bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Technical note: Generalizable and promptable artificial intelligence model to augment clinical delineation in radiation oncology
Authors: Zhang Lian , Liu Zhengliang , Zhang Lu , Wu Zihao , Yu Xiaowei , Holmes Jason , Feng Hongying , Dai Haixing , Li Xiang , Li Quanzheng , Wong William W. , Vora Sujay A. , Zhu Dajiang , Liu Tianming , Liu Wei
Published: February 2024

Background

Efficient and accurate delineation of organs at risk (OARs) is a critical procedure for treatment planning and dose evaluation. Deep learning‐based auto‐segmentation of OARs has shown promising results and is increasingly being used in radiation therapy. However, existing deep learning‐based auto‐segmentation approaches face two challenges in clinical practice: generalizability and human‐AI interaction. A generalizable and promptable auto‐segmentation model, which segments OARs of multiple disease sites simultaneously and supports on‐the‐fly human‐AI interaction, can significantly enhance the efficiency of radiation therapy treatment planning.

Purpose

Meta's segment anything model (SAM) was proposed as a generalizable and promptable model for next‐generation natural image segmentation. We further evaluated the performance of SAM in radiotherapy segmentation.

Methods

Computed tomography (CT) images of clinical cases from four disease sites at our institute were collected: prostate, lung, gastrointestinal, and head & neck. For each case, we selected the OARs important in radiotherapy treatment planning. We then compared both the Dice coefficients and Jaccard indices derived from three distinct methods: manual delineation (ground truth), automatic segmentation using SAM's ’segment anything’ mode, and automatic segmentation using SAM's ‘box prompt’ mode that implements manual interaction via live prompts during segmentation.

Results

Our results indicate that SAM's segment anything mode can achieve clinically acceptable segmentation results in most OARs with Dice scores higher than 0.7. SAM's box prompt mode further improves Dice scores by 0.1∼0.5. Similar results were observed for Jaccard indices. The results show that SAM performs better for prostate and lung, but worse for gastrointestinal and head & neck. When considering the size of organs and the distinctiveness of their boundaries, SAM shows better performance for large organs with distinct boundaries, such as lung and liver, and worse for smaller organs with less distinct boundaries, like parotid and cochlea.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate SAM's robust generalizability with consistent accuracy in automatic segmentation for radiotherapy. Furthermore, the advanced box‐prompt method enables the users to augment auto‐segmentation interactively and dynamically, leading to patient‐specific auto‐segmentation in radiation therapy. SAM's generalizability across different disease sites and different modalities makes it feasible to develop a generic auto‐segmentation model in radiotherapy.
Preoperative Serum Albumin as Predictor of Outcomes After Thyroidectomy
Authors: Sciscent Bao Yue , Eberly Hanel Watkins , Lorenz F. Jeffrey , Truong Nguyen , Goldenberg David , Goyal Neerav
Published: February 2024

Objective

Albumin is considered to be a surrogate marker for inflammation and nutritional status. Levels usually decrease after surgery but little is known about the predictive value of preoperative albumin levels in patients undergoing thyroidectomy. This study aimed to investigate the 30‐day incidence of postoperative outcomes in thyroidectomy patients with and without preoperative hypoalbuminemia.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

TriNetX Database.

Methods

TriNetX, a federated deidentified database, was retrospectively queried to identify patients who underwent thyroidectomy. Postoperative outcomes within 30 days of thyroidectomy, based on International Classification of Disease, 10th Revision and Current Procedural Terminology codes, in patients with preoperative hypoalbuminemia (≤3.4 g/dL) (cohort 1) were analyzed and compared to patients without hypoalbuminemia (cohort 2).

Results

After propensity score matching, 2398 patients were identified in each cohort. Hypoalbuminemia patients were more likely to have postoperative pneumonia (odds ratio, OR: 3.472, 95% confidence interval, CI [2.016‐5.978]), acute renal failure (OR: 3.872, 95% CI [2.412‐6.217]), venous thromboembolism (OR: 1.766, 95% CI [1.016‐2.819]), and surgical site infection (OR: 2.353, 95% CI [1.282‐4.32]). Rates of recurrent laryngeal nerve injury were comparable between cohorts.

Conclusion

Patients undergoing thyroidectomy with preoperative hypoalbuminemia have a higher prevalence of postoperative complications compared to patients without preoperative hypoalbuminemia. While not routinely assessed, preoperative evaluation of serum albumin levels may help guide expectations and optimal management of thyroidectomy patients.
Reliability and validity of a Japanese version of the Brunnsviken Brief Quality of Life Scale
Authors: Hamatani Sayo , Matsumoto Kazuki , Lindner Philip , Shimizu Eiji , Mizuno Yoshifumi , Andersson Gerhard
Published: February 2024

Aim

The Brunnsviken Brief Quality of Life Scale (BBQ) is a popular quality of life measure, indexing satisfaction with and importance of six empirically selected life domains. Whether these domains hold cross‐cultural validity remains largely unexplored. The current study developed and psychometrically validated a Japanese version of the BBQ (BBQ‐J).

Methods

Data were collected from 637 Japanese individuals aged between 20 and 87 years. We used t‐tests, Pearson product‐rate correlation coefficients, a reliability analysis, a confirmatory factor analysis, and an exploratory factor analysis to analyze the data, with 637 participants in all analyses.

Results

There were no statistically significant gender differences on the BBQ‐J. Confirmatory factor analysis of the BBQ‐J revealed a 1‐factor structure with six items. Convergent validity was confirmed by its association with life satisfaction, and negative convergent validity was confirmed by its negative correlation with depressive symptoms. Cronbach's alpha of the BBQ‐J showed high internal consistency.

Conclusion

Similar to the original version, the Japanese version of the BBQ is a valid and reliable self‐administered measure of subjective quality of life for use in clinical and research settings.
Effect of carbon black and chain extender on thermal, rheological and mechanical properties of fully biodegradable poly(butylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate)/poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate‐co‐4‐hydroxybutyrate) blends
Authors: Li Yi , Wang Xiuli , Cheng Hongda , Han Changyu , Li Dongdong
Published: February 2024

Different carbon black (CB) contents in poly(butylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate) (PBAT)/poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate‐co‐4‐hydroxybutyrate) (P34HB) blends were prepared by melt blending using chain extender multifunctional styrene‐acrylic‐ epoxy random oligomer (ADR), as a compatibilizer. PBAT and P34HB were immiscible, and ADR could react with PBAT and P34HB to improve interfacial adhesion force and molecular entanglement. CB fillers were uniformly and selectively located in the PBAT matrix and could act as a nucleating agent to promote the nucleation of PBAT crystallization. At a CB content of 5 wt%, a percolation network structure of CB was formed. The most interesting result in the work was the achievement of composites with improved rheological and mechanical properties under the synergistic effect of chain extender and CB fillers. The viscoelasticity of the system was markedly improved and a transition from liquid‐like to solid‐like behavior was observed. Young's modulus and yield strength of chain extender modified PBAT/P34HB/CB composite with 10 wt% CB increased by 502% and 69% compared to neat PBAT, and by 89% and 43% compared to PBAT/P34HB binary blend. The combination of improved melt viscoelasticity and mechanical properties will further broaden the practical application of biodegradable polymers. © 2024 Society of Industrial Chemistry.
Soft Factors and Interaction Vertices from Light‐Cone Actions
Authors: Ananth Sudarshan , Pandey Chetan , Pant Saurabh
Published: February 2024

Universal factors associated with the emission of a soft boson in gauge theories and gravity, formulated in the light‐cone gauge, are presented. The inverse‐soft method, for constructing higher‐point amplitudes from lower‐point ones, using these factors is reviewed. These ideas are then examined in (light‐cone) superspace and applied to both the super Yang–Mills and supergravity theories. One highlight is a compact result for the quartic interaction vertex in supergravity, a crucial ingredient for finiteness analyses.
Anodic Niobium–Titanium Oxide Crossbar Memristor Arrays for pH Sensing in Liquids
Authors: Knapic Dominik , Atanasova Elena , Zrinski Ivana , Hassel Achim Walter , Mardare Andrei Ionut
Published: February 2024

Anodic Nb–Ti oxide crossbar memristor arrays are successfully produced on Si substrates. Their use as pH sensors is tested by analyzing their current–voltage (I–U) sweeps in Ringer´s solutions with different pH values. A gradual evolution of the memristive hysteretic curve is observed upon pH variation. A sensor calibration showing a linear trend with least square error close to 1 is performed and the performance of the pH sensing is assessed. The limit of detection (LOD), limit of quantification (LOQ), and the sensitivity (S) are determined. The calculated LOD is 0.4 pH, and the LOQ is 1.2 pH. The S is calculated as 0.5 pH corresponding to a concentration of c(OH−) = 3.5 mM. The reproducibility and repeatability of the measurements are calculated as 3.8% and 1.4%, respectively. An X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy survey allows the study of the oxide composition providing information about its pH‐sensing mechanism. It is found that the OH− species diffused into the mixed anodic oxide are responsible for the pH‐induced high‐ to low‐resistance state changes. A conduction mechanism analysis is carried out and Schottky emission is identified as predominant.
Pimpinellin ameliorates macrophage inflammation by promoting RNF146‐mediated PARP1 ubiquitination
Authors: Yang Liuye , Du Meng , Liu Kaiyuan , Wang Pengchao , Zhu Jingbo , Li Fengcen , Wang Ze , Huang Kai , Liang Minglu
Published: February 2024

Macrophage inflammation plays a central role during the development and progression of sepsis, while the regulation of macrophages by parthanatos has been recently identified as a novel strategy for anti‐inflammatory therapies. This study was designed to investigate the therapeutic potential and mechanism of pimpinellin against LPS‐induced sepsis. PARP1 and PAR activation were detected by western blot or immunohistochemistry. Cell death was assessed by flow cytometry and western blot. Cell metabolism was measured with a Seahorse XFe24 extracellular flux analyzer. C57, PARP1 knockout, and PARP1 conditional knock‐in mice were used in a model of sepsis caused by LPS to assess the effect of pimpinellin. Here, we found that pimpinellin can specifically inhibit LPS‐induced macrophage PARP1 and PAR activation. In vitro studies showed that pimpinellin could inhibit the expression of inflammatory cytokines and signal pathway activation in macrophages by inhibiting overexpression of PARP1. In addition, pimpinellin increased the survival rate of LPS‐treated mice, thereby preventing LPS‐induced sepsis. Further research confirmed that LPS‐induced sepsis in PARP1 overexpressing mice was attenuated by pimpinellin, and PARP1 knockdown abolished the protective effect of pimpinellin against LPS‐induced sepsis. Further study found that pimpinellin can promote ubiquitin‐mediated degradation of PARP1 through RNF146. This is the first study to demonstrate that pimpinellin inhibits excessive inflammatory responses by promoting the ubiquitin‐mediated degradation of PARP1.
Gas‐phase Smiles rearrangement of ortho‐nitro‐substituted diaryliodonium cations and their mechanistic insights
Authors: Wei Wu‐Zhi , Pan Cheng , Ling Lin , Han Jianwei , Wang Hao‐Yang
Published: February 2024

Rationale

Diaryliodonium salts are useful electrophilic reagents in organic chemistry, finding extensive applications in arylations and photo‐induced polymerizations. However, comprehensive mechanistic investigations, particularly concerning the mass spectrometric behaviors of diaryliodonium salts, are relatively scarce in the literature.

Methods

Diaryliodonium salts could be readily ionized using electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI‐MS) to give [Ar1‐I+‐Ar2], and high‐resolution ESI‐tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) experiments were conducted to investigate their gas‐phase chemical reactions.

Results

Investigations on ESI‐MS/MS of [Ar1‐I+‐Ar2] revealed two major fragmentation patterns: (1) reductive elimination resulting in the diaryl coupling product ion [Ar1‐Ar2]+• by the loss of I; (2) generation of aryl cations [Ar1]+ or [Ar2]+ through cleavage of the C–I bonds. We revealed that the introduction of NO2 into Ar2 of [Ar1‐I+‐Ar2] could lead to an unexpected fragmentation ion [Ar1O]+ in MS/MS, arising from an O‐atom transfer process from NO2 to Ar1. Particularly, when NO2 was ortho‐positioned to the iodine in Ar2, the [Ar1O]+ sometimes exhibited dominant behavior.

Conclusions

Comprehensive ESI‐MS/MS studies and theoretical calculations provided strong support for the O‐atom transfer mechanistic pathway: [Ar1‐I+‐(o‐NO2‐Ar2)] initially underwent a Smiles rearrangement to the intermediate [Ar1‐O‐(o‐NO‐Ar2I)]+, which subsequently dissociated to [Ar1O]+ or [o‐NO‐Ar2I]+•. Herein, we proposed an unexpected “ortho effect” in the gas‐phase fragmentation reaction of [Ar1‐I+‐(o‐NO2‐Ar2)], in which the crucial determinant factor for the aryl migration was identified as the Smiles rearrangement reaction.
Upstream experience and experimental translocation of invasive bigheaded carps results in increased upstream passage success at a navigation lock in a large river
Authors: Fritts Andrea K. , Gibson‐Reinemer Daniel K. , Knights Brent C. , Milde Amanda S. , Stanton Jessica C. , Brey Marybeth K. , Appel Douglas S. , Cupp Aaron R. , Tripp Sara J. , Lamer James T. , Fritts Mark W.
Published: February 2024

Fish movements in regulated rivers can be challenging to study because anthropogenic modifications, such as locks and dams, can influence animal behavior. Upper Mississippi River Lock and Dam 19 (LD 19), for example, is an invasive carp movement bottleneck due to an impassable dam. Upstream fish passage at LD19 is restricted to the lock chamber, making it an optimal location to test invasive fish deterrents that could limit further range expansion. Evaluating the effectiveness of experimental deterrents requires baseline knowledge of fish movements and suitable sample sizes of fish encountering the deterrents to ensure adequate statistical power. Some evidence indicates fish with prior upstream experience may return upstream or challenge potential deterrents at a higher rate than fish without such experience. To test how previous upstream experience could increase the rate at which fish moved upstream through a navigation lock chamber, we compared upstream passage through LD 19 using bigheaded carp captured below the dam (downstream‐origin) and two groups of bigheaded carp captured upstream from the dam: those that swam downstream on their own volition (upstream‐origin fish) and those that were captured upstream and translocated downstream of LD 19 (translocated upstream‐origin). Translocated upstream‐origin carp demonstrated the highest rate of upstream passage, with 59% of the fish detected downstream from LD 19 passing upstream during our study. In contrast, downstream‐origin carp made no upstream passages over 2 years. Fish origin was shown to influence upstream passage success. This may be an important consideration for fish passage studies and deterrent evaluations.
What is (quantitative) system dynamics modeling? Defining characteristics and the opportunities they create
Authors: Naugle Asmeret , Langarudi Saeed , Clancy Timothy
Published: February 2024

A clear definition of system dynamics modeling can provide shared understanding and clarify the impact of the field. We introduce a set of characteristics that define quantitative system dynamics, selected to capture core philosophy, describe theoretical and practical principles, and apply to historical work but be flexible enough to remain relevant as the field progresses. The defining characteristics are: (1) models are based on causal feedback structure, (2) accumulations and delays are foundational, (3) models are equation‐based, (4) concept of time is continuous, and (5) analysis focuses on feedback dynamics. We discuss the implications of these principles and use them to identify research opportunities in which the system dynamics field can advance. These research opportunities include causality, disaggregation, data science and AI, and contributing to scientific advancement. Progress in these areas has the potential to improve both the science and practice of system dynamics. © 2024 The Authors. System Dynamics Review published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of System Dynamics Society.
Function‐Oriented Design of Amorphous MoS2 with Abundant Active Sites for High‐Efficiency Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Belhadj Hamza , Messaoudi Yazid , Khelladi Mohamed R. , Azizi Amor
Published: February 2024

Molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) has received great interest as a highly active and cost‐effective electrocatalyst for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). However, a main challenge for developing high‐efficiency electrocatalysts is to tailor the factors affecting the HER performance, such as composition, structure, and morphology. Herein, amorphous MoS2 electrodes with different Mo and S contents are successfully synthesized by the chemical bath deposition method using different molar ratios of Mo/S precursors (Mo/S: 4 : 1, 1 : 1 and 1 : 4) at various growth times. Experimental results indicate that the composition and the surface morphology of MoS2 are strongly sensitive to the Mo and S contents, which can create different surface roughness at the interface induced by growth times. The as‐prepared MoS2 electrode with a molar ratio of 1 : 4 exhibits superior HER activity in 1 M KOH, only requiring low overpotentials of 220 mV at 20 mA cm−2, which is much lower than those of MoS2 with a molar ratio of 1 : 1 (253 mV), and 4 : 1 (290 mV), respectively. This outstanding electrochemical performance of MoS2 (Mo/S, 1 : 4) with excellent long‐term stability can be attributed to its unique sulfur‐rich MoS2 nanosheet array structure with exposed abundant active sites, a high electrochemical active surface area (ECSA: 955.50 cm2) and superior roughness factor (RF: 3822).
Bio‐fabrication of Zinc oxide nanoparticles using Strobilanthes cordifolia: Characterization and evaluation of antioxidant, anti‐cholinergic, anti‐inflammatory and wound healing activities
Authors: Kirubakaran Dharmalingam , Selvam Kuppusamy , Subramanian Shivakumar Muthugounder , Rajkumar Manickam , Kannan Soundarapandian , Navina Balakrishnan
Published: February 2024

Strobilanthes cordifolia has emerged as a promising material in traditional medicine. In this study, we have made an attempt to synthesize zinc oxide nanoparticles derived from S. cordifolia leaf. The team employed a wide range of techniques including UV, FT‐IR, XRD, FE‐SEM with EDAX, HR‐TEM with SAED, DLS, Zeta potential, BET and PZC analysis to thoroughly examine the properties of the NPs. FTIR analysis provided evidence of various functional groups within the NPs. XRD analysis demonstrated the crystal nature and phase purity of the NPs. SEM analysis showcased the spherical shape of the particles, while TEM revealed their rod‐like shape with sizes averaging at approximately 10 nm. DLS analysis indicated the average particle size, and the high zeta potential value confirmed the stability and BET analysis deciphered the specific surface area of the biosynthesized NPs. The NPs confirmed strong antioxidant properties with DPPH, ABTS, and hydroxyl radicals. Enzyme studies confirmed good anti‐cholinergic activity and anti‐inflammatory efficacy, highlighting their potential therapeutic benefits. The NPs demonstrated promising wound healing properties. Overall, this research study sheds light on the medicinal aspects of zinc oxide nanoparticles from S. cordifolia leaf extract and it offers exciting prospects for future exploration and development in this field.
Electric Field‐induced Orientation of Carbon Nanomaterials in Dispersions
Authors: Du Jennifer Runhong , Zheng Jingfeng , Ma Kailai , Du Chunliang , Zhou Dechen
Published: February 2024

Carbon nanomaterials (CNMs) exhibit excellent performance and potential application value in optical, electric, magnetic and thermal owing to their unique low dimensional structures, high specific surface areas and excellent electrical conductivities, however, the random orientation of CNMs in polymer dispersions negatively affects their optimal performances. Herein, the orientation of CNMs induced by an electric field in dispersions was investigated. The arrangement of carbon black, carbon nanotubes and graphite nanoplatelets in solvents under an electric field was characterized using a stereoscopic microscope. The effects of solvent type, nanomaterial concentration and electric field conditions on the orientation of the CNMs were systematically investigated. The results showed that the CNMs generally exhibited good electric field‐induced orientations in solvents with a low relative dielectric constant. The orientation structure resulting from using an appropriate CNMs concentration was relatively uniform and continuous. In particular, a more regular orientation structure was achieved upon applying an electric field (100 V/mm; 1000 Hz) for 30 s. Interestingly, well‐oriented CNMs in a solvent can also orient in polymer dispersions that are soluble in such a solvent. This extension of the orientation of CNMs from solvents to polymer dispersion systems provides a novel idea for preparing high‐performance composites.
Fabrication of Cholesterol‐Imprinted Microspheres‐Based Metal‐Chelating Monomer for Cholesterol Recognition from Serum
Authors: Kachenton Supicha , Anuwongcharoen Nuttapat , Piacham Theeraphon
Published: February 2024

Cholesterol is an essential lipid molecule associated with various physiological and pathological processes in the human body. Elevated cholesterol levels are correlated with several diseases, such as atherosclerosis, making cholesterol a critical biomarker for health monitoring. Molecular imprinting technology was selected to fabricate cholesterol imprinted microsphere (CHOL‐IP). This approach creates tailor‐made binding sites within polymer matrices for capturing cholesterol. However, the limited functional group in steroid derivative pose a challenge for the imprinting strategy. In this study, we successfully synthesized CHOL‐IP using a metal chelating monomer, N,N′‐vinylbenzyl iminodiacetic acid (VBIDA), in conjunction with copper (II) ions. The metal coordination approach facilitated strong binding forces, resulting in improved stability and specificity of the molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP). The synthesized CHOL‐IP was tested with pooled human serum samples containing cholesterol, HDL, and LDL. The CHOL‐IP exhibited significantly higher binding efficiency towards these compounds compared to the control polymer (CP). The application of a metal‐chelating functional monomer in the synthesized CHOL‐IP revealed the potential for enhancing its strong binding property toward cholesterol. This suggests that CHOL‐IP could be employed in the development of a cholesterol‐imprinted biosensor, providing an alternative tool for cholesterol analysis in medical detection applications.
Cleavage of the Disulfide Bonds via Hydrogenolysis for Recovering Iso‐octyl Thioglycolate from Distillation Residue in Iso‐octyl Thioglycolate Production
Authors: Liu Yuqi , Han Yongke , Wang Jinghua , Cui Hongyou
Published: February 2024

About 10–15 wt% of distillation residue, which is mainly composed of the oxidation products of iso‐octyl thioglycolate, harmful to the environment and difficult to dispose, is generated during refining through distillation. Herein we report an effective approach to recover iso‐octyl thioglycolate from the distillation residue by hydrogenolysis of the disulphide bonds. The effects of reaction temperature, reaction time, and feeding speed were examined. It is found that the rate of hydrogen formation is a key factor affecting the yield of iso‐octyl thioglycolate. The orthogonal test shows that the influence order is: reaction time > mass ratio of distillation residue/HCl > the molar ratio of HCl/Zn > reaction temperature. About 63.64 % iso‐octyl thioglycolate could be harvested after hydrogenolysis at 30 °C for 3.0 h. The mechanism study shows that iso‐octyl thioglycolate was regenerated by cleavage the disulfide bonds in iso‐octyl thioglycolate disulfides. Therefore, an alternative way for resource utilization of iso‐octyl thioglycolate distillation residue was developed.
Green Synthesis and Biological Activities of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles using Ampelocissus martini Rhizome Extract
Authors: Vittaya Luksamee , Chalad Chakhriya , Sirimahachai Uraiwan
Published: February 2024

Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) were prepared by co‐precipitation of zinc acetate with Ampelocissus martini rhizome extract (AM). Four conformations of ZnO NPs were obtained by conjoined precipitation of sodium hydroxide, zinc acetate dihydrate, and AM: ZnO NPs‐01, ZnO NPs‐02, ZnO NPs‐03, and ZnO NPs‐04. The structure of ZnO NPs was confirmed by X‐Ray diffraction (XRD). Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analysis was conducted to identify functional groups. The formation and morphology of the synthesized ZnO NPs were confirmed by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE‐SEM) with Energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS) mapping, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Free radical scavenging activity was determined by 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picryl‐hydazyl‐hydrate (DPPH) and 2,2/‐azino‐bis‐(3‐ethylbenzothi‐azoline‐6‐sulfonic acid (ABTS) assays. Antibacterial activity was examined by disc diffusion analysis together with minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimal bactericidal concentration (MBC). ZnO NPs‐04 showed the highest inhibition in DPPH and ABTS assays and was active against E. coli and S. aureus with MICs=10 mg/mL and 5 mg/mL, respectively. These findings indicated that synthesized NPs could be utilized for several medicinal applications.
Synthesis and Characterization of Some Novel 18‐Membered‐Ring Tri‐Aza Macrocyclic Diamides Containing Appended Coumarin and their Derived Podands
Authors: Hosseini Hamideh , Shockravi Abbas
Published: February 2024

In this research, some new eighteen‐membered‐ring nitrogen‐pivot lariat ethers were synthesized from a tri‐aza macrocyclic diamide containing dibenzosulfide and a coumarin fragment as the sidearm. The aza‐macrocyclic compound used in the synthesis of lariat ethers was obtained from the reaction of dibenzosulfide diester and diethylenetriamine. The corresponding 3‐amidocoumarins were synthesized from the reaction of 3‐aminocoumarins and chloroacetyl chloride in good yields. Moreover, symmetrical bis coumarin podands were prepared by reacting a sulfide or sulfoxide monomer with 3‐amidocoumarin. The structures of the products were identified by IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and mass spectroscopies.
Design and Development of Stable Nanocrystalline High‐Entropy Alloy: Coupling Self‐Stabilization and Solute Grain Boundary Segregation Effects
Authors: Adaan‐Nyiak Moses A. , Alam Intekhab , Jossou Ericmoore , Hwang Sooyeon , Kisslinger Kim , Gill Simerjeet K. , Tiamiyu Ahmed A.
Published: February 2024

Grain growth is prevalent in nanocrystalline (NC) materials at low homologous temperatures. Solute element addition is used to offset excess energy that drives coarsening at grain boundaries (GBs), albeit mostly for simple binary alloys. This thermodynamic approach is considered complicated in multi‐component alloy systems due to complex pairwise interactions among alloying elements. Guided by empirical and GB‐segregation enthalpy considerations for binary‐alloy systems, a novel alloy design strategy, the “pseudo‐binary thermodynamic” approach, for stabilizing NC‐high entropy alloys (HEAs) and other multi‐component‐alloy variants is proposed. Using Al25Co25Cr25Fe25 as a model‐HEA to validate this approach, Zr, Sc, and Hf, are identified as the preferred solutes that would segregate to HEA‐GBs to stabilize it against growth. Using Zr, NC‐Al25Co25Cr25Fe25 HEAs with minor additions of Zr are synthesized, followed by annealing up to 1123 K. Using advanced characterization techniques— in situ X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning/transmission electron microscopy (S/TEM), and atom probe tomography, nanograin stability due to coupling self‐stabilization and solute‐GB segregation effects is reported in HEAs up to substantially high temperatures. The self‐stabilization effect originates from the preferential GB‐segregation of constituent HEA‐elements that stabilizes NC‐Al25Co25Cr25Fe25 up to 0.5Tm (Tm–melting temperature). Meanwhile, solute‐GB segregation originates from Zr segregation to NC‐Al25Co25Cr25Fe25 GBs; this results in further stabilization of the phase and grain‐size (≈14 nm) up to ≈0.58 and ≈0.64Tm, respectively.
Effective Reduction of CO2 with Aromatic Amines into N‐Formamides Triggered by Noble‐Free Metal–Organic Framework Catalysts Under Mild Conditions
Authors: Kang Xiaomin , Wang Zhiqiang , Shi Xinlei , Jiang Xiaolei , Liu Zhiliang , Zhao Bin
Published: February 2024

The reductive transformation of carbon dioxide (CO2) into high‐valued N‑formamides matches well with the atom economy and the sustainable development intention. Nevertheless, developing a noble‐free metal catalyst under mild reaction conditions is desirable and challenging. Herein, a caged metal–organic framework (MOFs) [H2N(CH3)2]2{[Ni3(µ3‐O)(XN)(BDC)3]·6DMF}n (1) (XN = 6″‐(pyridin‐4‐yl)‐4,2″:4″,4″′‐terpyridine), H2BDC = terephthalic acid) is harvested, presenting high thermal and chemical stabilities. Catalytic investigation reveals that 1 as a renewable noble‐free MOFs catalyst can catalyze the CO2 reduction conversion with aromatic amines tolerated by broad functional groups at least ten times, resulting in various formamides in excellent yields and selectivity under the mildest reaction system (room temperature and 1 bar CO2). Density functional theory (DFT) theoretical studies disclose the applicable reaction path, in which the CO2 hydrosilylation process is initiated by the [Ni3] cluster interaction with CO2 via η2‐C, O coordination mode. This work may open up an avenue to seek high‐efficiency noble‐free catalysts in CO2 chemical reduction into high value‐added chemicals.
Welding of S1100 Ultra high‐Strength Steel Plates with Matching Metal‐Cored Filler Wire: Microstructure, Residual Stresses, and Mechanical Properties
Authors: Tümer Mustafa , Pixner Florian , Vallant Rudolf , Warchomicka Fernando Gustavo , Domitner Josef , Enzinger Norbert
Published: February 2024

This study investigates the relationship between the microstructure and the mechanical properties and the residual stresses of thermomechanically rolled, butt‐welded S1100MC ultra high‐strength steel plates. Matching metal‐cored filler wires are used for metal active gas welding of the plates in horizontal and vertical‐up positions. The effect of the heat input on the microstructures of both the weld metal (WM) and the heat‐affected zone (HAZ) is studied in detail. The microstructure of the WM consists of different types of ferrite, but the microstructure of the HAZ predominantly consists of fresh martensite at the top and bottom areas. Structure and size of the prior austenite grain boundaries are dependent on the welding positions and affect the impact toughness of the welds. HAZ of the weld produced in vertical‐up position is under intensive tensile residual stresses next to the fusion line. Even with matching filler wires, the strength of the welds is insufficient, and fracture of the weld metal occurs because the extended cooling time leads to the formation of acicular ferrite instead of martensite.
Multifunctionalized and Dual‐Crosslinked Hydrogel Promotes Inflammation Resolution and Bone Regeneration via NLRP3 Inhibition in Periodontitis
Authors: Liu Yuyao , Yan Jiayin , Chen Luxian , Liao Yuwei , Huang Lijia , Tan Jiali
Published: February 2024

Alveolar bone resorption caused by bacteria‐induced periodontitis remains challenging due to sustained inflammation. Periodontal pathogens like Porphyromonas gingivalis launch the primed signal of NOD‐like receptor family pyrin domain‐containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome in macrophages; consequent overproduction of proinflammatory cytokines and reactive oxygen species (ROS) leads to tissue destruction. This provides potential targets for a new therapeutic strategy. Herein, a multifunctionalized and dual‐crosslinked hydrogel pGM/cPL@NI with NLRP3 inhibitor MCC950 loaded is prepared. Driven by the strategic functionalization of gelatin methacryloyl and ε‐poly‐lysine with phenylboronic acid and catechol, respectively, pGM/cPL@NI containing dynamic and photo‐crosslinking networks demonstrates superior mechanical strength and stimuli‐responsive behavior, as well as the overwhelmed performance in bacteria killing and ROS scavenging. Crucially, pGM/cPL@NI restores the compromised osteogenesis by specifically suppressing the proinflammatory cytokine cascade triggered by NLRP3 inflammasome activation and promoting anti‐inflammatory polarization of macrophages. Collectively, pGM/cPL@NI presents robust potential as an effective “cocktail therapy” by combining antibacterial, antioxidant, inflammation resolution, and tissue regenerative functions. The present study reveals the underlying mechanism of the bacterial‐immune‐regeneration cascade and provides an extended approach for periodontal tissue engineering.
The study of anti‐rabies virus effect of Shougong powder
Authors: Zhang Minmin , Fan Yun , Wang Xueliang , Wang Jinghua , Chen Rong , Pan Husheng , Xiao Yanqun , Wang Heyao , Huang Weigang , Wang Hualiang
Published: February 2024

Rabies is a lethal infectious disease caused by rabies virus (RABV). The mortality rate is very high after the appearance of clinical symptoms, with a survival rate of almost 0%. There is presently no cure for rabies. In the present study, we investigated whether the extract of Shougong powder—a calcium powder prepared from gecko that has demonstrated immunomodulatory properties in mice—is an effective treatment for rabies. The antiviral effects of the extract were evaluated both in vitro and in vivo with the cytotoxicity and antiviral assays and by immunofluorescence analysis, quantitative real‐time (qRT)‐PCR, and western blotting. The results showed that Shougong powder and its extract increased survival rate in RABV‐infected mice is up to 60% and 50%, respectively, even in 20 times of LD50, whereas the control groups treated with isoprinosine (IPS) or saline are only 20% and 0% survival (p = .011). qRT‐PCR and western blotting analyses showed that the extract strongly inhibited viral mRNA expression and protein synthesis in vitro: expression of the N, P, M, G, and L genes of RABV was decreased by 28.8%–45.0% in the IPS group (p < .05) and by 50.1%–59.0% in the extract group (p < .05) relative to the control group. These results demonstrate that Shougong powder has certain antiviral effects against RABV and can potentially be used for the treatment for rabies.
Use of subcostal and lateral transverse abdominal plane blocks as part of multimodal analgesia in a calf undergoing omphalitis surgical correction
Authors: Martin Bellido Valeria , Levionnois Olivier , Plüss Jeanette , Monticelli Paolo
Published: February 2024

This report describes the combined use of the ultrasound‐guided subcostal and lateral transversus abdominis blocks as part of the multimodal analgesia in a 3‐month‐old calf, presented for omphalitis surgical repair. It was premedicated with xylazine, anaesthesia was induced with ketamine and maintained by isoflurane in oxygen. The block was performed with lidocaine 2%, and flunixin meglumine was administered pre‐ and postoperatively. Postoperative pain was scored, and rescue analgesia was not required intra‐ and postoperatively. Pain assessment and multimodal analgesia are crucial in food‐producing animals. Employing bilateral ultrasound‐guided lateral and subcostal transversus abdominis plane block can prove advantageous as part of the multimodal analgesia protocol for calves undergoing umbilical surgeries. Furthermore, it is essential to delv into the discussion of lidocaine's toxic dosage when applied in locoregional techniques.
Reactivity of [ReOCl3(PPh3)2] Towards Substituted Anilines
Authors: Cvetković Olivera , Theiner Johannes , Wolff Mariusz J. , Hultzsch Kai C.
Published: February 2024

The reactivity of [ReOCl3(PPh3)2] towards o‐toluidine, m‐toluidine, o‐fluoroaniline, m‐fluoroaniline, p‐bromoaniline, p‐chloroaniline and p‐anisidine was examined and novel rhenium(V) imido complexes [Re(NC6H4R)Cl3(PPh3)2] (R=o‐Me, m‐Me, o‐F, m‐F, p‐Cl, p‐Br, p‐OMe) were obtained. The resulting products were characterized by elemental analysis, electrospray ionization high‐resolution mass spectrometry (ESI‐HRMS), 1H, 13C{1H}, 19F and 31P{1H} NMR, FT‐IR spectroscopy, and X‐ray crystallography. For m‐toluidine, m‐fluroaniline and p‐chloroaniline, the rhenium(V) imido‐amino mononuclear [Re(NC6H4R)Cl3(H2NC6H4R)(PPh3)] (R=m‐F, p‐Cl) complexes and the binuclear [{Re(m‐NC6H4Me)Cl2(m‐H2NC6H4Me)(PPh3)}2O] complex were isolated as side products and characterized by X‐ray crystallography. All six‐coordinate rhenium(V) complexes display distorted octahedral coordination geometry.
On convergence of a three‐layer semi‐discrete scheme for the non‐linear dynamic string equation of Kirchhoff‐type with time‐dependent coefficients
Authors: Rogava Jemal , Vashakidze Zurab
Published: February 2024

This paper considers the Cauchy problem for the non‐linear dynamic string equation of Kirchhoff‐type with time‐varying coefficients. The objective of this work is to develop a time‐domain discretization algorithm capable of approximating a solution to this initial‐boundary value problem. To this end, a symmetric three‐layer semi‐discrete scheme is employed with respect to the temporal variable, wherein the value of a non‐linear term is evaluated at the middle node point. This approach enables the numerical solutions per temporal step to be obtained by inverting the linear operators, yielding a system of second‐order linear ordinary differential equations. Local convergence of the proposed scheme is established, and it achieves quadratic convergence regarding the step size of the discretization of time on the local temporal interval. We have conducted several numerical experiments using the proposed algorithm for various test problems to validate its performance. It can be said that the obtained numerical results are in accordance with the theoretical findings.
Investigation on the thermo‐piezo‐flexoelectric energy harvesting performance of self‐powered microbeam devices considering strain gradient and dual‐phase‐lag effects
Authors: Gu Bingdong , He Ailing , He Tianhu , Ma Yongbin
Published: February 2024

Achieving renewable power for self‐powered electronic devices such as micro/nano‐electro‐mechanical systems is attractive in the fields of energy resources and environment, in this regard, dielectric material structures with excellent energy storage and electromechanical responses have stimulated a surge of research interest. However, in the micro/nanoscale filed, the existing thermo‐electromechanical continuum theories are not capable of fully and effectively characterizing the arising effects, for example, size‐dependent effect and heat lagging effect, etc. To further develop the existing theories, a theoretical prototype for piezo‐flexoelectricity by incorporating strain gradient effect and dual‐phase‐lag heat conduction model is proposed for the first time in this study, and then this proposed model is applied to investigating the energy harvesting performances of a piezo‐flexoelectric micro‐beam under piezoelectric‐thermoelastic coupling. In terms of the differential form of two‐phase elasticity and Hamilton's principle, the governing equations and the boundary conditions for the transverse vibration of a micro‐beam based on the Euler–Bernoulli beam model are derived. By means of the assumed mode method, the influences of the flexoelectricity, the load resistance and the strain gradient on voltage and output power are examined. From the obtained results, it can be aware of that this study not only presents the piezoelectric‐thermoelastic coupling effect of piezo‐flexoelectric configuration in microscale field, but also presents that a piezo‐flexoelectric system at microscale can generate higher power than that reported in previous works. It is hoped that this study could provide some guidelines in designing and optimizing dielectric energy harvesters of micro/nano electronic devices.
An innovative EFD using FBG pressure sensors for ship seakeeping
Authors: Suzuki Kantaro , Iwashita Hidetsugu , Kashiwagi Masashi , Wakahara Masahito , Iida Takahito , Minoura Munehiko
Published: February 2024

This paper examines the acquisition of the measurement data of the spatial distribution of unsteady pressure on a ship advancing in waves. The purpose of the study is to investigate the reliability of the pressure data obtained by the unprecedented experiment and to provide experimental data of unsteady pressure which can be used for validation of arbitrary computation methods. The optical fiber sensing technology, so-called FBG (fiber Bragg gratings) sensing, is employed as the pressure sensors. In the experiment, 379 FBG pressure sensors (version 7; the latest version) in total are attached to the port side surface of ship model and also ordinary strain-type pressure sensors are embedded in the starboard side for validating reliability of FBG pressure sensors by comparing both results. In addition to the pressure distribution, measurement is made for unsteady hydrodynamic forces such as added mass, damping coefficients, and wave exciting forces, and also for ship motions and added resistance. Most of the measurement is repeated at least five times for each condition, and results of measured pressures are evaluated with mean value and standard deviation. Regarding the added resistance, the distribution for estimating added resistance is also extracted from obtained pressure distribution and its pressure contour is illustrated to show visually which hull region affects the added resistance significantly. Validation of the measured pressure with FBG pressure sensors is carried out also by integrating measured pressures over the ship model surface and comparing it with forces directly measured with load cells. The measured pressure distribution is compared with typical calculation results with the Rankine panel method in frequency domain to demonstrate usefulness of the spatial pressure data for validating the calculation method. Through these studies, it is confirmed that the measured unsteady pressures with FBG pressure sensors are accurate enough and valuable as the validation data for any calculation method.
A high-resolution view of the heterogeneous aging endothelium
Authors: Dobner Sarah , Tóth Fanni , de Rooij Laura P. M. H.
Published: February 2024

Vascular endothelial cell (EC) aging has a strong impact on tissue perfusion and overall cardiovascular health. While studies confined to the investigation of aging-associated vascular readouts in one or a few tissues have already drastically expanded our understanding of EC aging, single-cell omics and other high-resolution profiling technologies have started to illuminate the intricate molecular changes underlying endothelial aging across diverse tissues and vascular beds at scale. In this review, we provide an overview of recent insights into the heterogeneous adaptations of the aging vascular endothelium. We address critical questions regarding tissue-specific and universal responses of the endothelium to the aging process, EC turnover dynamics throughout lifespan, and the differential susceptibility of ECs to acquiring aging-associated traits. In doing so, we underscore the transformative potential of single-cell approaches in advancing our comprehension of endothelial aging, essential to foster the development of future innovative therapeutic strategies for aging-associated vascular conditions.
Pharmaceutical retail supply chain responses to the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Schleifenheimer Maria , Ivanov Dmitry
Published: February 2024

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the importance of resilient supply chain and operations management in the pharmaceutical industry has intensified. A particular challenge has been the timely adaptation to rapid fluctuations in the business environment to cope with disruptions and ensure the adequate supply of medical equipment and pharmaceuticals. In this study, we perform a simulation-based analysis of pandemic-triggered impacts on pharmaceutical supply chains in Germany with the aim of examining supply chain response to the COVID-19 pandemic. To accomplish this, we build a digital supply chain model using a hybrid approach that combines case study analysis and discrete-event simulation implemented in anyLogistix. Based on the results, we propose a specific response action plan for the pharmaceutical industry that can be deployed in response to severe disruptions and pandemic-like crises. We also offer a resilience framework for the post-pandemic environment as a guideline for strategic decision-making.
Evidentiary Convincing and Evidentiary Fallacies
Authors: Popa Eugen Octav , Cârlan Alexandru I.
Published: February 2024

A convincing argument can change a discussant’s commitment regarding the acceptability of a claim, but the same effect can be achieved by examining evidence. Observing objects or events that count as evidence for or against the acceptability of a statement can change one’s commitment regarding that statement. If we speak of fallacies in the realm of convincing through argumentation, can we speak of fallacies in the realm of convincing through evidence? In this paper, we defend an affirmative answer. We introduce and discuss the conceptual implications of evidentiary fallacies as fallacies committed when evidence is fabricated or suppressed during an attempt to resolve disagreement using proof. We then apply the notion of evidentiary fallacy to two real-life examples of mis-executed evidentiary procedures. We conclude that the notion of evidentiary fallacy can contribute to a more comprehensive fallacy theory and can foster new and broadly applicable critical skills.