Induced Optimal Carrier Concentration and Low Lattice Thermal Conductivity in BixSb2−xTe3 Yielding Superior Thermoelectric Performance
Authors: Li Jiao , Xu Wenlong , Jin Kangpeng , Zhang Wanjia , Lu Xiaoqing , Pan Guilong , Zhong Tianyu , Wang Xiyang , Shi Zhan , Xu Biao , Lou Yue
Published: September 2024

For BixSb2−xTe3 (BST) in thermoelectric field, the element ratio is easily influenced by the chemical environment, deviating from the stoichiometric ratio and giving rise to various intrinsic defects. In P‐type polycrystalline BST, SbTe and BiTe are the primary forms of defects. Defect engineering is a crucial strategy for optimizing the electrical transport performance of Bi2Te3‐based materials, but achieving synchronous improvement of thermal performance is challenging. In this study, mesoporous SiO2 is utilized to successfully mitigate the adverse impacts of vacancy defects, resulting in an enhancement of the electrical transport performance and a pronounced reduction in thermal conductivity. Crystal and the microstructure of the continuous modulation contribute to the effective phonon–electronic decoupling. Ultimately, the peak zT of Bi0.4Sb1.6Te3/0.8 wt% SiO2 (with a pore size of 4 nm) nanocomposites reaches as high as 1.5 at 348 K, and a thermoelectric conversion efficiency of 6.6% is achieved at ΔT = 222.7 K. These results present exciting possibilities for the realization of defect regulation in porous materials and hold reference significance for other material systems.
Entropy‐Driven Reversible Melting and Recrystallization of Layered Hybrid Perovskites
Authors: Rajput Parikshit Kumar , Salunkhe Parashurama , Sarma Manmayuri , Basu Meghasree , Gopal Animesh , Joshi Aprajita , Shingote Ajinkya Sundarnath , Saha Surajit , Rahman Atikur , Nag Angshuman
Published: September 2024

Typical layered 2D A2PbX4 (A: organic ammonium cation, X: Br, I) perovskites undergo irreversible decomposition at high temperatures. Can they be designed to melt at lower temperatures without decomposition? Which thermodynamic parameter drive the melting of layered perovskites? These questions are addressed by considering the melt of A2PbX4 as a mixture of ions (like ionic liquids), and hypothesized that the increase in the structural entropy of fusion (ΔSfus) will be the driving force to decrease their melting temperature. Then to increase structural ΔSfus, A‐site cations are designed that are rigid in the solid crystal, and become flexible in the molten state. Different tail groups in the A‐site cations form hydrogen‐, halogen‐ and even covalent bonding‐interactions, making the cation‐layer rigid in the solid form. Additionally, the rotation of ─NH3+ head group is suppressed by replacing ─H with ─CH3, further enhancing the rigidity. Six A2PbX4 crystals with high ΔSfus and low melting temperatures are prepared using this approach. For example, [I−(CH2)3−NH2(CH3)]2PbI4 reversibly melts at 388 K (decomposition temperature 500 K), and then recrystallizes back upon cooling. Consequently, melt‐pressed films are grown demonstrating the solvent‐ and vacuum‐free perovskite films for future optoelectronic devices.
Unveiling Generally‐ignored Co‐substrate Effect of Catalase‐inherent Peroxidase Mimic for Self‐verifiable Detection of High‐concentration Hydrogen Peroxide
Authors: Hou Haiwei , Jia Weijuan , Zhang Aoxue , Su Minyang , Bu Yazhong , Liu Lan , Du Baoji
Published: September 2024

One nanoparticle possessing both peroxidase (POD) and catalase (CAT) activities is a prevalent co‐substrate nanozyme system, distinct from the extensively researched cascade nanozyme system. During the sensing of hydrogen peroxide by POD, the impact of CAT is actually ignored in most studies. In this study, the CAT effect on hydrogen peroxide detection is thoroughly investigated based on POD catalysis by finely tuning the relative activity of POD and CAT. It is discovered that the CAT effect can be changed by delaying the injection of chromogenic substrate after adding hydrogen peroxide and that the linear range grows with the delayed time. Then, a theoretical mechanism showed that the time‐delay mediated CAT effect magnification does not change the Vmax, but it causes Km to linearly increase with delayed time, consistent with the experiment results. Furthermore, the detection of high concentrations of hydrogen peroxide is successfully realized in contact lens care solutions by utilizing time‐delay‐mediated POD/CAT nanozyme. On the other hand, its linear range‐tunable characteristic is used to produce multiple standard curves, then enabled self‐verifying hydrogen peroxide detection. Overall, this work investigates the role of CAT in CAT‐inherent POD nanozymes both theoretically and experimentally, and confirms POD/CAT nanozyme's priority in developing high‐performance sensors.
Insights into the Heat‐Assisted Intensive Light‐Soaking Effect on Silicon Heterojunction Solar Cells
Authors: Duan Weiyuan , Rudolph Tobias , Gebrewold Habtamu Tsegaye , Bittkau Karsten , Lambertz Andreas , Qiu Depeng , Yaqin Muhammad Ainul , Xu Xixiang , Ding Kaining , Rau Uwe
Published: September 2024

Heat‐assisted intensive light soaking has been proposed as an effective posttreatment to further enhance the performance of silicon heterojunction (SHJ) solar cells. In the current study, it is aimed to distinguish the effects of heat and illumination on different (doped and undoped) layers of the SHJ contact stack. It is discovered that both elevated temperature and illumination are necessary to significantly reduce interface recombination when working effectively together. The synergistic effect on passivation displays a thermal activation energy of approximately 0.5 eV. This is likely due to the photogenerated electron/hole pairs in the c–Si wafer, where nearly all of the incident light is absorbed. By distinguishing between the effects of light and heat effects on the conductivity of p‐ and n‐type doped hydrogenated amorphous silicon (a–Si:H) layers, it is demonstrated that only heat is accountable for the observed rise in conductivity. According to numerical device simulations, the significant contribution to the open‐circuit voltage enhancement arises from the reduced density of defect states at the c–Si/intrinsic a–Si:H interface. In addition, the evolution of the fill factor is highly dependent on changes in interface defect density and the band tail state density of p‐type a–Si:H.
Damage assessment of self‐centering rocking piers using an input energy‐based damage prediction model coupled with self‐centering index
Authors: Ashouri Rezvan , Shiravand Mahmoud R.
Published: September 2024

The immediate functionality of bridges following severe earthquakes is vital for uninterrupted rescue operations. Regarding the significance of resiliency in bridges, post‐tensioned (PT) rocking piers with low residual displacements and minimal damages have developed over the past few decades. The rocking mechanism at two ends of the pier avoids bending moments and excessive flexural damage. The self‐centering (SC) capacity in this system is provided through post‐tensioning forces. Concerning optimum seismic design and retrofit purposes, it is essential to predict the actual degree of seismic damage and SC capacity of PT rocking systems after seismic hazards. In this case, a self‐centering index (SI) is proposed to evaluate the SC capacity when piers are subjected to cyclic and seismic loadings. This SI, when used in co‐operation with a viable damage prediction model, predicts whether or not the piers remain reparable under cyclic or seismic loading scenarios. After comparing a number of energy‐based damage indices, all of which consider the cumulative hysteresis energy, with the input energy‐based damage index (IEB‐DI), the latter was calibrated against observed damages under cyclic loading tests. This DI was chosen as the most suitable damage prediction model and was considered to be simply applicable after time history analysis. In this study, the seismic performance of a seismic‐resistant dual system, consisting of three RC bents along with an SC bent, was evaluated using the aforementioned damage limit states and the introduced SI. The damage predictions of the monolithic bridge, as the reference model, were compared with the estimated damage to the dual bridge. The results show that the joint application of the IEB‐DI and the proposed SI in predicting the performance level of SC rocking piers results in a comprehensive damage prediction model.