bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding the role of COVID‐19–related workplace stress and institutional betrayal on mental health in nurses: Some heroes wear scrubs
Authors: Beck J. Gayle , Majeed Rimsha , Brown Timothy A. , Free Bre'Anna L. , Bowen Mya E. , Garrett Audrey B. , Farchione Todd J. , Brown Bonnie S.
Published: March 2023

This study examined the association of three specific COVID‐19–related workplace stressors (percentage of nursing work with COVID‐positive [COVID+] patients, number of COVID‐19–related patient deaths witnessed, and living separately from family for safety) and their associations with posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) and symptoms of major depressive disorder (MDD) and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) among 391 nurses (93.6% White, 93.4% utilize she/her pronouns). Cross‐sectional data were collected via an online survey. Institutional betrayal (i.e., the perception that an institution failed to protect a member who depends on and trusts it) was examined as a moderator of these associations. Although institutional betrayal was not a significant moderator in the three individual models, it held small‐to‐medium–sized positive main effects with PTSS and symptoms of GAD and MDD in both the individual and combined models. In the individual models, the percentage of nursing work with COVID+ patients was significantly positively associated with all three mental health conditions, f2 = .019–.195, whereas it only showed a significant effect with PTSS in the combined model, f2 = .138. Living separately from family was significantly positively associated with PTSS and MDD symptoms in both the individual, f2 = .037 and .015, respectively, and combined models, f2 = .025 and .013, respectively. Number of patient deaths held a significant positive association with PTSS alone, f2 = .022, in the individual model only. The findings are discussed in light of ways in which health care settings can better support and prioritize mental health among nursing staff.
Structural complexity characterizes fine‐scale forest conditions used by Pacific martens
Authors: Delheimer Matthew S. , Moriarty Katie M. , Munro Holly L. , Early Desiree A. , Hamm Keith A. , Green Rebecca E.
Published: March 2023

When wildlife species exhibit unexpected associations with vegetation, replication of studies in different locales can illuminate whether patterns of use are consistent or divergent. Our objective was to describe fine‐scale forest conditions used by Pacific martens (Martes caurina) at 2 study sites in northern California that differed in forest composition and past timber harvest. We identified denning and resting locations of radio‐marked martens and sampled structure‐ and plot‐level vegetation using standardized forest inventory methods between 2009–2021. Woody structures used by martens were significantly larger than randomly available structures across types (e.g., live tree, snag, log) and at both study sites. Den and rest structures occurred in areas characterized by higher numbers of logs and snags, lower numbers of live trees and stumps, larger diameter live trees and logs, and greater variation in live tree and log diameter. Features of denning and resting locations were largely consistent across study sites and were generally representative of fine‐scale forest heterogeneity and increased structural complexity, conditions that martens have been widely associated with at broader spatial scales (i.e., home range or landscape). The spatial occurrence of denning and resting locations may indicate that fine‐scale structural complexity facilitates marten foraging while reducing predation risk. Our work offers timely and directed information that can guide forest management in the context of increased landscape change.
Comparing Atlantic Cod Temporal Spawning Dynamics across a Biogeographic Boundary: Insights from Passive Acoustic Monitoring
Authors: Van Hoeck Rebecca V. , Rowell Timothy J. , Dean Micah J. , Rice Aaron N. , Van Parijs Sofie M.
Published: March 2023

Atlantic Cod Gadus morhua, which are overfished in the United States, are potentially vulnerable to disturbance from offshore wind energy (OWE) construction and operation during their spawning period. While many aspects of Atlantic Cod biology are well studied, little is known of their habitat use and spawning behavior at the extreme southern extent of the species' range. As Atlantic Cod form dense spawning aggregations and produce sounds associated with courtship behaviors, we used a combination of fixed-station and glider-based passive acoustic monitoring methods to evaluate the spatiotemporal spawning dynamics of Atlantic Cod in the Georges Bank stock. Additionally, we assessed potential interactions with OWE in designated offshore wind lease areas within southern New England waters of the western North Atlantic Ocean. Generalized linear modeling was used to evaluate correlations between cod grunt activity and multiple environmental cycles. Results from the southern New England spawning grounds were compared to similar data describing the geographically separated Massachusetts Bay winter-spawning subpopulation within the western Gulf of Maine stock. Temporal patterns in Atlantic Cod grunts suggest that spawning in southern New England waters is concentrated in November and December and is greatest near the new and full moons. Although there were fine-scale differences in the temporal dynamics of grunt presence between the two regions, the overall seasonality of inferred spawning was similar. Results suggest that Atlantic Cod spawning in southern New England overlaps with planned OWE construction in time and space. An understanding of cod spawning phenology in the western North Atlantic can be used to minimize disturbance to spawning through limiting construction timelines and consideration of turbine or cable placement.
Evolutionary game analysis on incremental component suppliers and auto manufacturers' intelligent connected vehicle production decisions
Authors: Li Kai , Xia Lulu , Zhao Nenggui , Fu Hong
Published: March 2023

This paper considers a two‐population evolutionary game between incremental component suppliers and new energy vehicle (NEV) manufacturers to explore their intelligent connected vehicle (ICV) production decisions in the long term. The government subsidy policy is taken into consideration in the extended model. Through analysis, we derive all the possible evolutionary results and obtain while the static subsidy affects the thresholds compared with non‐government subsidy situation, it has no effect on the overall evolutionary direction. However, the dynamic subsidy can remove the periodic behavior of the ICV supply chain participants. This paper provides some suggestions to enhance the ICV industry development.
A Biomarker Study in Patients with GBA1‐Parkinson's Disease and Healthy Controls
Authors: den Heijer Jonas M. , Cullen Valerie C. , Pereira Diana R. , Yavuz Yalcin , de Kam Marieke L. , Grievink Hendrika W. , Moerland Matthijs , Leymarie Nancy , Khatri Kshitij , Sollomoni Imelda , Spitalny Leslie , Dungeon Lindsay , Hilt Dana C. , Justman Craig , Lansbury Peter , Groeneveld Geert Jan
Published: March 2023

Background

Molecules related to glucocerebrosidase (GCase) are potential biomarkers for development of compounds targeting GBA1‐associated Parkinson's disease (GBA‐PD).

Objectives

Assessing variability of various glycosphingolipids (GSLs) in plasma, peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) across GBA‐PD, idiopathic PD (iPD), and healthy volunteers (HVs).

Methods

Data from five studies were combined. Variability was assessed of glucosylceramide (various isoforms), lactosylceramide (various isoforms), glucosylsphingosine, galactosylsphingosine, GCase activity (using fluorescent 4‐methylumbeliferryl‐β‐glucoside), and GCase protein (using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay) in plasma, PBMCs, and CSF if available, in GBA‐PD, iPD, and HVs. GSLs in leukocyte subtypes were compared in HVs. Principal component analysis was used to explore global patterns in GSLs, clinical characteristics (Movement Disorder Society – Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale Part 3 [MDS‐UPDRS‐3], Mini‐Mental State Examination [MMSE], GBA1 mutation type), and participant status (GBA‐PD, iPD, HVs).

Results

Within‐subject between‐day variability ranged from 5.8% to 44.5% and was generally lower in plasma than in PBMCs. Extracellular glucosylceramide levels (plasma) were slightly higher in GBA‐PD compared with both iPD and HVs, while intracellular levels were comparable. GSLs in the different matrices (plasma, PBMCs, CSF) did not correlate. Both lactosylceramide and glucosylsphingosine were more abundant in granulocytes compared with monocytes and lymphocytes. Absolute levels of GSL isoforms differed greatly. GBA1 mutation types could not be differentiated based on GSL data.

Conclusions

Glucosylceramide can stably be measured over days in both plasma and PBMCs and may be used as a biomarker in clinical trials targeting GBA‐PD. Glucosylsphingosine and lactosylceramide are stable in plasma but are strongly affected by leukocyte subtypes in PBMCs. GBA‐PD could be differentiated from iPD and HVs, primarily based on glucosylceramide levels in plasma. © 2023 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Immediate sciatic nerve reconstruction using an ipsilateral common peroneal nerve graft at the time of sarcoma resection
Authors: Hanada M. , Kadota H. , Fujiwara T. , Setsu N. , Endo M. , Matsumoto Y. , Nakashima Y.
Published: March 2023

Background

Concomitant resection of the sciatic nerve along with a malignant tumor is no longer a contraindication for limb‐sparing surgery, as most of these patients remain ambulatory. However, sciatic nerve reconstruction after sarcoma resection is not commonly performed. Restoration of nerve function can improve patient quality of life. We describe our experience with four patients who underwent sciatic nerve reconstruction using an ipsilateral common peroneal nerve graft at the time of sarcoma resection.

Methods

Because of the low chance of peroneal nerve recovery, the ipsilateral peroneal trunk was used as a graft to reconstruct the tibial trunk of the sciatic nerve. Two patients were men and two were women. Mean age was 45.3 years (range, 15–62). Mean sciatic nerve defect length was 9.4 cm (range, 8.5–12.0). Proximal thigh defects (three patients) were reconstructed with a double cable; the one patient with a distal thigh defect underwent single cable reconstruction. Mean operation time was 492 min (range, 428–682).

Results

Mean length of the harvested peroneal trunks was 21 cm (range, 11–26). Mean graft length was 11.9 cm (range, 11–13). Postoperative course was uneventful in all four patients. One patient died of sarcoma lung metastasis and could not be evaluated. Three patients were followed for more than 2 years. Two patients achieved British Medical Research Council grade 4 plantar flexion; the remaining patient achieved grade 5 plantar flexion and grade 4 toe flexion. Semmes–Weinstein monofilament sensory testing showed loss of protective sensation on the plantar surface in all three. Musculoskeletal Tumor Society scores at last follow‐up were 60.0%, 70.0%, and 43.3%, respectively.

Conclusions

Immediate sciatic nerve reconstruction using an ipsilateral common peroneal nerve graft avoids reconstruction delay and scar tissue formation, which is advantageous for nerve recovery. This technique may be considered when sciatic nerve resection is anticipated during sarcoma resection.
On a general degenerate/singular parabolic equation with a nonlocal space term
Authors: Allal Brahim , Fragnelli Genni , Salhi Jawad
Published: March 2023

In this paper, we study the null controllability for the problems associated to the operators

where
or
and the functions
and
degenerate at an interior point
. To this aim, as a first step, we study the well‐posedness, the Carleman estimates, and the null controllability for the associated nonhomogeneous degenerate and singular heat equations. Then, using Kakutani's fixed point Theorem, we deduce the null controllability property for the initial nonlocal problems.
Design of low profile wideband high power waveguide to substrate integrated waveguide coupler
Authors: Ameri Edris , Khalaj‐Amirhosseini Mohammad , Sedighy Seyed Hasan , Azizi Yousef
Published: March 2023

This paper presents a new wideband waveguide substrate integrated waveguide (SIW) coupler with maximum deviation of ±0.5 dB in a 7.5–12.25 GHz bandwidth (48% fractional bandwidth). Proposed coupler consists of the standard WR90 waveguide and single layer/double clad SIW printed circuit board (PCB) which is placed crosswise on the waveguide. Proposed three port coupler (isolated port was ended with match load) has a two coupling level (average of coupling in 8–12 GHz frequency range) of 43.2 and 58.3 dB, which is correspond with the hole diameter of 3.5 and 3 mm, respectively. The main contribution of this work is based on the hybrid techniques of SIW and RWG for coupler design in the high power microwave application. Validation of the simulation results with measurement one proves that the proposed X‐band waveguide to SIW coupler is a good candidate for use in high power industrial/commercial applications.
Three‐dimensional‐printed strip and paint‐based semiellipsoidal helical antenna
Authors: Ghosh Purno , Harackiewicz Frances J.
Published: March 2023

A semiellipsoidal helical antenna (SEHA) is formed by scaling a hemispherical antenna in the axial direction. Effects of scaling factors on reflection coefficient (S11), axial ratio bandwidth (AR BW), and gains were analyzed thoroughly. By considering the best scaling factor, analysis is continued for strip‐based SEHA. It is observed that keeping the strip face parallel to the ground plane eliminates the concern of extra impedance matching issues and improves the overall performance over its wire‐based counterpart. For prototyping, the antenna is constructed independently on polylactic acid and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene plastic‐based supportive structures. Simulated and measured results are well agreed upon. When the height (h) in the axial direction is twice the hemispherical radius (r), the antenna provided maximum impedance and 3‐dB AR bandwidths of 144% and 77.53%, respectively, with a maximum gain of 8.83 dBi. The proposed antenna would be a good contestant in satellite communication where a broadband circularly polarized antenna is required.
MRI‐based quantification of carbon and oxygen concentrations in human soft tissues for range verification in proton therapy
Authors: Saito Masatoshi
Published: March 2023

Background

In‐situ range verification of particle therapy based on the detection of secondary emitted radiation requires highly accurate assignment of elemental concentrations (particularly carbon and oxygen) in the human body.

Purpose

A method for quantitatively predicting carbon and oxygen concentrations in human soft tissues is proposed. This method relies on an empirical one‐to‐one correspondence between the mass fraction and water content (WC), which is a measurable tissue quantity based on magnetic resonance (MR) imaging (referred to as “MRWC‐based method”).

Methods

A numerical analysis of the MRWC‐based method was performed for 47 standard human soft tissues tabulated in the literature as objects of interest with unknown mass fractions of the four main elements—C, O, H, and N. Thereafter, the method was evaluated in terms of the mass‐fraction quantification accuracy by comparing it with the gold‐standard CT‐based method developed by Schneider et al. The MRWC‐based method was also applied to the MR imaging data of a virtual head phantom obtained from a three‐dimensional MRI‐simulated brain database.

Results

The predicted mass fractions in a range of human soft tissues were in better agreement with the reference values than those predicted by the CT‐based method. The mean absolute errors of the predicted mass% values for the overall standard soft tissues could be reduced from 4.8 percentage points (pp) (CT‐based) to 0.5 pp (MRWC‐based) for carbon and from 5.2 pp (CT‐based) to 0.4 pp (MRWC‐based) for oxygen. The application to the simulated MRI data confirmed the capability of the sufficient recognition of the boundaries between the white matter and gray matter in the brain that could not be realized by the CT‐based method. Thus, the MRWC‐based method exhibits superior performance in the prediction of carbon and oxygen concentrations in soft tissues.

Conclusions

This study is limited to a proof‐of‐concept scope but demonstrates the feasibility of the MRWC‐based method for the generation of elemental images of human soft tissues from MRI‐derived water‐content images.
RACK1 may participate in placental development at mid‐gestation via regulating trophoblast cell proliferation and migration in pigs
Authors: Wu Zhimin , Hu Guangling , Gong Ting , Hu Qun , Hong Linjun , Zhang Yiyu , Ao Zheng
Published: March 2023

Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is a severe complication in swine production. Placental insufficiency is responsible for inadequate fetal growth, but the specific etiology of placental dysfunction‐induced IUGR in pigs remains poorly understood. In this work, placenta samples supplying the lightest weight (LW) and mean weight (MW) pig fetuses in the litter at Day 65 (D65) of gestation were collected, and the relationship between fetal growth and placental morphologies and functions was investigated using histomorphological analysis, RNA sequencing, quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and in vitro experiment in LW and MW placentas. Results showed that the folded structure of the epithelial bilayer of LW placentas followed a poor and incomplete development compared with that of MW placentas. A total of 654 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were screened out between the LW and MW placentas, and the gene encodes receptor for activated C kinase 1 (RACK1) was found to be downregulated in LW placentas. The DEGs were mainly enriched in translation, ribosome, protein synthesis, and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway according to gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses. In vitro experiments indicated that the decreased RACK1 in LW placentas may be involved in abnormal development of placental folds (PFs) by inhibiting the proliferation and migration of porcine trophoblast cells. Taken together, these results revealed that RACK1 may be a vital regulator in the development of PFs via regulating trophoblast cell proliferation and migration in pigs.
A multifield coupled thermo‐chemo‐mechanical theory for the reaction‐diffusion modeling in photovoltaics
Authors: Liu Zeng , Lenarda Pietro , Reinoso Jose , Paggi Marco
Published: March 2023

A comprehensive coupled thermo‐chemo‐mechanical modeling framework is proposed in this work to study the reaction‐diffusion phenomena taking place inside photovoltaics (PV). When exposed to hygrothermal conditions, the encapsulant ethylene‐co‐vinyl acetate (EVA) layers undergo chemical degradation that significantly influences the overall PV performance. Aiming at efficient thermo‐mechanical modeling, the coupled displacement‐temperature governing equations for the EVA layers are formulated, and its 3D finite element (FE) implementation is derived in detail. Subsequently, the chemical reaction‐diffusion processes occurring in the EVA layers are described, and the corresponding numerical implementation is formulated with the consideration of spatial and temporal variation of diffusivity and chemical kinetic rates. Specifically, the thermo‐mechanical solution accounting for the heat generation from chemical reactions is projected to the FE model of the reaction‐diffusion system in order to determine the kinetic rates and diffusion coefficients for its subsequent analysis. The proposed modeling method is applied to simulate the evolution of reaction‐diffusion species at different damp heat tests, and predictions show a very satisfactory agreement with the analytical solution and experimental electroluminescence images taken from the literature. Its capabilities to predict the spatio‐temporal variation are demonstrated through the simulation of the humidity freeze test, where the cyclic temperature boundary condition is imposed. With this modeling framework, it is possible to evaluate the degradation of PV modules under varying environmental boundary conditions, thus providing a guideline to design new products tailored for specific climatic zones.
“Attempting to protect self and patient”: A grounded theory study of error recovery by intensive care nurses
Authors: Najafi Ghezeljeh Tahereh , Farahani Mansoureh Ashghali , Kafami Ladani Fatemeh
Published: March 2023

Aim

The aim of this study was to explore the process of error recovery (ER) by nurses in intensive care unit (ICU).

Design

This qualitative study was conducted in 2018–2020 using the grounded theory methodology.

Methods

Participants were 20 staff nurses, head nurses and nursing managers recruited from the ICUs. Sampling was started purposively and continued theoretically. Data were collected using semi‐structured interviews and were analysed using the approach proposed by Corbin and Strauss.

Results

The findings indicated that nurses' primary concern was for the patient and their own personal/professional identity. Five strategies were found including evaluating situation, identifying error, analysing error and situation, determining the agent for error correction, and reducing error effects. Contextual factors were also highlighted as being important in the error recovery. “Attempting to protect self and patient” was the core category of the study. Nurses' concern about protecting patient life and their own personal/professional identity make them use unprofessional approaches for ER.
Rhabdomyosarcoma with isolated lung metastases: A report from the Soft Tissue Sarcoma Committee of the Children's Oncology Group
Authors: Vasquez Juan C. , Luo Leo Y. , Hiniker Susan M. , Rhee Daniel S. , Dasgupta Roshni , Chen Sonja , Weigel Brenda J. , Xue Wei , Venkatramani Rajkumar , Arndt Carola A.
Published: March 2023

Background

To determine outcomes of children with rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) with isolated lung metastases.

Methods

Data were analyzed for 428 patients with metastatic RMS treated on COG protocols. Categorical variables were compared using Chi‐square or Fisher's exact tests. Event‐free survival (EFS) and overall survival (OS) were estimated using Kaplan–Meier method and compared using the log‐rank test.

Results

Compared with patients with other metastatic sites (n = 373), patients with lung‐only metastases (n = 55) were more likely to be <10 years of age, have embryonal histology (embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma), have N0 disease, and less likely to have primary extremity tumors. Lung‐only patients had significantly better survival outcomes than patients with all other sites of metastatic disease (p < .0001) with 5‐year EFS of 48.1 versus 18.8% and 5‐year OS of 64.1 versus 26.9%. Patients with lung‐only metastases, and those with a single extrapulmonary site of metastasis, had better survival compared with patients with two or more sites of metastatic disease (p < .0001). In patients with ERMS and lung‐only metastases, there was no significant difference in survival between patients ≥10 years and 1–9 years (5‐year EFS: 58.3 vs. 68.2%, 5‐year OS: 66.7 vs. 67.7%).

Conclusions

With aggressive treatment, patients with ERMS and lung‐only metastatic disease have superior EFS and OS compared with patients with other sites of metastatic disease, even when older than 10 years of age. Consideration should be given to including patients ≥10 years with ERMS and lung‐only metastases in the same group as those <10 years in future risk stratification algorithms.
Antenatal ultrasound features of isolated recurrent copy number variation in 7q11.23 (Williams syndrome and 7q11.23 duplication syndrome)
Authors: Courdier Cécile , Boudjarane John , Malan Valérie , Muti Christine , Sperelakis‐Beedham Brian , Odent Sylvie , Jaillard Sylvie , Quelin Chloé , Le Caignec Cédric , Patat Olivier , Dubucs Charlotte , Julia Sophie , Schluth‐Bolard Caroline , Goumy Carole , Redon Sylvia , Gaillard Jean‐Baptiste , Huynh Minh Tuan , Dupont Céline , Tabet Anne‐Claude , Cogan Guillaume , Vialard François , Dard Rodolphe , Jedraszak Guillaume , Jobic Florence , Lefebvre Mathilde , Quenum Geneviève , Inai Saori , Rama Mélanie , Sauvestre Fanny , Coatleven Frédéric , Thomas Julie , Rooryck Caroline
Published: March 2023

Objective

We aimed to gather fetal cases carrying a 7q11.23 copy number variation (CNV) and collect precise clinical data to broaden knowledge of antenatal features in these syndromes.

Methods

We retrospectively recruited unrelated cases with 7q11.23 deletion, known as Williams‐Beuren syndrome (WBS), or 7q11.23 duplication who had prenatal ultrasound findings. We collected laboratory and clinical data, fetal ultrasound, cardiac ultrasound and fetal autopsy reports from 18 prenatal diagnostic centers throughout France.

Results

40 fetuses with WBS were collected and the most common features were intra‐uterine growth retardation (IUGR) (70.0%, 28/40), cardiovascular defects (30.0%, 12/40), polyhydramnios (17.5%, 7/40) and protruding tongue (15.0%, 6/40). Fetal autopsy reports were available for 11 cases and were compared with ultrasound prenatal features. Four cases of fetuses with 7q11.23 microduplication were collected and prenatal ultrasound signs were variable and often isolated.

Conclusion

This work strengthens the fact that 7q11.23 CNVs are associated with a broad spectrum of antenatal presentations. IUGR and cardiovascular defects were the most frequent ultrasound signs. By reporting the biggest series of antenatal WBS, we aim to better delineate distinctive signs in fetuses with 7q11.23 CNVs.
A splicing variant of EDS1 from Vitis vinifera forms homodimers but no heterodimers with PAD4
Authors: Voss Martin , Cseke Leland J. , Gassmann Walter , Niefind Karsten
Published: March 2023

Enhanced Disease Susceptibility 1 (EDS1), a key component of microbe‐triggered immunity and effector‐triggered immunity in most higher plants, forms functional heterodimeric complexes with its homologs Phytoalexin Deficient 4 (PAD4) or Senescence‐associated Gene 101 (SAG101). Here, the crystal structure of VvEDS1Nterm, the N‐terminal domain of EDS1 from Vitis vinifera, is reported, representing the first structure of an EDS1 entity beyond the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana. VvEDS1Nterm has an α/β‐hydrolase fold, is similar to the N‐terminal domain of A. thaliana EDS1 and forms stable homodimers in solution as well as in crystals. These VvEDS1Nterm homodimers are spatially incompatible with heterodimers with PAD4 or SAG101, they explain why VvEDS1Nterm does not interact with V. vinifera PAD4 according to gel filtration, and they serve as a guide to develop a plausible, albeit experimentally not verified model of full‐length EDS1. VvEDS1Nterm is a splicing variant comprising two of three exons of the VvEDS1 gene. It originates from a naturally occurring mRNA, in which the first of two introns was removed while the second one containing a stop codon close to the exon/intron border was retained. This is a potential case of intron retention and the first report of this phenomenon in the context of EDS1. Its biological significance has not yet been clarified, nor has the question if a VvEDS1Nterm protein with a specific function can occur under physiological conditions.
Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry Study of Hydrogenated Amorphous Silicon Layer Disintegration upon Rapid (Laser) Annealing
Authors: Beyer Wolfhard , Nuys Maurice , Andrä Gudrun , Bosan Hassan Ali , Breuer Uwe , Finger Friedhelm , Gawlik Annett , Haas Stefan , Lambertz Andreas , Nickel Norbert , Plentz Jonathan
Published: March 2023

Double layers of deuterated and hydrogenated amorphous silicon (a‐Si:H) on glass are heated in the ambient by scanning with a green (532 nm) continuous wave laser. The hydrogen diffusion length in the laser spot is obtained from the deuterium (D)–hydrogen (H) interdiffusion measured by secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS), the temperature in the laser spot is obtained by calculation. Under certain conditions, detachment of the deuterated layer from the hydrogenated layer is observed in the SIMS depth profiles, visible by rising oxygen and carbon signals at the D/H interface attributed to in‐diffusion of atmospheric gas species like water vapor, oxygen, and carbon oxide. Stacks involving both undoped and boron‐doped a‐Si:H films show disintegration. The results suggest that the parameters leading to the disintegration effects are the presence of a plane of reduced material cohesion at the D/H interface, a sizeable H diffusion length and a rather high heating rate. Herein, it is likely considered that the observed layer disintegration process is involved in the peeling of a‐Si:H films upon fast heating. Furthermore, the results show that rapid laser heating can be used to detect planes of reduced material cohesion which may compromise the electronic properties of a‐Si:H‐based stacks.
An Investigation of Inverted Core@Shell Nanostructure for Efficacious Magnetic Hyperthermia Applications
Authors: Tsopoe Subenthung P. , Borgohain Chandan , Borah Jyoti Prasad
Published: March 2023

Magnetic hyperthermia, a notable technique for tumor ministration, has opened up a novel account for biomedical research. Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) which are sensitive to heat liberation on exposition to the small magnetic fields are an essential obligation for this application. Exchange interactivity through a bimagnetic core@shell (CS) nanostructure is one novel approach to potentially meet the desirable atmosphere for productive hyperthermia treatment. This work reports on the microstructural and magnetic property of an unusual CS arrangement with antiferromagnetic NiO (N) as the core material mounted over by a ferrimagnetic shell Fe3O4 (F) desiring to constructively tune the heating efficiency of the Fe3O4 MNPs. The magnetic investigation displays an enormous exchange interaction at the CS interface resulting in huge relocation of the hysteresis loop authenticating the exchange bias effect (EBE). The specific absorption rate (SAR) or the heat dissipation of the MNPs for bare Fe3O4 and CS NiO@Fe3O4 (N@F) are compared. The outcome genuinely results in a huge contrast, where the SAR for CS N@F is greatly intensified by over 44% compared to the bare F sample. These findings, therefore, lay out a distinctive way to ameliorate the theranostic approach by making use of the MNPs.
Significant Resistance Reduction in Modulation‐Doped Silicon Nanowires via Aluminum‐Induced Acceptor States in SiO2
Authors: Ratschinski Ingmar , Nagarajan Soundarya , Trommer Jens , Luferau Andrei , Khan Muhammad Bilal , Erbe Artur , Georgiev Yordan M. , Mikolajick Thomas , Smith Sean C. , König Dirk , Hiller Daniel
Published: March 2023

Silicon nanowires (Si NWs) like structures in the form of nanosheets are the building blocks for future transistors in the most advanced complementary metal–oxide–semiconductor technologies. However, Si NWs with few nanometers in diameter suffer from severe difficulties with respect to efficient impurity doping. These difficulties can be overcome by a novel doping concept for Si NWs comparable to the modulation doping approach known from III–V semiconductors. Modulation doping means that the parent dopant atoms are spatially separated from the volume that is to be doped by embedding them into an adjacent material with a higher bandgap. Herein, Al‐doped SiO2 shells around the Si NWs are used for the experimental realization of modulation doping. In two independent experiments, a significant reduction of the electrical resistance of Si NWs by several orders of magnitude is measured, when compared to the resistance of Si NWs with undoped SiO2 shells. The results are discussed in the context of modulation doping by the surface functionalization with SiO2:Al shells.
Role of Oxygen Incorporation in High Temperature Annealed AlGaN
Authors: Zainal Norzaini , Hagedorn Sylvia , Netzel Carsten , Mogilatenko Anna , Schön Matthias , Weyers Markus
Published: March 2023

High‐temperature annealing (HTA) is a powerful technique to decrease dislocation density in AlN, which can also be applied on AlGaN. This work investigates the impact of using sapphire and AlN as a material cover during the face‐to‐face HTA process on AlxGa1−xN (0.55 < x < 0.93) properties. Before HTA, the threading dislocation density (TDD) in the AlGaN for all xAl was about 6.0 × 109 cm−2. Meanwhile, after HTA, the sapphire cover led to a further reduction of the TDD at 5.7 × 109 cm−2 for the lowest xAl and 1.4 × 109 cm−2 for the highest xAl in comparison to the AlN cover. In most cases, strain relaxation increased by HTA, especially with the sapphire cover. Furthermore, increased optical absorption in HTA AlGaN can be lessened by the sapphire cover. Such absorption compromises the performance of UV LEDs which usually emit through the substrate. These advantages of sapphire over AlN as the cover in the HTA process are associated with additional oxygen incorporation into the AlGaN, most probably from the surface of the sapphire cover.
A CNN‐BiLSTM‐Bootstrap integrated method for remaining useful life prediction of rolling bearings
Authors: Guo Junyu , Wang Jiang , Wang Zhiyuan , Gong Yu , Qi Jinglang , Wang Guoyang , Tang Changping
Published: March 2023

Rolling bearings, an essential fundamental component in machinery and equipment, have been widely used. Predicting the remaining useful life (RUL) of rolling bearings helps maintain the reliability of mechanical systems. Accurate prediction of RUL requires extracting deep features in complex non‐linear vibration signals, the prediction results often vary widely. This paper proposes a RUL prediction method based on convolutional neural network (CNN), bi‐directional long‐short term memory (BiLSTM), and bootstrap method (CNN‐BiLSTM‐Bootstrap) to model the forecasting uncertainty. The first step is to extract the first prediction time (FPT) of the degradation phase of rolling bearings using an adaptive method for the 3σ intervals of rolling bearing vibration signal kurtosis. The model extracts the spatio‐temporal features through CNN and BiLSTM, and combines the bootstrap method to quantify the RUL prediction interval (PI) of rolling bearings. The comparison with existing models verified the effectiveness and generalization of the proposed model.
Towards the development of a systematic approach for sustainability assessment of educational infrastructure: A system of priority areas and design quality indicators
Authors: Primc Kaja , Slabe‐Erker Renata , Dominko Miha
Published: March 2023

Design quality indicators have yet to be widely applied for assessing the sustainability of educational infrastructure. In this sector, the indicators have centred around seismic resilience and energy performance in case‐oriented studies dependent on primary data collection. However, access to good quality data about the building stock in European Union member states is required to support the planning of beneficial public educational infrastructure. The aim of this paper is to establish the process of developing a set of key design quality indicators for educational infrastructure in line with European legislation and the Sustainable Development Goals 2030. In total, 31 design quality indicators are proposed to cover the following priority areas: building stock and safety, user experience, energy efficiency, digital infrastructure and equipment, and environment (emissions and natural resources). These proposed priority areas and analysis of the available data reveal a situation in which national and international decision‐making authorities are constrained by the lack of data and their accuracy, obsolescence and vagueness. Currently, one cannot make an unbiased decision on the investments required for educational infrastructure. This means the greatest value of this work lies in potential application of the comprehensive system of priority areas and design quality indicators for international performance comparisons and evidence‐based policy decision‐making processes related to educational infrastructure, for example, investments, engineering and social matters.
Analysing the alignment between circular economy and industry 4.0 nexus with industry 5.0 era: An integrative systematic literature review
Authors: Atif Sehrish
Published: March 2023

Circular economy (CE) and Industry 4.0 (I4.0) laid the foundation of intelligent and sustainable manufacturing based on real‐time data collection. However, the absence of a human‐centric approach has recently pushed for a more value‐driven Industry 5.0 (I5.0) vision. A systematic literature review is conducted by critically analysing the peer‐reviewed academic journals to evaluate the material‐flow of a product's lifecycle and information‐flow in a data‐driven platform to find any existing relationship between the CE and I4.0 nexus with I5.0. The results indicate that the application of I5.0 is significantly more comprehensive as it is not limited to industry‐focused but also considers broader societal values. I5.0 places the human‐centric approach at the centre of the production process and utilise innovative technical advancement to provide a sustainable and resilient smart manufacturing path. It extends the tech features of I4.0 and complements the CE paradigm that prospers beyond jobs and growth while respecting the environment.
Structured time‐dependent inverse regression (STIR)
Authors: Song Minsun , Bura Efstathia , Parzer Roman , Pfeiffer Ruth M.
Published: March 2023

We propose and study structured time‐dependent inverse regression (STIR), a novel sufficient dimension reduction model, to analyze longitudinally measured, correlated biomarkers in relation to an outcome. The time structure is accommodated in an inverse regression model for the markers that can be applied both to equally and unequally spaced time points for each sample. The inverse regression structure also naturally accommodates retrospectively sampled markers, that is, markers measured in case‐control studies. We estimate the corresponding linear combinations of the markers, the reduction, using least squares. We show that under additional distributional assumptions the reduction contains sufficient information about the outcome. In extensive simulations the STIR linear combinations perform well in predictive models based on samples of realistic size. A Wald‐type test for association of a particular marker with outcome at any time point based on the STIR reduction has better power overall than assessing associations based on logistic or linear regression models that include all longitudinally measured markers as independent predictors. As illustrations we estimate the STIR reductions for a cohort study of diabetes and hyperlipidemia and a case‐control study of brain cancer with multiple longitudinally measured biomarkers. We assess the STIR reductions' predictive performance and identify outcome‐associated biomarkers.
Synthesis of Different Nano‐layer Shells (Mono‐, Bi‐, and Alloy Layers)‐Coated Gold Spherical Nanoparticles Core for Catalysis
Authors: Sundarapandi Manickam , Shanmugam Sivakumar , Ramaraj Ramasamy
Published: March 2023

Various types of metal layer shells such as mono‐, bi‐, and alloy layer using gold and silver on preformed gold spherical nanoparticles core were synthesizing using sodium borohydride as reducing agent. UV‐vis absorption spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy images, and X‐ray diffraction techniques were used to characterize the prepared pristine gold spherical nanoparticles and various core‐shell metal nanoparticles. High‐angle annular dark field scanning transmission electron microscopy‐energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy mapping images were recorded for the alloy and bilayer shell coated core‐shell nanoparticles. Catalytic reduction of 4‐nitroaniline in the presence of sodium borohydride was taken to study the catalytic activity of the prepared core‐shell nanostructures. Interestingly, the alloy shell coated gold spherical nanoparticles (AuNP@AgAu) showed the best catalytic activity (higher rate constant; 21.61×10−3 s−1) than that of mono‐, and bilayer core‐shell and pristine gold spherical nanoparticles.
Review of electrochemical transition‐metal‐catalyzed C−H functionalization reactions
Authors: Changmai Sumi , Sultana Sabera , Saikia Anil K.
Published: March 2023

The combination of organometallic C−H activation and electro‐catalysis has emerged as a potent synthetic technique for various molecular scaffolds since it avoids the use of harmful and expensive chemical oxidants in stoichiometric amounts. Moreover, the pre‐functionalization of substrates is not required and newer ways to perform metal‐catalyzed C−H activation reactions are possible. Here, we have discussed eletrochemically driven C−H acyloxylation, acetoxylation, oxygenation, acylation, amination, alkylation, halogenation, olefinations and C−H/N−H annulation reactions using various transition‐metal‐catalyst such as Ru, Rh, Pd, Co, Ni, Ir, Cu, Mn and Au by anodic oxidation, followed by reductive elimination to form the corresponding C−O, C−C, C−N and C−X (X=Cl, Br, S etc.) bonds. This review covers recent developments in transition‐metal‐catalyzed electrochemical C−H activation from 2007 until 2022.
Non‐Isothermal Kinetics of Phoenix Dactylifera L. Date Palm Seeds Pyrolysis Using Model Fitting and Iso‐Conversional Model Free Methods
Authors: Marouani Maryam El , El Hamdaoui Lahcen , Boulhaoua Mohammed , Pienaar Andrew , Trif László , Costa Guy , Simo‐Tagne Merlin , Kifani‐Sahban Fatima
Published: March 2023

In this paper, Phoenix dactylifera L. date palm seeds (RDS) were first characterized from a physicochemical point of view, in particular the proximate and ultimate composition, XRD, and SEM–EDX analyses. Based on findings RDS contains 77.4 % of total carbohydrates, 12.8 % of lignin, and a higher heating value (HHV) of 15.88 MJ kg−1. Immuno‐labeling intensity (OD) of non‐cellulosic RDS fraction was also determined thanks to the ELISA technique after the dissolution of polysaccharides in ionic liquid showing the presence of mannans and xyloglucans and the absence of arabinans in date seeds, a significant amount of homogalacturonans were also detected. The thermal decomposition and kinetic of date palm seeds (RDS) using TGA‐DTG, and DSC measurements were then investigated. The RDS samples were heated in the temperature ranges 25–600 °C at 5, 10, 15, and 20 °C/min. The decomposition of hemicelluloses, cellulose, and lignin, active pyrolysis of RDS, was held in a range of temperature 160–450 °C. The kinetic parameters such as activation energy (Ea) and pre‐exponential factor (A) were determined for two degradation steps by using iso‐conversional model‐free methods. The Ea and pre‐exponential factor obtained by the Kissinger method are 212 kJ mol−1 and 7.8×1019 min−1 for the first decomposition interval (I1) and 172 kJ mol−1 and 5.96×1013 min−1 for the second decomposition interval I2. The same average parameters calculated by model‐free methods are 126–156 kJ mol−1 and 180–213 kJ mol−1 and 3.36×1014 and 7.07×1017 min−1 respectively for the first and second intervals of thermal decomposition. Indicating that activation energy decreases in the final stages of the process and that the energy required for hemicelluloses degradation is lower than that of cellulose. The most probable reaction functions have been determined for these two stages, by Coats‐Redfern (CR) and Criado methods, leading to considerably improved calculation performance over the entire conversion range. The pyrolysis reaction models of RDS are described by reaction, second order F2 for cellulose and hemicelluloses. With the Arrhenius parameters obtained from the fitting model of CR, we attempt to reconstruct the temperature‐dependent mass conversion curves and have resulted in generally acceptable results. Based on the Arrhenius parameter values, obtained by the Kissinger equation, the changes in entropy, enthalpy, Gibbs free energy, and lifetime predictions have been estimated for the thermal degradation processes of RDS.
Calix[4]pyrrole‐Grafted Gold Nanoparticles as a Turn‐On Fluorescence Sensor for Noxious Fungicide Dimoxystrobin and Their Anti‐Cancer Activity against the KB‐3‐1 Cell Line
Authors: Pomal Nandan C. , Bhatt Keyur D. , Kundariya Dinesh S. , Desai Riya A. , Bhatt Vaibhav , Kongor Anita
Published: March 2023

A rapid and easy approach for producing very stable gold nanoparticles has been discovered. Calix[4]pyrrole tetrahydrazide (CPTAH) was utilized effectively in the synthesis of gold nanoparticles as a reducing and stabilizing agent. These functionalized AuNPs were characterized by Surface Plasmon Resonance, Transmission Electron Microscopy, Selected Area Electron Diffraction, and Energy Dispersive X‐ray techniques. CPTAH‐AuNPs possessed a particle size of 11±2 nm and are highly stable at pH 7.0 for more than 150 days. The selectivity and sensitivity of CPTAH‐AuNPs as a fungicide sensor was assessed for Metalaxyl, Mancozeb, Tebuconazole, Tricyclozole, Dimoxystrobin, Kresoxim‐methyl, and Carbendazim, amongst which Dimoxystrobin (DMX) was sensed exclusively with naked eyes by means of aggregation of CPTAH‐AuNPs with a detection limit of the order of 5 ppm using “Turn‐on” fluorescence enhancement. Additionally, the CPTAH‐AuNPs were found to be effective cytotoxic agent against the human cervix cancer cell line KB‐3‐1 with IC50 value of 64.63 μg/mL which admits the employability of CPTAH‐AuNPs in the study of development of anti‐cancer drug.
Flexible Multimodal Sensor Based on Double‐network Hydrogel for Human and Robotic Applications
Authors: Zou Qiang , Zhang Shiwen , Su Qi , Xue Tao , Lan Kuibo
Published: March 2023

With the development of wearable technology, there are higher requirements for wearable sensors, such as multimodal sensing, superior mechanical properties, and simple and easy‐to‐fabricate structures. However, it is difficult for existing flexible sensors to possess all these advantages simultaneously. Herein, a flexible multimodal sensor based on sodium alginate/polyvinyl alcohol/graphene oxide double‐network hydrogel was prepared. The multiple hydrogen bonds between the two networks provided the gel with great mechanical properties. In addition, the flexibility and easy‐to‐fabricate simple structure of hydrogels were ideal for wearable sensors. In particular, the hydrogel sensors have a temperature sensitivity of up to 2.81 %/°C between −20 °C and 55 °C and pressure sensitivity of 0.03 kPa−1, both of which have excellent properties of stability and repeatability. Besides, the sensor also presented a humidity sensitivity of 0.027 % RH−1. This work also applied hydrogel sensors to practical applications and provided a new idea for wearable technology.
Synthesis of Functionalized 2′,5‐Oxo‐spiro[furan‐2,3′‐indoline]‐3‐carboxylate Derivatives as Antiproliferative Agents: ADMET Studies, and Molecular Docking against P2Y12 Inhibitors
Authors: Asif Mohd , Saquib Mohammad , Rahman Khan Abdul , Aqil Farrukh , salem Almalki Amani , Ali Alasmary Fatmah , Singh Jaya , Nasibullah Malik
Published: March 2023

Herein, we present a one‐pot, three‐component synthesis of spirooxindole‐oxofuran carboxylate derivatives (4 a–d) through the Huisgen reaction. The newly synthesized spirocyclic compounds were tested for in vitroantiproliferative efficacy against 60 human cancer cell lines at the National Cancer Institute (NCI) in the United States. The screening results indicated that two spirooxindole compounds, 4 b and4 c, possessed the strongest anti‐cancer efficacy in terms of percentage growth inhibition (% GI), with values of 34.17 and 38.19 at 10−5 M concentration against the CNS cancer panel‘s SNB‐75 cell line, respectively. Furthermore, molecular docking investigations demonstrated the binding affinity for the P2Y12 receptor. The compound 4 c which exhibited strong antiproliferative activity with high binding energies might therefore, serve as a potential lead molecule for the development of more effective anti‐cancer agents.