bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Potassium‐Based Dual‐Ion Batteries Operating at −60 °C Enabled By Co‐Intercalation Anode Chemistry
Authors: Que Lanfang , Wu Jihuai , Lan Zhang , Xie Yiming , Yu Fuda , Wang Zhenbo , Meng Jiashen , Zhang Xingcai
Published: November 2023

Battery performance at subzero is restricted by sluggish interfacial kinetics. To resolve this issue, potassium‐based dual‐ion batteries (K‐DIBs) based on the polytriphenylamine (PTPAn) cathode with anion storage chemistry and the hydrogen titanate (HTO) anode with K+/solvent co‐intercalation mechanism are constructed. Both the PTPAn cathode and the HTO anode do not undergo the desolvation process, which can effectively accelerate the interfacial kinetics at subzero. As revealed by theoretical calculations and experimental analysis, the strong K+/solvent binding energy in the dilute electrolyte, the charge shielding effect of the crystal water, and the uniform SEI layer with high content of the flexible organic species synergically promote HTO to undergo K+/solvent co‐intercalation behavior. The special co‐intercalation mechanism and anion storage chemistry enable HTO||PTPAn K‐DIBs with superior rate performance and cycle durability, maintaining a capacity retention of 94.1% after 6000 cycles at −40 °C and 91% after 1000 cycles at −60 °C. These results provide a step forward for achieving high‐performance energy storage devices at low temperatures.
Highly‐Adaptable Optothermal Nanotweezers for Trapping, Sorting, and Assembling across Diverse Nanoparticles
Authors: Chen Jiajie , Zhou Jianxing , Peng Yuhang , Dai Xiaoqi , Tan Yan , Zhong Yili , Li Tianzhong , Zou Yanhua , Hu Rui , Cui Ximin , Ho Ho‐Pui , Gao Bruce Zhi , Zhang Han , Chen Yu , Wang Meiting , Zhang Xueji , Qu Junle , Shao Yonghong
Published: November 2023

Optical manipulation of various kinds of nanoparticles is vital in biomedical engineering. However, classical optical approaches demand higher laser power and are constrained by diffraction limits, necessitating tailored trapping schemes for specific nanoparticles. They lack a universal and biocompatible tool to manipulate nanoparticles of diverse sizes, charges, and materials. Through precise modulation of diffusiophoresis and thermo‐osmotic flows in the boundary layer of an optothermal‐responsive gold film, highly adaptable optothermal nanotweezers (HAONTs) capable of manipulating a single nanoparticle as small as sub‐10 nm are designed. Additionally, a novel optothermal doughnut‐shaped vortex (DSV) trapping strategy is introduced, enabling a new mode of physical interaction between cells and nanoparticles. Furthermore, this versatile approach allows for the manipulation of nanoparticles in organic, inorganic, and biological forms. It also offers versatile function modes such as trapping, sorting, and assembling of nanoparticles. It is believed that this approach holds the potential to be a valuable tool in fields such as synthetic biology, optofluidics, nanophotonics, and colloidal science.
A‐site Cation Exchange Enables a High‐performance CsPbBr3 Photodetector for Laser Eavesdropping Systems
Authors: Zhang Jianqiang , Pan Xiyan , Sun Jie , Zhou Hai , Zhang Guoping , Ding Liming
Published: November 2023

Owing to the absence of organic cations, all‐inorganic perovskite exhibits superior thermal and irradiation stability compared to organic‐inorganic perovskite. However, it is difficult for the traditional solution method to produce pinhole‐free and phase‐pure all‐inorganic perovskite films, which hinders its application. Here, a method of in situ A‐site cation exchange to synthesize CsPbBr3 films is introduced. The MAPbBr3 films are treated with CsAc solution to initiate cation exchange, where the intermediate product MAAc plays a crucial role in guiding grain growth during evaporation, resulting in the production of pinhole‐free and phase‐pure CsPbBr3 films. The self‐powered photodetector, based on compact and pinhole‐free CsPbBr3 film, exhibits excellent performance with an LDR of 126.7 dB, a detectivity of 1.1 × 1013 Jones, and a rise/decay time of 2.9/25.1 µs. Furthermore, the photodetector maintains over 90% of its original performance after a 2500 s irradiation test and a 30‐day air exposure test. Benefiting from the exceptional device performance and stability, the photodetector proves to be a valuable component in the laser eavesdropping system.
YAP Signaling Regulates the Cellular Uptake and Therapeutic Effect of Nanoparticles
Authors: Cassani Marco , Fernandes Soraia , Oliver‐De La Cruz Jorge , Durikova Helena , Vrbsky Jan , Patočka Marek , Hegrova Veronika , Klimovic Simon , Pribyl Jan , Debellis Doriana , Skladal Petr , Cavalieri Francesca , Caruso Frank , Forte Giancarlo
Published: November 2023

Interactions between living cells and nanoparticles are extensively studied to enhance the delivery of therapeutics. Nanoparticles size, shape, stiffness, and surface charge are regarded as the main features able to control the fate of cell‐nanoparticle interactions. However, the clinical translation of nanotherapies has so far been limited, and there is a need to better understand the biology of cell‐nanoparticle interactions. This study investigates the role of cellular mechanosensitive components in cell‐nanoparticle interactions. It is demonstrated that the genetic and pharmacologic inhibition of yes‐associated protein (YAP), a key component of cancer cell mechanosensing apparatus and Hippo pathway effector, improves nanoparticle internalization in triple‐negative breast cancer cells regardless of nanoparticle properties or substrate characteristics. This process occurs through YAP‐dependent regulation of endocytic pathways, cell mechanics, and membrane organization. Hence, the study proposes targeting YAP may sensitize triple‐negative breast cancer cells to chemotherapy and increase the selectivity of nanotherapy.
Trace Amount of Nitrilotriacetate Induced Electrolyte Evolution and Textured Surface for Stable Zn Anode
Authors: Jiao Zhaoyang , Cai Xinxin , Wang Xiaoxu , Li Yiran , Bie Zhe , Song Weixing
Published: November 2023

The growth of dendrites and the hydrogen evolution reaction pose significant challenges to the development of Zn metal aqueous batteries as a promising solution for energy storage. Herein, trisodium nitrilotriacetate (Na3NTA) as an electrolyte additive is shown to improve the reversibility of the zinc plating–stripping process. NTA3− anions possess the potential not only to substitute water molecules in the solvation sheath of Zn2+ ions but also to construct a zincophilic electrolyte/Zn anode interface and suppress the activity of water molecules for stabilizing the Zn anode. The introduction of Na3NTA can effectively suppress side reactions arising from active water decomposition and simultaneously lead to the formation of a well‐defined (002) texture structure. As a result, a Zn||Zn symmetric cell with a modified electrolyte demonstrates a lifespan of up to 3000 h at a cutoff capacity of 1 mA h cm−2. Furthermore, a Zn||V2O5 full cell exhibits an enhanced capacity retention of 83.2% even after undergoing 8000 cycles. No noticeable dendrites are observed even after long cycles in both symmetric and full cells. Due to the cost‐effective material and ease of fabrication of the Na3NTA additive, this electrolyte strategy may promote the industrial application of aqueous zinc ion batteries.
Rearranging fluorescence‐magneto spatiality for “win‐win” dual functions to enhance point‐of‐care diagnosis
Authors: Su Yu , Chen Xirui , Huang Huan , Wu Yuhao , Shen Xuan‐ang , Lin Xiangkai , Sun Kun , Fan Xiao‐Yong , Huang Xiaolin , Xiong Yonghua
Published: November 2023

Fluorescent‐magneto nanoemitters have gained considerable attention for their applications in mechanical controlling‐assisted optical signaling. However, the incompatibility between magnetic and fluorescent components often leads to functional limitations in traditional magneto@fluorescence nanostructure. Herein, we introduce a new compact‐discrete spatial arrangement on a “fluorescence@magneto” core–shell nanostructure consisting of a close‐packed aggregation‐induced emission luminogen (AIEgen) core and a discrete magnetic shell. This structural design effectively eliminates the optical and magnetic interferences between the dual components by facilitating AIEgens loading in core region and reducing the magnetic feeding amount through effective exposure of the magnetic units. Thereby, the resulting magneto‐AIEgen nanoparticle (MANP) demonstrates “win‐win” performances: (i) high fluorescent intensity contributed by AIEgens stacking‐enhanced photoluminescence and reduced photons loss from the meager magnetic shell; (ii) marked magnetic activity due to magneto extraposition‐minimized magnetic shielding. Accordingly, the dual functions‐retained MANP provides a proof of concept for construction of an immunochromatographic sensing platform, where it enables bright fluorescent labeling after magnetically enriching and separating procalcitonin and lipoarabinomannan in clinical human serum and urine, respectively, for the clinical diagnosis of bacterial infections‐caused inflammation and tuberculosis. This study not only inspires the rational design of magnetic‐fluorescent nanoemitter but also highlights promising potential in magneto‐assisted point‐of‐care test and biomedicine applications.
Air filtration performance of nanofiber membranes with different morphologies produced by green electrospinning
Authors: Ángel‐Gómez Sara , Berger Simon , Niessner Jennifer , Álvarez‐Láinez Mónica Lucía
Published: November 2023

To further target product development with low environmental impact, an integral green electrospinning (G‐ES) approach has been adopted through the simultaneous application of various strategies, such as the use of biopolymers, reduction of energy use to avoid melting temperatures, and selection of non‐toxic solvents and surfactants. Green solubility spinnability maps for cellulose acetate (CA), poly ε‐caprolactone (PCL), and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) are presented. Green electrospinning (G‐ES) allows the production of new morphologies for CA and PCL nanofiber membranes. In this work, CA exhibits a ribbon‐like morphology, PCL shows a honeycomb‐like morphology and PVA cylindrical fibers. Membrane morphologies are compared with filtration efficiency (FE) for particle size of 1.0 μm and quality factor (QF) at a volumetric flux of 27.63 cm−1. For CA is between 83% and 96% and high QF = 0.31–0.38 Pa−1, PCL is 92% and 99% and high QF = 0.28–0.21 Pa−1 and for PVA between 96% and 99% and high QF = 0.14–0.08 Pa−1. These results suggest that the hierarchical nanofiber structure improves filtration performance because of the reduction in pressure drop and increase in PM interception. CA ribbon‐like fibers favored air filtration performance, followed by PCL honeycomb‐like fibers.
The concept of cumulative deliberation: Linking systemic approaches to healthier normativity in assessing opinion formation in online discussions
Authors: Bodrunova Svetlana S.
Published: November 2023

Online opinion formation has received much scholarly attention since the mass proliferation of social networks. Inter alia, online opinions have been viewed as a new part of public deliberation. However, the pre‐Internet era's vision on deliberation imposes extremely high demands on users as deliberators. We argue that opinion formation online neither pursues the goals nor follows the rules of institutionalized consensus‐oriented round‐table deliberative processes. Moreover, the growing academic evidence shows that opinion formation online is predominantly cumulative, not deliberative in nature. Thus, we introduce the concept of cumulative deliberation as an alternative and addition to classic institutional deliberation and argue that it describes opinion formation online more precisely. Importantly, it allows for two crucial additions to the deliberation theory, which are the use of systemic approaches to measuring and predicting public opinion and new normativity that sees a user as an initially neutral discussion unit. It also allows for healthier distinction between “natural” user communication and intentional counter‐deliberative distortions in online communication, like computational propaganda or cyberbullying. We end up with suggesting a research agenda on cumulative deliberation.
Peptide ligands targeting the vesicular stomatitis virus G (VSV‐G) protein for the affinity purification of lentivirus particles
Authors: Barbieri Eduardo , Mollica Gina N. , Moore Brandyn D. , Sripada Sobhana A. , Shastry Shriarjun , Kilgore Ryan E. , Loudermilk Casee M. , Whitacre Zachary H. , Kilgour Katie M. , Wuestenhagen Elena , Aldinger Annika , Graalfs Heiner , Rammo Oliver , Schulte Michael M. , Johnson Thomas F. , Daniele Michael A. , Menegatti Stefano
Published: November 2023

The recent uptick in the approval of ex vivo cell therapies highlights the relevance of lentivirus (LV) as an enabling viral vector of modern medicine. As labile biologics, however, LVs pose critical challenges to industrial biomanufacturing. In particular, LV purification—currently reliant on filtration and anion‐exchange or size‐exclusion chromatography—suffers from long process times and low yield of transducing particles, which translate into high waiting time and cost to patients. Seeking to improve LV downstream processing, this study introduces peptides targeting the enveloped protein Vesicular stomatitis virus G (VSV‐G) to serve as affinity ligands for the chromatographic purification of LV particles. An ensemble of candidate ligands was initially discovered by implementing a dual‐fluorescence screening technology and a targeted in silico approach designed to identify sequences with high selectivity and tunable affinity. The selected peptides were conjugated on Poros resin and their LV binding‐and‐release performance was optimized by adjusting the flow rate, composition, and pH of the chromatographic buffers. Ligands GKEAAFAA and SRAFVGDADRD were selected for their high product yield (50%–60% of viral genomes; 40%–50% of HT1080 cell‐transducing particles) upon elution in PIPES buffer with 0.65 M NaCl at pH 7.4. The peptide‐based adsorbents also presented remarkable values of binding capacity (up to 3·109 TU per mL of resin, or 5·1011 vp per mL of resin, at the residence time of 1 min) and clearance of host cell proteins (up to a 220‐fold reduction of HEK293 HCPs). Additionally, GKEAAFAA demonstrated high resistance to caustic cleaning‐in‐place (0.5 M NaOH, 30 min) with no observable loss in product yield and quality.
Electroacupuncture promotes synaptic plasticity in rats with chronic inflammatory pain–related depression by upregulating BDNF/TrkB/CREB signaling pathway
Authors: Yang Pu , Chen Haiyan , Wang Tian , Su Hong , Li Jing , He Yujun , Su Shengyong
Published: November 2023

Background

Chronic inflammatory pain (CIP) frequently coincides with depression among patients. The onset and development of pain and depression are associated with altered neural synaptic plasticity. Electroacupuncture (EA) can effectively relieve CIP and depression. However, the underlying mechanisms have not been fully illustrated.

Objective

To explore whether EA can relieve CIP and depression by regulating hippocampal synaptic plasticity, and the present study offers foundational evidence for the efficacy of EA in treating CIP‐related depression (CIPD).

Methods

Rats were divided into four groups: 0.9% normal saline group, complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA) group, CFA + duloxetine group, and CFA + EA group. Pain hypersensitivity was detected by mechanical withdrawal threshold and thermal paw withdrawal latency, and the depression level was gauged using the open field test, the sucrose preference test, and the forced swimming test. The morphology of the hippocampal neurons was observed using Nissl staining. The protein expression levels of synuclein (Syn), postsynaptic density protein‐95 (PSD‐95), brain‐derived neurotrophic factors (BDNFs), tyrosine‐protein kinase B (TrKB), p‐TrkB, cAMP response element binding protein (CREB), and p‐CREB were measured by western blotting and immunofluorescence staining. BDNF and TrkB mRNA expression were detected using quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) (qRT‐PCR). The content of 5‐hydroxytryptamine (5‐HT) and γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) was detected using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, and the glutamic acid (Glu) content was determined using the ultraviolet colorimetry method. The hippocampal neuron ultrastructure was observed using transmission electron microscopy.

Results

EA could alleviate CIP and related depressive behaviors as well as protect the hippocampal neuronal structure from damage and regulate 5‐HT/GABA/Glu levels in the hippocampus. Additionally, EA could significantly increase the expression of synapse‐associated proteins such as PSD‐95 and Syn by activating the BDNF/TrKB/CREB signaling pathway.

Conclusion

EA improves pain and depressive behaviors in CIPD rats, and the mechanism may be related to synaptic plasticity mediated by the BDNF/TrKB/CREB signaling pathway.
Adipose‐derived stem cells enriched with therapeutic mRNA TGF‐β3 and IL‐10 synergistically promote scar‐less wound healing in preclinical models
Authors: Wang Wei , Chen Liang , Zhang Yuxin , Wang Heng , Dong Dong , Zhu Jingjing , Fu Wei , Liu Tianyi
Published: November 2023

Skin wound healing often leads to scar formation, presenting physical and psychological challenges for patients. Advancements in messenger RNA (mRNA) modifications offer a potential solution for pulsatile cytokine delivery to create a favorable wound‐healing microenvironment, thereby preventing cutaneous fibrosis. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of human adipose‐derived stem cells (hADSCs) enriched with N1‐methylpseudouridine (m1ψ) modified transforming growth factor‐β3 (TGF‐β3) and interleukin‐10 (IL‐10) mRNA in promoting scar‐free healing in preclinical models. The results demonstrated that the modified mRNA (modRNA)‐loaded hADSCs efficiently and temporarily secreted TGF‐β3 and IL‐10 proteins. In a dorsal injury model, hADSCs loaded with modRNA TGF‐β3 and IL‐10 exhibited multidimensional therapeutic effects, including improved collagen deposition, extracellular matrix organization, and neovascularization. In vitro experiments confirmed the ability of these cells to markedly inhibit the proliferation and migration of keloid fibroblasts, and reverse the myofibroblast phenotype. Finally, collagen degradation mediated by matrix metalloproteinase upregulation was observed in an ex vivo keloid explant culture model. In conclusion, the synergistic effects of the modRNA TGF‐β3, IL‐10, and hADSCs hold promise for establishing a scar‐free wound‐healing microenvironment, representing a robust foundation for the management of wounds in populations susceptible to scar formation.
“Clinical trials are space travel”: Factors of psychological response to recurrence among oncologists enrolling patients in treatment optimization trials
Authors: Henderson Nicole Lynn , Andrews Courtney , Ingram Stacey A. , Zubkoff Lisa , Tung Nadine , Wagner Lynne I. , Wallner Lauren P. , Wolff Antonio , Rocque Gabrielle B.
Published: November 2023

Background

Cancer recurrence after treatment is a concern for patients and oncologists alike. The movement towards treatment optimization, with trials testing less than the current standard of care (SoC), complicates this experience. Our objective was to assess oncologists' psychological response to patient recurrence on optimization‐focused trials and identify factors that influence those experiences.

Methods

Clinical oncologists participated in a semi‐structured interview regarding patient enrollment in treatment optimization trials. We identified factors that influence the degree of psychological response that the oncologist may feel after patient recurrence. Residual agreement analysis was used to identify whether differences in reported psychological response was associated with alternative emphases on identified factors.

Results

Thirty‐six oncologists identified 20 factors spanning five major themes that affected their psychological response to patient recurrence. All oncologists expressed willingness to enroll patients in treatment optimization clinical trials; however, half indicated that they were more likely to experience a negative psychological response after a treatment optimization trial than after a traditional intensification trial, and a quarter reported that patient recurrence on an optimization trial would impact their recommendations for future trial enrollment. Oncologists who reported more negative psychological responses to patient recurrence after participation in an optimization trial were more likely to emphasize introspective factors, while those who reported no difference in response emphasized patient‐ and process‐focused factors.

Conclusions

Although most oncologists recognize the importance of treatment optimization trials, a significant proportion indicated a greater potential for psychological distress following patient recurrence in such trials and offered insight into how trial design and the process of patient enrollment can be improved to minimize those negative psychological responses.
Environmentally Friendly Degradation and Detoxification of Rifampicin by a Bacterial Laccase and Hydrogen Peroxide
Authors: Durão Paulo , Kis Peter , Chelo Ivo M. , Ventura M. Rita , Martins Lígia O.
Published: November 2023

Antibiotics are micropollutants accumulating in our rivers and wastewaters, potentially leading to bacterial antibiotic resistance, a worldwide problem to which there is no current solution. Here, we have developed an environmentally friendly two‐step process to transform the antibiotic rifampicin (RIF) into non‐antimicrobial compounds. The process involves an enzymatic oxidation step by the bacterial CotA‐laccase and a hydrogen peroxide bleaching step. NMR identified rifampicin quinone as the main product of the enzymatic oxidation. Growth of Escherichia coli strains in the presence of final degradation products (FP) and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) measurements confirmed that FP are non‐anti‐microbial compounds, and bioassays suggest that FP is not toxic to eukaryotic organisms. Moreover, competitive fitness assays between susceptible and RIF‐resistant bacteria show that susceptible bacteria is strongly favoured in the presence of FP. Our results show that we have developed a robust and environmentally friendly process to effectively remediate rifampicin from antibiotic contaminated environments.
Integrin Facilitates the Internalization of TAT Peptide Conjugated to RGD Motif in Model Lipid Membranes
Authors: Ciobanasu Corina , Pernier Julien , Le Clainche Christophe
Published: November 2023

In recent years, targeted drug delivery has attracted a great interest for enhanced therapeutic efficiency, with diminished side effects, especially in cancer therapy. Cell penetrating peptides (CPPs) like HIV1−TAT peptides, appear to be the perfect vectors for translocating drugs or other cargoes across the plasma membrane, but their application is limited mostly due to insufficient specificity for intended targets. Although these molecules were successfully used, the mechanism by which the peptides enter the cell interior still needs to be clarified. The tripeptide motif RGD (arginine−glycine−aspartate), found in extracellular matrix proteins has high affinity for integrin receptors overexpressed in cancer and it is involved in different phases of disease progression, including proliferation, invasion and migration. Discovery of new peptides with high binding affinity for disease receptors and permeability of plasma membranes is desirable for both, development of targeted drug delivery systems and early detection and diagnosis. To complement the TAT peptide with specific targeting ability, we conjugated it with an integrin‐binding RGD motif. Although the idea of RGD−CPPs conjugates is not entirely new,[1] here we describe the permeability abilities and specificity of integrin receptors of RGD−TAT peptides in model membranes. Our findings reveal that this novel RGD sequence based on TAT peptide maintains its ability to permeate lipid membranes and exhibits specificity for integrin receptors embedded in giant unilamellar vesicles. This promising outcome suggests that the RGD−TAT peptide has significant potential for applications in the field of targeted drug delivery systems.
Early detection of idiopathic thoracic ventral spinal cord herniation by using imaging: A case report
Authors: Kaida Mana , Hirata Hirohito , Noda Hikaru , Kishikawa Yuya , Yoshihara Tomohito , Kobayashi Takaomi , Tsukamoto Masatsugu , Mawatari Masaaki , Morimoto Tadatsugu
Published: November 2023

Key Clinical Message

In middle‐aged and older populations, clinicians often suspect lumbar spine disease when the gait is disturbed with lumbar lower extremity numbness, but spinal herniation at the thoracic level may be causal. Early detection, appropriate treatment, and minimization of complications requires understanding of characteristic magnetic resonance imaging findings of herniation.
Dibenzoindolo[1,8]naphthyridines: Synthesis and Characterization of X‐Shaped Aza[4,6]helicenes
Authors: Ausekle Elina , Ehlers Peter , Villinger Alexander , Langer Peter
Published: November 2023

This report describes a one‐pot multi‐step procedure to obtain double azahelicenes via nucleophilic fluorine substitution of 2,2‐di(2‐bromophenyl)‐1,1‐difluoroalkenes and palladium‐catalysed ring closing reaction. The developed synthesis approach allows easy diversification of substituents at all four fragments of the obtained X‐shaped aza[4,6]helicene entity. Yields range from 20 % to 60 % among 12 product examples. X‐ray single crystal analysis reveals formation of (P,P) and (M,M) enantiomer mixture of products. Optical and electrochemical properties of selected products were studied by performing UV/Vis absorption, photoluminescence and cyclic voltammetry measurements. Experimental results are supported by (TD)‐DFT, NICS and NICS2BC calculations.
Large‐scale homo‐ and heterogeneous parallel paradigm design based on CFD application PHengLEI
Authors: Wan YunBo , Zhao Zhong , Liu Jie , Zhang Laiping , Zhang Yong , Chen Jianqiang
Published: November 2023

The development of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) highly depends on high‐performance computers. Computer hardware has evolved rapidly, yet scalable CFD parallel software remains scarce. In this article, we design a highly scalable CFD parallel paradigm for both homogeneous and heterogeneous supercomputers. The paradigm achieves the separation of communication and computation and automatically adapts to various solvers and hardware environments, thus reducing programming difficulties and increasing automatic parallelization. Meanwhile, the number of communications is greatly reduced and the scalability of the program is improved through implementing centralized communication and two‐level partitioning techniques. Complex flow problems for real aircraft were then computed on different hardware platforms with a grid size of ten billion. The homogeneous computer hardware includes Intel Xeon Gold 6258R and Phytium 2000+ processors, and the heterogeneous computer platforms include NVIDIA Tesla V100 and SW26010 processors. High parallel efficiency was obtained on all computer platforms, verifying that the paradigm has good automatic parallelization, scalability, and stability. The paradigm in this article has an important reference value for CFD massively parallel computing and can promote the development and application of CFD technology.
Optimization of plasma parameters for effective attenuation of microwaves in specified frequency range
Authors: Siahpoush Vahid , Mohadesi Vahideh , Taheri S. Saeid
Published: November 2023

In this article, a plasma‐metal model is studied as an electromagnetic absorber for stealth application. Epstain distribution is considered for plasma and the electromagnetic reflection of the structure is analyzed by the Green's function volume integral equation method. The attenuation of microwaves in plasma depends on microwave frequency, plasma electron density, spatial distribution of plasma, collision frequency, and plasma thickness. Using a metaheuristic optimization method, it is possible to change the parameters simultaneously in the specified domains to obtain conditions for which microwaves can be absorbed effectively in the specified frequency. In this paper, optimized plasma parameters related to ideal attenuation in desired frequency band are determined by this method. The advantage of this method is that the intervals related to the plasma parameters are selecting according to the practical conditions and in many cases prevent the production of high volume with high density plasma to achieve effective attenuation. The proposed method can be useful for designing adjustable devices in stealth applications. Proper management of power consumption in these devices is one of the results of adjustment.
UIoTN‐PMSE: Ubiquitous IoT network‐based predictive modeling in smart environment
Authors: Karuppiah Marimuthu , Ramana T. V. , Mohanty Rajanikanta , Devarajan Ganesh Gopal , Nagarajan Senthil Murugan
Published: November 2023

We proposed a three‐stage intrusion detection system that utilizes a predictive machine learning model to identify and mitigate attacks on ubiquitous network. In the first stage, we applied Apriori‐enabled Association Rule Mining (AARM) feature selection with support vector machine (SVM) for classification of flow of network. Second, we proposed ensemble learning‐based AARM model (PAEL) for behavior analysis. Finally, for classification of multi‐task labels, we proposed swarm bat optimization‐based PAEL model. The trained model is applied to edge and fog computing devices to obtain lower resource utilization and improve the efficiency of the system. The intrusion detection process is performed in three stages: (i) at the edge devices, where abnormal data from network traffic from IoT devices were identified, (ii) the abnormal data sample is sent to fog computing deivce to confirm the attacks and abnormalities, (iii) final identified data sample is sent to cloud server. At cloud, proposed predictive machine learning (ML)‐based generalized weight sum‐enabled ensemble learning (PML‐GWEL) model is trained on sample data, including new detected samples, to continually improve its accuracy. Once the model is trained, it is published to all nodes in the network to update their primary detector models and clear out any outdated pre‐detector models. This process helps to reduce the hardware resources used by the pre‐detector models and improve the overall efficiency of the system. The proposed model is compared with other existing techniques.
Impact of years of grazing exclusion on surface soil temperature and hydrothermal relations in arid and semi‐arid grasslands
Authors: Zhao Xingyu , Zhao Hongbin , Zhang Shengwei , Zhou Ying , Li Ruishen , Lin Xi , Liu Minmin , Wang Shuai
Published: November 2023

Soil temperature (Ts) and hydrothermal processes are determinants of grassland vegetation growth in arid and semi‐arid area. Implementation of grazing exclusion in grazed grasslands is bound to change the state of vegetation and soil, with consequent effects on Ts and hydrothermal relations. To investigate the differences in the response of Ts and hydrothermal variation to different durations of grazing exclusion, this study conducted a 4‐year fencing exclusion experiment from 2019 to 2022 in Eritu Ranch, Xilingole League, Inner Mongolia. Soil water content (SWC), Ts and precipitation were continuously observed under grazing and different years of grazing exclusion. Statistical correlation analysis was used to assess changes in Ts and moisture after 1 and 4 years of grazing exclusion, and to investigate the differences in Ts response to the same rainfall events and changes during freeze–thaw periods under different grazing exclusion durations. The results show that after 1 year of grazing exclusion, the summer surface Ts decreased by 0.23°C, while the winter surface Ts increased by 0.55°C. After 4 years of grazing exclusion, the summer surface Ts decreased further by 1.18°C, while the winter surface Ts decreased by 0.39°C. This suggests that grazing exclusion has differential effects on seasonal Ts dynamics. Compared with grazing grassland (GG), Ts in grazing exclusion grassland (GEG) shows less response to rainfall. During the freeze–thaw period, soil moisture in GEG is more sensitive to precipitation than in GG. Regression analysis revealed that the correlation between Ts and moisture during the freezing phase was weaker in GEG than in GG. Furthermore, the difference in correlation between 1 and 4 years of grazing exclusion was smaller than expected. During the melting phase, the relationship between Ts and SWC in the soil differed less after 1 year of grazing exclusion compared with GG. However, after 4 years of grazing exclusion, the correlation between Ts and SWC was generally greater in the GEG, suggesting that grazing exclusion may lead to changes in soil moisture dynamics that affect Ts. The results indicate that after 4 years of grazing exclusion, Ts and SWC conditions are better than those after 1 year of grazing exclusion. These findings have significant implications for understanding the impact of grazing‐induced soil warming and drying processes on ecosystems.
Local and regional geographic variation in inducible defenses
Authors: Corbett James J. , Trussell Geoffrey C.
Published: November 2023

Invasive predators can cause substantial evolutionary change in native prey populations. Although invasions by predators typically occur over large scales, their distributions are usually characterized by substantial spatiotemporal heterogeneity that can lead to patchiness in the response of native prey species. Our ability to understand how local variation shapes patterns of inducible defense expression has thus far been limited by insufficient replication of populations within regions. Here, we examined local and regional variation in the inducible defenses of 12 native marine snail (Littorina obtusata) populations within two geographic regions in the Gulf of Maine that are characterized by vastly different contact histories with the invasive predatory green crab (Carcinus maenas). When exposed in the field to waterborne risk cues from the green crab for 90 days, snails expressed plastic increases in shell thickness that reduced their vulnerability to this shell‐crushing predator. Despite significant differences in contact history with this invasive predator, snail populations from both regions produced similar levels of shell thickness and shell thickness plasticity in response to risk cues. Such phenotypic similarity emerged even though there were substantial geographic differences in the shell thickness of juvenile snails at the beginning of the experiment, and we suggest that it may reflect the effects of warming ocean temperatures and countergradient variation. Consistent with plasticity theory, a trend in our results suggests that southern snail populations, which have a longer contact history with the green crab, paid less in the form of reduced tissue mass for thicker shells than northern populations.
Redox‐chemistry of Pyramidanes: A DFT Study
Authors: Coburger Peter
Published: November 2023

Based on previous experimental findings, a DFT study on the redox‐induced rearrangement of a series of germa‐, phospha‐ and borapyramidanes is presented. Upon stepwise two‐electron reduction, these 5‐vertex nido‐clusters are predicted to form their respective monocyclic derivatives (germole diides, (tri)phospholides and borole diides) which are formally related to the cyclopentadienide anion. Hence, it is likely that these rearrangements are a common reactivity of pyramidanes. Based on the calculations, the oxidation of these monocyclic derivatives is expected to result in the formation of meta‐stable dimers for germanium and phosphorus species, and monomeric borole derivatives for boron species. Consequently, investigating the redox chemistry of pyramidanes presents an exciting opportunity to discover new and unique main‐group species.
Uptake and metabolization of four sartan drugs by eight different plants: Targeted and untargeted analyses by HPLC‐drift‐tube‐ion‐mobility quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry
Authors: Zellner Laura , Schiefer Thomas , Himmelsbach Markus , Mlynek Franz , Klampfl Christian W.
Published: November 2023

In this study, we investigated the uptake and metabolization of four drugs (plus the associated prodrugs) from the sartan family by eight edible plants. Growing the plants hydroponically in a medium containing the respective drug, more than 40 phases I and II metabolites derived from the four sartan drugs could be tentatively identified. To demonstrate the suitability of the proposed analytical approach for actual environmental samples, garden cress (Lepidium sativum) selected as a model plant was grown in water drawn from the effluent of two local wastewater treatment plants. Thereby, three of the sartans, namely, olmesartan, candesartan, and valsartan, could be found in the plant extracts at concentrations of 3.1, 10.4, and 14.4 ng g−1, respectively. Additionally, for candesartan and valsartan, a glycosylated transformation product could be detected. In order to extend the present (targeted) workflow also toward the analysis of unknown transformation products (i.e., those not listed in the custom‐made database used for this research), a nontargeted approach for the analysis of plant extracts with respect to the presence of drug‐related metabolites was developed. Comparison of the targeted and the nontargeted workflows led to the finding of two additional, so far unidentified, transformation products originating from azilsartan.
Distributed and multi‐layer hierarchical controller placement in software‐defined satellite‐terrestrial network
Authors: Xu Shuang , Wang Hao , Fang Yang , Zhao Zhengpeng , Wang Xingwei , Huang Min
Published: November 2023

Aiming at the controller placement in software‐defined satellite‐terrestrial network, a distributed and multilayer hierarchical controller placement mechanism is proposed to improve the reliability and scalability. First, the metrics of network reliability, maintenance cost and usage cost are defined to establish the controller placement optimization model for the software‐defined satellite‐terrestrial network. Then, a distributed and hierarchical control structure composed of super controller, master controller, and slave controller is presented to enhance the scalability. Furthermore, according to the latitude variation of the LEO satellites, a time‐slot division method is proposed to staticize the network control topology. It reduces control link handover and enhances the stability of control links. In addition, a LEO satellite latitude based slave controller selection strategy and a shortest distance based inter layer control strategy are proposed to facilitate cost reduction and stability enhancement. Finally, extensive simulations demonstrate that the proposed control structure not only obtains high stability and scalability, but also efficiently saves the maintenance and usage cost. Besides, the impacts of service request distribution and satellite number on the control structure are analyzed.
Targeting systems not individuals: Institutional and structural drivers of absenteeism among primary healthcare workers in Nigeria
Authors: Agwu Prince , Onwujekwe Obinna , Obi Uche , McKee Martin , Odii Aloysius , Orjiakor Charles , Hutchinson Eleanor , Balabanova Dina
Published: November 2023

Universal Health Coverage (UHC) can only be achieved if people receive good quality care from health workers, yet in Nigeria, as in many other low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs), many health workers are absent from work. Absenteeism is a well‐known phenomenon but is often considered as the self‐serving behaviour of individuals, independent from the characteristics of health systems structures and processes and the broader contexts that enable it. We undertook a qualitative inquiry among 40 key informants, comprising health facility heads and workers, community leaders and state‐level health policymakers in Nigeria. We employed a phenomenology approach to examine their lived experiences and grouped findings into thematic clusters. Absenteeism by health workers was found to be a response to structural problems at two levels –midstream (facility‐level) and upstream (government level) – rather than being a result of moral failure of individuals. The problems at midstream level pointed to an inconsistent and unfair application of rules and regulations in facilities and ineffective management, while the upstream drivers relate mainly to political interference and suboptimal health system leadership. Reducing absenteeism requires two‐pronged interventions that tackle defects in the upstream and midstream rather than just focusing on sanctioning deviant staff (downstream).
Optimization of rifled tube by parametric changes using CFD for goodness factor enhancement
Authors: Negi Vinay Pratap Singh , Pandey Vishwas Kumar , Ranganayakulu Chennu
Published: November 2023

In this study, extensive research was conducted using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) ANSYS®–FLUENT, with the k–ε turbulence heat transfer module to optimize the rifled‐tube heat exchanger through parametric modifications for heat transfer and Goodness factor enhancement. This is based on predicting the performance of various heat transfer surfaces such as rectangular and two opposite right‐angled triangular ribs. The objective of this research was to enhance the heat transfer efficiency of a rifled tube with rectangular ribs, a height of 0.775 mm, and helix angles of 30° and 58°. The research findings demonstrated that the heat transfer rate improved owing to the establishment of a secondary helical or swirl flow near the wall region, leading to an enhanced heat transfer. The modification of the rib geometry from rectangular to two opposite right‐angled triangles increased the heat transfer by 17%, whereas the pressure drop remained relatively constant at 0.62 mm of rib height. This benefit is directly translated into heat transfer without any change in pressure drop. The values of the friction factor (f), Nusselt number (Nu), and goodness factor are appropriate for the new geometry in relation to the reference geometry. Rifled‐tube designers can use CFD heat transfer analysis to optimize the design, reduce the need for physical prototypes, and test similar applications and rib configurations.
Teaching development practices post‐Covid‐19: Findings from a literature review, a survey and interviews in Aotearoa New Zealand
Authors: Prinsen Gerard , Kiddle Gabriel Luke , Nyman Mikaela , de la Torre Parra Lorena
Published: November 2023

This article details findings from research to re‐design a postgraduate course on development practices in Development Studies in Aotearoa New Zealand, aiming to include the impact of the Covid‐19 pandemic. Reviewing literature, surveying recently graduated students and interviewing senior staff in international development organisations, five topics emerged as forces shaping development practices in a post‐covid‐19 world. Analysis suggests interviewed staff aligned with views in literature. However, comparing views of the current and next generation of development practitioners reveals quite diverging views as to what would be most important for a course on development practices.
The cerebral lymphatic drainage system and its implications in epilepsy
Authors: Peng Tingting , Xie Yinyin , Liu Fengxia , Lian Yajun , Xie Yi , Ma Yunqing , Wang Cui , Xie Nanchang
Published: November 2023

The central nervous system has long been thought to lack a clearance system similar to the peripheral lymphatic system. Therefore, the clearance of metabolic waste in the central nervous system has been a subject of great interest in neuroscience. Recently, the cerebral lymphatic drainage system, including the parenchymal clearance system and the meningeal lymphatic network, has attracted considerable attention. It has been extensively studied in various neurological disorders. Solute accumulation and neuroinflammation after epilepsy impair the blood–brain barrier, affecting the exchange and clearance between cerebrospinal fluid and interstitial fluid. Restoring their normal function may improve the prognosis of epilepsy. However, few studies have focused on providing a comprehensive overview of the brain clearance system and its significance in epilepsy. Therefore, this review addressed the structural composition, functions, and methods used to assess the cerebral lymphatic system, as well as the neglected association with epilepsy, and provided a theoretical basis for therapeutic approaches in epilepsy.
Air pollution associate with advanced hepatic fibrosis among patients with chronic liver disease
Authors: Jang Tyng‐Yuan , Ho Chi‐Chang , Liang Po‐Cheng , Wu Chih‐Da , Wei Yu‐Ju , Tsai Pei‐Chien , Hsu Po‐Yao , Hsieh Ming‐Yen , Lin Yi‐Hung , Hsieh Meng‐Hsuan , Wang Chih‐Wen , Yang Jeng‐Fu , Yeh Ming‐Lun , Huang Chung‐Feng , Chuang Wan‐Long , Huang Jee‐Fu , Cheng Ya‐Yun , Dai Chia‐Yen , Chen Pau‐Chung , Yu Ming‐Lung
Published: November 2023

We aimed to investigate the association between air pollution and advanced fibrosis among patients with metabolic associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) and chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections. A total of 1376 participants who were seropositive for HBV surface antigen (HBsAg) or antibodies to HCV (anti‐HCV) or had abnormal liver function in a community screening program from 2019 to 2021 were enrolled for the assessment of liver fibrosis using transient elastography. Daily estimates of air pollutants (particulate matter ≤2.5 μm in diameter [PM2.5], nitrogen dioxide [NO2], ozone [O3] and benzene) were aggregated into mean estimates for the previous year based on the date of enrolment. Of the 1376 participants, 767 (52.8%) and 187 (13.6) had MAFLD and advanced fibrosis, respectively. A logistic regression analysis revealed that the factors associated with advanced liver fibrosis were HCV viremia (odds ratio [OR], 3.13; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.05–4.77; p < 0.001), smoking (OR, 1.79; 95% CI, 1.16–2.74; p = 0.01), age (OR, 1.04; 95% CI, 1.02–1.05; p < 0.001) and PM2.5 (OR, 1.10; 95% CI, 1.05–1.16; p < 0.001). Linear regression analysis revealed that LSM was independently correlated with PM2.5 (β: 0.134; 95% CI: 0.025, 0.243; p = 0.02). There was a dose‐dependent relationship between different fibrotic stages and the PM2.5 level (the PM2.5 level in patients with fibrotic stages 0, 1–2 and 3–4: 27.9, 28.4, and 29.3 μg/m3, respectively; trend p < 0.001). Exposure to PM2.5, as well as HBV and HCV infections, is associated with advanced liver fibrosis in patients with MAFLD. There was a dose‐dependent correlation between PM2.5 levels and the severity of hepatic fibrosis.