bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Test–retest reliability of Bayesian estimations of the effects of stimulation, prior information and individual traits on pain perception
Authors: Delgado‐Sanchez Ariane , Charalambous Christiana , Trujillo‐Barreto Nelson J. , Safi Hannah , Jones Anthony , Sivan Manoj , Talmi Deborah , Brown Christopher
Published: November 2023

Background

There is inter‐individual variability in the influence of different components (e.g. nociception and expectations) on pain perception. Identifying the individual effect of these components could serve for patient stratification, but only if these influences are stable in time.

Methods

In this study, 30 healthy participants underwent a cognitive pain paradigm in which they rated pain after viewing a probabilistic cue informing of forthcoming pain intensity and then receiving electrical stimulation. The trial information was then used in a Bayesian probability model to compute the relative weight each participant put on stimulation, cue, cue uncertainty and trait‐like bias. The same procedure was repeated 2 weeks later. Relative and absolute test–retest reliability of all measures was assessed.

Results

Intraclass correlation results showed good reliability for the effect of the stimulation (0.83), the effect of the cue (0.75) and the trait‐like bias (0.75 and 0.75), and a moderate reliability for the effect of the cue uncertainty (0.55). Absolute reliability measures also supported the temporal stability of the results and indicated that a change in parameters corresponding to a difference in pain ratings ranging between 0.47 and 1.45 (depending on the parameters) would be needed to consider differences in outcomes significant. The comparison of these measures with the closest clinical data we possess supports the reliability of our results.

Conclusions

These findings support the hypothesis that inter‐individual differences in the weight placed on different pain factors are stable in time and could therefore be a possible target for patient stratification.

Significance

Our results demonstrate the temporal stability of the weight healthy individuals place on the different factors leading to the pain response. These findings give validity to the idea of using Bayesian estimations of the influence of different factors on pain as a way to stratify patients for treatment personalization.
Energy harvesting from water streaming at charged surface
Authors: Xu Daxiang , Yan Meng , Xie Yanbo
Published: November 2023

Water flowing at a charged surface may produce electricity, known as streaming current/potentials, which may be traced back to the 19th century. However, due to the low gained power and efficiencies, the energy conversion from streaming current was far from usable. The emergence of micro/nanofluidic technology and nanomaterials significantly increases the power (density) and energy conversion efficiency. In this review, we conclude the fundamentals and recent progress in electrical double layers at the charged surface. We estimate the generated power by hydrodynamic energy dissipation in multi‐scaling flows considering the viscous systems with slipping boundary and inertia systems. Then, we review the coupling of volume flow and current flow by the Onsager relation, as well as the figure of merits and efficiency. We summarize the state‐of‐the‐art of electrokinetic energy conversions, including critical performance metrics such as efficiencies, power densities, and generated voltages in various systems. We discuss the advantages and possible constraints by the figure of merits, including single‐phase flow and flying droplets.
Relevance of the calculation of the diffusion coefficient in a capillary electrophoresis experiment
Authors: Manzi Sergio J. , Ranzuglia Gabriela A. , Centres Paulo M. , Pereyra Víctor D.
Published: November 2023

This paper analyzes the role of the diffusion coefficient in the movement of analytes that can reversibly react with a selector given a product in the presence of drift. The problem mimics the movement of enantiomers in a capillary electrophoresis experiment. As is well known, the signal in the capillary must be sharp enough to make a good determination of the effective mobility of the analytes being analyzed. The essence of the technique is based on fast interconversion rates. Therefore, the effective diffusion coefficient must be negligible during the experiment. In the present work, an exact expression for both the apparent mobility and the diffusion coefficient is obtained. This is done by writing the rate equations governing the process and solving them using the generating function technique. The effective mobility coincides with the Wren and Rowe equation, whereas the diffusion coefficient allows us to determine the values of the parameters to be taken into account so that this quantity is minimal or close to zero. On the other hand, the numerical solution of the kinetic equations and Monte Carlo simulations allow us to follow the signal in the capillary and to determine its space–time evolution.
The forgotten: Increasing awareness of late maternal deaths
Authors: White Wesley R. , Coker Jessica L.
Published: November 2023

Synopsis

Increased awareness and psychiatric intervention is needed to reduce late maternal deaths.
Fruit and Vegetable Consumption and the Risk of Bone Fracture: A Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations (GRADE)‐Assessed Systematic Review and Dose–Response Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Zeraattalab‐Motlagh Sheida , Ghoreishy Seyed Mojtaba , Arab Arman , Mahmoodi Sara , Hemmati Amirhossein , Mohammadi Hamed
Published: November 2023

Researchers have examined the link between consuming fruit and vegetables and the incidence of fractures for many years. Nevertheless, their findings have been unclear. Furthermore, the dose‐dependent relationship has not been examined, and the level of certainty in the evidence was not evaluated. We carried out a dose‐dependent meta‐analysis examining the relation between fruit and vegetables intake and fracture incidence. PubMed, Web of Sciences, and Scopus were searched until April 2023 for cohort studies evaluating the relation between fruit and vegetables and fracture incidence. Summary relative risks (RRs) were computed from complied data by applying random effects analysis. To examine the level of evidence, we utilized the approach called the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations (GRADE). Ten cohort studies comprising 511,716 individuals were entered. There was a nonsignificant relation between fruit and vegetables, as well as only fruit intake and any fracture risk. In contrast, high versus low analysis presented that vegetables consumption was linked to a 16% decrease in any type of fracture incidence (RR 0.84; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.75 to 0.95; I2 = 83.1%; n = 6). Also, per one serving/day (200 g/day) increments in vegetables consumption, there was a 14% decline in the fracture risk (RR 0.86; 95% CI, 0.77 to 0.97; I2 = 84.7%; n = 5; GRADE = moderate). With moderate certainty, a greater consumption of only vegetables, but not total fruit and vegetables or only fruit, might reduce the risk of fracture. These associations were also evident in dose–response analysis. Large intervention trials are demanded to approve our findings. © 2023 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
The longitudinal effect of the quality of participation experiences in a voluntary organization on youth psychological empowerment
Authors: Rodrigues Mariana , Menezes Isabel , Ferreira Pedro D.
Published: November 2023

Research shows its limitations by not capturing the specificities of individual experiences, which result either from the participation of or interaction among different people in a given context across time. This study explores the effect that the quality of youth participation experiences in a Portuguese voluntary organization can have on the development of their psychological empowerment (PE). This study adopted a longitudinal, quantitative design where the same cohort of 481 participants (62.4% female; Mage = 17.26 years) was followed across three time points. Latent growth curve modeling was performed to examine the effect of the quality of participation experiences (QPE) on the developmental trajectories of PE components. Findings show that the QPE had the most powerful effect on developmental trajectories in PE. The study shows how youth perceptions of opportunities for reflection and action in interaction in a climate of openness to dialogue and the emergence of different ways of thinking and doing affect their PE.
On the saturation spectrum of odd cycles
Authors: Gould Ronald J. , Kündgen André , Kang Minjung
Published: November 2023

Given a graph , we say that a graph is ‐saturated if is not a subgraph of , but the addition of any new edge to creates at least one copy of . In this paper we determine all pairs for which there is a ‐saturated graph on vertices and edges. In addition, we determine all but possible sizes for ‐vertex ‐saturated graphs when is an odd cycle for .
Rapid classification and identification of chemical constituents in Leonurus japonicus Houtt based on UPLC‐Q‐Orbitrap‐MS combined with data post‐processing techniques
Authors: Dou Yajie , Shu Lexin , Jia Xuchen , Yao Yaqi , Chen Siyue , Xu Yanyan , Li Yubo
Published: November 2023

Leonurus japonicus Houtt (LJH) is a bulk medicinal material commonly used in clinical practice, but its complex constituents have not been completely understood, posing challenges to pharmacology, pharmacokinetic research, and scientific and rational drug use. As a result, it is critical to develop an efficient and accurate method for classifying and identifying the chemical composition of LJH. In this study, ultra‐performance liquid chromatography‐quadrupole electrostatic field‐orbital trap high resolution mass spectrometry (UPLC‐Q‐Orbitrap‐MS) was successfully established, along with two data post‐processing techniques, characteristic fragmentations (CFs) and neutral losses (NLs), to quickly classify and identify the chemical constituents in LJH. As a result, 44 constituents of LJH were identified, including four alkaloids, 20 flavonoids, two phenylpropanoids, 17 organic acids, and one amino acid. The method in this paper enables classification and identification of chemical compositions rapidly, providing a scientific foundation for further research on the effective and toxic substances of LJH.
Genotyping and traceability analysis of norovirus in Yantai between 2017 and 2019
Authors: Sun Zhenlu , Niu Peihua , Jin Miao , Zhang Ruiqing , Gao Qiao , Wang Hongtao , Ma Xuejun , Wang Ji
Published: November 2023

To investigate the diversity and evolution of noroviruses in Yantai in recent years, this study focused on the coat protein regions of norovirus‐positive samples with nucleic acid detection (cycle threshold) values below 30 between 2017 and 2019. A total of 81 sequences were obtained for genotyping. Initially, a high‐throughput sequencing approach was established to perform the whole‐genome sequencing of multiple typical diarrheal strains. Using bioinformatics software such as BEAST, recombinant variant analysis was performed for each genotype of the norovirus strains, and genetic evolutionary analysis was conducted for the dominant strain GII.4, as well as the rare variant GII.21. The results showed that there were multiple genotypes such as GI.3, GI.6, GI.7, GII.1, GII.2, GII.3, GII.4, GII.6, GII.13, GII.17, GII.21, and GIX.1 in the positive samples of norovirus from 2017 to 2019. GII.4 is characterized by diverse genotypes, with new changes in antigenic epitopes occurring during the course of the epidemic. This may have led to the emergence of a new pandemic. This suggests a need to strengthen surveillance. The results of this study suggest that attention should be paid to the predominant genotypes prevalent in neighboring countries and regions, and the safety supervision of imported food should be strengthened to aid in the prevention and control of related viruses.
Comparative anti‐inflammatory effect of extract from novel Korean strawberry cultivars (Fragaria × ananassa) on lipopolysaccharide‐induced RAW264.7 macrophages and mouse model
Authors: Justine Elsa Easter , Jang Seo‐Woo , Lee Sanghyun , Lee Hyo‐Jun , Wang Rong‐Bo , Kim Yeon‐Ju
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

Dietary interventions are crucial in modulating inflammation in humans. Strawberries are enjoyed by people of different ages as a result of their attractive phenotype and taste. In addition, the active compounds in strawberries may contribute to the reduction of inflammation. When developing new strawberry cultivars to address agricultural and environmental threats, the bioactivity of strawberries must be improved to maintain their health benefits.

RESULTS

We determined the phytochemical contents of extracts from a new Korean strawberry cultivar, with the CN7 cultivar extract possessing the highest total polyphenol and flavonoid contents compared to the CN5 and Seolhyang cultivar extracts. The new Korean strawberry cultivars reduced the expression of inflammatory‐related genes in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced RAW264.7 cells via the nuclear factor‐kappa B signaling pathway, indicating an anti‐inflammatory effect. The CN7 cultivar showed greater bioactivity potential and the highest ellagic acid content; hence, we assessed the effect of the CN7 cultivar in an LPS‐stimulated mouse model. The CN7 cultivar treatment demonstrated its effectiveness in reducing inflammation via the downregulation of inflammatory cytokines secretion and gene expression.

CONCLUSION

The results obtained in the present study have revealed the observable differences of the newly developed strawberry cultivars with Seolhyang in mitigating inflammation induced by LPS. The enhanced phytochemical content of the CN7 cultivar extract may contribute to its improved anti‐inflammatory effect. Therefore, it is crucial to maintain the nutritive benefits of strawberry during the development of new cultivation. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Sustaining rice productivity through weather‐resilient agricultural practices
Authors: Rahman Niaz Md. Farhat , Malik Waqas Ahmed , Baten Md. Azizul , Kabir Md. Shahjahan , Rahman Mohammad Chhiddikur , Ahmed Rokib , Hossain ABM Zahid , Hossain Md. Mofazzel , Halder Tuhin , Bhuiyan Md. Khairul Alam , Khan Mohammad Ashik Iqbal , Khan Raihanul Haque , Ahasan Nazmul , Piepho Hans‐Peter
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

Enhancing productivity and profitability and reducing climatic risk are the major challenges for sustaining rice production. Extreme weather can have significant and varied effects on crops, influencing agricultural productivity, crop yields and food security.

RESULTS

In this study, a comparative evaluation of two crop management systems was performed involving farmers adopting a weather forecast‐based advisory service (WFBAS) and usual farmers’ practice (FP). WFBAS crop management followed the generated weather forecast‐based advice whereas the control farmers (FP) did not receive any weather forecast‐based advice, rather following their usual rice cultivation practices. The results of the experiments revealed that WFBAS farmers had a significant yield advantage over FP farmers. With the WFBAS technology, the farmers used inputs judiciously, utilized the benefit of favorable weather and minimized the risk resulting from extreme weather events. As a result, besides the yield enhancement, WFBAS provided a scope to protect the environment with the minimum residual effect of fertilizer and pesticides. It also reduced the pressure on groundwater by ensuring efficient water management. Finally, the farmers benefited from higher income through yield enhancement, reduction of the costs of production and reduction of risk.

CONCLUSION

A successful and extensive implementation of WFBAS in the rice production system would assist Bangladesh in achieving Sustainable Development Goal 2.4, which focuses on rice productivity and profitability of farmers as well as long‐term food security of the country. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Uncertainty principles for the short‐time Fourier transform on the lattice
Authors: Poria Anirudha , Dasgupta Aparajita
Published: November 2023

In this paper, we study a few versions of the uncertainty principle for the short‐time Fourier transform on the lattice . In particular, we establish the uncertainty principle for orthonormal sequences, Donoho–Stark's uncertainty principle, Benedicks‐type uncertainty principle, Heisenberg‐type uncertainty principle, and local uncertainty inequality for this transform on . Also, we obtain the Heisenberg‐type uncertainty inequality using the ‐entropy of the short‐time Fourier transform on .
Diverse biological functions of the renin‐angiotensin system
Authors: Rao Adithi , Bhat Shabir A. , Shibata Tomohiro , Giani Jorge F. , Rader Florian , Bernstein Kenneth E. , Khan Zakir
Published: November 2023

The renin‐angiotensin system (RAS) has been widely known as a circulating endocrine system involved in the control of blood pressure. However, components of RAS have been found to be localized in rather unexpected sites in the body including the kidneys, brain, bone marrow, immune cells, and reproductive system. These discoveries have led to steady, growing evidence of the existence of independent tissue RAS specific to several parts of the body. It is important to understand how RAS regulates these systems for a variety of reasons: It gives a better overall picture of human physiology, helps to understand and mitigate the unintended consequences of RAS‐inhibiting or activating drugs, and sets the stage for potential new therapies for a variety of ailments. This review fulfills the need for an updated overview of knowledge about local tissue RAS in several bodily systems, including their components, functions, and medical implications.
Community agency launches new phase of comprehensive mental health site
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: November 2023

A community mental health provider in the Pacific Northwest has launched the second phase of an ambitious three‐stage initiative to integrate multiple levels of care into one campus site. A combination of public, private and philanthropic sources is covering the Compass Health project's $68.5 million price tag.
Characterization of the void content and laminate quality of fiber‐reinforced plastic composites manufactured using the resin spray and compaction method
Authors: Zegeye Amare Demelie , Delele Mulugeta Admsu , Tsegaw Assefa Asmare , Bogale Tesfaye Shiferaw
Published: November 2023

Void fraction and fiber volume fraction (FVF) are among the most important parameters determining the quality of fiber‐reinforced plastic products. Most of the voids in liquid composite molding–manufactured composites are directly related to the viscous matrix (resin) flow through the porous medium (fiber) during impregnation. In this investigation, a different method, resin spray rather than injection was used to reduce the resin's flow path, which resulted in low void content and higher FVF. The resin was sprayed on the surface of the preform, and compaction was applied to infiltrate the resin towards the thickness. Sample laminates were manufactured, and computer tomography scanning was applied to diagnose void content and laminae quality. The images collected from the scanner were analyzed using ImageJ software. Effects of compaction pressure and compaction speed were characterized. According to the investigation, compaction speed was the key factor in determining a laminate's void content. Only 1.5% void fraction was integrated with a compaction speed of 1 mm/min and a compaction pressure of 100 KPa. On the other hand, compaction speed has less of an impact on a laminate's FVF.

Highlights

The void fraction of a composite is reduced via the spray and compaction method.

Fiber volume fraction is not much affected by compaction speed.

Slow compaction speeds minimize void content.

Spray compaction is a low‐cost manufacturing method.
Effect of tree height and spraying methods on Diaphorina citri kuwayama endosymbionts in the context of Huanglongbing disease management in citrus orchards
Authors: Hussain Mubasher , Zhong Yun , Tao Tonglai , Xiu Baolin , Ye Fengxian , Gao Jing , Mao Runqian
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

Huanglongbing (HLB) (caused by Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus) is the most damaging disease of citrus around the world. This study investigated the effects of citrus tree height on Diaphorina citri Kuwayama mortality, endosymbiont responses, and HLB distribution.

RESULTS

The results reveal that the age of citrus trees plays a significant role in psyllid mortality. Interestingly, the cumulative mean mortality (%) of psyllids over the seven‐day observation period was higher (31.50±0.03) when four‐year‐old (501A1, 502A2, 501A3) citrus trees were sprayed with a US‐SMART mechanical sprayer. In contrast, the psyllids mortality was 0.09±0.23 for the 13‐year‐old citrus trees (104A2, 104A3, 104C1) sprayed with a US‐SMART mechanical sprayer and 9.10±0.05 for 13‐year‐old (502A2, 502B2, 502D1) citrus trees sprayed with a fixed US‐SMART mechanical sprayer. Our findings also revealed that psyllids from both four‐ and 13‐year‐old citrus trees carried Candidatus Carsonella ruddii species and Wolbachia, the primary and secondary endosymbionts, respectively. Surprisingly, infection rates of these endosymbionts remained consistent across different age groups, as confirmed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis. Furthermore, our study highlights the significance of tree height as a proxy for tree age in influencing HLB occurrence. Specifically, four‐year‐old citrus trees subjected to the US‐SMART mechanical sprayer for citrus psyllid control demonstrated effective disease management compared to 13‐year‐old (104A2, 104A3, 104C1) citrus trees sprayed with US‐SMART mechanical sprayers. Additionally, the investigation explored the impact of tree height on HLB distribution. In four‐year‐old trees, no significant correlation between HLB disease and tree height was observed, potentially due to effective spray coverage with US‐SMART mechanical sprayer. However, in 13‐year‐old (104A2, 104A3, 104C1) citrus tree sprayed with US‐SMART mechanical sprayer, a positive correlation between tree height and HLB disease was evident.

CONCLUSION

This research provides valuable insights into the complex interaction between citrus tree age, psyllid endosymbionts responses, and HLB distribution. These results emphasize effective HLB management strategies, especially in orchards with diverse tree age populations, ultimately contributing to the long‐term sustainability of citrus cultivation. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Optimizing the design of a pharmacokinetic trial to evaluate the dosing scheme of a novel tuberculosis drug in children living with or without HIV
Authors: Montepiedra Grace , Svensson Elin M. , Wong Weng Kee , Hooker Andrew C.
Published: November 2023

Pharmacokinetic (PK) studies in children are usually small and have ethical constraints due to the medical complexities of drawing blood in this special population. Often, population PK models for the drug(s) of interest are available in adults, and these models can be extended to incorporate the expected deviations seen in children. As a consequence, there is increasing interest in the use of optimal design methodology to design PK sampling schemes in children that maximize information using a small sample size and limited number of sampling times per dosing period. As a case study, we use the novel tuberculosis drug delamanid, and show how applications of optimal design methodology can result in highly efficient and model‐robust designs in children for estimating PK parameters using a limited number of sampling measurements. Using developed population PK models based on available data from adults living with and without HIV, and limited data on children without HIV, competing designs for children living with HIV were derived and assessed based on robustness to model uncertainty.
Disaster response, confined space medicine and safety systems against railway accidents: 2023 Odisha railway accident from India
Authors: Gandhi Aravind P. , Padhi Bijaya Kumar
Published: November 2023

Railways are a major mode of transportation for passengers as well as goods. Across the world, minor and major accidents involving railways causing damage to life and property have been reported. The recent triple train derailment and collision near a small railway station in the state of Odisha, India, on 02.06.2023 is a major calamity. The accident resulted in 292 deaths, and more than 1000 injuries were attributed to the accident. In its comprehensive enquiry report, the Commissioner of Railway Safety found lapses in the signalling mechanism and oversight as the reasons for the accident. Immediate rescue, emergency transport and treatment are essential in reducing the mortality and morbidity of such accidents. The relatively newer domain under pre‐hospital and disaster medicine is confined space medicine, which deals with patients trapped in places with limited access to conventional intervention and reduced ventilation. Confined space medicine employs a multi‐hazard and interprofessional approach to treating individuals who are trapped in a structural collapse. It is also essential to critically evaluate and disseminate the entire disaster response systems that functioned during and after the railway accident to identify the existing system's best practices, bottlenecks, and gaps. The train's speed, lack of track and signal maintenance, absence of safety oversight, driver fatigue and distractions are some major determinants of train accidents, highlighting the need for comprehensive planning and training in rail safety. It is essential to improve the timely implementation of maintenance activities and completion of accident inquiries on time. A comprehensive review of the preparedness, rescue and response must be undertaken at the earliest possible opportunity to prevent and prepare for any such disasters in the future.
Senescence‐Targeted and NAD+‐Dependent SIRT1‐Activated Nanoplatform to Counteract Stem Cell Senescence for Promoting Aged Bone Regeneration
Authors: Wang Ying , Xie Fangru , He Zirui , Che Lingbin , Chen Xi , Yuan Yuan , Liu Changsheng
Published: November 2023

Age‐related bone defects are a leading cause of disability and mortality in elderly individuals, and targeted therapy to delay the senescence of bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) has emerged as a promising strategy to rejuvenate bone regeneration in aged scenarios. More specifically, activating the nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+)‐dependent sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) pathway is demonstrated to effectively counteract MSC senescence and thus promote osteogenesis. Herein, based on an inventively identified senescent MSC‐specific surface marker Kremen1, a senescence‐targeted and NAD+ dependent SIRT1 activated nanoplatform is fabricated with a dual delivery of resveratrol (RSV) (SIRT1 promoter) and nicotinamide riboside (NR, NAD+ precursor). This targeting nanoplatform exhibits a strong affinity for senescent MSCs through conjugation with anti‐Kremen1 antibodies and enables specifically responsive release of NR and RSV in lysosomes via senescence‐associated β‐galactosidase‐stimulated enzymatic hydrolysis of the hydrophilic chain. Furthermore, this nanoplatform performs well in promoting aged bone formation both in vitro and in vivo by boosting NAD+, activating SIRT1, and delaying MSC senescence. For the first time, a novel senescent MSC‐specific surface marker is identified and aged bone repair is rejuvenated by delaying senescence of MSCs using an active targeting platform. This discovery opens up new insights for nanotherapeutics aimed at age‐related diseases.
Unlocking the Effect of Chain Length and Terminal Group on Ethylene Glycol Ether Family Toward Advanced Aqueous Electrolytes
Authors: Xiao Kang , Yang Liming , Peng Mengke , Jiang Xudong , Hu Ting , Yuan Kai , Chen Yiwang
Published: November 2023

Constructing high‐performance hybrid electrolyte is important to advanced aqueous electrochemical energy storage devices. However, due to the lack of in‐depth understanding of how the molecule structures of cosolvent additives influence the properties of electrolytes significantly impeded the development of hybrid electrolytes. Herein, a series of hybrid electrolytes are prepared by using ethylene glycol ether with different chain lengths and terminal groups as additives. The optimized 2 m LiTFSI‐90%DDm hybrid electrolyte prepared from diethylene glycol dimethyl ether (DDm) molecule showcases excellent comprehensive performance and significantly enhances the operating voltage of supercapacitors (SCs) to 2.5 V by suppressing the activity of water. Moreover, the SC with 2 m LiTFSI‐90%DDm hybrid electrolyte supplies a long‐term cycling life of 50 000 cycles at 1 A g−1 with 92.3% capacitance retention as well as excellent low temperature (−40 ºC) cycling performance (10 000 times at 0.2 A g−1). Universally, Zn//polyaniline full cell with 2 m Zn(OTf)2‐90%DDm electrolyte manifests outstanding cycling performance in terms of 77.9% capacity retention after 2,000 cycles and a dendrite‐free Zn anode. This work inspires new thinking of developing advanced hybrid electrolytes by cosolvent molecule design toward high‐performance energy storage devices.
Origin of Water‐Stable CsPbX3 Quantum Dots Assisted by Zwitterionic Ligands and Sequential Strategies for Enhanced Luminescence Based on Crystal Evolution
Authors: Yin Junyang , Zhang Jie , Wu Zhenzi , Wu Feng , Li Xiong , Dai Jiangnan , Chen Changqing
Published: November 2023

Water stability is a crucial issue always addressed for commercial practical application of perovskite quantum dots (QDs). Recent advances in ligand engineering for in situ synthesis of water‐stable perovskite QDs have attracted growing interest. However, the exact mechanism remains unclear. Here, the function of 4‐bromobutyric acid (BBA) and oleylamine (OLA) is systematically studied in water‐stable CsPbX3 (X = Br and I) QDs and confirms that the zwitterionic ligands generated in situ by BBA and OLA are anchored on the QDs surface, thus preventing water from penetrating into the QDs. Cs4PbBr6 intermediate crystal found in the crystal structure evolution process of CsPbX3 QD further reveals a complete crystallization process: PbX2 + CsX + Br− → Cs4PbBr6 crystals + X−→ CsPbX3 QDs + Br−. Furthermore, it is found that the solvent coordination of the precursor solution has a significant effect on the crystallinity of Cs4PbBr6 intermediate crystal, while the Rb+ doping can effectively passivate the surface defects of CsPbX3 QDs, thereby jointly achieving photoluminescence quantum yields (PLQY) of 94.6% for CsPbBr3 QDs (88.2% for CsPbI3 QDs). This work provides new insights and guiding ideas for the green synthesis of high‐quality and water‐stable perovskite QDs.
Hollow Superstructure In Situ Assembled by Single‐Layer Janus Nanospheres toward Electromagnetic Shielding Flame‐Retardant Polyurea Composites
Authors: Bi Xue , Song Kunpeng , Pan Ye‐Tang , Barreneche Camila , Vahabi Henri , He Jiyu , Yang Rongjie
Published: November 2023

A dodecahedral superstructure consisting of a single layer of Janus spheres containing ZIF‐67 nanodots is prepared by in situ polymerization, with ZIF‐67 and bio‐based phytic acid (PA) as templates and dopants. It is used to improve the flame retardant, electromagnetic (EMI) shielding, and thermal conductivity properties of polyurea (PUA). By adding 5 wt% polyaniline@cobalt phytate‐2.0 (PANI@Co‐PA‐2.0), the peak of heat release rate and the peak of smoke production rate are reduced by 54.9 and 59.9%, respectively. The peak of CO and CO2 production also decreased by 46.2 and 53.1%, respectively. A decrease in the absorption intensity of aliphatic and aromatic volatiles is also observed. The fire safety of PUA is greatly improved. In addition, PUA/PANI@Co‐PA‐2.0 exhibits an EMI shielding capability of 22.4 dB with the help of reduced graphene oxide, which confirms the possibility of PUA material application in the field of electromagnetic shielding. The 5 wt% filler increases the tensile strength of the PUA matrix to 6.3 MPa, and the composite material obtains good thermal conductivity. This work provides a viable method for the preparation of a flame‐retardant, conductive, and electromagnetic refractory PUA substrate.
Isomorphous Substitution of Organic Cage Crystal by Pd Nanoclusters for Selective Hydrogenation
Authors: Zhang Minghui , He Zexing , Wang Li , Zhang Xiangwen , Li Guozhu
Published: November 2023

For supporting active metal, the cavity confinement and mass transfer facilitation lie not in one sack, a trade‐off between high activity and good stability of the catalyst is present. Porous organic cages (POCs) are expected to break the trade‐off when metal particles are properly loaded. Herein, three organic cages (CC3, RCC3, and FT‐RCC3) are employed to support Pd nanoclusters for catalytic hydrogenation. Subnanometer Pd clusters locate differently in different cage frameworks by using the same reverse double‐solvents approach. Compared with those encapsulated in the intrinsic cavity of RCC3 and anchored on the outer surface of CC3, the Pd nanoclusters orderly assembled in FT‐RCC3 crystal via isomorphous substitution exhibit superior activity, high selectivity, and good stability for semi‐hydrogenation of phenylacetylene. Isomorphous substitution of FT‐RCC3 crystal by Pd nanoclusters is originated from high crystallization capacity of FT‐RCC3 and specific interaction of each Pd nanocluster with four cage windows. Both confinement function and H2 accumulation capacity of FT‐RCC3 are fully utilized to support active Pd nanoclusters for efficient selective hydrogenation. The present results provide a new perspective to the heterogeneous catalysis field in terms of crystalizing metal nanoclusters in POC framework and outside the cage for making the best use of both parts.
Dimensional engineering of covalent organic frameworks derived carbons for electrocatalytic carbon dioxide reduction
Authors: Liu Guojuan , Li Xuewen , Liu Minghao , Yang Xiubei , Guo Zhuangyan , Chen Xinqing , Xu Qing , Zeng Gaofeng , He Yue
Published: November 2023

Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) have been developed as the precursors to construct porous carbons for electrocatalytic systems. However, the influences of carbon dimensions on the catalytic performance are still underexplored. In this work, we have first constructed COF‐derived carbons by template‐synthesis strategy in different dimensions to catalyze the carbon dioxide reduction (CO2RR). By using different templates, the one‐dimensional (1D), two‐dimensional (2D), and three‐dimensional (3D) COF‐derived carbons have been employed to anchor Co‐porphyrin to form the Co‐N5 sites to catalyze CO2RR. The 1D catalyst templated by carbon nano tubes presents high binding ability of CO2, more defective sites, and higher electronic conductivity, resulting in a higher catalytic activity for CO2 and selectivity of CO than 2D and 3D carbon‐based catalysts. The 1D catalyst delivers the turnover frequency values of 1150 h−1 and the FECO of 94.5% at 0.7 V versus RHE, which is significantly better than those of 2D and 3D carbon‐based catalysts.
The universal one-loop effective action with gravity
Authors: Larue Rémy , Quevillon Jérémie
Published: November 2023

Abstract

We complete the so-called Universal One-Loop Effective Action (UOLEA) with effects of gravity and provide a systematic approach to incorporate higher dimensional operators in curved spacetime. The functional determinant stemming from the path integral is computed using the Covariant Derivative Expansion (CDE), in a momentum representation that does not rely on a specific choice of coordinate to be defined, as it often is. This efficient approach manifests an interesting novelty as it allows to integrate out chiral fermions in curved spacetime in a direct manner leading to new operators involving the curvature, and provides a new alternative to the use of Feynman diagrams in that regard. The method presented would very well fit in a code that performs CDE, offering the possibility to integrate out at one-loop fields on a curved spacetime background, including spin-2 fields, like the graviton. Eventually these results should provide an interesting way to study low energy effects of UV completions of gravity.
Emerging roles and mechanisms of ERK pathway mechanosensing
Authors: Crozet Flora , Levayer Romain
Published: November 2023

The coupling between mechanical forces and modulation of cell signalling pathways is essential for tissue plasticity and their adaptation to changing environments. Whilst the number of physiological and pathological relevant roles of mechanotransduction has been rapidly expanding over the last decade, studies have been mostly focussing on a limited number of mechanosensitive pathways, which include for instance Hippo/YAP/TAZ pathway, Wnt/β-catenin or the stretch-activated channel Piezo. However, the recent development and spreading of new live sensors has provided new insights into the contribution of ERK pathway in mechanosensing in various systems, which emerges now as a fast and modular mechanosensitive pathway. In this review, we will document key in vivo and in vitro examples that have established a clear link between cell deformation, mechanical stress and modulation of ERK signalling, comparing the relevant timescale and mechanical stress. We will then discuss different molecular mechanisms that have been proposed so far, focussing on the epistatic link between mechanics and ERK and discussing the relevant cellular parameters affecting ERK signalling. We will finish by discussing the physiological and the pathological consequences of the link between ERK and mechanics, outlining how this interplay is instrumental for self-organisation and long-range cell–cell coordination.
Ino2, activator of yeast phospholipid biosynthetic genes, interacts with basal transcription factors TFIIA and Bdf1
Authors: Engelhardt Maike , Hintze Stefan , Wendegatz Eva-Carina , Lettow Julia , Schüller Hans-Joachim
Published: November 2023

Binding of general transcription factors TFIID and TFIIA to basal promoters is rate-limiting for transcriptional initiation of eukaryotic protein-coding genes. Consequently, activator proteins interacting with subunits of TFIID and/or TFIIA can drastically increase the rate of initiation events. Yeast transcriptional activator Ino2 interacts with several Taf subunits of TFIID, among them the multifunctional Taf1 protein. In contrast to mammalian Taf1, yeast Taf1 lacks bromodomains which are instead encoded by separate proteins Bdf1 and Bdf2. In this work, we show that Bdf1 not only binds to acetylated histone H4 but can also be recruited by Ino2 and unrelated activators such as Gal4, Rap1, Leu3 and Flo8. An activator-binding domain was mapped in the N-terminus of Bdf1. Subunits Toa1 and Toa2 of yeast TFIIA directly contact sequences of basal promoters and TFIID subunit TBP but may also mediate the influence of activators. Indeed, Ino2 efficiently binds to two separate structural domains of Toa1, specifically with its N-terminal four-helix bundle structure required for dimerization with Toa2 and its C-terminal β-barrel domain contacting TBP and sequences of the TATA element. These findings complete the functional analysis of yeast general transcription factors Bdf1 and Toa1 and identify them as targets of activator proteins.
Comparative outcomes among inlay grafted incised plate, onlay preputial flap and tubularized incised plate urethroplasty for the repair of distal penile hypospadias with a narrow urethral plate
Authors: Ali Mostafa M. , Anwar Ahmed Z. , Mohamed Mostafa Sh. , Abdelgawad Ahmed H. , Rohiem Mahmoud F. , Hussein Alayman , Hasanein Mohammed G. S.
Published: November 2023

Purpose

We conducted this study, comparing the outcomes among Transverse Onlay Island Flap, inlay grafted incised plate and our previous records of tubularized incised plate urethroplasty (TIPU) in patients with narrow urethral plates, aiming to determine which method of repair provides a good outcome.

Methods

This hybrid study included two datasets. The first from a prospective randomized study evaluating outcomes of two treatment modalities; Inlay graft and only flap for distal hypospadias with shallow urethral plate with 80 patients (40 patients in each group) included, the second based on our previous records of TIPU in 40 patients with distal primary hypospadias with narrow urethral plate.

Results

The success rate in inlay graft urethroplasty group (n = 40) was 87.5%; glandular dehiscence occurred in one case (2.5%), fistulas occurred in 2 cases (5%), and narrow meatus occurred in two cases (5%). Success rate in onlay flap urethroplasty group (n = 40) was 82.5%; glandular dehiscence occurred in two cases (5%), fistulas occurred in two cases (5%), and narrow meatus occurred in three cases (7.5%). TIPU group (n = 40) had success rate of 62.5%; glandular dehiscence occurred in eight cases (20%), fistulas occurred in five cases (12.5%), and narrow meatus occurred in seven cases (17.5%), with five cases exhibiting both narrow meatus with fistula.

Conclusion

Inlay graft and onlay flap urethroplasty for repair of distal penile hypospadias with narrow urethral plate had higher success rate and fewer complications than traditional TIPU. Moreover, operative time was shorter in TIPU.
Psychometric validation of the Spanish version of the Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite-26
Authors: Zamora Víctor , Garin Olatz , Suárez José Francisco , Jové Josep , Castells Manuel , Ferrer Ferran , Gutiérrez Cristina , Guedea Ferran , Boladeras Ana , Fumadó Lluis , Roselló Alvar , Pastor Jorge , Samper Pilar , Pont Àngels , Ferrer Montse
Published: November 2023

Purpose

To assess the validity, reliability, and responsiveness of the Spanish version of the Expanded Prostate cancer Index Composite (EPIC) with 26 items.

Methods

Multicentric longitudinal study of patients diagnosed with localized or locally advanced prostate cancer (any T, any N, M0) treated with active surveillance, surgery, external radiotherapy, or brachytherapy. The EPIC-50 was administered initially to the cohort (n = 324 patients), until it was replaced in November 2019 by the EPIC-26 (n = 543), in both groups before treatment and 12 months after. We assessed confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), reliability with Cronbach’s alpha coefficient, criterion validity with the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), and responsiveness by testing a priori hypotheses on deterioration effect size (ES).

Results

The CFA confirmed the five-domain structure of the EPIC-26 proposed by the original instrument (comparative fit index = 0.95). The agreement between EPIC-50 (gold standard) and EPIC-26 domains was excellent (ICC > 0.90). Cronbach’s alpha was > 0.7 in almost all domains, and the floor effect was near zero, although ceiling effect was higher than 50% in urinary incontinence and bowel domains. Hypothesized changes between before and 12 months after treatment were confirmed: ES > 0.8 in both urinary incontinence and sexual domains among patients who underwent surgery; and ES ranging 0.44–0.48 for bowel and sexual domains in patients treated with external radiotherapy.

Conclusion

The Spanish version of the EPIC-26 has demonstrated adequate metric properties, similar to those of the original version, with acceptable goodness-of-fit indices, good criterion validity, reliability, and responsiveness to detect changes after radical prostatectomy or external radiotherapy.
Prediction of scour depth around bridge abutments using ensemble machine learning models
Authors: Marulasiddappa Sreedhara B. , Patil Amit Prakash , Kuntoji Geetha , Praveen K. M. , Naganna Sujay Raghavendra
Published: November 2023

Abutments are the structures that support the ends of a bridge deck. Scouring of streambed is a significant problem and ultimately results in the failure of the bridge when the abutments are exposed to flowing water over the long term. Abutment scour is influenced by the type of abutment, shape, and size of the abutments. In the current study, machine learning (ML) models have been utilized for predicting the scour depth around abutments making use of experimental data. The scour depth was modeled around three types of abutments: a vertical wall, a semicircular wall, and a 45° wing wall. Five input parameters, namely, the length of the abutment (L), breadth of the abutment (B), sediment size (d50), approaching flow depth (h) and average approaching flow velocity (U), were used in this study. For predicting the abutment scour depth, ML models such as Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS), Gradient Tree Boosting (GTB), Group Method of Data Handling (GMDH), and Multivariate Adaptive Regression Splines (MARS) were applied. Statistical metrics such as Mean Absolute Error (MAE), Root Mean Square Error (RMSE), Relative RMSE (RRMSE), Normalized Nash–Sutcliffe Efficiency (NNSE), Kling-Gupta Efficiency (KGE), and Willmott Index (WI) have been employed to evaluate the performance of each model. It was found that the GTB model provided relatively accurate predictions of the scour depth around the semicircular and 45° wing wall abutments with good metrics. Similarly, the MARS model outperformed all other models in terms of predicting vertical wall abutment scour depth.
Impedance characterization of substrate leakage in wafer bonded CMUTs
Authors: Khan Mansoor , Khan Talha Masood
Published: November 2023

This work investigates substrate leakage in Capacitive Micromachined Ultrasonic Transducers, (CMUTs) having thin backings. CMUTs produced with solid or rigid substrates have a high Q resonance with flat baseline. However, if the operating wavelength of CMUT becomes larger than the thickness of substrate the real part of cell impedance shows elevated baselines with more leakage at DC than at higher frequencies. When a clamped CMUT membrane is excited harmonically the vibrations produced are counterbalanced by the backing medium. Hence some of the energy is coupled to substrate as loss resulting in a lower mechanical Q of resonance. We first derive this energy coupled to the backing medium using FEA analysis considering the velocity field and associated tensile stresses in a thin backing. Substrate impedance is found numerically from isotropic damping of dispersive elastic waves in the backing. This backing impedance is introduced as a shunt mechanical loss across the transduction force in equivalent circuit model. We characterize the measured impedance of CMUT cells with both FEMs and linear circuit models. Simulations results closely agree with the measured impedance levels, frequency and bandwidth of resonance.