bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stability Analysis of Discrete‐Time Stochastic Systems With Markov Switching and State‐Dependent Delay
Authors: Fan Lina , Zhu Quanxin
Published: November 2024

This article focuses on the pth moment exponential stability of discrete‐time Markov switched stochastic systems with state‐dependent delay. By using Razumikhin technique, and stochastic analysis techniques, the state‐dependent delay with randomness due to the randomness of the system state can be addressed. With the help of stationary distribution of Markov switching and multiple Lyapunov–Krasovskii functionals approach, an appropriate switching rule is designed and a novel theorem on discrete‐time Markov switched stochastic systems with state‐dependent delay is established. Different from the previous results, the Markov switched with partially unstable subsystems and the state‐dependent delay with randomness are considered in this article, which brings many differences to the stability analysis of the system compared to traditional stability analysis. Furthermore, an illustrative example is performed to illustrate the effectiveness of the main theory.
Determination of Communication Link Availability for Co‐Located GEO Satellites Due to Their Orbital Movements
Authors: Yilmaz Umit Cezmi
Published: November 2024

It is becoming very common to use multiple GEO satellite inside the same longitude slot. There are different co‐location strategies for that purpose but the most common one is to use “eccentricity and inclination separation” especially if the whole fleet is being controlled by the same operator. In this study, the determination of link availability by also considering the potential RF Interference between co‐located satellites are examined. The main objective of the study is not to protect from the interference but to determine whether the satellites' orbital behavior may decrease the link availability and how much if they have potential of RF interference. In the study, two co‐located GEO satellites are shown as a sample, but in principle, the philosophy demonstrated here can be used for three or more co‐located GEO satellites.
Two Barriers Against the Cracking of Phase Change Materials Based on Gel Skeleton
Authors: Xiao Changren , Zhang Jiangyun , Zhang Guoqing , Chen Youpeng
Published: November 2024

A novel room‐temperature flexible, self‐healing PCM (denoted as PEG/PHMAC) based on gel skeleton was prepared in one‐pot free‐radical polymerization by using acrylic acid (AC) and hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HM) as monomers and polyethylene glycol (PEG) as phase change component and solvent. The as‐prepared samples exhibit excellent flexibility with a bending angle of up to 120° without fracture at room temperature, playing the role of the first barrier to effectively alleviate material fracture and failure caused by stress accumulation; in addition, because of the abundant hydrogen bonds in the material, it demonstrates outstanding self‐healing ability that deep rift can be quickly repaired within 30 min after the phase change, acting as the second barrier to self‐heal the cracks of PCM generated during long‐term heat storage/release cycles. Apart from that, these materials also show extraordinary antileakage and shape‐stable property without observation of any leakage or deformation at temperature much higher than the phase change temperature. It is also proved that this gel is suitable to act as adsorption skeleton of other PEG with different molecular weight and melting point feasible for different application scenarios. With so many merits, it is expected to provide some innovative ideas for the progress of PEG‐based PCM.
Removal of Chromium from Wastewater Through the Formation of a Layered Double Hydroxide Material for Further Use as a Photocatalyst
Authors: Ma Da , Liu Tingting , Shao Mingfei , Shi Wenying , Kong Xianggui , Duan Xue
Published: November 2024

Chromium (Cr)‐containing contaminated wastewater has posed a serious threat to environmental safety and human health. The traditional reduction‐precipitation method for removing Cr is known to exhibit difficulties, such as slow reaction rates and poor resource utilization. Herein, we demonstrated that the formation of layered double hydroxide (ZnCr‐LDH) is very promising for Cr removal and recycling. Due to the bimetallic synergistic between the ions (Zn and Cr), the reaction is accelerated compared to the formation of hydroxide, promoting the process of nucleation and crystallization. This method presents the rapid formation of ZnCr‐LDH within 1 min and efficient removal of Cr. The removal capacity was further increased to 183.4 mg∙g−1. Similarly, the formation of ZnCr‐LDH also performs well in treatment for actual wastewater. The product ZnCr‐LDH is a highly efficient photocatalyst, exhibiting a degradation efficiency of 88.6% for tetracycline (TC). Thus, this proposed strategy introduces an efficient and environmentally friendly solution for wastewater treatment. By transforming waste into useful products, this work helps to promote resource recycling and reduce the demand for natural resources, thereby holding important economic and ecological value.
A Sensitive H2O2 Electrochemical Sensor Based on Pd Nanoparticles Decorated Ti2NTx MXene
Authors: Zhang Yuan , He Liang , Sun Xiaolu , Yang Chenyu , Li Jun
Published: November 2024

Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), a prominent reactive oxygen species in organisms, plays a vital role in regulating fundamental biological activities and actively participates in cellular metabolism and stress response. Gaining insights into the quantifying H2O2 within living organisms has significant implications for human health research. The 2D transition metal nitride (Ti2NTx MXene) exhibits a thin crystal structure and enhanced electrical conductivity. A simple electrochemical sensing method for H2O2 is presented by employing palladium modification on Ti2NTx MXene. Characterization analysis confirmed the successful etching of the Ti2AlN MAX phase into accordion‐like morphology of Ti2NTx MXene by Li+ intercalation, and Pd NPs were uniformly dispersed onto the Ti2NTx MXene nanosheets. Electrochemical analysis revealed that optimal electrochemical detection performance for H2O2 was achieved when Ti2NTx MXene had an optimum Pd modification amount (2 wt%) at −0.4 V, exhibiting excellent stability at low concentrations. The detection limit was determined to be 0.72 µM, with a calculated sensitivity of 0.825 µA µM−1 cm−2. This study establishes the optimal amount of Pd modification and identifies Pd‐Ti2NTx MXene as a promising candidate for electrochemical sensing applications targeting H2O2.
Engineered Conductive Metal–organic Frameworks for Electrochemical Detection of Urinary Biomarkers
Authors: Mohan Brij , Asif Muhammad Bilal , Pombeiro Armando J. L.
Published: November 2024

The increasing prevalence of health concerns has sparked a demand for advanced health monitoring tools, which is a significant challenge for researchers. Analysis of biofluid samples and biomarker monitoring is vital for comprehensive health assessment. In this context, metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have emerged as one of the leading materials for developing cutting‐edge artificial sensors. These unique MOFs have been developed from metallic and organic linkers and consist of tunable pores and dynamic surface areas, attracting various guest molecules to participate in developing advanced electrochemical devices. This study is a gateway to a world where MOF designs transcend mere inventions, morphing into electric marvels that revolutionize urine sample monitoring. From the inception and design to the fabrication of MOF sensors tailored for electrochemical applications, this study prides itself on elucidating the factors affecting MOF‐based electrical devices and sensors. Moreover, the focus is placed on conductivity, electrode properties, and recent state‐of‐the‐art urine sample analysis, highlighting the pivotal role biomarkers play in honing the resilience and performance of the sensors. Finally, this study is specific to electrochemical sensors used for urine analysis. It will attract researchers to develop new portable tools for health monitoring by analyzing urine samples.
Reference‐Attached pH Nanosensor for Accurately Monitoring the Rapid Kinetics of Intracellular H+ Oscillations
Authors: Wen Ming‐Yong , Qi Yu‐Ting , Jiao Yu‐Ting , Zhang Xin‐Wei , Huang Wei‐Hua
Published: November 2024

Intracellular pH (pHi) is an essential indicator of cellular metabolic activity, as its transient or small shift can significantly impact cellular homeostasis and reflect the cellular events. Real‐time and precise tracking of these rapid pH changes within a single living cell is therefore important. However, achieving high dynamic response performance (subsecond) pH detection inside a living cell with high accuracy remains a challenge. Here a reference‐attached pH nanosensor (R‐pH‐nanosensor) with fast and precise pHi sensing performance is introduced. The nanosensor comprises a highly conductive H+‐sensitive IrRuOx nanowire (SiC@IrRuOx NW) as the intracellular working electrode and a SiC@Ag/AgCl NW as an intracellular reference electrode (RE) to diminish the interferences arising from cell membrane potential fluctuations. This whole‐inside‐cell detection mode ensures that the entire potential detection circuit is located within the same cell, and the R‐pH‐nanosensor is able to quantify the mild acidification of cytosol and completely record the fast pH variation within a single cell. It also enables real‐time potentiometric monitoring of the pHi oscillations, which synchronize with the glycolysis oscillations in cancer cells. Furthermore, the asymmetry in glycolysis oscillations wave is disclosed and the inhibitory effect of just lactate to glycolysis oscillations is further confirmed.
An Amphiphilic Molecule Induced Anion‐Enrichment Interface for Next‐Generation Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Liu Sheng , Yan Yu , Zheng Ruixin , Tian Guilei , Wang Xinxiang , Shu Chaozhu
Published: November 2024

The electrolyte engineering enables the fabrication of robust electrode/electrolyte interphase with excellent electrochemical stability for reliable lithium (Li) metal batteries (LMBs). Herein, an amphiphilic molecule nonafluoro‐1‐butanesulfonate (NFSA) is employed in electrolytes to realize anion‐enrichment interfacial design. The functions of such an amphiphilic molecule in the electrolyte and anode/electrolyte interphases of LMBs are elucidated via theoretical and experimental analyses. The polar lithophilic segments (‐SO3‐) present a capability to solvate Li+, while the perfluoroalkyl chains (‐CF2CF2CF2CF3) exhibit a solvent‐phobic, which alters the Li+ solvation environment in the electrolyte and thus building a favorable interphase enriched with anion‐derived inorganic compositions on Li electrode. As a result, the designed electrolyte enables stable operation of the Li||Cu cells for more than 200 cycles with a cumulative irreversible capacity loss of only 2.4 mAh cm−2, and the long‐term cycle life of the Li||Li cells is extended to more than 1500 h with a small overpotential (36.5 mV). Moreover, prolonged cycle life of the full cell assembled with commercial LiFePO4 cathode (over 80% capacity retention after 500 cycles at 0.5 C) is achieved even under the limiting Li source (≈5 mAh cm−2), high cathode loading (≈12 mg cm−2), and lean electrolyte (≈2.5 µL mg−1).
Engineering Nano‐Pills to Inhibit Ovarian Cancer Proliferation and Migration through a Combination of Chemical/Nucleic Acid Therapy
Authors: Jia Chao , Liu Qirui , Zhang Man , Han Cong , Luo Xuantong , Zhou Yu , Liu Yi , Zhang Liyun
Published: November 2024

Ovarian cancer (OC) is the most fatal of all gynecological malignancies, presenting a significant threat to women's health. Its treatment is complicated by severe dose‐dependent chemotherapy toxicity, drug resistance, and tumor migration. Herein, an intelligent combination strategy of chemotherapy and nucleic acid therapy, named ApMEmiR&D is developed. This integrated system consists of three parts: the nano‐pill, the protective membrane, and the navigation element. Nano‐pills are nanospheres assembled from miRNA and doxorubicin (DOX) with the help of ferrous ions (Fe2+). The protective membrane is derived from tumor‐associated macrophages (TAMs membrane) originating from the primary tumor microenvironment (TME). The navigation element is the cholesterol‐conjugated AS1411 aptamer. The resulting ApMEmiR&D nanoparticles exhibit uniform size, a well‐defined nanosphere structure, robust serum stability, and ultra‐high drug loading efficiency and capacity. The system can efficiently accumulate in the tumor, allowing for the synergistic inhibition of tumor growth and metastasis without apparent systemic toxicity. The results demonstrate the homing effect of tumor microenvironment‐derived macrophage cell membrane and the targeting effect of aptamer, leading to precise drug targeting and immune compatibility, thereby enhancing therapeutic efficacy. The success of this strategy paves the way for metastasis inhibition and targeted cancer therapy.
Surface Engineering of Copper Foam to Construct a Hierarchical Heterostructure for High Energy Efficient Supercapacitors
Authors: Jia Dandan , Wang Ke , Wang Xinyu , Zuo Zhiyuan , Zhao Xian , Shen Qiang
Published: November 2024

As a unique pseudocapacitive material, the heterojunction‐structured CuO@Cu combines the high conductivity of substrate Cu and the high capacity of active CuO together for structure‐integral electrodes, however, its structural optimization and improved capacity are still the main challenges so far. In this study, an initial surface etching of copper foam (CF) is adopted to construct a primary heterostructure of CuO nanowires@CF (CuO NW@CF), and then, the surface decoration of CuO NW@CF via the deposition of cerium‐2‐methylimidazole based metal–organic frameworks (Ce‐2MI) finally results in the current‐collector‐/binder‐free electrodes of the hierarchical heterostructure Ce‐2MI@CuO NW@CF. Compared to the structural properties of CuO NW@CF, both the introducing Ce‐ion active sites and the enriched lattice oxygen vacancies cooperatively endow the pseudocapacitive electrodes of Ce‐2MI@CuO NW@CF with a ultrahigh specific capacitance and excellent cycling stability. Within the potential window of 1.6 V, the asymmetric supercapacitor devices of activated carbon//Ce‐2MI@CuO NW@CF acquire a high energy density of 56.8 Wh kg−1 at 725 W kg−1, which can light up a light‐emitting diode (LED) bulb for 20 min. Therefore, constructing the hierarchically heterostructured Ce‐2MI@CuO NW@CF is an effective approach to developing high‐performance supercapacitors for potential application purposes.
Ultraviolet Photodetector Fabrication with Low‐Power Dissipation Based on Organic Suboptimal Source‐Gated Transistor Architecture and MoO3‐Doped Pentacene
Authors: Jung Min Ju , Kim Yonghee , Baeg Kang‐Jun , Lee Eun Kwang
Published: November 2024

Organic field‐effect transistor (OFET)‐based photodetectors have been extensively studied owing to their potential applications in various fields, such as imaging, communication, and environmental monitoring. However, the traditional OFET structure brings about high power consumption. Furthermore, their low electrical performance and light sensitivity must be improved to detect harmful UV rays that accelerate skin aging and cause vision degradation. One strategy to fabricate high‐performance phototransistors involves the introduction of molybdenum trioxide (MoO3), which serves as a dopant for pentacene, aiming to enhance electrical performance by increasing mobility and decreasing threshold voltage. In addition, the photoreactivity of MoO3 in the UV spectrum is utilized to achieve enhanced light responsivity. In this work, a suboptimal source‐gated transistor (sSGT) is introduced instead of a conventional OFET to exploit the work function difference between two electrodes and the active layer to achieve low‐power consumption. The power of the sSGT is 1000 times lower than that of the OFET, demonstrating the low‐power consumption. The findings indicate the potential fabrication method of high‐performance UV phototransistors with low‐power consumption induced by incorporating the MoO3 and sSGT structure.
Cross‐Linked Polyamide‐Integrated Argyrodite Li6PS5Cl for All‐Solid‐State Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Xu Yang , Fang Zhiqiang , Yue Junyi , Wang Limin , Wang Zaifa , Zhang Simeng , Liu Mengzhu , Ye Zimujun , Liu Ran , Yan Xiaolong , Han Xu , Wang Yueyue , Zhao Changtai , Xiao Biwei , Wang Xianbao , Xiao Wei , Li Xiaona , Mei Tao , Liang Jianwen
Published: November 2024

Lithium dendrite growth has become a significant barrier to realizing high‐performance all‐solid‐state lithium metal batteries. Herein, an effective approach is presented to address this challenge through interphase engineering by using a cross‐linked polyamide (negative electrostatic potential) that is chemically anchored to the surface of Li6PS5Cl (positive electrostatic potential). This method improves contact between electrolyte particles and strategically modifies the local electronic structure at the grain boundary. This innovation effectively suppresses lithium dendrite formation and enhances the overall interface stability. As a result, the critical current density of the Li6PS5Cl sulfide electrolyte is dramatically boosted from 0.4 to 1.6 mA cm−2, representing a remarkable fourfold improvement. Moreover, Li–Li symmetric batteries demonstrate exceptional stability, enduring over 10,000 h of consistent Li+ deposition/stripping at a high areal capacity of 3 mAh cm−2. Impressively Li–LiNi0.89Mn0.055Co0.055O2 full cells exhibited outstanding cycle stability and rate performance, maintaining over 80% capacity retention after 750 cycles at a demanding 1C rate. Pouch cells produced using dry‐process electrodes demonstrate strong potential for commercialization. The interphase engineering strategy offers a promising solution to the persistent challenge of dendrite growth, enabling the full realization of sulfide electrolytes' capabilities in next‐generation battery technologies.
Interface Engineering for Improved Large‐Current Oxygen Evolution via Partial Phosphorization of Ce‐MOF/NiCo‐MOF Heterostructure
Authors: Liu Dan , Xia Xuewen , Zhang Xueqiang , Wang Fei , Tao Li , Gao Ya , Wang Shujuan , Pang Zhongya , Yu Xing , Li Guangshi , Hsu Hsien‐Yi , Hu Shen , Ji Li , Lu Xionggang , Zou Xingli
Published: November 2024

Interface engineering for electrocatalysts has proven to be an effective method for modulating electrocatalytic properties, yet a more efficient and straightforward strategy to construct a valid heterointerface for further enhancing interface effects is urgently needed for boosting oxygen evolution reactions (OER) at large current. Herein, a closely compacted heterostructure combining NiCo‐metal‐organic framework (MOF) and Ce‐MOF is in situ formed through a one‐step hydrothermal treatment, and partial phosphorization is employed to further enhance the interface effect between the newly formed urchin‐shaped NiCoP shells and hexagonal rod‐like Ce‐MOF cores on nickel foam (NiCoP/Ce‐MOF@NF). Experimental and theoretical results indicate that the heterogeneous NiCoP/Ce‐MOF@NF, characterized by a more intensive interface rather than a simple physical mixture, generates an OER‐beneficial electronic structure, significantly facilitates charge transfer and reaction kinetics, and creates a synergistically stable structure. The optimal NiCoP/Ce‐MOF@NF exhibits remarkable electrocatalytic activity for OER, achieving an ultralow overpotential of 268 mV at a current density of 500 mA cm−2, and also delivers satisfactory large‐current stability of up to 120 h. This work offers a novel approach for designing heterogeneous catalysts with strong interface effects for potential applications in industrial water electrolysis.
Strong Correlation Between A‐Site Cation Order and Self‐Trapped Exciton Emission in 0D Hybrid Perovskites
Authors: Fang Feier , Shen Yongwang , Li Yu , Shih Kaimin , Hu Hanlin , Zhong Haizhe , Shi Yumeng , Wu Tom Tao
Published: November 2024

Metal halide perovskites and their derived materials have garnered significant attention as promising materials for solar cell and light‐emitting applications. Among them, 0D perovskites, characterized by unique crystallographic/electronic structures with isolated metal halide octahedra, exhibit tremendous potential as light emitters with self‐trapped exciton (STE). However, the modulation of STE emission characteristics in 0D perovskites primarily focuses on regulating B‐ or X‐site elements. In this work, a lead‐free compound, Sb3+‐doped ((C2H5)2NH2)3InCl6 single crystal, which exhibits a high photoluminescence quantum yield, is synthesized, and with increasing temperature, the A‐site organic cations undergo a transition from an ordered configuration to a disordered one, accompanied by a redshift in the STE emission. Furthermore, Hirshfeld surface calculations reveal that high temperatures enhance the thermal vibrations of SbCl63− clusters and the octahedra distortion, which are responsible for the redshift. Since this thermally triggered transition of A‐site order is reversible, it can be exploited for temperature‐sensing applications. Overall, in this work, valuable insights are provided into the role of A‐site cations in modulating STE emission and the design of efficient light emitters.
Post‐radical gastrectomy long‐term survival and etiologies of mortalities in older adult patients greater than 80 years of age with gastric cancer
Authors: Matsui Ryota , Nunobe Souya , Ri Motonari , Makuuchi Rie , Irino Tomoyuki , Hayami Masaru , Ohashi Manabu , Sano Takeshi
Published: November 2024

Background

Patients aged >80‐years‐old with gastric cancer are commonly excluded from clinical trials, and no consensus exists regarding surgical indications and outcomes in older patients. In this study, we analyzed the post‐gastrectomy long‐term survival and etiologies of mortality in older patients with gastric cancer.

Methods

Patients aged >80‐years‐old with pathological stages I–III primary gastric cancer who undergone radical gastrectomies, between May 2006 and March 2017, were included in the study. Eligible patients were categorized into 3 age cohorts: <85‐, 85–90‐, and >90‐years‐old. The primary outcome was the overall survival. The etiologies of mortalities were compared. Survival curves were compared using the log‐rank test. Prognostic factors were identified by multivariate analysis, using the Cox proportional hazards regression model.

Results

The median follow‐up duration was 59 months. Of the 353 patients, 269 (76.2%), 71 (20.1%), and 13 (3.7%) were categorized into the <85‐, 85–90‐, >90‐years‐old age cohorts, respectively. Older patients had a poorer overall survival (p = 0.003) and statistically significant difference in the other‐cause survival (p < 0.001). The multivariate analysis revealed that age was not an independent prognostic factor for overall or cancer‐specific survival. However, an age >90‐years‐old was an independent prognostic factor for the other‐cause survival.

Conclusions

In patients aged >80‐years‐old with gastric cancer who had undergone gastrectomies, mortalities from other diseases increased with age; while mortalities from gastric cancer did not. An age of ≥90‐years‐old was an independent prognostic factor for mortalities from other diseases.
Introduction: Co-creation in Higher Education—a Conceptual and Historical Overview
Authors: Jamil Md Golam , Howard-Matthews Kelsey
Published: November 2024

This introductory chapter sets the stage for the edited collection and provides a framework for all the case studies reported in the book. The content is divided into three key discussion areas: the historical development of co-creation concepts, the perceived benefits and challenges of co-creation in higher education practices, and an applied definition of co-creation based on its unique features. While reflecting on gaps between the concepts and practices of co-creation, the chapter sheds light on the role of academic environment, staff and student identities, and the value of relationship. Additionally, it discusses the importance of evaluating co-creation schemes for achieving realistic understanding and transferable strategies, particularly for academic enhancement and effective student learning in higher education. Overall, the discussion around co-creation in this chapter highlights the importance of capturing and responding to student voices and involving students in academic decision-making.
Co-creation in Higher Education amid Times of War: Exploring the Role of Student Representatives at the Faculty of Law at the University of Khartoum
Authors: Mahgoub Khadeija Elsheikh , Murkaz El-Tayeb , Idris Mashair , Hassan Mazin , Aman Saria
Published: November 2024

This chapter explores the extended co-creation role played by student representatives (SRs) in the teaching and learning process during a time of war—namely, the armed conflict in Sudan, which began in April 2023. Conducted in the Faculty of Law at the University of Khartoum and adopting a co-creation approach between staff and students of the faculty, it examines the nature and scope of the co-creation role and the impact of the structure of SRs. It finds that the role of SRs is expanded during such difficult times to encompass both pedagogical and political aspects. SRs becomes a main focal point for both the institution and students with regard to the co-creational management of the circumstances caused by the war. The chapter concludes with recommendations that universities can develop strategies to manage wartime crises in education through understanding and utilising concepts of co-creation.
Conclusion: Making Space for Constructive Co-creation
Authors: Shelton Fiona , O’Connor Catherine , Wilkinson Jo
Published: November 2024

Co-creation, we would argue, is best viewed as a journey, for it to be constructive there may not be a fixed route, and it may ultimately lead to unexpected destinations. It is clear that co-creation, at its deepest and most meaningful, is not a task set for students to complete. Rather, it is a shared endeavour that students can be involved in from the very outset. It should provide an opportunity for them, as well as staff, to set the agenda, or raise an idea for further investigation. Co-creation requires a reconceptualisation of classrooms as democratic spaces, where the work of teaching and learning is valued as a shared responsibility. If we view the learning journey through multiple lenses and provide spaces and structure for the plurality of voices, we then begin to create more equitable spaces and practices where the balance of power is redressed. Whilst it is difficult, or may not be necessary, to define co-creation practice, it is clear that co-creation is unquestionably relational. Importantly, the opportunity for growth in relational pedagogy means we value what our students bring to our organisations and how they make them a better place to be.
The 3 C’s: A Model for Co-creation of Student Success in Higher Education
Authors: McIntosh Emily , May Helen
Published: November 2024

This chapter is in two parts. The first part explores the 3 C’s model of staff-student co-creation: (1) collaboration, (2) community and (3) cohesion, developed by McIntosh and May (2024). These three core features coalesce around high-quality relational pedagogic practice to impact student belonging and connectedness in the academy and support improved student outcomes. The model is research-informed and can be applied in a variety of higher education settings, which is explored further in the second part of this chapter. It reflects on the impact of implementing the 3 C’s model via the theory of change approach, outlining the development and embedding of staff-student co-creation in the short, medium and long terms. The chapter features some visual diagrams of the model and its application, these are used to illustrate its impact in practice-based settings.
Staff-Student Co-creation in a Matrix Environment
Authors: Arm Karen
Published: November 2024

The Solent Student Partnership Project is a cross-institutional co-creation scheme hosted by the Education Office at Solent University. This chapter discusses how and why, over a three-year period, the project has moved from being hierarchically managed to being operationalised through a matrix environment. The chapter starts by outlining the evolution of the co-creation initiative in our context. It then shares our mixed experiences of moving our project into a matrix environment via three themes of contradiction: (1) losing sight and gaining visibility, (2) cohesive and conflicting identities, and (3) ground moving and groundbreaking. The chapter concludes by reflecting on the lessons learned and proposes some possible ways forward for staff-student co-creation in a matrix environment.
Co-creating a Leadership Development Programme for Nuclear Engineers: University-Industry Partnership to Boost Institutional Relevance
Authors: Joseph-Richard Paul , Ringrose Nara
Published: November 2024

Traditional leadership development programmes often fail to meet specific industry needs. This chapter describes the co-creation of a Leadership Development Programme by an academic and an industry partner, specifically tailored to the highly regulated nuclear engineering industry. This partnership effectively addressed the perceived irrelevance of business schools by ensuring the programme was directly aligned with real-world industry requirements. When stakeholders became partners and change agents in the co-creation process, a meaningful programme emerged. It utilised innovative learning methods, broadened learning transfer options, and encouraged participants to engage in leadership processes that initiated workplace change. This project not only showcases the value proposition of Business Schools for industry but also emphasises the crucial role of learning from industry partners to enhance academic programmes. This case underscores several key lessons: co-creation bridges the theory-practice gap, fosters a sense of ownership, and strengthens the case for co-creation as a strategy to enhance institutional relevance.
Whole-Class Co-creation Approach in Portfolio Assessment: A Community Knowledge Triangle Model
Authors: Teh Yong Yuan , Chong Yit Sean
Published: November 2024

This chapter aims to identify barriers and adaptive mechanisms of students, lecturers, and practitioners undertaking a portfolio assessment that applied a ‘whole-class’ co-creation approach. Beyond educator-student and peer-to-peer dynamics, industry practitioners’ involvement in the collaborative learning environment is essential to showcase current real-world issues in an ever-changing career landscape. This is essential in Asian learning contexts where students are accustomed to individual or examination-based assessment regimes. Interviews were conducted with academics, students, and practitioners to understand their experiences of the implementation of a leadership portfolio as a ‘whole-class’ assessment approach. The need to reduce ambiguity throughout the assessment process and the role of authenticity to promote collaborative learning in the whole-class co-creation process enables knowledge exchange in a collaborative Community Knowledge Triangle. This research offers insights into the co-creation process of assessment, which seeks to empower academics to train business undergraduates with practical knowledge to thrive in the future of work.
Application Examples
Authors: Herbst Gernot , Madonski Rafal
Published: November 2024

Having already introduced various extensions and modifications of the ADRC structure and its discrete-time variants for software-based implementation, we are ready to put it to work! To show how ADRC performs in actual applications, here we consider two laboratory testbeds representative of a spectrum of real control problems one can encounter in engineering practice. For those application examples, custom-made ADRC-based solutions are devised, designed, and deployed. We make an arbitrary choice to use the previously derived discrete-time state-space ADRC in the first example and its transfer function form for the implementation in the second example. For each of the considered cases, we will show similar steps including a brief plant description, formulation of the control problem, implementation and commissioning of the selected ADRC (based on already introduced “cooking recipes”), initial validation in simulation, and finally physical validation on target hardware. The examples will differ vastly regarding not only their dynamics but also the method chosen for plant modeling, covering both an experimentally driven approach and a case based on theoretical and numerical analyses.
Between Time and Frequency Domains
Authors: Herbst Gernot , Madonski Rafal
Published: November 2024

In this chapter, we will contextualize ADRC to deliver interpretations from the established field of linear control systems. This will, firstly, involve an interpretation of ADRC in terms of existing state-space control approaches. Secondly, a transition to the frequency domain is being made, as a major part of practical control engineering is performed in this domain. Analyzing and understanding ADRC from a frequency-domain perspective allows for a much easier migration from the PID world of controllers.
Visual Tour
Authors: Herbst Gernot , Madonski Rafal
Published: November 2024

A picture is worth a thousand words. This chapter aims at analyzing and showcasing ADRC in a predominantly visual manner, in both time and frequency domains, going from modeling to tuning and its closed-loop behavior. What can one expect from ADRC regarding tracking performance and disturbance rejection? What is the influence of its modeling and tuning parameters? And what if we set them too low or too high?
Extensions and Modifications
Authors: Herbst Gernot , Madonski Rafal
Published: November 2024

ADRC is not a fixed set of equations and hence should not be viewed as a magical set of formulae that, once implemented on the real system, will do wonders. It should instead be understood as a modular, flexible framework that could be tailored to specific applications. This, however, requires a bit of a different mindset—one that is open to change. In this chapter, we show potential extensions and modifications to the ADRC scheme which take into account practical scenarios where certain actionable information is available about the governed system and/or acting disturbance. We also show how the performance of ADRC can be increased, for the price of additional tuning, by incorporating some nonlinear components. We will also introduce a so-called error-based variant of the ADRC scheme which is considered a bare-bones version and has some interesting practical characteristics.
Practical Aspects
Authors: Herbst Gernot , Madonski Rafal
Published: November 2024

Tuning a controller is not always the hardest part. Its implementation in a real-world control loop requires additional efforts: One might have to be able to (gracefully) turn the controller on or off, modify its parameters while in operation, and deal with unwanted behaviors such as measurement noise, actuator limitations, or time delays in the control loop. This is usually easier said than done. In this chapter, we examine some of these issues and try to offer solutions that maintain the simplicity we consider a vital part of the “ADRC spirit.”
Comparative Study of Tensile Capacity Testing Methods for Metal Connectors Used in Precast Concrete Insulated Sandwich Wall Panels
Authors: Wang Puyan , Tu Feng , Shu Kai , Zhao Yi , Zhong Weijun , Zhou Jian
Published: November 2024

Metal connectors are important load-bearing components in precast concrete insulated sandwich wall panels, and their tensile capacity need to be determined through testing. Due to the variety of connector styles and different anchoring structures, this article focuses on the commonly used single-pull and double-pull test methods, using typical specifications of pin connectors and flat connectors for tensile testing, and considering the influence of different constraints on the single-pull test method. By comparing the failure modes, tensile strains and tensile capacity of the connectors, the study shows that using the double-pull test method to test metal connectors results in more stable and safer test results, and it is recommended to prioritize this method.
Damage Assessment of RPC Strengthened RC Columns Subjected to Blast Loading
Authors: Fu Yu , Qiu Siyuan , Yu Zhifu , Su Juan , Hou Xiaomeng
Published: November 2024

In our country, there are 60 billion square meters of existing leasable area, reactive powder concrete (RPC) has the characteristics of high toughness and high strength-to-weight ratio. RPC strengthened concrete (RC) forms RPC-RC structure, it is an important way for sustainable development of civil engineering to improve the anti-explosion ability of building structure while strengthening and reforming the structure. The dynamic response and damage assessment methods of RPC-RC columns subjected to blast loading are not clear. In order to solve this problem, the dynamic response of RPC-RC column under blast loading is simulated by using LS-DYNA finite element software, the Pressure-Impulse curve of RPC-RC column is established by using simplified numerical method, and the parameters of Pressrue-Impulse curve are analyzed. Finally, based on the results of parameter analysis, the formulas for calculating the overpressure asymptote and impulse asymptote are obtained, and the damage assessment method for RPC-RC columns is established.
Von Generation zu Generation: Mechanismen der Risikoübertragung elterlicher psychischer Erkrankungen im frühen Kindesalter
Authors: Zietlow Anna-Lena , Krumpholtz Lea
Published: November 2024

Kinder, die mit einem psychisch kranken Elternteil aufwachsen, sind vielfältigen und weitreichenden Entwicklungsrisiken ausgesetzt. Die intergenerationale Übertragung elterlicher psychischer Störungen wird durch eine Vielzahl von Risiko- und Schutzfaktoren sowie vermittelnden Mechanismen beeinflusst, die sowohl aufseiten der Eltern und Kinder als auch im sozialen Umfeld liegen. Der Einfluss der elterlichen Psychopathologie ist in den ersten Lebensjahren besonders stark, beeinflusst aber auch die Entwicklung im Kindes- und Jugendalter und kann sich lebenslang negativ auf die psychische Gesundheit auswirken. Aufgrund der vielfältigen und langfristigen Auswirkungen auf die kindliche Entwicklung ist neben der Identifikation von Transmissionsfaktoren auch die Ableitung möglichst frühzeitiger Präventions- und Interventionsstrategien von hoher Relevanz, um die weitreichenden negativen Folgen für die Entwicklung der Heranwachsenden reduzieren zu können. Mögliche Ansatzpunkte hierfür bieten zum einen identifizierte Risiko- und Schutzfaktoren sowie vermittelnde Mechanismen zwischen elterlicher Psychopathologie und kindlicher Entwicklung. Diese Faktoren und ihre Auswirkungen auf die frühkindliche Entwicklung werden im vorliegenden narrativen Review auf der Basis des aktuellen Forschungsstandes dargestellt. Darüber hinaus werden Forschungslücken identifiziert und Implikationen für die Ableitung früher Interventionen diskutiert.
Infektion durch Ostseewasser erfordert großflächige Mesh-Haut-Transplantation am Universitätsklinikum Ulm
Authors: Kreß F. , Schenk P. , Gebhard F. , Schütze K.
Published: November 2024

Vibrio vulnificus (V. vulnificus) ist ein gramnegatives Bakterium, das schwere Infektionen verursachen kann, wenn es über offene Wunden oder den Verzehr von Schalentieren in den menschlichen Körper gelangt. Vermehrtes Auftreten der Bakterien ist bei Wassertemperaturen > 20 °C bekannt. Außerdem ist ein geringer Salzgehalt von 5–25 ‰ für das Vermehren von Vibrionen förderlich. In der Übersichtsarbeit von Fleischmann et al. wird der direkte Zusammenhang von niedrigem Salzgehalt und hoher Wassertemperatur mit dem vermehrten Auftreten von V. vulnificus an deutschen Ostseeküsten aufgezeigt [7]. Es kann zu einer fulminanten nekrotisierenden Fasziitis kommen, die einen septischen Schock, eine Amputation und den Tod zur Folge haben kann.

Dieser Fallbericht zeigt die erfolgreiche chirurgische Behandlung einer fulminanten Unterschenkelinfektion mit septischem Schock nach Kontakt mit Ostseewasser in Deutschland. Nach einem schnellen und großflächigen Débridement folgte die erfolgreiche Transplantation von Hautgewebe mittels Mesh-Graft.
A New Guiding Suturing Technique for Reshaping of the Antihelix in Patients with Prominent Ears
Authors: Altramsy Ayman , Dahy Asmaa Ali , Gad Amany Attalah , Abu-Elsoud Ahmed , Khattab Rania Fouad , Nafeh Ahmed Mamdouh , Azzam Rasheda , Elameen Ali Mohamed
Published: November 2024

Background

Prominent ears are the most common congenital anomaly of the head and neck. A complete understanding of the definition of prominent ears is necessary. The present retrospective study described guiding sutures to hold the antihelix in a temporary corrected position before placing the permanent Mustardé sutures.

Methods

This study was performed between January 2021 and February 2023. All patients with prominent ear deformities subjected to guiding sutures and Mustardé-based otoplasty were included. The surgical-related outcomes and surgeons’ satisfaction were evaluated. The patients’ satisfaction and health-related quality of life were reported.

Results

The current study included 60 patients with prominent ear deformities. There were 34 (56.66%) males and 26 (43.33%) females with a mean age of 12.2±7.8 years. The mean total operative time was 49±22 minutes. Five (8.33%) patients had suture extrusion, and no case of asymmetry, recurrence, or skin necrosis was documented. There were 55 (91.66%) patients satisfied with the final appearance of their ears, and five (8.33%) patients were not satisfied. The mean general health subscale was 57.1±6.9, and the mean physical health subscale was 8.7±1.5.

Conclusions

The guiding sutures allowed easy accessibility for reshaping the antihelix in patients with prominent ears. These sutures allowed a relatively shorter operative time, and stable reshaping of the antihelix allowed for a shorter recovery time. This was associated with a low complication rate with no asymmetry, recurrence, or revision surgery. Patients operated on under local anesthesia achieved shorter operative time and better pain control.

Level of Evidence III

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266.
Application of artificial intelligence in laryngeal lesions: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Marrero-Gonzalez Alejandro R. , Diemer Tanner J. , Nguyen Shaun A. , Camilon Terence J. M. , Meenan Kirsten , O’Rourke Ashli
Published: November 2024

Objective

The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of AI-assisted technologies, including endoscopy, voice analysis, and histopathology, for detecting and classifying laryngeal lesions.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, etc. for studies utilizing voice analysis, histopathology for laryngeal lesions, or AI-assisted endoscopy. The results of diagnostic accuracy, sensitivity and specificity were synthesized by a meta-analysis.

Results

12 studies employing AI-assisted endoscopy, 2 studies for voice analysis, and 4 studies for histopathology were included in the meta-analysis. The combined sensitivity of AI-assisted endoscopy was 91% (95% CI 87–94%) for the classification of benign from malignant lesions and 91% (95% CI 90–93%) for lesion detection. The highest accuracy pooled in detecting lesions versus healthy tissue was the AI-aided endoscopy was 94% (95% CI 92–97%).

Conclusions

For laryngeal lesions, AI-assisted endoscopy shows excellent diagnosis accuracy. But more sizable prospective trials are needed to confirm the practical clinical value.
A comparison of cycloplegic effect of cyclopentolate 0.5% versus 1.0% eye drops with five different refraction measurement modalities in young adults
Authors: Kaiser Klemens Paul , Lwowski Christoph , Nazir Faisal , Kohnen Thomas , Wenner Yaroslava
Published: November 2024

Purpose

To compare the refraction before and after cycloplegia with 0.5% and 1.0% cyclopentolate eye drops using five different measurement modalities.

Methods

This prospective, clinical comparative study enrolled 96 eyes of 48 healthy patients with a mean age of 26.6 ± 4.21 years (range: 19–34). Subjective refraction, retinoscopy, and objective refraction were measured using three autorefractometers: Topcon KR-800 (TC), Retinomax K-plus 3 (RM + 3), and Retinomax K-plus Screeen (RM + S) under noncycloplegic and cycloplegic conditions. Cycloplegia was performed in the right eye using 0.5% and in the left eye with 1.0% cyclopentolate eye drops. Differences in refraction in noncycloplegia and cycloplegia, between cycloplegia with 0.5% and 1.0% cyclopentolate, and between the devices were investigated.

Results

Cycloplegic mean spherical equivalent was -1.77 ± 2.34 diopters (D) (-9.75 to + 1.625). All approaches showed a statistically significant hyperopic shift (p < 0.001, each) after induction of cycloplegia using both regimes. Lowest median (interquartile range) hyperopic shift was shown by TC (0.25 D (0.38)) and retinoscopy (0.25D (0.75)), and the highest by RM + 3 (0.75 (1.31)). No statistically significant differences between cycloplegia using 0.5% and 1.0% regimens were shown in all modalities (p > 0.05, each). In noncycloplegia, there were greater differences compared to cycloplegia. No influence of iris color on the refraction was found.

Conclusion

After induction of cycloplegia all devices showed a hyperopic shift and good comparability to retinoscopy. In all measurement modalities, no significant refraction differences between 0.5% and 1.0% cyclopentolate eye drops were seen. Therefore, 0.5% cyclopentolate was proven to have a sufficient effect with presumably better tolerability.

Key messages

What is known

Cycloplegic refraction is a key test in the evaluation of any patient with active accommodation.

The most frequently used clinical tests to determine the exact refraction are retinoscopy, subjective refraction, and objective refraction using autorefractometry.

What is new

No significant differences in the refraction between cycloplegia using 0.5% and 1.0% cyclopentolate eye drops were found.

In noncycloplegia, hand-held autorefractometers tend to measure higher myopia.

The evaluation of cycloplegic refraction showed good comparability between retinoscopy and subjective refraction as well as three different autorefractometers.