bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhancing Efficiency and Stability of Inverted Perovskite Solar Cells through Solution‐Processed and Structurally Ordered Fullerene
Authors: Sun Xianglang , Zhang Chunlei , Gao Danpeng , Yu Xinyu , Li Bo , Wu Xin , Zhang Shoufeng , He Yaxin , Yu Zexin , Qian Liangchen , Gong Jianqiu , Li Shuai , Li Nan , Zhu Zonglong , Li Zhong'an
Published: September 2024

The electron transporting layer (ETL) used in high performance inverted perovskite solar cells (PSCs) is typically composed of C60, which requires time‐consuming and costly thermal evaporation deposition, posing a significant challenge for large‐scale production. To address this challenge, herein, we present a novel design of solution‐processible electron transporting material (ETM) by grafting a non‐fullerene acceptor fragment onto C60. The synthesized BTPC60 exhibits an exceptional solution processability and well‐organized molecular stacking pattern, enabling the formation of uniform and structurally ordered film with high electron mobility. When applied as ETL in inverted PSCs, BTPC60 not only exhibits excellent interfacial contact with the perovskite layer, resulting in enhanced electron extraction and transfer efficiency, but also effectively passivates the interfacial defects to suppress non‐radiative recombination. Resultant BTPC60‐based inverted PSCs deliver an impressive power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 25.3 % and retain almost 90 % of the initial values after aging at 85 °C for 1500 hours in N2. More encouragingly, the solution‐processed BTPC60 ETL demonstrates remarkable film thickness tolerance, and enables a high PCE up to 24.8 % with the ETL thickness of 200 nm. Our results highlight BTPC60 as a promising solution‐processed fullerene‐based ETM, opening an avenue for improving the scalability of efficient and stable inverted PSCs.
Catalytic Enantioselective Synthesis of Planar Chiral Pillar[5]arenes via Asymmetric Sonogashira Coupling
Authors: Zhou Xiao‐Hua , Zhang Xin , Song Yi‐Ru , Li Xue , Bao Lin‐Tao , Xu Wei‐Tao , Wang Xu‐Qing , Yang Hai‐Bo , Wang Wei
Published: September 2024

As a novel type of macrocycles with attractive planar chirality, pillar[5]arenes have gained increasing research interest over the past decades, enabling their widespread applications in diverse fields such as porous materials, molecular machines, and chiral luminescence materials. However, the catalytic methodology towards the enantioselective synthesis of planar chiral pillar[5]arenes remains elusive. Here we report a novel method for the enantioselective synthesis of planar chiral pillar[5]arenes via asymmetric Sonogashira coupling, giving access to a wide range of highly functionalized planar chiral pillar[5]arenes, including both homo‐ and hetero‐rimmed ones, with excellent enantioselectivities. Attractively, the resultant planar chiral pillar[5]arenes show great potential for widespread use in many areas such as chiral luminescent materials. This work not only enables the successful synthesis of planar chiral pillar[5]arenes with abundant structural and functional diversity as key building blocks for practical applications but also enriches the asymmetric cross‐coupling methodologies in organic synthetic chemistry.
Clar's Aromatic π‐Sextet Rule for the Construction of Red Multiple Resonance Emitter
Authors: Chen Haowen , Du Mingxu , Qu Cheng , Jin Qian , Tao Zequan , Ji Renjie , Zhao Guimin , Zhou Tao , Lou Yuheng , Sun Yueming , Jiang Wei , Duan Lian , Zhang Yuewei
Published: September 2024

Despite the proliferation of multiple resonance (MR) materials in the blue to green spectral ranges, red MR emitters remain scarce in the literature, an area that certainly warrants attention for future applications. Here, through a clever application of classic Clar's aromatic π‐sextet rule, we triumphantly constructed the first red MR emitter by substituting the conventional benzene ring core with anthracene (fewer π‐sextets). Theoretical studies indicate that the quantity of π‐sextets ultimately determines the optical band gap of a molecule, rather than the number of fused benzene rings. Benefiting from the high photoluminescence quantum yield of ~94 % and horizontal dipole ratio of ~90 %, the corresponding narrowband red (luminescence wavelength: 608 nm) organic light‐emitting diode shows a high external quantum efficiency of 27.3 %, with only a slight decrease of 3.7 % at an elevated luminance level of 100,000 cd/m2.
Expanding the Landscape of Phosphorous‐Based Open Shell Species: Stable Mono‐, Di‐, and Trianionic Radicals Based on a Contorted Triphosphaalkene
Authors: Ansari Mohd Asif , Deka Rajesh , Thapper Anders , Orthaber Andreas
Published: September 2024

The stepwise reduction of the highly contorted truxene‐based triphosphaalkene 1 using KC8 led to the isolation of mono‐, di‐, and tri‐anionic species. The solid‐state molecular structures of mono‐ and diradical anionic species were elucidated by single crystal X‐ray diffractions, revealing elongated P−C bonds and a pronounced “indene” aromatization compared to the parent system. All three radical species displayed distinct Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR) spectra, providing compelling evidence for the open‐shell electronic configuration of both the diradical and triradical species—an observation unprecedented in any previously reported phosphorous‐based anionic polyradicals. Mulliken spin density calculations revealed a dominant localization of radical spin on a single phosphorous atom in the monoanion. In the dianion, spin localization is observed on two phosphorous atoms (~34 % each), with a minor contribution from the third phosphorous (0.13 %), while the trianion demonstrates a uniform distribution of spin density (~30 %) across each phosphorous atom.
Constructing Noncytotoxic Organometallic Nanostructures of Ag–BSA–CaCO3
Authors: Rodríguez‐Calderón Ana Gabriela , Núñez‐Anita Rosa Elvira , Holguín‐Momaca José T. , Contreras‐García Maria Eugenia
Published: September 2024

A multifunctional nanostructured hybrid composed of metal–protein–ceramic was designed and then synthesized using three different methods: chemical reduction, physical adsorption, and coprecipitation. The processes yielded colloidal spherical silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) enveloped in a bovine serum albumin (BSA) corona, leading to the core–shell structure AgNPs–BSA. To enhance biocompatibility and mitigate potential toxicity associated with metallic nanoparticles, this core–shell structure was coated with a layer of calcium carbonate (CaCO3). In order to analyze the internal structure of the resulting hybrid nanostructure (AgNPs–BSA–CaCO3), a number of samples were produced by focused ion beam (FIB) and characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Raman spectroscopy, and zeta potential (ζ) measurements. The cytotoxic effect of the samples were evaluated through in vitro tests on mouse macrophage cell line RAW 264.7 ATCC TIB‐71, this was accomplished by calculating the appropriate concentrations from the dose–response curve of AgNPs. Research showed that the AgNPs–BSA–CaCO3 mixture triggered the formation of vaterite; these findings were corroborated by FTIR and Raman techniques. The spherical nanostructures have an average diameter size of 4.3 ± 2 μm and an average roughness (Ra) of 3.11 ± 0.62 μm. Zeta potential (ζ) and isoelectric point studies reveal that this hybrid nanostructure exhibits amphoteric behavior that differs from either AgNPs or AgNPs–BSA alone. Cell viability response exceeded 75%, indicating the noncytotoxic nature of the proposed hybrid nanostructures.
Monometallic/Bimetallic Co‐ZIFs Synthesis, Characterization, and Application for Adsorption of SO2 and CO2 in Continuous Flow System
Authors: Sumbal Sara , Aslam Zaheer , Irshad Umar , Anwar Sobia , Abbas Aamir , Ahmad Waqar , Hamza Ali
Published: September 2024

Sulfur dioxide is serious ultimatum to human health as well as environment, while carbon dioxide is viewed as one of the primary drivers of the worldwide temperature alteration. Therefore, capturing of these gases is a dynamic research subject attracting much consideration from scientists. Herein, we report synthesis of a series of Co‐ZIF and bimetallic M‐Co‐ZIF adsorbents and application for room temperature adsorption of SO2 and CO2. In this work, the breakthrough curves for the adsorption of sulfur dioxide and carbon dioxide on Co‐ZIF and M‐Co‐ZIF were obtained experimentally and theoretically using a laboratory‐scale fixed bed column at room temperature. In this work, the adsorption capacities and breakthrough points for modified bimetallic M‐Co‐ZIF were found to be relatively higher than parent Co‐ZIF. Notably, a high SO2 uptake capacity of 7.1 mmol/g for Zr‐Co‐ZIF and high CO2 uptake capacity of 69.9 mmol/g for Ni‐Co‐ZIF were achieved. The parent cobalt and bimetallic ZIF materials were characterized by XRD, FTIR, SEM, and nitrogen physisorption. The XRD results confirm the formation of pure phase highly crystalline ZIF materials while BET analysis suggests high surface area of prepared adsorbents. Finally, the results of dynamic adsorption combined with characterization show great potential for preparation of bimetallic ZIF adsorbents for effective SO2 and CO2 adsorption.
Hepatic gluconeogenesis and regulatory mechanisms in lactating ruminants: A literature review
Authors: Wang Guoyan , Zhu Yuanyuan , Feng Dingping , Yao Junhu , Cao Yangchun , Deng Lu
Published: September 2024

The conversion of various non‐sugar substances, such as propionate and lactate, produced by rumen microbial fermentation into glucose by hepatic gluconeogenesis is the main way to ensure an adequate supply of glucose to the mammary gland of ruminants. Unlike monogastric animals, in ruminants, hepatic gluconeogenesis is a continuous and efficient physiological process. Some signaling pathways, transcription factors, and nutrients affect the expression of genes encoding for gluconeogenic rate‐limiting enzymes, which in turn are involved in the regulation of hepatic gluconeogenesis. Although hepatic gluconeogenesis in ruminants has been researched for decades, it still needs to be clarified in depth. Therefore, this review summarizes the process, substrates, and regulatory mechanisms of hepatic gluconeogenesis in ruminants and establishes a theoretical basis for the development of precise nutritional regulation strategies to facilitate high‐quality high‐efficiency lactation. According to the research so far, phosphoenolpyruvate carboxy kinase, fructose‐1,6‐bisphosphatase, and glucose‐6‐phosphatase have been highlighted as the main rate‐limiting enzymes that determine the efficiency of gluconeogenesis. With regard to the underlying mechanisms, protein kinase A, protein kinase B, adenosine 5′‐monophosphate kinase, and mammalian target of rapamycin pathways have been found to regulate the expression of key gluconeogenic genes through transcription factors. Further, supplementation with propionate, certain amino acids, and micronutrients has shown beneficial effects in terms of improving efficiency of gluconeogenesis. Given the complexity of the metabolic pathways involved in hepatic gluconeogenesis in periparturient ruminants, further research is warranted on the regulatory mechanisms involved and the effects of supplementation with various nutrients on milk yield and animal health.
Influence of Alkanolamine Plasmas on Poly(Ethylene Terephthalate) Fibro‐Porous Biomaterial Constructs
Authors: Tucker Bernabe S. , Hernandez‐Moreno Gerardo , Hwang Patrick T. J. , Jun Ho‐Wook , Thomas Vinoy
Published: September 2024

The development of fibrous polymer scaffolds is highly valuable for applications in tissue engineering. Furthermore, there is an extensive body of literature for chemical methods to produce scaffolds that release nitric oxide. However, these methods often use harsh chemistries and leave behind bulk waste. Alkanolamine low‐temperature plasma (LTP) is unexplored and single‐step processing to form nitric oxide (NO) releasing constructs is highly desirable. The major question addressed is whether it is possible to achieve single‐step processing of spun polyester with alkanolamine plasma to achieve nitric oxide releasing capabilities. Herein we report the experiments, processes, and data that support the claim that it is indeed possible to produce such a bio‐functional material for potential biomedical applications, especially in cardiovascular implants. Among the tested alkanolamines, monoethylamine (MEA) plasma treated biomaterial outperformed in comparison with diethanolamine (DEA) and triethanolamine (TEA) in terms of NO release and cellular response.
Vitamin B6 Appended Polypyridyl Co(III) Complexes for Photo‐Triggered Antibacterial Activity
Authors: Mandal Apurba , Rai Rohit , Mandal Arif Ali , Dhar Prodyut , Banerjee Samya
Published: September 2024

Three novel polypyridyl‐Co(III)‐vitamin B6 complexes viz., [Co(CF3‐phtpy)(SBVB6)]Cl (Co1), [Co(anthracene‐tpy)(SBVB6)]Cl (Co2), [Co(NMe2‐phtpy)(SBVB6)]Cl (Co3), where 4’‐(4‐(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)‐2,2’:6’,2’’‐terpyridine=CF3‐phtpy, 4’‐(anthracen‐9‐yl)‐2,2’:6’,2’’‐terpyridine=anthracene‐tpy;, 4‐([2,2’:6’,2’’‐terpyridin]‐4’‐yl)‐N,N‐dimethylaniline=NMe2‐phtpy, (E)‐5‐(hydroxymethyl)‐4‐(((2‐hydroxyphenyl)imino)methyl)‐2‐methylpyridin‐3‐ol=H2SBVB6 were successfully developed for aPDT (antibacterial photodynamic therapy) applications. Co1–Co3 exhibited an intense absorption band at ca. 435–485 nm, which is attributed to ligand‐to‐metal charge transfer and was beneficial for antibacterial photodynamic therapy. The distorted octahedral geometry of the complexes with CoIIIN4O2 core was evident from the DFT study. The visible light absorption ability and good photo‐stability of Co1–Co3 made them good photosensitizers for aPDT. Co1–Co3 displayed significant antibacterial responses against gram‐positive (S. aureus) and gram‐negative (E. coli) bacteria upon light exposure (10 J cm−2, 400–700 nm) and showed MIC values between 0.01–0.005 μg mL−1. The aPDT activities of these complexes were due to their ability to damage bacterial cell membranes via ROS generation. Overall, this study shows the photo‐triggered ROS‐mediated bacteria‐killing potential of Co(III) complexes.
Role of B7‐H3 in predicting response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy in muscle‐invasive bladder cancer
Authors: Deol Ekamjit S. , Nabavizadeh Reza , Lavoie Roxane R. , Dumbrava Mihai G. , Horjeti Edlira , Thapa Prabin , Cheville John C. , Frank Igor , Lucien Fabrice
Published: September 2024

Background

Neoadjuvant platinum‐based chemotherapy offers a modest survival advantage in muscle‐invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) for patients with pathologic response. B7‐H3 (CD276), an immune checkpoint overexpressed in various cancers, including urothelial‐cell carcinoma (UCC), has been associated with chemoresistance and poor oncologic outcomes. We aimed to explore if B7H3 expression on bladder biopsy samples was a predictive biomarker for pathologic response to neoadjuvant platinum‐based chemotherapy.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study among MIBC patients receiving neoadjuvant platinum‐based chemotherapy followed by radical cystectomy. All patients underwent routine preoperative biopsy of their tumour. Immunohistochemistry was used to evaluate B7‐H3 expression from pre‐operative specimens. The primary outcome of interest was pathologic complete response (pCR). Statistical analysis included Mann–Whitney U test, Fisher's exact test, Kaplan–Meier method, and Cox regression for survival analysis.

Results

Among 87 patients analysed, high B7‐H3 expression was found in 44.8% (n = 39) of patients. The median follow‐up periods were similar between the high and low B7‐H3 groups (high expression; 4.29 years [SD 3.04], low expression 3.94 years [SD 3.04], p = 0.60). Only 20.5% of patients with high B7‐H3 expression achieved pCR, compared to 41.7% in the low expression group (p = 0.04). Cox regression showed no significant differences in recurrence‐free or cancer‐specific survival between the high and low B7‐H3 expression groups (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

High B7‐H3 expression is associated with a reduced likelihood of achieving pCR in MIBC patients undergoing neoadjuvant chemotherapy. This suggests B7‐H3's potential as a predictive biomarker for chemotherapy response. Further research is needed to explore the role of B7‐H3 on platinum‐based chemotherapy response in urothelial cancer.
From challenge to innovation: A grassroots study of teachers’ classroom assessment innovations
Authors: DeLuca Christopher , Holden Michael , Rickey Nathan
Published: September 2024

We are at a critical moment for assessment in schools. Teachers are called to navigate advances in classroom assessment research, top‐down assessment policies, and lingering effects of the COVID‐19 pandemic on teaching and learning. Embedded in this context are also systemic challenges to teachers’ assessment practice. This paper analyses these challenges to characterise the current context for teachers’ assessment work and considers teachers’ innovative responses to these challenges. Data are drawn from 168 qualitative responses to a baseline assessment innovation survey across 10 Canadian provinces and territories as well as 10 other international jurisdictions. Eight themes were identified related to teachers’ assessment challenges and innovations, including: negating innovation, the emotions of assessment, grade obsession and the gradeless spectrum, conflicting orientations towards assessment, the use of ‘assessment talk’, data overload, equitable assessment and actions that make learning and assessment visible. These findings directly support the widespread goal of implementing assessments that effectively and consistently serve student learning. The paper concludes with a discussion on how teachers move from facing assessment challenges to engaging in assessment innovations.
Autoclaved Starch: Structure and Functionality Relationship in a Matrix With the Same Contribution of Amylose and Amylopectin
Authors: Velazquez Gonzalo , Mendez‐Montealvo Guadalupe , Morales‐Sanchez Eduardo , Sifuentes‐Nieves Israel , Velazquez‐Castillo Rodrigo , Soler Adrian
Published: September 2024

The rational use of autoclaved starches in food applications is difficult because there is a lack of information on their structure–functionality relationship. The novelty of this research relies on disclosing such an association. Hylon V starch was autoclaved at 105, 120, and 135°C to investigate its crystalline and double‐helical features and its relationship with functionality. In autoclaved Hylon V starch, interactions of amylopectin and amylose improved while the crystalline regions decreased. The degree of double helices (DD) decreased after autoclaving at 105°C and the degree of order (DO) increased after treatment at 120 and 135°C. The water solubility index (WSI) (4.63–6.38%) and swelling power (SP) (4.39–7.1 g/g) increased when the temperature increased. On the other hand, water (103.49–225.01%) and oil (61.91–94.53%) holding capacity (WHC and OHC, respectively) increased after autoclaving treatment, although the values decreased with the treatment intensity. The functional properties were affected when the structure changed as a function of the treatment temperatures. PCA analysis showed that WSI and SP of autoclaved Hylon V starch were associated with a high DD, with better compaction, and with stronger amylopectin–amylose interactions. WHC and OHC were associated with better crystallinity, stronger interactions of amylopectin and amylose, and heterogeneous double‐helical crystallites. These findings are useful for understanding the structure–functionality relationship of autoclaved Hylon V starch and pave the way for future research regarding the effects of its incorporation on the properties of food matrices such as bread, yogurt, cakes, and pudding.
The nexus of Green finance and renewable energy on CO2 emissions
Authors: El Khoury Rim , Nasrallah Nohade , Marashdeh Hazem , Atayah Osama F. , Mathiyazhagan Kaliyan
Published: September 2024

As greener strategies become the top priority of all nations, their contributions toward decarbonized economies arise as an important topic. The present study attempts to weigh the effect of such strategies. We investigate this relationship using panel regressions and applying many tests based on data gathered from 2010 to 2019. Our findings underscore the positive impact of adopting green initiatives on mitigating environmental pollution. Specifically, we demonstrate that renewable energy consumption serves as a vital substitute for traditional energy sources in G7 nations, offering significant opportunities for private sector involvement in sustainable energy ventures. However, green finance initiatives exhibit positive outcomes while certain aspects of economic development exert detrimental consequences on environmental conditions.

The current study is useful for environmental protection agencies, organizations, analysts, policymakers, and the private sector, as the role of green finance and energy efficiency is highly manifested. By channeling and reallocating appropriate funds to green projects, including those led by private enterprises, G7 countries can proactively address environmental degradation and align with the objectives outlined in the Paris Agreement.
A video intervention to improve patient understanding of tumor genomic testing in patients with cancer
Authors: Veney Deloris J. , Wei Lai Y. , Toland Amanda E. , Presley Carolyn J. , Hampel Heather L. , Padamsee Tasleem J. , Lee Clara N. , Irvin William J. , Bishop Michael J. , Kim James J. , Hovick Shelly R. , Senter Leigha A. , Stover Daniel G.
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Tumor genomic testing (TGT) is standard‐of‐care for most patients with advanced/metastatic cancer. Despite established guidelines, patient education prior to TGT is frequently omitted. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of a concise 4 min video for patient education prior to TGT.

Methods

Based on a quality improvement cycle, an animated video was created to be applicable to any cancer type, incorporating culturally diverse images, available in English and Spanish. Patients undergoing standard‐of‐care TGT were enrolled at a tertiary academic institution and completed survey instruments prior to video viewing (T1) and immediately post‐viewing (T2). Instruments included: (1) 10‐question objective genomic knowledge; (2) 10‐question video message‐specific knowledge; (3) 11‐question Trust in Provider; (4) attitudes regarding TGT.

Results

A total of 150 participants were enrolled. For the primary objective, there was a significant increase in video message‐specific knowledge (median 10 point increase; p < 0.0001) with no significant change in genomic knowledge/understanding (p = 0.89) or trust in physician/provider (p = 0.59). Results for five questions significantly improved, including the likelihood of TGT impact on treatment decision, incidental germline findings, and cost of testing. Improvement in video message‐specific knowledge was consistent across demographic groups, including age, income, and education.

Conclusions

A concise, 3–4 min, broadly applicable video incorporating culturally diverse images administered prior to TGT significantly improved video message‐specific knowledge across all demographic groups. This resource is publicly available at http://www.tumor‐testing.com, with a goal to efficiently educate and empower patients regarding TGT while addressing guidelines within the flow of clinical practice.
Essential Oils of Tunisian Tetraclinis articulata (Vahl) Mast.: Chemical and Biological Insights
Authors: Ayed Amira , Caputo Lucia , De Feo Vincenzo , Nazzaro Filomena , Fratianni Florinda , Amri Ismail , Hamrouni Lamia , Mabrouk Yassine , Polito Flavio
Published: September 2024

Tetraclinis articulata (Vahl) Mast. is native to the Mediterranean area and belongs to Cupressaceae family. The aim of this study were: i) to determine the chemical composition of essential oils (EOs) of T. articulata obtained from its stems, leaves, and cones using GC coupled to GC/MS; II) to evaluate their antioxidant activity using non enzymatic (DPPH, ABTS and FRAP) and enzymatic methods (catalase activity); III) to evaluated their anti‐enzymatic activity on enzyme involved in metabolism and Central Nervous System using spectrophotometric assays. α‐Pinene, limonene, and bornyl acetate were the main components of the three EOs. Moreover, the EO from cones showed the best antioxidant activity and was also to increase of catalase activity. All EOs were active against α‐amylase in similar way; the EO leaves was more active against α‐glucosidase and the EO from cones was more active against cholinesterase. The EOs demonstrated significant inhibition of the mature biofilm of Gram‐negative and Gram‐positive strains. This highlight the potential uses of T. articulata EOs in the fields of health and agriculture.
The effect of hydrostatic pressure on invasive coronary pressure measurements: Comparison with [15O]H2O‐positron emission tomography flow data
Authors: Wilgenhof Adriaan , Jukema Ruurt A. , Driessen Roel S. , Danad Ibrahim , Raijmakers Pieter G. , van Royen Niels , van Nunen Lokien X. , Collet Carlos , de Waard Guus A. , Knaapen Paul
Published: September 2024

Background

Fractional flow reserve (FFR) has emerged as the invasive gold standard for assessing vessel‐specific ischemia. However, FFR measurements are influenced by the hydrostatic effect, which might adversely impact the assessment of ischemia.

Aims

This study aimed to investigate the impact of hydrostatic pressure on FFR measurements by correcting for the height and comparing FFR with [15O]H2O positron emission tomography (PET)‐derived relative flow reserve (RFR).

Methods

The 206 patients were included in this analysis. Patients underwent coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA), [15O]H2O PET, and invasive coronary angiography with routine FFR in every epicardial artery. Height differences between the aortic guiding catheter and distal pressure sensor were quantified on CCTA images. An FFR ≤ 0.80 was considered significant.

Results

The study found a reclassification in 7% of the coronary arteries. Notably, 11% of left anterior descending (LAD) arteries were reclassified from hemodynamically significant to nonsignificant. Conversely, 6% of left circumflex (Cx) arteries were reclassified from nonsignificant to significant. After correcting for the hydrostatic pressure effect, the correlation between FFR and PET‐derived RFR increased significantly from r = 0.720 to r = 0.786 (p = 0.009). The average magnitude of correction was +0.05 FFR units in the LAD, −0.03 in the Cx, and −0.02 in the right coronary artery.

Conclusion

Hydrostatic pressure has a small but clinically relevant influence on FFR measurements obtained with a pressure wire. Correcting for this hydrostatic error significantly enhances the correlation between FFR and PET‐derived RFR.
The impact of stroke and bleeding on mortality and quality of life during the first year after TAVI: A POPular TAVI subanalysis
Authors: van Nuland Puck J. A. , van Ginkel Dirk Jan , Overduin Daniel C. , Bor Willem L. , Brouwer Jorn , Nijenhuis Vincent J. , Peper Joyce , van't Hof Arnoud W. J. , Vriesendorp Pieter A. , ten Berg Jurriën M.
Published: September 2024

Background

Bleeding and stroke are frequent complications after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). The mortality risk associated with these events has been reported before, but data regarding their impact on health‐related quality of life (QoL) is limited.

Aim

To evaluate the impact of bleeding and stroke occurring within 30 days after TAVI, on mortality and QoL during the first year after TAVI.

Methods

POPular TAVI was a randomized clinical trial that evaluated the addition of clopidogrel to aspirin or oral anticoagulation in patients undergoing TAVI. Besides clinical outcomes, QoL was assessed using the Short Form‐12 and EuroQoL Five Dimensions questionnaires before, and at 3, 6, and 12 months after TAVI.

Results

Major or life‐threatening bleeding occurred in 81 patients (8.3%) and was associated with an increased risk of death (hazard ratio [HR] 1.95 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.00–3.79]); minor bleeding occurred in 104 patients (10.6%) and was not associated with mortality (HR 0.75 [95% CI 0.30–1.89]). Stroke occurred in 35 patients (3.6%) and was associated with an increased risk of death (HR 2.90 [95% CI 1.23–6.83]). Mean mental component summary (MCS‐12) scores over time were lower in patients with major or life‐threatening bleeding (p = 0.01), and similar in patients with minor bleeding, compared to patients without bleeding; mean physical component summary (PCS‐12) scores, EQ‐5D index, and visual analog scale (VAS) were similar between those patients. Mean MCS‐12 scores were lower in patients with stroke (p = 0.01), mean PCS‐12, EQ‐5D index, and VAS were similar compared to patients without stroke.

Conclusion

Major or life‐threatening bleeding and stroke were associated with an increased risk of death and decreased mental QoL in the first year after TAVI.
OA14 ‐ BOWSTRING OF THE NEW RAILWAY LINE LUXEMBOURG‐BETTEMBOURG – CONSTRUCTION AND SPECIAL DESIGN CHALLENGES FOR HANGERS
Authors: NOSBUSCH Patrick , SCIAN Ettore , DE CILLIA Andrea
Published: September 2024

The new railway line connecting Luxembourg and Bettembourg crosses the A3 highway at a steep angle (19.5°) with the bridge called OA14.

The designed bridge is a bowstring structure with a single span of 186.85 meters. The bridge deck consists of two lateral metal box girders acting as a chord. The deck is a transversal filler beam, with spherical voids and lightweight concrete to reduce the structure's weight.

The bridge features two inward‐inclined arches at 9°, which are doubled and serve as trusses. This significantly increases the stiffness of the arch whilst keeping the silhouette elegant. The deck follows the curved track alignment, the arches remain straight. Two times 12 hangers connect the arches to the girders, they are made of CHS profiles of S450H quality. This article gives an overview of the structure and its construction. It then gives a more detailed insight in the design of the hangers, especially the hanger‐girder connections.
Railway bridge “Under Vyšehrad” in Prague, preparation of reconstruction
Authors: Krouský Jiří
Published: September 2024

The railway bridge in Prague under Vyšehrad is a steel riveted structure with a lower deck from 1901 connecting the right and left banks of the Vltava River. The bridge is double‐track and is located on a national track included in the TEN‐T system. This is the transit corridor Nuremberg – Pilsen – Prague – Brno – (Vienna, Bratislava, Poland). It is therefore one of the busiest railway bridges in the Czech Republic. The bridge is a cultural monument.

At the moment, it is also the best‐known and most discussed railway bridge in the Czech Republic. The bridge has been in service for more than 120 years and its expected lifespan has long been exceeded. The railway needs to increase the track capacity. At the same time, it is being discussed what to do with the heritage‐protected bridge. Repair? Replace? Shift? These are the questions and challenges facing the Railway Administration.
Design and assembly of a new extradosed bridge in Nuremberg
Authors: Klähne Thomas , Owusu‐Yeboah Mike , Weißbach Matthias
Published: September 2024

A ramp structure with a length of 588 m was planned in the area of the Nuremberg East interchange between the A9 and A6 highways. The bridge structure is an extradosed bridge, which represents an unusual technical and design solution for a ramp structure in Germany for reasons of maintaining traffic. The structure is preassembled in incremental sections, fitted with the cables and incrementally lengthwise inserted. In addition to the design and assembly, the article also reports on structural design aspects.
Preliminary design of a viaduct on new Highspeed line RS2 VRT Jižní Morava
Authors: Franko Samuel , Hukel Martin
Published: September 2024

The newly proposed high‐speed rail in Czech Republic creates a set of new challenges for engineers in design overall. In this case, the most significant challenge was to design a viaduct over several obstacles due to the crossing of Special Area of Conservation (SAC), part of Natura 2000. This aims to limit impacts in short‐term, during construction and more importantly in the long term. Construction of the viaduct will mitigate an impact to the natural surrounding area, whilst allowing immigration of its natural habitats. Nevertheless, the viaduct design and operational speeds will reach 320 km/h with possible raising to 350 km/h limit, with minimal impact within the area.

Initial length of the viaduct was over 1 300 m and the main requirement given by an infrastructure manager was to design a viaduct without railway expansion joints. Due to such a long distance, the viaduct had to be separated into several dilatation segments in order to avoid the use of rail expansion joint. The most susceptible parts of SAC were in proximity of the river Šatava and surrounding wetlands. This area created an obstacle, which had to be crossed by a long span avoiding the implementation of bridge piers. Poor geological conditions close to the watercourse had to be taken into consideration for design of pier foundation, therefore the span had to be shortened to a compromised length.

The final design of the viaduct consists of 16 segments, of which 14 are continuous segments and 4 are single spans. Overall, there are 29 spans over the length of the viaduct. Construction method of incremental launching had been chosen to reduce the short‐term impact in the SAC.
More durable modular expansion joint constructions for road bridges
Authors: Ungermann Dieter , Brune Bettina , Diener Michael
Published: September 2024

Relevant aspects in the design of modular expansion joints are the high fatigue stress caused by heavy load traffic and the corrosion protection. Currently, corrosion damage is often not limited to the traversable surface. Therefore, more durable expansion joints are highly desirable to extend their service life. The FOSTA research project P1574 resulted from the need for durable expansion joints and thus is aimed at hot‐dip galvanized structures. In this project about 14.000 individual damages on 6.300 modular expansion joints were evaluated, relevant hot‐dip‐galvanizing parameters were investigated and recommendations for hot‐dip galvanizing‐compatible constructions were made. In addition, the fatigue strength of existing constructions has been evaluated with regard to the current and upcoming version of Eurocode 1993‐1‐9. This evaluation will be verified in the course of cyclic tests and numerical investigations. A monitoring concept is to be designed according to the requirements of the modular expansion joints and the corresponding neuralgic points.
THE NEW PEDESTRIAN FOOTBRIDGE AT LUXEMBOURG RAILWAY STATION
Authors: DE CILLIA Andrea , BORBOUX Thomas , LUONGO Eric
Published: September 2024

The new pedestrian footbridge at Luxembourg Train Station is an integral component of the revamped platform canopies. Its unique undulating wave design, symbolic of motion, is mirrored in the canopies' roofs, creating asynchronous waves between platforms. As the footbridge aligns with the wave, it gracefully encompasses the translucent tube of the new structure.

An integrated staircase fits beneath this architectural wave, with an elevator opposite for easy platform access. This translucent prism stands in stark contrast to the sweeping curves of the roofs and the footbridge itself.

Prioritizing user comfort and safety, a translucent design was chosen, eliminating blind spots. The 100‐meter footbridge is constructed with an orthotropic steel deck, offering substantial spans with minimal height. The roof's central section serves to reduce sun exposure and conceal electrical wiring.

The assembly process involved crane work during railway track closures over consecutive weekends, using a CC3800 crane with a maximum capacity of 650 tons
White City pedestrian Bridge –structural design of the cable‐stayed future landmark, Baku (AZ)
Authors: Freymann Konrad
Published: September 2024

Once constructed, the Baku White City pedestrian bridge will be a landmark for the newly developed White City district in the east of the Capital. Designed by UNStudio, the bridge crosses the highway of 8th November Avenue and connects the newly build city to the seaside, forming a wide promenade.

Due to the pending construction of the mall as future bridge support, the bridge had to be redesigned. A cantilevering viewing platform will highlight the bridge's ending.

This paper covers the structural design of the architecturally shaped cable stayed bridge, supported through a 46 m high A‐shaped, slightly curved pylon. Based on 3‐D modelling in Rhino® and Grasshopper®, the FE‐software SOFISTIK® is used both for cable force finding and bridge design.

The structural system, steel structure's specific detail for cable connection and its design approach have been documented.
Steel Arch Structures with Prestressed Concrete Deck
Authors: Strasky Jiri
Published: September 2024

Footbridges with prestressed concrete deck, which are suspended on steel arch ribs, are described in terms of the structural arrangement, static function and erection. These bridges create stiff structural systems which guarantee the bridges' favourable dynamic response. While steel arch ribs allow easy erections, the concrete deck guarantees structural integrity. The footbridges are structurally efficient, they are light and transparent, corresponds to the scale of the landscape and all structural members have human dimensions. They were erected with a minimum impact on the environment. Their structural arrangement is illustrated on examples of four bridges.
Remaining Fatigue Strength of an Orthotropic Steel Deck with Respect to a Repair Method by Cold Joining Techniques
Authors: Kalkowsky Florian , Schröder Markus , Blunk Christoph , Glienke Ralf , Alex Jörg , Flügge Wilko
Published: September 2024

The increased traffic loads of the last decades led to an overload of the existing infrastructure. Especially for orthotropic steel decks of bridges, which are prone to fatigue fractures, this have led to structural damages of different categories. With respect to category 2 damages and their retrofit, this paper presents results of fatigue tests on the nonwelded constructional details of an old, demolished orthotropic steel deck. The samples were extracted from a highway bridge with an orthotropic steel deck built in Germany in the 1970s. In comparative fatigue tests on identical constructional details made of new material with the same steel grade, the remaining fatigue strength was determined. Based on the problem of manganese sulfides in old steels the potential of the repair method by cold joining techniques was emphasized. Characteristic load‐bearing capacities for a Eurocode 3‐compliant design of a structural blind fastener were determined and their use in a pilot project was reported.
Diagnostics of prestressed ropes after multiannual operation – Bridge SNP Bratislava
Authors: Koščo Tomáš , Margetin Matúš , Chmelko Vladimír
Published: September 2024

Bridges, as public structures, are national infrastructure structures. The investment requirements and demands for safe operation should put them at the forefront of engineers' attention. The important SNP bridge in Bratislava (Slovakia), which is one of the first bridges in the world to be suspended entirely on cables, has been the subject of a diagnosis of its health after 50 years of operation. The article describes and documents the individual steps of this diagnostics ‐ identification of the rope material, the status of the rope material and its current strength properties, and the experimentally and computationally determination of the forces in the individual ropes and their cables. The uniqueness of all the diagnostic steps was that they were carried out directly in the outdoor conditions of full operation of the bridge. The achieved results are briefly documented in the paper. Conclusions and further necessary steps for the final comprehensive safety assessment of the bridge operation are formulated.
Analysis of bow‐string arch using geometric data from 3D scanning
Authors: Odrobiňák Jaroslav , Farbák Matúš , Chromčák Jakub , Gocál Jozef
Published: September 2024

The utilization of currently measured geometric data for analysis of arch bridges and their stability is discussed. The presented contribution follows a set of research activities focused on real values of geometric imperfections of a steel bow‐string arch bridge using 3D scanning. Relatively new railway arch bridge with span 124.8 m is discussed. Deviations from the theoretical design shape of the arch were recorded during the erection stage and after a proof‐load test of the bridge, as well. Thus, it was possible to observe if and how the geometric imperfection changes during construction. Numerical models were created to perform geometrically nonlinear analysis. Both theoretical and real imperfections obtained by 3D scanning were considered in the analysis to compare and quantify the influence of the actual deformed shape. Finally, the obtained data, their comparison, the applicability of the presented methods, and possible pitfalls of the procedure are discussed.
‘Robinson’ Pedestrian Bridge in Budapest, Hungary
Authors: Pál Gábor , Kemenczés András , Hunyadi László , Szabados Mihály
Published: September 2024

‘Robinson’ Bridge was built as part of the National Athletic Centre project in Budapest, Hungary. The 168 m long cable‐stayed pedestrian bridge has a 65 m tall inclined pylon standing on a small island. The 12,72 m wide main girder is suspended to a monopylon with a two‐plane fan‐shaped FLC stay cable system. The landmark bridge's stunning appearance was achieved with hybrid structures. Both the pylon and parts of the slender stiffening girder were made of S460 steel tubes filled with concrete to enhance their load‐bearing and dynamic characteristics. Due to very limited construction area, a special erection process was used for the pylon involving a 200t floating crane. The stiffening girder was built with incremental launching. Cable tensioning with a curved deck proposed special design challenges. Large displacements had to be accurately predicted. To meet the strictest requirements for pedestrian comfort, TMDs were applied and dynamic load tests carried out to prove the results.
Aerodynamic Performance‐Based Design for Steel Bridges and Embodied Carbon Awareness
Authors: Mattiello Emanuele , Larose Guy L.
Published: September 2024

Connecting infrastructures such as steel bridges are important for sustainable and economic development of society. Understanding the risks to these infrastructures associated with wind is crucial to ensure their resilience, particularly with the evident threat of climate change. The authors will discuss the benefits of early‐stage consulting in delivering climate aware performance‐based design for steel bridges.

A holistic approach comprising bridge monitoring, aerodynamic consultation coupled with wind tunnel testing and numerical simulations enables us to understand the structural response of bridges, from an aerodynamic perspective. By combining this knowledge with a local climate model, the bridge response to current and future expected wind conditions, can be predicted and assessed.

The outcomes of such an approach enable us to refine design wind loads optimizing material usage and ensuring safe and cost‐effective construction processes, thereby reducing embodied carbon.
Investigations On the Effective Width of Wide Flange Steel Girders
Authors: Dulevski Encho , Nikolov Vasil , Jiponov Alexander
Published: September 2024

Effective width, as presented in Eurocode 3 is analysed. Efforts have been made to distinguish between the behaviour of the various structural parts acting as wide flanges. Different mechanical models are adopted: for the bridge deck plate between girders, for the cantilever deck part, and for the bottom plate of box girders with the presumption to reflect more adequately their actual participation in the complex girder work at bending. Also, the interaction between girders in a superstructure at loading is simulated as far as possible in order to replace to some extent a sophisticated spatial analysis. The Eurocode 3 way of presenting the matter is preserved. The results obtained are compared with the corresponding Eurocode parts and an assessment on the reported differences is given. The goal is to supply the designers with extended understanding the effects arising from the shear lag phenomenon.
Sky Bridge 721 World's longest suspension footbridge
Authors: Röder Václav
Published: September 2024

Sky Bridge 721 was opened on 13 May 2022.

It is located in the area of the Kralicky Sneznik mountain massif in the area of the Dolni Morava Mountain Resort. It was built in two years and spans the valley between the two ridges Slamnik and Chlum with a length of 721 metres.

It has become a new landmark of the region, although in reality it is almost invisible when viewed from a distance. It winds like a thin thread below the horizon of the mountain ridge, suspended between the sky and the ground, so that it does not interfere with the view of the surrounding countryside.

It was a real challenge to bridge such a wide valley at a height of nearly 100 metres and to achieve a subtle line of the footbridge that would not disturb the silhouette of the mountain massif.

This is the story of the whole process, from the design to the statics, construction, design and implementation, that the TAROS NOVA a.s. team had to overcome during the implementation of the footbridge.
Platinum Elimination from Bis(triethylsilylpolyynyl) Complexes (n‐Bu2C(CH2PPh2)2)Pt((C≡C)nSiEt3)2 (n=2, 3) and Macrocycles Comprised of Four L2Pt Corners and Four C≡CC≡CC≡C Linkers; An Approach to Cyclo[24]carbon
Authors: Collins Brenna K. , Gladysz John A.
Published: September 2024

The overarching goal of this study is to effect the elimination of platinum from adducts with cis –C≡C−Pt−C≡C‐ linkages, thereby generating novel conjugated polyynes. Thus, the bis(hexatriynyl) complex trans‐(p‐tol3P)2Pt((C≡C)3H)2 is treated with 1,3‐diphosphines R2C(CH2PPh2)2 to generate (R2C(CH2PPh2)2)2Pt((C≡C)3H)2 (14; R=c, n‐Bu; e, p‐tolCH2). These condense with the diiodide complexes R2C(CH2PPh2)2PtI2 (9 a,c) in the presence of CuI (cat.) and excess HNEt2 to give the title macrocycles [(R2C(CH2PPh2)2)Pt(C≡C)3]4 (16 c,e) as adducts of the byproduct [H2NEt2]+ I− (30–66 %). DOSY NMR experiments establish that this association is maintained in solution, but NaOAc removes the ammonium salt. The bis(triethylsilylpolyynyl) complexes (n‐Bu2C(CH2PPh2)2)Pt((C≡C)nSiEt3)2 (n=2, 3) are synthesized analogously to 14 c. They react with I2 at rt to give mainly the diiodide complex 9 c and the coupling product Et3Si(C≡CC≡C)nSiEt3. The possibility of competing reactions giving IC≡C species is investigated. Analogous reactions of the Pt4C24 macrocycle 16 c also give 9 c, but no sp 13C NMR signals or mass spectrometric Cxz+ ions (x=24–100) could be detected. It is proposed that some cyclo[24]carbon is generated, but then rapidly converts to other forms of elemental carbon. No cyclotetracosane (C24H48) is detected when this sequence is carried out in the presence of PtO2 and H2.
Die teuerste Energieform effizient einsetzen
Authors: Ruschel Marcel
Published: September 2024

Druckluft eine der teuersten Energieformen. Doch es gibt Ansatzpunkte, um den Verbrauch deutlich zu reduzieren – und damit auch die Kosten und CO2‐Emissionen. Ein Contrator kann helfen, Sparpotenziale zu heben und die Energieeffizienz zu steigern.