bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modular Stimuli‐Responsive Valves for Pneumatic Soft Robots
Authors: He Qiguang , Yin Rui , Hua Yucong , Shu Hang , Zhu Xiaoheng , Haque A. B. M. Tahidul , Ferracin Samuele , Patel Saheli , Jiao Weijian , Raney Jordan R.
Published: November 2024

Pneumatic soft robots have several advantages, including facile fabrication, versatile deformation modes, and safe human–machine interaction. However, pneumatic soft robots typically rely on mechatronics to interact with their environment, which can limit their form factors and reliability. Researchers have considered how to achieve autonomous behaviors using the principles of mechanical computing and physical intelligence. Herein, modular responsive valves that can autonomously regulate airflow within pneumatic soft robots in response to various environmental stimuli, including light, water, and mechanical forces, are described. By combining multiple types of valves, autonomous logic gates and more advanced logical operations can be realized. Finally, it is demonstrated that responsive valves can be integrated with pneumatic soft robots, allowing autonomous morphing and navigation. This framework provides a strategy for creating autonomous pneumatic robots that can respond to multiple stimuli in their environment.
Compensated Current Mirror Neuron Circuits for Linear Charge Integration with Ultralow Static Power in Spiking Neural Networks
Authors: Park Jonghyuk , Kim Sungjoon , Choi Woo Young
Published: November 2024

For energy‐ and time‐efficient artificial intelligence (AI) computing, implementing hardware‐based spiking neural networks (SNNs) has become a core technology. In SNNs, synaptic devices store weights in memory, and neurons process received weighted information and generate spike signals. Upon feeding spike signals into synaptic arrays, the synaptic weights multiply the signals, which subsequently sum up to perform vector‐matrix multiplication (VMM). Simultaneous access to multiple synaptic devices, however, reduces the equivalent resistance of these synaptic arrays. This reduction alters the voltage division between the pre‐synaptic array and the input resistance of the neuron circuit, distorting the read voltage across synaptic devices. This phenomenon is known as the fan‐in problem, which leads to non‐ideal VMM operations and degrades system accuracy. To address this issue, a novel compensated current mirror (CCM) neuron circuit is proposed, which incorporates a single additional transistor into a conventional current mirror. This CCM neuron achieves exceptional current linearity (R2 > 0.999) and efficiently compensates for VMM error with low complexity and energy consumption (3.33 pJ spike−1). Furthermore, the CCM neuron demonstrates ≈7‐%p higher inference accuracy than conventional ones when integrated with a 512 × 512 large‐scale synaptic array, which is comparable to the accuracy of software‐based SNNs.
Hepatobiliary Platynosomosis in Black‐Tufted Marmosets (Callithrix penicillata): A Lethal Threat for Wildlife and Captive Populations
Authors: de Macêdo Isabel Luana , de Sousa Davi Emanuel Ribeiro , Souza Antonizete dos Reis , de Toledo Costa Gabriela Rodrigues , Scalon Marcela Corrêa , Duarte Matheus Almeida , Paludo Giane Regina , Hoppe Estevam Guilherme Lux , Oliveira Wilson Junior , de Oliveira Passos Pedro Henrique , Romano Alessandro Pecego Martins , de Lima Eduardo Mauricio Mendes , de Melo Cristiano Barros , de Castro Márcio Botelho
Published: November 2024

Helminthic infections, particularly those caused by trematodes, pose a significant health risk to both animals and humans. This study investigates hepatobiliary platynosomosis (HP) caused by Platynosomum illiciens in black‐tufted marmosets (Callithrix penicillata) in Central Brazil. Data were retrospectively collected from autopsy records at the Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology and Forensics, University of Brasília, from January 2006 to July 2021. Epidemiological, clinical, and pathological information was analyzed, including comparisons between free‐ranging and captive marmosets. A total of 1596 nonhuman primate (NHP) death records were examined, with black‐tufted marmosets accounting for 75.6% (1206/1595) of autopsies. HP was identified in 10.8% (131/1206) of these cases. Captive marmosets showed a higher prevalence of HP (49.6%) than free‐ranging ones (6.5%). This study revealed a significant seasonal trend, with higher HP prevalence observed during the wet season until the onset of the dry season. Pathological examinations revealed severe liver and bile duct damage in fatal HP cases, including fibrosis, bile duct thickening, and the presence of flukes. Captive marmosets exhibited pronounced clinical signs, such as weight loss and apathy. Morphological and molecular analysis of sampled flukes confirmed P. illiciens infecting the marmosets. These findings underscore the substantial impact of HP on marmoset populations, particularly in captive settings. The high lethality (58% overall; 81.6% in captivity) highlights the need for improved management and preventive measures in captive environments. This study contributes to understanding HP epidemiology, clinical manifestations, and pathological outcomes, underscoring the disease's significance for the health of both free‐ranging and captive NHP populations. Our findings also support the need to develop targeted strategies to mitigate the impact of HP on primate species populations.
Transition Metal Complexes of Turmeric Schiff Base: A New Avenue for the Development of Antioxidant, Anti‐Inflammatory, and Preliminary Anticancer Therapies via In Silico, In Vitro, and In Vivo Assessments
Authors: Michael Samuel , Jeyaraman Porkodi , Marimuthu Bhuvaneswari , Raman Natarajan
Published: November 2024

In the current study, Knoevenagel condensates mediated by ultrasound were created using cinnamaldehyde and physiologically active curcumin. These Knoevenagel condensates have been reacted with 4‐aminoantipyrene to create curcumin Schiff bases. The octahedral geometry of the synthesized transition metal complexes is verified by a range of analytical methods and spectroscopic techniques. It is interesting to note that viscosity tests against calf thymus‐DNA and UV–visible absorption titration are used to confirm the synthetic drugs intercalative binding effectiveness. VLS3D online program was utilized to examine the properties of SWISS ADME. The experimental validation of antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory activity demonstrates that theoretical expectations align with the experimental findings. The minimum inhibitory concentration values of the synthesized complexes show that they are more effective against microbes than ligand. Density functional theory simulations were performed at the B3LYP/6–31G(d) level to examine the complexes' thermodynamic stability and physiological accessibility. Every synthetic molecule has been docked against the bovine serum albumin 3v03 enzyme.
Isolated Neutron Stars as Science Validation for XMM2ATHENA: Ensuring Robust Data for Future X‐Ray Astronomy
Authors: Pires Adriana Mancini , Motch Christian , Schwope Axel , Traulsen Iris , Ballet Jean , Chakraborty Sudip , Homan David , Kurpas Jan , Gomez‐Moràn Ada Nebot , Pineau François‐Xavier , Tranin Hugo , Webb Natalie
Published: November 2024

The discovery of radio‐quiet, x‐ray thermally emitting isolated neutron stars (XINSs) in the ROSAT All‐Sky Survey revealed a previously overlooked component of the neutron star population. Advancements in x‐ray instrumentation and the availability of deep, wide‐area optical surveys now enable us to explore XINSs at fainter x‐ray fluxes and greater distances. In this study, we investigated candidates selected from the 4XMM‐DR9 catalogue using XMM‐Newton, focusing on long‐term flux stability, spectral characterisation, and astrometry. By leveraging resources from the XMM2ATHENA project—including updated catalogues, multiwavelength characterisation and machine learning classification—we refined our understanding of this sample of soft x‐ray emitters. Our findings enhance the characterisation of XINS candidates, laying the groundwork for more targeted investigations and future catalogue searches.
The role of autonomy in forming an integrated identity among early career academics
Authors: Kuzborska Irena , O'Reilly David , Smith Katie , Lambrechts Agata A. , Stenson Annis
Published: November 2024

The formation of teacher identity is a complex and strenuous process. Teachers are expected to form multiple identities based on institutional values and regulations; however, these identities can sometimes conflict with one's personal values and goals, leading to less integration. According to self‐determination theory, forming an integrated identity is crucial for teachers' well‐being and effective performance. To promote an integrated identity, it is essential to satisfy the need for autonomy, defined in this study as the need to have a choice and the ability to self‐determine one's behaviours. While much is known about the construction of social identity, the formation of an integrated identity is less understood. To fill this gap and support the professional development of early career academics (ECAs), this study adopts the concepts of organismic integration and basic psychological needs. It examines the extent to which ECAs' identity adoption is integrated (autonomous) or introjected (controlled) and the degree to which autonomy satisfaction is associated with adopting particular identities. A total of 176 ECAs teaching at various UK universities completed an online questionnaire based on the Basic Psychological Need Satisfaction and Frustration Scale; 25 of them also participated in a semi‐structured interview. Generally high levels of autonomy satisfaction were determined, but the reasons given indicated the formation of externally regulated and introjected identities. Implications for developing effective professional preparation programmes are discussed.
Three‐dimensional printing technology: A novel tool in guiding surgical management of retroperitoneal sarcoma
Authors: Hickey Kala E. , Nessim Carolyn
Published: November 2024

Retroperitoneal sarcoma is a complex entity that requires specialized surgical management. Three‐dimensional printing technology may represent a valuable adjunctive tool for the preoperative assessment and surgical planning of retroperitoneal sarcoma.
Quality of life outcomes in patients participating in the CALGB 30610 trial (CALGB 70702): Alliance
Authors: Ganti Apar K. , Fruth Briant , Rimner Andreas , Waqar Saiama , Mix Michael D. , Petty W. Jeffrey , Stinchcombe Thomas E. , Vokes Everett E. , Bogart Jeffrey A. , Dueck Amylou C.
Published: November 2024

Background

CALGB 30610 trial demonstrated that once daily thoracic radiotherapy (TRT) was not superior compared to standard twice daily TRT, in patients with limited stage small cell lung cancer. Quality of life outcomes may help oncologists decide the best treatment approach.

Methods

A total of 417 patients on CALGB 30610 participated in the quality‐of‐life substudy (CALGB 70702), which included the FACT Trial Outcome Index‐Lung Cancer (FACT‐L TOI), FACT‐Esophageal Cancer (FACT‐E) Eating and Swallowing Indices, ECOG Acute Esophagitis Scale, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), difficulty swallowing, EQ‐5D, and treatment convenience assessment at baseline, 3, 5, 7, 12, 26, and 52 weeks after starting TRT. Primary end points included FACT‐L TOI and FACT‐E at 12 weeks. Mean changes from baseline were compared between arms using general linear mixed models.

Results

FACT‐L worsening was more in the twice daily arm at week 3 (–1.0 vs. –7.0). FACT‐L TOI worsening was less at week 3 (–2.9 vs. –7.6) and greater at week 12 (–7.6 vs. –2.8) in the once daily arm. The once daily arm had a lower EQ‐5D index worsening at 3 weeks (0.01 vs. –0.02). Increase in acute esophagitis score (1.06 vs. 2.89; p < .001) and difficulty swallowing (0.39 vs. 1.14) were greater in the twice daily arm at week 3. A total of 74.5% of patients on the once daily arm felt that treatment was convenient, compared to 67% of patients in the twice daily arm (p = .03).

Conclusions

The once daily arm had better quality‐of‐life scores earlier during treatment and was perceived to be more convenient.
From Fundamentals to Practice: Electrolyte Strategies for Zinc‐Ion Batteries in Extreme Temperature
Authors: Xue Tao , Mu Yongbiao , Wei Xiyan , Zhou Ziyan , Zhou Yuke , Zhang Zhengchu , Yang Chao , Qiu Jianhui , Zang Limin , Zeng Lin
Published: November 2024

In the pursuit of advanced energy storage technologies that promote sustainable energy solutions, zinc‐ion batteries (ZIBs) have emerged as a promising alternative to lithium‐ion batteries due to their abundance, safety, and environmental advantages. However, the failure mechanisms of ZIBs under extreme temperatures are still not fully understood, presenting significant challenges to their development and commercialization. Therefore, innovative strategies are essential to enhance their adaptability to temperature extremes. In this review, we first explore the thermodynamic and kinetic aspects of performance degradation under extreme temperatures, focusing on key factors such as ion diffusion and redox processes at electrode interfaces. We then comprehensively summarize and discuss the existing approaches for various electrolyte types, including aqueous, nonaqueous, and solid state. Finally, we highlight the key challenges and future prospects for ZIBs operating under extreme temperature conditions. The insights presented in this review are expected to accelerate the advancement of ZIBs and facilitate their practical implementation in large‐scale energy storage systems.
Hybrid Heuristic‐Based Invariable Step‐Size Zero‐Attracting Modified Normalized Least Mean Square for Efficient Channel Estimation in Broadband Wireless Communication System
Authors: Iniyavan R. , Vijayalakshmi B.
Published: November 2024

The stability of the broadband channel estimation capabilities is provided by the normalized least mean square (NLMS) approaches. When compared to compression sensing‐based algorithms, the NLMS is very effective to perform in the channel estimation model, and also, the computational complexity of these algorithms is very low. But the important drawback of these algorithms is the intrinsic sparsity of broadband communication channels is not effectively utilized in these systems. The channel sparsity is exploited using invariable step‐size zero‐attracting NLMS algorithms in the adaptive sparse channel estimation techniques. The best trade‐off between the computational complexity and the cost function cannot be obtained, and the convergence rate is low in the ISS‐ZA‐NLMS, and a new algorithm is developed with the help of existing ISS‐ZA‐NLMS. The objective of this research work is to develop a novel channel estimation mechanism for broadband wireless communication systems using the enhanced NLMS method with the usage of a hybrid heuristic strategy. This work designs and develops an efficient channel estimation technique named as hybrid heuristic‐based invariable step‐size zero‐attracting modified NLMS for enhancing efficiency. The heuristic algorithms like rat swarm optimizer and red deer algorithm are fused together to get hybrid rat red deer swarm optimization for estimating the channels with higher efficiency. The main scope of the implemented scheme is to offer better performance regarding the mean square error (MSE) measures. The simulation analysis is made finally to estimate the performance of the investigated HH‐ISS‐ZA‐MNLMS with the comparison of conventional approaches.
Multiobjective Secure Trust Aware Redundant Array Shifting Encryption and Clustering Based Routing in Mobile Ad Hoc Networks
Authors: Prasanna K. S. , Ramesh B.
Published: November 2024

Mobile ad hoc networks (MANETs) are characterized by their self‐configuring and decentralized nature in wireless networking. In MANETs, energy‐constrained devices face increased packet loss due to malicious nodes, leading to higher delays and energy consumption. Addressing this issue is crucial to improve network performance and efficiency. Therefore, to overcome these issues, a multiobjective secure trust‐aware redundant array shifting encryption adaptive sparrow search optimization (MORS‐ASO) was introduced in this manuscript for secure data transmission in MANETs. This encryption enhances security by distributing data across multiple nodes and dynamically shifting it, making it more resistant to attacks and unauthorized access. The hybrid integrated cat swarm optimization is the combination of integrated optimization algorithm and cat swarm optimization. Adaptive sparrow search optimization is applied to carry out the data transmission securely. The proposed method helps to offer security against various routing disruption attacks, genuine and hurtful attack. The MORS‐ASO achieves a packet delivery ratio of 94.3%, an end‐to‐end delay of 3.362 s, a throughput of 2952.7548 bps, and a jitter of 1.245 ms. Also, it consumes 32 joules of energy, supports a network lifetime of 3500 s, and has a packet loss ratio of 19%.
Neogene drainage evolution of SW Anatolia (Türkiye): Integration of morphotectonics, drainage and denudation analyses
Authors: van Heiningen Pieter S. , Kaymakci Nuretdin
Published: November 2024

This study integrates denudation analysis with morphotectonic characteristics, facies associations and drainage analysis to investigate the landscape evolution of SW Anatolia. Age‐Elevation Relationship (AER) plots of published thermochronological data from drainage divides, valleys and preserved paleo‐geomorphological landscape remnants provide insight into the region's drainage evolution. Cooling and denudation events identify the timing of divide formation, windgap formation and divide breaching, which leads to watergap formation.

We have subdivided SW Anatolia into distinct morphotectonic domains. Among these, the Gediz and Büyük Menderes faults and the Selimiye Shear Zone fragmented the Menderes Metamorphic Core Complex into three each of which experienced different cooling histories based on denudation analysis utilizing various low‐temperature thermochronometers.

Hypsometric integral and channel profile analyses demonstrate significant variation in landscape maturity and drainage basin modifications over time. These analyses, combined with the interpretation and mapping of windgaps, watergaps and stream deflections, as well as the depositional environments of sediments and volcanic sequences, enable the reconstruction of drainage patterns from the early Miocene to Recent.

During the middle Miocene, the Sakarya drainage basin dominated central and eastern SW Anatolia, with the Gediz drainage basin being a minor part of the Küçük Menderes basin. The Büyük Menderes drainage basin, in contrast, drained the southern portion of SW Anatolia, while the Bakırçay catchment extended into the northern Gediz basin. By the late Miocene, the Sakarya drainage basin had lost a significant portion of its hinterland to the Gediz basin and several newly isolated basins, while also capturing the Burdur and Beyşehir basins, along with the mid‐ and upstream sections of the Büyük Menderes basin, thereby reducing its area by two‐thirds. In the Pliocene, the Gediz drainage basin contracted by approximately 80%, while the Büyük Menderes basin expanded to absorb the Gediz and Tavas basins. During the Quaternary, the Büyük Menderes basin further shrank by around 60% as isolated basins formed in the east. Recent tectonic activity has led to the Gediz basin recapturing parts of its upstream area, while the Büyük Menderes basin regained previously isolated sections of the Gediz basin. The Dalaman and Eşençay basins also captured upstream isolated basins, while the Burdur basin was captured by the Aksu River, isolating the Beyşehir basin from Burdur.

These episodes of drainage reorganization are driven by dynamic topography, influenced by slab‐edge processes and intensified by the westward escape of the Anatolian Block. The westward motion, combined with slab‐tear‐driven vertical movements, has led to substantial reconfiguration of the drainage networks in SW Anatolia over time.
Willingness to Care—Financial Incentives and Caregiving Decisions
Authors: Rebaudo Mara , Calahorrano Lena , Hausmann Kathrin
Published: November 2024

As population aging will likely lead to an increasing number of people in need of care, the demand for informal care is expected to rise. In this context, it is often discussed whether financial incentives can motivate more individuals to assume caregiving responsibilities. We analyze the potential effect of financial incentives on the provision of informal care by estimating a structural model with endogenous labor supply and caregiving decisions. This allows us to investigate how both individual wages and financial compensations for caregiving affect the caregiving decision, while accounting for heterogeneous preferences. We find that wage increases are associated with a decreased willingness to care. Financially compensating potential carers for the opportunity costs from caregiving significantly increases the probability of providing care. However, across different subgroups, a large share of about 50% of potential carers remains unwilling to provide care despite the financial incentive. For these individuals, factors such as preferences and social norms outweigh financial considerations in their caregiving decision.
Trust as Foundation: Can Nigeria's New Health Workforce Policy Stem the Migration Tide?
Authors: Giwa Ayotunde
Published: November 2024

Nigeria's 2024 National Policy on Health Workforce Migration confronts a fundamental challenge: rebuilding trust between healthcare workers and government. Using Mayer, Davis, and Schoorman's organizational trust framework, this analysis explores how trust shapes healthcare workers' migration decisions. Drawing from comparative African experiences and implementation evidence, this paper argues that without addressing core issues of trust through demonstrated policy implementation, sustained commitment to workforce welfare, and competitive compensation, even well‐designed retention policies will struggle to retain Nigeria's health workers.
Global variations in gallbladder cancer incidence: What do recorded data and national estimates tell us?
Authors: Piñeros Marion , Vignat Jerome , Colombet Murielle , Laversanne Mathieu , Ferreccio Catterina , Heise Katy , Mhatre Sharayu , Koshiol Jill , Bray Freddie
Published: November 2024

On a global scale, gallbladder cancer is a relatively rare cancer with a striking variability in incidence across countries and world regions. We examined recent geographic variations worldwide based on national gallbladder cancer incidence estimates for the year 2022 from the GLOBOCAN database for 185 countries alongside recorded incidence data from the most recent volume of Cancer Incidence in Five Continents. In 2022, 122,491 new gallbladder cancer cases and 89,055 deaths were estimated to occur worldwide, of which 64.5% and 64.7% respectively were among females. The highest reported rates (ASR per 100,000) were in subpopulations of Northeastern regions of India and Southern Chile in both males (ASR of 6.1 and 5.3, respectively) and in females, though rates were two times higher than males (ASR of 14.9 and 15.4). The lowest incidence rates were reported in subpopulations of Uganda for males and South Africa for females (0.21 and 0.14, respectively). Recorded gallbladder cancer incidence rates among subnational populations within countries differed considerably from their respective national estimates and revealed a 100‐fold variation in gallbladder cancer, highlighting the importance of subnational population‐based cancer registry data in pinpointing areas of high risk, driving research and prioritizing tailored public health actions.
Pharmacokinetics of Atorvastatin and Metformin after Coadministration with Islatravir in Healthy Adults
Authors: McCrea Jacqueline B. , Patel Munjal , Liu Yang , Vargo Ryan , Witter Rose , Litovsky Andrew , Stoch S. Aubrey , Iwamoto Marian , Matthews Randolph P.
Published: November 2024

Islatravir, a deoxyadenosine analog that inhibits HIV‐1 replication by multiple mechanisms of action, including reverse transcriptase translocation inhibition, is being developed for use in HIV‐1 treatment. People living with HIV often have comorbidities, such as dyslipidemia or type 2 diabetes mellitus, necessitating long‐term concomitant drug therapy. This nonrandomized, two‐period, fixed‐sequence, open‐label, phase 1, drug‐drug interaction study was conducted to evaluate the effects of islatravir coadministration on atorvastatin and metformin pharmacokinetics (PK) in healthy adults. In period 1, participants received a single dose of atorvastatin 20 mg and metformin 1000 mg. After a 5‐day washout, participants received atorvastatin 20 mg and metformin 1000 mg coadministered with a single oral dose of islatravir 60 mg (period 2). In both periods, blood samples were collected up to 72 h post dose to characterize the plasma PK of atorvastatin and metformin. Safety was monitored throughout the study. Fourteen participants were enrolled and completed the study. Atorvastatin and metformin plasma PK were similar after administration of atorvastatin and metformin with or without islatravir. The geometric mean ratio and 90% confidence interval of the area under the concentration‐time curve from time zero to infinity (AUC0‐∞) for atorvastatin and metformin with or without a single oral dose of islatravir were 1.04 (1.00‐1.10) and 0.87 (0.79‐0.96), respectively. Coadministration of islatravir with atorvastatin and metformin was well tolerated. Overall, coadministration of atorvastatin and metformin with a single oral dose of islatravir did not have a clinically meaningful effect on the PK profiles of either drug.
Realising the potential of participatory research in youth mental health: Time to go back to basics
Authors: Biddle Lucy , Haime Zoë
Published: November 2024

The importance of embedding participatory methods within youth mental health research is well accepted and often a funding prerequisite. However, we argue that there is a need to revisit the core values of the approach in order to ensure that participatory methods remain meaningful, effective and authentic. This should entail rigorously examining ‘why’ and ‘how’ to approach participatory methods ‐ not merely outlining the ‘what’ and ‘when’. We need to prioritise the naturalistic epistemic advantage youth can bring to our research, assigning them a unique collaborative role to reflect this rather than seeking to professionalise our participants. Similarly, we should explore innovative methods to empower youth to apply their lived experience and knowledge alongside the researcher. Equally, we must continue to reflect on our roles as researcher, ensuring we develop the skills necessary for participatory research with children and young people.
Guideline concordance of electronic health record order sets for hospital‐based treatment of alcohol withdrawal syndrome
Authors: Cohen Shawn M. , Kashyap Nitu , Steel Tessa L. , Edelman E. Jennifer , Fiellin David A. , Joudrey Paul J.
Published: November 2024

Background

Treatment of alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS) in hospitals is inconsistent. Electronic health record (EHR) order sets protocolize care.

Objective

We examined variation in AWS order sets across hospital organizations and their concordance with AWS guidelines.

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional study of hospital organization user‐created EHR order sets for AWS extracted from the December 2021 Epic® userweb community library. Hospital organizations with an acute care hospital and 1 AWS order set were included. We measured the proportion of guideline‐concordant care practices within four categories: (1) laboratory assessment, (2) risk assessment for severe AWS and associated management changes, (3) symptom assessment and treatment of AWS, and identification and management of complications and (4) screening, diagnosis, and treatment of unhealthy alcohol use and AUD including medications for alcohol use disorder (MAUD).

Results

Ninety‐five organizations with 289 order sets were included. The proportion of organizations with guideline‐concordant laboratory assessments included testing of electrolytes (83%), hepatic function (75%), substance use (83%), and screening for infections (33%). Guidance for assessing risk of severe AWS (34%) and indications for care escalation (63%) used inconsistent definitions. Use of guideline‐concordant medications for AWS (99%) and AWS symptom scores (91%) were nearly universal. MAUD was included by two organizations (2%). A common templated order set was used by 26% of organizations in EHR order sets.

Conclusions

We observed frequent organizational inclusion of guideline‐concordant medications and symptom scores but rare and/or poorly defined guidance for evaluating risk of severe AWS, escalation of care, and MAUD.
Mapping Ecosystem Conservation Priority Based on Social Assessment, a Tool to Assist Land Use Planning
Authors: Ahumada Ma. Luján , Cavallero Laura , Easdale Marcos , Tittonell Pablo , López Dardo R.
Published: November 2024

The lack of planning regarding the spatial location and extent of different anthropogenic activities (such as agricultural production, biodiversity conservation, tourism, and urbanization) results in unsustainable land use and occupancy. Unplanned land use change threatens the supply of ecosystem services (ES) and thus, human well‐being. Reversing this requires participatory land use planning that includes the stakeholders who inhabit the territory. Here, we analyze the social assessment of ES and its spatial representation on a map of Ecosystem Conservation Priority (ECP). In participatory workshops, we used the Analytic Hierarchy Process to characterize the assessment of stakeholders about the ES provided by forest landscapes. Among the ES analyzed, all stakeholders prioritized ES associated with hydrological regulation (Watershed Conservation Potential). Most stakeholders assigned a lower value to provisioning ES than to supporting and regulating ES, except for Agribusiness and Farmers. In addittion, we integrated social assessments with spatially explicit information through Multicriteria Modeling which allowed us to map ECP. Finally, we generated a map of consensus and dissent regarding ECP which can be used as input for land use planning. The highest consensus levels (86.45%) were mainly located in the upper watershed. In contrast, lower consensus levels (7.88%) were located mainly in plain areas of degraded and fragmented native forests. These results suggest that the ongoing transformation of forest ecosystems is linked to tensions that prioritize urbanization and agricultural activities as opposed to agroforestry land uses. Efforts to prevent the degradation of natural ecosystems require planning that addresses the complexity of social‐ecological systems.
Evolution of Electrothermal Heating and Dielectric Properties of Phenolic Resins During Pyrolysis
Authors: Wright Aniela J. K. , Dasari Smita S. , Banavath Ramu , Deshpande Sayyam , Harkin Ethan M. , Arole Kailash , Sarmah Anubhav , Green Micah J.
Published: November 2024

Electrothermal heating generated via radio frequency (RF) fields is used to probe the transformation of phenolic resin to a carbon matrix during pyrolysis. Phenolic resin is a single‐stage thermoset that is popular due to its heat resistance, chemical resistance, high strength, and low creep properties. When phenolic resin is subjected to high‐temperature, low‐oxygen treatment (pyrolysis), it is converted to a carbon material useful for many structural applications. Here, neat phenolic resin is pyrolyzed at different temperatures, and the heating response of the newly formed carbon material is tracked when exposed to an RF field. The electrical conductivity of the matrix increased with increasing pyrolysis temperature, with ≈10−4 S m−1 for the neat sample prior to pyrolysis, and ≈102 S m−1 for the sample pyrolyzed at 850 °C. The material's electrothermal response to applied RF fields increases as the material pyrolyzes and becomes conductive; however, at high pyrolysis temperatures, the material becomes sufficiently conductive such that the RF fields are reflected rather than absorbed, and the heating response decreases. The findings of this work show that heating response to RF fields can be used as a quick and easy characterization technique for tracking structural changes associated with phenolic pyrolysis.
Design of Emulsion Polymerization Reactors for Monomer‐Transport Limited Emulsion Polymerization
Authors: Schork Francis Joseph
Published: November 2024

Damkohler Number (Da) analysis can identify monomers and emulsion polymerization operating regimes where the polymerization may be monomer‐transport, rather than reaction‐limited. In these cases, the expected monomer concentration in the growing polymer particles will be reduced due to the transport limitation. This will reduce the expected rate of polymerization, and require the design of a larger polymerization reactor for a given production rate. In heterogenous catalysis, an effectiveness factor is used to quantify the reduction in reaction rate and necessarily increase reactor size to compensate. This paper will show that it is possible to use Da (functionally equivalent to the Thiele Modulus in heterogeneous catalysis) to estimate an effectiveness factor for emulsion polymerization. Also shown is a procedure for calculating the monomer feed ratio during binary copolymerization when one must not only take into account the reactivity ratios but also the possibility that one of the monomers is monomer‐transport limited. The method provides the monomer feed ratio during the semibatch phase of a binary copolymerization. This alternative to starved‐feed polymerization shall result in much faster polymerization and higher polymerization kettle utility.
Reactive compatibilization of zinc dimethacrylate on dynamically vulcanized thermoplastic polyurethane/silicone rubber blends
Authors: Li Qiuying , Tang Jie
Published: November 2024

Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU)/silicone rubber (SR) thermoplastic vulcanizates (TPVs) are considering to be a promising material for smart wearable technologies due to its low temperature and high temperature resistance and biological affinity. However, the poor compatibility between TPU and SR phases limits its practical application. In this paper, TPU/SR TPVs were prepared through dynamic vulcanization and zinc dimethacrylate (ZDMA) was used to improve the interface between TPU and SR phases. FTIR results and theoretical calculation showed that complex reactions including the graft‐polymerization of ZDMA occurred onto the main chains of TPU and SR in the presence of peroxides to form a strong interface and improve the compatibility. Dynamic mechanical analysis implied the difference of glass transition temperature of the two phases reduced from 86.4 to 67.3°C with the addition of 5 wt% of ZDMA compared to original TPVs. Scanning electron microscope showed that with the addition of 5 wt% ZDMA, the crosslinked SR phase formed a network structure when TPU phase was etched with dimethyl sulfoxide. By adding 5 wt% of ZDMA, the torques during mixing, tensile strength, and tear stress of TPVs were improved by 150%, 273%, and 217% respectively, compared to the TPVs without ZDMA.

Highlights

The compatibility between TPU and SR was improved by adding ZDMA.

The mechanism for ZDMA enhancing the interface of TPU/SR TPVs was discussed.

The addition of ZDMA improves the mechanical properties of TPU/SR TPVs.

An appropriate loading of ZDMA used for TPU/SR TPVs was discussed.
Exploring temperature effects on compatibility in PS‐b‐PI‐b‐PS block copolymer‐based blends through experimental and molecular dynamics simulation approaches
Authors: Lazim Nurul Hakimah , Shamsudin Siti Aisyah , Mazlan Saiful Amri , Nordin Nur Azmah , Mohd Hidzir Norsyahidah , Takenaka Mikihito
Published: November 2024

The poly(styrene‐block‐isoprene‐block‐styrene) (PS‐b‐PI‐b‐PS) block copolymer is known for its self‐assembly characteristics and dual structure that combines rubber and thermoplastic materials. Conventionally, blends of block copolymers are fabricated using the melt blending method, a process that requires high temperatures. This study introduces an energy‐efficient solution blending method to enhance the compatibility between PS‐b‐PI‐b‐PS and natural rubber (NR) latex. NR latex was blended with PS‐b‐PI‐b‐PS in toluene at temperatures of 80, 100, 120, and 150°C and cast to form films. The solution‐blended film prepared at a moderate temperature of 120°C exhibited a maximum tensile strength of 9.48 MPa and was thermally degraded at higher temperature (382°C) than those produced by melt blending. The solution blending method also reduced the surface roughness and the particle size to between 7 and 500 nm and improved the interfacial adhesion in SB‐120°C blend compared to MB‐180°C blend. Molecular dynamics simulations indicated that the improved mechanical performance of the blend was primarily due to enhanced intramolecular bonding, with a maximized bond energy of 20,133 kcal/mol. This work demonstrates an energy‐efficient method with lower processing temperature for preparing polymer blends with improved compatibility suitable for various nanotechnology and engineering applications.

Highlights

Solution blending method improves the compatibility.

Tensile strength and interfacial adhesion of the polymer blend improved.

Solution blending reduces the particle size and surface roughness.

Simulation shows an increase in intramolecular bond energy.
Luminescent filaments based on polymer modified with Eu(III) complexes for three‐dimensional printing of simple spectrophotometric devices for chemical analysis
Authors: Boichenko Ekaterina , Smolyanov Nikolay , Ashina Julia , Khistiaeva Viktoria , Grachova Elena , Kirsanov Dmitry
Published: November 2024

Three‐dimensional printing (3DP) plays a significant role in developing custom analytical devices and miniaturized measuring systems. The printing materials, for example, polymer filaments, are often regarded only from the point of view of their mechanical properties to achieve the desirable geometry of a 3D‐printed item. Nevertheless, the modification of 3D printing materials to give them new features, such as luminescence, opens the way to the highest level of customization for various applications. In this work, glycol‐modified polyethylene terephthalate is mixed with luminescent complexes of Eu(III) to extrude the filaments suitable for fused deposition modeling of a cuvette for chemical analysis. This cuvette is the main part of a miniature spectrophotometer, being a light source and a sample chamber itself. As a proof of concept, the developed spectrophotometer is applied for quantitative digital image‐based analysis of inorganic and organic substances.
Urinary Proteomics and Systems Biology Link Eight Proteins to the Higher Risk of Hypertension and Related Complications in Blacks Versus Whites
Authors: An De‐Wei , Martens Dries S. , Mokwatsi Gontse G. , Yu Yu‐Ling , Chori Babangida S. , Latosinska Agnieszka , Isiguzo Godsent , Eder Susanne , Zhang Dong‐Yan , Mayer Gert , Kruger Ruan , Brguljan‐Hitij Jana , Delles Christian , Mels Catharina M. C. , Stolarz‐Skrzypek Katarzyna , Rajzer Marek , Verhamme Peter , Schutte Aletta E. , Nawrot Tim S. , Li Yan , Mischak Harald , Odili Augustine N. , Staessen Jan A.
Published: November 2024

Blacks are more prone to salt‐sensitive hypertension than Whites. This cross‐sectional analysis of a multi‐ethnic cohort aimed to search for proteins potentially involved in the susceptibility to salt sensitivity, hypertension, and hypertension‐related complications. The study included individuals enrolled in African Prospective Study on the Early Detection and Identification of Cardiovascular Disease and Hypertension (African‐PREDICT), Flemish Study of the Environment, Genes and Health Outcomes (FLEMENGHO), Prospective Cohort Study in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus for Validation of Biomarkers (PROVALID)‐Austria, and Urinary Proteomics Combined with Home Blood Pressure Telemonitoring for Health Care Reform Trial (UPRIGHT‐HTM). Sequenced urinary peptides detectable in 70% of participants allowed the identification of parental proteins and were compared between Blacks and Whites. Of 513 urinary peptides, 300 had significantly different levels among healthy Black (n = 476) and White (n = 483) South Africans sharing the same environment. Analyses contrasting 582 Blacks versus 1731 Whites, and Sub‐Saharan Blacks versus European Whites replicated the findings. COL4A1, COL4A2, FGA, PROC, MGP, MYOCD, FYXD2, and UMOD were identified as the most likely candidates underlying the racially different susceptibility to salt sensitivity, hypertension, and related complications. Enriched pathways included hemostasis, platelet activity, collagens, biology of the extracellular matrix, and protein digestion and absorption. Our study suggests that MGP and MYOCD being involved in cardiovascular function, FGA and PROC in coagulation, FYXD2 and UMOD in salt homeostasis, and COL4A1 and COL4A2 as major components of the glomerular basement membrane are among the many proteins potentially incriminated in the higher susceptibility of Blacks compared to Whites to salt sensitivity, hypertension, and its complication. Nevertheless, these eight proteins and their associated pathways deserve further exploration in molecular and human studies as potential targets for intervention to reduce the excess risk of hypertension and cardiovascular complications in Blacks versus Whites.
Prediction of Plant Resistance Proteins Using Alignment‐Based and Alignment‐Free Approaches
Authors: Gahlot Pushpendra Singh , Choudhury Shubham , Bajiya Nisha , Kumar Nishant , Raghava Gajendra P. S.
Published: November 2024

Plant disease resistance (PDR) proteins are critical in identifying plant pathogens. Predicting PDR protein is essential for understanding plant–pathogen interactions and developing strategies for crop protection. This study proposes a hybrid model for predicting and designing PDR proteins against plant‐invading pathogens. Initially, we tried alignment‐based approaches, such as Basic Local Alignment Search Tool (BLAST) for similarity search and MERCI for motif search. These alignment‐based approaches exhibit very poor coverage or sensitivity. To overcome these limitations, we developed alignment‐free or machine learning (ML)‐based methods using compositional features of proteins. Our ML‐based model, developed using compositional features of proteins, achieved a maximum performance area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) of 0.91. The performance of our model improved significantly from AUROC of 0.91–0.95 when we used evolutionary information instead of protein sequence. Finally, we developed a hybrid or ensemble model that combined our best ML model with BLAST and obtained the highest AUROC of 0.98 on the validation dataset. We trained and tested our models on a training dataset and evaluated them on a validation dataset. None of the proteins in our validation dataset are more than 40% similar to proteins in the training dataset. One of the objectives of this study is to facilitate the scientific community working in plant biology. Thus, we developed an online platform for predicting and designing plant resistance proteins, “PlantDRPpred” (https://webs.iiitd.edu.in/raghava/plantdrppred).
Cholesterol‐Conjugated PAMAM Dendrimers: Enhancing Stability, Drug Delivery Efficiency, and In Vitro Anticancer Performance
Authors: Luu Ngoc Hong T. , Ly Huy Q. , Nguyen Chinh Van , Dinh Linh Thi Thuy , Nguyen Thien‐Kim Ngoc , Phan Chau My , Nguyen Minh Long , Vu Hoang Huy , Luu Cuong Hung , Hoang Thi Thai Thanh
Published: November 2024

Nanomaterials offer great potential in cancer treatment, particularly in drug delivery, where their unique properties allow for targeted therapy, increasing treatment efficacy while minimizing side effects. Dendrimers, with their highly branched structure, are ideal candidates for drug delivery. However, polyamidoamine (PAMAM) dendrimers, despite their versatility, exhibit cytotoxicity. Modifying PAMAM dendrimers with cholesterol through p‐nitrophenyl chloroformate (NPC) mediation enhances their biocompatibility and targeting ability, especially toward cancer cells. In this study, PAMAM G3.0 was successfully synthesized and conjugated with cholesterol to form G3C nanogels, with a nanoscale size of 83.8 ± 21.9 nm. The study of cholesterol conjugation revealed that at 25% surface functionalization of G3.0, G3C exhibited stable behavior in PBS buffer for up to 8 days. The system's capacity to load single or dual drugs was also explored, demonstrating controlled drug release for over 96 h. Moreover, cholesterol modification on G3.0 significantly enhanced cell compatibility. The G3C@QU/PTX system exhibited improved targeting toward HeLa cancer cells in vitro compared to healthy fibroblast cells. This research provides a strong foundation for developing nanomaterials for targeted cancer treatment.
Dynamics in the Prostate Immune Microenvironment Induced by Androgen Deprivation Therapy
Authors: Yanai Yoshinori , Kosaka Takeo , Mikami Shuji , Arai Masashi , Watanabe Keitaro , Takeda Toshikazu , Matsumoto Kazuhiro , Yamashita Makiko , Kitano Shigehisa , Oya Mototsugu
Published: November 2024

Background

The influence of testosterone on the prostate's immune microenvironment remains unclear. This study aims to elucidate the dynamics of immune cells in the prostate following androgen deprivation therapy (ADT).

Methods

We retrospectively compared prostate needle biopsy and radical prostatectomy specimens from 33 patients who underwent both procedures, along with neoadjuvant ADT at a single institution. Immune cell infiltration in the cancer and stroma areas was assessed using multiplex fluorescence immunohistochemistry.

Results

Post‐ADT, all immune cells, including CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, Foxp3+ regulatory T cells, CD204+ macrophages, and CD20+ B cells, significantly increased in the prostatectomy specimen. However, few immune cells were detected in the biopsy of the same patients (p < 0.001). The number of CD20+ B cells in the cancer area was significantly lower post‐ADT in high‐risk cases according to the NCCN classification (p = 0.020). This difference was significantly associated with the Gleason Grade Group, rather than PSA levels or T classification (p < 0.001). However, no significant difference was observed in the recurrence rate between Grade Groups 1, 2, 3 and 4, 5 (p = 0.991). There was no significant difference in immune cells other than CD20+ B cells when divided into NCCN classifications.

Conclusions

The marked increase in immune cells following ADT suggests an intensified immune response against prostate cancer.
Redundancy Allocation Problem for a Continuous‐State Series‐Parallel System With Degrading Components: Electric Vehicle Application
Authors: Chen Yuan , Yuan Tao , Bae Suk Joo
Published: November 2024

System reliability is a critical factor in designing complex engineering systems. Redundancy allocation problem (RAP) has attracted more interest owing to its wide scope of industrial applications for system reliability optimization. RAPs for binary‐state and multistate systems have been extensively studied. However, the redundancy allocation for continuous‐state systems composed of degrading components has not yet been fully explored. This study attempts to build the RAP for the continuous‐state parallel‐series system consisting of identical, independent, and nonrepairable components under active and cold‐standby redundancy strategies. The degradation of individual components in a system is continuous and modeled by the gamma process. The degradation at the system level is derived according to a deterministic structure function that relates the system degradation to the degradation of its components. Genetic algorithm and exhaustive search method are used to find the cost‐optimal redundancy design while satisfying a system reliability requirement. Series‐parallel lithium‐ion battery pack systems for electric vehicles (EVs) are used as an illustrative example to validate the proposed RAP and optimization model.