bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Porosity and Pore Morphology on the Elastic Properties and Compressive Deformation Behavior of Porous Copper Fabricated via Space‐Holder Route
Authors: Ray Sumit , Siddharth  , Kar Sujoy Kumar , Roy Siddhartha
Published: October 2024

Advanced applications, including heat exchangers, catalytic substrates, and batteries, may benefit from porous copper, as their functions depend on porosity and pore morphology. In this study, how porosity and pore morphologies affect porous copper's elastic and compressive deformation characteristics is examined. By varying the mixture ratios of finer K2CO3 and coarser NaCl as pore formers, samples with both single‐ and dual‐pore morphologies and porosities from 36% to 73% are fabricated. The longitudinal elastic constants in three orthogonal directions are measured using nondestructive ultrasonic phase spectroscopy. Dual‐pore samples show excellent elastic characteristics, with a maximum longitudinal elastic constant >50 GPa. The pore flattening during green body production causes transverse isotropy in all samples. While yield stress decreases with porosity, pore shape does not affect compressive stress–strain behavior. In the Ashby material property map, it is shown that dual‐pore porous copper samples may be suitable for lightweight elastic hinges based on their yield strength and Young's modulus.
Novel FRET‐Based Biosensors for Real‐Time Monitoring of Estrogen Receptor Dimerization and Translocation Dynamics in Living Cells
Authors: Han Kiseok , Suh Jung‐Soo , Choi Gyuho , Jang Yoon‐Kwan , Ahn Sanghyun , Lee Yerim , Kim Tae‐Jin
Published: October 2024

Estrogen receptors (ERs), comprising ER α and ER β, are crucial for regulating cell growth and differentiation via homo‐ and hetero‐dimer formation. However, accurately detecting ER dimerization with precise spatiotemporal resolution remains a significant challenge. In this study, fluorescence resonance energy transfer‐based biosensors to monitor ER dynamics in real‐time, are developed and optimized. This approach involves comprehensive structural analysis, linker comparison, and the selection of optimal fluorescent protein pairs, resulting in three distinct biosensors capable of detecting all ER homo‐ and hetero‐dimerizations within the nucleus. These biosensors are utilized to reveal interactions between ER α/β and calmodulin during dimer formation. Furthermore, by leveraging the ligand‐binding domain (LBD) of ER β, ER ββ LBD biosensor is designed for real‐time analysis of ER ββ homodimerization in the cytoplasm, enhancing the ability to screen ER dimerization‐related drugs. Additionally, we developed a novel ER ββ translocation biosensor, which enables real‐time observation of ER ββ translocation to the nucleus—a capability previously unavailable, is developed. This spatiotemporal analysis demonstrates the relevance of ER translocation in response to drug binding efficacy and extracellular matrix changes. Our biosensors offer transformative tools for studying ER dynamics, providing valuable insights for drug screening and the investigation of ER‐related cellular processes.
Site‐Selective Acylation of Vinylcyclopropanes under Visible‐Light Photocatalysis
Authors: Jagadeesh Chenna , Patel Manveer , Hazra Subhadeep , Mondal Sandipan , Melkani Anand B. , Saha Jaideep
Published: October 2024

We herein disclose a protocol for linear‐selective ring‐opening acylation of a range of electron‐poor VCPs with α‐ketoacids by Ir‐photocatalyst. While electron‐poor VCPs could be sensitized with various radical species generated under different reaction conditions including photo‐redox processes, exploring similar repertoire with acyl radical remains unexplored. Since the linear selective ring opening leads to translocation of the vinylic olefin into an internal one, terminal addition of VCP systems with electronically diverse groups present at the terminus, permitting formation of tailored of building blocks.
Electrostatically Dominated Pre‐Organization in Cyclodextrin Metal–Organic Frameworks
Authors: Shen Dengke , Zhang Zhongyuan , Kesharwani Tanay , Wu Huang , Zhang Long , Stern Charlotte L. , Chen Hongliang , Guo Qing‐Hui , Cai Kang , Chen Aspen X.‐Y. , Stoddart J. Fraser
Published: October 2024

Electrostatic interactions between oppositely charged entities play a key role in pre‐organizing substrates and stabilizing transition states of reactions in enzymes. The use of electrostatic interactions to pre‐organize ions in nanoconfined pores, however, has not been investigated to its full potential. Herein, we describe how carboxylate anions can be pre‐organized at the behest of their electrostatic interactions with K+ cations in nanoconfined tunnels present in γ‐cyclodextrin metal–organic frameworks, i.e., CD‐MOFs. Several carboxylate anions, which are all much smaller than the cavities of the tunnels, were visualized by X‐ray crystallography when nanoconfined in CD‐MOFs, despite the large voids present in the tunnels. These anions were found to be aligned within a planar array defined by four K+ cations, positioned around the periphery of the tunnels. The strong electrostatic interactions between the carboxylate anions and the K+ cations dictate the orientation of the anions and override the influence of all other possible noncovalent bonding interactions between them and the tunnels. Consequently, the aligned pairs of γ‐cyclodextrin rings constituting the tunnels become distorted, resulting in them having lower symmetry and fewer disordered carboxylate anions in the solid state. Our findings offer a transformative strategy for controlling the packing and orientation of ions in nanoconfined environments.
Synthesis and Structures of Oxide ‐Centred Alkali Metal (K, Li)/Lanthanoid (Ln3 or 4) 3,5‐Dimethylpyrazolate Cages ‐ Herbert Schumann Revisited
Authors: Werner Daniel , Guo Zhifang , Deacon Glen B. , Junk Peter C.
Published: October 2024

Reaction of lanthanoid tris(3,5‐dimethylpyrazolate) compounds, [Ln(Me2pz)3(thf)]2 (Ln=La 1 a, Ce, Pr, Dy 1 b, Yb, Lu) with potassium or lithium bistrimethylsilylamide and with or without added 3,5‐dimethylpyrazole, or of lanthanoid tris(bistrimethylsilyl)amide complexes with potassium bistrimethylsilylamide and 3,5‐dimethylpyrazole have yielded a variety of oxide centred Ln3 or Ln4/(K or Li)1–3 multinuclear cages, namely, [La4O(Me2pz)11 K(thf)2] (2 a), [La4O(Me2pz)11Li(Me2pzH)]⋅0.5Hexane (2 b), [La4O(Me2pz)10(Me2pzH)] (2 c) (from heating 1 a in toluene), [Ce3O(Me2pz)9K2(dme)2] (3 a), [Ce3O(Me2pz)9Li2(thf)2]⋅0.5Hexane (3 b) and [Ce(Me2pz)5Li2(thf)3] (3 c), which crystallized together, [Ce3O(Me2pz)10K3(thf)3] (3 d), [Pr3O(Me2pz)10K3(thf)3] (4), [Dy3O(Me2pz)9K2(thf)2]⋅THF (5), [Yb3O(Me2pz)9K2(thf)2]⋅THF (6), and [Lu3O(Me2pz)9K2(thf)2]⋅THF (7). Crystals of {[K8(Me2pz)8(thf)2]⋅THF}∞ (8) were also obtained from the preparation of 7. From reaction of [Ce(Me2pz)3(thf)]2 with potassium tert‐butoxide in toluene, the cerium(IV) heterobimetallic polymer [Ce2(Me2pz)6(OtBu)4K2]∞ (9) was isolated.

In the Ln3O and the Ln4O cages, the Ln atoms have triangular and distorted tetrahedral arrangements about the central oxygen, respectively. The relationship of the alkali metals to the central oxygen varies considerably. Thus in 2 a, 2 b, there is no bonding, in 3 a, both K atoms interact weakly, in 3 b one of the two Li atom is bound, in 3 d, 4, one of three K atoms in bound, whilst in 5–7, both K atoms are bound. All metals are bound to the cages by a variety of pyrazolate binding modes, with up to five different exhibited in some structures, and a new coordination mode, μ4‐1κ(N):2κ(N′):η5:η5, was observed in two complexes. In the structure of 2 c, the coordinated Me2pzH ligand binds to two metals through a single nitrogen, the first time this has been observed for a pyrazole donor. The complex 9 is polymeric with all metals bridged by butoxide donors as well as by Me2pz groups.
Platinum Stabilises a Molten‐Globule Conformation of a Small Globular Cytosolic Protein SUMO1
Authors: Tiwari Suman , Koti Ainavarapu Sri Rama
Published: October 2024

Proteins are generally resistant to large conformational changes under physiological conditions. Here, we show that platinum (Pt(II)), which is widely‐used metal centre in cancer therapeutic drugs, binds to a cytosolic protein, small ubiquitin‐like modifier 1 (SUMO1), under physiological conditions and changes its conformation to a molten globule (MG). Mass spectrometry (ICP‐MS) studies confirmed stoichiometric Pt(II) binding to SUMO1. Fluorescence spectroscopy showed Tyr fluorescence quenching and increased ANS binding. Fluorescence assays on Trp‐mutants indicated conformational changes and circular dichroism (CD) suggested MG formation upon Pt(II) binding. In contrast, structural homologues of SUMO1 (ubiquitin (Ubq) and SUMO2) showed no conformational changes on Pt(II) titration. Further studies compared the impact of distinct His residues in SUMO1 on Pt(II) binding and protein structure to SUMO2 and Ubq. Experiments at low pH (5.0) implicated His residues interacting with Pt(II), corroborated by the absence of conformational change in the H75L mutant of SUMO1. Pt(II)‐His binding in SUMO1 unravels key molecular determinants of Pt(II)‐protein interactions and their conformational consequences. SUMO1 with other SUMOylation components are shown to have enhanced expression in several cancers, hence, our study suggests a possible fate of the non‐targetability of Pt(II)‐based drugs on SUMOylation in cancer cells, upon interaction with SUMO1.
Sharing is caring for the environment: But why would managers resist shared mobility?
Authors: Ntsiful Alex
Published: October 2024

The debate on carbon dioxide (CO2) reduction strategies for a sustainable environment continues unabated. Thus, this study proposes and validates a model for understanding essential factors that can explain resistance to managers' bus‐sharing system (MBS). MBS is a sustainability strategy where organizations have well‐maintained buses to transport 10–15 managers to and from work. By drawing on an extended status quo bias theory, the study sampled and analyzed 234 responses from managers using the partial least square structural equation modeling. The results show that perceived switching benefits (PSWB) and perceived switching costs (PSWC) relate to perceived value and influence resistance to the proposed MBS. Meanwhile, managers' family/personal life conflicts and perceived prestige concerns increase the PSWC. These findings have essential theoretical implications for sustainability scholarship and inform organizations to adopt family‐friendly policies to reduce resistance to MBS.
Treatment of a symptomatic patient with severe progressive odontoid invagination and Cervicothoracic scoliosis: A case report
Authors: Burger Joost A. , Pichler Lorenz , Muellner Maximilian , Khakzad Thilo , Schömig Friederike , Pumberger Matthias
Published: October 2024

Key Clinical Message

While there is no consensus on optimal treatment management for the rare condition of odontoid invagination with cervicothoracic scoliosis, skull traction for 12 weeks followed by combined posterior and anterior spinal fusion can be a feasible option. However, surgeons should be prepared for significant intraoperative and postoperative challenges.
A study on the kinetics of the gas–liquid reaction between nitric oxide and [Fe(II)NTA]−
Authors: Liu Feng , Ma Ning , Dong Li , Long Xiang‐li
Published: October 2024

Iron nitrilotriacetic acid ([Fe(II)NTA]−) solution is able to absorb NO from flue gases. In this study, the kinetics of the gas–liquid reaction between NO and [Fe(II)NTA]− has been determined using a double stirred cell. The study indicates that the reaction between NO and [Fe(II)NTA]− is turned into gas film controlling as the [Fe(II)NTA]− concentration is over 0.03 mol L−1. The reaction rate between NO and [Fe(II)NTA]− is in proportion to the inlet nitric oxide concentration. 50°C is considered to be the best temperature for [Fe(II)NTA]− solution absorbing nitric oxide. The reaction rate between NO and [Fe(II)NTA]− decreases as pH drops below 5.5. The negative effect of pH may be reduced as the [Fe(II)NTA]− concentration increases. The reaction rate between NO and [Fe(II)NTA]− varies little in the pH range from 5.5 to 8.0. The kinetic equation for the gas–liquid reaction between NO and [Fe(II)NTA]− under the controlling of both liquid film and gas film has been obtained as follows:

The activation energy Ea for the gas–liquid reaction between NO and [Fe(II)NTA]− is 13.06 KJ/mol. stands for the rate of chemisorptions, mol/(m2 · s); for the NO concentration in the interface, mol L−1; and for [Fe(II)NTA]− concentration in the liquid, mol L−1.
Is it Time for Multi‐Drug Therapy with Combination of Therapeutic Nucleic Acids?
Authors: Leśnikowski Zbigniew J.
Published: October 2024

Therapeutic nucleic acids (TNAs) are a new class of drugs that exhibit different properties and mechanisms of action from those of small molecules or biological drugs. Over twenty oligonucleotide drugs and several COVID‐19 vaccines have received regulatory approval for clinical use. A characteristic feature of these TNAs is that they are directed against one specific biological target and one specific RNA or DNA sequence. Consequently, TNAs currently used are administered as monotherapy. Due to the known advantages of multidrug therapy with low molecular weight drugs, it may be time to intensify work on such a treatment protocol, also in the case of TNAs.
Photochemically Driven Palladium‐ Phosphinoacridine Catalysis: A Carboxylative Approach for Arylcarbamate Synthesis
Authors: Tang Renhe , Yang Yi , Abid Seifallah , Amgoune Abderrahmane , Tlili Anis
Published: October 2024

In this study, we demonstrate that phosphinoacridines are efficient bidentate ligands for palladium‐catalyzed carboxylative C‐N coupling reactions under blue LED irradiation. This method facilitates the direct synthesis of arylcarbamates using a range of non‐activated aryl halides, such as iodides and bromides, with various amines under atmospheric pressure of CO2. The optimized conditions exhibit high tolerance to sensitive functional groups, resulting in very good to excellent yields of the desired products. This approach expands the scope of palladium‐catalyzed carboxylation reactions and offers an environmentally friendly route to arylcarbamates.
Automated analysis of flow cytometry data with minimal training files: Research evaluation of an elastic image registration algorithm for TBNK, stem cell enumeration, and lymphoid screening tube assays
Authors: Irvine Allison , Tahir Suhail , Tripathi Vishnu , Oreizy Farzad , Sen Moen , Giuliano Anthony , Lin Anna , Chen Angela , Lai Chih‐Hung , Omana‐Zapata Imelda , Zeng Yang , Jain Paresh , Bornheimer Scott J.
Published: October 2024

Automated analysis of flow cytometry data can improve objectivity and reduce analysis time but has generally required work by software and algorithm experts. Here, we investigated the performance of BD ElastiGate™ Software (hereafter ElastiGate), which allows users to automate gating by selecting gated training files, then uses elastic image registration to gate new files. Three assays of increasing complexity were examined: TBNK, stem cell enumeration (SCE), and lymphoid screening tube (LST). For TBNK analysis, 60 peripheral blood (PB) samples from normal, HIV+, and controls were tested with ground truth analysis by an existing automated method. For SCE, 128 samples including bone marrow (BM), cord blood (CB), and apheresis were tested with analysis by multiple manual analysts. For LST, 80 PB and 28 BM samples were tested with manual analysis. For ElastiGate, a minimal number of training files was selected. Results were compared by Bland–Altman or F1 score analysis. For TBNK, ElastiGate using three training files (1 control, 1 normal, 1 HIV+) showed mean %bias across all reported populations between −1.48% and 7.13% (average 2.08%). For SCE, ElastiGate using three BM and two CB training files showed median F1 scores >0.93 in comparison to >0.94 and >0.92 for two other manual analysts. For LST, ElastiGate using four training files for each of PB and BM showed median F1 scores >0.945 for 13 of 14 PB populations and 10 of 14 BM populations, with generally similar or better performance for normal samples compared to abnormal; populations with lower scores were often associated with lower agreement between manual analysts. Based on analysis of three assays with four sample types of increasing complexity, ElastiGate with minimal training files may perform as an automated gating assistant. The results reported here are for research use only, not for use in diagnostic or therapeutic procedures.
Esophagitis, treatment outcomes, and long‐term follow‐up in children with esophageal atresia
Authors: Bashir Anam , Krasaelap Amornluck , Lal Dave R. , Gourlay David M. , Pan Amy Y. , Jan Namratha , McCord Siri , Lerner Diana G.
Published: October 2024

Objectives

Survival rates in children born with esophageal atresia (EA) with or without tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) have improved; however, morbidity associated with the disease remains high. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE), fungal esophagitis, esophageal strictures, and long‐term outcomes in children with EA/TEF.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective chart review on patients with EA/TEF who were seen at Children's Wisconsin from January 2003 to January 2023. Patients born with EA/TEF were included if they underwent at least one endoscopy after 1 year of age. GERD was diagnosed based on abnormal findings on endoscopy, pH‐metry, and/or history of fundoplication. EoE and fungal esophagitis were diagnosed based on abnormal endoscopy. Esophageal stricture diagnosis was based on findings on endoscopy and/or esophagram, and clinical symptoms necessitating esophageal dilation.

Results

Eighty‐five patients (64.7% males, mean age 7.5 years) were included, the majority had type C EA/TEF (90.6%). GERD was diagnosed in 61.1% (n = 52), 49.4% (n = 42) by macro and/or microscopic endoscopic findings, 22.3% (n = 19) by abnormal pH‐metry, and 21.1% (n = 18) by the need for fundoplication for refractory reflux and/or esophageal stricture. Risk of GERD increased with lower gestational age (p = 0.0030), lower birth weight (p = 0.023), and long‐gap EA (p = 0.034). In children diagnosed with GERD, only 13.4% of patients (n = 7/52) were able to be weaned off proton pump inhibitor (PPI) without disease recurrence. However, overall, at the completion of the study, 44.7% (n = 38) of patients were successfully weaned off PPI without evidence of GERD. EoE was diagnosed in 20% of the patients (n = 17). All patients diagnosed with EoE required escalation of therapy from PPI alone to swallowed corticosteroids in 52.9% (n = 9), dupilumab in 23.5% (n = 4), elemental formula in 17.6% (n = 3), and elemental formula and swallowed steroids in 5.8% (n = 1). Fungal esophagitis was diagnosed in 15.3% of patients (n = 13). An esophageal stricture requiring dilation was diagnosed in 77.6% (n = 66) of patients at a mean age of 28.5 months, with over 60% diagnosed by 24 months of age.

Conclusions

Children born with EA/TEF continue to be at high risk of developing GERD, EoE, fungal esophagitis, and esophageal stenosis. Diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopy remains a high‐yield test to identify and treat these comorbidities.
Simultaneously strengthening, toughening, and damage monitoring of fiber reinforced composite by using a rigid/flexible hybrid modifier
Authors: Zhang Shuzheng , Hu Wenlong , He Hailing , Li Xiang , Huang Pinbo , Zhao Yunmei , Yang Bin
Published: October 2024

Two‐phase hybrid modification has been used as an advanced method to improve the strength and toughness of composite. An interfacial modification strategy for simultaneous strengthening, toughening, and damage monitoring of glass fiber (GF)/epoxy composite is proposed by coating rigid multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) and flexible thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) on the glass fiber surface. The fiber pull‐out and out‐of‐plane experiments were performed to investigate the interfacial modification effect of rigid/flexible hybrid modifier. The results show that the hybrid modifier with a MWCNT/TPU mass ratio of 3:1 (MT@GF‐3/epoxy composite) realizes the most significant enhancement. Specifically, in comparison to GF/epoxy composites, MT@GF‐3/epoxy composite has an increment of 36.52%, 60.96%, 29.56%, and 80.36% in interfacial shear strength (IFSS), transverse fiber bundle test (TFBT) strength, interlaminar shear strength (ILSS) and interlaminar fracture toughness (GIC), respectively, and a significant enhancement in impact resistance. The enhanced interfacial strength and toughness are attributed to the mechanical interlocking, deflection of cracks, and plastic stretching generated by MWCNT and TPU. Results show that the two modifiers interact in a mutually reinforcing way with regard to the strengthening/toughening effects. In addition, multiple mechanical tests confirm the MT@GF/epoxy composites have an excellent damage monitoring ability by recording the resistance change based on the MWCNT's conductive characteristics. This strategy for interfacial modification coating a rigid‐flexible MWCNT/TPU hybrid modifier would offer valuable guidance for improving the strength and toughness of glass fiber/epoxy composites, as well as monitoring and locating the damage.

Highlights

A rigid/flexible hybrid modifier is proposed for modifying the GF/EP composites.

The modifier achieves the greatest enhancement at a 3:1 mass ratio of MWCNT/TPU.

The mutual reinforcing mechanism between the rigid/flexible phases is analyzed.

Damage monitoring is realized for the modified GF/EP composites.
The endocannabinoid system in appetite regulation and treatment of obesity
Authors: Kurtov Marija , Rubinić Igor , Likić Robert
Published: October 2024

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a complex cell‐signaling system that is responsible for maintaining homeostasis by modulating various regulatory reactions in response to internal and environmental changes. The influence of ECS on appetite regulation has been a subject of much recent research, however, the full extent of its impact remains unknown. Current evidence links human obesity to ECS activation, increased endocannabinoid levels in both central and peripheral tissues, along with cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CBR1) up‐regulation. These findings imply the potential pharmacological use of the ECS in the treatment of obesity. Here, we present various pathophysiological processes in obesity involving the ECS, highlighting different pharmacological options for modulating endocannabinoid activity to treat obesity. However, the potential of those pharmacological possibilities remains under investigation and requires further research.
The gut–brain axis in appetite, satiety, food intake, and eating behavior: Insights from animal models and human studies
Authors: Clarke Georgia S. , Page Amanda J. , Eldeghaidy Sally
Published: October 2024

The gut–brain axis plays a pivotal role in the finely tuned orchestration of food intake, where both homeostatic and hedonic processes collaboratively control our dietary decisions. This interplay involves the transmission of mechanical and chemical signals from the gastrointestinal tract to the appetite centers in the brain, conveying information on meal arrival, quantity, and chemical composition. These signals are processed in the brain eventually leading to the sensation of satiety and the termination of a meal. However, the regulation of food intake and appetite extends beyond the realms of pure physiological need. Hedonic mechanisms, including sensory perception (i.e., through sight, smell, and taste), habitual behaviors, and psychological factors, exert profound influences on food intake. Drawing from studies in animal models and human research, this comprehensive review summarizes the physiological mechanisms that underlie the gut–brain axis and its interplay with the reward network in the regulation of appetite and satiety. The recent advancements in neuroimaging techniques, with a focus on human studies that enable investigation of the neural mechanisms underpinning appetite regulation are discussed. Furthermore, this review explores therapeutic/pharmacological strategies that hold the potential for controlling food intake.
Performance‐Oriented Understanding and Design of a Robotic Tadpole: Lower Energy Cost, Higher Speed
Authors: Chao Xu , Hameed Imran , Navarro‐Alarcon David , Jing Xingjian
Published: October 2024

A compliant plate driven by an active joint is frequently employed as a fin to improve swimming efficiency due to its continuous and compliant kinematics. However, very few studies have focused on the performance‐oriented design of multijoint mechanisms enhanced with flexible fins, particularly regarding critical design factors such as the active‐joint ratio and dimension‐related stiffness distribution of the fin. To this aim, we developed a robotic tadpole by integrating a multijoint mechanism with a flexible fin and conduct a comprehensive investigation of its swimming performance with different tail configurations. A dynamic model with identified hydrodynamic parameters was established to predict propulsive performance. Numerous simulations and experiments were conducted to explore the impact of the active‐joint ratio and the dimension‐related stiffness distribution of the fin. The results reveal that (a) tails with different active‐joint ratios achieve their best performance at a small phase difference, while tails with a larger active‐joint ratio tend to perform worse than those with a smaller active‐joint ratio when a larger phase difference is used; (b) the optimal active‐joint ratio enables the robot to achieve superior performance in terms of swimming velocity and energy efficiency; and (c) with the same surface area, a longer fin with a wide leading edge and a narrow trailing edge can achieve higher swimming speeds with lower energy consumption. This work presents novel and in‐depth insights into the design of bio‐inspired underwater robots with compliant propulsion mechanisms.
Obstetric ultrasound and women with obesity: Do we need industry guidance?
Authors: Russo Kate , Quinton Ann
Published: October 2024

Australia, like many developed countries is experiencing an obesity crisis, with maternal obesity associated with increased risks of fetal and maternal complications. For obstetric sonographers, there are technical challenges to exclude a fetal anomaly or pregnancy complication in a woman with obesity. Furthermore, scan times are often longer, greater probe pressure is needed and follow up scans are often undertaken to complete examinations. There are numerous studies reporting high rates of work‐related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) amongst sonographers and papers that provide tips and tricks to improve imaging and ergonomics. However, there is no specific industry guidance by way of a guideline, consensus statement or position paper from our leading professional associations, on how we can address this complex issue obstetric sonographers encounter when scanning women with obesity, or our communication with women about the difficulties faced. Given the high and increasing rates of obesity, the high risk of pain and WRMSDs for sonographers and limitations associated with these examinations, this raises the question—is it time for our industry to discuss guidance and communication in obstetric ultrasound for women with obesity to mitigate sonographer risk of WRMSDs, while ensuring safe, high quality care for these women?
Thinking Contemporary Forms of Government after the Break of Tradition
Authors: Jalušič Vlasta , Heuer Wolfgang
Published: October 2024

This chapter explains the aim, the background and the most important questions that this book attempts to answer. While proceeding from Hannah Arendt’s thesis of the “break in the (political) tradition” that occurred with the totalitarianisms of the twentieth century, the book analyses some main trends in existing forms of government and their relation to historical forms. Possible conceptual frameworks are examined to gain a deeper understanding of current trends and phenomena: i.e. illiberalism, authoritarianism, Bonapartism, bureaucracy, rule by decree, rule by experts, populism, and anti-political tendencies. The authors elaborate on the new styles of politics gaining democratic legitimacy in elections and referendums and hybrid forms of governing and power that might escape the traditional framework of the division of powers. Political concepts, topics, and institutions neglected within the hegemonic currents of political theory that did not re-emerge after post-Second World War Western political thought are also examined: the prospects of democracy with councils and peoples’ assemblies as inclusive political institutions, the future of federalism, global sustainability in relation to nature and politics, and the question of the necessary conditions for political action, i.e. plurality and courage.
Atoms at Rest
Authors: Raven Will
Published: October 2024

In this chapter, we consider the factors that lead to complexity in atomic lines. We will learn that all spectral lines have a fundamental (natural) width and exist as a spread of frequencies rather than a single frequency. The width of atomic lines can also be affected by external factors such as pressure and laser power. This will be related to what we observe when probing an atom with a laser. In addition, we will learn about how this fundamental width is related to the lifetime of a state, how many photons per second an atom can absorb from a laser, and the two major types of experimental plots known as absorption plots and transmission plots.
Atoms in Motion
Authors: Raven Will
Published: October 2024

In this chapter, we explore how motion can affect the perceived frequency of waves, with significant implications for spectroscopy. We cover the broadening and shifting of atomic line frequencies due to atomic movement and investigate the roles of velocity and temperature in these phenomena. Key topics include the Doppler effect, Doppler broadening, the Maxwell-Boltzmann velocity distribution, and the Equipartition Theorem. Additionally, the chapter discusses the application of the Doppler effect in astronomy.
Hyperfine Structure
Authors: Raven Will
Published: October 2024

In this chapter, we explore hyperfine structure, which occurs in atoms with a nucleus that has angular momentum. We will discuss the theoretical framework, including key equations for calculating hyperfine energy shifts, and apply this knowledge through practical examples involving cesium, europium, and oxygen. This chapter aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of hyperfine structure and its significance in atomic physics.
Use of aqueous polyvinyl alcohol in binder jetting of Inconel 718
Authors: Paul Sourabh , Smith Patrick J. , Mumtaz Kamran
Published: October 2024

Binders used in binder jetting often pose health and environmental risks during processing and post processing operations. The print-heads which are used to deposit binder selectively on the feedstock are prone to clogging, despite the trend of print-heads being highly customised to suit different kinds of binders. These factors often hide the advantages of binder jetting as an additive manufacturing process, especially its scalability and its faster printing rates in comparison to powder bed fusion methods. The work presented here takes a step back and focuses on the development of an aqueous, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)-based liquid binder that is easy to manufacture and store, safe to handle, and can be reliably jetted to print parts. The feedstock considered was Inconel 718, a nickel-based super alloy which can be effectively processed by binder jetting without niobium segregation. PVA was added to the Inconel 718 powder in dry, granular form to manufacture a modified feedstock. The study also investigated the role of molecular weight of the PVA used, sintering environments and post-processing methods like hot isostatic pressing (HIP) on process responses like part densification, tensile strength, and hardness. Three different types of PVA were chosen which had molecular weights 10,000 g/mol (low molecular weight or LMW), 26,000 g/mol (medium molecular weight or MMW), and 84,000 g/mol (high molecular weight or HMW). The compatibility of the liquid, aqueous PVA-based binders with virgin Inconel 718 was examined by measuring the contact angle. The liquid, aqueous binder having MMW PVA reported better wetting with the Inconel 718 powder with a wetting angle of 26.6 which was lower than the wetting angle of 42.4°, seen in case of a commercial resin-based binder. The green strength reported by the MMW PVA liquid binder was 220 kPa which was higher than the other two PVA-based liquid binders. Green parts, upon successful printing, were sintered at 1260 °C. It was observed that a part printed using MMW PVA had a densification of 96.16% when sintered in 99.98% by volume argon gas, which increased to 98.96% after undergoing HIP. The same part reported a densification of 88.69% when sintered in a 95% by volume N2 and 5% by volume H2 gaseous environment, which was later attributed to the uptake of nitrogen by the chromium present in Inconel 718, which prevented necking between particles. Tensile specimens printed using MMW PVA, sintered in a 99.98% argon environment, showed the highest ultimate tensile strength of 220 MPa, which increased to 1010 MPa after the HIP process, which can be compared to commercially available Inconel 718.
Diacerein ameliorates amiodarone-induced pulmonary fibrosis via targeting the TGFβ1/α-SMA/Smad3 pathway
Authors: Farouk Hadir , Moustafa Passant E. , Khattab Marwa S. , El-Marasy Salma A.
Published: October 2024

This study is aimed at investigating the possible protective effect of diacerein (DIA) against AMD-induced pulmonary fibrosis in rats. Rats were classified into 4 groups: a normal group that received distilled water, control group that received AMD (100 mg/kg, p.o.) for 21 days to induce pulmonary fibrosis, and 2 treatment groups that received diacerein, in 2 dose levels (50 and 100 mg/kg, p.o., respectively) in addition to AMD (100 mg/kg, p.o.), for 21 days. Lung function test was assessed using a spirometer; serum and tissue were collected. Biochemical, real-time PCR, histopathological, and immunohistopathological analyses were carried out. AMD reduced tidal volume (TV), peripheral expiratory rate (PER), forced vital capacity (FVC), serum reduced glutathione (GSH) levels, Beclin, and LCII, while it elevated transform growth factor (TGF-β1) gene expression, serum malondialdehyde (MDA) level, alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), Smad3, phosphorylated signal transducer and activator of transcription (p-STAT3), and p62 lung content. Also, AMD elevated tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and caspase-3 protein expression. DIA elevated TV, PER, FVC, serum GSH level, Beclin, and LCII, while it reduced TGF-β1 gene expression, serum MDA level, α-SMA, Smad3, p-STAT-3, and p62 lung content. Moreover, DIA reduced TNF-α and caspase-3 protein expression. DIA attenuated AMD-induced pulmonary fibrosis via alleviating the TGF1/α-SMA/Smad3 pathway, reducing STAT-3 activation, and combating oxidative stress and inflammation in addition to promoting autophagy and abrogating apoptosis.
Normative data on measures of cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy and the effect of pretest conditions in a large Danish non-diabetic CVD-free population from the Lolland-Falster Health Study
Authors: Hansen Christian S. , Christensen Marie Mathilde Bjerg , Vistisen Dorte , Jepsen Randi , Ellervik Christina , Jørgensen Marit Eika , Fleischer Jesper
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy (CAN) is a common diabetic complication associated with excess morbidity and mortality. CAN is also seen in conditions such as Parkinson’s disease. Normative reference data for cardiovascular autonomic function are used to stratify individuals into those with and without CAN. However, reference thresholds for both cardiovascular autonomic reflex tests (CARTs) and heart rate variability (HRV) are scarce and based on small sample sizes. The aim of the study was to establish contemporary normative reference thresholds based on a large non-diabetic population free of cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Methods

Cardiovascular autonomic function, CARTs and 5-min HRV indices were assessed in individuals without diabetes and CVD from the Lolland-Falster Health Study (2018–2020) by applying the point-of-care device Vagus™. Age-specific normative reference thresholds were estimated by using log-transformed quantile regression models at the 5th and 10th percentile, with adjustments made for sex. Models assessing the association between age and HRV indices were further adjusted for heart rate.

Results

We present age-specific normative reference thresholds for cardiovascular autonomic function, including CARTs and HRV, for 875 individuals (48% females) aged 15–85 years. The reference thresholds are presented for both the 5th and 10th lower percentile. Higher age was inversely associated with all outcomes. Females tended to have a higher parasympathetic drive compared to males. Pre-test conditions did not affect CARTs significantly.

Conclusions

The presented age-related normative reference thresholds for both CARTs and HRV indices based on a large Danish cohort may facilitate improved quality of research and treatment.
The use of a clip prior to neoadjuvant chemotherapy for breast cancer with microcalcifications may not always be required
Authors: Talec Henri , Aubé Christophe , Guerin-Charbonnel Catherine , Berge Pierre
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Neoadjuvant chemotherapy is now a common first line therapy for breast cancer. International guidelines recommend placement of a clip before commencement of therapy to assist with localizing the tumor bed in the event of excellent response—this takes up time and resources. The microcalcifications associated usually persist after chemotherapy and could serve as an alternative marker. We investigated to determine prognostic criteria to avoid the need for a marker clip before neoadjuvant chemotherapy for breast tumors associated with microcalcifications.

Methods

We performed a 7 year single-center bi-site retrospective analytical observational study of 88 women with calcified breast carcinoma treated by neoadjuvant chemotherapy at our bi-site institution between September 2015 and September 2022. This study includied two groups (clip-free tumor localization vs. clip-free tumor non-localization), and investigating quantitative and qualitative predictive factors. The clip-free tumor localization after neoadjuvant chemotherapy was defined by the visibility of residual calcifications on both views of the pre-operative mammogram on the day of or the day prior to surgery.

Results

The mean age of the 88 women included in our population was 52.8 years (± 12.7 years standard deviation). Of the 90 tumors with microcalcifications, 64 carcinomas (71.1%) were localizable with no marker clip after neoadjuvant chemotherapy. The main predictive factors significantly associated with clip-free tumor localization were number of calcifications > 10 (P < 0.0001), grade 2 tumor (P = 0.003) with a probability of locating tumor after neoadjuvant chemotherapy of 97.9%, 95% CI [95.6; 99.0].

Conclusion

More than 10 microcalcifications in a grade 2 breast tumor at the initial diagnosis may obviate the need for a marker clip.
Inequity aversion and the stability of majority rule
Authors: Le Minh Tung , Saporiti Alejandro
Published: October 2024

Despite the empirical support for other-regarding behavior in humans, spatial voting theory has largely overlooked the role of social preferences. This work takes the perspective that individuals not only harbour selfish preferences regarding material possessions, but also experience emotions such as envy and guilt regarding the possessions of others. By exploring how these emotions, manifested as inequity aversion, shape collective decision-making, this research deviates from the predominant focus on self-interest. Instead, it delves into the influence of guilt and envy on distributive politics, proposing two sensible constraints on these emotions, called limited and chained other-regardingness. These domain conditions on social preferences are aligned with the empirical estimates of inequity aversion; and they aim to ensure the stability (non-emptiness), uniqueness, and fairness of the majority-rule core.
Evaluating deep learning techniques for optimal neurons counting and characterization in complex neuronal cultures
Authors: Rio-Alvarez Angel , Marcos Pablo García , González Paula Puerta , Serrano-Pertierra Esther , Novelli Antonello , Fernández-Sánchez M. Teresa , González Víctor M.
Published: October 2024

The counting and characterization of neurons in primary cultures have long been areas of significant scientific interest due to their multifaceted applications, ranging from neuronal viability assessment to the study of neuronal development. Traditional methods, often relying on fluorescence or colorimetric staining and manual segmentation, are time consuming, labor intensive, and prone to error, raising the need for the development of automated and reliable methods. This paper delves into the evaluation of three pivotal deep learning techniques: semantic segmentation, which allows for pixel-level classification and is solely suited for characterization; object detection, which focuses on counting and locating neurons; and instance segmentation, which amalgamates the features of the other two but employing more intricate structures. The goal of this research is to discern what technique or combination of those techniques yields the optimal results for automatic counting and characterization of neurons in images of neuronal cultures. Following rigorous experimentation, we conclude that instance segmentation stands out, providing superior outcomes for both challenges.

Graphical abstract

Identifying the optimal pathway for characterizing neurons in complex cultures through structured experimentation
A Deep Learning-based Pipeline for Segmenting the Cerebral Cortex Laminar Structure in Histology Images
Authors: Wang Jiaxuan , Gong Rui , Heidari Shahrokh , Rogers Mitchell , Tani Toshiki , Abe Hiroshi , Ichinohe Noritaka , Woodward Alexander , Delmas Patrice J.
Published: October 2024

Characterizing the anatomical structure and connectivity between cortical regions is a critical step towards understanding the information processing properties of the brain and will help provide insight into the nature of neurological disorders. A key feature of the mammalian cerebral cortex is its laminar structure. Identifying these layers in neuroimaging data is important for understanding their global structure and to help understand the connectivity patterns of neurons in the brain. We studied Nissl-stained and myelin-stained slice images of the brain of the common marmoset (Callithrix jacchus), which is a new world monkey that is becoming increasingly popular in the neuroscience community as an object of study. We present a novel computational framework that first acquired the cortical labels using AI-based tools followed by a trained deep learning model to segment cerebral cortical layers. We obtained a Euclidean distance of $$\varvec{1274.750 \pm 156.400}$$

1274.750
±
156.400

$$\varvec{\mu m}$$

μ
m

for the cortical labels acquisition, which was in the acceptable range by computing the half Euclidean distance of the average cortex thickness ($$\varvec{1800.630~ \mu m}$$

1800.630

μ
m

). We compared our cortical layer segmentation pipeline with the pipeline proposed by Wagstyl et al. (PLoS biology,18(4), e3000678 2020) adapted to 2D data. We obtained a better mean $$\varvec{95^{th}}$$

95

th

percentile Hausdorff distance (95HD) of $$\varvec{92.150~ \mu m}$$

92.150

μ
m

. Whereas a mean 95HD of $$\varvec{94.170~ \mu m}$$

94.170

μ
m

was obtained from Wagstyl et al. We also compared our pipeline’s performance against theirs using their dataset (the BigBrain dataset). The results also showed better segmentation quality, $$\varvec{85.318 \%}$$

85.318
%

Jaccard Index acquired from our pipeline, while $$\varvec{83.000 \%}$$

83.000
%

was stated in their paper.
Increased Levels of Circulating Methylglyoxal Have No Consequence for Cerebral Microvascular Integrity and Cognitive Function in Young Healthy Mice
Authors: Berends Eline , Vangrieken Philippe , Amiri Naima , van de Waarenburg Marjo P. H. , Scheijen Jean L. J. M. , Hermes Denise J. H. P. , Wouters Kristiaan , van Oostenbrugge Robert J. , Schalkwijk Casper G. , Foulquier Sébastien
Published: October 2024

Diabetes and other age-related diseases are associated with an increased risk of cognitive impairment, but the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. Methylglyoxal (MGO), a by-product of glycolysis and a major precursor in the formation of advanced glycation end-products (AGEs), is increased in individuals with diabetes and other age-related diseases and is associated with microvascular dysfunction. We now investigated whether increased levels of circulating MGO can lead to cerebral microvascular dysfunction, blood–brain barrier (BBB) dysfunction, and cognitive impairment. Mice were supplemented or not with 50 mM MGO in drinking water for 13 weeks. Plasma and cortical MGO and MGO-derived AGEs were measured with UPLC-MS/MS. Peripheral and cerebral microvascular integrity and inflammation were investigated. Cerebral blood flow and neurovascular coupling were investigated with laser speckle contrast imaging, and cognitive tests were performed. We found a 2-fold increase in plasma MGO and an increase in MGO-derived AGEs in plasma and cortex. Increased plasma MGO did not lead to cerebral microvascular dysfunction, inflammation, or cognitive decline. This study shows that increased concentrations of plasma MGO are not associated with cerebral microvascular dysfunction and cognitive impairment in healthy mice. Future research should focus on the role of endogenously formed MGO in cognitive impairment.
Revitalizing agriculture with the potential of cashew nutshell liquid: a comprehensive exploration and synergy with AI
Authors: Nayak Sneha , Hegde Roopa B. , Rao Abhishek S. , Sachidananda H. K.
Published: October 2024

The cashew industry produces extremely toxic effluent that seriously endangers life. Furthermore, cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL) a by-product, from the cashew industry is underutilized resulting in its presence in effluent. This liquid is extremely toxic and poses a threat to the environment if discharged without removal. Therefore, this comprehensive review delves into the intricacies of cashew nut processing, with a particular focus on the production of CNSL, its chemical profiling, and the imperative need for thorough characterization to ascertain its chemical composition. The manuscript underscores the potential of CNSL as a promising solution in the agricultural sector due to its skyrocketing potential as an insecticidal, fungicidal, antioxidant, anticorrosive, and termite resistant, and its ability to be blended with biodiesel as it improves lubrication properties in comparison with traditional diesel and helps extend the lifespan of engines, further necessitating minimal maintenance. It explores the necessity for chemical modifications in CNSL, presenting recent insights and advancements, particularly in the realm of phyto-nano-emulsions of CNSL with increased bioavailability. Additionally, it highlights the burgeoning role of artificial intelligence and machine learning models in predicting CNSL emissions, yield, crop health, and cashew kernel quality checks, offering a holistic decision support system for supply chain optimization. By succinctly mapping out the roadmap for CNSL production, chemical enhancements, and its application as an antifungal agent, the manuscript advocates for the integration of AI and ML to enhance agricultural outcomes and boost farmers' profits.