bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The continuous adjoint method to the γ−R˜eθt$$ \gamma -\tilde{R}{e}_{\theta t} $$ transition model coupled with the Spalart–Allmaras model for compressible flows
Authors: Kontou Marina G. , Trompoukis Xenofon S. , Asouti Varvara G. , Giannakoglou Kyriakos C.
Published: July 2024

The continuous adjoint method for transitional flows of compressible fluids is developed and assessed, for the first time in the literature. The gradient of aerodynamic objective functions (aerodynamic forces) with respect to design variables, in problems governed by the compressible Navier–Stokes equations coupled with the Spalart–Allmaras turbulence model and the transition model (in three, non‐smooth and smooth, variants of it), is computed based on the continuous adjoint method. The development of the adjoint to the smooth transition model variant proved to be beneficial. The accuracy of the computed sensitivity derivatives is verified against finite differences. Programming is performed in an in‐house, vertex‐centered finite‐volume code, efficiently running on GPUs. The proposed continuous adjoint method is used in 2D and 3D aerodynamic shape optimization problems, namely the constrained optimization of the NLF(1)–0416 isolated airfoil and that of the ONERA M6 wing. The impact of “frozen transition” (assumption according to which the adjoint to the transition model equations are not solved) or “frozen turbulence” (by additionally ignoring the adjoint to the turbulence model) are evaluated; it is shown that both lead to inaccurate sensitivities.
Harnessing the power of empathy, visual art and patient narratives to improve health literacy: An exploratory study
Authors: Beck Tracey , Giese Steven , Khoo Tien K.
Published: July 2024

Issue Addressed

Health‐related information can often be overwhelming for consumers, frequently infused with complex medical terminology that is difficult to understand and apply. Historically empathic connection, art and narratives have played key roles in communicating with diverse populations however collectively have received little recognition as a modality to improve health literacy. This study aimed to investigate the empathetic connection between art and patient narratives with a view to improve health literacy in the wider community.

Methods

Nine recently discharged patients and one carer from a regional hospital were paired with 10 tertiary visual arts students for interview. Each narrative was transformed into visual art and exhibited at a community art gallery. The Empathy Quotient (EQ), Medical Outcomes Study 36‐item Short Form Health Survey (SF‐36) and self‐completed questionnaires assessed empathy and functional well‐being. Health literacy was evaluated through community response surveys post‐exhibition exposure.

Results

Student artist participants' EQ Cognitive Empathy (EQ‐CE) scores were associated with ‘Emotional Reactivity’ (EQ‐ER) (p = .038). SF‐36 scores revealed that role limitations due to physical health and emotional problems had the greatest impact on patient/carer participant's life at the time. The SF‐36 General Health domain was associated with the EQ‐ER total score (p = .044). Exhibition surveys revealed that 96.9% of observers had learnt something new about illness or injury.

So What?

Although a relatively small study, our findings suggest patient/carer narratives and visual art is a simple yet effective modality for health service organisations to facilitate affective learning and improve health literacy when engaging with consumers.
Assessing the efficacy of manual reduction and novel traction techniques for distal radius fractures: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Majidi Morteza , Rohani Erfan , Chamani Vahid , Rezaei Mehdi , Roostayi Mohammad Mohsen , Ghaznavi Alireza , Khosravi Mobina
Published: July 2024

Background and Aim

One of the leading reasons that patients, particularly older persons, are brought to the orthopedic emergency room is a fracture at the end of the radius. In this study, a new traction method for distal radius fractures was compared with manual reduction.

Methods

The census method was used in this clinical trial to study 45 patients (46 hands) who were referred to Hamedan Besat Hospital in 2021. Patients were randomly assigned to two groups. The manual reduction (pressure and traction by an assistant and a doctor) method was implemented in Group A, and the new traction procedure (pressure and traction by hardware or a device) was performed in Group B. The radiographic results of reduction in both groups were investigated and compared immediately and in the first and 6 weeks after surgery.

Results

The following results were observed in the new and manual groups in the sixth week after surgery: average volar tilt: 4.19 ± 3.79 and 4.08 ± 3.88 (p = 0.926), radial angulation: 2.18 ± 1.27 and 2.21 ± 1.35 (p = 0.934), radial shortening: 10.52 ± 0.65 and 10.56 ± 0.68 (p = 0.828), radial inclination: 22.52 ± 2.46 and 22.71 ± 2.01 (p = 0.787), dorsal angulation: −5.89 ± 0.33 and 5.22 ± −1.91 (p = 1.00), ulnar variance: 1.66 ± 0.90 and 1.67 ± 0.81 (p = 0.958), and average pain score: 2.40 ± 0.68 and 2.47 ± 0.73 (p = 0.737).

Conclusion

The new reduction procedure with hardware in patients with distal radius fractures showed the same effect as the traditional method based on pressure and traction by the assistant and doctor in terms of radiographic changes and pain score of the fracture site.
Total, quantile, and frequency risk transmission among metal commodities
Authors: Nong Huifu , Huang Qian
Published: July 2024

This study investigates the total, quantile, and frequency risk transmission among five widely traded metals namely copper, gold, lead, silver, and zinc using forecast error variance decomposition. The analysis spans from 1 January 2002, to 30 June 2023. Our findings reveal that the total connectedness index (TCI) changed over time, indicating sensitivity to time‐specific developments and major events during different periods. The TCI is influenced more by extreme positive or negative shocks, as the lower and upper quantile TCIs are higher compared to the medium quantile TCI. Furthermore, the short‐term TCIs exhibit higher values than the medium‐ and long‐term TCIs. These variations imply that the TCI is influenced by different types of shocks or mechanisms across different quantiles. Specifically, the short‐term TCIs are driven by global economic policy uncertainty, real global economic activity, and the geopolitical risk index (GPR). However, the medium‐ and long‐term TCIs are solely influenced by the GPR.
STAGER checklist: Standardized testing and assessment guidelines for evaluating generative artificial intelligence reliability
Authors: Chen Jinghong , Zhu Lingxuan , Mou Weiming , Lin Anqi , Zeng Dongqiang , Qi Chang , Liu Zaoqu , Jiang Aimin , Tang Bufu , Shi Wenjie , Kahlert Ulf D. , Zhou Jianguo , Guo Shipeng , Lu Xiaofan , Sun Xu , Ngo Trunghieu , Pu Zhongji , Jia Baolei , Jeon Che Ok , He Yongbin , Wu Haiyang , Gu Shuqin , Cheungpasitporn Wisit , Huang Haojie , Mao Weipu , Wang Shixiang , Chen Xin , Cabannes Loïc , Ren Gerald Sng Gui , Whitaker Iain S. , Ali Stephen , Cheng Quan , Miao Kai , Yuan Shuofeng , Luo Peng
Published: July 2024

Generative artificial intelligence (AI) holds immense potential for medical applications, but the lack of a comprehensive evaluation framework and methodological deficiencies in existing studies hinder its effective implementation. Standardized assessment guidelines are crucial for ensuring reliable and consistent evaluation of generative AI in healthcare. Our objective is to develop robust, standardized guidelines tailored for evaluating generative AI performance in medical contexts. Through a rigorous literature review utilizing the Web of Sciences, Cochrane Library, PubMed, and Google Scholar, we focused on research testing generative AI capabilities in medicine. Our multidisciplinary team of experts conducted discussion sessions to develop a comprehensive 32‐item checklist. This checklist encompasses critical evaluation aspects of generative AI in medical applications, addressing key dimensions such as question collection, querying methodologies, and assessment techniques. The checklist and its broader assessment framework provide a holistic evaluation of AI systems, delineating a clear pathway from question gathering to result assessment. It guides researchers through potential challenges and pitfalls, enhancing research quality and reporting and aiding the evolution of generative AI in medicine and life sciences. Our framework furnishes a standardized, systematic approach for testing generative AI's applicability in medicine. For a concise checklist, please refer to Table S or visit GenAIMed.org.
650 ps SET speed in Ge2Sb2Te5 phase change memory induced by TiO2 dielectric crystal plane
Authors: Zhao Ruizhe , Gao Ke , Zhu Rongjiang , Zhang Zhuoran , He Qiang , Xu Ming , Yu Niannian , Tong Hao , Miao Xiangshui
Published: July 2024

Crystallization speed of phase change material is one of the main obstacles for the application of phase change memory (PCM) as storage class memory in computing systems, which requires the combination of nonvolatility with ultra‐fast operation speed in nanoseconds. Here, we propose a novel approach to speed up crystallization process of the only commercial phase change chalcogenide Ge2Sb2Te5 (GST). By employing TiO2 as the dielectric layer in phase change device, operation speed of 650 ps has been achieved, which is the fastest among existing representative PCM, and is comparable to the programing speed of commercial dynamic random access memory (DRAM). Because of its octahedral atomic configuration, TiO2 can provide nucleation interfaces for GST, thus facilitating the crystal growth at the determinate interface area. Ti–O–Ti–O four‐fold rings on the (110) plane of tetragonal TiO2 is critical for the fast‐atomic rearrangement in the amorphous matrix of GST that enables ultra‐fast operation speed. The significant improvement of operation speed in PCM through incorporating standard dielectric material TiO2 in DRAM paves the way for the application of phase change memory in high performance cache‐type data storage.

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Impact of the modified curricula on periodontal instrumentation skills development during the COVID‐19 pandemic from 2020 to 2023
Authors: Oh Se‐Lim , Mishler Oksana , Syme Sheryl , Jones Deborah , Saito Hanae
Published: July 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of curriculum modifications on periodontal instrumentation skills development among classes of 2021, 2022, and 2023 during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Methods

The pandemic began and affected the three classes at different stages of their studies. Onsite simulation‐based learning (SBL) was employed for the classes of 2021 and 2022; remote SBL was adopted for the class of 2023. Modified clinical education, due to social distancing guidelines, impacted the class of 2021 significantly and the class of 2022 to a lesser extent. A multiple linear regression model was built to examine the association between the fourth‐year patient‐based scaling competency examination scores and selected predictors.

Results

The classes of 2021 and 2023 showed consistent performances over time, while the class of 2022 exhibited significant variation exhibiting the lowest performance at the second‐year practical examination. While the clinical experience of the class of 2021 was significantly less than that of the classes of 2022 and 2023, the fourth‐year competency examination scores did not differ across the three classes. The clinic points (p = 0.014) significantly affected the fourth‐year competency examination score while student gender (p = 0.18), the first‐year (p = 0.736), and second‐year (p = 0.198) practical examination scores showed no correlations.

Conclusion

Based on student performance in the fourth‐year scaling competency examination, the curriculum modifications due to the COVID pandemic did not affect student learning outcomes. Clinical experience was the most influential determinant of skill development in periodontal instrumentation.
Over a decade of experience in total knee arthroplasty with a multiradius design and fixed bearing at a single centre: Data from the Catalan Arthroplasty Registry
Authors: Faig‐Martí Jordi , Martínez‐Catasús Adriana
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Arthroplasty registers can provide feedback information on the results of arthroplasties performed by a certain institution or surgeon. The use of real‐world data to achieve real‐world evidence can help evaluate the performance of the implants used and help counsel our patients. The main objective of our study was to determine the survivorship of the total knee implant we are currently using.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study of patients who received a total knee arthroplasty from January 2009 to December 2020 in our hospital was conducted, using data from the Catalan arthroplasty registry and the Catalan health service database. Demographic and surgical data were analysed using the Kaplan–Meier method, log‐rank test and Cox proportional hazards models with the R Project software (p < 0.05).

Results

A total of 1336 total knee arthroplasties were included in the study, of which 992 were women. The causes for revision included aseptic loosening (17), infection (29), instability (13), patellar implantation (13), arthrofibrosis (5) and quadriceps tendon rupture (1).

The cumulative risk for revision at 5 years using the Kaplan–Meier method was 6.0% and at 10 years 6.5%. Considering gender, this risk was 7.0% and 7.5% at 5 and 10 years, respectively, in women and 3.3% in men, both at 5 and 10 years (p = 0.009). A higher risk for revision in women was seen, which is considered statistically significant (p = 0.012).

Conclusion

Our survivorship results are comparable to those published in the literature, but with a higher revision risk in women that is only statistically significant for the whole group of reoperations and for patellar implantation, but not for the rest of the diagnoses.

Level of Evidence

Level IV.
Cliques in squares of graphs with maximum average degree less than 4
Authors: Cranston Daniel W. , Yu Gexin
Published: July 2024

Hocquard, Kim, and Pierron constructed, for every even integer , a 2‐degenerate graph with maximum degree such that . We prove for (a) all 2‐degenerate graphs and (b) all graphs with , upper bounds on the clique number of that match the lower bound given by this construction, up to small additive constants. We show that if is 2‐degenerate with maximum degree , then (with when is sufficiently large). And if has and maximum degree , then . Thus, the construction of Hocquard et al. is essentially the best possible. Our proofs introduce a “token passing” technique to derive crucial information about nonadjacencies in of vertices that are adjacent in . This is a powerful technique for working with such graphs that has not previously appeared in the literature.
MRI in LARS1 deficiency—Spectrum, patterns, and correlation with acute neurological deterioration
Authors: Hammann Nicole , Lenz Dominic , Bianzano Alyssa , Husain Ralf A. , Forman Eva , Bernstein Jonathan A. , Dattner Tal , Engelen Marc , Hanson‐Kahn Andrea K. , Isidor Bertrand , Kotzaeridou Urania , Tietze Anna , Trollmann Regina , Weiß Claudia , Wolffenbuttel Bruce H. R. , Kölker Stefan , Hoffmann Georg F. , Crushell Ellen , Staufner Christian , Mohr Alexander , Harting Inga
Published: July 2024

Leucine aminoacyl tRNA‐synthetase 1 (LARS1)‐deficiency (infantile liver failure syndrome type 1 (ILFS1)) has a multisystemic phenotype including fever‐associated acute liver failure (ALF), chronic neurologic abnormalities, and encephalopathic episodes. In order to better characterize encephalopathic episodes and MRI changes, 35 cranial MRIs from 13 individuals with LARS1 deficiency were systematically assessed and neurological phenotype was analyzed. All individuals had developmental delay and 10/13 had seizures. Encephalopathic episodes in 8/13 were typically associated with infections, presented with seizures and reduced consciousness, mostly accompanied by hepatic dysfunction, and recovery in 17/19 episodes. Encephalopathy without hepatic dysfunction occurred in one individual after liver transplantation. On MRI, 5/7 individuals with MRI during acute encephalopathy had deep gray matter and brainstem changes. Supratentorial cortex involvement (6/13) and cerebellar watershed injury (4/13) occurred with seizures and/or encephalopathy. Abnormal brainstem contour on sagittal images (8/13), atrophy (8/13), and myelination delay (8/13) were not clearly associated with encephalopathy. The pattern of deep gray matter and brainstem changes are apparently characteristic of encephalopathy in LARS1‐deficiency, differing from patterns of hepatic encephalopathy or metabolic stroke in organic acidurias and mitochondrial diseases. While the pathomechanism remains unclear, fever and energy deficit during infections might be causative; thus, sufficient glucose and protein intake along with pro‐active fever management is suggested. As severe episodes were observed during influenza infections, we strongly recommend seasonal vaccination.
A strike to the head: Parallels between the pediatric and adult human and the rodent in traumatic brain injury
Authors: Smith Allie M. , Grayson Bernadette E.
Published: July 2024

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a condition that occurs commonly in children from infancy through adolescence and is a global health concern. Pediatric TBI presents with a bimodal age distribution, with very young children (0–4 years) and adolescents (15–19 years) more commonly injured. Because children's brains are still developing, there is increased vulnerability to the effects of head trauma, which results in entirely different patterns of injury than in adults. Pediatric TBI has a profound and lasting impact on a child's development and quality of life, resulting in long‐lasting consequences to physical, cognitive, and emotional development. Chronic issues like learning disabilities, behavioral problems, and emotional disturbances can develop. Early intervention and ongoing support are critical for minimizing these long‐term deficits. Many animal models of TBI exist, and each varies significantly, displaying different characteristics of clinical TBI. The neurodevelopment differs in the rodent from the human in timing and effect, so TBI outcomes in the juvenile rodent can thus vary from the human child. The current review compares findings from preclinical TBI work in juvenile and adult rodents to clinical TBI research in pediatric and adult humans. We focus on the four brain regions most affected by TBI: the prefrontal cortex, corpus callosum, hippocampus, and hypothalamus. Each has its unique developmental projections and thus is impacted by TBI differently. This review aims to compare the healthy neurodevelopment of these four brain regions in humans to the developmental processes in rodents.
Toward health promotion and prevention: Evidence from a food and health partnership model of care
Authors: Lowrey John , Chandrasekaran Aravind , Headings Amy , Hyder Ayaz
Published: July 2024

Health promotion and disease prevention requires health systems address the patients' social needs using new care delivery models. Yet, research in this area has stalled for several reasons. We study a partnership model of care that couples clinical care delivered by primary care providers and social services delivered by community‐based organizations, and its impact on patients' preventive health outcomes and behaviors. We use data from the Mid‐Ohio Farmacy, which is a collaboration across the Mid‐Ohio Food Collective (MOFC), a network of 650+ affiliated food pantries, and a large federally qualified health center (FQHC). The FQHC offers primary and preventative healthcare services across eight free clinics, which are co‐located with the MOFC‐affiliated food pantries. Patients were screened for food insecurity during their clinic visit and, if positive, were referred to the Farmacy. Compliers made at least one visit to the food pantry after referral, while noncompliers did not. Using difference‐in‐differences, we find that compliers had no discernible change in their body mass index (BMI, kg/m2), which we refer to as a BMI stabilization effect. Noncompliers' BMI increased after referral. High comorbid and high pantry use compliers experienced a significant reduction in their BMI and a marginally significant reduction in glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c, %). These patients had unique compliance behaviors, including greater search, frequency, and consistency of food pantry use. Travel costs suggests that high comorbid patients ascribed a greater value to the Farmacy program. In terms of primary care utilization, we find that compliers' clinic visit patterns after referral were consistent with the visit patterns observed in the food secure cohort, suggesting that the Farmacy program may have helped compliers address competing demands that are known to inhibit health behaviors.
Integrated impact of multiple body composition parameters on overall survival in gastrointestinal or genitourinary cancers: A descriptive cohort study
Authors: Sugawara Kotaro , Taguchi Satoru , Gonoi Wataru , Hanaoka Shouhei , Shiomi Shinichiro , Kishitani Kenjiro , Uemura Yukari , Akamatsu Nobuhiko , Inui Shohei , Tanaka Koji , Yagi Koichi , Kawai Taketo , Nakagawa Tohru , Fukuhara Hiroshi , Abe Osamu , Kume Haruki , Gonzalez Maria Cristina , Prado Carla M. , Seto Yasuyuki
Published: July 2024

Background

This study aimed to evaluate if combining low muscle mass with additional body composition abnormalities, such as myosteatosis or adiposity, could improve survival prediction accuracy in a large cohort of gastrointestinal and genitourinary malignancies.

Methods

In total, 2015 patients with surgically‐treated gastrointestinal or genitourinary cancer were retrospectively analyzed. Skeletal muscle index, skeletal muscle radiodensity, and visceral/subcutaneous adipose tissue index were determined. The primary outcome was overall survival determined by hospital records. Multivariate Cox hazard models were used to identify independent predictors for poor survival. C‐statistics were assessed to quantify the prognostic capability of the models with or without incorporating body composition parameters.

Results

Survival curves were significantly demarcated by all 4 measures. Skeletal muscle radiodensity was associated with non‐cancer‐related deaths but not with cancer‐specific survival. The survival outcome of patients with low skeletal muscle index was poor (5‐year OS; 65.2%), especially when present in combination with low skeletal muscle radiodensity (5‐year overall survival; 50.2%). All examined body composition parameters were independent predictors of lower overall survival. The model for predicting overall survival without incorporating body composition parameters had a c‐index of 0.68 but increased to 0.71 with the inclusion of low skeletal muscle index and 0.72 when incorporating both low skeletal muscle index and low skeletal muscle radiodensity/visceral adipose tissue index/subcutaneous adipose tissue index.

Conclusion

Patients exhibiting both low skeletal muscle index and other body composition abnormalities, particularly low skeletal muscle radiodensity, had poorer overall survival. Models incorporating multiple body composition prove valuable for mortality prediction in oncology settings.
Haemostatic spray in the management of acute nonvariceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding in children: A single‐centre experience in Singapore
Authors: Ho Christopher Wen Wei , Goh Lynette Suk‐hui , Ng Lay Queen , Rajan Charanya , Logarajah Veena , Chiou Fang Kuan
Published: July 2024

Introduction/Objectives

Haemostatic spray (HS; Hemospray) is a powder agent for endoscopic haemostasis in patients with acute upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB). It has been shown to be effective and easy to administer. However, published data on efficacy and safety in children remain scarce. Our aim was to describe our experience with the use of HS in the management of UGIB.

Patients and Methods

A retrospective review was conducted of patients aged 0–18 receiving HS for endoscopic haemostasis from January 2017 to December 2021. Information was obtained on demographics, clinical presentation and comorbidities. Outcomes were successful initial haemostasis and rates of re‐bleeding.

Results

A total of 25 applications of HS occurred in 23 patients. The median patient age was 8 years (range: 4 months to 16 years). HS was used in 17/25 (68%) applications as monotherapy. Other treatments employed were clip application and adrenaline injection. One hundred per cent initial haemostasis was achieved with three (13.0%) patients who experienced re‐bleeding. All patients tolerated HS applications with no adverse events.

Conclusions

Our finding supports the use of HS in the management of UGIB in children. HS, either as monotherapy or in combination with other conventional therapy, could potentially be the treatment of choice in children with UGIB with its excellent feasibility and good safety profile.
A contribution to the harmonization of microplastic analysis in beverages and food
Authors: Weißer Jana , Hofmann Thomas F.
Published: July 2024

Sampling, sample preparation and particle detection are the key steps in microplastics (MP) analysis. In order to harmonize MP analysis, implementing strict measures for quality assurance and control (QA/QC) for all steps is key. However, especially QA and QC for the analysis of hyperspectral MP data has remained widely neglected. To fill this gap, a transparent and detailed QA/QC method for data analysis based on the automated evaluation of a ground truth reference image is presented.
Changes in phytoplankton size–structure alter trophic transfer in a temperate, coastal planktonic food web
Authors: Marrec Pierre , Menden‐Deuer Susanne
Published: July 2024

Microzooplankton grazing is an essential parameter to predict the fate of organic matter production in planktonic food webs. To identify predictors of grazing, we leveraged a 6‐yr time series of coastal plankton growth and grazing rates across contrasting environmental conditions. Phytoplankton size–structure and trophic transfer were seasonally consistent with small phytoplankton cell dominance and low trophic transfer in summer, and large cell dominance and higher trophic transfer in winter. Departures from this pattern during two disruptive events revealed a critical link between phytoplankton size–structure and trophic transfer. An unusual summer bloom of large phytoplankton cells yielded high trophic transfer, and an atypical winter dominance of small phytoplankton resulted in seasonally atypical low trophic transfer. Environmental conditions during these events were neither seasonally atypical nor unique. Thus, phytoplankton size–structure rather than environmental conditions held a key‐role driving trophic transfer. Phytoplankton size–structure is easily measurable and could impart predictive power of food‐web structure and the fate of primary production in coastal ecosystems.
Sucrose and Glycerol Additives: A Way to Tune the Biological and Physicochemical Properties of Agarose Hydrogels?
Authors: Igbokwe Victor C. , Ball Vincent , Benzaamia Nour‐Ouda , Gree Simon , Hellé Sophie , Soubirou‐Blot Juliette , Nardin Corinne , Ploux Lydie
Published: July 2024

Sucrose and glycerol have gained attention as additives for hydrogels, owing to their capacity to exert considerable influence over the physicochemical, mechanical, and biological characteristics of these materials. Herein, these effects on agarose hydrogels (AHs) are explored. A series of AHs are synthesized using sucrose (30% and 300% w/v) and glycerol as additives. The storage modulus (10.0–13.7 kPa) and hydrophilicity of the hydrogels (contact angle < 50°) do not vary significantly with sucrose or glycerol addition. However, sucrose enhances the hydration capacity of the hydrogels by up to 170%, whereas glycerol reduces it. Interestingly, sucrose and glycerol individually do not have bacteriostatic effects against Staphylococcus epidermidis, but their combination significantly (p ≤ 0.001) inhibits the growth of both S. epidermidis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa by 63% and 29%, respectively, in comparison to native agarose. Cytotoxicity testing on NIH/3T3 murine fibroblasts reveals that sucrose increases cell viability up to 98%, while glycerol reduces it below 60%. Overall, these hydrogels hold promise for antibacterial biomedical applications as wound dressing materials and surface coatings for medical devices and can also be used to formulate bioinks for 3D bioprinting.
Police reform from the top down: Experimental evidence on police executive support for civilian oversight
Authors: Adams Ian T. , McCrain Joshua , Schiff Daniel S. , Schiff Kaylyn Jackson , Mourtgos Scott M.
Published: July 2024

The accountability of police to the public is imperative for a functioning democracy. The opinions of police executives—pivotal actors for implementing oversight policies—are an understudied, critical component of successful reform efforts. We use a pre‐registered survey experiment administered to all U.S. municipal police chiefs and county sheriffs to assess whether police executives’ attitudes towards civilian oversight are responsive to 1) state‐level public opinion (drawing on an original n = 16,840 survey) and 2) prior adoption of civilian review boards in large agencies. Results from over 1,300 police executives reveal that law enforcement leaders are responsive to elite peer adoption but much less to public opinion, despite overwhelming public support. Compared to appointed municipal police chiefs, elected sheriffs are less likely to support any civilian oversight. Our findings hold implications for reformers: we find that existing civilian oversight regimes are largely popular, and that it is possible to move police executive opinion towards support for civilian oversight.
Nylon 12 composite optimization: Investigating influence of ceramic functional fillers on FFF 3D printing performance and rheological properties
Authors: Divakaran Nidhin , Alex Y. , Ajay Kumar P. V. , Das Jyoti Prakash , Mohapatra Agneyarka , Mohanty Smita
Published: July 2024

Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) is a promising 3D printing technology for industrial and technological applications due to its cost‐effective ability to fabricate large, complex objects from thermoplastics. Nylon 12, a versatile thermoplastic, is widely used for functional prototyping and has significant potential for end‐user applications. Our research focuses on enhancing the mechanical and thermal properties of Nylon 12 by developing composites with ceramic fillers such as zinc oxide (ZnO) and alumina (Al2O3). This is achieved by melt mixing the fillers into the Nylon 12 polymer matrix and preparing filaments using a filament extruder. The optimal concentration of these fillers was determined by analyzing tensile strength of the polymer composites, while DSC was employed for thermal analysis. Additionally, rheological studies were conducted to assess the impact of the fillers on the viscoelastic properties and flow characteristics of Nylon 12. The Carreau‐Yasuda model was employed to study the complex viscosity of the materials. Our findings indicate that the addition of functional fillers enhances the shear thinning behavior of Nylon 12, improving material flow through the printer nozzle. This optimization leads to 3D printed structures with minimal dimensional inaccuracies, ensuring high‐quality prints suitable for commercial applications.

Highlights

Different functional fillers reinforced Nylon 12 composites‐based filaments for FDM 3D printing applications are manufactured.

Different wt.% of functional fillers are added into Nylon 12 polymer matrix via melt mixing, and their filaments are prepared by filament extruder.

Rheological studies of polymer composites were conducted to examine the influence of functional fillers in flow characteristics of polymer.

The presence of functional fillers enhanced shear thinning behavior of polymer and develops maximum printable viscosity for extrusion‐based 3D printing.
Effect of dispersion methods on electromagnetic interference shielding effectiveness and thermal conductivity of graphene bio‐based epoxy composites
Authors: Zhi Lim Xing , Majid M. S. Abdul , Ridzuan M. J. M. , Ismail Mohd Shihabudin , Azaman M. D. , Khasri Azduwin
Published: July 2024

The electromagnetic interference shielding effectiveness (EMISE) and thermal conductivity (TC) of a graphene bio‐based epoxy composite were investigated in this study. This study aims to evaluate the effects of dispersion methods on the EMISE and TC of graphene bio‐based epoxy composites. Four dispersion methods were applied to disperse graphene: hand mixing, high‐shear mixing, ultrasonication, and ultrasonication with high‐shear mixing. The graphene weightage used in this study are 3, 6, and 9 wt.%. The EMISE was examined at the X‐band frequency. A microstructural analysis was performed using scanning electron microscopy to investigate the fracture surface morphology of the composites. The results revealed that the composite with 9 wt.% graphene exhibited the highest shielding effectiveness and TC, averaging 8.35 dB and 0.3855 W/mK, respectively, for all the dispersion methods. The composite with 3 wt.% graphene dispersed via ultrasonication exhibited the highest absorption loss (2.98 dB). Moreover, the composites with 6 and 9 wt.% graphene dispersed via ultrasonication with high‐shear mixing showed good overall improvement. This finding provides valuable insights into the effect of dispersion techniques on graphene bio‐based epoxy composites and presents a suitable dispersion method for improving the EMISE and TC.

Highlights

Effect of dispersion methods on EMISE and TC has been investigated.

Optimum SEA achieved in 3 wt.% composites dispersed via ultrasonication.

Higher wt.% increased the SE and TC of composites.

Ultrasonication with high‐shear mixing improved overall results.
Multifunctional surface treatment of boron nitride nanotube‐coated polyimide films with atmospheric‐pressure cold plasma
Authors: Choi Ha Young , Kang Seong Chan , Park Sang Jun , Yoo Hee Il , Jeon Sang‐Woo , Kim Tae‐Hwan , Moon Se Youn
Published: July 2024

Polyimide (PI) surfaces coated with and without boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs) were treated using an atmospheric‐pressure cold plasma in open air. This treatment increased the surface wettability of the PI, measured by a decrease in water contact angle from 68° to 16°, resulting in a more uniform BNNT coating and improved surface adhesion. The plasma treatment of the BNNT‐coated PI surfaces also effectively removed residual polymer surfactants used for BNNT dispersion in water, without causing any thermal damage due to the low plasma and PI's surface temperatures of 350 and 300 K, respectively. The reactive oxygen species in the plasma, such as hydroxyl molecules and oxygen atoms, played an important role in these processes. Atmospheric‐pressure plasma can be employed in various applications in which thermally weak polymer‐based substrates are coated with BNNTs.
GaInN‐Based Blue LED with a PEDOT/PSS Hole Transport Layer
Authors: Kato Yuma , Iwaya Motoaki , Takeuchi Tetsuya , Kamiyama Satoshi
Published: July 2024

In this study, a nitride‐based blue PEDOT‐LED is fabricated and a preliminary assessment of the device characteristics is done. To prevent detaching of the PEDOT/PSS layer from the LED substrate when immersing in water or developing solution, Ag was deposited on top of the PEDOT/PSS layer. Additionally, exfoliation is suppressed by reducing the developing time and protecting the wafer edge with a photoresist. Different etching methods for Ag and PEDOT/PSS are investigated. The Ar ion‐beam etching resulted in uniform and flat‐etched surfaces. Regarding the performance of the PEDOT‐LEDs, a high Mg‐doping concentration of 1.0 × 1020 cm−2 leads to a relatively low threshold current voltage in the V–I characteristics. However, for the PEDOT‐LED with p‐Al0.25Ga0.75 N EBL, a steep light output saturation is observed at high current density when analyzing the L–I characteristics.
Proving the Security of Mediated Semi‐Quantum Key Distribution Using Entropic Uncertainty Relation
Authors: Du Zhen‐Ye , Yang You‐Long , Ning Tong , Gao Kai‐Tian
Published: July 2024

In recent years, mediated semi‐quantum key distribution (MSQKD) has become a hot topic in quantum cryptography. In this study, the original MSQKD protocol is revisited and a new scheme for proving security based on information theory is developed. At first, a new bound on the key rate of the protocol is derived using an entropic uncertainty relation, thus proving the unconditional security of the protocol. In addition, in the asymptotic scenario, a higher noise tolerance that improves the previous results is found. The legitimate communicating parties have to abort the protocol when they observe the error rate is larger than the noise tolerance. Furthermore, the security of a single‐state MSQKD protocol and a single‐state semi‐quantum key distribution (SQKD) protocol is proven using a similar scheme.
Latent classification model for censored longitudinal binary outcome
Authors: Kuo Jacky C. , Chan Wenyaw , Leon‐Novelo Luis , Lairson David R. , Brown Armand , Fujimoto Kayo
Published: July 2024

Latent classification model is a class of statistical methods for identifying unobserved class membership among the study samples using some observed data. In this study, we proposed a latent classification model that takes a censored longitudinal binary outcome variable and uses its changing pattern over time to predict individuals' latent class membership. Assuming the time‐dependent outcome variables follow a continuous‐time Markov chain, the proposed method has two primary goals: (1) estimate the distribution of the latent classes and predict individuals' class membership, and (2) estimate the class‐specific transition rates and rate ratios. To assess the model's performance, we conducted a simulation study and verified that our algorithm produces accurate model estimates (ie, small bias) with reasonable confidence intervals (ie, achieving approximately 95% coverage probability). Furthermore, we compared our model to four other existing latent class models and demonstrated that our approach yields higher prediction accuracies for latent classes. We applied our proposed method to analyze the COVID‐19 data in Houston, Texas, US collected between January first 2021 and December 31st 2021. Early reports on the COVID‐19 pandemic showed that the severity of a SARS‐CoV‐2 infection tends to vary greatly by cases. We found that while demographic characteristics explain some of the differences in individuals' experience with COVID‐19, some unaccounted‐for latent variables were associated with the disease.
Exploratory subgroup identification in the heterogeneous Cox model: A relatively simple procedure
Authors: León Larry F. , Jemielita Thomas , Guo Zifang , Marceau West Rachel , Anderson Keaven M.
Published: July 2024

For survival analysis applications we propose a novel procedure for identifying subgroups with large treatment effects, with focus on subgroups where treatment is potentially detrimental. The approach, termed forest search, is relatively simple and flexible. All‐possible subgroups are screened and selected based on hazard ratio thresholds indicative of harm with assessment according to the standard Cox model. By reversing the role of treatment one can seek to identify substantial benefit. We apply a splitting consistency criteria to identify a subgroup considered “maximally consistent with harm.” The type‐1 error and power for subgroup identification can be quickly approximated by numerical integration. To aid inference we describe a bootstrap bias‐corrected Cox model estimator with variance estimated by a Jacknife approximation. We provide a detailed evaluation of operating characteristics in simulations and compare to virtual twins and generalized random forests where we find the proposal to have favorable performance. In particular, in our simulation setting, we find the proposed approach favorably controls the type‐1 error for falsely identifying heterogeneity with higher power and classification accuracy for substantial heterogeneous effects. Two real data applications are provided for publicly available datasets from a clinical trial in oncology, and HIV.
Ultra‐Small High‐Entropy Alloy as Multi‐Functional Catalyst for Ammonia Based Fuel Cells
Authors: Zhang Yuanyuan , Wang Zumin , Wang Lei , Zong Lingbo
Published: July 2024

Ammonia fuel cells using carbon‐neutral ammonia as fuel are regarded as a fast, furious, and flexible next‐generation carbon‐free energy conversion technology, but it is limited by the kinetically sluggish ammonia oxidation reaction (AOR), oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Platinum can efficiently drive these three types of reactions, but its scale‐up application is limited by its susceptibility to poisoning and high cost. In order to reduce the cost and alleviate poisoning, incorporating Pt with various metals proves to be an efficient and feasible strategy. Herein, PtFeCoNiIr/C trifunctional high‐entropy alloy (HEA) catalysts are prepared with uniform mixing and ultra‐small size of 2 ± 0.5 nm by Joule heating method. PtFeCoNiIr/C exhibits efficient performance in AOR (Jpeak = 139.8 A g−1PGM), ORR (E1/2 = 0.87 V), and HER (E10 = 20.3 mV), outperforming the benchmark Pt/C, and no loss in HER performance at 100 mA cm−2 for 200 h. The almost unchanged E1/2 in the anti‐poisoning test indicates its promising application in real fuel cells powered by ammonia. This work opens up a new path for the development of multi‐functional electrocatalysts and also makes a big leap toward the exploration of cost‐effective device configurations for novel fuel cells.
Dual‐Drug Nanomedicine Assembly with Synergistic Anti‐Aneurysmal Effects via Inflammation Suppression and Extracellular Matrix Stabilization
Authors: Zu Hong Lin , Zhuang Pei Pei , Peng Ying , Peng Chao , Peng Cheng , Zhu Zi Jia , Yao Ye , Yue Jie , Wang Qing Shan , Zhou Wen Hu , Wang Hai Yang
Published: July 2024

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) represents a critical cardiovascular condition characterized by localized dilation of the abdominal aorta, carrying a significant risk of rupture and mortality. Current treatment options are limited, necessitating novel therapeutic approaches. This study investigates the potential of a pioneering nanodrug delivery system, RAP@PFB, in mitigating AAA progression. RAP@PFB integrates pentagalloyl glucose (PGG) and rapamycin (RAP) within a metal–organic‐framework (MOF) structure through a facile assembly process, ensuring remarkable drug loading capacity and colloidal stability. The synergistic effects of PGG, a polyphenolic antioxidant, and RAP, an mTOR inhibitor, collectively regulate key players in AAA pathogenesis, such as macrophages and smooth muscle cells (SMCs). In macrophages, RAP@PFB efficiently scavenges various free radicals, suppresses inflammation, and promotes M1‐to‐M2 phenotype repolarization. In SMCs, it inhibits apoptosis and calcification, thereby stabilizing the extracellular matrix and reducing the risk of AAA rupture. Administered intravenously, RAP@PFB exhibits effective accumulation at the AAA site, demonstrating robust efficacy in reducing AAA progression through multiple mechanisms. Moreover, RAP@PFB demonstrates favorable biosafety profiles, supporting its potential translation into clinical applications for AAA therapy.
High‐Performance Bifunctional Electrocatalysts for Flexible and Rechargeable Zn–Air Batteries: Recent Advances
Authors: Song Chen‐Yu , Huang Chen‐Jin , Xu Hui‐Min , Zhang Zhi‐Jie , Shuai Ting‐Yu , Zhan Qi‐Ni , Li Gao‐Ren
Published: July 2024

Flexible rechargeable Zn–air batteries (FZABs) exhibit high energy density, ultra‐thin, lightweight, green, and safe features, and are considered as one of the ideal power sources for flexible wearable electronics. However, the slow and high overpotential oxygen reaction at the air cathode has become one of the key factors restricting the development of FZABs. The improvement of activity and stability of bifunctional catalysts has become a top priority. At the same time, FZABs should maintain the battery performance under different bending and twisting conditions, and the design of the overall structure of FZABs is also important. Based on the understanding of the three typical configurations and working principles of FZABs, this work highlights two common strategies for applying bifunctional catalysts to FZABs: 1) powder‐based flexible air cathode and 2) flexible self‐supported air cathode. It summarizes the recent advances in bifunctional oxygen electrocatalysts and explores the various types of catalyst structures as well as the related mechanistic understanding. Based on the latest catalyst research advances, this paper introduces and discusses various structure modulation strategies and expects to guide the synthesis and preparation of efficient bifunctional catalysts. Finally, the current status and challenges of bifunctional catalyst research in FZABs are summarized.
Solar‐Powered Gram‐Scale Ammonia Production from Nitrate
Authors: Gnanasekar Paulraj , Peramaiah Karthik , Zhang Huafan , Alsayoud Ibrahim G. , Subbiah Anand S. , Babics Maxime , Ng Tien Khee , Gan Qiaoqiang , De Wolf Stefaan , Huang Kuo‐Wei , Ooi Boon S.
Published: July 2024

The photoelectrochemical (PEC) method has the potential to be an attractive route for converting and storing solar energy as chemical bonds. In this study, a maximum NH3 production yield of 1.01 g L−1 with a solar‐to‐ammonia conversion efficiency of 8.17% through the photovoltaic electrocatalytic (PV‐EC) nitrate (NO3−) reduction reaction (NO3−RR) is achieved, using silicon heterojunction solar cell technology. Additionally, the effect of tuning the operation potential of the PV‐EC system and its influence on product selectivity are systematically investigated. By using this unique external resistance tuning approach in the PV‐EC system, ammonia production through nitrate reduction performance from 96 to 360 mg L−1 is enhanced, a four‐fold increase. Furthermore, the NH3 is extracted as NH4Cl powder using acid stripping, which is essential for storing chemical energy. This work demonstrates the possibility of tuning product selectivity in PV‐EC systems, with prospects toward pilot scale on value‐added product synthesis.
Identification of PV Parameters Based on Bézier Curve and AWSO
Authors: Lyu Yanling , Zhong Chen , You Chao , Liu Zhipeng
Published: July 2024

To achieve accurate PV cell parameter identification, a method combining the second‐order Bézier function with the adaptive war strategy optimization (AWSO) algorithm is proposed, the Bézier curve for fitting the PV output characteristic curve is given by using the linear connection between the filling factor and the control points of the second‐order Bézier function, and then, the Bézier‐AWSO model is constructed, and an adaptive weight‐based updating and allocation method is given to improve the global search capability of the AWSO algorithm in the problem of recognizing five important parameters of photovoltaic, and avoid falling into the local optimum in the process of recognition. Finally, the optimal solution for the unknown parameters in the single diode topology of silicon‐based photovoltaic cells is obtained by using the data points of the fitted curves and the AWSO algorithm, and the accuracy of the AWSO algorithm for photovoltaic cell parameter identification is verified through the analysis of the arithmetic examples and real experiments. The results demonstrate that the parameter identification of the proposed improved model reduces the average relative error by 0.5%–1% compared with that before the improvement under standard and non‐standard test conditions, which improves the accuracy of the 5‐parameter identification results of the silicon‐based PV cell and provides a reference for the subsequent fault analysis. © 2024 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan and Wiley Periodicals LLC.