bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
INTELLIGENT MELANOMA DETECTION BASED ON PIGMENT NETWORK
Authors: Salahuddin  , Inzamam shahzad  , Abdul manan razzaq  , Mubashar Hussain  , Meiraj aslam  , Prince hamza Shafique  , Syed Shahid Abbas
Published: December 2024

Early detection of melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, is critical for effective treatment. Detecting skin lesions accurately from dermoscopic images remains challenging, with the pigment network being a crucial indicator for melanoma detection. The accurate identification of pigment networks in dermoscopic images is difficult due to image noise and unwanted hair artifacts, which can obscure meaningful diagnostic features. To address these challenges, this thesis proposes novel image processing approaches for computer-aided pigment network detection. These methods aim to enhance image clarity by filtering out unwanted elements and converting images into binary formats, facilitating more precise analysis. Initially, preprocessing involves filtering dermoscopic images to remove noise and unwanted hair artifacts, enhancing image quality for more effective analysis. Subsequently, binary conversion and creation of binary masks further refine image clarity. The final step involves detecting pigment networks and calculating key features such as diameter and radius to assess melanoma presence. The proposed method achieves comparable accuracy and efficiency to existing algorithms. It demonstrates an average precision of 0.89 and average recall of 0.87, with an overall accuracy of 85.5%.
DENİM PANTOLON ÜRETİMİNDE İKİ EL HAREKET ANALİZİ UYGULAMASI İLE OPERATÖR ÇALIŞMA METODU ETKİLERİNİN ANALİZİ
Authors: Ünal Can , Yalı Volkan , Karakaya Furkan
Published: December 2024

Bu çalışmada, denim pantolon üreten bir işletmede, üretim akışı çıkarılmış ve söz konusu konfeksiyon üretim bandı içerisinde benzer nitelik gösteren operasyonların verimliliğini arttırmak amacıyla, operasyonlar gerçekleştirirken çalışanların hareketleri analiz edilerek, ECRS (Eliminate, Combine, Rearrange, Simplify) tekniklerinden biri olan iki el hareket analiz şeması uygulanıp üretimi geliştirmek amaçlanmıştır. Bu amaç doğrultusunda öncelikle geliştirme yapılacak olan operasyonlar belirlenmiş ve ardından videoya kaydedilmiş, daha sonra ilgili videolar ağır çekimde izlenerek tüm hareketler için harcanan zamanlar belirlenmiştir. İki el hareket analizi yapılacak olan operasyonlarda öncelikle, metot etüdü gerçekleştirilecek olanlar arasından en hızlı çalışan ile en yavaş çalışan operatörler için istatistiksel olarak anlamlı bir fark olup olmadığına bakılmıştır. Önceden hazırlanmış olan form üzerinde, iki el hareket analizine göre çalışma alanlarının ve yöntemlerinin yeniden düzenlenmesi için önerilerde bulunulmuş ve çalışma sonucunda, mevcut metot değişikliğinin üretime etkisi deterministik bir simülasyon modeliyle incelenmiştir.
Improving PD-1 blockade plus chemotherapy for complete remission of lung cancer by nanoPDLIM2
Authors: Sun Fan , Yan Pengrong , Xiao Yadong , Zhang Hongqiao , Shapiro Steven D , Xiao Gutian , Qu Zhaoxia
Published: December 2024

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and their combination with other therapies such as chemotherapy, fail in most cancer patients. We previously identified the PDZ-LIM domain-containing protein 2 (PDLIM2) as a bona fide tumor suppressor that is repressed in lung cancer to drive cancer and its chemo and immunotherapy resistance, suggesting a new target for lung cancer therapy improvement. In this study, human clinical samples and data were used to investigate PDLIM2 genetic and epigenetic changes in lung cancer. Using an endogenous mouse lung cancer model faithfully recapitulating refractory human lung cancer and a clinically feasible nano-delivery system, we investigated the therapeutic efficacy, action mechanism, and safety of systemically administrated PDLIM2 expression plasmids encapsulated in nanoparticles (nanoPDLIM2) and its combination with PD-1 antibody and chemotherapeutic drugs. Our analysis indicate that PDLIM2 repression in human lung cancer involves both genetic deletion and epigenetic alteration. NanoPDLIM2 showed low toxicity, high tumor specificity, antitumor activity, and greatly improved the efficacy of anti-PD-1 and chemotherapeutic drugs, with complete tumor remission in most mice and substantial tumor reduction in the remaining mice by their triple combination. Mechanistically, nanoPDLIM2 increased major histocompatibility complex class I (MHC-I) expression, suppressed multi-drug resistance 1 (MDR1) induction and survival genes and other tumor-related genes expression in tumor cells, and enhanced lymphocyte tumor infiltration, turning the cold tumors hot and sensitive to ICIs and rendering them vulnerable to chemotherapeutic drugs and activated tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) including those unleashed by ICIs. These studies established a clinically applicable PDLIM2-based combination therapy with great efficacy for lung cancer and possibly other cold cancers.
Bridging the gap between presynaptic hair cell function and neural sound encoding
Authors: Jaime Tobón Lina María , Moser Tobias
Published: December 2024

Neural diversity can expand the encoding capacity of a circuitry. A striking example of diverse structure and function is presented by the afferent synapses between inner hair cells (IHCs) and spiral ganglion neurons (SGNs) in the cochlea. Presynaptic active zones at the pillar IHC side activate at lower IHC potentials than those of the modiolar side that have more presynaptic Ca2+ channels. The postsynaptic SGNs differ in their spontaneous firing rates, sound thresholds, and operating ranges. While a causal relationship between synaptic heterogeneity and neural response diversity seems likely, experimental evidence linking synaptic and SGN physiology has remained difficult to obtain. Here, we aimed at bridging this gap by ex vivo paired recordings of murine IHCs and postsynaptic SGN boutons with stimuli and conditions aimed to mimic those of in vivo SGN characterization. Synapses with high spontaneous rate of release (SR) were found predominantly on the pillar side of the IHC. These high SR synapses had larger and more temporally compact spontaneous EPSCs, lower voltage thresholds, tighter coupling of Ca2+ channels and vesicular release sites, shorter response latencies, and higher initial release rates. This study indicates that synaptic heterogeneity in IHCs directly contributes to the diversity of spontaneous and sound-evoked firing of SGNs.
The effect of aging on the ciliary muscle and its potential relationship with presbyopia: a literature review
Authors: Zuo Hangjia , Cheng Hong , Lin Meiting , Gao Xiang , Xiang Yongguo , Zhang Tong , Gao Ning , Du Miaomiao , Chen Yonglin , Zheng Shijie , Huang Rongxi , Wan Wenjuan , Hu Ke
Published: December 2024

Background

The ciliary muscle is known to play a part in presbyopia, but the mechanism has not received a comprehensive review, which this study aims to achieve. We examined relevant articles published from 1975 through 2022 that explored various properties of the muscle and related tissues in humans and rhesus monkeys. These properties include geometry, elasticity, rigidity, and composition, and were studied using a range of imaging technologies, computer models, and surgical methods. We identified a notable age-related displacement of the ciliary muscle apex that is characterized by anterior and medial shifts, and hypothesized to be primarily attributed to the accrual of connective tissue and tension exerted by the thickening lens. Other factors could also contribute to the movement, particularly the “inward bowing” of the sclera. Another noteworthy observation is that while the ciliary muscle experiences increasing constraint with advancing age due to adjacent anatomical structures, its contractile capacity remains unaltered, alongside the sustained constancy in both the concentration of muscarinic receptors and their binding affinity. Overall, more studies on human ciliary muscle are needed, as it ages differently from that of monkeys’ ciliary muscle. These studies should explore other perspectives, including those regarding changes in the physical properties of the tissue and its relationship with other connected tissues.

Methodology

This literature review utilized a systematic methodology to identify and analyze pertinent studies of the presbyopia and ciliary muscles. The approach encompassed a thorough examination of available literature across different academic databases, such as PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library.

Results

Many studies have identified age-related thickening in the ciliary muscle and its potential causes, including the heightened deposition of connective tissues and traction exerted by the thickening lens. Notably, these inquiries culminated in the formulation of a geometric theory positing that the morphology of the ciliary muscle and its spatial relationship with adjacent structures exert pivotal influence over the tension exerted on zonular fibers.

Conclusion

The decline in the accommodative response of the muscle is prevalent in advanced age, with reduced mobility likely attributable to the increased stiffness of the Bruch’s Membrane-Choroid Complex (BMCC), where the tendons of the ciliary muscle insert, as well as the thickening and stiffening of the lens. Importantly, the ciliary muscle forces do not change with age.
Impact of Marketing Strategies on Nigerian Transport Operations
Authors: A. O. Amoo, , J. R. Aworemi,
Published: December 2024

Transportation is integral to socio-economic development, enabling movement and supporting urban productivity. But in developing nations like Nigeria, poor infrastructure, competition and low customer loyalty have made the transport sector a difficult task. To address these challenges, strong marketing strategies are needed which can engage public transport and increase both the economic and operational success of such transport. Thus, this study explores the impact of marketing strategies on customer acquisition, customer retention, revenue growth, enhanced brand awareness and image, competitive advantage, geographic expansion and market penetration in Nigeria. The study was conducted in a private transport company in Lagos, Nigeria. 181 respondents, who are staff of the selected transport company were chosen randomly. Data were sourced from only primary source using questionnaire survey.  Descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression were used to analyzed the effects of marketing strategies on key operational outcomes. The regression analysis results indicate that transport marketing significantly affects transport operations, with R = 0.986, revealing that operational variables (customer acquisition, customer retention, revenue growth, enhanced brand awareness and image, competitive advantage, geographic expansion and market penetration) contributed to 98% variables in the strategic marketing of the company. In conclusion, effective marketing enhances transport company’s customer engagement, brand image, and growth. Recommendations include expanding online channels and leveraging content marketing and influencer partnership, this will help the company in achieving strong branding and build trust and confidence in their customers.
Impact of Crop Residue Management on Soil Health under Rice- Wheat Cropping System in Southern Bihar, India
Authors: Singh Rama Kant , Rani Shobha , Jalaj R. K. , Kumar Ratan , Kumari Sanju , Singh Rohit , Singh R. N. , Sohane R. K.
Published: December 2024

The study investigates the effects of paddy straw bale management on soil health and the productivity of a rice-wheat cropping system in Southern Bihar. Conducted from 2021 to 2023, the experiment involved four treatments: control (FP), tillage + recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF), zero tillage (ZT) + mulching, and burning + ZT (RDF). Soil samples and crop yields were analyzed to evaluate physico-chemical properties, microbial activities, and economic viability. Results revealed that ZT + mulching significantly enhanced soil properties, including organic carbon, nutrient availability (NPK), and microbial activity, compared to other treatments. Grain and straw yields were highest under ZT + mulching for both rice (80.01 and 84.25 q ha-1) and wheat (53.4 and 57.35 q/ha), with improved plant height, panicle density, and grain quality. Economic analysis indicated the highest benefit-cost ratio under ZT + mulching (3.18 for rice and 2.92 for wheat). This sustainable practice demonstrated its potential to mitigate residue burning's negative impacts, enhance soil health, and boost productivity, offering a viable strategy for long-term agricultural sustainability in the region.
Incidence of Alternaria Fruit Rot as a Latent Postharvest Disease in Guava (Psidium guajava L.) in Kerala
Authors: Parvathi S. N. , Anju C. , Varghese Sible George , Vijayaraghavan Reshmy , Shahida K. , Gomez Saji
Published: December 2024

A purposive random sampling survey was conducted to study the incidence of latent pathogens associated with postharvest losses in guava sourced from markets and homesteads of Ernakulam, Thrissur and Palakkad districts of Kerala during 2024. Fruits at mature green stage were collected, surface sterilized and incubated at room temperature for symptom development. After three to five days of incubation, few of the fruits collected from Thrissur district started development of dry brown lesions. The disease developed under high humidity and temperature between 30 and 35 °C. Four isolates of Alternaria sp. were isolated from the fruits. The highest disease incidence recorded was 75 % from Vettikkal while the highest severity of 20 % was recorded in fruits collected from Shakthan Market. The isolated pathogen appeared white to grey coloured, submerged to aerial mycelia which showed uniform and zonal growth at regular intervals. The isolates exhibited an average growth rate of 0.6-0.9 cm per day. The hyphae were brown-coloured, septate with straight or curved, geniculate, pale brown conidiophores bearing a branched chain of conidia. The conidia were brown, obclavate in shape with 3-4 transverse and 1-2 longitudinal septa having average size of 22.08 to 29.53 × 7.85 to 12.54 µm. Molecular characterization using ITS primers followed by sequence analysis in the NCBI database, identified the pathogen as Alternaria alternata.
Sesame (Sesamum indicum) Yield Gap and Economic Analysis through Front Line Demonstrations under Rainfed Conditions in Tikamgarh District of Bundelkhan Zone of MP
Authors: Thakur Shobharam , Ratan Shiv , Nayak M.K. , Yogranjan  , Tomar D.S.
Published: December 2024

Til, also called sesame (Sesamum indicum L.), is one of the oldest and most important oilseed crops of India. It is cultivated on 15.23 lakh hectares of land in semi-arid tropical, sub-tropical, and temperate regions. In 2023, it yielded 8.02 lakh tons with an average yield of 527 kg/ha (Anonymous, 2023). The frontline demonstrations are one of the most common and efficient ways to introduce farmers to the latest improved crop husbandry production technologies. During the kharif seasons of 2022 and 2023, the AICRP on Sesame, Tikamgarh organized 70 protests in the Tikamgarh block in the villages of Kari, Madumar, Bilgany, and Khiriya.
The mean Extension Gap over years of poor adaptation by farmers towards novel technology was shown as 314 kg/ha, which happens to be more than double the yield collected under FP. As such, it is only at this stage that coordinating initiatives should bring in and shift the focus of the farmer regarding better technology is necessary. At an average technical index of 13.70%, it went beyond the levels wanted. The average net return under Improved Technology was 32069, while for Farmers Practice it was about ~12229. Also the average B:C ratio under Improved Technology was 3.06, while for Farmers Practice it was 2.80.
Lands Evaluation in Hydromorphic Environment: Case of Developed Rice Lowland Soils in the Province of Ziro, Burkina Faso
Authors: MARE Boussa Tockville Josue , SOME Duponibè , KABORE Fidèle , OUEDRAOGO Jean , HIEN Edmond
Published: December 2024

Sustainable soil management became a major concern for rice farming in Burkina Faso. Rained rice production offers potential thanks to the national rice policy oriented towards the developing of lowlands. However, effective soil fertility management through the promotion of good agricultural practices is essential in this agricultural area to meet the goal. It involves the evaluation of the land, as it can provide important information on which to base rational decisions on land management. A study was carried out in order to promote soil fertility sustainable management on two rice-growing lowlands in the province of Ziro. The soils of the sites were characterized and sampled for the physicochemical parameters analysis. The suitability of the soils for rice cropping was thus assessed. It emerges from the study that the dominant soils in the developed rice lowlands are hydromorphic soils. The hydromorphic soils are suitable types of soils for rice production. The results on the physical parameters show that the soils of the lowlands mainly have a coarse surface texture. The organic matter content is low and the pH values vary from weakly to very strongly acidic. The useful soil water reserve is medium to high. The contents of the major nutrients (N, P and K) are very low as are the values of the CEC, which indicates a low level of chemical fertility of the soils according to the complete range. The evaluation of rice lowlands revealed that soils are moderately suitable for rice production and their major constraint is the availability of nutrients. Current producer practices related to soil fertility management are unfavorable to sustainable land management. The study shows the need for appropriate crop fertilization, better management of crop residues and periodic monitoring of fertility essential parameters for the sustainability of soil productivity.
Comparative Study between Conventional Molding and Scanning in Fixed Prosthesis: A Narrative Review
Authors: Araújo Luigi Martins , Dietrich Lia , Costa Andreza Dayrell Gomes da , Isolan Cristina Pereira
Published: December 2024

Introduction: A common question in current dental clinical practice is regarding the choice and use of the best molding method (conventional or digital), especially considering accuracy, patient comfort, and clinical time. Despite conventional moldings being widely accepted and reliable, digital technology offers significant advances in terms of accuracy, which can directly influence the choice of the most appropriate method for each case.
Aims: This study aimed to analyze the current scientific evidence and compare conventional moldings with scanning in fixed prostheses
Methodology: A search was conducted in three databases: PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, for scientific articles in English published between 2019 and 2024, which addressed, in fixed prostheses, the comparison between conventional moldings and scanning.
Results: A total of 448 articles were found; after applying the exclusion criteria, 25 articles were selected for this review. Based on the scientific evidence currently available, the conventional technique for moldings in fixed prostheses, using materials such as alginate or silicone, is largely reliable, but may present limitations in terms of accuracy and comfort. With technological advances, digital scanners have become a modern alternative, captured precise digital images of the dental arch and creating 3D models. This method offers advantages such as greater comfort for the patient, elimination of molding errors and the ability to adjust in real time. Integration with CAD/CAM software allows for detailed customization and more efficient production of prostheses
Conclusion: Conventional molding is still used; scanners are emerging as an innovative and effective technology.
Decadal Change in Land Use and Land Cover Dynamics: A Comprehensive Assessment of the Kharun Catchment
Authors: Mishra Vipin Kumar , Khalkho Dhiraj , Pandey Vinay Kumar , Verma Shruti
Published: December 2024

Land Use and Land Cover (LULC) changes exert profound influences on environmental and resource dynamics, particularly in developing regions experiencing rapid urbanization and agricultural expansion. This study investigates LULC changes over a 30-year period (1992–2022) in the Kharun catchment, part of the upper Mahanadi basin in Chhattisgarh, India. Encompassing 4,143.17 km² across six districts, the catchment plays a critical role in supporting agricultural and urban activities. Landsat imagery from 1992, 2002, 2012, and 2022 was analyzed using supervised classification with Remote Sensing (RS) and Geographic Information System (GIS) tools to categorize six LULC types: water bodies, forests, urban areas, upland paddy fields, lowland paddy fields, and barren land. The results reveal dynamic and significant LULC changes. In 1992, water bodies (2.00%), forests (4.86%), and urban areas (1.92%) occupied smaller portions of the landscape, while barren land accounted for 28.64%. By 2002, water bodies slightly increased to 2.12%, forests decreased to 3.98%, urban areas expanded to 3.21%, and barren land reduced to 27.80%. Urban expansion became pronounced by 2012, with urban areas rising to 6.42%, while forests further declined to 3.11%, and barren land reduced to 26.30%. By 2022, water bodies expanded to 2.63%, forests declined significantly to 2.77%, and urban areas surged to 9.35%, indicative of extensive deforestation and urbanization. Barren land continued to decrease, covering 24.15%. These findings highlight the urgent need for integrated land-use management strategies that balance developmental needs with environmental conservation. Policy frameworks should prioritize reforestation initiatives, sustainable urban planning, and soil and water conservation practices to mitigate the adverse effects of deforestation and land degradation. Regular and systematic monitoring of LULC dynamics at the catchment scale is essential to support informed decision-making, ensuring ecological integrity and socio-economic sustainability in rapidly developing regions.
Impact of Blanching Treatments on the Physico-chemical Attributes of Curry Leaves Dried Using Solar Tunnel Technology
Authors: Bhogesara A. V. , Faldu D. J. , Barad A. K. , Sabalpara R. H. , Gojiya M. J.
Published: December 2024

The objective of this research was to assess the physico-chemical properties of curry leaves subjected to different blanching treatments (0 min, 3 min, 5 min) using a solar tunnel dryer. The moisture content was found to be 8.37%, indicating effective drying. The highest carbohydrate content was recorded at 54.02%, demonstrating a strong retention of nutritional quality. Ascorbic acid content was 2.69%, and the ash content stood at 6.63%, reflecting the mineral profile. The curry samples contained 5.30% crude fat, 7.88% protein, and 10.59% crude fiber, underlining their nutritional worth. Chlorophyll content was measured at 3.15 %, which could affect the color and overall quality of the dried product. The bulk density was recorded at 451.67 mg, contributing to the product’s physical characteristics. The WSI and WAI values were 58.37% and 260.64%, respectively, indicating favourable rehydration properties. The recovery rate was 25.51%, providing insight into the drying process's efficiency. This study underscores the potential of solar tunnel drying in preserving the quality and nutritional value of curry leaves under various blanching conditions.
Potential of Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) in Medan City's Waste Management Strategy
Authors: Siregar Taufik Affandi , Purwoko Agus , Lubis Satia Negara
Published: December 2024

Medan City faces significant waste management challenges, with increasing waste volumes and limited landfill capacity creating an urgent need for sustainable solutions. This study evaluates the potential of Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) technology as an alternative waste management strategy. Using a qualitative descriptive approach and SWOT analysis, the research explores the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats associated with RDF implementation in Medan City. The findings highlight that RDF technology can reduce landfill waste by up to 86%, decrease carbon emissions, and create economic opportunities, such as new jobs and cost efficiencies in waste management. However, significant challenges remain, including high initial investment costs, limited infrastructure, and low public awareness of waste segregation. Government support, private sector partnerships, and community participation are identified as critical factors for successful RDF implementation. Quantitative analysis of RDF production data from the Terjun Final Disposal Site (FDS) reveals that from October 2022 to December 2023, a cumulative 146,727 kg of RDF was produced, achieving daily waste reduction of over 1 ton. This aligns with global circular economy goals by transforming waste into energy while mitigating environmental degradation. This research provides a framework for cities seeking to adopt RDF technology, emphasizing the integration of environmental, economic, and social strategies. By leveraging strengths and opportunities, Medan City can position RDF as a model for sustainable waste management and energy transition.
Initial analysis of the dosimetric benefit and clinical resource cost of CBCT‐based online adaptive radiotherapy for patients with cancers of the cervix or rectum
Authors: Yock Adam D. , Ahmed Mahmoud , Ayala‐Peacock Diandra , Chakravarthy A. Bapsi , Price Michael
Published: September 2021

Purpose

This provides a benchmark of dosimetric benefit and clinical cost of cone‐beam CT‐based online adaptive radiotherapy (ART) technology for cervical and rectal cancer patients.

Methods

An emulator of a CBCT‐based online ART system was used to simulate more than 300 treatments for 13 cervical and 15 rectal cancer patients. CBCT images were used to generate adaptive replans. To measure clinical resource cost, the six phases of the workflow were timed. To evaluate the dosimetric benefit, changes in dosimetric values were assessed. These included minimum dose (Dmin) and volume receiving 95% of prescription (V95%) for the planning target volume (PTV) and the clinical target volume (CTV), and maximum 2 cc's (D2cc) of the bladder, bowel, rectum, and sigmoid colon.

Results

The average duration of the workflow was 24.4 and 9.2 min for cervical and rectal cancer patients, respectively. A large proportion of time was dedicated to editing target contours (13.1 and 2.7 min, respectively). For cervical cancer patients, the replan changed the Dmin to the PTVs and CTVs for each fraction 0.25 and 0.25 Gy, respectively. The replan changed the V95% by 9.2 and 7.9%. The D2cc to the bladder, bowel, rectum, and sigmoid colon for each fraction changed −0.02, −0.08, −0.07, and −0.04 Gy, respectively. For rectal cancer patients, the replan changed the Dmin to the PTVs and CTVs for each fraction of 0.20 and 0.24 Gy, respectively. The replan changed the V95% by 4.1 and 1.5%. The D2cc to the bladder and bowel for each fraction changed 0.02 and −0.02 Gy, respectively.

Conclusions

Dosimetric benefits can be achieved with CBCT‐based online ART that is amenable to conventional appointment slots. The clinical significance of these benefits remains to be determined. Managing contours was the primary factor affecting the total duration and is imperative for safe and effective adaptive radiotherapy.
Multiplexing Tensor Holographic Metasurface with Surface Impedance Superposition for Manipulating Multibeams with Multimodes
Authors: Shen Yizhu , Xue Song , Dong Guoqing , Yang Jiawei , Hu Sanming
Published: September 2021

Multimode multibeams are widely investigated, but are mostly generated by 3D bulky configuration or partitioned aperture for each beam. This paper proposes and analyzes a method to generate multimode multibeams using a planar single‐layer metasurface with shared aperture. The underlying principle is multiplexing tensor holographic metasurface with a superposition of modulated impedance surface. The multiplexed metasurface is an interference pattern of objective radiation and reference current to generate each beam. To validate the proposed method, this paper presents a multiplexed metasurface shared for two different beams. These two beams are with different modes, i.e., different beam types, different frequencies, different polarizations, and different focal depths. This multiplexed tensor holographic metasurface is theoretically analyzed, fabricated, and validated with matched results in simulation and measurement. The proposed method is promising to realize multiplexed tensor holographic metasurface for emerging wireless communication and radar front‐ends with compact aperture, low profile, light weight, and multiple functions.
Expanding the Toolbox of Heterogeneous Asymmetric Organocatalysts: Bifunctional Cyclopropenimine Superbases for Enantioselective Catalysis in Batch and Continuous Flow
Authors: Leonardi Costanza , Brandolese Arianna , Preti Lorenzo , Bortolini Olga , Polo Eleonora , Dambruoso Paolo , Ragno Daniele , Di Carmine Graziano , Massi Alessandro
Published: September 2021

A strategy for the immobilization of chiral 2,3‐bisaminocyclopropenium salt (pre‐catalyst) onto polystyrene and silica supports is presented together with a suitable procedure for the conversion into the corresponding cyclopropenimine superbase catalysts. The activity and recyclability of polystyrene‐ and silica‐supported cyclopropenimines were initially tested under batch conditions in a model Michael addition detecting comparable efficiencies but a superior stability of the latter heterogeneous catalyst (5 cycles, accumulated TON of 27.1). The preferred silica‐supported cyclopropenimine behaved very similarly to the soluble counterpart in the reaction of glycine imine with different Michael acceptors (48–92% yield; 60–98% ee) and it could be utilized as packing material for the fabrication of fixed‐bed mesoreactors (pressure‐resistant stainless‐steel columns). Continuous‐flow experiments were performed with satisfactory long‐term stability (24 h on stream) with unaltered conversion efficiency and enantioselectivity.

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In Situ Growth and Activation of Ag/Ag2S Nanowire Clusters by H2S Plasma Treatment for Promoted Electrocatalytic CO2 Reduction
Authors: Yang Jinman , Yu Qing , Du Huishuang , Zhang Wei , Zhang Ying , Ge Junyu , Li Hong , Li Huaming , Xu Hui
Published: September 2021

Nonmetallic activation of metal electrodes is effective and universal to improve the catalytic activity for the CO2 reduction reaction. Here, selective electrocatalytic reduction of CO2 is performed on a plasma‐activated Ag/Ag2S catalyst for the first time. By a facile H2S plasma treatment on Ag foil and subsequent electrochemical prereduction, Ag/Ag2S nanowire clusters are obtained in situ with different sizes. High Faradaic efficiency for CO generation on Ag/Ag2S is shifted to a significantly lower overpotential compared with untreated Ag foil with high current density. Density functional theory studies reveal that the promoted catalytic activity can be ascribed to the enhanced CO2 activation and reduced reaction energy barrier of the limiting step.
Artificial neural network based model predictive control: Implementing achievable set‐points
Authors: Hassanpour Hesam , Corbett Brandon , Mhaskar Prashant
Published: September 2021

This paper addresses the problem of determining achievable set‐points for artificial neural network (ANN)‐based model predictive control (MPC) designs. In particular, this work considers a case where a first‐principles model may not be readily available for a nonlinear process, while sufficient closed‐loop data containing possibly correlated outputs is available, such that an ANN‐based model that captures the nonlinear dynamics reasonably well can be identified. The paper addresses implementation aspects with such an ANN‐based MPC design—specifically that of ensuring that achievable set‐points are prescribed to the MPC. The key idea is to perform principal component analysis (PCA) on the training data in order to recognize existing collinearity and determine the upper confidence limit of squared prediction error (SPE) statistic. An optimization problem subject to the SPE constraint is then defined to calculate the achievable set‐points, that can in turn be provided to an MPC design. The efficacy of the proposed approach is illustrated via implementations on a chemical reactor example. The results reveal the superior tracking performance of MPC using the achievable set‐points over the case where arbitrarily prescribed set‐points are used in the MPC implementations.
Exploring Brain Information Storage/Reading for Neuronal Connectivity Using Macromolecular Electrochemical Sensing Motors
Authors: Otero Toribio Fernández
Published: September 2021

Dense electroactive gels of conducting polymers, carbon nanotubes, or graphenes, constituted by multisensing macromolecular electrochemical motors, are presented herein as model materials to get a physicochemical characterization of the opening/closing cycles of ion protein channels in neurons. The conformational contracted energetic states of these macromolecular motors store both long‐term and short‐term information packages. Under a potential cycle, the energy of each ionic pulse generated during the channel opening reads the stored information, which is restored during the channel conformational closing. Simultaneously the motor actuation senses the working physical and chemical energetic conditions, transferring to the ionic pulse energy those sensing information packages. A quantitative description of the stored and read information packages is attained from basic electrochemical, mechanical, and polymeric concepts. Translated to ion channel proteins in brain dendrites, it can describe brain information storage mechanisms and the energetic information packages read and carried through each ionic pulse to the action potential. An unexplored way is opened to try to understand and describe how the different brain parts can use this information to originate brain functions. In parallel, the construction of new electrochemical devices and computers replicating biological functions will provide feedback quantitative information to decipher brain functions.
Theoretical Analysis of the Radiation Properties of Some Major X‐Ray Free Electron Lasers
Authors: Zhukovsky Konstantin
Published: September 2021

A theoretical analysis of the radiation in X‐ray free electron lasers (FELs) LCLS, PAL‐XFEL, SwissFEL, as well as SACLA, FLASH 2, and European XFEL is presented. Major losses in FELs are analytically accounted for and analyzed, using exact expressions for the Bessel factors in terms of the generalized Bessel functions. This allows distinguishing the contributions of key parameters and accounting for the losses individually for each harmonic, considering higher sensitivity of the electron‐photon interaction at higher harmonic wavelengths. The harmonic power evolution along FELs and the spectral width of the radiation lines is studied. The theoretical results are analyzed and are compared with the available experimental data for the FEL experiments. The harmonic generation and amplification in the FELs are modeled and studied with the harmonic lasing self‐seed (HLSS) with separate buncher and radiator, and the results are compared with those for SASE. The spectral properties of the radiation are analytically calculated and compared with the measured spectral characteristics. The advantages of HLSS versus SASE FEL are elucidated in the examples of FLASH2, European XFEL, and SwissFEL. The prospected radiation properties of LCLS‐II FEL are analyzed and the possibilities of using harmonics in this FEL are proposed.
Resonant Scattering of Plane‐Wave and Twisted Photons at the Gamma Factory
Authors: Serbo Valeriy G. , Surzhykov Andrey , Volotka Andrey
Published: September 2021

A theoretical investigation of the resonant elastic scattering of laser photons by ultra‐relativistic partially stripped ions, that is the core process of the Gamma Factory project, is presented. Special emphasis in the study is placed on the angular distribution and polarization of scattered photons as observed in the collider and ion‐rest reference frames. In order to describe these (angular and polarization) properties for arbitrary relativistic many‐electron ion, the general approach, based on the application of irreducible polarization tensors, is laid down. By making use of the polarization tensors, the scattering of both conventional plane‐wave‐ and twisted (or vortex) photons is explored in detail. For the former case, it is shown how the propagation directions and polarization states of incident and outgoing photons are related to each other for the , , and resonant transitions. For the scattering of initially twisted light that carries non‐zero orbital angular momentum, the angular distribution of secondary photons is explored and the conditions under which they are also twisted are discussed.
Stimuli‐Responsive Supramolecular Polymers from Amphiphilic Phosphodiester‐Linked Azobenzene Trimers
Authors: Vybornyi Oleh , Liu Shi‐Xia , Häner Robert
Published: September 2021

An amphiphilic phosphodiester‐linked azobenzene trimer has been exploited in the development of stimuli‐responsive, water‐soluble supramolecular polymers. The trimer can reversibly undergo thermal and photoisomerization between Z‐ and E‐isomers. Its self‐assembly properties in aqueous medium have been investigated by spectroscopic and microscopic techniques, demonstrating that E‐ and Z‐azobenzene trimers form supramolecular nanosheets and toroidal nanostructures, respectively. By virtue of the E/Z photoisomerization of the azobenzene units, the two different supramolecular morphologies can be switched by photoirradiation. The findings pave a way towards stimuli‐responsive, water‐soluble supramolecular polymers which hold great promise in the development of smart functional materials.
Smart Tumor‐Cell‐Derived Microparticles Provide On‐Demand Photosensitizer Synthesis and Hypoxia Relief for Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Zuo Liping , Nie Weidong , Yu Songmao , Zhuang Wanru , Wu Guanghao , Liu Houli , Huang Lili , Shi Danshu , Sui Xin , Li Yongheng , Xie Hai‐Yan
Published: September 2021

Positioning essential elements of photodynamic therapy (PDT) near to mitochondria can conquer the rigorous spatiotemporal limitations of reactive oxygen species (ROS) transfer and make considerable differences in PDT. However, precise accumulation of photosensitizer (PS) and oxygen within mitochondria is still challenging. We simultaneously encapsulated hexyl 5‐aminolevulinate hydrochloride (HAL) and 3‐bromopyruvic acid (3BP) into microparticles collected from X‐ray‐irradiated tumor cells (X‐MP). After systemic administration, the developed HAL/3BP@X‐MP can specifically target and recognize tumor cells, where HAL induces efficient accumulation of PpIX in mitochondria via the intrinsic haem biosynthetic pathway. Meanwhile, 3BP remarkably increases the oxygen supply by inhibiting mitochondrial respiration. The accurate co‐localization and prompt encounter of PpIX and oxygen produce sufficient ROS to directly disrupt mitochondria, resulting in significantly improved PDT outcomes.
Azepine‐ or Azocine‐Embedded Hexabenzocoronene Derivatives as Nitrogen‐Doped Saddle or Saddle‐Helix Nanographenes
Authors: An Peng , Li Ranran , Ma Bin , He Run‐Ying , Zhang Yi‐Kang , Xiao Ming‐Jun , Zhang Bin
Published: September 2021

Two novel nitrogen‐doped, hexa‐peri‐hexabenzocoronene (HBC)‐based nanographenes (NGs) 1 and 2 bearing an azepine and an azocine at the fjord region, respectively, were synthesized and characterized. Notably, structure 1 was synthesized by Diels–Alder reaction of cyclic alkene and tetrachlorothiophene‐S,S‐dioxide, followed by Suzuki–Miyaura cross‐coupling and Scholl‐type reactions, which represents a modified strategy to construct NGs. The azo‐heptagon‐embedded NG 1 leads to a saddle shape, and the azo‐octagon‐embedded NG 2 exhibits a distorted saddle‐helix conformation with the largest torsion angle recorded so far in [5]helicenes. As a result, the different structural topographies for NGs 1 and 2 lead to significant changes in the optical properties including UV absorption and fluorescent emission. Additionally, the 8π‐heterocycles azepine and azocine in the NGs 1 and 2 exhibited obvious antiaromatic properties.
Dense Packing of Acetylene in a Stable and Low‐Cost Metal–Organic Framework for Efficient C2H2/CO2 Separation
Authors: Pei Jiyan , Wen Hui‐Min , Gu Xiao‐Wen , Qian Quan‐Li , Yang Yu , Cui Yuanjing , Li Bin , Chen Banglin , Qian Guodong
Published: September 2021

Porous materials for C2H2/CO2 separation mostly suffer from high regeneration energy, poor stability, or high cost that largely dampen their industrial implementation. A desired adsorbent should have an optimal balance between excellent separation performance, high stability, and low cost. We herein report a stable, low‐cost, and easily scaled‐up aluminum MOF (CAU‐10‐H) for highly efficient C2H2/CO2 separation. The suitable pore confinement in CAU‐10‐H can not only provide multipoint binding interactions with C2H2 but also enable the dense packing of C2H2 inside the pores. This material exhibits one of the highest C2H2 storage densities of 392 g L−1 and highly selective adsorption of C2H2 over CO2 at ambient conditions, achieved by a low C2H2 adsorption enthalpy (27 kJ mol−1). Breakthrough experiments confirm its exceptional separation performance for C2H2/CO2 mixtures, affording both large C2H2 uptake of 3.3 mmol g−1 and high separation factor of 3.4. CAU‐10‐H achieves the benchmark balance between separation performance, stability, and cost for C2H2/CO2 separation.
Prospects of co‐poly(biquinoline‐hydrazide‐imide)s for separation of benzene‐isopropanol mixture via pervaporation
Authors: Polotskaya Galina , Goikhman Mikhail , Podeshvo Irina , Loretsyan Nairi , Saprykina Natalia , Gofman Iosif , Tian Nadezhda , Dubovenko Roman , Pulyalina Alexandra
Published: September 2021

Poly(biquinoline dicarbohydrazide)‐co‐(bistrimelliteimide) methylene‐bisanthranylide (PQHI) and its metal‐polymer complex PQHI‐Cu+ containing several types of functional groups (hydrazide, carboxyl, amide, and imide fragments) were synthesized. Dense thin‐film membranes were prepared to study transport properties of these polymers in the separation of a benzene and isopropanol (IPA) mixture via pervaporation. Comprehensive studies of structure, physical and mechanical properties of the novel membranes were carried out. Structure of the polymer films was characterized using scanning electron microscopy. Measurements of physical and mechanical properties showed good performance capabilities of polymers as membrane materials. Transport properties of the synthesized polymers in pervaporation of benzene–IPA mixtures were characterized by determination of total flux, separation factor, as well as permeability and selectivity of the films. It was experimentally found and confirmed by quantum chemical calculations that the novel PQHI‐based membranes are benzene selective due to the presence of functional groups capable of H‐bonding. The benzene/IPA separation factor is equal to 38 for the PQHI membrane in pervaporation of the mixture containing 20 wt% of benzene.
Study of mechanical and rheological properties, morphology, and miscibility in polylactid acid blends with thermoplastic polymers
Authors: Lekube Blanca Maria , Burgstaller Christoph
Published: September 2021

Blends of polypropylene, polystyrene (PS), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and high‐, low‐ and linear low‐density polyethylene (LDPE and LLDPE) with different contents on polylactid acid (PLA) were prepared. Tensile and impact properties and melt flow rate (MFR) of the mixtures were determined. Morphology was analyzed through scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and interactions were studied by measuring glass transition temperatures (Tg) as well as applying a model to quantify the composition dependence of tensile strength. Results show that there are significant differences on structure and properties among the blends. Polyolefin based blends feature heterogeneous structures with big particle sizes, which translates to blend properties with high negative deviation from the rule of mixtures (ROM), especially for LDPE and LLDPE. Blends of PET and PS feature smaller dispersed particles, resulting in blends with mechanical properties close to those of ROM. Shifting in glass transition temperatures indicate interactions between these materials, which were quantitatively determined indicating the strongest interactions for the PS/PLA pair followed by the PET/PLA mixture.
Facial asymmetry in parents of children on the autism spectrum
Authors: Tan Diana Weiting , Gilani Syed Zulqarnain , Boutrus Maryam , Alvares Gail A. , Whitehouse Andrew J. O. , Mian Ajmal , Suter David , Maybery Murray T.
Published: September 2021

Greater facial asymmetry has been consistently found in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) relative to children without ASD. There is substantial evidence that both facial structure and the recurrence of ASD diagnosis are highly heritable within a nuclear family. Furthermore, sub‐clinical levels of autistic‐like behavioural characteristics have also been reported in first‐degree relatives of individuals with ASD, commonly known as the ‘broad autism phenotype’. Therefore, the aim of the current study was to examine whether a broad autism phenotype expresses as facial asymmetry among 192 biological parents of autistic individuals (134 mothers) compared to those of 163 age‐matched adults without a family history of ASD (113 females). Using dense surface‐modelling techniques on three dimensional facial images, we found evidence for greater facial asymmetry in parents of autistic individuals compared to age‐matched adults in the comparison group (p = 0.046, d = 0.21 [0.002, 0.42]). Considering previous findings and the current results, we conclude that facial asymmetry expressed in the facial morphology of autistic children may be related to heritability factors.

Lay Abstract

In a previous study, we showed that autistic children presented with greater facial asymmetry than non‐autistic children. In the current study, we examined the amount of facial asymmetry shown on three‐dimensional facial images of 192 parents of autistic children compared to a control group consisting of 163 similarly aged adults with no known history of autism. Although parents did show greater levels of facial asymmetry than those in the control group, this effect is statistically small. We concluded that the facial asymmetry previously found in autistic children may be related to genetic factors.