bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pulmonary computed tomographic manifestations of COVID-19 in vaccinated and non-vaccinated patients
Authors: Askani Esther , Mueller-Peltzer Katharina , Madrid Julian , Knoke Marvin , Hasic Dunja , Schlett Christopher L. , Bamberg Fabian , Agarwal Prerana
Published: April 2023

This study aimed to analyze computed tomographic (CT) imaging features of vaccinated and non-vaccinated COVID-19 patients. The study population of this retrospective single-center cohort study consisted of hospitalized COVID-19 patients who received a chest CT at the study site between July 2021 and February 2022. Qualitative scoring systems (RSNA, CO-RADS, COV-RADS), imaging pattern analysis and semi-quantitative scoring of lung changes were assessed. 105 patients (70,47% male, 62.1 ± 16.79 years, 53.3% fully vaccinated) were included in the data analysis. A significant association between vaccination status and the presence of the crazy-paving pattern was observed in univariate analysis and persisted after step-wise adjustment for possible confounders in multivariate analysis (RR: 2.19, 95% CI: [1.23, 2.62], P = 0.024). Scoring systems for probability assessment of the presence of COVID-19 infection showed a significant correlation with the vaccination status in univariate analysis; however, the associations were attenuated after adjustment for virus variant and stage of infection. Semi-quantitative assessment of lung changes due to COVID-19 infection revealed no association with vaccination status. Non-vaccinated patients showed a two-fold higher probability of the crazy-paving pattern compared to vaccinated patients. COVID-19 variants could have a significant impact on the CT-graphic appearance of COVID-19.
Comparative quality analysis and economic feasibility of solar assisted yogurt processing unit for decentralized dairy value chain
Authors: Husnain Syed Nabeel , Munir Anjum , Amjad Waseem , Majeed Faizan , Hensel Oliver
Published: April 2023

Due to the lack of farm-gate milk processing facilities, dairy farmers have to sell raw milk, resulting in economic and quality compromises. The study compared the quality of yogurt processed in solar assisted yogurt processing unit with the existing milk value chain and its techno-economic feasibility. For this, an investigation of the experiment was executed where four different milk processing approaches were compared. The quality attributes for processed milk like fat (5.283%), solid-not-fat (9.0833%), salts (0.6833%), protein (3.8%), lactose (4.1%), total solids (14.383%), pH (6.87), density (1.031 kg/L) and freezing point (− 0.532 °C) were found within the standardized ranges. Similarly, for the case of yogurt, these attributes were found as fat (5.5%), solid-not-fat (8.683%), acidity (0.93%), lactose (4.73%), total solids (14.183%), pH (4.3433), density (1.039 kg/L) syneresis (9.87 mL/100 g), S. thermophilus count range (10.18–10.30 log cfu/mL) and L. bulgaricus count range (10.26–10.34 log cfu/mL). Moreover, no detection of coliform count in solar-processed yogurt, endorsed the current idea to perform three processes of heating, fermentation, and cooling in a single unit. Based on the energy sources utilized, the payback period was calculated to be 1.3–9 years with an expected lifespan of 15 years while in terms of product profit, the payback period was predicted to be 1.78 years. The processing cost per liter of milk for yogurt production was calculated to be 0.0189 USD. Considering CO2 emission savings, it is anticipated that a solar-powered yogurt processing unit can generate 107.73 MWh of useful energy during its operating life with zero CO2 emission.
Hybrid GWO-PSO based optimal placement and sizing of multiple PV-DG units for power loss reduction and voltage profile improvement
Authors: Alyu Assen Beshr , Salau Ayodeji Olalekan , Khan Baseem , Eneh Joy Nnenna
Published: April 2023

Distributed generation (DG) is integrated in a passive distribution system to reduce power loss, improve voltage profile, and increase power output. To reap the most benefits of the distribution system, the best location and appropriate DG size must be determined. This paper presents a hybrid Grey wolf Optimizer (GWO) and Particle swarm optimization (PSO) approach for determining the best placement and DG size while considering a multi-objective function that includes active and reactive power loss minimization as well as voltage profile enhancement. Dilla distribution system was used as a case study and the weighted technique was used to convert to a single objective function while taking into account multiple constraints such as bus voltage limit, DG output limit, and branch current limit. DG penetration is limited to up 60% of the total active load on the feeder and a forward–backward sweep load flow algorithm was used to generate the load flow solutions. The findings of the study show that combining three PV-DGs (Case 3) is the best way to improve voltage profile and minimize losses. In addition, the proposed hybrid GWO-PSO algorithm performed better compared to the other four algorithms (Grey Wolf Optimization (GWO), Whale Optimization Algorithm (WOA), Particle swarm optimization (PSO), and sine cosine algorithm (SCA)) in terms of achieving the best multi-objective function (MOF) outcome.
Analysis of intrinsic evolutionary factors leading to microendemic distributions in New Caledonian leaf beetles
Authors: Platania Leonardo , Gómez-Zurita Jesús
Published: April 2023

Microendemicity, or the condition of some species having local ranges, is a relatively common pattern in nature. However, the factors that lead to this pattern are still largely unknown. Most studies addressing this issue tend to focus on extrinsic factors associated with microendemic distributions, such as environmental conditions, hypothesising a posteriori about underlying potential speciation mechanisms, linked or not to these conditions. Here, we use a multi-faceted approach mostly focusing on intrinsic factors instead, namely diversification dynamics and speciation modes in two endemic sibling genera of leaf beetles with microendemic distributions,TaophilaandTricholapita, in a microendemicity hotspot, New Caledonia. Results suggest that the diversification rate in this lineage slowed down through most of the Neogene and consistently with a protracted speciation model possibly combined with several ecological and environmental factors potentially adding rate-slowing effects through time. In turn, species accumulated following successive allopatric speciation cycles, possibly powered by marked geological and climatic changes in the region in the last 25 million years, with daughter species ranges uncorrelated with the time of speciation. In this case, microendemicity seems to reflect a mature state for the system, rather than a temporary condition for recent species, as suggested for many microendemic organisms.
Modelling the effects of social distancing, antiviral therapy, and booster shots on mitigating Omicron spread
Authors: Lee Jongmin , Mendoza Renier , Mendoza Victoria May P. , Lee Jacob , Seo Yubin , Jung Eunok
Published: April 2023

As the COVID-19 situation changes because of emerging variants and updated vaccines, an elaborate mathematical model is essential in crafting proactive and effective control strategies. We propose a COVID-19 mathematical model considering variants, booster shots, waning, and antiviral drugs. We quantify the effects of social distancing in the Republic of Korea by estimating the reduction in transmission induced by government policies from February 26, 2021 to February 3, 2022. Simulations show that the next epidemic peak can be estimated by investigating the effects of waning immunity. This research emphasizes that booster vaccination should be administered right before the next epidemic wave, which follows the increasing waned population. Policymakers are recommended to monitor the waning population immunity using mathematical models or other predictive methods. Moreover, our simulations considering a new variant’s transmissibility, severity, and vaccine evasion suggest intervention measures that can reduce the severity of COVID-19.
Body composition predicts hypertension using machine learning methods: a cohort study
Authors: Nematollahi Mohammad Ali , Jahangiri Soodeh , Asadollahi Arefeh , Salimi Maryam , Dehghan Azizallah , Mashayekh Mina , Roshanzamir Mohamad , Gholamabbas Ghazal , Alizadehsani Roohallah , Bazrafshan Mehdi , Bazrafshan Hanieh , Bazrafshan drissi Hamed , Shariful Islam Sheikh Mohammed
Published: April 2023

We used machine learning methods to investigate if body composition indices predict hypertension. Data from a cohort study was used, and 4663 records were included (2156 were male, 1099 with hypertension, with the age range of 35–70 years old). Body composition analysis was done using bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA); weight, basal metabolic rate, total and regional fat percentage (FATP), and total and regional fat-free mass (FFM) were measured. We used machine learning methods such as Support Vector Classifier, Decision Tree, Stochastic Gradient Descend Classifier, Logistic Regression, Gaussian Naïve Bayes, K-Nearest Neighbor, Multi-Layer Perceptron, Random Forest, Gradient Boosting, Histogram-based Gradient Boosting, Bagging, Extra Tree, Ada Boost, Voting, and Stacking to classify the investigated cases and find the most relevant features to hypertension. FATP, AFFM, BMR, FFM, TRFFM, AFATP, LFATP, and older age were the top features in hypertension prediction. Arm FFM, basal metabolic rate, total FFM, Trunk FFM, leg FFM, and male gender were inversely associated with hypertension, but total FATP, arm FATP, leg FATP, older age, trunk FATP, and female gender were directly associated with hypertension. AutoMLP, stacking and voting methods had the best performance for hypertension prediction achieving an accuracy rate of 90%, 84% and 83%, respectively. By using machine learning methods, we found that BIA-derived body composition indices predict hypertension with acceptable accuracy.
Immunomodulatory effects of trans-anethole-treated Staphylococcus aureus Newman strain
Authors: Kwiatkowski Paweł , Rogulska Karolina , Pruss Agata , Sienkiewicz Monika , Dołęgowska Barbara , Wojciechowska-Koszko Iwona
Published: April 2023

In our former studies based on a human whole-blood model infected with trans-anethole (TA)-treated Staphylococcus aureus Newman strain, we have observed that selected parameters/mechanisms of innate and acquired immune response were more enhanced in comparison to samples infected with non-treated bacteria. Due to this observation, the current study aimed to evaluate the concentration of selected proteins involved in both types of responses (IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-6, IL-12, IL-17, TNF-α, IFN-γ, G-CSF, C5a, CCL1—CCL5, CXCL1, CXCL2, CXCL9—CXCL11, MMP-8, TLR2, and PGLYRP1) in healthy participants' plasma after blood stimulation of TA-treated S. aureus Newman strain. Determination of analyzed protein concentration was conducted using Luminex and ELISA assays. Based on the results, it has been proven that the immunomodulatory potential of TA-treated S. aureus Newman strain on increasing IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, IL-12, G-CSF, C5a, CCL2—CCL4, CXCL1, CXCL2, MMP-8 and PGLYRP1 levels in plasma. Moreover, it has been also demonstrated an association between TNF-α and CCL4 in a blood model infected with TA-treated cells. More research is warranted to find more underlying mechanisms involved in the effects of TA-treated S. aureus Newman in human blood, mainly whether the observed “immunity boost” can be regulated after bacteria elimination. Therefore, the potential of TA should be further explored to understand under which conditions it might help treat or prevent infections caused by S. aureus.
Functional significance of vertical free moment for generation of human bipedal walking
Authors: Negishi Takuo , Ogihara Naomichi
Published: April 2023

In human bipedal walking, the plantar surface of the foot is in contact with the floor surface, so that a vertical free moment (VFM), a torque about a vertical axis acting at the centre-of-pressure due to friction between the foot and the ground, is generated and applied to the foot. The present study investigated the functional significance of the VFM in the mechanics and evolution of human bipedal walking by analysing kinematics and kinetics of human walking when the VFM is selectively eliminated using point-contact shoes. When the VFM was selectively eliminated during walking, the thorax and pelvis axially rotated in-phase, as opposed to normal out-of-phase rotation. The amplitudes of the axial rotation also significantly increased, indicating that the VFM greatly contributes to stable and efficient bipedal walking. However, such changes in the trunk movement occurred only when arm swing was restricted, suggesting that the VFM is critical only when arm swing is restrained. Therefore, the human plantigrade foot capable of generating large VFM is possibly adaptive for bipedal walking with carrying food, corroborating with the so-called provisioning hypothesis that food carrying in the early hominins is a selective pressure for the evolution of human bipedalism.
Structural and functional analysis of the newt lymphatic system
Authors: Banda Chihena H. , Shiraishi Makoto , Mitsui Kohei , Okada Yoshimoto , Danno Kanako , Ishiura Ryohei , Maemura Kaho , Chiba Chikafumi , Mizoguchi Akira , Imanaka-Yoshida Kyoko , Maruyama Kazuaki , Narushima Mitsunaga
Published: April 2023

Regeneration competent vertebrates such as newts and salamanders possess a weakened adaptive immune system characterized by multiple connections between the lymphatic system and the blood vascular system called lymphatic hearts. The role of lymphatic vasculature and these lymphaticovenous connections in regeneration is unknown. We used in-vivo near-infrared lymphangiography, ultra-high frequency ultrasonography, micro-CT lymphangiography, and histological serial section 3-dimentional computer reconstruction to evaluate the lymphatic territories of Cynops pyrrhogaster. We used our model and supermicrosurgery to show that lymphatic hearts are not essential for lymphatic circulation and limb regeneration. Instead, newts possess a novel intraosseous network of lymphatics inside the bone expressing VEGFR-3, LYVE-1 and CD-31. However, we were unable to show Prox-1 expression by these vessels. We demonstrate that adult newt bone marrow functions as both a lymphatic drainage organ and fat reservoir. This study reveals the fundamental anatomical differences between the immune system of urodeles and mammals and provides a model for investigating lymphatics and regeneration.
Serum cobalt and chromium concentration following total hip arthroplasty: a Bayesian network meta-analysis
Authors: Migliorini Filippo , Pilone Marco , Bell Andreas , Merfort Ricarda , Giorgino Riccardo , Maffulli Nicola
Published: April 2023

The present systematic review investigated the concentration of chromium (Cr) and cobalt (Co) in serum in patients who have undergone total hip arthroplasty (THA). The first outcome of interest was to investigate the mean concentration in serum of Cr and Co using different material combinations and to verify whether their concentrations change significantly using different patterns of head and liner in THA. The second outcome of interest was to investigate whether the time elapsed from the index surgery to the follow-up, BMI, sex, and side exert an influence on the mean concentration of Cr and Co in serum in patients who have undergone THA. The following material combinations were investigated (head-liner): Ceramic-Co Cr (CoCr), CoCr-CoCr, CoCr-Polyethylene, CoCr high carbide-CoCr high carbide. Data from 2756 procedures were retrieved. The mean length of follow-up was 69.3 ± 47.7 months. The ANOVA test evidenced good comparability in age, length of follow-up, BMI, and sex (P > 0.1). In patients who have undergone THA, the mean concentration in the serum of Co ranged between 0.5 µg/L and 3.5 µg/L, and the mean concentration of Cr from 0.6 to 2.6 µg/L. The difference in the concentration of Co and Cr in serum is strictly related to the implant configuration, with the coupling CoCr-CoCr showing the highest and CoCr-Polyethylene showing the lowest concentration. Patient characteristics, BMI, sex, side and the time elapsed from the index surgery to the last follow-up did not exert a significant influence on the concentration of Co and Cr in serum in patients who have undergone total hip arthroplasty (THA).
Landscape and future directions of machine learning applications in closed-loop brain stimulation
Authors: Chandrabhatla Anirudha S. , Pomeraniec I. Jonathan , Horgan Taylor M. , Wat Elizabeth K. , Ksendzovsky Alexander
Published: April 2023

Brain stimulation (BStim) encompasses multiple modalities (e.g., deep brain stimulation, responsive neurostimulation) that utilize electrodes implanted in deep brain structures to treat neurological disorders. Currently, BStim is primarily used to treat movement disorders such as Parkinson’s, though indications are expanding to include neuropsychiatric disorders like depression and schizophrenia. Traditional BStim systems are “open-loop” and deliver constant electrical stimulation based on manually-determined parameters. Advancements in BStim have enabled development of “closed-loop” systems that analyze neural biomarkers (e.g., local field potentials in the sub-thalamic nucleus) and adjust electrical modulation in a dynamic, patient-specific, and energy efficient manner. These closed-loop systems enable real-time, context-specific stimulation adjustment to reduce symptom burden. Machine learning (ML) has emerged as a vital component in designing these closed-loop systems as ML models can predict / identify presence of disease symptoms based on neural activity and adaptively learn to modulate stimulation. We queried the US National Library of Medicine PubMed database to understand the role of ML in developing closed-loop BStim systems to treat epilepsy, movement disorders, and neuropsychiatric disorders. Both neural and non-neural network ML algorithms have successfully been leveraged to create closed-loop systems that perform comparably to open-loop systems. For disorders in which the underlying neural pathophysiology is relatively well understood (e.g., Parkinson’s, essential tremor), most work has involved refining ML models that can classify neural signals as aberrant or normal. The same is seen for epilepsy, where most current research has focused on identifying optimal ML model design and integrating closed-loop systems into existing devices. For neuropsychiatric disorders, where the underlying pathologic neural circuitry is still being investigated, research is focused on identifying biomarkers (e.g., local field potentials from brain nuclei) that ML models can use to identify onset of symptoms and stratify severity of disease.
An organic electrochemical transistor for multi-modal sensing, memory and processing
Authors: Wang Shijie , Chen Xi , Zhao Chao , Kong Yuxin , Lin Baojun , Wu Yongyi , Bi Zhaozhao , Xuan Ziyi , Li Tao , Li Yuxiang , Zhang Wei , Ma En , Wang Zhongrui , Ma Wei
Published: April 2023

By integrating sensing, memory and processing functionalities, biological nervous systems are energy and area efficient. Emulating such capabilities in artificial systems is, however, challenging and is limited by the device heterogeneity of sensing and processing cores. Here we report an organic electrochemical transistor capable of sensing, memory and processing. The device has a vertical traverse architecture and a crystalline–amorphous channel that can be selectively doped by ions to enable two reconfigurable modes: a volatile receptor and a non-volatile synapse. As a volatile receptor, the device is capable of multi-modal sensing and is responsive to stimuli such as ions and light. As a non-volatile synapse, it is capable of 10-bit analogue states, low switching stochasticity and good state retention. We also show that the homogeneous integration of the devices could provide functions such as conditioned reflexes and could be used for real-time cardiac disease diagnoses via reservoir computing.
Poisonous Tales
Authors: Hamnett Hilary
Published: April 2023

Dangerous, dark and difficult to detect, poisons have been a common character in literature from ancient times to the modern day. Their ability to perform deadly deeds at a distance is a common device for creating dramatic tension and playing on our real life fears. But what is fact and what is pure fiction?

From Shakespeare and Dickens to Hugo and Poe, the macabre world of literary poisonings is as large as it is fascinating. Utilising real forensic science Poisonous Tales explores the real science inspiring the toxins and tinctures in our favourite works. Could a poison really mimic death in Romeo and Juliet? What is the cause of the mad Hatter’s malady in Alice in Wonderland? And could a stone from the stomach of a goat really have been used as an antidote in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince? Through these and many more ‘cases’ we discover the captivating truth in the texts and how real-life tragedies can replicate themselves in fiction.
Pulse Chemistry and Technology
Authors: Tiwari Brijesh , Singh Narpinder
Published: April 2023

Like cereal, pulse processing is one of the oldest and most important of all food processing, which encompasses a diverse range of products. Pulses are widely grown throughout the world and their dietary and economic importance is globally appreciated and well recognized. Although cereal processing has several dedicated text books, no dedicated text on pulse processing is currently available for food science and technology graduates. This book aims to address this oversight, starting with a chapter highlighting the importance of pulses, their production and consumption trends. The coverage in subsequent chapters provides details on the physical and chemical characteristics of pulses, starches, proteins and minor constituents in them and then how they are processed and used. Cooking quality, analysis and the value of the food products will all be examined with the final chapter reviewing the regulatory and legislative requirements for pulses. This book will serve as a comprehensive text book for undergraduate and postgraduate students, educators, industry personnel involved with grain processing and to some extent researchers providing an up-to-date insight into pulse science, processing and technology.
Streamlining Free Radical Green Chemistry
Authors: Perchyonok Tamara , Lykakis Ioannis N. , Postigo Al
Published: April 2023

The environmental and health hazards created by industrial chemicals and consumer products must be minimized. For safer products to be designed, the relationships between structure and toxicity must be understood at the molecular level. Green chemistry combined with free radical research has the potential to offer innovative solutions to such problems.

Some solutions are "greener then others", and many necessitate significant financial investment. New technology will only be adopted if real benefit can be shown and sometimes adaptation of existing methods is the best option. The efficiency of processes must be assessed, not only in terms of the final yield, but also cost, environmental impact and waste toxicity.

This practical and concise guide showcases the sustainable methods offered by green free radical chemistry and summarizes the fundamental science involved. It discusses the pros and cons of free radical chemistry in aqueous systems for synthetic applications. All transformation steps are covered including initiation, propagation, and termination. Useful background knowledge is combined with examples, including industrial scale processes for pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals.

The book helps chemists to choose appropriate methods for achieving maximum output using a modern, environmentally conscious approach. It shows that, armed with an elementary knowledge of kinetics, an understanding of the mechanistic and technical aspects, and some common sense, it is possible to harness free radicals for use in a broad range of applications.

Streamlining Green Free Radical Chemistry is aimed at chemists, engineers, materials scientists, biochemists and biomedical experts, as well as undergraduate and postgraduate students. It encourages readers to question conventional methods and move towards the "Benign-by-Design" approach of the future. References to further reading are provided at the end of each chapter.
Lithium-ion battery recycling: a source of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) to the environment?
Authors: Rensmo Amanda , Savvidou Eleni K. , Cousins Ian T. , Hu Xianfeng , Schellenberger Steffen , Benskin Jonathan P.
Published: April 2023

PFAS are widely used in lithium-ion batteries, which may be problematic for the rapidly growing battery recycling industry.
Ginsenoside Rg1 activates brown adipose tissue to counteract obesity in high-fat diet-fed mice by regulating gut microbes and bile acid composition
Authors: Liu Yize , Jin Zheng-Yun , Wang Jun-Xia , Wang Danqi , Liu Hongye , Li Dongxu , Zhu Jun , Luo Zhao-Bo , Han Sheng-Zhong , Chang Shuang-Yan , Yang Liu-Hui , Kang Jin-Dan , Quan Lin-Hu
Published: April 2023

Ginsenoside Rg1 activates brown adipose tissue by modulating intestinal microbial and bile acid components to fight obesity in HFD-induced mice.
High-speed nanoscale optical trapping with plasmonic double nanohole aperture
Authors: Anyika Theodore , Hong Chuchuan , Ndukaife Justus C.
Published: April 2023

By harnessing thermal gradients generated in aperture plasmonic cavities and using an AC field, plasmonic double nanohole aperture tweezers can rapidly trap nanoscale particles within seconds.
Degradable flexible piezoelectric nanogenerator based on two-dimensional barium titanate nanosheets and polylactic acid
Authors: Zhao Bo , Su Yao , Xue Ruixuan , Wang Yan , Miao Lei , Yao Minggang , Yu Han , Zhao Weixing , Hu Dengwei
Published: April 2023

A high-performance, degradable flexible PNG for human motion status monitoring was manufactured from 2D plate-like BT embedded in PLA, where the high output voltage of the PNG was realised by mechanical impact deformation.
Unravelling the mechanism of CO2 activation over low-loaded Cu/CeO2(111) catalysts using operando and transient spectroscopies
Authors: Ziemba Marc , Hess Christian
Published: April 2023

Using operando and transient spectroscopies (IR, Raman, UV-Vis), low-loaded Cu/CeO2(111) catalysts were investigated with respect to their redox behavior and the importance of adsorbates for the reverse water–gas shift (rWGS) reaction.
CeO2/CuO/NiO hybrid nanostructures loaded on N-doped reduced graphene oxide nanosheets as an efficient electrocatalyst for water oxidation and non-enzymatic glucose detection
Authors: Jafari Sahar , Shaghaghi Zohreh
Published: April 2023

The CeO2/CuO/NiO@N-rGO electrocatalyst shows superior activity for water oxidation and glucose detection due to the synergetic effects between the components involved in the catalyst.
Self-assembled prebiotic amphiphile-mixture exhibits tunable catalytic properties
Authors: Mandal Raki , Ghosh Anupam , Rout Nilesh K. , Prasad Mahesh , Hazra Bibhas , Sar Sanu , Das Subrata , Datta Ayan , Tarafdar Pradip K.
Published: April 2023

An amino-acid-based prebiotic surface served as an efficient organocatalyst that exhibits regulation of catalytic function, substrate selectivity, and further adaptability during early evolution.
The influence of monomer ionization and hydrolysis on the radical polymerization kinetics of 2-(dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate in aqueous solution
Authors: Ajogbeje Opeyemi J. , Lacík Igor , Hutchinson Robin A.
Published: April 2023

The hydrolysis of non-ionized DMAEMA at pH > 6 forms ionized MAA that radically polymerizes to form a poly(MAA-co-DMAEMA) copolymer.
Correction: A novel bright cyan emitting phosphor of Eu2+ activated Ba6BO3Cl9 with robust thermal stability for full-spectrum WLED applications
Authors: Jiao Shengjian , Pang Ran , Wang Jiutian , Tan Tao , Li Chengyu , Zhang Hongjie
Published: April 2023

Correction for ‘A novel bright cyan emitting phosphor of Eu2+ activated Ba6BO3Cl9 with robust thermal stability for full-spectrum WLED applications’ by Shengjian Jiao et al., Inorg. Chem. Front., 2023, 10, 1863–1875, https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QI00015J.
A non-enzymatic electrochemical sensor based on nitrogen-doped mesoporous carbon@hydroxyl-functionalized ionic liquid composites modified electrode for the detection of fenitrothion
Authors: Liu Xinsheng , Li Yutong , Qiao Wenli , Chang Mengjun , Li Yonghong
Published: April 2023

SEM images of (a) GCE, (b) N-CMK-3/GCE, (c) N-CMK-3@IL/GCE.
Insight into the corrosion mitigation performance of three novel benzimidazole derivatives of amino acids for carbon steel (X56) in 1 M HCl solution
Authors: Yousif Qahtan A. , Fadel Zainb , Abuelela Ahmed M. , Alosaimi Eid H. , Melhi Saad , Bedair Mahmoud A.
Published: April 2023

Three organic molecules having benzimidazole were synthesized and used for protection of carbon steel (X56) from corrosion in 1.00 M HCl. They showed a maximum protective efficiency range between 95% and 98% indicating high corrosion inhibition.
Metal organic framework derived NiOxnanoparticles for application as a hole transport layer in perovskite solar cells
Authors: Ariful Islam Md. , Selvanathan Vidhya , Chelvanathan Puvaneswaran , Mottakin M. , Aminuzzaman Mohammod , Adib Ibrahim Mohd , Muhammad Ghulam , Akhtaruzzaman Md.
Published: April 2023

NiOxas a hole transport layer (HTL) has gained a lot of research interest in perovskite solar cells (PSCs), owing to its high optical transmittance, high power conversion efficiency, wide band-gap and ease of fabrication.
Trimethylaluminum-mediated one-pot peptide elongation
Authors: Hattori Tomohiro , Yamamoto Hisashi
Published: April 2023

Efficient and straightforward peptide bond formation of N-, and C-terminal unprotected amino acids was successfully achieved by using trimethylaluminum.
A focus on the use of real-world datasets for yield prediction
Authors: Bustillo Latimah , Rodrigues Tiago
Published: April 2023

A machine learning workflow is used to predict reaction yields using data in a corporate electronic laboratory notebook.
A Ni3V2O8@g-CN nanocomposite-based p-n heterojunction: mechanistic insights into photocatalytic activation of the inert C(sp3)–H bond
Authors: Verma Anjali , Jaryal Arpna , Chauhan Deepak Kumar , Battula Venugopala Rao , Sarkar Madhurima , Patra Abhijit , Kailasam Kamalakannan
Published: April 2023

A p-n heterojunction based Ni3V2O8@g-CN nanocomposite acts as photocatalyst for selective activation of inert C(sp3)–H bonds of cyclohexane to form KA-oil.
A polythiourea protective layer for stable lithium metal anodes
Authors: He Xiaoya , Liu Zhu , Yang Yulian , Wang Zhiyong , Chen Yuanmao , Zhang Qicheng , Shi Zhangqin , Tan Yihong , Yue Xinyang , Liang Zheng
Published: April 2023

A stable polythiourea-based organic–inorganic composite film was constructed to form Li3N, Li2S, and LiFin situat the LMA, endowing excellent stability to Ni-rich Li‖LiNi0.88Co0.09Mn0.03O2(NCM88) cells.
Atomically dispersed ruthenium sites with electron-rich environments in intermetallic compounds for high-current-density hydrogen evolution
Authors: Zhang Huaifang , Cheng Chuanqi , Zhou Jin , Ma Chaoqun , Shi Peidong , Wu Haoming , Yin Pengfei , Cao Wenbin , Xia Jing , Zhu Lijie , Wang An-Liang , Lu Qipeng
Published: April 2023

The electron-rich Ru sites are isolated in body-centered cubic RuGa intermetallic compounds, which reduces the energy barrier of the rate-limiting step in the HER process, thus promoting the high-current-density HER activity.
Solvents dramatically influence the atomic composition and catalytic properties of Ti3C2Tx MXenes
Authors: Novčić Katarina A. , Iffelsberger Christian , Palacios-Corella Mario , Pumera Martin
Published: April 2023

Different solvents used as dispersion media in the sample preparation of MXenes provoke changes in the material roughness and dispersibility as well as particle oxidation, resulting in different overpotential values for the catalytic hydrogen evolution reaction.
An X-ray activatable gold nanorod encapsulated liposome delivery system for mitochondria-targeted photodynamic therapy (PDT)
Authors: Gu Xuefan , Shu Tiantian , Deng Wei , Shen Chao , Wu Youshen
Published: April 2023

In this work, we developed a mitochondria-targeted nanomaterial for neoadjuvant X-ray-triggered photodynamic therapy of rectal cancer.
Bubble-propelled micro-/nanomotors of variable sizes by regulating the surface microstructure of partially coated Pt shells
Authors: Li Jiaxin , Zhai Xiangxiang , Yang Zili , Pei Ziye , Luo Ming , Guan Jianguo
Published: April 2023

In this work, we demonstrate a simple and scalable colloidal chemistry synthesis method to fabricate bubble-propelled micro-/nanomotors of variable sizes by regulating the surface microstructure of partially coated Pt shells.
Influence of the defect density on the ordering of an NHC monolayer on a silicon surface
Authors: Zielinski Robert , Das Mowpriya , Kosbab Canan , Nehring Mike Thomas , Dähne Mario , Esser Norbert , Franz Martin , Glorius Frank
Published: April 2023

We demonstrate the formation of highly ordered cyCAAC monolayers on silicon showing strong work function reductions. The grade of ordering thereby strongly depends on the surface defect density revealing an initial adsorption on defects.
Coherent interference suppression method with virtual array and multi‐stage spatial smoothing
Authors: Zhang Xingyu , Yang Xiaopeng , Qu Xiaodong , Han Bowen , Li Wolin , Zhang Zhengyan
Published: April 2023

In the presence of coherent interference, adaptive beamforming algorithm fails to form nulls in the direction of interference, leading to cancellation of expect signal. To address this issue, this paper proposes a coherent interference suppression method with virtual array and multi‐stage spatial smoothing (MSS). In the proposed method, the adaptive weight acquired by the spatial smoothing (SS) algorithm is applied to all subarrays to generate a virtual array. Another adaptive weight is then acquired from the virtual array using the SS algorithm and applied to all subarrays of the virtual array to generate another virtual array. The process is iterated until there are insufficient array elements for SS. The proposed method can deeply break the correlation between expect signal and coherent interference and form deep nulls in the direction of coherent interference.
A low‐power NPN‐based band‐gap voltage reference in an ultra‐wide temperature range
Authors: Xue Weidong , Zhang Yiseng , Fang Jian , Ren Junyan
Published: April 2023

A low‐power negative‐positive‐negative (NPN)‐based bandgap voltage reference (BGR) over an ultra‐wide temperature range is presented. The conventional NPN‐based BGRs cannot maintain a low‐temperature coefficient (TC) with low power consumption in an ultra‐wide temperature range due to its inherent reverse junction saturation current of NPN bipolar junction transistors (BJT) in the high‐temperature range. This work introduces a new NPN‐based BGR unaffected by such saturation current. Based on Vanguard International Semiconductor Corporation (VIS) 0.18 μm/0.15 μm complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) Bipolar‐CMOS‐DMOS (BCD) process, the BGR receives the best 1.25‐mV deviation over the temperature range of −40°C to 150°C, much less than 38.5 mV from Brokaw‐type BGR. Meanwhile, the proposed BGR with the stacked NPNs for higher output voltage was fabricated. It consumes about 2 uA from a 5‐V power supply, and its average temperature coefficient is 14.89 ppm/°C. Also, the average line sensitivity is 0.039%/V.
Fast and precise underwater transducer characterisation utilising adaptive system identification
Authors: Kaulen Bastian , Schmidt Gerhard
Published: April 2023

Characterising underwater acoustic transducers is essential to optimal signal processing in sound navigation and ranging systems. Precise characterisation allows for equalisation of the input and output hardware, resulting in improved performance of the overall system. A critical quantity of the characterisation is the impulse response of the underwater transducers, which are usually measured in a special low‐noise water tank. An established method in other fields to estimate impulse responses of unknown systems is using adaptive filters and include an inherent quality measure. Such approaches allow for very fast and very reliable measurements. However, when using fixed control parameters, a trade‐off between convergence speed and final mismatch needs to be found, which can be eliminated using variable control parameters. In this article, a method for determining an optimal step size for adaptive algorithms based on the normalised least mean square method is derived based on a theoretical analysis of the convergence process by taking the reverberation parameters of such measurement tanks into account. The new method is specialised on the application of underwater transducer characterisation and allows a very reliable approximation of the optimal step size and thus a maximally fast adaption behaviour—leading to a very short measurement time. This is firstly shown in simulations and afterwards demonstrated in a real measurement with unknown transducers in a measurement water tank.
Mechanism and control of uneven cooling on the surface crack defects in multi-mode continuous casting-rolling line
Authors: Luo Yanzhao , Wang Shengdong , Zhang Congcong , Wang Hao , Ma Shuo , Liu Yanqiang , Ji Chenxi
Published: April 2023

When the thin slab caster produces low-carbon steel, the uneven cooling alarm can easily occur at both sides of the nozzle in the thermal image, and there are cracks at the corresponding positions where the uneven cooling occurs. The causes of uneven cooling are studied, and the mechanism of uneven cooling causing surface cracks is proposed. The results show that the generation of uneven cooling is greatly related to the carbon content of molten steel, the thickness of the copper plate, and the hydrogen content. The surface roughness method shows that the uneven cooling index increases with the increase of carbon content. The uneven cooling index gradually increases with the decrease of the copper plate thickness. When the copper plate thickness is less than 41 mm, the uneven cooling index of the mold increases from the 1.1 to about 14.7. With the increase of H content, the uneven cooling index increases. When H exceeds 7 ppm, the uneven cooling index can reach 14.5. By adopting reasonable and effective control measures, the uneven cooling index of the mold is significantly reduced from 3.85 to 0.73, and the surface crack defects in multi-mode continuous casting-rolling line are effectively alleviated.
Analysing a lean manufacturing inventory system with price-sensitive demand and carbon control policies
Authors: Lalremruati Lalremruati , Khanna Aditi
Published: April 2023

Production lot-sizing techniques used by lean practitioners to lower waste inventories and increase production efficiency in the manufacturing industry, are the subject of this paper’s speculation. Lean manufacturing aims to incorporate innovative tools into the manufacturing process to improve productivity and reduce processing time. In view of this, the model anticipates a flexible production rate based on labor, energy, and tool/die costs, to meet the demand while minimizing wastage. Moreover, a discrete investment in set-up costs is considered to lower the initial set-up cost since it is a critical component of smooth manufacturing operations. Further, it is found that price plays a significant role in stimulating a product’s demand; consequently, demand is presumed to be price-sensitive. Besides this, to reduce the carbon footprint in the production systems, two methods namely “Carbon tax” and “Cap-and-trade”, have been employed. The purpose of the developed model is to maximize total profit by jointly optimizing the production rate, selling price, and set-up cost. Numerical experiments are performed to validate the model findings. Results suggest that manufacturers’ production time decreases simultaneously with the introduction of advanced labor and technologies. With respect to carbon policies, the cap-and-trade policy performs better with an increase in total profit and a higher production rate as compared to a carbon tax. Also, sensitivity analysis is performed to support the manufacturer in the decision-making process for ancillary benefits of the optimal policy.
Intrahepatische Schwangerschaftscholestase – eine
(juck-)reizvolle Herausforderung in der Geburtshilfe
Authors: Hagenbeck Carsten , Zöllkau Janine , Hergt Annemarie
Published: April 2023

Juckreiz – ein unspezifisches Symptom, das jede Hebamme ernst zu nehmen
weiß. Denn: Die auslösenden Erkrankungen zu übersehen,
kann fatale Folgen haben. Während der Schwangerschaft auftretender
Juckreiz in Verbindung mit erhöhten Gallensäure- oder
Leberwerten ist mögliches Anzeichen einer intrahepatischen
Schwangerschaftscholestase.
Reducing Therapeutic Duplication in Inpatient Medication Orders
Authors: E. Dawson Thomas , Beus Jonathan , W. Orenstein Evan , Umontuen Uwem , McNeill Denice , Kandaswamy Swaminathan
Published: April 2023

Background Therapeutic duplication, the presence of multiple agents prescribed for the same indication without clarification for when each should be used, can contribute to serious medical errors. Joint Commission standards require that orders contain clarifying information about when each order should be given. In our system, as needed (PRN) acetaminophen and ibuprofen orders are major contributors to therapeutic duplication.

Objective The objective of this study is to design and evaluate effectiveness of clinical decision support (CDS) to reduce therapeutic duplication with acetaminophen and ibuprofen orders.

Methods This study was done in a pediatric health system with three freestanding hospitals. We iteratively designed and implemented two CDS strategies aimed at reducing the therapeutic duplication with these agents: (1) interruptive alert prompting clinicians for clarifying PRN comments at order entry and (2) addition of discrete “first-line” and “second-line” PRN reasons to orders. Therapeutic duplications were measured by manual review of orders for 30-day periods before and after each intervention and 6 months later.

Results Therapeutic duplications decreased from 1,485 in the 30 days prior to the first alert implementation to 818 in the 30 days after but rose back to 1,208 in the 30 days prior to the second intervention. After discrete reasons were added to the order, therapeutic duplication decreased to 336 in the immediate 30 days and 6 months later remained at 277. Alerts firing rates decreased from 76.0 per 1,000 PRN acetaminophen or ibuprofen orders to 42.9 after the second intervention.

Conclusion Interruptive alerts may reduce therapeutic duplication but are associated with high rates of user frustration and alert fatigue. Leveraging discrete PRN reasons for “first line” and “second line” produced a greater reduction in therapeutic duplication as well as fewer interruptive alerts and less manual entry for providers.
Clinical Outcome in Patients with Large Sinonasal Tumors with Intracranial Extension
Authors: Keizer Max E. , Hovinga Koos E. , Lacko Martin , Eekers Danielle B.P. , Baijens Laura W.J. , Kremer Bernd , Temel Yasin
Published: April 2023

Objectives Malignant tumors of the sinonasal cavities with extension to the frontal skull base are rare and challenging pathologies. Combined-approach surgery using a frontobasal craniotomy and endoscopic sinus surgery with reconstruction of the anterior skull base followed by adjuvant radiotherapy is a preferred treatment strategy in selected cases. Morbidity and mortality rates are high in this population. We aim to add our experience to the current literature.

Design We performed a retrospective cross-sectional single center study of the long-term clinical outcome in a tertiary university referral hospital in the Netherlands between 2010 and 2021. Descriptive statistics and frequency distributions were performed

Participants Patient, tumor, treatment, complications and survival characteristics of eighteen consecutive patients were extracted from the electronic health records.

Main Outcome Measures The primary outcome measures are progression free survival, overall survival and complication rate.

Results Eighteen consecutive patients were included with a mean age of 61 (SD ± 10) years (range 38-80); ten males and eight females. Gross total resection was achieved in 14 (77%) patients. Eleven (61%) patients underwent local radiotherapy, one (5%) chemotherapy and three (17%) a combination of both. Mean follow-up duration was 49 months (range 3 – 138). Three (17%) patients died in hospital due to post-operative complications. Six (33%) patients died during follow-up due to disease progression. Mean progression-free survival was 47 months (range 0 – 113).

Conclusion In conclusion, the overall survival was 50% for this group of patients with large sinonasal tumors. Progressive disease affects survival rate severely. Surgical complications were seen in five (28%) patients. Radiotherapy is associated with high complication rates. Radiation necrosis was a serious complication in two patients and could be treated with high dose steroids.
Frontotemporal Orbitozygomatic Transcavernous Approach: Stepwise Cadaveric Dissection for a Safe Corridor
Authors: Corecha Santos Romel , Gupta Bhavika , Dabecco Rocco , Santiago Raphael Bastianon , Kaye Brandon , Borghei-Razavi Hamid , Adada Badih
Published: April 2023

Background Advances in skull base surgery have increased the need for a detailed understanding of skull base anatomy and its intrinsic relationship to surrounding structures. This has resulted in an improvement in patient outcomes. The frontotemporal orbitozygomatic (FTOZ) transcavernous approach (TCA) is an excellent option for treating complex lesions involving multiple compartments of the skull base, including the sellar and parasellar, third ventricle, orbit, and petroclival region.

Objective This article aimed to provide a detailed cadaveric dissection accompanying a thorough procedure description, including some tips and pitfalls of this technique.

Methods Microsurgical dissection was performed in four freshly injected cadaver heads at the Cranial Base Neuroanatomy Laboratory, Cleveland Clinic Florida. The FTOZ TCA was performed on both sides of the four specimens. The advantages and disadvantages were discussed based on the anatomic nuances of this approach.

Results The FTOZ TCA represented a wide access to the anterior, middle, and posterior fossa. When combined with an anterior clinoidectomy, it allowed for significant and safe internal carotid artery mobilization. This approach created numerous windows, including opticocarotid, carotid-oculomotor, supratrochlear, infratrochlear, anteromedial, anterolateral, and posteromedial triangles. The only drawback was the length of the dissection and the level of surgical acumen required to perform it.

Conclusion Despite its technical difficulty, the FTOZ TCA should be considered for the surgical management of basilar apex aneurysms and tumors surrounding the cavernous sinus, sellar/parasellar, retrochiasmatic, and petroclival region. Continuous training and dedicated time in the skull base laboratory can help achieve the necessary skills required to perform this approach.