bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Super‐liquid‐repellent thin film materials for low temperature latent heat thermal energy storage: A comprehensive review of materials for dip‐coating
Authors: Muhumuza Ronald , Eames Philip C.
Published: May 2024

When discharging latent heat thermal energy storage (LHTES) systems, performance is influenced by the formation and adherence of a solid layer of phase change material (PCM) on heat eXchange (HX) surfaces. Super‐liquid‐repellent thin films (STFs) may be able to reduce solidifying PCM adhesion on HX surfaces during discharging, delay PCM solidification to lower temperatures, and by modifying nucleation sites potentially enable long‐term seasonal thermal storage. Techniques employed previously to fabricate sintered polymeric STF coatings include chemical vapour deposition, dip‐coating, spray‐coating, spin‐coating, layer‐by‐layer (LbL) assembly, sol‐gel, anodizing, electrodeposition, electrospinning, so on. Dip‐coating is considered attractive for fabricating thin films on simple and complex surface geometries due to process maturity, scalability, flexibility and cost‐effectiveness. To identify suitable materials for preparing STFs on metal HX surfaces using the dip‐coating process, more than 200 journal articles published in English during the period 2010 to 2022 were reviewed and the potential role of STFs in LHTES applications was assessed. The review identified key areas and applications stimulating STF material developments and formulations. The dip‐coating of potential STF materials was classified under three major themes driving current research and development (R&D) activities, that is, high performance thin films, eco‐friendly thin films and fundamental research formulations. This review provides a platform from which to develop coatings and HX systems to enable the cost‐effective implementation of STFs for improved heat transfer in future mobile/stationery LHTES systems.
The applications of nature‐inspired algorithms in Internet of Things‐based healthcare service: A systematic literature review
Authors: Amiri Zahra , Heidari Arash , Zavvar Mohammad , Navimipour Nima Jafari , Esmaeilpour Mansour
Published: May 2024

Nature‐inspired algorithms revolve around the intersection of nature‐inspired algorithms and the IoT within the healthcare domain. This domain addresses the emerging trends and potential synergies between nature‐inspired computational approaches and IoT technologies for advancing healthcare services. Our research aims to fill gaps in addressing algorithmic integration challenges, real‐world implementation issues, and the efficacy of nature‐inspired algorithms in IoT‐based healthcare. We provide insights into the practical aspects and limitations of such applications through a systematic literature review. Specifically, we address the need for a comprehensive understanding of the applications of nature‐inspired algorithms in IoT‐based healthcare, identifying gaps such as the lack of standardized evaluation metrics and studies on integration challenges and security considerations. By bridging these gaps, our paper offers insights and directions for future research in this domain, exploring the diverse landscape of nature‐inspired algorithms in healthcare. Our chosen methodology is a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) to investigate related papers rigorously. Categorizing these algorithms into groups such as genetic algorithms, particle swarm optimization, cuckoo algorithms, ant colony optimization, other approaches, and hybrid methods, we employ meticulous classification based on critical criteria. MATLAB emerges as the predominant programming language, constituting 37.9% of cases, showcasing a prevalent choice among researchers. Our evaluation emphasizes adaptability as the paramount parameter, accounting for 18.4% of considerations. By shedding light on attributes, limitations, and potential directions for future research and development, this review aims to contribute to a comprehensive understanding of nature‐inspired algorithms in the dynamic landscape of IoT‐based healthcare services.
Predicting perceived quality of life through social trust, physical activity, and sense of happiness in Iran: Moderating role of gender
Authors: Gilan Rajabi , Mohamadi Jamal , Zardoshtian Shirin , Sarabi Neda , Palangard Naseri , Khezeli Mehdi
Published: May 2024

Background and Aims

In Iran, few studies have addressed the moderating effect of gender on determinants of quality of life. This study aimed to determine the effect of social trust, physical activity, and sense of happiness on the perceived quality of life, considering the moderating role of gender.

Methods

This was a population‐based cross‐sectional study. The statistical population were men and women aged 16 years and above in five western provinces of Iran. The final sample size was estimated to be 1268 people calculated through the correlation coefficient estimation formula, and finally 1185 questionnaires received. Data were analyzed using SPSS and AMOS software.

Results

The mean score of quality of life among women was significantly higher than that of men (p < 0.001). The direct standardized coefficient showed that the sense of happiness (β = 0.40), social trust (β = 0.20), and physical activity (β = 0.12) had a significant effect on the perceived quality of life (p < 0.001). Also, gender had a moderating role in the relationship between sense of happiness and perceived quality of life (z‐score = 3.246, p < 0.001). Totally, 21% of the changes in perceived quality of life were explained by three main variables. The main variables were stronger explanatory factors in men (R = 0.26) than in women (R = 0.17).

Conclusions

The final model showed that sense of happiness had the most direct effect on the perceived quality of life, moderated by gender. Considering that the quality of life among men was lower than that among women and the direct effect of happiness on quality of life was more among men than that among women, it is suggested that gender‐based health promotion interventions with an emphasis on men be carried out to strengthen the sources of happiness to improve quality of life.
Fragmentomics features of ovarian cancer
Authors: Chao Xiaopei , Kai Zhentian , Wu Huanwen , Wang Jing , Chen Xiaojing , Su Haiqi , Shang Xiao , Lin Ruijue , Huang Lisha , He Hongsheng , Lang Jinghe , Li Lei
Published: May 2024

Ovarian cancer (OC) is a major cause of cancer mortality in women worldwide. Due to the occult onset of OC, its nonspecific clinical symptoms in the early phase, and a lack of effective early diagnostic tools, most OC patients are diagnosed at an advanced stage. In this study, shallow whole‐genome sequencing was utilized to characterize fragmentomics features of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) in OC patients. By applying a machine learning model, multiclass fragmentomics data achieved a mean area under the curve (AUC) of 0.97 (95% CI 0.962–0.976) for diagnosing OC. OC scores derived from this model strongly correlated with the disease stage. Further comparative analysis of OC scores illustrated that the fragmentomics‐based technology provided additional clinical benefits over the traditional serum biomarkers cancer antigen 125 (CA125) and the Risk of Ovarian Malignancy Algorithm (ROMA) index. In conclusion, fragmentomics features in ctDNA are potential biomarkers for the accurate diagnosis of OC.
The exploration of cell population data in clinical use: Beyond infectious diseases
Authors: Huang Shayuanzi , Liu Yin , Qian Liu , Zhou Juan , Wang Dong
Published: May 2024

Cell population data (CPD) is regarded as the fingerprint of a blood cell at a given moment. CPD parameters harbor information associated with cell morphology and can be automatically generated using modern hematological analyzers. Various studies have revealed many unique clinical applications for CPD, especially for infectious diseases, such as sepsis. For example, one monocyte‐related CPD parameter is the monocyte distribution width (MDW), which can be generated using a Beckman Coulter hematological analyzer. MDW has received FDA and CE approval for aiding in sepsis diagnosis in adult patients in the emergency department. Additionally, MDW can serve as a diagnostic biomarker in patients infected with SARS‐CoV‐2. CPD has also been widely explored for possible clinical applications beyond infectious diseases, such as for predicting myelodysplastic syndromes, screening for hematological malignancies, and detecting sterile inflammation. CPD parameter measurements are easily obtained and quite cost‐effective, making them practical for clinical use. However, there are some potential drawbacks of CPD parameters. Some pre‐analytical conditions can affect CPD values. Furthermore, CPD are specific to certain hematological analyzers and the result cannot be transferred between different analyzers. The practical usefulness of CPD reference intervals is also still questionable. In this review, wesummarize the current studies related to CPD and its clinical applications. Additional well‐designed clinical studies related to CPD are still expected.
Survey of patient satisfaction with genetic counseling services in Korea
Authors: Choi In Hee , Kim Yun Kyung , Yang Seo Yeon , Choi Vit‐Na , Ji Su Min , Kim Jun Young , Lee Beom Hee
Published: May 2024

Since the 1990s, genetic clinics have been established in South Korea, enabling the provision of clinical genetics services. However, genetic counseling services are not widely used in the medical system. In contrast, recently, the demand for genetic counseling has increased due to the rapid development of genomic medicine. Therefore, it is important for medical geneticists and genetic counselors to collaboratively provide genetic counseling services. This study aimed to evaluate the perception and satisfaction of patients with rare genetic diseases and their families regarding genetic counseling services provided by a genetics team at the medical genetics center of a tertiary general hospital for rare genetic diseases. From April to November 2021, a survey was conducted with 203 individuals, including 111 and 92 individuals in the patient and family groups, respectively. Overall, 164 individuals (80.8%) responded that they were aware of genetic counseling services, and 135 individuals (66.5%) responded that they were aware of the role of genetic counselors. Patients and their families wanted to receive information about the following from genetic counseling: clinical manifestation and prognosis of the diagnosed disease (78.8%), treatment and management of the disease (60.6%), risk of recurrence within the family (55.7%), treatment options and alternatives for family and prenatal testing, and various support services. The score of satisfaction with genetic counseling services provided by the genetics team was 8.19 ± 1.68 out of 10. Patients with rare genetic diseases and their families were satisfied with genetic counseling services regarding their diseases, test results, and treatment options. Moreover, the patients could receive psychosocial support and referrals to other medical service providers and support services. As a genetic team approach, collaboration between medical geneticists and certified genetic counselors would be useful in providing information and in diagnosing, treating, and managing patients.
2‐Vinylaniline in the synthesis of heterocycles: Recent advances
Authors: Doraghi Fatemeh , Navid Hamed , Karimian Somaye , Larijani Bagher , Mahdavi Mohammad
Published: May 2024

2‐Vinylanilines are readily accessible substrates, which are undoubtedly one of the best candidates for the construction of diversely nitrogen‐containing heterocyclic compounds. Owing to the amine and alkenyl groups in their structures, these frameworks offer a facile, direct, and selective synthetic method. This review describes various cyclization reactions involving 2‐vinylanilines catalyzed by transition metals, or under metal‐free conditions.
Developmental Relationships That Encourage Generativity
Authors: Hastings Lindsay J. , Sunderman Hannah M. , Knopik Nick
Published: May 2024

Early leader and leadership development experiences that develop generativity and therefore social responsibility will become increasingly imperative in preparing a young workforce to shoulder the burden of a substantial leadership transfer in the wake of Baby Boomer retirements. While generativity is considered a midlife construct, recent and emergent research is documenting an association between developmental relationships, such as mentoring, coaching, and advising, and generativity in young adults. The current article highlights the recent research and addresses its implications for leadership practitioners, scholars, and educators. The article concludes with a discourse on future research directions that considers the nuances of particular methodological approaches that will be needed to understand how developmental relationships encourage generativity over time.
Performance assessment of portable Raman spectroscopy in determining ecstasy tablets
Authors: Ng Choon Hiang , Kunalan Vanitha , Yew Chong Hooi , Chang Kah Haw , Abdullah Ahmad Fahmi Lim
Published: May 2024

Ecstasy tablets, a type of common street drug originally consisting of 3,4‐methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), provide stimulant and hallucinogen psychoactive effects. They are frequently found in nightclubs, musical festivals or other recreational events believed to create a relaxing experience for the users. From a forensic perspective, when the drug of abuse is suspected in such scenarios, the law enforcement personnel would then require an easy‐to‐perform, quick and accurate method to detect the existence of such controlled substance prior to the seizure and subsequent forensic examination. In this study, we assessed the performance of a portable Raman spectroscopy as the primary aid in determining ecstasy tablets at the point of use. A total of 130 ecstasy tablet samples were analysed by Raman spectroscopy and characterised by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). Active chemical substances and cutting agents detected by the two instrumentations were then compared. The performance of Raman spectroscopy was further assessed in terms of its accuracy, sensitivity and specificity, corresponding to the analysis results obtained from GC–MS analysis. Overall, portable Raman Spectroscopy used in this study shows an accuracy of 85.4% in analysing ecstasy tablets obtained from case samples, while the sensitivity and specificity were determined as 85.2% and 100%, respectively. No false positives for MDMA or other drugs were reported. Our results show that portable Raman spectroscopy is a suitable technique for targeted determination of the presence of ecstasy tablets, especially in forensic cases that require non‐destructive, rapid and mass screening during on‐site testing by law enforcement personnel.
Facile Characterization of Isothermal Crystallization and Microphase Separation Kinetics of Polyamide 6 (PA6)‐Based Thermoplastic Elastomers
Authors: Yuan Ruchao , Zhang Longfeng , Zhang Junfeng , Wang Xueli , Yu Jianyong , Li Faxue
Published: May 2024

The facile characterization of isothermal microphase separation kinetics in polyamide 6 (PA6)‐based thermoplastic elastomers (TPAE‐6) has long posed a challenge for the development of suitable melt spinning processes. In this study, this challenge is addressed through differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) measurements. It is assumed that the enthalpy changes of TPAE‐6 during the isothermal process are a linear superposition of enthalpy changes associated with microphase separation and crystallization of PA6 in hard phases, resembling that of TPAE‐6 without soft segments (TPAE‐6‐0). The study reveals that, as the concentration of soft segments in TPAE‐6 increases, the accelerated dynamics of phase separation become stronger than the dilution of soft segments to PA6 segments during isothermal process, resulting in an increase in the microphase separation rate of TPAE‐6. Furthermore, despite microphase separation, the overall crystallization rate of TPAE‐6 decreases with rising isothermal temperature and varies with increasing soft segment content at different temperatures. Additionally, the crystallization mode of TPAE‐6 follows two‐dimensional, three‐dimensional, or a combination of both crystal growth mechanisms, accompanied by a heterogeneous nucleation mechanism.
Exploring the influence of fintech patents on operation efficiency and market efficiency in Taiwan's commercial banking sector‐meta entropy dynamic two‐stage DDF model
Authors: Lee Sin , Chang Tzu‐Han , Chiu Yung‐ho
Published: May 2024

This paper presents a meta entropy dynamic two‐stage DDF model, incorporating significant patents in financial technology (fintech) into the analysis to examine the operational and market efficiencies of banks in Taiwan, providing new insights for research on banking performance and government policy. The results show the following. (1) The most efficient bank is Cathay Financial, while the bottom three are First Financial, E.SUN Financial, and Hua Nan Financial. (2) Financial holding companies (FHCs) outperform non‐FHCs in both operational and market stages. (3) The number of patents has a positive impact on the market stage efficiency of banks.
Toward a multi‐layer micro‐structured detector for high‐energy electron radiotherapy
Authors: Brivio Davide , Liles Arianna , Gagne Matthew , Sajo Erno , Zygmanski Piotr
Published: May 2024

Background

The use of electron beams has been rekindled by the advent of ultra‐high‐dose rate radiotherapy (FLASH) and very high energy electrons (VHEE). The need for development of novel technology for beam monitoring and dosimetry of such beams is of paramount importance prior to their clinical translation.

Purpose

In this work we explore the potential of a multi‐layer nanoporous aerogel High‐Energy‐Current (HEC) detector as a dosimeter for electron beam. The detector does not suffer from radiation damage or signal saturation, making it suitable for very‐high‐dose‐rate applications. Standard dose rates and energies are used to establish reference for FLASH and VHEE. We explore detector response to electron energy and residual range both experimentally and computationally.

Methods

Multilayer HEC detectors were constructed using 1×–10× basic modules of Aluminum(Al)_aerogel(A)_Tantalum(Ta) with 10–70 µm layer thicknesses. Signals are collected from all electrodes (3–21, depending on module multiplicity) with zero external voltage bias. Measurements are acquired as a function of depth(z) in water equivalent plastic using Varian TrueBeam for energies E = 6,9,12,15 MeV (SAD = 105 cm, 6 × 6 cone, 1000 MU/min). Computational simulations of identical detector geometries are performed using the 1D deterministic code CEPXS/ONEDANT. Additionally, percent‐depth‐doses PDD(z), measured with diode in water, are used to explore the response of HEC for various energies and residual ranges.

Results

The current measured from Ta electrodes resembles the shape of deposited charges in water and it is proportional to the derivative of the clinical PDD corrected for contribution from photon contamination. The signal is positive on the surface, and it decreases with depth reaching a negative local minimum at z = R50, before increasing again, reaching zero at about the practical range z = Rp. In contrast, the signal from Al electrodes is shaped like the electron PDD(z) shape but with lower signal at the surface and higher bremsstrahlung tail. By subtracting the signal from Ta and Al electrodes we obtained a curve resembling PDD(z,E) after Bremsstrahlung contamination correction.

Conclusions

Multi‐layer HEC sensors exhibit characteristic responses to electron beams that are unlike responses of ion chambers or diodes. Since the sensor structures are sensitive to electronic disequilibrium, high‐Z electrodes give a signal proportional to the charge deposition pattern and can be modeled using the derivative of PDD(z).
Exploring the impact of inclusive leadership on proactive work behavior in nonprofit organization: The mediating role of the relational psychological contract
Authors: Rogozińska‐Pawełczyk Anna , Sudolska Agata
Published: May 2024

The study aims to provide empirical evidence to explain the relationship between inclusive leadership and proactive work behavior through the mediating role of the relational psychological contract in nonprofit organizations (NPOs). The data were collected from 6751 employees employed at one of the largest NPOs in Poland. The data collection was done through the Computer‐Assisted Web Interview technique. The quantitative results obtained were analyzed by structural equation modeling based on partial least squares regression. The study outlined the mechanisms through which inclusive leadership impacts employees' proactive work behavior. The evidence of a direct and positive relationship between the variables studied was intended to illuminate the role of inclusive leadership and the relational nature of the psychological contract in building proactive work behavior. In addition to the direct effects, the results of the current study add to existing evidence on the mediating role of the relational psychological contract linking inclusive leadership and proactive work behavior. Our research findings make a valuable contribution to the field of inclusive leadership and its influence on proactive work behavior among employees in the nonprofit sector. The study establishes direct and indirect connections through effective mechanisms. Its theoretical contribution refers to the approach in which a relational psychological contract has been adopted as the mediating variable in the relationship between inclusive leadership and proactive work behavior in the nonprofit sector. Moreover, the study provides managers of NPOs with important insights into how inclusive leadership can effectively motivate employees to engage in proactive work behaviors. It demonstrates that the push for diversity necessitates explicit supervisory attention in order to foster an inclusive environment in which the potential benefits of diversity can be realized.
Cluster synchronization control for the complex network with dynamic connection relations
Authors: Chen Jinbiao , Wang Yinhe , Peng Yi , Wang Xiaoxi
Published: May 2024

In this article, the cluster synchronization control for a complex dynamic network (CDN) with mutually coupled nodes subsystem (NS) and connection relations subsystem is investigated. The process of cluster synchronization is segmented into three dynamic continuous stages: first, the free movement, then the task‐oriented clustering, and finally the cluster synchronization. The control scheme, founded on the clustering nodes of CDN, is proposed, such that the cluster synchronization arises when clustering all the nodes into two different sub‐networks (SNs). This approach originates from the flight motion for a group of autonomous aircrafts. At a certain moment, free flight is interrupted, and all the aircrafts split into two SNs according to the given clustering rules. Then the two controlled SNs are required to achieve cluster synchronization, that is, every SN converges to the same in speed. In order to split all the nodes into two different SNs, a clustering algorithm according to the “central nodes” is proposed. Based on Lyapunov stability theory, by designing the suitable inner cluster links, the adaptive controller of NS for each SN is synthesized to guarantee the stability of the error system. It is shown that the eventual inner topology of each SN is displayed in the pre‐given form when the cluster synchronization achieves. Finally, the merits and effectiveness of the proposed control scheme are verified by a simulation example.
Development and characterization of hemp/carbon and hemp/glass hybrid and novel functionally graded hybrid composites for structural applications
Authors: Pulleti Siva Sankar , Singh Shamsher Bahadur
Published: May 2024

The main objective of this study is to investigate the effect of combining natural and synthetic fibers on the mechanical characteristics of hybrid and novel functionally graded hybrid composites by considering hemp as natural fiber and carbon and glass as synthetic fibers. Before manufacturing, the natural fibers were treated with sodium hydroxide (NaOH) solution to remove the impurities on the fiber surface. The fibers were reinforced in an epoxy‐based matrix using a hand‐layup technique. The volumetric fraction of the hybrid composites was 40% fibers and 60% matrix. Different types of composites, such as plain fiber reinforced polymer (FRP), sandwich hybrid (SH), alternative hybrid (AH), and functionally graded hybrid (FH), were manufactured from hybridizations of hemp/carbon and hemp/glass. In accordance with ASTM standards, the tensile, compression, flexural, short beam shear, water absorption, and wettability properties of composites were determined. FH composites with hemp fiber at the top surface had the highest improvement in tensile strength, stiffness and compressive strength compared with pure hemp FRP (HFRP) composites. Hemp SH composites had the highest improvement in flexural and short beam properties in both hybridizations compared with HFRP composites due to the stacking of synthetic fiber at the outer layers. Scanning electronic microscopic (SEM) studies identified the failure mechanism of the tensile failure specimens and also the effect of mercerization on fiber surfaces. In conclusion, this work identified the structural capacity of hybrid composites and emphasizes that FH and hemp SH composites can replace glass FRP composites in structural applications.

Highlights

Treating hemp fiber with 2 g/L of NaOH for an hour had a better impact.

Functionally graded composites had better in‐plane strength and stiffness.

Composites made with synthetic fiber on the outer layers were good at bending.

In structural applications, hemp/carbon hybrid composites can replace GFRP.
Comparative salivary proteomics analysis of children with and without early childhood caries using the DIA approach: A pilot study
Authors: Ye Jinxiang , Zhang Fangfang , Luo Zhouyuan , Ou Xiaoyan
Published: May 2024

Objective

To screen differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) in the saliva of Early childhood caries (ECC) with different degrees of severity.

Methods

The proteomic profiles of salivary of children with ECC of varying severity by data independent acquisition data independent acquisition (DIA) technique. A total of 12 preschool children aged 3–5 years were included in this study.

Results

In this study, a total of 15,083 peptides and 1944 proteins were quantified; The results of DEPs screening showed that 34 DEPs were identified between the group H and the group LC, including 18 up‐regulated proteins and 16 down‐regulated proteins; 34 DEPs were screened between the group H and the group HC, including 17 up‐regulated proteins and 17 down‐regulated proteins; 42 DEPs were screened between the group LC and the group HC, including 18 up‐regulated proteins and 24 down‐regulated proteins. Among these DEPs, we screened several key proteins that may play a role in ECC, such as MK, histone H4, TGFβ3, ZG16B, MUC20, and SMR‐3B.

Conclusion

Salivary proteins, as important host factors of caries, are differentially expressed between the saliva of ECC children and healthy children. Specific DEPs are expected to become potential biomarkers for the diagnosis of ECC.
Population pharmacokinetics of imetelstat, a first‐in‐class oligonucleotide telomerase inhibitor
Authors: González‐Sales Mario , Lennox Ashley L. , Huang Fei , Pamulapati Chandra , Wan Ying , Sun Libo , Berry Tymara , Kelly Behrs Melissa , Feller Faye , Morcos Peter N.
Published: May 2024

Imetelstat is a novel, first‐in‐class, oligonucleotide telomerase inhibitor in development for the treatment of hematologic malignancies including lower‐risk myelodysplastic syndromes and myelofibrosis. A nonlinear mixed‐effects model was developed to characterize the population pharmacokinetics of imetelstat and identify and quantify covariates that contribute to its pharmacokinetic variability. The model was developed using plasma concentrations from 7 clinical studies including 424 patients with solid tumors or hematologic malignancies who received single‐agent imetelstat via intravenous infusion at various dose levels (0.4–11.7 mg/kg) and schedules (every week to every 4 weeks). Covariate analysis included factors related to demographics, disease, laboratory results, renal and hepatic function, and antidrug antibodies. Imetelstat was described by a two‐compartment, nonlinear disposition model with saturable binding/distribution and dose‐ and time‐dependent elimination from the central compartment. Theory‐based allometric scaling for body weight was included in disposition parameters. The final covariates included sex, time, malignancy, and dose on clearance; malignancy and sex on volume of the central compartment; and malignancy and spleen volume on concentration of target. Clearance in females was modestly lower, resulting in nonclinically relevant increases in predicted exposure relative to males. No effects on imetelstat pharmacokinetics were identified for mild‐to‐moderate hepatic or renal impairment, age, race, and antidrug antibody status. All model parameters were estimated with adequate precision (relative standard error < 29%). Visual predictive checks confirmed the capacity of the model to describe the data. The analysis supports the imetelstat body‐weight–based dosing approach and lack of need for dose individualizations for imetelstat‐treated patients.
Tailoring the Alkalinity of SnO2 Colloidal Suspension for High‐Performance and Stable Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Shao Zhiliang , Wang Ming , Li Xikang , Zou Hechao , Ye Fanghao , Liu Siyang , Zhou Hang , Xu Ping , Li Guijun
Published: May 2024

The commercial tin oxide (SnO2) colloidal suspension is widely utilized as an electron transport layer (ETL) in high‐performance perovskite solar cells (PSCs). However, despite significant efforts have been proposed to address bulk transport and interface recombination issues, the PSC efficiency is still limited to around 25%. In this study, the crucial role of the physicochemical characteristics of the SnO2 colloidal suspension in shaping the morphology, electrical properties, and optical properties of the SnO2 ETL is investigated. By controlling the pH value of the SnO2 solution with weak acids such as carbonic acid, the reassembly of metal oxide nanoparticles into smaller sizes with more homogeneous dispersion and dense interconnections is successfully induced. Consequently, the resulting SnO2 ETL exhibits enhanced crystallinity, high conductivity, low surface defects, and high optical transmittance. As a result, the efficiency of the target PSC is increased from 23.10% (control device) to 24.70%. This improvement is attributed to higher voltage, photocurrent, and fill factor compared to the relevant control samples. A similar device improvement using phosphoric acid is observed, indicating that the approach represents a universal technique to further enhance the quality of SnO2 ETL for large‐area, high‐efficiency, and stable PSCs.
Foregrounding Vietnamese Language, Education, and Change in and Outside Vietnam
Authors: Phan Le Ha
Published: May 2024

This volume, long overdue, is the very first book that pays close attention to the varied roles the Vietnamese language plays in different educational, sociocultural, political, ideological, geopolitical, and linguistic contexts and settings in global Vietnam.
Anrufgründe bei medizinischen Notfällen: Entwicklung eines strukturierten semantischen Modells auf Basis einer randomisierten Stichprobe medizinischer Hilfeersuchen einer integrierten Rettungsleitstelle
Authors: Hippler Barbara , Ristau Patrick , Maletzki Carsten , Elsenbast Christian , Blaschke Fred
Published: May 2024

Hintergrund

Rettungsleitstellen sehen sich mit steigenden Herausforderungen durch kontinuierlich steigende Notrufzahlen konfrontiert. Zur besseren Strukturierung und Priorisierung der Notrufgespräche werden vielerorts standardisierte Abfragesysteme implementiert. Aktuelle Entwicklungen im Bereich der künstlichen Intelligenz eröffnen neue Möglichkeiten der Entscheidungsunterstützung von Disponierenden. Voraussetzung hierfür ist ein prozesshaftes Modell des Notrufdialogs.

Ziel der Arbeit

Auf Basis einer Analyse der komplexen Anrufgründe von Notrufgesprächen wird deren übergreifende Struktur abgeleitet und modellhaft dargestellt.

Material und Methoden

50 randomisiert ausgewählte Aufzeichnungen medizinischer Notrufe einer integrierten Rettungsleitstelle aus dem Jahr 2022 wurden transkribiert, unter Anwendung einer qualitativen Inhaltsanalyse induktiv codiert, kategorisiert und in ein prozesshaftes Modell des Notrufdialogs überführt.

Ergebnisse

Das typische Notrufgespräch besteht aus zwei konsekutiven Prozessen, einem Einstiegs- und einem Rückfrageprozess. Der Einstiegsprozess dient der Informationsgewinnung mit dem Ziel, abschätzen zu können, ob es sich beim Notrufgrund um ein einzelnes Hauptproblem, die Kombination aus mehreren Gesundheitsbeeinträchtigungen oder ein Ereignis vor bzw. nach einer Gesundheitsbeeinträchtigung handelt. Der Rückfrageprozess dient der Präzisierung der Zustands- bzw. Problembeschreibung.

Diskussion

Auf Basis der zufällig ausgewählten Notrufgespräche konnte der idealtypische Ablauf des Notrufgesprächs abgeleitet und in einem phasen- bzw. prozesshaften Modell dargestellt werden, auf dessen Grundlage nun KI-gestützte Notrufabfragesysteme entwickelt werden können.
Whole blood transcriptome signature predicts severe forms of COVID-19: Results from the COVIDeF cohort study
Authors: Armignacco Roberta , Carlier Nicolas , Jouinot Anne , Birtolo Maria Francesca , de Murat Daniel , Tubach Florence , Hausfater Pierre , Simon Tabassome , Gorochov Guy , Pourcher Valérie , Beurton Alexandra , Goulet Hélène , Manivet Philippe , Bertherat Jérôme , Assié Guillaume ,   for the COVIDeF group
Published: May 2024

COVID-19 is associated with heterogeneous outcome. Early identification of a severe progression of the disease is essential to properly manage the patients and improve their outcome. Biomarkers reflecting an increased inflammatory response, as well as individual features including advanced age, male gender, and pre-existing comorbidities, are risk factors of severe COVID-19. Yet, these features show limited accuracy for outcome prediction. The aim was to evaluate the prognostic value of whole blood transcriptome at an early stage of the disease. Blood transcriptome of patients with mild pneumonia was profiled. Patients with subsequent severe COVID-19 were compared to those with favourable outcome, and a molecular predictor based on gene expression was built. Unsupervised classification discriminated patients who would later develop a COVID-19-related severe pneumonia. The corresponding gene expression signature reflected the immune response to the viral infection dominated by a prominent type I interferon, with IFI27 among the most over-expressed genes. A 48-genes transcriptome signature predicting the risk of severe COVID-19 was built on a training cohort, then validated on an external independent cohort, showing an accuracy of 81% for predicting severe outcome. These results identify an early transcriptome signature of severe COVID-19 pneumonia, with a possible relevance to improve COVID-19 patient management.
Immunophenotype of myeloid granulocytes in Chinese patients with BCR::ABL1-negative myeloproliferative neoplasms
Authors: Liang Fengting , Liang Xuelan , Pan Lingang , Jin Qianni , Deng Ju , Hong Minglin , Wei Wei , Hao Zhuanghui , Ren Huanying , Wang Hongwei , Chen Xiuhua
Published: May 2024

Typical BCR::ABL1-negative myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN) are mainly referred to as polycythemia vera (PV), essential thrombocythemia (ET), and primary myelofbrosis (PMF). Granulocytes in MPN patients are involved in their inflammation and form an important part of the pathophysiology of MPN patients. It has been shown that the immunophenotype of granulocytes in MPN patients is altered. We used flow cytometry to explore the immunophenotype of MPN patients and correlate it with clinical parameters. The results showed that PMF patients and PV patients had higher CD15+CD11b+ granulocytes than ET patients and normal controls. When grouped by gene mutation, changes in the granulocyte immunophenotype of MPN patients were independent of the JAK2V617F and CALR mutations. There was no significant heterogeneity in immunophenotype between ET patients and Pre-PMF, and between Overt-PMF and Pre-PMF patients. Granulocytes from some MPN patients showed an abnormal CD13/CD16 phenotype with a significant increase in mature granulocytes on molecular and cytomorphological grounds, and this abnormal pattern occurred significantly more frequently in PMF patients than in ET patients. CD15–CD11b– was negatively correlated with WBC and Hb and positively correlated with DIPSS score, whereas high CD10+ granulocytes were significantly and negatively associated with prognostic system IPSS and DIPSS scores in PMF patients. In conclusion, this study demonstrates the landscape of bone marrow granulocyte immunophenotypes in MPN patients. MPN patients, especially those with PMF, have a significant granulocyte developmental overmaturation phenotype. CD10+ granulocytes may be involved in the prognosis of PMF patients.
Spatial transcriptomics reveals gene interactions and signaling pathway dynamics in rat embryos with anorectal malformation
Authors: Wang Chen-Yi , Li Mu-Yu , Li Si-Ying , Wei Xiao-Gao , Yuan Zheng-Wei , Tang Xiao-Bing , Bai Yu-Zuo
Published: May 2024

Anorectal malformation (ARM) is a prevalent early pregnancy digestive tract anomaly. The intricate anatomy of the embryonic cloaca region makes it challenging for traditional high-throughput sequencing methods to capture location-specific information. Spatial transcriptomics was used to sequence libraries of frozen sections from embryonic rats at gestational days (GD) 14 to 16, covering both normal and ARM cases. Bioinformatics analyses and predictions were performed using methods such as WGCNA, GSEA, and PROGENy. Immunofluorescence staining was used to verify gene expression levels. Gene expression data was obtained with anatomical annotations of clusters, focusing on the cloaca region's location-specific traits. WGCNA revealed gene modules linked to normal and ARM cloacal anatomy development, with cooperation between modules on GD14 and GD15. Differential gene expression profiles and functional enrichment were presented. Notably, protein levels of Pcsk9, Hmgb2, and Sod1 were found to be downregulated in the GD15 ARM hindgut. The PROGENy algorithm predicted the activity and interplay of common signaling pathways in embryonic sections, highlighting their synergistic and complementary effects. A competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) regulatory network was constructed from whole transcriptome data. Spatial transcriptomics provided location-specific cloaca region gene expression. Diverse bioinformatics analyses deepened our understanding of ARM's molecular interactions, guiding future research and providing insights into gene regulation in ARM development.
Deficiency of P2RY11 causes narcolepsy and attenuates the recruitment of neutrophils and macrophages in the inflammatory response in zebrafish
Authors: Zhao Lin , Wang Li-feng , Wang Yi-chen , Liu Ao , Xiao Qian-wen , Hu Ming-Chuan , Sun Ming-zhu , Hao Hui-yu , Gao Qian , Zhao Xin , Chen Dong-yan
Published: May 2024

Purinergic receptor P2Y11, a G protein-coupled receptor that is stimulated by extracellular ATP, has been demonstrated to be related to the chemotaxis of granulocytes, apoptosis of neutrophils, and secretion of cytokines in vitro. P2Y11 mutations were associated with narcolepsy. However, little is known about the roles of P2RY11 in the occurrence of narcolepsy and inflammatory response in vivo. In this study, we generated a zebrafish P2Y11 mutant using CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing and demonstrated that the P2Y11 mutant replicated the narcolepsy-like features including reduced HCRT expression and excessive daytime sleepiness, suggesting that P2Y11 is essential for HCRT expression. Furthermore, we accessed the cytokine expression in the mutant and revealed that the P2RY11 mutation disrupted the systemic inflammatory balance by reducing il4, il10 and tgfb, and increasing il6, tnfa, and il1b. In addition, the P2RY11-deficient larvae with caudal fin injuries exhibited significantly slower migration and less recruitment of neutrophils and macrophages at damaged site, and lower expression of anti-inflammatory cytokines during tissue damage. All these findings highlight the vital roles of P2RY11 in maintaining HCRT production and secreting anti-inflammatory cytokines in the native environment, and suggested that P2RY11-deficient zebrafish can serve as a reliable and unique model to further explore narcolepsy and inflammatory-related diseases with impaired neutrophil and macrophage responses.

Graphical abstract
Periodic orbits in a galactic potential
Authors: Harsoula M. , Contopoulos G.
Published: May 2024

We make a numerical study of the periodic orbits of period-1 and their bifurcations in a galactic type potential $$V=\frac{1}{2}[\alpha (x^2+y^2)+x^2y^2]$$

V
=

1
2

[
α

(

x
2

+

y
2

)

+

x
2

y
2

]

, which tends to the Yang–Mills potential $$V=\frac{1}{2}x^2y^2$$

V
=

1
2

x
2

y
2

, when $$\alpha $$
α
tends to zero. We consider their stability diagrams, the corresponding Poincaré surfaces of section and the forms of the orbits.
Efficient quantum algorithms for some instances of the semidirect discrete logarithm problem
Authors: Imran Muhammad , Ivanyos Gábor
Published: May 2024

The semidirect discrete logarithm problem (SDLP) is the following analogue of the standard discrete logarithm problem in the semidirect product semigroup$$G\rtimes {{\,\textrm{End}\,}}(G)$$G⋊End(G)for a finite semigroupG. Given$$g\in G, \sigma \in {{\,\textrm{End}\,}}(G)$$g∈G,σ∈End(G), and$$h=\prod _{i=0}^{t-1}\sigma ^i(g)$$h=∏i=0t-1σi(g)for some integert, the SDLP$$(G,\sigma )$$(G,σ), forgandh, asks to determinet. As Shor’s algorithm crucially depends on commutativity, it is believed not to be applicable to the SDLP. For generic semigroups, the best known algorithm for the SDLP is based on Kuperberg’s subexponential time quantum algorithm. Still, the problem plays a central role in the security of certain proposed cryptosystems in the family ofsemidirect product key exchange. This includes a recently proposed signature protocol called SPDH-Sign. In this paper, we show that the SDLP is even easier in some important special cases. Specifically, for a finite groupG, we describe quantum algorithms for the SDLP in$$G\rtimes {\textrm{Aut}}(G)$$G⋊Aut(G)for the following two classes of instances: the first one is whenGis solvable and the second is whenGis a matrix group and a power of$$\sigma $$σwith a polynomially small exponent is an inner automorphism ofG. We further extend the results to groups composed of factors from these classes. A consequence is that SPDH-Sign and similar cryptosystems whose security assumption is based on the presumed hardness of the SDLP in the cases described above are insecure against quantum attacks. The quantum ingredients we rely on are not new: these are Shor’s factoring and discrete logarithm algorithms and well-known generalizations.
Punching above One’s Weight–On Overcommitment in Election Campaigns
Authors: Haan Marco A. , Onderstal Sander , Riyanto Yohanes E.
Published: May 2024

In this paper, we develop a game-theoretic model to study how candidates compete in elections when voters care about the winner’s ability to implement policies. In our model, the candidates make commitments before the election regarding the plans they will try to implement if elected. These commitments serve as a signal of ability. In equilibrium, candidates make overambitious promises. While the candidate with the highest ability wins, the electorate may be better off having a random candidate implement her best plan, rather than seeing the winner implementing an overambitious plan.
The Only Path to Justice: The Criminal Legal System and Defamation Judgments Related to #MeToo in Sweden
Authors: Wegerstad Linnea , Andersson Ulrika
Published: May 2024

This article presents a study of court judgments involving women who, in connection with #MeToo, identified alleged perpetrators of sexual violence in social media and were later prosecuted for and convicted of criminal defamation in Sweden. We conceptualise the use of social media to share experiences of sexual violence as an informal path to justice. First, we show that this is supported by how court judgments describe women’s reasons for sharing their information, such as telling their story and sharing it with others. Second, according to Swedish defamation law, a truth defence is allowed only if the defamatory statement is first considered to be justifiable, balancing between the defendant’s interest of freedom of speech and the complainant’s interest of honour and reputation. We show that the courts did not assign the interest of speaking out about sexual violence such a significance that it would make the statement justifiable. In effect, the criminal justice system emerges as the only path to justice for victims of sexual violence, simultaneously making perpetrators invisible and victims responsible for telling without naming.
Implications of losing a need- and merit-based scholarship on the educational trajectory: a curricular analytics approach
Authors: Salazar-Fernandez Juan Pablo , Munoz-Gama Jorge , Sepúlveda Marcos
Published: May 2024

Understanding how students with low socioeconomic status finance their tuition over time can help us comprehend the impact of students’ decisions on their subsequent curricular progress, graduation, or dropout. This work presents a curricular analytics approach using process mining techniques to study educational funding trajectories as processes. Specifically, the SCHOLARSHIP-LOAN-SELF-FUNDED model is designed to reveal educational funding trajectories and obtain aggregate information. Academic and tuition records of 2484 undergraduate students from a private Chilean university who started their programs with a government need- and merit-based tuition aid were analyzed. Students who lost their scholarships were more likely to drop out, whereas students who maintained this aid were more likely to graduate on time. Curricular progress per semester was slower after scholarships ended or after the students lost them and stayed. Financial aid was associated with students’ curricular progress and linked to their permanence and graduation time. Higher education institutions should consider the eligibility criteria and maintenance requirements of financial assistance when designing their curricula.