bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deltoid ligament injuries: When and how to repair
Authors: Seiça Emanuel Cortesão , Mendes Daniel , Sousa Manuel Resende , Vide João
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study aims to illustrate the assessment and treatment strategies of acute and chronic deltoid ligament injuries, providing a treatment algorithm for each scenario.

Methods

A retrospective review was conducted on 39 patients, who had either an acute deltoid ligament injury or suffered chronic deltoid ligament insufficiency. All patients were operated on between January 2016 and December 2022. The cases represent a range of different clinical scenarios, including acute trauma, chronic insufficiency or instability situations. Clinical and imaging evaluation, surgical techniques and clinical outcomes are presented.

Results

The mean follow‐up time was 21.3 months (±4.5). Acute trauma represented 18 (46%) of the ankles, while 21 (54%) had chronic instability. Treatment options were tailored according to the aetiology, patient characteristics, injury pattern and associated lesions. In 11 of the 18 acute deltoid ruptures (64%), repair was performed using suture anchors, while the remaining 7 cases were treated with direct suture. In chronic deltoid insufficiency, re‐tensioning with suture anchor was performed in 14 (67%) ankles, suture imbrication in 5 (24%) and reconstruction in 6 (9%). The most common associated injuries were syndesmotic injuries (n = 12, 56%) and osteochondral lesions (n = 13, 36%). The complication rate was 18% (n = 7), the majority related to persistent stiffness (n = 4, 10%).

Conclusion

The decision on when and how to repair the deltoid ligament should be guided by the characteristics of the injury and the individual patient. The current treatment rationale may serve as a working basis for evaluating and treating these ankles.

Level of Evidence

Level IV.
A version of Hilbert's 16th problem for 3D polynomial vector fields: Counting isolated invariant tori
Authors: Novaes D. D. , Pereira P. C. C. R.
Published: December 2024

Hilbert's 16th problem, about the maximum number of limit cycles of planar polynomial vector fields of a given degree , has been one of the most important driving forces for new developments in the qualitative theory of vector fields. Increasing the dimension, one cannot expect the existence of a finite upper bound for the number of limit cycles of, for instance, 3D polynomial vector fields of a given degree . Here, as an extension of such a problem in the 3D space, we investigate the number of isolated invariant tori in 3D polynomial vector fields. In this context, given a natural number , we denote by the upper bound for the number of isolated invariant tori of 3D polynomial vector fields of degree . Based on a recently developed averaging method for detecting invariant tori, our first main result provides a mechanism for constructing 3D differential vector fields with a number of normally hyperbolic invariant tori from a given planar differential vector field with hyperbolic limit cycles. The strength of our mechanism in studying the number lies in the fact that the constructed 3D differential vector field is polynomial provided that the given planar differential vector field is polynomial. Accordingly, our second main result establishes a lower bound for in terms of lower bounds for the number of hyperbolic limit cycles of planar polynomial vector fields of degree . Based on this last result, we apply a methodology due to Christopher and Lloyd to show that grows as fast as . Finally, the above‐mentioned problem is also formulated for higher dimensional polynomial vector fields.
Diffusion time effects over the adult lifespan indicates persistent zone‐specific microstructural alterations in the human prostate with aging
Authors: Ma Xiao , Seres Peter , Kinnaird Adam , Fung Christopher , Feiweier Thorsten , Beaulieu Christian
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to investigate microstructural changes in the aging adult prostate by comparing the effects of varying diffusion times using diffusion MRI, and to provide an age‐related benchmark for future prostate cancer studies.

Methods

The prostates of normal male volunteers (n = 70, 19–69 years) were scanned at 3 T with an oscillating gradient spin echo (OGSE: 6 ms), pulsed gradient spin echo (PGSE: 40 ms) and pulsed gradient stimulated echo (PGSTE: 100 ms), and anatomical T2‐weighted image. Volume and mean diffusivity (MD) were measured in the peripheral (PZ) and transition zones (TZ), which were assessed versus age.

Results

PZ and TZ showed quadratic age trajectories for all diffusion scans, with MD decreasing from 19 years to a minimum ˜30–40 years followed by a greater increase at older ages. Short (OGSE) and medium (PGSE) diffusion time MD had similar age trajectories, whereas long diffusion time (PGSTE) MD was significantly lower, particularly in PZ (22%). MD difference (∆MD) of OGSE‐PGSTE and PGSE‐PGSTE showed significant positive linear correlations with age for both PZ (larger slope) and TZ, resulting in ˜3.3x (PZ) and 1.8x (TZ) greater ∆MD from 19 to 69 years. MD and ∆MD versus age relationships differed from volume, which conversely had greater proportional growth in TZ than PZ.

Conclusion

The diffusion time effects suggest age‐related microstructural changes consistent with development of persistently larger cell dimensions mainly in the prostate peripheral zone over the adult lifespan. This normative data can be used for comparison to prostate cancer factoring in age.
Optimal Dynamic Condition‐Based Mode Switching Policy for Systems With Main and Auxiliary Components
Authors: Zhao Xian , Lv Zuheng , Qiu Qingan , Guo Bin
Published: December 2024

In various complex systems, auxiliary components play a crucial role in mitigating potential negative effects on the main component. This paper examines systems comprising a main component and an auxiliary component that offers minimal repairs to the main component. While the main component operates online, the auxiliary component has the flexibility to switch between online and offline modes. The modes and failures of the auxiliary component have significant implications for the maintenance services adopted for both components, given their stochastic and economic dependence. During the online operation of the auxiliary component, it promptly performs minimal repairs, effectively minimizing the downtime costs of the main component. However, the auxiliary component itself may deteriorate over age, resulting in additional corrective maintenance expenses. Conversely, during the offline periods of the auxiliary component, prompt repairs to the main component are not feasible, leading to further downtime costs. Therefore, optimizing a dynamic condition‐based mode switching policy of the auxiliary component becomes crucial in order to minimize the expected total costs effectively. To address this challenge, this paper formulates the optimization problem within a Markov decision process framework and explores the structural properties of the optimal policy, including monotonicity, control limit properties, and the impact of diverse cost scenarios on optimal decision‐making. Furthermore, this paper validates the theoretical results by conducting a numerical example of a wind turbine system, which effectively confirms their practical applicability. Additionally, this paper compares the proposed policy with alternative heuristic policies and demonstrates a substantial decrease in expected total cost.
Krylov Subspace Based FISTA‐Type Methods for Linear Discrete Ill‐Posed Problems
Authors: Buccini Alessandro , Chen Fei , Pasha Mirjeta , Reichel Lothar
Published: December 2024

Several iterative soft‐thresholding algorithms, such as FISTA, have been proposed in the literature for solving regularized linear discrete inverse problems that arise in various applications in science and engineering. These algorithms are easy to implement, but their rates of convergence may be slow. This paper describes novel approaches to reduce the computations required for each iteration by using Krylov subspace techniques. Specifically, we propose to impose sparsity on the coefficients in the representation of the computed solution in terms of a Krylov subspace basis. Several numerical examples from image deblurring and computerized tomography are used to illustrate the efficiency and accuracy of the proposed methods.
Online programs: Attrition risks differ between environmental science and natural resource master's non‐thesis students
Authors: Kokenge Elise , Holyoke Laura B. , Soria Krista M. , Kobziar Leda , Daley‐Laursen Steven B.
Published: December 2024

Understanding attrition risks specific to online student populations is crucial for the long‐term success of online programs. Online programs allow place‐based working professionals access to education needed for professional development and career advancement. This study was conducted to determine if educational preparation, student characteristics, and internal educational factors could predict the probability of discontinuation from natural resource or environmental science disciplines in online non‐thesis master's programs. The Cox proportional hazards model survival analysis was used to examine longitudinal data from 2017 to 2023 and assess attrition risk over time, examined time as a factor of attrition behavior, and identified predictors of attrition from two online programs. Attrition risks varied between environmental science and master of natural resources online non‐thesis programs. In the natural resource program, a statistically significant relationship was found between student age, gender, race, degree background, undergraduate grade point average, cumulative grade point average, and time between degrees. A total of 70% of discontinued students did so within the first three terms, indicating the highest risk of attrition occurred early in both programs. Different attrition risks between programs warrant further examination to provide meaningful support specific to students’ needs.
The iHearingAids? New Technologies in the Hearing World
Authors: Krishnan Pavan S. , Kamrava Brandon , Snapp Hillary A. , Telischi Fred F.
Published: December 2024

Apple's new hearing health experience with AirPods Pro 2 was released this Fall of 2024, allowing any user with a compatible iPhone and AirPods Pro 2 to perform hearing tests and use the device as a hearing aid for perceived mild to moderate hearing loss. This innovation may increase accessibility to hearing testing and hearing augmentation for the public but there are many potential drawbacks that will impact hearing loss care. The advent of AirPods Pro 2 and the inevitable arrival of similar devices to the market will alter the clinical practice. It is crucial for our field to learn about this technology and prepare for changes in practice.
Invariance of Gaussian RKHSs Under Koopman Operators of Stochastic Differential Equations With Constant Matrix Coefficients
Authors: Philipp Friedrich M. , Schaller Manuel , Worthmann Karl , Peitz Sebastian , Nüske Feliks
Published: December 2024

We consider the Koopman operator semigroup associated with stochastic differential equations of the form with constant matrices and and Brownian motion . We prove that the reproducing kernel Hilbert space generated by a Gaussian kernel with a positive definite covariance matrix is invariant under each Koopman operator if the matrices , , and satisfy the following Lyapunov‐like matrix inequality: . In this course, we prove a characterization concerning the inclusion of Gaussian RKHSs for two positive definite matrices and . The question of whether the sufficient Lyapunov‐condition is also necessary is left as an open problem.
Synthesis of Amino Silicone Ethoxylates With Different Ethylene Oxide Addition Numbers and Their Application in Cotton Fabrics
Authors: Tan Yanru , Zhou Jingjie , Liu Yuqi , Sun Jinyuan , Liang Huibin , Zhang Ke , Wang Chunyu , Shi Sheng , Geng Tao
Published: December 2024

In this paper, a straightforward preparation method of polyether modified silicone oil was proposed. For the first time, amino silicone oil ethoxylates (ASOEn) with different ethylene oxide (EO) addition numbers were synthesized by the reaction of amino silicone oil and ethylene oxide, and characterized. The chemical structure was characterized by 1H NMR, FT‐IR, and TAG. The whiteness, softness, bending stiffness, and hydrophilicity of cotton fabrics treated with ASOEn were tested. The results show that with the increase of EO chain, the cotton fabric treated by ASOEn has a certain improvement in softness, bending stiffness, and hydrophilicity. In addition, compared with the commercially available block polyether amino silicone oil, the cotton fabric treated with ASOEn had no significant difference in terms of whiteness and bending stiffness, and its hydrophilicity was even better than that of the cotton fabric treated with SSW. Through SEM characterization, the surface of the treated cotton fabric is smooth and smooth, and the adsorption principle of ASOEn on cotton fabric is inferred.
Fast and Efficient Screening and Separation Based on AUF‐MS Combined With Molecular Docking Technology and Network Pharmacology Method for Potential Xanthine Oxidase Inhibitors From Pinelliae Rhizoma Praeparatum
Authors: Liu Qiang , Nong Yuyu , Li Sainan , Zhou Yang , Liu Xuanlin , Liu Duo , Li Yanjie
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Studies show that Pinelliae Rhizoma Praeparatum (PRP) has some pharmacological effects in enhancing immunity and against gout.

Objectives

A mathematical model was created for extraction process optimization, analysis and identification, activity screening, and isolation and purification; moreover, the mechanism of action was studied.

Methods

First, the extraction of PRP was investigated using the gray wolf optimization mathematical regression model; the extraction variables were optimized to maximize the yield. Second, we used network pharmacological analysis to predict potential targets for PRP in treating gout; xanthine oxidase inhibitors (XODIs) were rapidly screened using AUF‐MS and enzyme‐catalyzed reaction kinetics. The potential antigout effects of the obtained active substances were verified using molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation analysis. Finally, with activity screening as the guide, an HSCCC method combined with consecutive injection using the UNIFAC mathematical model and semipreparative HSCCC was successfully developed for the separation and purification of XODIs.

Results

The results verified that uridine, guanosine, adenosine, liquiritin, and liquiritigenin of PRP exhibited high biological affinity toward XOD.

Conclusion

This study clarifies the mechanisms of action of a medicinal plant of interest at the molecular level and can provide more opportunities for the discovery and development of new therapeutic drugs from other food resources.
Computational Methods for Data Integration and Imputation of Missing Values in Omics Datasets
Authors: Schumann Yannis , Gocke Antonia , Neumann Julia E.
Published: December 2024

Molecular profiling of different omic‐modalities (e.g., DNA methylomics, transcriptomics, proteomics) in biological systems represents the basis for research and clinical decision‐making. Measurement‐specific biases, so‐called batch effects, often hinder the integration of independently acquired datasets, and missing values further hamper the applicability of typical data processing algorithms. In addition to careful experimental design, well‐defined standards in data acquisition and data exchange, the alleviation of these phenomena particularly requires a dedicated data integration and preprocessing pipeline. This review aims to give a comprehensive overview of computational methods for data integration and missing value imputation for omic data analyses.

We provide formal definitions for missing value mechanisms and propose a novel statistical taxonomy for batch effects, especially in the presence of missing data. Based on an automated document search and systematic literature review, we describe 32 distinct data integration methods from five main methodological categories, as well as 37 algorithms for missing value imputation from five separate categories. Additionally, this review highlights multiple quantitative evaluation methods to aid researchers in selecting a suitable set of methods for their work. Finally, this work provides an integrated discussion of the relevance of batch effects and missing values in omics with corresponding method recommendations. We then propose a comprehensive three‐step workflow from the study conception to final data analysis and deduce perspectives for future research. Eventually, we present a comprehensive flow chart as well as exemplary decision trees to aid practitioners in the selection of specific approaches for imputation and data integration in their studies.
Using Air Plasma‐generated High‐Valence NOx for Olive Oil Activation to Produce High‐Performance Antimicrobial Agents
Authors: Sun Jiachen , Zhou Rusen , Zhang Jishen , Chen Jinkun , Yang Weiji , Wang Zifeng , Liu Dingxin
Published: December 2024

This study develops a time‐ and performance‐efficient process for oil activation with enhanced bioreactivity. Instead of ozone foaming, plasma‐activated gas (PAG) bubbling has been, for the first time, employed for potent olive oil activation. A parallel system integrating dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) and gliding arc discharge (GAD) devices generates air‐PAG rich in high‐valence nitrogen oxides (NOx) and O3. By adjusting DBD and GAD power ratios, PAG composition is controlled. At a power ratio of 1:1, NOx content and the sterilization performance of thus‐obtained plasma‐activated oil (PAO) reach their peaks. Compared to traditional ozonated oil and plasma‐activated water (PAW), PAO demonstrates superior bacterial‐killing ability and extended storage stability, showing outstanding capacity in medical and food applications as a green agent.
“Production and Chemical Composition of Plasma Activated Water: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis”
Authors: Montalbetti Roberto , Machala Zdenko , Gherardi Matteo , Laurita Romolo
Published: December 2024

The physio‐chemical interplay between cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) and water confers unique chemical and biological properties to the liquid, producing plasma‐activated water (PAW). This review systematically examines various methodologies for PAW production, focusing on the effects of process parameters on reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) concentration and pH levels in PAW. It presents detailed analyses of CAP sources, working gases, and treatment conditions, showcasing their impact on PAW processes. The extracted data are reprocessed to derive parameters such as mean energy density and RONS production efficiency. Specific plasma‐water configurations exhibit notably higher production rates, indicating promising opportunities for advancing PAW generation techniques and enhancing its applicability in various fields.
Short Review on Plasma–Aerosol Interactions
Authors: Janda Mario , Stancampiano Augusto , di Natale Francesco , Machala Zdenko
Published: December 2024

Systems where cold atmospheric plasma interacts with liquid aerosols provide information on unexplored physico‐chemical phenomena and yield multiple advantages. Plasma‐activated aerosols show high chemical reactivity within small liquid microdroplet volumes, making them suitable for various applications and industrial processes. Plasma–aerosol interactions present complex interdisciplinary challenges that demand detailed investigations of the underlying physical, chemical, and transport mechanisms. This short review focuses on the key challenges in understanding plasma–aerosol interactions and the diagnostic hurdles in elucidating the physical and chemical mechanisms governing microdroplet interactions with plasma discharges. The scalability of plasma–aerosol systems, including high‐throughput charged water flows, are analyzed. Some “niche” applications of plasma–aerosols are identified, especially in decontamination, nitrogen fixation, and agriculture. The controversies in the field are also introduced and critically discussed. The review concludes with a proposed path and outlook for the development of plasma–aerosol technology.
Migration and Diverse Belongings in a Neighbourhood Context: Population‐Based Study of Older Russian‐Speaking Migrants in Finland
Authors: Glushkova Tatiana , Kemppainen Laura , Kouvonen Anne , Wrede Sirpa , Pietilä Ilkka , Kemppainen Teemu
Published: December 2024

Belonging is a fundamental human experience that plays a critical role in shaping individuals' connections to their communities. Establishing a sense of belonging to a destination society can be particularly challenging for older migrants. Neighbourhood factors and the broader regional context may influence one's sense of belonging to various communities. However, research exploring how neighbourhood‐level factors relate to different types of belonging remains limited. Using data from a population‐based study on older Russian‐speaking migrants in Finland (n = 1082, 57% men and 43% women; mean age 63.2 years, 36% response rate) and a postal code area database (3036 postal codes on mainland Finland, with an average of 1802 residents and an average area of 112 km2), we examined various types of belonging among Russian‐speaking migrants aged 50 years or older and how both individual and neighbourhood‐level factors were associated with the types of belonging. Categorical Principal Component Analysis (CATPCA) was employed to study types of belonging, and multilevel regression analysis was used to examine associations between the types and neighbourhood and individual factors that were identified. Three types of belonging were identified: belonging to the majority population, that is, ‘Finns’; belonging to Ingrian Finns; and belonging to Russian speakers. In neighbourhoods with a higher proportion of Russian speakers, belonging to Finns was weaker. Moreover, significant differences in belonging to Russian speakers were observed across regions of Finland. Thus, in regions located near the Finnish–Russian border, belonging to Russian speakers was stronger. Although neighbourhood characteristics were not associated with belonging to Ingrian Finns, individual‐level factors, such as being older, receiving income support, and having lower education levels were associated with this type of belonging. Additionally, good command of the local language contributed to belonging to Finns and weakened belonging to Russian speakers.
Effect of Organic Dye Concentration on the Nanostructured TiO2‐Based Diodes
Authors: Tudu Avijit , Biswas Chinmoy , Lavudya Praveen , Venkataramanaiah Ingilala , Rajanikanth Ammanabrolu
Published: December 2024

In this study, A/TiO2/FTO, A/(CV (Crystal Violet) dye)X‐TiO2/FTO Schottky diode devices (A = Ag/Au), (X = 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0 mg) with TiO2 nanostructures are fabricated. The TiO2 nanostructures are synthesized using the hydrothermal method on the FTO substrate. The samples' dark current–voltage (I–V) characteristics are studied with a B1500A semiconductor parameter analyzer. The devices exhibited good rectifying behavior at room temperature. Ideality factor (η), barrier height (φb), and series resistance (RS) are calculated from I–V measurements at room temperature by fitting with thermionic emission theory, Norde method, and Cheung method. The obtained results reveal that various CV dye concentration affects the important junction parameters of the fabricated Schottky diodes, such as ideality factor (η), barrier height (φb), and series resistance (RS). However, a systematic change is not observed as the number of CV aggregates between the TiO2 and the electrode might be different for each device. However, a low series resistance is obtained with these nanostructures in the order of a few Ω–kΩ. It is found that barrier height did not change much on varying CV dye concentrations. Hence, these dye‐sensitized TiO2 nanostructures can be used to make diodes.
Top 10 Public Health Challenges for 2024: Charting a New Direction for Global Health Security
Authors: Lucero‐Prisno Don Eliseo , Shomuyiwa Deborah Oluwaseun , Kouwenhoven M. B. N. , Dorji Thinley , Adebisi Yusuff Adebayo , Odey Goodness Ogeyi , George Nsikakabasi Samuel , Ajayi Oluwatomisin Temidayo , Ekerin Olabode , Manirambona Emery , Xu Lin , Obnial Joseph Christian , Viola Adriana Miranda , Ogunkola Isaac Olushola , Ahmed Mohamed Mustaf , Ogaya Jerico B. , Huang Junjie , Sium Abraham Fessehaye , Suntay Marcus Lester R. , Chung William K. , De Paz Pearl Irish V. , Elmi Hassan Sh Abdirahman , Hersi Omar Osman , Gabaake Kebabonye P. , Baricaua Teresita , Dirie Najib Isse , Yepes Prose Ivy G. , Wilson Donald John , Tofaeono‐Pifeleti Rossana , Tapia Ederson Delos Trino , Wong Martin CS
Published: December 2024

As we navigate the complex landscape of global public health in 2024, this article provides a comprehensive exploration of challenges, ranging from infectious diseases, mental health, and substance use to environmental sustainability and emerging technologies. The aftermath of the COVID‐19 pandemic underscores the critical need to strengthen health systems, increase public financing, and foster effective international collaboration. The intricacies of global geopolitics, diplomacy, and public health highlight the importance of countries that do not address shared challenges through enhanced cooperative mechanisms and joint initiatives. From the imperative of global health security to the persistence of non‐communicable diseases and health disparities, this study delves into multifaceted issues, advocating for collective action, targeted interventions, and a commitment to prioritizing public health on a global scale. Focusing on addressing root causes and fostering equity, this study emphasizes the role of sustainable practices, community engagement, and intersectionality of research in building a resilient global health landscape. In this dynamic environment, 2024 calls for a unified global vision that encourages nations to collaborate more effectively to build a healthier and more resilient global community, ultimately paving the way for a future characterized by a shared commitment to public health challenges.
An Intelligent Method of Health State Division and Assessment for Gearbox Based on Acoustic Signals
Authors: Yan Hao , Dong Enzhi , Wang Yu , Wen Liang , Cheng Zhonghua , Jia Xisheng
Published: December 2024

Gearboxes are a crucial component of the transmission systems in many devices. Due to prolonged operation and high loads, it is inevitable that their condition will degrade over time. Therefore, intelligently dividing health state stages and conducting timely and effective health state assessments are essential for ensuring the safe and reliable operation of gearboxes. In response to the acoustic signals generated during the operation of gearboxes, a health state division and assessment method based on acoustic signals is proposed. Initially, fast Fourier transform (FFT) is utilized to convert the measured sound signal into a spectral signal that is relatively less disturbed by noise. Subsequently, the temporal convolutional autoencoder (TCAE) is proposed and constructed to encode and decode the spectrum signals at different moments, so that the trained encoder can be used to extract the deep features of the signals adaptively. After that, K‐Means clustering method was used to automatically divide the health state of the gearbox combined with the extracted deep features. Finally, the one‐dimensional convolutional neural networks (1DCNN) model is constructed and trained, and the deep features extracted by TCAE are input to identify the health state stage of the test sample, so as to realize the health state assessment of the gearbox. The experimental results show that, in the gearbox data set of three working conditions, the proposed method is closer to the health stage of manual calibration, which proves the rationality of the proposed intelligent method. The accuracy of the proposed health assessment method can reach 95%, 90%, and 90%, respectively, and the effect is obviously better than that of the more commonly used models at present, achieving effective health state assessment of the gearbox under non‐destructive testing conditions.
Distributed Cooperative Collision‐Free Tracking Control for 30 Quadrotors Under Internal and External Threats
Authors: Yang Guang , Qi Juntong , Wang Mingming , Wu Chong , Guo Jinjin , Ping Yuan , Peng Yan
Published: December 2024

The high efficiency of multiple quadrotors coordination makes it widely used. However, the technology faces threats from internal collisions as well as external obstacles. This paper proposes a multiquadrotors distributed cooperative collision‐free tracking control framework, which consists of three parts: collision avoidance mechanism, obstacle avoidance mechanism and tracking control. First, in the face of internal and external threats, the collision avoidance function with damping is designed based on Hooke's law. And the potential energy function is designed for multiple quadrotors obstacle avoidance based on bird flock obstacle avoidance. Then, a distributed control protocol is proposed based on consensus theory. Finally, a multi‐quadrotors simulation and experiment platform with the same architecture is built. We deploy the framework on the multiple quadrotor platform and conduct collision avoidance, obstacle avoidance, and encirclement experiments with 30 quadrotors. The experimental results show that the quadrotors can perform the task well. The minimum distance between quadrotors is 0.8022 m, and the minimum distance from obstacles is 0.8866 m, all of which meet the safety distance requirements. Moreover, compared with classical and advanced methods in simulation, our proposed method has the smallest average tracking error, only 0.3019 m, and improves task time by 7.03% and 6.23%, respectively, which verifies the effectiveness and practicality of the proposed framework of distributed cooperative collision avoidance and tracking control for multiple quadrotors.
Fluconazole Functionalized Copper Oxide—Chitosan Nanocomposite for Bioengineering Applications Against Human Breast Cancer Therapies
Authors: Ringu Togam , Das Abinash , Ali Mir Sahidul , Ghosh Sampad , Pramanik Nabakumar
Published: December 2024

A novel nanocomposite has been developed by combining the antifungal drug fluconazole (FCZ), copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs), and a chitosan (CS) matrix. This nanocomposite assessed its enhanced anticancer activity and compatibility with biological systems. The synthesis of the nanocomposite was carried out using an in situ method. Various techniques, including X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), UV‐visible spectroscopy (UV–vis), energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX), and particle size distribution (PSD) analysis were used to characterize the material comprehensively. The FCZ‐CuO‐CS nanocomposite showed enhanced antimicrobial activity against bacterial and fungal strains, which was even more pronounced than the CuO NPs. This enhanced activity is due to the collaborative effects of FCZ, CuO NPs, and CS. Additionally, the nanocomposite was tested for its potential as an anti‐cancer agent using the tetrazolium salt, 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay on MCF‐7 breast cancer cell lines. The results demonstrated a significant improvement in its ability to inhibit the proliferation of MCF‐7 cells compared to using fluconazole alone. These results highlight the potential of the FCZ‐CuO‐CS nanocomposite as a promising therapeutic option for treating human breast cancer.
Catalytic Pyrolysis of Moso Bamboo Over Acid‐treated Red Mud Catalyst for Bio‐Oil Production
Authors: Gu Yaxin , Wang Wenli , Zhou Chengfen , Hu Changwei
Published: December 2024

Red mud (RM), one kind of waste from the alumina industry, was used to prepare 600‐RM catalyst and a series of xHCl‐RM catalysts. The catalytic pyrolysis of moso bamboo was conducted to evaluate the performance of the prepared catalysts. The 600‐RM catalyst showed a slight increase in the content of Fe, Al, Ca and Si, and a modest enlargement in pore volume and diameter. The xHCl‐RM catalysts exhibited well‐structured hierarchical porosity and enhanced specific surface area. After acid treatment, the contents of Fe, Al, and Si increased noticeably, with almost complete removal of Na and Ca. Thermal stability of the 600‐RM and xHCl‐RM catalysts was significantly improved compared to P‐RM. The results showed that the catalytic pyrolysis over 600‐RM enhanced high selectivity for phenols (59.81%, biomass/catalyst = 1/1 w/w) and alcohols (16.35%, biomass/catalyst = 1/1 w/w), facilitated by CaO promoting bond cleavage and free radical reactions. In addition, xHCl‐RM demonstrated enhanced activity for furans (23.11%) and carbonyl compounds (28.43%), with 4HCl‐RM performing the best. It could be attributed to the high cracking ability of Fe2O3 and Al2O3 on cellulose and hemicellulose. The biomass‐to‐catalyst mass ratio significantly affected the yield of small molecular products, showing a nonlinear trend.
Surface Modification of Starch by Isopropoxytris(ethylenediamino‐N‐ethoxy)Titanate with a Chelating Claw for Heavy Metal Removal
Authors: Rong Xuede , Man Ruojun
Published: December 2024

Isopropoxy tris(ethylenediamino‐N‐ethoxy) titanate‐modified starch (TIS) was prepared and characterized by XPS, FTIR, SEM, and TGA. It has been used for the removal of Cu2+, Co2+, Ni2+, and Mn2+ from aqueous solutions. At an optimal pH of 7, fast adsorption was observed within 10 min of contact, and 80% of the maximum capacity was achieved. Adsorption reached equilibrium after 30 min. This course followed a pseudo‐second‐order equation with the sequence Cu2+ > Mn2+ > Co2+ > Ni2+, which is related to the substitution rates of the hydrated metal ions. A linear relationship between the pseudo‐second‐order equation constant (logk2) and substitution rate constants (logkhs) of the hydrated metal ions was established. For the isotherm, the Langmuir equation fitted well with the adsorption data, suggesting monolayer coverage of the TIS surface. The maximum adsorption capacity for metal ions followed the order of Cu2+ > Co2+ > Ni2+ > Mn2+. FTIR and thermal studies indicated the chelation of metal ions with ethylenediamino groups, in agreement with the adsorption investigations.
Palladium‐Catalyzed Regioselectivity C─H Oxidation of Aromatics Utilizing Removable Directing Group Strategy
Authors: Zhu Shuwei , Wang Yong , Yin Fumeng , Gu Yuqing , Zhu Hongjun
Published: December 2024

An efficient pyridine‐assisted o‐acetoxylation of 2‐phenoxypyridines has been developed using AcOH as solvent and acetoxy source through Pd(II)‐catalyzed C─H bond activation. The protocol exhibits high regioselectivity and functional group tolerance with yields up to 89%. Moreover, the 2‐pyridyloxyl and acetyl groups can be readily removed, which provides indirect access to obtain pyrocatechol. Control experiments indicate that the reaction involves free radical pathway and C─H activation may be the rate‐determining step.
Sequential Therapy for Osteosarcoma and Bone Regeneration via Chemodynamic Effect and Cuproptosis Using a 3D‐Printed Scaffold with TME‐Responsive Hydrogel
Authors: Xie Dingqi , Hu Chuan , Zhu Yutao , Yao Jia , Li Jianyi , Xia Jiechao , Ye Lin , Jin Yang , Jiang Sicheng , Hu Tingting , Lu Jingwei , Song Honghai , Tang Pan , Dai Jiayong , Xi Yongming , Hu Zhijun
Published: December 2024

Post‐surgical recurrence and extensive bone defects pose significant challenges during osteosarcoma treatment. These issues can be addressed using a novel strategy that promotes bone repair after removing residual tumors. Therefore, a 3D‐printed porous polylactic acid (PLA) scaffold (PH‐GBS@CCP) filled with hydrogel and surface‐modified with nano‐hydroxyapatite (nHA) is designed. The hydrogel, composed of gelatin modified with methacrylic anhydride (GelMA), sodium alginate (SA), and borax, contains Cu–Cys–PEG nanoparticles (CCP) modified with cRGDfk‐PEG2K‐DSPE. It is injected into the PLA scaffold and crosslinked under UV. This hydrogel acts as a buffer medium between scaffold and bone, reducing cell abrasion, and as a carrier for the responsive release of tumor‐targeting CCP. The scaffold provides the support and microenvironment required for bone repair. In early treatment, the acidic tumor microenvironment promotes hydrogel disintegration and CCP release, depleting glutathione and converting Cu2+ to Cu+ for the Fenton‐like reaction. This generates reactive oxygen species, strengthening the proptosis effect, and killing the tumor. In later treatment, after tumor elimination, normalized pH and slow CCP release, along with scaffold nHA, promote osteogenic differentiation, providing a sustained osteogenic effect. Overall, the multifunctional composite scaffold achieved the sequential management of post‐surgical osteosarcoma through early tumor‐killing and later osteogenic effects.
Interdisciplinary Hybrid Solar‐Driven Evaporators: Theoretical Framework of Fundamental Mechanisms and Applications
Authors: Irshad Muhammad Sultan , Arshad Naila , Maqsood Ghazala , Asghar Muhammad Sohail , Wu Pan , Mushtaq Naveed , Shah M.A.K. Yousaf , Lin Liangyou , Li Xiuqiang , Ahmed Iftikhar , Mei Tao , Sabir Muhammad , Wang Hao , Pham Phuong V. , Li Hongrong , Nang Ho Xuan , Dao Van‐Duong , Guo Jinming , Wang Xianbao
Published: December 2024

The global water and energy crisis seems to be mitigated with promising prospects of emerging interdisciplinary hybrid solar‐driven evaporator technology (IHSE). However, the lack of numeric standards for comparison between enormously reported systems and the synergistic effects of interdisciplinary hybridization remains a significant challenge. To entice researchers from various domains to collaborate on the design of a system for realistic, large‐scale applications, this study provides a comprehensive overview of the interdisciplinary approaches to IHSE from the domains of physics, chemistry, materials science, and engineering, along with their guiding principles and underlying challenges. First, an in‐depth analysis of IHSE with the basic scientific foundations and current advancements in recent years is discussed. Then, the physical principles/scientific principles alongside the overall system improvement enhancement techniques at the macro and micro scale are highlighted. Furthermore, the review analyzes the impact of significant physical factors that alter or restrict the efficiency of IHSE, as well as their connection and potential regulation. In addition, a comprehensive study of emerging sustainable applications for insight into the design and optimization of IHSE is provided for scientists from different fields. Lastly, the current challenges and future perspectives of interdisciplinary IHSE for large‐scale applications are emphasized.
Inorganic Building Unit Isomerization Engineering for Multicolor Room Temperature Phosphorescence
Authors: Song Wen‐Tao , Zhang Bo‐Lun , Miao Lei , Chen Jun , Zhang Pei‐Pei , Wang Rui‐Hong , Shi Wen‐Jing , Ni Jun , Zhang Jian‐Jun
Published: December 2024

Room temperature phosphorescence (RTP) materials have gained significant attention in current research. However, facile regulation of RTP color remains a great challenge. Here an “inorganic building unit (IBU) isomerization engineering” strategy is proposed to facilely regulate RTP color. Four coordination polymers (CPs) with different packing structures from the same raw material are prepared. Among them, 1 has a 2D layered structure, while 2, 3, and 4 can be viewed as 3D framework isomers, which display a wide‐range of RTP colors (505‐612 nm) ranging from cyan to red, and the optimal RTP excitation wavelengths for 3 and 4 are both located within the visible light region. Detailed investigation reveals that the IBU isomerization effectively regulates the interaction between organic linkers, leading to different charge transfer (CT) processes and inducing various RTP emission. Additionally, color‐tunable doped RTP materials with calcium formate as matrix and in‐situ formed 4 as guest components are prepared, exhibiting interesting excitation/ concentration/ time‐dependent RTP emission. Finally, the potential application of the materials in multi‐level information encryption is demonstrated. This study not only proposes an effective method for regulating RTP color, but also highlights the great potential of CP‐type guest components in preparing doped RTP materials.
High‐Resolution Self‐Assembly of Functional Materials and Microscale Devices via Selective Plasma Induced Surface Energy Programming
Authors: Tinsley Luke J. , Karipoth Prakash , Chandler James H. , Taccola Silvia , Valdastri Pietro , Harris Russell A.
Published: December 2024

Current technologies preclude effective and efficient self‐assembly of heterogeneous arrangements of functional materials between 10−1 and 10−5 m. Consequently, their fabrication is dominated by methods of direct material manipulation, which struggle to meet the designers’ demands regarding resolution, material freedom, production time, and cost. A two‐step, computer‐controlled is presented, multi‐material self‐assembly technique that allows heterogenous patterns of several centimeters with features down to 12.5 µm in size. First, a micro plasma jet selectively programs the surface energy of a polydimethylsiloxane substrate through localized chemical functionalization. Second, polar fluids containing functional materials are simplistically introduced which then self‐assemble according to the patterned regions of high surface energy over timescales of the order of seconds. In‐process control enables both high‐resolution patterning and high throughput. This approach is demonstrated to produce heterogenous patterns of materials with varying conductive, magnetic, and mechanical properties. These include magneto‐mechanical films and flexible electronic devices with unprecedented processing times and economy for high‐resolution patterns. This self‐assembly approach can disrupt the current lithography/direct write paradigm that dominates micro/meso‐fabrication, enabling the next generation of devices across a broad range of fields via a flexible, industrially scalable, and environmentally friendly manufacturing route.
Ti3C2Tx MXene Functionalized via Boron Doped MoS2 Quantum Dots: A Synergy of Heterojunctions and Doping Effect Enabling Ultrasensitive SO2 Detection at Room Temperature
Authors: Pal Ayan , Sharma Deepak , Tripathi Pragyan , Khandelwal Upanya , Singh Abhishek K. , Bhat Navakanta
Published: December 2024

The design of mixed‐dimensional heterostructures has emerged to be a new frontier of research as it induces exciting physical/chemical properties that extend beyond the fundamental properties of single dimensional systems. Therefore, rational design of heterostructured materials with novel surface chemistry and tailored interfacial properties appears to be very promising for the devices such as the gas sensors. Here, a highly sensitive gas sensor device is constructed by employing heterostructures of boron doped molybdenum disulfide quantum dots (B‐MoS2 Qdots) assembled into the matrix of Ti3C2Tx MXene. Functionalization of MXene surface with B‐MoS2 Qdots as a result of strong electrostatic attraction leads to improved charge migration behavior, active site exposure and abundant specific surface area. As a result, the Ti3C2Tx/B‐MoS2 sensor device shows ultra‐high response (28,998.3% @ 3 ppm), ultra‐fast response rate (23.1% s−1), sub‐ppm (10 ppb lowest) detection of sulfur dioxide (SO2) gas and excellent reversibility at room temperature. Density functional theory‐based calculations indicate that enhanced SO2 sensing performance results from synergy of the 2D‐0D heterostructure formation and preferential adsorption of SO2, induced by doped boron (B) heteroatoms in Qdots. Finally, a portable and wireless SO2 monitoring system is demonstrated for real‐time detection of SO2 leakage and quantification under certain circumstances.
Reconstructed Hydroxyl Coordination Field Enhances Mass Transfer for Efficient Electrocatalytic Water Oxidation
Authors: Jiang Haomin , Dong Haohai , Liu Yicheng , Wan Qiuhong , Pan Feng , Zhang Shuting , Yang Zhuojin , Chen Yingzhi , Chen Le , Zheng Xiaofang , Luo Lanke , Su Peiyuan , Wu Jie , Sun Zemin , Lin Liu
Published: December 2024

Mass transfer factor plays an indispensable role in high current density to accelerate the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) process, yet research on modulating reactant mass transport remains limited. Herein, by leveraging the dual acid‐base properties of aluminum sites, both the activation of the electronic activity of the layer for layered double hydroxides (LDH) and construction of the interlayer hydroxide coordination field (IHCF) have been achieved through in situ electrochemical reconstruction. It not only facilitates charge transfer and the surface catalytic transformation of reaction intermediates but, most notably, the presence of the IHCF significantly enhances the mass transport of reactants. As a result, the overpotential of LDHs with IHCF is only 164 mV, significantly better than the reported Ni‐based catalysts. Deuterium kinetic isotope effect experiments and pH‐dependence measurements demonstrate that the IHCF effectively enhances substrate mass transport capability and structural stability, thereby accelerating the proton‐coupled electron transfer process. To further validate the high mass transport characteristics, stability tests of the alkaline flow electrolyzer show that catalysts maintain over 1000 h of stability at a high current density. This work suggests that the IHCF effect can be utilized for further design and synthesis of efficient water oxidation catalysts for practical application.
Sub‐Nanoscale Caffeic Acid‐Functionalized TiO2 Composite: Enhancing Mechanical Properties and Odontogenic Differentiation Capacity of Resin‐Based Dental Restoration
Authors: Cui Aixin , Ouyang Zhangyi , Xu Changzhen , Wang Chunyao , Rana Zohaib , Liu Rui , Hou Dandan , Wang Lijun , Li Hongbo , Xiang Guolei , Xu Rongchen
Published: December 2024

Resin‐based materials (RBMs) are widely applied in dentistry because they withstand the recurrent multi‐dimensional force striking and the hydrolysis of teeth. Sub‐nanoscale materials can enhance the mechanical strength and bioactivity of RBMs, but the effects are still limited and the mechanisms to enhance bioactivity remain unclear. Here, a TiO2‐based sub‐nanocomposite modified with caffeic acid (CA) to enhance mechanical robustness, structural stability, and bioactivity of RBMs is reported. This sub‐nanocomposite can promote the proliferation, adhesion, and odontogenic differentiation of human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs) through specifically up‐regulating the expression of genes related to cell‐matrix adhesion, integrin‐mediated signaling pathways, and collagen fibril organization. These effects lead to a better capacity for up‐regulating odontogenic differentiation of RBMs.