bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The biological importance of measuring individual variation
Authors: Crawford Douglas L. , Oleksiak Marjorie F.
Published: April 2007

Functional genomics research using Fundulus heteroclitus has focused on variation among individuals because of the evolutionary importance and value of Fundulus in explaining the human condition (why individual humans are different and are affected differently by stress,disease and drugs). Among different populations and species of Fundulus, there are evolutionarily adaptive differences in gene expression. This natural variation in gene expression seems to affect cardiac metabolism because up to 81% of the variation in glucose utilization observed in isolated heart ventricles is related to specific patterns of gene expression. The surprising result from this research is that among different groups of individuals, the expression of mRNA from different metabolic pathways explains substrate-specific metabolism. For example, variation in oxidative phosphorylation mRNAs explains glucose metabolism for one group of individuals but expression of glucose metabolism genes explains this metabolism in a different group of individuals. This variation among individuals has important implications for studies using inbred strains:conclusions based on one individual or one strain will not necessarily reflect a generalized conclusion for a population or species. Finally, there are surprisingly strong positive and negative correlations among metabolic genes,both within and between pathways. These data suggest that measures of mRNA expression are meaningful, yet there is a complexity in how gene expression is related to physiological processes.
University students' emotions, interest and activities in a web‐based learning environment
Authors: Nummenmaa Minna. , Nummenmaa Lauri.
Published: April 2007

Background

Within academic settings, students experience varied emotions and interest towards learning. Although both emotions and interest can increase students' likelihood to engage in traditional learning, little is known about the influence of emotions and interest in learning activities in a web‐based learning environment (WBLE).

Aims

This study examined how emotions experienced while using a WBLE, students' interest towards the course topic and interest towards web‐based learning are associated with collaborative visible and non‐collaborative invisible activities and ‘lurking’ in the WBLE.

Sample

Participants were 99 Finnish university students from five web‐based courses.

Methods

All the students enrolled in the courses filled out pre‐ and post‐test questionnaires of interest, and repeatedly completed an on‐line questionnaire on emotions experienced while using the WBLE during the courses.

Results

The fluctuation of emotional reactions was positively associated with both visible collaborative and invisible non‐collaborative activities in the WBLE. Further, interest towards the web‐based learning was positively associated with invisible activity. The results also demonstrated that students not actively participating in the collaborative activities (i.e. lurkers) had more negative emotional experiences during the courses than other students.

Conclusion

The results highlight the distinct impacts that emotions and interest have on different web‐based learning activities and that they should be considered when designing web‐based courses.
Improving outcomes for COPD patients with mild‐to‐moderate anxiety and depression: A systematic review of cognitive behavioural therapy
Authors: Coventry Peter A. , Gellatly Judith L.
Published: April 2007

Purpose Anxiety and depression are highly prevalent in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and are associated with lower levels of self‐efficacy, impaired health status, poorer treatment outcomes and reduced survival following emergency admission. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) may be effective for treating anxiety and depression in COPD patients but evidence for this is uncertain.

Methods A systematic review of controlled trials that evaluated the effectiveness of CBT for treating mild‐to‐moderate anxiety or depression in adults with clinically stable COPD. Ovid electronic bibliographic databases were searched from inception to May 2006; all content held by the Cochrane Library Issue 3, 2006 was also searched.

Results One small randomized controlled trial (RCT) of moderate quality showed that CBT, when given with exercise training and education, was associated with large and significant treatment effects for both anxiety (−1.39 (95% CIs −2.19, −0.59)) and depression (−0.86 (95% CIs −1.61, −0.11)). Additionally, a larger RCT of higher quality demonstrated that CBT, when given with exercise and education, was associated with large and significant treatment effects for depression (−0.76 (95% CIs −1.34, −0.17)), but not for anxiety. No other included study reported significant reductions in either anxiety or depression in COPD patients given CBT.

Conclusion There is only limited evidence that CBT, when used with exercise and education, can contribute to significant reductions in anxiety and depression in COPD patients. There is scope for a well‐powered RCT to evaluate the effectiveness and acceptability of CBT among this patient population.
Ultrasensitive Densitometry Detection of Cytokines with Nanoparticle-Modified Aptamers
Authors: Li Yuan-Yuan , Zhang Chi , Li Bo-Sheng , Zhao Li-Fan , Li Xiao-bo , Yang Wen-Jie , Xu Shun-Qing
Published: April 2007

Background: Aptamers mimic properties of antibodies and sometimes turn out to be even better than antibodies as reagents for assays. We describe the establishment of an ultrasensitive densitometry method for cytokine detection by nanoparticle (NP)-modified aptamers.

Methods: The assay simultaneously uses a gold NP–modified aptamer and a biotin-modified aptamer to bind to the target protein, forming a sandwich complex. The absorbance signal generated by the aptamer-protein complex is amplified and detected with a microplate reader.

Results: The assay for platelet-derived growth factor B-chain homodimer (PDGF-BB) was linear from 1 fmol/L to 100 pmol/L (R2 = 0.9869). The analytical detection limit was 83 amol/L. The intraassay and interassay imprecision (CVs) was ≤7.5%. Serum concentrations of PDGF-BB determined with the gold NP–modified aptamer assay and with ELISA were not significantly different.

Conclusions: The gold NP–modified aptamer assay provides a fast, convenient method for cytokine detection and improves the detection range and the detection limit compared with ELISA.
Quantitative Mitochondrial DNA Mutation Analysis by Denaturing HPLC
Authors: Lim Kok Seong , Naviaux Robert K , Haas Richard H
Published: April 2007

Background: In recent years, denaturing HPLC (DHPLC) has been widely used to screen the whole mitochondrial genome or specific regions of the genome for DNA mutations. The quantification and mathematical modeling of DHPLC results is, however, underexplored.

Methods: We generated site-directed mutants containing some common mutations in the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) tRNA(leu) region with different mutation loads and used PCR to amplify the gene segment of interest in these mutants. We then performed restriction digestion followed by slow reannealing to induce heteroduplex formation and analyzed the samples by use of DHPLC.

Results: We observed a quadratic relationship between the heteroduplex peak areas and mutant loads, consistent with the kinetics of heteroduplex formation reported by others. This was modeled mathematically and used to quantify mtDNA mutation load. The method was able to detect a mutation present in a concentration as low as 1% and gave reproducible measurements of the mutations in the range of 2.5%–97.5%.

Conclusion: The quantitative DHPLC assay is well suited for simultaneous detection and quantification of DNA mutations.
Signalverarbeitungsalgorithmen für ein Rasterkraftmikroskop, betrieben im TREC-Modus (Signal Processing Algorithms for an Atomic Force Microscope operating in TREC Mode)
Authors: Adamsmair Stefan , Ebner Andreas , Hinterdorfer Peter , Zagar Bernhard
Published: April 2007

Die Aktorik und Sensorik von RKMs (Rasterkraftmikroskopen) werden heute noch vielfach rein analog ausgeführt, obwohl eine digitale Realisierung enorme Vorteile, wie hohe Flexibilität, Adaptionsfähigkeit usw., bringt. Eine Betriebsart des RKMs ist der sogenannte TREC-Modus (Topography and RECognition Imaging), der es erlaubt simultan die Oberflächenrauigkeit zu bestimmen also auch biologische Interaktionsorte (Epitope) zu lokalisieren. Diese Publikation stellt einen digitalen Signalverarbeitungsalgorithmus, basierend auf einer DSP-(Digital Signal Processing)-Realisierung, vor. Die Anwendung dieser hier vorgestellten Algorithmen wird anhand des biologischen Rezeptor-Liganden Paars Avidin–Biotin demonstriert.
Entwicklung eines optischen pH-Sensors zur Früherkennung korrosionsgefährdender Zustände in Stahlbeton (Development of an Optical pH Sensor for Early Detection of Danger of Corrosion in Steel-Reinforced Concrete Structures)
Authors: Dantan Nathalie , Höhse Marek , Karasyov Alexander A. , Wolfbeis Otto S.
Published: April 2007

Das Absinken des pH-Werts der zementgebundenen Matrix im Umfeld von Stahl durch chemische Angriffe gefährdet den Korrosionsschutz und führt zu gravierenden Schädigungen der Bausubstanz. Die zurzeit kommerziell erhältlichen Systeme zum Monitoring des pH-Werts in Stahlbetonbauwerken erfüllen allerdings nicht immer alle messtechnischen Anforderungen. Deshalb wurde die Entwicklung eines baustoff-integrierbaren faseroptischen pH-Sensors angestrebt.
Automatische Inspektion spiegelnder Oberflächen mittels inverser Muster (Inspection of Specular Surfaces with Inverse Patterns)
Authors: Werling Stefan , Beyerer Jürgen
Published: April 2007

Der Einsatz von inversen Mustern zur schnellen und robusten Prüfung spiegelnder Freiformflächen wird vorgestellt. Beobachtet man bekannte Muster, die z.B. in einem LC-Display dargestellt werden, über eine spiegelnde Oberfläche, erscheinen diese dem Betrachter deformiert und verzerrt. Mittels bekanntem 3D-Modell des Prüfobjekts bzw. Messung an einem Referenzobjekt können vorab sogenannte inverse Muster berechnet werden. Diese Muster erzeugen über die Abbildung des Prüfobjekts unverzerrte Muster in der Kameraebene. Damit ist die Oberflächentopographie im inversen Muster implizit vorhanden. Die automatische Oberflächenprüfung beschränkt sich jetzt auf die Auswertung eines Musters, womit ein deutlicher Geschwindigkeitsvorteil zu den bisherigen deflektometrischen Verfahren erzielt wird.
Interferometrischer Laser-Doppler-Feldsensor zur Messung der Geschwindigkeitsverteilung von komplexen Strömungen (Interferometric Laser Doppler Field Sensor for the Measurement of the Velocity Distribution of Complex Flows)
Authors: Bayer Christian , Voigt Andreas , Shirai Katsuaki , Büttner Lars , Czarske Jürgen
Published: April 2007

Es werden ein auf der Laser-Doppler-Anemometrie basierender neuartiger interferometrischer Sensor und entsprechende Konzepte zur Signalverarbeitung vorgestellt. Der Sensor ermöglicht es, entlang einer Linie das Geschwindigkeitsprofil von Strömungen mit einer Ortsauflösung bis in den Sub-Mikrometerbereich zu vermessen und eignet sich deshalb besonders für Turbulenzforschung, Mikrofluidik und Durchflussmessungen. Die Kombination zweier solcher Sensoren erlaubt die Bestimmung von drei Geschwindigkeitskomponenten innerhalb eines zweidimensionalen Bereichs ohne Verwendung einer Kamera und bietet aufgrund der geringen Messunsicherheit Vorteile gegenüber abbildenden Verfahren.
Messsystem zur Erfassung der Phasenfronten von hochfrequenten Oberflächenwellen (Measurement System for Detecting the Phase Fronts of High-Frequency Surface Acoustic Waves)
Authors: Gollwitzer Andreas , Fischerauer Gerhard
Published: April 2007

Es wird ein neues interferometrisches Verfahren zur Erfassung von akustischen Oberflächenwellen (OFW) im Gigahertzbereich mit einer Amplitude unterhalb einem Nanometer vorgestellt. Durch den Einsatz eines vektoriellen Netzwerkanalysators (VNA) ist das zerstörungsfreie und berührungslose Messverfahren in der Lage, sowohl die Amplitude als auch die Phase der Schwingung an jedem Punkt der zu untersuchenden Oberfläche zu bestimmen. Erweiterungen am homodynen Michelson-Interferometer und anschließende digitale Signalverarbeitung machen den Aufbau unempfindlich gegenüber der Längendifferenz der beiden Interferometerarme. Es wird außerdem gezeigt, wie anhand der Messdaten die richtungsabhängige Ausbreitungsgeschwindigkeit der akustischen Wellen ermittelt werden können.
Augeninnendruckmessung mit einem integrierten Messsystem zur Luft-Applanationstonometrie (Measurement of the Intraocular Pressure Using an Integrated System for Air-Applanation Tonometry)
Authors: Weber Thomas , Werthschützky Roland
Published: April 2007

Die bereits etablierte Luft-Applanationstonometrie (häufig als NCT bezeichnet) zur Messung des Augeninnendrucks bietet hinsichtlich der Anwendung einige Vorteile wie z.B. eine nicht notwendige Anästhesie der Cornea. Hinsichtlich Messunsicherheit und technologischer Realisierung weist dieses Messverfahren jedoch noch behebbare Defizite auf. Eine Beschreibung der Messfehler und ein miniaturisierter Aufbau werden vorgestellt.
Photodetachment Photoelectron Spectroscopy of the Weakly Bound OClO-•H2O Complex
Authors: Tschurl Martin , Boesl Ulrich
Published: April 2007

The weakly bound complex OClO-•H2O and its neutral counterpart are of interest for atmospheric chemistry as well as for studies of microsolvation. Electron affinity and binding energies can be deduced from photodetachment photoelectron spectra of the bare molecule and its water complex. Such spectra are presented here. An unusual large binding energy of the anionic cluster of  0.75 eV has been found.
Van der Waals Bonding to a Molecule with π-Electron Conjugation: Styrene-Argon Complex Studied by Mass Selective High Resolution R2PI UV Spectroscopy and Ab-initio Calculations
Authors: Chervenkov Sotir , Wang Pengqian , Chakraborty Tapas , Neusser Hans Jürgen
Published: April 2007

Combining high-resolution mass-selective resonance-enhanced two-photon ionization spectroscopy analysed by genetic-algorithm-based computer-assisted rotational fit and high-level ab initio calculations we were able to determine the structure and the transition moment orientation of the styrene-Ar complex. The results demonstrate that Ar binds to the benzene ring of styrene. The binding site of Ar is 3.42 Å above the benzene-ring plane and is close to the C
6 symmetry axis of the aromatic ring, but slightly shifted to the vinyl group, which implies that the binding pattern is perturbed by the presence of the bonded to the benzene ring vinyl group. The transition moment ratio of the styrene-Ar complex is considerably different from the one of bare styrene this being a purely mass effect stemming from the reorientation of the principal axes of inertia upon the cluster formation. The red shift of the 00
0 origin band of the styrene-Ar2 complex is almost twice that of the single complex, indicating that the red-shift additivity rule holds in this case. On this basis we conclude that the second Ar atom is bound to the opposite side of the benzene ring.
Mass-Analyzed-Threshold-Ionization-Spectroscopy of Pyrazine and Pyrazine-Ar
Authors: Riese Mikko , Gaber Angela , Grotemeyer Jürgen
Published: April 2007

Vibrational spectra of the pyrazine and the pyrazine-Ar cation in the electronic ground state (D
0) have been measured via several intermediate states of the first excited state (S
1) by mass-analyzed threshold ionization spectroscopy. Additionally, ab-initio calculations at the DFT, CIS and MP2 level of theory have been conducted to compare experimental findings with theory. For the pyrazine monomer a negative anharmonic behavior for combination bands containing the 16a or the 1 vibration could be observed for the first time. It was found that the 16a vibration has to be considered when discussing the nature of the vibronic coupling in the first excited state (S
1) as well as in the ionic ground state (D
0). For some vibrations a new assignment is given in the first excited state (S
1) and the ionic ground state (D
0). An earlier discussed appearance of internal vibrational redistribution (IVR) by activating the 516a1 vibrational state in the first electronically excited state (S
1) is rejected due to the results of the presented measurements.

For the pyrazine-Ar complex the ionization energy, as well as the binding energy in the ionic and the neutral ground state could be determined. These values are given by 74632 ± 5 cm-1, 630 cm-1 ± 20 cm-1 and 349 cm-1 ± 20 cm-1, respectively. The van-der-Waals vibrations in the first excited state could be reassigned and the frequencies of these vibrations have been found to be 12 cm-1, 27 cm-1 and 39 cm-1.
Detecting Specific Ligand Binding to Nucleic Acids: A Test for Ultrasoft Laser Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Morgner N. , Barth H. D. , Schmidt T. L. , Heckel A. , Scheffer U. , Göbel M. , Fucini P. , Brutschy B.
Published: April 2007

Results from a new laser based mass spectrometry method termed LILBID (laser induced liquid bead ion desorption) are presented, which demonstrate the potential for the soft mass analysis of nucleic acids and their specific complexes in solution. On-demand micro droplets, injected into vacuum, are irradiated by intense mid IR-laser pulses. A subsequent explosive phase transition leads to the emission of solvated biomolecular ions into vacuum, which are then mass analyzed by time of flight mass spectrometry. The method is very soft and allows the detection of specific noncovalent complexes. Furthermore it is very tolerant against various buffers and detergents and the charge states of the observed ions reflect qualitatively the charge state in solution. With a required volume of analyte solution in the micro litre range at micromolar concentration, the total consumption of analyte is in the picomolar region. Regarding a single droplet only it is even three orders of magnitude lower, underlining the very high sensitivity of this method. Here we present first examples of the LILBID mass analysis of single stranded DNA (up to a 77mer) and of specific DNA duplices, which show nearly no dissociation under ultrasoft desorption conditions. In case of model hairpin DNA, forming duplices, a sequence specific binding of Dervan-type polyamides into the minor groove of the DNA was observed, and in case of a Tat-TAR model complex strong indications for a specific binding of the Tat protein into the bulge of the wt-RNA was found. Mass spectra of the ribosome of thermos thermophilus give evidence of the applicability of LILBID-MS to analyze large RNA/protein complexes even in the MDa region.
Ion Pair Formation of Sulfur Dioxide in the Energy Range 14–20 eV
Authors: Kratzat M. , Jochims H. W. , Baumgärtel Helmut
Published: April 2007

The photoinduced ion yield curve of O- from gaseous sulfur dioxide shows remarkable structures in the energy range between 14 and 20 eV. Their analysis reveals that they image different vibrationless and vibrationally excited Rydberg states converging to the ionic states C, D, E, F. In addition S-, SO- and SO2
- have been observed. Besides ion pair formation small contributions from dissociative electron attachment are recognized.
Comparison of Photoelectron-Spectroscopy Results to Ab-Initio and Density Functional Calculations: The Ethylbenzene Cation
Authors: Lehrer F. , Weinkauf R. , Metsala A.
Published: April 2007

In this work resonant S
0–S
1 two-photon ionization (R2PI) and high-resolution R(1+1’)PI photoelectron spectroscopy (PES) as well as ab initio and density functional (DFT) calculations of ethylbenzene (EB) are combined. Conformer energies and equilibrium geometries have been calculated for neutral and cationic EB with the HF, UHF, B3LYP and the MP2 methods and different basis sets. In agreement with previous results the tail-to-chromophore orientation of neutral EB is orthogonal. This conformer is also the most stable structure in the cation, but a second local minimum in which all carbons lie in a plane (termed “planar” conformer) lays 325cm-1 higher in energy. R(1+1’)PI PE spectra were recorded by time-of-flight spectrometer with an energy resolution (Δ E) below 8 cm-1 and an absolute accuracy of ± 10 cm-1 for electron energies below 200 meV. Because the experiment starts in the orthogonal conformer and ionization is vertical, the recorded PE spectra show the cation ground state vibrations of this conformer. Beside benzene modes also low-energetic tail-to-chromophore modes are observed and assigned by DFT vibrational mode analysis. The differences of the calculated vibrational frequencies between the two conformers are comparable to the deviation between experiment and theory and a conformer assignment by comparison of theory and experiment would be difficult. R(1+1’)PI PE spectra recorded via selected S
1 vibrations provide vibrational assignments for S
1, qualitative S
1–D
0 geometry changes, vibrational symmetries as well as internal vibrational redistribution dynamics in S
1. Charge and spin densities of the neutral and cation were calculated to elucidate the problem of charge delocalization and electronic tail-to-chromophore coupling.
Histologic Evaluation of a Provisional Implant Retrieved From Man 7 Months After Placement in a Sinus Augmented With Calcium Sulphate: A Case Report
Authors: Iezzi Giovanna , Fiera Elisabetta , Scarano Antonio , Pecora Gabriele , Piattelli Adriano
Published: April 2007

Little is known about the in vivo healing processes at the interface of implants placed in different grafting materials. For optimal sinus augmentation, a bone graft substitute that can regenerate high-quality bone and enable the osseointegration of load-bearing titanium implants is needed in clinical practice. Calcium sulphate (CaS) is one of the oldest biomaterials used in medicine, but few studies have addressed its use as a sinus augmentation material in conjunction with simultaneous implant placement. The aim of the present study was to histologically evaluate an immediately loaded provisional implant retrieved 7 months after simultaneous placement in a human sinus grafted with CaS. During retrieval bone detached partially from one of the implants which precluded its use for histologic analysis. The second implant was completely surrounded by native and newly formed bone, and it underwent histologic evaluation. Lamellar bone, with small osteocyte lacunae, was present and in contact with the implant surface. No gaps, epithelial cells, or connective tissues were present at the bone–implant interface. No residual CaS was present. Bone–implant contact percentage was 55% ± 8%. Of this percentage, 40% was represented by native bone and 15% by newly formed bone. CaS showed complete resorption and new bone formation in the maxillary sinus; this bone was found to be in close contact with the implant surface after immediate loading.
Effect of Anesthetics Containing Lidocaine and Epinephrine on Cardiovascular Changes During Dental Implant Surgery
Authors: Faraco Fátima N. , Kawakami Paulo Y. , Mestnik Maria J. , Ferrari Daniel S. , Shibli Jamil A.
Published: April 2007

The purpose of this study was to evaluate cardiovascular changes during dental implant surgery using 2% lidocaine with 1:80 000 epinephrine. Eleven normotensive subjects, ranging from 18 to 56 years, were selected to undergo dental implant surgery in the jaw. They were monitored in the pre-, intra-, and postsurgical periods by continuous noninvasive automatic arterial pressure and cardiac frequency measurements taken every 2 minutes. Parameter scores were obtained for the following phases: P1, 15 minutes during preparation of the patient (control period); P2, before anesthesia; P3, immediately after anesthesia; P4, 2 minutes into anesthesia; P5, during incision and detachment; P6, during perforation; P7, during implant placement; P8, during suturing; P9, on completion; and P10, 10 minutes after termination. Individualized statistical analysis for each group during the pre-, intra-, and postoperative periods were performed by analysis of variance. The greatest variations in systolic pressure were increases of 2.29% during phase P2 and 2.59% in phase P5. Diastolic pressure decreased during phase P6 (−2.58%) and increased in P10 (3.27%). The greatest changes in heart rate occurred in phase P10 (−3.24%). There were no statistically significant changes among the evaluated phases (P > .05). In conclusion, there were no changes in the analyzed cardiocirculatory parameters during dental implant surgery (systolic, diastolic, and mean arterial blood pressures and heart rate) in normotensive subjects anesthetized with 2% lidocaine with epinephrine 1:80 000.
Analysis of left ventricle regional myocardial motion for cardiac radioablation
Authors: Poon Justin , Thompson Richard B. , Deyell Marc W. , Schellenberg Devin , Clark Haley , Reinsberg Stefan , Thomas Steven
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Left ventricle (LV) regional myocardial displacement due to cardiac motion was assessed using cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) cine images to establish region‐specific margins for cardiac radioablation treatments.

Methods

CMR breath‐hold cine images and LV myocardial tissue contour points were analyzed for 200 subjects, including controls (n = 50) and heart failure (HF) patients with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF, n = 50), mid‐range ejection fraction (HFmrEF, n = 50), and reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF, n = 50). Contour points were divided into segments according to the 17‐segment model. For each patient, contour point displacements were determined for the long‐axis (all 17 segments) and short‐axis (segments 1–12) directions. Mean overall, tangential (longitudinal or circumferential), and normal (radial) displacements were calculated for the 17 segments and for each segment level.

Results

The greatest overall motion was observed in the control group—long axis: 4.5 ± 1.2 mm (segment 13 [apical anterior] epicardium) to 13.8 ± 3.0 mm (segment 6 [basal anterolateral] endocardium), short axis: 4.3 ± 0.8 mm (segment 9 [mid inferoseptal] epicardium) to 11.5 ± 2.3 mm (segment 1 [basal anterior] endocardium). HF patients exhibited lesser motion, with the smallest overall displacements observed in the HFrEF group—long axis: 4.3 ± 1.7 mm (segment 13 [apical anterior] epicardium) to 10.6 ± 3.4 mm (segment 6 [basal anterolateral] endocardium), short axis: 3.9 ± 1.3 mm (segment 8 [mid anteroseptal] epicardium) to 7.4 ± 2.8 mm (segment 1 [basal anterior] endocardium).

Conclusions

This analysis provides an estimate of epicardial and endocardial displacement for the 17 segments of the LV for patients with normal and impaired LV function. This reference data can be used to establish treatment planning margin guidelines for cardiac radioablation. Smaller margins may be used for patients with higher degree of impaired heart function, depending on the LV segment.
Optimizing Size and Number Density of Al3Zr Dispersoids in Al–Zn–Mg–Cu Alloys
Authors: Honaramooz Mohammad Taha , Morak Roland , Paris Oskar
Published: March 2024

The formation and temporal evolution of Al3Zr dispersoids in an Al–Zn–Mg–Cu alloy is investigated by in situ small‐angle X‐ray scattering during different homogenization treatments. The aim is to determine the most effective homogenization parameters for obtaining a high number density and small size of the dispersoids. Nucleation of the dispersoids is found to start above 400 °C and is boosted after isothermal holding at 425 °C. Regardless of the detailed homogenization profile, coarsening of the dispersoids is not observed below 450 °C. The results demonstrate that decreasing the heating rate, prolonging the first isothermal step, or increasing the number of steps are all beneficial regarding an increase of both, the volume fraction, and the number density of the dispersoids. Among the four investigated homogenization profiles, the one with decreasing the heating rate shows the highest impact.
Hydration Programmable, Shape Memorable Artificial Muscles for Antagonistic Movements
Authors: Cui Yande , Lin Jiehan , Zhai Yanduo , Xu Chao , Chen Chaoji , Chang Chunyu
Published: March 2024

Shape memory polymers (SMPs) capable of generating various deformations from anisotropic temporary shapes to permanent shapes have been emerging as soft robots. However, traditional SMPs cannot imitate the antagonistic movement of human skeletal muscles due to their modulus limitations in shape programming and recovery process. Herein, hydration programmable shape memory polymer (HP‐SMP)‐based fibers that can undergo reversible actuation by assembling antagonistic pairs are reported, where the shape programming of the antagonist muscle relies on the contraction of agonist muscle. HP‐SMP fibers are composed of tunicate cellulose nanocrystals (TCNCs) reinforced semi‐interpenetrating polymer networks. Leveraging their distinctive structure and hydration programmability, the HP‐SMP fibers exhibit large actuation strain (−60%) and high work capacity (751 J kg−1), allowing for reversible actuation under constant stress. Most significantly, the continuous antagonistic movements of HP‐SMP fibers assembled into artificial limbs are demonstrated to realize humanoid motion. This work provides new possibilities for replicating a series of lifelike human movements through the biomimetic design of antagonistic pairs of artificial muscles, utilizing renewable and sustainable biosourced materials.
Bio‐Based Thermosetting Resins: From Molecular Engineering to Intrinsically Multifunctional Customization
Authors: Zhao Weiwei , Liu Jingkai , Wang Shuaipeng , Dai Jinyue , Liu Xiaoqing
Published: March 2024

Recent years have witnessed a growing interest in bio‐based thermosetting resins in terms of environmental concerns and the desire for sustainable industrial practices. Beyond sustainability, utilizing the structural diversity of renewable feedstock to craft bio‐based thermosets with customized functionalities is very worthy of expectation. There exist many bio‐based compounds with inherently unique chemical structures and functions, some of which are even difficult to synthesize artificially. Over the past decade, great efforts are devoted to discovering/designing functional properties of bio‐based thermosets, and notable progress have been made in antibacterial, antifouling, flame retardancy, serving as carbon precursors, and stimuli responsiveness, among others, largely expanding their application potential and future prospects. In this review, recent advances in the field of functional bio‐based thermosets are presented, with a particular focus on molecular structures and design strategies for discovering functional properties. Examples are highlighted wherein functionalities are facilitated by the inherent structures of bio‐based feedstock. Perspectives on issues regarding further advances in this field are proposed at the end.
Flexible Indoor Perovskite Solar Cells by In Situ Bottom‐Up Crystallization Modulation and Interfacial Passivation
Authors: Liu Chou , Yang Tinghuan , Cai Weilun , Wang Yajie , Chen Xin , Wang Shumei , Huang Wenliang , Du Yachao , Wu Nan , Wang Zhichao , Yang Yang , Feng Jiangshan , Niu Tianqi , Ding Zicheng , Zhao Kui
Published: March 2024

A robust perovskite‐buried interface is pivotal for achieving high‐performance flexible indoor photovoltaics as it significantly influences charge transport and extraction efficiency. Herein, a molecular bridge strategy is introduced utilizing sodium 2‐cyanoacetate (SZC) additive at the perovskite‐buried interface to simultaneously achieve in situ passivation of interfacial defects and bottom‐up crystallization modulation, resulting in high‐performance flexible indoor photovoltaic applications. Supported by both theoretical calculations and experimental evidences, it illustrates how SZCs serve as molecular bridges, establishing robust bonds between SnO2 transport layer and perovskite, mitigating oxygen vacancy defects and under‐coordinated Pb defects at interface during flexible fabrication. This, in turn, enhances interfacial energy level alignment and facilitates efficient carrier transport. Moreover, this in situ investigation of perovskite crystallization dynamics reveals bottom‐up crystallization modulation, extending perovskite growth at the buried interface and influencing subsequent surface recrystallization. This results in larger crystalline grains and improved lattice strain of the perovskite during flexible fabrication. Finally, the optimized flexible solar cells achieve an impressive efficiency exceeding 41% at 1000 lux, with a fill factor as high as 84.32%. The concept of the molecular bridge represents a significant advancement in enhancing the performance of perovskite‐based flexible indoor photovoltaics for the upcoming era of Internet of Things (IoT).
Copper‐Mediated Decarboxylative Amidination: Synthesis of O‐Methyl‐N‐Alkylnitroisoureas
Authors: Lusseau Jonathan , Uduagwu Dickson , Robert Frédéric , Landais Yannick
Published: March 2024

Copper‐catalyzed decarboxylation of peroxides in the presence of O‐methyl‐N‐nitroisourea provides an access to O‐methyl‐N‐alkylnitroisoureas, an underdeveloped class of nitrogenated compounds, which can be regarded as isocyanate surrogates and find useful as AB‐type monomers, for polyurethane synthesis.
Two‐Photon Polymerization of Nanocomposites for Additive Manufacturing of Transparent Magnesium Aluminate Spinel Ceramics
Authors: Prediger Richard , Sriyotha Nitipoom , Schell Karl G. , Kluck Sebastian , Hambitzer Leonhard , Kotz‐Helmer Frederik
Published: March 2024

Transparent polycrystalline magnesium aluminate (MAS) spinel ceramics are of great interest for industry and academia due to their excellent optical and mechanical properties. However, shaping of MAS is notoriously challenging especially on the microscale requiring hazardous etching methods. Therefore, a photochemically curable nanocomposite is demonstrated that can be structured using high‐resolution two‐photon lithography. The printed nanocomposites are converted intro transparent MAS by subsequent debinding, sintering, and hot isostatic pressing. The resulting transparent spinel ceramics exhibit a surface roughness Sq of only 10 nm and can be shaped with minimum feature sizes of down to 13 µm. This technology will be important for the production of microstructured ceramics used for optics, photonics, or photocatalysis.
Role of environmental, social and governance disclosure in business profitability and cost of debt: An analysis of small Southern Italian agri‐food businesses
Authors: Brunella Arru , Federico Delrio , Roberto Furesi , Pietro Pulina , Madau Fabio Albino
Published: March 2024

This article investigates the environmental, social, and governance (ESG) commitment of small agri‐food businesses disclosed by 279 Italians using Thomson Reuters Eikon ESG indicators and its relationship with their financial dimensions, that is, the corporate profitability indexes (ROE and EBITDA) and cost of debt, used as a proxy of the ability to access credit. Findings showed the absence of social reporting and the disclosure of business governance, including sustainability strategy, and the poor reporting of the environmental and social pillars, except for product innovation, product quality, and responsible marketing themes. The capability of ESG disclosure to predict corporate profitability and access to credit is limited. Moreover, investments in product responsibility are negatively related to the cost of debt, while commitment toward the internal and external companies' community appears to predict their ability to access credit positively. In light of the new institutional pressures requiring small agri‐food businesses to change and combine intrinsic and extrinsic motivation for CSR, the study extends the literature on the sustainability of small agri‐food businesses, which is mostly limited, and provides significant practical and political contributions to foster the paradigm shift toward sustainability [EconLit Citations: M21, Q01, Q13].
Advances in anode interfacial materials for organic solar cells
Authors: Lv Menglan , Huang Junhua , Luo Xuanyan , Yu Shan , Wang Xu , Wang Zhuo , Pan Fei , Zhang Bin , Ding Liming
Published: March 2024

Organic solar cells (OSCs) have attracted much interest in the past few decades because of their advantages, such as being lightweight, low cost, simple preparation process, and environmental friendliness. While researchers have made significant progress on the active layer materials of OSCs, the interface engineering is another entry point for upgrading the photovoltaic performance of OSCs. Significantly, the interface modification materials, including anode interfacial materials and cathode interfacial materials, are two essential parts of interfacial layers for OSCs, in which the excellent interfacial materials can realize the very high‐performance photovoltaic cells. Among these interfacial materials, the anode interfacial layers (AILs) play a crucial role in improving photovoltaic performance. This review expresses a detailed conclusion of the development of anode interfacial materials and an outlook on future trends for OSCs.
Agreement between measured and self‐reported physiological strain in males and females during simulated occupational heat stress
Authors: O'Connor Fergus K. , Meade Robert D. , Notley Sean R. , Ioannou Leonidas G. , Flouris Andreas D. , Kenny Glen P.
Published: March 2024

Rationale

Monitoring physiological strain is recommended to safeguard workers during heat exposure, but is logistically challenging. The perceptual strain index (PeSI) is a subjective estimate thought to reflect the physiological strain index (PSI) that requires no physiological monitoring. However, sex is known to influence perceptions of heat stress, potentially limiting the utility of the PeSI.

Objectives

The objective of this study was to assess whether sex modifies the relationship between PeSI and PSI.

Methods

Thirty‐four adults (15 females) walked on a treadmill (moderate intensity; ~200 W/m2) for 180 min or until termination (volitional fatigue, rectal temperature ≥39.5°C) in 16°C, 24°C, 28°C, and 32°C wet‐bulb globe temperatures. Rectal temperature and heart rate were recorded to calculate PSI (0–10 scale). Rating of perceived exertion and thermal sensation were recorded to calculate PeSI (0–10 scale). Relationships between PSI and PeSI were evaluated via linear mixed models. Mean bias (95% limits of agreement [LoA]) between PSI and PeSI was assessed via Bland–Altman analysis. Mean absolute error between measures was calculated by summing absolute errors between the PeSI and the PSI and dividing by the sample size.

Findings

PSI increased with PeSI (p < 0.01) but the slope of this relation was not different between males and females (p = 0.83). Mean bias between PSI and PeSI was small (−0.4 points), but the 95% LoA (−3.5 to 2.7 points) and mean absolute error were wide (1.3 points).

Impact

Our findings indicate that sex does not appreciably impact the agreement between the PeSI and PSI during simulated occupational heat stress. The PeSI is not a suitable surrogate for the PSI in either male or female workers.
Interactions with humans reduce the success of foraging for anthropogenic food by capuchin monkeys (Sapajus libidinosus) in Brasília National Park, Brazil
Authors: Camargo Murilo Reis , Lousa Túlio Costa , Mota Ricardo Vasquez , Mendes Francisco D. C.
Published: March 2024

The progressive growth of urban environments has increasingly forced populations of nonhuman primates to coexist with humans in many cities, which has resulted in problems such as behavioral alterations, conflicts with humans, and threats to the health of the monkeys, due to their consumption of anthropogenic foodstuffs. These anthropogenic foods, which are rich in calories, are the principal driver of the proximity between humans and primates, even though the acquisition of these foods tends to be risky for the monkeys and involve a variety of challenges derived from specific features of the urban environment. The present study evaluated the success/risk relationship of foraging for anthropogenic food by tufted capuchins (Sapajus libidinosus) in Brasília National Park. The data were analyzed using a binary logistic regression, with the backward‐stepwise Wald method, to investigate the factors related to the foraging success of the capuchins, considering variables such as their sex and age, the type of approach and its context, and interactions with humans. The capuchins were influenced by the anthropogenic context, which affected their foraging strategies and diet. Interactions with humans reduced the success of foraging for anthropogenic foods. Conflicts between humans and the capuchins were common, especially in the context of access to food. The capuchins thus preferred to access feeding resources directly, probably due to the reduced human interference, which resulted in greater foraging success for unattended food brought by park visitors and the raiding of trash cans. Based on the observed behavior patterns, a number of measures can be proposed to mitigate these conflicts. These recommendations include not bringing food into areas frequented by the capuchins, not reacting to approaching animals, and removing all trash generated during a visit. A cleaning team dedicated to the maintenance of the visitation area free of anthropogenic waste is also be recommended.
Synergistic Ni−W Dimer Sites Induced Stable Compressive Strain for Boosting the Performance of Pt as Electrocatalyst for the Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Yao Xiaozhang , Song Zhongxin , Yao Xue , Guan Yi , Hamada Natalie , Zhang Jingyan , Huo Ziwei , Zhang Lei , Singh Chandra Veer , Sun Xueliang
Published: March 2024

Alloying Pt catalysts with transition metal elements is an effective pathway to enhance the performance of oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), but often accompanied with severe metal dissolution issue, resulting in poor stability of alloy catalysts. Here, instead of forming traditional alloy structure, we modify Pt surface with a novel Ni−W dimer structure by the atomic layer deposition (ALD) technique. The obtained NiW@PtC catalyst exhibits superior ORR performance both in liquid half‐cell and practical fuel cell compared with initial Pt/C. It is discovered that strong synergistic Ni−W dimer structure arising from short atomic distance induced a stable compressive strain on the Pt surface, thus boosting Pt catalytic performance. This surface modification by synergistic dimer sites offers an effective strategy in tailoring Pt with excellent activity and stability, which provides a significant perspective in boosting the performance of commercial Pt catalyst modified with polymetallic atom sites.
Stabilizing Diluted Active Sites of Ultrasmall High‐Entropy Intermetallics for Efficient Formic Acid Electrooxidation
Authors: Shen Tao , Xiao Dongdong , Deng Zhiping , Wang Shuang , An Lulu , Song Min , Zhang Qian , Zhao Tonghui , Gong Mingxing , Wang Deli
Published: March 2024

The poisoning of undesired intermediates or impurities greatly hinders the catalytic performances of noble metal‐based catalysts. Herein, high‐entropy intermetallics i‐(PtPdIrRu)2FeCu (HEI) are constructed to inhibit the strongly adsorbed carbon monoxide intermediates (CO*) during the formic acid oxidation reaction. As probed by multiple‐scaled structural characterizations, HEI nanoparticles are featured with partially negative Pt oxidation states, diluted Pt/Pd/Ir/Ru atomic sites and ultrasmall average size less than 2 nm. Benefiting from the optimized structures, HEI nanoparticles deliver more than 10 times promotion in intrinsic activity than that of pure Pt, and well‐enhanced mass activity/durability than that of ternary i‐Pt2FeCu intermetallics counterpart. In situ infrared spectroscopy manifests that both bridge and top CO* are favored on pure Pt but limited on HEI. Further theoretical elaboration indicates that HEI displayed a much weaker binding of CO* on Pt sites and sluggish diffusion of CO* among different sites, in contrast to pure Pt that CO* bound more strongly and was easy to diffuse on larger Pt atomic ensembles. This work verifies that HEIs are promising catalysts via integrating the merits of intermetallics and high‐entropy alloys.
Structural, photoluminescence, and optical characteristics of a Sm3+‐doped lead borate–strontium–tungsten glass system: Evaluation of Judd–Ofelt intensity parameters and radiative properties
Authors: Kotb Islam E. , Okasha Aly , Zidan Nehad A. , Marzouk Samir Y.
Published: March 2024

In this study, the melt quenching approach is used to synthesize a lead borate–strontium‐based glass system doped with samarium ions. Modifications in the glass network structure arising from the addition of various concentrations of Sm3+ ions were investigated via Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. FTIR analysis revealed B–O–B bridges, BO3, and BO4 units are present. UV–vis–NIR spectroscopic measurement was performed to study the optical absorption spectra. Optical constants such as optical bandgap energies, refractive indices, and other related parameters were evaluated. The lifetime fluorescence decay was measured and ranged between 1.04 and 1.88 ns. The photoluminescence spectra in the range 500–750 nm revealed four transitions from the ground state 6G5/2 to the excited states 6H5/2, 6H7/2, 6H9/2 and 6H11/2 and J–O theory was utilized to study these optical transitions for Sm3+ ions. Calculations of the oscillator strengths and J–O intensity parameters were performed and the obtained J–O parameters followed the sequence Ω4 > Ω6 > Ω2. The ratio O/R indicated a high lattice asymmetry around the samarium ions. The values of lifetimes and branching ratios for the fabricated samples emphasized their suitability to be used in laser applications. The current glass samples are good candidates for orange and red emission devices.
Facilitators of and barriers to gastric cancer and precursor diagnosis among South Texas residents: Social determinants of health
Authors: Parma Dorothy Long , Finley Erin P. , Fernandez Roman , Gelfond Jonathan A. L. , Ramirez Amelie G.
Published: March 2024

Background

Latinos/Hispanics are at higher risk for developing gastric cancer (GC) compared with non‐Hispanic whites, and social determinants of health (SDoH) are thought to contribute.

Aims/Materials and Methods

This study addressed SDoH and their interactions contributing to disparities in the testing and treatment of Helicobacter pylori (HP) infection and diagnosis of GC and its known precursors, among Latinos/Hispanics relative to non‐Latinos at two affiliated but independent health systems in San Antonio, Texas, using a mixed methods approach.

Results

Secondary data abstraction and analysis showed that GCs represented 2.6% (n = 600) of our population. Men and older individuals were at higher GC risk. Individuals with military insurance were 2.7 times as likely to be diagnosed as private insurance. Latinos/Hispanics had significantly (24%) higher GC risk than Whites. Poverty and lack of insurance contributed to GC risk among the minorities classified as other (Asians, Native Americans, Multiracial; all p < 0.01). All SDoH were associated with H. pylori infection (p < 0.001). Qualitative analysis of patient and provider interviews showed providers reporting insurance as a major care barrier; patients reported appointment delays, and lack of clinic staff. Providers universally agreed treatment of H. pylori was necessary, but disagreed on its prevalence. Patients did not report discussing H. pylori or its cancer risk with providers.

Discussion/Conclusion

These data indicate the importance of considering SDoH in diagnosis and treatment of GC and its precursors, and educating providers and patients on H. pylori risks for GC.