bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fluorinated Chiral Pyrans Obtained via Mechanochemical Organocatalytic Michael/oxa‐Michael Cascade
Authors: Stankovianska Klára , Némethová Viktória , Peňaška Tibor , Borko Jakub , Mečiarová Mária , Šebesta Radovan
Published: June 2024

Fluorine‐containing compounds are important in medicine or crop‐protection. Herein, we show asymmetric organocatalytic Michael/oxa‐Michael cascade leading to chiral fluorinated pyrans under mechanochemical conditions. Formal oxa‐Diels‐Alder reaction between fluorine containing unsaturated keto esters and β,γ‐unsaturated ketones afforded a range of drug‐like pyran derivatives in short times and good to high yields. Ball‐milling conveys the reaction in short times and high product yields, while keeping high enantiomeric purities of products. The reaction is diastereodivergent depending on the use of either monofunctional amine catalysts or bifunctional thiourea or squaramide.
The influence of cross‐sectional aspect ratio on ceiling temperature profile and mass flow rate of ceiling jet in tunnel fires
Authors: Zhao Shengzhong , Gao Hanxiao , Xu Tiantian , Wang Fei , Obadi Imad , Xu Lin , Yu Junhao , Liu Mengzhen
Published: June 2024

In this paper, the influence of tunnel cross‐sectional aspect ratio on the ceiling temperature profile and mass flow rate (MFR) of ceiling jet is studied theoretically and numerically, and 13 tunnel cross sections with different aspect ratios () are considered. A total of 26 full‐scale numerical simulation cases are conducted using Fire Dynamics Simulator, and small‐scale experiments are used to verify the accuracy of the simulations. Results show that the maximum ceiling temperature is more sensitive to the tunnel height and decreases with increasing aspect ratio, which can be divided into two regions, <1 and ≥1. When ≥1, the maximum ceiling temperature varies more linearly. The initial locations of the one‐dimensional spread for the tunnel with different tunnel cross‐sectional aspect ratios are similar, which are concentrated at 15–20 m from the fire source when taking the MFR increase rate of 0.001 as the criterion. By introducing the sectional coefficient, the MFR model and temperature attenuation model of ceiling jet are developed for the tunnels with <1 and ≥1, respectively. The results of this paper could provide definite reference value for the smoke control in tunnel fires.
Multimodal cross‐examination of progressive apraxia of speech by diffusion tensor imaging‐based tractography and Tau‐PET scans
Authors: Gatto Rodolfo G. , Pham Nha Trang Thu , Duffy Joseph R. , Clark Heather M. , Utianski Rene L. , Botha Hugo , Machulda Mary M. , Lowe Val J. , Schwarz Christopher G. , Jack Clifford R. , Josephs Keith A. , Whitwell Jennifer L.
Published: June 2024

Progressive apraxia of speech (PAOS) is a 4R tauopathy characterized by difficulties with motor speech planning. Neurodegeneration in PAOS targets the premotor cortex, particularly the supplementary motor area (SMA), with degeneration of white matter (WM) tracts connecting premotor and motor cortices and Broca's area observed on diffusion tensor imaging (DTI). We aimed to assess flortaucipir uptake across speech‐language‐related WM tracts identified using DTI tractography in PAOS. Twenty‐two patients with PAOS and 26 matched healthy controls were recruited by the Neurodegenerative Research Group (NRG) and underwent MRI and flortaucipir‐PET. The patient population included patients with primary progressive apraxia of speech (PPAOS) and non‐fluent variant/agrammatic primary progressive aphasia (agPPA). Flortaucipir PET scans and DTI were coregistered using rigid registration with a mutual information cost function in subject space. Alignments between DTI and flortaucipir PET were inspected in all cases. Whole‐brain tractography was calculated using deterministic algorithms by a tractography reconstruction tool (DSI‐studio) and specific tracts were identified using an automatic fiber tracking atlas‐based method. Fractional anisotropy (FA) and flortaucipir standardized uptake value ratios (SUVRs) were averaged across the frontal aslant tract, arcuate fasciculi, inferior frontal‐occipital fasciculus, inferior and middle longitudinal fasciculi, as well as the SMA commissural fibers. Reduced FA (p < .0001) and elevated flortaucipir SUVR (p = .0012) were observed in PAOS cases compared to controls across all combined WM tracts. For flortaucipir SUVR, the greatest differentiation of PAOS from controls was achieved with the SMA commissural fibers (area under the receiver operator characteristic curve [AUROC] = 0.83), followed by the left arcuate fasciculus (AUROC = 0.75) and left frontal aslant tract (AUROC = 0.71). Our findings demonstrate that flortaucipir uptake is increased across WM tracts related to speech/language difficulties in PAOS.
Neural representations of statistical and rule‐based predictions in Gilles de la Tourette syndrome
Authors: Takacs Adam , Toth‐Faber Eszter , Schubert Lina , Tarnok Zsanett , Ghorbani Foroogh , Trelenberg Madita , Nemeth Dezso , Münchau Alexander , Beste Christian
Published: June 2024

Gilles de la Tourette syndrome (GTS) is a disorder characterised by motor and vocal tics, which may represent habitual actions as a result of enhanced learning of associations between stimuli and responses (S‐R). In this study, we investigated how adults with GTS and healthy controls (HC) learn two types of regularities in a sequence: statistics (non‐adjacent probabilities) and rules (predefined order). Participants completed a visuomotor sequence learning task while EEG was recorded. To understand the neurophysiological underpinnings of these regularities in GTS, multivariate pattern analyses on the temporally decomposed EEG signal as well as sLORETA source localisation method were conducted. We found that people with GTS showed superior statistical learning but comparable rule‐based learning compared to HC participants. Adults with GTS had different neural representations for both statistics and rules than HC adults; specifically, adults with GTS maintained the regularity representations longer and had more overlap between them than HCs. Moreover, over different time scales, distinct fronto‐parietal structures contribute to statistical learning in the GTS and HC groups. We propose that hyper‐learning in GTS is a consequence of the altered sensitivity to encode complex statistics, which might lead to habitual actions.
Evidence gaps and challenges in maintaining and increasing vaccine uptake: A Delphi survey with Australian stakeholders
Authors: Robinson Penelope , Degeling Chris , Wiley Kerrie , Carter Stacy , Leask Julie
Published: June 2024

Issue Addressed

Increasing and maintaining vaccination uptake is crucial for preventing and managing infectious diseases. In the context of the post‐coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic landscape, this paper examines the perceptions of immunisation implementers and policymakers to uncover the challenges and evidence gaps in routine immunisation efforts.

Methods

We conducted an online two‐round modified Delphi survey with immunisation experts, senior public servants, policymakers, policy advisory groups, and representatives from peak bodies from across Australia. We asked respondents to outline what they see as the greatest challenges to increasing and maintaining uptake of recommended vaccines in Australia; the most difficult aspects of their work in vaccination; the largest evidence gaps in vaccine uptake; and the kinds of social and behavioural research they would like to see prioritised.

Results

The two most important challenges for increasing and maintaining vaccine uptake were effectively communicating the benefits of vaccines to parents and the public and ensuring accessible and affordable vaccination services. Participants strongly agreed that ‘communication about the importance of vaccination’ was the most difficult aspect of their work. Consistently important was the need to better engage specific population groups, such as culturally and linguistically diverse people, pregnant people, at risk cohorts, and health care providers. Social and behavioural research about ‘how to effectively address hesitancy’ was ranked highly among participants.

Conclusions

Findings from this project help provide an understanding of the behavioural, social, ethical, and policy knowledge needs for immunisation policy and implementation in Australia. To respond to vaccine challenges, increase coverage and build public trust in vaccination, policymakers and governments should incorporate social research into vaccination programmes.

So What?

Australia is preparing to launch a Centre for Disease Control. This study demonstrates the importance of integrating social, behavioural, ethical, and policy research into the fabric of this new enterprise. It underlines the need to capacity‐build a workforce able to deliver high‐quality research in these areas, address the needs of immunisation implementers and policymakers, and achieve good outcomes for Australians.
Implementing ‘Closing the Gap’ policy through mainstream service provision: A South Australian case study
Authors: George Emma , Fisher Matt , Mackean Tamara , Baum Fran
Published: June 2024

Issue Addressed

The Australian government's ‘Closing the Gap’ (CTG) strategy has been implemented via multiple strategies. We examined CTG policy in early childhood within Southern Adelaide during the first decade of implementation (2008–2018) and critiqued the complexity and challenges of policy that is designed to promote health and well‐being of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children but lacked Aboriginal control.

Methods

A qualitative case study was conducted in Southern Adelaide, and we interviewed 16 policy actors from health and early childhood education sectors. Thematic analysis revealed key themes to show how policy had been implemented through mainstream structures.

Results

The rapid roll out of the CTG strategy, the limitations of short‐term funding, cuts to Aboriginal health services, tokenistic consultation, and the mainstreaming of service provision were key features of policy implementation. The influence of Aboriginal leaders varied across implementation contexts. Participants advocated for services in health and education that are culturally safe to improve health of children, families, and communities.

Conclusions

The implementation of the CTG strategy in Southern Adelaide was rushed, complex, and lacking Aboriginal control. This contributed to the marginalisation of Aboriginal leaders, and disengagement of families and communities. A more collaborative and Aboriginal led process for policy implementation is essential to reform policy implementation and address health inequity.

So What?

Findings from this study suggest that policy has continued to be implemented I ways that reflect colonial power imbalances. Alternative processes that promote the recognition of Indigenous rights must be considered if we are to achieve the targets set within the CTG strategy.
The US structural transformation and regional convergence: Racial heterogeneity
Authors: Kim Minki , Lee Munseob
Published: June 2024

Structural transformation and regional convergence in US income are both longstanding trends. Caselli and Coleman (2001) documented that 60% of regional convergence between the US South and North from 1940 to 1990 was due to structural transformation. Our replication confirms these robust findings. Examining black and white populations separately, we find the magnitude of regional income convergence was much larger for the black workers, and that structural transformation explains most regional income convergence for white workers but only 30% for black workers. Extending the analysis until 2020, however, we observe income convergence among black workers and divergence among white workers. Structural transformation's role in income convergence or divergence from 1990 to 2020 is negligible.
Optimization and performance indication of surrounding gate tunnel field‐effect transistors based on machine learning
Authors: Charumathi V. , Balamurugan N. B. , Suguna M. , Kumar D. Sriram
Published: June 2024

Selecting designs that efficiently optimize multiple objectives simultaneously is an important problem in several distinct industries. Typically, there is not a single ideal design; rather, there are several Pareto‐optimal designs that provide the best possible trade‐offs between the objectives. However, evaluating every design might be expensive, making a thorough search for the whole Pareto optimum set impractical. The aforementioned issue with technology computer‐aided design (TCAD) while investigating a multidimensional parameter set for device design is addressed using Pareto active learning (PAL) and the nondominated sorting genetic algorithm‐III (NSGA‐III) which are metaheuristics‐based multiobjective optimization (MOO) techniques. NSGA‐III adeptly analyzes the tradeoffs among multiple objectives while ensuring diversity in the design space. PAL forecasts the Pareto‐optimal set with intelligence by deliberately sampling the design space. This work focusses on improving the performance of surrounding gate tunnel field‐effect transistors (SGTFETs) by optimizing and assessing their complex designs in terms of multiple objectives, including power, energy, speed, and variability. This paper presents a novel MOO framework that incorporates machine learning (ML) approaches, including NSGA‐III and PAL in SGTFETs technology. The framework provides effective global optimization without gradients, allowing for the automatic recognition of the best solutions. The outcomes show the possibility of ML‐based MOO to create next‐generation nanoscale transistors.
A Healthy Balance: The Effects of the Interaction between Work Autonomy and Work Demands on R&D Team Members' Creative Behavior and Taking Charge
Authors: Kong Ming , Lu Yahua
Published: June 2024

In the era of digital intelligence, how to improve the behavioral quality of R&D team members by granting work autonomy and proposing corresponding work demands is a pressing issue in the transformation of organizational management into digital intelligence. Based on the conservation of resources theory, this study investigates the effects of the interactions among work time autonomy, work method autonomy, and different types of work demands on team members' creative behavior and taking charge. By analyzing the two‐stage data of 233 paired samples of team members and leaders, the results showed that: Work time autonomy was significantly positively correlated with creative behavior and taking charge of team members, and work method autonomy was significantly positively correlated with creative behavior and taking charge of team members, while the interaction between work time autonomy and work method autonomy was significantly positively correlated with the team members' taking charge; the interactions among work time autonomy, work method autonomy and innovative job requirements positively affect team members' creative behavior and taking charge; while the interactions among work time autonomy, work method autonomy and high performance expectations negatively affect team members' taking charge. This study provides a way to realize scientific management in the period of digital intelligence transformation.
Nanosecond‐pulsed plasma protects against bacterial fruit blotch and promotes melon seedling growth
Authors: Guo Yi‐Xi , Fan Ting , Liu Xiao‐Qin , Chen Man‐Jie , Zhang Na‐Na , Chen Yu‐He , Wang Xiao‐Dong
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND

Bacterial fruit blotch (BFB), known as the ‘cancer’ of cucurbits, is a seed‐borne disease of melons caused by Acidovorax citrulli. Traditional chemical treatments for BFB are ineffective and adversely affect the environment. Using dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) nanosecond‐pulsed plasma technology, melon seeds were treated to promote germination and growth and to control BFB.

RESULTS

Based on the evaluation parameters of seed germination, seedling growth, leaf yellowing and bacterial infection after seed plasma treatments, 9 min at 20 kV was selected as the optimal plasma discharge parameter. In this study, seedling growth was significantly improved after treating melon seeds carrying A. citrulli using this discharge parameter. The number of first true leaves measured on the eighth day was 2.3 times higher and the disease index was reduced by 60.5% compared to the control group. Attenuated total reflectance–Fourier transform infrared measurements show that plasma treatments penetrate the seed coat and denature polysaccharides and proteins in the seed kernel, affecting their growth and sterilization properties.

CONCLUSION

Pre‐sowing treatment of melon seeds carrying A. citrulli using nanosecond‐pulsed plasma technology can effectively control seedling BFB disease and promote melon seedling growth by optimizing DBD parameters. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Quantifying the optical and rendering pipeline contributions to spatial resolution in augmented reality displays
Authors: Johnson Matthew , Zhao Chumin , Varshney Amitabh , Beams Ryan
Published: June 2024

The measured spatial resolution of augmented reality head‐mounted displays (AR HMDs) is determined by three components: optics, display, and the rendering pipeline, which includes the anti‐aliasing method. Therefore, separating and quantifying the contributions from these components is necessary for evaluating the spatial resolution of AR HMDs. We demonstrate a method for quantifying the contributions from the optical performance and the rendering pipeline on the spatial resolution of AR HMD using point‐spread function (PSF) analysis. In this method, an imaging photometer captures a series of rendered scenes on the AR HMD that consist of arrays of spheres of increasing sizes with different anti‐aliasing (AA) methods. The contributions from the optics, display, and anti‐aliasing methods can be separated, and we find that temporal anti‐aliasing (TAA) and multisample anti‐aliasing (MSAA) are in good agreement with the performance of no AA. However, fast approximate anti‐aliasing (FXAA) results in decreased luminance for smaller rendered targets and a different spatial resolution for larger targets. Finally, we repeated our methods on multiple HMDs and characterized the dependence of the spatial resolution across the field of view. These measurements show significant non‐uniformity in the optical contribution to the spatial resolution.
Wolverine population density and home range size in Arctic Alaska
Authors: Glass Thomas W. , Robards Martin D.
Published: June 2024

Understanding the spatial requirements of exploited wildlife species, including population density and home range size, is important for wildlife management and conservation. Wolverines (Gulo gulo) are hunted and trapped across the Arctic, and are vulnerable to numerous, often interrelated, threats resulting from anthropogenic changes in their environment. Previous population density estimates for wolverines in the Arctic range tenfold, from the lowest to highest available for the species, limiting their utility outside the specific areas and times they were derived. The most recent density estimate in Arctic Alaska, USA, was produced 4 decades ago and was derived from a relatively small study area. We evaluated wolverine population density and home range size across the North Slope of Alaska during 2017–2022 using global positioning system (GPS)‐based collar data and spatial capture‐recapture models. Population density estimates were 2.0 individuals/1,000 km2 (95% credible interval = 1.3–3.5) in 2018 and 2.8 individuals/1,000 km2 (95% credible interval = 1.7–3.5) in 2021. Median home range sizes modeled with autocorrelated kernel density estimators and Ornstein‐Uhlenbeck foraging movement processes were 699 km2 (range = 158–2,895 km2) among 12 females and 2,332 km2 (range = 797–4,699 km2) among 10 males. These population density estimates are nearly 10 times lower than the previous estimate for Arctic Alaska. We recommend incorporating this information into management strategies to ensure sustainable harvest, particularly as the region's remote areas are more efficiently accessed by hunters and are being considered for transportation corridors supporting new industrial development.
Mule deer mortality in the northern Great Plains in a landscape altered by oil and natural gas extraction
Authors: Skelly Brett P. , Rota Christopher T. , Kolar Jesse L. , Stillings Bruce A. , Edwards John W. , Foster Melissa A. , Williamson Ryan M. , Millspaugh Joshua J.
Published: June 2024

A worldwide increasing demand for renewable and non‐renewable energy resources has been ongoing since the mid‐1970s and is projected to increase for the next 2 decades. The effects of oil and natural gas development on wildlife mortality risk may play an important role in mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus) population dynamics. We evaluated the potential effects of oil and natural gas development on mortality risk of mule deer in western North Dakota and eastern Montana, USA. We assessed adult and juvenile female mule deer mortality risk with Poisson point process models using 265 deer fitted with global positioning system (GPS) radio‐collars that were deployed from 2013–2016. Mortality covariates included proportion of area disturbed by oil and natural gas development, distance to oil and natural gas development, distance to roads, temperature, snow depth, normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), and age of deer. During the study there was no effect of oil and natural gas development or roads on mule deer mortality, though <1% of all deer locations were within 500 m of active drilling rigs. Mule deer mortality was greatest in winter and spring, and positively related to temperature during these seasons. Estimated annual adult survival probability was 0.79 (95% CI = 0.71–0.85). Given the strong influence of season and temperature variables on mortality risk, weather had the strongest influence on mule deer mortality during this study. Although we did not detect an effect of energy development on mule deer mortality, effects on space use resulting from development could influence deer dynamics in the region through displacement and could occur over longer time scales than we evaluated. This study can be used in pre‐development planning in a risk assessment framework to minimize effects of development on mule deer.
Immunoglobulin A vasculitis: The clinical features and pathophysiology
Authors: Hu Ya‐Chiao , Yang Yao‐Hsu , Chiang Bor‐Luen
Published: June 2024

Palpable purpura, gastrointestinal symptoms, joint involvement, and renal disease characterize immunoglobulin A vasculitis (IgAV). Renal involvement ranging from mild proteinuria to severe nephritic or nephrotic syndrome highlights the importance of monitoring kidney function in patients with IgAV. Recognizing these key features is crucial for early diagnosis and appropriate management to prevent long‐term complications related to kidney disease. However, the pathogenesis of IgAV remains unclear. Disease mechanisms involve various factors, including the interplay of aberrantly glycosylated IgA, anti‐endothelial cell antibodies, and neutrophils following infection triggers, which are the main pathogenic mechanisms of IgAV. Insights from cases of IgAV related to Coronavirus disease 2019 have offered additional understanding of the connection between infection and IgAV pathogenesis. This review provides a valuable resource for healthcare professionals and rheumatology researchers seeking a better understanding of the clinical features and pathophysiology of IgAV.
The role of Atg5 gene in tumorigenesis under autophagy deficiency conditions
Authors: Liu Hsiao‐Sheng , Wang Yin‐Ping , Lin Pei‐Wen , Chu Man‐Ling , Lan Sheng‐Hui , Wu Shan‐Ying , Lee Ying‐Ray , Chang Hong‐Yi
Published: June 2024

Autophagy is a self‐recycling machinery to maintain cellular homeostasis by degrading harmful materials in the cell. Autophagy‐related gene 5 (Atg5) is required for autophagosome maturation. However, the role of Atg5 in tumorigenesis under autophagy deficient conditions remains unclear. This study focused on the autophagy‐independent role of Atg5 and the underlying mechanism in tumorigenesis. We demonstrated that knockout of autophagy‐related genes including Atg5, Atg7, Atg9, and p62 in mouse embryonic fibroblast (MEF) cells consistently decreased cell proliferation and motility, implying that autophagy is required to maintain diverse cellular functions. An Atg7 knockout MEF (Atg7−/− MEF) cell line representing deprivation of autophagy function was used to clarify the role of Atg5 transgene in tumorigenesis. We found that Atg5‐overexpressed Atg7−/‐MEF (clone A) showed increased cell proliferation, colony formation, and migration under autophagy deficient conditions. Accordingly, rescuing the autophagy deficiency of clone A by overexpression of Atg7 gene shifts the role of Atg5 from pro‐tumor to anti‐tumor status, indicating the dual role of Atg5 in tumorigenesis. Notably, the xenograft mouse model showed that clone A of Atg5‐overexpressed Atg7−/− MEF cells induced temporal tumor formation, but could not prolong further tumor growth. Finally, biomechanical analysis disclosed increased Wnt5a secretion and p‐JNK expression along with decreased β‐catenin expression. In summary, Atg5 functions as a tumor suppressor to protect the cell under normal conditions. In contrast, Atg5 shifts to a pro‐tumor status under autophagy deprivation conditions.
An empirical examination on firm innovativeness and supply chain resilience: The role of information sharing from a dynamic capabilities view
Authors: Dickens John M. , Uvet Hasan , Anderson Jason R. , Ponomarov Sergey Y. , Nowicki David R.
Published: June 2024

Supply chain disruptions present an existential threat to firms in today's highly competitive global economy. To appropriately thwart and mitigate this threat, firms must innovate capabilities that enhance and properly balance investments in their supply chain resilience posture. This study investigates the importance of information sharing and its interactive influence on firm innovativeness and resilience. This study uses a survey and partial least squares multigroup analysis to empirically test a theoretical model grounded in dynamic capabilities theory. Contributions from this study highlight that regardless of firm size, firm innovativeness is a significant antecedent to supply chain resilience. Key findings show that small firms use information sharing, whereas large firms do not, with their suppliers to accelerate innovation efforts in developing supply chain resilience capabilities. This study extends knowledge in the field by providing insights enabling large firms to improve their information sharing efforts to enhance innovation activities.
Most elite athletes return to preinjury competitive activity after surgical treatment for medial malleolus stress fractures
Authors: Ramsodit Kishan R. , Zwiers Ruben , Dalmau‐Pastor Miki , Gouttebarge Vincent , Kerkhoffs Gino M. M. J.
Published: June 2024

Purpose

To provide return‐to‐performance outcomes after surgical treatment for medial malleolus stress fractures in the elite athlete. Additionally, to describe an individualised surgical approach in the management of medial malleolus stress fractures.

Methods

Five athletes (six ankles) underwent surgical treatment for a medial malleolus stress fracture. The surgical technique was based on the extent of the fracture line in steps with first arthroscopic debridement of bony spurs, microfracturing of the fracture line and screw fixation. Return‐to‐performance data included time to return to sport‐specific training, normal training, first competitive activity, performance and the return‐to‐performance rate.

Results

Patients returned to sport‐specific training at a median of 10 weeks. They started normal training at 16 weeks postoperatively and returned to their first competitive activity after 19 weeks. All patients had bony spurs on the distal tibia which were arthroscopically debrided. One patient received arthroscopic debridement of bony spurs alone. Four patients received additional microfracturing of the fracture line and three patients received screw fixation. All patients achieved clinical and radiographic union on follow‐up computed tomography scan at 3 months postsurgery. At latest follow‐up, no refractures nor hardware complications, nor any other complications were observed.

Conclusion

Arthroscopic debridement of bony spurs, debridement and microfracturing of the fracture line and screw fixation are all viable surgical tools in the management of medial malleolus stress fractures in elite athletes. The surgical approach containing these options should be tailored to the individual athlete based on the fracture line in the sagittal plane. While most athletes return to full competitive activity in 3–4 months, time to self‐reported return to full performance is often much longer.

Level of Evidence

Level IV.
Thermal Chiroptical Switch Based on an Ultrahigh Temperature‐Initiated Macrocycle Gel Platform
Authors: Wang Tianhao , Wang Zhuoer , Xing Pengyao , Hao Aiyou
Published: June 2024

Responsive chiral optical materials have gained considerable interests from the fields of sensing, display, and optical devices. Materials that are capable of changing chiral optics under harsh conditions such as strong basic/acidic or ultrahigh temperature provides thoughts for the design of materials working at special environments, which however, are still underdeveloped. Here, a proof‐of‐concept design of organogel is reported that acts as matrices for thermal chiroptical switch with critical working temperature above 100 °C. The reversible solution‐to‐gel transition of the specific β‐cyclodextrin/dimethyl formide/LiCl system is initialized at about 130 °C, when the luminophores with aggregation‐induced‐emission property shall be lighted up with transferred chirality from inherent chiral β‐cyclodextrin. It allows for the controlled emergence of circularly polarized luminescence. This delicate design enables successful fabrication of ultrahigh temperature thermal chiroptical switch.
Pushing boundaries: Anterolateral thigh free flaps for extensive scalp defects beyond previous limits, leveraging imaging modalities with ultrasound and indocyanine green
Authors: Kim Tae Hyung , Choi Jong Woo , Jeong Woo Shik
Published: June 2024

Background

Scalp defect reconstruction poses considerable challenges, with ongoing debates regarding the most effective strategies. While the latissimus dorsi (LD) flap has traditionally been favored, the anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap has been well described as a versatile alternative for addressing extensive scalp defects. This study underscores the success of scalp reconstruction using ALT flaps, notably pushing the boundaries of previously reported flap sizes. Our approach leverages the use of indocyanine green (ICG) perfusion to guide precise preoperative planning and vascular modification, contributing to improved outcomes in challenging cases.

Methods

We performed 43 ALT flap reconstructions for scalp defects between 2016 and 2023. We collected patients' demographic and clinical data and evaluated flap size and recipient vessels and additional surgical techniques. Detailed preoperative plans with ultrasound and ICG use for intraoperative plans were performed to find perforators location. The cohort was divided into two, with or without complications on flaps, and analyzed depending on its surgical details.

Results

This study involved 38 patients with extensive scalp defects (mean age: 69.4 ± 11 years) who underwent ALT perforator flap transfers (mean flap size: 230.88 ± 145.6 cm2). There was only one case of unsuccessful flap transfer, and four cases had a few complications. The characteristics of the complication group included a large flap size (303.1 ± 170.9 vs. 214.9 ± 136.6 cm2, P = .211), few perforator numbers without pedicle manipulation, lack of intraoperative indocyanine green administration (75% vs. 25%, P = .607), and the use of superficial temporal vessels as recipient vessels.

Conclusions

Scalp reconstruction using large ALT free flaps with the aid of imaging modalities facilitates the optimization of surgical techniques, such as pedicle manipulation, perforator numbers, and vein considerations, thereby contributing to successful reconstruction.
Hybrid equilibrium formulation with adaptive element side orientation for cohesive crack prediction
Authors: Parrinello Francesco
Published: June 2024

The present article proposes an hybrid equilibrium element (HEE) formulation for the prediction of cohesive fracture formation and propagation with the crack modelled by extrinsic interface embedded at element sides. The hybrid equilibrium element formulation can model high order (quadratic, cubic and quartic) stress fields which strongly satisfy homogeneous equilibrium equations, inter‐element and boundary equilibrium equations. The HEE can implicitly model both the initially rigid behaviour of an extrinsic interface and its debonding condition with separation displacement and softening. The extrinsic interface is embedded at the element sides and its behaviour is governed by means of the same degrees of freedom of HEE (generalized stresses), without any additional degree of freedom. The proposed extrinsic cohesive model is developed in the thermodynamic framework of damage mechanics. The proposed crack propagation criterion states that crack grows when the maximum principal stress reaches the tensile strength value, in a direction orthogonal to the principal stress direction. The crack is embedded at an element side and the mesh around crack tip is adapted, by rotation of the element sides, in order to have the interface aligned to the crack growth direction. Three classic two‐dimensional problems of fracture propagation are numerically reproduced and the results compared to the experimental data or to the other numerical results.
Trends in Procedural Management of Meniere's Disease: Analysis of a National Insurance Claims Database
Authors: Rama Nihar , Auger Samuel , Imbery Terence E.
Published: June 2024

Objective

This study used a national insurance claims database to analyze trends in procedural management of Meniere's disease.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort analysis.

Setting

Database study using United States inpatient and outpatient insurance claims submitted from January 2003 to December 2021.

Subjects and Methods

The Merative MarketScan Commercial and Medicare Claims Databases were queried for adults (≥18 years) with a diagnosis of Meniere's Disease according to International Classification of Diseases codes. Patients receiving procedures per Current Procedural Terminology codes for endolymphatic sac surgery, vestibular nerve section, labyrinthectomy, and intratympanic dexamethasone or gentamicin were identified. Temporal trends were analyzed by calculating annual percent change (APC) in the proportion of patients receiving procedures using Joinpoint regression.

Results

A total of 16,523 unique patients with MD receiving procedural management were identified. From 2003 to 2021, the proportion of patients managed with intratympanic dexamethasone increased (APC 1.76 [95% CI 1.53‐1.98], P < .001). The proportion of patients receiving intratympanic gentamicin increased from 2003 to 2015 (APC 4.43 [95% CI 1.29‐7.66], P = .008) but decreased from 2015 to 2021 (APC −10.87 [95% CI −18.31 to −2.76], P = .013). The proportion of patients receiving endolymphatic sac surgery (APC: −10.20 [95% CI −11.19 to −9.20], P < .001) and labyrinthectomy (APC: −6.29 [95% CI −8.12 to −4.42], P < .001) decreased from 2003 to 2021.

Conclusion

From 2003 to 2021, there has been an increase in the use of intratympanic dexamethasone and a decrease in the use of intratympanic gentamicin, endolymphatic sac surgery, and labyrinthectomy for procedural management of Meniere's Disease.
Comprehensive review on performance, reliability, and roadmap of c‐Si PV modules in desert climates: A proposal for improved testing standard
Authors: Adothu Baloji , Kumar Sagarika , John Jim Joseph , Oreski Gernot , Mathiak Gerhard , Jäckel Bengt , Alberts Vivian , Jahangir Jabir Bin , Alam Muhammad Ashraful , Gottschalg Ralph
Published: June 2024

Desert regions have emerged as ideal places for GW utility‐scale photovoltaic (PV) module installations because of their ultra‐large spaces, abundance of high‐irradiance sunshine hours, and clear sky. However, the harsh desert climate presents challenges to the reliability and bankability of PV modules. This review provides an in‐depth understanding of the unique desert parameters impact, desert‐induced degradation modes, status, and required properties of the bill of materials (BOMs) and suggestions for the development of desert standards. The review reveals that the climatic conditions in the desert are considerably harsher than those in the moderate climate. The main degradation mechanisms caused by the desert are ultraviolet (UV)‐induced discoloration, thermomechanical flaws of interconnects, and glass abrasion (because of soiling). The development of desert modules may necessitate the use of new‐generation modules with low‐temperature coefficients, high efficiency, high bifaciality, stability under UV light, and elevated temperatures. For the desert module application, options include advanced back sheets and encapsulants that are thermally and UV stable, free of acetic acid groups, and have a low water vapor transfer rate. The degradation modes induced by desert climate are not sufficiently addressed by the present environmental and safety standards through accelerated aging tests. As a result, this article provides a summary of current standards and recommends creating a new testing proposal called the “Hot Desert Test Cycle (HDTC)” sequence that is specific to the desert climate. This comprehensive review catalyzes the PV community to explore novel designs and develop desert PV modules while adhering to localized standards.
Extracellular vesicle proteins as breast cancer biomarkers: Mass spectrometry‐based analysis
Authors: Bandu Raju , Oh Jae Won , Kim Kwang Pyo
Published: June 2024

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are membrane‐surrounded vesicles released by various cell types into the extracellular microenvironment. Although EVs vary in size, biological function, and components, their importance in cancer progression and the potential use of EV molecular species to serve as novel cancer biomarkers have become increasingly evident. Cancer cells actively release EVs into surrounding tissues, which play vital roles in cancer progression and metastasis, including invasion and immune modulation. EVs released by cancer cells are usually chosen as a gateway in the search for biomarkers for cancer. In this review, we mainly focused on molecular profiling of EV protein constituents from breast cancer, emphasizing mass spectrometry (MS)‐based proteomic approaches. To further investigate the potential use of EVs as a source of breast cancer biomarkers, we have discussed the use of these proteins as predictive marker candidates. Besides, we have also summarized the key characteristics of EVs as potential therapeutic targets in breast cancer and provided significant information on their implications in breast cancer development and progression. Information provided in this review may help understand the recent progress in understanding EV biology and their potential role as new noninvasive biomarkers as well as emerging therapeutic opportunities and associated challenges.
Efficient Electrochemical Performance of Sr(OH)2:MnO2 Binary Composites for Solid State Symmetric Supercapacitor
Authors: Sharma Suneel Kumar , Kavyashree  , Pandey S. N.
Published: June 2024

In this study, we synthesized a binder‐free composite electrode based on Sr(OH)2/MnO2 material. The active electrode was prepared using the layer‐by‐layer (LBL) technique. The surface architecture of the sample was examined through scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and high‐resolution scanning electron microscopy (FE‐SEM). Further, the microstructural information of the electrode was revealed via transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The composite confirmation was ensured through X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX) spectra with mapping analysis. The electrode exhibited the maximum specific capacitance of 554.7 F g−1 at 5 mVs−1 in the 6 M KOH electrolyte. The electrode maintained ~65 % capacitance retention after 10,000 galvanostatic charge‐discharge (GCD) cycles. Furthermore, the assembled symmetric supercapacitor device exhibited the highest specific capacitance value of 124.7 F g−1 @ 5 mVs−1 within a potential span of 1.2 V. This device demonstrated the capability to illuminate light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) of different colors. The energy and power densities of the device were calculated as 26.66 Wh kg−1 and 9884.54 W kg−1 respectively. The stability performance of the device was ~57 % after 10,000 GCD cycles. These findings strongly suggest that the material and the device represent promising options for future energy storage applications.
Performance and Reaction Mechanisms of Catalytic Combustion of Toluene and Ethyl Acetate Over Fe‐Mn Oxides
Authors: Wang Wenyan , Zhang Zhihong , Sun Zhekai , Du Xiaogang
Published: June 2024

In this paper, Fe−Mn oxide catalysts were prepared by the co‐precipitation method. (Fe2O3)‐(Mn3O4)‐3 : 1 showed the best catalytic activity in the degradation of toluene and ethyl acetate, with the removal rate reaching 90 % at 166 °C and 156 °C respectively. The XRD, SEM, TEM, and XPS characterizations revealed that the interaction between Fe and Mn and the higher surface adsorption of oxygen in the (Fe2O3)‐(Mn3O4)‐3 : 1 catalyst may be the main factors promoting the catalytic oxidation. (Fe2O3)‐(Mn3O4)‐3 : 1 exhibited a better removal rate in ethyl acetate than toluene at different space velocities, concentrations and water contents. Under the same conditions, the degradation rate of (Fe2O3)‐(Mn3O4)‐3 : 1 in ethyl acetate was also greater than that in xylene and butyl acetate, which was related to their oxidation processes. FT‐IR and GC‐MS characterizations of fresh and used (Fe2O3)‐(Mn3O4)‐3 : 1 catalysts revealed intermediates in the oxidation of volatile organic compounds, and the reaction mechanisms were analyzed: Firstly, VOCs molecules were adsorbed on the catalyst surface, then decomposed into organic intermediates and oxidized to CO2 and H2O finally.
Conformational Stability and Vibrational Relaxation as a Function of Halogen Substitution in Benzene sulfonamides: A Theoretical Study
Authors: Gnanasekaran Ramachandran , Pandey Hari Datt
Published: June 2024

Studying the vibrational energy flow within molecules can help us better understand their reactivity and facilitate the design of novel functional groups for potential drug candidates. This study examined the conformation of benzene sulfonamide in solvents and vacuum. Potential energy surfaces were computed for the two possible conformations, showing that the conformers’ stability varied with the medium. Additionally, the vibrational energy redistribution of halogen‐substituted benzene sulfonamide conformers was studied in solvents and vacuums. The lifetimes of the halogen stretching mode C−X (where X=F, Cl, or Br) in the substituted benzene sulfonamides were calculated and compared. The solvent and vacuum media lifetimes followed the order: C−Cl>C−Br>C−F. However, the degree of delocalization of vibrational energy was found to vary between them.
Review on the Catalytic Significance of Zr‐Based Metal‐Organic Frameworks as Potential Catalyst for Various Organic Transformations
Authors: Bindal Aarti , Soni Akta , Kumar Parveen , Kumar Gourav , Nemiwal Meena
Published: June 2024

Within the extensive array of metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs), Zr‐based MOFs stand out as particularly promising materials due to their diverse structures, exceptional stability, and intriguing properties. These MOFs are currently in the early stages of development, but noteworthy strides have been achieved in recent years. This overview focuses on the progress in Zr‐MOFs since 2012, covering design, synthesis, and applications in various reactions such as C−H activation, oxidation, C−C, and C−N coupling approaches. Different Zr‐MOF structural variants are explained in terms of Zr‐based secondary building units and a variety of organic ligands. The review highlights the roles that Zr‐MOFs play in catalysis by highlighting their uses as porous carriers, molecule adsorption, and separation. It is anticipated that this kind of concentrated review on Zr‐MOFs would offer important direction for next studies investigating MOFs for catalytic applications.
A Novel Organic‐Inorganic Hybrid Material (BTTD)MnCl4 with Intelligent Switching Applications Derived from Unusual Wheels‐Like Motion
Authors: Liu Xian‐Min , Cai Zhuoer , Zhang Yinan , Hua Xiu‐Ni , Sun Baiwang
Published: June 2024

In recent years, phase change materials (PCMs) have received extensive attention because of their applications in many fields, such as construction, semiconductor, energy and intelligent response switch. Organic‐inorganic hybrid materials (OIHMs) are wide applied in the preparation of PCMs due to their controllability of organic and inorganic components. In this study, we successfully synthesized an organic‐inorganic hybrid material (BTTD)MnCl4 (compound 1, BTTD=[(CH3)2NCH2Cl(CH2)3CH2ClN(CH3)2]. The purity of compound 1 was confirmed by PXRD. The crystal structure of compound 1 was analyzed at 300 K, 381 K and 400 K. The three different crystal structures prove the phase change of compound 1. According to the result of differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), the phase transition of compound 1 is reversible. Moreover, the measured bandgap (Eg) of 1 is 2.25 eV. The dielectric constant of compound 1 fluctuates near 370 K, indicating the changes of electrical properties, so compound 1 can be used to cut off circuit. This temperature is close to the boiling point of water under standard ambient conditions. Therefore, this work provides a new direction for the design of intelligent response switch for electric kettle.
Electrochemiluminescence Systems for Metal‐Ion Detection: A Systematic Review
Authors: Harmesa Harmesa , Wahyudi A'an Johan , Saefumillah Asep , Ivandini Tribidasari A.
Published: June 2024

Electrogenerated chemiluminescence or electrochemiluminescence (ECL) is a chemiluminescence phenomenon generated by electrochemical reactions. Applying this phenomenon for metal ions detections is potentially effectual as it provides excellent selectivity and sensitivity as well as the ease of use and economical cost. Accordingly, the detection methods of many trace metals have been successfully developed by employing ECL systems, including Hg(II), Pb(II), Cu(II), Cd(II), Fe(III), Ag(I), Co(II), Cr(III), Cr(VI), Ni(II), and As(III). There are several key components required to comprise the ECL systems, including luminophores that emit light and are directly proportionate toward metal concentrations, co‐reactants that increase the number of excited luminophores, and electrodes where the electron transfer occurs. Some new ECL systems comprising luminophores, co‐reactants, and electrodes have been developed to achieve impressive measurement results with low detection limits. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive illustration concerning the development of ECL‐based metal sensors, to elucidate a development overview of key elements employed in ECL systems and their modifications, explaining the different types of interactions due to the presence of metal ions in ECL systems, as well as to discuss the future opportunities and challenges of the ECL systems.