bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Two Birds with One Stone: Polymerized Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorescence Small Molecules
Authors: Su Ning , Chen Bitian , Ding Junqiao
Published: January 2024

Thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) polymers show a great potential in low‐cost, large‐area and flexible full‐color flat‐panel displays. One of the most promising design rules is based on TADF+Linker, where a small molecular TADF unit is bonded to each other by a simple linker. Unlike the expensive vacuum deposition for small molecules, these polymerized TADF small molecules (Poly‐TADF‐SMs) are capable of cost‐effective solution processing. Meanwhile, the good luminescent property of small molecular TADF emitters can be well inherited by Poly‐TADF‐SMs so as to bridge the efficiency gap between small molecules and polymers. Herein, we will highlight the recent progress of Poly‐TADF‐SMs, together with emphasis on their molecular design, photophysical and electroluminescence properties.
Error‐based grid adaptation methods for plasma edge simulations with SOLPS‐ITER
Authors: Vervloesem Nathan , Dekeyser Wouter , van den Kerkhof Sander , Baelmans Martine
Published: January 2024

Only recently, plasma edge simulations up to the wall have been enabled with SOLPS‐ITER. This requires dedicated gridding techniques to reconcile grid alignment with the magnetic field and refinement toward the wall as grid quality is primordial to ensure fast and reliable convergence. Therefore, the gridding approach for the grids up to the wall is analyzed and improved. A truncation error analysis is performed on the discrete operators of the discretization scheme in SOLPS‐ITER, resulting in indicators of grid properties that are undesired. Based on these indicators, grid adaptation and grid smoothing algorithms are developed to reduce truncation errors and improve the overall grid quality. The resulting methods are applied on an AUG single‐null case. Here, the impact of the new gridding strategy is examined on the divertor heat load, a typical quantity of interest for plasma edge simulations. The new gridding methods allow to mitigate spurious numerical spikes in the target heat load profiles, reduce the convergence time with a factor 30, and improve the accuracy of the heat load with a factor 3 compared to original grids with similar total number of cells.
Supramolecular Macrocycle Regulated Single‐Atom MoS2@Co Catalysts for Enhanced Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Cao Shuai , Wu Wenzhuo , Liu Chaozhong , Song Leqian , Xu Qun , Zhang Huacheng , Zhao Yanli
Published: January 2024

The development of active water oxidation catalysts for water splitting has stimulated considerable interest. Herein, the design and building of single atom Co sites using a supramolecular tailoring strategy are reported, that is, the introduction of pillar[4]arene[1]quinone (P4A1Q) permits mononuclear Co species stereoelectronically assembled on MoS2 matrix to construct an atomically dispersed MoS2@Co catalyst with modulated local electronic structure, definite chemical environment and enhanced oxygen evolution reaction performance. Theoretical calculations indicate that immsobilized single‐Co sites exhibit an optimized adsorption capability of oxygen‐containing intermediates, endowing the catalyst an excellent electrocatalytic oxygen evolution reaction activity, with a low overpotential of 370 mV at 10 mA cm−2 and a small Tafel slope of 90 mV dec−1. The extendable potential of this strategy to other electrocatalysts such as MoS2@Ni and MoS2@Zn, and other applications such as the hydrogen evolution reaction was also demonstrated. This study affords new insights into the rational design of single metal atom systems with enhanced electrocatalytic performance.
Harvesting the Vibration Energy of CdS for High‐Efficient Piezo‐Photocatalysis Removal of U(VI): Roles of Shape Dependent and Piezoelectric Polarization
Authors: Dong Zhimin , Gao Donglin , Li Zifan , Pei Haonan , Xu Lin , Huang Jian , Cao Xiaohong , Wang Youqun , Wang Ting , Wei Qianglin , Zhang Zhibin , Liu Yunhai
Published: January 2024

Piezo‐photocatalysis could coalesce the advantages of mechanical vibration and solar energy perfectly to achieve high‐efficiency catalytic activity. Herein, the quintessential piezoelectric material CdS nanowires with different aspect ratios are precisely constructed and applied for piezo‐photocatalytic reduction of U(VI) for the first time. The ultrasonic (60 kHz, 100 W) induces piezoelectric potential to generate a 0.57 eV A−1 electric field, which is added to the direction of CdS (010) as a driving force to efficiently separate photogenerated charges. The alliance between piezoelectric effect and photocatalytic activity endows CdS NW‐3 with the fastest piezo‐photocatalytic rate under ultrasonic vibration and 5 W LED irradiation, and the relevant rate constant (0.042 min−1) is about 12 and 53.8 times than that of LED and ultrasonication. More importantly, 93.74% of U(VI) could be removed from natural uranium mine wastewater. Therefore, this piezo‐photocatalysis system that reduces U(VI) to easily separable (UO2)O2·2H2O(s) provides valuable input for disposal applications of radioactive wastewater and broadens the horizons of nuclear energy utilization toward the advancement of carbon neutrality.
Capacity for large language model chatbots to aid in orthopedic management, research, and patient queries
Authors: Sosa Branden R. , Cung Michelle , Suhardi Vincentius J. , Morse Kyle , Thomson Andrew , Yang He S. , Iyer Sravisht , Greenblatt Matthew B.
Published: January 2024

Large language model (LLM) chatbots possess a remarkable capacity to synthesize complex information into concise, digestible summaries across a wide range of orthopedic subject matter. As LLM chatbots become widely available they will serve as a powerful, accessible resource that patients, clinicians, and researchers may reference to obtain information about orthopedic science and clinical management. Here, we examined the performance of three well‐known and easily accessible chatbots–ChatGPT, Bard, and Bing AI–in responding to inquiries relating to clinical management and orthopedic concepts. Although all three chatbots were found to be capable of generating relevant responses, ChatGPT outperformed Bard and BingAI in each category due to its ability to provide accurate and complete responses to orthopedic queries. Despite their promising applications in clinical management, shortcomings observed included incomplete responses, lack of context, and outdated information. Nonetheless, the ability for these LLM chatbots to address these inquires has largely yet to be evaluated and will be critical for understanding the risks and opportunities of LLM chatbots in orthopedics.
Tendon biomechanical properties are altered by storage duration but not freeze‐thaw temperatures or cycles
Authors: Blaker Carina L. , Ashton Dylan M. , Hartnell Nicholas , Little Christopher B. , Clarke Elizabeth C.
Published: January 2024

Tendon allograft and xenograft processing often involves one or more steps of freezing and thawing. As failure strength is an important graft consideration, this study aimed to evaluate effects on failure properties when varying freeze‐thaw conditions. Kangaroo tendons, a potential xenograft source, were used to evaluate changes in ultimate tensile strength (UTS), failure strain and elastic modulus after exposure to different freezer‐storage temperatures (−20°C vs. −80°C), storage durations (1, 3, 6, 9, or 12 months), number of freeze‐thaw cycles (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 10), or freeze‐thaw temperature ranges (including freezing in liquid nitrogen to thawing at 37°C). Tendons stored for 6 or more months had significantly increased UTS and elastic modulus compared with 1 or 3 months of storage. This increase occurred irrespective of the freezing temperature (−20°C vs. −80°C) or the number of freeze‐thaw cycles (1 vs. 10). In contrast, UTS, failure strain and the elastic modulus were no different between storage temperatures, number of freeze‐thaw cycles and multiple freeze‐thaw cycles across a range of freeze and thaw temperatures. Common freeze‐thaw protocols did not negatively affect failure properties, providing flexibility for graft testing, storage, transportation and decellularisation procedures. However, the change in properties with the overall storage duration has implications for assessing the consistent performance of grafts stored for short versus extended periods of time (<6 months vs. >6 months), and the interpretation of data obtained from tissues of varying or unknown storage durations.
Nerve Guide Conduits Integrated with Fisetin‐Loaded Chitosan Hydrogels for Reducing Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and Nerve Regeneration
Authors: Fang Jiaqi , Xu Bo , Jin Xuehan , Chen Feng , Liu Shuhao , Liu Shengfu , Wang Sen , Zhang Fan , Song Kaihang , Wang Jianguang , Nan Liping , Liu Junjian
Published: January 2024

Peripheral nerve injuries (PNI) represent a prevalent and severe category of damage resulting from traumatic incidents. Predominantly, the deficiency in nerve regeneration can be ascribed to enduring inflammatory reactions, hence imposing substantial clinical implications for patients. Fisetin, a flavonoid derived from plants, is naturally present in an array of vegetables and fruits, including strawberries, apples, onions, and cucumbers. It exhibits immunomodulatory properties through the reduction of inflammation and oxidative stress. In the present research, a nerve defect is addressed for the first time utilizing a scaffold primed for controlled fisetin release. In this regard, fisetin‐loaded chitosan hydrogels are incorporated into the lumen of polycaprolactone (PCL) nerve guide conduits (NGCs). The hydrogel maintained a steady release of an appropriate fisetin dosage. The study outcomes indicated that the fisetin/chitosan/polycaprolactone (FIS/CS/PCL) NGCs amplified Schwann cell proliferation and neural expression, curtailed oxidative stress, alleviated inflammation, and improved functions, electrophysiological properties, and morphology. This pioneering scaffold has the potential to contribute significantly to the field of neuroengineering.
Fishery management strategies for Red Snapper in the southeastern U.S. Atlantic: A spatial population model to compare approaches
Authors: Shertzer Kyle , Crosson Scott , Williams Erik , Cao Jie , DeVictor Rick , Dumas Chris , Nesslage Geneviève
Published: January 2024

Objective

Red Snapper Lutjanus campechanus is an iconic species in the southeast U.S. Atlantic Ocean, sought by both commercial and recreational fleets. Five stock assessments over the past quarter century have shown Red Snapper to be experiencing overfishing. Highly restricted landings since 2010 have been insufficient to end overfishing because fishing effort is not species specific but rather applies generally to a complex of reef-associated species. Consequently, Red Snapper are discarded as bycatch when regulations prohibit their retention, and many of the discarded fish die from hook injury, barotrauma, or depredation.

Methods

Here we developed a spatial population model of Red Snapper and the multispecies fishery that captures them in the southeast U.S. Atlantic. We then simulated and compared 25 different management measures that fall broadly into the categories of gear modifications, discard mortality mitigation, size limits, spatial approaches, or temporal approaches. Criteria for comparison address the management goals of decreasing dead discards, rebuilding the age structure, and increasing landings and spawning biomass.

Result

We found that the most effective measures reduced fishing effort, either temporally or spatially, and that benefits could largely be obtained by focusing on the recreational fleet. Discard mortality mitigation (e.g., through use of descender devices) displayed a wide range in effectiveness depending on plausible levels of mortality reduction, but it addressed all management goals and in practice could be paired with other measures. A measure with restricted recreational effort combined with full retention of all fish caught showed the greatest potential to simultaneously rebuild the stock, increase landings, and eliminate dead discards.

Conclusion

To end overfishing of Red Snapper as required by law, resource managers should reconsider the policy of unrestricted effort of the private recreational fleet to this multispecies fishery. The benefits of restricted effort would include increased catch rates, larger landed fish, and fewer dead discards.
Overvoltage Failure Process of Cascode GaN Field Effect Transistors
Authors: Saito Wataru , Nishizawa Shin‐ichi
Published: January 2024

The failure process caused by overvoltage stress in cascode GaN–field effect transistors (FETs) is discussed through single unclamped inductive switching (UIS) waveforms, burst UIS waveforms, and capacitance–voltage characteristic shifts. One of the critical disadvantages of GaN–high electron mobility transistors (HEMTs) is their lack of UIS withstand capability, primarily because there is no mechanism for removing holes generated by avalanche breakdown. The device failure is observed at the drain voltage peak in the single UIS, and sudden and random breaks are observed in the burst UIS even with the same overvoltage stress. Both hole and electron traps after the burst UIS are observed, and the failure position is at the chip edge. From these results, it is verified that cascode GaN–FETs are broken due to time‐dependent dielectric breakdown of passivation films.
Exploring the Photocatalytic and Supercapacitive Potential of CuZr2S4 Thin Films: A Key to Cleaner and Safer Environments
Authors: Gul Mahwash Mahar , Ahmad Khuram Shahzad , Thomas Andrew Guy , Habila Mohamed A.
Published: January 2024

In this research, an extensive exploration of bimetallic sulfide, CuZr2S4, is delved into. It involves the utilization of diethyldithiocarbamate as a sulfur source. The resulting thin film exhibits a well‐defined crystalline structure, characterized by an average crystallite size of 33 nm, indicating a commendable crystallinity of 87%. Bandgap energy through optical characterization is unveiled to be 2.5 eV, shedding light on the metal sulfide optical behavior. Furthermore, the elemental composition and chemical bonding of the thin film are elucidated using X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, revealing distinctive core‐level peaks associated with Cu 2p, Zr 3d, and S 2p. Electrochemical evaluations employing voltammetry measurements showcase remarkable specific capacitive performance, achieving an impressive value of 479 Fg−1. The thin film demonstrates exceptional stability over multiple cycles, underscoring its immense potential for diverse energy‐storage applications. A thorough assessment of the synthesized material's photocatalytic capabilities, namely its ability to degrade several types of environmental contaminants, is conducted.
QUICK3$^3$ ‐ Design of a Satellite‐Based Quantum Light Source for Quantum Communication and Extended Physical Theory Tests in Space
Authors: Ahmadi Najme , Schwertfeger Sven , Werner Philipp , Wiese Lukas , Lester Joseph , Da Ros Elisa , Krause Josefine , Ritter Sebastian , Abasifard Mostafa , Cholsuk Chanaprom , Krämer Ria G. , Atzeni Simone , Gündoğan Mustafa , Sachidananda Subash , Pardo Daniel , Nolte Stefan , Lohrmann Alexander , Ling Alexander , Bartholomäus Julian , Corrielli Giacomo , Krutzik Markus , Vogl Tobias
Published: January 2024

Modern quantum technologies have matured such that they can now be used in space applications, e.g., long‐distance quantum communication. Here, the design of a compact true single photon source is presented that can enhance the secure data rates in satellite‐based quantum key distribution scenarios compared to conventional laser‐based light sources. The quantum light source is a fluorescent color center in hexagonal boron nitride. The emitter is off‐resonantly excited by a diode laser and directly coupled to an integrated photonic processor that routes the photons to different experiments performed directly on‐chip: i) the characterization of the single photon source and ii) testing a fundamental postulate of quantum mechanics, namely the relation of the probability density and the wave function (known as Born's rule). The described payload is currently being integrated into a 3U CubeSat and scheduled to launch in 2024 into low Earth orbit. Therefore the feasibility of true single photon sources and reconfigurable photonic circuits in space can be evaluated. This provides a promising route toward a high‐speed quantum network.
Delay‐difference approximations of PD‐controllers. Improperly‐posed systems in multiple delays case
Authors: Méndez‐Barrios César‐Fernando , Torres‐García Juan‐Diego , Niculescu Silviu‐Iulian
Published: January 2024

In this paper, we study the behavior of characteristic roots of a class of strictly proper LTI SISO systems that are subject to a PD controller for which the derivative action has been implemented by means of a delay‐difference approximation scheme that uses multiple delays. To such an end, the improperly‐posed case is discussed in depth, that is, the situations where “small delays” induce instability in the closed‐loop system. The effect of adding more delays on the improperly‐posed case is analyzed and a methodology for determining the set of parameters that produces such a situation for a given number of delays is derived. Some illustrative examples complete the presentation.
Sustained Release‐Driven Interface Engineering Enables Fast Charging Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: You Yu , Duan Haofan , Tan Hongming , Huang Qiao , Li Qingyu , Wang Xianyou , Huang Jianyu , Xu Guobao , Wang Gang
Published: January 2024

LiNO3 has attracted intensive attention as a promising electrolyte additive to regulate Li deposition behavior as it can form favorable Li3N, LiNxOy species to improve the interfacial stability. However, the inferior solubility in carbonate‐based electrolyte restricts its application in high‐voltage Li metal batteries. Herein, an artificial composite layer (referred to as PML) composed of LiNO3 and PMMA is rationally designed on Li surface. The PML layer serves as a reservoir for LiNO3 release gradually to the electrolyte during cycling, guaranteeing the stability of SEI layer for uniform Li deposition. The PMMA matrix not only links the nitrogen‐containing species for uniform ionic conductivity but also can be coordinated with Li for rapid Li ions migration, resulting in homogenous Li‐ion flux and dendrite‐free morphology. As a result, stable and dendrite‐free plating/stripping behaviors of Li metal anodes are achieved even at an ultrahigh current density of 20 mA cm−2 (>570 h) and large areal capacity of 10 mAh cm−2 (>1200 h). Moreover, the Li||LiFePO4 full cell using PML‐Li anode undergoes stable cycling for 2000 cycles with high‐capacity retention of 94.8%. This facile strategy will widen the potential application of LiNO3 in carbonate‐based electrolyte for practical LMBs.
Use of biokaolinite clay for the microbial removal of phenol from real industrial wastewater samples by Dermacoccus nishinomiyaensis and Kocuria rosea
Authors: Hassouna Mohamed El‐Kassem M. , Abdel‐Tawab Marzooka Shaban , Abdel‐Aleem Adel Ahmed Mohamed
Published: January 2024

Phenol bioremediation was investigated using two bacteria (primarily cocci) Dermacoccus nishinomiyaensis, Kocuria rosea strains and the one actinomycetes Nocardiopsis lucentensis which were isolated from samples of activated sludge from the wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) in Beni‐Suef, Egypt as sole carbon and energy sources. This was applied on real industrial wastewater sample taken from Ul HAWA textile plant, Middle Egypt. Degradation of phenol by microbes adsorbed on natural kaolin clay was studied compared with free microbes. In case of 50 mg/L as starting phenol concentration, the percentage removal using free microbes was 68%, corresponding to 98% in case of microbes adsorbed on kaolin clay after the passage of 48 h under incubation at 30°C and neutral pH at 150 rpm. Also, 300 mg/L of phenol achieved degradation frequency of 80% compared to 38% after ≈48 h without clay addition. High concentrations of an organic pollutant are usually inhibitory for the microorganisms. Kaolin clay has a pronounced effect in accelerating phenol degradation through biofilm formation resulting in decreasing the degradation time, increasing the percentage of removing efficiency under high phenol concentration conditions due to its buffering effects on pH fluctuations of the degradation system. Kaolin clay protects microorganisms against unfavorable environment, resists the adverse effects of substrate inhibition and accelerates the degradation process. The adsorption process was demonstrated by the pseudo‐first‐order, pseudo‐second‐order, Weber–Morris adsorption kinetic models, and four isotherm models namely, Langmuir, Freundlich, Temkin, and Dubinin–Radushkevich have been applied to express the adsorption process. The SEM images of microbes adsorbed on kaolin clay explain their adsorption mode on the clay surface as biofilm (Bio kaolinite).
The IBE Axiom: “Rising from the Individual to the Universal”
Authors: Hofstetter Rita , Schneuwly Bernard
Published: January 2024

As seen in preceding chapters, the links to the educational reformist movements became less official and more blurred. The IBE’s leaders however were neither disowning their educational orientations nor abandoning their pacifist mission. The IBE was oriented towards guaranteeing access to education for all, and developing the knowledge and methods that could be universalised to achieve this. This was underpinned by a powerful psychological theory with a universal aim and rooted in nature that must be respected to enable the child to overcome egocentrism to attain the universal. But contrary to some UNESCO wishes, the universal aim was not to establish a world culture but working to reconcile local, national and even patriotic points of view while promoting a global citizenship, and striving against any cultural hegemony.
A Commitment That Was All the More Binding Because It Was Freely Chosen
Authors: Hofstetter Rita , Schneuwly Bernard
Published: January 2024

On the basis of surveys on crucial educational problems, the International Conferences on Public Education drew up recommendations that the participating States voted on. This vote, from the point of view of the leaders of the IBE as shown in the chapter, committed the states. The IBE leaders also responded to critics concerning the official data presented in the reports on the education surveys in claiming that, even if not corresponding completely to reality, producing these data committed the States. And they observed that official data on education are much more contested than data on the economy for instance.
School Subjects in the Service of Peace and the Individual
Authors: Hofstetter Rita , Schneuwly Bernard
Published: January 2024

Chapters 18, 19, 20, 21 and 22 analyse the IBE’s positioning with regard to what it referred to itself as “causes” on its work agenda: five sets of causes are focused on. This chapter focuses on the discussions about what to teach, how to teach it and for what purpose. School subjects were considered as a way of organising content in a complementary way, although a better balance should be developed. Active methods and group work should be privileged and contents defined in line with the child’s development as defined by psychology.
From Educational Justice to Social Justice
Authors: Hofstetter Rita , Schneuwly Bernard
Published: January 2024

The mission that the IBE set itself was to universalise access to schooling. The 1930s exemplify this voluntarist policy of schooling to which the IBE invited governments and their ministerial delegates. Later, it was a question of taking into account and adjusting to conditions and environments, but also of respecting the diversity of aptitudes and interests of each individual, in order to recognise their specific identity. At the turn of the 1940s and 1950s, the key words of social justice and equality of opportunity were used as if they were self-evident. The ideology of merit, which was already very much in evidence in the inter-war period, was sometimes confirmed and sometimes challenged. An insert shows the conferences’ awareness that universal access to education implies material and institutional infrastructures.
During the War, the IBE Prepares the Post-War Period
Authors: Hofstetter Rita , Schneuwly Bernard
Published: January 2024

In the midst of the cataclysm of war, the IBE continued its activities: although the Conferences were suspended between 1940 and 1945, the international surveys, the documentation work, the collection of information, the permanent exhibition and the educational correspondence with countries, even the belligerent ones, continued. Nevertheless, the IBE’s functioning and its priorities were profoundly restructured: its causes now had a humanitarian dimension, with the focus on people in captivity: it organised a Service of Intellectual Assistance to Prisoners of War.
Fine-mapping of a major locus for Fusarium wilt resistance in flax (Linum usitatissimum L.)
Authors: Cloutier S. , Edwards T. , Zheng C. , Booker H. M. , Islam T. , Nabetani K. , Kutcher H. R. , Molina O. , You F. M.
Published: January 2024

Key message

Fine-mapping of a locus on chromosome 1 of flax identified an S-lectin receptor-like kinase (SRLK) as the most likely candidate for a major Fusarium wilt resistance gene.

Fusarium wilt, caused by the soil-borne fungal pathogen Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lini, is a devastating disease in flax. Genetic resistance can counteract this disease and limit its spread. To map major genes for Fusarium wilt resistance, a recombinant inbred line population of more than 700 individuals derived from a cross between resistant cultivar ‘Bison’ and susceptible cultivar ‘Novelty’ was phenotyped in Fusarium wilt nurseries at two sites for two and three years, respectively. The population was genotyped with 4487 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers. Twenty-four QTLs were identified with IciMapping, 18 quantitative trait nucleotides with 3VmrMLM and 108 linkage disequilibrium blocks with RTM-GWAS. All models identified a major QTL on chromosome 1 that explained 20–48% of the genetic variance for Fusarium wilt resistance. The locus was estimated to span ~ 867 Kb but included a ~ 400 Kb unresolved region. Whole-genome sequencing of ‘CDC Bethune’, ‘Bison’ and ‘Novelty’ produced ~ 450 Kb continuous sequences of the locus. Annotation revealed 110 genes, of which six were considered candidate genes. Fine-mapping with 12 SNPs and 15 Kompetitive allele-specific PCR (KASP) markers narrowed down the interval to ~ 69 Kb, which comprised the candidate genes Lus10025882 and Lus10025891. The latter, a G-type S-lectin receptor-like kinase (SRLK) is the most likely resistance gene because it is the only polymorphic one. In addition, Fusarium wilt resistance genes previously isolated in tomato and Arabidopsis belonged to the SRLK class. The robust KASP markers can be used in marker-assisted breeding to select for this major Fusarium wilt resistance locus.
High pressure raman spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction of K2Ca(CO3)2 bütschliite: multiple pressure-induced phase transitions in a double carbonate
Authors: Zeff G. , Kalkan B. , Armstrong K. , Kunz M. , Williams Q.
Published: January 2024

The crystal structure and bonding environment of K2Ca(CO3)2 bütschliite were probed under isothermal compression via Raman spectroscopy to 95 GPa and single crystal and powder X-ray diffraction to 12 and 68 GPa, respectively. A second order Birch-Murnaghan equation of state fit to the X-ray data yields a bulk modulus, $${K}_{0}=46.9$$

K
0

=
46.9

GPa with an imposed value of $${K}_{0}^{\prime}= 4$$

K

0

′

=
4

for the ambient pressure phase. Compression of bütschliite is highly anisotropic, with contraction along the c-axis accounting for most of the volume change. Bütschliite undergoes a phase transition to a monoclinic C2/m structure at around 6 GPa, mirroring polymorphism within isostructural borates. A fit to the compression data of the monoclinic phase yields $${V}_{0}=322.2$$

V
0

=
322.2

 Å3$$,$$
,
$${K}_{0}=24.8$$

K
0

=
24.8

GPa and $${K}_{0}^{\prime}=4.0$$

K

0

′

=
4.0

using a third order fit; the ability to access different compression mechanisms gives rise to a more compressible material than the low-pressure phase. In particular, compression of the C2/m phase involves interlayer displacement and twisting of the [CO3] units, and an increase in coordination number of the K+ ion. Three more phase transitions, at ~ 28, 34, and 37 GPa occur based on the Raman spectra and powder diffraction data: these give rise to new [CO3] bonding environments within the structure.
Three Sliding Probes Placed on Forelimb Skin for Proprioceptive Feedback Differentially yet Complementarily Contribute to Hand Gesture Detection and Object-Size Discrimination
Authors: Devecioğlu İsmail , Karakulak Ertuğrul
Published: January 2024

The purpose was to assess the effectiveness of three sliding tactile probes placed on the forelimb skin to provide proprioceptive feedback for the detection of hand gestures and discrimination of object size. Tactile contactors representing the first three fingers were driven along the proximodistal axis by linear servo motors. Twenty healthy subjects were involved in the gesture detection test, with 10 of them also participating in the object-size discrimination task. Motors were controlled by computer in the first four sessions of the gesture detection experiment, while the fifth session utilized a sensorized glove. Both the volar and dorsal sides of the forearm were examined. In the object-size discrimination experiment, the method was exclusively assessed on the volar surface under four distinct feedback conditions, including all fingers and each finger separately. The psychophysical data were further analyzed using a structural equation model (SEM) to evaluate the specific contributions of each individual contactor. Subjects consistently outperformed the chance level in detecting gestures. Performance improved up to the third session, with better results obtained on the volar side. The performances were similar in the fourth and fifth sessions. The just noticeable difference for achieving a 75% discrimination accuracy was found to be 2.90 mm of movement on the skin. SEM analysis indicated that the contactor for the index finger had the lowest importance in gesture detection, while it played a more significant role in object-size discrimination. However, all fingers were found to be significant predictors of subjects' responses in both experiments, except for the thumb, which was deemed insignificant in object-size discrimination. The study highlights the importance of considering the partial contribution of each degree of freedom in a sensory feedback system, especially concerning the task, when designing such systems.
Multi-decadal coastal change detection using remote sensing: the Mediterranean coast of Egypt between El-Dabaa and Ras El-Hekma
Authors: El-Masry Esraa A. , Magdy Asmaa , El-Gamal Ayman , Mahmoud Baher , El-Sayed Mahmoud Kh.
Published: January 2024

A key source of information for many decision support systems is identifying land use and land cover (LULC) based on remote sensing data. Land conservation, sustainable development, and water resource management all benefit from the knowledge obtained from detecting changes in land use and land cover. The present study aims to investigate the multi-decadal coastal change detection for Ras El-Hekma and El-Dabaa area along the Mediterranean coast of Egypt, a multi-sectoral development area. Besides, the superiority of the area is highly dependent on its proximity to three development projects: the tourism and urban growth pole at Ras El-Hekma, the beachfront Alamain New Mega City, and the Nuclear Power Plant at El Dabaa. This study utilized multi-spectral Landsat satellite images covering 1990, 2010, and 2020 to perceive the post-classification change detection analysis of the land use and land cover changes (LULCC) over 30 years. The results of the supervised classification from 1990 to 2020 showed a 47.33 km2 (4.13%) expansion of the agricultural land area, whereas the bare soil land area shrunk to 73.13 km2 (6.24%). On the other hand, the built-up activities in the area launched in 2010 and escalated to 20.51 km2(1.77%) in 2020. The change in land use reveals the shift in the economic growth pattern in the last decade toward tourism and urban development. Meanwhile, it indicates that no conflict has yet arisen regarding the land use between the expanded socioeconomic main sectors (i.e., agriculture, and tourism). Therefore, the best practices of land use management and active participation of the stakeholders and the local community should be enhanced to achieve sustainability and avoid future conflicts. An area-specific plan including resource conservation measures and the provision of livelihood alternatives should be formulated within the National Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) plan with the participation of the main stakeholders and beneficiaries. The findings of the present work may be considered useful for sustainable management and supportive to the decision-making process for the sustainable development of this area.
Solvent Extraction of PDMS Tubing as a New Method for the Capture of Volatile Organic Compounds from Headspace
Authors: Thomas Gareth , Caulfield John , Nikolaeva-Reynolds Lucia , Birkett Michael A. , Vuts József
Published: January 2024

Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) tubing is increasingly being used to collect volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from static biological headspace. However, analysis of VOCs collected using PDMS tubing often deploys thermal desorption, where samples are considered as ‘one-offs’ and cannot be used in multiple experiments. In this study, we developed a static headspace VOC collection method using PDMS tubing which is solvent-based, meaning that VOC extracts can be used multiple times and can be linked to biological activity. Using a synthetic blend containing a range of known semiochemicals (allyl isothiocyanate, (Z)-3-hexen-1-ol, 1-octen-3-one, nonanal, (E)-anethol, (S)-bornyl acetate, (E)-caryophyllene and pentadecane) with differing chemical and physicochemical properties, VOCs were collected in static headspace by exposure to PDMS tubing with differing doses, sampling times and lengths. In a second experiment, VOCs from oranges were collected using PDMS sampling of static headspace versus dynamic headspace collection. VOCs were eluted with diethyl ether and analysed using gas chromatography – flame ionization detector (GC-FID) and coupled GC – mass spectrometry. GC-FID analysis of collected samples showed that longer PDMS tubes captured significantly greater quantities of compounds than shorter tubes, and that sampling duration significantly altered the recovery of all tested compounds. Moreover, greater quantities of compounds were recovered from closed compared to open systems. Finally, analysis of orange headspace VOCs showed no qualitative differences in VOCs recovered compared to dynamic headspace collections, although quantities sampled using PDMS tubing were lower. In summary, extraction of PDMS tubing with diethyl ether solvent captures VOCs from the headspace of synthetic blends and biological samples, and the resulting extracts can be used for multiple experiments linking VOC content to biological activity.
A Kinetic Finite Volume Discretization of the Multidimensional PIDE Model for Gene Regulatory Networks
Authors: Vághy Mihály A. , Otero-Muras Irene , Pájaro Manuel , Szederkényi Gábor
Published: January 2024

In this paper, a finite volume discretization scheme for partial integro-differential equations (PIDEs) describing the temporal evolution of protein distribution in gene regulatory networks is proposed. It is shown that the obtained set of ODEs can be formally represented as a compartmental kinetic system with a strongly connected reaction graph. This allows the application of the theory of nonnegative and compartmental systems for the qualitative analysis of the approximating dynamics. In this framework, it is straightforward to show the existence, uniqueness and stability of equilibria. Moreover, the computation of the stationary probability distribution can be traced back to the solution of linear equations. The discretization scheme is presented for one and multiple dimensional models separately. Illustrative computational examples show the precision of the approach, and good agreement with previous results in the literature.
Informational Postcards Increase Engagement with Remote Monitoring Among Veterans with Pacemakers and Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillators: a Stepped-Wedge Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: McLaughlin Megan M. , Raitt Merritt H. , Tarasovsky Gary , Whooley Mary A. , Dhruva Sanket S.
Published: January 2024

Background

Remote monitoring (RM) of pacemakers and implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) reduces morbidity and mortality. However, many patients are not adherent to RM.

Objective

To test the effect of informational postcards on RM adherence.

Design/Patients

Stepped-wedge randomized controlled trial among Veterans with pacemakers and ICDs.

Intervention

In wave 1, Veterans who had sent at least 1 transmission within the past 2 years but had become non-adherent were randomly assigned to receive a postcard or no postcard. Those receiving postcards were randomized to 1 of 2 messages: (1) a”warning” postcard describing risks of non-adherence or (2) an “encouraging” postcard describing benefits of adherence. In wave 2, Veterans who had either not received a postcard in wave 1 or had since become non-adherent were mailed a postcard (again, randomized to 1 of 2 messages). Patients who did not send an RM transmission within 1 month were mailed a second, identical postcard.

Main Measures

Transmission within 70 days.

Key Results

Overall, 6351 Veterans were included. In waves 1 and 2, postcards were mailed to 5657 Veterans (2821 “warning” messages and 2836 “encouraging” messages). Wave 1 included 2178 Veterans as controls (i.e., not mailed a postcard), some of whom received a postcard in wave 2 if they remained non-adherent. In wave 2, 3473 postcards were sent. Of the 5657 patients mailed a postcard, 2756 (48.7%) sent an RM transmission within 70 days, compared to 530 (24.3%) of 2178 controls (absolute difference 24.4%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 22.2%, 26.6%). Of those who sent a transmission, 71.8% did so after the first postcard. Transmission rates at 70 days did not significantly differ between “warning” and “encouraging” messages (odds ratio 1.04, 95% CI 0.92, 1.18).

Conclusions

Informational postcards led to a 24.4% absolute increase in adherence at 70 days among Veterans with pacemakers and ICDs who were non-adherent to RM.
Association of Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase rs1801133 Gene Polymorphism with Cancer Risk and Septin 9 Methylation in Patients with Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Huang Yafei , Su Ting , Duan Qiuting , Wei Xiangcong , Fan Xin , Wan Jinxiu , Liu Luping , Dian Ziqin , Zhang Guiqian , Sun Yi , Zhou Tao , Xu Ya
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common malignancies, with a high incidence and mortality worldwide. Methylated Septin 9 (mSEPT9) has been used clinically as an auxiliary tool for CRC screening. The aim of the present study was to investigate the association of the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) rs1801133 polymorphism with the risk of CRC and the methylation status of Septin 9 in CRC.

Methods

Information of 540 patients with a confirmed diagnosis of CRC and with a physical examination were utilized to assess the association of the MTHFR rs1801133 polymorphism with CRC and the methylation of SEPT9. MTHFR rs1801133 polymorphism was genotyped using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The commercial Septin 9 Gene Methylation(mSEPT9) Detection Kit was used for plasma SEPT9 methylation analysis.

Results

Among 540 patients, 61.48% were men and the median age was 54.47 ± 13.14. 65.37% of all colorectal tumors developed in the rectum. 195 patients had negative mSEPT9 methylation, while 345 had positive results. 87 individuals with stage I, 90 with stage II, 287 with stage III, and 76 with stage IV colorectal cancer were included in the sample. The results demonstrated that the positivity rate and degree of methylation of mSEPT9 were remarkably higher in patients with more advanced TNM stages than in those with less advanced stages. The frequencies of the MTHFR rs1801133 CC genotype and allele C carriers in patients with CRC were significantly higher than those in healthy individuals (P = 0.006 and P = 0.001, respectively). The positivity rate of the mSEPT9 assay was significantly higher among the MTHFR rs1801133 TT genotype and allele T carriers than among the CC and allele C carriers respectively. The MTHFR rs1801133 TT genotype and allele T carriers were positively associated with the methylation of SEPT9 (OR = 3.320, 95% CI 1.485–7.424, P = 0.003 and OR = 1.783, 95% CI 1.056–3.010, P = 0.030, respectively).

Conclusion

In conclusion, individuals harboring the MTHFR rs1801133 CC genotype had a higher risk of CRC and the MTHFR rs1801133 TT carriers were more susceptible to Septin 9 gene methylation.
An algorithm for simplified hepatitis C virus treatment with non-specialist care based on nation-wide data from Taiwan
Authors: Yu Ming-Lung , Tai Chi‐Ming , Mo Lein-Ray , Kuo Hsing-Tao , Huang Chung-Feng , Tseng Kuo-Chih , Lo Ching-Chu , Bair Ming-Jong , Wang Szu-Jen , Huang Jee-Fu , Yeh Ming-Lun , Chen Chun-Ting , Tsai Ming-Chang , Huang Chien-Wei , Lee Pei-Lun , Yang Tzeng-Hue , Huang Yi-Hsiang , Chong Lee-Won , Chen Chien-Lin , Yang Chi-Chieh , Hung Chao-Hung , Yang Sheng‐Shun , Cheng Pin-Nan , Hsieh Tsai-Yuan , Hu Jui-Ting , Wu Wen-Chih , Cheng Chien-Yu , Chen Guei-Ying , Zhou Guo-Xiong , Tsai Wei-Lun , Kao Chien-Neng , Lin Chih-Lang , Wang Chia-Chi , Lin Ta-Ya , Lin Chih‐Lin , Su Wei-Wen , Lee Tzong-Hsi , Chang Te-Sheng , Liu Chun-Jen , Dai Chia-Yen , Chen Chi-Yi , Kao Jia-Horng , Lin Han-Chieh , Chuang Wan-Long , Peng Cheng-Yuan
Published: January 2024

Background

Both European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL) and American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases and the Infectious Diseases Society of America (AASLD-IDSA) guidelines recommend simplified hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment with pan-genotypic sofosbuvir/velpatasvir or glecaprevir/pibrentasvir for eligible patients. This observational study used real-world data to assess these regimens’ safety in eligible patients and develop an algorithm to identify patients suitable for simplified treatment by non-specialists.

Methods

7,677 HCV-infected patients from Taiwan Hepatitis C Registry (TACR) who received at least one dose of sofosbuvir/velpatasvir or glecaprevir/pibrentasvir, and fulfilled the EASL/AASLD-IDSA criteria for simplified treatment were analyzed. Multivariate analysis was conducted on patient characteristics and safety data.

Results

Overall, 92.8% (7,128/7,677) of patients achieved sustained virological response and only 1.9% (146/7,677) experienced Grades 2–4 laboratory abnormalities in key liver function parameters (alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and total bilirubin), with only 18 patients (0.23%) experiencing Grades 3–4 abnormalities. Age > 70 years old, presence of hepatocellular carcinoma, total bilirubin > 1.2 mg/dL, estimated glomerular filtration rate < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2, and Fibrosis-4 > 3.25 were associated with higher risks of Grades 2–4 abnormalities. Patients with any of these had an odds of 4.53 times than that of those without in developing Grades 2–4 abnormalities (p < 0.01).

Conclusions

Real-world data from Taiwan confirmed that simplified HCV treatment for eligible patients with pan-genotypic regimens is effective and well tolerated. The TACR algorithm, developed based on this study’s results, can further identify patients who can be safely managed by non-specialist care.

Graphical Abstract
Facets of Trust and Distrust in Collaborative Robots at the Workplace: Towards a Multidimensional and Relational Conceptualisation
Authors: Kopp Tobias
Published: January 2024

The relevance of trust on the road to successful human-robot interaction is widely acknowledged. Thereby, trust is commonly understood as a monolithic concept characterising dyadic relations between a human and a robot. However, this conceptualisation seems oversimplified and neglects the specific interaction context. In a multidisciplinary approach, this conceptual analysis synthesizes sociological notions of trust and distrust, psychological trust models, and ideas of philosophers of technology in order to pave the way for a multidimensional, relational and context-sensitive conceptualisation of human-robot trust and distrust. In this vein, trust is characterised functionally as a mechanism to cope with environmental complexity when dealing with ambiguously perceived hybrid robots such as collaborative robots, which enable human-robot interactions without physical separation in the workplace context. Common definitions of trust in the HRI context emphasise that trust is based on concrete expectations regarding individual goals. Therefore, I propose a three-dimensional notion of trust that binds trust to a reference object and accounts for various coexisting goals at the workplace. Furthermore, the assumption that robots represent trustees in a narrower sense is challenged by unfolding influential relational networks of trust within the organisational context. In terms of practical implications, trust is distinguished from acceptance and actual technology usage, which may be promoted by trust, but are strongly influenced by contextual moderating factors. In addition, theoretical arguments for considering distrust not only as the opposite of trust, but as an alternative and coexisting complexity reduction mechanism are outlined. Finally, the article presents key conclusions and future research avenues.
Application of the quality of recovery-40 questionnaire to evaluate the effectiveness of enhanced recovery after surgery protocols in gastric cancer
Authors: Chen Yeyang , Liu Siyu , Li Bopei , Lin Rujing , Lai Weikun , Liu Dejun , Wang Zhen , Liu Jinlu , Qin Xingan , Wu Xianghua , Li Jiehua , Jia Kui , Chen Junqiang
Published: January 2024

Patient reported outcomes is currently considered to be an important supplement to evaluate the effectiveness of enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) clinical practice. The Quality of Recovery-40 Questionnaire (QoR-40) is one of the most frequently used and validation tool to assess the subjective feelings of quality of life after surgery. The present study aimed to use the QoR-40 to evaluate the effectiveness of ERAS protocols in gastric cancer from the perspective of patient-reported quality of recovery. The study was designed as a prospective, non-randomized clinical trial, conducted in a single center. Patients in our hospital who were scheduled to undergo radical surgery for gastric cancer were divided into ERAS group and control group (Contr group). The QoR-40 were administered one day before surgery (Baseline) and on postoperative day 1, 3, 6, and 30. The difference in QoR-40 scores between the ERAS and Contr groups was compared by repeated-measures ANOVA. A total of 200 patients completed the study, including 100 patients in the ERAS group and 100 patients in the Contr group. The Baseline time point QoR-40 scores of the ERAS and Contr groups were 179.68 ± 14.46 and 180.12 ± 17.12, respectively, and no significant difference was noted between the two groups (p = 0.845). The postoperative QoR-40 score of the ERAS group was significantly higher than that of the Contr group, and the difference was statistically significant (p = 0.006). This study demonstrated that, in terms of patient-reported quality of recovery, the postoperative recovery effect of ERAS protocols in gastric cancer is significantly better than that of the traditional treatment model.