bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effective delivery of neonatal stabilization education using videoconferencing in Manitoba
Authors: Loewen L , Seshia M M K , Askin D Fraser , Cronin C , Roberts S
Published: December 2003

We compared face-to-face and videoconference delivery of an education programme for health professionals on the subject of neonatal stabilization skills. A pre-test/post-test control group design was used to compare knowledge acquisition and satisfaction between the two modalities. There were no statistically significant differences between delivery modalities for knowledge acquisition. Both groups showed significant gains in knowledge when pre- and post-test scores were compared. Responses to most of the items in a survey of satisfaction with the course did not differ significantly between the two groups. Face-to-face participants expressed higher levels of comfort in interacting with the presenter, and those in the videoconference group were more willing to receive the course via videoconference in the future. Videoconferencing provided an effective and acceptable way of delivering neonatal stabilization skills.
Distinctness of Reaction - Ein Messverfahren zur Beurteilung von Echtzeitsystemen (Teil 2) (Distinctness of Reaction - A Method for the Evaluation of Real-Time Systems (Part 2))
Authors: Albert Amos , Wolter Björn , Gerth Wilfried
Published: December 2003

Dieser Artikel stellt die Fortsetzung des Aufsatzes [1] dar und widmet sich weiteren Einsatzmöglichkeiten der in [1] eingeführten Messmethode ´Distinctness of Reaction´ zur Beurteilung von Echtzeitsystemen.
Regelung der Leistungsaufteilung von Parallelhybridfahrzeugen: Von der optimalen Steuerung zur Echtzeitanwendung (On the Power Split Control of Parallel Hybrid Vehicles: from Global Optimization towards Real-time Control)
Authors: Sciarretta Antonio , Guzzella Lino , Onder Christopher H.
Published: December 2003

In this paper, the optimal power split control law of a parallel hybrid powertrain is calculated for various driving conditions. It is shown that this optimal feedforward control law corresponds to a real-time control design based on the concept of equivalence factors. Certain properties of these equivalence factors are presented, which will lead to the design of a real-time controller.
On-Board-Kalibrierung eines Ottomotors anhand von Verbrennungsmodellen und Ionenstromrückführung (Towards On-Board Engine Calibration with Feedback Control Incorporating Combustion Models and Ion-sense)
Authors: Eriksson Lars , Nielsen Lars
Published: December 2003

Ion-sense is a technique to probe the in-cylinder combustion by applying, after ignition, a sense voltage across the spark plug gap and measure the current through the gap. This current measurement is a complicated function that contains a lot of information about the in-cylinder pressure, temperature and combustion. To extract this information, a major contribution here is a simple analytical ionization current model that consists of explicit analytical submodels for in-cylinder pressure, temperature, thermal ionization, and ionization current. Since the model is analytical, the on-board signal interpretation is a simple adaptation of some model parameters. Experimental validation shows good agreement, and thus paves the way towards real-time on-board engine calibration.
Vor dem Regler: Ein Verfahren zur Mehrfach-Objektverfolgung füur Fahrerassistenzsysteme (Before the Controller: A Multiple Target Tracking Routine for Driver Assistance Systems)
Authors: Caveney Derek , Dickmanns Dirk , Hedrick J. Karl
Published: December 2003

This paper presents a probabilistic approach to multiple target tracking with applications to driver assistance systems. The authors develop the probabilistic theory behind two routines that together handle uncertain target motion and uncertain measurement origin. The first algorithm incorporates multiple target motion models and acts like a self-adjusting, variable-bandwidth filter to accurately track a single target during all possible motion. The second algorithm allows for multiple targets to be tracked simultaneously by performing a computationally-bounded, measurement-association process. The complementary nature of these two routines is highlighted and their ability to incorporate measurements from multiple sensors is also discussed. The effectiveness of this probabilistic approach is illustrated through experimental test results.
Sonderforschungsbereich 376 Massive Parallelität: Algorithmen – Entwurfsmethoden – Anwendungen (Massively Parallel Computing: Algorithms – Design Methods – Applications)
Authors: Meyer auf der Heide Friedhelm
Published: December 2003

Vernetzte Systeme sind zu unverzichtbaren Bestandteilen unseres Umfelds geworden, zum Beispiel als Höchstleistungsrechner, als Kommunikations- und Informationssysteme oder als Planungs- und Steuerungskomponenten von Transport- und Produktionssystemen. Die ständig wachsende Komplexität solcher Systeme stellt Informatiker und Ingenieure vor immer neue Herausforderungen. In diesem Beitrag beschreibe ich die Zielsetzungen und die Struktur des SFB 376 Massive Parallelität: Algorithmen – Entwurfsmethoden – Anwendungen. Als Beispiel für unsere Arbeiten beschreibe ich einen algorithmisch orientierten Forschungszweig, in dem wir, ausgehend von theoretischen Problemen über effiziente Simulationen zwischen parallelen Rechenmodellen, Methoden, Techniken und Implementierungen entwickelt haben, die zu produktnahen Prototypen für die Speichervirtualisierung in verteilten Datenservern führen.
Systeme für eine hocheffiziente elektrische und optische Kurzstreckenübertragung im SAN-Bereich (Systems for High-Efficient Electrical and Optical Short-Distance Data Transmission in System-Area-Networks)
Authors: Brüning Ulrich , Krackhardt Ulrich
Published: December 2003

Die stetig wachsende Anforderung an Rechenleistung hat neben der Leistungssteigerung von Einzelsystemen auch zur Nutzung verteilter Ressourcen geführt. Im LAN-Bereich wird die Rechenaufgabe partitioniert und auf mehrere Workstations in einem Netzwerk verteilt (Cluster-Computing). Auf der Systemebene (SAN) werden einzelne spezialisierte Sub-Systeme auf einer Platine (board-to-board) oder in einem Raum (rack-to-rack) verbunden. Die Begrenzung verteilter Systeme ist nicht mehr durch die Rechenleistung, sondern durch die Übertragungsbandbreite und die Kommunikationslatenz gegeben. Es werden für die elektrische bzw. optische Übertragung stellvertretend zwei Systeme beschrieben, die breitbandige Verbindungen mit geringer Latenz ermöglichen und keine externe Steuerung bzw. Überwachung benötigen. Für die elektrische Übertragung ist dies die in Entwicklung befindliche Netzwerkkarte "ATOLL" (Atomic low Latency), die das gesamte Protokollmanagement einschließlich Fehlerkorrektur wie auch das Routing vollkommen autonom übernimmt. ATOLL bietet einen bidirektionalen 4×4-Kreuzschienenverteiler mit Übertragungsbandbreiten von bis zu 2 GByte/s. Als optisches Übertragungssystem für Board-to-Board- oder Rack-to-Rack-Anwendungen wird ein faserbasiertes Multiplex-Übertragungssystem vorgestellt. Die Multiplexfunktion wird rein passiv optisch realisiert; externe Steuersignale entfallen somit. Das System erlaubt die Übertragung von typischerweise 12 bis 16 logischen Kanälen durch eine einzige Faser und über Entfernungen von einigen cm bis zu einigen Metern mit akkumulierten Bandbreiten im Bereich von 1 THz×m. Es wird ein System mit mikrointegrierten optischen Modulen und Schnittstellen in Form von standardisierten Fasersteckern vorgestellt.
Care Fragmentation, Care Continuity, and Care Coordination—How They Differ and Why It Matters
Authors: Kern Lisa M. , Bynum Julie P. W. , Pincus Harold Alan
Published: January 2024

This Viewpoint considers why fragmentation occurs and suggests a potential path forward for developing evidenced-based strategies that can reduce the occurrence of fragmentation and its associated harms.
Emergency Department Access to Buprenorphine for Opioid Use Disorder
Authors: Herring Andrew A. , Rosen Allison D. , Samuels Elizabeth A. , Lin Chunqing , Speener Melissa , Kaleekal John , Shoptaw Steven J. , Moulin Aimee K. , Campbell Arianna , Anderson Erik , Kalmin Mariah M.
Published: January 2024

Importance

Although substantial evidence supports buprenorphine for treatment of opioid use disorder (OUD) in controlled trials, prospective study of patient outcomes in clinical implementation of emergency department (ED) buprenorphine treatment is lacking.

Objective

To examine the association between buprenorphine treatment in the ED and follow-up engagement in OUD treatment 1 month later.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This multisite cohort study was conducted in 7 California EDs participating in a statewide implementation project to improve access to buprenorphine treatment. The study population included ED patients aged at least 18 years identified with OUD between April 1, 2021, and June 30, 2022. Data analysis was performed in October 2023.

Exposure

All participants were offered buprenorphine treatment for OUD (either in ED administration, prescription, or both), the uptake of which was examined as the exposure of interest.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was engagement in OUD treatment 30 days after the ED visit, determined by patient report or clinical documentation. The association of ED buprenorphine treatment with subsequent OUD treatment engagement was estimated using hierarchical generalized linear models.

Results

This analysis included 464 ED patients with OUD. Their median age was 36.0 (IQR, 29.0-38.7) years, and most were men (343 [73.9%]). With regard to race and ethnicity, 64 patients (13.8%) self-identified as non-Hispanic Black, 183 (39.4%) as Hispanic, and 185 as non-Hispanic White (39.9%). Most patients (396 [85.3%]) had Medicaid insurance, and more than half (262 [57.8%]) had unstable housing. Self-reported fentanyl use (242 [52.2%]) and a comorbid mental health condition (328 [71.5%]) were common. Interest in buprenorphine treatment was high: 398 patients (85.8%) received buprenorphine treatment; 269 (58.0%) were administered buprenorphine in the ED and 339 (73.1%) were prescribed buprenorphine. With regard to OUD treatment engagement at 30 days after the ED visit, 198 participants (49.7%) who received ED buprenorphine treatment remained engaged compared with 15 participants (22.7%) who did not receive ED buprenorphine treatment. An association of ED buprenorphine treatment with subsequent OUD treatment engagement at 30 days was observed (adjusted risk ratio, 1.97 [95% CI, 1.27-3.07]).

Conclusions and Relevance

The findings of this cohort study suggest that among patients with OUD presenting to EDs implementing low-threshold access to medications for OUD, buprenorphine treatment was associated with a substantially higher likelihood of follow-up treatment engagement 1 month later. Future research should investigate techniques to optimize both the uptake and effectiveness of buprenorphine initiation in low-threshold settings such as the ED.
Single isocenter versus dual isocenter treatment using flattening filter‐free and jaw‐tracking volumetrically modulated arc therapy for boot‐shaped lung cancer: Evaluation of dosimetric and feasibility
Authors: Zhang Lei , Cheng Hang , Du Fenglei , Shao Kainan , Zheng Shiming , Yang Yiwei , Shan Guoping
Published: January 2024

Background

To determine whether a dual‐isocenter volumetrically modulated arc therapy (VMAT) technique results in lower normal pulmonary dosage compared to a traditional single isocenter technique for boot‐shaped lung cancer.

Methods

A cohort of 15 patients with advanced peripheral or central lung cancer who had metastases in the mediastinum and supraclavicular lymph nodes was randomly selected for this retrospective study. VMAT plans were generated for each patient using two different beam alignment techniques with the 6‐MV flattening filter‐free (FFF) photon beam: single‐isocenter jaw‐tracking VMAT based on the Varian TrueBeam linear accelerator (S‐TV), and dual‐isocenter VMAT based on both TrueBeam (D‐TV) and Halcyon linear accelerator (D‐HV). For all 45 treatment plans, planning target volume (PTV) dose coverage, conformity/homogeneity index (CI/HI), mean heart dose (MHD), mean lung dose (MLD) and the total lung tissue receiving 5, 20, 30 Gy (V5, V20, V30) were evaluated. The monitor units (MUs), delivery time, and plan quality assurance (QA) results were recorded.

Results

The quality of the objectives of the three plans was comparable to each other. In comparison with S‐TV, D‐TV and D‐HV improved the CI and HI of the PTV (p < 0.05). The MLD was 13.84 ± 1.44 Gy (mean ± SD) for D‐TV, 14.22 ± 1.30 Gy and 14.16 ± 1.42 Gy for S‐TV and D‐HV, respectively. Lungs‐V5Gy was 50.78 ± 6.24%, 52.00 ± 7.32% and 53.36 ± 8.48%, Lungs‐V20Gy was 23.72 ± 2.27%, 26.18 ± 2.86% and 24.96 ± 3.09%, Lungs‐V30Gy was 15.69 ± 1.76%, 17.20 ± 1.72% and 16.52 ± 2.07%. Compared to S‐TV, D‐TV provided statistically significant better protection for the total lung, with the exception of the lungs‐V5. All plans passed QA according the gamma criteria of 3%/3 mm.

Conclusions

Taking into account the dosimetric results and published clinical data on radiation‐induced pulmonary injury, dual‐isocenter jaw‐tracking VMAT may be the optimal choice for treating boot‐shaped lung cancer.
Advances in Polymer‐Based Organic Room‐Temperature Phosphorescence Materials
Authors: Dou Xueyu , Wang Xu , Xie Xilei , Zhang Jian , Li Yong , Tang Bo
Published: January 2024

Organic room‐temperature phosphorescence (RTP) materials are actively explored as attractive candidates for optoelectronic and bioelectronics applications given their unique long‐lived excited‐state features and inherent merits of low‐cost, appreciable functionality, and good biocompatibility. In recent years, many efforts in molecular design and aggregation modulation are devoted to achiev efficient RTP from organics, among which an emerging strategy focuses on confining chromophores within polymer matrices. Polymers possess intertwined chains making them a good platform to restrain the nonradiative decays and quenching, allowing the triplet excitons to survive a long time enough for emission at room temperature. Progress relating to polymer‐based organic RTP materials is highlighted as a new creative subject in the field. This review outlines recent advancements in polymer‐based organic RTP materials. The fundamental mechanism of organic RTP is first presented. Thereafter, design considerations and strategies to construct polymer‐based organic RTP materials are summarized in detail. Several promising progresses in the proposed use of these RTP materials, such as encryption and anti‐counterfeiting, sensors, and bioimaging are overviewed. Finally, the challenges and future perspectives are discussed to emphasize the directions that deserve focus attention in the field.
Mechanically Robust, Flexible, Fast Responding Temperature Sensor and High‐Resolution Array with Ionically Conductive Double Cross‐Linked Hydrogel
Authors: Zhang Jing , Yan Ke , Huang Jinrong , Sun Xidi , Li Jiean , Cheng Yan , Sun Yuqiong , Shi Yi , Pan Lijia
Published: January 2024

Hydrogel‐based sensing devices show potential in wearable electronics. However, most hydrogels are mechanically weak, bringing functional stability problems in real usage environment that may interact with occasionally external forces. There are demands to develop robust hydrogel‐based devices with good performances. Here, a highly sensitive temperature sensor with robust, ionic conductive, and double cross‐linked polyacrylamide‐sodium alginate hydrogel is developed. It is found that ions with larger radius show higher sensitivity to temperature changes (e.g., Ba2+) in the hydrogel, because ion movement is dependent with ion sizes. The sensor shows advantages of fast response (2.02 s of 40 °C temperature difference), wide sensing range (22–100 °C), and high robustness (withstanding 2000 cyclic compression and 175 N m−1 for 180° anti‐peeling test). The wearable sensor can effectively distinguish the temperatures of various body parts (0.9 °C temperature difference) and monitor respiration (0.5 °C temperature difference) in real‐time. A wearable 5×5 sensing array is developed for direct human‐body temperature mapping, achieving an optimum resolution of ≈0.15 mm−1 and enabling a clear mapping of superficial vascular pathways at the wrist. This study provides a practical and optimized approach for the implementation of wearable conductive hydrogel‐based devices in the field of human health.
Metformin‐Mediated Immunosuppressive Microenvironment Remodeling in Combination with Chemotherapy via a Spatial‐Specific Multi‐Responsive Carrier‐Free Self‐Assembled Nanoparticle
Authors: Song Yujun , Du Yufan , Hu Chuan , Lei Lei , Yang Lianyi , Wang Xiaorong , Jiang Chaoqing , Gao Huile
Published: January 2024

The complex tumor immune pathology requires a precise spatial‐control release of the combination drugs, but most multi‐drug loaded nanoparticles release all drugs simultaneously in the tumor microenvironment (TME), making them difficult to reach the exact action site. To address the spatial specific release of drugs, a carrier‐free self‐assembled multi‐responsive nanodrug delivery system is designed, in which p‐phthalaldehyde (p‐APA) and dithiodipropionic acid are used to connect metformin (MET) and 7‐ethyl‐10‐hydroxycamptothecin (SN38) through a matrix metalloproteinase‐2 (MMP‐2) responsive peptide, and dipyridamole (DIP) is further loaded (MA‐GPLGVRGDK‐SS‐SN38@DIP, MR NPs). The MR NPs first target tumor by enhanced permeability and retention effect, then the highly expressed MMP‐2 at tumor site cleaves GPLGVRGDK, breaking the nanoparticle into three parts—DIP, MA‐GPLG, and VRGDK‐SS‐SN38. DIP automatically binds with platelets in TME, inhibiting their function and restraining tumor metastasis. MA‐GPLG releases MET in response to the acidic TME to reverse the immunosuppressive networks through PD‐L1 downregulation and M2‐like macrophages repolarization. Moreover, VRGDK‐SS‐SN38 binds to the overexpressed integrin αvβ3 receptor to achieve tumor cells specific delivery and precise killing. Overall, this study offers an intelligent spatial‐specific multi‐responsive carrier‐free drug delivery system in breast cancer, which releases drug spatial specifically, therefore reverses the tumor immunosuppressive microenvironment and inhibits metastasis.
Bio‐inspired Thermal Diode with Anti‐Gravity Unidirectional Heat Transfer and Switchable Functionality for Intelligent Thermal Management
Authors: Zhang Liwen , Zhang Ye , Li Xinghao , Zhang Chaoqi , Liu Xiaolin , Yang Xiangdong , Zhao Zehui , Chen Huawei
Published: January 2024

Phase‐change thermal diodes with asymmetric and adjustable heat transfer capacity exhibit great application prospects in spacecraft heat management and solar energy storage. Current heat modulation strategies mainly depend on the anisotropic assistance from gravity and the rectification ratio can hardly be adjusted due to the immobilized inner structures. Here, a novel bioinspired thermal diode vapor chamber has been carried out with magnetic microgroove cones array sealed between two copper plates, where the evaporating plate with porous copper foam can reserve water and the condensing plate with patterned wettability can coagulate vapor into droplets at designated spot. With microgroove cones rooting from the evaporating plate and their tips contacting the condensing plate, these cones can directionally and rapidly transport condensed liquid from the condensing plate to evaporating plate under the unbalanced strong capillarity while prohibiting water flowing backward. This eventually leads to unidirectional liquid‐vapor circulation and anti‐gravitational directional heat transferring with a rectification ratio as high as 7.4. Such flowing of liquid can also be regulated by magnetically controlling the bending of cones to realize switched ON–OFF of thermal diode and achieve further modulation of heat management. This bioinspired thermal diode vapor chamber provides new ideas for intelligent thermal management systems.
2D Double Heterostructure Infrared Photodetector with Type‐III Band Alignment by Incorporating Bi2Se3 Layer
Authors: Ma Jingyi , Chen Shengdi , Zhao Lei , Chen Jianru , Lan Zhibin , Yang Mengmeng , Sun Yiming , Zheng Zhaoqiang , Gao Wei , Li Jingbo
Published: January 2024

Two‐dimensional (2D) self‐powered photodetectors have attracted considerable attention due to their exceptional sensitivity, and low dark current. However, the poor responsivity of single heterojunctions with type‐III band alignment is primarily attributed to band‐to‐band tunneling. The implementation of a double heterojunction has the potential to enhance photovoltaic responsivity, enable broadband detection, and improve response speed. In this study, a back‐to‐back type‐III band alignment based on SnSe2/Bi2Se3/MoTe2 double heterostructure by dry transfer method is designed. As a result, it exhibited an impressive photovoltaic performance in the overlapping region. Achieving a maximum responsivity (R), external quantum efficiency (EQE), photoelectric conversion efficiency (PCE), and specific detectiviy (D*) of 493 mA W−1, 76 %, 3 % and 1.8 × 1011 Jones at a gate voltage (Vg) of 60 V under 808 nm illumination. It can be ascribed to the effective depletion region at the SnSe2/Bi2Se3 interface and the reversed band edge from depletion to accumulation mode at Bi2Se3/MoTe2 interface. In addition, a faster response speed of 553/583 µs and a lower dark current of 2.9 pA can be obtained. Moreover, this double heterostructure achieves better photovoltaic performance with Vg compared to the single MoTe2/SnSe2 heterojunction. These results demonstrates the potential as a candidate for back‐to‐back type‐III band alignment in low power optoelectronics.
A Review on Sensor‐Integrating Machine Elements
Authors: Kirchner Eckhard , Wallmersperger Thomas , Gwosch Thomas , Menning Johannes D. M. , Peters Julian , Breimann Richard , Kraus Benjamin , Welzbacher Peter , Küchenhof Jan , Krause Dieter , Knoll Erich , Otto Michael , Muhammedi Benjamin , Seltmann Stephanie , Hasse Alexander , Schäfer Günter , Lohrengel Armin , Thielen Stefan , Stiemcke Yvo , Koch Oliver , Ewert Arthur , Rosenlöcher Thomas , Schlecht Berthold , Prokopchuk Artem , Henke Ernst‐Friedrich Markus , Herbst Felix , Matthiesen Sven , Riehl David , Keil Ferdinand , Hofmann Klaus , Pape Florian , Konopka Dennis , Poll Gerhard , Steppeler Tobias , Ottermann Rico , Dencker Folke , Wurz Marc C. , Puchtler Steffen , Baszenski Thao , Winnertz Martin , Jacobs Georg , Lehmann Benjamin , Stahl Karsten
Published: January 2024

This contribution summarizes the current state of research regarding so‐called sensor‐integrating machine elements as an enabler of digitalization in mechanical engineering and——if available—their application in industry. The focus is on the methodical aspects of the development of these machine elements in general as well as specific sensor‐integrating machine elements that are either already in use or currently under development. Developmental aspects include the robust design of initially evaluated concepts for sensor‐integrating machine elements as well as their modularization. Smart materials with sensory functions are included in the analysis as well as the differentiation with regard to add‐on sensors. The aim of the authors interlinked by a special research program funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG) is to facilitate the exchange with other researchers with the help of the comprehensive overview given in this contribution. The contribution concludes with a brief discussion of open challenges, such as the energy supply and data transfer in rotating systems and also data security.
Unveiling The Multifunction of Beaded Stream‐Like Co9Se8 Catalysts for Water Splitting, Reactive Oxygen Species Scavenging, and Hydrogen Anti‐Inflammation
Authors: Luo Pan , Wang Honglei , Wen Xue , Luo Xianzhu , Xu Peng
Published: January 2024

The electrocatalytic preparation of hydrogen at different pH values not only achieves excellent device performance but also promotes the application of reactive oxygen species (ROS) clearance and hydrogen anti‐inflammation. However, it is difficult to develop materials that simultaneously achieve these excellent properties. Herein, the preparation of beaded necklace‐like Co9Se8 microspheres using a general and facile synthetic strategy is reported. The Co9Se8‐modified electrode has three applications: efficient water splitting for enhanced performance, ROS scavenging, and hydrogen anti‐inflammatory activity. Experiments, high‐angle‐annular‐dark‐field scanning transmission electron microscopy, and density functional theory calculations indicate that the reconstructed Co(OH)2 plays a vital role in the oxygen evolution reaction and that the transition from *O to *OOH is the actual rate‐determining step. The Co9Se8 material, with its unique beaded necklace‐like structure, exhibits exceptional hydrogen production capabilities in phosphate buffer solution (pH 7.4). In particular, hydrogen produce under neutral conditions can effectively reduce ROS levels and significantly inhibit inflammation‐related pathological processes, playing a unique antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory role at the cellular level. The obtained results indicate that the as‐synthesized Co9Se8 is more suitable for water splitting, ROS scavenging, and hydrogen anti‐inflammatory applications, outperforming other transition metal electrodes and rendering practical industrial and clinical applications.
Fundamentals and Rational Design of Heterogeneous C‐N Coupling Electrocatalysts for Urea Synthesis at Ambient Conditions
Authors: Wan Yuchi , Zheng Muyun , Yan Wei , Zhang Jiujun , Lv Ruitao
Published: January 2024

Electrocatalytic C‐N coupling reaction is regarded as a promising strategy for achieving clean and sustainable urea production by coreducing CO2 and nitrogen species, thus contributing to carbon neutrality and the artificial nitrogen cycle. However, restricted by the sluggish adsorption of reactants, competitive side reactions, and multistep reaction pathways, the electrochemical urea production suffers from a low urea yield rate and low selectivity so far. In order to comprehensively improve urea synthesis performance, it is crucial to develop highly efficient catalysts for electrochemical C‐N coupling. In this article, the catalyst‐designing strategies, C‐N coupling mechanisms, and fundamental research methods are reviewed. For the coreduction of CO2 and different nitrogen species, several prevailing reaction mechanisms are discussed. With the aim of establishing the standard research system, the fundamentals of electrocatalytic urea synthesis research are introduced. The most important catalyst‐designing strategies for boosting the electrocatalytic urea production are discussed, including heteroatom doping, vacancy engineering, crystal facet regulation, atom‐scale modulation, alloying and heterostructure construction. Finally, the challenges and perspectives are proposed for future industrial applications of electrochemical urea production by C‐N coupling.
Multifunctional Double Layer Based on Regional Segregation for Stabilized and Dendrite‐Free Solid‐State Li Batteries
Authors: Bai Xiaoming , Zhao Guangyu , Yang Guiye , Wang Ming , Lin Qianru , Zhang Naiqing
Published: January 2024

The Li dendrite problem triggered by the inhomogeneous deposition of Li and the reduction of Li+ in the electrolyte has seriously hindered the practical application of garnet‐based solid‐state batteries. To address this issue, a multifunctional double layer (MDL) based on the phenomenon of segregation during welding is introduced between the garnet and the Li anode. BiLi3/LiCl3 interlayer with a double‐layer structure is constructed by modulating the cooling rate. The LiCl3 enriched on the electrolyte side exhibits extremely low electronic conductivity, effectively blocking electrons and preventing electrolyte attack. On the anode side, the BiLi3‐enriched layer regulates local current distribution, ensuring uniform deposition/exfoliation of Li and preventing dendrite formation at the interface. Furthermore, this welding‐based preparation method achieves a strong and secure connection between the metal electrode and the ceramic electrolyte. Hence, this Li|LLZTO‐MDL|Li battery with double‐layer special structural interfacial modification can realize a high critical current density of 2.9 mA cm−2 and can be stably cycled for more than 10 000 h at 0.3 mA cm−2.
Prognostic factors of conversion surgery for stage IV gastric cancer: A multi‐institutional retrospective analysis
Authors: Takeno Atsushi , Motoori Masaaki , Kishi Kentaro , Omori Takeshi , Hirao Motohiro , Masuzawa Toru , Fujitani Kazumasa , Yamamato Kazuyoshi , Kurokawa Yukinori , Doki Yuichiro
Published: January 2024

Background

Conversion surgery (CS) is a highly anticipated strategy for stage IV advanced gastric cancer (AGC) with a good response to chemotherapy. However, prognostic factors limiting R0 resection remain unclear. In this multi‐institutional study, we investigated the clinical outcomes of CS for stage IV AGC and the prognostic factors of CS‐limiting R0 resection and analyzed them according to metastatic patterns.

Methods

Clinical data on 210 patients who underwent CS for stage IV AGC at six institutions between 2007 and 2017 were retrospectively retrieved. The patient background, preoperative treatment, operative outcomes, and survival times were recorded. Prognostic factors for overall and recurrence‐free survival were investigated using univariate and multivariate analyses for patients who underwent R0 resection.

Results

R0 resection was achieved in 146 (70%) patients. The median survival time was 32 months, and the 3‐year survival rate was 45%. Patients who achieved R0 resection had significantly longer survival than those with R1/2 resection (median survival time: 41.5 months vs. 20.7 months). Multivariate analysis identified pathological N positivity for overall and relapse‐free survival and pathological T4 for relapse‐free survival as significant independent poor prognostic factors of R0 resected patients. There was no significant difference in survival among the peritoneum, liver, and lymph node groups regarding the initial metastatic sites.

Conclusions

CS with R0 resection for patients with stage IV AGC can lead to longer survival. Patients with pathological T4 and pathological N positivity were eligible for intensive adjuvant therapy after CS with R0 resection.
Expert consensus guidelines: Intravenous iron uses, formulations, administration, and management of reactions
Authors: Van Doren Layla , Steinheiser Marlene , Boykin Kristen , Taylor Kristine J. , Menendez Monica , Auerbach Michael
Published: January 2024

Intravenous iron has become an essential component for the treatment of iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia. Individuals administering Intravenous iron should have knowledge in intravenous iron administration, including a pre‐infusion assessment to evaluate infusion reaction risks, pre‐ and post‐infusion monitoring, identification of and management of infusion reactions, accurate documentation of these reactions, laboratory monitoring and recognition and management of treatment‐emergent hypophosphatemia. This comprehensive consensus provides step‐by‐step guidance and tools for practitioners to promote safe delivery of intravenous iron, recognition, and management of infusion reactions and treatment‐emergent hypophosphatemia.
Late‐onset and long‐lasting neutropenias in the young: A new entity anticipating immune‐dysregulation disorders
Authors: Fioredda F. , Beccaria A. , Casartelli P. , Turrini E. , Contratto C. , Giarratana M. C. , Bagnasco F. , Saettini F. , Pillon M. , Marzollo A. , Zanardi S. , Civino A. , Onofrillo D. , Lanciotti M. , Ceccherini I. , Grossi A. , Coviello D. , Terranova P. , Lupia M. , Del Borrello G. , Uva P. , Cangelosi D. , Cavalca G. , Miano M. , Dufour C.
Published: January 2024

This study identifies a new chronic form of immune neutropenia in the young with or without detectable indirect anti‐neutrophil antibodies, characterized by mild/moderate neutropenia low risk of severe infection (14%), tendency to develop autoimmune phenomena over the course of the disease (cumulative incidence of 58.6% after 20 years of disease duration), leukopenia, progressive reduction of absolute lymphocyte count and a T‐ and B‐cell profile similar to autoimmune disorders like Sjogren syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, and systemic lupus erythematosus (increased HLADR+ and CD3 + TCRγδ cells, reduced T regulatory cells, increased double‐negative B and a tendency to reduced B memory cells). In a minority of patients, P/LP variants related to primary immuno‐regulatory disorders were found. This new form may fit the group of “Likely acquired neutropenia,” a provisional category included in the recent International Guidelines on Diagnosis and Management of Neutropenia of EHA and EUNET INNOCHRON ACTION 18233. The early recognition of this form of neutropenia would help clinicians to delineate better specific monitoring plans, genetic counseling, and potentially targeted therapies.
Supports desired by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander males in fatherhood: Focussing on the social and cultural determinates of health and well‐being
Authors: Prehn Jacob , Guerzoni Michael Andre , Peacock Huw , Adams Mick , Williamson Bhiamie , Collard Len , Canuto Kootsy
Published: January 2024

In Australia, there is insufficient exploration and understanding of how we can strengthen the critical role played by Indigenous fathers. This paper argues that for Indigenous fathers to feel supported in childrearing, greater attention must be given to their social and cultural determinants of health and well‐being. To gain insights into the challenges experienced by Indigenous fathers and the support they require in fatherhood, we primarily apply thematic analysis to data from the Longitudinal Study of Indigenous Children (LSIC). The findings reveal that most fathers identify a social or cultural health and well‐being determinant challenging their fatherhood journey. We examine these results and suggest why and how appropriately focussing on the social and cultural determinants of health and well‐being will enhance and support Indigenous men in fatherhood.
More than a piece of cake: Noun classifier processing in primary progressive aphasia
Authors: Tee Boon Lead , Li‐Ying Lorinda Kwan‐Chen , Chen Ta‐Fu , Yan Connie TY , Tsoh Joshua , Chan Andrew Lung‐Tat , Wong Adrian , Lo Raymond Y. , Lu Chien Jung , Sun Yu , Wang Pei‐Ning , Lee YiChen , Chiu Ming‐Jang , Allen Isabel Elaine , Battistella Giovanni , Bak Thomas H. , Chuang Yu‐Chen , García Adolfo M. , Gorno‐Tempini Maria Luisa
Published: January 2024

INTRODUCTION

Clinical understanding of primary progressive aphasia (PPA) has been primarily derived from Indo‐European languages. Generalizing certain linguistic findings across languages is unfitting due to contrasting linguistic structures. While PPA patients showed noun classes impairments, Chinese languages lack noun classes. Instead, Chinese languages are classifier language, and how PPA patients manipulate classifiers is unknown.

METHODS

We included 74 native Chinese speakers (22 controls, 52 PPA). For classifier production task, participants were asked to produce the classifiers of high‐frequency items. In a classifier recognition task, participants were asked to choose the correct classifier.

RESULTS

Both semantic variant (sv) PPA and logopenic variant (lv) PPA scored significantly lower in classifier production task. In classifier recognition task, lvPPA patients outperformed svPPA patients. The classifier production scores were correlated to cortical volume over left temporal and visual association cortices.

DISCUSSION

This study highlights noun classifiers as linguistic markers to discriminate PPA syndromes in Chinese speakers.

Highlights

Noun classifier processing varies in the different primary progressive aphasia (PPA) variants. Specifically, semantic variant PPA (svPPA) and logopenic variant PPA (lvPPA) patients showed significantly lower ability in producing specific classifiers. Compared to lvPPA, svPPA patients were less able to choose the accurate classifiers when presented with choices.

In svPPA, classifier production score was positively correlated with gray matter volume over bilateral temporal and left visual association cortices in svPPA. Conversely, classifier production performance was correlated with volumetric changes over left ventral temporal and bilateral frontal regions in lvPPA.

Comparable performance of mass and count classifier were noted in Chinese PPA patients, suggesting a common cognitive process between mass and count classifiers in Chinese languages.
Giving Breath to Motor Neurons: Noninvasive Mechanical Ventilation Slows Disease Progression in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Grassano Maurizio , Koumantakis Emanuele , Manera Umberto , Canosa Antonio , Vasta Rosario , Palumbo Francesca , Fuda Giuseppe , Salamone Paolina , Marchese Giulia , Casale Federico , Charrier Lorena , Mora Gabriele , Moglia Cristina , Calvo Andrea , Chiò Adriano
Published: January 2024

Objective

Noninvasive mechanical ventilation (NIMV) improves amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) quality of life and survival. However, data about its effect on disease progression are still lacking. Here, we test whether NIMV use changed the rate of functional decline among ALS patients.

Methods

In this retrospective observational study, we included 448 ALS patients followed up at the ALS Center in Turin, Italy, who underwent NIMV during the disease course. The primary outcome was the change in functional decline after NIMV initiation adjusting for covariates. Functional decline was based on the nonrespiratory items of the Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Functional Rating Scale–Revised (ALSFRS‐R).

Results

NIMV initiation resulted in a slower functional decline (mean improvement = 0.16 points per month, 95% confidence interval = 0.12–0.19, p < 0.001), with consistent effects observed across various demographic factors, including sex, age at diagnosis, and disease duration before NIMV initiation. This finding was replicated using the PRO‐ACT (Pooled Resource Open‐Access ALS Clinical Trials) dataset. The favorable impact of NIMV on ALSFRS‐R progression was evident independently of disease stages. Notably, NIMV benefits were not dose‐dependent but were particularly prominent for nighttime respiratory support.

Interpretation

NIMV significantly influences the rate of motor progression in ALS, and this effect is not determined by the nonlinearity of ALSFRS‐R trajectory. The functional decline slowed following NIMV initiation, independently of the site of disease onset or disease severity at the time of NIMV initiation. Our findings underscore the importance of timely NIMV initiation for all ALS patients and highlight the need to consider NIMV‐induced slowing of disease progression when evaluating clinical trial outcomes. ANN NEUROL 2024;95:817–822
Application of PC‐SAFT EoS and SCFT for the modeling of thermophysical properties comprising deep eutectic solvent and alcohols
Authors: Mgxadeni Ncomeka , Kabane Bakusele , Hernández Ariel , Bahadur Indra , Mohammad Faruq , Soleiman Ahmed Abdullah , Hashemi Hamed , Kabanda Mwadham M.
Published: January 2024

Zinc (II) chloride based deep eutectic solvent (DES) were formed by mixing zinc (II) chloride with phosphoric acid. Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy was used to identify any possible shifts when the two compounds were assorted, and differential scanning calorimetry (SDT Q600 V20.9 Build 2D) was utilized to evaluate the formation of deep eutectic solvent. Densities,
, and speed of sound, u, of [ZnCl2][phosphoric acid] 1:2.5 with methanol, ethanol, or propanol have been measured at T = (293.15, 303.15, 308.15, and 313.15) K and at atmospheric pressure. Excess molar volumes (
), isentropic compressibilities (
), deviation in isentropic compressibility (
), and intermolecular free length (
) were calculated from the densities, and speed of sound, respectively. To fit the excess molar volumes and deviation in isentropic compressibilities, the Redlich–Kister smoothing polynomial was used. Also, we have used perturbed chain statistical associating fluid theory equation of state (PC‐SAFT EoS) for modeling the densities of the binary mixtures, and Schaaff's collision factor theory (SCFT) and Nomoto's relation (NR) were used for modeling the speed of sounds for the binary mixtures.
A new early‐diverging probainognathian cynodont and a revision of the occurrence of cf. Aleodon from the Chañares Formation, northwestern Argentina: New clues on the faunistic composition of the latest Middle–?earliest Late Triassic Tarjadia Assemblage Zone
Authors: Martinelli Agustín G. , Ezcurra Martín D. , Fiorelli Lucas E. , Escobar Juan , Hechenleitner E. Martín , von Baczko M. Belén , Taborda Jeremías R. A. , Desojo Julia B.
Published: January 2024

The Chañares Formation (Ischigualasto‐Villa Unión Basin) is worldwide known by its exquisitely preserved fossil record of latest Middle‐to‐early Late Triassic tetrapods, including erpetosuchids, “rauisuchians,” proterochampsids, gracilisuchids, dinosauromorphs, pterosauromorphs, kannemeyeriiform dicynodonts, and traversodontid, chiniquodontid and probainognathid cynodonts, coming from the Tarjadia (bottom) and Massetognathus‐Chanaresuchus (top) Assemblage Zones of its lower member. Regarding cynodonts, most of its profuse knowledge comes from the traditional layers discovered by Alfred Romer and his team in the 1960s that are now enclosed in the Massetognathus‐Chanaresuchus Assemblage Zone (AZ). In this contribution we focus our study on the probainognathian cynodonts discovered in levels of the Tarjadia Assemblage Zone. We describe a new chiniquodontid cynodont with transversely broad postcanine teeth (Riojanodon nenoi gen. et sp. nov.) which is related to the genus Aleodon. In addition, the specimen CRILAR‐Pv 567 previously referred to cf. Aleodon is here described, compared, and included in a phylogenetic analysis. It is considered as an indeterminate Aleodontinae nov., a clade here proposed to included chiniquodontids with transversely broad upper and lower postcanines, by having a cuspidated sectorial labial margin and a lingual platform that is twice broader than a lingual cingulum. Cromptodon mamiferoides, from the Cerro de Las Cabras Formation (Cuyo Basin), was also included in the phylogenetic analysis and recovered as an Aleodontinae. The new cynodont and the record of Aleodontinae indet. reinforce the faunal differentiation between the Tarjadia and Massetognathus‐Chanaresuchus Assemblage Zones, in the lower member of the Chañares Formation, and inform on the diverse chiniquodontid clade with both sectorial and transversely broad postcanine teeth.
Distribution of alpha‐synuclein in rat salivary glands
Authors: Nishitani Tomiko , Mitoh Yoshihiro , Yajima Takehiro , Tachiya Daisuke , Hoshika Tomohiro , Fukunaga Tomohiro , Nishitani Yoshihiro , Yoshida Ryusuke , Mizoguchi Itaru , Ichikawa Hiroyuki , Sato Tadasu
Published: January 2024

Expression of alpha‐synuclein (Syn), a presynaptic neuronal protein, was immunohistochemically examined in intact rat submandibular, sublingual, and lingual glands. The submandibular gland contained abundant periductal Syn‐immunoreactive (−ir) nerve fibers. Abundant Syn‐ir varicosities were present in acini of the sublingual and serous lingual glands. By confocal laser scanning microscopy, Syn‐ir nerve fibers around smooth muscle actin (SMA)‐ir cells alone were infrequent; however, those around aquaporin‐5 (AQP5)‐ir cells alone and both SMA‐ and AQP5‐ir cells were abundant in the sublingual and serous lingual glands. SMA‐ir cells were occasionally immunoreactive for toll‐like receptor 4, a Syn receptor. Syn‐ir nerve fibers contained tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) in the submandibular gland and choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) in all examined salivary glands. In the superior cervical (SCG), submandibular, and intralingual ganglia, sympathetic and parasympathetic neurons co‐expressed Syn with TH and ChAT, respectively. SCG neurons innervating the submandibular gland contained mostly Syn. In the thoracic spinal cord, 14.7% of ChAT‐ir preganglionic sympathetic neurons co‐expressed Syn. In the superior salivatory nucleus, preganglionic parasympathetic neurons projecting to the lingual nerve co‐expressed Syn and ChAT. The present findings indicate that released Syn acts on myoepithelial cells. Syn in pre‐ and post‐ganglionic neurons may regulate neurotransmitter release and salivary volume and composition.
Leader‐following consensus of nonlinear singular switched multi‐agent systems via sliding mode control
Authors: Cai Jiayi , Yi Chengbo , Wu Ying , Liu Danqi , Zhong Deguang
Published: January 2024

In this paper, the sliding mode control algorithm is proposed for solving the leader‐following consensus issue of singular switched multi‐agent systems. The communication topology herein is considered to be directed interacted. To deal with the effects of nonlinearity and singularity, a novel integral‐type sliding mode control protocol is introduced in algorithmic design, which enforces the state trajectories of systems moving on the constructed sliding manifold. The common integral‐type sliding mode gain matrix designed in distributed algorithms herein avoids the frequent switching that may cause the failure and instability of the control framework. Moreover, in the existing works, the developed results on consensus for singular switched multi‐agent systems are almost based on the average dwell time method, and how to construct a desired control input in the frame of the mode‐dependent average dwell time remains a control dilemma. By presenting a general integral‐type sliding mode control rule based on the mode‐dependent average dwell time, this article implements the sliding mode control for the singular switched multi‐agent systems under interest. With the aid of Lyapunov method, the convergence of error systems for multi‐agent systems is obtained. Finally, numerical simulations and application are presented, which illustrate the validity of designed algorithm.
Ligand reaction‐based fluorescent peptide probes for the detection of Cu2+ and glutathione
Authors: Zhou Jiang , Hao Junlei , Wang Dajiang , Wu Jiang , Wang Zhongchang , Lin Pengcheng , Hou Jingcheng
Published: January 2024

Copper is a critical element in both human and animal metabolic processes. Its role includes supporting connective tissue cross‐linking, as well as iron and lipid metabolism; at the same time, copper is also a toxic heavy metal that can cause harm to both the environment and human health. Glutathione (GSH) is a tripeptide composed of glutamic acid, cysteine, and glycine combined with sulfhydryl groups. Its properties include acting as an antioxidant and facilitating integrative detoxification. GSH is present in both plant and animal cells and has a fundamental role in maintaining living organisms. GSH is the most abundant thiol antioxidant in the human body. It exists in reduced and oxidized forms within cells and provides significant biochemical functions, such as regulating vitamins such as vitamins D, E, and C, and facilitating detoxification. A fluorescent probe has been developed to detect copper ions selectively, sensitively, and rapidly. This report outlines the successful work on creating a peptide probe, TGN (TPE‐Trp‐Pro‐Gly‐Cln‐His‐NH2), with specific Cu2+ detection capabilities, and a significant fluorescence recovery occurred with the addition of GSH. This indicates that the probe can detect Cu2+ and GSH concurrently. The detection limit for Cu2+ in the buffer solution was 264 nM (R2 = 0.9992), and the detection limit for GSH using the TGN‐Cu2+ complex was 919 nM (R2 = 0.9917). The probe exhibits high cell permeability and low biotoxicity that make it ideal for live cell imaging in biological conditions. This peptide probe has the capability to detect Cu2+ and GSH in biological cells.