bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Facile Direct C‐H Arylation Polymerization of Conjugated Polymer, PDCBT, for Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Jang Soo‐Young , Kim In‐bok , Kim Yunseul , Lim Dae‐Hee , Kang Hongkyu , Heeney Martin , Kim Dong‐Yu
Published: August 2022

Direct arylation polymerization (DArP) is a synthetic method for conjugated polymers; in DArP, organometallic functionalization steps are omitted and there are no toxic byproducts. As a result, it is considered a more sustainable alternative compared to conventional methods such as Stille polymerization. To explore the possibility of DArP‐based polymers as donor materials in organic solar cells (OSCs), a series of conjugated polymers based on the structure of PDCBT (poly[2,2''''‐bis[[(2‐butyloctyl)oxy]carbonyl][2,2':5',2'':5'',2'''‐quaterthiophene]‐5,5'''‐diyl]) are synthesized using DArP and Stille polymerization. By controlling the monomer concentration and reaction time in DArP, DArP‐5 with the highest Mn (21.9 kDa) can be obtained and its optoelectronic properties, electrochemical properties, and microscopic molecular ordering are comparable to those of Stille‐based PDCBT (Stille‐P). Analysis of the polymer structure indicates no structural defects such as crosslinking from undesired β‐coupling reactions in DArP‐5. Upon blending with the PC71BM acceptor molecule, an increase in the crystallite size of DArP‐5 is also observed. In OSC devices with a polymer:PC71BM bulk‐heterojunction photoactive layer, DArP‐5 demonstrates a comparable power conversion efficiency of 5.8% with that of Stille‐P (5.5%). These results prove that DArP is suitable for synthesizing PDCBT, and DArP‐based PDCBT can be used in OSCs as an alternative of Stille‐based one.
A high‐order and fast scheme with variable time steps for the time‐fractional Black‐Scholes equation
Authors: Song Kerui , Lyu Pin
Published: August 2022

In this paper, a high‐order and fast numerical method is investigated for the time‐fractional Black‐Scholes equation. In order to deal with the typical weak initial singularity of the solution, we construct a finite difference scheme with variable time steps, where the fractional derivative is approximated by the nonuniform Alikhanov formula and the sum‐of‐exponentials (SOE) technique. In the spatial direction, an average approximation with fourth‐order accuracy is employed. The stability and the convergence with second order in time and fourth order in space of the proposed scheme are religiously derived by the energy method. Numerical examples are given to demonstrate the theoretical statement.
LnDOTA‐d8, a versatile chemical‐shift thermometer for 2H solid‐state NMR
Authors: Umegawa Yuichi , Shimonishi Takeshi , Tsuchikawa Hiroshi , Murata Michio
Published: August 2022

2H solid‐state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) is a method for examining the mobility and orientation of molecules in the field of biophysics. In studies on lipid bilayer membranes, 2H NMR is often adopted to detect a phase transition from the gel to the liquid‐crystal phase, which is observed as a change in spectral shape, and to evaluate the ordering of lipid alkyl chains using quadrupole coupling values. Because the mobility of membrane lipids is highly temperature dependent, precise temperature control is a prerequisite for evaluating the physical properties of membranes. Generally, NMR instruments monitor the temperature of the variable temperature (VT) gas. The temperature inside the sample tube and the VT gas match only when the heat generated by the radio frequency (rf) pulse emitted from the coil or magic angle spinning is significantly lower than the cooling capacity of the VT gas. In other words, the sample temperature inside the tube depends on the measurement method. Therefore, in this study, we took advantage of temperature‐dependent changes in the chemical shift of a paramagnetic metal–ligand complex. We designed and synthesized a deuterated ligand complex and evaluated its temperature dependence as a thermometer for 2H solid‐state NMR spectroscopy. We chose Tb, Dy, Ho, and Er as the paramagnetic central metals. We then measured the 2H NMR spectrum of each metal complex and confirmed the 2H chemical shift to be temperature dependent. Furthermore, with the use of the thermometer molecule with Er, we succeeded in accurately evaluating the segmental melting of an alkyl chain in lipid bilayers with 0.1°C accuracy.
Inline dual‐echo T2 quantification in brain using a fast mapping reconstruction technique
Authors: Snyder Jeff , Seres Peter , Stobbe Robert W. , Grenier Justin G. , Smyth Penelope , Blevins Gregg , Wilman Alan H.
Published: August 2022

T2 mapping from 2D proton density and T2–weighted images (PD‐T2) using Bloch equation simulations can be time consuming and introduces a latency between image acquisition and T2 map production. A fast T2 mapping reconstruction method is investigated and compared with a previous modeling approach to reduce computation time and allow inline T2 maps on the MRI console. Brain PD‐T2 images from five multiple sclerosis patients were used to compare T2 map reconstruction times between the new subtraction method and the Euclidean norm minimization technique. Bloch equation simulations were used to create the lookup table for decay curve matching in both cases. Agreement of the two techniques used Bland–Altman analysis for investigating individual subsets of data and all image points in the five volumes (meta‐analysis). The subtraction method resulted in an average reduction of computation time for single slices from 134 s (minimization method) to 0.44 s. Comparing T2 values between the subtraction and minimization methods resulted in a confidence interval ranging from −0.06 to 0.06 ms (95% of values were within ± 0.06 ms between the techniques). Using identical reconstruction code based on the subtraction method, inline T2 maps were produced from PD‐T2 images directly on the scanner console. The excellent agreement between the two methods permits the subtraction technique to be interchanged with the previous method, reducing computation time and allowing inline T2 map reconstruction based on Bloch simulations directly on the scanner.
Site characterization study with microtremor data: A case study at the West Borneo NPP potential site
Authors: Ryanto Theo Alvin , Iswanto Eko Rudi , Sunarko  , Suryanto Slamet , Suntoko Hadi , Yuliastuti  , Susiati Heni
Published: August 2022

A site characterization using a microtremor measurement study was conducted at the West Borneo nuclear power plant (NPP) potential site as a preliminary feasibility study. This study measured the natural resonant frequency of soil and estimated the subsurface VS as prior information for the design planning of an NPP building foundation. The single station microtremor data were processed using the horizontal‐to‐vertical spectral ratio (HVSR) method to obtain the f0 and A0 values, and the array data were processed using the spatial autocorrelation (SPAC) method. The study area was classified based on the f0 and A0 values. Due to the unavailability of borehole data and limited array data, the HVSR curve was used to estimate the VS profile. The HVSR curve VS estimation was calculated using Rayleigh wave ellipticity inversion. The inversion results were constrained by VS profiles from SPAC and regional geology data to ensure that the inverted model was rational. It was demonstrated that the constrained inversion process could generate a rational subsurface model for Pantai Gosong's coastline. Based on the result, the feasible bedrock for the NPP building foundation was found at a depth of 40 m in the coastline area.
The roles of humans and apex predators in sustaining ecosystem structure and function: Contrast, complementarity and coexistence
Authors: Lennox Robert J. , Brownscombe Jacob W. , Darimont Chris , Horodysky Andrij , Levi Taal , Raby Graham D. , Cooke Steven J.
Published: August 2022

In nearly every ecosystem, human predators (hunters and fishers) exploit animals at extraordinarily high rates, as well as target different age classes and phenotypes, compared to other apex predators. Demographically decoupled from prey populations and technologically advanced, humans now impose widespread and significant ecological and evolutionary change.

In this paper, we investigate whether there is evidence that humans provide complementary services and whether ecosystem services of predators can be maintained by humans where wild predators are lost. Our objective is to contribute to two key ecological themes: the compatibility of human harvesting within ecosystems and management approaches in consideration of the intentional or unintentional loss of predators.

We reviewed evidence for five key effects of predators: natural selection of prey, disease dynamics, landscape effects, carbon cycling and human well‐being. Without carefully designed management strategies, such changes can impose harm to ecosystems and their constituents, including humankind.

Ultimately, we applied this information to consider management paradigms in which humans could better support the role of, and potentially behave more like, apex predators and discuss the challenges to such coexistence.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Lack of complete response pretransplant is not associated with inferior overall survival for stage 4a metastatic retinoblastoma
Authors: Farouk Sait Sameer , Bernot Mauricio Rendon , Klein Elizabeth , Abramson David H. , Francis Jasmine H. , Gilheeney Stephen , Karajannis Matthias A. , Spitzer Barbara , Wolden Suzanne , Dunkel Ira J. , Kernan Nancy A.
Published: August 2022

Background

Stage 4a metastatic retinoblastoma (RB) is curable with intensive multimodality therapy including myeloablative chemotherapy with autologous stem cell transplant (HDC‐ASCT) and involved field radiation therapy (IFRT). To our knowledge, no data exist on the impact of (a) pre‐ASCT disease status, and (b) IFRT to sites of metastatic disease post ASCT on survival.

Procedure

We retrospectively reviewed patients with stage 4a metastatic RB who underwent induction chemotherapy followed by HDC‐ASCT, with or without IFRT, to residual tumor sites at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC) (n = 24).

Results

The degree of postinduction response prior to ASCT did not affect outcome, with 5‐year overall survival (OS) of 68% and 86% in patients who achieved complete response (CR) and very good partial response (VGPR)/partial response (PR) prior to ASCT, respectively. IFRT administered post ASCT in patients with possible residual bony metastatic disease increases the likelihood of developing osteosarcoma in the radiation field.

Conclusion

OS for patients with stage 4a metastatic RB treated with ASCT with VGPR or PR to pretransplant chemotherapy was not significantly different from patients with CR. In addition, IFRT does not seem to be required for bony disease control and increased the likelihood of developing osteosarcoma.
Preparation and characterization of opuntia‐cladode fiber and citron peel biochar toughened epoxy biocomposite
Authors: N. Senthil Kannan , Nagabhooshanam N. , Kumar Anil , V. Rao Pothamsetty Kasi , Patil Pravin P. , Kala Bharathi B. V. V. L.
Published: August 2022

In this research, citron peel biochar and opuntia‐cladode fibers (OCF) reinforced epoxy composites were fabricated and characterized for mechanical, wear, and electrical properties. The biochar was prepared from the waste peels of citron edible fruit whereas the opuntia fiber was from the cladode of the opuntia plant. The laminates were fabricated by hand layup process and evaluated in accordance with the ASTM standards. The results revealed that the mechanical properties such as tensile strength, flexural strength, impact toughness, hardness and adhesion strength were increased by 36.2%, 30.6%, 91.3%, 1.1%, and 5.3% for composite designation EC containing 30 vol% of OCF. Similarly, the addition of citron biochar of 2 vol% increased the load bearing and dielectric properties. However, the inclusion of 30 vol% of OCF on composite designation EC the sp. wear rate recorded 0.018 mm3/Nm. Similarly, the lowest coefficient of friction and sp. wear rate is observed to be 0.42 and 0.008 mm3/Nm for the composite with 2.0 vol% biochar. The ECO4 composite designation represented a maximum dielectric constant and dielectric loss of about 7.4 and 1.1, respectively. The SEM fractography demonstrates that the silane‐treatment strengthened the fiber‐matrix interface and improved the interlocking mechanism. Such mechanically robust, wear‐resistant improved and electrically conductive composites could be utilized in applications such as industrial sectors, spacecraft, automobile parts, packaging industries, and electrical appliances.
Bayesian and non‐Bayesian inference of Weibull lifetime model based on partially observed competing risks data under unified hybrid censoring scheme
Authors: Dutta Subhankar , Kayal Suchandan
Published: August 2022

In this paper, a competing risk model is analyzed based on unified hybrid censoring scheme (UHCS). It is assumed that the latent failure times follow Weibull distributions with a common shape and different scale parameters. The maximum likelihood estimates (MLEs) and approximate confidence intervals (ACIs) of the distributional parameters are obtained. Sufficient conditions under which the MLEs exist (uniquely) have been studied. Further, the Bayes estimates are obtained with respect to symmetric and asymmetric loss functions. The non‐informative and informative prior distributions are considered for computing the approximate Bayes estimates. Furthermore, the highest posterior density (HPD) credible intervals have been obtained by using Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) method with the Gibbs sampling technique. The coverage probabilities for each confidence interval are computed. Then, hypothesis testing has been implemented using likelihood ratio statistic. A Monte Carlo simulation study is carried out to compare the performance of the proposed estimates. Finally, two real data sets are provided to illustrate the estimates.
Plug‐and‐Play Single‐Photon Devices with Efficient Fiber‐Quantum Dot Interface
Authors: Jeon Woong Bae , Moon Jong Sung , Kim Kyu‐Young , Ko Young‐Ho , Richardson Christopher J. K. , Waks Edo , Kim Je‐Hyung
Published: August 2022

Incorporating solid‐state quantum emitters into optical fiber networks enables the long‐distance transmission of quantum information and the remote connection of distributed quantum nodes. However, interfacing quantum emitters with fiber optics encounters several challenges, including low coupling efficiency and delicate configuration. In this study, a highly efficient fiber‐interfacing photonic device that directly launches single photons from quantum dots into a standard FC/PC‐connectorized single‐mode fiber is demonstrated. Optimally designed photonic structures based on hole gratings produce an ultra‐narrow directional beam that matches the small numerical aperture of a single‐mode fiber. A pick‐and‐place technique precisely integrates a single miniaturized device into the core of the fiber. This approach realizes a plug‐and‐play single‐photon device that does not require optical alignment and thus guarantees long‐term stability. The results represent a major step toward practical and reliable transmission of quantum light across a fiber network.
Machine Learning Experimental Multipartite Entanglement Structure
Authors: Tian Yu , Che Liangyu , Long Xinyue , Ren Changliang , Lu Dawei
Published: August 2022

With the rapid growth of controllable qubits in recent years, experimental multipartite entangled states can be created with high fidelity in various moderate‐ and large‐scale physical systems. However, the characterization of multipartite entanglement structure remains a formidable challenge, as traditionally it requires exponential number of local measurements to realize the identification. Machine learning is demonstrated to be an efficient tool to detect the underlying entanglement structure for ideal states, but it has non‐negligible underperformance when tackling imperfect experimental data in reality. Here, a modified classifier based on feed‐forward neural network to predict experimental entanglement structure in terms of entanglement intactness and depth is proposed. By preprocessing the input data, the classifier maintains efficiency and reliability against experimental noises, with the accuracy being enhanced from 69.7% to 91.2% for 6‐qubit entangled states in spin systems. This method is anticipated to shed light on future studies of entanglement structure, in particular when the number of controlled qubits reaches explosive growth in practice.
Is Ocean Acidification Really a Threat to Marine Calcifiers? A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis of 980+ Studies Spanning Two Decades
Authors: Leung Jonathan Y. S. , Zhang Sam , Connell Sean D.
Published: August 2022

Ocean acidification is considered detrimental to marine calcifiers, but mounting contradictory evidence suggests a need to revisit this concept. This systematic review and meta‐analysis aim to critically re‐evaluate the prevailing paradigm of negative effects of ocean acidification on calcifiers. Based on 5153 observations from 985 studies, many calcifiers (e.g., echinoderms, crustaceans, and cephalopods) are found to be tolerant to near‐future ocean acidification (pH ≈ 7.8 by the year 2100), but coccolithophores, calcifying algae, and corals appear to be sensitive. Calcifiers are generally more sensitive at the larval stage than adult stage. Over 70% of the observations in growth and calcification are non‐negative, implying the acclimation capacity of many calcifiers to ocean acidification. This capacity can be mediated by phenotypic plasticity (e.g., physiological, mineralogical, structural, and molecular adjustments), transgenerational plasticity, increased food availability, or species interactions. The results suggest that the impacts of ocean acidification on calcifiers are less deleterious than initially thought as their adaptability has been underestimated. Therefore, in the forthcoming era of ocean acidification research, it is advocated that studying how marine organisms persist is as important as studying how they perish, and that future hypotheses and experimental designs are not constrained within the paradigm of negative effects.
Rechargeable Aqueous Aluminum‐Ion Battery: Progress and Outlook
Authors: Jia Bei‐Er , Thang Ai Qin , Yan Chunshuang , Liu Chuntai , Lv Chade , Zhu Qiang , Xu Jianwei , Chen Jian , Pan Hongge , Yan Qingyu
Published: August 2022

The high cost and scarcity of lithium resources have prompted researchers to seek alternatives to lithium‐ion batteries. Among emerging “Beyond Lithium” batteries, rechargeable aluminum‐ion batteries (AIBs) are yet another attractive electrochemical storage device due to their high specific capacity and the abundance of aluminum. Although the current electrochemical performance of nonaqueous AIBs is better than aqueous AIBs (AAIBs), AAIBs have recently gained attention due to their low cost and enhanced safety. Extensive efforts are devoted to developing AAIBs in the last few years. Yet, it is still challenging to achieve stable electrodes with good electrochemical performance and electrolytes without side reactions. This review summarizes the recent progress in the exploration of anode and cathode materials and the selection of electrolytes of AAIBs. Lastly, the main challenges and future research outlook of high‐performance AAIBs are also presented.
Mesoporous LDH Metastructure from Multiscale Assembly of Defective Nanodomains by Laser Shock for Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Yi Wendi , Jiang Haoqing , Cheng Gary J.
Published: August 2022

Laser is a powerful tool for the synthesis of nanomaterials. The intensive laser pulses delivered to materials within nanoseconds allow the formation of novel structures that are inaccessible for conventional methods. Layered double hydroxide (LDH) nanostructures with high porosity, suitable dopants, and rich defects are desirable for catalysts, however, tremendously difficult in a one‐pot synthesis. Here it is found that confined laser shock in solvent leads to the formation of nanoreactors which guide the assembly of multiscale LDH building units, larger nanosheets as frame and smaller nanodomains as building blocks. These nanodomains have rich vacancy defects and are interlocked in a high packed density of 1013 cm−2, leaving rich mesopores across the nanosheets and coral‐like morphology. Like the natural coral reef that has multiscale structure to accommodate different marine organisms, the coral‐like LDH metastructure provides large surface area and rich active sites for the interaction with guest molecules. Benefiting from the multiscale porous structure and rational dopant, this LDH catalyst exhibits a low overpotential of 220 mV at 10 mA cm−2 for oxygen evolution reaction (OER), standing as one of the best LDH catalysts to date.
Linker Engineering of Ligand‐Decorated DNA Origami Nanostructures Affects Biological Activity
Authors: Domínguez Carmen M. , García‐Chamé Miguel , Müller Ulrike , Kraus Andreas , Gordiyenko Klavdiya , Itani Ahmad , Haschke Heiko , Lanzerstorfer Peter , Rabe Kersten S. , Niemeyer Christof M.
Published: August 2022

News from an old acquaintance: The streptavidin (STV)‐biotin binding system is frequently used for the decoration of DNA origami nanostructures (DON) to study biological systems. Here, a surprisingly high dynamic of the STV/DON interaction is reported, which is affected by the structure of the DNA linker system. Analysis of different mono‐ or bi‐dentate linker architectures on DON with a novel high‐speed atomic force microscope (HS‐AFM) enabling acquisition times as short as 50 ms per frame gave detailed insights into the dynamics of the DON/STV interaction, revealing dwell times in the sub‐100 millisecond range. The linker systems are also used to present biotinylated epidermal growth factor on DON to study the activation of the epidermal growth factor receptor signaling cascade in HeLa cells. The studies confirm that cellular activation correlated with the binding properties of linker‐specific STV/DON interactions observed by HS‐AFM. This work sheds more light on the commonly used STV/DON system and will help to further standardize the use of DNA nanostructures for the study of biological processes.
Light‐Driven Reversible Hydrogen Storage in Light‐Weight Metal Hydrides Enabled by Photothermal Effect
Authors: Sun Yahui , Zhang Xiaoyue , Chen Wei , Ye Jikai , Ju Shunlong , Aguey‐Zinsou Kondo‐Francois , Xia Guanglin , Sun Dalin , Yu Xuebin
Published: August 2022

Requiring high temperature for hydrogen storage is the main feature impeding practical application of light metal hydrides. Herein, to lift the restrictions associated with traditional electric heating, light is used as an alternative energy input, and a light‐mediated catalytic strategy coupling photothermal and catalytic effects is proposed. With NaAlH4 as the initial target material, TiO2 nanoparticles uniformly distribute on carbon nanosheets (TiO2@C), which couples the catalytic effect of TiO2 and photothermal property of C, is constructed to drive reversible hydrogen storage in NaAlH4 under light irradiation. Under the catalysis of TiO2@C, complete hydrogen release from NaAlH4 is achieved within 7 min under a light intensity of 10 sun. Furthermore, owing to the stable catalytic and photothermal effect of TiO2@C, NaAlH4 delivers a reversible capacity of 4 wt% after 10 cycles with a capacity retention of 85% under light irradiation only. The proposed strategy is also applicable to other light metal hydrides such as LiAlH4 and MgH2, validating its universality. The concept of light‐driven hydrogen storage provides an alternative approach to electric heating, and the light‐mediated catalytic strategy proposed herein paves the way to the design of reversible high‐density hydrogen storage systems that do not rely on artificial energy.
Silicate‐Mediated Electrolytic Silicon Nanotube from Silica in Molten Salts
Authors: Jing Shuangxi , Xiao Juanxiu , Shen Yijun , Hong Biao , Gu Dong , Xiao Wei
Published: August 2022

Electrochemical preparation/processing of functional silicon from abundant silica is an ideal protocol to promote sustainability of energy sectors. Such an imperative task is challenged by poor electrical conductivity of Si/SiO2 and inadequate mass diffusion of bulk silicon. Herein, a template‐free and one‐step preparation of silicon nanotubes (Si‐NT) from electrochemical reduction of silica in molten salts is reported. An in situ oriented growth of silicate nanorods (NRs) from silica is clarified as the key step to direct a self‐template evolution of Si‐NT from silica. The silicate‐mediated construction of Si‐based NT is versatile and successfully extended to prepare Si‐NT/graphite and TixSiy‐NT. Benefitting from fast longitudinal motorways for fast transport of electrons and ions along/inside NTs, an energy consumption 30% lower than industrial silicon production is achieved. When evaluated as anode of lithium ion battery, the Si‐NT‐based electrodes show outstanding initial Coulombic efficiency and high reversible capacity. The silicate‐mediated construction of Si‐based NT integrates straightforward preparation and intriguing functionality of Si‐based materials, bridging a closed‐loop Si‐based energy infrastructure.
High‐Performance Nonfused Ring Electron Acceptors with V‐Shaped Side Chains
Authors: Li Jingyi , Zhang Zhenyu , Ran Guangliu , Xu Xiaoyun , Zhang Cai'e , Liu Wenlong , Zheng Xinming , Li Dawei , Xu Xinjun , Liu Yahui , Tang Zheng , Zhang Wenkai , Bo Zhishan
Published: August 2022

Motivated by simplifying the synthesis of nonfullerene acceptor and establishing the relation between molecular structure and photovoltaic performance, two isomeric nonfused ring electron acceptors (o‐TT‐Cl and m‐TT‐Cl), whose properties can be adjusted by changing the side chains, are designed and synthesized with several high‐yield steps. o‐TT‐Cl with V‐shaped side chain induces a dominated J‐aggregation and displays much better solubility and more ordered packing than m‐TT‐Cl with linear side chain. Thus, the o‐TT‐Cl‐based blend film generates better phase morphology and charge transport than m‐TT‐Cl‐based one. Finally, the power conversion efficiency of o‐TT‐Cl‐based devices is 12.84%, which is much higher than that of m‐TT‐Cl‐based ones (6.54%). This work highlights the importance of side chains engineering on improving photovoltaic performance of nonfused ring electron acceptors.
Ethanol‐Induced Hydrogen Insertion in Ultrafine IrPdH Boosts pH‐Universal Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Wang Dayu , Jiang Xian , Lin Zijing , Zeng Xin , Zhu Yinyan , Wang Yongchao , Gong Mingxing , Tang Yawen , Fu Gengtao
Published: August 2022

Engineering Pt‐free catalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) with high activity and stability is of great significance in electrochemical hydrogen production. Herein, in situ chemical H intercalation into ultrafine Pd to activate this otherwise HER‐inferior material to form the ultrafine IrPdH hydride as an efficient and stable HER electrocatalyst is proposed. The formation of PdIrH depends on a new hydrogenation strategy via using ethanol as the hydrogen resource. It is demonstrated that H atoms in IrPdH originate from the OH and CH2 of ethanol, which fills the gap of ethanol as the hydrogen source for the preparation of Pd hydride. Thanks to the incorporation of H/Ir atoms and ultrafine structure, the IrPdH exhibits superior HER activity and stability in the whole pH range. The IrPdH delivers very low overpotentials of 14, 25 and 60 mV at a current density of 10 mA cm–2 respectively in 0.5 m H2SO4, 1 m KOH, and 1 m PBS electrolytes, which are much better than those of commercial Pt/C and most reported noble metal electrocatalysts. Theoretical calculations confirm that interstitial hydrogen availably refines the electronic density of Pd and Ir sites, which optimizes the adsorption of *H and leads to the significant enhancement of HER performance.
Incorporating various perspectives in using instant messages in teaching programming: A critical system thinking perspective
Authors: Manduna Watson , Goede Roelien , Drevin Lynette
Published: August 2022

In this paper, the application of instant messaging (IM) in programming training is argued to be possible and inevitable, especially in the high schools/colleges of poor communities. However, challenges in its application were noted. These challenges of utilising IM and the reluctance of the students in applying it in their programming training acted as a motivation for the study. Our aim is to use IM for a different purpose than its original intention. Critical systems heuristics was used as a multi‐methodological framework for the incorporation of various conditioned realities, where the technological pedagogical content knowledge framework was applied to incorporate the applicable technological, pedagogical, content areas. The guidelines were enhanced from knowledge gained from an action research project with trainee teachers. This iterative process demonstrates the incorporation of both theoretical and empirical context‐based perspectives into the understanding and addressing of a problem environment.
Development of Survey Methods to Effectively Sample Juvenile Red Snapper along the Atlantic Coast of Florida
Authors: Brodie Russell B. , Solomon Justin J. , Paperno Richard , Switzer Theodore S. , Swanson Christopher E.
Published: August 2022

Understanding of the early life history of Red Snapper Lutjanus campechanus throughout the U.S. Atlantic Ocean (hereafter, “Atlantic”) is limited, in part, due to the paucity of juveniles (<150 mm TL) collected in long‐term fishery‐independent surveys in the region. This is in sharp contrast to the Gulf of Mexico (hereafter, “Gulf”), where juvenile Red Snapper have been consistently collected in surveys. This apparent regional disparity is poorly understood. Red Snapper nursery habitats may differ between the Atlantic and the Gulf, previous Atlantic surveys may not have included important nursery habitat, or sampling gear used in the Atlantic may not be effective at collecting juveniles. A 2‐year fishery‐independent study was conducted along the Atlantic coast of Florida to test whether juvenile Red Snapper could be effectively sampled with two types of gear not commonly used there: a semi‐balloon trawl like those used in long‐term groundfish surveys in the Gulf and small‐mesh Z‐traps. In total, 194 Red Snapper were collected in the trawl samples and 202 Red Snapper were collected in the Z‐trap samples—mostly juveniles (age 0 and age 1) captured in nearshore waters (<30 m deep). Like the Gulf, shallow coastal waters in the Atlantic likely function as nursery habitat for Red Snapper. Primarily small age‐0 Red Snapper were collected during trawl sampling, which targeted unconsolidated nonreef habitats, whereas larger age‐0 and age‐1 and older Red Snapper were collected during trap sampling, which targeted hard‐bottom reef habitats. Although this study represents the most successful sampling of juvenile Red Snapper in the Atlantic to date, further research is required to delineate the northern and southern extents of Red Snapper nursery grounds. Nevertheless, our results provide a framework for developing a fishery‐independent survey that targets juvenile Red Snapper in the Atlantic to provide valuable data for quantifying recruitment and monitoring the status and recovery of this economically important species.
Holomorphic Family of Dirac–Coulomb Hamiltonians in Arbitrary Dimension
Authors: Dereziński Jan , Ruba Błażej
Published: August 2022

We study massless one-dimensional Dirac–Coulomb Hamiltonians, that is, operators on the half-line of the form $$D_{\omega ,\lambda }:=\begin{bmatrix} -\frac{\lambda +\omega }{x} &{} - \partial _x \\ \partial _x &{} -\frac{\lambda -\omega }{x} \end{bmatrix}$$

D

ω
,
λ

:
=

-

λ
+
ω

x

-

∂
x

∂
x

-

λ
-
ω

x

. We describe their closed realizations in the sense of the Hilbert space $$L^2(\mathbb {R}_+,\mathbb {C}^2)$$

L
2

(

R
+

,

C

2

)

, allowing for complex values of the parameters $$\lambda ,\omega $$

λ
,
ω

. In physical situations, $$\lambda $$
λ
is proportional to the electric charge and $$\omega $$
ω
is related to the angular momentum. We focus on realizations of $$D_{\omega ,\lambda }$$

D

ω
,
λ

homogeneous of degree $$-1$$

-
1

. They can be organized in a single holomorphic family of closed operators parametrized by a certain two-dimensional complex manifold. We describe the spectrum and the numerical range of these realizations. We give an explicit formula for the integral kernel of their resolvent in terms of Whittaker functions. We also describe their stationary scattering theory, providing formulas for a natural pair of diagonalizing operators and for the scattering operator. We describe the point spectrum of their nonhomogeneous realizations. It is well-known that $$D_{\omega ,\lambda }$$

D

ω
,
λ

arise after separation of variables of the Dirac–Coulomb operator in dimension 3. We give a simple argument why this is still true in any dimension. Furthermore, we explain the relationship of spherically symmetric Dirac operators with the Dirac operator on the sphere and its eigenproblem. Our work is mainly motivated by a large literature devoted to distinguished self-adjoint realizations of Dirac–Coulomb Hamiltonians. We show that these realizations arise naturally if the holomorphy is taken as the guiding principle. Furthermore, they are infrared attractive fixed points of the scaling action. Beside applications in relativistic quantum mechanics, Dirac–Coulomb Hamiltonians are argued to provide a natural setting for the study of Whittaker (or, equivalently, confluent hypergeometric) functions.
The Exceptional Tits Quadrangles Revisited
Authors: Mühlherr Bernhard , Weiss Richard M.
Published: August 2022

Tits polygons are generalizations of Moufang polygons in which the neighborhood of each vertex is endowed with an “opposition relation.” There is a standard construction that produces a Tits polygon from an arbitrary irreducible spherical building of rank at least 3 when paired with a suitable Tits index. In this note, we complete the proof of a characterization of the Tits quadrangles that arise in this way from the spherical building associated to an exceptional algebraic group.
A pilot study to evaluate changes in pelvic floor muscle tone following pelvic organ prolapse surgery using a novel intra-vaginal pressure sensor device
Authors: McConnell James , Murtagh Lynsey , Lim Molly , Pedofsky Laura , Kruger Jennifer , Budgett David , Jha Swati
Published: August 2022

Introduction and hypothesis

Pelvic floor muscle weakness is a common cause of pelvic organ prolapse and urinary incontinence. Surgical repair of prolapse is commonly undertaken; however, the impact on pelvic floor muscle tone is unknown. The aim of this study was to compare the effect of anterior and posterior colporrhaphy on pelvic floor activation.

Methods

Patients aged under 70 undergoing primary anterior or posterior colporrhaphy were recruited. Intra-vaginal pressure was measured at rest and during pelvic floor contraction using the Femfit® device (an intra-vaginal pressure sensor device [IVPSD]). Peak pressure and mean pressure over 3 s were measured in millimetres of mercury. The pre- and post-operative measurements were compared. The difference between the means was assessed using Cohen’s D test, with significance set at p<0.05

Results

A total of 37 patients completed pre- and post-operative analysis, 25 in the anterior colporrhaphy group and 12 in the posterior colporrhaphy group. Anterior colporrhaphy showed no significant change in pelvic floor tone. Change in peak pressure was −1.71mmHg (−5.75 to 2.33; p=0.16) and change in mean pressure was −0.86 mmHg (−4.38 to 2.66; p=0.31). Posterior colporrhaphy showed a significant increase in peak pelvic floor muscle tone of 7.2 mmHg (0.82 to 13.58; p=0.005) and mean pressure of 4.19 mmHg (−0.09 to 8.47; p=0.016).

Conclusions

Posterior colporrhaphy significantly improves pelvic floor muscle tone, whereas anterior colporrhaphy does not. Improved understanding of the impact of pelvic floor surgery may guide future management options for other pelvic floor disorders. Further work is needed to confirm the association of this improvement in pelvic floor disorders.
The Watts Connectedness Scale: a new scale for measuring a sense of connectedness to self, others, and world
Authors: Watts Rosalind , Kettner Hannes , Geerts Dana , Gandy Sam , Kartner Laura , Mertens Lea , Timmermann Christopher , Nour Matthew M. , Kaelen Mendel , Nutt David , Carhart-Harris Robin , Roseman Leor
Published: August 2022

Rationale

A general feeling of disconnection has been associated with mental and emotional suffering. Improvements to a sense of connectedness to self, others and the wider world have been reported by participants in clinical trials of psychedelic therapy. Such accounts have led us to a definition of the psychological construct of ‘connectedness’ as ‘a state of feeling connected to self, others and the wider world’. Existing tools for measuring connectedness have focused on particular aspects of connectedness, such as ‘social connectedness’ or ‘nature connectedness’, which we hypothesise to be different expressions of a common factor of connectedness. Here, we sought to develop a new scale to measure connectedness as a construct with these multiple domains. We hypothesised that (1) our scale would measure three separable subscale factors pertaining to a felt connection to ‘self’, ‘others’ and ‘world’ and (2) improvements in total and subscale WCS scores would correlate with improved mental health outcomes post psychedelic use.

Objectives

To validate and test the ‘Watts Connectedness Scale’ (WCS).

Methods

Psychometric validation of the WCS was carried out using data from three independent studies. Firstly, we pooled data from two prospective observational online survey studies. The WCS was completed before and after a planned psychedelic experience. The total sample of completers from the online surveys wasN = 1226. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis were performed, and construct and criterion validity were tested. A third dataset was derived from a double-blind randomised controlled trial (RCT) comparing psilocybin-assisted therapy (n = 27) with 6 weeks of daily escitalopram (n = 25) for major depressive disorder (MDD), where the WCS was completed at baseline and at a 6-week primary endpoint.

Results

As hypothesised, factor analysis of all WCS items revealed three main factors with good internal consistency. WCS showed good construct validity. Significant post-psychedelic increases were observed for total connectedness scores (η2 = 0.339,p < 0.0001), as well as on each of its subscales (p < 0.0001). Acute measures of ‘mystical experience’, ‘emotional breakthrough’, and ‘communitas’ correlated positively with post-psychedelic changes in connectedness (r = 0.42,r = 0.38,r = 0.42, respectively,p < 0.0001). In the RCT, psilocybin therapy was associated with greater increases in WCS scores compared with the escitalopram arm (ηp2 = 0.133, p = 0.009).

Conclusions

The WCS is a new 3-dimensional index of felt connectedness that may sensitively measure therapeutically relevant psychological changes post-psychedelic use. We believe that the operational definition of connectedness captured by the WCS may have broad relevance in mental health research.
Genetics and epigenetics: paternal adolescent ethanol consumption in serotonin transporter knock-out rats and offspring sensitivity to ethanol
Authors: Hussain Sahir , Lesscher Heidi M. D. , Day Darren J. , Ellenbroek Bart A.
Published: August 2022

Rationale

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is shown to have an overall heritability of around 50%. One of the genes associated with AUD is SLC6A4 (solute carrier family 6 member A4) which codes for the serotonin transporter (SERT). The study looked at serotonin dysfunction on ethanol consumption in adolescents and the subsequent intergenerational effects of drinking by using a rat model: SERT+/+ (regular functioning), SERT+/− (50% transporter reduction) and SERT−/− (complete reduction).

Objectives

We investigated sex and genotype differences in ethanol consumption in SERT knock-out Wistar rats (F0) followed by studying behaviour in the offspring (F1) of the male drinkers to assess effects of paternal alcohol consumption.

Methods

An intermittent access two-bottle choice paradigm (IA2BC) was used to yield ethanol drinking behaviour in F0 adolescent Wistar rats. The highest drinking males were mated to alcohol-naive females and their offspring were compared with controls. Drinking behaviour (IA2BC) and ethanol-induced motor coordination effects (via rotarod) were measured in the F1s.

Results

F0 drinking saw no SERT genotype differences in males. However, females consumed higher volumes of ethanol compared to males, with SERT−/− females showing the highest intake. A clearer genotype effect was seen in the F1 animals, with reduction in SERT activity leading to enhanced ethanol intake in both sexes. Importantly, paternal exposure to ethanol significantly reduced the ethanol induced motor side effects in offspring, independent of sex and genotype.

Conclusions

These indicate a difference in the way genetic factors may act across sexes and suggest the involvement of epigenetic mechanisms in the intergenerational effects of alcohol.
SIRT in 2025
Authors: Ponziani Francesca Romana , Santopaolo Francesco , Posa Alessandro , Pompili Maurizio , Tanzilli Alessandro , Maestri Marta , Pallozzi Maria , Ibba Francesca , Manfredi Riccardo , Gasbarrini Antonio , Iezzi Roberto
Published: August 2022

Selective internal radiation therapy represents an endovascular treatment option for patients with primary liver malignancies, in different clinical stages. Potential applications of this treatment are in early-stage hepatocellular carcinoma, as a curative option, or in combination with systemic treatments in intermediate and advanced-stages. This review, based on existing literature and ongoing trials, will focus on the future of this treatment in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma, in combination with systemic treatments, or with the use of new devices and technological developments; it will also describe new potential future indications and structural and organizational perspectives.
External validation of two mpMRI-risk calculators predicting risk of prostate cancer before biopsy
Authors: Pallauf Maximilian , Steinkohl Fabian , Zimmermann Georg , Horetzky Maximilian , Rajwa Pawel , Pradere Benjamin , Lindner Andrea Katharina , Pichler Renate , Kunit Thomas , Shariat Shahrokh F. , Lusuardi Lukas , Drerup Martin
Published: August 2022

Purpose

Risk calculators (RC) aim to improve prebiopsy risk stratification. Their latest versions now include multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) findings. For their implementation into clinical practice, critical external validations are needed.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the patient data of 554 men who underwent ultrasound-guided targeted and systematic prostate biopsies at 2 centers. We validated the mpMRI-RCs of Radtke et al. (RC-R) and Alberts et al. (RC-A), previously shown to predict prostate cancer (PCa) and clinically significant PCa (csPCa). We assessed these RCs’ prediction accuracy by analyzing the receiver-operating characteristics (ROC) curve and evaluated their clinical utility using Decision Curve Analysis (DCA), including Net-Benefit and Net-Reduction curves.

Results

We found that the Area Under the ROC Curve (AUC) for predicting PCa was 0.681 [confidence interval (CI) 95% 0.635–0.727] for RC-A. The AUCs for predicting csPCa were 0.635 (CI 95% 0.583–0.686) for RC-A and 0.676 (CI 95% 0.627–0.725) for RC-R. For example, at a risk threshold of 12%, RC-A needs to assess 334 and RC-R 500 patients to detect one additional true positive PCa or csPCa patient, respectively. At the same risk threshold of 12%, RC-A only needs to assess 6 and RC-R 16 patients to detect one additional true negative PCa or csPCa patient.

Conclusion

The mpMRI-RCs, RC-R and RC-A, are robust and valuable tools for patient counseling. Although they do not improve PCa and csPCa detection rates by a clinically meaningful margin, they aid in avoiding unnecessary prostate biopsies. Their implementation could reduce overdiagnosis and reduce PCa screening morbidity.
Anatomist Hermann Stieve used Nazi victims for his research on the menstrual cycle, but did he also fabricate facts?
Authors: Winkelmann Andreas , Freiberger Isabel
Published: August 2022

Purpose

Hermann Stieve (1886–1952), director of the Berlin Anatomical Institute from 1935, benefited from the rise of execution numbers during the “Third Reich”. He used organs and tissues from executed women for his histological research on the reproductive organs and investigated the influence of “nervous agitation” on the cyclical changes of endometrium and ovary. It is still controversial how he was able to acquire intimate data on the executed women and it was therefore suggested that some of his data may have been “invented”.

Methods

Newly emerged dissection protocols and histological drawings from Stieve’s research, together with archived court records, enable a more detailed analysis of Stieve’s published data.

Results

We extracted 304 case descriptions from Stieve’s publications. Of these, 88 could be linked with 33 identifiable women and related historical records. Nearly all reported causes of death and/or verdicts of executed women were false. Reported clinical data, particularly the day of the menstrual cycle and uterine bleeding shortly before death, are more difficult to verify. We found non-standardised documentation and possible confusions of cases, which may in part be attributable to war effects.

Conclusion

Stieve actively concealed the fate of the executed women, mostly by inventing imaginary stories. This followed a request by the German and Soviet authorities after 1945 not to publish results from cases of political victims, but only from “dangerous criminals”. Scientifically relevant clinical data were not always reported correctly, but are not necessarily fraudulent as different interpretations of this finding can be suggested.
Improved preoperative risk stratification in endometrial carcinoma patients: external validation of the ENDORISK Bayesian network model in a large population-based case series
Authors: Grube Marcel , Reijnen Casper , Lucas Peter J. F. , Kommoss Frieder , Kommoss Felix K. F. , Brucker Sara Y. , Walter Christina B. , Oberlechner Ernst , Krämer Bernhard , Andress Jürgen , Neis Felix , Staebler Annette , Pijnenborg Johanna M. A. , Kommoss Stefan
Published: August 2022

Purpose

Preoperative risk stratification of newly diagnosed endometrial carcinoma (EC) patients has been hindered by only moderate prediction performance for many years. Recently ENDORISK, a Bayesian network model, showed high predictive performance. It was the aim of this study to validate ENDORISK by applying the model to a population-based case series of EC patients.

Methods

ENDORISK was applied to a retrospective cohort of women surgically treated for EC from 2003 to 2013. Prediction accuracy for LNM as well as 5-year DSS was investigated. The model’s overall performance was quantified by the Brier score, discriminative performance by area under the curve (AUC).

Results

A complete dataset was evaluable from 247 patients. 78.1% cases were endometrioid histotype. The majority of patients (n = 156;63.2%) had stage IA disease. Overall, positive lymph nodes were found in 20 (8.1%) patients. Using ENDORISK predicted probabilities, most (n = 156;63.2%) patients have been assigned to low or very low risk group with a false-negative rate of 0.6%.

AUC for LNM prediction was 0.851 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.761–0.941] with a Brier score of 0.06. For 5-year DSS the AUC was 0.698 (95% CI 0.595–0.800) as Brier score has been calculated 0.09.

Conclusions

We were able to successfully validate ENDORISK for prediction of LNM and 5-year DSS. Next steps will now have to focus on ENDORISK performance in daily clinical practice. In addition, incorporating TCGA-derived molecular subtypes will be of key importance for future extended use. This study may support further promoting of data-based decision-making tools for personalized treatment of EC.