bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Emergency Medicine Residents' Computer Knowledge and Computer Skills: Time for an Upgrade?
Authors: Jwayyed Sharhabeel , Park Tammy K. , Blanda Michelle , Wilber Scott T. , Gerson Lowell W. , Meerbaum Sharon O. , Beeson Michael S.
Published: July 2002

Objective: To describe emergency medicine residents' (EMRs') personal computer (PC) use and educational needs and to compare their perceived and actual PC skills. Methods: This was a prospective, cross‐sectional study. Subjects were all EMRs at seven midwestern Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) residency programs. The EMRs completed a questionnaire about their PC use and ability to perform 23 tasks derived from two national retail‐training programs. The tasks covered word processing, slide making, and Internet use. The EMRs then took a three‐part test performing the skills in the questionnaire. Two independent raters scored the tests. Frequencies with 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were calculated for categorical data. Positive and negative predictive values were used to report information comparing residents' performance with their self‐assessment of skills. Cohen's kappa was used to test agreement between raters. Results: One hundred twenty‐four of 158 (79%) eligible EMRs participated. Since not all participants engaged in all parts of the study, the sample size varies between 121 and 124. One hundred one of 122 (83%; 95% CI = 75 to 89) owned a PC. The EMRs use home PCs a mean of 3.8 hours/week for physician duties and use residency PCs 1.9 hours/week (range 0‐20). Ninety‐six of 122 (79%; 95% CI = 70 to 86) EMRs reported no formal PC training during residency. Thirty‐five percent (43/122; 95% CI = 27 to 44) passed the word‐processing test and 50% (62/123; 95% CI = 41 to 60) passed the slide‐making test. Reasons for failure were because of errors and not having a presentable product. Thirty‐eight of 122 (31%; 95% CI = 23 to 40) failed the literature search, including 33 who said they could perform it. One hundred fifteen of 123 (94%; 95% CI = 88 to 98) EMRs were able to find an Internet address, including ten who stated they could not. Twenty‐one percent of the residents who attempted any test (26/124; 95% CI = 14 to 29) passed all three tests. There was no association between year of training and success on the tests (p = 0.374). Thirty‐seven of 115 (32%; 95% CI = 24 to 42) EMRs said they had insufficient PC training to meet their physician needs. Conclusions: Emergency medicine residents have much access to computer technology and possess some computer skills; however, many are unable to produce a usable product or conduct a literature search. Emergency medicine residents have not had sufficient computer training prior to residency. The computer skills of EMRs should be assessed through skills testing rather than self‐assessment, and computer training during residency should be improved.
Should Parents Be Present during Emergency Department Procedures on Children, and Who Should Make That Decision? A Survey of Emergency Physician and Nurse Attitudes
Authors: Beckman Andrew W. , Sloan Brian K. , Moore Gregory P. , Cordell William H. , Brizendine Edward J. , Boie Eric T. , Knoop Kevin J. , Goldman Mitchell J. , Geninatti Marilyn R.
Published: July 2002

Objective: To survey physician and nurse attitudes regarding parental presence during painful procedures on children performed in the emergency department (ED) and who should make that decision. Methods: The design was an anonymous written survey consisting of six clinical scenarios distributed to all staff and resident physicians and nurses in ten EDs at institutions in the United States routinely caring for children. Participants were asked whether parents should remain with children undergoing intravenous (IV) placement, laceration repair, lumbar puncture, conscious sedation, major resuscitation, and major resuscitation with death. They also were asked who should make the decision. Results: The percentage of physicians who responded that parents should be present was 91.3% for peripheral IV start, 93.3% for laceration repair, 65.7% for lumbar puncture, 83.1% for conscious sedation, 31.9% for major resuscitation, and 35.6% for major resuscitation where death was likely. The percentage of nurses who responded that parents should be present was 86.8% for peripheral IV start, 89.6% for laceration repair, 55.0% for lumbar puncture, 74.9% for conscious sedation, 41.4% for major resuscitation, and 54.3% for major resuscitation where death was likely. In 64.8% of the completed surveys, the physicians indicated that they alone or in conjunction with a parent should make the decision. In 61.5% of the completed surveys, the nurses indicated that they should be involved in the decision. Conclusions: A majority of emergency physicians and nurses indicated parents should be present for some invasive pediatric procedures. However, as the invasiveness of the pediatric procedures increased, fewer physicians and nurses believed that parents should be present.
Observation Medicine in Emergency Medicine Residency Programs
Authors: Mace Sharon E. , Shah Jatin
Published: July 2002

Objective: To evaluate observation unit (OU) prevalence, emergency medicine (EM) resident exposure in observation medicine (OM), EM faculty/residency director (RD) OM training, and RD attitudes toward OM. Methods: Information was obtained from residency programs by telephone during a four‐month period. Results: Survey respondents indicated that 36.1% have OUs and 44.9% plan to have an OU. Observation medicine resources include textbooks 32.0%, articles 45.9%, lectures 36.9%, fellowships 2.5%, and research 26.2%. Observation medicine patient care occurs: 1) during residency: 25.4% of RDs, 11.3% of entire faculty; 2) as an attending: 45.1% of RDs. Conclusions: Nearly two‐thirds of EM programs have or are planning an OU. Resources are lagging behind. This survey describes current OM education strategies to teach OM.
Emergency Medical Preparedness and Response to a Singapore Airliner Crash
Authors: Lee Wen‐Huei , Chiu Te‐Fa , Ng Chip‐Jin , Chen Jih‐Chang
Published: July 2002

A Singapore airline crash in 2000 was the first documented mass casualty incident (MCI) caused by an aircraft disaster in Taiwan. This report reviews the emergency medical preparedness of the airport and examines its effects on the medical response during this incident. The anticipated benefits from the new MCI plan and prior medical preparedness were not achieved during this disaster. Poor compliance with the new MCI plan by the airport authority was noted. Victims were not triaged and did not receive adequate field medical care. Structural problems with the MCI plan were also noted. Site medical teams responding from hospitals could not function as the plan had been designed. This article discusses factors causing the poor compliance, various problems, and related issues in medical response to the incident. As learned from this experience, a properly and practically designed MCI plan, good compliance of responders, and a strong support system of responding agencies are the most important factors for successful emergency response to any MCI.
Health Care Utilization of Chronic Inebriates
Authors: Thornquist Lisa , Biros Michelle , Olander Robert , Sterner Steven
Published: July 2002

Abstract. Chronic inebriates often use emergency services, including the emergency department (ED), because they lack other resources or access to primary care. Because of their complicated medical needs, which are often exacerbated by acute intoxication and related illness or injury, a relatively small number of acutely intoxicated chronic inebriates can stretch ED resources and contribute to ED over‐crowding.

Objective: In order to address this, as well as overutilization of other county services, three county programs were developed (ethnic‐ and genderspecific supportive housing; intensive street case management) to reduce emergency resource utilization while still providing a safe environment. This study determined the effectiveness of these programs. The authors hypothesized that program enrollment would reduce medical and detoxification (detox) expenditures for this patient population.

Methods: Pre‐ and postprogram comparisons were made on the number of detox and medical visits, insured days, and charges. Data were retrieved (with patients written informed consent) from hospital and health plan billings and county databases. Descriptive statistics compared groups pre and post enrollment. Least‐squares regression predicted total and non‐inpatient medical charges.

Results: Complete data were available for 92 of 122 patients (mean age = 47 years; 60% Native American; 93% male); seven had severe illnesses or injuries, skewing the mean. However, there were significant overall reductions in the median numbers of yearly detox visits (10 to 1) and medical visits (11 to 8), and in median medical charges (5,436 to 2,770) and total health care charges (9,297 to 5,218). The median number of days insured increased (284 to 353). By regression analysis, injury was the most important preprogram predictor of medical charges; illness drives charges post‐entry. Alcohol‐related visits added to the model before entry but disappeared post‐entry.

Conclusions: These programs reduced health care use for most patients. However, serious medical illness or injury in a small number of patients contributed heavily to resource utilization.
Clinical Course of Interstitial Lung Disease in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Matteson Eric L. , Bendstrup Elisabeth , Strek Mary E. , Dieudé Philippe
Published: September 2024

Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is a frequent manifestation of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) that is associated with high mortality. RA‐ILD may initially be asymptomatic, and lung function may be markedly impaired by the time it is diagnosed. The course of RA‐ILD is highly variable, with some patients experiencing no discernable progression or a slow decline, whereas others experience more rapid deterioration. Some patients develop progressive pulmonary fibrosis, which is associated with high mortality. Although risk factors for the progression of RA‐ILD have been identified, including older age, worse lung function, and a usual interstitial pneumonia pattern on high‐resolution computed tomography, it is not possible to predict the course of RA‐ILD in an individual patient. The association between RA disease activity and progression of RA‐ILD remains unclear. Regular monitoring is important to enable the prompt identification of progression and early intervention to preserve lung function. The management of RA‐ILD requires a multidisciplinary and individualized approach, taking account of the severity and progression of articular and lung disease, risk factors for the progression of RA‐ILD, and the patient's preferences, and may include immunosuppression, antifibrotic therapy, and supportive care.
Short‐Term and Long‐Term Memory Functionality of a Brain‐Like Device Built from Nanoparticle Atomic Switch Networks
Authors: Srikimkaew Oradee , Azhari Saman , Banerjee Deep , Usami Yuki , Tanaka Hirofumi
Published: September 2024

The synaptic plasticity of the Ag‐Ag2S nanoparticle‐based volatile memristor system is demonstrated. The nanoparticles self‐assemble into a network with over 103 interconnected atomic switch interfaces. Short‐term plasticity is identified by spontaneous conductance relaxation, attributed to the memristor's volatility. The conductance of the network is enhanced when a subsequent stimulus pulse arrives shortly after the previous one, analogous to the paired‐pulse facilitation in biological synapses. Furthermore, repeated pulse stimulation is used to achieve the transition from short‐term plasticity to long‐term potentiation, a process related to learning and memory formation. Remarkably, the result reveals that the lifetime of long‐term potentiation for 100‐pulse stimulation is 40 min, indicating that the device can forget newly acquired information after prolonged storage, akin to human memories. The findings provide insight into the the learning and memory abilities of atomic switch network memristors, facilitating the development of hardware‐implemented artificial neural networks.
A Comparison of Clinical and Radiological Presentations of Sporadic and Tuberous Sclerosis Complex‐Associated Lymphangioleiomyomatosis
Authors: Savage Taylor E. , Geenen Kennedy R. , Price Melissa C. , El‐Chemaly Souheil Y. , Henske Elizabeth P. , Sharma Amita , Thiele Elizabeth A.
Published: September 2024

This research aims to compare and assess the clinical and radiological presentations of tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC)‐associated lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) and sporadic LAM. A retrospective medical record review was conducted for 90 patients with confirmed LAM diagnoses. Radiologists who were blinded to the LAM type evaluated CT images of the chest and abdomen for the presence of four CT phenotypes: multiple sclerotic bone lesions (SBLs), multifocal micronodular pneumocyte hyperplasia (MMPH), hepatic fat‐containing lesions, and cardiac fat‐containing lesions. Statistical analyses were then completed to analyze the differences between TSC‐LAM and sporadic LAM. Sporadic LAM patients reported a greater number of clinical symptoms at the time of diagnosis than TSC‐LAM patients. All four CT phenotypes were present among the TSC‐LAM patient population, whereas hepatic fat containing lesions were the only phenotype present in sporadic LAM patients evaluated in this study. The clinical and radiological presentations of sporadic LAM and TSC‐LAM differ significantly, suggesting that the diagnostic criteria for sporadic LAM and/or TSC itself could be adapted accordingly. However, the similarities in the presentation of the LAM types are also important to note as these trends inform theories surrounding the potential underlying pathogenic mechanisms of sporadic LAM.
Are Hydroxyl Radicals Spontaneously Generated in Unactivated Water Droplets?
Authors: Chen Casey J. , Williams Evan R.
Published: September 2024

Spontaneous ionization/breakup of water at the surface of aqueous droplets has been reported with evidence ranging from formation of hydrogen peroxide and hydroxyl radicals, indicated by ions at m/z 36 attributed to OH⋅‐H3O+ or (H2O‐OH2)+⋅ as well as oxidation products of radical scavengers in mass spectra of water droplets formed by pneumatic nebulization. Here, aqueous droplets are formed both by nanoelectrospray, which produces highly charged nanodrops with initial diameters ~100 nm, and a vibrating mesh nebulizer, which produces 2–20 μm droplets that are initially less highly charged. The lifetimes of these droplets range from 10s of μs to 560 ms and the surface‐to‐volume ratios span ~100‐fold range. No ions at m/z 36 are detected with pure water, nor are significant oxidation products for the two radical scavengers that were previously reported to be formed in high abundance. These and other results indicate that prior conclusions about spontaneous hydroxyl radical formation in unactivated water droplets are not supported by the evidence and that water appears to be stable at droplet surfaces over a wide range of droplet size, charge and lifetime.
Biogenic Syntheses of AgNPs With Leaf Extract Abution indicum and Its Application for Antimicrobial and Photocatalytic Activity
Authors: Ramesh Ayyakkannu , Elanchezhiyan Jayaraman , Karthickeyan Dhanapal , Mani Moorthy , Kaviyarasu Kasinathan , Uthrakumar Ramamurthy , BaQais Amal , Al‐Sowayan Noorah Saleh , Alam Mir Waqas
Published: September 2024

The biogenic synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) with leaf extract Abution indicum was done, and those were characterized by ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy (UV–vis), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), dynamic light scattering (DLS), powder X‐ray diffraction (PXRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM) with energy‐dispersive X‐ray (EDX) spectroscopy. The analysis by UV–vis spectroscopy showed a peak of 450 nm, and DLS and zeta potential were utilized to determine the size distribution of the biosynthesized Abution indicum–AgNPs (AI‐AgNPs) with a size range of 24–37 nm, and the X‐ray diffraction peak 38.096o was used to confirm that the crystalline structure of AI‐AgNPs. Furthermore, the antipathogenic effect of synthesized AgNPs and standard antibiotic (Ciprofloxacin) as studied the positive control in different types of bacterial pathogens likes Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia Coli, with the zone of inhibition values of 9 mm. The synthesized AgNPs displayed excellent photocatalytic activity against reactive blue under sunlight than a UV light irradiation, and maximum degradation of 43% was achieved with 66 min of reaction time. In view of promising activity, the AgNPs could be used photocatalyst for the degradation of dyes in wastewater, and pomegranate leaf extract can be applied as eco‐benign and cost‐effective approach for AgNPs synthesis. Hence, the current findings suggest that Abutilon indicum is a valuable source for tailoring the potential of AgNPs toward various enhanced biological, photocatalytic, and adsorption activities. Consequently, the plant biological molecule‐mediated synthesized AI‐AgNPs could be excellent contenders for future therapeutic applications.
Structure–property correlation assessment of LLDPE‐based biocomposites with Azadirachta Indica wood flour
Authors: Yadav Jitender , Ramkumar PL , Parwani Ajit Kumar
Published: September 2024

This research explores the development of new composite material by integrating Azadirachta Indica (AI) with LLDPE to create wood‐plastic composites using the rotational molding process. By examining various proportions of AI wood flour blended with LLDPE, we investigated their impact on mechanical and physical properties. Our tests elucidate a clear correlation between mechanical properties and composite morphologies. Despite identical molding conditions, higher wood particle concentrations reduced mechanical properties compared to lower concentrations. Remarkably, a 12% wood content emerges as optimal, yielding a tensile modulus of 3.69 MPa and a flexural modulus of 468.5 MPa, with an acceptable reduction of 11% density and 13% porosity versus pure LLDPE. Additionally, we observed declines in tensile strength, impact strength, and hardness by up to 23%, 62%, and 11%, respectively, compared to neat LLDPE. Natural fillers enhance aesthetics, making these materials ideal for consumer products like garden equipment and furniture accessories.
Exploring tubular steady‐state laminar flow reactors with orthogonal collocation
Authors: Soares André Von‐Held , de Sousa Santos Lizandro , Binous Housam , Shaikh Abdullah A. , Bellagi Ahmed
Published: September 2024

The laminar flow reactor (LFR) is one of the most comprehensive problems in chemical reaction engineering, as its modeling involves mass, heat, and momentum conservation equations coupled with chemical reaction rate equations. It is relatively easy to grasp its basic operation, but the solution of the problem is far from trivial. Although there are analytical solutions that simplify the problem, students and tutors must use efficient numerical strategies to appropriately solve some LFR problems. In the present investigation, we solve several different cases of two‐dimensional cylindrical LFR, beginning with the isothermal case, as a benchmark. Calculations were performed using the Chebyshev orthogonal collocation technique by custom scripts in Scilab, Mathematica©, and Matlab®, and were compared with solutions available from the ECRE Version of COMSOL®, which was used as the reference, as well as available analytical solutions in the literature. After analyzing the case of the isothermal LFR with Newtonian fluid, we explored non‐Newtonian fluids, including Carreau and Bingham fluids, whose LFR results are not available in the preceding literature. For Newtonian fluids, besides (a) the isothermal case, we also explore other three nonisothermal design cases: (b) cooling jacket with a fixed heat exchange coefficient at the wall, (c) adiabatic operation, (d) nonisothermal LFR with isothermal wall. Through a performance criterion, the different operation models are compared and we show that nonisothermal design cases perform better than the isothermal case. Computation times, for different scenarios, are quite short and taking 25 nodal points or more suffice for an accurate and timely solution of the more complex problem Case (b). The numerical modeling approach is useful from a pedagogical standpoint, as one can compare numerical results with classical assumptions, and progress from a more restrictive conceptual model (segregated flow) to an array of different kinds of operation with the LFR in which one needs to consider diffusion and temperature distribution.
Chemical Constituents from the Whole Plants of Limonium sinense and Their In Vitro Anti‐Inflammatory Activity
Authors: Qi Shi‐Zhou , Qin Gao‐Feng , Miao Shuang , Lv Wen‐Yuan , Ren Si‐Qi , Gong Kai‐Kai , Zhang Yong‐Qing , Du Jing
Published: September 2024

The Yellow River Delta possesses lots of characteristic medicinal plants due to its high salinity and high alkaline environment and Limonium sinense is an iconic plant. However, there are very few studies on L. sinense and its chemical constituents have not been investigated in recent ten years. In the present study, the chemical constituents and bioactivities of L. sinense were fully studied for the first time. UPLC‐MS/MS method combined with database comparison identified 109 compounds mainly including flavonoids, alkaloids and polyphenols. In addition, the potential bioactivities of L. sinense were considerated as anti‐inflammatory, anti‐oxidative, anti‐tumor, hepatoprotective and hpyerglycemic activities based on these identified compounds and their related literature. Furthermore, four derivatives of 12‐oxo‐phytodienoic acid and butenolide including two new ones (1 and 2) were isolated from the whole plants of L. sinense. Their structures, including the absolute configurations, were determined by the analysis of comprehensive spectroscopic data. All isolates were evaluated for their anti‐inflammatory activity. Compound 1 exhibited moderate anti‐inflammatory activity with IC50 value of 37.5±1.2 μM on NO production level.
Valsartan Rescues Suppressed Mitochondrial Metabolism during Insulin Resistance in C2C12 Myotubes
Authors: Wyatt Emily C. , VanDerStad Lindsey R. , Cook Norah E. , McGovern Macey R. , Zaman Toheed , Lundin Pamela M. , Vaughan Roger A.
Published: September 2024

Elevated circulating branched‐chain amino acids (BCAA) have been linked with the severity of insulin resistance across numerous populations, implicating heightened BCAA metabolism as a potential therapy for insulin resistance. Recently, the angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1R) inhibitor Valsartan (VAL) was identified as a potent inhibitor of branched‐chain alpha‐keto acid dehydrogenase kinase (BCKDK), a negative regulator of BCAA metabolism. This work investigated the effect of VAL on myotube metabolism and insulin sensitivity under both insulin sensitive and insulin resistant conditions. C2C12 myotubes were treated with or without VAL at 8 µM for 24 h, both with and without hyperinsulinemic‐induced insulin resistance. Oxygen consumption and extracellular acidification were used to measure mitochondrial and glycolytic metabolism, respectively. Gene expression was assessed via qRT‐PCR, and insulin sensitivity was assessed via Western blot. Insulin resistance significantly reduced both basal and peak mitochondrial function which were rescued to control levels by concurrent VAL. Changes in mitochondrial function occurred without substantial changes in mitochondrial content or related gene expression. Insulin sensitivity and glycolytic metabolism were unaffected by VAL, as was lipogenic signaling and lipid content. Additionally, both VAL and insulin resistance depressed Bckdha expression. Interestingly, an interaction effect was observed for extracellular isoleucine, valine, and total BCAA (but not leucine), suggesting VAL may alter BCAA utilization in an insulin sensitivity‐dependent manner. Insulin resistance appears to suppress mitochondrial function in a myotube model which can be rescued by VAL. Further research will be required to explore the implications of these findings in more complex models.
The Impact of Secondary Structure on the Base‐Filling of N‐Methoxy‐1,3‐Oxazinane (MOANA) and N‐Methoxy‐1,3‐Oxazolidine Glycol Nucleic Acid (MOGNA) Oligonucleotides
Authors: Afari Mark N. K. , Heikinmäki Ninna , Virta Pasi , Lönnberg Tuomas
Published: September 2024

Various single‐stranded and hairpin‐forming DNA and 2'‐O‐methyl‐RNA oligonucleotides bearing a single (2R,3S)‐4‐(methoxyamino)butane‐1,2,3‐triol residue esterified from either O1 and O2 or O1 and O3 were synthesized. Incubation of these oligonucleotides with equimolar mixtures of formylmethyl derivatives of the canonical nucleobases and 2‐methylbenzimidazole under mildly acidic conditions revealed base‐filling of the modified site to be strongly favored by base stacking of a double‐helix, especially an A‐type one. In 2'‐O‐methyl‐RNA hairpin oligonucleotides, base‐filling of the (2R,3S)‐4‐(methoxyamino)butane‐1,2,3‐triol residue with nucleobase aldehydes followed the rules of Watson–Crick base pairing, thymine being the only exception. In single‐stranded oligonucleotides or the Hoogsteen strand of triple helices, both the yield and selectivity of base‐filling were much more modest.
Solvent‐Controlled Divergent Cyclization of 3‐Ylideneoxindoles with Ethyl 2‐Diazoacetate: Access to Spirocyclopropyl and Spiropyrazolines Oxindoles
Authors: Xie Ding‐Xiong , Huang Yue‐Mei , Lin Xiao‐Ming , Kang Zheng‐Hui , Ni Chen‐Chen , Fu Yao‐Tong , Ren Zhi , Liu Yun‐Lin
Published: September 2024

Herein a catalyst‐free solvent‐controlled method for the divergent synthesis of spirocyclopropyl and spiropyrazoline oxindoles from 3‐ylideneoxindoles and ethyl diazoacetate was developed. With ClCH2CH2Cl as the solvent, spirocyclopropyl oxindoles were obtained in moderate to excellent yields, whereas the use of MeOH as solvent afforded spiropyrazoline oxindoles in moderate to good yields. The readily available substrates, simple operation and various product transformations further highlighted the utility of this method.
Redox Activity of Co Species in the Active Sites of CoNx/CoOx Facilitates Oxygen Electrocatalysis for Zn‐Air Batteries
Authors: Yang Huimin , Wang Hao , Cheng Haorong , Xu Xinyuan , Li Jing , He Xiaoyan , Tian Lin , Li Zhao
Published: September 2024

Developing efficient bifunctional oxygen electrocatalysts is crucial for enhancing the performance of rechargeable Zn‐air batteries (ZABs). In this study, cobalt/cobalt oxides embedded in N‐doped carbon nanofibers (Co/CoOx/NCNFs) were synthesized through a combination of electrospinning and annealing processes. The resulting Co/CoOx/NCNFs catalysts feature abundant CoNx and CoOx active species, leveraging the large specific surface area of nanofibers to facilitate oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER). The optimized Co/CoOx/NCNFs‐0.1 achieved a half‐wave potential (vs. RHE) of 0.82 V and required only 429 mV to reach 10 mA cm−2 in a typical three‐electrode system with 0.1 M KOH using an electrochemical workstation equipped with a pine instruments rotator, outperforming the Pt/C+RuO2. The assembled ZABs exhibited high specific capacity (771 mAh gZn−1), substantial power density (981.6 mWh gZn−1), and long‐term stability (>325 h). In situ Raman spectroscopy confirmed that the electrocatalytic processes involve the redox activity of Co (II and III) species derived from abundant CoNx and CoOx, elaborating the origin of the catalysts’ exceptional oxygen electrocatalysis performance. This work not only presents a straightforward and effective approach for producing bifunctional oxygen electrocatalysts in ZABs but also sheds light on the catalytic mechanisms underlying ORR and OER for CoNx/CoOx‐based oxygen electrocatalysts.
Evaluation of Mean Plasma Glucose Levels Using HbA1C in Patients With Severe Eating Disorders
Authors: Puckett Leah , Stein Amy , Kelley Marina , Mehler Philip S.
Published: September 2024

Objective

Hypoglycemia causes significant morbidity and mortality in patients with severe eating disorders. We measured average glycemic levels using hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C) in patients hospitalized for extreme anorexia nervosa (AN) and avoidant restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID).

Methods

This was a prospective, single‐center cohort study conducted in an inpatient medical stabilization unit. Clinical outcomes were compared using paired t‐tests. Additional analysis comparing clinical variables between undetectable and detectable HbA1c used two‐sample t‐tests.

Results

The study cohort consisted of 148 individuals, 90% female, average age of 31 years, average admit body mass index of 12.5 kg/m2, and mean percentage ideal body weight of 60.1%. Diagnoses included AN‐restricting (54%), AN‐binge purge (39%), and ARFID (7%). HbA1C and fructosamine levels decreased from admission to discharge. Serum glucose levels increased significantly from admission to discharge. Mean HbA1C was 4.7% on admission and 4.3% on discharge.

Discussion

This study evaluated mean blood glucose levels using HbA1C in patients with extreme forms of AN and ARFID. Given the concern for morbidity and mortality from hypoglycemia in this population, which can be overlooked on a single point‐of‐care glucose measurement, HbA1C is a valuable laboratory measure of glycemic status in patients with extreme forms of eating disorders.
Machine learning‐based model for worsening heart failure risk in Chinese chronic heart failure patients
Authors: Sun Ziyi , Wang Zihan , Yun Zhangjun , Sun Xiaoning , Lin Jianguo , Zhang Xiaoxiao , Wang Qingqing , Duan Jinlong , Huang Li , Li Lin , Yao Kuiwu
Published: September 2024

Aims

This study aims to develop and validate an optimal model for predicting worsening heart failure (WHF). Multiple machine learning (ML) algorithms were compared, and the results were interpreted using SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP). A clinical risk calculation tool was subsequently developed based on these findings.

Methods and results

This nested case–control study included 200 patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) from the China‐Japan Friendship Hospital (September 2019 to December 2022). Sixty‐five variables were collected, including basic information, physical and chemical examinations, and quality of life assessments. WHF occurrence within a 3‐month follow‐up was the outcome event. Variables were screened using LASSO regression, univariate analysis, and comparison of key variables in multiple ML models. Eighty per cent of the data was used for training and 20% for testing. The best models were identified by integrating nine ML algorithms and interpreted using SHAP, and to develop a final risk calculation tool. Among participants, 68 (34.0%) were female, with a mean age (standard deviation, SD) of 68.57 (12.80) years. During the follow‐up, 60 participants (30%) developed WHF. N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP), creatinine (Cr), uric acid (UA), haemoglobin (Hb), and emotional area score on the Minnesota Heart Failure Quality of Life Questionnaire were critical predictors of WHF occurrence. The random forest (RF) model was the best model to predict WHF with an area under the curve (AUC) (95% confidence interval, CI) of 0.842 (0.675–1.000), accuracy of 0.775, sensitivity of 0.900, specificity of 0.833, negative predictive value of 0.800, and positive predictive value of 0.600 for the test set. SHAP analysis highlighted NT‐proBNP, UA, and Cr as significant predictors. An online risk predictor based on the RF model was developed for personalized WHF risk assessment.

Conclusions

This study identifies NT‐proBNP, Cr, UA, Hb, and emotional area scores as crucial predictors of WHF in CHF patients. Among the nine ML algorithms assessed, the RF model showed the highest predictive accuracy. SHAP analysis further emphasized NT‐proBNP, UA, and Cr as the most significant predictors. An online risk prediction tool based on the RF model was subsequently developed to enhance early and personalized WHF risk assessment in clinical settings.
Biomass‐Derived Porous Carbon Modified with Black Phosphorus Nanosheets as Effective Sulfur Host for Lithium‐Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Yang Zhe , Liang Xinyuan , Xiao Chengzhuo , Ma Jicheng
Published: September 2024

The shuttle effect and slow oxidation‐reduction reactions of the cathode in lithium‐sulfur batteries limit its practical application and development. Herein, porous carbon derived from pollen modified by black phosphorus nanosheets (BP/N−C) have been synthesized and utilized as a sulfur host in Li−S batteries. From the compositional outlook, the biomass‐derived carbon forms a unique three‐dimensional skeleton structure, exhibiting excellent properties, such as high porosity and high conductivity. Upon modified with black phosphorus, the BP/N−C composite materials demonstrate enhanced adsorption ability and catalytic activity toward lithium polysulfides (LiPSs). The BP/N−C/S cathode electrode presents a high initial specific discharge capacity of 1009.6 mAh g−1 and a low capacity decay rate of 0.08% per cycle during 150 cycles at 0.2 C rate. Besides, the BP/N C/S cathode electrode exhibits the superior rate performance (508 mAh g−1 at 5 C).
Mio‐Pliocene paleo‐course of Indus River in Upper Sutlej‐Zhada basin: Implication of tectonic uplift on river piracy and drainage reorganization in SW Tibet and NW Himalaya
Authors: Kashyap Abhishek , Pandey Anand Kumar , Behera Mukunda Dev
Published: September 2024

We analysed the elevated low‐relief relict landscapes in the transient Upper Satluj‐Zhada basin and the adjoining region in the tectonically active north‐western (NW) Himalaya–south‐western (SW) Tibetan orogen to understand the evolution of the regional landscape and drainage system under the influence of the Karakoram Fault‐Leo‐Pargil Horst system. This elevated low relief landscape represents the Mio‐Pliocene establishment of a new river network, which testimonies the present Sutlej River, which has been experiencing a transient surface uplift‐incision regime since (~4–1 Ma) with a local base level at the confluence of the Sutlej and Spiti River. The Miocene exhumation of the Ayilari Range and Leo‐Pargil Horst across the Karakoram fault (KF) system led to headward erosion, which abandoned the Paleo‐Sutlej‐Indus drainage system, which in turn caused drainage reversal along Qusum detachment (QD) and produced southward migration of the Paleo‐Sutlej River towards the mountain front. Our results indicate that the Upper Indus River has significantly lower χ‐ranges at higher elevations as compared with the adjacent Upper Sutlej River at lower elevations, which corresponds with a river piracy model that incorporates area gain‐loss feedback. The Upper Sutlej River in the Zhada basin is characterized by a comparable series of coplanar slope‐break knickpoints at ~4000–4500 m elevation, and their adjoining divides are in a state of disequilibrium as a consequence of the very high rapid incision across the Leo Pargil Horst, which drives the regional gradation process. The headward‐eroding Upper Indus River captured the proto‐Sutlej due to a base‐level change of >~1500 m, which significantly impacted the regional growth pattern and tectonics. The Mio‐Pliocene sedimentation pattern of the Upper Sutlej‐Zhada basin in the SW Tibet–NW Himalaya reflects this regional drainage capture, tectonic uplift and paleo‐drainage reorganization. The present finding has wider implications for the Mio‐Pliocene reorganization of drainage systems and the possible linkage of the Upper Indus River with the Paleo‐Sutlej over the Zhada basin.
Response surface method‐based hydraulic performance optimization of a single‐stage centrifugal pump
Authors: Yadav Durvesh , Singh Raj Kumar , Manjunath K.
Published: September 2024

In this article, the response surface approach was employed to enhance the hydraulic performance of the pump at the rated point. Specifically, an approximate link between the design head and efficiency of the single‐stage centrifugal pump and the parameters of the impeller's design was established. The first step in creating a one‐factor experimental design involved selecting significant geometric variables as factors. Decision variables such as the number of blades, flow rate, and rotation were chosen due to their significant impact on hydraulic performance, while head and efficiency were considered as responses. Subsequently, the best‐optimized values for each level of the parameters were identified using response surface analysis and a central composite design. The impeller schemes of the Design‐Expert software were evaluated for head and efficiency using Computational fluid dynamics, and a total of 20 experiments were conducted. The simulated results were then validated with experimental data. Through the analysis of the individual parameters and the approximation model, the ideal parameter combination that increased head and efficiency by 7.90% and 2.06%, respectively, at the rated value was discovered. It is worth noting that in cases of a high rate of flow, the inner flow was also enhanced.
Bimetallic ions modified 2‐methylimidazolium functionalized polypyrrole/graphene oxide for the improved supercapacitor
Authors: Mao Hui , Zhang Shuai , Liu Jinchi , Wu Shuyao , Liu Daliang , Li Hui , Zhang Lei , Zhang Yusheng , Wu Qiong , Ma Tianyi
Published: September 2024

Thin films with two‐dimensional (2D) nanostructures possess good environmental stability, thinner thickness and large surface area, which are widely used as a promising modified electrode material in the field of energy storage, supercapacitors, electrochemical sensors and biosensors. Herein, unique bimetallic ions modified polypyrrole/graphene oxide (PPy/GO) nanosheets, including Co2+‐Zr4+/(2‐MeIm)x@PPy/GO and Co2+‐Run+/(2‐MeIm)x@PPy/GO (n = 0, 4), are prepared by using 2‐methylimidazolium (2‐MeIm) as the linkers between PPy/GO and metal ions. The obtained electrodes constructed by Co2+‐Run+/(2‐MeIm)x@PPy/GO (n = 0, 4) and Co2+‐Zr4+/(2‐MeIm)x@PPy/GO exhibit improved capacitor electrochemical properties due to the reversible redox reaction, the large specific surface area and the high theoretical specific capacitance value of the metal ions compared to the unmodified PPy/GO. Especially, the specific capacitance value of Co2+‐Run+/(2‐MeIm)x@PPy/GO (n = 0, 4) electrode reaches 321.78 F g−1 at a current density of 1 A g−1 and the capacitance retention rate is achieved to 100% in the long cycle charge/discharge test after 10 000 cycles (10 A g−1). It will provide a practical experience for the design and preparation of supercapacitors based on bimetallic ions modified PPy/GO.
Electrowetland Pilot of 50 m2: Operation and Characterization Under Real Conditions for 1 Year
Authors: Bosch‐Jimenez Pau , Corbella Clara , Gaudes Ainhoa , Sanchis Sonia , Lopez Pau , Molognoni Daniele , Villazán Cabero Alicia , de Cuenca Jose María , Borràs Eduard
Published: September 2024

Traditional wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) consume a significant amount of energy to clean wastewater. However, for medium‐ and small‐scale WWTPs, it is crucial to have an energetically self‐sustained treatment. In this regard, novel low‐energy demand treatment systems, such as nature‐based solutions (NBS), are highly suitable alternatives. Constructed wetlands coupled with microbial fuel cells (MFC), referred to as electrowetlands (EWs), are NBS able to treat wastewater while recovering electricity. In this study, initially, various granular carbon materials were tested as anode materials in laboratory‐scale MFCs, and anthracite was selected due to its higher electrochemical activity. Then, pre‐pilot scale tests were conducted, evaluating different EW configurations. The one consisting in a horizontal anode yielded the best wastewater treatment efficiencies (chemical oxygen demand [COD] degradation greater than 90%) and electricity production (11 mW m−2; 260 mWh day−1 m−2). Finally, a 50 m2 pilot was constructed in Valladolid, studying its performance under real conditions for 1 year. The pilot showed robust and stable performance, achieving high wastewater treatment efficiencies (COD degradation >85%, outflow COD of 100 ppm) and generating 115 Wh in 1 year (power density of 0.4 mW m−2).
BLACK HOLE CINEMA: APPLICATION OF SYSTEMS ENGINEERING METHODS TO EXPAND AND ENHANCE AN EARTH‐SIZED TELESCOPE
Authors: Fitzpatrick Garret , Chaves Ryan
Published: September 2024

The Event Horizon Telescope (EHT) is an array of radio telescopes around the world that uses the technique of Very Long Baseline Interferometry (VLBI) to create a virtual Earth‐sized telescope. Using this technique, the EHT released the first image of a black hole on April 10, 2019, accelerating black hole science and creating enormous public impact. Now, a team of scientists and engineers is looking ahead to the next horizon: movies of black holes. In this paper, we give an overview of how the next‐generation EHT (ngEHT) Project has adopted a systems engineering approach to the design of future improvements to the EHT array, developing clear traceability from community‐defined key science goals. Scheduling, operations, site selection, observing bandwidth, data transport, and data management are some of the many factors that require careful consideration and balance and therefore benefit from intentional systems engineering methods underpinned by a “single source of truth” system model.
Application of the ARCADIA Method on a Bulk Carrier Vessel Equipped with a Wind‐assistance Device
Authors: Dreier Mathias , Bajzek Matthias , Hick Hannes , Michels Nico , Burchardt Carsten , Aoyama Kazuhiro
Published: September 2024

The maritime industry is undergoing a major transformation to achieve reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. Many new options, such as alternative propulsion systems and fuels, optimized routes, or auxiliary propulsion systems, including wind‐assistance devices, need to be integrated and aligned within a wide network of different stakeholders. New ways are necessary to work with and manage the increasing complexity in the maritime industry. Model‐based systems engineering approaches are a promising strategy to gain a better understanding of the as‐is situation and to develop advanced solutions. This paper shows the application of the ARCADIA method for the maritime industry, with the target of integrating wind‐assistance devices to vessels, using the ARCADIA modeling language and the Capella tool.
Conceptual Modeling for Early‐Phase Decision‐Making in the Maritime Industry: A Case Study of Power Generation System Concept Selection
Authors: Grønningsæter Magnus Sjøholt , Engen Siv
Published: September 2024

This study examines the use of conceptual modeling to aid in selecting a power generation system concept in the maritime industry. The research objective is to understand how conceptual modeling can enhance decision‐making during the early phases of concept evaluation. The study was conducted at a world‐leading maritime technology company to address the need for more formal processes to support decision‐making in complex development projects. The study applied a conceptual modeling approach in an industry case to facilitate decision‐making in the early phases of a development project. The study shows that conceptual modeling is effective in supporting early‐phase decision‐making in the development project. Conceptual models effectively manage complexity, enhance understanding, and enable effective communication among team members. By combining conceptual modeling with a Pugh matrix, informed decision‐making is facilitated, aligning with stakeholders' objectives. Overall, conceptual modeling provides a structured representation of the problem domain, guiding early‐phase decision‐making.
Early Validation of SysML Architectures by Extending MBSE with Co‐Simulation using FMI and SSP
Authors: Cederbladh Johan , Krems Daniel
Published: September 2024

Due to complexity increases in modern systems and the digitalization paradigm shift, industrial development requires the integration of new technologies and methods to keep product quality high while reducing time to market. One emerging paradigm in the Systems Engineering (SE) discipline is ModelBased methods and technologies, and correspondingly Model‐Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) is seeing increased adoption. With mature MBSE application, several benefits can be expected from the availability of models, even from the very early stages of development, enabling increased communication clarity, cross‐domain collaboration, traceability, and analysis. Notably, MBSE enables (Co‐)simulation even at the early stage of architecture/design by leveraging model‐based capabilities. Co‐simulation specifically enables a smooth and seamless integration of different models defined across layers of abstraction, for example, system logical architecture and system physical architecture. However, while MBSE is assisting with many aspects of development it is still a predominantly isolated set of activities throughout the development, especially on the left‐hand side of the traditional V‐model. In this work we discuss the status of Co‐simulation in industrial MBSE and list several existing challenges, then we propose a novel framework for implementing Co‐simulation and exemplify using a real scenario how we might address the observed challenges. The framework hinges on the newly proposed SSP standard and extends the currently industrially adopted FMI (version 3) standard through embedding the FMI file format using various scripts, demonstrated in the Python language for this paper. Finally, we propose a set of recommendations for future investigations to strengthen Co‐simulation in industrial MBSE.
Contemporary Systems Engineering for the UN SDGs and NAE Grand Challenges
Authors: Bhada Shamsnaz Virani , Palmer Erika , Haskins Cecilia
Published: September 2024

: Systems engineering programs at US universities have been focusing more on sustainability, but systems approaches to sustainability are found in programs outside of a systems engineering context. Transdisciplinary collaboration has been emphasized to make progress toward the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), requiring new approaches to collaborative understanding on the student and faculty levels in academic environments. This paper provides a qualitative network analysis of systems approaches to sustainability across disciplines using a US university as a case study. The analysis mapped systems approaches at Worchester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) within and outside of WPI's Systems Engineering Program. We specifically focused on thematic areas regarding systems in social science domains pertaining to the SDGs, which need to be brought into a systems engineering context. This paper aims to identify potential areas of collaboration to accelerate progress toward the SDGs using systems approaches.