bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A shape optimization pipeline for marine propellers by means of reduced order modeling techniques
Authors: Ivagnes Anna , Demo Nicola , Rozza Gianluigi
Published: January 2024

In this article, we propose a shape optimization pipeline for propeller blades, applied to naval applications. The geometrical features of a blade are exploited to parametrize it, allowing to obtain deformed blades by perturbating their parameters. The optimization is performed using a genetic algorithm that exploits the computational speed‐up of reduced order models to maximize the efficiency of a given propeller. A standard offline–online procedure is exploited to construct the reduced‐order model. In an expensive offline phase, the full order model, which reproduces an open water test, is set up in the open‐source software OpenFOAM and the same full order setting is used to run the CFD simulations for all the deformed propellers. The collected high‐fidelity snapshots and the deformed parameters are used in the online stage to build the nonintrusive reduced‐order model. This article provides a proof of concept of the pipeline proposed, where the optimized propeller improves the efficiency of the original propeller.
Decoration of 1,4,7,10‐tetraazacyclododecane‐1,4,7,10‐tetraacetic acid (DOTA) with N‐oxides increases the T1 relaxivity of Gd‐complexes
Authors: Kerpa Svenja , Schulze Verena R. , Holzapfel Malte , Cvancar Lina , Fischer Markus , Maison Wolfgang
Published: January 2024

High complex stability and longitudinal relaxivity of Gd‐based contrast agents are important requirements for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) because they ensure patient safety and contribute to measurement sensitivity. Charged and zwitterionic Gd3+‐complexes of the well‐known chelator 1,4,7,10‐tetraazacyclododecane‐1,4,7,10‐tetraacetic acid (DOTA) provide an excellent basis for the development of safe and sensitive contrast agents. In this report, we describe the synthesis of DOTA‐NOx, a DOTA derivative with four N‐oxide functionalities via “click” functionalization of the tetraazide DOTAZA. The resulting complexes Gd‐DOTA‐NOx and Eu‐DOTA‐NOx are stable compounds in aqueous solution. NMR‐spectroscopic characterization revealed a high excess of the twisted square antiprismatic (TSAP) coordination geometry over square antiprismatic (SAP). The longitudinal relaxivity of Gd‐DOTA‐NOx was found to be r1=7.7 mm−1 s−1 (1.41 T, 37 °C), an unusually high value for DOTA complexes of comparable weight. We attribute this high relaxivity to the steric influence and an ordering effect on outer sphere water molecules surrounding the complex generated by the strongly hydrated N‐oxide groups. Moreover, Gd‐DOTA‐NOx was found to be stable against transchelation with high excess of EDTA (200 eq) over a period of 36 h, and it has a similar in vitro cell toxicity as clinically used DOTA‐based GBCAs.
Influence of natural fiber addition and fiber length in determining the wear resistance of epoxy‐based composites
Authors: Sumesh K. R. , Ajithram A. , Anjumol K. S. , Sai Krishnan G.
Published: January 2024

Wear testing, in this research was conducted for compression molded flax and ramie fibers with epoxy resin matrix. The 40 wt% fiber combination was used for a fiber length (FL) of 0.5–1.5 cm while varying sliding distance (SD) ranged from 500 to 1500 m. Better results were obtained in 1000 m SD and 1 cm FL with a specific wear rate (SWR) of 13.12 × 10−5 mm3/Nm. Samples with 50 wt% natural fiber combinations were tried with different FL (0.5–1.5 cm) and sliding speed (SS) from 0.5 to 1.5 m/s. Sliding speed increased the contact between the sample and the counter steel disc, which caused high wear rate in the specimen. A high SWR was observed for the combination of SS 1.5 m/s, 0.5 cm FL due to high contact and with lower adhesion of fiber/matrix phase than in the others. Higher FL damages the compatibility of matrix/reinforcement phases, which makes the epoxy sample highly brittle with less wear resistance. The combination of 30 wt% natural fiber with FL (0.5–1.5 cm) and load 5–15 N showed high wear rate at a higher load of 15 N (31.57 × 10−5 mm3/Nm). SEM results with 50 wt% NF combination, 0.5 cm FL at 5 N load showed high deformation in the natural fiber structure compared to the 40 wt% NF combination, mainly due to the adhesion of fiber with epoxy resin which acted as a stress transfer area allowing transfer of more loads.
Tribological and mechanical properties of nanofilled glass fiber reinforced composites and analyzing the tribological behavior using artificial neural networks
Authors: Demir Mehmet Emin , Cetkin Edip , Ergün Raşit Koray , Denizhan Onur
Published: January 2024

This study investigates the effects of filler content and type on the mechanical (tensile strength and impact resistance) and tribological properties of woven glass fiber‐reinforced composites (WGFC) produced using three different nanofillers (MgO, CuO, and Al2O3) at various loading levels (0.7, 1.4, and 2.8 wt%). Additionally, analyses of the artificial neural network algorithm were reported for the predictions of wear rate, mass loss, and coefficient of friction (COF) by given applied load, sliding distance, filler ratio, and filler type. The composites were fabricated using the hand lay‐up method. The filled composites were characterized using Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and the worn surfaces of the samples after the wear test were analyzed using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The wear resistance of the composite samples improved at 0.7 wt% CuO and 1.4 wt% MgO filler contents. At 200 m sliding distance and 1.4 wt% filler ratio, the highest wear ratio was determined as 55 mm3/m × 10−3 in the Al2O3‐filled composite, and the lowest was determined as 31 mm3/m × 10−3 in the MgO‐filled composite. At 1.4% filler ratio and 15 N load, the lowest friction coefficient was determined as 0.45 μ in MgO‐filled composite, and the highest was 0.56 μ in Al2O3‐filled composite. Al2O3 filler increased the mass loss and wear rate of the composite material. In Charpy impact tests, the maximum impact energy of 13.9 J/m2 was obtained with a 2.8 wt% Al2O3 filler content. Tensile tests showed an increase in tensile strength for all filler contents compared to unfilled composites. The highest tensile strength of 242.1 MPa was achieved with 0.7 wt% CuO reinforcement.

Highlights

In all applied wear parameters and filler ratios, the Al2O3 filler adversely affected the wear resistance of the composite, while the MgO filler showed the best performance in terms of wear resistance.

All types and ratios of fillers increased the tensile strength compared to the unfilled composite.

Contrary to its negative effect on wear, the Al2O3‐filled composites exhibited the highest impact resistance.

The prediction analysis of the tribological behavior of composite material using ANN reveals that the Levenberg–Marquardt algorithm fits very well.
Transient excited states of the metamorphic protein Mad2 and their implications for function
Authors: Jain Shefali , Sekhar Ashok
Published: January 2024

The spindle checkpoint complex is a key surveillance mechanism in cell division that prevents premature separation of sister chromatids. Mad2 is an integral component of this spindle checkpoint complex that recognizes cognate substrates such as Mad1 and Cdc20 in its closed (C‐Mad2) conformation by fastening a “seatbelt” around short peptide regions that bind to the substrate recognition site. Mad2 is also a metamorphic protein that adopts not only the fold found in C‐Mad2, but also a structurally distinct open conformation (O‐Mad2) which is incapable of binding substrates. Here, we show using chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) and relaxation dispersion (CPMG) NMR experiments that Mad2 transiently populates three other higher free energy states with millisecond lifetimes, two in equilibrium with C‐Mad2 (E1 and E2) and one with O‐Mad2 (E3). E1 is a mimic of substrate‐bound C‐Mad2 in which the N‐terminus of one C‐Mad2 molecule inserts into the seatbelt region of a second molecule of C‐Mad2, providing a potential pathway for autoinhibition of C‐Mad2. E2 is the “unbuckled” conformation of C‐Mad2 that facilitates the triage of molecules along competing fold‐switching and substrate binding pathways. The E3 conformation that coexists with O‐Mad2 shows fluctuations at a hydrophobic lock that is required for stabilizing the O‐Mad2 fold and we hypothesize that E3 represents an early intermediate on‐pathway towards conversion to C‐Mad2. Collectively, the NMR data highlight the rugged free energy landscape of Mad2 with multiple low‐lying intermediates that interlink substrate‐binding and fold‐switching, and also emphasize the role of molecular dynamics in its function.
The geography of older adults' migration in China: Spatial patterns and driving forces
Authors: Qin Bo , Peng Yanyan , Wan Siqi
Published: January 2024

China is ageing rapidly, and its large‐scale internal migration process continues. These two interwoven processes pose serious, yet understudied, challenges for the country. Based on the 1% national population survey conducted in 2015, this study aimed to examine the scale, spatial patterns and forces driving the migration of older adults (over‐60‐year‐olds) in China. The findings reveal that the scale of older adults' migration in China is notably smaller than that of younger people but follows a similar pattern – in that people generally migrate from the central and western regions to the eastern region and are concentrated in few destinations. Generally, older migrants have better health and socioeconomic conditions than their nonmigrant peers. The driving forces behind older adults' migration include family reunions, employment opportunities and the quality of housing, in which family reunions come first. This study not only fills the knowledge gap regarding the geography of older adults in China but also highlights the significance of ‘family‐led migration’, thus supporting the family ties theory in a transitional country with Confucius culture.
A fixed‐charge model of the N‐protomer of 4‐aminobenzoic acid to facilitate the study of the unimolecular and bimolecular chemistry of its “neutral” carboxylic acid group
Authors: Zhang Beiang , Burchill Laura , Altalhi Weam A. O. , Ma Howard Z. , O'Hair Richard A. J.
Published: January 2024

Rationale

There are a growing number of examples of protomers formed via electrospray ionization (ESI) that do not fragment under mobile proton conditions, giving rise to distinct tandem mass spectra. To model the N‐protomer of 4‐aminobenzoic acid, here we study the gas‐phase unimolecular and bimolecular chemistry of the 4‐(carboxyphenyl)trimethylammonium ion.

Methods

4‐(Carboxyphenyl)trimethylammonium iodide was synthesized, purified via recrystallization and transferred to the gas phase via ESI. 4‐(Carboxyphenyl)trimethylammonium ion, 7, was mass selected and subjected to collision‐induced dissociation and ion–molecule reactions in a linear ion trap mass spectrometer.

Results

The major fragmentation channel for the fixed‐charge cation 7 is methyl radical loss, whereas loss of trimethylamine and CO2 represents minor pathways. The free carboxylic acid functional group of 7 is unreactive toward a number of neutral reagents (methanol, acetone, acetonitrile, and N,N′‐diisopropylcarbodiimide). 7 reacts very slowly with trimethylborate via addition‐elimination, consistent with density functional theory (DFT) calculations that show this reaction is slightly endothermic. The deuterated cation 7(D) undergoes slow D/H exchange with ethanol, and DFT calculations reveal that a flip‐flop mechanism operates.

Conclusions

The free carboxylic group of 7 is not very reactive toward neutral reagents in the gas phase.
A fast method for the determination of personal care product chemicals in human urine using dispersive liquid–liquid extraction and ultra high‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Zheng Yawen , Liu Yarui , Zhang Zining , Hua Liting , Fang Jing , Wang Lei , Zhao Hongzhi
Published: January 2024

Rationale

Personal care product chemicals (PCPCs) are the chemicals used in personal care products. Many of them are endocrine disruptors and have potential adverse effects on humans. The concentrations of PCPCs in urine are the main biomarker for assessing human exposure.

Methods

A method was developed for the simultaneous determination of 14 PCPCs in human urine using dispersive liquid–liquid extraction combined with ultra high‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC–MS/MS).

Results

Compared with liquid–liquid extraction, this method had the advantages of time efficiency, sensitivity, and limited organic solvent consumption. It produced good linearity (0.9965–0.9996), limits of detection (2.82–36.36 pg mL−1), limits of quantitation (9.39–121.08 pg mL−1), matrix effect (−0.90%–2.55%), intra‐day precision (relative standard deviations [RSDs] <15%), and inter‐day precision (RSDs <19.9%). The method had satisfactory relative recovery at three concentration levels.

Conclusions

A rapid method was developed for the simultaneous quantification of 14 PCPCs in human urine. The practicability of the method was verified with 21 urine from university students. It is expected that this method will provide a powerful reference for the assessment of exposure to PCPCs in large populations.
Social innovation as a game changer in agriculture: A literature review
Authors: da Silva Ana Lucia Fernandes , Plaza‐Úbeda Jose Antonio , Souza Piao Roberta
Published: January 2024

Social Innovation has become a crucial point in discussions about the connection between agriculture and sustainability, and it can result in new actions that significantly contribute to the 2030 Agenda. Through a literature review, this article aims to analyze how SI in agriculture can contribute to achieve the social sustainable development goals. The outcomes indicated that SI can be a powerful tool to connect producers and consumers, avoiding intermediaries. The social inclusion and the notion of justice as fair distribution of gains along food chains are also highlighted as achievements in the introduction of SI organizational arrangement as short food supply chains. The SI initiatives could contribute to achieve the main social SDGs. The paper sheds light on the concept of justice and how SI could promote justice. However, the outcomes indicated a focus more on distributive justice regarding the gains promoted by SI initiatives.
Self‐Cascade Nanozyme Reactor as a Cuproptosis Inducer Synergistic Inhibition of Cellular Respiration Boosting Radioimmunotherapy
Authors: Li Rui , Zhao Weiheng , Han Zhuo , Feng Na , Wu Tingting , Xiong Huihua , Jiang Wei
Published: January 2024

Intrinsic or acquired radioresistance remained an important challenge in the successful management of cancer. Herein, a novel “smart” multifunctional copper‐based nanocomposite (RCL@Pd@CuZ) to improve radiotherapy (RT) sensitivity is designed and developed. In this nanoplatform, DSPE‐PEG‐RGD modified on the liposome surface enhanced tumor targeting and permeability; capsaicin inserted into the phospholipid bilayer improved the hypoxic conditions in the tumor microenvironment (TME) by inhibiting mitochondrial respiration; a Cu MOF porous cube encapsulated in liposome generated highly active hydroxyl radicals (OH·), consumed GSH and promoted cuproptosis by releasing Cu2+; the ultrasmall palladium (Pd) nanozyme within the cubes exhibited peroxidase activity, catalyzing toxic OH· generation and releasing oxygen from hydrogen peroxide; and lastly, Pd, as an element with a relatively high atomic number (Z) enhanced the photoelectric and Compton effects of X‐rays. Therefore, RCL@Pd@CuZ enhance RT sensitivity by ameliorating hypoxia, promoting cuproptosis, depleting GSH, amplifying oxidative stress, and enhancing X‐ray absorption  , consequently potently magnifying immunogenic cell death (ICD). In a mouse model , RCL@Pd@CuZ combined with RT yielded >90% inhibition compared with that obtained by RT alone in addition to a greater quantity of DC maturation and CD8+ T cell infiltration. This nanoplatform offered a promising remedial modality to facilitate cuproptosis‐related cancer radioimmunotherapy.
Thermal Property of Fullerene Fibers: One‐Dimensional Material with Exceptional Thermal Performance
Authors: Li Zhen , Chen Yang , Li Zhi‐hui , Zhang Yue , Wei Ning , Cheng Yanhua , Zhao Junhua
Published: January 2024

The recent groundbreaking achievement in the synthesis of large‐sized single crystal C60 monolayer, which is covalently bonded in a plane using C60 as building blocks. The asymmetric lattice structure endows it with anisotropic phonon modes and conductivity. If these C60 are arranged in form of 1D fiber, the improved manipulation of phonon conduction along the fiber axis could be anticipated. Here, thermal properties of C60‐fiber, including thermal transfer along the C60‐fiber axis and across the interlayer interface are investigated using molecular dynamic simulations. Taking advantage of the distinctively hollow spherical structure of C60 building blocks, the spherical structure deformation and encapsulation induced thermal reduction can be up to 56% and 80%, respectively. By applying external electronic fields in H2O@C60 model, its thermal conductivity decreases up to 60%, which realizes the contactless thermal regulation. ln particular, the thermal rectification phenomenon is discovered by inserting atoms/molecules in C60 with a rational designed mass‐gradient, and its maximum thermal rectification factor is predicted to ≈45%. These investigations aim to achieve effective regulation of the thermal conductivity of C60‐fibers. This work showcases the potential of C60‐fiber in the realms of thermal management and thermal sensing, paving the way to C60‐based functional materials.
Mechanical Manipulation of Quantum Interference in Single‐Molecule Junctions
Authors: Sil Amit , Alsaqer Munirah , Spano Chiara E. , Larbi Adam , Higgins Simon J. , Robertson Craig M. , Graziano Mariagrazia , Sangtarash Sara , Nichols Richard J. , Sadeghi Hatef , Vezzoli Andrea
Published: January 2024

Mechanosensitive molecular junctions, where conductance is sensitive to an applied stress such as force or displacement, are a class of nanoelectromechanical systems unique for their ability to exploit quantum mechanical phenomena. Most studies so far relied on reconfiguration of the molecule‐electrode interface to impart mechanosensitivity, but this approach is limited and, generally, poorly reproducible. Alternatively, devices that exploit conformational flexibility of molecular wires have been recently proposed. The mechanosensitive properties of molecular wires containing the 1,1’‐dinaphthyl moiety are presented here. Rotation along the chemical bond between the two naphthyl units is possible, giving rise to two conformers (transoid and cisoid) that have distinctive transport properties. When assembled as single‐molecule junctions, it is possible to mechanically trigger the transoid to cisoid transition, resulting in an exquisitely sensitive mechanical switch with high switching ratio (> 102). Theoretical modeling shows that charge reconfiguration upon transoid to cisoid transition is responsible for the observed behavior, with generation and subsequent lifting of quantum interference features. These findings expand the experimental toolbox of molecular electronics with a novel chemical structure with outstanding electromechanical properties, further demonstrating the importance of subtle changes in charge delocalization on the transport properties of single‐molecule devices.
An Active and Robust Catalytic Architecture of NiCo/GaN Nanowires for Light‐Driven Hydrogen Production from Methanol
Authors: Li Jinglin , Sheng Bowen , Chen Yiqing , Yang Jiajia , Wang Ping , Li Yixin , Yu Tianqi , Pan Hu , Song Jun , Zhu Lei , Wang Xinqiang , Ma Tao , Zhou Baowen
Published: January 2024

On‐site hydrogen production from liquid organic hydrogen carriers e.g., methanol provides an emerging strategy for the safe storage and transportation of hydrogen. Herein, a catalytic architecture consisting of nickel‐cobalt nanoclusters dispersed on gallium nitride nanowires supported by silicon for light‐driven hydrogen production from methanol is reported. By correlative microscopic, spectroscopic characterizations, and density functional theory calculations, it is revealed that NiCo nanoclusters work in synergy with GaN nanowires to enable the achievement of a significantly reduced activation energy of methanol dehydrogenation by switching the potential‐limiting step from *CHO → *CO to *CH3O → *CH2O. In combination with the marked photothermal effect, a high hydrogen rate of 5.62 mol·gcat‐1·h‐1 with a prominent turnover frequency of 43,460 h‐1 is achieved at 5 Wcm‐2 without additional energy input. Remarkably, the synergy between Co and Ni, in combination with the unique surface of GaN, renders the architecture with outstanding resistance to sintering and coking. The architecture thereby exhibits a high turnover number of >16,310,000 over 600 h. Outdoor testing validates the viability of the architecture for active and robust hydrogen evolution under natural concentrated sunlight. Overall, this work presents a promising architecture for on‐site hydrogen production from CH3OH by virtually unlimited solar energy.
Novel Heterostructure‐Based CoFe and Cobalt Oxysulfide Nanocubes for Effective Bifunctional Electrocatalytic Water and Urea Oxidation
Authors: Mariappan Athibala , Mannu Pandian , Ranjith Kugalur Shanmugam , Nga Ta Thi Thuy , Han Young‐Kyu , Dong Chung‐Li , Dharman Ranjith Kumar , Oh Tae Hwan
Published: January 2024

The development of effective oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and urea oxidation reaction (UOR) on heterostructure electrocatalysts with specific interfaces and characteristics provides a distinctive character. In this study, heterostructure nanocubes (NCs) comprising inner cobalt oxysulfide (CoOS) NCs and outer CoFe (CF) layered double hydroxide (LDH) are developed using a hydrothermal methodology. During the sulfidation process, the divalent sulfur ions (S2−) are released from the breakdown of the sulfur source and react with the Co‐precursors on the surface leading to the transformation of CoOH nanorods into CoOS nanocubes. Further, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and X‐ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) analyses reveal that the interactions at the interface of the CF@CoOS NCs significantly altered the electronic structure, thus enhancing the electrocatalytic performance. The optimal catalysts exhibited effective OER and UOR activities, the attained potentials are 1.51 and 1.36 V. This remarkable performance is attributable to the induction of electron transfer from the CoFe LDH to CoOS, which reduces the energy barrier of the intermediates for the OER and UOR. Furthermore, an alkaline water and urea two‐cell electrolyzer assembled using CF@CoOS‐2 NCs and Pt/C as the anode and cathode requires a cell voltage of 1.63 and 1.56 V along with a durability performance.
Leveraging Curvature on N‐Doped Carbon Materials for Hydrogen Storage
Authors: Rice Peter S. , Lee Gabriel , Schwartz Brayden , Autrey Tom , Ginovska Bojana
Published: January 2024

Carbon sorbent materials have shown great promise for solid‐state hydrogen (H2) storage. Modification of these materials with nitrogen (N) dopants has been undertaken to develop materials that can store H2 at ambient temperatures. In this work density functional theory (DFT) calculations are used to systematically probe the influence of curvature on the stability and activity of undoped and N‐doped carbon materials toward H binding. Specifically, four models of carbon materials are used: graphene, [5,5] carbon nanotube, [5,5] D5d‐C120, and C60, to extract and correlate the thermodynamic properties of active sites with varying degrees of sp2 hybridization (curvature). From the calculations and analysis, it is found that graphitic N‐doping is thermodynamically favored on more pyramidal sites with increased curvature. In contrast, it is found that the hydrogen binding energy is weakly affected by curvature and is dominated by electronic effects induced by N‐doping. These findings highlight the importance of modulating the heteroatom doping configuration and the lattice topology when developing materials for H2 storage.
Snow loads on multi‐span roofs
Authors: Pertermann Ina , Puthli Ramgopal
Published: January 2024

Snow loads have an important influence, particularly on the design of lightweight steel structures. For multi‐span roofs, local drift surcharges and global drift losses play a central role. During the review of the snow load distribution for multi‐span roof according to prEN 1991‐1‐3:2023, 7.5.4, attention was only given to minor changes of the shape coefficients. The inconsistency of shape coefficients and more importantly their limitations, trends and the resulting snow loads seem to have been neglected. Partly, problems have been inherited from the regulation in the first generation of the Eurocode EN 1991‐1‐3:2010, 5.3.4. The currently reviewed draft prEN 1991‐1‐3:2023 is insufficiently revised. In this paper, the background for the snow load distribution on multi‐span roofs is given, the impact and consequences of the regulation are shown and possible improvements proposed.
The effect and mechanism of hexokinase‐2 on cisplatin resistance in lung cancer cells A549
Authors: Xie Shishun , Li Xiangjun , Zhao Jianjun , Zhang Fan , Shu Zhiyun , Cheng Hongyuan , Liu Siyao , Shi Shaomin
Published: January 2024

Background

Hexokinase (HK) is the first rate‐limiting enzyme of glycolysis, which can convert glucose to glucose‐6‐phosphate. There are several subtypes of HK, including HK2, which is highly expressed in a variety of different tumors and is closely associated with survival.

Methods

Non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) A549 cells with stable overexpression and knockdown of HK2 were obtained by lentivirus transfection. The effects of overexpression and knockdown of HK2 on proliferation, migration, invasion, and glycolytic activity of A549 cells were investigated. The effects on apoptosis were also analyzed using western blot and flow cytometry. In addition, the mitochondria and cytoplasm were separated and the expression of apoptotic proteins was detected by western blot respectively.

Results

Upregulation of HK2 could promote glycolysis, cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, which would be inhibited through the knockdown of HK2. HK2 overexpression contributed to cisplatin resistance, whereas HK2 knockdown enhanced cisplatin‐induced apoptosis in A549 cells.

Conclusions

Overexpression of HK2 can promote the proliferation, migration, invasion, and drug resistance of A549 cells by enhancing aerobic glycolysis and inhibiting apoptosis. Reducing HK2 expression or inhibiting HK2 activity can inhibit glycolysis and induce apoptosis in A549 cells, which is expected to be a potential treatment method for NSCLC.
Tissue clearing and its applications in human tissues: A review
Authors: Mai Hongcheng , Lu Dan
Published: January 2024

In three‐dimensional (3D) space, an unbiased and systemic view of human specimens between structures and functions is required. However, conventional histological sections from specimens have made only limited progress in exploring intact information about 3D biological tissues. With significant advances in optical physics and chemical engineering, state‐of‐the‐art tissue‐clearing methods can revolutionize the intact subcellular level of human tissue histological analysis, from thick human tissues to intact human organs. The present review summarizes the principle of tissue clearing so that a trainee researcher can implement effective human tissue‐clearing protocols. Furthermore, this review highlights existing tissue‐clearing methods in specific human tissue applications, describes imaging strategies, and presents various efficient computational approaches for processing and visualizing large image data. Finally, potential future directions for developing tissue‐clearing methods for human tissues are also discussed.
Traumatic telson avulsion and attempted external stabilization in Atlantic horseshoe crabs (Limulus polyphemus)
Authors: Dannemiller Nicholas G. , Watson Kaitlen M. , Christiansen Emily F. , Westmoreland Lori S.
Published: January 2024

Atlantic horseshoe crabs (Limulus polyphemus) are prevalent in public aquarium touch pools. Despite their popularity, the literature concerning medical management under managed care is sparse. Noninfectious conditions include trauma to the exoskeleton and compound eyes; however, injury to the soft tissue connecting the telson and opisthosoma has not been previously reported. This report describes telson avulsion in three Atlantic horseshoe crabs at a public aquarium and attempted external stabilization with a vascular silicone tie in two of three affected animals. The horseshoe crab that received no veterinary intervention suffered a complete telson amputation 1 month after the initial injury. Although the two other horseshoe crabs did well postoperatively, and external stabilization prevented further avulsion or amputation, they still could not right themselves if flipped into dorsal recumbency. All three horseshoe crabs were ultimately euthanized due to animal welfare concerns. To avoid potentially serious telson ligament injury, horseshoe crabs should never be picked up by the telson. The authors recommend that telson ligament injuries be addressed promptly, any inciting cause be mitigated, and external stabilization be considered earlier.
Self duality in unconventional conformal supersymmetry
Authors: Alvarez Pedro D. , Corral Cristóbal , Zanelli Jorge
Published: January 2024

Abstract

In this work, we study (anti-)self duality conditions in unconventional conformal supersymmetry. We focus on a theory constructed in a Townsend-MacDowell-Mansouri form for an SU(2, 2|N) gauge connection with matter fields in the adjoint representation. We find bosonic solutions that correspond to analytic gravitational instantons with nontrivial torsion. These configurations can be regarded as the torsional generalization of the Taub-NUT/Bolt-AdS and Eguchi-Hanson metric and they are (anti-)self-dual with respect to a generalized dual operator. We explore their global properties and show that they saturate a BPS bound.
Comparison of diagnostic performance of radiologist- and AI-based assessments of T2-FLAIR mismatch sign and quantitative assessment using synthetic MRI in the differential diagnosis between astrocytoma, IDH-mutant and oligodendroglioma, IDH-mutant and 1p/19q-codeleted
Authors: Kikuchi Kazufumi , Togao Osamu , Yamashita Koji , Momosaka Daichi , Kikuchi Yoshitomo , Kuga Daisuke , Yuhei Sangatsuda , Fujioka Yutaka , Narutomi Fumiya , Obara Makoto , Yoshimoto Koji , Ishigami Kousei
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to compare assessments by radiologists, artificial intelligence (AI), and quantitative measurement using synthetic MRI (SyMRI) for differential diagnosis between astrocytoma, IDH-mutant and oligodendroglioma, and IDH-mutant and 1p/19q-codeleted and to identify the superior method.

Methods

Thirty-three cases (men, 14; women, 19) comprising 19 astrocytomas and 14 oligodendrogliomas were evaluated. Four radiologists independently evaluated the presence of the T2-FLAIR mismatch sign. A 3D convolutional neural network (CNN) model was trained using 50 patients outside the test group (28 astrocytomas and 22 oligodendrogliomas) and transferred to evaluate the T2-FLAIR mismatch lesions in the test group. If the CNN labeled more than 50% of the T2-prolonged lesion area, the result was considered positive. The T1/T2-relaxation times and proton density (PD) derived from SyMRI were measured in both gliomas. Each quantitative parameter (T1, T2, and PD) was compared between gliomas using the Mann–Whitney U-test. Receiver-operating characteristic analysis was used to evaluate the diagnostic performance.

Results

The mean sensitivity, specificity, and area under the curve (AUC) of radiologists vs. AI were 76.3% vs. 94.7%; 100% vs. 92.9%; and 0.880 vs. 0.938, respectively. The two types of diffuse gliomas could be differentiated using a cutoff value of 2290/128 ms for a combined 90th percentile of T1 and 10th percentile of T2 relaxation times with 94.4/100% sensitivity/specificity with an AUC of 0.981.

Conclusion

Compared to the radiologists’ assessment using the T2-FLAIR mismatch sign, the AI and the SyMRI assessments increased both sensitivity and objectivity, resulting in improved diagnostic performance in differentiating gliomas.
16S rRNA metagenomic profiling of red amaranth grown organically with different composts and soils
Authors: Sharma Pooja , Mahongnao Sophayo , Ahamad Arif , Gupta Radhika , Goel Anita , Kumar Narendra , Nanda Sarita
Published: January 2024

In recent years organic food is gaining popularity as it is believed to promote better human health and improve soil sustainability, but there are apprehensions about pathogens in organic produces. This study was designed to understand the effect of different composts and soils on the status of the microbiome present in organically grown leafy vegetables. 16S rRNA metagenomic profiling of the leaves was done, and data were analyzed. It was found that by adding composts, the OTU of the microbiome in the organic produce was higher than in the conventional produce. The beneficial genera identified across the samples included plant growth promoters (Achromobacter, Paenibacillus, Pseudomonas, Sphingobacterium) and probiotics (Lactobacillus), which were higher in the organic produce. Some pathogenic genera, viz., plant pathogenic bacteria (Cellvibrio, Georgenia) and human pathogenic bacteria (Corynebacterium, Acinetobacter, Streptococcus, Streptomyces) were also found but with relatively low counts in the organic produce. Thus, the present study highlights that organic produce has lesser pathogen contamination than the conventional produce.

Key points

• 16S rRNA metagenomics profiling done for organic red amaranth cultivar

• Microbial richness varied with respect to the soil and compost type used

• The ratio of beneficial to pathogenic genera improves with the addition of compost

Graphical Abstract
Etiologies and predictors of mortality in an all-comer population of patients with non-ischemic heart failure
Authors: Göbel S. , Braun A. S. , Hahad O. , von Henning U. , Brandt M. , Keller K. , Gaida M. M. , Gori T. , Schultheiss H. P. , Escher F. , Münzel T. , Wenzel P.
Published: January 2024

Background

Despite progress in diagnosis and therapy of heart failure (HF), etiology and risk stratification remain elusive in many patients.

Methods

The My Biopsy HF Study (German clinical trials register number: DRKS22178) is a retrospective monocentric study investigating an all-comer population of patients with unexplained HF based on a thorough workup including endomyocardial biopsy (EMB).

Results

655 patients (70.9% men, median age 55 [45/66] years) with non-ischemic, non-valvular HF were included in the analyses. 489 patients were diagnosed with HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), 52 patients with HF with mildly reduced ejection fraction (HFmrEF) and 114 patients with HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). After a median follow-up of 4.6 (2.5/6.6) years, 94 deaths were enumerated (HFrEF: 68; HFmrEF: 8; HFpEF: 18), equating to mortality rates of 3.3% and 11.6% for patients with HFrEF, 7.7% and 15.4% for patients with HFmrEF and 5.3% and 11.4% for patients with HFpEF after 1 and 5 years, respectively. In EMB, we detected a variety of putative etiologies of HF, including incidental cardiac amyloidosis (CA, 5.8%). In multivariate logistic regression analysis adjusting for age, sex and comorbidities only CA, age and NYHA functional class III + IV remained independently associated with all-cause mortality (CA: HRperui 3.13, 95% CI 1.5–6.51; p = 0.002).

Conclusions

In an all-comer population of patients presenting with HF of unknown etiology, incidental finding of CA stands out to be independently associated with all-cause mortality. Our findings suggest that prospective trials would be helpful to test the added value of a systematic and holistic work-up of HF of unknown etiology.

Graphical abstract
Comparison of the accuracy of three interproximal reduction methods used in clear aligner treatment
Authors: Güleç-Ergün Pelinsu , Arman-Özçırpıcı Ayça , Atakan-Kocabalkan Azize , Tunçer Nilüfer İrem
Published: January 2024

Objectives

To comparatively assess 3 interproximal reduction (IPR) methods used in clear aligner treatment with regard to accuracy, and patient perception of discomfort and anxiety.

Materials and methods

A total of 42 patients, treated with the Invisalign® system, were included in this prospective trial and received one of the following IPR methods: hand-operated abrasive strips (group 1; 14 patients, 150 teeth), motor-driven 3/4 oscillating segmental discs (group 2; 14 patients, 134 teeth), or motor-driven abrasive strips (group 3; 14 patients, 133 teeth). Accuracy was evaluated using the difference between planned and executed IPR. Anxiety and discomfort levels experienced by the patients were evaluated using a questionnaire of 17 questions.

Results

The accuracy of IPR was high in groups 2 and 3; however, it was low in group 1 with the executed IPR significantly less than the planned amount. On quadrant-level, executed IPR was significantly less in the upper left quadrant in group 1, and significantly more in the upper right quadrant in group 2. The difference between planned IPR and executed IPR was significant for teeth 11, 21, 32, 33, and 43 in group 1, indicating deficiency. The average difference between planned IPR and executed IPR was 0.08 mm for group 1, 0.09 mm for group 2, and 0.1 mm for group 3. Anxiety and discomfort levels did not differ between the methods, but a negative correlation was observed between age and discomfort and anxiety levels.

Conclusions

The overall accuracy of the 2 motor-driven IPR methods was found to be better than the hand-operated system. Maxillary central incisors and mandibular canines were more prone to IPR deficiency when hand-operated abrasive strips were utilized. Patients were similarly comfortable with all 3 methods, and discomfort and anxiety levels decreased with age.

Clinical relevance

Motor-driven methods have proven to be more effective when compared to the hand-operated ones by means of precision, speed, and patient comfort. If the clinician favors a hand-operated method, it may be advised to perform slightly more IPR especially on mandibular canines and maxillary central incisors.
The effect of the attitude towards risk/ambiguity on examination grades: cross-sectional study in a Portuguese medical school
Authors: Leite-Mendes Filipe , Delgado Luis , Ferreira Amelia , Severo Milton
Published: January 2024

Given the high prevalence of multiple-choice examinations with formula scoring in medical training, several studies have tried to identify other factors in addition to the degree of knowledge of students which influence their response patterns. This study aims to measure the effect of students’ attitude towards risk and ambiguity on their number of correct, wrong, and blank answers. In October 2018, 233 3rd year medical students from the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto, in Porto, Portugal, completed a questionnaire which assessed the student’s attitudes towards risk and ambiguity, and aversion to ambiguity in medicine. Simple and multiple regression models and the respective regression coefficients were used to measure the association between the students’ attitudes, and their answers in two examinations that they had taken in June 2018. Having an intermediate level of ambiguity aversion in medicine (as opposed to a very high or low level) was associated with a significant increase in the number of correct answers and decrease in the number of blank answers in the first examination. In the second examination, high levels of ambiguity aversion in medicine were associated with a decrease in the number of wrong answers. Attitude towards risk, tolerance for ambiguity, and gender did not show significant association with the number of correct, wrong, and blank answers for either examination. Students’ ambiguity aversion in medicine is correlated with their performance in multiple-choice examinations with negative marking. Therefore, it is suggested the planning and implementation of counselling sessions with medical students regarding the possible impact of ambiguity aversion on their performance in multiple-choice questions with negative marking.
Impact of invasive Carex kobomugi on the native dune community in a US mid-Atlantic coastal system
Authors: Riffe Emily C. , Zinnert Julie C.
Published: January 2024

Dunes provide numerous ecosystem services including habitat for flora and fauna, coastal protection through mitigation of wind and wave energy, and as a barrier to storm flooding. Dune vegetation that inhabits these systems plays a vital role in building dunes and resisting erosion. In the United States, the Virginia coast is a transitional temperature zone for several dominant dune grasses, where the northern species, Ammophila breviligulata (C3) and the southern species, Uniola paniculata and Panicum amarum (both C4) overlap. At Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge (NWR), Virginia, warming temperatures are resulting in native species range shifts altering biotic interactions. Additionally, the invasive sedge, Carex kobomugi (C3) has become more prevalent in the region with unknown effects on the landscape. To understand the impact of Carex on the native plant community, we quantified species distribution and morphological traits of three dominant native species, A. breviligulata, Panicum, and Uniola as well as invasive Carex. We found that Carex was most dominant and exhibited similar individual traits when compared to native species. The suite of plant traits was unique in Carex, with less variation than in native species allowing for rapid nutrient acquisition and growth. These traits, combined with species distribution data suggest that Carex may limit Ammophila abundance. Similarly, presence of Carex had a negative effect on Panicum growth, but no discernible effect on Uniola. Success of Carex at Back Bay NWR may be indicative of the future spread of the species due to above and belowground morphological traits, which may give the invasive an advantage with climate warming.
Cognitive Load Theory and Its Relationships with Motivation: a Self-Determination Theory Perspective
Authors: Evans Paul , Vansteenkiste Maarten , Parker Philip , Kingsford-Smith Andrew , Zhou Sijing
Published: January 2024

Although cognitive load theory research has studied factors associated with motivation, these literatures have primarily been developed in isolation from each other. In this contribution, we aimed to advance both fields by examining the effects of instructional strategies on learners’ experience of cognitive load, motivation, engagement, and achievement. Students (N = 1287) in years 7–10 in four Australian high schools completed survey measures of motivation, engagement, cognitive load, and their teachers’ perceived instructional strategies and motivating style. Results suggest that teachers’ load-reducing instructional strategies were related to lower cognitive load and were positively associated with relative autonomous motivation, engagement, and achievement. Teachers’ motivating styles characterized by autonomy support and structure were also associated with reduced extraneous and intrinsic cognitive load, as well as motivation and engagement. We conclude that by using load-reducing strategies and a motivating style characterized by structure and autonomy support, teachers can reduce students’ cognitive load and improve their self-regulated motivation, engagement, and achievement. In so doing, we discuss a number of future avenues for the joint study of self-determination theory and cognitive load theory, with the aim of refining and extending both perspectives.
Mother-Father Differences in Risk Factors for Postnatal Psychological Distress: Results from the German SKKIPPI Cohort Study
Authors: Neumann Ariana , Bolster Marie , Lisewski Natalja , Icke Katja , Reinhold Thomas , Schlensog-Schuster Franziska , Ludwig-Körner Christiane , Kuchinke Lars , Keil Thomas , Roll Stephanie , Berghöfer Anne , Fricke Julia
Published: January 2024

The postnatal period is a potentially vulnerable time for families and can be associated with psychological distress in mothers and fathers. The aim of this analysis was to identify mother-father differences in symptoms of postnatal psychological distress and their risk factors. Cross-sectional screening data for postnatal psychological distress included postnatal depressive (PDS), anxiety (PAS), and obsessive-compulsive symptoms (POCS). Using baseline data of 4984 mothers and 962 fathers from the German SKKIPPI cohort study, we conducted an explorative multilevel logistic regression. Mothers were more likely than fathers to report PAS (OR 1.55, 95% CI: 1.00–2.41, p = 0.051) and POCS (1.38, 1.03–1.83, p = 0.029) but not PDS (1.15, 0.76–1.74, p = 0.509). Risk factors associated with psychological symptoms in mothers and fathers were life stressors, history of mental illness, and unsuitable pregnancy timing. Most risk factors were similar in mothers and fathers. However, relationship problems, having a child with a serious illness or disability, and the receipt of state payments seemed to have greater impact on fathers for some outcomes. These associations require further attention by researchers and should be considered by practitioners in the management of postnatal mental health. The SKKIPPI study has been registered in the German Clinical Trial Registry on February 8th, 2019 (DRKS-ID: DRKS00016653).
Multispectral-derived genotypic similarities from budget cameras allow grain yield prediction and genomic selection augmentation in single and multi-environment scenarios in spring wheat
Authors: Mróz Tomasz , Shafiee Sahameh , Crossa Jose , Montesinos-Lopez Osval A. , Lillemo Morten
Published: January 2024

With abundant available genomic data, genomic selection has become routine in many plant breeding programs. Multispectral data captured by UAVs showed potential for grain yield (GY) prediction in many plant species using machine learning; however, the possibilities of utilizing this data to augment genomic prediction models still need to be explored. We collected high-throughput phenotyping (HTP) multispectral data in a genotyped multi-environment large-scale field trial using two cost-effective cameras to fill this gap. We tested back to back the prediction ability of GY prediction models, including genomic (G matrix), multispectral-derived (M matrix), and environmental (E matrix) relationships using best linear unbiased predictor (BLUP) methodology in single and multi-environment scenarios. We discovered that M allows for GY prediction comparable to the G matrix and that models using both G and M matrices show superior accuracies and errors compared with G or M alone, both in single and multi-environment scenarios. We showed that the M matrix is not entirely environment-specific, and the genotypic relationships become more robust with more data capture sessions over the season. We discovered that the optimal time for data capture occurs during grain filling and that camera bands with the highest heritability are important for GY prediction using the M matrix. We showcased that GY prediction can be performed using only an RGB camera, and even a single data capture session can yield valuable data for GY prediction. This study contributes to a better understanding of multispectral data and its relationships. It provides a flexible framework for improving GS protocols without significant investments or software customization.