bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhancing SEM positioning precision with a LEGO®‐based sample fitting system
Authors: Zecca Piero Antonio , Brambilla Andrea , Reguzzoni Marcella , Protasoni Marina , Raspanti Mario
Published: December 2023

Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) is a precious tool in materials science and morphology sciences, enabling detailed examination of materials at the nanoscale. However, precise and accurate sample repositioning during different observation sessions remains a significant challenge, impacting the quality and repeatability of SEM analyses. This study aimed to develop and evaluate a LEGO®‐based sample positioning system for SEM analysis. The system was designed to consistently identify and align features across multiple repositioning cycles, maintain accurate positioning along the z‐axis, minimize distortion, and provide repeatable and reliable results. The results indicated a high degree of precision and accuracy in the repositioning process, as evidenced by the minimal displacements, deviations in scaling and shearing, and the highly significant results (p < 0.001) obtained from the analysis of absolute translations and rotations. Moreover, the analyses were consistently replicated across six repetitions, underscoring the reliability of the observed results. While the findings suggest that the LEGO‐based sample positioning system is promising for enhancing SEM analyses' quality and repeatability, further studies are needed to optimize the system's design and evaluate its performance in different SEM applications. Ultimately, this study contributes to the ongoing efforts to develop cost‐effective, customizable, and accurate solutions for sample positioning in SEM, contributing to the advancement of materials science research and all SEM analysis requiring overtime observations of the same sample.

Research Highlights

This study focused on the development and evaluation of a novel LEGO‐based sample positioning system specifically designed for SEM analysis.

One of the standout features of this system is its ability to consistently identify and align features across multiple repositioning cycles, showcasing its precision and reliability.

To further understand the mechanical aspects of the SEM stage, we employed the Rambold Kontroll comparator, which provided a baseline understanding of its mechanical tolerance.

The registration process results were particularly noteworthy, as they revealed high accuracy with minimal displacements.

Furthermore, the consistent outcomes observed across multiple repetitions emphasize the reliability and robustness of the methods we employed in this research.
Dosimetric comparison of gantry and horizontal fixed‐beam proton therapy treatment plans for base of skull chordoma
Authors: Shierlaw Emma , Penfold Melanie , Crain Rosanna , Santos Alexandre M.C. , Penfold Scott N.
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Australia's first proton beam therapy (PBT) centre will house a fixed‐beam room and two gantry rooms. As the only PBT facility in Australia for at least the short term, there is a need to efficiently allocate treatment appointments between the gantry and fixed‐beam rooms. This planning study assesses the dosimetric differences between fixed‐beam and gantry‐based treatment plans for base of skull chordoma, one of the core indications likely to be referred for PBT in Australia.

Methods

Retrospective gantry‐based and fixed‐beam treatment plans were generated for five patients with base of skull chordoma. Fixed‐beam plans were generated with a conventional horizontal patient positioning system. Robust intensity modulated proton therapy (IMPT) optimisation and evaluation techniques were used for both delivery systems. Plans were designed to maximise target coverage while adhering to maximum dose constraints to neighbouring critical organs at risk.

Results

Robust target coverage and integral dose were found to be approximately equivalent for the gantry‐based and fixed‐beam plans. Doses to specific organs at risk could be reduced with the gantry‐based geometry; however, the gantry‐based plans did not exhibit a general decrease in doses to organs at risk.

Conclusion

A fixed‐beam treatment plan was found to be non‐inferior to a gantry‐based treatment plan for all base of skull patients included in the current study.
Modulation of Excimer Formation and Photoexcitation Behaviour through DNA‐Surfactant‐Dye Supramolecular Assembly
Authors: Bai Dan , Zhao Wenxuan , Feng Huhu , Sugiyama Hiroshi
Published: December 2023

DNA‐based hybrid materials have attracted much attention recently for their biocompatibility, tunable optical, and semiconducting properties. In this study, thin films fabricated using native DNA are modified to accommodate the assembled fluorescent dyes (perylene and 3‐bromoperylene), alongside the systematical evaluation of their photophysical properties and performance. Spectroscopy results reveal successful modulation of the molecular excitonic behaviour, achieve switchable single‐chromophore multi‐color emission in DNA‐surfactant‐dye thin films, with high optical transparency and thermal robustness. The nucleotide base pairs effectively suppress unfavorable intermolecular π–π stacking and aggregation (self‐association) of the chromophores, which prevents intersystem crossing and relaxation associated Rydberg type molecular clusters to form intermolecular excimers in E‐state (532, 513 nm) and Y‐state (489, 483 nm), blocking nonradiative decay. The preeminent emission observed (457, 445 nm) is attributed to the 0–1 band monomer emission. Compared to PMMA‐dye assembly, the thin film derived from DNA‐surfactant‐dye hybrid narrows the FWHM values up to 72%, displayed molarity ratio‐dependent emission color tunability from yellow‐orange (CIE 0.47, 0.34) to green (CIE 0.31, 0.21) and blue (CIE 0.17, 0.23). These findings provide a simple, all‐solution processed strategy for creating thin films using DNA‐surfactant‐dye hybrid materials with tunable optical properties suitable for biocompatible displays and data encryption.
Cyclical endometrial repair and regeneration: Molecular mechanisms, diseases, and therapeutic interventions
Authors: Hu Xulin , Wu Haoming , Yong Xin , Wang Yao , Yang Shuhao , Fan Diyi , Xiao Yibo , Che Lanyu , Shi Kun , Li Kainan , Xiong Chengdong , Zhu Huili , Qian Zhiyong
Published: December 2023

The endometrium is a unique human tissue with an extraordinary ability to undergo a hormone‐regulated cycle encompassing shedding, bleeding, scarless repair, and regeneration throughout the female reproductive cycle. The cyclical repair and regeneration of the endometrium manifest as changes in endometrial epithelialization, glandular regeneration, and vascularization. The mechanisms encompass inflammation, coagulation, and fibrinolytic system balance. However, specific conditions such as endometriosis or TCRA treatment can disrupt the process of cyclical endometrial repair and regeneration. There is uncertainty about traditional clinical treatments' efficacy and side effects, and finding new therapeutic interventions is essential. Researchers have made substantial progress in the perspective of regenerative medicine toward maintaining cyclical endometrial repair and regeneration in recent years. Such progress encompasses the integration of biomaterials, tissue‐engineered scaffolds, stem cell therapies, and 3D printing. This review analyzes the mechanisms, diseases, and interventions associated with cyclical endometrial repair and regeneration. The review discusses the advantages and disadvantages of the regenerative interventions currently employed in clinical practice. Additionally, it highlights the significant advantages of regenerative medicine in this domain. Finally, we review stem cells and biologics among the available interventions in regenerative medicine, providing insights into future therapeutic strategies.
Optic Disc and Retinal Architecture Changes in Patients with Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 2
Authors: Rezende Filho Flávio Moura , Jurkute Neringa , de Andrade João Brainer Clares , Marianelli Bruna Ferraço , de Lima Fabrício Diniz , França Marcondes Cavalcante , Sallum Juliana Maria Ferraz , Yu‐Wai‐Man Patrick , Barsottini Orlando G.P. , Pedroso José Luiz
Published: December 2023

Background

ATXN2 is the causative gene of spinocerebellar ataxia type 2 (SCA2) and has been implicated in glaucoma pathogenesis. Therefore, studying ocular changes in SCA2 could uncover clinically relevant changes.

Objective

The aim was to investigate optic disc and retinal architecture in SCA2.

Methods

We evaluated 14 patients with SCA2 and 26 controls who underwent intraocular pressure measurement, fundoscopy, and macular and peripapillary spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD‐OCT). We compared SD‐OCT measurements in SCA2 and controls, and the frequency of glaucomatous changes among SCA2, controls, and 76 patients with other SCAs (types 1, 3, 6, and 7).

Results

The macula, peripapillary retinal nerve fiber and inner plexiform layers were thinner in SCA2 than in controls. Increased cup‐to‐disc ratio was more frequent in SCA2 than in controls and other SCAs.

Conclusions

Ocular changes are part of SCA2 phenotype. Future studies should further investigate retinal and optic nerve architecture in this disorder.
Multi‐bumps solutions for the nonlinear Schrödinger equation under a slowing decaying potential
Authors: Bao Meiqi , Guo Hui , Wang Tao
Published: December 2023

In this paper, we consider the following nonlinear Schrödinger equation:

where
, and
have the algebraical decay that

as
, where
, and
. By introducing the Miranda theorem, via the Lyapunov–Schmidt finite‐dimensional reduction method, we construct infinitely many multi‐bumps solutions of (0.1), whose maximum points of bumps lie on the top and bottom circles of a cylinder provided
, or
. This result complements and extends the ones in [Duan and Musso, JDE, 2022] for a slow decaying rate of the potential function at infinity from
to
.
The carbon footprint of epidural steroid injections: A pilot study
Authors: Fogarty Alexandra E. , Wilson Annalee , Godambe Maya , Shinde Nidhi , Gou Christine , Decker Gregory , Steensma Joe
Published: December 2023

Background

Epidural steroid injections are common procedures in physical medicine and rehabilitation practice. However, their environmental impact has not been characterized.

Objective

The primary aim is to estimate and compare the carbon footprint of two standard injection kits used to perform epidural steroid injections at a single academic institution. Secondary objectives were (1) to create a step‐by‐step guide for estimating the carbon footprint of materials and (2) to survey physicians on practice patterns and identify areas for improvement.

Design

Pilot study.

Setting

Academic medical center.

Participants

N/A.

Interventions

N/A.

Outcome Measures

Carbon emissions measured in CO2 equivalents (CO2 eq).

Methods

Using guidance from the Greenhouse Gas Protocol, the carbon footprint of the two kits was estimated by taking the sum of carbon emissions resulting from the production of the kit materials and the carbon emissions resulting from the waste disposal of the kit materials.

Results

The carbon footprint of the transforaminal epidural steroid injection (TFESI) kit was estimated at 1.328 kg CO2 eq. The carbon footprint of the interlaminar epidural steroid injection (ILESI) kit was estimated at 2.534 kg CO2 eq. For both kits, the carbon emissions resulting from the production of the kits were greater than the emissions resulting from disposal. The survey of interventionalists performing TFESI revealed all respondents required materials in addition to those provided in the standard epidural kit. Despite this, kit materials were typically wasted in 62% of respondents.

Conclusion

Creating a methodology for quantifying carbon emissions is the first step to reducing carbon emissions. Once emissions are measured, the health care industry can determine the most effective strategies for reducing its impact. Our analysis has shown that it is feasible to perform emissions calculations and delineates a clear method with publicly available resources. Solutions to reduce epidural injection carbon footprint waste may include improved kit customization.
NMR‐identification of the interaction between BRCA1 and the intrinsically disordered monomer of the Myc‐associated factor X
Authors: Epasto Ludovica Martina , Pötzl Christopher , Peterlik Herwig , Khalil Mahdi , Saint‐Pierre Christine , Gasparutto Didier , Sicoli Giuseppe , Kurzbach Dennis
Published: December 2023

The breast cancer susceptibility 1 (BRCA1) protein plays a pivotal role in modulating the transcriptional activity of the vital intrinsically disordered transcription factor MYC. In this regard, mutations of BRCA1 and interruption of its regulatory activity are related to hereditary breast and ovarian cancer (HBOC). Interestingly, so far, MYC's main dimerization partner MAX (MYC‐associated factor X) has not been found to bind BRCA1 despite a high sequence similarity between both oncoproteins. Herein, we show that a potential reason for this discrepancy is the heterogeneous conformational space of MAX, which encloses a well‐documented folded coiled‐coil homodimer as well as a less common intrinsically disordered monomer state—contrary to MYC, which exists mostly as intrinsically disordered protein in the absence of any binding partner. We show that when the intrinsically disordered state of MAX is artificially overpopulated, the binding of MAX to BRCA1 can readily be observed. We characterize this interaction by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy chemical shift and relaxation measurements, complemented with ITC and SAXS data. Our results suggest that BRCA1 directly binds the MAX monomer to form a disordered complex. Though probed herein under biomimetic in‐vitro conditions, this finding can potentially stimulate new perspectives on the regulatory network around BRCA1 and its involvement in MYC:MAX regulation.
An Immobilized Amine with Improved Cyclic Performance Prepared from Carboxyl Modified Mesoporous Silica for CO2 Capture
Authors: Zhao Linge , Hu Shipeng , Guan Ziyi , Jiao Jian
Published: December 2023

Immobilized amines adsorbents have excellent CO2 adsorption capacity and low regeneration energy consumption, which have broad application prospect, but poor reusability. To improve the cyclic adsorption performance of immobolized amines for CO2 capture, the mesoporous silica A‐MSU‐J with carboxyl groups on the surface was synthesized, and immobilized amine A‐MSU‐J‐TEPA was prepared by introducing tetraethylenepentamine (TEPA) by impregnation method. The introduction of carboxyl groups onto the carrier surface can form stronger hydrogen bonds with TEPA than the initial hydroxyl groups, thus achieving stable loading of TEPA. When the TEPA load was 50 wt %, the adsorption capacity of 4A‐65MSU‐J‐50TEPA declined by only 13.7 % (from 2.58 to 2.23 mmol ⋅ g−1, at 70 °C, 0.1 Mpa) after 10 cycles, while the adsorption capacity of 65MSU‐J‐50TEPA decreased by 23.6 % (from 2 to 1.53 mmol ⋅ g−1). Furthermore, carrier pore size also affects the adsorption capacity of immobilized amines for CO2. The adsorption capacity of 4A‐65MSU‐J‐50TEPA with larger pore size (2.95 mmol ⋅ g−1, at 55 °C) is much higher than that of 4A‐25MSU‐J‐50TEPA with smaller pore size (2.17 mmol ⋅ g−1). In conclusion, improving the interaction between organic amines and the carrier surface and using carriers with larger pore size can enhance the adsorption capacity and reusability of immobolized amines adsorbents.
2‐Aryl Imidazolium Salts as Potential Bladder Cancer Chemotherapeutic Candidates
Authors: Hobbs Mahala S. , Chen Wei‐Yuan , Youngs Wiley J. , Ziegler Christopher J.
Published: December 2023

As potential intravesical exfoliants for the treatment of bladder cancer, four new imdiazolium salts have been prepared. These compounds are modified on the nitrogen positions of the 4,5‐diphenyl‐1H‐imidazole or benzimidazole rings with naphthalen‐2‐ylmethyl groups, and the 2 positions on the azolium cations are occupied by arene rings. The 4,5‐diphenyl‐1H‐imidazole and benzimidazole precursors are produced from 1,2‐phenylenediamine and benzil respectively, and the imidazolium cations are generated from sequential alkylation of the nitrogen positions using 2‐bromomethyl naphthalene. The four imidazolium salts were screened for their chemotherapuetic activity using the NCI‐60 Human Tumour Cell Line Screen, and we observed that the cytotoxicity was more dependent on the identity of the imidazolium group (benzimidazolium versus diphenylimidazolium) rather than on the 2‐aryl position structure.
Total Synthesis of 1”‐ and 2”‐Hydroxycannabidiol Metabolites
Authors: Bassetti Benedetta , Ballini Roberto , Allegrini Pietro , Aldini Giancarlo , Palmieri Alessandro
Published: December 2023

Herein we report a new practical and efficient multistep syntheses of 1”‐ and 2”‐hydroxycannabidiol metabolites. Both products and intermediates were fully characterized, and the target metabolites were produced in good overall yields.
Charge Carriers Localization Effect Revealed through Terahertz Spectroscopy of MXene: Ti3C2Tx
Authors: Li Enen , Wei Jincheng , Zhang Tianyu , Wan Hujie , Cheng Yuguang , Xie Jiafeng , Li Hong , Zhang Kai , Xu Jingyin , Hu Jinkang , Wen Qiye , Xiao Xu , Zhao Tao , Hu Min , Su Fuhai , Wang Tianwu , Fang Guangyou
Published: December 2023

The transport properties of charge carriers in MXene, a promising material, have been studied using terahertz time‐domain spectroscopy (THz‐TDS) to examine its potential applications in optical and electronic devices. However, previous studies have been limited by narrow frequency ranges, which have hindered the understanding of the intrinsic mechanisms of carrier transport in MXenes. To address this issue, ultrabroadband THz‐TDS with frequencies of up to 15 THz to investigate the complex photoconductances of MXene (Ti3C2Tx) films with different thicknesses are employed. The findings indicate that the electronic localization is substrate‐dependent, and this effect decreases with an increase in the number of layers. This is attributed to the screening effect of the high carrier density in Ti3C2Tx. Additionally, the layer‐independent photocarrier relaxations revealed by optical pump THz probe spectroscopy (OPTP) provide evidence of the carrier heating‐induced screening effect. These results are significant for practical applications in both scientific research and various industries.
In Situ Construction of Zinc‐Mediated Fe, N‐Codoped Hollow Carbon Nanocages with Boosted Oxygen Reduction for Zn–Air Batteries
Authors: Zhou Qiusheng , Min Min , Song Minmin , Cui Shiqiang , Ding Nan , Wang Mingyuan , Lei Shuangying , Xiong Chuanyin , Peng Xinwen
Published: December 2023

The rational design of bifunctional oxygen electrocatalysts with unique morphology and luxuriant porous structure is significant but challenging for accelerating the reaction kinetics of rechargeable Zn–air batteries (ZABs). Herein, zinc‐mediated Fe, N‐codoped carbon nanocages (Zn‐FeNCNs) are synthesized by pyrolyzing the polymerized iron‐doped polydopamine on the surface of the ZIF‐8 crystal polyhedron. The formation of the chelate between polydopamine and Fe serves as the covering layer to prevent the porous carbon nanocages from collapsing and boosts enough exposure and utilization of metal‐based active species during carbonization. Furthermore, both the theoretical calculation and experimental results show that the strong interaction between polyhedron and polydopamine facilitates the evolution of high‐activity zinc‐modulated FeNx sites and electron transportation and then stimulates the excellent bifunctional catalytic activity for oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). As expected, the Zn–air battery with Zn‐FeNCNs as an air cathode displays a superior power density (256 mW cm−2) and a high specific capacity (813.3 mA h gZn−1), as well as long‐term stability over 1000 h. Besides, when this catalyst is applied to the solid‐state battery, the device exhibited outstanding mechanical stability and a high round‐trip efficiency under different bending angles.
Fe3C/nanocarbon‐Enabled Lithium Dendrite Mitigation in Lithium–Sulfur batteries
Authors: Chen Ruoxi , Zhou Yucheng , Li Xiaodong
Published: December 2023

Lithium dendrite‐induced short circuits and material loss are two major obstacles to the commercialization of lithium–sulfur (Li−S) batteries. Here, a nanocarbon composite consisting of cotton‐derived Fe3C‐encapsulated multiwalled carbon nanotubes (Fe3C‐MWCNTs) and graphene effectively traps polysulfides to suppress lithium dendrite growth is reported. Machine learning combined with molecular dynamics (MD) simulations unveils a new polysulfide‐induced lithium dendrite formation mechanism: the migration of polysulfides away from the anode drags out lithium protrusions through localized lattice distortion of the lithium anode and traps lithium ions in the surrounding electrolyte, leading to lithium dendrite formation. The Li−S battery, constructed using the composite of cotton‐derived Fe3C‐MWCNTs and graphene that serves as both the sulfur host and the anode interlayer, exhibits exceptional cycling stability, impressive capacity retention, and effective mitigation of lithium dendrite formation. The findings offer valuable strategies to prevent lithium dendrite formation and enhance understanding of lithium dendrite growth in Li−S batteries.
Introduction
Authors: Rieker Pernille , Giske Mathilde T. E.
Published: December 2023

Over the past decade, the global geopolitical context has changed significantly. We have seen a power shift with a more assertive Russia and China and the rise of a more complex and competitive multi-polar system. Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, international and European security has been placed on high alert. Transatlantic relations also seem to be strong—at least for now. Nevertheless, there is a general agreement that Europe must strengthen its capacity to ensure its own security. But how to make sense of European actorness—also referred to as European sovereignty or strategic autonomy—in the current context? The argument we put forward in this introductory chapter is twofold. First, that strategic autonomy ultimately involves much more than building an autonomous European defence structure or an autonomous Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP). After two decades of having to deal with different types of crises that have everything to do with European security, but are not necessarily concerned with defence against military threats, this has become increasingly evident. The COVID-19 pandemic is a case in point. Even today, after the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the main threats against Western democracies are of a hybrid nature rather than of a direct military one. Thus, European strategic autonomy has to include a capacity to protect Europe against of such hybrid threats as well. The second part of the argument is that building European strategic autonomy, in a way that makes Europe better at addressing these challenges, will more likely strengthen rather than weaken both transatlantic relations and other types of partnerships with actors that share the same basic values.
Actorness, Differentiated Integration, and EU(rope)’s Role in the World
Authors: Rieker Pernille , Giske Mathilde T. E.
Published: December 2023

Evidently, actorness requires a base level of common goals, resources, interdependences, and objectives. However, having resources or common policies is not enough. To function as an effective foreign policy actor, there needs to be political will and sufficient decision-making capacity to bring these policies to action. Actorness in international politics may be understood in various ways. While some scholars stress the importance of internal resources, others put more emphasis on the perceptions of international society. In this chapter we argue that there are two basic preconditions that must be fulfilled to claim global actorness: (i) The capacity to formulate clear objectives and to make decisions according to these objectives and (ii) The existence of necessary administrative and operational capabilities to implement these decisions. In this chapter, we first investigate the extent to which Europe, with the EU as its core, has managed to develop the capabilities to pursue a global role, and then we move on to identify the levels of European DI. Finally, we will discuss what this tells us about the existence of European strategic autonomy on the global stage.
EU(ropean) Differentiated Defence Integration
Authors: Rieker Pernille , Giske Mathilde T. E.
Published: December 2023

Even though the need to improve European joint defence capacity has been on the agenda of both NATO and the EU, individually and in partnership for over a decade, it has not yet been fully achieved. The Russian invasion was a brutal reminder that Europe is still largely dependent on the US for its security. This added further momentum to the process of building up a stronger European defence capacity, which has already been ongoing for a decade. The EU’s adoption of the Strategic Compass in March 2022, shortly after the invasion, is crucial in this context. It had been under development for some time (since June 2020) but had to be rewritten due to the invasion. It was intended to represent a great leap forward, as it was to present an action plan towards 2030. Due to recent events, member states were more committed than ever to delivering joint defence capacity, and they sought to do so through greater flexibility, investing more and more efficiently, and cooperating more closely with partners.

The geopolitical situation makes Europe more committed and obliged than ever to build a stronger European capacity. Over the past 15 years, a series of different initiatives, at different levels and in different formats, have been launched with this in mind. A recurring question, however, has been whether these many different processes and initiatives result in a more fragmented and complicated European security structure, with unnecessary duplication as a result. Or whether they, through various cooperation agreements and coordination efforts, contribute to a more flexible and stronger European defence structure, where formal structures are less important than commitment to different initiatives. The aim of this chapter is to provide an answer.
Die Stadt in ländlichen Regionen – sich entwickelnde Räume
Authors: Lenz Barbara , Pitzen Constantin , Jaquet Dennis , Monheim Heiner
Published: December 2023

Raumtypologien, die es möglich machen, regionsübergreifend das Mobilitätsverhalten der Bevölkerung abzubilden, sind der Ausgangspunkt für die Beschreibung und Analyse der Mobilität im ländlichen Raum. Das Kap. 2 beschreibt zunächst den Ansatz der Raumtypologie „RegioStaR“, die heute die Grundlage für die Abbildung von Mobilitätsverhalten in Deutschland bildet. Darüber hinaus werden die Eigenheiten des Mobilitätsverhaltens im ländlichen Raum dargestellt. Das Kap. 2 versteht einen automatisierten ÖPNV als Chance für die Transformation des Mobilitätsökosystems. Auf dieser Grundlage werden die Anforderungen an ein automatisiertes ÖPNV-Netz beschrieben, das Großstadtrand, Stadt, Umland und Dorf versorgen soll. Zuletzt beschäftigt sich das Kap. 2 mit dem Straßenraum, in dem künftig die Menschen Priorität vor den Autos haben müssen, soll die Mobilitätswende gelingen.
Auswirkungen des automatisierten Fahrens
Authors: Schippl Jens , Pitzen Constantin , Aleksa Michael , Krenn Willibald , Leonetti Emanuele , Deublein Markus , Schaarschmidt Erik , Fleischer Torsten , Yen Robert
Published: December 2023

In Kap. 3 wird zunächst aufgezeigt, welche verkehrlichen Folgen und Risiken mit avF einhergehen können und wie diese von der Nutzungsform und der Regulierung automatisierter Fahrzeuge abhängen. Weiter behandelt werden die Anforderungen von avF an Infrastrukturen wie Straßen, Parkraum, aber auch an die digitale Verkehrsinfrastruktur, wie z. B. Lichtsignalanlagen, Verkehrsbeeinflussungsanlagen oder Kommunikationsplattformen. Anschließend behandelt das Kapitel Fragen des derzeitigen und zukünftigen Datenbedarfs von avF im Mobilitätssystems und – damit verknüpft – Aspekte der Datensicherheit bzw. Cyber-Security. Auch das Thema Verkehrssicherheit im Mischverkehr von avF und mit vulnerablen Verkehrsteilnehmergruppen wird lösungsorientiert beleuchtet. Wie das automatisierte und vernetzte Fahren einen Beitrag für die Attraktivitätssteigerung und den Kapazitätsausbau des ÖPNV beitragen kann, wird ebenso behandelt wie für die Umsetzung von afV relevante gesellschaftliche und ethische Aspekte.
Rechtliche Aspekte des automatisierten Fahrens und der Personenbeförderung
Authors: Braun Binder Nadja , Bußjäger Peter , Fasler Raoul , Guckelberger Annette
Published: December 2023

Im Kap. 6 werden die rechtlichen Rahmenbedingungen für automatisiertes bzw. hochautomatisiertes Fahren in Deutschland, in Österreich und in der Schweiz skizziert. Ein besonderes Augenmerk liegt dabei auf dem ÖPNV, wobei dieser nicht losgelöst von den allgemeinen straßenverkehrsrechtlichen Rahmenbedingungen betrachtet werden kann. Das Straßenverkehrsrecht steht denn auch im Zentrum der drei Beiträge. Verschiedentlich werden weitere offene Rechtsfragen aufgegriffen. Auch wenn gerade für Deutschland vieles bereits beispielgebend geregelt wurde, gelangen alle drei Beiträge zum Schluss, dass die betroffenen Rechtsgebiete aufgrund der fortschreitenden technischen Entwicklungen und der erwarteten unionsrechtlichen Regelungen raschen Änderungen unterworfen sein werden, weshalb es sich bei den Ausführungen auch nur um punktuelle Momentaufnahmen handeln kann.
Diskriminierungserfahrungen und Depressivität – Eine Befragung zu Formen, Merkmalen und Lebensbereichen
Authors: Dingoyan Demet , Schepan Marie Lisanne , Adedeji Adekunle , Schwartz Brian , Metzner Franka
Published: December 2023

In Deutschland existieren nur wenige Studien zum Zusammenhang von Diskriminierung und Gesundheit, und es fehlt an etablierten Instrumenten zur multidimensionalen Erfassung von Diskriminierung. Untersucht wurde daher, wie häufig Diskriminierung von in Deutschland lebenden Erwachsenen erfahren wird, und ob diese Erfahrungen mit dem Vorliegen von depressiven Symptomen zusammenhängen. Die Online-Befragung von n = 403 Personen basierte auf einem selbstentwickelten Fragebogen aus international publizierten Items. Die Depressivität wurde über den Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ‑9) erhoben, und Zusammenhänge mit linearen Regressionsanalysen wurden ausgewertet. Am häufigsten berichtet wurden Auslachen (Diskriminierungsform), Geschlecht/äußeres Erscheinungsbild (Diskriminierungsmerkmale) und Bildung/Arbeit (Lebensbereich). Die Diskriminierungshäufigkeit war ein signifikanter Prädiktor für das Vorliegen von depressiven Symptomen. Diskriminierungserfahrungen sollten als potenzielle Stressoren in der psychotherapeutischen Anamnese, Diagnostik, Prognose und Therapie berücksichtigt werden.
Label-free SERS assay combined with multivariate spectral data analysis for lamotrigine quantification in human serum
Authors: Badillo-Ramírez Isidro , Janssen Selina A. J. , Soufi Gohar , Slipets Roman , Zór Kinga , Boisen Anja
Published: December 2023

Considering the need for a more time and cost-effective method for lamotrigine (LTG) detection in clinics we developed a fast and robust label-free assay based on surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) for LTG quantification from human serum. The optimization and application of the developed assay is presented  showing the: (i) exploration of different methods for LTG separation from human serum; (ii) implementation of a molecular adsorption step on an ordered Au nanopillar SERS substrate; (iii) adaptation of a fast scanning of the SERS substrate, performed with a custom-built compact Raman spectrometer; and (iv) development of LTG quantification methods with univariate and multivariate spectral data analysis. Our results showed, for the first time, the SERS-based characterization of LTG and its label-free identification in human serum. We found that combining a miniaturized solid phase extraction, as sample pre-treatment with the SERS assay, and using a multivariate model is an optimal strategy for LTG quantification in human serum in a linear range from 9.5 to 75 μM, with LoD and LoQ of 3.2 μM and 9.5 μM, respectively, covering the suggested clinical therapeutic window. We also showed that the developed assay allowed for quantifying LTG from human serum in the presence of other drugs, thereby demonstrating the robustness of label-free SERS. The sensing approach and instrumentation can be further automated and integrated in devices that can advance the drug monitoring in real clinical settings.

Graphical abstract
Part-through cracks computation in an Euler–Bernoulli beam model
Authors: Michel Sébastien
Published: December 2023

The reduction of the equations of a slender, brittle continuum to a one-dimensional theory and the possibility of accounting for the cracking of this body has received much attention recently. This contribution investigates the effect of cross-sectional geometry on damage localization in an Euler–Bernoulli beam. Two geometric fields characterizing the crack penetration depth on each side of the beam are introduced, from which the modulation of the bending and tensile parts of the strain energy by the crack depth is deduced. The geometry of the crack-tip envelope is obtained by energy minimization. We find that in the case of a Griffith-like dissipation potential, the characteristic size of the crack is a key element for predicting initiation at a finite external load. We can accurately predict the initiation position by regularizing the model in the spirit of Variational Brittle Fracture. Model predictions are compared against computational results obtained by the classical damage field theory.
COPD: pulmonary vascular volume associated with cardiac structure and function
Authors: Duus Lisa Steen , Vesterlev Ditte , Nielsen Anne Bjerg , Lassen Mats Højbjerg , Sivapalan Pradeesh , Ulrik Charlotte Suppli , Lapperre Therese , Browatzki Andrea , Estépar Rubén San José , Nardelli Pietro , Jensen Jens-Ulrik Staehr , Estépar Raúl San José , Biering-Sørensen Tor
Published: December 2023

Background

Early recognition of cardiac dysfunction in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) may prevent future cardiac impairment and improve prognosis. Quantitative assessment of subsegmental and segmental vessel volume by Computed Tomographic (CT) imaging can provide a surrogate of pulmonary vascular remodeling. We aimed to examine the relationship between lung segmental- and subsegmental vessel volume, and echocardiographic measures of cardiac structure and function in patients with COPD.

Methods

We studied 205 participants with COPD, included in a large cohort study of cardiovascular disease in COPD patients. Participants had an available CT scan and echocardiogram. Artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms calculated the subsegmental vessel fraction as the vascular volume in vessels below 10 mm2 in cross-sectional area, indexed to total intrapulmonary vessel volume. Linear regressions were conducted, and standardized ß-coefficients were calculated. Scatterplots were created to visualize the continuous correlations between the vessel fractions and echocardiographic parameters.

Results

We found that lower subsegmental vessel fraction and higher segmental vessel volume were correlated with higher left ventricular (LV) mass, LV diastolic dysfunction, and inferior vena cava (IVC) dilatation. Subsegmental vessel fraction was correlated with right ventricular (RV) remodeling, while segmental vessel fraction was correlated with higher pulmonary pressure. Measures of LV mass and right atrial pressure displayed the strongest correlations with pulmonary vasculature measures.

Conclusion

Pulmonary vascular remodeling in patients with COPD, may negatively affect cardiac structure and function. AI-identified remodeling in pulmonary vasculature may provide a tool for early identification of COPD patients at higher risk for cardiac impairment.
Predicting acceptance of autonomous shuttle buses by personality profiles: a latent profile analysis
Authors: Schandl Franziska , Fischer Peter , Hudecek Matthias F. C.
Published: December 2023

Autonomous driving and its acceptance are becoming increasingly important in psychological research as the application of autonomous functions and artificial intelligence in vehicles increases. In this context, potential users are increasingly considered, which is the basis for the successful establishment and use of autonomous vehicles. Numerous studies show an association between personality variables and the acceptance of autonomous vehicles. This makes it more relevant to identify potential user profiles to adapt autonomous vehicles to the potential user and the needs of the potential user groups to marketing them effectively. Our study, therefore, addressed the identification of personality profiles for potential users of autonomous vehicles (AVs). A sample of 388 subjects answered questions about their intention to use autonomous buses, their sociodemographics, and various personality variables. Latent Profile Analysis was used to identify four personality profiles that differed significantly from each other in their willingness to use AVs. In total, potential users with lower anxiety and increased self-confidence were more open toward AVs. Technology affinity as a trait also contributes to the differentiation of potential user profiles and AV acceptance. The profile solutions and the correlations with the intention to use proved to be replicable in cross validation analyses.
Der Schutz von Minderjährigen in der Datenökonomie
Authors: Buchner Benedikt
Published: December 2023

Die Meta-Entscheidung des EuGH vom Juli 2023 bedeutet für die großen Plattformen im Netz
einen tiefgreifenden Einschnitt. Es besteht Einigkeit, dass diese ihr Geschäftsmodell samt rechtlicher
Absicherung grundlegend ändern müssen. Die Einwilligung, die Vertragserfüllung, die Interessenabwägung
– all diese Legitimationsgrundlagen, auf die Plattformen bislang ihre Datenverarbeitung gestützt
haben, müssen in ihrer künftigen Anwendung grundlegend neu gedacht und umgesetzt werden. Nicht
zuletzt gilt dies auch für die Verarbeitung personenbezogener Daten von Minderjährigen, was im
Folgenden näher skizziert werden soll.
Force-based inline detection of wear evolution during blanking of cold rolled steels
Authors: Kubik Christian , Groche Peter
Published: December 2023

Blanking plays a crucial role in the metalworking industry as this forming operation defines the final geometric and functional properties of the product. However, the occurrence of wear, as a process-related uncertainty, has a significant impact on the product properties, so it is necessary to determine the occurrence and evolution of wear inline. As current methods are mainly limited to empirical wear monitoring and do not allow differentiation between the type of wear and its location on the tool, a method for monitoring wear based on the blanking force is established. To this end, an optical system is first constructed to observe the evolution of wear during the blanking process and to understand its occurrence. Four main types of wear are found in the processing of cold-rolled steels: adhesion and abrasion on the lateral surfaces, rounding of the cutting edge and chipping at the reversal point. To quantify the wear inline during blanking, features are extracted from the process force and correlated with the occurrence of each type of wear. Since high correlation coefficients are found between process force-based features and the form, size and localization of wear, the proposed method is suitable for inline monitoring of wear evolution in real blanking processes.
Potassium ion pre-intercalated MnO2 for aqueous multivalent ion batteries
Authors: Xu Zikang , Ren Ruiqi , Ren Hang , Zhang Jingyuan , Yang Jinyao , Qiu Jiawen , Zhang Yizhou , Zhu Guoyin , Huang Liang , Dong Shengyang
Published: December 2023

Manganese dioxide (MnO2), as a cathode material for multivalent ion (such as Mg2+ and Al3+) storage, is investigated due to its high initial capacity. However, during multivalent ion insertion/extraction, the crystal structure of MnO2 partially collapses, leading to fast capacity decay in few charge/discharge cycles. Here, through pre-intercalating potassium-ion (K+) into δ-MnO2, we synthesize a potassium ion pre-intercalated MnO2, K0.21MnO2·0.31H2O (KMO), as a reliable cathode material for multivalent ion batteries. The as-prepared KMO exhibits a high reversible capacity of 185 mAh/g at 1 A/g, with considerable rate performance and improved cycling stability in 1 mol/L MgSO4 electrolyte. In addition, we observe that aluminum-ion (Al3+) can also insert into a KMO cathode. This work provides a valid method for modification of manganese-based oxides for aqueous multivalent ion batteries.

Graphical Abstract
Odd-even effects in the structure and properties of aryl-substituted aliphatic self-assembled monolayers
Authors: Cyganik Piotr , Terfort Andreas , Zharnikov Michael
Published: December 2023

Self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) represent an important tool in context of nanofabrication and molecular engineering of surfaces and interfaces. The properties of functional SAMs depend not only on the character of the tail groups at the SAM-ambient interface, but are also largely defined by their structure. In its turn, the latter parameter results from a complex interplay of the structural forces and a variety of other factors, including so called odd-even effects, viz. dependence of the SAM structure and properties on the parity of the number (odd or even) of individual building blocks in the backbone of the SAM constituents. The most impressive manifestation of the odd-even effects is the structure of aryl-substituted alkanethiolate SAMs on Au(111) and Ag(111), in which, in spite of the fact that the intermolecular interaction is mostly determined by the aryl part of the monolayers, one observes a pronounced dependence of molecular inclination and, consequently, the packing density of the SAM-forming molecules on the parity of number of methylene units in the alkyl linker. Here we review the properties of the above systems as well as address fundamental reasons behind the odd-even effects, including the existence of a so-called bending potential, which is frequently disregarded in analysis of the structure-building forces. The generality of the odd-even effects in SAMs is additionally supported by the recent data for SAMs on GaAs, scanning tunneling microscopy data for SAMs on Ag(111), and the data for the monolayers with selenolate and carboxyl anchoring groups on Au(111) and Ag(111). The implications of these effects in terms of the control over the packing density and orientation of the tail groups at the SAM-ambient interface, structural perfection, polymorphism, temperature-driven phase transitions, and SAM stability toward such factors as ionizing radiation, exchange reaction, and electrochemical desorption are discussed. These implications place the odd-even effects as an important tool for the design of functional SAMs in context of specific applications.
Deep-kidney: an effective deep learning framework for chronic kidney disease prediction
Authors: Saif Dina , Sarhan Amany M. , Elshennawy Nada M.
Published: December 2023

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is one of today’s most serious illnesses. Because this disease usually does not manifest itself until the kidney is severely damaged, early detection saves many people’s lives. Therefore, the contribution of the current paper is proposing three predictive models to predict CKD possible occurrence within 6 or 12 months before disease existence namely; convolutional neural network (CNN), long short-term memory (LSTM) model, and deep ensemble model. The deep ensemble model fuses three base deep learning classifiers (CNN, LSTM, and LSTM-BLSTM) using majority voting technique. To evaluate the performance of the proposed models, several experiments were conducted on two different public datasets. Among the predictive models and the reached results, the deep ensemble model is superior to all the other models, with an accuracy of 0.993 and 0.992 for the 6-month data and 12-month data predictions, respectively.
Complete reducibility for Lie subalgebras and semisimplification
Authors: Bate Michael , Böhm Sören , Martin Benjamin , Röhrle Gerhard , Voggesberger Laura
Published: December 2023

Let G be a connected reductive linear algebraic group over a field k. Using ideas from geometric invariant theory, we study the notion of G-complete reducibility over k for a Lie subalgebra $${\mathfrak {h}}$$
h
of the Lie algebra $${\mathfrak {g}} = \hbox {Lie} (G)$$

g
=
Lie
(
G
)

of G and prove some results when $${\mathfrak {h}}$$
h
is solvable or $$\textrm{char}\hspace{0.55542pt}(k)= 0$$

char

(
k
)
=
0

. We introduce the concept of a k-semisimplification$${\mathfrak {h}}'$$

h

′

of $${\mathfrak {h}}$$
h
; $${\mathfrak {h}}'$$

h

′

is a Lie subalgebra of $${\mathfrak {g}}$$
g
associated to $${\mathfrak {h}}$$
h
which is G-completely reducible over k. This is the Lie algebra counterpart of the analogous notion for subgroups studied earlier by the first, third and fourth authors. As in the subgroup case, we show that $${\mathfrak {h}}'$$

h

′

is unique up to $$\textrm{Ad}\hspace{0.55542pt}(G(k))$$

Ad

(
G
(
k
)
)

-conjugacy in $${\mathfrak {g}}$$
g
. Moreover, we prove that the two concepts are compatible: for H a closed subgroup of G and $$H'$$

H
′

a k-semisimplification of H, the Lie algebra $$\textrm{Lie}\hspace{0.55542pt}(H')$$

Lie

(

H
′

)

is a k-semisimplification of $$\textrm{Lie}\hspace{0.55542pt}(H)$$

Lie

(
H
)

.
Organisationales Lernen zwischen Kompromiss und Relativierung: Eine empirische Konventionenanalyse organisationaler Lernprozesse im Kontext universitärer Green Offices
Authors: Elven Julia
Published: December 2023

Der Beitrag skizziert eine praxistheoretisch fundierte konventionenanalytische Perspektive auf organisationales Lernen. Auf dieser konzeptionellen Basis werden unterschiedliche Formen organisationaler Transformationsprozesse im aneignenden Umgang mit Nachhaltigkeit an Universitäten empirisch herausgearbeitet: Im Rahmen einer vergleichenden Fallanalyse zweier universitärer Green Offices werden die konventionenanalytisch verfassten Begriffe des Kompromisses und der Relativierung genutzt, um unterschiedliche Modi organisationalen Lernens analytisch zu entfalten, zu denen nicht nur strukturelle Veränderungen, sondern auch personelle (Weiter‑)Bildungsprozesse zählen. Abschließend werden erwachsenenbildnerische Implikationen für die pädagogische Begleitung umrissen.