bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Correlating Pain and Thermal Changes in Inflammatory Periapical and Periodontal Lesions using Visual Analogue Scale and Infrared Thermography: A Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Ravichandar Ranjjith , Reddy Jagat , Thirunavukarasu Sivasankari
Published: February 2025

Introduction: The diagnosis of inflammatory periapical lesions remains a challenge, as it typically requires invasive testing methods that might adversely affect individuals. With the modern imaging modality of infrared thermography, the mapping and analysis of the exact temperature of the affected inflammatory site can be performed due to its non invasive and non ionising properties.

Aim: To measure and compare the thermal levels (°C) and to correlate them with pain using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) score in patients with inflammatory periapical and periodontal lesions using infrared thermography.

Materials and Methods: The present prospective observational study was conducted in the Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology, Indira Gandhi Institute of Dental Sciences, Puducherry, India, from October 2022 to April 2023. Study included a total of 60 patients diagnosed with inflammatory lesions such as apical periodontitis, periapical abscess, periodontal abscess and endo-perio lesions. Thermal levels (°C) were measured at baseline, on the 3rd day and on the 5th day of follow-up using the FLIR ONE® Pro thermal device. Pain was assessed using the VAS score at baseline and on the 5th day of follow-up. The comparison of thermal changes in inflammatory lesions was statistically analysed using repeated measures of Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and its correlation with pain using the VAS score was analysed using the Spearman’s correlation test.

Results: There were 30 males and 30 females, and mean±Standard Deviation (SD) age of study participants was 39.87±13.17 years. The mean thermal levels (°C) at baseline, on the 3rd day and on the 5th day of follow-up for dental caries with apical periodontitis were 35.38, 34.38 and 33.21; for periapical abscess, they were 36.41, 35.04 and 33.89; for periodontal abscess, they were 35.61, 34.13 and 33.44; and for endoperio lesions, they were 34.86, 34.07 and 33.23, respectively. A significant difference was observed in the thermal levels among the different odontogenic lesions on all three days (p-value <0.05). The correlation coefficients between the thermal levels (°C) and VAS scores at baseline and on the 5th day were 0.119 and -0.043, respectively, which were not statistically significant (p-values=0.366 and 0.743, respectively).

Conclusion: The present study was conducted to measure and compare the thermal levels of inflammatory lesions and the results showed a gradual decrease in thermal levels during follow-up. Hence, infrared thermography can be a useful diagnostic tool for temperature mapping in the identification of inflammatory lesions such as apical periodontitis, periapical abscess, periodontal abscess and endo-perio lesions.
Effectiveness of Radiofrequency Ablation of Genicular Nerves in the Treatment of Chronic Knee Pain due to Degenerative Osteoarthritis: A Prospective Interventional Study
Authors: Siddalingamurthy G , Thammaiah Srinivas Hebbal , Gupta Ankit , Sheshagiri V , Rudramurthy Madhukesh
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) has a long history dating back to 1931, with applications in treating various pain conditions. Given its established efficacy in managing spinal facet joint pain and its emerging popularity in treating arthritic knee pain through Genicular Nerve RFA (GNRFA), it is essential to investigate the effectiveness of traditional RFA in alleviating knee pain due to degenerative Osteoarthritis (OA) in patients with advanced OA who are not candidates for Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA).

Aim: To evaluate the effectiveness of RFA of genicular nerves in reducing chronic knee pain due to degenerative OA.

Materials and Methods: This prospective interventional study was conducted at the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, JSS Medical College, Mysore, Karnataka, India over a period of one year from July 2022 to June 2023. A total of 38 patients with chronic knee pain resulting from degenerative OA underwent RFA of genicular nerves, with assessments conducted at four time points: baseline, one month, three months and six months postprocedure. The evaluations utilised the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) to measure pain levels, the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) to evaluate functional outcomes, and monitored analgesic usage to track pain management, providing a comprehensive understanding of the treatment’s effectiveness in alleviating chronic knee pain. The Friedman test was used to study the effectiveness of RFA of genicular nerves in reducing knee pain due to degenerative OA, and the pairwise Wilcoxon test with Bonferroni correction was used to compare statistical significance between different pairs. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results: Substantial reductions were noted in pain levels, both at rest and during movement, as evidenced by significant reductions (p-value <0.001) in NRS scores, alongside improvements in WOMAC scores and decreased analgesic usage at all follow-up assessments compared to baseline (p-value <0.05).

Conclusion: The study found that GNRFA significantly reduces pain and improves function in patients with chronic knee OA. This minimally invasive procedure is a safe, effective and costefficient treatment option for OA patients who rely heavily on analgesics, are unsuitable for surgery, or experience persistent pain after Total Knee Replacement (TKR).
Effect of Lignocaine Infiltration versus Intravenous Dexmedetomidine on Haemodynamic Response during Skull Pin Holder Application for Craniotomy: A Prospective Interventional Study
Authors: Shajla P , Ravindran Rashmi , Shafna KT , Minu S
Published: February 2025

Introduction: The use of a skull pin holder during craniotomy is a painful procedure that induces haemodynamic changes. This may lead to raised intracranial pressure, brain bulging, or intracranial haemorrhage. Effectively managing these stress responses is very important, as they may increase morbidity and mortality in neurosurgical patients.

Aim: To compare the effects of lignocaine infiltration and intravenous dexmedetomidine on the haemodynamic stress response to skull pin holder application during craniotomy.

Materials and Methods: This prospective interventional study was conducted on 122 patients over a period from June 2020 to June 2021 in the Neurosurgery operation theatre of Government Medical College, Kozhikode, Kerala, India, a tertiary care teaching centre. Patients were divided into two groups: Group-L received 3 mL of 2% lignocaine with 1 in 200,000 adrenaline at each premarked pin site, while Group-D received intravenous dexmedetomidine at a dose of 0.5 mcg/kg over 10 minutes before the induction of general anaesthesia. Heart Rate (HR), Systolic Blood Pressure (SBP), Diastolic Blood Pressure (DBP) and Mean Arterial Pressure (MAP) were recorded at baseline, after induction, post-intubation, pre-pin application and at intervals of 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 10 and 15 minutes post pin application. Stata version 14.2 was used for data analysis. Statistical comparison between the groups was conducted using the independent t-test and Chi-square test.

Results: There was no statistically significant difference in HR and blood pressure between the groups immediately after skull pin application. However, Group-D exhibited a significant reduction in HR at 10 and 15 minutes (p<0.001) post pin application compared to Group-L. Additionally, a statistically significant reduction in SBP, DBP and MAP was observed among the groups at 5, 10 and 15 minutes post pin application, with a greater reduction in Group-D.

Conclusion: Intravenous dexmedetomidine at a dose of 0.5 mcg/ kg was as effective as lignocaine infiltration at the premarked pin site in reducing the haemodynamic stress response to the application of the skull pin holder. Dexmedetomidine at this dosage also showed a greater reduction in HR and blood pressure after five minutes post pin application and did not require any additional pharmacological measures.
Phenology and Nutrient Studies of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) as Influenced by Different Crop Establishment Methods and Irrigation Scheduling
Authors: Nandini P. , Kumar K. Avil , Goverdhan M. , Neelima T. L. , K.Chandrasekar  , Prakash T. Ram
Published: February 2025

The investigation on influence of different crop establishment methods and irrigation scheduling on phenology and nutrient studies of rice (Oryza sativa L.)  was carried out in sandy clay soils at Agriculture Research Station, Kampasagar, Nalgonda district for two kharif seasons of 2021 & 2022. The experiment was laid out in split plot design with three main plots and 3 sub-plots replicated thrice. Phenological parameters like days to 50% flowering and maturity has a significant impact among establishment methods in which dry direct seeded rice with drum seeder (M1) recorded less number of days compared to manual transplanted puddled rice (M3). Total nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium content was non significantly increased with wet seeded rice with drum-seeder (M2) followed by manual transplanted puddled rice (M3) and dry direct seeded rice with seed drill (M1) method. Unlike that of nutrient content, uptakes have shown significant difference among establishment methods. However, irrigation scheduling treatments and interaction effect has found to be non-significant for both the years of study. In comparison with first year study, second year recorded higher values which may be due to better favourable condition that attributed better performance of crop.
A Primary Care–Based Weight Navigation Program
Authors: Griauzde Dina H. , Turner Cassie D. , Othman Amal , Oshman Lauren , Gabison Jonathan , Arizaca-Dileo Patricia K. , Walford Eric , Henderson James , Beckius Deena , Lee Joyce M. , Carter Eli W. , Dallas Chris , Herrera-Theut Kathyrn , Richardson Caroline R. , Kullgren Jeffrey T. , Piatt Gretchen , Heisler Michele , Kraftson Andrew
Published: May 2024

Importance

Evidence-based weight management treatments (WMTs) are underused; strategies are needed to increase WMT use and patients' weight loss.

Objective

To evaluate the association of a primary care–based weight navigation program (WNP) with WMT use and weight loss.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cohort study comprised a retrospective evaluation of a quality improvement program conducted from October 1, 2020, to September 30, 2021. Data analysis was performed from August 2, 2022, to March 7, 2024. Adults with obesity and 1 or more weight-related condition from intervention and control sites in a large academic health system in the Midwestern US were propensity matched on sociodemographic and clinical factors.

Exposure

WNP, in which American Board of Obesity Medicine–certified primary care physicians offered weight-focused visits and guided patients’ selection of preference-sensitive WMTs.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Primary outcomes were feasibility measures, including rates of referral to and engagement in the WNP. Secondary outcomes were mean weight loss, percentage of patients achieving 5% or more and 10% or more weight loss, referral to WMTs, and number of antiobesity medication prescriptions at 12 months.

Results

Of 264 patients, 181 (68.6%) were female and mean (SD) age was 49.5 (13.0) years; there were no significant differences in demographic characteristics between WNP patients (n = 132) and matched controls (n = 132). Of 1159 WNP-eligible patients, 219 (18.9%) were referred to the WNP and 132 (11.4%) completed a visit. In a difference-in-differences analysis, WNP patients lost 4.9 kg more than matched controls (95% CI, 2.11-7.76; P < .001), had 4.4% greater weight loss (95% CI, 2.2%-6.4%; P < .001), and were more likely to achieve 5% or more weight loss (odds ratio [OR], 2.90; 95% CI, 1.54-5.58); average marginal effects, 21.2%; 95% CI, 8.8%-33.6%) and 10% or more weight loss (OR, 7.19; 95% CI, 2.55-25.9; average marginal effects, 17.4%; 95% CI, 8.7%-26.2%). Patients in the WNP group were referred at higher rates to WMTs, including bariatric surgery (18.9% vs 9.1%; P = .02), a low-calorie meal replacement program (16.7% vs 3.8%; P < .001), and a Mediterranean-style diet and activity program (10.6% vs 1.5%; P = .002). There were no between-group differences in antiobesity medication prescribing.

Conclusions and Relevance

The findings of this cohort study suggest that WNP is feasible and associated with greater WMT use and weight loss than matched controls. The WNP warrants evaluation in a large-scale trial.
Socioeconomic Status Transition Throughout Life and Risk of Dementia
Authors: Sakaniwa Ryoto , Shirai Kokoro , Cadar Dorina , Saito Tami , Kondo Katsunori , Kawachi Ichiro , Steptoe Andrew , Iso Hiroyasu
Published: May 2024

Importance

Socioeconomic status (SES) is associated with dementia. However, the role of SES transitions in dementia is less explored; such evidence would be useful to understand whether social mobility is associated with healthy longevity at older ages.

Objective

To investigate the association of lifetime SES transition with risk of dementia.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This prospective cohort study, conducted from August 2010 to December 2016, used data from the Japan Gerontological Evaluation Study for participants aged 65 years or older from 31 different areas in Japan. Individuals with missing SES values, loss of follow-up, or new dementia onset 1 year or less from baseline were excluded. Data analysis was performed from April 2022 to April 2023.

Exposure

Transitions in SES across the life course.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The main outcome was risk of dementia incidence and corresponding loss or gain of dementia-free periods in a lifespan. The incidence of dementia was identified with a national registry of long-term nursing care services.

Results

A total of 9186 participants (4703 men [51.2%]) were included. The mean (SD) age at baseline was 74.2 (6.0) years. Six SES transitions were identified: upward, stable-high, upper-middle, lower-middle, downward, and stable-low. During the follow-up period, 800 cases of dementia were identified. Many dementia risk factors, including lifestyle behaviors, comorbidities, and social factors, were associated with SES transition patterns. Compared with lower-middle SES, the lowest risk of dementia was observed for upward transition (hazard ratio [HR], 0.66; 95% CI, 0.57-0.74) followed by stable-high (HR, 0.77; 95% CI, 0.69-0.86), downward (HR, 1.15; 95% CI, 1.09-1.23), and stable-low (HR 1.45; 95% CI, 1.31-1.61) transition (P <  .001 for linearity); there was no association of upper-middle transition with risk of dementia (HR, 0.91; 95% CI, 0.79-1.03). The greatest increases in dementia-free years in the lifespan were also associated with upward SES transition (eg, 1.8 years [95% CI, 1.4-2.2 years] at age 65 years), while the downward transition was associated with the largest loss in lifetime dementia-free years at 75 years or older (eg, −1.4 years [95% CI, −2.4 to −0.4 years] at age 85 years).

Conclusions and Relevance

This cohort study of Japanese older adults identified that upward and downward SES transitions were associated with risk of dementia and the length of dementia-free periods over the lifespan. The results may be useful to understand the association between social mobility and healthy longevity.
Medicare Coverage and Patient Out-of-Pocket Costs for Cardiovascular-Kidney-Metabolic Medications
Authors: Young Grant M. , Bansal Kannu , Riello Ralph J. , Clark Katherine A. A. , Dhruva Sanket S. , Faridi Kamil F. , Desai Nihar R.
Published: May 2024

This cross-sectional study evaluates the association between Medicare coverage and patient out-of-pocket costs for cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic medications.
β-Blocker Use and Clinical Outcomes in Patients With COPD Following Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: LaFon David C. , Helgeson Erika S. , Lindberg Sarah , Voelker Helen , Bhatt Surya P. , Casaburi Richard , Cassady Steven J. , Connett John , Criner Gerard J. , Hatipoglu Umur , Kaminsky David A. , Kunisaki Ken M. , Lazarus Stephen C. , McEvoy Charlene E. , Reed Robert M. , Sciurba Frank C. , Stringer William , Dransfield Mark T.
Published: May 2024

Importance

While β-blockers are associated with decreased mortality in cardiovascular disease (CVD), exacerbation-prone patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) who received metoprolol in the Beta-Blockers for the Prevention of Acute Exacerbations of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (BLOCK-COPD) trial experienced increased risk of exacerbations requiring hospitalization. However, the study excluded individuals with established indications for the drug, raising questions about the overall risk and benefit in patients with COPD following acute myocardial infarction (AMI).

Objective

To investigate whether β-blocker prescription at hospital discharge is associated with increased risk of mortality or adverse cardiopulmonary outcomes in patients with COPD and AMI.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This prospective, longitudinal cohort study with 6 months of follow-up enrolled patients aged 35 years or older with COPD who underwent cardiac catheterization for AMI at 18 BLOCK-COPD network hospitals in the US from June 2020 through May 2022.

Exposure

Prescription for any β-blocker at hospital discharge.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was time to the composite outcome of death or all-cause hospitalization or revascularization. Secondary outcomes included death, hospitalization, or revascularization for CVD events, death or hospitalization for COPD or respiratory events, and treatment for COPD exacerbations.

Results

Among 3531 patients who underwent cardiac catheterization for AMI, prevalence of COPD was 17.1% (95% CI, 15.8%-18.4%). Of 579 total patients with COPD and AMI, 502 (86.7%) were prescribed a β-blocker at discharge. Among the 562 patients with COPD included in the final analysis, median age was 70.0 years (range, 38.0-94.0 years) and 329 (58.5%) were male; 553 of the 579 patients (95.5%) had follow-up information. Among those discharged with β-blockers, there was no increased risk of the primary end point of all-cause mortality, revascularization, or hospitalization (hazard ratio [HR], 1.01; 95% CI, 0.66-1.54; P = .96) or of cardiovascular events (HR, 1.11; 95% CI, 0.65-1.92; P = .69), COPD-related or respiratory events (HR, 0.75; 95% CI, 0.34-1.66; P = .48), or treatment for COPD exacerbations (rate ratio, 1.01; 95% CI, 0.53-1.91; P = .98).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study, β-blocker prescription at hospital discharge was not associated with increased risk of adverse outcomes in patients with COPD and AMI. These findings support use of β-blockers in patients with COPD and recent AMI.
Proton‐Coupled Chemistry Enabled p–n Conjugated Bipolar Organic Electrode for High‐Performance Aqueous Symmetric Battery
Authors: Peng Chengxin , Wang Feixiang , Chen Qiang , Yan Xiaoli , Wu Chaoxin , Zhang Jiarui , Tang Wei , Chen Long , Wang Yonggang , Mao Jianfeng , Dou Shixue , Guo Zaiping
Published: May 2024

Bipolar‐type electrode materials are capable of improving the specific power and reducing the manufacturing costs for rechargeable symmetric batteries, while their development is plagued by the lack of reliable and affordable bipolar‐type materials. Here, a bipolar‐type indanthrene (IDT) with synergetic coupling effects of two redox centers of p‐type dihydrophenazines and n‐type anthraquinone in a single molecule is proposed to construct a symmetric battery. Due to the mutually affecting of n‐type and p‐type redox couples, the conjugated “p–n fusion” in the IDT material facilitates mutual electron cloud donation and withdrawal between two redox centers, thus a considerable output voltage of 0.62 V is realized in symmetric aqueous battery. Benefiting from its enriched redox centers and extended π‐conjugated structure, the symmetric battery also delivers a specific capacity of 139 mAh g−1 at 0.1 A g−1 and a long cycling stability with a capacity retention of 79% after 600 cycles at 2 A g−1. Comprehensive ex‐situ characterizations paired with density functional theroy calculations reveal both reversible HSO4− and H+ uptake/removal behavior during charging/discharging process. Additionally, a symmetric cell with quasi‐solid electrolyte is established, which exhibits superior practical application capability with a capacity retention of 78% at 2 A g−1 over 1000 cycles.
Advanced Enzyme Mimicking Engineering: 3D Biomimetic Pt Single‐Atom Nanozymes Initiating Pressure‐Driven Device
Authors: Chen Mengting , Qileng Aori , Chen Shizhang , Huang Haoliang , Xu Zhenlin , Liu Weipeng , Liu Yingju
Published: May 2024

Current research on single‐atom nanozymes has predominantly concentrated on 2D structures, with limited exploration into the influence of 3D biomimetic structures on their catalytic performance. In this work, a 3D nanostructure of Pt single‐atom nanozyme (Pt‐NC SAzyme) is fabricated by encapsulating platinum 2,4‐pentanedionate in each molecular cage of ZIF‐8 and then pyrolyzing. X‐ray absorption fine structure analysis confirmed the presence of Pt as single atoms, with each Pt atom exclusively coordinated with four nitrogen atoms, while the *O is identified as an intermediate in the catalytic reaction. Additionally, theoretical calculations demonstrated that Pt‐NC SAzyme exhibited a lower potential energy and a shorter pathway for catalyzing the production of O2 from H2O2 than that of 2D Pt‐NC due to the localization effect, confirming a superior catalase‐like activity of Pt‐NC SAzyme. Based on the efficient O2 production from Pt‐NC SAzyme, a dual‐mode pressure immunosensor is established to achieve sensitive detection of aminopyrine by converting gas‐induced pressure into visual and timing readouts. This work introduced a novel approach to enhance the catalytic activity of SAzymes through bionic structural design and coordination environment, while also proposing a new concept for point‐of‐care testing in food safety, environmental monitoring, and disease diagnosis.
The Elaborate Design of Multi‐Polarization Effect by Non‐Edge Defect Strategy for Ultra‐Broad Microwave Absorption
Authors: Fang Gang , Liu Chuyang , Xu Meng , Zhang Xiaohan , Wu Yue , Kim Dong‐Hyun , Ji Guangbin
Published: May 2024

Anion defect engineering is proven to be an efficient approach to reconstruct the electronic configuration of carbon‐based magnetoelectric materials for targeted modulation of electromagnetic (EM) performance. However, traditional mono‐anionic doping suffers from low defect concentration and lacks diverse polarization mechanisms. In this work, multi‐anions (N/S/F) stepwise‐doped carbon/Fe3C magnetoelectric composites are elaborately constructed, wherein the predesigned N defects serve as activated sites for anomalously adopting S anions (Step I) and subsequent F anions (Step II) in non‐marginal areas of the carbon layer. It is found that S prefers to replace pyrrolic N defects while F tends to form dangling bonds with the C site adjacent to the pyridinic N. Intriguingly, besides the inherent polarized resonance of N defect at ≈15 GHz, customized S and F defects induce new polarization resonances at ≈10 GHz and ≈15+ GHz, respectively. Under a typical multi‐polarization effect with the synergetic magnetic response, the carbon/Fe3C composites with N/S/F defects harvest the broadest bandwidth of 8.28 GHz (9.72–18 GHz) at 2.55 mm, covering a wide frequency range almost from X to Ku bands. This work demonstrates the positive impact of localized multi‐defects customization and multi‐polarization effect on expanding microwave absorption bandwidth, providing valuable insights for the advanced design of ultra‐broadband absorbers.
Anti‐/Deicing Membranes with Damage Detection and Fast Healing
Authors: Liu Liming , Chen Shenglong , Hu Yan , Pan Wei , Dong Tianyun , Chen Yuanfen , Lin Lin , Wang Liqiu
Published: May 2024

Flexible membrane with good anti‐wettability under giant deformation and fast healing will largely extend its adaptability and life span in anti‐/deicing application. A flexible membrane with significant dynamic water repellency and photo‐/electro‐responsive healing capability is reported, fabricated by combining the covalent grafting of fluorosilane to carbon black (F‐CB) with the optimized ablation difference between thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) matrix and F‐CB. A rolling angle of below 5° is remained after either being stretching to 1000% strain or 2000 cycles of tensile tests at 400% strain. More importantly, multi‐scale cracks on the membrane can be diagnosed and repaired in real‐time; the healing efficiency reaches above 99% within 90 s even if completely fractured under the effect of both solar irradiation of 0.1 W cm−2 and applied voltage of 20 V; and all‐weather anti‐/deicing has the performance of an icing delay time of 323 s and an ice adhesion strength of <40 kPa, a sharp contrast to the 18 s and 1090 kPa, respectively, for bare metal surface. This work endows anti‐icing membrane with the ability of damage detection and cyclic healing, highly demanded in outdoor anti‐/deicing application that involve inevitable mechanical damages.
Toward 1D Transport in 3D Materials: SOC‐Induced Charge‐Transport Anisotropy in Sm3ZrBi5
Authors: Khoury Jason F. , Han Bingzheng , Jovanovic Milena , Queiroz Raquel , Yang Xiao , Singha Ratnadwip , Salters Tyger H. , Pollak Connor J. , Lee Scott B. , Ong N. P. , Schoop Leslie M.
Published: May 2024

1D charge transport offers great insight into strongly correlated physics, such as Luttinger liquids, electronic instabilities, and superconductivity. Although 1D charge transport is observed in nanomaterials and quantum wires, examples in bulk crystalline solids remain elusive. In this work, it is demonstrated that spin‐orbit coupling (SOC) can act as a mechanism to induce quasi‐1D charge transport in the Ln3MPn5 (Ln = lanthanide; M = transition metal; Pn = Pnictide) family. From three example compounds, La3ZrSb5, La3ZrBi5, and Sm3ZrBi5, density functional theory calculations with SOC included show a quasi‐1D Fermi surface in the bismuthide compounds, but an anisotropic 3D Fermi surface in the antimonide structure. By performing anisotropic charge transport measurements on La3ZrSb5, La3ZrBi5, and Sm3ZrBi5, it is demonstrated that SOC starkly affects their anisotropic resistivity ratios (ARR) at low temperatures, with an ARR of ≈4 in the antimonide compared to ≈9.5 and ≈22 (≈32 after magnetic ordering) in La3ZrBi5 and Sm3ZrBi5, respectively. This report demonstrates the utility of spin‐orbit coupling to induce quasi‐low‐dimensional Fermi surfaces in anisotropic crystal structures, and provides a template for examining other systems.
Realizing Weak Light Detection in a 2D Dielectric Switching Hybrid Perovskite Incorporating Dimethylamine
Authors: Wang Yifei , Ye Huang , Guan Qianwen , Wang Peng , Zhang Chengshu , Li Hang , Luo Junhua
Published: May 2024

2D organic–inorganic hybrid perovskites (OIHPs) are regarded as potential candidates for the advancement of multifunctional phase‐transition materials due to their ability to integrate flexible functionality and superior electronic features from both organic and inorganic components. However, the development of 2D OIHPs with dielectric switches and weak light detection capability that are crucial for high‐resolution sensing and imaging, remains challenge. Herein, a novel 2D OIHP BDADMAPb2Br7 (1, BDA = 1,4‐butanediamine and DMA = dimethylamine) is presented, featuring a 2D Dion–Jacobson (DJ) bilayered structure incorporated with secondary amine. Upon heating and cooling cycles, 1 demonstrates long‐term reversible dielectric switching properties at 328 K. Meanwhile, 1 also shows compelling semiconductor characteristics, including a low dark current of 2.87 × 10−11 A (10 V), a large switching ratio of 4 × 103, and a high detectivity of 1.3 × 1012 Jones. In addition, the photodetector based on 1 exhibits an excellent weak light detection ability of 340 nW cm−2 at 405 nm. Such a 2D OIHP demonstrates a novel platform for creating multifunctional materials and significantly promotes the development of integrated devices.
Architecture Design of High‐Performance Piezoelectric Energy Harvester with 3D Metastructure Substrate
Authors: Zhao Huan , Liu Xiangbei , Li Yan
Published: May 2024

Piezoelectric energy harvesters (PEHs) have drawn considerable attention due to their unique ability to convert ambient mechanical energy to electrical energy. These devices are widely implemented in numerous applications such as wearable technology, structural health monitoring, and renewable energy systems. In this work, a novel approach that seamlessly integrates arbitrary metastructures into the substrate layer of cantilever beam‐based PEHs is presented. The corresponding performance of each PEH design is evaluated via an experimentally validated finite element model. This is the first systematic study to explore 3D metastructures with various unit cell configurations, unit cell numbers, and porosity levels. Compared with the existing PEH designs, implementation of a 3D auxetic metastructure with 85% porosity single unit cell design can demonstrate a substantial enhancement in output power, reaching 48.16 mW, and a high normalized power density (NPD) of 2.1131 µW mm−3 g−2 Hz−1. Results show that there are competing requirements for improving the performance of PEHs. On one hand, low metastructure stiffness is preferred to achieve high power output at low resonant frequency. On the other hand, metastructures designs with low stiffness may induce excessive distortion in the substrate layer, leading to mechanical energy loss. This deformation mechanism adversely affects the mechanical to electrical energy conversion efficiency. Detailed guidelines for designing and manufacturing high‐performance PEHs are discussed in this work.
Voxel Design of Grayscale DLP 3D‐Printed Soft Robots
Authors: Zhang Mengjie , Fan Xiru , Dong Le , Jiang Chengru , Weeger Oliver , Zhou Kun , Wang Dong
Published: May 2024

Grayscale digital light processing (DLP) printing is a simple yet effective way to realize the variation of material properties by tuning the grayscale value. However, there is a lack of available design methods for grayscale DLP 3D‐printed structures due to the complexities arising from the voxel‐level grayscale distribution, nonlinear material properties, and intricate structures. Inspired by the dexterous motions of natural organisms, a design and fabrication framework for grayscale DLP‐printed soft robots is developed by combining a grayscale‐dependent hyperelastic constitutive model and a voxel‐based finite‐element model. The constitutive model establishes the relationship between the projected grayscale value and the nonlinear mechanical properties, while the voxel‐based finite‐element model enables fast and efficient calculation of the mechanical performances with arbitrarily distributed material properties. A multiphysics modeling and experimental method is developed to validate the homogenization assumption of the degree of conversion (DoC) variation in a single voxel. The design framework is used to design structures with reduced stress concentration and programmable multimodal motions. This work paves the way for integrated design and fabrication of functional structures using grayscale DLP 3D printing.
A statistical learning approach to pasture, rangeland, forage (PRF) insurance coverage selection
Authors: Zapata Samuel D. , Villavicencio Xavier , Xicay Anderson
Published: May 2024

This study uses statistical learning methods to identify robust coverage alternatives for the Pasture, Rangeland, Forage (PRF) insurance program. Shrinkage and ensemble learning techniques are adapted to the context of the PRF coverage selection process. The out‐of‐sample performance of the proposed methods is evaluated on 116 representative grids throughout Texas during 2018–2022. Ensemble learning methods generated more stable coverage choices compared with the other selection strategies considered. Depending on the target return, a reduction in the prediction error between 5% and 14% was observed. Furthermore, the proposed coverages can provide a broader protection than current coverage choices made by farmers.
Technical note: Capturing shape—Linear measurements and geometric morphometrics of the immature femora
Authors: Stark Sarah
Published: May 2024

Objectives

Growth and developmental studies have been a prominent theme in bioarchaeology. These works traditionally focus on metric measurements of long bone length and age‐at‐death or cross‐sectional geometric studies with the use of computed tomography scans for questions on growth and mobility. However, teasing apart aspects of size and shape have been difficult due to the cylindrical nature of immature long bones. This research investigates the methodological use of surface geometries from linear measurements and geometric morphometric methods (GMM) to answer questions on mobility and allometry during childhood.

Materials and Methods

Left femora were selected from 42 individuals ranging from fetal to 12 years of age from medieval St Gregory's Priory, Canterbury, UK. Femora were digitized with structured‐light‐scanning for auto3dgm analysis and measurements were obtained from physical caliper measurements. Individuals were put into age groups based on biomechanical milestones during this age range.

Results

Ratio and GMM confirm hypotheses of allometry and biomechanical milestones. Geometric morphometrics, however, detects more subtle differences in mobility at each age group.

Discussion

The findings of this preliminary study support the potential use of GMM of immature femora, while indicating that the extent in range of mobility that can occur varies at different biological milestones.
Catalytic Refining Lignin‐Derived Monomers: Seesaw Effect between Nanoparticle and Single‐Atom Pt
Authors: Wang Weiyan , Li Shangjian , Qiang Qian , Wu Kui , Pan Xiaoli , Su Wentao , Cai Junyang , Shen Zhigang , Yang Yunquan , Li Changzhi , Zhang Tao
Published: May 2024

Pt automatically adsorbed on oxygen vacancy of TiO2 via an in situ interfacial redox reaction, resulting in atomically dispersion of Pt on TiO2. In the upgrading of lignin‐derived 4‐propylguaiacol, single‐atom catalyst (SAC) Pt/TiO2−H achieved a conversion of 96.9 % and a demethoxylation selectivity of 93.3 % under 3 MPa H2 at 250 °C for 3 h, markedly different from the performance of nanoparticle counterpart that gave deep deoxygenation selectivity over 99.0 %. The high demethoxylation activity of SAC Pt/TiO2−H is mainly attributed to its weak hydrogen spillover capacity that suppressed the benzene ring hydrogenation and the deep deoxygenation. Additionally, SAC Pt/TiO2−H reduced the energy barrier of CAr−OCH3 bond cleavage and accordingly lowered the Gibbs free energy of the demethoxylation reaction. This facile method could fabricate single‐atom Au, Pd, Ir, and Ru supported on TiO2−H, demonstrating the generality of this strategy for the establishment of a library of SACs. Moreover, SAC exhibited versatile capacity in demethoxylation of different lignin‐derived monomers and high stability. This study showcases the superiority of atomically dispersed metal catalysts for selective demethoxylation reactions and proposes a renewable alternative to fossil‐based 4‐alkylphenols through upgrading of lignin‐derived monomers.
On‐Demand Catalysed n‐Doping of Organic Semiconductors
Authors: Stoeckel Marc‐Antoine , Feng Kui , Yang Chi‐Yuan , Liu Xianjie , Li Qifan , Liu Tiefeng , Jeong Sang Young , Woo Han Young , Yao Yao , Fahlman Mats , Marks Tobin J. , Sharma Sakshi , Motta Alessandro , Guo Xugang , Fabiano Simone , Facchetti Antonio
Published: May 2024

A new approach to control the n‐doping reaction of organic semiconductors is reported using surface‐functionalized gold nanoparticles (f‐AuNPs) with alkylthiols acting as the catalyst only upon mild thermal activation. To demonstrate the versatility of this methodology, the reaction of the n‐type dopant precursor N‐DMBI‐H with several molecular and polymeric semiconductors at different temperatures with/without f‐AuNPs, vis‐à‐vis the unfunctionalized catalyst AuNPs, was investigated by spectroscopic, morphological, charge transport, and kinetic measurements as well as, computationally, the thermodynamic of catalyst activation. The combined experimental and theoretical data demonstrate that while f‐AuNPs is inactive at room temperature both in solution and in the solid state, catalyst activation occurs rapidly at mild temperatures (~70 °C) and the doping reaction completes in few seconds affording large electrical conductivities (~10–140 S cm−1). The implementation of this methodology enables the use of semiconductor+dopant+catalyst solutions and will broaden the use of the corresponding n‐doped films in opto‐electronic devices such as thin‐film transistors, electrochemical transistors, solar cells, and thermoelectrics well as guide the design of new catalysts.
Design of PVDF hollow fiber membranes with stable crystalline and porous structure by solvent‐free method
Authors: Wang Qiming , Chen Kaikai , Yue Zhengjie , Zhao Wei , Yan Jingjing , Wu Yanjie , Xiao Changfa
Published: May 2024

One of the critical principles of green chemistry and environmental sustainability is to avoid using harmful solvents in chemical processes. In this study, a novel solvent‐free method was employed to prepare poly (vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) hollow fiber composite membranes with stable crystalline and porous structures. Utilizing the cold‐hot stretching method, the crystalline structure and orientation of PVDF were effectively redesigned, resulting in improved mechanical and penetration properties of the membrane. Additionally, an investigation into the internal crystalline structure of the PVDF hollow fiber membrane was conducted, focusing on crystalline changes induced by ion‐dipole interactions. Results indicated that the addition of neutral ion‐dipole functional particles (N‐P) promoted the conversion of α crystalline to β crystalline, leading to stable β crystalline and controllable pore sizes in the prepared PVDF hollow fiber membrane. Furthermore, the internal crystalline structure significantly contributed to enhancing the membrane's mechanical properties and penetration performance. Notably, a PVDF hollow fiber with high β crystalline content was achieved through 150% cold‐hot stretching and the addition of 20. wt% N‐P further enhanced the β‐crystalline content in the membrane. This study presents a promising approach for reducing solvent consumption and minimizing environmental impact in the field of environment‐friendly membrane fabrication.
Phase 2 Trial of Deucravacitinib in Psoriatic Arthritis: Biomarkers Associated With Disease Activity, Pharmacodynamics, and Clinical Responses
Authors: FitzGerald Oliver , Gladman Dafna D. , Mease Philip J. , Ritchlin Christopher , Smolen Josef S. , Gao Lu , Hu Yanhua , Nowak Miroslawa , Banerjee Subhashis , Catlett Ian
Published: May 2024

Objective

Our objective was to evaluate the association of serum biomarkers with baseline psoriatic arthritis (PsA) disease activity, pharmacodynamic effects of deucravacitinib on biomarker levels, and the relationship between biomarkers and clinical responses to deucravacitinib.

Methods

The phase 2 trial (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03881059) randomly assigned 203 patients with PsA 1:1:1 to placebo, deucravacitinib at 6 mg once daily (QD), or deucravacitinib at 12 mg QD. Serum biomarkers associated with the interleukin 23 (IL‐23) pathway (IL‐17A, β‐defensin [BD‐2], and IL‐19), type I interferon pathway, inflammation, and collagen matrix turnover were measured by immunoassay. Clinical responses (≥75% improvement from baseline in the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index [PASI75] and ≥20% improvement from baseline in American College of Rheumatology criteria [ACR20] responses) were measured at week 16. Hematologic variables were also assessed.

Results

IL‐17A, BD‐2, and IL‐19 had a modest association with PASI scores (r = 0.4, r = 0.56, and r = 0.5, respectively) at baseline. In deucravacitinib groups, IL‐17A, BD‐2, IL‐19, C‐X‐C motif ligand 9 (CXCL9), CXCL10, C‐reactive protein, matrix metalloproteinase 3, and collagen type 4 degradation marker levels were significantly reduced at week 16 versus baseline (P < 0.01); higher levels of IL‐23 pathway–associated biomarkers predicted higher PASI75 and ACR20 response rates in deucravacitinib‐treated patients. Significantly higher PASI75 response rates were seen in patients with high baseline IL‐17A (odds ratio 15.76) and BD‐2 levels (odds ratio 15.41) versus low baseline IL‐17A and BD‐2 levels. Changes in hematologic variables that are characteristic of JAK inhibition were not observed with deucravacitinib.

Conclusion

Deucravacitinib significantly impacted biomarkers associated with Tyk2 signaling pathways of key inflammatory cytokines, including IL‐23 and type I interferon, and those related to collagen matrix turnover. These biomarkers may predict treatment responses to deucravacitinib.

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Specialization of anterior and posterior hippocampal functional connectivity differs in autism
Authors: Kember J. , Patenaude P. , Sweatman H. , Van Schaik L. , Tabuenca Z. , Chai X. J.
Published: May 2024

Structural and functional differences in the hippocampus have been related to the episodic memory and social impairments observed in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). In neurotypical individuals, hippocampal–cortical functional connectivity systematically varies between anterior and posterior hippocampus, with changes observed during typical development. It remains unknown whether this specialization of anterior–posterior hippocampal connectivity is disrupted in ASD, and whether age‐related differences in this specialization exist in ASD. We examined connectivity of the anterior and posterior hippocampus in an ASD (N = 139) and non‐autistic comparison group (N = 133) aged 5–21 using resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data from the Healthy Brain Network (HBN). Consistent with previous results, we observed lower connectivity between the whole hippocampus and medial prefrontal cortex in ASD. Moreover, preferential connectivity of the posterior relative to the anterior hippocampus for memory‐sensitive regions in posterior parietal cortex was reduced in ASD, demonstrating a weaker anterior–posterior specialization of hippocampal–cortical connectivity. Finally, connectivity between the posterior hippocampus and precuneus negatively correlated with age in the ASD group but remained stable in the comparison group, suggesting an altered developmental specialization. Together, these differences in hippocampal–cortical connectivity may help us understand the neurobiological basis of the memory and social impairments found in ASD.
Electrolyte Stabilizes Zn2+ Reduction Reaction Process: Solvation, Interface and Kinetics
Authors: Xu Yan , Guo Zhaohe , Song Ming , Xu Xuena , Wan Hongri , Sun Limei , Chao Dongliang , Zhou Wanhai
Published: May 2024

Aqueous zinc‐ion batteries (ZIBs), lauded for their low cost, eco‐friendliness, and high safety, have garnered significant attention. However, their commercial viability is hindered by the challenges of dendrite growth and side reactions during the Zn2+ reduction reaction process. Electrolyte as the indispensable component of batteries has a close relationship with the issues mentioned above. With the feature of simplicity, effectiveness, and scalability, regulating electrolytes is a particularly promising, feasible, and straightforward approach to stabilizing the Zn anode. The solvation design with less solvated water, interface optimization with water‐poor and pH‐stable interface, and kinetics regulation with fast Zn2+ transport, uniform Zn2+ flux, and orientational Zn growth can contribute to uniform Zn deposition with restrained corrosion. This review encapsulates the cutting‐edge advancements in electrolytes to stabilize the Zn anode. The mechanisms underlying these advancements, encompassing solvation structure design, Zn‐electrolyte interface optimization, and kinetics regulation are elucidated. Finally, this paper outlines current challenges and prospects in electrolyte development for ZIBs, providing valuable insights for future endeavors in this field.
Insight into CO2 capture by aqueous solutions of N,N‐diethylethanolamine promoted with potassium salts of amino acids
Authors: Rawate Hitesh D. , Vaidya Prakash D.
Published: May 2024

N,N‐Diethylethanolamine (DEEA) is a potential high‐capacity CO2‐capturing solvent. The CO2 reactivity of DEEA can be improved by the addition of rate promoters. Both equilibrium CO2 solubility and desorption rate are also influenced by promoters. In this work, the effect of promotion of DEEA with three amino acid salts, potassium arginate (PA), potassium prolinate (PP), and potassium glycinate (PG), was investigated. In a stirred cell reactor, CO2 reactivity of the promoted solutions was studied at 303 K. Rate promotion with PA was most effective; this was then followed by PP and PG. The value of the liquid‐side mass transfer coefficient (0.005 cm/s) for CO2 absorption in water inside the stirred cell was found. Equilibrium CO2 solubility in the promoted mixtures was measured. Empirical equations that predicted solubility data (accuracy 99%) were proposed. Desorption trials were performed at 363 K. PA, PP, and PG lowered sensible energy constraint by 59%, 32%, and 30%. PA was most‐suited for faster desorption of aqueous solutions of DEEA. Overall, potassium salts of arginine, proline, and glycine were promising candidates for improving the performance of the tertiary amine DEEA. Finally, catalytic desorption of loaded solutions of DEEA was studied and it was found that alumina was a promising catalyst for faster desorption.
A three‐dimensional, discrete‐continuum model of blood pressure in microvascular networks
Authors: Sweeney Paul W. , Walsh Claire , Walker‐Samuel Simon , Shipley Rebecca J.
Published: May 2024

We present a 3D discrete‐continuum model to simulate blood pressure in large microvascular tissues in the absence of known capillary network architecture. Our hybrid approach combines a 1D Poiseuille flow description for large, discrete arteriolar and venular networks coupled to a continuum‐based Darcy model, point sources of flux, for transport in the capillary bed. We evaluate our hybrid approach using a vascular network imaged from the mouse brain medulla/pons using multi‐fluorescence high‐resolution episcopic microscopy (MF‐HREM). We use the fully‐resolved vascular network to predict the hydraulic conductivity of the capillary network and generate a fully‐discrete pressure solution to benchmark against. Our results demonstrate that the discrete‐continuum methodology is a computationally feasible and effective tool for predicting blood pressure in real‐world microvascular tissues when capillary microvessels are poorly defined.
Photo‐activated Carbon dots (CDs) as Catalysts in the Knoevenagel Condensation: A Mechanistic Study by Dual‐Mode Monitoring via ESI‐MS
Authors: Cosentino Francesca , Michenzi Cinzia , Di Noi Alessia , Salvitti Chiara , Pepi Federico , de Petris Giulia , Chiarotto Isabella , Troiani Anna
Published: May 2024

Carbon dots (CDs) obtained from 5‐(hydroxymethyl)furfural (5‐HMF) were activated by a 365 nm‐UV irradiation source and employed in the Knoevenagel condensation to investigate their photocatalytic mechanism. To this end, electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI‐MS) was used to monitor the time progress of the condensation and follow the formation of the final product in positive and negative ion modes at once. The intervention of the superoxide radical anion in the photocatalytic mechanism of CDs was highlighted.