bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Current State of Emergency Medical Training in US Schools of Podiatric Medicine
Authors: Wald David A. , Wang Alvin , Suh John , Pontious Jane , Miller Christine
Published: February 2015

Background

There is no information available in the medical literature regarding emergency medical training in the podiatric medicine predoctoral curriculum. This study was undertaken to describe the current state of emergency medical training in US schools of podiatric medicine.

Methods

A Web-based descriptive survey was developed to assess course logistics, the curricular topics covered, and the teaching methods used. All of the US schools of podiatric medicine were surveyed.

Results

Completed surveys were returned from all nine schools. All of the institutions incorporate training on the management of medical emergencies into their predoctoral curricula. Four schools (44.4%) reported initiating this training before 2000. All of the schools incorporate a didactic (lecture) component, and eight (88.9%) incorporate a clinical (hands-on) component into their training.

Conclusions

All of the schools of podiatric medicine in the United States incorporate emergency medical training into their predoctoral curriculum. However, despite some similarities across institutions, there seems to be variation regarding curricular topics, didactic teaching, and methods of teaching the material.
Radiographic Anatomy of the Foot and Ankle—Part 4
Authors: Christman Robert A.
Published: February 2015

Background

The normal radiographic anatomy of the foot and ankle, aside from my previous work, has been addressed only superficially or sparingly in the medical literature. This project correlates the detailed radiographic anatomy of the entire adult foot and ankle (two-dimensional) to osteology (three-dimensional).

Methods

Each bone's position was determined after meticulous examination and correlation to an articulated skeleton relative to the image receptor and direction of the x-ray beam, with correlation to the radiograph for confirmation.

Results

Images of each foot and distal leg bone (“front” and “back” perspectives) are presented alongside a corresponding radiographic image for comparison. The normal gross and radiographic anatomy is correlated and described for each radiographic positioning technique.

Conclusions

Foundational knowledge is provided that future researchers can use as a baseline (“normal”) and that students and practitioners can use for comparison when interpreting radiographs and distinguishing abnormal findings. The results of the original project, owing to its broad scope, have been divided into five parts: the lower leg, the greater tarsus, the lesser tarsus, the metatarsals (the focus of this article), and the phalanges.
Detection of Normal Plantar Fascia Thickness in Adults via the Ultrasonographic Method
Authors: Abul Kadir , Ozer Devrim , Sakizlioglu Secil Sezgin , Buyuk Abdul Fettah , Kaygusuz Mehmet Akif
Published: February 2015

Background

Heel pain is a prevalent concern in orthopedic clinics, and there are numerous pathologic abnormalities that can cause heel pain. Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain, and the plantar fascia thickens in this process. It has been found that thickening to greater than 4 mm in ultrasonographic measurements can be accepted as meaningful in diagnoses. Herein, we aimed to measure normal plantar fascia thickness in adults using ultrasonography.

Methods

We used ultrasonography to measure the plantar fascia thickness of 156 healthy adults in both feet between April 1, 2011, and June 30, 2011. These adults had no previous heel pain. The 156 participants comprised 88 women (56.4%) and 68 men (43.6%) (mean age, 37.9 years; range, 18–65 years). The weight, height, and body mass index of the participants were recorded, and statistical analyses were conducted.

Results

The mean ± SD (range) plantar fascia thickness measurements for subgroups of the sample were as follows: 3.284 ± 0.56 mm (2.4–5.1 mm) for male right feet, 3.3 ± 0.55 mm (2.5–5.0 mm) for male left feet, 2.842 ± 0.42 mm (1.8–4.1 mm) for female right feet, and 2.8 ± 0.44 mm (1.8–4.3 mm) for female left feet. The overall mean ± SD (range) thickness for the right foot was 3.035 ± 0.53 mm (1.8–5.1 mm) and for the left foot was 3.053 ± 0.54 mm (1.8–5.0 mm). There was a statistically significant and positive correlation between plantar fascia thickness and participant age, weight, height, and body mass index.

Conclusions

The plantar fascia thickness of adults without heel pain was measured to be less than 4 mm in most participants (~92%). There was no statistically significant difference between the thickness of the right and left foot plantar fascia.
Retained Viable Plant Material in the Calcaneus
Authors: Jones Marc D. , Sweet Kerry J. , Hoffer Zachary S.
Published: February 2015

Foreign bodies can be difficult to diagnose and should be considered in the differential diagnosis of unexplained pain, even in the absence of recalled trauma. We present the case of a 22-year-old male with a painful left heel. The patient did not recall a specific traumatic incident, and there were no clinical signs of trauma or infection. Plain films of the foot were nonrevealing, but magnetic resonance imaging revealed a sinus tract and left calcaneal defect. A biopsy of the calcaneal defect revealed viable woody material embedded and partially integrated with the surrounding bone. Postoperatively the patient's pain completely resolved. This case illustrates the importance of radiopathologic pursuit of an etiology of unexplained foot pain in an otherwise healthy person.
Visualizing the functional architecture of the endocytic machinery
Authors: Picco Andrea , Mund Markus , Ries Jonas , Nédélec François , Kaksonen Marko
Published: February 2015

Clathrin-mediated endocytosis is an essential process that forms vesicles from the plasma membrane. Although most of the protein components of the endocytic protein machinery have been thoroughly characterized, their organization at the endocytic site is poorly understood. We developed a fluorescence microscopy method to track the average positions of yeast endocytic proteins in relation to each other with a time precision below 1 s and with a spatial precision of ∼10 nm. With these data, integrated with shapes of endocytic membrane intermediates and with superresolution imaging, we could visualize the dynamic architecture of the endocytic machinery. We showed how different coat proteins are distributed within the coat structure and how the assembly dynamics of N-BAR proteins relate to membrane shape changes. Moreover, we found that the region of actin polymerization is located at the base of the endocytic invagination, with the growing ends of filaments pointing toward the plasma membrane.
Activity is a slave to many masters
Authors: Steele Andrew D , Mistlberger Ralph E
Published: February 2015

Dopamine neurons in the midbrain have a central role in generating cycles of biological activity with periods as short as 4 hours and as long as 100 hours.
Unravelling the mosaic: Epigenetic diversity in glioblastoma
Authors: Lucchini Sara , Constantinou Myrianni , Marino Silvia
Published: August 2024

Glioblastoma is the most common primary malignant brain tumour. Despite decades of intensive research in the disease, its prognosis remains poor, with an average survival of only 14 months after diagnosis. The remarkable level of intra‐ and interpatient heterogeneity is certainly contributing to the lack of progress in tackling this tumour. Epigenetic dysregulation plays an important role in glioblastoma biology and significantly contributes to intratumour heterogeneity. However, it is becoming increasingly clear that it also contributes to intertumour heterogeneity, which historically had mainly been linked to diverse genetic events occurring in different patients. In this review, we explore how DNA methylation, chromatin remodelling, microRNA (miRNA) dysregulation, and long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) alterations contribute to intertumour heterogeneity in glioblastoma, including its implications for advanced tumour stratification, which is the essential first step for developing more effective patient‐specific therapeutic approaches.
Adipose tissue torsion with localized lymphangiectasia in a Rio Cauca caecilian Typhlonectes natans
Authors: Whalen Laura E. W. , Walsh Timothy F. , Steeil James C. , Aziz Neel , Palmer Alyssa
Published: August 2024

Objective

A female Rio Cauca caecilian Typhlonectes natans (estimated as between 10 and 18 years of age) housed at the Smithsonian National Zoological Park in Washington, D.C., developed progressive severe coelomic effusion over a 4-week period. The coelomic effusion was diagnosed via radiographs and ultrasound, and a sample of the fluid was obtained for analysis, which revealed a low-protein transudate suggestive of inflammation. As the coelomic effusion progressed, the caecilian became tachypneic, hyporexic, and lethargic. The caecilian was started on antibiotics and a diet trial, but signs continued despite therapy.

Methods

An exploratory celiotomy was performed, which revealed adipose tissue torsion with local lymphangiectasia and a presumptive biliary cyst. Surgical correction was unable to be achieved due to concern for fatal hemorrhage, as the vasculature associated with the torsion was severely distended. Due to the severity of the torsion and associated risks, the caecilian was euthanized intraoperatively and subsequently necropsied for histologic evaluation.

Result

After reviewing the caecilian's presentation and the progression of disease, it is suspected that the severe coelomic effusion was secondary to lymphangiectasia, which occurred subsequent to the adipose tissue torsion.

Conclusion

This is the first reported case of adipose tissue torsion and associated clinical disease in an aquatic caecilian and should be a differential for progressive coelomic effusion in this species.

Abstract

Impact statement To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of adipose tissue torsion and associated clinical disease in an aquatic caecilian and should be a differential for coelomic effusion in Rio Cauca caecilians.
Set‐membership state estimation for delayed switched systems with interval uncertainty: A zonotopic approach
Authors: Zhou Zhizhen , Chen Dongyan , Hu Jun , Yang Ning
Published: August 2024

Considering the existence of time delay and interval uncertainty, a set‐membership state estimation problem based on zonotopes is studied for discrete‐time switched systems subject to unknown but bounded noises. To conform the actual situation, a state observer asynchronous with the subsystem is designed. The performance is introduced to attenuate the effect of noises in the observer design. By dealing with the interval uncertainty, the design approach of observer is given and transformed into a convex optimization problem which can be solved off‐line. The zonotope and the estimation interval containing state are provided based on the observer. Finally, a numerical example is given to verify the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
Distributed adaptive event‐triggered consensus of switched nonlinear multi‐agent systems with state and input delays
Authors: Liu Siwen , Li Shi
Published: August 2024

In this article, for switched nonlinear time‐delay multi‐agent systems (MASs) under directed graphs, an adaptive event‐triggered (ET) consensus problem is investigated. Each agent's switching signal is allowed to be arbitrary and asynchronous. To save communication resources, an adaptive ET consensus strategy is designed. In addition, the Pade approximation approach is introduced to transform the system into an input delay‐free system. A Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional is employed to analyze the effect of time‐varying delays on system stability. It is proved that the consensus errors of switched NMASs are bounded, and the Zeno behavior does not exist. Finally, the presented strategy's effectiveness is verified by simulation results.
Enhanced Photodetection and Air Stability of Lead‐Free Tin Perovskite Photodiodes via Germanium Incorporation and Organic Cation‐Mediated Dimensionality Control
Authors: Nam Jeong‐Seok , Jang Woongsik , Han Jiye , Kim Byung Gi , Lim Ji Hyun , Kim Dawoon , Chung In , Wang Dong Hwan , Jeon Il
Published: August 2024

This work presents the advancement of lead‐free tin perovskite photodiodes in terms of their photodetection and air stability by incorporating germanium (Ge) and ethylenediamine (EDA) to formamidinium tin iodide (FASnI3). EDA0.01FA0.98SnI3:Ge‐based photodiodes demonstrate a significantly improved specific detectivity (1.6 × 1012 Jones at −0.1 V), cut‐off frequency (6.6 × 105 Hz), response speed (0.53 µs), and signal‐to‐noise ratio (45 dB) compared with control devices. The superior performance is attributed to the stronger Ge─I bond, the passivation of Sn2+ and I– vacancies by smaller Ge2+ ions, the promotion of a fully 3D perovskite structure, the elevation of the conduction band energy level, and the formation of a protective GeO layer. Various film analyses, including X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, UV photoelectron spectroscopy, density functional theory, as well as device testing using time‐of‐flight secondary ion mass spectrometry and voltage‐dependent admittance, support and explain the mechanisms behind the enhancements. Ge‐ and EDA‐incorporated photodiodes exhibit excellent air stability, as evidenced by the time‐dependent ultraviolet visible spectra and the considerably high certified power conversion efficiency without encapsulation in air, demonstrating their potential for practical applications. The obtained photodetection performance is highest among the published lead‐free tin‐based perovskite photodetectors, presenting a monumental progress from the previous report of the same group.
Efficient and Stable In Situ Self‐Assembled Air Electrodes for Reversible Protonic Ceramic Electrochemical Cells
Authors: Huang Yixuan , He Fan , Xu Kang , Gao Hui , Zhang Xirui , Xu Yangsen , Du Zhiwei , Zhu Feng , Gong Wenjie , Jian Chuqian , Chen Yu
Published: August 2024

Reversible protonic ceramic electrochemical cells (R‐PCECs) have garnered significant attention owing to their proficiency in efficiently converting and storing energy. The performance of R‐PCECs is largely limited by the activity and durability of oxygen reduction/evolution reactions in air electrodes. Herein, an Nb and Y doped cobalt‐based double perovskite of PrBaCo1.8Nb0.1Y0.1O5+δ (denoted as PBCNY) is reported. The perovskite is however in situ assembled into a deficient‐PrBa1−xCo1.8Nb0.1−xY0.1−xO5+δ parental phase and a Ba2YNbO6 secondary phase during operation, accordingly demonstrating a low area‐specific resistance of 0.24 Ω cm2 at 600 °C. The high activity is attributed to the enhancement in oxygen vacancy concentration, oxygen surface exchange, and bulk diffusion coefficient, confirmed by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and electrical conductivity relaxation. At 700 °C, when the PBCNY cathode is applied as air electrodes for R‐PCECs, a peak power density of 1.99 W cm−2 and a current density of −5.20 A cm−2 (at 1.3 V) are achieved in fuel cell (FC) mode, and electrolysis (EL) mode with appropriate Faradaic efficiencies. Furthermore, R‐PCECs with PBCNY air electrodes display promising operational stability in FC mode (over 100 h), EL mode (over 200 h), and reversible cyclic testing (29 cycles for 120 h).
Screening Vertically Polarized 2D Layered Materials with Giant Negative Longitudinal Piezoelectricity by Comprehensive Calculations and Experimental Characterizations
Authors: Chen Xinfeng , Wang Zhenqi , Zhang Zhuomin , Wu Weixi , Chai Yu , Gou Gaoyang , Yang Zhengbao , Zeng Xiao Cheng
Published: August 2024

The counterintuitive negative longitudinal piezoelectric effect (NLPE) occurs in those piezoelectric compounds whose electric polarizations are enhanced under the compression stress(strain) applied along the polar axis. Especially, piezoelectric materials with sizable NLPE responses suitable for electromechanical applications are highly desirable. Here, based on comprehensive first‐principles calculations and theoretical modeling, NLPE and substantial negative piezoelectric responses are demonstrated to be prevalently attained in various synthetic heteroanionic 2D van der Waals (vdW) layered materials with intrinsic out‐of‐plane polarizations. Depending on their interlayer spacing percentages and interlayer electronic coupling magnitudes, NLPE in most polar layered materials arise either from the domination of negative “internal‐strain” over positive “clamped‐ion” contributions, or negative “clamped‐ion” over “internal‐strain” contributions. As an exception, Sb2TeSe2 is predicted to have both negative “clamped‐ion” and “internal‐strain” terms in considerable magnitudes, contributing cooperatively to overall piezoelectric response and yielding a giant negative longitudinal piezoelectric coefficient d33 up to –32.666 pC N−1. Furthermore, piezoresponse force microscopy (PFM) measurements performed on Sb2TeSe2 crystal verify its non‐centrosymmetric structural character and sizable piezoelectric responses. Combining the comprehensive simulations and experimental characterizations, this work deepens the understanding regarding the unusual NLPE, and demonstrates a practical route for screening the polar vdW layered materials with substantial NLPE.
Harnessing Berthollide Configuration Entropy for Expedited K+ Storages
Authors: Jhang Kai‐Siang , Yang Yi‐Chun , Lu Ying‐Rui , Hsiao Kai‐Yuan , Lu Ming‐Yen , Tuan Hsing‐Yu
Published: August 2024

Variations in configurational entropy greatly influence the electrochemical behavior of materials; those featuring expanded surface areas, numerous active sites, and accelerated reaction kinetics are highly valued for their superior electrocatalytic properties. In this study, a Berthollide compound is introduced, designated as Cu3Sb0.93Bi0.06Sn0.01S2Se2 (C(ABT)(SSe)). This material, cations, and anions co‐doped Cu3SbS4 (CAS), exhibit significantly enhanced storage performance in potassium‐ion batteries (PIBs). The introduction of foreign elements improved conductivity, while dual‐site conversion and alloying elements enhanced ion diffusion, charge transfer, and electrode kinetics. Regulating configurational entropy created more active sites for Sb. Using high‐capacity Sb and S as primary components, material's configurational entropy is precisely adjusted through active element doping, forming a non‐stoichiometric structure with thermodynamically stable defect active sites. The synergistic effect of trivalent active metals, particularly high‐valence Sb5+, demonstrated superior electrochemical performance compared to materials with unregulated entropy values. Compared to CAS, with the increase in configurational entropy to 0.975 R, the K+ diffusion energy is reduced by 40% and increasing electronic conductivity by 2.6 times, boosting high rate performance (10 A g−1), and showing 49.5% higher capacity after 700 cycles. This novel entropy regulation strategy offers new insights into the design of multi‐element configurational entropy PIBs.
Percutaneous Delivery of Oncogel for Targeted Liver Tumor Ablation and Controlled Release of Therapeutics
Authors: Albadawi Hassan , Zhang Zefu , Keum Hyeongseop , Cevik Enes , Nagalo Bolni M , Gunduz Seyda , Kita Hirohito , Oklu Rahmi
Published: August 2024

Advanced‐stage liver cancers are associated with poor prognosis and have limited treatment options, often leading the patient to hospice care. Percutaneous intratumoral injection of anticancer agents has emerged as a potential alternative to systemic therapy to overcome tumor barriers, increase bioavailability, potentiate immunotherapy, and avoid systemic toxicity, which advanced‐stage cancer patients cannot tolerate. Here, an injectable OncoGel (OG) comprising of a nanocomposite hydrogel loaded with an ionic liquid (IL) is developed for achieving a predictable and uniform tumor ablation and long‐term slow release of anticancer agents into the ablation zone. Rigorous mechanical, physiochemical, drug release, cytotoxicity experiments, and ex vivo human tissue testing identify an injectable version of the OG with bactericidal properties against highly resistant bacteria. Intratumoral injection of OG loaded with Nivolumab (Nivo) and doxorubicin (Dox) into highly malignant tumor models in mice, rats, and rabbits demonstrates enhanced survival and tumor regression associated with robust tissue ablation and drug distribution throughout the tumor. Mass cytometry and proteomic studies in a mouse model of colorectal cancer that often metastasizes to the liver indicate an enhanced anticancer immune response following the intratumoral injection of OG. OG may augment immunotherapy and potentially improve outcomes in liver cancer patients.
High Throughput Characterization of Organic Thin Film Transistors
Authors: Dallaire Nicholas , Boileau Nicholas T. , Myers Ian , Brixi Samantha , Ourabi May , Raluchukwu Ewenike , Cranston Rosemary , Lamontagne Halynne R. , King Benjamin , Ronnasi Bahar , Melville Owen A. , Manion Joseph G. , Lessard Benoît H.
Published: August 2024

Automation is vital to accelerating research. In recent years, the application of self‐driving labs to materials discovery and device optimization has highlighted many benefits and challenges inherent to these new technologies. Successful automated workflows offer tangible benefits to fundamental science and industrial scale‐up by significantly increasing productivity and reproducibility all while enabling entirely new types of experiments. However, it's implemtation is often time‐consuming and cost‐prohibitive and necessitates establishing multidisciplinary teams that bring together domain‐specific knowledge with specific skillsets in computer science and engineering. This perspective article provides a comprehensive overview of how the research group has adopted “hybrid automation” over the last 8 years by using simple automatic electrical testers (autotesters) as a tool to increase productivity and enhance reproducibility in organic thin film transistor (OTFT) research. From wearable and stretchable electronics to next‐generation sensors and displays, OTFTs have the potential to be a key technology that will enable new applications from health to aerospace. The combination of materials chemistry, device manufacturing, thin film characterization and electrical engineering makes OTFT research challenging due to the large parameter space created by both diverse material roles and device architectures. Consequently, this research stands to benefit enormously from automation. By leveraging the multidisciplinary team and taking a user‐centered design approach in the design and continued improvement of the autotesters, the group has meaningfully increased productivity, explored research avenues impossible with traditional workflows, and developed as scientists and engineers capable of effectively designing and leveraging automation to build the future of their fields to encourage this approach, the files for replicating the infrastructure are included, and questions and potential
collaborations are welcomed.
Niobium‐Doped Titanium Dioxide: Effect of Conductivity on Metal‐Semiconductor Tribovoltaic Devices
Authors: Mālnieks Kaspars , Kļimenko Sabīna , Sherrell Peter C. , Šarakovskis Anatolijs , Eglītis Raivis , Šmits Krišjānis , Linarts Artis , Šutka Andris
Published: August 2024

Tribovoltaic devices have emerged as promising technologies for converting mechanical motion to electricity via surface charge generation. To maximize the electromechanical conversion of tribovoltaic devices, conventional literature has focussed on engineering a large difference in work functions between the contact materials. However, recent reports suggest that other factors beyond work function, such as temperature, play a key role in electromechanical conversion. Herein, TiO2 (a cheap, abundant oxide material) is doped with Nb5+, resulting in an improved tribovoltaic performance up to 65 times. This is attributed to an enhancement in the TiO2 film conductivity arising from Nb5+ doping. Further, it is shown that this improvement holds over cm2 scale testing. This work demonstrates the importance of considering a range of factors, particularly conductivity, when designing tribovoltaic devices and may be adopted broadly for optimal electromechanical conversion.
Regions of Homozygocity size patterns among diverse ethnic groups in Israel: Toward tailored diagnostic reporting thresholds
Authors: Maya Idit , Levy Michal , Matar Reut , Kahana Sarit , Agmon‐Fishman Ifaat , Klein Cochava , Gurevitch Merav , Basel‐Salmon Lina , Sagi‐Dain Lena
Published: August 2024

Long contiguous stretches of homozygosity or regions of homozygosity (ROH) are frequently detected via microarray and sequencing technologies. However, consensus on the establishment of specific size cutoffs for reporting ROH remains elusive. This study aims to assess the Total ROH Percentages (TRPS) and size of ROH segments across different ethnic origins, exploring potential disparities and proposing tailored diagnostic thresholds. This retrospective study included 13,035 microarray analyses conducted between 2017 to 2023. ROH segments on autosomal chromosomes were retrieved, and samples lacking ROH segments were excluded. The cohort was categorized based on reported ethnic origins, and TRPS and ROH segment size were analyzed for each origin. Distinct TRPS values were noted among different ethnic groups, ranging from median 0.36% in Ethiopian Jewish cohort and up to 6.42% in the Bedouin population. Wide range of 99th percentiles of ROH segment size for various origins was noted, ranging from 10.6 to 51.5 Mb. A significant correlation between ROH segment sizes and TRPS was noted in each origin. Statistically significant differences in ROH segment sizes were noted between the Jewish and the Israeli Arab/Druze origins in TRPS from 1% to 9.99%, whereas extremities of low (0.11%–0.99%) and high (over 10%) TRPS yielded no significant differences. In conclusion, as fixed absolute size thresholds may overlook pathogenic segments in certain populations while generating excessive reports in others, tailored approaches to define ROH reporting thresholds can be considered to facilitate the accuracy and clinical relevance of genomic analyses.
Development of green polystyrene composites using Citrus sinensis biochar filler
Authors: Adeniyi Adewale George , Abdulkareem Sulyman Age , Iwuozor Kingsley O. , Abd‐Elkader Omar H. , Amoloye Mubarak A. , Emenike Ebuka Chizitere , Omonayin Ebenezer O. , Oyekunle Ifeoluwa Peter , Ezzat Abdelrahman O.
Published: August 2024

This research explored the characteristics of polymer composites reinforced with orange peel biochar. The composites were created using the hand lay‐up method with different filler ratios, cured at ambient temperature, and analyzed with various analytical techniques, including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX). SEM images showed that roughness increased with higher filler percentages. FTIR analysis detected functional groups like OH, COOH, and aromatic compounds in the composites, primarily inheriting these groups from the resin. Elemental analysis using EDX indicated that the composites contained carbon, oxygen, silicon, aluminum, and potassium. Among these elements, only the carbon concentration demonstrated a linear increase with rising filler levels, with the composite containing 40% biochar achieving the highest carbon content at 84%. Hardness testing showed that the physical strength of the composites increased as the polystyrene resin matrix was reinforced, with the 40% biochar composite exhibiting a maximum hardness value of 296 N. These results indicate that adding biochar not only enhanced the properties of polystyrene‐based composites but also reduced their environmental impact.
Enhanced compatibility and toughness of poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate‐co‐3‐hydroxyvalerate)/polycaprolactone blends by ring‐opening polymerization and hydrogen bonding of epoxy‐terminated hyperbranched polyester
Authors: Huang Jiawei , Fang Yiqi , Zhou Sudan , Tie Rui , Zhou Shuyi , Jin Yujuan , Tian Huafeng , Kumar Rakesh
Published: August 2024

Melt extrusion process was followed in order to improve the high crystallinity and poor toughness of poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate‐co‐3‐hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) blend materials. It was achieved by the incorporation of epoxy‐terminated hyperbranched polyester (EHBP) elastomer into PHBV and polycaprolactone (PCL). EHBP cross‐links PHBV and PCL through ring‐opening polymerization of epoxy‐terminated and carboxyl groups. The mass percentages of EHBP in the PHBV/PCL blends are 1, 2, 3, and 4mass%, which are expressed as 1, 2, 3, and 4 phr in the following text. Therefore, when the EHBP content was 3 phr, the Young's modulus and tensile strength of the blends are increased to 750 and 15 MPa, respectively, which was comparable to the biodegradable polymers used for packaging. Simultaneously, compatibility between PHBV and PCL has been improved and the particle size reduction of blends can be obviously observed in scanning electron microscope (SEM) images. Dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) analysis revealed that PHBV and PCL showed improved compatibility with each other by the addition of EHBP. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) revealed that the decrease of crystallinity of the blend was consistent with the increase in mechanical properties. Additionally, all the bio‐blends show good thermal stability. Food overall migration studies showed that the amount of migration of composite materials in contact with food was also far lower than the national standard value. Therefore, PHBV/PCL/EHBP blends are expected to be used in the field of food packaging.
The influence of phthalonitrile monomer containing oxazine ring on the properties of epoxy/amine system: Curing behavior and thermal stability
Authors: Chen Zhijiao , Peng Cong , Li Shichao , Wu Zhanjun , sun Tao
Published: August 2024

Phthalonitrile monomer containing oxazine ring (BPS‐Ph) was synthesized using bisphenol‐S, aniline, paraformaldehyde, and 4‐nitrophthalonitrile via a two‐step method. The differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) data of the curing process of BPS‐Ph monomer indicates that the peak polymerization temperature of the cyan group is about 250°C and that confirms the promoting effect of oxazine ring on the curing reaction of phthalonitrile. The rheological data of E51/DDS containing BPS‐Ph indicates that the BPS‐Ph monomer also has promoting effect on the curing process. The activation energy was studied via the iso‐conversional method principle. The activation energy corresponding to the E51/DDS crosslinking reaction is 75.79 and 60.54 kJ mol−1, respectively, for pure E51/DDS and E51/DDS/BPS‐Ph. Moreover, the activation energy of the crosslinking of phthalhydrazine is 74.1 kJ mol−1 which is rather lower than that in pure BPS‐Ph, and that implies the synergistically catalytic effect of the oxazine ring and the amine. The addition of BPS‐Ph monomer significantly improves the thermal behaviors of the thermoset. The char yield in N2 atmosphere increased from 15.6% to 53.9% when adding 30% BPS‐Ph to the E51/DDS. Moreover, the peak weight loss temperature decreased from 407 to 385°C. The phase separation size of poly‐BPS‐Ph in E51/DDS is about tens to hundreds nanometers according to the atomic force microscopy (AFM) phase diagram. It is indicated that incorporation of phthalonitrile monomer containing oxazine ring into epoxy/amine system is an applicable and effective way to promote the thermal behavior of the thermoset.
Link between sustainable circular supply chain and Internet of Things technology in electric vehicle battery manufacturing industry: A business strategy optimization for pickup and delivery
Authors: Sorooshian Shahryar , Khiavi Sina Fazel , Karimi Farzane , Mina Hassan
Published: August 2024

Modern industries use advanced technological solutions to efficiently manage waste and increase the sustainability of supply chain (SC) networks. Technologies in SC networks can achieve this by establishing a link between circular economy principles and Industry 4.0. Therefore, in this study, for the first time, a novel bi‐objective mixed‐integer linear programming model is developed to design a sustainable SC network by considering circular economy practices, the Internet of Things (IoT) technology, and the location‐routing problem with a simultaneous pickup‐and‐delivery (P&D) strategy in the electric vehicle (EV) battery industry. The proposed model locates distribution and recycling centers and considers the routing problem with the P&D strategy between the distribution centers and service providers. By applying the augmented epsilon‐constraint method, a balance is established between minimizing total costs and carbon emissions, and a set of Pareto‐optimal solutions is provided. It should be noted that the P&D strategy reduces the total costs and carbon emissions, and the IoT technology provides conditions for designing a secure and traceable network. The performance of the proposed model is evaluated using data from an EV battery module manufacturing company in the Far East. A sensitivity analysis of the parameters related to operational costs, carbon emissions, and demand demonstrated the accuracy of the performance of the proposed model.
Unleashing the potential of mRNA: Overcoming delivery challenges with nanoparticles
Authors: Chen Qiang , Huo Ku‐Geng , Ji Sheng‐Min , Pang Shu‐De , Sun Tian‐Ying , Niu Yi , Jiang Zi‐Hao , Zhang Peng , Han Shu‐Xin , Li Jin‐Yao
Published: August 2024

Messenger RNA (mRNA) has emerged as a promising therapeutic strategy for various diseases, including cancer, infectious diseases, and genetic disorders. The mRNA‐based therapeutics have gained significant attention due to their ability to regulate targeted cells, activate immune cells, and avoid potential risks associated with DNA‐based technology. However, the clinical application of mRNA in cancer therapy is hindered by the instability of RNA, physiological barriers, and the risk of immunogenic hurdles. To overcome these challenges and ensure the safe delivery of mRNA therapeutics to target sites, nanoparticle‐based delivery systems have been explored as potential tools in vitro and in vivo applications. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current status of mRNA therapy, discussing its advantages and limitations, delivery strategies and materials, as well as applications in different fields. By exploring these aspects, the researcher can gain a more complete understanding of the current state, prospects, and challenges of mRNA technologies.
A temperature responsive hydrogel encapsulated with adipose‐derived stem cells and melanin promotes repair and regeneration of endometrial injury
Authors: Song Ruigao , Ma Chicheng , Li Hongxia , Cheng Yu , Cui Xianmei , Wang Zanhong , Huang Lijuan , Song Chunying , Jing Yukai , Cao Bing , Wang Lili , Tian Qing , Wang Xi , Zhang Ruiping , Zhang Hanwang
Published: August 2024

The endometrium, the inner lining of the uterus, assumes a crucial role in the female reproductive system. Disorders and injuries impacting the endometrium can lead to profound consequences, including infertility and compromised women's overall health. Recent advancements in stem cell research have opened new possibilities for the treatment and repair of endometrial issues. In the present study, we constructed a degradable hydrogel by loading adipose‐derived stem cells (ADSCs) and melanin nanoparticles (MNP). In vitro cell experiments validated the biocompatibility of the prepared hydrogels and their adeptness in encapsulating ADSCs. Subsequently, we explored the impact of hydrogel@ADSC@MNP constructs in the healing process of uterine injury in mice. The results indicated that hydrogel@ADSC@MNP could augment endometrial thickness and ameliorate endometrial interstitial fibrosis. The injured tissue adjacent to hydrogel@ADSC@MNP constructs exhibited higher levels of bFGF, IGF‐1, and VEGFA compared with the corresponding tissue in mice receiving hydrogel constructs alone or in the model group. Furthermore, the hydrogel@ADSC@MNP system enhanced the proliferative capabilities of uterine endometrial cells, facilitated microvasculature regeneration, and reinstated the endometrium's capacity to receive the embryos. Our findings strongly suggest that the hydrogel@ADSC@MNP system holds significant promise for repairing and regenerating damaged endometrium.
Microwave Promoted Tandem Reaction of Free Primary Arylamines with Diazo Compounds Under Metal‐Free Condition in Water: Clean Synthesis of 2,2‐Disubstituted 3‐Oxindoles
Authors: Wang Yong , Pi Chao , Wu Yangjie , Cui Xiuling
Published: August 2024

Herein, a microwave promoted tandem reaction of free primary arylamines with diazo compounds in water for clean synthesis of 2,2‐disubstituted 3‐oxindoles is present. Water plays important roles in the whole cascade process: O−H insertion to diazo, air oxidation, ortho C−H functionalization, cyclization and 1,2‐ester migration. In particular, water plays a mediation role in the site selective ortho‐C−H addition.
Unraveling the Molecular Reason of Opposing Effects of α‐Mangostin and Norfluoxetine on TREK‐2 at the Same Binding Site
Authors: Kim Gangrae , Van Nhung Thi Hong , Nam Joo Hyun , Lee Wook
Published: August 2024

TWIK‐related K+ channel (TREK)‐2, expressed in sensory neurons, is involved in setting membrane potential, and its modulations contributes to the generation of nociceptive signals. Although acute and chronic pain is a common symptom experienced by patients with various conditions, most existing analgesics exhibit low efficacy and are associated with adverse effects. For this reason, finding the novel modulator of TREK‐2 is of significance for the development of new analgesics. Recent studies have shown that α‐Mangostin (α‐MG) activates TREK‐2, facilitating analgesic effects, yet the underlying molecular mechanisms remain elusive. Intriguingly, even though norfluoxetine (NFx) is known to inhibit TREK‐2, α‐MG is also observed to share a same binding site with NFx, and this implies that TREK‐2 might be modulated in a highly complicated manner. Therefore, we examine the mechanism of how TREK‐2 is activated by α‐MG using computational methods and patch clamp experiments in the present study. Based on these results, we offer an explanation of how α‐MG and NFx exhibit opposing effects at the same binding site of TREK‐2. These findings will broaden our understanding of TREK‐2 modulation, providing clues for designing novel analgesic drugs.
Biomechanical behavior of temporomandibular joint movements driven by mastication muscles
Authors: Cheng Kang‐jie , Zhang Qing‐qing , Zhang Feng , Wang Russell , Liu Yun‐feng
Published: August 2024

Surgery of jawbones has a high potential risk of causing complications associated with temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD). The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of two drive modeling methods on the biomechanical behavior of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) including articular disc during mandibular movements. A finite element (FE) model from a healthy human computed tomography was used to evaluate TMJ dynamic using two methods, namely, a conventional spatial‐oriented method (displacement‐driven) and a compliant muscle‐initiated method (masticatory muscle‐driven). The same virtual FE model was 3D printed and a custom designed experimental platform was established to validate the accuracy of experimental and theoretical results of the TMJ biomechanics during mandibular movements. The results show that stress distributed to TMJ and articular disc from mandibular movements provided better representation from the muscle‐driving approach than those of the displacement‐driven modeling. The simulation and experimental data exhibited significant strong correlations during opening, protrusion, and laterotrusion (with canonical correlation coefficients of 0.994, 0.993, and 0.932, respectively). The use of muscle‐driven modeling holds promise for more accurate forecasting of stress analysis of TMJ and articular disc during mandibular movements. The compliant approach to analyze TMJ dynamics would potentially contribute to clinic diagnosis and prediction of TMD resulting from occlusal disease and jawbone surgery such as orthognathic surgery or tumor resection.
Polymer‐Based Room‐Temperature Phosphorescence Materials Exhibiting Emission Lifetimes up to 4.6 s Under Ambient Conditions
Authors: Song Xiaoqing , Zhai Xiangxiang , Zeng Ying , Wang Guangming , Wang Tengyue , Li Yufang , Yan Qianqian , Chan Chin‐Yiu , Wang Biaobing , Zhang Kaka
Published: August 2024

The long‐emission‐lifetime nature of room‐temperature phosphorescence (RTP) materials lays the foundation of their applications in diverse areas. Despite the advantage of mechanical property, processability and solvent dispersity, the emission lifetimes of polymer‐based room‐temperature phosphorescence materials remain not particularly long because of the labile nature of organic triplet excited states under ambient conditions. Specifically, ambient phosphorescence lifetime (τP) longer than 2 s and even 4 s have rarely been reported in polymer systems. Here, luminescent compounds with small phosphorescence rate on the order of approximately 10−1 s−1 are designed, ethylene‐vinyl alcohol copolymer (EVOH) as polymer matrix and antioxidant 1010 to protect organic triplets are employed, and ultralong phosphorescence lifetime up to 4.6 s under ambient conditions by short‐term and low‐power excitation are achieved. The resultant materials exhibit high afterglow brightness, long afterglow duration, excellent processability into large area thin films, high transparency and thermal stability, which display promising anticounterfeiting and data encryption functions.
Environmental Influence on Stripe Formation at the Graphite‐Water Interface
Authors: Xu Chenglong , Qiao Greg G. , Nan Nan , Bao Lei
Published: August 2024

Understanding the characteristics of graphite‐water interfaces is of scientific significance and practical importance. Ordered stripe structures have been observed at this interface, with their origins debated between condensed gas molecules and airborne hydrocarbons. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) studies have revealed variations in the morphology, formation and growth of these ordered structures. Here, we investigate the graphite‐water interface under different environmental conditions using PeakForce Quantitative Nanomechanical (PF‐QNM) AFM. Our findings reveal that stripe structures with 4 nm width and 0.5 nm periodicity, form and grow under wet laboratory conditions but not in pure inert gas or cleanroom environments. These stripes appear more readily when the graphite surface is immersed in water, with growth associated with gas nanodomains on the surface. This suggests that atmospheric contaminants migrate to the water‐graphite interface, potentially facilitated by gas states. These findings underscore the impact of environmental conditions on graphitic materials, providing new insights into the mechanisms underlying stripe formation and growth.
Carbon Suboxide, C3O2: A Hidden σ0π2 Carbene
Authors: Sultana Nargish , Sarmah Kangkan , Guha Ankur K.
Published: August 2024

Electronic structure of carbon suboxide, C3O2, has been recently described as OC→C←CO having two lone pairs at the central carbon atom, thereby called as “Carbones”. Although it has a linear geometry, the presence of two lone pairs comes to fore when its reactivity is analyzed with two protons. However, no attention had been paid on its alternating reactivity with hydride ions. Herein, detailed quantum chemical calculations predict that carbon suboxide can also have significant hydride ion affinity. This reactivity is in tune with σ0π2 carbene character of carbon suboxide. This study also shows that such a σ0π2 carbene character is also prevalent in carbodiphosphorane, C(PH3)2. This bonding situation has been hitherto unexplored in “Carbone” chemistry.
Phosphoglycerate mutase 5 exacerbates alcoholic cardiomyopathy in male mice by inducing prohibitin‐2 dephosphorylation and impairing mitochondrial quality control
Authors: Tao Jun , Qiu Junxiong , Zheng Junmeng , Li Ruibing , Chang Xing , He Qingyong
Published: August 2024

Background

The induction of mitochondrial quality control (MQC) mechanisms is essential for the re‐establishment of mitochondrial homeostasis and cellular bioenergetics during periods of stress. Although MQC activation has cardioprotective effects in various cardiovascular diseases, its precise role and regulatory mechanisms in alcoholic cardiomyopathy (ACM) remain incompletely understood.

Methods

We explored whether two mitochondria‐related proteins, phosphoglycerate mutase 5 (Pgam5) and prohibitin 2 (Phb2), influence MQC in male mice during ACM.

Results

Myocardial Pgam5 expression was upregulated in a male mouse model of ACM. Notably, following ACM induction, heart dysfunction was markedly reversed in male cardiomyocyte‐specific Pgam5 knockout (Pgam5cKO) mice. Meanwhile, in alcohol‐treated male mouse‐derived neonatal cardiomyocytes, Pgam5 depletion preserved cell survival and restored mitochondrial dynamics, mitophagy, mitochondrial biogenesis and the mitochondrial unfolded protein response (mtUPR). We further found that in alcohol‐treated cardiomyocyte, Pgam5 binds Phb2 and induces its dephosphorylation at Ser91. Alternative transduction of phospho‐mimetic (Phb2S91D) and phospho‐defective (Phb2S9A) Phb2 mutants attenuated and enhanced, respectively, alcohol‐related mitochondrial dysfunction in cardiomyocytes. Moreover, transgenic male mice expressing Phb2S91D were resistant to alcohol‐induced heart dysfunction.

Conclusions

We conclude that ACM‐induced Pgam5 upregulation results in Pgam5‐dependent Phb2S91 dephosphorylation, leading to MQC destabilisation and mitochondrial dysfunction in heart. Therefore, modulating the Pgam5/Phb2 interaction could potentially offer a novel therapeutic strategy for ACM in male mice.

Highlights

Pgam5 knockout attenuates alcohol‐induced cardiac histopathology and heart dysfunction in male mice.

Pgam5 KO reduces alcohol‐induced myocardial inflammation, lipid peroxidation and metabolic dysfunction in male mice.

Pgam5 depletion protects mitochondrial function in alcohol‐exposed male mouse cardiomyocytes.

Pgam5 depletion normalises MQC in ACM.

EtOH impairs MQC through inducing Phb2 dephosphorylation at Ser91.

Pgam5 interacts with Phb2 and induces Phb2 dephosphorylation.

Transgenic mice expressing a Ser91 phospho‐mimetic Phb2 mutant are resistant to ACM.
HL‐2A's ELM cycle simulations by integrating BOUT++'s drift MHD and transport code
Authors: Xu Xinliang , Wang Zhanhui , Li Nami , Wu Na , Zhou Yulin , Wu Xueke , Fu Cailong
Published: August 2024

A new integrating model has been developed to couple tokamak edge multiscale magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) events and transport simulations, such as edge‐localized mode (ELM) cycles. As a proof of principle, we first start from a set of three‐field two‐fluid model equations, which includes the pressure, current, and vorticity. The equations are separated into the slowly evolving part of the axisymmetric component by taking a time average of the axisymmetric component. The time‐averaged fluxes, which are quadratic in fluctuating quantities, act as driven terms for the time‐averaged axisymmetric quantities that determine the plasma transport, and therefore the large‐scale evolution of the plasma profiles. Then the HL‐2A's ELM cycles are simulated using the model. Good agreements of ELM size and pedestal recovery time have been achieved for the solutions obtained from the coupled simulation compared with experiment. For one ELM cycle simulation, the coupled code can achieve a speedup of a factor of up to 30 over standalone code.