bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation on Psyllium Gum as a Bio‐Based Binder for Silicon Anode in Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Cingisiz Şebnem , Arca Emin , Demir‐Cakan Rezan
Published: September 2024

Silicon (Si) anode is of considerable interest in Li‐ion batteries due to its high theoretical capacity (4200 mAh g−1), abundant reserves in the earth, and environmentally friendly nature. Although Si anode has significant advantages, the electrode is prone to cracks due to large volume changes in its structure during discharge cycles in Li‐ion batteries. Rapid capacity degradation occurs as a result of deterioration of the structural integrity of the electrode. Although binders are known to contribute to improving the electrochemical performance of anode materials, polyvinylidene fluoride (PVdF) used in commercial Li‐ion batteries cannot maintain the mechanical stability of the Si anode during cycles due to weak Van der Waals interactions, which also dissolves in the flammable, explosive and volatile solvent N‐Methyl‐2‐pyrrolidone (NMP). In this study, low cost, sustainable and environmentally green psyllium gum (PG) was extracted from psyllium husk and tested for the first time as a water‐soluble binder for Si anode. According to galvanostatic charge/discharge tests, the Si‐PG anode exhibits a capacity of 1415 mAh g−1 after 100 cycles at a voltage range of 0.01–1.5 V and current density of C/2, which is almost 3 times higher than the Si‐PVdF anode (494 mAh g−1).
Proton Conduction via Water and Ammonia Coordinated Metal Cationic Species in MOF and MHOF Platforms
Authors: Pramanik Bikram , Sahoo Rupam , Yoshida Yukihiro , Manna Arun K. , Kitagawa Hiroshi , Das Madhab C.
Published: September 2024

Although metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) and metalo hydrogen‐bonded organic frameworks (MHOFs) are designed as promising solid‐state proton conductors by incorporating various protonic species intrinsically or extrinsically, design and development of such materials by employing the concept of proton conduction through coordinated polar protic solvent is largely unexplored. Herein, we have constructed two proton‐conducting materials having different solvent coordinated metal cationic species: In‐H2O‐MOF, ({[In(H2O)6][In3(Pzdc)6] ⋅ 15H2O}n; H2Pzdc: pyrazine‐2,3‐dicarboxylic acid) with coordinated water molecules from hexaaquaindium cationic species, and MHOF‐4, ([{Co(NH3)6}2(2,6‐NDS)2(H2O)2]n; 2,6‐H2NDS: 2,6‐naphthalenedisulfonic acid) with coordinated ammonia from hexaammoniacobalt cationic species. Interestingly, higher proton conductivity was achieved for In‐H2O‐MOF (1.5×10−5 S cm−1) than MHOF‐4 (6.3×10−6 S cm−1) under the extreme conditions (80 °C and 95 % RH), which could be attributed to enhanced acidity of coordinated water molecules having much lower pKa value than that of coordinated ammonia. Greater charge polarization on hydrogen atoms of In3+‐coordinated water molecules than that of Co2+‐coordinated ammonia led to the high conductivity of In‐H2O‐MOF, as evident by quantum chemical studies. Such a comparative study on metal‐coordinated protic polar solvents in achieving proton conduction in crystalline solids is yet to be made.
Clinical benefit and fragility evaluation of systemic therapy trials for advanced soft tissue sarcoma
Authors: Braik Dina , Lemieux Christopher , Wilson Brooke E. , Salawu Abdulazeez , Abdul Razak Albiruni R.
Published: September 2024

Background

The clinical benefit of systemic anticancer therapies can be unclear despite positive trials, and outcomes may not translate to real‐world practice. This study evaluated the benefit of soft tissue sarcoma (STS) treatments using the European Society of Medical Oncology Magnitude of Clinical Benefit Scale (MCBS) v1.1 and measured the robustness of STS trial results using Fragility Index (FI).

Methods

Database searches for adult phase II or III trials in advanced STS (January 1998–December 2023) were performed. Therapies with trial outcomes that met the criteria for MCBS were scored 1–5 (≥4 represents substantial clinical benefit). For randomized clinical trials with positive time‐to‐event endpoints, the number of additional events that would render results nonsignificant, FI, was calculated and expressed as a proportion of the experimental arm size (fragility quotient [FQ]). Higher FI/FQ implies more robust results.

Results

Among 194 trials, 19 (9.8%) were phase III. Most phase II trials (146/175; 83.4%) had single‐arm or non‐comparative design. Trials that were eligible for MCBS scoring (n = 78; 40.2%) evaluated 56 different agents/regimens. Median MCBS score was 2. Only three agents/regimens (all cytotoxic therapies) had an MCBS score ≥4. Among 47 randomized clinical trials, 16 (8 phase II; 8 phase III) trials had positive outcomes. Median FI was 7 (range, 2–52) and 10 trials (62.5%) had an FQ < 10%, with median of 7% (range, 1%–59%).

Conclusions

Most systemic therapies in STS trials did not confer substantial clinical benefit per European Society of Medical Oncology‐MCBS. Additionally, positive randomized trials were often fragile. Novel STS therapy trials should use clinically meaningful endpoints and real‐world efficacy confirmation is essential, especially for less robust trials.
Self‐Templating Synthesis of Mesoporous Carbon Cathode Materials for High‐Performance Lithium‐Ion Capacitors
Authors: Liu Heqiang , Zhang Xiong , Li Chen , Zhao Shasha , An Yabin , Sun Xianzhong , Wang Kai , Ma Yanwei
Published: September 2024

Lithium‐ion capacitors (LICs) have attracted considerable interest because of their excellent power and energy densities. However, the development of LICs is limited by the low capacity of the cathode and the kinetics mismatch between the cathode and anode. In this work, mesoporous carbon materials (MCs) with uniform pore sizes were prepared using magnesium citrate as the raw material through a self‐templating method. During the carbonization process, MgO nanoparticles generated from magnesium citrate act as a template, resulting in a more orderly pore structure. The resultant MCs demonstrate a high specific surface area of 1673 m2 g−1 and an abundance of small mesopores, which significantly accelerated ion migration within the electrolyte and expedited the formation of electric double layers. Benefiting from these advantages, the MCs cathode demonstrates a high reversible specific capacity, excellent cycling stability, and rate performance. The assembled MCs‐based LIC provides a high energy density of 152.2 Wh kg−1 and a high power density of 14.3 kW kg−1. After 5000 cycles, a capacity retention rate of 80 % at the current density of 1 A g−1 is obtained. These results highlight the excellent potential of MCs as a cathode material for LICs.
Implementation of optimal routing in heterogeneous wireless sensor network with multi‐channel Media Access Control protocol using Enhanced Henry Gas Solubility Optimizer
Authors: Kumar D. Pravin , Kumar P. Ganesh
Published: September 2024

The majority of wireless sensor network (WSN) systems include multiple data traffic with different service requirements. Small batteries are used to supply energy to the sensor nodes. This research work explores a new optimal hybrid MAC protocol for heterogeneous WSN to carry out efficient routing. The major intention of the designed protocol is the incorporation of features of both IEEE 802.15.4 and Low‐Energy Adaptive Clustering Hierarchy (LEACH) to solve the challenges. The energy‐saving circuit is adopted by predetermining the cluster heads (CHs), whereas the usual nodes are powered by a battery. Thus, it is suggested to extend the lifespan of network operation, where the designed hybrid protocol is intended to transfer the essential activities to the elected cluster heads when reducing the activity of the nodes. Here, a new optimizer known as the Enhanced Henry Gas Solubility Optimization (EHGSO) algorithm is suggested for selecting the cluster heads and also for promoting the IEEE 802.15.4 protocol. This protocol is assisted to ensure performance regarding self‐healing, scalability, self‐reconfigurability, and energy efficiency. Thus, the performance evaluation is conducted in terms of various performance measures like throughput and energy consumption over the Adaptive Leach Protocol and multi‐channel MAC protocol with IEEE 802.15.4.
Synthesis and Reactivity of the Amino‐Functionalized β‐Diketiminate Ligand Stabilized Germylene and Stannylene
Authors: Sun Tianyi , Kong Cheng , Wu Linlin , Wang Hao
Published: September 2024

Amino‐functionalized β‐diketiminate stabilized chlorogermylene 1 and chlorostannylene 2 have been prepared and structurally characterized. The reactions of 1 or 2 with KOtBu afforded the β‐diketiminate stabilized tert‐butoxygermylene 3 and tert‐butoxystannylene 4, respectively. On the other hand, the reaction of 2 with LiN(SiMe3)2 led to the isolation of the bis‐stannylene 5 containing a four‐membered Sn2N2 ring. All new compounds have been characterized by multiple NMR spectroscopy and single crystal X‐ray analysis.
Water–triglyceride interfaces limit permeability and diffusion of aroma molecules in butter
Authors: Koch Tobias Benedikt , Briesen Heiko
Published: September 2024

Insight into the dynamics of aroma molecules in bulk phases and at water–triglyceride interfaces is crucial for elucidating the aroma release mechanisms in complex dairy products such as butter. This study employs classical, all‐atom molecular dynamics simulations with umbrella sampling to investigate the energetics and kinetics of key aroma‐active compounds, including diacetyl, ‐decalactone, and butyric acid, at interfaces of 1,3‐dipalmitoyl‐2‐oleoylglycerol (POP) in water. The chemical properties of aroma compounds, including polarity, hydrogen bonding, and van der Waals interactions, play a pivotal role in their interaction with interfacial molecules, resulting in unique profiles of the potential of mean force and diffusivity. In particular, ‐decalactone preferentially resides at the interface and accumulates in the triglyceride phase. Aroma permeability through the complexly organized water–triglyceride interface significantly decreases from ‐decalactone to butyric acid, with a less pronounced reduction for diacetyl. Surprisingly, this trend in aroma permeability at interfaces does not coincide with trends in aroma diffusion within both pure bulk phases. This discrepancy is attributed to local, heterogeneous molecular structuring at water–triglyceride interfaces, impeding the interfacial permeation processes and leading to local aroma confinement.

Practical Application: Employing a water–POP interface as a case study, the methodology investigates aroma compound diffusion within bulk phases, delineating limitations in aroma permeability in dairy products with extended water–triglyceride interfaces. This is a substep in the aroma release process, contributing to the interpretation of perception studies by sensory panels in human sensory experiments and fostering a deeper understanding of the intricate dynamics inherent to individual compounds.
Merging New and Old Concepts: Tandem Oxidative Radical‐Polar Crossover Ritter Amidation via Multicomponent Photo‐ and Electrochemical Processes
Authors: Lepori Mattia , Dey Indrasish , Pratley Cassie , Barham Joshua P.
Published: September 2024

Nitrogen‐containing drug molecules and pharmaceuticals are ubiquitous, rendering the construction of C−N bonds a crucial target in methodology development. The Ritter reaction is a well‐established method for accessing C−N bonds by generating amide functionality through the reaction of carbocations and nitriles. Since its discovery back in 1948, the Ritter reaction has progressively advanced towards milder and more sustainable conditions for carbocation generation. In this regard, notable contributions have been made by means of single electron transfer (SET) chemistry. Nowadays, photo‐ and electrochemistry are established methods of choice for the generation of reactive radical intermediates and their subsequent oxidation via radical‐polar crossover (RPC) mechanism. We review recent examples of tandem RPC and Ritter‐type protocols, demonstrating how photo‐ and electrochemical energies have been effectively harvested to expand the precursor pool for the Ritter reaction as well as reimagining the process with novel mechanisms and additives.
Electrochemical Hydrogenation of N‐Heterocycles and Related Substrates: A Mini‐Review
Authors: Garcia‐Torres Esteban , Herbert David E.
Published: September 2024

Catalytic hydrogenation refers to the (often) metal‐mediated addition of dihydrogen (H2) equivalents to unsaturated compounds to form new element‐hydrogen bonds. This conceptually simple reaction is ubiquitous in the production of a vast number of essential chemicals. Despite a growing recognition of the importance of sustainability in manufacturing, the use of fossil‐derived hydrogen gas and precious metal catalysts in hydrogenation remains widespread. Electrochemical variants of these processes are an appealing alternative, especially those that can make use of sustainable Brønsted acids, more abundant electrode materials and renewable electricity. In this mini‐review, we give a selective overview of electrochemical hydrogenation methodologies for N‐heterocycles and some related substrates from the specific perspective of the synthetic chemistry made possible by this increasingly popular approach.
Semi‐implicit Lagrangian Voronoi approximation for the incompressible Navier–Stokes equations
Authors: Kincl Ondřej , Peshkov Ilya , Boscheri Walter
Published: September 2024

We introduce semi‐implicit Lagrangian Voronoi approximation (SILVA), a novel numerical method for the solution of the incompressible Euler and Navier–Stokes equations, which combines the efficiency of semi‐implicit time marching schemes with the robustness of time‐dependent Voronoi tessellations. In SILVA, the numerical solution is stored at particles, which move with the fluid velocity and also play the role of the generators of the computational mesh. The Voronoi mesh is rapidly regenerated at each time step, allowing large deformations with topology changes. As opposed to the reconnection‐based Arbitrary‐Lagrangian‐Eulerian schemes, we need no remapping stage. A semi‐implicit scheme is devised in the context of moving Voronoi meshes to project the velocity field onto a divergence‐free manifold. We validate SILVA by illustrative benchmarks, including viscous, inviscid, and multi‐phase flows. Compared to its closest competitor, the Incompressible Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics method, SILVA offers a sparser stiffness matrix and facilitates the implementation of no‐slip and free‐slip boundary conditions.
Low‐Level BCR::ABL1 Transcript at Diagnosis in Childhood Leukemia: A 10‐Year Single Institution Study
Authors: Cain Lucy E. , Mirochnik Oksana , Stevens Michael M. , Kellie Stewart J. , Padhye Bhavna , Keogh Steven J. , Govender Dinisha , Ryan Jessica , Dalla‐Pozza Luciano , Bateman Caroline M.
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Philadelphia chromosome‐positive (Ph+) acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is a high risk form of ALL associated with dismal outcomes in the pre‐tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) era. Addition of a TKI to chemotherapy improves outcomes. Therefore, testing for the presence of the Philadelphia chromosome by at least two methods at the time of diagnosis is critical. Diagnostic testing may include karyotype, fluorescent in situ hybridisation (FISH), and RT‐PCR for the BCR::ABL1 transcript. The significance of low‐level BCR::ABL1 transcript by RT‐PCR in the absence of the Philadelphia chromosome on karyotype or by FISH is unknown.

Methods

This is a retrospective review of children diagnosed with acute leukemia at our institution from 2010 to 2020. Those positive for the BCR::ABL1 transcript by qualitative RT‐PCR, and negative for t(9;22) by karyotype or FISH were analyzed for demographics, cytogenetic and molecular features at diagnosis and relapse, treatment and outcomes. The Kaplan–Meier method was used to estimate event‐free and overall survival.

Results

Forty‐seven of 306 (15%) patients with Ph‐ ALL had low‐level BCR::ABL1 detected by RT‐PCR. Most (77%) had B‐cell ALL. The e1a2 transcript was detected most frequently, in 43 (91%) patients. BCR::ABL1 was quantifiable in 12/43 (28%) patients, with a median of 0.0008% (range 0.0003–0.095%). Seven patients (15%) relapsed. No patient with low‐level BCR::ABL1 at diagnosis developed Ph + ALL at relapse. There was no difference in 5‐year event‐free (77% versus 81%, p = 0.407) or overall survival (86% versus 91%, p = 0.3) between children with low‐level BCR::ABL1 (n = 47) and those without (n = 259).

Conclusion

BCR::ABL1 low‐level positivity in children with newly diagnosed Ph‐ ALL is a relatively common finding and did not adversely affect outcome for patients treated using a contemporary risk‐adapted approach.
Timing of percutaneous coronary intervention and risk of new‐onset acute ischemic stroke in non‐ST elevation myocardial infarction: A retrospective cohort study insight into the National Inpatient Sample Database (2016–2019)
Authors: Shi Bo , Ma Xueping , Ye Congyan , Yan Rui , Fu Shizhe , Wang Kairu , Cui Mingzhi , Yan Ru , Jia Shaobin , Cong Guangzhi
Published: September 2024

Background and Aims

For patients with high‐risk non‐ST elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI), current guidelines recommend an early invasive strategy within 24 h. New‐onset acute ischemic stroke (NAIS) is a rare but fatal complication of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). However, the effect of the timing of PCI and the risk of NAIS in NSTEMI is poorly defined.

Methods

Patients with NSTEMI who underwent PCI were queried from the National Inpatient Sample Database (2016–2019) and stratified into three groups: early (<24 h), medium (24–72 h), and late (>72 h) PCI. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to determine the association between timing of PCI and NAIS.

Results

Among 633,115 weighted hospitalizations, patients in the late PCI group had a higher incidence of NAIS (1.3%) than those in the early (0.67%) and medium (0.71%) PCI groups. Patients undergoing late PCI were older, more likely to be female, and had a greater incidence of comorbidities (e.g., diabetes mellitus, chronic pulmonary and renal illness, and atrial fibrillation) than those undergoing early or medium PCI. After adjustment, only late PCI was significantly associated with a 54% increased NAIS risk (adjusted odds ratio: 1.54 [95% confidence interval: 1.29–1.84]). Additionally, there was heterogeneity in the magnitude of risk by age and sex. Younger people (<65 years) (p for interaction <0.001) and men (interaction‐value p = 0.040) were more likely to encounter NAIS.

Conclusion

Late PCI was associated with a higher risk of NAIS than early PCI, particularly among men and those aged <65 years.
Uropathogens and their antibiotic susceptibility patterns among diabetic patients at st. john of god hospital, duayaw nkwanta, Ghana: a cross‐sectional study
Authors: Iddrisu Abdul‐Karim , Owusu George , Doe Samuel Kofi , Yeboah Augustine Apraku , Agyapong Joseph , Yankey Nicholas
Published: September 2024

Background

Uropathogens are microorganisms that cause urinary tract infections (UTIs). Owing to higher blood glucose levels and compromised immune functions, treatment of uropathogens in diabetic patients is a challenge.

Aim

This study aims to assess the prevalence of uropathogens and their antibiotic susceptibility among diabetic patients at St. John of God Hospital at Duayaw Nkwanta (SJGHDN) in the Ahafo region of Ghana.

Methods

The cross‐sectional study recruited 175 diabetic patients at SJGHDN between August and September 2023. Questionnaires were used to collect patients’ background information. Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS) was assessed by using a glucometer. Urine samples were examined for the presence of uropathogens. A sterile inoculating loop with a calibrated volume of 2 µl was used for plating. Each colony equals 500 CFU/mL. Significant uropathogen was determined by multiplying the counted colonies by 500 to obtain CFU/mL. Positive uropathogen was defined as CFU ≥ 105/mL. Significant uropathogen was defined as ≥200 colonies per sample. The disc diffusion method was used to determine antibiotic susceptibility.

Results

Out of the 175 patients, 19.4% expressed various uropathogens with Escherichia coli being the predominant. Suboptimal glucose level was the most significant risk factor (p = 0.038). Glucosuria (p = 0.036), hazy urine (p = 0.028), positive leukocyte esterase (p = 0.001), and pus cells in urine sediment (p = 0.020) were significant indicators of uropathogen occurrence. Klebsiella pneumonia and Proteus mirabilis were resistant to ≥4 antibiotics. Amikacin, nitrofurantoin, levofloxacin, ciprofloxacin, and ceftriaxone demonstrated efficacy against the isolates.

Conclusion

This study underscores the notable prevalence of uropathogens in diabetic patients and the alarming levels of antibiotic resistance observed. The results highlight the critical need for vigilant monitoring and customized treatment approaches, particularly for diabetic patients exhibiting risk factors such as elevated urine glucose levels, cloudy urine, and presence of leukocyte esterase and pus cells in urine sediment. The significant resistance to frequently used antibiotics like co‐trimoxazole and tetracycline points to the necessity of routine susceptibility testing and the use of alternative antibiotics for effective treatment. These findings can assist healthcare providers in more effectively managing and preventing UTIs in diabetic populations.
Bisexual minority stress as a risk factor for sexual violence‐related posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms among bisexual+ women: A multilevel analysis
Authors: Salim Selime R. , Harper Kelly L. , Livingston Nicholas A. , Feinstein Brian A. , Messman Terri L.
Published: September 2024

Bisexual+ (e.g., bisexual, pansexual, queer) women experience higher rates of sexual violence (SV) and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) than heterosexual and lesbian women, as well as unique identity‐related minority stress. We examined between‐ and within‐person associations between bisexual minority stress and PTSD symptoms related to SV in a sample of young bisexual+ women (N = 133) who reported adult SV (Mage = 22.0 years, range: 18–25 years; 85.0% White; 99.3% cisgender). We analyzed data from four waves of data collection (baseline to 3‐month follow‐up) using multilevel models. Controlling for SV severity, there was a significant within‐person effect of antibisexual stigma from lesbian/gay people on PTSD, β = .17, p = .010, suggesting that at waves when women experienced more stigma, they also reported higher PTSD symptom levels. At the between‐person level, women who reported higher levels of antibisexual stigma from heterosexual people, β = .26, p = .043, and anticipated binegativity, β = .29, p = .005, on average across study waves also reported higher average levels of PTSD. Additionally, anticipated binegativity explained the association between average antibisexual stigma and PTSD, β = .15, p = .014, 95% CI [0.45, 4.61]. Bisexual minority stress may be associated with higher PTSD symptom severity following SV among young bisexual+ women, and the anticipation of binegativity may be a target mechanism in this association. Study findings highlight the importance of examining the joint contributions of SV and minority stress to identify novel targets for future research and practice to address PTSD symptoms.
Source partitioning of dissolved inorganic carbon addition to Pacific Winter Water in the western Arctic Ocean
Authors: Ouyang Zhangxian , Fujiwara Amane , Nishino Shigeto , Murata Akihiko , Li Qian , Hatta Mariko , Li Yun , Hussain Najid , Cai Wei‐Jun
Published: September 2024

Pacific Winter Water (PWW) with high dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) is the key water mass in which subsurface acidification occurs in the western Arctic Ocean. To investigate and partition carbon sources added to PWW across the Chukchi shelf to the adjacent Canada Basin, we investigated the distributions of DIC and its stable isotope (δ13C‐DIC) with other hydrographic and biogeochemical parameters during the Mirai cruise in the late summer of 2021. Using a four‐end‐member mixing model, we deciphered the water masses and separated DIC changes induced by biological processes from those induced by conservative mixing. We demonstrated that DIC dynamics in PWW were mainly controlled by the biological decomposition of organic carbon (OC). A mass balance model analysis of DIC and δ13C‐DIC suggested that the apparent δ13C signature of the respired organic carbon (δ13COCx) within PWW was −22.2‰ ± 1.1‰ on the shelf and −25.6‰ ± 1.6‰ in the basin. Therefore, we concluded that marine‐origin OC was the dominant carbon source that was decomposed in the Chukchi shelf bottom water, while respired terrestrial‐origin carbon made a major contribution to DIC pool in the basin PWW. We proposed that terrestrial OC from the Chukchi and Beaufort coastal seas could be an important carbon source, which was associated with winter water formation on the shelves and influenced by Beaufort Gyre state shift and circulation changes. This unconventional finding has important ramifications for the prediction of the future state of ocean acidification in the western Arctic Ocean.
Microwave Radiation Assisted Construction of Fused Deposition Modeling 3D Printing Flexible Sensors
Authors: Hu Xueling , Zheng Yanling , Kuzhandaivel Dhandapani , Ding Xiaohong , Wu Lixin , Wang Jianlei , Lin Xianliang , Hu Xiaoyong , Zhang Xu
Published: September 2024

With the rapid development of the internet of things, the simple preparation of sensors has become a challenge. The present work presents the simple preparation of flexible sensors by using the fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D printing combined with the microwave radiation‐assisted treatment of the thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) with carbon nanotubes (CNTs) as conductive fillers to create the flexible sensors. The as‐prepared TPU/CNT composites exhibit the 7.27 MPa tensile strength and 401% elongation at break, similar to those of the pure TPU. After 200 tensile cycles, the TPU/CNT composites can still stably convert pressure into electrical signals, which can be used as flexible sensors with high sensitivity (0.879 kPa−1). In addition, shoe insoles and finger cover with sensing performance are fabricated through the FDM 3D printing technology, demonstrating the potential of the sensors to monitor human gait, finger straightening, and bending movements. The as‐proposed method involves the embedding CNTs as conductive fillers on the surface of TPU to form the TPU/CNT composite conductive layers on the surface of TPU, which is beneficial for maintaining the elasticity of the polymer matrix. The challenges in preparing stable, low‐cost, and scalable flexible sensors and highlights of the advantages of 3D printing technology in manufacturing flexible piezoresistive sensors are also deeply discussed.
A Novel Curcumin‐Loaded Nanoplatform Alleviates Osteoarthritis by Inhibiting Chondrocyte Ferroptosis
Authors: Sheng Weibei , Li Aikang , Yue Yaohang , Wang Qichang , Yu Fei , Weng Jian , Lin Jianjing , Chen Yingqi , Zeng Hui , Wang Deli , Yang Jun , Liu Peng
Published: September 2024

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic degenerative joint disease characterized by the degradation of articular cartilage. Recent studies have demonstrated that chondrocyte ferroptosis plays a crucial role in the progression of OA. Consequently, developing nanomedicines that suppress chondrocyte ferroptosis is a promising strategy for OA treatment. However, there are few reports on nanomedicines specifically targeting chondrocyte ferroptosis for OA therapy. In this study, Curcumin‐loaded nanoparticles (Cur‐NPs) are fabricated to suppress chondrocyte ferroptosis by regulating reactive oxygen species (ROS), ferrous ion (Fe2⁺), and Acyl‐CoA Synthetase Long‐Chain Family Member 4 (ACSL4) levels of chondrocyte. This is achieved by combining the functions of curcumin and an amphiphilic block copolymer with ROS scavenging and iron‐chelating properties. The in vitro anti‐ferroptotic effects of Cur‐NPs are thoroughly investigated. The findings indicate that Cur‐NPs decrease the expression of ferroptosis markers such as ROS, Fe2⁺, and ACSL4, while protecting the mitochondrial membrane potential of chondrocytes. Additionally, Cur‐NPs attenuated lipid peroxidation in chondrocytes. Furthermore, Cur‐NPs significantly reduced the expression of the catabolic factor Matrix Metallopeptidase 13 (MMP13) and increased the expression of the anabolic factor Collagen type II (Col II) in vitro. This study demonstrates that Cur‐NPs exhibit enhanced chondroprotective effects through anti‐ferroptotic actions, presenting a promising approach for inhibiting chondrocyte ferroptosis using bioactive nanomaterials in OA treatment.
Deep learning‐based prediction of the dose–volume histograms for volumetric modulated arc therapy of left‐sided breast cancer
Authors: Leino Akseli , Heikkilä Janne , Virén Tuomas , Honkanen Juuso T. J. , Seppälä Jan , Korkalainen Henri
Published: September 2024

Background

The advancements in artificial intelligence and computational power have made deep learning an attractive tool for radiotherapy treatment planning. Deep learning has the potential to significantly simplify the trial‐and‐error process involved in inverse planning required by modern treatment techniques such as volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT). In this study, we explore the ability of deep learning to predict organ‐at‐risk (OAR) dose–volume histograms (DVHs) of left‐sided breast cancer patients undergoing VMAT treatment based solely on their anatomical characteristics. The predicted DVHs could be used to derive patient‐specific dose constraints and dose objectives, streamlining the treatment planning process, standardizing the quality of the plans, and personalizing the treatment planning.

Purpose

This study aimed to develop a deep learning‐based framework for the prediction of organ‐specific dose–volume histograms (DVH) based on structures delineated for left‐sided breast cancer treatment.

Methods

We used a dataset of 249 left‐sided breast cancer patients treated with tangential VMAT fields. We extracted delineated structures and dose distributions for each patient and derived slice‐by‐slice DVHs for planning target volume (PTV) and organs‐at‐risk. The patients were divided into training (70%, n = 174), validation (10%, n = 24), and test (20%, n = 51) sets. Collected data were used to train a deep learning model for the prediction of the DVHs based on the delineated structures. The developed deep learning model comprised a modified DenseNet architecture followed by a recurrent neural network.

Results

In the independent test set (n = 51), the point‐wise differences in the slice‐by‐slice DVHs between the clinical and predicted DVHs were small; the mean squared errors were 3.53, 1.58, 2.28, 3.37, and 1.44 [×10−4] for PTV, heart, ipsilateral lung, contralateral lung, and contralateral breast, respectively. With the derived cumulative DVHs, the mean absolute difference ± standard deviation of mean doses between the clinical and the predicted DVH were 0.08 ± 0.04 Gy, 0.24 ± 0.22 Gy, 0.73 ± 0.46 Gy, 0.07 ± 0.06 Gy, and 0.14 ± 0.14 Gy for PTV, heart, ipsilateral lung, contralateral lung, and contralateral breast, respectively.

Conclusions

The deep learning‐based approach enabled automatic and reliable prediction of the DVH based on delineated structures. The predicted DVHs could potentially serve as patient‐specific clinical goals used to aid treatment planning and avoid suboptimal plans or to derive optimization objectives and constraints for automated treatment planning.
Optimization of reconstruction in quantitative brain PET images: Benefits from PSF modeling and correction of edge artifacts
Authors: Verrecchia‐Ramos Emilie , Ginet Merwan , Morel Olivier , Engels‐Deutsch Marc , Ben Mahmoud Sinan , Retif Paul
Published: September 2024

Background

Modern PET reconstruction algorithms incorporate point‐spread‐function (PSF) correction to mitigate partial volume effect. However, PSF correction can introduce edge artifacts that lead to quantification errors. Consequently, current international guidelines advise against using PSF correction in brain PET reconstruction.

Purpose

We aimed to investigate PSF‐induced quantification errors in recent digital PET systems and identify conditions that mitigate them. This study utilized brain PET imaging with alginate‐based realistic phantoms, simulating lesion‐to‐background activity ratios of 10:1 and 2:1, with eleven reconstruction parameter sets.

Methods

Phantoms were prepared using a commercial anthropomorphic head phantom and two homemade inserts. Each insert contained a homogeneous 18F‐FDG alginate background with hot spheres of varying diameter (3, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, and 15 mm). PET imaging was conducted on a digital PET‐CT system Biograph Vision 600 (Siemens), with a 10 min scan duration. Imaging was performed with and without PSF correction, with 2, 4, 6, 12, 18, or 24 iterations in reconstruction, and with or without additional Gaussian postfiltering. We assessed the recovery coefficient (RC), contrast recovery coefficient (CRC), variability, and CRC‐to‐variability ratios for each sphere size and reconstruction parameter set.

Results

PSF‐corrected images of the 10:1 spheres exhibited a nonmonotonic CRC‐to‐sphere diameter relationship due to edge artifacts overshoot in the 10 mm‐diameter sphere. In contrast, PSF images of the 2:1 spheres showed a monotonically increasing relationship. Non‐PSF images of both phantoms showed an expected monotonically increasing CRC‐to‐sphere diameter relationship but with lower CRC values compared to PSF images. The nonmonotonic relationship observed with 10:1 spheres was mitigated by applying a 3‐mm FWHM Gaussian postfiltering. For both phantoms, reconstructions with 6 iterations, PSF correction, and additional 3‐mm FWHM Gaussian postfiltering demonstrated the highest CRC‐to‐variability ratios.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that Gaussian postfiltering suppresses PSF artifacts. This parameter set corrected the nonmonotonic CRC‐to‐sphere diameter relationship and improved the CRC‐to‐variability ratio compared to non‐PSF reconstructions. Therefore, to enhance lesion detectability without compromising quantification accuracy, PSF correction coupled with Gaussian postfiltering should be used in brain PET.
Calibration of a hybrid sea ice model during an expedition to the Arctic
Authors: Mehlmann Carolin , Richter Thomas
Published: September 2024

We describe the acquisition and evaluation of data during the ArcWatch II expedition into the Arctic Ocean on board of the icebreaker Polarstern. The data is used to calibrate a hybrid sea ice model that focuses on modeling the marginal ice zone, which is the transition zone between pack ice and the open ocean. We describe the experimental setup used to track the motion of individual ice floes as well as the measurement of the wind and the ocean current. In the literature, the motion of an ice floe in the free‐drift regime is often estimated by Nansen's rule of thumb, which assumes the sea ice drifts at of the wind speed, deflected up to in clockwise direction. Analyzing the first datasets, we noticed that observed small ice floes in free drift often have a larger relative angle to the wind direction. Based on numerical simulation we quantify that these larger angles are related to the geometry of larger sea ice floes in the vicinity of the observed ice floe. These large icefloes influence the ocean current, which in turn, impacts the motion of the small ice floes in the surrounding.
Development of a kinematic model for a free kinematic forming process to compute the tool trajectory
Authors: Ekanayaka Virama , Hürkamp André , Dröder Klaus
Published: September 2024

In the production of hybrid composites made of thermoplast and metal sheets, certain limitations in the linear forming process can be overcome through a free kinematic forming process. This process involves distributing the thermoplast press mass using a tumbling or cyclic rolling movement of the forming tool. Due to this special kinematics, only a small part of the tool is ever in engagement with the workpiece, so the component is formed incrementally. Therefore, the final geometry does not have to be created in one stroke but can be carried out step by step in several partial strokes. In order to determine the optimal trajectory of the forming tool, the kinematic interplay between the workpiece, forming tool, and toolpath should be numerically captured in a mathematical model. The specific toolpath depends on the component being formed, as well as the actual geometry of the forming tool. In this research, the free kinematic forming process is modeled and the optimal toolpath is determined using a genetic algorithm. The optimal toolpath enables a uniform distribution of the thermoplast to a specified thickness and collisions between the upper and lower tool are avoided. This enables key insights into the free kinematic forming process and opens up further avenues of research for this innovative and future‐oriented manufacturing concept.
A note on the nonlinear viscoelastic Schapery model applied to PMMA and asphalt
Authors: Margalho de Barros Marcos Andre , Govindjee Sanjay , Schröder Jörg
Published: September 2024

Viscoelastic phenomena are present in every‐day materials in engineering for example, polymers and bitumen. These materials usually present linear behavior for small deformations and small perturbations from the thermodynamic equilibrium. More generally, nonlinear behaviors may arise due to stress, temperature, ageing, and other drivers. In this work, the single‐integral Schapery model, derived from thermodynamic theory of irreversible processes including nonlinearities due to stress and temperature, is considered in this work.

The aim is to collect data from experiments and simulate the nonlinear behavior with the material parameters, nonlinear functions and time scale shift factors. A finite element scheme for the Schapery model based on a stress‐update algorithm is proposed. For this, the decoupled deviatoric and volumetric responses and the strain tensor decomposition into instantaneous and hereditary parts are developed. The Schapery model depicts precisely the nonlinear viscoelastic phenomenon in creep and recovery strain tests, notably when all the nonlinear functions are considered.
Birds as sacred ‘children of god’, beholders of spirit and symbols of twinhood: Human–bird interaction among the Nuer in western Ethiopia
Authors: Aticho Abebayehu , Beyene Abebe , Zelelew Shimelis Aynalem , Puok Changkuoth , Gosler Andrew G. , Stenseth Nils Chr. , Chala Desalegn
Published: September 2024

The deep connection between Indigenous communities and nature plays a pivotal role in biodiversity conservation. Ethiopia, one of Africa's priority countries for bird conservation, harbours 821 bird species and 83 ethnic groups of Indigenous people. However, cultural and spiritual ties between Indigenous peoples and bird species remain largely unexplored. This is particularly true for remote Indigenous communities such as the Nuer.

Relying on preexisting bird survey data, we conducted focussed group discussions and semi‐structured interviews with Indigenous Nuer in western Ethiopia to explore human–bird interactions and documented associated traditional ecological knowledge and considered their conservation implications.

We found that Nuers have strong ties with birds. In Nuer community, birds are collectively known by three interchangeable terms: ‘gaatkuoth’ to mean sacred children of god, ‘kuoth’ meaning bearers of spirit and ‘diit’ symbols of human twins (since birds nurture multiple offspring, they associate the incidence of twins in human with birds). We identified 71 culturally important bird species that were used in seven different use categories. Among these species, 10 were used as bushmeat, five for traditional medicine, eight as fish indicators, seven as omens (believed to indicate upcoming misfortunes), three as amulets (believed to protect against danger when bird's body parts are used as necklaces and bracelets), three as season indicators and 45 for their scenic beauty. An informant consensus factor for species in all use categories was >90%, except for the scenic value, indicating a high homogeneity of knowledge about species uses. Bird species with multiple uses have significant cultural values among locals, emphasizing the need to understand these values in conservation efforts. Nuer traditional systems regulate the direct use of birds including for bushmeat. Hunting is permitted only by impoverished households during severe food shortages and is prohibited for those with a history of twins in their ancestry.

The Nuer people exhibit a profound cultural connection to birds, viewing them as sacred and spiritually valuable beings. This deep‐seated reverence and traditional knowledge highlight the importance of integrating Indigenous perspectives into bird conservation strategies to enhance their effectiveness and respect cultural values.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Preparation, mechanical analysis and investigation of swelling behavior of boron nitride reinforced hydrogel polymer composite films
Authors: Saltan Fehmi
Published: September 2024

This study presents the preparation, hydrogel kinetics, and mechanical analysis of Boron Nitride (BN) reinforced PVA/PVP/PEO‐BN hydrogel composite films using Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), Polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP), and Polyethylene oxide (PEO) commercial polymers. Dynamic mechanical analysis tests reveal that PVA90PEO5PVP5‐BN composite films exhibit plastic‐viscoelastic behavior under a maximum force of 18 N. The Young's Modulus values for PVA90PEO5PVP5, PVA90PEO5PVP5‐BN%10, and PVA90PEO5PVP5‐BN%20 are 0.22, 0.32, and 0.44 MPa, respectively. The highest % Strain value is observed in PVA90PEO5PVP5‐BN%20, reaching 279.80%. In the hydrogel kinetics study, Schott's and Fickian models are utilized. The regression from the Fickian model is quite low, with exponential diffusion index, n, values lower than 0.5, indicating a classical Fickian water diffusion mechanism. Schott's model provides graphs with significantly higher regression compared to the Fickian model. The results indicate compatibility with the other model and confirm the presence of water‐based diffusion. Equilibrium swelling values (Se, g H2O/g gel) are 6.71, 7.03, and 7.91 for PVA90PEO5PVP5, PVA90PEO5PVP5, PVA90PEO5PVP5‐BN%10, and PVA90PEO5PVP5‐BN%20, respectively. Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) analysis results show that the glass transition temperatures, Tg, are 52.37, 60.20, and 63.05°C for PVA90PEO5PVP5, PVA90PEO5PVP5‐BN%10, and PVA90PEO5PVP5‐BN%20, respectively.
A de novo int22h‐1/int22h‐2‐flanked Xq28 deletion‐associated preferential X‐inactivation in a female with severe hemophilia B
Authors: Chen Wan‐Chun , Kao Hsiao‐Jung , Kwok Pui‐Yan , Chiou Shyh‐Shin , Kuo Yu‐Ling , Hsu Wan‐Yi , Lu Ping‐Tao , Wu Cian‐Rong , Lin Pei‐Chin
Published: September 2024

A 5‐year‐old female diagnosed with severe hemophilia B began experiencing frequent muscular and joint bleeds at 19 months old. Molecular studies, including Sanger sequencing, Giemsa banding, human androgen receptor (HUMARA) assay, array‐based comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH), whole‐exome sequencing (WES), and multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification (MLPA), revealed a heterozygous factor IX (F9) intron 3 substitution (c.277+1G>T) inherited from her mother and a de novo heterozygous 441 kb deletion in the Xq28 region, which flanked intron 22 homologous regions 1 (int22h1) and 2 (int22h2). This rare genetic profile explains her severe phenotype and guides hereditary consultation for family planning.
Invasive fungal infections are rare in pediatric and young adult autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplant patients
Authors: Koo Jane , Huber John , Badia Priscila , Dunseath Chloe , O'Connor Gabby , Davies Stella M. , Dandoy Christopher E.
Published: September 2024

Background

Pediatric and young adult patients undergoing autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplant (auto‐HSCT) face a crucial, yet understudied, risk of invasive fungal infections (IFI), especially compared to allogeneic transplants. This gap underscores the need for research in pediatric patients undergoing auto‐HSCT. Our objective was to evaluate the incidence of IFI in pediatric and young adult patients during the first year after auto‐HSCT.

Materials and methods

We conducted a single‐center retrospective analysis of 150 pediatric and young adult auto‐HSCT patients who underwent transplant from January 2013 to January 2023. We focused on IFI incidence within the first‐year post transplant, using the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer/Mycoses Study Group (EORTC/MSG) criteria for IFI identification.

Results

Among the 150 patients analyzed, with 240 unique transplant episodes, the primary indication was neuroblastoma (37.3%), and micafungin was extensively used for prophylaxis (82.7%). There was an absence of IFI from yeast and mold species, suggesting a low IFI risk in this cohort. The incidence of IFI in pediatric auto‐HSCT recipients receiving micafungin primary antifungal prophylaxis is rare.

Conclusions

The findings advocate for further research to refine prophylaxis guidelines and highlight the need for individualized risk assessment to optimize post‐transplant care.
Acarbose might be associated with reduced risk of gastric cancer in patients with diabetes mellitus: A nationwide population‐based cohort study
Authors: Mao Pili Chih‐Min , Chung Mei‐Ing , Hung Yao‐Min , Chen Hsiu‐Min , Chen Chien‐Liang
Published: September 2024

Background

Several epidemiologic studies have revealed a higher risk of cancer in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) relative to the general population. To investigate whether the use of acarbose was associated with higher/lower risk of new‐onset cancers.

Method

We conducted a retrospective cohort study, using a population‐based National Health Insurance Research Database of Taiwan. Both inpatients and outpatients with newly onset DM diagnosed between 2000 and 2012 were collected. The Adapted Diabetes Complications Severity Index (aDCSI) was used to adjust the severity of DM. The Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to estimate the hazard ratio (HR) of disease.

Results

A total of 22 502 patients with newly diagnosed DM were enrolled. The Cox proportional hazards regression model indicating acarbose was neutral for risk for gastroenterological malignancies, when compared to the acarbose non‐acarbose users group. However, when gastric cancer was focused, acarbose‐user group had significantly lowered HR than non‐acarbose users group (p = 0.003). After adjusted for age, sex, cancer‐related comorbidity, severity of DM, and co‐administered drugs, the HR of gastric cancer risk was 0.43 (95% CI = 0.25–0.74) for acarbose‐user patients.

Conclusion

This long‐term population‐based study demonstrated that acarbose might be associated with lowered risk of new‐onset gastric cancer in diabetic patients after adjusting the severity of DM.