bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bioactive compounds in coffee and their role in lowering the risk of major public health consequences: A review
Authors: Makiso Markos Urugo , Tola Yetenayet Bekele , Ogah Onwuchekwa , Endale Fitsum Liben
Published: November 2023

This article addresses the bioactive components in coffee aroma, their metabolism, and the mechanism of action in lowering the risk of various potential health problems. The main bioactive components involved in the perceived aroma of coffee and its related health benefits are caffeine, chlorogenic acid (CGA), trigonelline, diterpenes, and melanoids. These compounds are involved in various physiological activities. Caffeine has been shown to have anticancer properties, as well as the ability to prevent the onset and progression of hepatocellular carcinoma and to be anti‐inflammatory. CGA exhibits antioxidant action and is implicated in gut health, neurodegenerative disease protection, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease prevention. Furthermore, together with diterpenes, CGA has been linked to anticancer activity. Trigonelline, on the other side, has been found to lower oxidative stress by increasing antioxidant enzyme activity and scavenging reactive oxygen species. It also prevents the formation of kidney stones. Diterpenes and melanoids possess anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant properties, respectively. Consuming three to four cups of filtered coffee per day, depending on an individual's physiological condition and health status, has been linked to a lower risk of several degenerative diseases. Despite their health benefits, excessive coffee intake above the recommended daily dosage, calcium and vitamin D deficiency, and unfiltered coffee consumption all increase the risk of potential health concerns. In conclusion, moderate coffee consumption lowers the risk of different noncommunicable diseases.
Magnetic properties as indicators of pedogenic and pyrogenic processes at the Upper Paleolithic site of Kostenki 14
Authors: Kurgaeva Anastasiia , Sedov Sergey , Moreno‐Roso Sol , Barceinas Cruz Hermenegildo , Ortega Guerrero Beatriz , Solleiro‐Rebolledo Elizabeth , Sinitsyn Andrei
Published: November 2023

In geoarchaeological studies, there is an issue with distinguishing between natural and anthropogenic signals in pedological paleoarchives. With the pedostratigraphy of the Upper Paleolithic site of Kostenki 14, this issue is reflected by problems with the determination of features of pedogenic and pyrogenic processes. This issue was addressed by means of a thorough analysis of the magnetic properties of paleosols accompanied by micromorphological observations. Most of the humic samples were shown to be a result of pedogenesis, but two samples (a Paleolithic hearth sample and a sample from paleosol IIc) had features of intensely burnt material. The difference in the typical intensity of large‐scale (natural or human‐induced) and local‐scale anthropogenic fire allowed for suggesting that the magnetic properties of the burnt sample were the result of an anthropogenically controlled fire event, that is, a hearth. This study shows that the magnetic properties of paleosols can be used to differentiate anthropogenic activity, in particular—burning, from pedogenic processes. This indicator is especially helpful in finding disturbed combustion features when the hearth structure is lost. This methodology used to demonstrate the local human‐induced pyrogenic effect at the Upper Paleolithic site can contribute to the discussion of the niche construction effect of human activities in the Pleistocene.
Pore structure and oil‐bearing property of laminated and massive shale of Lucaogou Formation in Malang Sag, Santanghu Basin
Authors: Guo Xiaobo , Zhou Longfei , Pan Yongshuai , Huang Zhilong , Chen Xuan , Mu Shangchao , Zhang Chenglin , Wang Shaoxia
Published: November 2023

Exploration and development effects of Lucaogou Formation laminated shale are not ideal in the Santanghu Basin, and the reasons are not clear. Therefore, in this study, laminated and massive shales were systematically sampled, and experiments of cryogenic adsorption of nitrogen and multi‐dimensional nuclear magnetic resonance comparison were carried out. The results show that Lucaogou Formation shale is rich in volcanic ash and low content of clay, which can be divided into tuff, dolomite, tuffaceous dolomite, dolomitic tuff, and other lithologic types. The laminar structure is developed in tuffaceous dolomite and dolomitic tuff. The pores of Lucaogou Formation shale with a diameter of more than 10 nm can be used as an effective storage space for movable oil. The oil saturation and mobile oil ratio of laminated shale are lower than that of massive shale. Movable oil is controlled by carbonate content, and the higher the content, the higher the proportion of movable oil. Millimetre laminae are rich in organic matter and have poor interlaminar pore connectivity, which leads to strong adsorption capacity for oil. Therefore, the migration of oil between laminae is blocked, and oil mainly distributes or migrates in the bedding plane between laminae in laminated shale, which cannot be used as favourable reservoirs.
Structural, static, and dynamic functional MRI predictors for conversion from mild cognitive impairment to Alzheimer's disease: Inter‐cohort validation of Shanghai Memory Study and ADNI
Authors: Chen Zhihan , Chen Keliang , Li Yuxin , Geng Daoying , Li Xiantao , Liang Xiaoniu , Lu Huimeng , Ding Saineng , Xiao Zhenxu , Ma Xiaoxi , Zheng Li , Ding Ding , Zhao Qianhua , Yang Liqin ,   for the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: November 2023

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a critical prodromal stage of Alzheimer's disease (AD), and the mechanism underlying the conversion is not fully explored. Construction and inter‐cohort validation of imaging biomarkers for predicting MCI conversion is of great challenge at present, due to lack of longitudinal cohorts and poor reproducibility of various study‐specific imaging indices. We proposed a novel framework for inter‐cohort MCI conversion prediction, involving comparison of structural, static, and dynamic functional brain features from structural magnetic resonance imaging (sMRI) and resting‐state functional MRI (fMRI) between MCI converters (MCI_C) and non‐converters (MCI_NC), and support vector machine for construction of prediction models. A total of 218 MCI patients with 3‐year follow‐up outcome were selected from two independent cohorts: Shanghai Memory Study cohort for internal cross‐validation, and Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) cohort for external validation. In comparison with MCI_NC, MCI_C were mainly characterized by atrophy, regional hyperactivity and inter‐network hypo‐connectivity, and dynamic alterations characterized by regional and connectional instability, involving medial temporal lobe (MTL), posterior parietal cortex (PPC), and occipital cortex. All imaging‐based prediction models achieved an area under the curve (AUC) > 0.7 in both cohorts, with the multi‐modality MRI models as the best with excellent performances of AUC > 0.85. Notably, the combination of static and dynamic fMRI resulted in overall better performance as relative to static or dynamic fMRI solely, supporting the contribution of dynamic features. This inter‐cohort validation study provides a new insight into the mechanisms of MCI conversion involving brain dynamics, and paves a way for clinical use of structural and functional MRI biomarkers in future.
Quantum squirrel search algorithm based support vector machine algorithm for brain tumor classification
Authors: Nijaguna G. S. , Kumar D. P. Manoj , Manjunath B. N. , Jain T. J. Swasthika , Dayananda Lal N.
Published: November 2023

A Brain tumor is growth or mass of irregular cells inside your brain, several various kinds of brain tumors survive. A few brain tumors are cancerous (malignant), also various brain tumors are noncancerous (benign). The existing approach faces problem related to local optima issues, complexity in computational time, less convergence speed and less exploration ability. The stimulated quality Selection of Quantum Squirrel Search Algorithm (QSSA) is based on equally appearance with methylation information of prostate cancer. Issues with multiple models, multiple dimensions, and unimodal optimization are all addressed by this QSSA concept. The input image of the CE‐MRI dataset consists of 3064 segments with comprise (708 slices) meningiomas, (1426 slices) gliomas and (930 slices) pituitary tumors. In order to extract appropriate data from an image, a convolutional neural network (CNN) executes a number of mathematical processes, including convolutions and pooling. The CNN model's benefits include a large number of important features that can be extracted and good accuracy. Then, Support Vector Machine (SVM), a machine learning technique used for supervised learning, is typically associated within the double classification. The SVM model benefits from a large effective dimensional space and adequate memory. The proposed QSSA has obtained high Accuracy 98.3%, Sensitivity 95.4% and Specificity 97.9% than existing Correlation Learning Mechanism (CLM) which has 90.4% accuracy, 86% sensitivity and 91.5% specificity respectively.
Crosslinking strategies of decellularized extracellular matrix in tissue regeneration
Authors: Qiao Su , Peijie Tan , Nan Jiang
Published: November 2023

By removing the immunogenic cellular components through various decellularization methods, decellularized extracellular matrix (dECM) is considered a promising material in the field of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine with highly preserved physicochemical properties and superior biocompatibility. However, decellularization treatment can lead to some loss of structural integrity, mechanical strength, degradation stability, and biological performance of dECM biomaterials. Therefore, physical and chemical crosslinking methods are preferred to restore or even improve the biomechanical properties, stability, and bioactivity, and to achieve a delicate balance between degradation of the implanted biomaterial and regeneration of the host tissue. This review provides an overview of dECM biomaterials, and describes and compares the mechanisms and characteristics of commonly used crosslinking methods for dECM, with a focus on the potential applications of versatile dECM‐based biomaterials derived from skin, cardiac tissues (pericardium, heart valves, myocardial tissue), blood vessels, liver, and kidney, modified with different chemical crosslinking reagents, in tissue and organ regeneration.
A rationally engineered small antimicrobial peptide with potent antibacterial activity
Authors: Behera Lalita Mohan , Ghosh Manaswini , Gupta Pulkit Kr. , Rana Soumendra
Published: November 2023

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a silent pandemic declared by the WHO that requires urgent attention in the post‐COVID world. AMR is a critical public health concern worldwide, potentially affecting people at different stages of life, including the veterinary and agriculture industries. Notably, very few new‐age antimicrobial agents are in the current developmental pipeline. Thus, the design, discovery, and development of new antimicrobial agents are required to address the menace of AMR. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are an important class of antimicrobial agents for combating AMR due to their broad‐spectrum activity and ability to evade AMR through a multimodal mechanism of action. However, molecular size, aggregability, proteolytic degradation, cytotoxicity, and hemolysis activity significantly limit the clinical application of natural AMPs. The de novo design and engineering of a short synthetic amphipathic AMP (≤16 aa, Mol. Wt. ≤ 2 kDa) with an unusual architecture comprised of coded and noncoded amino acids (NCAAs) is presented here, which demonstrates potent antibacterial activity against a few selected bacterial strains mentioned in the WHO priority list. The designer AMP is conformationally ordered in solution and effectively permeabilizes the outer and inner membranes, leading to bacterial growth inhibition and death. Additionally, the peptide is resistant to proteolysis and has negligible cytotoxicity and hemolysis activity up to 150 μM toward cultured human cell lines and erythrocytes. The designer AMP is unique and appears to be a potent therapeutic candidate, which can be subsequently subjected to preclinical studies to explicitly understand and address the menace of AMR.
2α, 3α, 24‐Thrihydroxyurs‐12‐en‐24‐ursolic acid enhances the cytotoxic effect of cisplatin on oral cancer cells by down‐regulating autophagy
Authors: Zhang Wentao , Lu Ruijie , Lv Leyao , Ma Chenxi , Ding Yude , Yang Fan , Fang Qingxia , Wu Yue , Pan Ruolang , Chen Yunfang
Published: November 2023

This study aimed to investigate the effect and mechanism of 2α, 3α, 24‐thrihydroxyurs‐12‐en‐24‐ursolic acid (TEOA) alone or in combination with cisplatin on oral cancer. TEOA, a pentacyclic triterpenoid compound isolated from the roots of Actinidia eriantha, has demonstrated antitumor activity in preclinical experiments. However, its role in oral cancer remains poorly understood. Our findings revealed that a low concentration of TEOA did not exhibit significant cytotoxicity against oral squamous cell carcinoma cells. However, when combined with cisplatin, TEOA showed a significant therapeutic effect. The combined treatments resulted in a significant inhibition of proliferation and migration and a significant increase in apoptosis of squamous cell carcinoma cells. Cisplatin exposure increased autophagy levels, which may contribute to chemoresistance. Of note, the presence of TEOA significantly inhibited cisplatin‐induced autophagy, leading to improved chemotherapy efficacy. Our findings indicate that a mild low dosage of TEOA may enhance the cytotoxic effect of cisplatin by downregulating autophagy in oral cancer cells.
A novel cuproptosis‐related prognostic gene signature in adrenocortical carcinoma
Authors: Gao Wenjun , He Xiaoyan , Huangfu Qi , Xie Yanqi , Chen Keliang , Sun Chengfang , Wei Jingchao , Wang Bohan
Published: November 2023

Background

Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is an aggressive and rare malignant tumor associated with poor outcomes. Cuproptosis, a new pattern of cell death, relies on mitochondrial respiration and is associated with protein lipoylation. Increasing evidence has demonstrated the potential roles of cuproptosis in several tumor entities. However, the relationship between cuproptosis and ACC remains unclear.

Methods

In total, 10 cuproptosis‐related genes (CRGs) of patients with ACC were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) databases and differential expression analysis of CRGs was analyzed. Functional enrichment of the CRGs was performed and protein–protein interaction analysis was utilized to explore the association between the CRGs. Cuproptosis‐related risk score (CRRS) was constructed by Lasso Cox regression and validated.

Results

In the current study, the alteration and expression patterns of 10 CRGs in TCGA–ACC datasets were analyzed. We identified different expression patterns of CRGs in ACCs, discovered strong associations between CRGs and ACCs, and found that the CRGs were associated with immune infiltration in ACCs. A CRRS was created thereafter to predict overall survival (OS). CRRS = (0.083103718) *FDX1 + (−0.278423862) *LIAS+(0.090985682) *DLAT+(−0.018784047) *PDHA1 + (0.297218951) *MTF1 + (0.310197964) *CDKN2A. Patients were divided into high‐ and low‐risk groups based on their CRRS, and independent prognostic factors were investigated. Finally, CDKN2A and FDX1 were found to be independent prognostic predictors of patients with ACC.

Conclusions

CDKN2A and FDX1 are independent prognostic predictors of patients with ACC. Cuproptosis may play a role in the development of ACC, providing a new perspective on therapeutic strategies related to CRGs for cancer prevention and treatment.
Decoupling Between Brain Activity and Cerebrospinal Fluid Movement in Neurological Disorders
Authors: Liu Xiao
Published: November 2023

Recent research has identified a link between the global mean signal of resting‐state functional MRI (fMRI) and macro‐scale cerebrospinal fluid movement, indicating the potential link between this resting‐state dynamic and brain waste clearance. Consistent with this notion, the strength of this coupling has been associated with multiple neurodegenerative disease pathologies, especially the build‐up of toxic proteins. This article aimed to review the latest advancements in this research area, emphasizing studies on spontaneous global brain activity that is tightly linked to the global mean resting‐state fMRI signal, and aimed to discuss potential mechanisms through which this activity and associated physiological modulations might affect brain waste clearance. The available evidence supports the presence of a highly organized global brain activity that is linked to arousal and memory systems. This global brain dynamic, along with its associated physiological modulations, has the potential to influence brain waste clearance through multiple pathways through multiple pathways.

Level of Evidence

2

Technical Efficacy

Stage 3
Long‐Term Outcomes of Septoplasty With or Without Turbinoplasty: A Systematic Review
Authors: Fearington Forrest W. , Awadallah Andrew S. , Hamilton Grant S. , Olson Michael D. , Dey Jacob K.
Published: November 2023

Background

Septoplasty is used to correct nasal obstruction from nasal septum deviation. However, the long‐term efficacy of septoplasty is unclear, and no literature reviews have examined long‐term outcomes of septoplasty with or without turbinate modification. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the long‐term efficacy of septoplasty with or without turbinate modification in improving nasal obstruction.

Data Sources

PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane CENTRAL.

Methods

A systematic review of the literature was conducted using the aforementioned databases. Studies reporting outcomes 12+ months after functional septoplasty with or without turbinate surgery for nasal obstruction were included. Septorhinoplasties, concurrent sinus surgery, pediatric studies, and studies where septoplasty was performed for indications other than nasal obstruction were excluded.

Results

After screening, 35 studies with 4,432 patients were included. Mean weighted post‐operative follow‐up time was 29.1 months (range 12–120 months). All studies reported significant improvement in subjective and objective outcomes at long‐term follow‐up compared to baseline. When comparing short‐term (<12 months) to long‐term (≥12 months) outcomes, four studies noticed that subjective outcomes worsened slightly over time, but no study found a significant change in objective outcomes over time. In addition, 23 studies reported patient satisfaction and/or improvement rates, with 75.4% (2,348/3,113) of patients expressing satisfaction/improvement at an average of 27.0 months after surgery.

Conclusions

Overall, septoplasty with or without turbinate modification shows significant improvement in obstructive symptoms at long‐term follow‐up per both objective and subjective measures. Whether outcomes may worsen slightly over time remains indeterminate based on mixed results in the literature.

Level of Evidence

N/A Laryngoscope, 134:2525–2537, 2024
Bi‐directional nasal drug delivery systems: A scoping review of nasal particle deposition patterns and clinical application
Authors: Liu Yuxing , Wu Dawei
Published: November 2023

Objectives

To compare the deposition patterns within the nasal cavity between the bi‐directional and unilateral nasal delivery systems. And to summarize the clinical application of the bi‐directional nasal drug delivery devices.

Data source

PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, and Web of Science databases.

Methods

A scoping review was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analysis (PRISMA). We included studies exploring patterns and influencing factors of particle depositions within the nasal cavity among patients, healthy controls, and nose cast models using the bi‐directional and unilateral nasal delivery system. The clinical application of the bi‐directional delivery devices was also summarized.

Results

A total of 24 studies were included in this review. Bi‐directional nasal delivery systems utilize forced exhalation to power the delivery of drugs to deeper areas of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses. Unilateral nasal delivery systems included traditional liquid spray pumps, the aerosol mask system, nebulization, and conventional nasal inhalation. Compared with unilateral delivery systems, the bi‐directional nasal delivery system provided a more extensive and efficient nasal deposition in the nasal cavity, especially in the olfactory cleft, without lung deposition. Several parameters, including particle size, pulsatile flow, and nasal geometry, could significantly influence nasal deposition. The bi‐directional nasal delivery system enables better delivery of steroids or sumatriptan to the sinonasal cavity's high and deep target sites. This bi‐directional delivery device demonstrated an effective and well‐tolerated treatment that produced high drug utilization, rapid absorption, and sustained symptom improvement among patients with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) or migraine.

Conclusion

The bi‐directional nasal drug delivery systems demonstrated significantly higher drug deposition in superior and posterior regions of the nasal cavity than unilateral nasal delivery systems. Further studies should explore its potential role in delivering drugs to the olfactory cleft among patients with olfactory disorders and central nervous system diseases.

Level of evidence

N/A.
Reusable and Transparent Impaction‐Based Filter with Micro Apertured Multiscale Polymeric Stencil for Particulate Matter Capture
Authors: Kim Minju , Lee Gahyun , Jang Segeun , Yu Dong In , Kim Sang Moon
Published: November 2023

Air pollution by particulate matter (PM) in the air including PM1.0, PM2.5, and PM10, which are categorized by particle size, is a critical global environmental issue, harming the climate, ecosystems, and human health. Especially, ultrafine dust including PM1.0 and PM2.5 poses significant human health risks. Commercial fabric‐based filters effectively trap PMs but cause high‐pressure drop and limited filter capacity and reusability. Electrospun nanofiber filters address some issues but have low mechanical strength, toxic exposure risks, long fabrication times, and restrained reusability. Herein, a reusable and transparent impaction‐based PM filter using a UV‐curable polymeric stencil with micro apertures is proposed. The polymeric stencil filters achieve high filter efficiency (68–94%), superior filter capacity, and low‐pressure drop (<64 Pa). The polymeric stencil filters can be easily cleaned with water or ethanol and remain stable under extreme temperatures (−196 to 450 °C) with slight shrinkage (0–7%). The polymeric stencil filters can be broadly utilized for not only industrial, indoor, and vehicle filters but also transparent and flexible facial health masks.
Consistency of Faraday cup and ionization chamber dosimetry of proton fields and the role of nuclear interactions
Authors: Wulff Jörg , Paul Anne , Bäcker Claus Maximilian , Baumann Kilian‐Simon , Esser Johannes Niklas , Koska Benjamin , Timmermann Beate , Verbeek Nico Gerd , Bäumer Christian
Published: November 2023

Background

A Faraday cup (FC) facilitates a quite clean measurement of the proton fluence emerging from clinical spot‐scanning nozzles with narrow pencil‐beams. The utilization of FCs appears to be an attractive option for high dose rate delivery modes and the source models of Monte‐Carlo (MC) dose engines. However, previous studies revealed discrepancies of 3%–6% between reference dosimetry with ionization chambers (ICs) and FC‐based dosimetry. This has prevented the widespread use of FCs for dosimetry in proton therapy.

Purpose

The current study aims at bridging the gap between FC dosimetry and IC dosimetry of proton fields delivered with spot‐scanning treatment heads. Particularly, a novel method to evaluate FC measurements is introduced.

Methods

A consistency check is formulated, which makes use of the energy balance and the reciprocity theorem. The measurement data comprise central‐axis depth distributions of the absorbed dose of quasi‐monochromatic fields with a width of about 28.5 cm and FC measurements of the reciprocal fields with a single spot. These data are complemented by a look‐up of energy‐range tables, the average Q‐value of transmutations, and the escape energy carried away by neutrons and photons. The latter data are computed by MC simulations, which in turn are validated with measurements of the distal dose tail and neutron out‐of‐field doses. For comparison, the conventional approach of FC evaluation is performed, which computes absorbed dose from the product of fluence and stopping power. The results from the FC measurements are compared with the standard dosimetry protocols and improved reference dosimetry methods.

Results

The deviation between the conventional FC‐based dosimetry and the IC‐based one according to standard dosimetry protocols was −4.7 ( 3.3)% for a 100 MeV field and −3.6 (3.5)% for 200 MeV, thereby agreeing within the reported uncertainties. The deviations could be reduced to −4.0 ( 2.9)% and −3.0 ( 3.1)% by adopting state‐of‐the‐art reference dosimetry methods. The alternative approach using the energy balance gave deviations of only −1.9% (100 MeV) and −2.6% (200 MeV) using state‐of‐the‐art dosimetry. The standard uncertainty of this novel approach was estimated to be about 2%.

Conclusions

An alternative concept has been established to determine the absorbed dose of monoenergetic proton fields with an FC. It eliminates the strong dependence of the conventional FC‐based approach on the MC simulation of the stopping‐power and of the secondary ions, which according to the study at hand is the major contributor to the underestimation of the absorbed dose. Some contributions to the uncertainty of the novel approach could potentially be reduced in future studies. This would allow for accurate consistency tests of conventional dosimetry procedures.
Technical note: High‐dose and ultra‐high dose rate (UHDR) evaluation of Al2O3:C optically stimulated luminescent dosimeter nanoDots and powdered LiF:Mg,Ti thermoluminescent dosimeters for radiation therapy applications
Authors: Liu Kevin , Velasquez Brett , Schüler Emil
Published: November 2023

Background

Dosimetry in ultra‐high dose rate (UHDR) electron beamlines poses a significant challenge owing to the limited usability of standard dosimeters in high dose and high dose‐per‐pulse (DPP) applications.

Purpose

In this study, Al2O3:C nanoDot optically stimulated luminescent dosimeters (OSLDs), single‐use powder‐based LiF:Mg,Ti thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs), and Gafchromic EBT3 film were evaluated at extended dose ranges (up to 40 Gy) in conventional dose rate (CONV) and UHDR beamlines to determine their usability for calibration and dose verification in the setting of FLASH radiation therapy.

Methods

OSLDs and TLDs were evaluated against established dose‐rate–independent Gafchromic EBT3 film with regard to the potential influence of mean dose rate, instantaneous dose rate, and DPP on signal response. The dosimeters were irradiated at CONV or UHDR conditions on a 9‐MeV electron beam. Under UHDR conditions, different settings of pulse repetition frequency (PRF), pulse width (PW), and pulse amplitude were used to characterize the individual dosimeters’ response in order to isolate their potential dependencies on dose, dose rate, and DPP.

Results

The OSLDs, TLDs, and Gafchromic EBT3 film were found to be suitable at a dose range of up to 40 Gy without any indication of saturation in signal. The response of OSLDs and TLDs in UHDR conditions were found to be independent of mean dose rate (up to 1440 Gy/s), instantaneous dose rate (up to 2 MGy/s), and DPP (up to 7 Gy), with uncertainties on par with nominal values established in CONV beamlines (± 4%). In cross‐comparing the response of OSLDs, TLDs and Gafchromic film at dose rates of 0.18–245 Gy/s, the coefficient of variation or relative standard deviation in the measured dose between the three dosimeters (inter‐dosimeter comparison) was found to be within 2%.

Conclusions

We demonstrated the dynamic range of OSLDs, TLDs, and Gafchromic film to be suitable up to 40 Gy, and we developed a protocol that can be used to accurately translate the measured signal in each respective dosimeter to dose. OSLDs and powdered TLDs were shown to be viable for dosimetric measurement in UHDR beamlines, providing dose measurements with accuracies on par with Gafchromic EBT3 film and their concurrent use demonstrating a means for redundant dosimetry in UHDR conditions.
Effects of manganese concentration and temperature on the ferromagnetism of manganese‐doped gallium arsenide semiconductor
Authors: Abera Birhanu , Mekuye Bawoke
Published: November 2023

The main objective of the review was to investigate the ferromagnetism of diluted magnetic semiconductors made of Mn‐doped GaAs. Manganese‐doped gallium arsenide has recently become an important field of research because of its potential applications in the fields of spintronics and magnetic devices. The magnetic moment caused by adding manganese to the GaAs crystal structure causes a low‐temperature ferromagnetic behavior. The main factor that affects the ferromagnetic properties of Mn‐doped gallium arsenic is manganese concentration. Understanding the relationship between Mn concentration and magnetic properties is important for material optimization in specific applications. It was found that Mn‐doped GaAs exhibit paramagnetic behavior below a specific critical concentration. However, the substance is transformed into a ferromagnetic state over the maximum concentration. The Curie temperature is an important additional factor influencing the ferromagnetic properties of Mn‐doped GaAs. The temperature at which a material ceases to exhibit ferromagnetic behavior is known as the Curie temperature. The Curie temperature of a material depends on its Mn concentration, thin film thickness, and degree of disturbance. A reduction in magnetic resistance increases the concentration of Mn‐treated gallium arsenic and increases its rate as it reaches its maximum value. High Curie temperatures are the result of stronger magnetic interactions resulting from higher manganese concentrations. The specific heat capacity of Mn‐doped gallium arsenide is influenced by its magnetic and structural contribution.
An Analysis of Political Contributions from Otolaryngologists in the United States
Authors: Fish Taylor R. , Lefkowitz Jonathan , Galar Federico , Markham Dane J. , Imber Paul , Denneny James C. , Chen Philip G.
Published: November 2023

Objective

Doctors can influence the development of sound healthcare policy through financial contributions to political campaigns and candidates. Our objective was to characterize the political contributions of otolaryngologists in the United States, both individually and through the ENT Political Action Committee (ENTPAC) between the years 2003 and 2020.

Study Design

Retrospective observational study.

Setting

Publicly available information on the internet: fec.gov.

Methods

The Federal Election Commission's website, fec.gov, was used to identify the political contributions of individual otolaryngologists and the ENTPAC between 2003 and 2020. Each contribution is associated with a political group or candidate, designated as a Republican, Democratic, or Independent entity.

Results

A total of 1407 distinct political contributions were made by individuals identifying as otolaryngologists between 2003 and 2020, totaling $432,201. Overall, Republicans received more individual donations than Democrats (711 vs 540), while Democrats received more money ($231,139 vs $183,427). Donations peaked during election years, with the total amount overall increasing each election year ($9664 in 2004 vs $75,102 in 2020). The predominant political party receiving donations between 2003 and 2020 in each US state matched each state's predominant party of the governors and senators 48.6% of the time. The ENTPAC donated $3,027,383 between 2003 and 2020 to a variety of political candidates and entities.

Conclusion

Otolaryngologists are making increased political contributions over time and interest in political advocacy may be at an all‐time high. Increased time and attention should be devoted to educating otolaryngologists to best politically advocate for interests which are of the most importance to themselves and the profession.
The more the merrier? Perceived forest biodiversity promotes short‐term mental health and well‐being—A multicentre study
Authors: Rozario Kevin , Oh Rachel Rui Ying , Marselle Melissa , Schröger Erich , Gillerot Loïc , Ponette Quentin , Godbold Douglas , Haluza Daniela , Kilpi Katriina , Müller Dagmar , Roeber Urte , Verheyen Kris , Muys Bart , Müller Sandra , Shaw Taylor , Bonn Aletta
Published: November 2023

Forests can foster mental health and well‐being. Yet, the contribution of forest biodiversity remains unclear, and experimental research is needed to unravel pathways of biodiversity–health linkages. Here, we assess the role of tree species richness, both actual and perceived, and how stress reduction and attention restoration can serve as potential mediating pathways to achieve positive mental health and well‐being outcomes.

We conducted an experimental, multicentric field study in three peri‐urban forests in Europe, employing a mixed design with 223 participants, that comprised 20‐min stays in forests with either low, medium or high tree species richness or a built control. Participants' short‐term mental health and well‐being and saliva cortisol as a biomarker of stress were measured before and after the intervention.

Forest visits for 20 min were found to be beneficial for participants' short‐term mental health, short‐term mental well‐being, subjective stress, subjective directed attention and perceived restorativeness compared with a built environment. No differences were found for the physiological stress indicator saliva cortisol, which decreased in both the forest and the built environments.

Increased perceived biodiversity—possibly linked to structural forest attributes—was significantly associated with well‐being outcomes, while no association was found for differences in actual tree species richness. Structural equation modelling indicates that higher levels of perceived biodiversity had an indirect effect on short‐term mental health and well‐being through enhancing perceived restorativeness.

While we found no evidence of actual tree species richness effects, perceived biodiversity was associated with positive short‐term mental health and well‐being outcomes. Understanding these biodiversity–health linkages can inform conservation management and help develop effective nature‐based interventions for promoting public health through nature visits.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Investigation of KOH‐doped PVA‐based membrane electrolytes cross‐linked with tartaric acid for DMAFCs
Authors: Murat Tamer , Levent Akyalçın , Süleyman Kaytakoğlu
Published: November 2023

This research focused on the development of anion exchange membrane electrolytes suitable for direct methanol alkaline fuel cells (DMAFC) by employing a straightforward blending and solution casting process complemented by subsequent heat treatment. Tartaric acid (TA) was employed as a cross‐linking agent to enhance the heat resistance and structural integrity of the PVA matrix. The distinctive attributes of the PT (PVA and tartaric acid blend) samples, including water absorption and swelling capacity, were comprehensively investigated with respect to variations in both TA content (expressed as wt. % relative to the PVA matrix) and alterations in the duration of thermal treatment. Cross‐link formation between the polymer chains and TA was determined using FTIR analysis. The samples were subjected to comprehensive analysis, encompassing the determination of crystallinity via X‐ray diffraction (XRD), assessment of thermal stability using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), investigation of morphology through scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and measurement of ionic conductivity using AC Impedance spectroscopy. The methanol permeability was measured to determine the selectivity values of the membranes. Subsequently, within the DMAFC system, the performances of the PT30‐3, PT40‐2, and PT40‐3 membranes, which exhibited the highest selectivities, were assessed. The contribution of the crosslinking process to the resistance of the membranes to oxidative conditions, as represented by the Fenton solution, was evaluated to assess the chemical stability of the membranes. The maximum power densities for PT30‐3 and PT40‐3 membranes reached 15.29 and 12.53 mW/cm2 at 30°C, respectively. These figures exhibited a notable increase, reaching 32.73 mW/cm2 for PT30‐3 and 31.72 mW/cm2 for PT40‐3 when the temperature was elevated to 60°C. This study confirmed that the crosslinking strategy using TA assisted by thermal treatment is very simple and competitive compared with other techniques reported in the literature. PT membranes are promising candidates for commercialization and utilization in DMAFC owing to their environment‐friendly nature, cost‐effectiveness, and high efficiency.

Highlights

TA cross‐linking improved the thermal and dimensional stability of PVA.

The PT membrane properties varied with TA content and thermal treatment time.

Some electrolytes in this study outperformed those previously reported for DMAFC.

PT membranes offer efficiency, cost‐effectiveness, and eco‐friendliness for DMAFCs.
Outdoor measurements of a full‐size bifacial Pero/Si tandem module under different spectral conditions
Authors: Chojniak David , Steiner Marc , Reichmuth Sebastian Kasimir , Rößler Torsten , Schmid Alexandra , Siefer Gerald , Glunz Stefan W.
Published: November 2023

In recent years, significant progress has been made in terms of efficiency and stability of perovskite on silicon (Pero/Si) tandem solar cells. Nevertheless, most of these activities are focused on small‐area laboratory cells while the availability of large‐area solar cells suitable for module integration on an industrial level remains limited, and therefore, measurements of tandem modules are rare. However, the reliable measurement of tandem modules is a prerequisite to evaluate the real potential of this rapidly developing technology for the photovoltaic market. In this study, we present the first published outdoor measurement of a full‐size bifacial Pero/Si tandem solar cell module. Our focus is on analyzing the spectral influences on the outdoor performance of the device through a qualitative assessment of the modules I–V parameter conducted over the course of a measurement day. Based on continuous monitoring of the ambient and module conditions, we provide consistent explanations for the complex interplay between the incident irradiance on both the front and backside of the module, as well as the module temperature. Based on our findings, we finally discuss how to appropriately account for the influence of bifaciality in the case of bifacial tandem modules, where the procedures used for bifacial single‐junction devices cannot be easily applied due to subcell limitation effects. Throughout the study, we present important insights into the real‐world characteristics of a bifacial Pero/Si tandem model, discuss and explain various influences on the modules performance, and therefore provide crucial information for an optimal cell design for bifacial Pero/Si tandem devices.
Effect of Stress Voltage and Temperature on the Reliability of AlGaN/GaN HEMTs for RF and Microwave Application
Authors: Chakraborty Surajit , Amir Walid , Hoshi Takuya , Tsutsumi Takuya , Sugiyama Hiroki , Kim Tae-Woo
Published: November 2023

The mean‐time‐to‐failure (MTTF) of AlGaN/GaN high electron mobility transistor is demonstrated by considering both voltage and temperature dependent electrical degradation in on‐wafer devices. The characteristics of threshold voltage shift (ΔVT) and gate leakage current (Ig_leak) after off‐state step andVDS = 0 step stress test are reported. The devices under test are being DC stressed (high operation life‐time test) in semi‐on‐state conditions at constant power dissipation of 2 W mm−1for more or less than 200 h until the maximum drain current (Idmax) drops by 15%. Under low stress voltage (10 V), we find activation energies (Ea) and voltage acceleration factor (γ) to be 0.32 eV and 0.09 V−1, respectively, while increasing stress voltage up to 20 V results in increased activation energies of 0.68 and 0.16 eV. The MTTF is estimated to be 1.16 × 104 h atVDS = 20 V, while stressing at low bias gives a high MTTF of 2.20 × 104 h atVDS = 10 V.
Decoding the Pathway‐Dependent Self‐Assembly of Polymer‐Grafted Nanoparticles by Ligand Crystallization
Authors: Gu Pan , Li Hao , Xiong Bijin , Li Jinlan , Chen Zhenxian , Li Wang , Mao Xi , Wang Huayang , Jin Jing , Xu Jiangping , Zhu Jintao
Published: November 2023

Functional metamaterials can be constructed by assembling nanoparticles (NPs) into well‐ordered structures, which show fascinating properties at different length scales. Using polymer‐grafted NPs (PGNPs) as a building block, flexible composite metamaterials can be obtained, of which the structure is significantly affected by the property of polymer ligands. Here, it is demonstrated that the crystallization of polymer ligands determines the assembly behavior of NPs and reveal a pathway‐dependent self‐assembly of PGNPs into different metastructures in solution. By changing the crystallization degree of polymer ligands, the arrangement structure of NPs can be tailored. When the polymer ligands highly crystallize, the PGNPs assemble into diamond‐shaped platelets, in which the NPs arrange disorderedly. When the polymer ligands lowly crystallize, the PGNPs assemble into highly ordered 3D superlattices, in which the NPs pack into a body‐centered‐cubic structure. The structure transformation of PGNP assemblies can be achieved by thermal annealing to regulate the crystallization of polymer ligands. Interestingly, the diamond‐shaped platelets remain “living” for seeded epitaxial growth of newly added crystalline species. This work demonstrates the effects of ligand crystallization on the crystallization of NP, providing new insights into the structure regulation of metamaterials.
A Tailorable Series of Elastomeric‐To‐Rigid, Selfhealable, Shape Memory Bismaleimide
Authors: Li Yuejia , Zhang Fenghua , Liu Yanju , Leng Jinsong
Published: November 2023

In recent years, there has been rapid development in the field of shape memory materials with active deformation performance. However, bismaleimide, a widely used thermosetting material in aerospace, has been largely overlooked in shape memory applications. This work presents the synthesis of a molecule containing an alkene bond adjacent to an oxygen atom. Through molecular design, a one‐time reaction between this specialized molecule and the bismaleimide molecule is successfully achieved, facilitated by the steric hindrance effect. Therefore, a new series of shape memory bismaleimide materials are obtained. By introducing a diamine to adjust the chain length, the properties of material are further improved, resulting in increasing static modulus by 506 times. The synthesized materials exhibit a broad glass transition temperature (Tg) range exceeding 153 °C, remarkable stiffness tunability. Notably, in the synthesis process of this materials series, the disulfide bonds are introduced, which facilitates the realization of self‐healing and reprocessable functionalities in the resulting thermosetting materials. This significant advancement lays a solid foundation for the future recycling and reuse of aircraft, satellites, and other equipment, offering promising prospects for enhancing sustainability and efficiency within the aerospace industry.
Fabrication of Heterostructural FeNi3‐Loaded Perovskite Catalysts by Rapid Plasma for Highly Efficient Photothermal Reverse Water Gas Shift Reaction
Authors: Zhou Jun , Zhu Zihe , Li Qinghao , Zhang Qiankai , Liu Zhengrong , Deng Qinyuan , Zhou Zilin , Li Cunxin , Fu Lei , Zhou Jiacheng , Li Haonan , Wu Kai
Published: November 2023

Metal‐semiconductor heterostructured catalysts have attracted great attention because of their unique interfacial characteristics and superior catalytic performance. Exsolution of nanoparticles is one of the effective and simple ways for in‐situ growth of metal nanoparticles embedded in oxide surfaces and their favorable dispersion and stability. However, both high‐temperature and a reducing atmosphere are required simultaneously in conventional exsolution, which is time‐consuming and costly, and particles often agglomerate during the process. In this work, Ca0.9Ti0.8Ni0.1Fe0.1O3‐δ (CTNF) is exposed to dielectric blocking discharge (DBD) plasma at room temperature to fabricate alloying FeNi3 nanoparticles from CTNF perovskite. FeNi3‐CTNF has outstanding catalytic activity for photothermal reverse water gas shift reaction (RWGS). At 350 °C under full‐spectrum irradiation, the carbon monoxide (CO) yield of FeNi3‐CTNF (10.78 mmol g−1 h−1) is 11 times that of pure CaTiO3(CTO), and the CO selectivity is 98.9%. This superior catalytic activity is attributed to the narrow band gap, photogenerated electron migration to alloy particles, and abundant surface oxygen vacancies. The carbene pathway reaction is also investigated through in‐situ Raman spectroscopy. The present work presents a straightforward method for the exsolution of nanoalloys in metal‐semiconductor heterostructures for photothermal CO2 reduction.
Matching the Photocurrent of 2‐Terminal Mechanically‐Stacked Perovskite/Organic Tandem Solar Modules by Varying the Cell Width
Authors: García Cerrillo José , Distler Andreas , Matteocci Fabio , Forberich Karen , Wagner Michael , Basu Robin , Castriotta Luigi Angelo , Jafarzadeh Farshad , Brunetti Francesca , Yang Fu , Li Ning , Corpus‐Mendoza Asiel Neftalí , Di Carlo Aldo , Brabec Christoph J. , Egelhaaf Hans-Joachim
Published: November 2023

Photocurrent matching in conventional monolithic tandem solar cells is achieved by choosing semiconductors with complementary absorption spectra and by carefully adjusting the optical properties of the complete top and bottom stacks. However, for thin film photovoltaic technologies at the module level, another design variable significantly alleviates the task of photocurrent matching, namely the cell width, whose modification can be readily realized by the adjustment of the module layout. Herein, this concept is demonstrated at the experimental level for the first time for a 2T‐mechanically stacked perovskite (FAPbBr3)/organic (PM6:Y6:PCBM) tandem mini‐module, an unprecedented approach for these emergent photovoltaic technologies fabricated in an independent manner. An excellent I
sc matching is achieved by tuning the cell widths of the perovskite and organic modules to 7.22 mm (PCE
PVKT‐mod = 6.69%) and 3.19 mm (PCE
OPV‐mod = 12.46%), respectively, leading to a champion efficiency of 14.94% for the tandem module interconnected in series with an aperture area of 20.25 cm2. Rather than demonstrating high efficiencies at the level of small lab cells, this successful experimental proof‐of‐concept at the module level proves to be particularly useful to couple devices with non‐complementary semiconductors, either in series or in parallel electrical connection, hence overcoming the limitations imposed by the monolithic structure.