bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neutron flux evaluation algorithm with a combination of Monte Carlo and removal‐diffusion calculation methods for boron neutron capture therapy
Authors: Nojiri Mai , Takata Takushi , Hu Naonori , Sakurai Yoshinori , Suzuki Minoru , Tanaka Hiroki
Published: January 2024

Background

In Japan, the clinical treatment of boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) has been applied to unresectable, locally advanced, and recurrent head and neck carcinomas using an accelerator‐based neutron source since June of 2020. Considering the increase in the number of patients receiving BNCT, efficiency of the treatment planning procedure is becoming increasingly important. Therefore, novel and rapid dose calculation algorithms must be developed. We developed a novel algorithm for calculating neutron flux, which comprises of a combination of a Monte Carlo (MC) method and a method based on the removal‐diffusion (RD) theory (RD calculation method) for the purpose of dose calculation of BNCT.

Purpose

We present the details of our novel algorithm and the verification results of the calculation accuracy based on the MC calculation result.

Methods

In this study, the “MC‐RD” calculation method was developed, wherein the RD calculation method was used to calculate the thermalization process of neutrons and the MC method was used to calculate the moderation process. The RD parameters were determined by MC calculations in advance. The MC‐RD calculation accuracy was verified by comparing the results of the MC‐RD and MC calculations with respect to the neutron flux distributions in each of the cubic and head phantoms filled with water.

Results

Comparing the MC‐RD calculation results with those of MC calculations, it was found that the MC‐RD calculation accurately reproduced the thermal neutron flux distribution inside the phantom, with the exception of the region near the surface of the phantom.

Conclusions

The MC‐RD calculation method is useful for the evaluation of the neutron flux distribution for the purpose of BNCT dose calculation, except for the region near the surface.
Optical properties and behavior of whispering gallery mode resonators in complex microsphere configurations: Insights for sensing and information processing applications
Authors: Banad Yaser Mike , Hasan Syed Mohammad Abid , Sharif Sarah S. , Veronis Georgios , Gartia Manas Ranjan
Published: January 2024

This paper delves into the intricate world of whispering gallery mode (WGM) resonators within complex microsphere configurations, exploring their optical properties and behavior. Integrated with optical sensing and processing technology, WGM resonators offer compact size, high sensitivity, rapid response, and tunability. The study investigates the impact of configuration, size, excitation, polarization, and coupling effects on WGM properties. Notable findings include enhanced sensitivity in single microsphere resonators, influence of unequal sphere sizes and excitation locations on WGM modes, and higher quality factors (Q‐factors) in triangular three‐microsphere resonator configurations. Circular polarization was found to elevate Q‐factors, while the nine‐microsphere resonator configuration exhibited increased intensity of dominant WGM peaks with higher laser power, suppressing other peaks. These insights guide the design and optimization of microsphere resonator systems, positioning them for applications in sensing and optical information processing.
Experiences and outcomes of fertility testing in male adolescents with sickle cell disease
Authors: Creary Susan , Liles Sophia M. , Colton Zachary A. , Stanek Charis J. , Hudnall Matthew C. , Quinn Gwendolyn P. , Nahata Leena
Published: January 2024

Adult males with sickle cell disease (SCD) may have abnormal semen parameters, raising the concern that SCD and/or treatments may impact fertility. Yet, studies that include adolescents are lacking. To determine if fertility testing is feasible in male adolescents with SCD, and to explore their experiences and outcomes of fertility testing, 33 adolescents who completed a web‐based SCD reproductive health education program were offered a free semen analysis. Five (15%) obtained testing and each had abnormalities. Barriers to testing included lack of time and transportation and discomfort. Findings highlight the need for larger, longitudinal studies using innovative testing approaches.
Barriers to long‐term follow‐up in pediatric Hodgkin lymphoma survivors
Authors: Tinsley Hailey , Gramatges Maria , Dreyer ZoAnn , Okcu M. Fatih , Shakeel Omar
Published: January 2024

Background/purpose

Pediatric Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) survivors have an increased risk of late effects following treatment. Barriers at the patient, provider, and payor level adversely affect adherence to long‐term follow‐up.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective chart review of HL survivors diagnosed from 1999 to 2014 at Texas Children's Hospital. HL survivors were considered lost to follow‐up if there were no documented visits to Texas Children's Cancer Center Long‐Term Survivor (LTS) clinic for 2 or more years after their last LTS clinic visit. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted to explore factors contributing to loss to follow‐up. Reasons for not attending subsequent LTS visits were assessed by phone interviews in a subset of lost to follow‐up patients.

Results

There were 120 HL survivors who had at least one LTS clinic visit in this timeframe; 64 (53%) were classified as lost to follow‐up, and of these, 23 (36%) were interviewed. Eleven (47%) indicated that the reason for failure to follow‐up was lack of or inadequate insurance, and seven (30%) stated they were unaware of the importance of continued follow‐up. Loss to follow‐up was associated with lack of insurance, earlier diagnosis, and lack of comorbidities in univariate analyses. Only earlier year of diagnosis (odds ratio [OR] 0.84, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.7–0.9, p = .01) and lack of insurance (OR 22.2, 95% CI: 4–123, p < .001) were associated with loss to follow‐up in multivariable analyses.

Conclusions

Insurance status and awareness of the need for long‐term follow‐up care are key factors associated with loss to follow‐up in survivors of HL. Targeted education and low‐cost options for survivorship care are potential strategies for improving adherence to long‐term follow‐up care in HL survivors.
Effectiveness of vortioxetine for winter depression in bipolar disorder: A case report
Authors: Yamaguchi Yusei , Takagi Shunsuke , Takahashi Hidehiko , Sugihara Genichi
Published: January 2024

Background

We present a case report on the efficacy of the short‐term application of vortioxetine in managing winter depression in patients with seasonal bipolar disorder (BP). Standard treatment strategies for BP may not adequately address seasonal depressive symptoms during winter in patients with seasonal BP patterns. Depressive symptoms during winter may be linked to seasonal changes in serotonin transporter binding, such as a decrease in synaptic serotonin levels, necessitating alternative approaches. Although antidepressants, including vortioxetine, are effective in treating seasonal monopolar depression, their efficacy and safety in treating depression in patients with seasonal BP patterns remain unclear.

Case Presentation

This case report focuses on a 44‐year‐old male patient diagnosed with seasonal BP who had recurrent depressive episodes, specifically during winter. Notably, the patient had a significant decrease in recurrent episodes after short‐term seasonal vortioxetine use without inducing mania or rapid cycling.

Conclusion

Our study highlights the potential effectiveness of a seasonal, short‐term treatment strategy with antidepressants, including vortioxetine, for winter depression in individuals with BP.
Gamma radiation impact on dielectrics and RH sensitivity of nylon–carbon–GNP–epoxy composites
Authors: Shivamurthy Anupama , Boranna Rakshith , Chikkakuntappa Ranganathaiah , Jagannat Raviprasad Kogravalli , R. Prashanth Gurusiddappa
Published: January 2024

Composites of carbon–graphene nanoplatelets (GNP) epoxy with nylon‐66 interleaving were fabricated and investigated to understand the impact of γ‐irradiation on their dielectrics and relative humidity (RH) sensitivity by capacitance and water absorption measurements. The moisture sensitivity was investigated by measuring memory effect (hysteresis) and response time of the capacitance. Composites were γ‐irradiated at doses of 1000 and 3000 kGy and studied by the same set of measurements. X‐ray diffraction analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy were used to understand the impact of γ‐irradiation on the morphology and surface roughness of the composites. Results of these measurements suggest that 3000‐kGy dose γ‐irradiation produces good chain scission and cross‐linking, resulting in reduced water absorption and a 360% increase in capacitance values. The sensitivity of capacitance for 3000‐kGy γ‐irradiated composite was found to be highest at 40 pF/%RH, and hysteresis was 1.8% RH and not observed in non‐irradiated composites. Based on these observations, it seems that 3000‐kGy γ‐irradiated composite could be a potential candidate for moisture content diagnostics during condition monitoring of the carbon–epoxy structures in several industrial applications and needs to be further investigated.

Highlights

Composites of carbon–GNP epoxy with nylon‐66 interleaving were γ‐irradiated.

3000‐kGy dose γ‐irradiated composites exhibit 360% increase in capacitance.

Sensitivity and hysteresis were higher than those of 1000‐kGy and non‐irradiated samples.

Good chain scission and cross‐linking resulted in reduced water absorption.
A strategy for producing isotopically labeled peptides with antimicrobial activity or with short in vivo lifetime in Escherichia coli
Authors: Ren Qiongqiong , Fan Zejun , Han Rong , Sang Meihui , Ma Changxing , Zhao Xiaoli , Wang Shenlin
Published: January 2024

Engineered Escherichia coli (E. coli) strains have been widely used to produce isotopically labeled peptides for NMR characterization on their structures and interactions. However, production of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) by E. coli is still challenging, because AMPs are toxic to E. coli host and would lead to cell death after induction. On the other hand, expression of short peptides in E. coli host often encounter problems of the short in vivo lifetime of the peptides, which were rapidly degraded by endogenous enzymes during expression and purification steps. This report presents a practical method for overcoming these bottlenecks to enable E. coli to express AMPs and peptides that have short in vivo lifetime. This design uses the fusion of thioredoxin tags at both the N‐ and C‐termini of the target peptides. The steric effect of the large soluble tags at both ends of the peptide reduces peptide accessibility, thereby enhancing their in vivo stability and eliminating the toxicity associated with AMPs. The approach was validated using an AMP A3K/L7K‐LAH4 (K3K7) and a membrane fusion peptide (FP), which is a segment of the spike protein of SARS‐CoV‐2 and functions in fusing viral membranes and host cell membranes. Fusion expression of K3K7 with a thioredoxin tag only at the N‐terminal resulted in high toxicity to the host cells, leading to impaired cell growth and a failure to obtain expressed fusion protein. In contrast, the fusion proteins from both termini were successfully expressed and purified. In the case of the FP, the fusion of thioredoxin at both termini significantly enhanced its stability, protecting it from enzymatic degradation during expression and purification steps. On the contrary, the FP with thioredoxin fused only at the N‐terminal was found to be unstable in E. coli host strains. As stable isotope labeling on peptide is essentially important in NMR‐based structure and interaction studies, we also demonstrated that the developed approach enables efficient 15N labeling for NMR studies. This strategy may also be extended to produce other challenging peptides.
Engineering of bioorthogonal polyzymes through polymer sidechain design
Authors: Hirschbiegel Cristina‐Maria , Goswami Ritabrita , Chakraborty Soham , Noonan Cedar , Pham Edward , Nagaraj Harini , Ndugire William , Fedeli Stefano , Rotello Vincent M.
Published: January 2024

Synthetic polymer scaffolds can encapsulate transition metal catalysts (TMCs) to provide bioorthogonal nanocatalysts. These “polyzymes” catalyze the in situ generation of therapeutic agents without disrupting native biological processes. The design and modification of polymer scaffolds in these polyzymes can enhance the catalytic performance of TMCs in biological environments. In this study, we explore the hydrophobic design space of an oxanorborneneimide‐based polymer by varying the length of its carbon side chain to engineer bioorthogonal polyzymes. Activity studies indicate that modulating the hydrophobicity of the polymer scaffold can be used to enhance the catalyst loading efficacy, catalytic activity, and serum stability of polyzymes. These findings provide insight into the structural elements contributing to improving polymeric nanocatalysts for a variety of applications.
Examining the impact of androgen deprivation therapy, masculine self‐esteem, and psychological flexibility on distress and quality of life in men with prostate cancer
Authors: Chowdhury Emil , Horrocks Thomas , McAteer Gareth , Gillanders David
Published: January 2024

Objective

Studies suggest that androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) exacerbates psychological and quality of life (QoL) issues associated with prostate cancer (PCa). However, quantitative research examining underlying psychosocial mechanisms for this is limited. We examined the association of PCa symptoms with distress and QoL in ADT‐treated and ADT‐naïve patients, and the influence of masculine self‐esteem and psychological flexibility (PF) on these relationships.

Methods

Secondary analysis of a quantitative, cross‐sectional survey of 286 PCa patients. Independent samples t‐tests, moderation, and conditional process analysis were used to assess relationships between predictor, mediator, moderator, and outcome variables.

Results

ADT was associated with greater PCa symptomology, lower masculine self‐esteem, and lower QoL. Moderation analysis showed that ADT potentiated adverse impacts of PCa symptomology on distress and QoL. High PF attenuated these relationships, though less so for ADT‐treated participants. Conditional process analysis showed that masculine self‐esteem mediated the predictive effect of symptoms on distress across treatments. However, ADT did not moderate this indirect effect, nor was moderation conditional on PF.

Conclusion

PF appears to: (1) attenuate psychological distress in ADT patients; and (2) improve distress, QoL, and masculine self‐esteem in ADT‐naïve patients. Interventions targeting PF may thus be a viable adjunct to established approaches. However, their effects may be comparatively limited in ADT patients, who may benefit from more intensive and tailored treatment.
Damage mitigation method studies through simulation modeling of chemical accidents
Authors: Oh Sehyeon , Lee Junseo , Ma Byungchol
Published: January 2024

In the chemical industry, when a fire occurs, a significant amount of energy is generated due to combustion, impacting other facilities within the plant and potentially leading to severe consequences through a domino effect. For decades, thermal radiation caused by flames has been calculated and predicted through simplified fire modeling. However, with advancements in computing technology, numerical model‐based calculations have greatly improved, allowing for a more realistic implementation that considers actual phenomena. In this study, accident data and 3D modeling information were utilized to conduct fire modeling and simulation based on actual incidents in chemical plants. Through the analysis of simulation results, the initial emergency evacuation distance was provided to minimize the damage caused by thermal radiation, and the final evacuation distance was presented using the probit function. In addition, the study evaluated the impact of generated thermal radiation and overpressure on structures and equipment, providing evidence regarding the potential for secondary incidents. Moreover, the research revealed that the impact of thermal radiation and overpressure decreases due to obstacles, offering insights into the selection of emergency evacuation routes. This study can contribute to supporting effective emergency evacuation strategies in chemical facilities.
Controlled Cyclic and Bidirectional Hybrid Quantum Communication of Arbitrary Two‐Qubit States
Authors: Gong Li , Chen Xiubo , Xu Gang , Li Zongpeng
Published: January 2024

Hybrid quantum communication with the combination of quantum teleportation and remote preparation is hopeful for promoting the development of quantum networks and enriching the diversity of quantum network communication. To improve the communication efficiency and enhance the scalability of the quantum networks, a meaningful protocol for controlled cyclic and bidirectional hybrid quantum communication of arbitrary two‐qubit states is proposed, which allows quantum information to be transmitted simultaneously in both directions among multiple participants. With the permission of one controller, each observer can simultaneously transmit arbitrary known two‐qubit states and unknown ones to their adjacent observers, by implementing remote preparation and quantum teleportation in the clockwise and counterclockwise directions. Furthermore, the participants just carry out some quantum measurements and recovery operations to achieve the communication target, and the desired states can be attained with a unit success probability, thus the protocol is deterministic. Finally, some comparisons are also made with other similar protocols, which shows that the protocol is better in qubit efficiency and communication capacity.
Optimal denial‐of‐service attack scheduling for remote state estimation with time‐varying interference power
Authors: Yang Xinxin , Ni Yuqing , Wu Zhe , Yang Wen , Liu Fei
Published: January 2024

This article examines resource scheduling optimization for cyber‐physical systems that include a smart sensor, a remote estimator, and an attacker. The attacker's objective is to use denial‐of‐service (DoS) attack to jam the wireless channel, causing packet loss and reducing system performance. We consider a more realistic scenario where other interfering sources exist and conduct research based on the signal‐to‐interference‐plus‐noise ratio (SINR) model. Through this model, we investigate two cases: constant high or low interference power and time‐varying interference power. Different levels of attack power lead to varying packet loss rates, and the same attack power may result in different packet loss rates in different interference environments. Therefore, the attacker needs to consider the impact of other interferences to find the optimal attack strategy that increases the estimation error of the information‐physical system while reducing energy consumption. We describe this optimization problem in a Markov decision process (MDP) framework and demonstrate the existence of an optimal deterministic Markovian strategy. We also establish the monotonicity of the optimal strategy in two different cases and investigate the extreme case. Simulation results support our theoretical results.
Cycles with many chords
Authors: Draganić Nemanja , Methuku Abhishek , Munhá Correia David , Sudakov Benny
Published: January 2024

How many edges in an ‐vertex graph will force the existence of a cycle with as many chords as it has vertices? Almost 30 years ago, Chen, Erdős and Staton considered this question and showed that any ‐vertex graph with edges contains such a cycle. We significantly improve this old bound by showing that edges are enough to guarantee the existence of such a cycle. Our proof exploits a delicate interplay between certain properties of random walks in almost regular expanders. We argue that while the probability that a random walk of certain length in an almost regular expander is self‐avoiding is very small, one can still guarantee that it spans many edges (and that it can be closed into a cycle) with large enough probability to ensure that these two events happen simultaneously.
Economic policy uncertainty and carbon neutrality in China: Do sustainable energy and eco‐innovation make a difference?
Authors: Song Xiaowei , Irfan Muhammad , Alnafrah Ibrahim , Hao Yu
Published: January 2024

Similar to many other developing and developed countries, China grapples with the challenge of balancing economic growth and environmental preservation. This study, anchored in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 7, 11, 12, and 13, investigates the impact of eco‐innovation and sustainable energy on CO2 emissions (CE) in China from 1980 to 2020, using the STIRPAT model. Employing the autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) model with bootstrap rolling window causality analysis, we uncover causal relationships between CE and its determinants, assessing them in sub‐sample periods. ARDL estimates reveal that economic policy uncertainty, economic growth, and urbanization increase CE, while eco‐innovation and sustainable energy decrease it. Time‐varying causality analysis demonstrates predictive capabilities of all independent variables at various sub‐periods. The study recommends substantial increases in subsidies and tax incentives for renewable energy, emphasizing stable ecological policies, irrespective of economic conditions, for lasting benefits.
Development and validation of a sustainable education scale
Authors: Çam‐Tosun Figen , Söğüt Sibel
Published: January 2024

This study introduces the Sustainable Education Scale (SES), a novel instrument designed to elicit teachers' perspectives on sustainable education. Grounded in human rights education, sustainable development, social justice, and psychometrics, this survey model‐driven study systematically develops and validates the SES. Drawing on an in‐depth literature review, expert opinions, and pilot testing, the SES comprises 19 items across four sub‐dimensions: Equality in Education, Inclusiveness in Education, Quality in Education, and Democratic Education. Designing a survey based on the quantitative research model, the data was gathered from 573 participating teachers via the criterion sampling method. Demographic analysis indicates that 65.09% of the participating teachers are female (n = 373), while 3.90% are male (n = 200), and most of them have undergraduate degrees with 21 years or more of teaching experience. Construct validity and factor structure were identified through exploratory factor analysis with 273 teacher responses, whereas the validation of the identified structure was performed through CFA from a sample of 300 teachers. Cronbach's alpha and composite reliability coefficient were calculated to ensure the reliability of the scale. The SES scale emerged as valid and reliable data to reveal teachers' perspectives on sustainable education. It stands as an innovative tool for researchers, policymakers, and educators to examine, promote, and advance global goals for inclusive, equitable, and quality learning.
Confidence distributions for treatment effects in clinical trials: Posteriors without priors
Authors: Marschner Ian C.
Published: January 2024

An attractive feature of using a Bayesian analysis for a clinical trial is that knowledge and uncertainty about the treatment effect is summarized in a posterior probability distribution. Researchers often find probability statements about treatment effects highly intuitive and the fact that this is not accommodated in frequentist inference is a disadvantage. At the same time, the requirement to specify a prior distribution in order to obtain a posterior distribution is sometimes an artificial process that may introduce subjectivity or complexity into the analysis. This paper considers a compromise involving confidence distributions, which are probability distributions that summarize uncertainty about the treatment effect without the need for a prior distribution and in a way that is fully compatible with frequentist inference. The concept of a confidence distribution provides a posterior–like probability distribution that is distinct from, but exists in tandem with, the relative frequency interpretation of probability used in frequentist inference. Although they have been discussed for decades, confidence distributions are not well known among clinical trial statisticians and the goal of this paper is to discuss their use in analyzing treatment effects from randomized trials. As well as providing an introduction to confidence distributions, some illustrative examples relevant to clinical trials are presented, along with various case studies based on real clinical trials. It is recommended that trial statisticians consider presenting confidence distributions for treatment effects when reporting analyses of clinical trials.
Chlorinephenyl‐Substituted Sulfonylurea Confer Inhibitory Efficacy against Metallo‐β‐lactamase ImiS
Authors: Chen Wei‐Ya , Wu Xiao‐Rong , Zhai Le , Wang Yi‐Xue , Yang Ke‐Wu
Published: January 2024

Super bacterial infection caused by metallo‐β‐lactamases (MβLs) has posed a serious public health threat, while developing inhibitors of MβLs is an ideal strategy to combat drug‐resistance. Here, seventeen sulfonylureas were synthesized and confirmed. Biological assay shown that these molecules effectively inhibited MβL ImiS, with an IC50 value in the range of 29.5–188.2 μM, and the best inhibitor competitively and irreversibly inhibited ImiS with a Ki value of 15.2 μM. Structure‐activity relationship analysis revealed that the chlorine‐substituted phenyl significantly raised inhibitory activity of sulfonylureas on ImiS. Antibacterial and chessboard dilution assays shown that the most sulfonylureas tested enhanced antimicrobial effect of meropenem (MER) on E. coli‐ImiS, and the two inhibitors with best effect resulted in an 8‐fold reduction in MIC of MER. Mice tests shown that the best inhibitor synergizing MER virtually diminished the load of E. coli‐ImiS in spleen and liver. Docking study revealed that the sulfonylurea reacts with ImiS mainly through the sulfonyl group, in which one of oxygen atoms coordinates to Zn(II), and forms two hydrogen bonds with Lys224 (2.1 Å) and His263 (3.1 Å). This work revealed the sulfonylureas are promising candidates for the development of ImiS inhibitors.
Improved Synthetic Methodology, Substrate Scope and X‐ray Crystal Structure for N, N’‐disubstituted Guanidines
Authors: Elumalai Vijayaragavan , Vaclav Eigner , Visnes Torkild , Sundby Eirik , Hoff Bård Helge
Published: January 2024

Guanidine is a privileged scaffold in drug discovery. Herein we report our investigations into the acid promoted amination of pyrimidine‐bearing cyanamide to produce N, N’‐disubstituted guanidines. Hydrochloric acid was found to be a suitable catalyst, and the substrate scope using conventional heating was investigated with 23 aniline derivatives. The highest yield was obtained with anilines having pKa in the range of 2–4. Further, a microwave synthesis was developed using 3‐chloroaniline as a model substrate increasing the yield from 68 to 93 %. The microwave method was especially suited for increasing yields with anilines having pKa > 3. The structure of the pyrimidine‐bearing guanidines was confirmed by NMR spectroscopy, and one representative compound has been evaluated by X‐ray crystallography, showing the trans‐isomer as the only tautomer in solid form.
Engineering Innervated Musculoskeletal Tissues for Regenerative Orthopedics and Disease Modeling
Authors: Zhou Zhilong , Liu Jun , Xiong Tiandi , Liu Yuwei , Tuan Rocky S. , Li Zhong Alan
Published: January 2024

Musculoskeletal (MSK) disorders significantly burden patients and society, resulting in high healthcare costs and productivity loss. These disorders are the leading cause of physical disability, and their prevalence is expected to increase as sedentary lifestyles become common and the global population of the elderly increases. Proper innervation is critical to maintaining MSK function, and nerve damage or dysfunction underlies various MSK disorders, underscoring the potential of restoring nerve function in MSK disorder treatment. However, most MSK tissue engineering strategies have overlooked the significance of innervation. This review first expounds upon innervation in the MSK system and its importance in maintaining MSK homeostasis and functions. This will be followed by strategies for engineering MSK tissues that induce post‐implantation in situ innervation or are pre‐innervated. Subsequently, research progress in modeling MSK disorders using innervated MSK organoids and organs‐on‐chips (OoCs) is analyzed. Finally, the future development of engineering innervated MSK tissues to treat MSK disorders and recapitulate disease mechanisms is discussed. This review provides valuable insights into the underlying principles, engineering methods, and applications of innervated MSK tissues, paving the way for the development of targeted, efficacious therapies for various MSK conditions.
Ultraviolet Circularly Polarized Luminescence in Chiral Perovskite Nanoplatelet‐Molecular Hybrids: Direct Binding Versus Efficient Triplet Energy Transfer
Authors: Tang Bing , Wei Qi , Wang Shixun , Liu Haochen , Mou Nanli , Liu Qi , Wu Ye , Portniagin Arsenii S. , Kershaw Stephen V. , Gao Xiaoqing , Li Mingjie , Rogach Andrey L.
Published: January 2024

The development of ultraviolet circularly polarized light (UVCPL) sources has the potential to benefit plenty of practical applications but remains a challenge due to limitations in available material systems and a limited understanding of the excited state chirality transfer. Herein, by constructing hybrid structures of the chiral perovskite CsPbBr3 nanoplatelets and organic molecules, excited state chirality transfer is achieved, either via direct binding or triplet energy transfer, leading to efficient UVCPL emission. The underlying photophysical mechanisms of these two scenarios are clarified by comprehensive optical studies. Intriguingly, UVCPL realized via the triple energy transfer, followed by the triplet–triplet annihilation upconversion processes, demonstrates a 50‐fold enhanced dissymmetry factor glum. Furthermore, stereoselective photopolymerization of diacetylene monomer is demonstrated by using such efficient UVCPL. This study provides both novel insights and a practical approach for realizing UVCPL, which can also be extended to other material systems and spectral regions, such as visible and near‐infrared.
Boron‐Doped Engineering for Carbon Quantum Dots‐Based Memristors with Controllable Memristance Stability
Authors: Hao Haotian , Wang Mixue , Cao Yanli , He Jintao , Yang Yongzhen , Zhao Chun , Yan Lingpeng
Published: January 2024

Carbon quantum dots‐based memristors (CQDMs) have emerged as a rising star in data storage and computing. The key constraint to their commercialization is memristance variability, which mainly arises from the disordered conductive paths. Doping methodology can optimize electron and ion transport to help construct a stable conductive mode. Herein, based on boron (B)‐doped engineering strategy, three kinds of comparable quantum dots are synthesized, including carbon quantum dots (CQDs), a series of boron‐doped CQDs (BCQDs) with different B contents, and boron quantum dots. The corresponding device performances highlight the superiority of BCQDs‐based memristors, exhibiting a ternary flash‐type memory behavior with longer retention time and more controllable memristance stability. The comprehensive analysis results, including device performance, functional layer morphology, and material simulated calculation, illustrate that the doped B elements can directionally guide the migration of aluminum ions by enhancing the capture of free electrons, resulting in ordered conductive filaments and stable ternary memory behavior. Finally, the conceptual applications of logic display and logic gate are discussed, indicating a bright prospect for BCQDs‐based memristors. This work proves that modest B doping can optimize memristance property, establishing a theoretical foundation and template scheme for developing effective and stable CQDMs.
Review of Building Integrated Photovoltaics System for Electric Vehicle Charging
Authors: Khan Sanjay , Sudhakar K. , Hazwan Yusof Mohd , Sundaram Senthilarasu
Published: January 2024

The transition to sustainable transportation has fueled the need for innovative electric vehicle (EV) charging solutions. Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) systems have emerged as a promising technology that combines renewable energy generation with the infra‐structure of buildings. This paper comprehensively reviews the BIPV system for EV charging, focusing on its technology, application, and performance. The review identifies the gaps in the existing literature, emphasizing the need for a thorough examination of BIPV systems in the context of EV charging. A detailed review of BIPV technology and its application in EV charging is presented, covering aspects such as the generation of solar cell technology, BIPV system installation, design options and influencing factors. Furthermore, the review examines the performance of BIPV systems for EV charging, focusing on energy, economic, and environmental parameters and their comparison with previous studies. Additionally, the paper explores current trends in energy management for BIPV and EV charging, highlighting the need for effective integration and recommending strategies to optimize energy utilization. Combining BIPV with EV charging provides a promising approach to power EV chargers, enhances building energy efficiency, optimizes the building space, reduces energy losses, and decreases grid dependence. Utilizing BIPV‐generated electricity for EV charging provides electricity and fuel savings, offers financial incentives, and increases the market value of the building infrastructure. It significantly lowers greenhouse gas emissions associated with grid and vehicle emissions. It creates a closed‐loop circular economic system where energy is produced, consumed, and stored within the building. The paper underscores the importance of effective integration between Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) and Electric Vehicle (EV) charging, emphasizing the necessity of innovative grid technologies, energy storage solutions, and demand‐response energy management strategies to overcome diverse challenges. Overall, the study contributes to the knowledge of BIPV systems for EV charging by presenting practical energy management, effectiveness and sustainability implications. It serves as a valuable resource for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers working towards sustainable transportation and energy systems.
Molecular mechanism of circHIPK3 in mitochondrial function in septic acute kidney injury
Authors: Tang Lili , Zhang Jie , Han Jing , Zhang Danhong , Zhang Hongtao , Liu Jun , Li Xiaoyue
Published: January 2024

Cell senescence, glycolysis, and mitochondrial deficit jointly regulate the development of septic acute kidney injury (SAKI). This study aimed to explore the role of circular RNA HIPK3 (circHIPK3) in mitochondrial function in SAKI. The SAKI mouse model was established by Candida albicans infection, followed by Western blot assay, measurements of serum lactate, and adenosine triphosphate (ATP), 5,5′,6,6′‐tetrachloro‐1,1′,3,3′‐tetraethylbenzimi‐dazolylcarbocyanine iodide (JC‐1) staining and flow cytometry. Human renal tubular epithelial cells were treated with lipopolysaccharide to establish the SAKI cell model, followed by cell counting kit‐8 assay, tests of hexokinase activity, lactate production, oxygen consumption rate, extracellular acidification rate, ATP, and JC‐1 staining, and Western blot assay. The roles of mitochondrial pyruvate carrier 1 (MPC1) were validated by kidney function tests, hematoxylin and eosin staining, periodic acid‐Schiff staining, and SA‐β‐gal staining. circHIPK3 downregulation reduced glycolysis and mitochondrial dysfunction both in vivo and in vitro through the microRNA (miR)‐148b‐3p/DNMT1/3a/Klotho axis. Inhibition of miR‐148b‐3p or Klotho increased glycolysis and mitochondrial dysfunction. Knockdown of MPC1 increased lactate content and decreased ATP levels and MMP both in vivo and in vitro. Collectively, circHIPK3, in concert with the miR‐148b‐3p/DNMT1/3a/Klotho axis, increased glycolysis, and inhibited the negative regulation of lactate production by MPC1, and aggravated mitochondrial dysfunction and cell senescence in SAKI.
Toxic effects of the insecticide tolfenpyrad on zebrafish embryos: Cardiac toxicity and mitochondrial damage
Authors: Guo Yuzhao , Zhang Taiyu , Wang Xinyu , Zhang Jie , Miao Weiguo , Li Qing X. , Fan Yongmei
Published: January 2024

Tolfenpyrad, a highly effective and broad‐spectrum insecticide and acaricide extensively utilized in agriculture, presents a potential hazard to nontarget organisms. This study was designed to explore the toxic mechanisms of tolfenpyrad on zebrafish embryos. Between 24 and 96 h after exposure of the fertilized embryos to tolfenpyrad at concentrations ranging from 0.001 to 0.016 mg/L (96 h‐LC50 = 0.017 mg/L), lethal effects were apparent, accompanied with notable anomalies including pericardial edema, increased pericardial area, diminished heart rate, and an elongated distance between the venous sinus and the arterial bulb. Tolfenpyrad elicited noteworthy alterations in the expression of genes pertinent to cardiac development and apoptosis, with the most pronounced changes observed in the cardiac development‐related genes of bone morphogenetic protein 2b (bmp2b) and p53 upregulated modulator of apoptosis (puma). The findings underscore that tolfenpyrad induces severe cardiac toxicity and mitochondrial damage in zebrafish embryos. This data is imperative for a comprehensive assessment of tolfenpyrad risks to aquatic ecosystems, particularly considering the limited knowledge regarding its detrimental impact on aquatic vertebrates.
Perfluorotetradecanoic acid exposure to adult male rats stimulates corticosterone biosynthesis but inhibits aldosterone production
Authors: Ying Yingfen , Wang Shaowei , Han Lu , Li Huitao , Wang Yiyan , Lv Jieqiang , Ge Ren‐shan , Tang Yunbing
Published: January 2024

Perfluorotetradecanoic acid (PFTeDA) is a novel perfluoroalkyl substance that ubiquitously exists in the environment. However, whether PFTeDA affects adrenal cortex function remains unclear. Male Sprague–Dawley rats (age of 60 days) were daily administered with PFTeDA (0, 1, 5, and 10 mg/kg body weight) through gavage for 28 days. PFTeDA did not change body and adrenal gland weights. PFTeDA markedly elevated serum corticosterone level at 10 mg/kg but lowering serum aldosterone level at this dosage without influencing serum adrenocorticotropic hormone level. PFTeDA thickened zona fasciculata without affecting zona glomerulosa. PFTeDA remarkably upregulated the expression of corticosterone biosynthetic genes (Mc2r, Scarb1, Star, Cyp21, Cyp11b1, and Hsd11b1) and their proteins, whereas downregulating aldosterone biosynthetic enzyme Cyp11b2 and its protein, thereby distinctly altering their serum levels. PFTeDA markedly downregulated the expression of antioxidant genes (Sod1 and Sod2) and their proteins at 10 mg/kg. PFTeDA significantly decreased SIRT1/PGC1α and AMPK signaling while stimulating AKT1/mTOR signaling. Corticosterone significantly inhibited testosterone production by adult Leydig cells at >0.1 μM in vitro; however aldosterone significantly stimulated testosterone production at 0.1 nM. In conclusion, exposure to PFTeDA at male rat adulthood causes corticosterone excess and aldosterone deficiency via SIRT1/PGC1α, AMPK, and AKT1/mTOR signals, which in turn additively leads to testosterone deficiency.
LIDAR‐assisted feedforward individual pitch control of a 15 MW floating offshore wind turbine
Authors: Russell Andrew J. , Collu Maurizio , McDonald Alasdair S. , Thies Philipp R. , Keane Aidan , Quayle Alexander R.
Published: January 2024

Nacelle‐mounted, forward‐facing light detection and ranging (LIDAR) technology can deliver benefits to rotor speed regulation and loading reductions of floating offshore wind turbines (FOWTs) when assisting with blade pitch control in above‐rated wind speed conditions. Large‐scale wind turbines may be subject to significant variations in structural loads due to differences in the wind profile across the rotor‐swept area. These loading fluctuations can be mitigated by individual pitch control (IPC). This paper presents a novel LIDAR‐assisted feedforward IPC approach that uses each blade's rotor azimuth position to allocate an individual pitch command from a multi‐beam LIDAR. In this study, the source code of OpenFAST wind turbine modelling software was modified to enable LIDAR simulation and LIDAR‐assisted control. The LIDAR simulation modifications were accepted by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) and are now present within OpenFAST releases from v3.5 onwards. Simulations of a 15 MW FOWT were performed across the above‐rated wind spectrum. Under a turbulent wind field with an average wind speed of 17 ms−1, the LIDAR‐assisted feedforward IPC delivered up to 54% reductions in the root mean squared errors and standard deviations of key FOWT parameters. Feedforward IPC delivered enhancements of up to 12% over feedforward collective pitch control, relative to the baseline feedback controller. The reductions to the standard deviation and range of the rotor speed may enable structural optimization of the tower, while the reductions in the variations of the loadings present an opportunity for reduced fatigue damage on turbine components and, consequently, a reduction in maintenance expenditure.
The role of lifelong machine learning in bridging the gap between human and machine learning: A scientometric analysis
Authors: Abulaish Muhammad , Wasi Nesar Ahmad , Sharma Shachi
Published: January 2024

Due to advancements in data collection, storage, and processing techniques, machine learning has become a thriving and dominant paradigm. However, one of its main shortcomings is that the classical machine learning paradigm acts in isolation without utilizing the knowledge gained through learning from related tasks in the past. To circumvent this, the concept of Lifelong Machine Learning (LML) has been proposed, with the goal of mimicking how humans learn and acquire cognition. Human learning research has revealed that the brain connects previously learned information while learning new information from a single or small number of examples. Similarly, an LML system continually learns by storing and applying acquired information. Starting with an analysis of how the human brain learns, this paper shows that the LML framework shares a functional structure with the brain when it comes to solving new problems using previously learned information. It also provides a description of the LML framework, emphasizing its similarities to human brain learning. It also provides citation graph generation and scientometric analysis algorithms for the LML literatures, including information about the datasets and evaluation metrics that have been used in the empirical evaluation of LML systems. Finally, it presents outstanding issues and possible future research directions in the field of LML.

This article is categorized under:

Technologies > Machine Learning
Extended kinematical 3D gravity theories
Authors: Concha Patrick , Pino Daniel , Ravera Lucrezia , Rodríguez Evelyn
Published: January 2024

Abstract

In this work, we classify all extended and generalized kinematical Lie algebras that can be obtained by expanding the $$ \mathfrak{so} $$
so
(2, 2) algebra. We show that the Lie algebra expansion method based on semigroups reproduces not only the original kinematical algebras but also a family of non- and ultra-relativistic algebras. Remarkably, the extended kinematical algebras obtained as sequential expansions of the AdS algebra are characterized by a non-degenerate bilinear invariant form, ensuring the construction of a well-defined Chern-Simons gravity action in three spacetime dimensions. Contrary to the contraction process, the degeneracy of the non-Lorentzian theories is avoided without extending the relativistic algebra but considering a bigger semigroup. Using the properties of the expansion procedure, we show that our construction also applies at the level of the Chern-Simons action.
Rib fractures and other injuries after cardiopulmonary resuscitation for non-traumatic cardiac arrest: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Van Wijck Suzanne F. M. , Prins Jonne T. H. , Verhofstad Michael H. J. , Wijffels Mathieu M. E. , Van Lieshout Esther M. M.
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study aims to ascertain the prevalence of rib fractures and other injuries resulting from CPR and to compare manual with mechanically assisted CPR. An additional aim was to summarize the literature on surgical treatment for rib fractures following CPR.

Design

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Data sources

Embase, Medline Ovid, Cochrane Central, Web of Science, and Google Scholar.

Review methods

The databases were searched to identify studies reporting on CPR-related injuries in patients who underwent chest compressions for a non-traumatic cardiopulmonary arrest. Subgroup analysis was conducted to compare the prevalence of CPR-related injuries in manual versus mechanically assisted chest compressions. Studies reporting on surgery for CPR-related rib fractures were also reviewed and summarized.

Results

Seventy-four studies reporting CPR-related injuries were included encompassing a total of 16,629 patients. Any CPR-related injury was documented in 60% (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 49–71) patients. Rib fractures emerged as the most common injury, with a pooled prevalence of 55% (95% CI 48–62). Mechanically assisted CPR, when compared to manual CPR, was associated with a higher risk ratio for CPR-related injuries of 1.36 (95% CI 1.17–1.59). Eight studies provided information on surgical stabilization of CPR-related rib fractures. The primary indication for surgery was the inability to wean from mechanical ventilation in the presence of multiple rib fractures.

Conclusion

Rib fractures and other injuries frequently occur in patients who undergo CPR after a non-traumatic cardiopulmonary arrest, especially when mechanical CPR is administered. Surgical stabilization of CPR-related rib fractures remains relatively uncommon.

Level of evidence

Level III, systematic review and meta-analysis.