bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy of a RADA‐16 peptide hydrogel versus chitosan‐based polymer in improving patient comfort during postoperative debridement: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Hur Kevin , Adili Amila , Tam Benjamin , Herrera Kevin , Agarwal Aditi , Rice Dale , Ference Elisabeth , Wrobel Bozena , Conley David
Published: June 2024

Background

Bioresorbable nasal packing is associated with a decreased incidence of adhesions and bleeding postoperatively after endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS). However, discomfort during postoperative debridement is still a major area of concern for patients. Our objective was to compare the efficacy of a peptide hydrogel to that of a chitosan‐based polymer in reducing pain during debridement after ESS.

Methods

A prospective, multicenter, randomized, blinded trial was conducted in adults undergoing bilateral total ethmoidectomy for chronic rhinosinusitis. Participants served as their own controls with each subject receiving the hydrogel in a randomized ethmoid cavity and chitosan‐based polymer in the contralateral ethmoid cavity. Participants were evaluated at 1, 4, and 12 weeks postoperatively. Pain during debridement as well as endoscopic evaluation of mucosal healing and hemostasis were measured.

Results

Thirty patients who underwent ESS were included in this trial. During the week 1 postoperative debridement, patients reported significantly less pain on the hydrogel‐treated side compared to the chitosan‐based polymer‐treated side. There were no significant differences in bleeding severity, Lund–Kennedy scores, debridement time, or need for further intervention between the two groups.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated the efficacy of a peptide hydrogel in minimizing pain during postoperative debridement.
Micro‐Ring Morphology of Ag7NCs and Light‐Induced Reversible Interconversion of FCC Ag14NCs via Cu2+ ions‐Mediated Particle‐Assisted Reversible Interconversion
Authors: Mahato Paritosh , Mandal Koushik , Paria Khokan , Chopra Deepak , Mukherjee Saptarshi
Published: June 2024

Despite the remarkable progress made on intercluster conversion in atomically precise metal nanoclusters (MNCs) and their self‐organization to develop microscopic molecular architecture with well‐defined size and shape, achieving light‐induced reversible structural transformation and the development of micro‐ring self‐assembly in MNCs have, so far, remained elusive. The present investigation touches on these two long‐standing quests by showcasing a new route, light‐induced Particle‐Assisted Reversible Interconversion (PARI) for the reversible transformation from Face Centered Cubic (FCC) Ag14NCs to Ag7NCs. Our studies reveal that the lack of plasmonic silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) in the system results in the formation of Ag7NCs with metallic kernels having centrosymmetric crystal packing. The molecular self‐organization of Ag7NCs through various non‐covalent interactions such as C−H⋅⋅⋅O, C−H⋅⋅⋅H−C, and C−H⋅⋅⋅π leads to the formation of micro‐ring morphology, a unique molecular architecture in MNCs. The in situ generated AgNPs due to the acceleration of the reaction kinetics by Cu2+ ions facilitate the growth of Ag14NCs with FCC metallic kernel. These two structural units of AgNCs show light‐induced reversible structural transformation which is also associated with the reversible tuning of their spectroscopic and morphological signatures. This PARI‐guided interconversion strategy put forward a most appropriate example of a structure–property relationship in MNCs.
Molecule Design for Non‐Aqueous Wide‐Temperature Electrolytes via the Intelligentized Screening Method
Authors: Qin Tian , Yang Haoyi , Wang Lei , Xue Weiran , Yao Nan , Li Quan , Chen Xiang , Yang Xiukang , Yu Xiqian , Zhang Qiang , Li Hong
Published: June 2024

Operating a lithium‐ion battery (LIB) in a wide temperature range is essential for ensuring a stable electricity supply amidst fluctuating temperatures caused by climate or terrain changes. Electrolyte plays a pivotal role in determining the temperature durability of batteries. However, specialized electrolytes designed for either low or high temperatures typically possess distinct features. Therefore, wide‐temperature electrolytes (WTEs) are necessary as they encompass a combination of diverse properties, which complicates the clear instruction of WTE design. Here we represent an artificial intelligence (Al)‐assisted workflow of WTE design through stepwise parameterizations and calculations. Linear mono‐nitriles are identified as ideal wide‐liquidus‐range solvents that can “softly” solvate lithium ions by weak interactions. In addition, the explainable modules revealed the halogenoid similarity of cyanide as fluorine on the electrolyte properties (e.g. boiling point and dielectric constant). With the further introduction of an ether bond, 3‐methoxypropionitrile (MPN) has been eventually determined as a main electrolyte solvent, enabling the battery operation from −60 to 120 °C. Particularly, a LiCoO2/Li cell using the proposed WTE can realize stable cycling with capacity retention reaching 72.3 % after 50 cycles under a high temperature of 100 °C.
Flexible, thermally conductive, electrically insulated, and high‐temperature resistant PDMS@BN composite films with high orientation degree of BN sheets prepared by facile spin‐coating
Authors: Lin Dexuan , Guo Jianhua , Jiang Xinghua
Published: June 2024

Currently, flexible thermal interface materials (TIMs) containing hexagonal boron nitride (h‐BN) as thermal conductive fillers become a research hot spot. In this study, PDMS@BN composite films were prepared using spin‐coating technology, providing a facile and efficient method for the preparation of TIMs. The effects of spin‐coating speed and time on the thermal conductivity and the orientation degree of BN within composite films were investigated. Additionally, a theoretical model was established to calculate the thickness and thermal conductivity of PDMS@BN composite films under various spin‐coating conditions. The findings indicate that with an increase of spin‐coating speed and extension of spin‐coating time, the thickness of the composite films gradually decreases, while the in‐plane and through‐plane thermal conductivity gradually increases. When compared to a low spin‐coating speed of 500 rpm, the thermal conductivity of the films produced by a higher speed of 2500 rpm, exhibited an increase of 274%. The film achieves outstanding thermal conductivity (5.79 W m−1 K−1), extremely thin thickness (60 μm), high volume resistivity (1.22 × 1013 Ω cm) and excellent flexibility by incorporating 60 wt % h‐BN flakes. Overall, this study presents an efficiently and eco‐friendly approach for high‐performance TIMs.
Characterization of Volatile Organic Compounds and Essential Oil Profile of Pittosporum tobira (Thunb.) W.T. Aiton Cultivated in Tunisia
Authors: Kahlaoui Samiha , Hcini Kheiria , Haddada Abir , Saadellaoui Wissal , Zardi‐Bergaoui Afifa , Ascrizzi Roberta , Flamini Guido , Harzallah‐Skhiri Fethia , Stambouli‐Essassi Sondes
Published: June 2024

The chemical compositions of the essential oils (EOs) of roots, young and old leaves and stems, and flowers of Pittosporum tobira (Thunb.) W.T. Aiton cultivated in Tunisia and of the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by the powder of each organ were identified. The EOs are extracted from fresh material by hydrodistillation, whereas the VOCs are obtained by head space solid‐phase microextraction (HS‐SPME) from the powdered dry tissues. Fifty‐eight VOCs are identified, while, 105 components are detected for the EOs. The main EOs compounds are α‐neoclovene, β‐caryophyllene and limonene in roots (22.56, 12.52, and 8.59 %, respectively), viridiflorol in young stems, flowers and young leaves (34.90, 31.60, and 24.60 %, respectively), α‐cadinol in young stems and leaves, and flowers (13.80, 10.40, and 9.10 %, respectively), (E)‐nerolidol in flowers (13.30 %), and germacrene D in old stems (9.06 %). The major detected VOCs are n‐undecane, mainly in young and old leaves (71.40 and 40.90 %, respectively), n‐nonane in young leaves and flowers (31.80 and 27.10 %, respectively), α‐cubebene in old stems and flowers (22.60 and 15.50 %, respectively), and α‐gurjunene and β‐gurjunene in roots (14.20 and 12.20 %, respectively). Principal Component Analysis (PCA) carried out on the 26 main volatile compounds (relative content exceeding 6 %) identified both by HS and in the EOs allowed their classification into two groups; compounds specific to roots and those specific to aerial parts. The later are subdivided in to two subgroups; old leaves and stems compounds subgroup, and young leaves and stems, and flowers one. We can notice that the two methods used to extract P. tobira volatile compounds and identify them are complementary. This study defines and differentiates, for the first time, the specific aroma profile of P. tobira from Tunisia. In addition to its ornamental value, all the organs of this species, could be valued as a source of volatile compounds useful in perfume, cosmetics and as food flavoring products.
Impact of kernel hardness and amylose content on quality characteristics of purple‐colored whole wheat flour
Authors: Zhang Tingting , Kim Hyungseop , Kweon Meera
Published: June 2024

Background and Objectives

This study aimed to compare the quality of purple whole wheat flours (WWFs), which exhibit various health benefits. An ultracentrifugal mill was used to prepare purple WWF samples from four distinct purple wheat cultivars (Ariheukchal, AC; Ariheuk, AH; Arijinheuk, AJ; and Sintong, ST) each with different kernel hardness values and amylose contents.

Findings

The average particle diameter (d50) of the WWFs (ST < AJ < AH < AC) was positively correlated with the kernel hardness. The amylose contents of the WWFs increased in the order AC < AH < AJ < ST, whereas their solvent retention capacities (SRCs) in water and sodium carbonate solutions followed the reverse order, similar to the d50. SDS sedimentation volumes did not correlate with the protein contents. ST showed significantly lower total phenolic and anthocyanin contents and antioxidant activities than the other varieties.

Conclusions

Kernel hardness and amylose content significantly influenced the particle size, damaged starch content, SRC, and pasting properties of the WWFs. Additionally, the nutritional components and antioxidant activities of AC, AH, and AJ suggested strong potential for diverse functional products.

Significance and Novelty

Purple WWFs with different kernel hardness values and amylose contents were compared scientifically for the first time.
Low net carbohydrate bakery products using cross‐linked phosphorylated wheat resistant starch type 4
Authors: Jeradechachai Tanya , Maningat Clodualdo C.
Published: June 2024

Background and Objectives

Limited information exists regarding the impact of high levels of cross‐linked phosphorylated resistant wheat starch type 4 (RS4) in bakery products. This study aimed to explore the impact of incorporating RS4 (at 64%–83% flour weight) and wheat protein isolate (WPI) in low net carb breads (RS4‐Bread), enzyme crackers (RS4‐Enzyme), and saltine crackers (RS4‐Saltine).

Findings

RS4‐Bread had comparable bread quality, loaf volumes, and crumb firmness (Days 0, 1, and 7) as the wheat flour control. The in vitro total dietary fiber analysis of RS4‐Bread yielded a fiber recovery of 90.0%–98.1%, db. RS4‐Enzyme had higher water absorption, longer mixing time, and less elastic dough, but comparable cracker hardness to the control. RS4‐Saltine had a higher water absorption, but lower cracker hardness compared to the control. Fiber recovery of RS4‐Enzyme and RS4‐Saltine crackers were 85.6% and 88.8%, respectively.

Conclusions

Analytical measurements indicated a significant discrepancy in predicting bake mix time and absorption for RS4‐Bread. This research fills gaps in the understanding of low net carb bread, saltine crackers, and enzyme crackers, providing valuable insights into future product development.

Significance and Novelty

Combining RS4 and WPI offers potential for health‐promoting, high‐fiber, low net carb products, applicable in various flour‐based foods.
Electrosynthesis of 1,2,3‐Benzotriazines through an Iodide‐Catalyzed Skeletal Editing of 3‐Aminoindazoles
Authors: Baidya Mrinmay , De Sarkar Suman
Published: June 2024

This report describes an environmentally benign synthesis of 1,2,3‐benzotriazines through an iodide‐catalyzed electro‐oxidative N‐centered [1,2]‐rearrangement of 3‐aminoindazoles. The developed method demonstrates the activation of heteroatoms via electrochemically generated reactive iodide species without using any metal catalysts and peroxides. The protocol features practical and mild reaction conditions and displays a wide substrate scope. Various mechanistic experiments and cyclic voltammetric studies have been instrumental in elucidating the reaction mechanism, operating via a skeletal rearrangement of 3‐aminoindazoles.
Synthesis of Indole‐Fused Pyrazino[1,2‐a]quinazolinones by Copper(I)‐Catalyzed Selective Hydroamination‐Cyclization of Alkynyl‐tethered Quinazolinones
Authors: Liu Xiao‐Qing , Chen Yan‐Jie , Zou Pei‐Sen , Su Jun‐Cheng , Pan Cheng‐Xue , Mo Dong‐Liang , Su Gui‐Fa
Published: June 2024

We described a copper(I)‐catalyzed atom economic and selective hydroamination‐cyclization of alkynyl‐tethered quinazolinones to prepare a variety of indole‐fused pyrazino[1,2‐a]quinazolinones in good to excellent yields ranging from 39 %–99 % under mild reaction conditions. Control experiments revealed that coordination‐directed method of quinazolinone moiety with copper(I) was important for the selective hydroamination‐cyclization of alkynes at the N1‐atom instead of N3‐atom of quinazolinone. The reaction could be easily performed at gram scales and some prepared indole‐fused pyrazino[1,2‐a]quinazolinones with donating groups on the indole moiety showed a distinct fluorescence emission wavelength with blue shift under the acid conditions.
Prediction of Covalent Metal‐Metal Bonding in Cp−M−M’‐Nacnac Complexes of Group 2 and 12 Metals (Be, Mg, Ca, Zn, Cd, Hg)
Authors: Gosch Matthew A. , Wilson David J. D.
Published: June 2024

Bimetallic CpMM'Nacnac molecules with group 2 and 12 metals (M=Be, Mg, Ca, Zn, Cd, Hg) that contain novel metal‐metal bonding have been investigated in a theoretical study of their molecular and electronic structure, thermodynamic stability, and metal‐metal bonding. In all cases the metal‐metal bonds are characterized as electron‐sharing covalent single bonds from natural bond orbital (NBO) and energy‐decomposition analysis with natural orbitals of chemical valence (EDA‐NOCV) analysis. The sum of [MM′] charges is relatively constant, with all complexes exhibiting a [MM′]2+ core. Quantum theory of atoms in molecules (QTAIM) analysis indicates the presence of non‐nuclear attractors (NNA) in the metal‐metal bonds of the BeBe, MgMg, and CaCa complexes. There is substantial electron density (0.75–1.33 e) associated with the NNAs, which indicates that these metal‐metal bonds, while classified as covalent electron‐sharing bonds, retain significant metallic character that can be associated with reducing reactivity of the complex. The predicted stability of these complexes, combined with their novel covalent metal‐metal bonding and potential as reducing agents, make them appealing targets for the synthesis of new metal‐metal bonds.
Modeling the Condensation Heat Transfer on Horizontal Low‐Finned Tubes
Authors: Losher Tobias , Klein Harald , Rehfeldt Sebastian
Published: June 2024

Most studies regarding heat transfer on low‐finned tubes address the condensation of refrigerants and water on copper tubes. Existing models are mainly validated for this use case since studies regarding different substances or tube materials are scarce in the literature. This paper presents measurement data on the condensation of n‐propanol, isopropanol, isobutanol, and acetone on low‐finned stainless‐steel tubes. Together with experimental data from the literature, the measurements are used to test the performance of models from the literature. As the investigated models fail to describe all measurement data, a new model based on a set of dimensionless numbers is derived and fitted to the experimental data.
The Human Microbiome—A Physiologic Perspective
Authors: Xiao Yang , Louwies Tijs , Mars Ruben A.T. , Kashyap Purna C.
Published: June 2024

The human microbiome consists of the microorganisms associated with the body, such as bacteria, fungi, archaea, protozoa, and viruses, along with their gene content and products. These microbes are abundant in the digestive, respiratory, renal/urinary, and reproductive systems. While microbes found in other organs/tissues are often associated with diseases, some reports suggest their presence even in healthy individuals. Lack of microbial colonization does not indicate a lack of microbial influence, as their metabolites can affect distant locations through circulation. In a healthy state, these microbes maintain a mutualistic relationship and help shape the host's physiological functions. Unlike the host's genetic content, microbial gene content and expression are dynamic and influenced by factors such as ethnicity, genetic background, sex, age, lifestyle/diet, and psychological/physical conditions. Therefore, defining a healthy microbiome becomes challenging as it is context dependent and can vary over time for an individual. Although differences in microbial composition have been observed in various diseases, these changes may reflect host alterations rather than causing the disease itself. As the field is evolving, there is increased emphasis on understanding when changes in the microbiome are an important component of pathogenesis rather than the consequence of a disease state. This article focuses on the microbial component in the digestive and respiratory tracts—the primary sites colonized by microorganisms—and the physiological functions of microbial metabolites in these systems. It also discusses their physiological functions in the central nervous and cardiovascular systems, which have no microorganism colonization under healthy conditions based on human studies. © 2024 American Physiological Society.
Compr Physiol
14:5491‐5519, 2024.
Function and Regulation of Bone Marrow Adipose Tissue in Health and Disease: State of the Field and Clinical Considerations
Authors: Zhang Xiao , Tian Linda , Majumdar Anurag , Scheller Erica L.
Published: June 2024

Bone marrow adipose tissue (BMAT) is a metabolically and clinically relevant fat depot that exists within bone. Two subtypes of BMAT, regulated and constitutive, reside in hematopoietic‐rich red marrow and fatty yellow marrow, respectively, and exhibit distinct characteristics compared to peripheral fat such as white and brown adipose tissues. Bone marrow adipocytes (BMAds) are evolutionally preserved in most vertebrates, start development after birth and expand throughout life, and originate from unique progenitor populations that control bone formation and hematopoiesis. Mature BMAds also interact closely with other cellular components of the bone marrow niche, serving as a nearby energy reservoir to support the skeletal system, a signaling hub that contributes to both local and systemic homeostasis, and a final fuel reserve for survival during starvation. Though BMAT and bone are often inversely correlated, more BMAT does not always mean less bone, and the prevention of BMAT expansion as a strategy to prevent bone loss remains questionable. BMAT adipogenesis and lipid metabolism are regulated by the nervous systems and a variety of circulating hormones. This contributes to the plasticity of BMAT, including BMAT expansion in common physiological or pathological conditions, and BMAT catabolism under certain extreme circumstances, which are often associated with malnutrition and/or systemic inflammation. Altogether, this article provides a comprehensive overview of the local and systemic functions of BMAT and discusses the regulation and plasticity of this unique adipose tissue depot in health and disease. © 2024 American Physiological Society.Compr Physiol14:5521‐5579, 2024.
Clinical trial status of exosomes‐based cancer theranostics
Authors: Sonar Swarup
Published: June 2024

Exosomes, are a subpopulation of extracellular vesicles, that originate from endosomes. The major role of exosomes is cellular communication (in this process exosomes display the status of the parental cell's nature, healthy or the cell suffers any pathological complication). In recent decades, research evidence highlighted that exosomes are the masterminds of cancer development and they appear as smart solutions for early diagnosis, prognosis and therapeutic (eg. stem cell, plant and immune cell‐derived exosomes) approaches. Exosomes transform the cancer liquid biopsy into a new orientation. Several biofluids (blood, plasma, serum, saliva, urine, CSF (Cerebrospinal Fluid) and cancer tissue are used for exosome‐based cancer biomarkers detection. Liquid biopsy becomes more efficient for exosomes, compared to tissue biopsy. Exosomes biocompatibility, low toxicity, and ability to cross biological membranes make it a potential tool for cancer therapeutic development. Exosome‐based cancer therapeutics introduce a cutting‐edge era of cell‐free cancer therapy. This article explores the critical role of exosomes in cancer development, progression, treatment, and clinical trials. Exosome‐based clinical trials indicate that we are close to cancer precision medicine.
Molecular anatomy of emerging Xenopus left–right organizer at successive developmental stages
Authors: Petri Natalia , Vetrova Alexandra , Tsikolia Nikoloz , Kremnyov Stanislav
Published: June 2024

Background

Vertebrate left–right symmetry breaking is preceded by formation of left–right organizer. In Amphibian, this structure is formed by gastrocoel roof plate, which emerges from superficial suprablastoporal cells. GRP is subdivided into medial area, which generates leftward flow by rotating monocilia and lateral Nodal1 expressing areas, which are involved in sensing of the flow. After successful symmetry breaking, medial cells are incorporated into a deep layer where they contribute to the axial mesoderm, while lateral domains join somitic mesoderm.

Results

Here, we performed detailed analysis of spatial and temporal gene expression of important markers and the corresponding morphology of emerging GRP. Endodermal marker Sox17 and markers of superficial mesoderm display complementary patterns at all studied stages. At early stages, GRP forms Tekt2 positive epithelial domain clearly separated from underlying deep layers, while at later stages, this separation disappears. Marker of early somitic mesoderm MyoD1 was absent in emerging GRP and was induced together with Nodal1 during early neurulation. Decreasing morphological separation is accompanied by lateral to medial covering of GRP by endoderm.

Conclusion

Our data supports continuous link between superficial mesoderm at the start of gastrulation and mature GRP and suggests late induction of somitic fate in lateral GRP.
Partnering With Food Pantries to Disseminate and Implement Eating Disorder Interventions
Authors: Graham Andrea K. , Azubuike Chidiebere , Johnson Ladell , Parsons Leah M. , Lipman Lindsay D. , Rooper Isabel R. , Ortega Adrian , Kruger Camino Macarena , Miller Graham , Jia Jenny , Wildes Jennifer E.
Published: June 2024

Objective

Food insecurity is associated with eating disorder psychopathology. This Spotlight describes why food pantries could be promising partners for disseminating and implementing eating disorder interventions.

Method

Researchers are increasingly collaborating with community‐based organizations to improve access to health interventions, because community‐based organizations overcome structural barriers to traditional healthcare by being embedded physically in the communities they serve, convenient to visit, regularly frequented, and led by trusted community members.

Results

We describe strategies we have identified with our partner to disseminate and implement our digital intervention for binge eating; we also discuss ways we support the pantry's needs to improve the mutuality of the partnership.

Discussion

The potential benefits of partnerships with food pantries make this an area to explore further. Future research directions include deeply engaging with food pantries to determine how pantries benefit from disseminating and implementing eating disorder interventions and how to intervene in non‐stigmatizing ways, what resources they need to sustainably support these efforts, what eating disorder intervention modalities guests are willing and able to engage with, what intervention adaptations are needed so individuals with food insecurity can meaningfully engage in eating disorder intervention, and what implementation strategies facilitate uptake to intervention sustainably over time.
Discussions About Binge Eating and Type 2 Diabetes in a Facebook Group: A Qualitative Analysis
Authors: Lindgreen Pil , Willaing Ingrid , Clausen Loa , Ismail Khalida , Kjærulff Emilie Mølholm , Cleal Bryan
Published: June 2024

Objective

Binge eating has adverse health effects and may be 10 times more common in people with type 2 diabetes (T2D) than in the general population. Still, binge eating is not consistently addressed in diabetes treatment. People with T2D and binge eating may, therefore, seek guidance on the topic on social media. The study objective was to explore discussions about binge eating among members of a T2D‐specific Facebook group.

Method

Interactions among members of the Facebook group were observed over 8 months and supplemented by keyword searches within group content. The data were imported into NVivo12 and analyzed using Interpretive Description.

Results

The overarching theme described how group members exchanged guidance concerning co‐existing T2D and binge eating based on personal experiences while trying to resolve co‐members' misapprehensions regarding binge eating. Two subthemes were generated, describing frequently discussed topics relating to binge eating triggers and inhibitors. Triggers were confusion about the health impacts of carbohydrates and encounters with unsupportive clinicians, while inhibitors included the possibility of speaking openly about binge eating with peers and hunger cues being suppressed by glucagon‐like peptide 1 receptor agonists.

Discussion

Social media may constitute an important source of support for people with T2D and binge eating, as the topic is typically not addressed in routine care. Besides being aware of the extent of binge eating in people with T2D and the health risks involved, clinicians should keep in mind that people with both conditions may seek information on social media that can affect diabetes management.
Designing a Cost‐Effective and Sustainable Process for the Efficient Production of Planar Anode‐Supported Solid Oxide Fuel Cells
Authors: Parvaix Laura , Lenormand Pascal , Rozier Patrick
Published: June 2024

A sustainable process is designed to produce anode‐supported solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs). Environmentally friendly solvents and additives are selected to prepare sequentially cast slurries to obtain a flexible multilayer tape whose cohesion is ensured by a 3D network of binder. This tape includes the components of the oxide precursor of the half cell with the functional and structural part of the anode. The optimization of debinding and sintering processes allows converting green tape into sintered multilayer ceramic using a single heat treatment. The use of optimized loads maintains planarity of samples with adjusted shape (circular to square) and size (from 0.8 up to 8 cm2) of anodic half cell. The cell's oxide precursor is supplemented by screen printing the cathode and converted to anode‐support SOFC when the cell is first used. The whole process maintains mechanical integrity, microstructure of structured components, and insures interfaces enabling charge transfer high enough to achieve standard performances such as power of 411 mW cm−2. The selection of cheap and harmless solvents and additives and the optimization of heat treatment lead to an ecocompatible low‐cost process for manufacturing SOFCs, easily transferable to the industrial scale and suitable for the manufacture of all systems based on ceramic multilayers.
Seismic fragility analysis of girder bridges under mainshock‐aftershock sequences based on input‐output hidden Markov model
Authors: Chen Libo , Chen Liangpeng , Zhou Jianhong
Published: June 2024

Current seismic design codes for bridge structures do not account for the influence of aftershock sequences, which, to some extent, overestimate the seismic performance for bridges subjected to mainshock‐aftershock (MS‐AS) scenarios. To address the great need for ground motion sequences tailored to specific research sites for fragility analysis, this study proposes a method for generating artificial MS‐AS ground motion sequences based on the evolutional bimodal Kanai–Tajimi model and the Epidemic–Type Aftershock Sequence model. We establish a framework for MS‐AS fragility analysis using an input–output Hidden Markov Model (IOHMM), where the damage states (DS) of bridge piers are considered unobservable and are inferred statistically through damage indices in an unsupervised manner. Model parameters are trained using intensity measure (IM) sequences and damage index (DI) sequences. Fragility curves for both the mainshock and state‐dependent aftershocks considering multiple aftershocks are formulated based on the initial state probability and state transition probabilities of the proposed IOHMM. The fragility analysis results reveal that as the initial seismic damage level increases, the probability of aftershocks causing higher damage levels in the structure also increases, highlighting the significant impact of aftershocks on structural damage increments. Furthermore, we extend the proposed model to a bivariate seismic intensity measure and develop fragility surfaces. The proposed framework provides a novel approach and insights for tackling seismic fragility under multiple aftershocks.
Shake table testing and finite element modeling of a modular prefabricated concrete bridge‐like specimen accounting for geometry imperfections and additional damping
Authors: Katsamakas Antonios A. , Vassiliou Michalis F. , Mouzakis Charalampos
Published: June 2024

This paper presents the shake table testing and finite element (FE) modeling of a modular prefabricated concrete bridge‐like specimen. The specimen comprised four equal‐height cylindrical reinforced concrete (RC) columns capped with an RC slab. The structural connections were non‐monolithic. Hence, controlled relative motion of the members, including rocking (uplift) of the piers, was allowed. The columns were connected to the slab with stiff tendons that provided positive post‐uplift stiffness. The specimen was subjected to 184 triaxial shake table tests, so that a statistical validation of numerical models can be performed. Subsequently, a detailed three‐dimensional FE model of the bridge was developed. The objectives of the present study were to: i) investigate the shake table response of a modular bridge with positive post‐uplift stiffness under multiple ground motions, ii) develop an FE model of the proposed structural system, iii) investigate the influence of geometrical imperfections on rocking bridges, and iv) evaluate the efficiency of using additional dissipative rebars. After being subjected to 184 shake table tests, the specimen showed zero damage, moderate displacements and tendon forces (TFs), low slab torsion, and zero residual displacements. The shake table tests were practically repeatable. The proposed FE model accurately captured the experimental results. Geometrical imperfections heavily affect the response of negative stiffness systems. However, they have a marginal influence on positive stiffness systems. When comparing systems with equivalent uplift resistance and post‐uplift stiffness, the use of additional dissipative rebars results in lower slab torsion and TFs, provided that the rebars do not fracture.
Hardware softwareSoCco‐design analysis and implementation ofMIMO‐OFDMfor4G/5G/6G eNodeBapplications
Authors: Dessai Sanket N. , Patidar Hemant
Published: June 2024

With the emerging challenges for the data rate requirements of 5G/6G applications and reusing the 4G infrastructure for 5G, it is necessary to understand the System‐on‐Chip (SoC) platform‐based embedded co‐design and implementation of the programmable and reconfigurable MIMO‐OFDM system. For both uplink and downlink data transmissions, these applications require a larger data throughput as well as reduced bit error rates, latency, and increased spectral efficiency. This work describes the co‐design and development of hardware and software for the MIMO‐OFDM algorithms for 5G and 6G eNodeBs. An efficient design through computer architecture based on pipeline and parallelization using systolic and CORDIC has been applied for the IP development of the sub‐components of the MIMO‐OFDM systems. A Zynq platform with computing resources including PS, Mali GPU‐400, and PL is utilized to increase the data rate for MIMO‐OFDM system architecture co‐design and implementation. The architecture approach used in this work enabled a data rate of 10–50 Gbps and beyond reaching Tbps based on the system's programmability and reconfigurability with an efficient SoC platform design. The design platform provides a programming feature such as MIMO‐OFDM, OFDM, and MIMO without OFDM through software programming for the range of applications of the desired data rates. With 64‐QAM modulation, the three channels' observed performance in the predicted multipath channel velocity of 15 km/h for pedestrians, vehicles, and AWGN is seen in simulation. To reach the application clock frequencies, the device's PLL (ZUI7EG) upscales and downscales clock frequencies from 750 to 1600 MHz using a configurable register. When the system is configured to operate as MIMO‐OFDM or OFDM in order to get an execution throughput of 300 msec and a data throughput ranging from 71 Gbps to 1749 Gbps using 2 × 2/4 × 4 configurations. The device scalability depends on at present devices of advanced embedded reconfigurable architecture platform. Massive MIMO and multi‐user MIMO will be used in the future to increase throughput and data rates. Additionally, future work will focus on creating a MIMO‐OFDM hardware‐software embedded architecture and testbed to enhance implementation and verification of the vehicle and pedestrian.
DRL‐based customised resource allocation for sub‐slices in 6G network slicing
Authors: D Meignanamoorthi , V Vetriselvi
Published: June 2024

6G network services demand significant computer resources. Network slicing offers a potential solution by enabling customized services on shared infrastructure. However, dynamic service needs in heterogeneous environments pose challenges to resource provisioning. 6G applications like extended reality and connected vehicles require service differentiation for optimal quality of experience (QoE). Granular resource allocation within slices is a complex issue. To address the complexity of QoE services in dynamic slicing, a deep reinforcement learning (DRL) approach called customized sub‐slicing is proposed. This approach involves splitting access, transport, and core slices into sub‐slices to handle service differentiation among 6G applications. The focus is on creating sub‐slices and dynamically scaling slices for intelligent resource allocation and reallocation based on QoS requirements for each sub‐slice. The problem is formulated as an integer linear programming (ILP) optimization problem with real‐world constraints. To effectively allocate sub‐slices and dynamically scale resources, the Advantage Actor‐Critic (A2C)‐based Network Sub‐slice Allocation and Optimization (NS‐AO) algorithm is proposed. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed algorithm outperforms the state of the art in terms of training stability, learning time, sub‐slice acceptance rate, and resilience to topology changes.
A spatial‐temporal graph gated transformer for traffic forecasting
Authors: Bouchemoukha Haroun , Zennir Mohamed Nadjib , Alioua Ahmed
Published: June 2024

Accurate traffic forecasting is more necessary than ever for transportation departments, especially given its significant role in traffic planning, management, and control. However, most existing methods struggle to address complex spatial correlations on road networks, nonlinear temporal dynamics, and difficult long‐term prediction. This article proposes a novel spatial temporal graph gated transformer (STGGT) to overcome these challenges. The suggested model differs from Google's transformer because it uses a hybrid architecture that integrates graph convolutional networks (GCNs), attention, and gated recurrent units (GRUs) instead of solely relying on attention. Specifically, STGGT uses GCNs to extract spatial dependencies, utilizes attention and GRUs to extract temporal dependencies, and handle long‐term prediction. Experiments indicate that STGGT outperforms the state‐of‐the‐art baseline models on two real‐world traffic datasets of 9%–40%. The proposed model offers a promising solution for accurate traffic forecasting, simultaneously addressing the challenges of complex spatial correlations, nonlinear temporal dynamics, and long‐term prediction.
Synergistic mechanism of physical chemistry and acid bacteria: Product evolution of sulphides during tunnel mining
Authors: He Minjie , Ren Yuanchuan , Qu Guangfei , Li Junyan , Jin Caiyue , Liu Ye , Kuang Linrui
Published: June 2024

Tunnel waste constitutes a prevalent by‐product of highway construction in high‐altitude mountainous and hilly regions. Sulphide minerals exhibit a unique distribution pattern within the alpine hills. Consequently, tunnel excavation can disrupt the stability of these sulphide minerals, rendering the tunnel waste susceptible to generating secondary environmental hazards during stockpiling. This research delves into the migration and transformation dynamics of potential environmental pollutants in tunnel waste through geoenvironmental simulation techniques. Controlled variables were employed to simulate various conditions, including surface illumination, internal anaerobiosis, water content and aerobic environments. The study's findings indicate that the presence of pyrite in the waste stream primarily drives the secondary contamination of the tunnel waste. Pyrite within the slag tends to react and form sulphuric acid in the stockpile environment, thus creating an acidic milieu that exacerbates the release of existing contaminants. The emergence of an anaerobic environment and a photocatalytic system composed of Fe/Ti substances in the waste stream serves to further accelerate pollutant release. This study thoroughly investigates the primary causes of environmental pollution during the stockpiling of tunnel slag and assesses the potential environmental impact scenarios. The outcomes of this research offer substantial theoretical and empirical support for the management of slag generated during the tunnel construction process.
Tectonic affinity and geological significance of the Feidong Complex in the northeastern margin of the Yangtze Craton: Evidence from zircon U–Pb and Lu–Hf isotopes of the basement rocks
Authors: Chen Shouwen , Li Jiahao , Yuan Feng , Deng Yufeng , Song Chuanzhong , Zhang Gang
Published: June 2024

The Feidong Complex, located on the northeastern margin of the Yangtze Craton, exposes Precambrian basement rocks and is the subject of debate regarding its tectonic affinity. In this study, we conducted in situ U–Pb dating and Hf isotope analyses of zircons from basement rocks within the Feidong Complex. The results reveal crystallisation ages of ca. 2.45, 2.0 and 0.8 Ga for the granitic gneiss, amphibole biotite plagiogneiss and mylonitised monzonitic granite, respectively. The basement rocks with ages of ca. 2.45 and 2.0 Ga exhibit negative zircon εHf(t) values (−10.48 to −0.13) and older two‐stage model ages (TDM2 = 2974 to 3296 Ma). We compared the zircon U–Pb ages and Hf isotopic characteristics of the basement rocks from the Feidong Complex with those of the southern margin of the North China Craton and the northern margin of the Yangtze Craton. Additionally, we also compared the metamorphic grades of rocks between the Feidong Complex and Susong Complex of the Dabie orogenic belt. We found that the Feidong Complex and the northern margin of Yangtze Craton share comparable zircon U–Pb ages and Hf isotopic characteristics. However, the metamorphic grades of the Feidong Complex were distinct from those of the Susong Complex. In particular, the basement rocks with an age of ca. 2.45 Ga formed within a subduction setting; those with an age of ca. 2.0 Ga formed during the subduction and collision associated with the assembly of the Columbia supercontinent; and those with an age of ca. 0.8 Ga experienced extensional processes before the breakup of the Rodinia supercontinent.
Healthcare practitioners' views of self‐harm management practices in older adults in Ireland: A qualitative study
Authors: Troya M. Isabela , Lonergan Caoimhe , Cassidy Eugene , Griffin Eve , Lovejoy Sally Ann , Mughal Faraz , Russell Vincent , Arensman Ella
Published: June 2024

Objectives

To explore healthcare practitioners' views on management practices of self‐harm in older adults.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with healthcare practitioners, including consultant psychiatrists, general practitioners, clinical psychologists, psychotherapists, clinical nurse specialists and social workers. Purposeful sampling was used to recruit participants in the Republic of Ireland ensuring diverse perspectives of healthcare practitioners were included. Healthcare practitioners were recruited advertising via professional and clinical research networks, social media, and snowballing methods. Interviews were audio‐recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Results

We conducted interviews with 20 healthcare practitioners from April to July 2023. Three main themes were generated: first, a perceived greater risk of suicide, and increased awareness of complexity in older adults' self‐harm presentations. Second, integrated care as an avenue for improving the management of self‐harm in older adults. Third, the importance of safety planning in risk assessments of older adults.

Conclusions

Healthcare practitioners viewed self‐harm in older adults as complex, challenging, and associated with high suicide risk, approaching patients with care and caution. The need for integrated support and improved collaboration between relevant healthcare practitioners was identified. Suggestions were made for primary care having a lead role in identifying and managing older adults after self‐harm. Increased mental health promotion and awareness of mental health and self‐harm in this age group would help address current stigma and shame.
NOTCH1 fusions in pediatric T‐cell lymphoblastic lymphoma: A high‐risk subgroup with CCL17 (TARC) levels as diagnostic biomarker
Authors: Kroeze Emma , Kleisman Michelle M. , Kester Lennart A. , Scheijde‐Vermeulen Marijn A. , Sonneveld Edwin , Buijs‐Gladdines Jessica G. C. , Hagleitner Melanie M. , Meyer‐Wentrup Friederike A. G. , Veening Margreet A. , Beishuizen Auke , Meijerink Jules P. P. , Loeffen Jan L. C. , Kuiper Roland P.
Published: June 2024

Twenty percent of children with T‐cell lymphoblastic lymphoma (T‐LBL) will relapse and have an extremely poor outcome. Currently, we can identify a genetically low‐risk subgroup in pediatric T‐LBL, yet these high‐risk patients who need intensified or alternative treatment options remain undetected. Therefore, there is an urgent need to recognize these high‐risk T‐LBL patients through identification of molecular characteristics and biomarkers. By using RNA sequencing which was performed in 29/49 T‐LBL patients who were diagnosed in the Princess Maxima Center for Pediatric Oncology between 2018 and 2023, we discovered a previously unknown high‐risk biological subgroup of children with T‐LBL. This subgroup is characterized by NOTCH1 gene fusions, found in 21% of our T‐LBL cohort (6/29). All patients presented with a large mediastinal mass, pleural/pericardial effusions, and absence of blasts in the bone marrow, blood, and central nervous system. Blood CCL17 (C‐C Motif Chemokine Ligand 17, TARC) levels were measured at diagnosis in 26/29 patients, and all six patients with NOTCH1 gene fusions patients exclusively expressed highly elevated blood CCL17 levels, defining a novel and previously not known clinically relevant biomarker for T‐cell lymphoblastic lymphoma. Four out of these six patients relapsed during therapy, a fifth developed a therapy‐related acute myeloid leukemia during maintenance therapy. These data indicate that T‐LBL patients with a NOTCH1 fusion have a high risk of relapse which can be easily identified using a blood CCL17 screening at diagnosis. Further molecular characterization through NOTCH1 gene fusion analysis offers these patients the opportunity for treatment intensification or new treatment strategies.
Efficacy and safety of bendamustine‐containing bridging therapy in R/R LBCL patients receiving CD19 CAR T‐cells
Authors: Iacoboni Gloria , Sánchez‐Salinas Mario A. , Rejeski Kai , Martín‐López Ana Á. , Kwon Mi , Navarro Víctor , Jalowiec Katarzyna A. , Hernani Rafael , Reguera‐Ortega Juan L. , Gallur Laura , Blumenberg Viktoria , Herrero‐García María , Roddie Claire , Benzaquén Ana , Delgado‐Serrano Javier , Bailén Rebeca , Carpio Cecilia , Amat Paula , López‐Corral Lucia , Martín‐Martín Lourdes , Bastos Mariana , Subklewe Marion , O'Reilly Maeve , Barba Pere
Published: June 2024

Bridging therapy (BT) after leukapheresis is required in most relapsed/refractory (R/R) large B‐cell lymphoma (LBCL) patients receiving chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells. Bendamustine‐containing regimens are a potential BT option. We aimed to assess if this agent had a negative impact on CAR‐T outcomes when it was administered as BT. We included R/R LBCL patients from six centers who received systemic BT after leukapheresis from February 2019 to September 2022; patients who only received steroids or had pre‐apheresis bendamustine exposure were excluded. Patients were divided into two BT groups, with and without bendamustine. Separate safety and efficacy analyses were carried out for axi‐cel and tisa‐cel. Of 243 patients who received BT, bendamustine (benda) was included in 62 (26%). There was a higher rate of BT progressors in the non‐benda group (62% vs. 45%, p = 0.02). Concerning CAR‐T efficacy, complete responses were comparable for benda versus non‐benda BT cohorts with axi‐cel (70% vs. 53%, p = 0.12) and tisa‐cel (44% vs. 36%, p = 0.70). Also, 12‐month progression‐free and overall survival were not significantly different between BT groups with axi‐cel (56% vs. 43% and 71% vs. 63%) and tisa‐cel (25% vs. 26% and 52% vs. 48%); there were no differences when BT response was considered. CAR T‐cell expansion for each construct was similar between BT groups. Regarding safety, CRS G ≥3 (6% vs. 6%, p = 0.79), ICANS G ≥3 (15% vs. 17%, p = 0.68), severe infections, and neutropenia post‐infusion were comparable among BT regimens. BT with bendamustine‐containing regimens is safe for patients requiring disease control during CAR T‐cell manufacturing.