bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Studi Nitrasi Cellulosa dengan Asam Nitrat dalam Media Asam Sulfat sebagai Alternatif Bahan Pendorong Amunisi
Authors: Khalid Khairun , Winarno Umar , Susilo Tarsisius , Tambunan Dendy Chandra
Published: May 2023

Nitrocellulose was prepared through chemical nitration using the basic material of cotton (cellulose) with nitric acid nitrator in the sulfuric acid medium at low temperatures. The success of nitrocellulose synthesis was examined by burning tests and chemical tests with FTIR (Fourier Transform Infrared). In addition, this study is essential as it uses economical and abundantly available basic materials. This study used an experimental method with a chemical reaction of the nitration of cellulose to nitrocellulose. In this experiment, we focused on the amount of cotton (cellulose) being dipped into the acid mixture and the optimal comparison from the literature. It is because the cellulose reactant has a different solid phase from the acidic reactant phase. The composition of 115 grams of nitrocellulose requires 30 ccs of HNO3, 40 ccs of H2SO4, and a reaction period of 1 hour. The results of the combustion test of nitrocellulose showed a licking flame which is typical for explosive materials. In the Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) test, there were peaks indicating the nitrate (-NO2) functional group.

Nitroselulosa dibuat dengan cara nitrasi kimia dengan bahan dasar kapas (celulosa) dan nitrator asam nitrat dalam media asam sulfat pada suhu rendah. Uji terhadap keberhasilan sintesis Nitroselulose dilakukan dengan uji bakar dan uji kimia dengan FTIR (Fourier Transfor Infrared). Selain itu penelitian ini penting karena bahan dasar yang dipergunakan sangat murah dan mudah diperoleh di pasaran. Penelitian ini juga menggunakan metode experimen dengan reaksi kimia nitrasi selulosa menjandi nitroselulosa. Hal yang perlu dipertimbangkan dalam experimen ini adalah banyaknya kapas (selulosa) yang bisa dicelupkan kedalam campuran asam, dan perbandingan optimal dari literatur. Hal ini dilakukan karena reaktan selulosa berfasa padat yang berbeda dengan fasa reaktan asam. Komposisi untuk nitroselulosa 115 gram memerlukan HNO3 30 cc, H2SO4 40 cc dan reaksi selama 1 jam. Uji bakar terhadap hasil nitroselulos menunjukkan adanya nyala yang menjilat yang merupakan penanda bahan eksplosif. Uji dengan Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) juga menunjukkan adanya puncak-puncak yang mewakili gugus fungsi nitrat (-NO2).
5G Security Threats and Countermeasures: An Operator Perspective
Authors: Baraković Husić Jasmina , Baraković Sabina
Published: May 2023

The fifth generation of mobile telecommunications (5G) is one of the most important novelties of our times due to its influence on the economy and society. The advent of 5G networks and services expands the security threats landscape and requires the implementation of adequate countermeasures. This paper presents a brief overview of 5G security threats and countermeasures from operators’ perspective. The aim is to contribute to the 5G cybersecurity knowledge collection and dissemination by summarizing the key findings and identifying next steps.
Comparative performance analysis of an OTTO engine equipped for petrol or liquefied petroleum gas propulsion
Authors: Pavlović Miroslav , Nunić Zdravko B.
Published: May 2023

Today, in the development of engines for the propulsion of motor vehicles, the greatest importance is given to the environmental aspect in terms of finding the ideal fuel. In solving this problem, it can be said with certainty that liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) has emerged as an ideal alternative fuel because it is more environmentally friendly and currently available in sufficient quantities. After showing the basic physical and chemical characteristics of LPG, the elements that must be installed in a vehicle that uses this type of fuel are listed. The paper analyzes the performance of OTTO engines with a subsequently installed LPG system in one group of vehicles that consisted of vehicles of the same manufacturer and type of engine. Using a chassis dynamometer in the laboratory power measurements were performed. The basic technical characteristics of the measuring equipment used in the laboratory are also stated. Based on the obtained measurements, the results of the operation of the engine on both fuels, as well as their mutual comparison are given. Considering that quite good results of testing the power of LPG aggregates were obtained in the following research, the parameter of the ratio of consumption of this fuel in relation to gasoline should be investigated for economic reasons.
Implementation of modern information solution for greater efficiency of intermodal transport through Port of Bar Case Study NAVIS
Authors: Pelevic Dalibor , Draskovic Mimo , Krivokapic Ranka
Published: May 2023

Digitalization of logistical processes is an unstoppable process. The shipping companies are imposing new trends on ports that they must follow. On the other hand, the efficiency of shipping goods is one of the basic prerequisites for the competitiveness of a port. In both cases, the port must have an information system developed that will successfully connect the shipping companies to the logistics community in the hinterland. The subject of this paper is the potential implementation of such solution in Montenegro, the US software solution NAVIS. The aim of the paper is to explain the current state and present the benefits that intermodal traffic through the Port of Bar would have by implementing an information solution like this. The methods used in the paper are analyzing data obtained from the official websites of the NAVIS, the experience of ports that use the subject solution as well as analysis of existing processes that take place through the Port of Bar in intermodal transport. The results of the paper will present its hypothesis, the greater efficiency of logistical processes in Montenegro and primarily the Port of Bar which will contribute to a better competitive position of Port of Bar in intermodal transport.
Machine learning models for prediction of mobile network user throughput in the area of trunk road and motorway sections
Authors: Ćurguz Zoran , Banjanin Milorad , Stojčić Mirko
Published: May 2023

User throughput in the telecommunications network stands out as one of the key performance indicators. Today, telecommunications service providers have the task of providing a reliable and secure connection for users in all geographical locations and at all times, and adequate network throughput to meet the growing need for streaming services. These requirements primarily apply to areas around important roads, such as motorways and trunk roads. The main goal of the research is to create models based on machine learning techniques for predicting the average user throughput in the M:tel network, in a geo-area that includes the section of Motorway “9th January” (M9J), Banja Luka-Doboj, between the Johovac node and the town of Prnjavor, and the area of the M17 trunk road section, between the Johovac node and the town of Doboj. Predictive models were created on the IBM SPSS Modeler software platform, and a comparative method was used to compare and select the models that show the highest prediction accuracy. The results have shown that k-Nearest Neighbors (k-NN)-based models have the highest prediction accuracy for both sections, with the model created for the trunk road section having significantly better performance.
The Role of Biomarkers in Guiding Clinical Decision-Making in Oncology
Authors: C. Moore, PharmD, BCPS, BCOP, DPLA, FCCP Donald , S. Guinigundo, MSN, RN, CNP, ANP-BC Andrew
Published: May 2023

Recent advances in molecular diagnostics have led to the characterization of an increasing number of actionable genomic alterations and immune-based signatures, which have facilitated the development of many highly effective cancer therapies. In addition to their prognostic value, some of these biomarkers have been shown to have predictive value and have had a significant impact on clinical decision-making. The presence of these therapeutic targets can thus aid health-care professionals to select the optimal therapies and avoid use of ineffective, potentially toxic ones. Earlier agents were generally approved for only one or a limited number of malignancies and/or stages, but more recent approvals encompass multiple tumor types that bear a common molecular alteration regardless of tumor type (i.e., tumor-agnostic indications). The expanding use of tumor-agnostic biomarkers has the potential to greatly broaden the use of these therapies to a wider patient population. Yet the rapidly increasing number of tumor-specific and tumor-agnostic biomarkers, and the continually changing treatment guidelines regarding the use of targeted agents and associated testing requirements, present challenges for advanced practitioners to remain current on these topics and their ability to apply these advances to clinical care. Here, we review predictive oncology biomarkers currently in use and their role in clinical decision-making, including those specified in product prescribing information and clinical practice guidelines. Current clinical guidelines regarding recommended targeted therapies for selected malignancies, and when molecular testing should be performed, are discussed.
Essential Service Provision and Access to Services in Nordic Rural Areas
Authors:   Nordregio, Bogason Ágúst , Slätmo Elin
Published: May 2023

"Essential Service Provision and Access to Services in Nordic Rural Areas" explores the challenges facing service provision in Nordic rural areas due to societal and demographic changes, climate change, and globalization, and highlights the need for adapted approaches to service provisions. The policy brief shows that demographic and societal changes have a wider impact on service provision in rural regions than just traditional welfare services. The publication also analyses essential service needs and solutions to rural service provision challenges in the Nordic region through case studies and workshops.
La Convention de Vienne sur le droit des traités et le hardship
Authors: Graham James A. , Partida Sebastián
Published: May 2023

En l’absence de concepts adéquats dans la Convention de Vienne sur le droit des traités, les auteurs suggèrent d’interpréter ledit instrument de sorte à y intégrer la notion de hardship, fondée à la fois sur le principe de la bonne foi et sur celui du rebus sic stantibus, conduisant ainsi à reconnaître l’existence d’une obligation de renégociation. Une telle interprétation s’avère plus que nécessaire en raison de la crise économique causée par le SRAS-CoV-2 (COVID-19), durant laquelle plus d’un État ne sera plus en mesure d’honorer ses obligations conventionnelles internationales.
Database in the Study of the History of Estates in the Moscow Region: Filling, Enrichment and Analytics
Authors: Trishin Ivan
Published: May 2023

This article deals with the problem of accumulation and systematization of information in studies devoted to 3D reconstructions of objects of historical and cultural heritage. In the presence of a large number of heterogeneous sources, the researcher may get confused in the accumulated data, which significantly complicates his work. Since in research, the results of which are virtual reconstructions, text sources are used together with graphic, scientific and technical documentation, as well as physical objects undergoing preliminary digitization, the accounting and cataloging of sources cannot be neglected. The solution to this problem allows the most complete and efficient use of all the materials available in the study, which ultimately affects the quality of the reconstruction result obtained. In this article, using the example of a project for the reconstruction of estate complexes in the Moscow region, the author demonstrates the developed system of accumulation and enrichment of source information using modern database management systems and software tools for working with data. The information aggregated and described in the MySQL database is supplemented with information from open sources using web scraping technology in the Python programming language, acquires end-to-end identification and acquires usability in various studies. Standardized information allows you to quickly find the right source from the very top level, and its enrichment provides additional opportunities for analysis and synthesis of all aggregated material.
Research of the Kola Peninsula Complex Expedition of the USSR Academy of Sciences 1928 – 1934: towards the Knowledge of Natural resources and Traditional Culture of the Russian Arctic
Authors: Boyakova Sardana Il'inichna , Pokatilova Nadezhda Volodarovna , Suleymanov Aleksandr Albertovich
Published: May 2023

The historical analysis of the research carried out during 1928-1934 within the framework of the Kola peninsula expedition of the USSR Academy of Sciences is presented. The initial boundary is due to the creation of the expedition, the final one is due to its reformatting into a stationary structure – the Kola base of the USSR Academy of Sciences. The sources for the preparation of the article are archival materials identified by the authors from the Archives of the Russian Academy of Sciences, published expedition reports, as well as scientific literature prepared based on the results of the research under consideration. It is noted that the drivers of the Kola complex expedition were both purely cognitive interest and the needs of industrial development of high latitudes. The work carried out made it possible to show significant activity of researchers in studying the natural resources of the Kola Peninsula, identifying promising mineral deposits, determining various patterns of their distribution and searching for the optimal development methodology. Along with this, a certain place in the work of the expedition was given to other areas of research, both related to ensuring the possibility of developing the extractive industry (geocryological, partly ecological and biological), and having an indirect connection with this problem. In this regard, the importance of conducting research within the expedition aimed, among other things, at studying the traditional culture of the aboriginal ethnic groups of the Kola Peninsula is noted.
Nr2f1a maintains atrial nkx2.5 expression to repress pacemaker identity within venous atrial cardiomyocytes of zebrafish
Authors: Martin Kendall E , Ravisankar Padmapriyadarshini , Beerens Manu , MacRae Calum A , Waxman Joshua S
Published: May 2023

Maintenance of cardiomyocyte identity is vital for normal heart development and function. However, our understanding of cardiomyocyte plasticity remains incomplete. Here, we show that sustained expression of the zebrafish transcription factor Nr2f1a prevents the progressive acquisition of ventricular cardiomyocyte (VC) and pacemaker cardiomyocyte (PC) identities within distinct regions of the atrium. Transcriptomic analysis of flow-sorted atrial cardiomyocytes (ACs) from nr2f1a mutant zebrafish embryos showed increased VC marker gene expression and altered expression of core PC regulatory genes, including decreased expression of nkx2.5, a critical repressor of PC differentiation. At the arterial (outflow) pole of the atrium in nr2f1a mutants, cardiomyocytes resolve to VC identity within the expanded atrioventricular canal. However, at the venous (inflow) pole of the atrium, there is a progressive wave of AC transdifferentiation into PCs across the atrium toward the arterial pole. Restoring Nkx2.5 is sufficient to repress PC marker identity in nr2f1a mutant atria and analysis of chromatin accessibility identified an Nr2f1a-dependent nkx2.5 enhancer expressed in the atrial myocardium directly adjacent to PCs. CRISPR/Cas9-mediated deletion of the putative nkx2.5 enhancer leads to a loss of Nkx2.5-expressing ACs and expansion of a PC reporter, supporting that Nr2f1a limits PC differentiation within venous ACs via maintaining nkx2.5 expression. The Nr2f-dependent maintenance of AC identity within discrete atrial compartments may provide insights into the molecular etiology of concurrent structural congenital heart defects and associated arrhythmias.
Neural mechanisms of parasite-induced summiting behavior in ‘zombie’ Drosophila
Authors: Elya Carolyn , Lavrentovich Danylo , Lee Emily , Pasadyn Cassandra , Duval Jasper , Basak Maya , Saykina Valerie , de Bivort Benjamin
Published: May 2023

For at least two centuries, scientists have been enthralled by the “zombie” behaviors induced by mind-controlling parasites. Despite this interest, the mechanistic bases of these uncanny processes have remained mostly a mystery. Here, we leverage the Entomophthora muscae-Drosophila melanogaster “zombie fly” system to reveal the mechanistic underpinnings of summit disease, a manipulated behavior evoked by many fungal parasites. Using a high-throughput approach to measure summiting, we discovered that summiting behavior is characterized by a burst of locomotion and requires the host circadian and neurosecretory systems, specifically DN1p circadian neurons, pars intercerebralis to corpora allata projecting (PI-CA) neurons and corpora allata (CA), the latter being solely responsible for juvenile hormone (JH) synthesis and release. Using a machine learning classifier to identify summiting animals in real time, we observed that PI-CA neurons and CA appeared intact in summiting animals, despite invasion of adjacent regions of the “zombie fly” brain by E. muscae cells and extensive host tissue damage in the body cavity. The blood-brain barrier of flies late in their infection was significantly permeabilized, suggesting that factors in the hemolymph may have greater access to the central nervous system during summiting. Metabolomic analysis of hemolymph from summiting flies revealed differential abundance of several compounds compared to non-summiting flies. Transfusing the hemolymph of summiting flies into non-summiting recipients induced a burst of locomotion, demonstrating that factor(s) in the hemolymph likely cause summiting behavior. Altogether, our work reveals a neuro-mechanistic model for summiting wherein fungal cells perturb the fly’s hemolymph, activating a neurohormonal pathway linking clock neurons to juvenile hormone production in the CA, ultimately inducing locomotor activity in their host.
Two conserved vocal central pattern generators broadly tuned for fast and slow rates generate species-specific vocalizations in Xenopus clawed frogs
Authors: Yamaguchi Ayako , Peltier Manon
Published: May 2023

Across phyla, males often produce species-specific vocalizations to attract females. Although understanding the neural mechanisms underlying behavior has been challenging in vertebrates, we previously identified two anatomically distinct central pattern generators (CPGs) that drive the fast and slow clicks of male Xenopus laevis, using an ex vivo preparation that produces fictive vocalizations. Here, we extended this approach to four additional species, X. amieti, X. cliivi, X. petersii, and X. tropicalis, by developing ex vivo brain preparation from which fictive vocalizations are elicited in response to a chemical or electrical stimulus. We found that even though the courtship calls are species-specific, the CPGs used to generate clicks are conserved across species. The fast CPGs, which critically rely on reciprocal connections between the parabrachial nucleus and the nucleus ambiguus, are conserved among fast-click species, and slow CPGs are shared among slow-click species. In addition, our results suggest that testosterone plays a role in organizing fast CPGs in fast-click species, but not in slow-click species. Moreover, fast CPGs are not inherited by all species but monopolized by fast-click species. The results suggest that species-specific calls of the genus Xenopus have evolved by utilizing conserved slow and/or fast CPGs inherited by each species.
Brain age has limited utility as a biomarker for capturing fluid cognition in older individuals
Authors: Tetereva Alina , Pat Narun
Published: May 2023

One well-known biomarker candidate that supposedly helps capture fluid cognition is Brain Age, or a predicted value based on machine-learning models built to predict chronological age from brain MRI. To formally evaluate the utility of Brain Age for capturing fluid cognition, we built 26 age-prediction models for Brain Age based on different combinations of MRI modalities, using the Human Connectome Project in Aging (n=504, 36–100 years old). First, based on commonality analyses, we found a large overlap between Brain Age and chronological age: Brain Age could uniquely add only around 1.6% in explaining variation in fluid cognition over and above chronological age. Second, the age-prediction models that performed better at predicting chronological age did NOT necessarily create better Brain Age for capturing fluid cognition over and above chronological age. Instead, better-performing age-prediction models created Brain Age that overlapped larger with chronological age, up to around 29% out of 32%, in explaining fluid cognition. Third, Brain Age missed around 11% of the total variation in fluid cognition that could have been explained by the brain variation. That is, directly predicting fluid cognition from brain MRI data (instead of relying on Brain Age and chronological age) could lead to around a 1/3-time improvement of the total variation explained. Accordingly, we demonstrated the limited utility of Brain Age as a biomarker for fluid cognition and made some suggestions to ensure the utility of Brain Age in explaining fluid cognition and other phenotypes of interest.
Effects of the speed on the webbed foot kinematics of mallard (Anas platyrhynchos)
Authors: Han Dianlei , Liu Hairui , Tong Zhiqian , Pan Jiahang , Wang Xinzhong
Published: May 2023

In this study, the effect of the speed on the webbed foot locomotion of the mallard was analyzed based on a considerable number of reliable indoor test data. Four adult male mallards were selected for analysis, and the locomotion speed of the mallard was controlled using the treadmill at an accurate and adjustable speed. The locomotion pattern of the webbed foot of the mallard at different speeds was recorded using a high-speed camera. The changes in the position and conformation of the webbed foot during locomotion on a treadmill were tracked and analyzed using Simi-Motion kinematics software. The results indicated that the stride length of the mallard increased, and the stance phase duration was shortened with the increase of the speed, whereas the swing phase duration did not vary significantly. The duty factor decreased with the increase of the mallard speed but not drop below to 0.5, because the mallards flew with their wings, or moved backward relative to the treadmill with the further increase of the speed. Using the energy method to further distinguish gait, and through the percentage of congruity analysis, it was found that between 0.73 and 0.93 m/s, the gait experienced a transition from walking to grounded running, with no significant changes in spatiotemporal parameters. At speeds between 0.93 and 1.6 m/s, mallards adopt a grounded running gait. The instantaneous changes of the tarsometatarso-phalangeal joint (TMTPJ) angle and the intertarsal joint (ITJ) angle at touch-down, mid-stance and lift-off concomitant with the change of the speed were examined with the TMTPJ and ITJ angle as the research objects. Moreover, the continuous changes of the joint angles were examined in a complete stride cycle. The result indicated that the increase of the speed will also make the TMTPJ and ITJ angle change ahead of time in a stride cycle, proving the shortened stance phase duration. The ITJ angle changed much more than the TMTPJ. Thus, the above result reveals that the mallard primarily responds with the increase of the speed by adjusting the ITJ, instead of the TMTPJ. The vertical displacement of the toe joint points and the toe joint angle was studied (α joint angle is between the second toe and the third toe; β joint angle is between the third toe and the fourth toe) with a complete stride cycle as the research object. The distal phalanxes of the second, third and fourth toes first contacted the ground, and the proximal phalanx touched the ground in turn during the early stance phase duration of the mallard, as indicated by the result of this study. However, the toes got off the ground in turn from the proximal phalanxes when the mallard foot got off the ground. With the decrease of the interphalangeal α and β joint angles, the foot web tended to be close and rapidly recovered before the next touch-down. The above result reveals that the webbed foot of the mallard is a coupling system that plays a role in the adjustment of speed.
Model of Optimization of Production Based on the Application of Lean Tools to Increase Productivity in Footwear Manufacturing SMEs
Authors: Valenzuela-Ramos Manuel , Pacora-Valverde Alejandra , Quiroz-Flores Juan , Collao-Díaz Martín , Flores-Pérez Alberto
Published: May 2023

The demand for footwear in Peru has increased significantly in recent years even though domestic production has decreased, on the other hand, it has been shown that imports have grown substantially. This shows that the domestic sector has difficulties in offering good quality products, which is directly related to low productivity and lack of innovation. In this sense, an integral Lean-SLP model is proposed based on the combination of tools such as total redesign of facilities, 5s, process standardization, work design, and Jidoka to improve the current productivity of 0.56 generated by deficient and nonstandardized processes. The model was validated through arena software where a cycle time reduction of 42.95% and a productivity increase of 22.5% were obtained. This proposal allows SMEs in the footwear sector to be more competitive in the foreign market by producing shoes of higher quality and therefore better acceptance.
Geomyces Species (LC374638), a Fungal Endophyte, Promotes the Growth of Honeysuckle (Lonicera caerulea) through Symbiosis
Authors: Katsuramoto Takuya , Tamai Yutaka , Miyamoto Toshizumi , Yajima Takashi
Published: May 2023

Honeysuckle (Lonicera caerulea), also known as "haskap" in Japan, is a shrub that produces edible berries and inhabits mountainous and wetland areas with harsh environments. In this study, we surveyed the relationship between honeysuckle and the root endophytic fungi. Root samples were collected from the wet land region in Hokkaido, Japan, and subjected to microscopic observation and fungal strain isolation. Totally 47 endophytic fungal strains were isolated from the roots. Inoculation tests showed that a strain of Geomyces sp. promotes the growth of the seedlings and colonizes the epidermal and cortical cells of roots. It suggested that the strain acts as a mycorrhiza-like fungus for the arbuscular mycorrhizal plant. We speculate that honeysuckle establishes a symbiotic relationship with endophytic fungi to overcome acidic and nutrient-deficient environments. This is the first report demonstrating that endophytic ascomycetes promote the growth of host plants belonging to the Caprifoliaceae family.
The Role of using Green Manufacturing as One of the Requirements for Sustainable Development in Reducing Costs
Authors: Hassan Dr. Mohammed Frayyeh
Published: May 2023

sustainability concepts in order to cancel waste in the available natural resources or legalize their use for the purpose of reducing the costs of products and achieving value for customers and meeting their desires, especially after the societal awareness of the negative effects left by industrial methods Traditional such as global warming and increased land temperature, so we see the transformation of many industrial facilities to the use of environmentally friendly industrial methods, including green manufacturing that takes into account environmental determinants, and thus achieving a competitive advantage, which reflects positively on improving the reputation of the facility, opening new markets and increasing profits in the long run and lowering Costs. The researcher conducted a field study on a sample of Iraqi industrial establishments, using a survey form. Where the results of the field study indicated that green manufacturing, which is one of the requirements of sustainable development, has an effective role in the process of reducing costs for industrial facilities.
American Radium Society Appropriate Use Criteria for Radiation Therapy in the Multidisciplinary Management of Thymic Carcinoma
Authors: Chun Stephen G. , Rimner Andreas , Amini Arya , Chang Joe Y. , Donington Jessica , Edelman Martin J. , Geng Yimin , Gubens Matthew A. , Higgins Kristin A. , Iyengar Puneeth , Movsas Benjamin , Ning Matthew S. , Park Henry S. , Rodrigues George , Wolf Andrea , Simone Charles B.
Published: May 2023

Importance

Thymic carcinoma is rare, and its oncologic management is controversial due to a paucity of prospective data. For this reason, multidisciplinary consensus guidelines are crucial to guide oncologic management.

Objective

To develop expert multidisciplinary consensus guidelines on the management of common presentations of thymic carcinoma.

Evidence Review

Case variants spanning the spectrum of stage I to IV thymic carcinoma were developed by the 15-member multidisciplinary American Radium Society (ARS) Thoracic Appropriate Use Criteria (AUC) expert panel to address management controversies. A comprehensive review of the English-language medical literature from 1980 to 2021 was performed to inform consensus guidelines. Variants and procedures were evaluated by the panel using modified Delphi methodology. Agreement/consensus was defined as less than or equal to 3 rating points from median. Consensus recommendations were then approved by the ARS Executive Committee and subject to public comment per established ARS procedures.

Findings

The ARS Thoracic AUC panel identified 89 relevant references and obtained consensus for all procedures evaluated for thymic carcinoma. Minimally invasive thymectomy was rated as usually inappropriate (regardless of stage) due to the infiltrative nature of thymic carcinomas. There was consensus that conventionally fractionated radiation (1.8-2 Gy daily) to a dose of 45 to 60 Gy adjuvantly and 60 to 66 Gy in the definitive setting is appropriate and that elective nodal irradiation is inappropriate. For radiation technique, the panel recommended use of intensity-modulated radiation therapy or proton therapy (rather than 3-dimensional conformal radiotherapy) to reduce radiation exposure to the heart and lungs.

Conclusions and Relevance

The ARS Thoracic AUC panel has developed multidisciplinary consensus guidelines for various presentations of thymic carcinoma, perhaps the most well referenced on the topic.
Adaptive backstepping control for uncertain nonlinear systems in the presence of variable input saturation: Ensuring stability by normalization and improving the performance of parameter identification
Authors: Kim Dong Chol , Kim Gyu Phil , Nam Chang Chol , Choe Wang Su
Published: May 2023

Adaptive control design schemes in the presence of input saturation have received much attention over the last two decades. However, few researchers have addressed the issue of designing the adaptive control system in the presence of unknown or variable input saturation. We propose an adaptive backstepping control method for single input uncertain nonlinear system with unknown or variable input saturation. This method uses the saturation error at previous time to estimate the saturation error at current time easily and rapidly, and the normalization based on the estimation error is introduced to ensure the stability of the whole adaptive system. We also suggest a new adaptive law to improve the performance of parameter identification in case that the uncertainty of saturation error estimation can be approximately decided. It is valid when parameters identified in the adaptive control system are taken as main design parameters of the other controllers, and especially when their accuracy has a significant influence on control performance of the whole system. Finally, simulation examples are presented to validate the effectiveness of the proposed approach.
Coupling Ferroelectric to colloidal Nanocrystals as a Generic Strategy to Engineer the Carrier Density Landscape
Authors: Cavallo Mariarosa , Bossavit Erwan , Matzen Sylvia , Maroutian Thomas , Alchaar Rodolphe , Dang Tung Huu , Khalili Adrien , Dabard Corentin , Zhang Huichen , Prado Yoann , Abadie Claire , Utterback James K , Dayen Jean Francois , Silly Mathieu G. , Dudin Pavel , Avila Jose , Lhuillier Emmanuel , Pierucci Debora
Published: May 2023

The design of infrared nanocrystals‐based (NCs) photodiodes faces a major challenge related to the identification of barriers with a well‐suited band alignment or strategy to finely control the carrier density. Here, this study explores a general complementary approach where the carrier density control is achieved by coupling an NC layer to a ferroelectric material. The up‐and‐down change in ferroelectric polarization directly impacts the NC electronic structure, resulting in the formation of a lateral pn junction. This effect is uncovered directly using nano X‐ray photoemission spectroscopy, which shows a relative energy shift of 115 meV of the NC photoemission signal over the two different up‐ and down‐polarized ferroelectric regions, a shift as large as the open circuit value obtained in the diode stack. The performance of this pn junction reveals enhanced responsivity and reduced noise that lead to a factor 40 increase in the detectivity value.
The Restrained Li/Gel Polymer Electrolyte Interface Deterioration Enabled by the Synergetic Effect of Ultra‐Lithiophilic Interphase and Interfacial Coupling Skeleton
Authors: Zhu Jiaqi , Su Han , Han Xiao , Zhang Daozhen , Li Jingru , Zhong Yu , Xia Xinhui , Wang Xiuli , Tu Jiangping
Published: May 2023

Quasi‐solid‐state lithium metal batteries are deemed as one of the most promising next‐generation energy storage devices due to their enhanced safety and high energy density. However, the Li/Gel polymer Electrolyte (GPE) interface deterioration induced by the side reactions, dendrite growth during Li plating, and contact loss during Li stripping will inevitably lead to the failure of the battery. Herein, a Li/Li23Sr6–Li3N/Sr2N anode structure (LSN) prepared by hot‐rolling process is designed, where Sr2N serves as an inert skeleton to retain the interfacial coupling and to avoid contact loss. At the same time, the Li3N–Li23Sr6 interphase with high Li adsorption energy and fast Li+ transfer kinetics regulate the Li plating behavior. Benefitting from the design, when coupled with the carbonate‐based GPE, the lifespan of the symmetric battery with the LSN is extended to 1300 h at 0.2 mA cm−2/0.2 mAh cm−2. Furthermore, the LSN||LiFePO4 (LFP) full cell exhibits a steady cycle with extremely low voltage polarization at 0.5 C after 200 cycles. This study provides a practical strategy to stabilize the Li/GPE interface and deepens the understanding of Li+ plating/stripping behaviors through the interphase.
Efficiency Encapsulation of FK506 with New Dual Self‐Assembly Multi‐Hydrophobic‐Core Nanoparticles for Preventing Keratoplasty Rejection
Authors: Wang Dongmei , Huang Baoshan , Zhu Chenchen , Wang Lei , Jin Jiahui , Tan Jingyang , Li Qing , Xiang Shengjin , Nan Kaihui , Lin Sen
Published: May 2023

Nanoparticles self‐assembled by amphiphilic copolymers for loading hydrophobic molecules are intensively investigated. However, their hydrophobic molecule‐loading capacity is low due to the limitation of hydrophobic groups in these copolymers. In this regard, new lysine oligomer‐based multi‐hydrophobic side chain polymers (MHCPs) are synthesized by polymerization of γ‐benzyl‐l glutamate N‐carboxy anhydride initiated by side‐chain primary amino groups in lysine oligomer. Each hydrophobic side chain in MHCPs can be self‐assembled by hydrophobic interaction to form multi‐hydrophobic‐core nanoparticles (MHC‐NPs) with silkworm cocoon‐, grape cluster‐, and butterfly‐like shapes (depending on hydrophobic‐side‐chains lengths). To increase their stability, MHC‐NPs are dually self‐assembled with polyethylene glycol–polyglutamic acid through charge interaction. Each hydrophobic core in MHC‐NPs serves as a carrier for hydrophobic molecules, endowing their nanostructure with high loading capacity. MHC‐NPs are employed to load tacrolimus (also known as FK506), and the loading amount is 18% and the loading efficiency is 80%, which are higher than those of previously reported nanomicelles self‐assembled by linear amphiphilic copolymers. Topical administration of FK506‐loaded nanoparticle (FK506‐NP) can significantly prolong retention of FK506 on the eye surface. FK506‐NP exhibits higher in vivo immunosuppressive effects than free FK506 and commercial FK506 eye drop, as well as a better protective effect against immunotoxicity in the corneal grafts after keratoplasty.
Transparent Multicolor Electrochromic Displays with Ingenious Hues Adjustment by Integrating Cholesteric Liquid Crystal with Viologen Gel
Authors: Zhao Shiqing , Chen Linsen , Huang Wenbin , Liu Yan‐Hua
Published: May 2023

The colorization of electrochromic displays (ECDs) has become an intriguing hotspot with fast‐growing demands for the development of displays. Reported colorful inorganic ECDs incorporating optical nanocavity or metal‐dielectric stacks sacrifice transparency and have intrinsic structural color, thus confining plenty of applications as transparent displays. Additionally, most transparent ECDs adopt plane alignments of EC materials that can only show one or several kinds of colors under electrical stimuli. Herein, vertically stacked viologen‐based ECDs integrating cholesteric liquid crystal (CLC) are proposed. By applying voltage, rotation, and changing chiral dopants’ concentration, the combined ECDs show enlarged color palette and multi‐mode color modulation. Moreover, red, blue, and green viologen gels are also synthesized by producing dioctyl‐, diethyl‐, and diphenyl‐substituted dipyridyl, which exhibit outstanding performance in terms of high optical variation, fast response speed, long cyclability, etc. Furthermore, the palette area of the CLC layers is dramatically expanded about 5 times more than reported by introducing a birefringent film. The vertically stacked ECDs integrate merits of both CLCs (high color purity and rich hues) and viologens (large variation and low voltage response), which will likely encourage attempts at three‐dimensional colorful EC displays and broaden its applications.
Construction of Ultrasensitive Surface‐Enhanced Raman Scattering Substates Based on TiO2 Aerogels
Authors: Liu Wei , Wang Zihan , Tang Xianghu , Liu Zhongping , Xiong Ying , Zhou Xin , Zhu Guoxiang , Zhao Zhiyang , Yan Wenqian , Shi Lingyan , Huang Longjin , Liu Yu , Cui Sheng , He Xuan
Published: May 2023

Recent advances in surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) on semiconductor substrates offer this technology improved selectivity on top of other advantages, such as cost efficiency. However, the enhancement factor (EF) based on the semiconductors is still low compared with the noble metal substrates. Here, a new strategy of developing the semiconductor substrates based on aerogels is proposed for the first time. According to the modified Herzberg–Teller coupling rule, TiO2 aerogels are selected as the control object because of their large tunability. The surface area, amorphousness, and surface oxygen vacancy densities of TiO2 aerogels are regulated synergically. Due to the tuning of band structure, including band gap and defect band, multiresonant interband charge transfer (CT) pathways are generated and enhanced CT efficiency. A strong, intrinsically activated SERS effect is generated. Amorphous TiO2 aerogel with the highest surface oxygen vacancies shows a significant EF of 2.42 × 107, and TiO2 aerogels afford the large surface area and more active sites, which is conducive to promoting the adsorption of molecules. The aerogel‐based SERS is demonstrated to have wide applicability for ultrasensitive detection of explosives and organic dyes. The aerogel nanomaterials demonstrated here open a way for the construction of low‐cost and high‐sensitivity SERS substrate materials.
Weak Nucleophiles in the Aza‐Michael Reaction
Authors: Rulev Alexander Yu.
Published: May 2023

The 1,4‐conjugated addition of nitrogen centered nucleophiles to electron‐deficient alkenes is one of the most significant and widely used reactions in modern synthetic organic chemistry. To date, various protocols for the aza‐Michael reaction have been developed. However, these reports mainly focus on the use of strong Michael donors. In recent years, the conjugate addition of weak nitrogen nucleophiles to various Michael acceptors gained increasing popularity. Impressive progress in this area has been achieved by the use of more efficient catalyst systems. This review aims to provide a critical analysis of the results obtained in reactions of weak nucleophiles (azoles, pyrroles, indoles, carbamates, purines, amides, hydrazides, uraciles etc) with electron‐deficient alkenes which were reported over the past twelve years.
A Sustainable Multi‐Dimensional Printable Material
Authors: Nguyen Ngoc A. , Bowland Christopher C. , He Lilin , Osti Naresh C. , Phan Minh D. , Keum Jong K. , Tyagi Madhusudan , Meek Kelly M. , Littrell Kenneth C. , Mamontov Eugene , Ankner John , Naskar Amit K.
Published: May 2023

Polymeric materials are usually tailored for specific functionality. A single polymer exhibiting multiple simultaneous functionalities often requires intricate molecular architecture, which is difficult to manufacture at scale because of its complex synthesis routes. Herein, a facile, partly renewable composition―prepared via reactive melt processing―that induces tunable functionalities such as 3D printability, shape recovery, and self‐healing while exhibiting satisfactory mechanical properties is reported. The system with a hydrogen‐bonded 3D network consists of thermally reversible nano‐scale agglomerates of sustainable, rigid phenolic oligomers and crystallizable flexible polymer. Local molecular mobility and temperature‐dependent relaxation and recovery of the non‐equilibrium networked states enable exploiting these simultaneous functionalities. Transitions involving solidification and structure stabilization at ambient temperature spanning several hours after preheating only at 70 °C directly contrast typical thermoplastic or thermoplastic elastomer behaviors. Results from this study can inform the design of future rheology modifiers and materials for soft robotics.
Cover crop and biofuel crop effects on hydraulic properties for claypan soils
Authors: Alagele Salah M. , Diggins D. Cole , Anderson Stephen H. , Udawatta Ranjith P.
Published: May 2023

Perennial biofuel and cover crops systems are important for enhancing soil health and can provide numerous soil, agricultural, and environmental benefits. The study objective was to investigate the effects of cover crops and biofuel crops on soil hydraulic properties relative to traditional management for claypan soils. The study site included selected management practices: cover crop (CC) and no cover crop (NC) with corn/soybean rotation, switchgrass (SW), and miscanthus (MI). The CC mixture consisted of cereal rye, hairy vetch, and Austrian winter pea. The research site was located at Bradford Research Center in Missouri, USA, and was implemented on a Mexico silt loam. Intact soil cores (76‐mm diam. by 76‐mm long) were taken from the 0–10, 10–20, 20–30, and 30–40 cm depths with three plot replicates and two sub‐samples per plot replicate per depth. Soil hydraulic properties evaluated for each sample included: saturated hydraulic conductivity (Ksat), water retention, bulk density, and pore size distributions. Results showed with the test of Duncan's least significant differences that treatments of MI (1.18 Mg m−3) and SW (1.21 Mg m−3) had lower values of bulk density averaging across soil depth than CC (1.27 Mg m−3) and NC (1.31 Mg m−3). Management systems significantly increased Ksat with the biofuel treatments at 0–10 cm compared to NC system. The MI management showed a significant increase in macroporosity and fine mesoporosity as compared to other management systems. Slight changes have occurred in the measured soil physical properties for CC system compared to NC plots. Overall, increasing soil organic matter from more plant roots from long‐term biofuel cropping systems can improve soil water storage and crop productivity.
Validation of a surgical model for posthepatectomy liver failure in rats
Authors: Lund Andrea , Meier Michelle , Andersen Kasper Jarlhelt , Pedersen Marie Ingemann , Knudsen Anders Riegels , Kirkegård Jakob , Mortensen Frank Viborg
Published: May 2023

Background

The upper limit for liver resections in rats is approximately 90%. In the early postoperative phase, mortality increases. The aim of the present study was to validate the rat model of 90% partial hepatectomy (PH) as a model of post‐hepatectomy liver failure (PHLF). Further, we wanted to test a quantitative scoring system as a detector of lethal outcomes caused by PHLF in rats.

Methods

Sixty‐eight rats were randomized to 90% PH, sham operation, or no surgery. Further, block randomization was performed based on time of euthanization: 12, 24, or 48 h after surgery. A general distress score (GDS) ≥10 during the day or ≥6 at midnight prompted early euthanization and classification as nonsurvivor. Animals euthanized as planned were classified as survivors. During euthanization, blood and liver tissue were collected, and liver‐specific biochemistry was evaluated.

Results

Based on the biochemical results, all animals subjected to 90% PH experienced PHLF. Seventeen rats were euthanized due to irreversible PHLF. The GDS increased for nonsurvivors within 12–18 h after surgery. The mean time for euthanization was 27 h after surgery.

Conclusion

Based on the GDS and liver‐specific biochemistry, we concluded that the model of 90% PH seems to be a proper model for investigating PHLF in rats. As a high GDS is associated with increased mortality, the GDS appears to be valuable in detecting lethal outcomes caused by PHLF in rats.
Ruthenium‐Photokatalyse verknüpft mit 1,2‐Dioxetan‐vermittelter Chemilumineszenz: Eine vielseitige Kombination zum optischen Detektieren und Auslesen
Authors: Köckenberger Johannes , Thurston Ryan , Sauer Caroline , Oppl Janina , Heinrich Markus R.
Published: May 2023

Systeme zur optischen Speicherung und zur Quantifizierung von Photonen, welche auf sensitiven Photoreaktionen basieren, haben zahlreiche Anwendungen. In dieser Arbeit berichten wir von einer hocheffizienten photokatalysierten Reaktion, in der die Photoredoxkatalyse über einen Rutheniumkatalysator mit einem 1,2‐Dioxetan kombiniert wird, von dem aus Chemilumineszenz ausgelöst werden kann. Die Bestrahlung mit blauem Licht, die als optische Eingabe dient, korreliert in diesem System definiert mit der basen‐induzierten Emission blauen Lichts. Vergleiche des Auslesens mittels 1H NMR und Chemilumineszenz, jeweils in Abhängigkeit der vorherigen Bestrahlung, unterstreichen die Zuverlässigkeit und Anwendbarkeit des Ruthenium‐Dioxetan‐Systems für optische Datenspeicherung, optische Messungen und die Detektion von Photokatalysatoren.