bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Extending Battery Usage Time of a Heavy‐Duty Mecanum‐Wheeled Autonomous Electric Vehicle Used in Iron–Steel Industry by Considering Wheel Slippage
Authors: Bayar Gokhan , Hambarci Goktug , Demirel Ali Sezai
Published: September 2024

Mecanum‐wheeled autonomous electric vehicles are preferred to use in industrial applications to carry loads. To be able to reach a maximum travel distance in one turn of work with a full battery charge, the vehicle should follow the reference route with minimum tracking errors. One of the reasons which prevents a good path tracking is the slippage because slippage causes tracking errors in both longitudinal and lateral directions. Herein, a modeling structure for a mecanum‐wheeled autonomous electric vehicle used for the heavy duties in iron–steel industry is proposed by taking the slippage information into account. The objective is to reach more travel distance and reduce the energy loss of the battery which causes to carry load less than planned. The modeling structure proposed is adapted and tested for an autonomous path tracking task in a galvanization line of an iron–steel industry. Five tons of zinc ingots are carried from the storage area to the melting pot using an autonomous electric vehicle in a predefined reference route. More than 5 km autonomous drive is performed and the experiments show that slippage causes an energy loss of 6.1786%, which means battery allows 6.1786% less distance than planned travel.
An 18‐month multimodal intervention trial for preventing dementia: J‐MINT PRIME Tamba
Authors: Oki Yutaro , Osaki Tohmi , Kumagai Ryoko , Murata Shunsuke , Encho Haruhi , Ono Rei , Yasuda Hisafumi , Kowa Hisatomo
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND

The number of people with dementia is increasing in Japan, and establishing evidence for preventing dementia is necessary.

METHODS

This study was a randomized controlled trial in cognitively normal community‐dwelling older adults aged 65 to 85 with diabetes and/or hypertension. Participants were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio. The intervention group underwent 90 min of group‐based weekly physical exercise, cognitive training, nutritional counseling, and vascular risk management for 18 months. The primary endpoint was the change in a cognitive composite score calculated by averaging the z‐scores of seven neuropsychological tests from baseline to 18 months.

RESULTS

We randomly assigned 203 participants to two groups, and 178 (87.7%) completed the 18‐month follow‐up. There was a significant group difference in the cognitive composite score change at 18 months (mean difference 0.16, 95% confidence interval: 0.04 to 0.27; p = 0.009).

DISCUSSION

An 18‐month multimodal intervention for older adults at risk of dementia could improve their cognitive function. The trial was registered in the Clinical Trial Registration System (UMIN000041938).

Highlights

Japan‐Multimodal Intervention Trial for Prevention of Dementia (J‐MINT) PRIME Tamba was a randomized controlled trial to prevent dementia.

We provided a multifactorial intervention based on the Finnish Geriatric Intervention Study to Prevent Cognitive Impairment and Disability (FINGER) trial methodology.

The primary outcome, the cognitive composite score, improved with our intervention.

Executive function/processing speed and memory improved in the intervention group.

Intervention adherence was high, and no serious adverse events occurred.
Low‐Energy Spin Manipulation Using Ferromagnetism
Authors: Desbuis Valentin , Lacour Daniel , Tiusan Coriolan , Weber Wolfgang , Hehn Michel
Published: September 2024

The manipulation of the electron spin direction at very low electron energies is demonstrated by exploiting the exchange field present within a magnetic thin film. The design of the lab‐on‐chip integrated magnetic tunnel transistor allows  to test different magnetic materials. The variation of film thickness, exchange field strength or electron energy are shown to have an impact on the resulting spin direction of electrons crossing a ferromagnetic material. A controlled engineering of the exchange field in thin magnetic films can therefore serve as a basis of future devices enabling controlled spin manipulation.
Transition Metal‐Gallium Intermetallic Compounds with Tailored Active Site Configurations for Electrochemical Ammonia Synthesis
Authors: Zhang Huaifang , Ma Chaoqun , Wang Yi‐Chi , Zhu Xiaojuan , Qu Kaiyu , Ma Xiao , He Caihong , Han Sumei , Liu Ai‐Hua , Wang Qi , Cao Wenbin , Lin Wei , Xia Jing , Zhu Lijie , Gu Lin , Yun Qinbai , Wang An‐Liang , Lu Qipeng
Published: September 2024

Gallium (Ga) with a low melting point can serve as a unique metallic solvent in the synthesis of intermetallic compounds (IMCs). The negative formation enthalpy of transition metal‐Ga IMCs endows them with high catalytic stability. Meanwhile, their tunable crystal structures offer the possibility to tailor the configurations of active sites to meet the requirements for specific catalytic applications. Herein, we present a general method for preparing a range of transition metal‐Ga IMCs, including Co−Ga, Ni−Ga, Pt−Ga, Pd−Ga, and Rh−Ga IMCs. The structurally ordered CoGa IMCs with body‐centered cubic (bcc) structure are uniformly dispersed on the nitrogen‐doped reduced graphene oxide substrate (O‐CoGa/NG) and deliver outstanding nitrate reduction reaction (NO3RR) performance, making them excellent catalysts to construct highly efficient rechargeable Zn‐NO3− battery. Operando studies and theoretical simulations demonstrate that the electron‐rich environments around the Co atoms enhance the adsorption strength of *NO3 intermediate and simultaneously suppress the formation of hydrogen, thus improving the NO3RR activity and selectivity.
Endocranial anatomy and phylogenetic position of the crocodylian Eosuchus lerichei from the late Paleocene of northwestern Europe and potential adaptations for transoceanic dispersal in gavialoids
Authors: Burke Paul M. J. , Boerman Sophie A. , Perrichon Gwendal , Martin Jeremy E. , Smith Thierry , Vellekoop Johan , Mannion Philip D.
Published: September 2024

Eosuchus lerichei is a gavialoid crocodylian from late Paleocene marine deposits of northwestern Europe, known from a skull and lower jaws, as well as postcrania. Its sister taxon relationship with the approximately contemporaneous species Eosuchus minor from the east coast of the USA has been explained through transoceanic dispersal, indicating a capability for salt excretion that is absent in extant gavialoids. However, there is currently no anatomical evidence to support marine adaptation in extinct gavialoids. Furthermore, the placement of Eosuchus within Gavialoidea is labile, with some analyses supporting affinities with the Late Cretaceous to early Paleogene “thoracosaurs.” Here we present novel data on the internal and external anatomy of the skull of E. lerichei that enables a revised diagnosis, with 6 autapormorphies identified for the genus and 10 features that enable differentiation of the species from Eosuchus minor. Our phylogenetic analyses recover Eosuchus as an early diverging gavialid gavialoid that is not part of the “thoracosaur” group. In addition to thickened semi‐circular canal walls of the endosseous labyrinth and paratympanic sinus reduction, we identify potential osteological correlates for salt glands in the internal surface of the prefrontal and lacrimal bones of E. lerichei. These salt glands potentially provide anatomical evidence for the capability of transoceanic dispersal within Eosuchus, and we also identify them in the Late Cretaceous “thoracosaur” Portugalosuchus. Given that the earliest diverging and stratigraphically oldest gavialoids either have evidence for a nasal salt gland and/or have been recovered from marine deposits, this suggests the capacity for salt excretion might be ancestral for Gavialoidea. Mapping osteological and geological evidence for marine adaptation onto a phylogeny indicates that there was probably more than one independent loss/reduction in the capacity for salt excretion in gavialoids.
Beyond The Sphere. Au20(PR3)8 as a Spherical Aromatic Cuboctahedron Cluster
Authors: Muñoz‐Castro Alvaro
Published: September 2024

The icosahedral Au135+ core is a recurrent building block in ligand‐protected gold clusters involving an 8‐cluster electron 1S21P6 electronic shell. Such a prototypical structure enables a spherical aromatic behavior as given by long‐range magnetic shielding. Recently, the Au20(tBu3P)8 cluster featuring a contrasting cuboctahedral core with formally neutral gold atoms appears as a novel core architecture with the potential to be considered as another potential building block towards functional nanostructures. Here, we explore the ligand‐core interaction and spherical aromatic characteristics of Au20(tBu3P)8, in order to provide a direct connection to classical icosahedral spherical aromatic compounds, now involving a cuboctahedral core structure. Such characteristics suggest rationalization of their robustness in terms of certain electron counts, enabling a shielding cone property in ligand‐protected metallic clusters, which favors bridging organic and inorganic planar/spherical aromatic species towards the unification of the aromaticity concept and designing guidelines for further achievements.
Clinically representative treatment for generalised anxiety disorder
Authors: Kjølsrød Eivind , Westgaard Malin , Brattmyr Martin , Lundqvist Jakob , Lindberg Martin Schevik , Hjemdal Odin , Havnen Audun , Solem Stian
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Manual‐based treatments, such as cognitive behavioural therapy and metacognitive therapy, are effective for patients with generalised anxiety disorder (GAD), but no studies have examined non‐manualised clinically representative treatment for GAD.

Methods

The sample consisted of 103 patients with GAD who completed non‐manualised eclectic outpatient treatment at a local psychiatric outpatient clinic from 2020 to 2023. Questionnaires before and after treatment measured GAD symptoms, depressive symptoms, functioning, health and treatment satisfaction.

Results

There were significant improvements with large effect sizes (Cohen's d using pooled standard deviations) for GAD symptoms (d = 1.30, p < .001), depressive symptoms (d = 1.22, p < .001) and functioning (d = 0.87, p < .001). There was a medium improvement in health (d = −0.66, p < .001). Regarding GAD symptoms, half of the sample achieved clinically significant change (scoring below cut‐off at post‐treatment and achieving reliable improvement), and 69% showed reliable improvement (statistically significant change). Most patients (72%–84%) were satisfied with their treatment.

Conclusion

Clinically representative treatment is associated with improvement in GAD, but the effect sizes were smaller than in manual‐based treatments. Research using randomised controlled trial designs comparing manual‐based treatment to clinically representative treatment is needed to establish relative efficacy and for refining treatment guidelines in Norway.
Association Between Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Alzheimer's Disease: Common Molecular Mechanism and Therapeutic Targets
Authors: Chauhan Aparna , Dubey Sachin , Jain Smita
Published: September 2024

Diabetes mellitus (DM) and Alzheimer's disease (AD) rates are rising, mirroring the global trend of an aging population. Numerous epidemiological studies have shown that those with Type 2 diabetes (T2DM) have an increased risk of developing dementia. These degenerative and progressive diseases share some risk factors. To a large extent, the amyloid cascade is responsible for AD development. Neurofibrillary tangles induce neurodegeneration and brain atrophy; this chain reaction begins with hyperphosphorylation of tau proteins caused by progressive amyloid beta (Aβ) accumulation. In addition to these processes, it seems that alterations in brain glucose metabolism and insulin signalling lead to cell death and reduced synaptic plasticity in AD, before the onset of symptoms, which may be years away. Due to the substantial evidence linking insulin resistance in the brain with AD, researchers have coined the name “Type 3 diabetes” to characterize the condition. We still know little about the processes involved, even though current animal models have helped illuminate the links between T2DM and AD. This brief overview discusses insulin and IGF‐1 signalling disorders and the primary molecular pathways that may connect them. The presence of GSK‐3β in AD is intriguing. These proteins' association with T2DM and pancreatic β‐cell failure suggests they might be therapeutic targets for both disorders.
Modulating Polymerase Activity Through Light‐Oxygen‐Voltage Domain Insertion
Authors: Hafki Daniel , Alda Jonas , Pietrus Daniel , Brakmann Susanne
Published: September 2024

Biochemical reaction networks adapt to environmental conditions by sensing chemical or physical stimuli and using tightly controlled mechanisms. While most signals come from molecules, many cells can also sense and respond to light. Among the biomolecular structures that enable light sensing, we selected a light‐oxygen‐voltage (LOV) domain in a previous study that tested the engineering of novel regulatory mechanisms into a nucleic acid polymerase. In this follow‐up study, we studied the activities of previously selected variants in kinetic detail, and we generated additional LOV‐polymerase fusion variants based on further insertion criteria. Our results provide mechanistic insights into how LOV domain insertion influences polymerase activity in a light‐responsive manner: All active and photoresponsive enzyme variants studied by us to date were partially inhibited (i. e., “turned off”) after irradiation with blue light at 470 nm, which can be explained by specific obstructions of the polymerase entry or exit structures (substrate entry channels or product exit channels, or both). Although the effects observed are moderate, we anticipate further engineering strategies that could be used to improve the extent of switchability and possibly to develop a “turn‐on mode” insertion.
Sex‐based differences in candidacy for transcatheter tricuspid valve intervention
Authors: Dumitriu Carcoana Allison O. , Scoma Christopher B. , Maletz Sebastian N. , Malavet Jose A. , Bloom Charissa A. , Crousillat Daniela R. , Matar Fadi A.
Published: September 2024

Background

Women have a higher prevalence of tricuspid regurgitation (TR) and present at more advanced stages as compared with men. Given the high operative mortality associated with tricuspid valve (TV) surgery, transcatheter tricuspid valve interventions (TTVI) have emerged as a promising treatment option. We explored sex‐based differences among patients with significant TR who would be expected to be eligible for TTVI.

Methods

Between March 2021–2022, 12,677 unique adult patients underwent a transthoracic echocardiogram at our tertiary care institution. Clinical and echocardiographic data were collected for patients with more than moderate TR. The 2021 European Society of Cardiology valve guidelines were used to retrospectively define sub‐populations who would have been eligible for TTVI, TV surgery, or medical therapy. Patients were grouped by sex and compared using t‐tests, Wilcoxon rank‐sum, Pearson chi‐square, and Cox regression for survival analysis.

Results

Of 569 patients, 52% (296/569) were female. Men had a higher prevalence of left ventricular dysfunction (p < 0.001), mitral regurgitation (p = 0.023), and signs of heart failure (New York Heart Association stage III (p = 0.031)). Women had more isolated TR (p = 0.020) and TR due to severe pulmonary hypertension (p < 0.001). Most patients (74.6% of women, 76.9% of men) were precluded from both transcatheter and surgical intervention due to advanced disease. 10.8% of women and 9.2% of men would have qualified for TTVI (p = 0.511).

Conclusion

The majority of patients with significant TR presenting to a tertiary care center are not eligible for TTVI. Sex is not a predictor of eligibility for TTVI among patients with significant TR.
Counterion Exchange Enhances the Brightness and Photostability of a Fluorous Cyanine Dye
Authors: Lin Helen H. , Lim Irene , Sletten Ellen M.
Published: September 2024

Fluorofluorophores are a unique class of fluorophores that can be solubilized in perfluorocarbons (PFCs) and used to study biological systems. However, because of the low dielectric constant and high oxygen solubility in the fluorous phase, the brightness and photostability of the fluorofluorophores are significantly diminished. Here, we leveraged the tight ion pairing in the fluorous phase to improve the photophysical properties of a fluorous soluble pentamethine dye (FCy5) via counterion exchange. We found that larger, softer, fluorinated, aryl borate counterions promote the ideal polymethine state where charge delocalization across the polymethine chain increases the brightness (6‐fold) and photostability (55‐fold) of FCy5.
In‐Situ Product Removal for the Enzymatic Depolymerization of Poly(ethylene terephthalate) via a Membrane Reactor
Authors: Ayafor Christian , Chang Allen C. , Patel Akanksha , Abid Umer , Xie Dongming , Sobkowicz Margaret J. , Wong Hsi‐Wu
Published: September 2024

Poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) is a common single‐use plastic and a major contributor to plastic waste. PET upcycling through enzymatic depolymerization has drawn significant interests, but lack of robust enzymes in acidic environments remains a challenge. This study investigates in‐situ product removal (ISPR) of protons and monomers from enzymatic PET depolymerization via a membrane reactor, focusing on the ICCG variant of leaf branch compost cutinase. More than two‐fold improvements in overall PET depolymerization and terephthalic acid yields were achieved employing ISPR for an initial PET loading of 10 mgPET mlbuffer−1. The benefit of ISPR was reduced for a lower initial loading of 1 mgPET mlbuffer−1 due to decreased need for pH stabilization of the enzyme‐containing solutions. A back‐of‐envelop analysis suggests that at a modest dilution ratio, ISPR could help achieve savings on caustic base solutions used for pH control in a bioreactor. Our study provides valuable insights for future ISPR developments for enzymatic PET depolymerization, addressing the pressing need for more sustainable solutions towards plastic recycling and environmental conservation.
Investigations on a compact self‐isolated flag‐shaped slotted MIMO antenna for triple‐band applications
Authors: Rekha S. , Let G. Shine , Radha S. , Lavanya P. , Rajasekhar T. , Chand S. Ravi
Published: September 2024

A compact flag‐shaped slotted multiple input multiple output (MIMO) antenna is deliberated in the article for triple‐band applications. The flag‐shaped slotted antenna is built with the help of four radiating patches having rectangular slots and disconnected ground structures. The suggested flag‐shaped slotted antenna can operate in the key frequencies of 2.4, 3.5, and 5 GHz. The antenna elements are oriented orthogonally with each other, such that no external decoupling structures are required to provide isolation. The complete size of the four‐element MIMO is 30*30*1.6 mm3. The minimum isolation between the four flag‐shaped slotted elements is −61, −55, and −47 dB in the operating frequency band of 2.3–2.8 GHz, 3.4–3.9 GHz, and 4.5–5.6 GHz, respectively. The simulated and measured results agree with each other, and they have stable radiation and gain. The MIMO performance parameters are measured, and it is noticed that the envelope correlation coefficient is lower than 0.04 and the diversity gain is 9.99 dB in the considered working frequency bands. The proposed flag‐shaped slotted MIMO is appropriate for WLAN, 5G sub‐6 GHz, and ISM wireless applications.
A comprehensive categorization method for identifying near‐fault pulse‐like ground motions
Authors: Peng Yongbo , Han Renjie
Published: September 2024

Identifying near‐fault pulse‐like ground motions from extensive ground motion databases holds paramount importance, as it provides a pivotal foundation for further inquiries into this specific type of ground motions, including the modeling of such stochastic processes as well as thorough analysis of their potential impact on structures and infrastructure systems. Currently, a diverse array of quantitative methods for identifying pulse‐like ground motions have emerged, all of which demonstrate good accuracy within their respective research scopes. However, due to the limitations of each individual method in identifying specific cases, these diverse approaches often yield inconsistent results for certain ground motion records, posing a significant challenge in establishing a reliable classification criterion that relies solely on a single identification method. To address this issue, the present study adopts a multifaceted approach. Instead of improving a single time‐frequency analysis‐based identification method, it carefully conducts a selection of seven baseline methods through a systematic overview of the field. By leveraging the analytic hierarchy process (AHP), a comprehensive categorization method is developed that integrates the strengths of each approach, resulting in a more robust and credible classification criterion. According to the devised category indicator, ground motions can be classified into four categories: Category A comprises definitively pulse‐like ground motions; Category B comprises apparently pulse‐like ground motions; Category C consists of probably pulse‐like ground motions; and Category D encompasses ground motions unlikely to exhibit pulse‐like characteristics. It provides a more elaborate classification beyond the binary distinction of pulse‐like and non‐pulse‐like ground motions associated with traditional onefold classification methods. For validation purposes, a basic dataset comprising near‐fault ground motion records from the NGA‐West 2 database has been utilized. To verify the comprehensive categorization method, two datasets of pulse‐like ground motion records suggested by FEMA and PEER and one dataset of ground motion records collected during the 1999 Chi‐Chi earthquake are addressed. Numerical examples illustrate the remarkable effectiveness of the proposed method in identifying near‐fault pulse‐like ground motions based on their varying degrees of pulse‐like characteristics.
Phreatic overgrowths on speleothems (POS) from the Mallorca caves: Morphology, mineralogy, and crystal fabric classification
Authors: Entrena Ana , Auqué Luis F. , Gimeno María J. , Fornós Joan J.
Published: September 2024

Phreatic overgrowths on speleothems (POS) are unique precipitates that are found in a small number of coastal caves around the world, like those in the Mallorca Island. Their growth is directly related to the water level of the brackish lakes connected to the sea characteristic of these caves and, therefore, they can be very reliable indicators of past sea levels. The study presented here characterizes and classifies an important number of POS samples collected in the coastal caves of Mallorca. The characterization includes not only the observations made on 117 handheld samples and on 102 thin sections from POS, but also the study of their mineralogy and their location in the caves. This study has provided the basis for a systematization of all these characteristics, some of which are reported here for the first time in POS samples. The results indicate that (1) most of the POS precipitate on stalactites, (2) calcite POS show branched internal and external texture and their most common crystal fabric is mosaic calcite and (3) aragonite POS show globular external texture and fan‐shaped internal texture, and their principal crystal fabric is needle‐like. All the aragonitic samples have been found above or at the same heights as the current sea level, which indicates that they have probably formed during warmer climates. The calcite POS have been found at heights above and below the present sea level and are interpreted as to have formed during cold and rainy periods. The systematization proposed in this paper could be applied and checked in other POS worldwide. Additionally, the combination of these results with the information obtained from studies on the present precipitation of these phreatic speleothems in some Mallorca caves has provided an insight on their formation conditions which will enlarge the utility of these speleothems as palaeoenvironmental indicators.
Increasing student science, technology, engineering and mathematics engagement through phyphox activities: Three practical examples
Authors: Milner‐Bolotin Marina , Milner Valery
Published: September 2024

For decades, educators in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) have strived to break the vicious circle of student disengagement at both secondary and post‐secondary levels. Despite the widespread availability of technologies like smartphones, STEM pedagogies have largely remained unchanged. Too often, students learn STEM theoretically with little hands‐on experience or opportunities to engage in authentic, research‐like activities. Modern smartphones can offer unprecedented opportunities for active STEM learning, but can also serve as distractors. Therefore, it is essential for teachers to acquire the pedagogical knowledge to harness these powerful tools effectively. This paper explores the potential of integrating smartphones into physics labs to enrich STEM learning. By leveraging smartphones' advanced capabilities for experimental design, data collection, and analysis, we have implemented a smartphone‐enhanced pedagogical approach in secondary physics classes and province‐wide Physics Olympics. We also implemented smartphone‐enhanced STEM pedagogies in teacher education. Our initial pilot study has yielded promising outcomes: enhanced student engagement in physics and deeper conceptual understanding. To advance this initiative, we propose structured teacher mentorship and professional development, empowering STEM educators to seamlessly integrate smartphones into their teaching. By embracing these modern educational tools, adopting evidence‐based pedagogical approaches, and supporting future and practicing educators we can make STEM learning more engaging and relevant for all students.
Do equity method investments moderate the financial performance benefits of CSR?
Authors: Farnsel Curtis
Published: September 2024

Corporate social responsibility is increasingly considered a business imperative, with research routinely finding a positive relation between CSR and future financial performance. This study furthers this line of research by considering the role equity method investments play as a moderating factor in the firm's ability to derive financial performance benefits from CSR. I find that the extent of equity method investments as a percentage of a firm's asset mix moderates the overall positive relation between CSR and future financial performance. Further, while CSR strengthens the link between consolidated earnings and future earnings, CSR does not significantly impact the link between equity method earnings and future earnings. These results are consistent with CSR being associated only with the operations of the parent company that directly engages in the CSR activities and the reputational benefits not extending to the parent company's equity method investments. Firms and investors deciding whether there is a business case for CSR activities should consider that the extent of their equity method investments moderates the positive financial performance benefits the firm may receive from CSR and adjust expectations accordingly.
Single‐cell RNA sequencing reveals microenvironmental infiltration in non‐small cell lung cancer with different responses to immunotherapy
Authors: Hu Xinnan , Wu Yonghui , Wang Lixin , Yang Fujun , Ye Lingyun , Chen Xiaoxia , Song Xiao , Wei Ping
Published: September 2024

Background

Immunotherapy represents a groundbreaking and monumental achievement in the field of cancer therapy, marking a significant advancement in fighting against this devastating disease. Lung cancer has showed consistent clinical improvements in response to immunotherapy treatments, yet, it is undeniable that challenges such as limited response rates acquire resistance, and the unclear fundamental mechanisms were inevitable problems.

Methods

The cellular composition was defined and distinguished through single‐cell RNA sequencing (scRNA‐seq) analysis of MPR (major pathologic response) and NMPR (non‐major pathologic response) samples in GSE207422, including four primary MPR samples and eight primary NMPR samples.

Results

We found obvious difference in CD8+ T cell population between MPR and NMPR samples, with high expression of TYMS, RRM2, and BIRC5 in NPMR samples. Meanwhile, the proportion of macrophages and tumor epithelial cells infiltration increased in the NMPR samples. We discovered biomarkers (ACTN4, ATF3, BRD2, CDKN1A, and CHMP4B) in epithelial cells which were potentially represented worse outcomes.

Conclusions

By exploring the difference of tumor microenvironment (TME) in samples with different corresponding degrees of neoadjuvant immunotherapy, this research introduces a number of novel biomarkers for predicting the response of treatment and a theoretical basis for overcoming immunotherapy resistance.
Delayed Ferumoxtran‐10‐Enhanced Magnetic Resonance Neurography of the Lumbosacral Plexus: Impact on Vascular Suppression and Image Quality
Authors: Kaniewska Malwina , Deininger‐Czermak Eva , Ensle Falko , Donati Olivio F. , Guggenberger Roman
Published: September 2024

Background

Intravenous Ferumoxtran‐10 belongs to ultra‐small superparamagnetic iron oxide particles and can be used for magnetic resonance neurography (MRN) as an alternative to other imaging methods which use contrast agents.

Purpose

To examine the impact of intravenous Ferumoxtran‐10 on vascular suppression and compare image quality to gadolinium (Gd)‐enhanced image acquisition in MRN of lumbosacral plexus (LS).

Study Type

Prospective.

Population/Subjects

17 patients with Ferumoxtran‐10‐enhanced MRN, and 20 patients with Gd‐enhanced MRN.

Fieldstrength/Sequence

3T/3D STIR sequence.

Assessment

Image quality, nerve visibility and vascular suppression were evaluated by 3 readers using a 5‐point Likert scale.

Statistical Tests

Inter‐reader agreement (IRA) was calculated using intraclass coefficients (ICC). Quantitative analysis of image quality was performed by signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) and contrast‐to‐noise ratio (CNR) measurements and compared using Student's t‐testing.

Results

Image quality, nerve visibility and vascular suppression were significantly higher for Ferumoxtran‐10‐enhanced MRN compared to Gd‐enhanced MRN sequences (p < 0.05). IRA for image quality of nerves was good in Gd‐enhanced and Ferumoxtran‐10 MRN with ICC values of 0.76 and 0.89, respectively. IRA for nerve visibility was good in Gd‐ and Ferumoxtran‐10 enhanced MR neurography (ICC 0.72 and 0.90). Mean SNR was significantly higher in Ferumoxtran‐10‐enhanced MRN for all analyzed structures, while mean CNR was for significantly better for S1 ganglion and femoral nerve in Ferumoxtran‐10‐enhanced MRN (p < 0.05).

Data Conclusion

Ferumoxtran‐10‐enhanced MRN of the LS plexus showed significantly higher image quality and nerve visibility with better vascular suppression as compared to Gd‐enhanced MRN.

Evidence Level

2

Technical Efficacy

Stage 3
Investigating job characteristics of generations Y and Z: A latent profile analysis
Authors: Plakhotnik Maria S. , Volkova Natalia V. , Shahzad Muhammad Babar
Published: September 2024

This study aimed to understand job characteristics of generations Y and Z who present a new workforce demographic challenge for organizations. Using the Work Design Questionnaire, data were collected from 582 representatives of these generations residing in Pakistan and Russia and analyzed using a latent profile analysis and a multinomial logistic regression. The analysis resulted in three profiles across both generations that point to weak, moderate, and strong preference for job characteristics. The results indicate generation Z have higher preferences for feedback from others and from the job than generation Y while generation Y have higher preferences for work conditions than generation Z. Specifically, we examine the effects of generation and work experience on the membership in job characteristics profiles. The results could assist organizations in re‐calibrating their work design approaches and practices to better integrate, motivate, and retain these cohorts of employees. Adjustments should be made to the attraction, recruitment, selection, and onboarding strategies for new employees and motivation, communication, and retention practices for current employees.
A new Laguerre wavelets‐based method for solving Fredholm integral equations with weakly singular logarithmic kernel
Authors: Behera Srikanta , Ray Santanu Saha
Published: September 2024

In this study, a wavelet‐based collocation scheme has been introduced for solving the linear and nonlinear Fredholm integral equations as well as the system of linear Fredholm integral equations with weakly singular logarithmic kernel. Initially, Laguerre wavelets have been constructed by dilation and translation of Laguerre polynomials. For the numerical solution of the Fredholm integral equations, all the functions have been approximated with respect to the Laguerre wavelets. Then, the proposed linear and nonlinear Fredholm integral equations reduce to systems of linear and nonlinear algebraic equations by utilizing the function approximations. Furthermore, the error estimation and the convergence analysis of the presented method have been discussed. Moreover, the numerical results of the several experiments have also been presented in both graphical and tabular form to describe the accuracy and efficiency of the approached method, and also, to determine the validity of the presented scheme, the approximate solutions and absolute error values are compared with the results obtained by other existing approaches.
Analysis of impulsive Caputo fractional integro‐differential equations with delay
Authors: Zada Akbar , Riaz Usman , Jamshed Junaid , Alam Mehboob , Kallekh Afef
Published: September 2024

The main focus of this manuscript is to study an impulsive fractional integro‐differential equation with delay and Caputo fractional derivative. The existence solution of such a class of fractional differential equations is discussed for linear and nonlinear case with the help of direct integral method. Moreover, Banach's fixed point theorem and Schaefer's fixed point theorem are use to discuss the uniqueness and at least one solution of the said fractional differential equations, respectively. Some hypothesis and inequalities are utilize to present four different types of Hyers–Ulam stability of the mentioned impulsive integro‐differential equation. Example is provide for the illustration of main results.
Global stability in the Ricker model with delay and stocking
Authors: AlSharawi Ziyad , Kallel Sadok
Published: September 2024

We consider the Ricker model with delay and constant or periodic stocking. We found that the high stocking density tends to neutralize the delay effect on stability. Conditions are established on the parameters to ensure the global stability of the equilibrium solution in the case of constant stocking, as well as the global stability of the 2‐periodic solution in the case of 2‐periodic stocking. Our approach extensively relies on the utilization of the embedding technique. Whether constant stocking or periodic stocking, the model has the potential to undergo a Neimark–Sacker bifurcation in both cases. However, the Neimark–Sacker bifurcation in the 2‐periodic case results in the emergence of two invariant curves that collectively function as a single attractor. Finally, we pose open questions in the form of conjectures about global stability for certain choices of the parameters.
Solving a non‐standard Optimal Control royalty payment problem using a new modified shooting method
Authors: Sufahani Suliadi Firdaus , Ahmad Wan Noor Afifah Wan , Jacob Kavikumar , Shafie Sharidan , Rahim Ruzairi Abdul , Mohamad Mahmod Abd Hakim , Rusiman Mohd Saifullah , Roslan Rozaini , Maarof Mohd Zulariffin Md , Kamarudin Muhamad Ali Imran
Published: September 2024

This paper considers a non‐standard Optimal Control problem that has an application in economics. The primary focus of this research is to solve the royalty problem, which has been categorized as a non‐standard Optimal Control problem, where the final state value and its functional performance index value are unknown. A new continuous necessary condition is investigated for the final state value so that it will convert the final costate value into a non‐zero value. The research analyzes the seven‐stage royalty piecewise function, which is then approximated to continuous form with the help of the hyperbolic tangent function and solves the problem by using a new modified shooting method. This modified shooting method applies Sufahani–Ahmad–Newton–Brent–Royalty Algorithm and Sufahani‐Ahmad‐Powell‐Brent‐Royalty Algorithm. For a validation process, the results are compared with the existing methods such as Euler, Runge–Kutta, Trapezoidal, and Hermite–Simpson approximations, and the results show that the proposed method yields an accurate terminal state value.
Intermarriage amid immigration status uncertainty: Evidence from DACA
Authors: Amuedo‐Dorantes Catalina , Wang Chunbei
Published: September 2024

In 2012, the Obama administration issued the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program by executive order. Since then, more than 800,000 undocumented immigrants who arrived as children have benefited from renewable 2‐year reprieves from deportation and work permits. In 2017, the Trump administration announced it would end DACA—an announcement immediately followed by court challenges. We examine how the temporary nature of DACA's granted benefits and the uncertainty regarding the program's fate after 2017 might have shaped DACA‐eligible migrants’ decision to marry a U.S. citizen—presumably to secure permanent residence amid an increasingly unclear policy environment. Using a difference‐in‐differences approach that exploits the discontinuity in DACA eligibility criteria cutoffs to construct akin treatment and control groups, we show that DACA‐eligible immigrants became 20% more likely than similar DACA‐ineligible undocumented migrants to marry U.S. citizens after the program came under siege. The findings are illustrative of the implications of policy changes that increase the uncertainty surrounding migrants’ legal status, as in the case of intermarriage with potentially long‐term consequences on migrant integration and the welfare of subsequent generations.
Base‐Catalyzed Nucleophilic Addition of Oxindoles to 3‐Diazo Oxindoles: An Efficient Approach for the Synthesis of Functionalized Isatin‐Hydrazones
Authors: Hu Bowen , Zhou Mi , Song Liu
Published: September 2024

A highly efficient catalytic nucleophilic addition of 3‐substituted oxindoles to 3‐diazo oxindoles has been achieved. This method relies on an organic base catalysis system, which can simultaneously activate 3‐substituted oxindoles as a nucleophile and the diazo compounds as a strong N‐terminal electrophile. Importantly, this approach could yield a broad array of functionalized isatin‐hydrazones featuring an adjacent tetrasubstituted carbon centre of the N(sp3) atom.
Dillenia indica (Elephant Apple) Fruit Decoction: A Green Catalyst for the Synthesis of Tetrahydrobenzo(b)pyran and Spirooxindole Derivatives
Authors: Choudhury Gitashree , Kakoty Bhaskar , Chandra Deka Dibakar
Published: September 2024

In this research, we endeavour to demonstrate the potential of Aqueous Extract of Dillenia indica (AEDI) pseudosepals in catalyzing tetrahydrobenzo[b]pyran and spirooxindole derivatives, thereby paving the way for greener and more sustainable chemical synthetic strategies. The reactions proceed smoothly with AEDI as the catalyst in water at room temperature to afford high to near quantitative yields in a short duration of 15–45 minutes, making it a green and environmentally friendly alternative to existing protocols. This synthetic pathway satisfies several green chemistry principles such as avoiding the use of any toxic or hazardous metal catalyst and other external additives/promoters, the use of a biodegradable catalyst obtained from natural resources, auxiliary solvent conditions, and reusability of the catalyst. The protocol reported here offers remarkable attributes like wide substrate scope, high to near quantitative yields of products and the scale up viability along with ecological safety, straightforward work‐up procedure and excellent values of green chemistry metrics as compared to other reported approaches.
Total Synthesis of Poison Dart‐Frog Alkaloids (−)‐209D, (−)‐209B, (−)‐223V, 3‐epi‐(−)‐223AB
Authors: Chang Kuei‐Chen , Wang Lee‐Ya , Li Cheng‐Chiao , Huang Rou‐Jie , Zhang Zheng‐Feng , Liang Yu‐Fu , Su Ming‐Der , Li Yu‐Jang
Published: September 2024

Synthesis of poison dart frog indolizidine alkaloids (−)‐209D, (−)‐209B and (−)‐223V were accomplished, with a common tricyclic lactone skeleton as the starting compound, in overall yields of 8.8 %, 5.5 %, and 5.2 %, respectively. The construction of the C7−C8 bond in the synthesis of 209D involves simple ring closure metathesis and hydrogenation reactions. However, in the synthesis of 209B and 223V, the C7−C8 bond and the stereochemistry of C8, is achieved through radical cyclization reactions controlled by allylic 1,3‐strain. Cleavage of the excess carbon on the C5 for all the related intermediates were done by Barton decarboxylation protocol. Reduction of the corresponding indolizidin‐3‐ones by LAH completed the total synthesis of these three target molecules. The quantum mechanics calculations were performed on α‐amidyl carbon radical intermediates to account for the observed diastereomeric ratio (~9 : 1) of the key Barton decarboxylation step. Ultimately, the synthesis of 3‐epi‐(−)‐223AB was accomplished in 51.6 % through the cuprate addition to the activated lactam of a late intermediate in the synthesis of (−)‐167B.
Antiaging Metabolite‐Based Polymeric Microparticles for Intracellular Drug Delivery and Bone Regeneration
Authors: Wang Zhuozhi , Hu Jue , Marschall Jeffrey S. , Yang Ling , Zeng Erliang , Zhang Shaoping , Sun Hongli
Published: September 2024

α‐ketoglutarate (AKG), a key component of the tricarboxylic acid cycle, has attracted attention for its antiaging properties. In the recent study, it is indicated that locally delivered cell‐permeable AKG significantly promotes osteogenic differentiation and mouse bone regeneration. However, the cytotoxicity and rapid hydrolysis of the metabolite limit its application. In this study, novel AKG‐based polymeric microparticles (PAKG MPs) are synthesized for sustained release. In vitro data suggest that the chemical components, hydrophilicity, and size of the MPs can significantly affect their cytotoxicity and pro‐osteogenic activity. Excitingly, these biodegradable PAKG MPs are highly phagocytosable for nonphagocytic pre‐osteoblasts MC3T3‐E1 and primary bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells, significantly promoting their osteoblastic differentiation. RNA‐Sequencing (RNA‐Seq) data suggest that PAKG MPs strongly activate Wnt/β‐catenin and PI3K–Akt pathways for osteogenic differentiation. Moreover, PAKG enables poly(L‐lactic acid) and poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) MPs (PLGA MPs) for efficient phagocytosis. In this data, it is indicated that PLGA–PAKG‐MPs‐mediated intracellular drug delivery can significantly promote stronger osteoblastic differentiation compared to PLGA‐MPs‐delivered phenamil. Notably, PAKG MPs significantly improve large bone regeneration in a mouse cranial bone defect model. Thus, the novel PAKG‐based MPs show great promise to improve osteogenic differentiation and bone regeneration and enable efficient intracellular drug delivery for broad regenerative medicine.
Enhancing qualitative research in higher education assessment through generative AI integration: A path toward meaningful insights and a cautionary tale
Authors: Slotnick Ruth C. , Boeing Joanna Z
Published: September 2024

This study explores the use of generative AI, specifically Google's Bard and OpenAI's ChatGPT, to enhance qualitative research within higher education assessment, focusing on institutional assessment practitioners. Using a dataset focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) from annual faculty assessment reports, we tested traditional analytical methods and compared them to AI‐assisted techniques, with a particular emphasis on AI's capacity to improve qualitative analysis. By exploring AI's benefits and limitations in qualitative assessment, we not only advocate for the thoughtful integration of AI technologies but also underscore the critical importance of human expertise in maintaining the depth and integrity of qualitative inquiry. We present a step‐by‐step practical guide for the assessment practitioner to integrate AI into the qualitative research process, highlighting AI's potential to deepen insights while upholding research integrity and emphasizing the necessity of human oversight.
How pharmacology can aid in the diagnosis of mental disorders
Authors: Seifert Roland , Schirmer Bastian , Seifert Johanna
Published: September 2024

The precise diagnosis of mental disorders constitutes a formidable problem. Mental disorders are currently diagnosed based on clinical symptoms, which are often subjective. Various drug classes, traditionally referred to as “antidepressants,” “antipsychotics” and “mood stabilizers” are then used empirically to treat affected patients. The previous decade has witnessed an increasing extension of the use of drug classes beyond their traditional indications (e.g., “antidepressants” in the treatment of anxiety disorders). Therefore, we would like to initiate a discussion in the pharmacological and psychiatric research communities on an alternative classification of mental disorders: Instead of using the traditional categorical classification of mental disorders physicians should rather diagnose symptoms (e.g., anhedonia) without bias to a traditional categorization (e.g., depression). The appropriate most effective drugs are then selected based on these symptoms. Depending on the responsiveness of the patient towards a given drug X, the disease should be classified, e.g., as drug X-responsive disease. This approach will also help us elucidate the still poorly understood molecular mechanisms underlying mental disorders, i.e., drugs can also be viewed and used as molecular diagnostic tools. In several fields of medicine, drugs are already used as molecular diagnostic tools. Thus, there is already precedence for the concept proposed here for mental disorders.
The evolution of data treatment tools in single-particle and single-cell ICP-MS analytics
Authors: Chronakis Michail Ioannis , Meermann Björn , von der Au Marcus
Published: September 2024

Single-particle inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (sp-ICP-MS) is one of the most powerful tools in the thriving field of nanomaterial analysis. Along the same lines, single-cell ICP-MS (sc-ICP-MS) has become an invaluable tool in the study of the variances of cell populations down to a per-cell basis. Their importance and application fields have been listed numerous times, across various reports and reviews. However, not enough attention has been paid to the immense and ongoing development of the tools that are currently available to the analytical community for the acquisition, and more importantly, the treatment of single-particle and single-cell-related data. Due to the ever-increasing demands of modern research, the efficient and dependable treatment of the data has become more important than ever. In addition, the field of single-particle and single-cell analysis suffers due to a large number of approaches for the generated data—with varying levels of specificity and applicability. As a result, finding the appropriate tool or approach, or even comparing results, can be challenging. This article will attempt to bridge these gaps, by covering the evolution and current state of the tools at the disposal of sp-ICP-MS users.

Graphical Abstract