bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Regulation of Contact Interactions to Increase the Water Resistance of Air Binders
Authors: Borziak Olga , Plugin Andrii , Plugina Alla
Published: December 2023

Composites based on mineral binders are highly concentrated polydisperse systems. These systems consist of a dispersed phase in the form of particles of filler and binder, hydration products, as well as a dispersion medium in the form of a porous electrolyte (mixing water). The properties of such systems are determined by the action of forces that manifest themselves in interfacial interactions and act within each phase between atoms, ions, or molecules. To increase the strength and water resistance of materials, it is necessary to ensure the formation of contacts in which electrostatic attraction with the maximum interaction energy is realized. A significant role is played by the electric charges and potentials of the surface of the particles of the components of the structure. The introduction of chemical additives provides the synthesis of additional crystalline hydrates with certain surface properties, which contributes to an increase in the number of electroheterogeneous contacts in the system. The introduction of polydisperse mineral fillers, taking into account their surface charges, ensures the formation of a dense structure of a composite material with a large number of electroheterogeneous contacts. Based on the research results, composite materials based on mineral binders of various functional purposes with specified physical‐mechanical, hydrophysical, electrophysical properties have been developed. The use of these materials made it possible to increase the reliability and durability of building structures.
Verbesserung der CO2‐Bilanz von Kalksandsteinen durch den Einsatz von Sägeschlamm als Optimierungszuschlag
Authors: Laabs Marcel , Istanbuly Zakaria , Eden Wolfgang , Middendorf Bernhard
Published: December 2023

Kurzfassung

Rund 20% der aus den Rohstoffen Kalk, Sand und Wasser hergestellten Kalksandsteine (KS) in KS‐XL‐Formaten werden zur Vorkonfektionierung gesägt. Dabei fallen in den KS‐Werken insgesamt rd. 20.000 t Sägeschlämme pro Jahr an, die derzeit keiner gezielten Verwendung zugeführt werden. Allerdings handelt es sich dabei bereits unter Einsatz von CO2‐intensivem Branntkalk gehärtetes Material, welches als Optimierungszusatz genutzt werden kann.

Insgesamt 13 verschiedene Sägeschlämme (SäS) wurden hinsichtlich ihrer Eignung chemisch‐mineralogisch charakterisiert. Anschließend wurden diese zur Reduzierung der Branntkalkdosis für die KS‐Herstellung genutzt. Dazu wurden Versuchsbedingungen und Rezepturen systematisch variiert, wobei die Versuche auf Labor‐, Technikums‐ und Werksebene durchgeführt wurden.

Im Optimalfall können bis zu 2 M.‐% des eingesetzten Branntkalks durch SäS substituiert werden, ohne die Eigenschaften der KS negativ zu beeinflussen. In manchen Fällen können Eigenschaften wie Druckfestigkeit und Porosität sogar positiv beeinflusst werden. Durch den vergleichsweise geringen zusätzlichen Aufwand, um die entsprechenden SäS in den Herstellungsprozess einzubinden, können so Produktionskosten und CO2‐Emissionen gesenkt werden.
Industrielle Fertigung von großformatigen Lehmsteinen für nachhaltige und wirtschaftliche Gebäude
Authors: Liebrich Christoph , Fröhlich Susanne
Published: December 2023

Kurzfassung

Für die Erreichung der Klimaziele müssen Gebäude möglichst klimaneutral sein. Tragende Lehmsteine bieten das Potential Gebäude energie‐ und ressourcenschonend zu errichten. Die industrielle Fertigung von großformatigen Lehmsteinen im Formpressverfahren ist eine wirtschaftliche und ökologische Alternative zu den bisher etablierten Mauerwerkssteinen aus Ziegel, Kalksandstein oder Porenbeton. Die Akzeptanz in der Baupraxis kann durch den Nachweis einer hohen und gleichmäßigen Fertigungsqualität aufgezeigt werden. Das DBU‐Forschungsprojekt von KIMM und CLAYX stellt die dazu notwendigen Entwicklungsschritte im Rahmen der industriellen Fertigung über den Bauablauf bis hin zur Ökobilanzierung vor.
Selbstheilung von Rissen in Beton‐ Kann man sich auf die Selbstheilung verlassen?
Authors: Edvardsen Carola
Published: December 2023

Tragwerksplaner verwenden üblicherweise EN 1992‐3 “Silos und Behälterbauwerke aus Beton” für die Bemessung von wasserdichten Betonbauwerken (WU‐Bauteile) wie Kellern, Tunneln und Wasserbehältern, die einem einseitigen Wasserdruck ausgesetzt sind. EN 1992‐3 kann so interpretiert werden, dass bei wasserdichten Bauteilen undichte, durchgehende Risse (Trennrisse) zulässig sind. Konstrukteure glauben mir gutem Gewissen, dass je nach hydraulischem Gefälle durchgehende Risse zwischen 0,05 und 0,20 mm akzeptabel sind. Dies ist jedoch nur dann der Fall, wenn sich die durchgehenden Risse innerhalb kurzer Zeit effektiv heilen. Leider kommt es nicht immer zur Selbstheilung von Rissen, und die Stahlbetonkonstruktionen sind stark von ernsthafter Bewehrungskorrosion bedroht, die sogar die strukturelle Integrität gefährden kann, wenn keine anderen Gegenmaßnahmen (z. B. Injektionen) angewendet werden.

Die Präsentation gibt einen Einblick in das Design von WU‐Bauteilen, die Selbstheilungsmechanismus von Rissen und die eigenen Erfahrungen der Referentin aus mehreren Projekten, bei denen das Verlassen auf die Selbstheilung von Rissen als Designannahme schwerwiegende Folgen für die Konstruktionen hatte, sowohl in Bezug auf die Dauerhaftigkeit als auch in Bezug auf die strukturelle Integrität.
The Impact of ortho‐substituents on Bonding in Silver(I) and Halogen(I) Complexes of 2‐Mono‐ and 2,6‐Disubstituted Pyridines: An In‐Depth Experimental and Theoretical Study
Authors: Kumar Parveen , Rautiainen J. Mikko , Novotný Jan , Ward Jas S. , Marek Radek , Rissanen Kari , Puttreddy Rakesh
Published: December 2023

The coordination nature of 2‐mono‐ and 2,6‐disubstituted pyridines with electron‐withdrawing halogen and electron‐donating methyl groups for [N−X−N]+ (X=I, Br) complexations have been studied using 15N NMR, X‐ray crystallography, and Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations. The 15N NMR chemical shifts reveal iodine(I) and bromine(I) prefer to form complexes with 2‐substituted pyridines and only 2,6‐dimethylpyridine. The crystalline halogen(I) complexes of 2‐substituted pyridines were characterized by using X‐ray diffraction analysis, but 2,6‐dihalopyridines were unable to form stable crystalline halogen(I) complexes due to the lower nucleophilicity of the pyridinic nitrogen. In contrast, the halogen(I) complexes of 2,6‐dimethylpyridine, which has a more basic nitrogen, are characterized by X‐crystallography, which complements the 15N NMR studies. DFT calculations reveal that the bond energies for iodine(I) complexes vary between −291 and −351 kJ mol−1 and for bromine between −370 and −427 kJ mol−1. The bond energies of halogen(I) complexes of 2‐halopyridines with more nucleophilic nitrogen are 66‐76 kJ mol−1 larger than those of analogous 2,6‐dihalopyridines with less nucleophilic nitrogen. The experimental and DFT results show that the electronic influence of ortho‐halogen substituents on pyridinic nitrogen leads to a completely different preference for the coordination bonding of halogen(I) ions, providing new insights into bonding in halogen(I) chemistry.
Towards Efficient Polymeric Binders for Transition Metal Oxides‐based Li‐ion Battery Cathodes
Authors: Li Changgong , Nie Shan , Li Hao
Published: December 2023

Transition metal oxide cathodes (TMOCs) such as LiNi0.8Mn0.1Co0.1O2 and LiMn1.5Ni0.5O4 have been widely employed in Li‐ion batteries (LIBs) owing to superior operating voltages, high reversible capacities and relatively low cost. Nevertheless, despite significant advancements in practical application, TMOC‐based LIBs face great challenges such as transition metal dissolution and volume expansion during cycling, which jeopardizes the future advance of high‐voltage TMOCs. As a critical component of cathode, polymeric binder acts as a crucial part in maintaining the mechanical and ion/electron conductive integrity between active particles, carbon additives, and the aluminum collector, hence minimizing cathode pulverization during battery cycling. Moreover, Polymeric binder with specialized functions is thought to offer a new solution to enhancing the electrochemical stability of the TMOCs. Therefore, this review aims at providing a comprehensive summary of the ideal requirements, design strategies and recent progress of polymeric binders for TMOCs. Future design perspectives and promising research technologies for advanced binders for high‐voltage TMOCs are introduced.
Intermolecular 1,3‐Dipolar Cycloaddition Reaction of N‐Carbamoyl Nitrones Generated by N‐Selective Carbamoylation of Oximes with Isocyanates
Authors: Yamamoto Ayaka , Tanaka Kosaku , Hashimoto Yoshimitsu , Morita Nobuyoshi , Tamura Osamu
Published: December 2023

N‐Selective carbamoylation reaction of oximes with isocyanates generates nitrones, which undergo 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition with various dipolarophiles to afford diverse isoxazolidines. Notably, combinations of highly electron‐rich oxime and highly electron‐deficient dipolarophile exhibited high reactivity, with product yields of up to 94 %. The substituent on the isoxazolidine‐nitrogen atom could be successfully removed without loss of the cyclic structure. Computational studies have also elucidated the mechanism of the reaction and origin of stereoselectivity.
Aufstieg und Fall des Fredrick Accum
Authors: Roth Klaus
Published: December 2023

In seinem 1820 erschienenen Buch „A Treatise on Adulteration of Food and Culinary Poisons“ (Von der Verfälschung von Nahrungsmitteln und von Küchengiften) beschrieb Fredrick Accum (1769–1838), wie jeder Bürger mit einfachen Mitteln die schlimmsten der damals üblichen Verfälschungen seiner Nahrungsmittel zuverlässig erkennen konnte. Als Vorreiter des Verbraucherschutzes hätte Fredrick Accum dafür einen Ehrenplatz in der Geschichte der Lebensmittelchemie verdient. Aber es kam anders. Kurz nach Erscheinen des Buches wurde sein Ruf in wenigen Wochen völlig ruiniert. Er verlor seine große Popularität, seine Freunde und wurde letztlich aus seiner Wahlheimat England vertrieben. Dann versank sein Name in Vergessenheit. Warum?
Effect of Hyperconjugation on Photovoltaic Performance in Pseduo‐2D Perylene Diimide Derivatives†
Authors: He Zhilong , Hong Yuwen , Li Guangyu , Shan Tong , Zhang Yi , Zhong Hongliang
Published: December 2023

Comprehensive Summary

The π‐π interaction is acknowledged as the predominant factor to determine the molecular packing in organic photovoltaic materials, while other non‐covalent intermolecular interactions especially the σ‐π hyperconjugation are often ignored. Herein, a perylene diimide (PDI) derivative named FIDT‐PDI is designed and synthesized to shed light into the effect of hyperconjugation on the molecular packing and further the photovoltaic performance. Dynamic NMR and 2D NOE NMR demonstrate the formation of intermolecular σ‐π hyperconjugation between the C—H bond of the PDI moiety in one molecule and the phenyl sidechain in another molecule of FIDT‐PDI. Benefiting from the σ‐π hyperconjugation, FIDT‐PDI with twisted backbone reversely exhibits more ordered packing and stronger crystallinity compared with another PDI derivative FIDTT‐PDI which has better planarity, consequently achieving superior PCE and higher carrier mobility. This contribution is the first paradigm to unravel the structure‐property relationship between σ‐π hyperconjugation of conjugated materials and corresponding photovoltaic performance.
Hydrogen Sulfide Adsorption Mechanism and Breakthrough Curves of Highly Stable Na‐, Na‐H‐, Ca‐ and K‐Mordenites
Authors: Villarreal Aline , Ramírez Jorge , Cuevas‐García Rogelio , Gutiérrez‐Alejandre Aída
Published: December 2023

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is a hazardous gas found in natural gas and biogas, lethal over 100 ppm. When released into the atmosphere, it can turn into sulfur dioxide. One option to remove H2S is using porous materials such as zeolites. Among them, mordenite stands out due to its channel structure, wide availability, and low cost. In this work, we evaluated the H2S adsorption capacity of mordenite using a volumetric static method. The results show the adsorption capacity of H2S in mordenite varies with the exchanged cation. The highest was measured in Na‐mordenite (~4.08 mmol H2S/g mordenite). The experimental breakthrough curves for this zeolite confirmed Langmuir‐type adsorption and strong affinity between Na+ cations and H2S. Despite this interaction, the XRD diffractograms of Na‐mordenite show that the material retained its crystalline structure. More information about the differences in the amount of H2S adsorbed in the zeolites caused by the change in exchanged cation was obtained by H2S adsorption followed by FTIR spectroscopy. The spectra show differences in the position of the peaks related to the different adsorption modes of H2S caused by a change in the polarizing power of the cations due to their charge and position inside the zeolite pores.
Recent Advances in Laser‐Induced Graphene‐Based Materials for Energy Storage and Conversion
Authors: Jo Seung Geun , Ramkumar Rahul , Lee Jung Woo
Published: December 2023

Laser‐induced graphene (LIG) is a porous carbon nanomaterial that can be produced by irradiation of CO2 laser directly on the polymer substrate under ambient conditions. LIG has many merits over conventional graphene, such as simple and fast synthesis, tunable structure and composition, high surface area and porosity, excellent electrical and thermal conductivity, and good flexibility and stability. These properties make LIG a promising material for energy applications, such as supercapacitors, batteries, fuel cells, and solar cells. In this review, we highlight the recent advances of LIG in energy materials, covering the fabrication methods, performance enhancement strategies, and device integration of LIG‐based electrodes and devices in the area of hydrogen evolution reaction, oxygen evolution reaction, oxygen reduction reaction, zinc‐air batteries, and supercapacitors. This comprehensive review examines the potential of LIG for future sustainable and efficient energy material development, highlighting its versatility and multifunctionality in energy conversion.
Development and applications of the quasi‐dynamic triaxial apparatus for deep rocks
Authors: Luo Jinzhi , Cai Yanyan , Yu Jin , Zhang Jianzhi , Zhu Yaoliang , Wei Yao
Published: December 2023

The mechanical behaviors of deep rocks have always posed a challenge for the implementation and safe operation of major underground engineering projects. To this end, this study modified the existing mainstream rock mechanics instruments equipped with a dynamic disturbance loading system and developed a second‐generation TFD‐2000/D triaxial instrument. The first‐generation device is equipped with an independent disturbance system and an advanced EDC‐580 all‐digital servo controller, which can apply disturbing load independently, implement the function of cyclic disturbance, and combine dynamic and static disturbances. The instrument was found to be reliable for use in analyzing the damage process of rocks in the disturbance test of marbles. The second‐generation instrument tackles three limitations of the first‐generation instrument: (i) it upgrades the strain measurement system and uses extensometers with linear variable differential transformers to accurately measure deformation; (ii) it uses the self‐balanced chamber to replace the Hoek–Franklin triaxial cell and auto‐balancing triaxial pressure chamber; and (iii) the loading rod is independently equipped with an EDC‐580 all‐digital servo controller, which measures precise loads. The experimental findings confirmed that the second‐generation instrument can be used for rock mechanics testing under cyclic disturbance loading, the disturbance–stress relaxation cycle, and the creep–fatigue cycle. In this sense, the second‐generation instrument can be a useful addition to deep rock mechanical instruments and provide a valuable reference.
Dominant gingers – Discovery and inheritance of a new shell polymorphism in the great pond snail Lymnaea stagnalis
Authors: Ledder Matthijs , Nakadera Yumi , Staikou Alexandra , Koene Joris M.
Published: December 2023

Color polymorphism is a classic study system for evolutionary genetics. One of the most color‐polymorphic animal taxa is mollusks, but the investigation of the genetic basis of color determination is often hindered by their life history and the limited availability of genetic resources. Here, we report on the discovery of shell color polymorphism in a much‐used model species, the great pond snail Lymnaea stagnalis. While their shell is usually beige, some individuals from a Greek population show a distinct red shell color, which we nicknamed Ginger. Moreover, we found that the inheritance fits simple, single‐locus Mendelian inheritance with dominance of the Ginger allele. We also compared crucial life‐history traits between Ginger and wild‐type individuals, and found no differences between morphs. We conclude that the relative simplicity of this polymorphism will provide new opportunities for a deeper understanding of the genetic basis of shell color polymorphism and its evolutionary origin.
Using eDNA for mammal inventories still needs naturalist expertise, a meta‐analysis
Authors: Van Leeuwen Pauline , Michaux Johan
Published: December 2023

DNA from the environment (eDNA) has been increasingly used as a new tool to conduct biodiversity assessment. Because of its noninvasive and less time‐consuming nature, many studies of recent years solely rely on this information to establish a species inventory. eDNA metabarcoding has been shown to be an efficient method in aquatic ecosystems, especially for fish. However, detection efficiency is not clear for mammals. Using the existing literature, we conducted a meta‐analysis to investigate if eDNA metabarcoding allows greater detection success compared to conventional surveys (such as field surveys, camera traps, etc.). Although only 28 articles were retrieved, showing the lack of comparative studies, still representing more than 900 taxa detected, we found that detection success was method dependent, but most importantly varies on the taxonomy of the targeted taxa. eDNA metabarcoding performed poorly for bats compared to the traditional mist nests. However, strong detection overlaps were found between conventional surveys and eDNA for large‐bodied mammals such as ungulates, primates, and carnivores. Overall, we argue that using both molecular and field approaches can complement each other and can maximize the most accurate biodiversity assessment and there is much room for metabarcoding optimization to reach their full potential compared to traditional surveys.
Abundance of Oligoflexales bacteria is associated with algal symbiont density, independent of thermal stress in Aiptasia anemones
Authors: Aguirre Emily G. , Fine Marissa J. , Kenkel Carly D.
Published: December 2023

Many multicellular organisms, such as humans, plants, and invertebrates, depend on symbioses with microbes for metabolic cooperation and exchange. Reef‐building corals, an ecologically important order of invertebrates, are particularly vulnerable to environmental stress in part because of their nutritive symbiosis with dinoflagellate algae, and yet also benefit from these and other microbial associations. While coral microbiomes remain difficult to study because of their complexity, the anemone Aiptasia is emerging as a simplified model. Research has demonstrated co‐occurrences between microbiome composition and the abundance and type of algal symbionts in cnidarians. However, whether these patterns are the result of general stress‐induced shifts or depletions of algal‐associated bacteria remains unclear. Our study aimed to distinguish the effect of changes in symbiont density and thermal stress on the microbiome of symbiotic Aiptasia strain CC7 by comparing them with aposymbiotic anemones, depleted of their native symbiont, Symbiodinium linucheae. Our analysis indicated that overall thermal stress had the greatest impact on disrupting the microbiome. We found that three bacterial classes made up most of the relative abundance (60%–85%) in all samples, but the rare microbiome fluctuated between symbiotic states and following thermal stress. We also observed that S. linucheae density correlated with abundance of Oligoflexales, suggesting these bacteria may be primary symbionts of the dinoflagellate algae. The findings of this study help expand knowledge on prospective multipartite symbioses in the cnidarian holobiont and how they respond to environmental disturbance.
Development of the cholestosome, a novel delivery system made exclusively from cholesteryl esters
Authors: Mielnicki Lawrence , Hughes Julie , Schentag Jerome , Irving Mary , Monetti Victoria , Fraser MacArthur John , Cordone David , McCourt Mary
Published: December 2023

A novel vesicular drug delivery system has been created using only cholesteryl esters. The uncharged nature of the esters requires a formulation process that uses energy, in the form of sonication, to facilitate the cholesteryl esters formation into vesicles. The nature of the material choices renders the vesicles resistant to pH degradation between a pH of 2 and 10. Storage condition at 4°C for 9 months shows a stability of encapsulated materials as well as vesicles. The formulation process is a modified reverse phase method in which the esters are dissolved in an organic solvent, which is then removed and the aqueous component is then added with sonication in a temperature‐controlled water bath. A wide variety of materials can be encapsulated in these vesicles, which are called cholestosomes. Delivery of the cholestosome‐encapsulated materials is a function of the ester component structure and not the encapsulated molecule. Once encapsulated, the vesicles deliver the materials into cells. The potential for oral availability was explored using chylomicrons. Successful delivery of the cholestosome encapsulated into chylomicrons has enhanced the effectiveness of delivery to cells. Analytical methods have been developed to analyze the materials chosen from the cholesteryl esters as well as the encapsulated materials.

Practical Applications: The creation of the cholestosome vesicle opens up completely new areas for encapsulating and delivering materials. The cholesteryl ester structure that makes up the vesicles is impervious to pH and bile salts, making cholestosomes ideal for oral delivery of drugs, such as oral insulin. Intracellular delivery of cholestosome vesicles enables multiple applications, from killing latent infections to preventing viral replication (irrespective of the virus) and delivering nucleic acid therapeutics to cure genetic disease. These vesicles pass the blood–brain barrier and could be used for treatments of Alzheimer's and related neurodegenerative disease. Cholestosomes can also be used in cosmetic formulations as the vesicles pass the dermis. They even could be used in food applications as the materials are considered generally regarded as safe.
Advances and challenges in conventional and modern techniques for halal food authentication: A review
Authors: Usman Ifrah , Sana Saima , Afzaal Muhammad , Imran Ali , Saeed Farhan , Ahmed Aftab , Shah Yasir Abbas , Munir Muniba , Ateeq Huda , Afzal Atka , Azam Iqra , Ejaz Afaf , Nayik Gulzar Ahmad , Khan Mahbubar Rahman
Published: December 2023

Food is one of the most necessary needs since human civilization. For Muslims, it is mandatory to consume halal food. From a halal authentication perspective, adulteration of food products is an emerging challenge worldwide. The demand for halal food consumption has resulted in an ever‐increasing need for halal product validity. In the market, there are several food products in which actual ingredients and their source are not mentioned on the label and cannot be observed by the naked eye. Commonly nonhalal items include pig derivatives like lard, pork, and gelatin derivatives, dead meats, alcohol, blood, and prohibited animals. Purposely, various conventional and modern methods offer precise approaches to ensure the halalness and wholesomeness of food products. Conventional methods are physiochemical (dielectric) and electrophoresis. At the same time, modern techniques include high‐pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC), gas chromatography (GC), electronic nose (E‐Nose), polymerase chain reaction (PCR), enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), near‐infrared (NIR) spectroscopy, and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. This review intends to give an extensive and updated overview of conventional and modern analytical methods for ensuring food halal authenticity.
Quercetin ameliorates Helicobacter pylori‐induced gastric epithelial cell injury by regulating specificity protein 1/lipocalin 2 axis in gastritis
Authors: Wang Ziwei , Zhou Xinxin , Hu Xin , Zheng Congru
Published: December 2023

Helicobacter pylori (HP) infection is the main cause of most cases of gastritis. Quercetin has been shown to have anti‐inflammatory, anti‐bacterial, and antiviral activities and has been demonstrated to be involved in HP‐induced gastric mucosa injury. Moreover, the secretory protein lipocalin‐2 (LCN2) was elevated in HP‐infected gastric mucosa. Thus, this work aimed to study the interaction between quercetin and LCN2 in HP‐triggered gastric injury during gastritis. Human gastric epithelial cell line GES‐1 cells were exposed to HP for functional experiments. Cell viability, apoptosis, and inflammation were evaluated by cell counting kit‐8, flow cytometry, and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, respectively. Levels of genes and proteins were tested using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and western blotting analyses. The interaction between LCN2 and specificity protein 1 (SP1) was validated using chromatin immunoprecipitation assay and dual‐luciferase reporter assay. Thereafter, we found quercetin treatment suppressed HP‐induced GES‐1 cell apoptotic and inflammatory injury and macrophage M1 polarization. LCN2 was highly expressed in HP‐infected gastritis patients and HP‐infected GES‐1 cells, while quercetin reduced LCN2 expression in HP‐infected GES‐1 cells; moreover, LCN2 knockdown reversed HP‐induced GES‐1 cell injury and macrophage M1 polarization, and forced expression of LCN2 abolished the protective effects of quercetin on GES‐1 cells under HP infection. Mechanistically, SP1 bound to LCN2 promoter and promoted its transcription. Also, SP1 overexpression counteracted the functions of quercetin on HP‐stimulated GES‐1 cells. In all, quercetin ameliorated HP‐induced gastric epithelial cell apoptotic and inflammatory injuries, and macrophage M1 polarization via the SP1/LCN2 axis.
Nutritional response of sugar maple seedlings to water stress under highly nitrogen‐enriched soil conditions
Authors: Masson Eva , Mekontchou Claudele Ghotsa , Cogliastro Alain , Houle Daniel , Rivest David
Published: December 2023

Background

Temperate forests of eastern North America will be increasingly affected by chronic atmospheric nitrogen deposition, elevated temperatures, and drought events that will expose trees to moisture‐stressed conditions in non‐nitrogen‐limited soils. Yet, little is known regarding the response of sugar maple‐dominated forests to moisture stress under non‐nitrogen‐limiting conditions.

Aims

The objective of this greenhouse study was to analyze the effects of moisture stress on the nutrition and growth of sugar maple seedlings growing on base‐poor forest soils that were strongly fertilized with nitrogen.

Methods

One‐year‐old sugar maple seedlings were grown with and without water stress on soils from a sugar maple stand that had been fertilized for 15 years at a rate of 85 kg N ha−1 y−1.

Results

Decreased moisture availability decreased total, leaf, root and stem biomass, and root/stem ratio. Leaf concentrations of N, P, Ca, and Mg and root concentrations of K, Ca, and Mg were 6% to 23% significantly lower under stressed versus unstressed conditions despite no changes in N, P, K, and Mg concentrations in the soil. Only soil Ca concentration was negatively affected by the moisture stress treatment. Soil and leaf δ15N and the k‐factor (i.e., isotopic discrimination effect of 15N‐labeled sources of N between roots and soil) that was used to assess N‐use efficiency of sugar maple seedlings did not differ between water stress treatments.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that decreasing root biomass of sugar maple seedlings under moisture stress in non‐nitrogen‐limiting situations would decrease their ability to take up nutrients that are necessary for growth and induce lower concentrations in leaves and roots. Expected severe drought events could substantially limit nutrient uptake capacity of sugar maple seedlings on sites that are subject to chronic atmospheric N‐deposition, which would contribute to dieback in sugar maple stands.
Remainder terms of a nonlocal Sobolev inequality
Authors: Deng Shengbing , Tian Xingliang , Yang Minbo , Zhao Shunneng
Published: December 2023

In this note, we study a nonlocal version of the Sobolev inequalitywhere is the best constant, denotes the standard convolution and denotes the classical Sobolev space with respect to the norm . By using the nondegeneracy property of the extremal functions, we prove that the existence of the gradient type remainder term and a reminder term in the weak ‐norm of above inequality for all with .
Comparison of volumetric modulated arc therapy and helical tomotherapy for prostate cancer using Pareto fronts
Authors: Wüthrich Diana , Wang Zirun , Zeverino Michele , Bourhis Jean , Bochud François , Moeckli Raphaël
Published: December 2023

Background

Studies comparing different radiotherapy treatment techniques—such as volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) and helical tomotherapy (HT)—typically compare one treatment plan per technique. Often, some dose metrics favor one plan and others favor the other, so the final plan decision involves subjective preferences. Pareto front comparisons provide a more objective framework for comparing different treatment techniques. A Pareto front is the set of all treatment plans where improvement in one criterion is possible only by worsening another criterion. However, different Pareto fronts can be obtained depending on the chosen machine settings.

Purpose

To compare VMAT and HT using Pareto fronts and blind expert evaluation, to explain the observed differences, and to illustrate limitations of using Pareto fronts.

Methods

We generated Pareto fronts for twenty‐four prostate cancer patients treated at our clinic for VMAT and HT techniques using an in‐house script that controlled a commercial treatment planning system. We varied the PTV under‐coverage (100% ‐ V95%) and the rectum mean dose, and fixed the mean doses to the bladder and femoral heads. In order to ensure a fair comparison, those fixed mean doses were the same for the two treatment techniques and the sets of objective functions were chosen so that the conformity indexes of the two treatment techniques were also the same. We used the same machine settings as are used in our clinic. Then, we compared the VMAT and HT Pareto fronts using a specific metric (clinical distance measure) and validated the comparison using a blinded expert evaluation of treatment plans on these fronts for all patients in the cohort. Furthermore, we investigated the observed differences between VMAT and HT and pointed out limitations of using Pareto fronts.

Results

Both clinical distance and blind treatment plan comparison showed that VMAT Pareto fronts were better than HT fronts. VMAT fronts for 10 and 6 MV beam energy were almost identical. HT fronts improved with different machine settings, but were still inferior to VMAT fronts.

Conclusions

That VMAT Pareto fronts are better than HT fronts may be explained by the fact that the linear accelerator can rapidly vary the dose rate. This is an advantage in simple geometries that might vanish in more complex geometries. Furthermore, one should be cautious when speaking about Pareto optimal plans as the best possible plans, as their calculation depends on many parameters.
Patients' experiences of day surgery and recovery: A meta‐ethnography
Authors: Thoen Cathrine Ween , Sæle Monica , Strandberg Ragnhild Bjarkøy , Eide Petrin Hege , Kinn Liv Grethe
Published: December 2023

Aim

To explore and synthesise findings from qualitative studies on adult patients' experiences of day surgery and the processes of recovery.

Background

There has been a shift in the practice of elective surgery, from inpatient to ambulatory treatment. Accordingly, more patients are undergoing day surgery and expected to care for themselves at home. To our knowledge, an updated metasynthesis on patients' experiences of day surgery across diverse contexts and continents is lacking.

Design

Meta‐ethnography.

Methods

MEDLINE, EMBASE and CINAHL were systematically searched for qualitative research in English published between 2006 and 2023. Noblit and Hare's meta‐ethnographic approach guided the synthesis of findings from 12 qualitative studies, and the eMERGe Reporting Guidance was used in the writing of this article.

Results

Four themes were revealed: (1) requests for tailored information, (2) challenges of recognising and understanding postoperative symptoms, (3) being dependent on continuous professional and personal support and (4) calling for individual adaptation.

Conclusion

Our meta‐ethnography indicates there is a need to improve information provision to better prepare patients for the processes of day surgery and recovery and promote their self‐care abilities. Our findings highlight the importance of ensuring adequate levels of individualised care and support throughout the treatment process.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

To improve quality of care in day surgery practice, implementation of interventions to enhance information provision and promote self‐care during recovery at home may be considered. Pre‐admission appointments that incorporate provision of tailored information and assessment of the patients' individual needs of care and support, home conditions and access to assistance from family/friends can be recommended.
Triazine‐based mesoporous organic polymers as palladium supports: physicochemical properties, porosity and catalytic performance in Suzuki coupling reaction
Authors: Altarawneh Suha S , Aldehasat Jafar S , Ababneh Taher S , Seifert Andreas , Weheabby Saddam , Hijazi Ahmed K , Al‐Momani Lo'ay A , Al‐jaafreh Ibtesam Y
Published: December 2023

This article reports the preparation of new mesoporous triazine‐based organic polymers and their characterization. The polymers were synthesized via a nucleophilic condensation reaction between cyanuric chloride and bisphenols or aromatic diamine linkers. As a result, two types of triazine‐based polymers were prepared: triazine‐ether and triazine‐amine polymers. The polymers reveal a mesoporous nature with surface area values ranging between 345 and 1275 m2 g−1 and mesopore volume between 0.273 and 1.03 cm3 g−1. These values were determined from argon gas isotherms at 87 K. The pore size distribution also confirmed the micro–mesoporosity, which reached up to 3.0 nm for all polymers. The triazine‐amine polymer shows good thermal oxidative stability up to 450 °C. Motivated by the mesopore size, the new polymers were also employed as palladium nanoparticle supports. The X‐ray diffraction technique indicated the successful incorporation of palladium nanoparticles, and Fourier transform infrared measurements proved that the framework of the polymers was retained after forming palladium supports. To ensure the catalytic reactivity of palladium nanoparticles, we employed one example as a catalyst in a Suzuki coupling reaction. The catalyst exhibited remarkable recyclability, maintaining catalytic efficiency through seven cycles, thereby enabling the use of palladium‐loaded triazine‐based polymeric catalysts in a variety of organic reactions in future. © 2023 Society of Industrial Chemistry.
A DFT approach toward designing selenophene‐based unfused small molecule acceptors by end‐capped modification for improving the photovoltaic performance of organic solar cells
Authors: Rukhsar Jaweria , Waqas Muhammad , Akhter Muhamed Salim , Shaban Mohamed , Al‐Saeedi Sameerah I. , Mahr Muhammad Shabir , Hasanin Tamer H. A. , Ibrahim Mahmoud A. A. , Alatawi Naifa S. , Khera Rasheed Ahmad
Published: December 2023

In this study, we have developed a series of eight non‐fullerene acceptors, constituting A‐D‐A type small molecules named (SS1–SS8) to enlighten the open‐circuit voltage (Voc) and the efficacy of pre‐existed SR (reference) molecule. Density functional theory has been adopted to computationally assess the optoelectronic features of fabricated molecules with the B3LYP/6‐31G (d, p) level of theory. Several factors like charge transfer, light absorption, binding energy, dipole moment, and reorganization energy are studied. The frontier orbitals analysis revealed that all the newly developed molecules have less bandgap (ranging from 1.97 to 2.22 eV) than SR (2.23 eV). Similarly, these newly engineered molecules also revealed better light absorption by screening remarkable redshift from 676.23 to 789.28 nm than SR (673.83 nm) in chloroform. These molecules have remarkably reduced excitation energy ranging from 1.71 to 1.83 eV than SR 1.84 eV. The exclusive CT analysis is carried out via J61:SS8 complex because of the higher Voc of SS8 (acceptor). Additionally, SS8 has shown the least energy loss, making it a strong contender to be used to develop improved OSCs. Because of the exceptionally improved characteristics, these newly engineered molecules (especially SS8) can be considered potential aspirants for fabricating proficient OSCs.
Photo‐Induced Evolution of Randomly Rough Surfaces of Amorphous Chalcogenide Films
Authors: Kaganovskii Yuri , Freilikher Valentin , Rosenbluh Michael
Published: December 2023

Photoinduced (PI) evolution of statistically rough surfaces of amorphous chalcogenide films As20Se80 at room temperature has been studied by measuring the angular dependence of the intensity of light scattered from a surface illuminated by CW laser (λ = 660 nm). The interpretation of the scattering data based on the resonant scattering theory enables to confirm unequivocally the diffusion mechanism of PI mass transfer. It is detected that the change of the amplitude of a spatial harmonic in the roughness spectra strongly depends on its period ∧ . During illumination, the amplitude increases at ∧ > ∧*, whereas harmonics with ∧ < ∧* decreases by ∧*, which corresponds to zero evolution rate, is found to be 6.7 μm. In accordance with our theoretical prediction, both growth and decrease are exponential with the rates depending on ∧. As the result, the roughness with initial rms height of 50–70 nm transforms into quasiperiodic surface grating with the average amplitude of about 400 nm and average period close to 15 μm. From the kinetics of time variation of the scattered intensity, the PI diffusion coefficient D is calculated. When the laser intensity changes from 5.6 to 14 W cm−2, D is found in the range 1 × 10−13–3.4 × 10−13 m2 s−1.
Pulmonary artery dilatation in different causes of pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Xi Qunying , Liu Zhihong , Xiong Changming , Luo Qin , Zhao Zhihui , Zhao Qing , Yang Tao , Zeng Qixian , Li Pingwei , Qiu Luwen
Published: December 2023

Pulmonary artery (PA) dilatation is commonly observed in patients with pulmonary hypertension (PH). However, the clinical aspects of PA dilatation in various etiology of PH remain unknown. In this study, we investigated the clinical and imaging characteristics of 1018 patients with different subtypes of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH). The independent determinants for all‐cause death were identified using univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazard models. PA dilatation was identified in 88.8% of the patients, and 27.2% had a PA diameter/ascending aorta diameter ratio greater than 1.5. PA diameter was shown to be significantly correlated with hemodynamic parameters and symptom duration in idiopathic PAH patients. PA diameter only correlated with pulmonary circulation volume in patients with PAH associated with congenital heart disease. PA diameter correlated with symptom duration and right ventricular end‐diastolic dimension in CTEPH patients. PA diameter correlated with right ventricular end‐diastolic dimension in patients with PAH associated with connective tissue disease. Only 6‐min walk distance, but not PA dilatation, predicts all‐cause death independently. In conclusion, PA dilatation is a common finding in PH patients. The clinical feature of PA dilatation varies greatly between PH types. PA dilatation is not associated with all‐cause death.
Lessons from robot‐assisted disaster response deployments by the German Rescue Robotics Center task force
Authors: Surmann Hartmut , Daun Kevin , Schnaubelt Marius , von Stryk Oskar , Patchou Manuel , Böcker Stefan , Wietfeld Christian , Quenzel Jan , Schleich Daniel , Behnke Sven , Grafe Robert , Heidemann Nils , Slomma Dominik , Kruijff‐Korbayová Ivana
Published: December 2023

Earthquakes, fire, and floods often cause structural collapses of buildings. However, the inspection of such damaged buildings poses a high risk for emergency forces or is even impossible. We present three recently selected missions of the Robotics Task Force of the German Rescue Robotics Center (DRZ), where both ground and aerial robots were used to explore destroyed buildings. We describe and reflect the missions as well as the lessons learned that have resulted from them. To make robots from research laboratories fit for real operations, realistic outdoor and indoor test environments were set up at the DRZ and used for tests in regular exercises by researchers and emergency forces. On the basis of this experience, the robots and their control software were significantly improved. Furthermore, expert teams of researchers and first responders were formed, each with realistic assessments of the operational and practical suitability of robotic systems.
Meso‐Aminomethyl‐BODIPY as a Scaffold for Nitric Oxide Photo‐Releasers
Authors: Panfilov Mikhail A. , Karogodina Tatyana Yu. , Sibiryakova Anastasiya A. , Tretyakova Irina S. , Vorob'ev Alexey Yu. , Moskalensky Alexander E.
Published: December 2023

Nitric oxide (NO) is a unique biochemical mediator involved in the regulation of vital processes. Its short lifetime in physiological conditions and local action impede direct application in medicine because highly targeted NO‐delivery systems are required. Light‐controllable NO releasers are promising for the development of smart therapies. Here we present simply prepared meso‐aminomethyl BODIPY (4,4‐difluoro‐4‐bora‐3a,4a‐diaza‐s‐indacene) derivatives containing N‐nitroso moiety, which show the photoinduced generation of NO in a solution. These compounds can additionally generate singlet oxygen, and NO/1O2 generation efficiency can be tuned by substituents. As an example of NO‐mediated effect, we demonstrate light‐dependent inhibition of platelet activation in vitro. The presented compounds could serve as the basis for the development of novel hybrid therapeutic methods.
Prominent Structural Dependence of Quantum Capacitance Unraveled by Nitrogen‐Doped Graphene Mesosponge
Authors: Tang Rui , Aziz Alex , Yu Wei , Pan Zheng‐Ze , Nishikawa Ginga , Yoshii Takeharu , Nomura Keita , Taylor Erin E. , Stadie Nicholas P. , Inoue Kazutoshi , Kotani Motoko , Kyotani Takashi , Nishihara Hirotomo
Published: December 2023

Porous carbons are important electrode materials for supercapacitors. One of the challenges associated with supercapacitors is improving their energy density without relying on pseudocapacitance, which is based on fast redox reactions that often shorten device lifetimes. A possible solution involves achieving high total capacitance (Ctot), which comprises Helmholtz capacitance (CH) and possibly quantum capacitance (CQ), in high‐surface carbon materials comprising minimally stacked graphene walls. In this work, a templating method is used to synthesize 3D mesoporous graphenes with largely identical pore structures (≈2100 m2 g−1 with an average pore size of ≈7 nm) but different concentrations of oxygen‐containing functional groups (0.3–6.7 wt.%) and nitrogen dopants (0.1–4.5 wt.%). Thus, the impact of the heteroatom functionalities on Ctot is systematically investigated in an organic electrolyte excluding the effect of pore structures. It is found that heteroatom functionalities determine Ctot, resulting in the cyclic voltammetry curves being rectangular or butterfly‐shaped. The nitrogen functionalities are found to significantly enhance Ctot owing to increased CQ.
Bleeding risk from nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs after functional endoscopic sinus surgery: Analysis of the TriNetX database
Authors: Salmon Mandy K. , Eide Jacob G. , Kshirsagar Rijul S. , Palmer James N. , Adappa Nithin D. , Kohanski Michael A.
Published: December 2023

Objectives

Postoperative pain medications and aspirin before undergoing functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) are managed carefully due to concern for bleeding. Little is known regarding the increase in the risk of bleeding for patients unable to stop aspirin as trials are limited in this area. We compared outcomes for patients undergoing FESS who were managed postoperatively with nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) versus opioids. We also determined the epistaxis rate for patients on aspirin at the time of surgery compared to those who were not on aspirin.

Data Source

Retrospective analysis of patients undergoing FESS using the TriNetX database.

Methods

Patients were propensity‐matched, and the odds of bleeding complications between the patients prescribed postoperative NSAIDs were compared to those prescribed opioids. We also compared postoperative odds of bleeding in patients unable to halt aspirin use at the time of surgery to those who were not on aspirin before surgery.

Results

A total of 51,361 patients received opioids after FESS compared to 1923 patients who received NSAIDs. After propensity matching, 1918 patients were in each group and odds of epistaxis were similar between the NSAID group and the opioid group (odds ratio [OR]: 1.32, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.90–1.94); 7.67% of the NSAID group required rescue opioids. Patients on aspirin who were unable to hold aspirin at surgery showed bleeding rates of 14.67% compared to 9.00% in propensity‐matched controls who were not on aspirin (OR: 1.74, 95%CI: 1.20–2.51).

Conclusions

NSAID use appears to be a safe alternative to opioids for patients without pre‐existing risk factors for bleeding. Patients who remained on aspirin in the week before FESS had an increased risk of postoperative epistaxis.
Clustering Student Mobility Data in 3-Way Networks
Authors: Genova Vincenzo Giuseppe , Giordano Giuseppe , Ragozini Giancarlo , Vitale Maria Prosperina
Published: December 2023

The present contribution aims at introducing a network data reduction method for the analysis of 3-way networks in which classes of nodes of different types are linked. The proposed approach enables simplifying a 3-way network into a weighted two-mode network by considering the statistical concept of joint dependence in a multiway contingency table. Starting from a real application on student mobility data in Italian universities, a 3-way network is defined, where provinces of residence, universities and educational programmes are considered as the three sets of nodes, and occurrences of student exchanges represent the set of links between them. The Infomap community detection algorithm is then chosen for partitioning two-mode networks of students’ cohorts to discover different network patterns.