bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Laser‐Induced Carbon Nanofiber‐Based Redox Cycling System
Authors: Perju Antonia , Wongkaew Nongnoot
Published: March 2024

Invited for this issue's Front Cover is the group of Nongnoot Wongkaew. The cover picture shows an example of a 3D‐electrochemical redox‐cycling system made from laser‐induced carbon nanofiber electrodes where a fibrous insulating layer with a thickness in the range of micrometers is placed vertically between two electrodes. The cyclic voltammograms in blue and green exhibit the current response from the generator and collector, respectively, while the orange‐pink one represents the situation without redox cycling. Read the full text of the Research Article at 10.1002/celc.202300271.
Covalent Organic Frameworks as Nano‐Reservoir for Room Temperature RNA Storage
Authors: Nath Satyapriya , Tulsiyan Kiran D. , Mohapatra Binayak , Puthukkudi Adithyan , Alone Pankaj V. , Biswal Himansu S. , Biswal Bishnu P.
Published: March 2024

The emerging role of Ribonucleic acids (RNAs) as therapeutics is alluring. However, RNAs are extremely labile under ambient conditions and typically need to be stored in cryogenic conditions (−20 °C to −80 °C). Hence, storage, stabilization, and transportation of RNA under ambient conditions have been an arduous task and remain an unsolved problem. In this work, a guanidinium‐based ionic covalent organic framework (COF), TTGCl with nanotubular morphology, was synthesized and used as nano‐reservoirs for room‐temperature storage of RNA. To understand the role of the nanotubular morphology and chemical nature of TTGCl in stabilizing the RNA structure and for comparison purposes, a neutral COF, TMT‐TT, is synthesized and studied. Further, density functional theory (DFT) studies confirmed non‐covalent interaction between the COFs and the RNA nucleobases, facilitating reversible storage of RNA. RNA loaded in COFs was found to be resistant to enzymatic degradation when treated with RNase. Gel electrophoresis and sequencing confirmed the structural integrity of the recovered RNAs and their further processibility.
Moderne Prozess‐ und Anlagensicherheit – Themen, Trends und Perspektiven
Authors: Schmidt Jürgen
Published: March 2024

Die Sicherheit von Prozessen und Anlagen rückt in den Fokus – Pandemien, Kriege und bilaterale Spannungen verschieben die strategische Ausrichtung von Unternehmen. Und der Fachkräftemangel fordert neue Wege, z.B. für Sicherheitsanalysen und Audits. Dies zeigen neue Regelwerke und Projekte, die gerade in der Entwicklung sind. Der Stand der Technik wird fortgeschrieben, u.a. mit Regelwerken wie der DIN‐EN‐ISO‐4126‐10, TRBS1115‐1, NIS II, die Betreiber von Anlagen in 2024 sicherlich beschäftigen werden.
Zugelassen nach der Druckgeräterichtlinie
Authors: Kazaklis Dimitrios , Kogler Josef
Published: March 2024

Weil sie aus einem kohlenstofffaserverstärkten Kunststoff (CFK) gefertigt sind, bieten platzsparende CFK‐Druckbehälter Gewichts‐ und Stabilitätsvorteile gegenüber Modellen aus Metall. Sie kommen auch in Anlagen zum Einsatz, die mit Wasserstoff arbeiten. Vor ihrem Einbau in stationäre Anwendungen, die in den Geltungsbereich der Druckgeräterichtlinie 2014/68/EU (DGRL) fallen, müssen sie jedoch erst gemäß DGRL zugelassen werden. TüV Süd hat hierzu ein Prüfprogramm entwickelt und bei einem Weltmarktführer für Wasserstoffspeicher erfolgreich angewendet.
Potenziale des digitalen Sicherheitszyklus nutzen
Authors: Sieber Peter , Turdo Marco
Published: March 2024

Anlagenbetreiber stehen vor vielfältigen Herausforderungen wie Fachkräftemangel, Internationalisierung, Betriebserlaubnis und Druck zur Produktivitäts‐ und Effizienzsteigerung. Ein neuer und ganzheitlicher Ansatz zur Digitalisierung des Sicherheitslebenszyklus eröffnet jetzt neue Potenziale und hilft dabei, die Herausforderungen zu meistern.
OT‐Security beginnt mit der Anlagenplanung
Authors: Fritzsche Denise , Crocoll Nora
Published: March 2024

Für Maschinenbauer und Anlagenbetreiber wird Security ein immer wichtigeres Thema. Normen wie die IEC 62443 stellen unter anderem Anforderungen an die Systemsicherheit und Sicherheitsstufen. Ziel ist es, mit der Maschinenverordnung die Cybersicherheit der Industrie zu stärken, gerade auch auf OT‐Ebene. Denn immer öfter wird diese von Angriffen auf die IT‐Ebene quasi als “Beifang” in Mitleidenschaft gezogen. Gleichzeitig sollte sie aber auch vor direkten Angriffen, die im Produktionsumfeld stattfinden, geschützt werden.
Sicher ist sicher
Authors: Schweder Christine
Published: March 2024

Zunehmende Anforderungen an die Sicherheit und weiter steigende Rohstoffpreise – es wird immer wichtiger, Ausfälle in der Produktion zu vermeiden. Eine Schlüsselrolle für die Anlagensicherheit spielt die eingesetzte Messtechnik: Je zuverlässiger ein Messgerät in jeder Situation ist, desto sicherer ist die gesamte Anlage. Messgeräte für Druck‐ und Temperaturmessung mit SIL‐Qualifikation erfüllen die hohen Ansprüche an die Anlagenverfügbarkeit.
Application of Exciton Coupling for Characterization of Nanographene Edges
Authors: Sekiya Ryo , Haino Takeharu
Published: March 2024

The front cover artwork is provided by Prof. Haino's group at Hiroshima University. The image shows the mirror image circular dichroism spectra of nanographenes carrying chiral chromophores. Read the full text of the Research Article at 10.1002/cphc.202300740.
Synthesis of Dimethyl Carbonate via Transesterification of Ethylene Carbonate and Methanol over Mesoporous KF‐loaded Mg‐Fe Oxides
Authors: Wei Meng‐Ge , Li Hong‐Ru , He Liang‐Nian
Published: March 2024

A series of KF/Mg‐Fe oxides were fabricated via the solid‐state reaction between KF and Mg‐Fe oxides. Especially, when 20 wt % KF was supported on the Mg‐Fe bi‐metal oxides and calcined at 400–600 °C, the solid material with more basic sites than the support itself was obtained. When applied as catalyst to dimethyl carbonate (DMC) synthesis through transesterification of ethylene carbonate (EC) and methanol, this material can afforded up to 88 % yield and 97 % selectivity toward DMC in 2 h under reflux conditions with the molar ratio of methanol to ethylene carbonate set at 8. It is worth noting that the catalyst was easily separated and reused, retaining at least 89 % catalytic activity during the first four recycles. Although an attenuated activity was still observed due to the inevitable filtration loss and dissolution, this solid base can still provide clues to the development recyclable catalyst in green synthesis of DMC.
How Much More Efficient Are Adaptive Platform Trials Than Multiple Stand‐Alone Trials? A Comprehensive Simulation Study for Streamlining Drug Development During a Pandemic
Authors: Sasaki Masanao , Sato Hiroyuki , Uemura Yukari , Mikami Ayako , Ichihara Nao , Fujitani Shigeki , Kondo Masashi , Doi Yohei , Morino Eriko , Tokita Daisuke , Ohmagari Norio , Sugiura Wataru , Hirakawa Akihiro
Published: March 2024

With the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic, there is growing interest in utilizing adaptive platform clinical trials (APTs), in which multiple drugs are compared with a single common control group, such as a placebo or standard‐of‐care group. APTs evaluate several drugs for one disease and accept additions or exclusions of drugs as the trials progress; however, little is known about the efficiency of APTs over multiple stand‐alone trials. In this study, we simulated the total development period, total sample size, and statistical operating characteristics of APTs and multiple stand‐alone trials in drug development settings for hospitalized patients with COVID‐19. Simulation studies using selected scenarios reconfirmed several findings regarding the efficiency of APTs. The APTs without staggered addition of drugs showed a shorter total development period than stand‐alone trials, but the difference rapidly diminished if patient's enrollment was accelerated during the trials owing to the spread of infection. APTs with staggered addition of drugs still have the possibility of reducing the total development period compared with multiple stand‐alone trials in some cases. Our study demonstrated that APTs could improve efficiency relative to multiple stand‐alone trials regarding the total development period and total sample size without undermining statistical validity; however, this improvement varies depending on the speed of patient enrollment, sample size, presence/absence of family‐wise error rate adjustment, allocation ratio between drug and placebo groups, and interval of staggered addition of drugs. Given the complexity of planning and implementing APT, the decision to implement APT during a pandemic must be made carefully.
Non‐Equivalent Donor‐Acceptor Type Polymers as Dopant‐Free Hole‐Transporting Materials for Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Chen Haotian , He Zhichao , Wang Xuelin , Yao Lu , Li Chunyan , Zhou Zhonggao , Li Kan , Ling Qidan , Zhen Hongyu
Published: March 2024

Electron donor (D)‐electron acceptor (A) type conjugated polymers present bright prospects as dopant‐free hole‐transporting materials (HTMs) for perovskite solar cells (PVSCs). Most of the reported D‐A polymeric HTMs contain equivalent amounts of D and A units, while the appropriate excess proportion of D units could optimize the aggregation state of polymer chains and improve the hole transport properties of the polymers. Herein, a non‐equivalent D‐A copolymerization strategy was utilized to develop three indacenodithiophene‐benzotriazole‐based polymeric HTMs for PVSCs, named as F‐10, F‐15, and F‐20, and the equivalent D‐A polymer F‐00 was studied in parallel. Effects of D : A ratio on the hole transport properties of these D‐A type polymeric HTMs, including energy level, molecular stacking, hole mobility, and surface morphology, were investigated by theoretical simulation and test analysis. F‐15 performed best due to the appropriate D : A ratio, endowing the PVSCs a champion power conversion efficiency of 20.37 % with high stability, which confirms the fine‐tuning D : A ratio via non‐equivalent D‐A copolymerization strategy is very helpful to construct D‐A type polymeric HTMs for high‐performance PVSCs.
Multicenter study of invasive gastric cancer detected after 10 years of Helicobacter pylori eradication in Japan: Clinical, endoscopic, and histopathologic characteristics
Authors: Kobayashi Masaaki , Fujisaki Junko , Namikawa Ken , Hoteya Shu , Sasaki Akiko , Shibagaki Kotaro , Yao Kenshi , Abe Seiichiro , Oda Ichiro , Ueyama Hiroya , Isomoto Hajime , Ito Masanori , Sugimoto Mitsushige , Kawai Takashi , Kodama Masaaki , Murakami Kazunari , Adachi Kyoichi , Matsuhashi Nobuyuki , Ohata Ken , Ushijima Toshikazu , Kato Mototsugu , Miyamoto Shin'ichi , Yoshimura Daisuke , Yao Takashi , Yagi Kazuyoshi , Iwaizumi Moriya , Uemura Naomi
Published: March 2024

Objectives

Gastric cancer can be diagnosed even in patients long after Helicobacter pylori eradication. Most cases involve intramucosal lesions; however, some are invasive and require surgery. To clarify appropriate long‐term surveillance methods, this study compared invasive gastric cancer diagnosed ≥10 and <10 years after eradication.

Methods

This retrospective multicenter study included 14 institutions. We included 377 patients with gastric cancer with submucosal or deep invasion after surgical or endoscopic resection. Ordered logistic regression analysis was used to explore the factors contributing to the pathological stage and histological type.

Results

Invasive gastric cancer was detected in 84 patients (Group L) and 293 patients (Group S) ≥10 and <10 years after H. pylori eradication, respectively. Endoscopic mucosal atrophy at the time of cancer detection was similar in both groups; 50% of the patients had severe atrophy. Annual endoscopy correlated with early pathological stage (odds ratio [OR] 0.28, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.14–0.54, p < 0.001). Group L exhibited an independent correlation with the advanced pathological stage (OR 2.27, 95% CI 1.06–4.88, p = 0.035) and the undifferentiated type (OR 2.12, 95% CI 1.16–3.90, p = 0.015). The pure differentiated type and early pathological stage significantly (p = 0.001) correlated with severe mucosal atrophy in Group S but not in Group L.

Conclusions

Invasive cancers diagnosed ≥10 years after H. pylori eradication were likely to be more malignant in histological type and pathological stage. Gastric cancer surveillance should continue regardless of endoscopic atrophy, particularly ≥10 years after eradication.
Interleukin‐2‐induced skin inflammation
Authors: Sommer Charline , Cohen Jarish N. , Dehmel Susann , Neuhaus Vanessa , Schaudien Dirk , Braun Armin , Sewald Katherina , Rosenblum Michael D.
Published: March 2024

Recombinant human IL‐2 has been used to treat inflammatory diseases and cancer; however, side effects like skin rashes limit the use of this therapeutic. To identify key molecules and cells inducing this side effect, we characterized IL‐2‐induced cutaneous immune reactions and investigated the relevance of CD25 (IL‐2 receptor α) in the process. We injected IL‐2 intradermally into WT mice and observed increases in immune cell subsets in the skin with preferential increases in frequencies of IL‐4‐ and IL‐13‐producing group 2 innate lymphoid cells and IL‐17‐producing dermal γδ T cells. This overall led to a shift toward type 2/type 17 immune responses. In addition, using a novel topical genetic deletion approach, we reduced CD25 on skin, specifically on all cutaneous cells, and found that IL‐2‐dependent effects were reduced, hinting that CD25 — at least partly — induces this skin inflammation. Reduction of CD25 specifically on skin Tregs further augmented IL‐2‐induced immune cell infiltration, hinting that CD25 on skin Tregs is crucial to restrain IL‐2‐induced inflammation. Overall, our data support that innate lymphoid immune cells are key cells inducing side effects during IL‐2 therapy and underline the significance of CD25 in this process.
Leukotriene B4‐induced neutrophil extracellular traps impede the clearance of Pneumocystis
Authors: Zhou Yanxi , Deng Shuwei , Du Chunjing , Zhang Liang , Li Lan , Liu Yujia , Wang Yijie , Zhang Yue , Zhu Liuluan
Published: March 2024

Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP) is a fungal pulmonary disease with high mortality in immunocompromised patients. Neutrophils are essential in defending against fungal infections; however, their role in PCP is controversial. Here we aim to investigate the effects of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) on Pneumocystis clearance and lung injury using a mouse model of PCP. Intriguingly, although neutrophils play a fundamental role in defending against fungal infections, NETs failed to eliminate Pneumocystis, but instead impaired the killing of Pneumocystis. Mechanically, Pneumocystis triggered Leukotriene B4 (LTB4)‐dependent neutrophil swarming, leading to agglutinative NET formation. Blocking Leukotriene B4 with its receptor antagonist Etalocib significantly reduced the accumulation and NET release of neutrophils in vitro and in vivo, enhanced the killing ability of neutrophils against Pneumocystis, and alleviated lung injury in PCP mice. This study identifies the deleterious role of agglutinative NETs in Pneumocystis infection and reveals a new way to prevent NET formation, which provides new insights into the pathogenesis of PCP.
Investigation into the optoelectrowetting droplet transport mechanism
Authors: Wu Tao , Wang Tianyi , He Xiaohan , Zhao Juncheng , Yan Hong , Zhou Teng , Shi Liuyong
Published: March 2024

To explore the optoelectronic wetting droplet transport mechanism, a transient numerical model of optoelectrowetting (OEW) under the coupling of flow and electric fields is established. The study investigates the impact of externally applied voltage, dielectric constant of the dielectric layer, and interfacial tension between the two phases on the dynamic behavior of droplets during transport. The proposed model employs an improved Young's equation to calculate the instantaneous voltage and contact angle of the droplet on the dielectric layer. Results indicate that, under the influence of OEW, significant variations in the interface contact angle of droplets occur in bright and dark regions, inducing droplet movement. Moreover, the dynamic behavior of droplet transport is closely associated with various parameters, including externally applied voltage, dielectric layer material, and interfacial tension between the two phases, all of which impact the contact angle and, consequently, the transport process. By summarizing the influence patterns of the three key parameters studied, the optimization of droplet transport performance is achieved. The study employs two‐dimensional simulation models to emulate the droplet motion under the influence of the electric field, investigating the OEW droplet transport mechanism. The continuous movement of droplets involves three stages: initial wetting, continuous transport, and reaching a steady position. The findings contribute theoretical support for the efficient design of digital microfluidic devices for OEW droplet movement and the selection of key parameters for droplet manipulation.
Virtual‐reality system for elevator maintenance education: Design, implementation and evaluation
Authors: Zhong MingHui , Zhou YePing
Published: March 2024

With the rapid development of information technology, new educational models using virtual reality technology have received widespread attention from relevant researchers. In the field of vocational education, vocational colleges and training institutions can effectively mobilize students' learning initiative and improve their learning efficiency by using virtual reality technology. This study details the development process and system evaluation of a bespoke virtual reality system that offers a solution to the issues of uncertainty regarding hazards, high teaching expenses, and spatial constraints inherent in the practical training of elevator maintenance. By establishing a virtual environment that is highly reproducible and designing abundant interaction methods, this system facilitates students in attaining mastery over the structural make‐up of elevators, the principles of their operation, and the techniques involved in calibrating elevator governors. The system underwent testing by multiple users, and the satisfaction level of the system was ascertained through a questionnaire study, while the effectiveness of the system was evaluated using independent samples t test for data statistics concerning students' performance. The results of the study indicate that the system gained widespread praise among users, and it notably enhanced the students' learning drive, practical abilities, and on‐site adaptability.
Differential modulation of PI3K/Akt/mTOR activity by EGFR inhibitors: A rationale for co‐targeting EGFR and PI3K in cisplatin‐resistant HNSCC
Authors: Liao Jipei , Yang Zejia , Azarbarzin Shirin , Cullen Kevin J. , Dan Hancai
Published: March 2024

Purpose

To find a new strategy to treat cisplatin‐resistant head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), we investigated the effects of EGFR inhibitors on the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway and determined the efficacy of EGFR inhibitors in combination with PI3K inhibitors to suppress cell proliferation in cisplatin‐resistant‐HNSCC.

Methods

The cisplatin‐resistant HNSCC cell lines were treated with four FDA approved EGFR inhibitors, which included Gefitinb or Erlotinib alone, or in combination with the pan‐PI3K inhibitor, BKM120. Phosphorylation and total protein levels of cells were assessed by Western blot analysis. Cell proliferation was examined by MTS assay. Apoptosis was analyzed by flow cytometry.

Results

Cisplatin‐resistant HNSCC cells were also resistant to EGFR inhibitors. However, a combination of EGFR inhibitors with PI3K inhibitor BKM120 dramatically improved the efficacy of EGFR inhibitors to inhibit cell proliferation and induce apoptosis. Furthermore, treatment with EGFR inhibitors differentially affected the phosphorylation of Akt and mTOR, which included partial inhibition, no inhibition, and induction. A combination of EGFR inhibitors and BKM120 completely blocked phosphorylation of EGFR, Akt, and S6K (an mTOR target).

Conclusion

Our data provided a rationale for EGFR inhibitors in combination with PI3K inhibitors to treat cisplatin‐resistant HNSCC.
Should we trust cross‐sectional multiplier estimates?
Authors: Canova Fabio
Published: March 2024

I examine the properties of cross‐sectional estimators of multipliers, elasticities, or pass‐throughs when a conventional spatial macroeconomic specification generates the data. A number of important biases plague standard estimates; the most relevant one occurs when the units display heterogeneous dynamics. Methods that work well in this situation are suggested. An experimental setting shows the magnitude of the biases cross‐sectional estimators display. Average estimates of local fiscal multipliers in the US states are compared and contrasted.
Longitudinal volumetric analysis of gray matter atrophy in metachromatic leukodystrophy
Authors: Al‐Saady Murtadha L. , Galabova Hristina , Schoenmakers Daphne H. , Beerepoot Shanice , Lindemans Caroline , van Hasselt Peter M. , van der Knaap Marjo S. , Wolf Nicole I. , Pouwels Petra J. W.
Published: March 2024

Metachromatic leukodystrophy (MLD) is an inherited lysosomal storage disorder characterized by arylsulfatase A (ASA) deficiency, leading to sulfatide accumulation and myelin degeneration in the central nervous system. While primarily considered a white matter (WM) disease, gray matter (GM) is also affected in MLD, and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) may have limited effect on GM atrophy. We cross‐sectionally and longitudinally studied GM volumes using volumetric MRI in a cohort of 36 (late‐infantile, juvenile and adult type) MLD patients containing untreated and HSCT treated subjects. Cerebrum, cortical GM, (total) CSF, cerebellum, deep gray matter (DGM) (excluding thalamus) and thalamus volumes were analyzed. Longitudinal correlations with measures of cognitive and motor functioning were assessed. Cross‐sectionally, juvenile and adult type patients (infantiles excluded based on limited numbers) were compared with controls at earliest scan, before possible treatment. Patients had lower cerebrum, cortical GM, DGM and thalamus volumes. Differences were most pronounced for adult type patients. Longitudinal analyses showed substantial and progressive atrophy of all regions and increase of CSF in untreated patients. Similar, albeit less pronounced, effects were seen in treated patients for cerebrum, cortical GM, CSF and thalamus volumes. Deterioration in motor performance (all patients) was related to atrophy, and increase of CSF, in all regions. Cognitive functioning (data available for treated patients) was related to cerebral, cortical GM and thalamus atrophy; and to CSF increase. Our findings illustrate the importance of recognizing GM pathology as a potentially substantial, clinically relevant part of MLD, apparently less amenable to treatment.
Why Games for Leadership?
Authors: Egan John D.
Published: March 2024

The current article introduces the symposium Games for Leadership: an examination for leadership scholars and practitioners to further explore the use of games in the leadership process. Games can be leveraged to influence and solve a wide range of problems. Further, games include an embedded feedback loop that can drive leadership engagement. Examples are provided to illustrate these concepts alongside an introduction to each symposium article.
Induction immunochemotherapy followed by definitive chemoradiotherapy for unresectable locally advanced non‐small cell lung cancer: a multi‐institutional retrospective cohort study
Authors: Wu Leilei , Cheng Bo , Sun Xiaojiang , Zhang Zhenshan , Kang Jingjing , Chen Yun , Xu Qinghua , Yang Shuangyan , Yan Yujie , Ren Shengxiang , Zhou Caicun , Xu Yaping
Published: March 2024

This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of induction immunochemotherapy followed by definitive chemoradiotherapy (CRT) for unresectable locally advanced non‐small cell lung cancer (LA‐NSCLC). We identified unresectable stage III NSCLC patients who received induction immunochemotherapy. Overall survival (OS) and progression‐free survival (PFS) were the primary endpoints. From February 2019 to August 2022, 158 patients were enrolled. Following the completion of induction immunochemotherapy, the objective response rate (ORR) and disease control rate (DCR) were 52.5% and 83.5%, respectively. The ORR of CRT was 73.5%, representing 68.4% of the total cohort. The median PFS was 17.8 months, and the median OS was 41.9 months, significantly higher than in patients who received CRT alone (p < 0.001). Patients with concurrent CRT demonstrated markedly improved PFS (p = 0.012) and OS (p = 0.017) than those undergoing sequential CRT. Additionally, those with a programmed‐death ligand 1 (PD‐L1) expression of 50% or higher showed significantly elevated ORRs (72.2% vs. 47.2%, p = 0.011) and superior OS (median 44.8 vs. 28.6 months, p = 0.004) compared to patients with PD‐L1 expression below 50%. Hematologic toxicities were the primary severe adverse events (grade ≥ 3) encountered, with no unforeseen treatment‐related toxicities. Thus, induction immunochemotherapy followed by definitive CRT demonstrated encouraging efficacy and tolerable toxicities for unresectable LA‐NSCLC.
Bidirectional Interplay between Deep Brain Stimulation and Cognition in Parkinson's Disease: A Systematic Review
Authors: Sisodia Vibuthi , Malekzadeh Arjan , Verwijk Esmée , Schuurman P. Richard , de Bie Rob M.A. , Swinnen Bart E.K.S.
Published: March 2024

Background

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is efficacious for treating motor symptoms in Parkinson's disease (PD).

Objectives

The aim is to evaluate the evidence regarding DBS effectiveness after postoperative cognitive deterioration, the impact of preoperative cognition on DBS effectiveness, and the impact of DBS on cognition.

Methods

Literature searches were performed on MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CENTRAL (Cochrane library). Primary outcomes were OFF‐drug Unified Parkinson Disease Rating Scale Part III score and cognitive test scores.

Results

DBS effectiveness did not differ in patients with postoperative declining compared to stable cognition (n = 5 studies). Preoperative cognition did not influence DBS effectiveness (n = 1 study). DBS moderately decreased verbal fluency compared to the best medical treatment (n = 24 studies), which may be transient.

Conclusion

DBS motor effectiveness in PD does not appear to be influenced by cognition. DBS in PD seems cognitively safe, except for a moderate decline in verbal fluency. Further research is warranted. © 2024 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Exponential stability and relative controllability of first‐order delayed integro‐differential systems with impulses
Authors: Pervaiz Bakhtawar , Zada Akbar , Popa Ioan‐Lucian , Ben Moussa Sana , Kallekh Afef
Published: March 2024

We establish sufficient conditions for the exponential stability of nonsingular impulsive delayed integro‐differential systems. Our approach to addressing nonsingular differential problems involves the application of permutable matrices and their associated delayed exponential. Furthermore, we investigate the controllability of a nonlinear impulsive and delayed problem by employing the corresponding Gramian matrix. Finally, to illustrate the theoretical outcomes, we provide examples and graphical representations for each situation.
Analytical solution for one‐dimensional thaw consolidation model with double moving boundaries
Authors: Han Tao , Zhou Yang , Zhao Guang‐si , Lu Meng‐meng
Published: March 2024

A one‐dimensional thaw consolidation model considering the density change from pore ice to pore water is established, and the model describes a special type of moving boundary problem with double moving boundaries. An analytical solution for the model under a time‐varying external load is developed using certain form of superposition principle and the similarity type of general solution. Some known solutions in literature can be recovered as special cases of the analytical solution once the density change from pore ice to pore water is neglected. If the thawing front was to cease at certain time, consolidation of thawed soil in a fixed region is then encountered, and an analytical solution for the post‐thawing consolidation problem is developed using the Green's function method. Computational examples of the analytical solutions are presented. First, comparison between our model and classical model of Morgenstern and Nixon (MN model) is conducted, showing the error caused by neglecting the density change from pore ice to pore water. The MN model overestimates the excessive pore water pressure at locations near the soil surface, while underestimates it at locations near the thawing front; the error caused by neglecting the density change becomes more pronounced with increasing ice content of frozen soil. Second, comparison between the thaw consolidation process under an instant load and that under a corresponding exponential load is made. The difference in thaw consolidation behavior between the two situations mainly displays during the early stage, when there is obvious discrepancy between the two external loads; the degree of consolidation and thaw consolidation settlement are more sensitive to the discrepancy in external load than the excessive pore water pressure is.
Interpreting correlations in stress‐dependent permeability, porosity, and compressibility of rocks: A viewpoint from finite strain theory
Authors: Wang Luyu , Zhang Yanjun
Published: March 2024

Characteristics of stress‐dependent properties of rocks are commonly described by empirical laws. It is crucial to establish a universal law that connects rock properties with stress. The present study focuses on exploring the correlations among permeability, porosity, and compressibility observed in experiments. To achieve this, we propose a novel finite strain‐based dual‐component (FS‐DC) model, grounded in the finite strain theory within the framework of continuum mechanics. The FS‐DC model decomposes the original problem into the rock matrix and micro‐pores/cracks components. The deformation gradient tensor is utilized to derive the constitutive relations. One of the novelties is that the stress‐dependent variables are calculated in the current configuration, in contrast to the reference configuration used in small deformation theory. The model has only a few number of parameters, each with specific physical interpretations. It can be reduced to existing models with appropriate simplifications. Then, model performance is examined against experimental data, including permeability, porosity, compressibility, volumetric strain and specific storage. It proves that the variations of these properties are effectively described by the proposed model. Further analysis reveals the effect of pores/cracks parameters. The validity of the FS‐DC model is examined across a broad range of pressures. The results show that rock properties at high confining pressures (300 MPa) differ from those observed under relatively low pressures (200 MPa). This disparity can be attributed to inelastic behaviors of micro‐structure, wherein the rock skeleton undergoes permanent deformation and breakage.
Cystic fibrosis and fat malabsorption: Pathophysiology of the cystic fibrosis gastrointestinal tract and the impact of highly effective CFTR modulator therapy
Authors: McDonald Catherine M. , Reid Elizabeth K. , Pohl John F. , Yuzyuk Tatiana K. , Padula Laura M. , Vavrina Kay , Altman Kimberly
Published: March 2024

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a progressive, genetic, multi‐organ disease affecting the respiratory, digestive, endocrine, and reproductive systems. CF can affect any aspect of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, including the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, colon, pancreas, liver, and gall bladder. GI pathophysiology associated with CF results from CF membrane conductance regulator (CFTR) dysfunction. The majority of people with CF (pwCF) experience exocrine pancreatic insufficiency resulting in malabsorption of nutrients and malnutrition. Additionally, other factors can cause or worsen fat malabsorption, including the potential for short gut syndrome with a history of meconium ileus, hepatobiliary diseases, and disrupted intraluminal factors, such as inadequate bile salts, abnormal pH, intestinal microbiome changes, and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth. Signs and symptoms associated with fat malabsorption, such as abdominal pain, bloating, malodorous flatus, gastroesophageal reflux, nausea, anorexia, steatorrhea, constipation, and distal intestinal obstruction syndrome, are seen in pwCF despite the use of pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy. Given the association of poor nutrition status with lung function decline and increased mortality, aggressive nutrition support is essential in CF care to optimize growth in children and to achieve and maintain a healthy body mass index in adults. The introduction of highly effective CFTR modulator therapy and other advances in CF care have profoundly changed the course of CF management. However, GI symptoms in some pwCF may persist. The use of current knowledge of the pathophysiology of the CF GI tract as well as appropriate, individualized management of GI symptoms continue to be integral components of care for pwCF.
Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency and fat malabsorption related to pancreatectomy and other gastrointestinal surgery: A narrative review
Authors: Morris‐Stiff Gareth
Published: March 2024

Surgical resection is the mainstay of treatment for patients with tumors of the pancreas. There are a number of well‐recognized complications that account for the significant morbidity associated with the operation, including exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI). Patients with pancreatic cancer commonly have evidence of EPI prior to surgery, and this is exacerbated by an operation, the extent of the insult being dependent on the indication for surgery and the operation performed. There are accumulating data to demonstrate that treatment of EPI with pancreatic enzyme replacement (PERT) enhances clinical outcomes after surgery by reducing critical complications; this in turn may enhance oncological outcomes. Data would indicate that quality of life (QoL) is also improved after surgery when enzymes are prescribed. To date, many surgeons and clinicians have not appreciated the need for PERT or the benefits it may bring to their patients; therefore, education of clinicians remains a significant opportunity. In turn, patient education about consumption of the correct dose of enzymes at the appropriate time is key to an optimal outcome. In addition, because of the complex nature of the regulation of pancreatic exocrine function, there is evidence to support the presence of EPI following operations performed on other gastrointestinal (GI) organs, including the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine. The aim of this review is to document the existing published evidence in relation to EPI and its treatment with PERT following GI surgery.
Fat malabsorption in pancreatic cancer: Pathophysiology and management
Authors: Murray Gretchen , Ramsey Mitchell L. , Hart Phil A. , Roberts Kristen M.
Published: March 2024

Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) is common in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) and may lead to significant nutrition compromise. In the setting of cancer cachexia and gastrointestinal toxicities of cancer treatments, untreated (or undertreated) EPI exacerbates weight loss, sarcopenia, micronutrient deficiencies, and malnutrition. Together, these complications contribute to poor tolerance of oncologic therapies and negatively impact survival. Treatment of EPI in PDAC involves the addition of pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy, with titration to improve gastrointestinal symptoms. Medical nutrition therapies may also be applicable and may include fat‐soluble vitamin replacement, medium‐chain triglycerides, and, in some cases, enteral nutrition. Optimizing nutrition status is an important adjunct treatment approach to improve quality of life and may also improve overall survival.
Quality of life in assisted living facilities for seniors: A descriptive exploratory study
Authors: Alomari Elham , Steinke Claudia
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Promoting individuals' health across different life spans has always been key to a holistic nursing practice. Seniors are a diverse population who go through many physical and mental changes as they age. During the last decade, assisted living facilities (ALFs) have dramatically increased in numbers to provide care and living services in a home‐like environment.

Aim

The aim of this descriptive exploratory study was to explore the quality of life as perceived by seniors who reside in assisted living facilities (ALFs).

Design

This study utilized a descriptive exploratory design to investigate the quality of life of seniors living in ALFs.

Methods

Seventeen residents from two ALFs were interviewed to gather their perspectives on the quality of their lives while living in an ALF. The interviews were conducted by the researcher and were audio‐recorded and transcribed verbatim. The data were analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

Three major themes surfaced from residents' descriptions: ‘physical environment’, ‘social environment’ and ‘home‐like atmosphere’. The quality of life in ALFs was found to be predominantly an outcome of the exchange between the personal capability of residents to adapt to changes and the capacity of the facility to meet residents' diverse needs.

Patient or Public Contribution

Participants who discussed their quality of life in ALFs provided profound insights into this aspect of their lives. The findings from this study can potentially enlighten ALF stakeholders and enhance the quality of life for seniors residing in these facilities.
Standardized training nurses's humanistic care practice ability: A cross‐sectional survey in western China during COVID‐19
Authors: Li Xixi , Yang Jin , Wang Xiquan , Jin Daoxin , Liu Jing , Yang Luyao , Dela Rosa Ronnell D.
Published: March 2024

Aim

This study aims to investigate the current status and determinants of humanistic care practice abilities among standardized training nurses in China during the post‐COVID‐19 era, as well as to propose management strategies.

Design

A cross‐sectional study.

Methods

Deliberately chosen were 517 standardized training nursing students from a provincial‐level training facility in western China.

Results

The respondents had a mean ± SD age of 21.23 ± 1.34 years, and 92.0% of them voluntarily opted for the nursing profession. Almost all (99.8%) respondents had at least a college degree. The standardized training nurses scored an average of (130.31 ± 14.18) on humanistic care ability, which was significantly related to some sociodemographic variables. The average scores for the five dimensions of nursing communication ability, psychological adjustment ability, moral and legal application ability, nursing aesthetic ability, and care practice ability were 30.78, 17.61, 32.23, 18 and 31.67, respectively. All these dimensions showed positive correlations with the overall score of humanistic care practice ability.
The circulatory death that saves lives—Intensive care nurses' conceptions of participating during ‘donation after circulatory death’: A phenomenographic study
Authors: Andersen Ljungdahl Kristin , Nissfolk Sara , Flodén Anne
Published: March 2024

Aim

To describe intensive care nurses' conceptions of participating during the donation after circulatory death (DCD) process in intensive care units in Sweden.

Design

A qualitative design with a phenomenographic approach.

Methods

In total, 12 semi‐structured interviews were conducted in April 2022 with intensive care nurses from three hospitals. Data were analysed using a phenomenographic approach.

Results

Conceptions of participating during the DCD process varied. Four main themes emerged: DCD as a system; Intensive care nurses' role in the situation; Life to death to life; The essence of DCD. Variations emerged regarding what the informants talked about and how they talked about the what. Variations were based on informants' perspective of their role in relation to the structure and the team, and their conceptions of care for patients and their relatives.

Conclusion

The findings illustrated success factors and challenges. Knowledge, experience, distinct structure, and relationship with relatives, among other factors, were described as success factors, while a lack of experience, difficulty in prognosing death, and organisational obstacles emerged as challenges. Furthermore, the findings showed that intensive care nurses play an important role in optimising the outcome of the DCD process. Their work related to DCD was conceived as being meaningful to fulfil more peoples' wishes to donate organs.

Impact

People on the waiting list for organ transplantation are dying due to a shortage of organs. The implementation of DCD, as a complement to Donation after Brain Death (DBD), contributed to an increase in the number of organ donors, and intensive care nurses play an important role during the DCD process. Previous research manifests the complexity concerning their role. There is a lack of nursing research regarding intensive care nurses' conceptions of what it means to participate in the DCD process, which emphasises the significance of this study.

Reporting Method

This study is reported using consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research (SRQR).

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
Study protocol of translation into Spanish and cross‐cultural adaptation and validation of the problem areas in diabetes—Pediatric version (PAID‐Peds) survey
Authors: Casanovas‐Marsal Josep‐Oriol , Civitani Monzón Elisa , Ferrer Duce María Pilar , González de la Cuesta Delia , Yelmo Valverde Rosa , Pérez Repiso Victoria , Goicoechea Manterola Irune , de Arriba Muñoz Antonio
Published: March 2024

Aim

The metabolic and psychological management of paediatric type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) can be challenging over time given that T1DM may cause a negative emotional burden and, consequently, result in poor metabolic control of the disease. The objectives of this study are to translate the Problem Area in Diabetes Survey–Pediatric version (PAID‐Peds) into Spanish, adapt it culturally and validate it.

Design

Multicenter cross sectional study.

Methods

636 patients aged 8–17 years, diagnosed with T1DM, under treatment with insulin and follow‐up at the Miguel Servet University Hospital in Zaragoza (Aragón, Spain), the Ramón y Cajal University Clinical Hospital in Madrid (Spain) and at the Sant Joan de Déu Hospital in Barcelona (Catalonia, Spain) between 1 January 2023 and 31 December 2024 will be included. This study will consist of two phases: (1) Translation and cultural adaptation of the original PAID‐Peds® survey into Spanish following eight steps; (2) Validation of the Spanish version of the PAIS‐Peds® survey. The statistical analysis will be performed using Jamovi® 2.1.23. The reliability or internal consistency will be calculated using Cronbach's alpha index (considering an index higher than 0.8 to be good) and the test–retest will be evaluated using the intraclass correlation coefficient. For validity, confirmatory factor analysis will be calculated. This study has been approved by the ethics and research committees at each centre.

Results

The translation and validation into Spanish language of the Problem Area in Diabetes Survey‐Pediatric version will be feasible, valid and reliable to detecting the youth‐perceived burden of T1DM. Therapeutic education in diabetes—recommended by the WHO and the Diabetes Education Study Group—has shown encouraging results in glycaemia and psychosocial and behavioural factors in T1DM.
Triplet‐Singlet Emission of d‐Block Metal Complexes Characterized by Spin‐Orbit Natural Transition Orbitals
Authors: Zaichenko A. , Autschbach J.
Published: March 2024

Spin‐orbit natural transition orbital (SO‐NTO) methodology, recently developed in our group for complete and restricted active space (CAS/RAS) wavefunction calculations, is applied to analyze triplet‐to‐singlet emission in transition metal complexes. The lowest‐energy (longest‐wavelength) spin‐forbidden transition
is studied for for [Ir(pbt)2(acac)] and [Re(CO)4(pbt)] and the complexes [W(CO)4(bpy)] and [Mo(CO)4(bpy)]. For the latter complexes, spin‐forbidden transitions from higher spin‐triplet levels are additionally analyzed. SO‐NTOs are compared with spin‐free NTOs for the transitions under consideration. The major assignment of a spin‐forbidden transition is obtained from the spin‐free NTO analysis, while the source of intensity of the electronic transition is revealed by the SO‐NTOs.
Modifying the properties of polyamide 6 with high‐performance environmentally friendly nano‐ and microsized reinforcing materials
Authors: Mészáros László , Bezerédi Ádám , Petrény Roland
Published: March 2024

In this study, we investigated the morphological and mechanical properties of hybrid composites with a polyamide 6 (PA6) matrix and reinforced with basalt fibers (BFs) and halloysite nanotubes (HNTs). The presence of reinforcing materials fundamentally changed the behavior of the molecules, which was morphologically manifested in the change in the ratio of the rigid and the mobile amorphous phase. The x‐ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopic images showed the crystal nucleating effect of the halloysite nanotubes. Based on these, we concluded that around the basalt fibers, an interphase is formed, while around the nanoparticles, a two‐layer interphase is created, the inner layer of which is semicrystalline, while the outer layer is rigid amorphous (RA). The nanoparticles are surrounded by a semicrystalline interphase, which is surrounded by an RA interphase. This overlaps with the interphase of the basalt fibers, therefore the halloysite nanotubes can effectively help the stress transfer from the matrix to the basalt fibers. The mechanical properties of the samples also reflected this: the hybrid composites had a significantly higher tensile modulus, tensile strength, and an unchanged elongation at break compared to the composite reinforced with only basalt fiber.

Highlights

Environmentally friendly polyamide 6 matrix hybrid composites were prepared.

Uniform distribution of halloysite nanotubes was achieved.

Enhanced mechanical properties were observed for hybrid composites.

Halloysite nanotubes aid stress transfer from matrix to basalt fibers.

Halloysite nanotubes act as crystalline nucleating agents.
Dynamic performance of multi‐layered composite sandwich open cylindrical shells with double‐layered soft cores
Authors: Zhai Yanchun , Chang Lirong
Published: March 2024

In this paper, the dynamic performance of Multi‐layered Sandwich Composite Cylindrical Open Shells (MSCCOS) with double‐layered soft cores is analyzed for the first time by adopting the First‐order Shear Deformation Theory (FSDT). For accomplishing this aim, vibration differential equations of MSCCOS are derived based on Hamilton's variance principle. Then, the closed‐form Navier solution is introduced to obtain the numerical results of differential equations. Subsequently, the effectiveness and accuracy are discussed by several comparisons. Ultimately, the dramatic effect of different structural and material parameters on natural frequencies and associated loss factors is investigated and described vividly. Because shear deformation and rotary inertia of all layers are considered in vibration differential equations, thin and moderately thick MSCCOS could be researched, and some interesting discoveries for the dynamic performance of MSCCOS are derived.

Highlights

A vibration model of five‐layered composite open shell was obtained.

The optimal structure parameters maximizing the damping properties are shown.

Dynamics properties of five‐layered composite open shell are presented.