bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis of [6,5,5]Ring‐Fused Tricyclic Triazoles by Copper‐Promoted Double Cyclization
Authors: Pošta Martin , Dmitrieva Margarita , Volpe Chiara , Matoušek Václav , Klepetářová Blanka , Beier Petr
Published: October 2024

Ring‐fused 1,2,3‐triazoles are important biologically active compounds and synthetic intermediates. Known methods for their synthesis are limited mostly to triazoles fused to six‐membered or larger rings. Herein we disclose a synthetic approach to triazoles fused to five‐membered rings based on copper(I)‐promoted double cyclization consisting of azide‐alkyne cycloaddition, followed by cross coupling to aryl iodides.
Ictal sign of the cross: A case report and a short literature review
Authors: Drion Emilie , Filipescu Cristina , Zanello Marc , Moiraghi Alessandro , Mellerio Charles , Crépon Benoît , Guinard Eléonore , Boutin‐Watine Magali , Selhane Hajar , Pruvost‐Robieux Estelle , Demoulin Grégoire , Pallud Johan , Landré Elisabeth , Gavaret Martine
Published: October 2024

Content available: Video.
Investigation on Lithiated Half‐Heusler Alloy CoMnSi for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Matth Sadhana , Sharma Neha , Pal Raghavendra , Pandey Himanshu
Published: October 2024

In this work, we report on CoMnSi half‐Heusler alloy as a cathode material for secondary lithium‐ion batteries using ab initio methodology based on the density functional theory. The first‐principle calculations have been performed via the Wien2k package, which utilizes the full potential linearized augmented plane wave (FP‐LAPW) method to estimate the stability of the proposed structures and electronic characteristics while considering the exchange and correlation effects within the generalized gradient approximation. This alloy is found structurally stable with better electronic properties and with the alloying of lithium (Li) into the host lattice of CoMnSi, the metallic character is attained for LixCo1−xMnSi (0.125 ≤ x ≤ 1). We propose possible reactions at electrodes during the electrochemical lithiation. The addition of Li in place of the Co atom is found to be an endothermic process. With the increase in lithium concentration, a substantial change in the total and atom projected density of states around the Fermi level is observed. The theoretical maximum specific capacity (CM) and theoretical open circuit voltage (OCV) increase with the increase of lithium concentration in CoMnSi. The CM and OCV values attain a maximum value of around 297 mAh/g and 2.4 Volts for x ≥ 0.75, which means towards the complete conversion of CoMnSi into LiMnSi. The LiMnSi exhibits a similar structure as CoMnSi, which is also advantageous for the overall performance of lithium‐ion batteries to avoid any volumetric change during the charging and discharging cycles. Hence, the proposed half‐Heusler alloys have great potential to be used as a cathode material for lithium‐ion batteries.
A Novel Clinching Auction Mechanism for Edge Computing Resource Allocation With Budget Limits
Authors: Zhang Jixian , Sun Hao , Wang Zhemin , Su Qian , Li Weidong
Published: October 2024

An auction mechanism is an effective resource allocation method that can increase the revenue of resource providers in the field of edge computing. Existing auction mechanism designs mostly aim to maximize social welfare when allocating resources, but these schemes lead to low revenue. In contrast, clinching auctions have achieved good results in spectrum allocation and advertising due to their high revenue. Therefore, a clinching auction mechanism is a promising tool for allocating edge computing resources. However, clinching auctions have the drawback that they can only allocate homogeneous finitely divisible goods, meaning that they cannot be directly applied for resource allocation in edge computing. This article presents two new auction mechanisms that improve on the clinching auction. Specifically, based on the principle of increasing global prices and local competition, two mechanisms are designed, one from the perspective of resource providers (MDCAM‐ECS) and the other from the perspective of users (MDCAM‐User), to solve the problem of edge computing resource allocation and pricing with deployment constraints and user budget constraints. The mechanisms proposed in this article have the properties of individual rationality, truthfulness, and computational efficiency. In the experiments, in terms of social welfare and revenue, our algorithms can achieve a 20% improvement over existing algorithms, such as fixed‐price, Vickery–Clarke–Groves (VCG), and monotonic critical‐price mechanisms. Additionally, in most experiments, our algorithm can ensure resource utilization greater than 80%.
Deep Artificial Immune System With Malicious Node Detection and Secure Routing Protocol in MANET
Authors: Jamaesha S. Syed , Gowtham M. S. , Ramkumar M.
Published: October 2024

In the context of Mobile Ad Hoc Networks (MANETs), the dynamic and decentralized topology poses significant challenges like unreliable connectivity, limited bandwidth, node mobility, and vulnerability to security threats from malicious nodes. Ensuring secure and energy‐efficient data transmission in such environments is crucial for mission‐critical applications. This research addresses these pressing challenges by introducing a robust routing protocol capable of detecting and mitigating malicious nodes, thereby enhancing MANET's Quality of Service (QoS). The proposed approach, the Dendritic Cell with Adaptive Trust Q‐learning Protocol (dDC‐ATQP), integrates several innovative techniques to tackle these issues. Firstly, the trust evaluation mechanism assesses the behavior of nodes to identify potential malicious actors, mitigating the effect of malicious nodes on system execution. Secondly, the adaptive routing strategy optimizes data transmission paths based on real‐time network conditions, reducing latency and packet loss. To evaluate the effectiveness of this approach, extensive simulations are conducted using a range of performance metrics. The results demonstrate significant improvements over existing methods, including a throughput increase of (79.2% in 50 s), lower end‐to‐end‐delay (0.075 s for 20 nodes), energy consumption of (38.55/J), higher packet delivery ratio (98% for 20 nodes), reduced packet loss ratio (5% for 100 nodes), enhanced security (80% for 70 nodes).
Microsatellite Instability and Loss of Heterozygosity as Prognostic Markers in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Molecular Mechanisms, Detection Techniques, and Therapeutic Strategies
Authors: Arslan Bozdag Leyla , Inan Sevinç , Elif Gultekin Sibel
Published: October 2024

The aim of this study was to conduct a systematic review of research investigating the potential role of microsatellite instability (MSI) and loss of heterozygosity (LOH) in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), with a focus on molecular mechanisms, detection methods, and therapeutic approaches. Search for articles involved the PubMed and Scopus. Previous retrospective and prospective studies identified variations between oral cancers that exhibit microsatellite stability and LOH. In this search, 294 articles were initially retrieved. Of these, 70 were excluded due to duplication, 106 were identified as ineligible by automated tools, and 24 were excluded as they were published in languages other than English. An additional 94 articles were excluded, 32 of which focused on head and neck cancers broadly, and 8 could not be accessed due to withdrawal. Ultimately, a systematic review was conducted based on 54 selected articles. Among the chromosomes analyzed for MSI and LOH, the highest frequency of LOH was observed on chromosome 9p. The MSI subtype is particularly susceptible to immunotherapeutic methods, such as the use of anti‐PD‐L1 and anti‐CTLA4 antibodies, owing to its strong immunogenicity and ubiquitous expression of immune checkpoint ligands. Given the distinct characteristics and clinical behavior of oral cancer with MSI compared to microsatellite stable disease, it is advisable to incorporate MSI testing into the diagnostic process for all stages of tumor development. This ensured that each patient had received precise and effective treatment.
“You can't ignore us”: Multiliteracies and disruption in youth activism
Authors: Walker Amy
Published: October 2024

This article examines the activism of student protesters in a rural Rust Belt community's Black Lives Matter protest, challenging prevailing stereotypes about civic engagement, literacies, and youth involvement in rural settings. Utilizing critical ethnography and nexus analysis to examine disruptions of discourses in place and interview student participants about their activism, findings showcase how students strategically practiced multiliteracies to upturn power dynamics and assume leadership roles within a socio‐spatial landscape. Examining youth protest literacies can inform education partners of the ways students already engage in civic discourse and how understanding their co‐construction of space can inform practices across learning communities.
Successful ACL repair by dynamic intraligamentary stabilisation is non‐inferior in functional performance and worse in proprioception compared to healthy controls in a case‐matched study
Authors: Gommers Sophie A. , Farid Ajmal , de Groot Jeroen , Sierevelt Inger N. , Haverkamp Daniël ,   Dutch ACL repair study group
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The primary aim of this study was to assess non‐inferiority in functional performance of the knee after dynamic intraligamentary stabilisation (DIS) surgery at a minimal follow‐up of 1 year compared to healthy controls, based on limb symmetry index (LSI) of the single leg hop test (SLH). Additionally, functional performance based on the single leg triple hop test (SLTH) and side hop test (SH), proprioception and subjective outcome were evaluated.

Methods

A total of 45 DIS patients were 1‐to‐1 matched to a healthy control. Functional performance was evaluated by LSI and absolute values on the SLH, SLTH and SH. Proprioception was assessed by joint position sense (JPS) test and International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) scores were obtained.

Results

Non‐inferiority in functional performance after DIS compared to healthy controls was confirmed based on the mean LSI of the SLH and SLTH (97.6% vs. 99.6% and 97.5% vs. 100.6%, respectively) and non‐confirmed on the SH (98.8% vs. 100.0%, respectively). No significant differences were found in absolute value of the SLH and SLTH and a significantly higher absolute value of the SH was found in the DIS group (p = 0.01). JPS absolute angular error was significantly higher in the DIS group compared to the control group (p = 0.01). The median IKDC score of the DIS group was significantly lower (92, IQR 85–95) than the control group (100, IQR 99–100), p < 0.001.

Conclusions

In conclusion, functional performance after DIS was confirmed non‐inferior compared to healthy controls based on the SLH and SLTH, although non‐confirmed on the SH.

Level of evidence

Level III
Effect of design and surgical parameters variations in mobile‐bearing versus fixed‐bearing unicompartmental knee arthroplasty: A finite element analysis
Authors: Luyckx Thomas , Bori Edoardo , Saldari Rachele , Fiore Sara , Altamore Virginia , Innocenti Bernardo
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKAs) are available in the market as fixed‐ and mobile‐bearing (FB and MB) and can be characterised by a different set of design parameters in terms of geometries, materials and surgical approaches, with overall good clinical outcomes. However, clear biomechanical evidence concerning the consequences of variations of these features on knee biomechanics is still lacking; therefore, the present study aims to perform a sensitivity analysis to see which outcomes are affected by these variations.

Methods

For both MB‐UKA and FB‐UKA, five design and surgical parameters were defined (bearing insert thickness, tibial component material, implant components friction coefficient, antero‐posterior slope angle and level of tibial bone resection). Two control models were defined based on standard configurations for both implants. Finite element analysis was chosen to perform this study, and different parameter combinations (216 models in total) were implemented and tested at both 0° and 90° of flexion, using a previously validated finite element knee model. The results were then evaluated in terms of bone and polyethylene Von Mises stress and tibio‐femoral contact area.

Results

Bearing thickness, tibial bone cut and slope angle were found to be the most sensitive parameters for both types of UKAs. Specifically, changes in these parameters in the FB‐UKA appeared to induce more significant variations in the polyethylene insert (both in terms of polyethylene stress and contact area), while in the MB‐UKA, these changes influenced bone stress distribution more.

Conclusions

Surgical parameters returned to have a more significant influence than material and friction variations; furthermore, the outcomes most affected by parameter variations were the insert‐related ones for FB‐UKA while for the MB‐UKA were the ones regarding tibial bone stresses.

Level of Evidence

Not Applicable.
Nontargeted urine metabolomic analysis of acute intermittent porphyria reveals novel interactions between bile acids and heme metabolism: New promising biomarkers for the long‐term management of patients
Authors: Lefebvre Thibaud , Eguether Thibaut , Thévenot Etienne , Poli Antoine , Chu‐Van Emeline , Krasniqi Pranvera , Schmitt Caroline , Talbi Neila , Nicolas Gaël , Puy Hervé , Junot Christophe , Lamazière Antonin , Castelli Florence , Gouya Laurent , Fenaille François
Published: October 2024

Acute intermittent porphyria is an inherited error of heme synthesis. The underlying pathophysiology, involving mainly hepatic heme synthesis, is poorly understood despite its occurrence, and the severity of acute porphyria attack is still difficult to control. A better understanding of the interactions between heme synthesis and global metabolism would improve the management of AIP patients. An untargeted metabolomic analysis was performed on the urine of 114 patients with overt AIP and asymptomatic carriers using liquid chromatography coupled to high‐resolution mass spectrometry. The collected data were analyzed by combining univariate and multivariate analyses. A total of 239 metabolites were annotated in urine samples by matching chromatographic and mass spectral characteristics with those from our chemical library. Twenty‐six metabolites, including porphyrin precursors, intermediates of tryptophan or glycine metabolism and, unexpectedly, bile acids, showed significant concentration differences between the phenotypic groups. Dysregulation of bile acid metabolism was confirmed by targeted quantitative analysis, which revealed an imbalance in favor of hydrophobic bile acids associated with changes in conjugation, which was more pronounced in the severe phenotype. Using a random forest model, the cholic acid/chenodeoxycholic acid ratio enables the differential classification of severe patients from other patients with a diagnostic accuracy of 84%. The analysis of urine samples revealed significant modifications in the metabolome of AIP patients. Alteration in bile acids provides new insights into the pathophysiology of chronic complications, such as primary liver cancer, while also providing new biomarker candidates for predicting the most severe phenotypes.
To Perform or Not to Perform: Exploring the Impact of COVID‐19 on Aotearoa New Zealand's Performing Arts Sector
Authors: Nairn Angelique , Annabell Taylor , Matthews Justin , Bhargava Deepti
Published: October 2024

This article explores narratives of how COVID‐19 impacted the performing arts sector, by drawing on interviews with creative workers in Aotearoa New Zealand. Despite the late exposure to COVID‐19 and the adoption of an elimination approach that afforded opportunities for performing arts to continue to varying extents between 2019 and 2022, cultural workers in Aotearoa New Zealand, as with their overseas counterparts, experienced significant and consequential disruption to their working conditions and lives. Taking into account the specificity of Aotearoa New Zealand's performing arts sector and the government's COVID‐19 response, the article contributes to the empirical examination of COVID‐19 experiences by teasing out narratives of impact from cultural workers. The thematic analysis demonstrates how participants presented (1) COVID‐19 as responsible for financial, emotional, and psychological costs, (2) framed opportunities arising from disrupted working conditions and wage subsidy as “silver linings,” (3) were reliant on digital technologies, and (4) constructed the return to “normal” as marked by the COVID‐19 “aftermath.” The article argues that uniting these perceptions and articulations of impact is the ongoing (re)evaluations of risks and benefits by cultural workers of working conditions that predate COVID‐19.
Selecting an optimal sorghum cultivar can improve nitrogen availability and wheat yield in crop rotation
Authors: Vega‐Mas Izargi , Ascencio‐Medina Estefanía , Menéndez Sergio , González‐Torralba Jon , González‐Murua Carmen , Marino Daniel , González‐Moro María Begoña
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND

Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) is a cereal crop known for its biological nitrification inhibition (BNI) capacity, a plant‐mediated activity limiting nitrification pathway. The use of BNI‐producing plants represents an environmentally friendly and cost‐effective approach to reduce nitrogen (N) losses, such as nitrate (NO3−) leaching and nitrous oxide (N2O) gas emissions. The present study aimed to test the effectiveness of different S. bicolor cultivars in rotation to retain ammonium (NH4+) in soils and promote N availability for the subsequent wheat crop. A two‐year field rotation was established with four sorghum cultivars followed by winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Urea alone or combined with the urease inhibitor N‐(n‐butyl) thiophosphoric triamide was applied to promote a NH4+‐based fertilization regimes.

RESULTS

AddingN‐(n‐butyl) thiophosphoric triamide maintained higher soil NH4+ content and reduced ammonia‐oxidizing bacteria population during sorghum cultivation. However, the benefits of the inhibitor on sorghum growth were cultivar‐dependent. Notably, the further reduction in ammonia‐oxidizing bacteria abundance for sorghum Voyenn and the increased soil NH4+ content for Vilomene suggested a BNI potential for these cultivars. Importantly, the Vilomene precedent enhanced wheat yield for both fertilization regimes.

CONCLUSION

Overall, the present study confirms that sorghum is a suitable catch crop and emphasizes the importance of selecting the proper sorghum cultivar to maximize the yield of the target wheat crop, at the same time as minimizing N losses. Furthermore, developing combined strategies with selected sorghum cultivars and the application of urease inhibitors enables to enhance sorghum productivity as forage, achieving added value to the rotation. © 2024 The Author(s). Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Social life cycle sustainability assessment of dried tomato products based on material and process selection through multi‐criteria decision making
Authors: Ayhan Dilber , Mendoza Francisco Astorga , Gul Muhammed Rasim , Ari Izzet , Alpas Hami , Oztop Mecit Halil
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND

Tomatoes are a significant product of the Mediterranean region and a crucial component of the Mediterranean diet. The formulation of dried tomato products enriched with proteins and bioactive compounds could be a strategic approach to promote adherence to the Mediterranean diet. Six different novel tomato products were analyzed using different protein enrichment sources (pea proteins and leaf proteins) and drying technologies (hot‐air dryer, microwave vacuum dryer, and conventional dryer). The novelty of this approach lies in combining product‐specific criteria with global societal factors across their life cycles. Using 21 criteria and an analytic hierarchy process (AHP) survey of experts, the social sustainability score for each product was determined through a multi‐criteria assessment.

RESULTS

The tomato product's life cycles have minimal regional impacts on unemployment, access to drinking water, sanitation, or excessive working hours. However, they affect discrimination, migrant labor, children's education, and access to hospital beds significantly. The study identified nutritional quality as the top criterion, with the most sustainable design being a tomato bar enriched with pea protein and processed using microwave vacuum drying.

CONCLUSION

The study revealed that integrating sensory and nutrient compounds into social sustainability assessments improves food sustainability and provides a practical roadmap for social life cycle assessments of food products. It emphasized the importance of considering global social issues when reformulating Mediterranean products to ensure long‐term adherence to the Mediterranean diet. Incorporating social factors into sustainability scores can also enhance the effectiveness of product information for conscious customers. © 2024 The Author(s). Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Effects of soybean insoluble dietary fiber and CaCl2 on the structure and properties of low‐moisture extruded products
Authors: Lian Wentao , Gao Yang , Zhang Haojia , Zhang Tian , Qu Min , Zhu Ying , Huang Yuyang , Zhu Xiuqing
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND

Texturized vegetable protein is currently a leading alternative to animal meat. This study examined the effects of soybean insoluble dietary fiber (SIDF) (0% to 20%) and CaCl2 (0% to 1%) on the structure and properties of extruded products made from a soybean protein isolate‐wheat gluten (SPI‐WG) composite.

RESULTS

The study showed that SIDF (4% to 8%) increased the viscosity of extruded products, enhanced their specific mechanical energy, and improved their rehydration rate and tensile strength compared with a control group. The rehydration rate of the extruded products reached a maximum value of 331.67% in the 8% SIDF, 0.5% CaCl2 groups. The addition of excess SIDF prevented the cross‐linking of protein molecules to form a loose network structure. Analysis of the infrared spectrum and intermolecular forces showed that physical interactions between fibers and proteins were the dominant forces, with hydrophobic interactions and hydrogen bonds primarily maintaining the structure of the extruded products. The addition of CaCl2 (0.5%) led to protein aggregation and further improved the rehydration and tensile strength of extruded products.

CONCLUSION

Soybean insoluble dietary fiber can improve the rehydration rate and quality of extruded products. The addition of CaCl2 mitigated the weakening of the protein structure caused by excess SIDF. These results provide a basis for the improvement of the quality of low‐moisture‐extruded texturized vegetable protein products with a high dietary fiber concentration and a high rehydration rate. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Knee joint dislocations—Current epidemiology and treatment in Germany
Authors: Weber Johannes , Szymski Dominik , Huber Lorenz , Straub Josina , Alt Volker , Lenz Julia Elisabeth
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Knee joint dislocations, though rare, present significant challenges due to potential complications like vascular and nerve damage, and are known to be often linked to sports injuries, accidents and obesity. This study aims to analyse the epidemiology, incidence and treatment approaches for knee dislocations in Germany from 2019 to 2022.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study utilized data from the German Institute for the Hospital Remuneration System to examine knee dislocation cases across German medical institutions. Patient data coded under International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems 10 for ‘knee dislocation’ enabled detailed analysis by age, sex and surgical procedures categorized by operation and procedure codes. The Patient Clinical Complexity Level (PCCL) assessed complication severity.

Results

Analysis of 1643 knee dislocation cases revealed an incidence rate of 0.44–0.54 per 100,000 inhabitants annually. During the years 2020 and 2021, there were fewer cases of knee dislocations. Male patients comprised 50%–56% of cases, with an average hospital stay of 11 days. Most cases were PCCL 0 (62%–72%) and predominantly affected patients aged 18–29 years. Anterior tibial dislocations were common among classified cases. Injuries included ligament ruptures, meniscus lesions and grade I soft‐tissue injuries. Patients with pre‐existing knee prostheses constituted 0%–16% annually. Treatment involved closed reduction, external fixation and surgeries like capsuloligamentous reconstructions and arthroscopic procedures. Revision knee arthroplasty was required in 2%–9% of cases, with obesity rates up to 7%.

Conclusions

This study provides valuable insights into the epidemiology, incidence and treatment of knee dislocations in Germany, with a focus on demographic risk factors, treatment complexities and the impact of obesity and knee prostheses. The findings emphasize the importance of specialized care in larger hospitals, comprehensive management of concomitant injuries and the need for improved coding accuracy. Future research should aim to refine treatment protocols.

Level of Evidence

Level III.
Self‐Powered and Vis‐Infrared Broadband Gr/InSe/MoTe2 Heterostructure Photodetectors with Ultra‐Fast Response and Low Dark Current
Authors: He Sixian , Huang Yuxin , Yin Chengdong , Ma Yupeng , Shan Aidang , Wei Tian‐Ran , Li Ming , Zhao Liancheng , Gao Liming
Published: October 2024

Self‐powered photodetection devices, which meet the requirement of environmental sustainability, are widely designed by PN heterojunctions. The design of the semiconductor/metal interface is vital in PN‐junction devices. In particular, the elevated potential barrier at the metal/semiconductor interface impedes efficient carrier transport. Therefore, optimizing the semiconductor/metal interface for the PN junction, either by reducing the interface barrier or leveraging the built‐in electric field within the Schottky junction, holds significant importance in enhancing the performance of PN‐junction devices. In this study, an InSe/MoTe2 Type‐II PN heterojunction photodetector is constructed, with graphene (Gr) and gold (Au) serving as electrodes in contact with InSe and MoTe2, respectively. Benefiting from the reduced barrier in Au/InSe interfaces and the built‐in electric field formed at the InSe/MoTe2 and MoTe2/Au interfaces in the same direction, the device achieves an ultra‐fast photoresponse speed of 14 µs and an ultra‐low dark current of 8.5 × 10⁻¹⁴ A at zero bias. Furthermore, the device exhibits a remarkable light on/off ratio up to 105 and achieves broad‐spectrum photodetection ranging from the visible to infrared wavelength. This research highlights the enormous potential of the Gr/InSe/MoTe2 van der Waals heterostructure in the realms of self‐powered photodetection, imaging, and optical communication.
Flexible Asymmetrically Transparent Conductive Metamaterial Electrode Based on Photonic Nanojet Arrays
Authors: Kislov D. A. , Voroshilov P. , Kadochkin A. , Veniaminov A. , Zakharov V. , Svetukhin V. V. , Bobrovs V. , Koval O. , Komendo I. , Azamov A. M. , Bolshakov A. , Dvoretckaia L. , Mozharov A. , Goltaev A. , Gao L. , Volkov V. , Arsenin A. , Ginzburg P. , Mukhin I. , Shalin A. S.
Published: October 2024

Flexible transparent electrodes, encompassing the combination of optical transparency and electrical conductivity, empower numerous optoelectronic applications. While the main efforts nowadays concentrate on developing wire meshes and conductive oxides, those technologies are still in a quest to find a balance between price, performance, and versatility. Here we propose a new platform, encompassing the advantages of nanophotonic design and roll‐to‐roll large‐scale lithography fabrication tools, granting an ultimate balance between optical, electrical, and mechanical properties. The design is based on an array of silica microspheres deposited on a patterned thin aluminum film attached to a flexible polymer matrix. Microspheres are designed to squeeze 80% light through nanoscale apertures with the aid of the photonic nanojet effect given the light impinges the structure from the top. The photonic structure blocks the transmission for the backpropagation direction thus granting the device with the high 5‐fold level of asymmetry. The patterned layer demonstrates a remarkable 2.8 Ω sq−1 sheet resistance comparable to that of a continuous metal layer. The high conductivity is shown to be maintained after a repeatable application of strain on the flexible electrode. Such remarkable optical, mechanical and electrical properties, makes the demonstrated device an essential component for applications, where such attributes are critically required.
A Dynamic Hybrid Luminescent Display for Multilevel Anticounterfeiting
Authors: Zhang Jiaming , Wen Yanlong , Han Meina , Zhang Letian , Liu Shihao , Xie Wenfa , Yu Cunjiang
Published: October 2024

Incorporating specific motifs to provide tangible evidence of authenticity is a direct and effective measure against counterfeiting. However, achieving multi‐level anticounterfeiting through multiple motifs requires utilizing numerous stimulus sources to configure region‐specific emissions with customizable colors, which is complex, costly, and inaccessible. To address this challenge, a hybrid luminescent display is developed by integrating an internal down‐conversion layer with an organic light‐emitting diode (OLED). The internal down‐conversion layer can effectively extract the substrate and waveguide modes, resulting in a very rare outcome where the efficiency of a hybrid down‐conversion white OLED exceeds that of the pump light source. More importantly, by combining voltage‐modulated color‐tunable electroluminescence (EL) with EL‐induced down‐conversion luminescence, this unique design can precisely create dynamic and configurable multi‐color display patterns using only electrical stimulation. For anticounterfeiting purposes, the further amalgamation of the dynamic hybrid luminescent display device with the Internet of Things for digital authentication, and with fingerprint features for physical unclonable functions showcases unprecedented security. These results herald a new generation of multilevel luminescent anticounterfeiting technology.
Validation of the Portuguese MDS‐UPDRS: Challenges to Obtain a Scale Applicable to Different Linguistic Cultures
Authors: Soares Tiago , Vale Thiago Cardoso , Guedes Leonor Correia , Maciel Ricardo Oliveira , Antunes Ana Patrícia , Camargos Sarah , Valadas Anabela , Coelho Miguel , Godinho Catarina , Maia Débora , Lobo Patrícia , Maia Raphael , Teodoro Tiago , Rieder Carlos , Velon Ana Graça , Rosas Maria José , Calado Ana , Caniça Verónica , Vale José , Mendes Alexandre , Rodrigues Ana Margarida , Costa Maria Manuela , Lampreia Tânia , Ferraz Henrique B. , Tumas Vitor , Barbosa Egberto , Stebbins Glenn T. , Tilley Barbara C. , Luo Sheng , LaPelle Nancy R. , Goetz Christopher G. , Cardoso Francisco , Ferreira Joaquim J. ,   MDS‐UPDRS Portuguese Validation Study Group
Published: October 2024

Background

The MDS‐UPDRS has been available in English since 2008, showing satisfactory clinimetric results and being proposed as the new official benchmark scale for Parkinson's disease (PD), being cited as a core instrument for PD in the National Institutes of Neurological Disorders and Stroke Common Data Elements program. For this reason, the MDS created guidelines for development of MDS‐UPDRS official, clinimetrically validated translations.

Objective

This study presents the formal process used to obtain the officially approved Portuguese version of the MDS‐UPDRS.

Methods

The study consisted of three phases: (1) Independent translation by Portuguese and Brazilian teams followed by a challenging consensus process that this article particularly emphasizes; (2) Cognitive pretest involving raters and patients from both Portugal and Brazil; (3) Validation test with a sample of 367 native Portuguese‐speaking PD patients.

Results

The overall factor structure of the Portuguese version was consistent with the English version based on a comparative fit index ≥0.96 for all four parts of the MDS‐UPDRS.

Conclusion

This version can be designated as the official Portuguese version of the MDS‐UPDRS.
Inter‐rater Agreement for Movement Disorder Classification in Children with Hyperkinetic Movement Disorders
Authors: Yilmaz Sanem , Vermilion Jennifer , Dean Shannon , Pourdeyhimi Roxanna , Mink Jonathan W.
Published: October 2024

Background

Accurate classification is essential for addressing childhood movement disorders (MD), but the common coexistence of multiple MDs complicates this process.

Objective

The aim was to assess inter‐rater agreement on classifying hyperkinetic MDs among pediatric neurologists with expertise in MDs.

Methods

Five pediatric neurologists were requested to examine 112 videos of 66 pediatric patients. Based on the Movement Disorder‐Childhood Rating Scale, 3 queries were posed: (Q1) Is there more than 1 MD? (Q2) What is the (predominant) MD? (Q3) What is the other MD (if present)?

Results

The final agreement rates were 57.5% for Q1, 66.6% for Q2, and 43.9% for absolute agreement. All videos with absolute agreement at the first evaluation featured 1 MD, whereas only 2 videos with multiple MDs could totally agree in the final review.

Conclusions

This study reveals significant discordance in classification even among pediatric neurologists with expertise in MDs and highlights the necessity for a standardized approach.
Stability and qualitative dynamics of a class of three‐dimensional difference equation system of exponential type
Authors: Sadiq Stephen , Falak Sher Nayyer , Khaliq Abdul , Shabbir Muhammad
Published: October 2024

In this paper, we study the boundedness, persistence, and global stability of the equilibrium point and rate of convergence of positive solutions of the exponential form of a system of difference equations

where
are constants and
are initial values. Furthermore, some numerical examples are also given, which support our theoretical results.
Trace regularization problem for a fourth‐order differential operator on separable Banach space
Authors: Baksi Ozlem , Sezer Yonca , Caliskan Seda K.
Published: October 2024

In this study, we employ new results on the semi‐inner product, the adjoint operator, and the Schatten class of operators on a separable Banach space, which allow us to investigate a differential operator with unbounded operator‐valued coefficients. Specifically, we derive an asymptotic formula for the second regularized trace based on the asymptotic and spectral properties of the extended operator. For this purpose, we use the theory of continuous dense embeddings and known results regarding the regularized trace in Hilbert space. We conclude our paper by providing examples that support our findings.
Assessing the utility of computer vision for age determination of Gulf Menhaden
Authors: Riedel Ralf , Leaf Robert Thomas
Published: October 2024

Objective

In this work, we assess the potential of computer vision techniques for age estimation of Gulf Menhaden Brevoortia patronus scales. Scales are the primary structure used for the age determination of Gulf Menhaden, and the ageing process can be labor intensive. Gulf Menhaden is the second-largest fishery by weight in the United States, with average annual landings from 2018 to 2022 of 449,540 metric tons, and is assessed with age-structured models that require information about the age structure of the catch and the stock.

Methods

We used convolutional neural networks and deep neural networks to classify the age from images of Gulf Menhaden scales from three different sets of images of scales. The first set of data consists of images of scales from fish at ages 0 and 1 year. The second set of data consists of images of scales from fish at ages 0–4 years. The last set of data consists of images of scales from fish of ages 0, 1, and 2 years and includes only images of scales for which there is agreement by readers of age estimates derived from analyzing sagittal otoliths and scales from the same individual.

Result

The classification of ages was best when using a convolutional neural network model on the first data set. The poorest classification was for the model using deep neural networks with the second data set.

Conclusion

Although we show that computer vision has promise for age determination from fish scale samples, our results indicate that considerable work must be done for wide adoption of the approach. With the continuous enhancements of computer vision models, improvements in the quality of scale images, and the accumulation of larger sets of scale images that can be used to train machine learning models, we believe that using computer vision can serve to reduce processing time and increase the accuracy of age estimates.
Topical Anesthesia in Cutaneous Head and Neck Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: O'Neill Rory , Affendi Adrinda , McHugh Nathaniel , Skinner Liam
Published: October 2024

Objective

Cutaneous head and neck surgery can safely and effectively be performed using local anesthetic (LA). However, optimizing pain management during LA administration is paramount for patient comfort and procedural efficacy. The primary objective of this study was to investigate the comparative effectiveness of EMLA cream and ethyl chloride (EC) spray in mitigating pain associated with LA administration in cutaneous head and neck surgery.

Study Design

Randomized controlled trial.

Setting

University‐affiliated tertiary head and neck oncology center.

Methods

Sample size calculation was performed followed by computer randomization into the following groups: EMLA, EMLA placebo (aqueous cream), EC, and a control group (no topical agent). Demographics, pain, and procedural experience scores were recorded perioperatively. Statistical analysis was performed to analyse differences between groups utilizing the Mann‐Whitney U test, Kruskall‐Wallis test, Chi‐square test, and Spearman's Rho.

Results

121 cutaneous lesions with a median patient age of 76 were analyzed. There were no statistically significant differences in pain scores (median [IQR]) between patients receiving EMLA (4 [3.75]), EMLA placebo (4.8 [3.6]), EC (5.8 [2.8]), and no treatment (5 [4.1], P = .19). Procedural experience scores were clinically similar (P = .02). Risk factors associated with elevated nociceptive sensitivity were surgical site (scalp, P = .01), malignant lesions (P < .01) and lesion surface area (rs = 0.22, P = .01).

Conclusion

EMLA and EC did not mitigate LA‐associated pain in patients undergoing cutaneous head and neck surgery and as such practitioners should reconsider their use of these in this regard. Patients' operative experience remains excellent regardless of topical anesthetic use.

Level of Evidence

Ib.
Rapid and Environmentally‐Friendly Synthesis of Thiazolidinone Analogues in Deep Eutectic Solvent Complemented with Computational Studies
Authors: Kumar Gobind , Seboletswe Pule , Gcabashe Nontobeko , Dhawan Sanjeev , Manhas Neha , Bhargava Gaurav , Kumar Rupesh , Singh Parvesh
Published: October 2024

A greener, safer, and more efficient methodology for the synthesis of (Z)‐5‐benzylidene‐2‐thioxothiazolidin‐4‐ones (3 a–u) and (Z)‐5‐benzylidenethiazolidine‐2,4‐diones (4 a–i) has been developed. The deep eutectic solvent (DES) ZnCl2/urea used as a greener solvent as well as a catalyst in this study accelerated the condensation of rhodanine and thiazolidine‐2,4‐dione with different aldehydes to afford the target scaffolds in excellent yields (88‐98 %). The reaction methodology adopted offered significant advantages such as mild reaction conditions, functional group tolerance, quick reaction time, column‐free isolation, catalytic recyclability, and applicability to gram‐scale production. Moreover, density function theory calculations were carried out to investigate the global reactivity and stability profiles of these compounds. Finally, the green metrics analysis supported the greener nature of the present methodology.
Molecular Engineering L‐Aspartate‐Alpha‐Decarboxylase to Enhance Catalytic Stability and Performance
Authors: Liu Zihan , Liu Yiheng , Jiang Qixuan , Xu Haijun , Liu Luo
Published: October 2024

L‐aspartate‐alpha‐decarboxylase (ADC) catalyzes the decarboxylation of L‐aspartate to produce β‐alanine, which is the decisive step in the biosynthesis of β‐alanine. However, the low catalytic stability and efficiency of ADC limit its industrial applications. In this study, a variant of ADC from Bacillus subtilis were used as a starting point for engineering. After constructing a random mutagenesis library by error‐prone PCR, followed by high‐throughput screening,four substitutions (S7 N, K63 N, A99T, and K113R) were identified. By screening saturation mutagenesis libraries on these positions and computational analysis, two recombined variants N3(S7 N/K63 N/I88 M/A99E/K113R/I126*) and Y1(S7Y/K63 N/I88 M/A99E/K113R/I126*) with improved performance were obtained. Compared to the wild type, the catalytic efficiency and catalytic stability of the best two variants were enhanced up to 95 %(variant N3) and up to 89 %(variant Y1), respectively. In addition, Y1 exhibited 3.37 times improved half‐life and 2‐fold improved total turnover number. Hydrophilicity analysis and molecular dynamics (MD) simulation revealed that the increased hydrophilicity and steric hindrance of key amino acid residues would affect the catalytic activity and stability. The improved catalytic performance of the variants could be attributed to their enhanced binding capacity to the substrate within the active pocket and the alleviation of mechanism‐based inactivation.
An improved approach to compensating for cure‐induced deformation to manufacture composite aircraft skin accurately
Authors: Liu Chuang , Sun Lishuai , Wang Junbiao
Published: October 2024

The purpose of this paper is to compensate for the cure‐induced deformation to manufacture composite aircraft skin with variable curvature accurately. Firstly, a finite element analysis (FEA) method appropriate for curing simulation was described. Then, the discrete curvature‐based displacement adjustment (DC‐DA) method for mold surface compensation was proposed. The DC‐DA method utilizes the discrete curvature of the section points to obtain a smooth compensated curve. Finally, a skin part was selected to prove its effectiveness. The experimental results showed that after the mold's surface was modified by the DC‐DA method with the FEA‐predicting deformation as input, the forming shape could meet the requirement of the part accuracy in one cycle. The DC‐DA method was also compared with the displacement adjustment (DA) method and proved to be more efficient for the compensation of composite skin with variable curvature.

Highlights

The FEA is appropriate for the calculation of the skin's curing deformation.

The DC‐DA method is efficient for compensating for the skin's deformation.

The shape of the case part could meet the requirement of accuracy in one cycle.
Preparation and properties analysis of CTBN/CeO2 co‐toughened epoxy resin composites
Authors: Liang Dayu , Li Xiang , Zhang Yixiang , Qi Jianlei , Lu Zhimin
Published: October 2024

In this paper, carboxyl‐terminated nitrile rubber (CTBN) and Nano cerium oxide (n‐CeO2) were used to toughen epoxy resin (EP), and the effects of toughening agents on the mechanical and thermal properties of EP were studied. Orthogonal experiments determined that the ideal toughener proportions are 20 wt% CTBN and 1 wt% n‐CeO2, under which the resin demonstrated superior mechanical characteristics. The combined application of CTBN and n‐CeO2 significantly enhanced the resin's mechanical properties, surpassing the effects of individual particle toughening. Compared with pure EP, the impact, flexural, and tensile strengths of the resin‐cured product synergistically toughened by CTBN and n‐CeO2 increased by 462%, 136%, and 110%, respectively, and the flexural and Young's moduli increased by 38% and 35%, respectively. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used to characterize the cured resin. The results indicate that incorporating CTBN and n‐CeO2 reduces the reaction activation energy, thereby accelerating the curing reaction and facilitating its progression. The addition of nanoparticles enhances the maximum weight loss temperature of the cured resin, thereby improving its thermal stability. CTBN and n‐CeO2 particles create a uniform phase separation structure within the resin, enhancing its toughness and strength. Furthermore, the impact fracture mode of the cured resin transitions from brittle to tough fracture, demonstrating a significant toughening effect. This provides an effective method for the toughening modification of EP.

Highlights

The synergistic use of CTBN and n‐CeO2 enhances the toughness of EP.

The incorporation of nanoparticles improves the thermal stability of the cured resin.

The addition of CTBN and n‐CeO2 accelerates the curing reaction rate.

The inclusion of toughening agents transforms the fracture mode of the cured resin from brittle to tough fracture.
Student‐teacher developmental relationships: A mechanism through which culturally responsive school environments promote positive outcomes for students of color
Authors: Boat Ashley A. , Holquist Samantha E. , Redmond Nanyamka M.
Published: October 2024

Culturally responsive student–teacher relationships are critical to the academic success and social‐emotional learning (SEL) outcomes of students of color and/or students from low‐income backgrounds. Yet, little is known about how students’ perceptions of their schools’ culturally responsive environment are related to the quality of student–teacher relationships. To address this gap, the current study examined how students’ perceptions of their school's culturally responsive environment contributes to positive student–teacher developmental relationships, and in turn, their academic motivation and SEL. A total of 2,069 public middle and high school students of color from 46 schools across the country were surveyed (51.4% female; Mage = 13.4, SD = 1.86; 30.7% Hispanic or Latina/o/x, 30.4% Multiracial or Multiethnic, 17.5% Black or African American, 12.4% Asian or Pacific Islander, 8.7% American Indian or Alaska Native; 0.4% identified as another race or ethnicity). Students’ perceptions of their school as a culturally responsive environment were both directly and indirectly associated with greater academic motivation and SEL via stronger student–teacher developmental relationships. Findings have important implications for school administrators’ and school psychologists’ efforts to create more culturally responsive education environments.