bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Enhancing SEM positioning precision with a LEGO®‐based sample fitting system
Authors: Zecca Piero Antonio , Brambilla Andrea , Reguzzoni Marcella , Protasoni Marina , Raspanti Mario 
Published: December 2023

AbstractScanning electron microscopy (SEM) is a precious tool in materials science and morphology sciences, enabling detailed examination of materials at the nanoscale. However, precise and accurate sample repositioning during different observation sessions remains a significant challenge, impacting the quality and repeatability of SEM analyses. This study aimed to develop and evaluate a LEGO®‐based sample positioning system for SEM analysis. The system was designed to consistently identify and align features across multiple repositioning cycles, maintain accurate positioning along the z‐axis, minimize distortion, and provide repeatable and reliable results. The results indicated a high degree of precision and accuracy in the repositioning process, as evidenced by the minimal displacements, deviations in scaling and shearing, and the highly significant results (p < 0.001) obtained from the analysis of absolute translations and rotations. Moreover, the analyses were consistently replicated across six repetitions, underscoring the reliability of the observed results. While the findings suggest that the LEGO‐based sample positioning system is promising for enhancing SEM analyses' quality and repeatability, further studies are needed to optimize the system's design and evaluate its performance in different SEM applications. Ultimately, this study contributes to the ongoing efforts to develop cost‐effective, customizable, and accurate solutions for sample positioning in SEM, contributing to the advancement of materials science research and all SEM analysis requiring overtime observations of the same sample.Research Highlights
This study focused on the development and evaluation of a novel LEGO‐based sample positioning system specifically designed for SEM analysis.
One of the standout features of this system is its ability to consistently identify and align features across multiple repositioning cycles, showcasing its precision and reliability.
To further understand the mechanical aspects of the SEM stage, we employed the Rambold Kontroll comparator, which provided a baseline understanding of its mechanical tolerance.
The registration process results were particularly noteworthy, as they revealed high accuracy with minimal displacements.
Furthermore, the consistent outcomes observed across multiple repetitions emphasize the reliability and robustness of the methods we employed in this research.
Dosimetric comparison of gantry and horizontal fixed‐beam proton therapy treatment plans for base of skull chordoma
Authors: Shierlaw Emma , Penfold Melanie , Crain Rosanna , Santos Alexandre M.C. , Penfold Scott N. 
Published: December 2023

AbstractIntroductionAustralia's first proton beam therapy (PBT) centre will house a fixed‐beam room and two gantry rooms. As the only PBT facility in Australia for at least the short term, there is a need to efficiently allocate treatment appointments between the gantry and fixed‐beam rooms. This planning study assesses the dosimetric differences between fixed‐beam and gantry‐based treatment plans for base of skull chordoma, one of the core indications likely to be referred for PBT in Australia.MethodsRetrospective gantry‐based and fixed‐beam treatment plans were generated for five patients with base of skull chordoma. Fixed‐beam plans were generated with a conventional horizontal patient positioning system. Robust intensity modulated proton therapy (IMPT) optimisation and evaluation techniques were used for both delivery systems. Plans were designed to maximise target coverage while adhering to maximum dose constraints to neighbouring critical organs at risk.ResultsRobust target coverage and integral dose were found to be approximately equivalent for the gantry‐based and fixed‐beam plans. Doses to specific organs at risk could be reduced with the gantry‐based geometry; however, the gantry‐based plans did not exhibit a general decrease in doses to organs at risk.ConclusionA fixed‐beam treatment plan was found to be non‐inferior to a gantry‐based treatment plan for all base of skull patients included in the current study.
Modulation of Excimer Formation and Photoexcitation Behaviour through DNA‐Surfactant‐Dye Supramolecular Assembly
Authors: Bai Dan , Zhao Wenxuan , Feng Huhu , Sugiyama Hiroshi 
Published: December 2023

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

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

AbstractBackground
ATXN2 is the causative gene of spinocerebellar ataxia type 2 (SCA2) and has been implicated in glaucoma pathogenesis. Therefore, studying ocular changes in SCA2 could uncover clinically relevant changes.ObjectiveThe aim was to investigate optic disc and retinal architecture in SCA2.MethodsWe evaluated 14 patients with SCA2 and 26 controls who underwent intraocular pressure measurement, fundoscopy, and macular and peripapillary spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD‐OCT). We compared SD‐OCT measurements in SCA2 and controls, and the frequency of glaucomatous changes among SCA2, controls, and 76 patients with other SCAs (types 1, 3, 6, and 7).ResultsThe macula, peripapillary retinal nerve fiber and inner plexiform layers were thinner in SCA2 than in controls. Increased cup‐to‐disc ratio was more frequent in SCA2 than in controls and other SCAs.ConclusionsOcular changes are part of SCA2 phenotype. Future studies should further investigate retinal and optic nerve architecture in this disorder.
The carbon footprint of epidural steroid injections: A pilot study
Authors: Fogarty Alexandra E. , Wilson Annalee , Godambe Maya , Shinde Nidhi , Gou Christine , Decker Gregory , Steensma Joe 
Published: December 2023

AbstractBackgroundEpidural steroid injections are common procedures in physical medicine and rehabilitation practice. However, their environmental impact has not been characterized.ObjectiveThe primary aim is to estimate and compare the carbon footprint of two standard injection kits used to perform epidural steroid injections at a single academic institution. Secondary objectives were (1) to create a step‐by‐step guide for estimating the carbon footprint of materials and (2) to survey physicians on practice patterns and identify areas for improvement.DesignPilot study.SettingAcademic medical center.ParticipantsN/A.InterventionsN/A.Outcome MeasuresCarbon emissions measured in CO2 equivalents (CO2 eq).MethodsUsing guidance from the Greenhouse Gas Protocol, the carbon footprint of the two kits was estimated by taking the sum of carbon emissions resulting from the production of the kit materials and the carbon emissions resulting from the waste disposal of the kit materials.ResultsThe carbon footprint of the transforaminal epidural steroid injection (TFESI) kit was estimated at 1.328 kg CO2 eq. The carbon footprint of the interlaminar epidural steroid injection (ILESI) kit was estimated at 2.534 kg CO2 eq. For both kits, the carbon emissions resulting from the production of the kits were greater than the emissions resulting from disposal. The survey of interventionalists performing TFESI revealed all respondents required materials in addition to those provided in the standard epidural kit. Despite this, kit materials were typically wasted in 62% of respondents.ConclusionCreating a methodology for quantifying carbon emissions is the first step to reducing carbon emissions. Once emissions are measured, the health care industry can determine the most effective strategies for reducing its impact. Our analysis has shown that it is feasible to perform emissions calculations and delineates a clear method with publicly available resources. Solutions to reduce epidural injection carbon footprint waste may include improved kit customization.
NMR‐identification of the interaction between BRCA1 and the intrinsically disordered monomer of the Myc‐associated factor X
Authors: Epasto Ludovica Martina , Pötzl Christopher , Peterlik Herwig , Khalil Mahdi , Saint‐Pierre Christine , Gasparutto Didier , Sicoli Giuseppe , Kurzbach Dennis 
Published: December 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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