bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines among children 6–11 years against hospitalization during Omicron predominance in Malaysia
Authors: Jayaraj Vivek Jason , Husin Masliyana , Suah Jing Lian , Tok Peter Seah Keng , Omar Azahadi , Rampal Sanjay , Sivasampu Sheamini
Published: March 2024

There is currently limited data on the effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines for children aged 6–11 years in Malaysia. This study aims to determine vaccine effectiveness (VE) against COVID-19-related hospitalization after receipt of one- and two-doses of BNT162b2 mRNA (Comirnaty-Pfizer/BioNTech) vaccine over a duration of almost 1 year in the predominantly Omicron period of BA.4/BA.5 and X.B.B sub lineages. This study linked administrative databases between May 2022 and March 2023 to evaluate real-world vaccine effectiveness (VE) for the BNT162b2 mRNA (Comirnaty-Pfizer/BioNTech) vaccine against COVID-19-related hospitalization in the Omicron pre-dominant period with BA.4/BA.5 and X.B.B sub lineages. During the Omicron-predominant period, the cumulative hospitalization rate was almost two times higher for unvaccinated children (9.6 per million population) compared to vaccinated children (6 per million population). The estimated VE against COVID-19 hospitalization for one dose of BNT162b2 was 27% (95% CI − 1%, 47%) and 38% (95% CI 27%, 48%) for two doses. The estimated VE against hospitalization remained stable when stratified by time. VE for the first 90 days was estimated to be 45% (95% CI 33, 55%), followed by 47% (95% CI 34, 56%) between 90 and 180 days, and 36% (95% CI 22, 45%) between 180 and 360 days. Recent infection within 6 months does not appear to modify the impact of vaccination on the risk of hospitalization, subject to the caveat of potential underestimation. In our pediatric population, BNT162b2 provided moderate-non-diminishing protection against COVID-19 hospitalization over almost 1 year of Omicron predominance.
Dielectric anisotropy changes in MBBA liquid crystal doped with barium titanate by a new method
Authors: Beigmohammadi Maryam , Khadem Sadigh Mahsa , Poursamad Jaafar
Published: March 2024

In response to the burgeoning interest in enhancing the properties of liquid crystal composites, this research systematically explores the intricate interplay between MBBA nematic liquid crystals and ferroelectric barium titanate nanoparticles. The focus is modulating dielectric properties under temperature, frequency, and an applied electric field. Nuanced insights into temperature-dependent behavior, parallel and perpendicular component alterations, and a nonlinear correlation between nanoparticle concentration and dielectric constant are revealed. The study delves into dielectric anisotropy, indicating a reduction with increasing temperature. Structural analyses validate size reduction and crystal phase maintenance of barium titanate nanoparticles (NPs), emphasizing their impact on dielectric characteristics. Frequency-dependent investigations underscore a consistent decline in permittivity with rising frequency across nanoparticle concentrations. Application of an electric field in filling process of liquid crystal cells reveals irregular changes in dielectric constant, holding promise for tailored applications in display technologies. These comprehensive findings offer valuable insights into manipulating dielectric anisotropy properties of MBBA liquid crystal by a simple method for potential advancements in optoelectronic devices and display technologies.
Impact of SARS-CoV-2 spike stability and RBD exposure on antigenicity and immunogenicity
Authors: Rutten Lucy , Swart Maarten , Koornneef Annemart , Bouchier Pascale , Blokland Sven , Sadi Ava , Juraszek Jarek , Vijayan Aneesh , Schmit-Tillemans Sonja , Verspuij Johan , Choi Ying , Daal Chenandly E. , Perkasa Aditya , Torres Morales Shessy , Myeni Sebenzile K. , Kikkert Marjolein , Tolboom Jeroen , van Manen Daniëlle , Kuipers Harmjan , Schuitemaker Hanneke , Zahn Roland , Langedijk Johannes P. M.
Published: March 2024

The spike protein (S) of SARS-CoV-2 induces neutralizing antibodies and is the key component of current COVID-19 vaccines. The most efficacious COVID-19 vaccines are genetically-encoded spikes with a double proline substitution in the hinge region to stabilize S in the prefusion conformation (S-2P). A subunit vaccine can be a valuable addition to mRNA and viral vector-based vaccines but requires high stability of spike. In addition, further stabilization of the prefusion conformation of spike might improve immunogenicity. To test this, five spike proteins were designed and characterized, ranging from low to high stability. The immunogenicity of these proteins was assessed in mice, demonstrating that a spike (S-closed-2) with a high melting temperature, which still allowed ACE2 binding, induced the highest neutralization titers against homologous and heterologous strains (up to 16-fold higher than the least stabilized spike). In contrast, the most stable spike variant (S-locked), in which the receptor binding domains (RBDs) were locked in a closed conformation and thus not able to breathe, induced relatively low neutralizing antibody titers against heterologous strains. These data demonstrate that S protein stabilization with RBDs exposing highly conserved epitopes may be needed to increase the immunogenicity of spike proteins for future COVID-19 vaccines.
Invasive fall armyworms are corn strain
Authors: Durand Karine , An Hyerin , Nam Kiwoong
Published: March 2024

The fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) is one of the major pest insects in diverse crop plants, including maize, rice, and cotton. While the fall armyworm is native to North and South America, its invasion was first reported in West Africa in 2016. Since then, this species has rapidly spread across Sub-Saharan Africa, Asia, and Oceania, as well as Egypt and Cyprus. The fall armyworm is composed of two sympatric strains, the corn and rice strains, designated to their preferred host plants, in native areas. It remains surprisingly unclear whether invasive fall armyworms belong to the corn strain, rice strain, or hybrids of the two, despite a large number of population genetics studies. In this study, we performed population genomics analyses using globally collected 116 samples to identify the strains of invasive fall armyworms. We observed that invasive fall armyworms are genomically most similar to the corn strain. The reconstructed phylogenetic tree supports the hypothesis that invasive fall armyworms originated from the corn strain. All genomic loci of invasive populations exhibit higher genetic similarity to the corn strains compared to the rice strains. Furthermore, we found no evidence of gene flow from rice strains to invasive populations at any genomic locus. These results demonstrate that invasive fall armyworms belong to the corn strain. These results suggest that invasive fall armyworms likely have very limited potential to infest rice. Therefore, the management plan should primarily focus on crops preferred by the corn strain.
Electron density-based GPT for optimization and suggestion of host–guest binders
Authors: Parrilla-Gutiérrez Juan M. , Granda Jarosław M. , Ayme Jean-François , Bajczyk Michał D. , Wilbraham Liam , Cronin Leroy
Published: March 2024

Here we present a machine learning model trained on electron density for the production of host–guest binders. These are read out as simplified molecular-input line-entry system (SMILES) format with >98% accuracy, enabling a complete characterization of the molecules in two dimensions. Our model generates three-dimensional representations of the electron density and electrostatic potentials of host–guest systems using a variational autoencoder, and then utilizes these representations to optimize the generation of guests via gradient descent. Finally the guests are converted to SMILES using a transformer. The successful practical application of our model to established molecular host systems, cucurbit[n]uril and metal–organic cages, resulted in the discovery of 9 previously validated guests for CB[6] and 7 unreported guests (with association constant Ka ranging from 13.5 M−1 to 5,470 M−1) and the discovery of 4 unreported guests for [Pd214]4+ (with Ka ranging from 44 M−1 to 529 M−1).
Advances and prospects of analytic methods for bacterial transglycosylation and inhibitor discovery
Authors: Hsu Tse-Wei , Fang Jim-Min
Published: March 2024

We discuss recent analytic methods for assessing the function of bacterial transglycosylase (TGase), the first enzyme in peptidoglycan elongation, from the 1990s and present the discovery of TGase inhibitors as potential antibacterial agents.
Bromine atom introduction improves the F− sensing ability of an indolo[3,2-b]carbazole-salicylaldehyde-based fluorescence turn-on sensor
Authors: Xu Lihua , Zhao Jiang
Published: March 2024

Halogen bromine atom introduction exhibits the ability of fluorescence enhancement, thus improving the F− detection ability of a sensor by 2 times.
The human eIF4E:4E-BP2 complex structure for studying hyperphosphorylation
Authors: Zeng Juan , Lu CuiMin , Huang Xuan , Li Yang
Published: March 2024

The cap-dependent mRNA translation is dysregulated in many kinds of cancers.
Strain-induced excellent photocatalytic performance in Z-scheme BlueP/γ-SnS heterostructures for water splitting
Authors: Li Quan , Wang Jiabao , Huang Hao , Zhao Guangting , Wang Ling-Ling , Zhu Xiaojun
Published: March 2024

Biaxial strain can effectively regulate the band edges and alignments of BlueP/γ-SnS heterostructures, thus achieving high solar-to-hydrogen efficiency in both Z-scheme and type-I heterojunctions under compressive strains.
Peptide-based self-assembled monolayers (SAMs): what peptides can do for SAMs and vice versa
Authors: Redondo-Gómez Carlos , Parreira Paula , Martins M. Cristina L. , Azevedo Helena S.
Published: March 2024

Self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) based on peptides represent a reproducible platform for screening and studying peptide functions and facilitating their translation into multidisciplinary applications.
Syntheses and polymerization of monoterpene-based (meth)acrylates: IBO(M)A as a relevant monomer for industrial applications
Authors: Obermeier Franziska , Hense Dominik , Stockmann Paul N. , Strube Oliver I.
Published: March 2024

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the current scientific status of monomer and polymer synthesis, as well as the areas of application for (meth)acrylates based on monoterpenes, using the industrially available IBOMA as an example.
An interpretable 3D multi-hierarchical representation-based deep neural network for environmental, health and safety properties prediction of organic solvents
Authors: Zhang Jun , Wang Qin , Lei Yang , Shen Weifeng
Published: March 2024

A 3D multi-hierarchical representation-based deep neural network (3D-MrDNN) architecture for prediction of the environmental, health and safety properties of organic solvents.
Sustainable electrochemical synthesis of dry formaldehyde from anhydrous methanol
Authors: Schwarz Florian , Larenz Elizabeth , Mechler Anna K.
Published: March 2024

Dry formaldehyde was electrochemically produced from methanol at ambient conditions. Faraday efficiencies of up to 90% were achieved and the reaction was successfully scaled-up to a flow cell to approach industrially relevant operation conditions.
Deep learning-enabled detection of rare circulating tumor cell clusters in whole blood using label-free, flow cytometry
Authors: Vora Nilay , Shekar Prashant , Hanulia Taras , Esmail Michael , Patra Abani , Georgakoudi Irene
Published: March 2024

We present a deep-learning enabled, label-free flow cytometry platform for identifying circulating tumor cell clusters in whole blood based on the endogenous scattering detected at three wavelengths. The method has potential for in vivo translation.
Gold-catalyzed cyclization and cycloaddition in natural product synthesis
Authors: Lin Boxu , Liu Tianran , Luo Tuoping
Published: March 2024

This review highlights a curated selection of publications utilizing homogeneous gold-catalyzed cycloaddition and cyclization reactions for the total synthesis of natural products reported from 2016 to mid-2023.
Identification of BACE-1 inhibitors through directed C(sp3)–H activation on 5-oxo-pyrrolidine-3-carboxylic acid derivatives
Authors: Baldini Lorenzo , Lenci Elena , Faggi Cristina , Trabocchi Andrea
Published: March 2024

Stereochemically dense 5-oxo-pyrrolidines were obtained by combining the Castagnoli–Cushman reaction with directed Pd-catalyzed C(sp3)–H functionalization and enabling the identification of two BACE-1 enzyme inhibitors with sub-micromolar activity.
Synthesis, structure and stereodynamics of atropisomeric N-chloroamides
Authors: Campbell Aaron D. G. , Roper Natalie J. , Waddell Paul G. , Wills Corinne , Dixon Casey M. , Denton Ross M. , Ermanis Kristaps , Armstrong Roly J.
Published: March 2024

Novel atropisomeric N-chloroamides were prepared by efficient halogenation reactions and shown to racemize via a pathway involving geared bond rotation.
A novel FA1-targeting fluorescent probe for specific discrimination and identification of human serum albumin from bovine serum albumin
Authors: Huyan Yuchen , Nan Xiaojing , Li Hongjuan , Sun Shiguo , Xu Yongqian
Published: March 2024

A novel probe C1 combining benzothiazole with a spiropyran section was developed for the specific detection of human serum albumin (HSA).
Scandium-catalyzed chemoselective carbene insertion into N–H over S–H: access to o-alkylamine-diaryl disulfides
Authors: Sun Haoyany , Pan Junhong , Zhao Wenying , Zhou Tong , Song Xizhong , Lin Jun , Jin Yi
Published: March 2024

A Sc-catalyzed chemoselective carbene insertion into N–H bond over S–H bond. The first example of the synthesis of o-alkylamine-diaryl disulfides through the N-alkylation of o-aminobenzenethiol, also undergoing oxidative coupling to form S–S bond.
Palladium-catalysed aryl/monofluoroalkylation of allenamides: access to fluoroalkyl indoles and isoquinolones
Authors: Xue Qiaoli , Pu Yue , Zhao Haixia , Xie Xiaotian , Zhang Heng , Wang Jian , Yan Liqin , Shang Yongjia
Published: March 2024

Efficient access to fluoroalkyl indoles and isoquinolones through palladium-catalysed aryl/monofluoroalkylation of allenamides has been developed.
Enhanced photocatalytic activity of single-atom Au1/TiO2 catalysts prepared using cold plasma
Authors: Yang Zikun , Zheng Jingxuan , Shi Mengge , Wang Zhao
Published: March 2024

Single-atom Au1/TiO2-DBD catalysts were synthesised using DBD plasma and glow plasma, and the synergistic effect of single-atom Au and oxygen vacancies improved the degradation performance.
CO2 electroreduction on single atom catalysts: the role of the DFT functional
Authors: Misra Debolina , Di Liberto Giovanni , Pacchioni Gianfranco
Published: March 2024

Impact of the adopted DFT functional on the activation of CO2 on a set of single-atom catalysts.
New-generation electron-propagator methods for vertical electron detachment energies of molecular anions: benchmarks and applications to model green-fluorescent-protein chromophores
Authors: Opoku Ernest , Pawłowski Filip , Ortiz J. V.
Published: March 2024

Ab initio electron-propagator calculations continue to be useful companions to experimental investigations of electronic structure in molecular anions.
A stable and true-blue emissive hexacoordinate Si(iv) N-heterocyclic carbene complex and its use in organic light-emitting diodes
Authors: Thierry Thibault , Giuso Valerio , Polo Federico , Mercandelli Pierluigi , Chen Yi-Ting , Chang Chih-Hao , Mauro Matteo , Bellemin-Laponnaz Stéphane
Published: March 2024

A stable homoleptic silicon(iv) N-heterocyclic carbene complex is prepared and investigated, and it shows deep-blue emission in the solid state and in OLEDs.
Constructing TiO2 nanotube arrays with oxygen vacancies on a Cu mesh to enable homogeneous Li deposition towards a long-life Li metal anode
Authors: Wang Yujue , Xian Xiaoping , Wang Yilin , Guo Yong , Xiao Dan
Published: March 2024

TiO2 nanotubes with in situ grown oxygen vacancies on the Cu mesh can construct a 3D lithiophilic matrix with a large surface area, which can help to lower Li nucleation overpotential and guide homogeneous and dendrite-free Li deposition.
Rational synthesis of macroporous nanocarbon with phosphorus-doping from pitch for high-rate sodium ion batteries
Authors: Li Ying-Mei , Liu Shu-Feng , Sun Wei , Lu Ruifang , Liu Chan , Sun Qiang
Published: March 2024

The cost-effectiveness and abundance of sodium make sodium-ion batteries a compelling alternative to lithium-ion batteries.
Study on the catalytic performance of ZnCrAl co-precipitated oxides washed with ammonium carbonate solution in the synthesis of light olefins from syngas
Authors: Jiang Wenli , Zheng Heping , Xiao Daqiang , Ren Yu , Tang Jianhua
Published: March 2024

Ammonium carbonate solution was used instead of water to wash the impurities in the coprecipitation method, and oxides with increased oxygen vacancy content and catalytic effect were obtained.
Asymmetric synthesis of the fully functionalized six-membered A-ring of siphonol A
Authors: Sun Ying , Fu Shaomin , Liu Bo
Published: March 2024

The asymmetric synthesis of the fully functionalized six-membered A-ring of siphonol A is presented.
Deciphering the active species and reaction mechanism in water oxidation catalyzed by a copper complex with redox-active ligands
Authors: Fan Qing , Yang Cong , Li Mengdi , Wang Chen , Wang Guixia , Kong Xiangfei , Zhu Qiping
Published: March 2024

This theoretical study unveils active species and the reaction mechanism in electrochemical water oxidation catalyzed by a copper complex with redox-active ligands.
Exposure to Canadian French Cued Speech Improves Consonant Articulation in Children With Cochlear Implants: Acoustic and Articulatory Data
Authors: Machart Laura , Vilain Anne , Lœvenbruck Hélène , Tiede Mark , Ménard Lucie
Published: March 2024

Purpose:

One of the strategies that can be used to support speech communication in deaf children is cued speech, a visual code in which manual gestures are used as additional phonological information to supplement the acoustic and labial speech information. Cued speech has been shown to improve speech perception and phonological skills. This exploratory study aims to assess whether and how cued speech reading proficiency may also have a beneficial effect on the acoustic and articulatory correlates of consonant production in children.

Method:

Eight children with cochlear implants (from 5 to 11 years of age) and with different receptive proficiency in Canadian French Cued Speech (three children with low receptive proficiency vs. five children with high receptive proficiency) are compared to 10 children with typical hearing (from 4 to 11 years of age) on their production of stop and fricative consonants. Articulation was assessed with ultrasound measurements.

Results:

The preliminary results reveal that cued speech proficiency seems to sustain the development of speech production in children with cochlear implants and to improve their articulatory gestures, particularly for the place contrast in stops as well as fricatives.

Conclusion:

This work highlights the importance of studying objective data and comparing acoustic and articulatory measurements to better characterize speech production in children.
Efficacy of the Teaching Early Literacy and Language Curriculum With Preschoolers From Low-Income Families
Authors: Gray Shelley I. , Wilcox M. Jeanne , Reiser Mark
Published: March 2024

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to test the efficacy of the Teaching Early Literacy and Language (TELL) curriculum package for improving the early literacy and oral language skills of preschoolers from low-income families.

Method:

In a randomized controlled trial (RCT), TELL was implemented in 30 TELL and 28 business-as-usual classrooms. TELL is a Tier 1 whole-class curriculum package that includes a scope and sequence of instruction, lesson plans and materials, high-quality books, curriculum-based measures (CBMs), and professional development training and coaching.

Results:

Implementation fidelity was high; however, due to COVID-19 school closures, we did not collect end-of-year data for our third cohort of teachers. Results indicated significant TELL effects on all code-related CBMs and two code-related distal measures as well as receptive and expressive vocabulary CBMs. No significant differences were found on distal measures of oral language/vocabulary or listening comprehension.

Conclusions:

Results of the present study, paired with findings from an earlier TELL RCT with children with developmental speech and/or language impairments, suggest that children enrolled in TELL classrooms achieve higher outcomes on a variety of code-related and vocabulary measures by the end of their final preschool year.

Supplemental Material:

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.25345708
A 23.7‐uW 93.5‐dB SNDR delta‐sigma modulator for healthcare and medical diagnostics
Authors: Hu Jianguo , Yao Yao , Zou Renfei , He Jiajun , Wang Deming
Published: March 2024

This paper presents a high‐precision, low‐power delta‐sigma modulator (DSM) designed for healthcare and medical diagnostics. It utilizes a hybrid switching integrator to reduce distortion caused by the non‐linear on‐resistance of switches at a low supply voltage. Leveraging the characteristics of the hybrid switching integrator, a non‐50% duty cycle sampling timing and a corresponding tunable Miller‐compensated operational transconductance amplifier are proposed to reduce resistor thermal noise and meet lower power consumption requirements. The DSM is simulated based on 130‐nm CMOS technology and achieves 93.5‐dB signal‐to‐noise‐plus‐distortion ratio at a 1‐kHz bandwidth while consuming 23.7 µW from a 1.5‐V supply.
Cosmic insights from galaxy clusters: Exploring magnification bias on sub-millimetre galaxies
Authors: Fernández-Fernández R. , Bonavera L. , Crespo D. , González-Nuevo J. , Cueli M. M. , Casas J. M. , Cabo S. R.
Published: March 2024

Context. Magnification bias, an observational effect of gravitational lensing in the weak regime, allows the cosmological model to be tested through angular correlations of sources at different redshifts. This effect has been observed in various contexts, particularly with sub-millimetre galaxies (SMGs), offering valuable astrophysical and cosmological insights.

Aims. The study aims to investigate the magnification bias effect exerted by galaxy clusters on SMGs and its implications for astrophysical and cosmological parameters within the Λ-CDM model.

Methods. Magnification bias was explored by quantifying the cross-correlation function, which we then utilised to derive constraints on cosmological and astrophysical parameters with a Markov chain Monte Carlo algorithm. Two distinct galaxy cluster samples were used to assess result robustness and understand the influence of sample characteristics.

Results. Cluster samples show higher cross-correlation values than galaxies, with an excess at larger scales suggesting contributions from additional large-scale structures. The parameters obtained, while consistent with those of galaxies, are less constrained due to broader redshift distributions and limited cluster statistics. Results align with weak lensing studies, hinting at slightly lower σ8 and Ωm values than Planck’s cosmic microwave background data, emphasising the need for enhanced precision and alternative low-redshift universe tests.

Conclusions. While this method yields constraints that are compatible with the Λ-CDM model, its limitations include broader redshift distributions and a limited number of lenses, resulting in less constrained parameters compared to previous galaxy studies. Nonetheless, our study underscores the potential of using galaxy clusters as lenses for magnification bias studies, capitalising on their elevated masses and thus providing a promising avenue to test current cosmology theories. Further progress can be made by expanding the lens sample size.
Spectroscopic survey of faint planetary-nebula nuclei
Authors: Werner Klaus , Todt Helge , Bond Howard E. , Zeimann Gregory R.
Published: March 2024

We present spectroscopy of three hydrogen-deficient central stars of faint planetary nebulae, with effective temperatures (Teff) in excess of 100 000 K. The nucleus of RaMul 2 is a Population II Wolf-Rayet star of spectral type [WC], and the central stars of Abell 25 and StDr 138 are two new members of the PG1159 class. Our spectral analyses reveal that their atmospheres have a similar chemical composition. They are dominated by helium and carbon, which was probably caused by a late helium-shell flash. Coincidentally, the three stars have similar masses of about M = 0.53 M⊙ and hence form a post-asymptotic giant branch (AGB) evolutionary sequence of an initially early-K-type main sequence star with M = 0.8 M⊙. The central stars cover the period during which the luminosity fades from about 3000 to 250 L⊙ and the radius shrinks from about 0.15 to 0.03 R⊙. The concurrent increase of the surface gravity during this interval from log g = 5.8 to 7.2 causes the shutdown of the stellar wind from an initial mass-loss rate of log Ṁ/(M⊙ yr−1) = −6.4, as measured for the [WC] star. Along the contraction phase, we observe an increase in Teff from 112 000 K, marked by the [WC] star, to the maximum value of 140 000 K, and a subsequent cooling to 130 000 K, marked by the two PG1159 stars.
A location-inventory-pricing model for a three-level supply chain distribution network
Authors: Pejman Setareh , Seifbarghy Mehdi , Pishva Davar
Published: March 2024

This article applies competition-based pricing method to a location-inventory-pricing problem, something which had not yet been investigated as of this study. It reveals that examining the three problems of location, inventory and pricing in an integrated and simultaneous manner can be the best approach to optimize the supply chain (SC) and increase the profitability of its companies. The investigated three-level SC distribution network model includes one supplier, several distribution centers (DCs), and several customers. The model is structured in form of a mixed integer nonlinear programming to maximize the long-term average profit of the distribution network. It considers constraints of inventory capacity along with continuous review inventory policy in each open DC. For its DCs’ retail price determination, two competing pricing approaches of higher than and lower than the average price of competitors have been used. The approach has been investigated on several potential DCs and customers and its numerical results show that retail price from the DCs to the customers is dependent on the average price of the market and its fluctuations. The major finding of this research is the fact that the type of demand function can have a substantial effect on the obtained results in the location-inventory-pricing model and greatly influence the amount of the profit of each company. Its applied strategy along with innovative competition-based pricing approach and projection of customers’ demand via linear and exponential functions show how companies can increase their profit through price adjustment and demand projection.
Abstract generalized epsilon-descent algorithm
Authors: Ventura Estefany Castillo , Papa Quiroz Erik Alex
Published: March 2024

Given the problem of minimizing a possibly nonconvex and nonsmooth function in a real Hilbert space, we present a generalized epsilon-descent algorithm motivated from the abstract descent method introduced by Attouch et al. [Math. Program. 137 (2013) 91–129] with two essential additions, we consider scalar errors on the sufficient descent condition, as well as, on the relative inexact optimality condition. Under general conditions on the function to be minimized, we obtain that all accumulation points of the sequences generated by the algorithm, if they exist, are generalized critical limit points of the objective function.
Examining supply chain financing: A comparative and coordination analysis under a buyback contract
Authors: Tian Boshi , Yu Liangwei , Chang Xiaoxing
Published: March 2024

This paper focuses on financing schemes for a supply chain with high salvage values of unsold products. Combining the buyback contract with a partial credit guarantee (PCG) contract and trade credit (TC) contract, we propose two financing schemes, PCG-Buyback and TC-Buyback, to provide flexible financing services for a capital-constrained retailer and obtain equilibrium strategies of each supply chain member. Furthermore, for PCG-Buyback, this paper obtains a Pareto coordination frontier consisting of the credit guarantee coefficient and the buyback price at different initial capital levels, which is more flexible to achieve supply chain coordination. Finally, we analyze the manufacturer’s strategic choices of PCG-Buyback and TC-Buyback in terms of credit guarantee coefficient, buyback price, and financing rate. Our results show that PCG-Buyback is the optimal financing scheme for the manufacturer when both the credit guarantee coefficient and buyback price (or financing rate) are low; otherwise, TC-Buyback is the dominant strategy. This study explores how the risk-sharing mechanism combination of PCG and buyback contracts can provide a more flexible approach to supply chain coordination. Additionally, it highlights the significance of the manufacturer selecting a better financing scheme based on its individual characteristics.
Verbesserte Versorgungs-und Behandlungsoptionen für Patienten mit
Hyperphagie-assoziierter Adipositas bei Bardet-Biedl-Syndrom
Authors: Cetiner Metin , Bergmann Carsten , Bettendorf Markus , Faust Johanna , Gäckler Anja , Gillissen Bernarda , Hansen Matthias , Kerber Maximilian , Klaus Günter , König Jens , Kühlewein Laura , Oh Jun , Richter-Unruh Annette , von Schnurbein Julia , Wabitsch Martin , Weihrauch-Blüher Susann , Pape Lars
Published: March 2024

Das Bardet-Biedl-Syndrom (BBS) ist eine seltene, autosomal-rezessiv vererbte
Multisystemerkrankung. Pathophysiologisch liegt eine Funktionsstörung des
Primärziliums vor. Die Klinik ist heterogen und variabel und zeigt sich
insbesondere in einer Retinadystrophie, Adipositas, Polydaktylie,
Nierenauffälligkeiten, Hypogonadismus und Entwicklungsverzögerungen. Mit der
Zulassung des Melanocortin 4-Rezeptor-Agonisten Setmelanotid kann erstmals eine
medikamentöse Therapie der BBS-assoziierten Hyperphagie und der Adipositas
angeboten werden. Hyperphagie und das starke Übergewicht bereits im Kindesalter
stellen eine erhebliche Krankheitslast dar und gehen zudem mit einem
Komorbiditäts- und erhöhtem Mortalitätsrisiko einher. Aufgrund der limitierten
Erfahrungen mit Setmelanotid bei BBS soll hiermit ein tragfähiges umfassendes
Therapiekonzept vorgelegt werden. Die Therapie sollte nach genetisch gesicherter
Diagnose und individueller Indikationsstellung in Zentren mit spezieller
Expertise erfolgen. Voraussetzungen für den bestmöglichen Therapieeffekt mit
Setmelanotid ist die adäquate Aufklärung des Patienten über die Modalitäten der
Therapie (tägliche subkutane Injektion) und mögliche unerwünschte
Arzneimittelwirkungen. Des Weiteren ist gemeinsam mit dem Patienten die
Einbeziehung von Psychologen, Ernährungsberatern und Pflegediensten (Support bei
der Applikation) zu erwägen. Die Beurteilung des Therapieerfolgs sollte mit
geeigneten Outcome-Measurements erfolgen und zur Evidenzförderung zentralisiert
mittels etablierter Register-Infrastrukturen erfasst werden.
Electrochemical Efficient Synthesis of Two Azo Energetic Compounds
Authors: Peng Rufang , Jin Bo , Zhang Jinhao , Song Yulan , Hao Wenjia
Published: March 2024

Azo compounds with a high density, high enthalpy, and excellent detonation performance have received increasing research attention. The conventional method of chemical dehydrogenation that is used to form azo compounds involves the use of strong oxidants, resulting in environmental pollution. Electrochemical organic synthesis is considered an old method and a new technology. In this work, azofurazan tetrazole {H2AzFT; 5,5′-[diazene-1,2-diylbis(1,2,5-oxadiazole-4,3-diyl)]bis-1H-tetrazole} and azofurazan hydroxytetrazole (H2AzFTO) were synthesized by a green and efficient electrochemical dehydrogenation coupling of 5-(4-aminofurazan-3-yl)-1H-tetrazole and 5-(4-aminofurazan-3-yl)-1-hydroxytetrazole, respectively. The structures of H2AzFT and (NH4)2AzFTO were fully characterized by infrared spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance, and elemental analysis, and their thermal stabilities were determined by differential thermal analysis.
The Current State of Neonatal Neurodevelopmental Follow-up Programs in North America: A Children's Hospitals Neonatal Consortium Report
Authors: Quiñones Cardona Vilmaris , Cohen Susan S. , Cook Noah , Cizmeci Mehmet N. , Chandel Amit , DiGeronimo Robert , Gogcu Semsa , Jano Eni , Kojima Katsuaki , Lee Kyong-Soon , McAdams Ryan M. , Menkiti Ogechukwu , Mietzsch Ulrike , Peeples Eric , Sewell Elizabeth , Shenberger Jeffrey S. , Massaro An N. , Natarajan Girija , Rao Rakesh , Dizon Maria L. V. ,   on behalf of the Children's Hospitals Neonatal Consortium
Published: March 2024

Objective This study aimed to determine neonatal neurodevelopmental follow-up (NDFU) practices across academic centers.

Study Design This study was a cross-sectional survey that addressed center-specific neonatal NDFU practices within the Children's Hospitals Neonatal Consortium (CHNC).

Results Survey response rate was 76%, and 97% of respondents had a formal NDFU program. Programs were commonly staffed by neonatologists (80%), physical therapists (77%), and nurse practitioners (74%). Median gestational age at birth identified for follow-up was ≤32 weeks (range 26–36). Median duration was 3 years (range 2–18). Ninety-seven percent of sites used Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development, but instruments used varied across ages. Scores were recorded in discrete electronic data fields at 43% of sites. Social determinants of health data were collected by 63%. Care coordination and telehealth services were not universally available.

Conclusion NDFU clinics are almost universal within CHNC centers. Commonalities and variances in practice highlight opportunities for data sharing and development of best practices.

Key Points
Understanding the Missing Links in Hahnemann's Posology for Drug Proving
Authors: Tiwary Himanshu Sekhar , Tiwary Nidhi
Published: March 2024

Hahnemannian drug proving has been reproved and clinically verified in multiple geographical locations in the last two centuries. They continue to be the most reliable and useful proving records even today. However, in absence of daybook of these provings, many practical questions essential for its successful replication have remained unanswered. In this study, we have tried to understand a few of these questions such as why Hahnemann did not mention the doses employed in his drug proving. What were his actual instructions for the repetition of doses to the provers? In 50 years, Hahnemann's propositions for posology in drug proving changed several times. Which phase and posology have contributed maximally to the existing literature? Last but not least, is the drug proving in 30th potency ‘the best and final plan’ of Hahnemann? In the process of finding answers to these questions, some fascinating facts have emerged. Notably, to prioritise individualisation in drug proving, design drug schedules more often in a successively increasing fashion and lastly, to explore all ranges of potencies for proving till little of novel character could be recorded on subsequent proving of the drug.
Pearls and Pitfalls in the Measurement of Direct Oral Anticoagulants
Authors: Lippi Giuseppe , Favaloro Emmanuel J.
Published: March 2024

Due to their widespread use, testing for direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) has become urgent in certain clinical situations. Screening based on widely available, rapid, and simple hemostasis assays such as prothrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time, or even diluted Russel Viper venom time may provide sufficient evidence of “over-coagulation” and could be used “in small/peripheral/spoke laboratories” as an emergency strategy, but is not thought to be reliable for driving clinical decision making. Given their good correlation with plasma concentration, urine dipsticks may be considered a valuable alternative for emergency screening, although their performance is dependent on renal function, may vary depending on the time since the last urination, and there may be problems of interfacing with the laboratory/hospital information system. Separation methods based on liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry may be clinically questionable, since they measure the concentration rather than the actual inhibitory effect of DOACs, are relatively expensive, cumbersome and time consuming, and therefore seem unsuitable for most conditions requiring urgent clinical decision making. A proposed approach therefore involves establishing a network of routine clinical laboratories, designating a reference center where DOAC tests could be available 24/7, establishing a clear diagnostic care pathway for ordering the tests from the laboratory and standard operating procedures for performing them, the use of the diluted thrombin time for dabigatran and anti-FXa assays (drug-calibrated) for rivaroxaban, apixaban, and edoxaban, as well as providing expert advice throughout the testing process, from ordering to interpretation of results.
Cone-Beam Computed Tomography Influences the Classification and Choice of Treatment for Distal Radius Fractures
Authors: Eriksson Sara , Rasool Firas , Dånmark Ida , Lensing Claudia Weber , Werner Jonas , Fornander Lotta
Published: March 2024

Background and Purposes The objectives of this study were to investigate the inter- and intraobserver agreement in the classification of distal radius fractures (DRFs) according to the AO and the Buttazzoni classification system, for the two different radiology modalities: conventional radiography (CR) and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Furthermore, we aimed to explore whether the radiological modality used influences the choice of treatment.

Patients and Methods Fifty consecutive patients with DRFs were included. The fractures were visualized by both CR and CBCT. All images were independently reviewed by five observers (three orthopaedic surgeons and two radiologists) and the fractures were classified according to the AO and the Buttazzoni classification. Agreement on fracture classification between CR and CBCT, interobserver agreement for all observers, and intraobserver agreement for a repeated assessment after 8 weeks were calculated. Treatment was suggested by the orthopaedic surgeons.

Results The Buttazzoni classification showed higher interobserver agreement than the AO classification, but the agreement for the AO classification was increased using CBCT. The agreement between classification of fractures by CR and CBCT for each observer varied from fair to moderate. CBCT was superior for classification of dorsally comminute fractures using both the AO and the Buttazzoni system. In 38% (n = 57) of the observations, the suggested treatment was changed when CBCT was used, both from less advanced to more advanced and vice versa.

Conclusion The choice of radiological modality affects both the classification and the choice of treatment for DRFs and CR tends to underestimate the complexity of DRFs.

Level of Evidence Level 1.
Filtering dynamical systems using observations of statistics
Authors: Bach Eviatar , Colonius Tim , Scherl Isabel , Stuart Andrew
Published: March 2024

We consider the problem of filtering dynamical systems, possibly stochastic, using observations of statistics. Thus, the computational task is to estimate a time-evolving density ρ(v,t) given noisy observations of the true density ρ†; this contrasts with the standard filtering problem based on observations of the state v. The task is naturally formulated as an infinite-dimensional filtering problem in the space of densities ρ. However, for the purposes of tractability, we seek algorithms in state space; specifically, we introduce a mean-field state-space model, and using interacting particle system approximations to this model, we propose an ensemble method. We refer to the resulting methodology as the ensemble Fokker–Planck filter (EnFPF). Under certain restrictive assumptions, we show that the EnFPF approximates the Kalman–Bucy filter for the Fokker–Planck equation, which is the exact solution to the infinite-dimensional filtering problem. Furthermore, our numerical experiments show that the methodology is useful beyond this restrictive setting. Specifically, the experiments show that the EnFPF is able to correct ensemble statistics, to accelerate convergence to the invariant density for autonomous systems, and to accelerate convergence to time-dependent invariant densities for non-autonomous systems. We discuss possible applications of the EnFPF to climate ensembles and to turbulence modeling.
Sm substitution induced spin reorientation and stabilization of double perovskite structure resulting in enhanced magnetoelectricity in LaYFe2O6
Authors: Ghosh R. , Mishra S. , Barik A. , Sahoo M. R. , Saini D. , Mandal D. , Babu P. D. , Kaushik S. D. , Vishwakarma P. N.
Published: March 2024

We report an enhanced magnetoelectric (ME) effect in spin–phonon coupled single-phase La1−xSmxYFe2O6 (0 ≤ x ≤ 1). The structural, electric, magnetic, and ME properties have been investigated to establish their interplay leading to magnetoelectricity. X-ray diffraction study suggests the facilitation of the P21nm phase (double perovskite lattice arrangements) formation and improved structural order due to the substitution of Sm in the lattice. Antiferromagnetic (AFM) transition ∼700 K along with a spin-reorientation transition around room temperature (RT) and below is observed in the thermomagnetic curve. The indication of short range ordering in the magnetization data in the form of a non-Griffiths-like phase (nGP) is observed. The short range ordering could be minimized along with consequent improvement in AFM ordering, due to Sm substitution. An enhanced (∼31% with respect to x = 0) RT first-order ME coupling coefficient ∼0.59 mV cm−1 Oe−1 in x = 0.75 composition is observed. The findings reported here open the door to exercise spin-reorientation transition in the spin–phonon coupled double perovskites for spintronic device applications.
Synchronization in scale-free neural networks under electromagnetic radiation
Authors: Ma Minglin , Lu Yaping
Published: March 2024

The functional networks of the human brain exhibit the structural characteristics of a scale-free topology, and these neural networks are exposed to the electromagnetic environment. In this paper, we consider the effects of magnetic induction on synchronous activity in biological neural networks, and the magnetic effect is evaluated by the four-stable discrete memristor. Based on Rulkov neurons, a scale-free neural network model is established. Using the initial value and the strength of magnetic induction as control variables, numerical simulations are carried out. The research reveals that the scale-free neural network exhibits multiple coexisting behaviors, including resting state, period-1 bursting synchronization, asynchrony, and chimera states, which are dependent on the different initial values of the multi-stable discrete memristor. In addition, we observe that the strength of magnetic induction can either enhance or weaken the synchronization in the scale-free neural network when the parameters of Rulkov neurons in the network vary. This investigation is of significant importance in understanding the adaptability of organisms to their environment.
Sinusoidal transmission grating spectrometer for extreme ultraviolet measurement
Authors: Kliss N. , Wengrowicz J. , Papeer J. , Mazuz-Harpaz Y. , Porat E. , Zigler A. , Frank Y.
Published: March 2024

Spectral measurements play a vital role in understanding laser–plasma interactions. The ability to accurately measure the spectrum of radiation sources is crucial for unraveling the underlying physics. In this article, we introduce a novel approach that significantly enhances the efficiency of binary sinusoidal transmission grating spectrometers . The grating was tailored especially for Extreme Ultraviolet (EUV) measurements. The new design, High Contrast Sinusoidal Transmission Grating (HCSTG), not only suppresses high diffraction orders and retains the advantageous properties of previous designs but also exhibits a fourfold improvement in first-order efficiency. In addition, the HCSTG offers exceptional purity in the first order due to effectively eliminating half-order contributions from the diffraction pattern. The HCSTG spectrometer was employed to measure the emission of laser-produced Sn plasma in the 1–50 nm spectral range, achieving a spectral resolution of λ/Δλ = 60. We provide a comprehensive analysis comparing the diffraction patterns of different STGs, highlighting the advantages offered by the HCSTG design. This novel, efficiency-enhanced HCSTG spectrometer opens up new possibilities for accurate and sensitive EUV spectral measurements.
Controlling crystal cleavage in focused ion beam shaped specimens for surface spectroscopy
Authors: Hunter A. , Putzke C. , Gaponenko I. , Tamai A. , Baumberger F. , Moll P. J. W.
Published: March 2024

Our understanding of quantum materials is commonly based on precise determinations of their electronic spectrum by spectroscopic means, most notably angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy (ARPES) and scanning tunneling microscopy. Both require atomically clean and flat crystal surfaces, which are traditionally prepared by in situ mechanical cleaving in ultrahigh vacuum chambers. We present a new approach that addresses three main issues of the current state-of-the-art methods: (1) Cleaving is a highly stochastic and, thus, inefficient process; (2) fracture processes are governed by the bonds in a bulk crystal, and many materials and surfaces simply do not cleave; and (3) the location of the cleave is random, preventing data collection at specified regions of interest. Our new workflow is based on focused ion beam machining of micro-strain lenses, in which shape (rather than crystalline) anisotropy dictates the plane of cleavage, which can be placed at a specific target layer. As proof-of-principle, we show ARPES results from micro-cleaves of Sr2RuO4 along the ac plane and from two surface orientations of SrTiO3, a notoriously difficult to cleave cubic perovskite.
Kinematics and aerodynamic analysis in the turning flights of butterflies
Authors: Fang Yan-Hung , Luu Yi-La , Yang Jing-Tang
Published: March 2024

This study investigates the free-turning flight of butterflies (Idea leuconoe) and analyze the influence of body posture and asymmetric motions of left and right wings on aerodynamics and the asymmetric flow field structure. Three high-speed cameras were used in the biological experiment to observe the turning flight motions, and varied motion angles were calculated. The results showed that the body started to tilt to the right at 0.3 cycles and the flapping amplitude of the inner wing increased by 20.31% relative to the outer wing during a cycle. The outer wing showed a forward-then-backward deviation, whereas the inner wing exhibited the opposite trend. A three-dimensional numerical model with six degrees of freedom and prescribed motion functions was constructed to simulate the flight of butterflies. The results revealed that the roll angle was the primary factor influencing the direction of aerodynamic forces and had a similar mechanism as the banked turn of a fixed wing. During the downstroke, the outer wing provided the normal force while the inner wing contributed to the vertical force, and both wings generated horizontal thrust during the upstroke. The asymmetric wing motions and the lateral inflow velocity were the two major factors affecting the flow field structure. The difference in flapping amplitudes caused the inner wing to generate greater vertical-normal resultant force first. The asymmetric forewing-deviation angle and the lateral flow influenced the direction of the spanwise flow to enhance the strength of the leading-edge vortex and stabilize the attached flow for the outer wing.