bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simulation study of protoacoustics as a real‐time in‐line dosimetry tool for FLASH proton therapy
Authors: Kim Kaitlyn , Pandey Prabodh Kumar , Gonzalez Gilberto , Chen Yong , Xiang Liangzhong
Published: December 2023

Background

Applying ultra‐high dose rates to radiation therapy, otherwise known as FLASH, has been shown to be just as effective while sparing more normal tissue compared to conventional radiation therapy. However, there is a need for a dosimeter that is able to detect such high instantaneous dose, particularly in vivo. To fulfill this need, protoacoustics is introduced, which is an in vivo range verification method with submillimeter accuracy.

Purpose

The purpose of this work is to demonstrate the feasibility of using protoacoustics as a method of in vivo real‐time monitoring during FLASH proton therapy and investigating the resulting protoacoustic signal when dose per pulse and pulsewidth are varied through multiple simulation studies.

Methods

The dose distribution of a proton pencil beam was calculated through a Monte Carlo toolbox, TOPAS. Next, the k‐Wave toolbox in MATLAB was used for performing protoacoustic simulations, where the initial proton dose deposition was inputted to model acoustic propagations, which were also used for reconstructions. Simulations involving the manipulation of the dose per pulse and pulsewidth were performed, and the temporal and spatial resolution for protoacoustic reconstructions were investigated as well. A 3D reconstruction was performed with a multiple beam spot profile to investigate the spatial resolution as well as determine the feasibility of 3D imaging with protoacoustics.

Results

Our results showed consistent linearity in the increasing dose‐per‐pulse, even up to rates considered for FLASH. The simulations and reconstructions were performed for a range of pulsewidths from 0.1 to 10 μs. The results show the characteristics of the proton beam after convolving the protoacoustic signal with the varying pulsewidths. 3D reconstruction was successfully performed with each beam being distinguishable using an 8 cm × 8 cm planar array. These simulation results show that measurements using protoacoustics has the potential for in vivo dosimetry in FLASH therapy during patient treatments in real time.

Conclusion

Through this simulation study, the use of protoacoustics in FLASH therapy was verified and explored through observations of varying parameters, such as the dose per pulse and pulsewidth. 2D and 3D reconstructions were also completed. This study shows the significance of using protoacoustics and provides necessary information, which can further be explored in clinical settings.
Machine learning algorithm‐based estimation model for the severity of depression assessed using Montgomery‐Asberg depression rating scale
Authors: Shimamoto Masanori , Ishizuka Kanako , Ohtani Kento , Inada Toshiya , Yamamoto Maeri , Tachibana Masako , Kimura Hiroki , Sakai Yusuke , Kobayashi Kazuhiro , Ozaki Norio , Ikeda Masashi
Published: December 2023

Aim

Depressive disorder is often evaluated using established rating scales. However, consistent data collection with these scales requires trained professionals. In the present study, the “rater & estimation‐system” reliability was assessed between consensus evaluation by trained psychiatrists and the estimation by 2 models of the AI‐MADRS (Montgomery‐Asberg Depression Rating Scale) estimation system, a machine learning algorithm‐based model developed to assess the severity of depression.

Methods

During interviews with trained psychiatrists and the AI‐MADRS estimation system, patients responded orally to machine‐generated voice prompts from the AI‐MADRS structured interview questions. The severity scores estimated from two models of the AI‐MADRS estimation system, the max estimation model and the average estimation model, were compared with those by trained psychiatrists.

Results

A total of 51 evaluation interviews conducted on 30 patients were analyzed. Pearson's correlation coefficient with the scores evaluated by trained psychiatrists was 0.76 (95% confidence interval 0.62–0.86) for the max estimation model, and 0.86 (0.76–0.92) for the average estimation model. The ANOVA ICC rater & estimation‐system reliability with the evaluation scores by trained psychiatrists was 0.51 (−0.09 to 0.79) for the max estimation model, and 0.75 (0.55–0.86) for the average estimation model.

Conclusion

The average estimation model of AI‐MADRS demonstrated substantially acceptable rater & estimation‐system reliability with trained psychiatrists. Accumulating a broader training dataset and the refinement of AI‐MADRS interviews are expected to improve the performance of AI‐MADRS. Our findings suggest that AI technologies can significantly modernize and potentially revolutionize the realm of depression assessments.
A multiscale study of heat treatment effects on the interlayer mechanical properties of 3D printed continuous carbon fiber‐reinforced composites
Authors: Zhu Wanying , Li Shixian , Long Hongmei , Wang Kui , Rao Yanni , Peng Yong , Ahzi Said
Published: December 2023

The main goal of this study was to investigate the effect of heat treatment on the microstructural and interlayer mechanical properties of 3D printed continuous carbon fiber‐reinforced composites (CCFRCs). The influence of raster orientations on the interlayer properties of composites was systematically studied by the floating roller peel test. The multiscale morphological investigation was applied to analyze the influence of heat treatment on the interlayer mechanical properties and change of pores microstructure for composites. The results showed that heat treatment improved the interlayer mechanical properties of CCFRCs. During heat treatment, the pores merged, migrated, and deformed as the softening and collapse of the matrix. The average peeling strength after heat treatment for specimens increased by 10.17%–51.30%. Besides, the increase in matrix fluidity and the change of pore shape in CCFRCs were more significant than that of matrix specimens after heat treatment, since more thermal channels in CCFRCs.

Highlights

The interlayer mechanical properties of 3D printed continuous carbon fiber‐reinforced composites (CCFRCs) were improved by heat treatment.

The pores of composites merged, migrated, and deformed as the softening and collapse of the matrix.

The addition of continuous carbon fiber (CCF) made the composites have more thermal channels than those with matrix specimens.
Fetal urinary tract dilation: What to tell the parents
Authors: Nulens Katrien , Lorenzo Armando J. , Dos Santos Joana , Ellul Katie , Rickard Mandy
Published: December 2023

Urinary tract dilation (UTD), which refers to the abnormal dilation of the urinary collection system, is the most common finding on prenatal ultrasound and presents with varying severity, presentation, etiology, and prognosis. Prenatal classification and risk stratification aim to prevent postnatal complications, such as urinary tract infections and further kidney dysfunction. Parents expecting a child with UTD should be counseled by a multidisciplinary team consisting of maternal‐fetal medicine specialists, and pediatric urology and nephrology providers. This review summarizes the key points in the diagnostic evaluation and management during the prenatal and initial postnatal period, focusing on the information that should be provided to future parents. We address frequently asked parental questions and concerns that our multidisciplinary clinical practice faces.
Dipoles and defects caused by CO2 plasma improve carrier transport of silicon solar cells
Authors: Huang Shenglei , Yang Yuhao , Li Junjun , Jiang Kai , Li Xiaodong , Zhou Yinuo , Li Zhenfei , Wang Guangyuan , Shi Qiang , Shi Jianhua , Du Junlin , Han Anjun , Yu Jian , Meng Fanying , Zhang Liping , Liu Zhengxin , Liu Wenzhu
Published: December 2023

Carrier‐selective contact is a fundamental issue for solar cells. For silicon heterojunction (SHJ) solar cells, it is important to improve hole transport because of the low doping efficiency of boron in amorphous silicon and the barrier stemming from valence band offset. Here, we develop a carbon dioxide (CO2) plasma treatment (PT) process to form dipoles and defect states. We find a dipole moment caused by longitudinal distribution of H and O atoms. It improves hole transport and blocks electron transport and thus suppresses carrier recombination. In the meantime, the CO2 PT process also results in defect states, which reduce passivation performance but improve hole hopping in the intrinsic amorphous layer. As a balance, an appropriate CO2 PT process at the i/p interface increases fill factor and power conversion efficiency of SHJ solar cells. We emphasize, based on sufficient evidences, this work finds a distinct role of the CO2 plasma in SHJ solar cells opposed to reported mechanisms.
Current practice focus trends in physical medicine and rehabilitation
Authors: Kinney Carolyn L. , Pruitt David W. , Francisco Gerard E. , Raddatz Mikaela M. , Sabharwal Sunil
Published: December 2023

Background

Physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R) is a diverse specialty, growing and evolving over a variety of subspecialty and practice focus areas. Accurate data regarding practice patterns of physiatrists are essential for updating requirements in training and certification, particularly as the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education begins its process to update of the PM&R core residency training requirements. This study analyzes practice trends for nearly 98% of physiatrists in active practice, the largest study to date.

Objective

To update current demographics of physicians specializing in PM&R, including current areas of practice focus, to analyze the alignment of practice focus with subspecialty certification, and to determine the extent that electromyography is a component of current physiatric practice.

Design

Retrospective analysis of deidentified responses from American Board of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (ABPMR) board‐certified PM&R physicians (diplomates) on annual enrollment in the ABPMR Continuing Certification program.

Participants

A total of 9543 ABPMR diplomates.

Main Outcome Measures

Demographics – age, gender, years in practice, practice setting(s) and area(s). Practice focus, subspecialty certifications.

Results

The majority of practicing physiatrists are men (62%) although the percentage of women in the field is growing (38%). Nearly 80% of physiatrists report more than one practice focus area, with pain medicine and sports medicine/musculoskeletal practices most commonly reported.

Conclusions

This study confirms the growth trends in PM&R in pain and sports medicine but also highlights the substantial number of physiatrists focusing their practices in areas related to neurorehabilitation and medical rehabilitation. The large majority of physiatrists incorporate multiple focus areas into their practices. Electromyography is a focus for a declining percentage of practicing physiatrists.
Comparison of CO production and Escherichia coli inactivation by a kHz and a MHz plasma jet
Authors: Mestre Eloïse , Orel Inna , Henze Daniel , Chauvet Laura , Burhenn Sebastian , Dozias Sébastien , Brulé‐Morabito Fabienne , Golda Judith , Douat Claire
Published: December 2023

As carbon monoxide has a broad spectrum of biological activities, its production by plasma is a significant advantage in medicine. This paper presents a comparative study of the CO production of two plasma jets: a MHz‐jet and a kHz‐jet. Both were fed with a helium gas with admixture (0%–1%). CO was produced by dissociation and its maximal concentration was hundreds of parts per million, which is safe for clinical applications. For the same specific energy input, the CO production was more efficient for the kHz‐jet than the MHz‐jet. Both had antibacterial properties on Escherichia coli, and the addition of improved them for the MHz‐jet, while it reduced them for the kHz‐jet.
Investigation and mechanism of headspace corrosion in metal cans filled chicken noodle soup
Authors: Wu Yajun , Ruffley Ken , Pascall Melvin A.
Published: December 2023

This study demonstrated a method to investigate corrosion formation in the headspace of canned chicken noodle soup. In this method, Selected Ion Flow Tube–Mass Spectrometer was used to identify and quantify chemical compounds in raw and cooked chicken noodle soup and those that migrated towards the polymer coating of the metal cans. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to detect the appearance of breaches in the coating of the tested cans, and energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS) allowed for analysis of the elemental composition of the internal walls of the tested cans. Inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry (ICP‐MS) provided information about the migration of iron and tin from the internal walls of the cans into the packaged soups. SEM images showed that breaches developed in the coating of the tested cans when corrosion occurred. The EDS analyses showed that tin and iron exposures were associated with extra peaks in the EDS. These peaks were attributed to sulphur. From the results obtained, it was concluded that the process of heat retorting contributed to the formation of sulphur‐containing volatile compounds that bonded to the coating in the headspace of the tested cans. These then penetrated the protective coating and facilitated avenues for other oxidative chemicals in the product to cause corrosion and staining. Results from the ICP‐MS analyses showed that tin and iron subsequently migrated from the corroded cans toward the chicken soup. These results thus showed how corrosive compounds in a retorted food initiated corrosion in metal cans.
Entanglement, Quantum Correlators, and Connectivity in Graph States
Authors: Vesperini Arthur , Franzosi Roberto
Published: December 2023

This work presents a comprehensive exploration of the entanglement and graph connectivity properties of Graph States (GSs). Qubit entanglement in Pseudo Graph States (PGSs) is quantified using the Entanglement Distance (ED), a recently introduced measure of bipartite entanglement. In addition, a new approach is proposed for probing the underlying graph connectivity of genuine GSs, using Pauli matrix quantum correlators. These findings also reveal interesting implications for measurement processes, demonstrating the equivalence of some projective measurements. Finally, the emphasis is placed on the simplicity of data analysis in this framework. This work contributes to a deeper understanding of the entanglement and connectivity properties of GSs, offering valuable information for quantum information processing and quantum computing applications. The famous stabiliser formalism, which is the typically preferred framework for the study of this type of states, is not used in this work; on the contrary, this approach is based exclusively on the concepts of expectation values, quantum correlations, and projective measurement, which have the advantage of being very intuitive and fundamental tools of quantum theory.
Real‐time auto‐segmentation of the ureter in video sequences of gynaecological laparoscopic surgery
Authors: Wang Zhixiang , Liu Chongdong , Zhang Zhen , Deng Yupeng , Xiao Meizhu , Zhang Zhiqiang , Dekker Andre , Wang Shuzhen , Liu Yujiang , Qian LinXue , Zhang Zhenyu , Traverso Alberto , Feng Ying
Published: December 2023

Background

Ureteral injury is common during gynaecological laparoscopic surgery. Real‐time auto‐segmentation can assist gynaecologists in identifying the ureter and reduce intraoperative injury risk.

Methods

A deep learning segmentation model was crafted for ureter recognition in surgical videos, utilising 3368 frames from 11 laparoscopic surgeries. Class activation maps enhanced the model's interpretability, showing its areas. The model's clinical relevance was validated through an End‐User Turing test and verified by three gynaecological surgeons.

Results

The model registered a Dice score of 0.86, a Hausdorff 95 distance of 22.60, and processed images in 0.008 s on average. In complex surgeries, it pinpointed the ureter's position in real‐time. Fifty five surgeons across eight institutions found the model's accuracy, specificity, and sensitivity comparable to human performance. Yet, artificial intelligence experience influenced some subjective ratings.

Conclusions

The model offers precise real‐time ureter segmentation in laparoscopic surgery and can be a significant tool for gynaecologists to mitigate ureteral injuries.
Integral barrier Lyapunov functions based sliding mode observer‐controller for nonlinear systems with performance constraints
Authors: Qu Dong , Xie Wen‐Bo , Chen Guan‐Qun , Yang Bing , Peng Yan
Published: December 2023

This article presents an observer‐controller structure for nonlinear systems with external disturbances, uncertainties and performance constraints. Firstly, considering the unmeasurable state issue, a sliding mode observer is designed to estimate the unknown state. Then an integral barrier Lyapunov function (iBLF) is established to ensure that the observer estimation errors are held within the performance constraints. With the objective of utilizing iBLF, an equivalent output injection technique is adopted. Combining with backstepping technique, an observer‐controller scheme is given. The controller can hold all signals in the closed‐loop system bounded with the help of iBLF, and the tracking error will converge to a bounded tight set without violating the corresponding constraints. The effectiveness of the proposed strategy is clarified via a vessel heading control example.
Modeling multiple correlated end‐organ disease trajectories: A tutorial for multistate and joint models with applications in diabetes complications
Authors: Lovblom Leif Erik , Briollais Laurent , Perkins Bruce A. , Tomlinson George
Published: December 2023

State‐of‐the‐art biostatistics methods allow for the simultaneous modeling of several correlated non‐fatal disease processes over time, but there is no clear guidance on the optimal analysis in most settings. An example occurs in diabetes, where it is not known with certainty how microvascular complications of the eyes, kidneys, and nerves co‐develop over time. In this article, we propose and contrast two general model frameworks for studying complications (sequential state and parallel trajectory frameworks) and review multivariate methods for their analysis, focusing on multistate and joint modeling. We illustrate these methods in a tutorial format using the long‐term follow‐up from the Diabetes Control and Complications Trial and Epidemiology of Diabetes Interventions and Complications study public data repository. A formal comparison of prediction error and discrimination is included. Multistate models are particularly advantageous for determining the order and timing of complications, but require discretization of the longitudinal outcomes and possibly a very complex state space process. Intermittent observation of the states must be accounted for, and discretization is a probable disadvantage in this setting. In contrast, joint models can account for variations of continuous biomarkers over time and are particularly designed for modeling complex association structures between the complications and for performing dynamic predictions of an outcome of interest to inform clinical decisions (eg, a late‐stage complication). We found that both models have helpful features that can better‐inform our understanding of the complex trajectories that complications may take and can therefore help with decision making for patients presenting with diabetes complications.
Evaluating joint confidence region of hypervolume under ROC manifold and generalized Youden index
Authors: Wang Jia , Yin Jingjing , Tian Lili
Published: December 2023

In biomarker evaluation/diagnostic studies, the hypervolume under the receiver operating characteristic manifold () and the generalized Youden index () are the most popular measures for assessing classification accuracy under multiple classes. While is frequently used to evaluate the overall accuracy, provides direct measure of accuracy at the optimal cut‐points. Simultaneous evaluation of and provides a comprehensive picture about the classification accuracy of the biomarker/diagnostic test under consideration. This article studies both parametric and non‐parametric approaches for estimating the confidence region of and for a single biomarker. The performances of the proposed methods are investigated by an extensive simulation study and are applied to a real data set from the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative.
Emerging Trends in Metal‐based Anticancer Agents: Drug Design to Clinical Trials and their Mechanism of Action
Authors: Temesgen Achamo , Ananda Murthy Hanabe Chowdappa , Enyew Amare Zereffa , Revathi Rajappan , Venkatesha Perumal Ramachandran
Published: December 2023

Metal‐based therapeutic strategies have been effectively used to treat a number of diseases since the ancient period. However, the issue that emerged at this time was the indistinct barrier between therapeutic and toxic doses. After the discovery of cisplatin, a breakthrough was made for these challenges, and vital signs of progress were shown in the medicinal potential of metal complexes. Consequently, nowadays many metal‐based drugs, especially in cancer treatments, are under investigation. Nevertheless, due to a greater focus on clinical relevance, a few of these drugs are currently approved, and many more are in clinical trials waiting for approval. Therefore, the design, development, and clinical applications of several metal‐based anti‐cancer agents and their efficacy are highlighted in this review. Moreover, this review is intended to present a comprehensive overview of metal‐based anticancer agents, their targets of drug design and development and their mechanisms of action in cancer treatments.
Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Diphenyl Ether‐Linked Quinolone Derivatives as Antibacterial Agents
Authors: Ghouse Shaik Mahammad , Akhir Abdul , Sinha Kareena , Pawar Gaurav , Saxena Deepanshi , Akunuri Ravikumar , Malik Pradip , Roy Arnab , Parida Kishan Kumar , Dasgupta Arunava , Kalia Nitin Pal , Yaddanapudi Venkata Madhavi , Chopra Sidharth , Nanduri Srinivas
Published: December 2023

The increase in the prevalence of multi‐drug‐resistant bacteria poses a significant healthcare challenge. The urgent need to combat the resistant microbes necessitates discovering new antibacterial agents capable of circumventing the existing resistance mechanisms. Targeting DNA gyrase by suitably modifying the fluoroquinolones can lead to antibiotics with better activity and lower incidence of resistance. The substituted diphenyl ethers like triclosan are known to have potent antibacterial activity. In the current study, the hybridisation of diphenyl ether moiety with fluoroquinolones led to the design and synthesis of new compounds with potent inhibitory activity against staphylococcus aureus with MIC 0.5–64 μg/mL and moderately active against mycobacteria with MIC 2–64 μg/mL. The compounds are non‐toxic to Vero cells with a selectivity index >10 to 200. The compounds also inhibited the resistant strains of S. aureus with a MIC ranging from 0.5–64 μg/mL. The synthesised compounds also exhibited potent anti‐biofilm activity against S. aureus. Furthermore, the DNA supercoiling assay revealed the compounds 7 i, 7 o, 7 p and 7 q showed concentration‐dependant DNA‐Gyrase inhibition at 1 μg/mL.
Electrochromic Insight on Electro‐Deposited Copolymers of Push‐Pull Conjugated Systems with 3,4‐Ethylenedioxythiophene (EDOT) and Other Conjugated Units
Authors: Ergun Emine Gul Cansu , Hacioglu Serife Ozdemir
Published: December 2023

Third generation conducting polymers (CP) are push‐pull type conjugated systems, which include both electron pushing and pulling units in their chemical structure. Push‐pull design enables coarse and fine tuning in the electro‐optical properties of the resulting CP such as lowering the band gap and enhancing electrochromic properties. Push‐pull CPs have been widely used for various applications such as electrochromic devices, displays, light emitting diodes, organic solar cells, field effect transistors, electrochemical and optical sensors etc. This review aims to collect electrochemically synthesized CPs of push‐pull systems in the literature, up to 2023. Most of the studies include 3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene (EDOT) as co‐monomers, but there are also other studies such as obtaining push‐pull type CPs by copolymerization, and copolymerization of push‐pull systems with other units. Each case is discussed in separate sections. In the scope of this review, only electrochemical copolymerization studies are selected, and the effect of monomer feed ratio and the polymerization conditions on the electrochromic properties of the resulting copolymers are discussed and summarized in tables. This collection can serve as a guide for upcoming copolymerization studies, by giving an insight into optical and electrochromic properties of various copolymers of push‐pull systems so far.
Coumarin Based Hydrazone as an Antioxidant and Sensor for Cupric Ion: Spectroscopic and Computational Studies
Authors: Negi Oseen , Srishti Km , Gusain Anamika , Hota Prasanta Kumar
Published: December 2023

A coumarin based hydrazone (CH) has been synthesised and characterised through 1H NMR, FTIR, UV‐Vis spectroscopy and CHN analysis. Using UV‐Vis and time dependent density functional theory, the antioxidant activity of CH against 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical and sensing properties towards various transition metal ions were studied. CH selectively binds to Cu2+ ion as compared to other transition metal ions such as Cr3+, Mn2+, Fe3+, Co2+, Ni2+, Zn2+. From Benesi‐Hildebrand plot, the binding constant of CH for Cu2+ ion: 6×104 M−1 with lower limit of detection 31 μM is obtained. The CH‐Cu2+ complex is more stable as compared to the free form of the CH molecule. The stoichiometry ratio for CH‐Cu2+ complex is 2 : 1. CH quenches the DPPH radical through proton transfer mechanism with IC50 is 25 μM.
Synthesis of Benzoate‐Based Functionalized Ionic Liquids: Relationship between Supramolecular aggregation behavior and Catalytic activity in Phenyl Pyrimidines Derivatives
Authors: Naveed Javed Muhammad , Muhammad Shoaib , Riaz Kashif , Hashmi Imran Ali , Bari Ahmed , Ashfaq Tayyaba , Ghulam Musharraf Syed , Imran Ali Firdous
Published: December 2023

This study reports synthesizing and characterizing imidazolium‐based ionic liquids (ILs) using substituted benzoates as anions. Thermal stability of ILs described using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). One inherent property of ILs is aggregates or cluster formation due to supramolecular interactions. The supramolecular interaction in synthesized ILs has been studied through Electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI‐MS). The potential of ILs as organic catalysts is investigated in multicomponent reaction (MCR) using urea, malononitrile, and different aromatic aldehydes to prepare phenyl pyrimidines derivatives. The results demonstrate that catalysis with ILs effectively reduces reaction time and enhances yield. ILs entities are hypothesized to form new assemblies with reactive moieties of reactants through supramolecular interactions. The ILs can be reused and recycled.
Investigating the Influence of the Lipid Structure on the Global Membrane Organization: Effect of the Fatty Acids
Authors: Bouquiaux Charlotte , Castet Frédéric , Champagne Benoît
Published: December 2023

Lipid molecules are involved in a wide range of fundamental cell functions, explaining the enormous structural diversity of lipids, partly due to the large number of different fatty acids, which can vary in length and in the number and position of unsaturated bond(s). Interestingly, imbalances between (un)saturated species have been reported in various pathologies. Hence, it is of particular importance to study in detail the structural consequences associated with variations in the nature of the lipid hydrocarbon tails. To this end, 17 single‐component lipid bilayers, varying only in the nature of the hydrocarbon core are studied by molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. The structural analysis reveals that the effect of the nature of the two fatty acids on the overall membrane structure is additive. In addition, TDDFT quantum mechanical (QM) calculations are performed to study the modulations of the nonlinear optical (NLO) properties of an embedded probe, serving as local structural microscopes. However, these calculations highlight the difficulty of rationalizing changes in the NLO responses, in relation with the nature of the hydrocarbon region of the host environment. Nevertheless, less dense and packed membranes, which allow the probe to adopt more planar conformations, are associated with larger NLO responses.
Single Pyrrole Unit Functionalized Electron Deficient Porphyrins and Their Metal Complexes: Synthesis, Structural, Spectral and Electrochemical Properties
Authors: Arif Waseem , Kumar Ravi
Published: December 2023

A family of electron‐deficient regioselective β‐disubstituted meso‐tetraphenylporphyrins, H2TPP(R)2 (where R=trifluoromethyl (CF3) and cyano (CN) and its metal complexes (Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II) and Zn(II)) were synthesized from versatile precursor H2TPPBr2 by palladium‐catalyzed trifluoromethylation and nucleophilic aromatic cyanation respectively. The absorption spectrum of H2TPP(CF3)2 and H2TPP(CN)2 exhibited a notable shift towards longer wavelengths both in the Soret (Δλmax=16–17 nm) and longest wavelength band, Qx(0,0) (Δλmax=34–52 nm) as compared to precursor porphyrin, H2TPPBr2. The first ring reduction potential of H2TPP(CF3)2 and H2TPP(CN)2 are centred at −0.69 and −0.68 respectively which show drastic anodic shift as compared to precursor H2TPPBr2 (−1.01 V) and parent porphyrin H2TPP (−1.25 V). The anodic shift trend for first ring reduction potentials follows as H2TPP(CN)2>H2TPP(CF3)2>H2TPP(Br)2>H2TPP. Introducing two highly electron withdrawing substituents (CN and CF3) at the single pyrrole unit of the porphyrin macrocycle via regioselective substitution has led to a significant reduction in the HOMO‐LUMO energy gap (0.15 V–0.39 V) in comparison to the precursor H2TPPBr2 (2.08 V). The analysis of the crystal structures for ZnTPP(CN)2 and H2TPP(CF3)2 revealed nearly planar and distinct saddle conformations respectively which are further supported by DFT calculations.
Improved Performance of the Integrated Power Supplies Based on Cu2ZnSn(S,Se)4 Solar Cells
Authors: Li Jishen , Jing Shenghao , Cheng Simin , Chen Wangxian , Lai Yanqing , Liu Siliang , Tian Zhongliang , Jia Ming , Jiang Liangxing , Zhang Zongliang , Liu Fangyang
Published: December 2023

Solar energy is an environmental friendly and sustainable energy source to solve the energy shortage and environmental pollution problems nowadays. Integrated power supply shows great potential in utilizing solar energy which converts solar energy into electrical energy. Integrated power supplies with optimized structures are constructed with Cu2ZnSn(S,Se)4 solar cells and LiFePO4 (LFP) lithium‐ion batteries for the first time. The matching of integrated power supply is investigated in detail for a better understanding and design of highly efficient integrated power supply. In the results, it is shown that the open‐circuit voltage of solar cells has a significant influence on the efficiencies of integrated power supply. Apart from that, the calculation of average power coupling factor is proved to be an effective method to evaluate the difference between the actual and ideal working condition of the integrated power supply. As to current matching of integrated power supply, it is emphasized that the capacities of LFP coin cells should be designed within a normal range where the photo‐charging time and the characteristic of energy‐storage batteries need to be considered simultaneously.
Modeling the Influence of Pearl Millet on High‐Fiber Bread: An Investigation into Nutrition, Microstructure, Thermal Stability, Crystallinity, Rheology, and Glycemic Response
Authors: Rathee Shweta , Singh Rakhi , Paul Prodyut Kumar , Sehrawat Rachna , Singh Kshitij RB , Singh Jay
Published: December 2023

This study aims to optimize the formula for whole pearl millet flour (WPMF) high‐fiber bread using a central composite rotatable design‐response surface methodology (CCRD‐RSM). Whole pearl millet flour (WPMF), whole wheat flour (WWF), and gluten powder (GP) are chosen as independent factors, with a tested range set for each factor. Twenty blends of WPMF (9.65–85.34 g), WWF (16.47–58.52 g), and GP (1.31–4.68 g) are used. The analysis is based on textural characteristics, overall acceptability, and crumb color. Results show that increasing the WPMF level in bread increase the firmness, gumminess, chewiness, and a* and b* color values. It decreases the crumb cohesiveness, resilience, and overall acceptability. The optimized WPMF high fiber bread formula is 63.17 g WPMF, 50 g WWF, and 3.92 g GP, and can be claimed as clean label bread as no preservatives are added. The optimized WPMF high‐fiber bread shows enhanced nutritional, microstructural, rheological, and crystallinity characteristics. The claim for high‐fiber bread seems justified with fiber content (8.67%). The low estimated glycemic index 33 falls under the category of low GI foods, making it suitable to manage diabetes.
Multi‐scalar interactions between mismanaged plastic waste and urban flooding in an era of climate change and rapid urbanization
Authors: MacAfee Elizabeth A. , Löhr Ansje J.
Published: December 2023

Mismanaged plastic waste (MPW) and urban flooding are typically considered distinct environmental challenges. However, there are notable links between growing quantities of MPW and the rising incidence of floods in cities. A majority of people now live in cities, especially along coastlines and in estuaries where residents are both vulnerable to flooding and significant sources of plastic waste. Predicted increases in the frequency and severity of heavy rainfall associated with anthropogenic climate change coincide with rising global quantities of MPW, much of which is discharged into water bodies and the sea. Given the urgent and expanding nature of these issues, understanding impacts of urban floods on solid waste management and vice versa is crucial. Social‐ecological systems (SES) thinking calls for a holistic approach to the relationships and interactions between human actors and environmental systems which can result in dynamic and emergent outcomes. In this review paper, we make a first step towards better understanding of the interactions between urban flooding and MPW by synthesizing emerging quantitative and qualitative research on particular aspects of such interactions. More research is needed which explicitly focuses on and elaborates the nature of these interactions, and also to consider potential relations across scales (from global to local) and over both long and short timeframes. We conclude that an SES approach can make visible novel possibilities for interventions which are context specific and sensitive to the interactions between urban floods and MPW.

This article is categorized under:

Science of Water > Water and Environmental Change

Human Water > Water Governance

Engineering Water > Planning Water
Sorption‐oxidation mechanism for the removal of arsenic (III) using Cu‐doped ZnO in an alkaline medium
Authors: Gyrdasova Оlga I. , Pasechnik Liliya A. , Krasil'nikov Vladimir N. , Gavrilova Tatyana P. , Yatsyk Ivan V. , Kuznetsova Yulia V. , Kalinkin Mikhail O. , Kuznetsov Mikhail V.
Published: December 2023

1‐D oxides Zn1‐xCuxO and spherical composites Zn1‐xCuxO/CuO were obtained by thermolysis of formate‐glycolate complexes Zn1‐xCux (HCOO)(OCH2CH2O)1/2 (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.15). The structural and property characteristics showed that Cu was introduced into the Zn site of the ZnO lattice to form the Zn0.95Cu0.05O solid solution. The concentration of copper in the precursors regulates the topological and structural features of the formation of Zn1‐xCuxO oxides, which determine their sorption and photocatalytic properties. The materials were tested in As3+ photooxidation reaction under UV and visible radiation. It has been established that Cu+ is an effective dopant in the composition of 1‐D oxide Zn1‐xCuxO (0 ≤ x < 0.1). The presence of Cu2+ in the shell of Zn1‐xCuxO/CuO composite reduces the photoactivity of the material. The maximum efficiency of arsenic extraction (up to 80% for Zn0.95Cu0.05O) was achieved from dilute arsenic‐containing solutions (3.8 mg/L As) and an adsorbent concentration of 0.8 g/L for 24 h. In saturated solutions (380 mg/L As) this value is reduced by a factor of 100. According to XPS data, the primary process is As3+ sorption on the catalyst surface followed by its oxidation to As5+. Using the EPR method it was found that singly charged oxygen vacancies associated with Cu in Zn1‐xCuxO are directly involved in the photostimulated oxidation of As3+.

Practitioner Points

Two types of Zn1−xCuxO photocatalysts were obtained by thermolysis of the Zn1−xСux(HCOO)(OCH2CH2O)1/2 complex (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.15) in air.

Sorption of arsenic from dilute solutions reaches 80% on 1‐D oxide Zn0.95Cu0.05O.

Sorption of As3+ on the catalyst surface is at primary process followed by its oxidation to As5+.

Removal of As3+ from alkaline solutions occurs due to successful combination of sorption and photocatalytic properties of the 1‐D oxides Zn1−xCuxO.
Recovery of surgery in the elderly (ROSE) program: The efficacy of a multi‐modal prehabilitation program implemented in frail and pre‐frail elderly undergoing major abdominal surgery
Authors: Chow Jaclyn Jie Ling , Teo Zhe Hao Timothy , Acharyya Sanchalika , Natesan Selvaganapathi , Cheong Seng Kwing , Tony Swapna , Ong Ya Wei , Li Yuan Jennifer , Wang Bei , Chai Jye Yi , Tam Hui Zhen , Low Jee Keem
Published: December 2023

Background

Major abdominal surgery is associated with a high rate of post‐operative complications with increased risk of adverse surgical outcomes due to the presence of frailty. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the multimodal Recovery of Surgery in the Elderly (ROSE) prehabilitation program with supervised exercise in mitigating postoperative functional decline when compared to standard care.

Method

The ROSE program enrolled ambulant patients who were 65 years and above, had a Clinical Frailty Scale score of 4 or more and were planned for major abdominal surgery. Participation in supervised exercise sessions before surgery were compared with standard physiotherapy advice. The primary outcome was 6‐min walk test (6MWT) distance assessed at baseline, after prehabilitation and 30 days follow‐up after surgery. Secondary outcomes included physical performance, length of hospital stay and postoperative morbidity.

Results

Data from 74 eligible patients, 37 in each group, were included. Median age was 78 years old. Forty‐two patients (22 in Prehab group and 20 in control group) with complete 6MWT follow‐up data at 30 days follow‐up were analysed for outcomes. Most patients underwent laparoscopic surgery (63.5%) and almost all of the surgeries were for abdominal malignancies (97.3%). The Prehab group had an increase in 6MWT distance at the 30‐day follow up, from a baseline mean (SD) of 277.4 (125) m to 287.6 (143.5) m (p = 0.415). The 6MWT distance in the control group decreased from a baseline mean (SD) of 281.7 (100.5) m to 260.1 (78.6) m at the 30‐day follow up (p = 0.086). After adjusting for baseline 6MWT distance and frailty score, the Prehab group had significantly higher 6MWT distance at 30‐day follow‐up than control (difference in adjusted means 41.7 m, 95% confidence interval 8.7–74.8 m, p = 0.015). There were no significant between‐group differences in the secondary outcomes.

Conclusion

A multimodal prehabilitation program with supervised exercise within a short time frame can improve preoperative functional capacity and maintain baseline functional capacity in frail older adults undergoing major abdominal surgery.
Effect of chewing gum of different weights before surgery on sore throat after total thyroidectomy: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Zou Shiya , Guo Lulu , Xu Chao , Liu Tianyu , Li Lei , Pan Shoudong , Qi Dunyi
Published: December 2023

Background

Postoperative sore throat (POST) is a common postoperative complication.

Complication

Chewing gum can inhibit the growth of oral bacteria, cleanse, and lubricate the oral cavity, which can help reduce postoperative sore throat. We hypothesize that chewing gum before surgery could relieve POST.

Methods

Patients planned to undergo total thyroidectomy under general anesthesia with tracheal intubation were randomized to swallow saliva twice or chew 1.4 g/2.8 g of gum for 2 minutes before surgery. A standard anesthesia protocol was performed. The numerical rating scale scores of POST at 1, 24, and 48 h after surgery were collected. The primary outcome was the incidence of moderate/severe POST (numerical rating scale score >3) within 48 h.

Results

Data from 148 patients (control group, n = 50; 1.4 g group, n = 48; and 2.8 g group, n = 50) were included in the analysis. Within 48 h, there was a significant difference among the three groups in the incidence of moderate/severe POST (control group: 74% vs. 1.4 g group: 65% vs. 2.8 g group: 50%. P = 0.04). The 2.8 g group had less incidence of moderate/severe POST than the control group (Odds Ratio = 0.351 95% Confidence Interval: (0.152 and 0.814) P = 0.02).

Conclusion

Chewing 2.8 g gum before total thyroidectomy can reduce the incidence of moderate/severe POST within 48 h after surgery.
Introduction: The Dynamics of Truthfulness and Media
Authors: Schirrmacher Beate , Mousavi Nafiseh
Published: December 2023

In this introduction to “Truth Claims Across Media,” we approach pressing questions related to facts and fakes, authority and authenticity, information and disinformation through an intermedial perspective. As digital technology allows us to blend different media and modes on an unprecedented scale, we need to delve deeper into how our media choices impact our perception of truthfulness. We present the concepts of truthfulness and truth claims, examining what kind of knowledge about the actual world can be derived from specific media products. The intermedial perspective serves as a lens through which we can elucidate how the interplay between facts, coherence, and audience engagement varies in different media contexts. From this perspective, it becomes possible to discuss how media choices influence knowledge production and relate to the evolving demands for authenticity and witnessing in today’s shifting media landscape.
A Story Too Good to Be True: The Manipulation of Truth Claims in Faked News
Authors: Schirrmacher Beate
Published: December 2023

In 2018, former German star reporter Claas Relotius admitted that he manipulated most of his prize-winning feature stories. Why did no one suspect for a long time that his stories were a bit too good to be true? Instead of trying to differentiate facts from fiction, this article explores how facts and narrative interact in journalism. Drawing on Lars Elleström’s approach to how truthfulness in communication is based on indexicality (Semiotica 225, 423–446, 2018), the analysis looks for indexical traces of journalistic work in two news features published in Der Spiegel, one by Alexander Osang (Der Spiegel 37, 50–54, 2018) and the manipulated feature, “The story of Ahmed and Alin” by Claas Relotius (Der Spiegel 28, 127–34, 2016). The analysis explores how observed and verifiable details interact with elements of internal and external coherence. In Osang’s feature, the different indexical relationships are closely connected yet clearly separated. In Relotius’s manipulated feature, the different indexical relationships are not easily identified, and elements of coherence point towards each other instead of being grounded in observed and verifiable detail. This kind of analysis makes it possible to start to describe in more detail how a factual narrative is truthfully or only insufficiently grounded in actual events.
The Montage of the National Past: Polish Right-Wing Illustrated Press and the Abuse of History
Authors: Saryusz-Wolska Magdalena
Published: December 2023

The study analyzes covers of contemporary Polish right-wing magazines and shows that many of them use historical images for political purposes. Referring to the terminology of Antoon de Baets, the author argues that the images on the covers “abuse history,” i.e., use history in an intentionally deceptive way. The main technique of abusing history is montage. Historical motifs are combined with each other either on particular covers or between them. Although originally montage was widely used as means of avant-garde and leftist art, it is now a common method of designing conservative and right-wing imagery. Drawing on the premises of the pictorial turn, the author further claims that the covers shape social and political realities. They are not mere illustrations but powerful actors of the public discourse that promote a view on history in which whole nations are either heroes or traitors, good or bad. Therefore, they contribute to the simplified and even falsified perspective on the past.
Unveiling Truth and Truthfulness in the Graphic Memoir Heimat
Authors: de Figueiredo Camila Augusta P.
Published: December 2023

Heimat: A German Family Album is a book by author and illustrator Nora Krug, named Best Book of 2018 by The Guardian and The New York Times’ critics. It is a collection of family photos combined with drawings, as well as photographic reproductions of objects and historical documents—such as notebooks, questionnaires, police reports, and letters. The narrative follows Krug’s quest to find out whether any of her relatives took part in the Nazi Party or professed any political views during the regime. In this text, I examine how the medial configurations of graphic memoirs in general, and of Heimat in particular, can communicate truthfulness. Relying on Lars Elleström’s framework, I first discuss the notion of truthfulness in mediated communication. Next, I examine the established tradition in graphic memoirs of using media representation, transmediation, and associated media products in order to claim truthfulness, so that readers accept them as valid demonstrations of a factual narrative. Then I present the case of Heimat, indicating how it sometimes differs from this convention. Finally, I offer a possible explanation for this deviation from the traditional use of media representation in graphic memoirs to convey truthfulness.
“An Occasionally True Story”: Biofiction, Authenticity and Fictionality in The Great (2020)
Authors: Gutowska Anna
Published: December 2023

Contemporary visual and literary culture has seen a proliferation of quasi-biographical texts that blur the lines between fact and fiction and often imply that by subverting or questioning the dominant portrayal of a given historical figure they offer a “true” version that had hitherto been suppressed. These so called “biofictions” (e.g. Netflix seriesThe Crown,or Baz Luhrman’s feature filmElvis) are hybrids of biography and pure conjecture, but despite their essentially fictitious nature, they make claims to authenticity, often implying that the sensationalised versions of the famous lives are the “authentic” ones.

This chapter seeks to analyse the recent critically acclaimed television seriesThe Great(season 1: 2020, season 2: 2022), created by Tony McNamara, starring Elle Fanning as Catherine the Great, Empress of Russia, against the backdrop of recent trends in biofiction and costume drama. In particular, the chapter focuses on the interplay between the conventions of historical biofiction and biopic (and in particular of the “queen pic”—a biographical film about a female royal) and the series’ progressive and presentist agenda, and it aims to position the case study ofThe Greatwithin the broader discussion of attitudes towards the past in modern popular culture.