bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
História e retórica na análise do proêmio da obra Guerra persa
Authors: Vasconcelos Baptista Lyvia
Published: June 2017

A redescoberta da retórica no cenário acadêmico ocasionou uma ampliação do sentido hermenêutico agregado ao termo, revelando seu potencial como teoria da compreensão dos discursos. O objetivo deste artigo é apresentar a leitura retórica como possibilidade de abordagem do documento histórico, a partir da interpretação do proêmio da obra Guerra Persa, cuja autoria remete-se a Procópio de Cesaréia, no século VI d.C. 
Sexto Empírico: ética, linguagem e epistemologia do século II d.C. em Alexandria
Authors: De Brito Rodrigo Pinto
Published: June 2017

Este artigo trata dos seguintes tópicos da filosofia cética de modalidade pirrônica: ética, linguagem e epistemologia, conforme pensados pelo médico alexandrino do século II d.C. Sexto Empírico, seu principal expoente. Recorremos à interpretação de Myles F. Burnyeat, Michael Frede e Jonathan Barnes para elucidar a questão da viabilidade prática da vida cética, problema que tem sido a principal réplica ao ceticismo desde o ataque cético à filosofia da Stoa. Levando então em consideração o acirrado debate ocorrido entre as principais filosofias do período Helenístico, propusemos uma investigação sobre como se articulam o problema do conhecimento e de sua aquisição, da filosofia prática e da atitude discursiva do cético para compreender a réplica de Sexto ao argumento de que o cético se auto-refuta.

Sextus Empiricus: ethics, language and epistemology of the second century a.C. in Alexandria

Abstract

This paper deals with the following topics of the sceptical philosophy of the Pyrrhonic kind: ethics, language and epistemology, as thought by the Alexandrian medic of the second century A.C. Sextus Empiricus, which was the main exponent of the Pyrrhonism. We use the interpretations of Myles F. Burnyeat, Michael Frede and Jonathan Barnes to elucidate the problem of the practical viability of the sceptical life, which has been the main reply to the scepticism since the sceptical attack to the Stoic philosophy. Considering then the strained debate happened between the main philosophies of the Hellenistic period, we propose an investigation about how the problem of the knowledge and his acquisition articulates himself with the problems of the practical philosophy and of the sceptical’s discursive attitude, this all is necessary to comprehend the Sextus’ reply to the argument of the sceptical self-refutation.

Keywords: practical philosophy; knowledge; Sextus Empiricus; Pyrrhonism 
Camellia (Theaceae) classification with support vector machines based on fractal parameters and Red, Green, and Blue intensity of leaves
Authors: Jiang W. , Tao Z. M. , Wu Z G. , Mantri N. , Lu H. F. , Liang Z. S.
Published: June 2017

Leaf traits are commonly used in plant taxonomic applications. The aim of this study was to test the utility of fractal leaf parameters analysis (FA) and leaf red, green, and blue (RGB) intensity values based on support vector machines as a method for accurately discriminating Camellia (68 species from five sections, 11 from sect. Furfuracea, 13 from sect. Paracamellia, 15 from sect. Tuberculata, 24 from sect. Theopsis and 5 from sect. Camellia). The results showed that the best classification accuracy as up to 96.88% using the RBF SVM classifier (C = 16, g = 0.5). The linear kernel overall accuracy was 90.63%, and the correct classification rates of 40.63% and 93.75% were achieved for the sigmoid SVM classifier (C = 16, g = 0.5) and the polynomial SVM classifier (C = 16, g = 0.5, d = 2), respectively. A hierarchical dendrogram based on leaf FA and RGB intensity values was mostly on agreement with the generally accepted classification of the Camellia species. SVM combined with FA and RGB may be used for rapidly and accurately classifying Camellia species and identifying unknown genotypes.Keywords: Camellia; Classification; Fractal analysis; RGB; SVM.Bangladesh J. Plant Taxon. 24(1): 6581, 2017 (June)
Test Development Strategies Used by Saudi In-Service Teachers of English as a School Subject
Authors: S. Al-fallay Ibrahim
Published: June 2017

This study investigates how in-service teachers of English as a school subject (ESS) in Saudi schools deal with test construction, administration, and score analyses. To answer the study’s questions, a 60-item questionnaire was constructed according to the suggestions and recommendations of language testing specialists reported in the literature. The questionnaire was built according to seven dimensions: specifications/blueprints, test writing, moderation, test administration, scoring, analyses of students’ scores, and item banking. 199 female and male intermediate and high ESS teachers in Saudi schools, with different years of experience in teaching English, completed the questionnaire. The findings indicated that ESS teachers in Saudi schools do not usually follow suggested recommendations pertinent to the above-mentioned dimensions. Their tests are written without planned specifications or clear blueprints. Besides, ESS teachers- regardless of their gender, years of experience, or the level they teach- rarely moderate their tests. They rarely analyze their student test scores or store good testing items in an item bank for future use. The study provides suggestions and recommendations to improve the current situation. Workshops, seminars, and on-the-job training should be conducted. Academic departments in Saudi universities responsible for English teacher preparation programs should introduce courses related to language testing if they do not have any or increase their numbers if they already have some. The study concludes with suggestions for future research.
Impact of M&A Announcement on Stock Returns of Acquirer Companies: New Evidence from Indian Stock Market
Authors: Vij Richa
Published: June 2017

Mergers and Acquisitions (M&As) are often used as preferred tools of corporate structuring to serve a variety of business objectives and add value for the shareholders. Earlier studies have triggered a number of questions regarding the impact of M&As for the shareholders of acquiring companies. This paper focuses on the M&A among Indian companies and the response of the Indian capital market to such attempts as reflected in the changes in the stock return for different window periods close the M&A announcement. The findings of the present study suggest that there is significant impact of M&A announcement on stock returns for almost half of the sample acquirer companies. The study offers evidence in support of the contention that Indian stock market is not efficient in the semi-strong form with respect to M&A announcement information for acquirer companies and emphasizes that  investment analyst cannot ignore the information regarding the M&A deals.
Development and Testing of Gluten-Free Pasta Based on Rice, Quinoa and Amaranth Flours
Authors: Makdoud Sarah , Rosentrater Kurt A.
Published: June 2017

The goal of this study was to make high quality gluten-free pasta using amaranth, quinoa and rice flours, water and eggs using extrusion processing, and to compare these with gluten-free pasta already commercialized. The difficulty was to reproduce the texture provided by the gluten network without using gluten. To do that, an experimental design was created in order to make samples with different quantities of each grain, egg whites and water. Samples were manufactured and various tests (e.g., color analysis, water activity, cooking loss, texture, etc.) were carried out in order to find the best formulation, namely the formulation which was closest to Barilla or Andean dream gluten-free commercial pasta. With Rcommander software, results were analyzed and it was determined that the best pasta formulation was 10% amaranth flour, 40% quinoa flour, and 50% rice flour, with 18% eggs whites and 39% water. This optimal formulation was manufactured and subjected to sensory analysis with other commercial samples (Barilla, Andean Dream). Statistical analyses were conducted and it was shown that, even though this formulation did not quite achieve Barilla or Andean Dream pastas quality, it approached closely in some parameters. Indeed, 80% of consumers did not refuse to eat this pasta again, and with addition of tomato sauce, no differences were seen between the spaghettis. However, individual sample analysis did indicate that consumers did not appreciate the formulation’s sticky texture, thus this parameter would have to be reworked to achieve higher quality.
Number of Facial Hair Corresponds to Frequency of Spontaneous Face‐Touch in Humans
Authors: Grunwald Martin , Pasatu Welda P. M. , Spille Jente , Haensel Rene , Stieler Jens , Holzer Max , Ziemer Mirjana , Butz Kevin H.G. , Martin Sven , Mueller Stephanie Margarete , Morawski Markus
Published: October 2024

People all over the world, independent of their culture or background, touch their faces up to 800 times per day. No other part of the body is touched as often as the face. Forehead, nose, and chin—the so‐called T‐zone of the face—are touched particularly frequently during spontaneous facial self‐touches (sFST). It is hypothesized that there is a relationship between the density of mechanoreceptors (inferred from facial hair distribution) and the frequency of spontaneous self‐touching. In order to indirectly measure the density of mechanoreceptors (cutaneous end organ complexes), the number of vellus and terminal hairs at 40 different measuring points on the face of 30 (15f/15m) healthy volunteers in study A is determined. In study B, the frequency of sFST at the same 40 measuring points in 66 (32f/34m) healthy persons is determined. Study A reveals that the number of facial hairs—in both sexes—is higher in the T‐zone than in other areas of the face. Study B reveals that the T‐zone is touched more frequently than other areas of the face. Skin areas of the face with a higher number of vellus hairs (and presumably higher innervation density) are touched particularly frequently during sFST.
All‐Paper‐Based, Flexible, and Bio‐Degradable Pressure Sensor with High Moisture Tolerance and Breathability Through Conformally Surface Coating
Authors: Li Ao , Xu Jun , Zhou Shengtao , Zhang Zhaohui , Cao Daxian , Wang Bin , Gao Wenhua , Zhang Wei , Zhang Fengshan
Published: October 2024

Highlighted with bio‐degradability, paper‐based flexible pressure sensors receive significant attention in the field of wearable devices for a sustainable future. However, it remains a challenge to possess considerable sensing performance in high humidity and underwater environments, because its structure rapidly breaks down after the hydrophilic cellulose absorbs water. In this study, a facile chemical vapor deposition method is employed to conformally coat a thin hydrophobic layer onto the cellulose fibers, resulting in an encapsulating paper with high moisture tolerance. The well‐maintained porous structure reserves the superior breathability of the paper. A micro‐convex‐structured sensor layer impregnated with MXene serves as the sensing layer. As a result, an all‐paper‐based pressure sensor with high moisture tolerance and breathability is fabricated. This sensor features a broad sensing range (0–60 kPa), acceptable sensitivities (39.58 kPa−1 (0–1.01 kPa), 11.95 kPa−1 (1.01–60 kPa)), a low detection limit of ≈2.8 Pa, response and recovery time (93 and 69 ms), reliable hydrophobic breathability, and excellent repeatability (10 000 cycles). Moreover, this sensor can be safely worn on human skin and can monitor physiological signals in real‐time in different environments (including air, humid environments, and even underwater), providing a reliable, economical, and environmentally friendly solution for wearable technology.
Flexible Triboelectric Sensor based on Catalyst‐Diffusion Self‐Encapsulated Conductive Liquid‐Metal‐Silicone Ink for Somatosensory Soft Robotic System
Authors: Xian Shuai , Xu Yong , Li Yixin , Wu Zhenfeng , Xie Xing , Wu Zhigang , Yang Xiya , Zhong Yong
Published: October 2024

The combination of fluidity and metallic conductivity has attracted considerable attention to liquid metal (LM), but its development remains challenging due to enormous surface tension. Here, vinyl‐terminated silicone oil and platinum catalyst are added to LM to reduce its surface tension, which develops a special type of liquid‐metal‐silicone (LMS) ink with a catalyst diffusion effect. Combined with an embedded three‐dimentional (3D) printing method, the LMS ink is printed on the support matrix, and the catalyst diffuses outward along the print path to cure the silicone around it, directly constructing self‐encapsulated conductive composites with excellent conductivity and self‐encapsulated flexible tactile sensors based on triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG). The sensor exhibits excellent sensitivity (0.308 V kPa−1), high linearity (≈0.99), and good durability (over 10 000 cycles). Furthermore, when used in flexible wearable electronics, the sensor demonstrates a good performance with an accuracy of ≈96% in classifying different human postures using a convolutional neural network. Finally, through embedded 3D printing with LMS ink and silicone ink, a somatosensory soft robotic gripper with complex cavity structures is designed and manufactured in one step, achieving the all‐in‐one integration of sensors and actuators. This study shows great application potential in flexible electronics and soft robotic systems.
Vertically‐Aligned GaS Nanosheets‐Based Photoelectrochemical Photodetector for Fast‐Speed, High‐Sensitivity, and Self‐Powered UV–vis Underwater Optical Communication
Authors: Liu Jinhong , Zhou Yixuan , Shao Panpan , Ma Nan , Jia Le , Wang Yijie , Zhao Hongze , Lu Chunhui , Xu Xinlong
Published: October 2024

Underwater optical communication (UOC) based on the novel photoelectrochemical (PEC) type photodetector has garnered substantial interest in the field of marine resource exploration and ocean investigation due to its strong operability, self‐powered capability, and large sensitive area in harsh underwater environments. To achieve high sensitivity, fast transmission speed, and broadband response characteristics, vertical‐GaS nanosheets‐based PEC photodetectors are prepared by chemical vapor deposition for UOC application. The GaS based PEC photodetector exhibits excellent self‐powered photodetection and a broad UV–vis photoresponse range as well as high stability performance in both Na2SO4 electrolyte and seawater. Notably, it also demonstrates an exceptional photoresponsivity of 11 mA W−1 coupled with a fast response and recovery time of 12.9 and 13 µs which are superior to those of 2D layered materials and conventional wide‐bandgap semiconductors. These improvements are mainly due to the large surface area, short diffusion length, as well as high carrier mobility of vertically‐oriented GaS nanosheets. Strikingly, the constructed GaS photodetector showcases a broad bandwidth exceeding the −3 dB cutoff frequency of 55.3 kHz during UOC testing, successfully enabling transmission and decoding of character information. This work establishes the groundwork for developing high‐performance, self‐powered UV–vis photodetectors adaptable to UOC using PEC technology.
Multiplexed Piezoelectric Electronic Skin with Haptic Feedback for Upper Limb Prosthesis
Authors: Awais Muhammad , AliAbbasi Easa , Atik Abdulkadir Yasin , Bathaei Mohammad Javad , Ali Mohsin , Das Ritu , Dag Cagdas , Ullah Azmat , Singh Rahul , Turker Kemal Sitki , Basdogan Cagatay , Beker Levent
Published: October 2024

Upper limb amputation severely impairs tactile perception, limiting daily activities. Developing a near‐natural replacement with prosthetic devices requires improving user sensory experiences during object interactions. The ideal upper limb prosthesis should provide real‐time sensory feedback, mirroring natural experiences. Current prostheses struggle with providing adequate tactile feedback due to sensory limitations. Inspired by the sensory properties of skin, we present a micro‐fabricated, multiplexed electronic skin (e‐skin) with actuators for sensory feedback in upper limb amputation. The piezoelectric‐capacitive sensor array detects static pressure, temperature, vibration, and texture, with integrated actuators stimulating the skin to provide real‐time feedback. The sensors integrate with actuators via readout electronics, making the system standalone and easy to use. The flexible, compact sensor array design (two pixels within a 1 cm² footprint) detects a wide range of pressure (0.5–10 kPa), temperature (22–60 °C), vibration (35–100 Hz), and texture (2.5–45 Hz), suitable for daily use. The e‐skin, attached to a prosthetic finger, is tested for feasibility on human volunteers with wrist‐mounted actuators. Statistics are used to quantitatively assess system performance. The integration of multiplexed sensors and actuators enhances tactile feedback, improving the quality of life for people with upper limb amputations.
Highly Stable and Efficient N‐I‐P Structured Tin‐Rich Lead‐Tin Halide Perovskite Solar Cells with Blended Hole‐Transporting Materials
Authors: Risqi Andi Muhammad , Hu Manman , Chen Liang , Park Byung‐wook , Park Jaewang , Kim Jongbeom , Yang Zuobao , Seok Sang Il
Published: October 2024

Mixed lead‐tinv halide (LTH) perovskite solar cells (LTH‐PSCs) can reduce the toxicity concerns of full lead‐based PSCs and potentially optimize the bandgap to maximize efficiency. However, commonly used hole‐transporting material (HTM) 2,2′,7,7′‐tetrakis(N,N‐di‐p‐methoxyphenyl‐amine)9,9′‐spirobifluorene (Spiro‐OMeTAD) with additional dopants Li‐bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl) imide (Li‐TFSI) and 4‐tert‐butylpyridine (t‐BP) deteriorate oxidation Sn2+ to Sn4+ leading to trap formation. Here, the study introduces a novelty Sn‐friendly HTM for Sn‐rich LTH‐PSCs, combining Spiro‐OMeTAD with 4‐Isopropyl‐4′‐methyldiphenyliodonium tetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)borate (dpi‐TPFB) as a dopant and blended with poly(3‐hexylthiophene‐2,3‐diyl) (P3HT). This blended HTM avoids the harmful effects of Li‐TFSI and t‐BP dopants and leverages the beneficial hydrophobic properties of P3HT, which predominantly resides on the surface with a face‐on orientation. This arrangement not only enhances charge transport and extraction but also improves device stability by protecting the perovskite from environmental factors. Optimizing the P3HT concentration of blended HTM achieved a PCE of 17.27%, the highest reported for n‐i‐p structured Sn‐rich mixed LTH‐PSCs. This HTM also significantly improved device stability, maintaining over 90% of the initial PCE after 3000 h of storage and 80% under maximum power point tracking (MPPT) for 550 h in the air.
Conjugate Addition of 3‐Aryl Oxindoles to In Situ Generated o–Quinone Methides Without Essential Electronic or Steric Groups
Authors: Song Liu
Published: October 2024

Herein an efficient method for in situ generated o–quinone methides without essential electronic or steric groups at the exocyclic methylene or on six‐membered ring was established. The method relies on acetylation of salicylylols and subsequently base promoted 1,4‐elimination. The in situ generated o–quinone methides could be undergoing conjugate addition with 3‐aryl oxindoles in one‐pot reaction system, which provided 3,3‐disubstituted oxindoles bearing a quaternary stereocenter in good yields (up to 99 %).
Fabrication of Hierarchical Nanostructures Featuring Amplified Asymmetry Through Co‐Assembly of Liquid Crystalline Block Copolymer and Chiral Amphiphiles
Authors: Lu Yue , Ren Yangge , Gao Juanjuan , Cai Tiantian , Liu Linyuan , Ding Yi , Xie Qingbin , Jia Lin
Published: October 2024

The widespread presence of hierarchical asymmetric structures in nature has sparked considerable interest because of their unique functionalities. These ingenious structures across multiple scales often emerge from the transfer and amplification of asymmetry from chiral molecules under various synergistic effects. However, constructing artificial chiral asymmetric structures, particularly in developing hierarchical multicomponent structures analogous to those formed in nature through synergistic non‐covalent interactions, still presents tremendous challenges. Herein, we propose a co‐assembly strategy to fabricate hierarchical chiral mesostructures by combining a liquid crystalline block copolymer (LC‐BCP) with a small molecular amphiphile containing chiral alanine or phenylalanine as a linker. Through a classic solvent‐exchange process, chiral amphiphiles embedded within LC‐BCP finely regulate the LC ordering effect and facilitate transfer and amplification of asymmetry. Consequently, various co‐assembled structures with significant hierarchical chirality features are obtained through synergetic effects. Remarkably, subtle alterations to the side groups of amino acids in the amphiphiles effectively adjust the hierarchical morphology transition. Moreover, the covalent bonding sequence of amino acids in the amphiphiles emerges as a critical factor governing the formation of hierarchical nanofibers and multilayered vesicles exhibiting a superhelical sense.
Suppressing Energy Migration via Antiparallel Spin Alignment in One‐Dimensional Mn2+ Halide Magnets with High Luminescence Efficiency
Authors: Zhu Xinglu , Yan Xiaohui , Kang Enze , Han Yibo , Yin Congling , Ye Shi
Published: October 2024

Photoexcited energy migration is prone to causing luminescence quenching in Mn2+ luminescent materials, presenting a formidable challenge for optoelectronic applications. Although various strategies and mechanisms have been proposed to mitigate this issue, the role of spin alignment between adjacent Mn2+ ions has remained largely unexamined. In this study, we have elucidated the influence of spin alignment on energy migration within the one‐dimensional Mn2+‐metal halide compound (CH3)4NMnCl3 (TMMC) through variable‐temperature photoluminescence (PL) and magnetic‐optical spectroscopy. This investigation was conducted with reference to (CH6N3)2MnCl4 (GUA) with isolated [Mn3Cl12]6− trimers and Cd2+‐doped TMMC. The spin order in TMMC below approximately 55 K is demonstrated by the disorder‐order transition observed in the temperature‐dependent magnetic susceptibility. This finding is further corroborated by the negligible shift in the temperature‐ and field‐dependent emission peaks, a consequence of magnetic saturation. Our results indicate that the antiparallel spin alignment along the Mn2+ chain in TMMC effectively suppresses energy migration and multiphonon relaxation, thereby reducing nonradiative transitions and enhancing the photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY). This research casts new light on the potential for developing high‐performance Mn2+‐doped phosphors for optoelectronic and spin‐photonic applications, offering insights into the manipulation of spin and energy dynamics in these materials.
Robustness of linear time‐invariant systems with feedback control protocols under random disturbances
Authors: Wen Shifan , Zhang Wanpeng , Fang Wenxiang
Published: October 2024

In this paper, the robustness of global exponentially stable (ES) linear time‐invariant (LTI) systems with feedback control protocols is examined under the influence of random disturbances (RDs). For a given LTI system with global ES, a state feedback (SF) control protocol and a output feedback (OF) control protocol are proposed to keep the robustness of the discussed system, respectively. Meanwhile, how much the intensity of RDs that LTI system can withstand is obtained by the transcendental equation, in which the feedback gains are also designed and calculated by a proposed iterative algorithm. The theoretical analysis results demonstrate that the perturbed LTI systems may remain ES when the RDs are smaller than the upper bounds obtained in this paper. Finally, three cases are proposed to illustrate the effectiveness of the theoretical research.
The hanging‐heart chip: A portable microfluidic device for high‐throughput generation of contractile embryonic stem cell‐derived cardiac spheroids
Authors: Lai Pei‐Tzu , He Cheng‐Kun , Li Chi‐Han , Matahum Jefunnie , Tang Chia‐Yu , Hsu Chia‐Hsien
Published: October 2024

Stem cell‐derived cardiac spheroids are promising models for cardiac research and drug testing. However, generating contracting cardiac spheroids remains challenging because of the laborious experimental procedure. Here, we present a microfluidic hanging‐heart chip (HH‐chip) that uses a microchannel and flow‐driven system to facilitate cell loading and culture medium replacement operations to reduce the laborious manual handling involved in the generation of a large quantity of cardiac spheroids. The effectiveness of the HH‐chip was demonstrated by simultaneously forming 50 mouse embryonic stem cell‐derived embryonic bodies, which sequentially differentiated into 90% beating cardiac spheroids within 15 days of culture on the chip. A comparison of our HH‐chip method with traditional hanging‐drop and low‐attachment plate methods revealed that the HH‐chip could generate higher contracting proportions of cardiac spheroids with higher expression of cardiac markers. Additionally, we verified that the contraction frequencies of the cardiac spheroids generated from the HH‐chip were sensitive to cardiotoxic drugs. Overall, our results suggest that the microfluidic hanging drop chip‐based approach is a high‐throughput and highly efficient method for generating contracting mouse embryonic stem cell‐derived cardiac spheroids for cardiac toxicity and drug testing applications.
Association of various RAS codon mutations and prognostic outcomes of patients with colorectal liver metastases after hepatectomy
Authors: Wu Xiao‐Gang , Liu Wei , Wang Yan‐Yan , Wang Kun , Xing Bao‐Cai
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The prognostic and predictive value of RAS mutations in patients with colorectal liver metastases (CRLM) who have undergone hepatectomy holds substantial importance. The present study aimed to investigate the impact of different RAS codon mutations on long‐term survival in CRLM patients.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on clinicopathological data from 399 CRLM patients with RAS mutations who underwent hepatectomy between January 2000 and December 2020. The RAS mutation gene status was assessed in KRAS codons (G12, G13, Q61, and A146) and NRAS codons (G12, G13, and Q61). Survival curves were generated using the Kaplan–Meier plotter and compared using the log‐rank test. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to analyze the clinicopathological data.

Results

In the entire cohort, patients with KRAS G12 mutations exhibited the most favorable prognosis (p = 0.018). Comparatively, patients harboring KRAS Q61 mutations experienced poorer overall survival (OS) with a median of 15 months versus 33 months (p = 0.011) when compared to those with KRAS G12 mutations. Moreover, patients with NRAS Q61 mutations also showed decreased OS with a median of 26 months versus 33 months (p = 0.020) in comparison to KRAS G12 mutation patients. The results of multivariate analysis showed that both KRAS Q61 mutation (HR 2.130; 95% CI 1.088–4.168; p = 0.027) and NRAS Q61 mutation (HR 2.877; 95% CI 1.398–5.922; p = 0.004) were independent influencing factors of OS. Based on all identified risk factors, patients with RAS mutation were divided into high‐risk and low‐risk groups. Notably, in the high‐risk group, the incorporation of postoperative chemotherapy was associated with longer OS, while it did not improve the survival of patients in the low‐risk group.

Conclusions

KRAS Q61 and NRAS Q61 mutations are promising predictors for OS in CRLM patients after hepatectomy. Postoperative chemotherapy may significantly benefit CRLM patients with RAS mutations, particularly those identified as high‐risk.
N‐doped Porous Carbon Derived from the Pyrolysis of a Polydopamine‐coated Hypercross‐linked Polymer for Enhanced CO2 Adsorption
Authors: Wang Jingtao , Liu Xiaoyan , Zhou Yang , Yang Zhuhong , Tegladza Isaac D. , Liu Chang
Published: October 2024

Porous carbon materials can simultaneously capture and convert carbon dioxide, helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and using carbon dioxide as a feedstock for the production of valuable chemicals or fuel. In this work, a series of N‐doped porous carbons (PDA@HCP(x:y)‐T) was prepared; the CO2 adsorption capacity of the prepared PDA@HCP(x:y)‐T was enhanced by coating polydopamine (PDA) on a hypercross‐linked polymer (HCP) and then adjusting the mass ratio of PDA to HCP and the carbonization temperature. The results showed that the prepared PDA@HCP(1 : 1)‐850 exhibited a high CO2 adsorption capacity due to abundant micropores (0.6762 cm3/g), a high specific surface area (1220.8 m2/g), and moderate surface nitrogen content (2.75 %). Notably, PDA@HCP(1 : 1)‐850 exhibited the highest CO2 uptake of 6.46 mmol/g at 0 °C and 101 kPa. Critically, these N‐doped porous carbons can also be used as catalysts for the reaction of CO2 with epichlorohydrin to form chloropropylene carbonate, with chloropropylene carbonate yielding up to 64 % and selectivity of the reaction reaching 94 %. As a result, these N‐doped porous carbons could serve as potential candidates for CO2 capture and conversion due to their high reactivity, excellent CO2 uptake, and good catalytic performance.
Balanced Switchable Bandpass Filter With All‐Port Reflectionless and Common‐Mode Suppression Characteristics
Authors: Wang Zicheng , Wang Zhongbao , Liu Hongmei , Gao Mingming , Fang Shaojun
Published: October 2024

A novel balanced switchable bandpass filter with all‐port reflectionless characteristics is proposed in this paper. The balanced switchable bandpass filter comprises a balanced switchable filtering section with bandpass response and two absorptive networks. The absorptive network proposed in this paper adopts only one structure to achieve both differential‐ and common‐mode reflectionless characteristics. The proposed switchable resonators in the filtering section and the proposed absorption networks excited under even‐ and odd‐modes are analyzed in detail. For the purpose of verification, a prototype is manufactured based on the simulated results, and it has a good consistency. The experimental results exhibit that the proposed balanced bandpass filter exhibits a differential‐mode bandpass filtering function and all‐port reflectionless performance in the ON‐state, differential‐mode isolation function, common‐mode suppression, and reflectionless behavior in the OFF‐state, which verifies the feasibility of the design theory.
Energy Conscious Squirrel Search based Task Scheduling Mechanism in Fog Environment
Authors: Singh Raj Mohan , Sikka Geeta , Awasthi Lalit Kumar
Published: October 2024

The swift explosion of Internet of Things (IoT) devices in the past few years has resulted in a deluge of data that requires timely processing. However, transmitting such massive amounts of data in and out from cloud leads to high latency and network bandwidth. Consequently, the field of fog computing has turned out as a feasible platform for utilizing resources within the vicinity of IoT devices for providing services in a timely manner. The resource constrained trait of fog nodes demands judicious management of resources in satisfying the requirements of IoT applications. This makes energy efficiency a core issue in fog networks. This article addresses the issue of energy efficiency by proposing an energy conscious squirrel search algorithm (EcSSA) for scheduling tasks in fog environment. A salient feature of EcSSA lies in the novel objective function that aims to optimize the energy consumption by minimizing the cumulative active time of all nodes in the network. Simulation studies conducted as part of this work demonstrate that the proposed approach significantly improves average energy consumption, average makespan, and carbon dioxide emission rate in comparison to the existing algorithms.
Folic acid ameliorates high glucose–induced neurotoxicity in human forebrain organoids: Insights from proteomics
Authors: Yan Haoni , Chen Shujin , Abdulla Aynur , Li Zhile , Zhuang Tsz Yui , Zhang Manlin , Wu Leqi , Zhang Yizhi , Ding Xianting , Jiang Lai
Published: October 2024

Pregestational diabetes (PGDM) has been associated with an elevated risk of congenital abnormalities, particularly those affecting the nervous system. The efficacy of folic acid (FA) supplementation in reducing the incidence of neurodevelopmental damage caused by PGDM has been well documented. However, the exact mechanism is unclear. Here, a human forebrain organoid model, which replicates the three‐dimensional structure of the early fetal neural tissue, was employed to study the neuroprotective effects of FA in PGDM. In this study, the forebrain organoids were cultured at high glucose (HG) concentrations from Days 20 to 40 with or without FA. Immunostaining revealed that the supplementation of FA significantly decreased HG‐induced neuron apoptosis. The proteomics examination suggested HG caused an increase in glial fibrillary acidic protein expression, a marker of astrocytes, leading to the upregulation of metallothionein expression and perturbation of mineral absorption, whereas FA reversed this effect. Proteomics analysis further showed that FA reduced HG‐induced cell migration. Moreover, Western blot analysis verified that FA mitigated HG‐induced apoptosis and cell migration via AMPK/FOXO pathway. Overall, current findings indicate that FA, as a functional food ingredient, has a protective effect on HG‐induced abnormal fetal neurodevelopment.
Tropical fruit‐derived starch: An innovative strategy for high‐value nutritional processing of agricultural solid waste
Authors: Lan Tian , Wang Jiaqi , Li Yongwu , Wang Yaguo , Sun Xiangyu , Fang Yulin , Ma Tingting
Published: October 2024

Tropical fruits are popular worldwide due to their appealing flavors and diverse health benefits. However, a significant amount of waste is caused by inferior fruits that are partly eliminated from the fresh fruit market and by‐products produced during transportation, storage, and processing. With increasing focus on environmental sustainability and resource conservation, recycling waste resources from tropical fruits has emerged as a hot topic of interest. Fruit‐derived starch is an emerging approach to adding value for some tropical fruit waste and inferior fruits. This review article briefly overviews extraction methods, chemical composition, structural characteristics, physical and chemical properties, physiological benefits, modification techniques, and potential applications of new tropical fruit‐derived starch. Compared with traditional starch, tropical fruit‐derived starch exhibits unique structural and processing attributes, making it suitable as a supplement or replacement for industrial starch in the food industry. Moreover, tropical fruit‐derived starch retains the rich nutrients and functional components present in fruits to some extent, thereby offering potential health benefits and greater consumer acceptance. Although current research on starch derived from tropical fruits is primarily at the laboratory stage, and there is limited exploration of its processing and application, evolving lifestyle trends and heightened health awareness are expected to foster its further development and utilization, paving the way for large‐scale commercialization and driving future market growth.
Outcomes and prognostic factors in 3306 patients with relapsed/refractory chronic lymphocytic leukemia treated with ibrutinib outside of clinical trials: A nationwide study
Authors: Rigolin Gian Matteo , Olimpieri Pier Paolo , Summa Valentina , Celant Simone , Scarfò Lydia , Ballardini Maria Pia , Urso Antonio , Gambara Silvia , Cavazzini Francesco , Ghia Paolo , Cuneo Antonio , Russo Pierluigi
Published: October 2024

We performed a cohort study that included all patients with relapsed/refractory chronic lymphocytic leukemia (R/R CLL) who received ibrutinib in the Italian National Health Service. With a median follow‐up of 42.2 months (IQR 30.8–54.6 months), the study involved 3306 patients with a median age of 72.1 years, of whom 42.6% had received ≥2 previous lines of treatment. The estimated 24‐month probabilities of being on treatment and alive were 57.9% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 59.6–56.2) and 76.6% (95% CI: 75.2–78.1), respectively. The median time to treatment discontinuation (TTD) was 31.3 months (95% CI: 29.5–33.5). Out of 3306 patients, 2015 (60.9%) discontinued treatment, with 993 cases attributed to death or disease progression (30.0% of all cases). Among the 1022 patients who discontinued treatment for reasons other than progression or death, 564 (17.1%) patients did so due to toxicity or medical decision, while 458 patients (13.8%) were lost to follow‐up. Multivariable analysis revealed that age, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group Performance Status, the number of previous lines of therapy, refractoriness to the last treatment, and reduced renal function were associated with shorter TTD and overall survival (OS). The coexistence of 17p− and TP53 mutations had an independent unfavorable impact on TTD and OS. Nonstandard doses were associated with shorter TTD and advanced stage with shorter OS. The median OS postprogression and postdiscontinuation for other reasons were estimated at 12.9 (95% CI: 11.3–16.2) and 22.7 months (95% CI: 20.2–28.3), respectively. This large real‐world study shows that ibrutinib is an effective treatment for R/R CLL. Baseline patient characteristics and double‐hit TP53 aberrations were associated with inferior prognosis, and discontinuation due to CLL progression portended a poor outcome.
Inhibition of intestinal inflammation and fibrosis by Scutellaria Baicalensis georgi and Boswellia serrata in human epithelial cells and fibroblasts
Authors: Laudadio Ilaria , Leter Beatrice , Palone Francesca , Cucchiara Salvatore , Carissimi Claudia , Scafa Noemi , Secci Daniela , Vitali Roberta , Stronati Laura
Published: October 2024

Objective and Rationale

Inflammatory bowel disease, including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, manifests with chronic intestinal inflammation and frequent sequential fibrosis. Current pharmacological therapies may show harmful side effects and are not useful for prevention or resolution of fibrosis. Thus, the use of alternative therapies is emerging as a novel useful approach. Previous results suggest that Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi (SBG) and Boswellia serrata (BS) display anti‐inflammatory properties. The aim of this study was to investigate in intestinal epithelial cells and fibroblasts the anti‐inflammatory and anti‐fibrotic potential of SBG and BS, alone or in combination.

Methods

Human colorectal adenocarcinoma cells (HT29), human intestinal epithelial cells (HIEC6) and human colon fibroblasts (CCD‐18Co) were used. Cells were pretreated with SBG and BS and then exposed to pro‐inflammatory and pro‐fibrotic cytokines.

Results

SBG and BS extracts significantly decreased pro‐inflammatory cytokine expression and improved epithelial restitution in HT29 and HIEC6 cells. Besides, fibrotic marker expression, including SNAIL, ACTA2, ZNF281, was strongly reduced. Colon myofibroblasts treated with SBG and BS showed a significant decrease of fibrotic markers as well.

Conclusions

SBG and BS extracts significantly reduce inflammation and impair fibrosis in intestinal epithelial cells and colon myofibroblasts. No cooperative effect is observed.
Current status of paternal mental health care in obstetric institutes in Japan
Authors: Hoshi Shin‐Ichi , Suzuki Shunji , Sekizawa Akihiko , Sagara Yoko , Ishiwata Isamu
Published: October 2024

Synopsis

There should be an urgent need to establish a mental health care system for partners in Japan.
Bioinspired synthesis of ZrO2‐Zr3Er4O12‐based mixed nanomaterial; characterization and analyzing its potential as an electrode material in energy‐based devices and its electrocatalytic property
Authors: Azhar Sundus , Ahmad Khuram Shahzad , Abrahams Isaac , Ingsel Tenzin , Gupta Ram K. , Albaqami Munirah D. , Mohammad Saikh , Gul Mahwash Mahar
Published: October 2024

The sustainable and ecofriendly synthesis of transition metal oxide‐based nanomaterials has always been a matter of concern. In this study, a bioinspired synthesis route was adopted to synthesize ZrO2‐Zr3Er4O12‐based mixed nanomaterial using leaf extract of medicinal plant Amaranthus viridis as reducing and stabilizing agent in replacement of the obnoxious chemicals which are a great threat to the sustainable environment. The synthesized material revealed the spherical shaped morphology through scanning electron microscopy, whereas crystal size of 15.7 nm was observed through Xray‐diffraction, and band gap value of 2.7 eV was acquired using Tauc plot. Newly synthesized ZrO2‐Zr3Er4O12 nanocomposite was then investigated for its role as electrocatalyst in a generation of energy through the hydrogen evolution reaction and oxygen evolution reaction. The ZrO2‐Zr3Er4O12‐based electrocatalyst showed better potential for hydrogen evolution reaction measurements with the overpotential value of 242 mV. Furthermore, the notable capacitance value of 495.6 F/g was obtained through cyclic voltammetry for energy storage studies. The cyclic stability was also analyzed using linear sweep voltammetry and results showed promising stability for 2000 cycles. Consequently, the green and economical synthesis route as well as promising electrochemical behavior of ZrO2‐Zr3Er4O12‐based electrode make it feasible choice for large scale application.
Dried Blood Spots Sampling and Population Pharmacokinetic Modeling for Dosing Optimization of Piperacillin in Chinese Neonates
Authors: Li Pei , Chen Quanyao , Chen Yao , Zheng Zhi , Zhao Xiaoyan , Chen Huayan , Liu Qian , Xie Feifan
Published: October 2024

Piperacillin is commonly used off‐label in neonates for the treatment of bacterial infections. This study aimed to assess a dried blood spots (DBS)‐based microsampling strategy for supporting population pharmacokinetics and treatment optimization of piperacillin in Chinese neonates. DBS samples from neonatal patients were collected at predefined intervals. Drug blood concentrations were quantified using a validated ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry method. A population pharmacokinetic model was developed using a nonlinear mixed‐effects modeling approach. The pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamics (PK/PD) target was 75% of the time with the unbound drug plasma concentration above the minimum inhibitory concentration (fT>MIC), with a toxicity threshold of unbound drug plasma trough concentration above 64 mg/L. A total of 45 piperacillin samples from 24 neonates were collected. The pharmacokinetics of piperacillin was described using a one‐compartment model with postmenstrual age (PMA) as the most significant covariate on clearance. Simulations showed that dosing regimens achieving >90% PK/PD target attainment with <10% risk of possible toxicity were: PMA 33‐35 weeks (50 mg/kg q12h), 35‐37 weeks (50 mg/kg q8h), and 37‐41 weeks (50 mg/kg q6h). In conclusion, Using DBS sampling, we developed a population pharmacokinetic model of piperacillin in Chinese neonates, incorporating PMA to determine optimal dosing regimens.
A localized approach for Turán number of long cycles
Authors: Zhao Kai , Zhang Xiao‐Dong
Published: October 2024

Let be a simple graph and denote the length of the longest cycle containing an edge if there exists a cycle containing , and 2 otherwise. We prove that the summation of 2 divided by over all edges in an ‐vertex graph is at most , and characterize all ‐vertex extremal graphs that achieve the bound, thereby extending the classic Erdős–Gallai theorem on cycles.
Rapid Characterization of the Potential Active of Sinomenine in Rats by Ultra‐High‐Performance Liquid Chromatography‐Quadrupole‐Exactive Orbitrap Mass Spectrometry and Molecular Docking
Authors: Li Haixia , Li KaiLin , Cheng Wenhui , Liu Mingjuan , Wen Linwen , Zhang Zexu , Zhang Wendan , Su Jin , Cai Wei
Published: October 2024

Sinomenium acutum (Thunb.) Rehd. et Wils is widely used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, with its alkaloid compound sinomenine (SIN) being renowned for its significant anti‐inflammatory properties. However, despite its widespread application, the in vivo anti‐inflammatory mechanisms and metabolic pathways of SIN remain incompletely understood. This study established a rapid and reliable method based on an ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography method coupled with Quadrupole‐Exactive Orbitrap mass spectrometry and molecular docking to identify and characterize SIN and 69 metabolites in rat plasma, urine, and feces, revealing primary metabolic pathways of hydroxylation, demethylation, sulfation, and glucuronidation. Molecular docking results revealed that phase I reactions, including dedimethylation, demethylation, dehydrogenation, and dihydroxylation, along with their composite reactions, were pivotal in influencing SIN's in vivo anti‐inflammatory activity. M28, M36, and M59 are potentially the most anti‐inflammatory active metabolites of SIN in vivo. This comprehensive analysis unveils SIN's metabolic pathways, offering insights into its biological processes and suggesting a novel approach for exploring active drug constituents. These findings pave the way for further understanding SIN's anti‐inflammatory mechanisms, contributing significantly to the development of new therapeutic strategies.
Cost‐Effectiveness Analysis of Operating Room and In‐Office Reconstruction of Skin Cancer Defects
Authors: Sharma Rahul K. , Upton Montana , Vaidya Avi U. , Longino Elizabeth S. , Adegboye Feyisayo O. , Desisto Nicole G. , Stephan Scott J. , Yang Shiayin F. , Patel Priyesh N.
Published: October 2024

Objective

Reconstruction of skin cancer and Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) defects of the head and neck is performed in both in‐office and operating room (OR). This study intends to understand cost differences between reconstructive surgery for skin cancer defects in the OR and clinic to perform a cost‐effectiveness analysis with single‐institution patient satisfaction data.

Study Design

Population‐based retrospective analysis of cost data and an institutional, prospective survey of patient satisfaction.

Setting

National insurance database and institutional survey.

Methods

The Merative® MarketScan database was queried to identify claims involving the reconstruction of skin cancer defects of the head/neck between 2013 and 2020 for cost‐analysis by setting (OR vs clinic). Patients undergoing operative and clinic‐based reconstruction of MMS defects by 3 different surgeons at a single institution in 2023 were surveyed for satisfaction using a 5‐point Likert scale. Data was coupled for cost‐benefit analysis. Analysis was performed using propensity‐matched samples.

Results

Using Marketscan, 1206 patients were analyzed for cost data. OR cases had a higher median baseline cost of $2308 (interquartile range [IQR]: 1484‐3889) compared to procedures in the office (median $987, IQR: 784‐1454, P < .001). Survey data from 116 patients revealed no significant difference in scores between OR and clinic cases (clinic: 4.57 vs OR: 4.60, P = .8752). Using propensity‐matched subsets, providers incur an additional $4744 for a reduction in satisfaction of 0.083 when performing cases in the OR.

Conclusion

Lower cost is associated with reconstructive procedures performed in the office. This study is the first cost analysis of head and neck skin cancer reconstruction based on procedural settings and will be valuable to surgeons in considering practice patterns and resource utilization.