bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A novel cell biological tool to explain mechanics and dynamics in fission yeast
Authors: Rasheed Muhammad Ali , Mohy‐ud‐Din Raza , Anwar Tehreem , Faiz Muhammad
Published: January 2024

The Rho guanosine triphosphatase hydrolase enzyme (GTPase) is required for the control of the actin cytoskeleton, but its activation in vivo condition is unknown. The study's goal was to find a new synthetic nanobody VHH (P‐36 tagged with mNeonGreen) that interacts strongly with the Rho GTPase. We present the first novel synthetic nanobody, VHH (P‐36 tagged with mNeonGreen), tested in fission yeast cells and found to have a particular interaction with Rho1GTPase. Plasmids were constructed by using of certain enzymes to digest the pDUAL‐pef1a vector plasmid to produce a protein that was encoded by cloned genes. A varied VHH library was created synthetically, then transformed into yeast cells, and positive clones were chosen using chemical agents. To investigate protein interactions and cellular reactions, several studies were carried out, such as live cell imaging, growth curve analysis, coimmunoprecipitation, structural analysis, and cell therapies. Prism and RStudio were used for the statistical analysis. The presence of VHH (P‐36) has no effect on the growth pattern making it an appropriate model for studying cytokinesis in vivo. According to a computational biological study, its affinity to interact with Rho1GTPase with all the complementarity‐determining region (CDR) regions found on VHH (P‐36) is extremely strong. We were able to track its subcellular target by localization using a fluorescent confocal microscope, ensuring the maintenance of cell polarity and morphology. Spheroplast analysis revealed a circular‐shaped cell with an even distribution of Rho1 tagged VHH (P‐36), indicating that the interaction occurs near the plasma membrane. The introduction of latrunculin‐A (Lat‐A) disrupted Rho GTPase localization, demonstrating the control over actin production, and the cell did not show evidence of mitotic phase commencement while Lat‐A was present. Finally, this important biological tool can aid in our understanding of the mechanics and dynamics of cytokinesis in relation to Rho1GTPase.
Fitting digital visualization board transitions to shop floor tasks
Authors: Mathiasen John Bang , Clausen Pernille
Published: January 2024

The increased digitalization of shop floors has provided unprecedented opportunities for real‐time sharing of process and resource details. Visualization boards (VBs), which provide ubiquitous technology‐enabled renderings of such details, salient to a local shop‐floor setting, have the potential to play a significant role in this regard. Critical to the effectiveness of this role is the fit between VB design and shop‐floor needs. In our study, we apply task‐technology‐fit theory in case examinations focused on identifying mismatch, implications of mismatch, and putative best practices in designs for future interventions. Our assessment capitalizes on both core operations management design principles as well as technology management design principles. We develop grounded propositions regarding guidelines that should be applied in future VB designs and deployments.
Association of omental pedicled flap with anastomotic leak following low anterior resection for rectal cancer
Authors: Ali Danish , Syed Maria , Gamboa Adriana C. , Hawkins Alexander T. , Regenbogen Scott E. , Holder‐Murray Jennifer , Silviera Matthew , Ejaz Aslam , Balch Glen C. , Khan Aimal
Published: January 2024

Background and Objectives

Anastomotic leak following colorectal anastomosis adversely impacts short‐term, oncologic, and quality‐of‐life outcomes. This study aimed to assess the impact of omental pedicled flap (OPF) on anastomotic leak among patients undergoing low anastomotic resection (LAR) for rectal cancer using a multi‐institutional database.

Methods

Adult rectal cancer patients in the US Rectal Cancer Consortium, who underwent a LAR for stage I–III rectal cancer with or without an OPF were included. Patients with missing data for surgery type and OPF use were excluded from the analysis. The primary outcome was the development of anastomotic leaks. Multivariable logistic regression was used to determine the association.

Results

A total of 853 patients met the inclusion criteria and OPF was used in 106 (12.4%) patients. There was no difference in age, sex, or tumor stage of patients who underwent OPF versus those who did not. OPF use was not associated with an anastomotic leak (p = 0.82), or operative blood loss (p = 0.54) but was associated with an increase in the operative duration [β = 21.42 (95% confidence interval = 1.16, 41.67) p = 0.04].

Conclusions

Among patients undergoing LAR for rectal cancer, OPF use was associated with an increase in operative duration without any impact on the rate of anastomotic leak.
Restricted kinematically aligned total knee arthroplasty with an anatomically designed implant can restore constitutional coronal lower limb alignment
Authors: Ogawa Hiroyasu , Nakamura Yutaka , Akiyama Haruhiko
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Restricted kinematically aligned total knee arthroplasty (rKA‐TKA) may not restore the constitutional varus alignment in most patients with knee osteoarthritis. This study aimed to investigate (1) the extent to which constitutional lower limb alignment can be restored by rKA‐TKA using an anatomically designed implant and (2) which lower limb alignment parameters are associated with patient‐reported outcome measures (PROMs).

Methods

This study included 60 patients who underwent rKA‐TKA using an anatomically designed implant. Radiographic alignment parameters, including mechanical lateral distal femoral angle (mLDFA), medial proximal tibial angle (MPTA), coronal hip–knee–ankle angle (HKA), coronal joint line obliquity (JLO), posterior tibial slope (PTS), single‐leg standing knee flexion angle (KFA), sagittal JLO, and arithmetic HKA (aHKA), were evaluated preoperatively and postoperatively. The Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) was used for clinical evaluation.

Results

The mLDFA, MPTA, and aHKA showed no significant differences before and after surgery. Coronal HKA and PTS have significantly changed from 8.1 ± 8.7° and 9.9 ± 8.6° preoperatively to 3.5 ± 3.1° and 2.5 ± 2.0° postoperatively, respectively (p < 0.001 for each comparison). The postoperative WOMAC total score was significantly correlated with the KFA (r = 0.4063, p = 0.0034) and sagittal JLO (r = −0.3435, p = 0.0157). Postoperative KFA is a causal factor for the increased postoperative WOMAC total score (r = 1.416, 95% confidence interval: 0.491–2.342, p = 0.003).

Conclusion

rKA‐TKA using an anatomically designed implant can restore constitutional coronal lower limb alignment, while postoperative KFA and sagittal JLO were associated with poor PROMs. Care should be taken for the postoperative KFA because it is a risk factor for poor PROMs.

Level of Evidence: Level III, case–control study.
Preoperative joint line obliquity, a newly identified factor for overcorrection, can be incorporated into a novel preoperative planning method to optimise alignment in high tibial osteotomy
Authors: Jung Se‐Han , Jung Min , Chung Kwangho , Kim Sungjun , Kang Kyoung‐Tak , Park Jisoo , Sim Woongseob , Choi Chong‐Hyuk , Kim Sung‐Hwan
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The aim of this study was to analyse the factors associated with additional postoperative alignment changes after accurate bony correction by selecting only patients with well‐performed bony correction as planned and develop a method of incorporating significant factors into preoperative planning.

Methods

Among 104 consecutive patients who underwent medial open wedge high tibial osteotomy (MOWHTO) between October 2019 and July 2022, 61 with well‐performed bony corrections were retrospectively reviewed. The major criterion for well‐performed bony correction was a difference of <1° between the simulated medial proximal tibial angle (MPTA) and the actual postoperative MPTA as measured in three dimensions. Radiographic parameters, such as the joint line convergence angle (JLCA) and joint line obliquity (JLO), were measured preoperatively and postoperatively, utilising standing and supine whole lower extremity anteroposterior, valgus and varus stress radiographs. Multiple linear regression analysis identified the factors affecting alignment changes, and a prediction model was developed. A method for applying this prediction model to preoperative planning was proposed.

Results

Preoperative JLCA on standing (preJLCAstd), preoperative JLCA on 0° valgus stress radiograph (vgJLCA0), and preoperative JLO (preJLO) were significantly correlated with JLCA change (∆JLCA) (p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p = 0.006). The prediction model was estimated as ∆JLCA = 0.493 × (vgJLCA0) − 0.727 × (preJLCAstd) + 0.189 × (preJLO) − 1.587 in. (R = 0.815, modified R2 = 0.646, p < 0.001). The proposed method resulted in a reduced overcorrection rate (p = 0.003) and an improved proportion of acceptable alignments (p = 0.013).

Conclusion

PreJLCAstd, vgJLCA0 and preJLO can be used to estimate ∆JLCA. PreJLO was recently identified as a significant factor associated with additional alignment changes. Utilising the proposed preoperative planning and a prediction model with these factors shows promise in calibrating postoperative alignment after MOWHTO.

Level of Evidence

Level III, retrospective cohort study.
Significant improvements in clinical outcome measures and patient satisfaction after combined all‐arthroscopic meniscal allograft transplantation and autologous chondrocyte implantation: A single‐centre longitudinal study
Authors: Pawelczyk Johannes , Fanourgiakis Ilias , Feil Sven , Siebold Rainer
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The optimal treatment approach for the complex pathology of meniscal insufficiency and coexisting full‐thickness cartilage defects remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the viability, safety, and efficacy of this combined surgical approach at medium‐term follow‐up.

Methods

This is a single‐centre longitudinal study with blinded outcome assessment. All consecutive patients treated with combined all‐arthroscopic meniscal allograft transplantation (MAT) with bone bridge fixation and ACI using chondrospheres at our institution between 2001 and 2021 were eligible for inclusion. Twenty patients with an average follow‐up of 72.6 ± 34.4 months were included in the statistical analysis. Clinical outcomes were assessed pre‐ and postoperatively using the IKDC Subjective Knee Form, Lysholm Score, Tegner Activity Scale, KOOS, and Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for patient satisfaction. Failure and reoperation rates were assessed, and cartilage regeneration tissue was evaluated on postoperative MRI.

Results

IKDC scores significantly improved from 52.1 ± 16.9 to 68.5 ± 16.3 (p = 0.003). Lysholm scores improved from 61.5 ± 21.7 to 78.5 ± 12.9 (p = 0.004). Tegner scores improved from 3.5 (1–4) to 4.0 (2–6) (p = 0.014). KOOS scores improved significantly across all subcategories, except ‘symptoms’, where improvements did not reach statistical significance. VAS for overall patient satisfaction showed improvements but did not reach statistical significance. The combined procedure was successful in 17 patients (85%). Eight patients had to undergo reoperation (40%), comprising mostly small, arthroscopic procedures. Seven reoperations were directly attributable to meniscal allograft transplantation (46.7%). Postoperative Magnetic Resonance Observation of Cartilage Repair Tissue scores were 68.9 ± 16.8 (n = 14).

Conclusion

Combined arthroscopic MAT and autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) is a viable, safe, and effective treatment approach for younger patients with meniscal insufficiency and coexisting full‐thickness cartilage damage, where alternative treatment options are limited. The combined surgical procedure achieved significant improvements in clinical outcome measures and patient satisfaction with acceptable failure and high arthroscopic reoperation rates. MAT is the limiting part of this combined procedure, with most failures and reoperations being attributable to MAT, as opposed to ACI.

Level of Evidence: Level III.
Research on internal two‐phase flow in the local micro‐clearance design of a high‐speed ball bearing with under‐race lubrication
Authors: Gong Ping , Liu Zhenxia , Yu Qingjie , Chen Fei
Published: January 2024

In this research, an angular contact ball bearing with two‐half inner rings is used as a carrier. Considering the two‐phase flow characteristics of oil and air in the bearing, the flow characteristics of lubricating oil inside the bearing with under‐race lubrication are studied. Based on the volume of fluid (VOF) method and the standard k–ε turbulent flow model, the characteristics of oil and air two‐phase flow inside the ball bearing are analysed. The bearing internal pressure field distribution, streamline distribution, and other flow properties for the different radial working clearances, pocket clearances and guide clearances are determined. The distribution of the lubricating oil in key areas is observed. The oil phase volume fraction of the key lubrication areas, such as the cage pocket surface and the inner and outer ring surfaces is used to evaluate the influence of different structural parameters on the bearing lubrication performance. The lubrication influences of the inner and outer guides of the cage are evaluated, and the internal flow characteristics of the bearing are analysed with different guide clearances. The results show that with the radial working clearance range from 0.100 to 0.145 mm, the pressure in the working contact area of the bearing decreases 26%. The pocket clearance ranges from 0.48 to 0.28 mm, and the pressure in the working contact area of the bearing significant increases from 0.642 to 1.165 MPa. From this perspective, the larger the radial working clearance and pocket clearance are, the more favourable it is for bearing lubrication. For bearings with under‐ring lubrication, when the bearing adopts outer guidance, the distribution of lubricating oil in the key areas of the bearing is worse than that for internal guidance. However, the pressure in the working contact area of the bearing slightly increases from 0.642 to 0.759 MPa with the inner guide clearance increasing from 0.4 to 0.8 mm.
Terahertz dielectric spectroscopy based thermal‐oxidative aging analysis of polyvinyl chloride
Authors: Zhang Xiansheng , Feng Tianli , Li Yizhang , Shang Jingcheng
Published: January 2024

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is a polymer widely used in the world whereas safety problems owing to PVC aging are often reported. Thermal‐oxidative aging is known the main cause of its performance deterioration and lifetime decreasing. The existing PVC aging detection methods are complicated, making it difficult to achieve rapid on‐site diagnosis. The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the degree of PVC aging by means of terahertz technology. Samples were subject to thermal‐oxidative aging, and the corresponding dielectric spectra were measured by a terahertz time‐domain spectrometer. It turns out that the aging dependent dielectric spectra conforms to the physicochemical theory. Moreover, numerical correlation between the change in permittivity and the degree of aging, underlying a new solution for the aging forecast aimed at plastics.
AI‐based motion artifact severity estimation in undersampled MRI allowing for selection of appropriate reconstruction models
Authors: Beljaards Laurens , Pezzotti Nicola , Rao Chinmay , Doneva Mariya , van Osch Matthias J. P. , Staring Marius
Published: January 2024

Background

Magnetic Resonance acquisition is a time consuming process, making it susceptible to patient motion during scanning. Even motion in the order of a millimeter can introduce severe blurring and ghosting artifacts, potentially necessitating re‐acquisition. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) can be accelerated by acquiring only a fraction of k‐space, combined with advanced reconstruction techniques leveraging coil sensitivity profiles and prior knowledge. Artificial intelligence (AI)‐based reconstruction techniques have recently been popularized, but generally assume an ideal setting without intra‐scan motion.

Purpose

To retrospectively detect and quantify the severity of motion artifacts in undersampled MRI data. This may prove valuable as a safety mechanism for AI‐based approaches, provide useful information to the reconstruction method, or prompt for re‐acquisition while the patient is still in the scanner.

Methods

We developed a deep learning approach that detects and quantifies motion artifacts in undersampled brain MRI. We demonstrate that synthetically motion‐corrupted data can be leveraged to train the convolutional neural network (CNN)‐based motion artifact estimator, generalizing well to real‐world data. Additionally, we leverage the motion artifact estimator by using it as a selector for a motion‐robust reconstruction model in case a considerable amount of motion was detected, and a high data consistency model otherwise.

Results

Training and validation were performed on 4387 and 1304 synthetically motion‐corrupted images and their uncorrupted counterparts, respectively. Testing was performed on undersampled in vivo motion‐corrupted data from 28 volunteers, where our model distinguished head motion from motion‐free scans with 91% and 96% accuracy when trained on synthetic and on real data, respectively. It predicted a manually defined quality label (‘Good’, ‘Medium’ or ‘Bad’ quality) correctly in 76% and 85% of the time when trained on synthetic and real data, respectively. When used as a selector it selected the appropriate reconstruction network 93% of the time, achieving near optimal SSIM values.

Conclusions

The proposed method quantified motion artifact severity in undersampled MRI data with high accuracy, enabling real‐time motion artifact detection that can help improve the safety and quality of AI‐based reconstructions.
Feasibility study of multiple‐energy Bragg peak proton FLASH on a superconducting gantry with large momentum acceptance
Authors: Zeng Yiling , Li Heng , Wang Wei , Liu Xu , Qin Bin , Dai Shuyang , Pang Bo , Liu Muyu , Quan Hong , Yang Kunyu , Chang Yu , Yang Zhiyong
Published: January 2024

Background

While the Bragg peak proton beam (BP) is capable of superior target conformity and organs‐at‐risk sparing than the transmission proton beam (TB), its efficacy in FLASH‐RT is hindered by both a slow energy switching process and the beam current. A universal range shifter (URS) can pull back the high‐energy proton beam while preserving the beam current. Meanwhile, a superconducting gantry with large momentum acceptance (LMA‐SC gantry) enables fast energy switching.

Purpose

This study explores the feasibility of multiple‐energy BP FLASH‐RT on the LMA‐SC gantry.

Method and Materials

A simultaneous dose and spot map optimization algorithm was developed for BP FLASH‐RT treatment planning to improve the dose delivery efficiency. The URS was designed to be 0–27 cm thick, with 1 cm per step. BP plans using the URS were optimized using single‐field optimization (SFO) and multiple‐field optimization (MFO) for ten prostate cancer patients and ten lung cancer patients. The plan delivery parameters, dose, and dose rate metrics of BP plans were compared to those of TB plans using the parameters of the LMA‐SC gantry.

Results

Compared to TB plans, BP plans significantly reduced MUs by 42.7% (P < 0.001) with SFO and 33.3% (P < 0.001) with MFO for prostate cases. For lung cases, the reduction in MUs was 56.8% (P < 0.001) with SFO and 36.4% (P < 0.001) with MFO. BP plans also outperformed TB plans by reducing mean normal tissue doses. BP‐SFO plans achieved a reduction of 56.7% (P < 0.001) for prostate cases and 57.7% (P < 0.001) for lung cases, while BP‐MFO plans achieved a reduction of 54.2% (P < 0.001) for the prostate case and 40.0% (P < 0.001) for lung cases. For both TB and BP plans, normal tissues in prostate and lung cases received 100.0% FLASH dose rate coverage (>40 Gy/s).

Conclusions

By utilizing the URS and the LMA‐SC gantry, it is possible to perform multiple‐energy BP FLASH‐RT, resulting in better normal tissue sparing, as compared to TB plans.
Thermal consolidation of layered saturated soil under time‐dependent loadings and heating considering interfacial flow contact resistance effect
Authors: Xie Jiahao , Wen Minjie , Tu Yuan , Wu Dazhi , Liu Kaifu , Tang Kejie
Published: January 2024

Due to the presence of tiny gaps at the interface of two layers of saturated soil, water seepage occurs at a slower rate within these gaps, resulting in laminar flow at the interface. Based on the Hagen‐Poiseuille law, a general imperfect flow contact model was established for layered saturated soil interfaces by introducing the flow contact transfer coefficient Rω and the flow partition coefficient ηω. The investigation focused on the thermal consolidation behavior of layered saturated soil foundations under variable loadings considering the flow contact resistance effect at the interface. By employing the Laplace transform and its inverse transform, a semi‐analytical solution for the thermal consolidation of layered saturated soil foundations was derived. In the context of a two‐layer soil system, the effects of Rω, ηω, and permeability coefficient k on the consolidation process were examined. The obtained results were then compared with three other interfacial contact models, thereby confirming the rationality of the presented model. The study findings revealed that the flow contact resistance effect leads to a clear jump in the pore water pressure. Furthermore, an increase in Rω and a decrease in ηω were found to significantly enhance displacement and pore water pressure, while having minimal impact on the temperature increment. These insights contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the thermal consolidation behavior of layered saturated soil foundations and underscore the significance of accounting for the flow contact resistance effect in such analyses.
A coupled phase‐field method (PFM) and thermo‐hydro‐mechanics (THM) based framework for analyzing saturated ice‐rich porous materials
Authors: Kebria Mahyar Malekzade , Na SeonHong
Published: January 2024

This study proposes a novel framework for ice‐rich saturated porous media using the phase‐field method (PFM) coupled with a thermo‐hydro‐mechanical (THM) formulation. By incorporating the PFM and THM approaches based on the continuum theory, we focus on the mechanical responses of fully saturated porous media under freeze‐thaw conditions. The phase transition between liquid water and crystalline ice can be explicitly expressed as captured by evaluating the internal energy and implementing thermal, mechanical, and hydraulic couplings at a diffused interface using PFM. Accurately modeling the coupled mechanical behaviors of ice and soil presents significant challenges. Therefore, in previous numerical frameworks, ad hoc constitutive models were adopted to phenomenologically estimate the overall behavior of frozen soil. To address this, we employ a method that differentiates between the kinematics of the solid and ice constituents, enabling our framework to accommodate distinct constitutive models for each constituent. Within this framework, we naturally introduce anisotropy of frozen soil as it undergoes the freezing process by integrating a transversely isotropic plastic constitutive model for ice. We illustrate the capabilities of our proposed approach through numerical examples, demonstrating its effectiveness in modeling the phase transition process and revealing the overall anisotropic responses of frozen soil.
Practical sketching‐based randomized tensor ring decomposition
Authors: Yu Yajie , Li Hanyu
Published: January 2024

Based on sketching techniques, we propose two practical randomized algorithms for tensor ring (TR) decomposition. Specifically, on the basis of defining new tensor products and investigating their properties, the two algorithms are devised by applying the Kronecker sub‐sampled randomized Fourier transform and TensorSketch to the alternating least squares subproblems derived from the minimization problem of TR decomposition. From the former, we find an algorithmic framework based on random projection for randomized TR decomposition. We compare our proposals with the existing methods using both synthetic and real data. Numerical results show that they have quite decent performance in accuracy and computing time.
Mechanical and electromagnetic interference shielding properties of natural fiber reinforced polymer composite with carbon nanotubes addition
Authors: Singh Aditya Pratap , Zafar Sunny , Suman Siddharth , Pathak Himanshu
Published: January 2024

Mechanical and electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding properties are investigated for developed synthesized green composite. The varying content of kenaf fiber‐reinforced high‐density polyethylene (HDPE) composite has been fabricated using microwave‐assisted compression molding techniques with and without the addition of multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs). X band range has been used for EMI shielding characterization. Optimization for mechanical strength has been done using tensile test, impact test, and translaminar fracture toughness test. Fractography by scanning electron and optical microscopy concluded that interfacial adhesion between kenaf fiber and HDPE matrix and the degree of ductility of the matrix are primary governing factors for change in mechanical properties. The differential scanning calorimetry confirmed no change in the degree of crystallization of the matrix with the addition of MWCNTs. Composite with EMI shielding effect above 30 dB along with superior mechanical properties is obtained at 16% (v/v) kenaf fiber content with the addition of 5% (wt.) conductive MWCNTs for possible application in electronic equipment casing, overhead bin, or unmanned aerial vehicles.
Defining the relationship between cellular and extracellular vesicle (EV) content in breast cancer via an integrative multi‐omic analysis
Authors: Lane Rebecca E. , Korbie Darren , Khanna Kum Kum , Mohamed Ahmed , Hill Michelle M. , Trau Matt
Published: January 2024

Much recent research has been dedicated to exploring the utility of extracellular vesicles (EVs) as circulating disease biomarkers. Underpinning this work is the assumption that the molecular cargo of EVs directly reflects the originating cell. Few attempts have been made, however, to empirically validate this on the ‐omic level. To this end, we have performed an integrative multi‐omic analysis of a panel of breast cancer cell lines and corresponding EVs. Whole transcriptome analysis validated that the cellular transcriptome remained stable when cultured cells are transitioned to low serum or serum‐free medium for EV collection. Transcriptomic profiling of the isolated EVs indicated a positive correlation between transcript levels in cells and EVs, including disease‐associated transcripts. Analysis of the EV proteome verified that HER2 protein is present in EVs, however neither the estrogen (ER) nor progesterone (PR) receptor proteins are detected regardless of cellular expression. Using multivariate analysis, we derived an EV protein signature to infer cellular patterns of ER and HER2 expression, though the ER protein could not be directly detected. Integrative analyses affirmed that the EV proteome and transcriptome captured key phenotypic hallmarks of the originating cells, supporting the potential of EVs for non‐invasive monitoring of breast cancers.
Flash MS/MS proteotyping allows identifying microbial isolates in 36 s of mass spectrometry signal
Authors: Chabas Madisson , Gaillard Jean‐Charles , Alpha‐Bazin Béatrice , Armengaud Jean
Published: January 2024

Rapid identification of microorganisms is essential for medical diagnostics, sanitary controls, and food safety. High‐throughput analytical platforms currently rely on whole‐cell MALDI‐TOF mass spectrometry to process hundreds of samples per day. Although this technology has become a reference method, it is unable to process most environmental isolates and opportunistic pathogens due to an incomplete experimental spectrum database. In most cases, its discriminating power is limited to the species taxonomical rank. By recording much more sequence information at the peptide level, proteotyping by tandem mass spectrometry is able to identify the taxonomic position of any microorganism in the tree of life and can be highly discriminating at the subspecies level. We propose here a methodology for ultra‐fast identification of microorganisms by tandem mass spectrometry based on direct sample infusion and a highly sensitive procedure for data processing and taxonomic identification. Results obtained on reference strains and hitherto uncharacterized bacterial isolates show identification to species level in 36 s of tandem mass spectrometry signal, 102 s when including the injection procedure. Flash proteotyping is highly discriminating, as it can provide information down to strain level. The methodology enables high throughput identification of isolates, opening up new prospects, particularly in culturomics, and diagnostics.
The genetic framework of primary ciliary dyskinesia assessed by soft computing analysis
Authors: Pifferi Massimo , Boner Attilio L. , Cangiotti Angela , Cudazzo Alessandro , Maj Debora , Gracci Serena , Michelucci Angela , Bertini Veronica , Piazza Michele , Valetto Angelo , Caligo Maria Adelaide , Peroni Diego , Bush Andrew
Published: January 2024

Background

International guidelines disagree on how best to diagnose primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD), not least because many tests rely on pattern recognition. We hypothesized that quantitative distribution of ciliary ultrastructural and motion abnormalities would detect most frequent PCD‐causing groups of genes by soft computing analysis.

Methods

Archived data on transmission electron microscopy and high‐speed video analysis from 212 PCD patients were re‐examined to quantitate distribution of ultrastructural (10 parameters) and functional ciliary features (4 beat pattern and 2 frequency parameters). The correlation between ultrastructural and motion features was evaluated by blinded clustering analysis of the first two principal components, obtained from ultrastructural variables for each patient. Soft computing was applied to ultrastructure to predict ciliary beat frequency (CBF) and motion patterns by a regression model. Another model classified the patients into the five most frequent PCD‐causing gene groups, from their ultrastructure, CBF and beat patterns.

Results

The patients were subdivided into six clusters with similar values to homologous ultrastructural phenotype, motion patterns, and CBF, except for clusters 1 and 4, attributable to normal ultrastructure. The regression model confirmed the ability to predict functional ciliary features from ultrastructural parameters. The genetic classification model identified most of the different groups of genes, starting from all quantitative parameters.

Conclusions

Applying soft computing methodologies to PCD diagnostic tests optimizes their value by moving from pattern recognition to quantification. The approach may also be useful to evaluate atypical PCD, and novel genetic abnormalities of unclear disease‐producing potential in the future.
Credit rating agencies during credit crunch
Authors: Nejad Ali Ebrahim , Hoseinzade Saeid , Niazi Ali
Published: January 2024

In this paper, we study whether credit rating agencies (CRAs), as they claim, follow the rating through‐the‐cycle approach as opposed to a pro‐cyclical approach. In particular, we compare the behavior of CRAs during the credit crunch and normal market conditions. Using the credit rating data by S&P, we find that CRAs assign lower credit ratings to firms during credit crunch relative to normal times. Nevertheless, this result does not necessarily imply that CRAs show an excessively pro‐cyclical behavior if credit crunches have a long‐term fundamental impact on firms. Our further investigation reveals that downgrades during a credit crunch will not be reversed over the subsequent 1–5 years, which supports through‐the‐cycle credit rating.
ADP‐based robust consensus for multi‐agent systems with unknown dynamics and random uncertain channels
Authors: Xiong Chunping , Ma Qian , Zhou Guopeng
Published: January 2024

This article pursues the robust consensus for linear discrete‐time multi‐agent systems with unknown dynamics and random uncertain channels. Stochastic multiplicative uncertainties depending on relative states of agents inevitably appear in the signal transmission channels. To handle these uncertainties, the distributed robust controllers are designed. Before designing this robust controller, the optimal control problem of a single‐agent system is considered first. Based on the technology of adaptive dynamic programming, a model‐free off‐policy algorithm is proposed to solve the optimal controller for every agent with fully unknown system dynamics. According to the theory of mean square stability, it is revealed that the distributed robust controller can be obtained by using the optimal controller of the single‐agent system and other related parameters without relying on the dynamic information of the systems. Besides, the relationship between uncertainty and the robust controller is described by a sufficient condition. Finally, to demonstrate the effectiveness of the theoretical analysis, a numerical example is presented.
Venture governance, CEO duality, and new venture performance
Authors: Li Mingxiang , Cao Zhi , Terjesen Siri
Published: January 2024

Research summary

How a new venture improves performance when facing both principal and agency problems is an important yet understudied question. This study examines the effectiveness of CEO duality in mitigating the principal problem and enhancing entrepreneurial success. By granting more power to CEOs, CEO duality can alleviate the principal problem; however, CEO duality may simultaneously exacerbate CEOs' agency problems. Using manually collected panel data on 1403 newly established U.S. commercial banks, we find a positive relationship between CEO duality and new venture performance. The CEO duality–new venture performance relationship strengthens when CEOs are also founders of their firms and weakens when the share of corporate ownership reflects heavy investment by incumbent firms. Our findings highlight that venture governance needs to address principal and agency problems simultaneously.

Managerial summary

Large corporations typically face agency problems due to the separation of ownership and control such that managers do not act in the best interests of owners. New ventures tend to experience fewer agency problems because owners/principals are also likely to be managers/agents. New ventures often face severe principal problems due to directors' potential conflict of interests such as investments in rival companies. Our study suggests that new ventures can mitigate principal problems by appointing a CEO as the chair of the board of directors. Our longitudinal analysis of new U.S. commercial banks finds that this dual CEO‐chair structure leads to better performance. This relationship strengthens in the case of founder‐CEOs and weakens among new banks co‐founded by other large bank holding companies.
Electroless Deposition of Gold on a Glassy Carbon Electrode (GCE) Surface for Selective Detection of Hydrogen Peroxide
Authors: Imran Hossain Mohammad , Dutta Anim , Ahmed Jahir , Faisal Mohd , Algethami Jari S , Harraz Farid A. , Hasnat Mohammad A.
Published: January 2024

Electroless deposition technique was employed to coat the surface of a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) with nanoparticles of gold (AuNPs). Afterward, sulfur (S) components were immobilized onto this AuNPs/GC electrode via an in‐situ chemisorption approach that considerably enhanced the catalytic activity, conductivity, and persistent durability of the electrode. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) were used to characterize the modified electrode surface. The experimental results indicated that the S−AuNPs/GC electrode exhibits outstanding catalytic activity for the selective detection of H2O2 (HP). SWV measurements showed that the electrochemical sensor has a wide linear range of 10 to 2500 μM and a heightened sensitivity of 50.08 μA mM−1 cm−2. The proposed HP sensor demonstrated adequate repeatability and durability, as well as interference‐free quantitative analysis capability.
Photo‐catalytic Performance of MAPbI3/g‐C3N4 for Efficient Hydrogen Production under Visible Light
Authors: Ahmad Khursheed , Niyitanga Theophile , Chaudhary Archana , Khan Rais Ahmad , Kim Haekyoung
Published: January 2024

Recently, hydrogen (H2) production via photocatalytic process has been received enormous attention of the scientific community globally. Perovskite materials such as methyl ammonium lead iodide (MAPbI3) has excellent photovoltaic and photocatalytic properties and may be a promising photocatalyst for H2 production reaction. In this paper, we have designed and synthesized MAPbI3 perovskite embedded graphitic carbon nitride (MAPbI3@g‐C3N4) composite via benign approaches. The phase and crystalline nature was authenticated by powder X‐ray diffractometer. Morphological characteristics of the MAPbI3@g‐C3N4 composite was further checked by scanning electron microscope. The elemental composition and valence states of the MAPbI3@g‐C3N4 was determined by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Furthermore, MAPbI3@g‐C3N4 has been explored as photocatalyst for H2 production reaction using hypophosphorous acid (H3PO2) as stabilizing agent. Platinum (Pt) has been used as co‐catalyst. The reasonably good amount of H2 of 21.25 μmol/g was produced using MAPbI3 as photocatalyst. Further, improved H2 amount of 939.4 μmol/g was produced using MAPbI3@g‐C3N4. The MAPbI3@g‐C3N4 exhibited decent H2 production rate of 93.94 μmol/h/g. The excellent stability of the MAPbI3@g‐C3N4 offers its potential applications for reusable studies. This work proposed the potential application of MAPbI3@g‐C3N4 towards H2 generation applications.
Advancing Photoelectrochemical Systems: Unleashing the Remarkable Performance of In : SnO2/Nd4In5S13for Sustainable Energy Applications
Authors: Mahar Gul Mahwash , Shahzad Ahmad Khuram , Guy Thomas Andrew , Tawfeek Ahmed M.
Published: January 2024

Neodymium Indium sulphide (Nd4In5S13) photoactive electrode was produced by spin‐coating for photoelectrochemical cell. The photoactive electrode is analysed for its crystalline, structural and elements makeup in addition to its optical and electrical responses. A 56 nm sized orthorhombic crystallite was found and geometrical compact structures were observed. The presence of chief elements with core levels of In3d, Nd4d and S2p were detected. The bandgap energy was found to be 4.1 eV. Electrochemical investigations were performed to evaluate the photoactive efficiency of the electrode. Photo‐cyclic voltammetry present a specific capacitance under illumination to be 570 Fg−1, as contrasting to 481 Fg−1when in dark. A photocurrent density of 282 mA cm−2was obtained from photo‐linear sweep voltammetry. It had also been discovered that the transient chronoamperometry provided a photocurrent density of 46.1 mA cm−2. Whereas electrical impedance spectroscopy presented internal resistance (Rs) to be 232 Ω. All scan rates show an increase in the specific capacitance of photo‐electrode when illuminated. The research created an effective photo‐electrode for renewable energy structures. It can be posited that the study presented a pragmatic photoelectrode, which had the potential to be employed in sustainable energy frameworks, including but not limited to photovoltaics, supercapacitors, and photoelectrochemical solar cells.
Humidity Adaptive Antifreeze Hydrogel Sensor for Intelligent Control and Human‐Computer Interaction
Authors: Liu Ruonan , Liu Yiying , Fu Simian , Cheng Yugui , Jin Kaiming , Ma Jingtong , Wan Yucen , Tian Ye
Published: January 2024

Conductive hydrogels have emerged as ideal candidate materials for strain sensors due to their signal transduction capability and tissue‐like flexibility, resembling human tissues. However, due to the presence of water molecules, hydrogels can experience dehydration and low‐temperature freezing, which greatly limits the application scope as sensors. In this study, an ionic co‐hybrid hydrogel called PBLL is proposed, which utilizes the amphoteric ion betaine hydrochloride (BH) in conjunction with hydrated lithium chloride (LiCl) thereby achieving the function of humidity adaptive. PBLL hydrogel retains water at low humidity (<50%) and absorbs water from air at high humidity (>50%) over the 17 days of testing. Remarkably, the PBLL hydrogel also exhibits strong anti‐freezing properties (−80 °C), high conductivity (8.18 S m−1 at room temperature, 1.9 S m−1 at −80 °C), high gauge factor (GF approaching 5.1). Additionally, PBLL hydrogels exhibit strong inhibitory effects against Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), as well as biocompatibility. By synergistically integrating PBLL hydrogel with wireless transmission and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies, this study has accomplished real‐time human‐computer interaction systems for sports training and rehabilitation evaluation. PBLL hydrogel exhibits significant potential in the fields of medical rehabilitation, artificial intelligence (AI), and the Internet of Things (IoT).
A Dual Encapsulation Strategy for High‐Temperature Micro PCM Particles with High Cyclic Durability
Authors: Wang Kaichen , Tao Keyu , Ye Feng , Wang Tieying , Xu Chao
Published: January 2024

Addressing critical issues such as high‐temperature corrosion,  leakage, degradation, and subpar cyclic performance is imperative for phase change materials (PCMs), prompting the development of appropriate encapsulation techniques to surmount these challenges. In this study, a dual encapsulation strategy is proposed for high‐temperature micro PCM particles. Al–Si core is microencapsulated via the “solvent evaporation‐heating curing” method. Subsequently, TiO2 is employed as the skeleton material for form‐stable encapsulation of PCM microcapsules by “cold pressed sintering”. Detailed analysis of the crystalline phase transformation mechanism in the sintering synthesis pathway of TiO2 underscore its potential as a robust structural material with exceptional thermal stability. Furthermore, the incorporation of hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) results in a substantial enhancement of the thermal conductivity of the composites, increasing by 121.1–131.3%. The prepared form‐stable phase change microcapsules (FSPCMs) are subjected to 5000 thermal cycles in the air atmosphere. There is no observed PCM leakage or composite ruptures in the FSPCM. Moreover, the oxidized mass gain is merely 3.3%, signifying exceptional oxidation resistance. Thermophysical analysis indicates that FSPCM can retain 91.3% of the enthalpy after 2000 cycles, with over 80% preservation after 5000 cycles, underscoring its remarkable cyclic thermal durability.
Interface Ionic/Electronic Redistribution Driven by Conversion‐Alloy Reaction for High‐Performance Solid‐State Sodium Batteries
Authors: Chen Jiayu , Feng Sheng , Lai Hongjian , Lu Yan , Liu Wuhan , Wu Xiangwei , Wen Zhaoyin
Published: January 2024

NASICON‐type Na+ conductors show a great potential to realize high performance and safety for solid‐state sodium metal batteries (SSSMBs) owing to their superior ionic conductivity, high chemical stability, and low cost. However, the interfacial incompatibility and sodium dendrite hazards still hinder its applications. Herein, a conversion‐alloy reaction‐induced interface ionic/electronic redistribution strategy, constructing a gradient sodiophilic and electron‐blocking interphase consisting of sodium‐tin (Na‐Sn) alloy and sodium fluoride (NaF) between NASICON ceramic electrolyte and Na anode is proposed. The NaxSny alloy‐rich layer near the side of the sodium electrode acts as a superior conductor to enhance the anodic sodium‐ion transport dynamics while the NaF‐rich layer near the side of the ceramic electrolyte serves as an electron insulator to confine the interfacial electron turning ability, achieving uniform and dendrite‐free Na deposition during the cycling. Profiting from the synergistic effect of the gradient interphase, the critical current density (CCD) of the assembled Na symmetric cell is significantly increased to 1.7 mA cm−2 and the cycling stability of that is as high as 1200 h at 0.5 mA cm−2. Moreover, quasi‐solid‐state sodium batteries with both Na3V2(PO4)3 and NaNi1/3Fe1/3Mn1/3O2 cathode display outstanding electrochemical performance.
Probing Intra‐Gap States Mediated Charge Dynamics of Rh‐Doped Rutile TiO2 Photocatalyst by Light‐Modulated Photocurrent Spectroscopies
Authors: Zhang Jifang , Liu Meng , Tang Yecheng , Qian Gao , Ma Guijun
Published: January 2024

The intra‐gap states that are introduced into a semiconducting photocatalyst via dopants and other defects have significant implications on the transport dynamics of photoexcited electrons and holes during an aqueous light‐driven reaction. In this work, mechanistic understanding of Rh‐doped rutile, a promising photocatalyst for hydrogen production from water, is gained by systematic assessment combining intensity‐modulated photocurrent spectroscopy with sub‐gap excitations and alternating‐current photocurrent spectroscopy. These operando techniques not only help in discovering a new electronic transport path in Rh‐rutile via surface Rh4+ species and elucidating complex interaction between electrolyte molecules and semiconductors, but also underscore the potential of utilizing multiple sub‐gap excitations synergistically. This combination offers a powerful tool for acquiring insight into photo‐physical and photo‐chemical behaviors of photo(electro)catalysts with intra‐gap states.
Lattice Defects and Electronic Modulation of Flower‐Like Zn3In2S6 Promote Photocatalytic Degradation of Multiple Antibiotics
Authors: Chen Baofu , Wang Yichao , Shen Shijie , Zhong Wenwu , Lu Hongsheng , Pan Yin
Published: January 2024

Photocatalysis is an effective technique to remove antibiotic residues from aquatic environments. Typical metal sulfides like Zn3In2S6 have been applied to a wide range of photocatalytic applications. However, there are currently no readily accessible methods to increase its antibiotic‐degrading activity. Here, a facile hydrothermal approach is developed for the preparation of flower‐like Zn3In2S6 with tunable sulfur lattice defects. Photogenerated carriers can be separated and transferred more easily when there is an adequate amount of lattice defects. Moreover, lattice defect‐induced electronic modulation enhances light utilization and adsorption properties. The modified Zn3In2S6 demonstrates outstanding photocatalytic degradation activity for levofloxacin, ofloxacin, and tetracycline. This work sheds light on exploring metal sulfides with sulfur lattice defects for enhancing photocatalytic activity.