bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changes in Occlusal Contact Area during Oral Appliance Therapy Assessed on Study Models
Authors: Ueda Hiroshi , Almeida Fernanda R. , Lowe Alan A. , Ruse N. Dorin
Published: February 2008

Objective: To test the hypothesis that long-term use of an oral appliance (OA) does not cause changes in the occlusal contact area (OCA).

Materials and Methods: Baseline and follow-up treatment study models were obtained for 45 patients with obstructive sleep apnea who had been using an OA for 4 or more days/week for more than 5 years. Study models in centric occlusion, with an inserted pressure-sensitive sheet, were loaded in compression. An image scanner was used to evaluate OCA.

Results: A significant change in total OCA was identified in 39 patients (86.7%): a decrease in 26 (66.7%) and an increase in 13 (33.3%) patients. Regional changes >5% were observed in >90% of patients in each of the three regions. In the molar and premolar regions, 24 (53.3%) and 27 (60.0%) of the patients showed an OCA decrease, while only 16 (35.6%) and 15 (33.3%) showed an increase. Conversely, for the anterior region, more increases (24 patients–53.3%) than decreases were identified.

Conclusion: The hypothesis is rejected. Long-term OA therapy resulted in dramatic changes of occlusion, suggesting that monitoring of occlusal changes is required.
Does Creative Drama Promote Language Development in Early Childhood? A Review of the Methods and Measures Employed in the Empirical Literature
Authors: Mages Wendy Karen
Published: February 2008

This systematic review of the literature synthesizes research from a number of disciplines and provides a succinct distillation of the methods and measures used to study the impact of creative drama on the language development of young children. An analysis of the merits and limitations of the reviewed studies reveals a number of methodological problems that threaten the validity, reliability, and credibility of drama research. Recommendations on how to limit these threats are offered. These recommendations can potentially help researchers design more rigorous studies that are better able to guide educators’ and administrators’ decisions about the inclusion of creative drama in early childhood curricula.
Inductive Reasoning: A Training Approach
Authors: Klauer Karl Josef , Phye Gary D.
Published: February 2008

Researchers have examined inductive reasoning to identify different cognitive processes when participants deal with inductive problems. This article presents a prescriptive theory of inductive reasoning that identifies cognitive processing using a procedural strategy for making comparisons. It is hypothesized that training in the use of the procedural inductive reasoning strategy will improve cognitive functioning in terms of (a) increased fluid intelligence performance and (b) better academic learning of classroom subject matter. The review and meta-analysis summarizes the results of 74 training experiments with nearly 3,600 children. Both hypotheses are confirmed. Further, two moderating effects were observed: Training effects on intelligence test performance increased over time, and positive problem-solving transfer to academic learning is greater than transfer to intelligence test performance. The results cannot be explained by placebo or test-coaching effects. It is concluded that the proposed strategy is theoretically and educationally promising and that children of a broad age range and intellectual capacity benefit with such training.
Focus on Formative Feedback
Authors: Shute Valerie J.
Published: February 2008

This article reviews the corpus of research on feedback, with a focus on formative feedback—defined as information communicated to the learner that is intended to modify his or her thinking or behavior to improve learning. According to researchers, formative feedback should be nonevaluative, supportive, timely, and specific. Formative feedback is usually presented as information to a learner in response to some action on the learner’s part. It comes in a variety of types (e.g., verification of response accuracy, explanation of the correct answer, hints, worked examples) and can be administered at various times during the learning process (e.g., immediately following an answer, after some time has elapsed). Finally, several variables have been shown to interact with formative feedback’s success at promoting learning (e.g., individual characteristics of the learner and aspects of the task). All of these issues are discussed. This review concludes with guidelines for generating formative feedback.
Generation of Microcellular Foams by Supercritical Carbon Dioxidein a PMMA Compound
Authors: Kim K. Y. , Kang S. L. , Kwak H.-Y.
Published: February 2008

Decompression experiments from a PMMA compound saturated with CO2 at high pressure were performed to investigate the heterogeneous effect due to the aggregate of the additives on the microcellular foam structure generated. The observed results were compared with calculation results from a previously proposed homogeneous nucleation model. Uniform distribution of foams was obtained at a lower temperature of 20°C at various initial pressures tested. However, the heterogeneous effect due to the aggregate of the additives in the compound occurred at the solution temperature of 40°C, which is quite different from the results obtained in PMMA/CO2 solution where homogeneous nucleation occurs in the temperature range between 40°C and 70°C. Experimental results obtained in this study may be applied to the injection-molding process of PMMA compounds.
Analysis of the Isothermal Compression in Nanoimprint Lithography Assuming a Power-Law Fluid
Authors: Hsin I.-C. , Young W.-B.
Published: February 2008

One of the choices for defining a nano pattern in micro fabrication is to use the nanoimprint lithography. This method is also known as a hot embossing lithography due to its inherited process technique from the compression process. It is important to determine the appropriate conditions of pressure, temperature, and time in the nanoimprint lithography process. To determine the right conditions for nanoimprint lithography, one has to understand the polymer flow behavior during the imprinting process. In this study, a simplified analytical model was developed based on a power-law fluid to predict the polymer flow during the imprinting process. Under a constant imprint force, the imprint depth on a polymer film can be predicted using this model. Experimental tests were also conducted to verify the results. It was demonstrated that the model can provide reasonable results on the imprint depth.
A Mechanical Model for Stress Developmentin PA12 Tube Extrusion
Authors: Haudin J.-M. , Carin A. , Parant O. , Guyomard A. , Vincent M. , Peiti C. , Montezin F.
Published: February 2008

In polyamide 12 tube extrusion, calibration is the key step of the process that affects the subsequent mechanical properties. In previous work it has been shown that according to the calibration conditions, a very oriented skin layer may be created, which has been correlated to an important decrease of elongation at break. In the present paper we develop a thermomechanical model which consists of two parts: a viscoelastic mechanical model for the calculation of stresses and a thermal model for the determination of the temperature field. Three types of inputs are necessary: processing parameters, material data (e. g., crystallization kinetics and rheology in the melt, the solid state and the transition zone) and heat transfer coefficients to describe the heat exchanges along the extrusion line. The model allows us to propose a physical interpretation of the oriented layer. During cooling high axial stresses are frozen in the first solidified layers. They induce a plastic deformation of the polymer leading to a high level of orientation in the outer zones.
Polystyrene/Phosphonium Organoclay Nanocomposites by Melt Compounding
Authors: Calderon J. U. , Lennox B. , Kamal M. R.
Published: February 2008

Polystyrene-montmorillonite nanocomposites were prepared by melt compounding, using several ammonium and phosphonium organoclays. Melt processing was carried out in a twin screw extrusion system, specially modified to produce improved dispersion and longer residence time. The effect of molecular weight of polystyrene on clay dispersion and property enhancement was evaluated. Nanocomposite structure was characterized by wide angle x-ray diffraction (WAXD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Thermal stability and mechanical and barrier properties were also determined. The quality of dispersion of organically modified montmorillonite depended on the molecular weight of the polystyrene resin. Barrier properties were measured and compared to predictions of permeability models available in the literature. Clay dispersion and property enhancement were explained in relation to the surface characteristics of the organoclays, and the work of adhesion at the polystyrene-clay interface was correlated with the tensile modulus of the nanocomposites.
Eine neue Pilzkrankheit an Esche in Europa | A new fungal disease of ash in Europe
Authors: Kowalski Tadeusz , Holdenrieder Ottmar
Published: February 2008

The common ash (Fraxinus excelsior L.) is threatened by a new disease which is currently spreading across Europe from east to west. The recently described anamorphic fungus, Chalara fraxinea Kow. is most likely playing a key role in this process, but the additional involvement of other factors (e.g. climate, insects) is possible. Based on observations in Poland, the authors describe the disease symptoms and the morphology of the fungus. In addition, the available literature on this epidemic is reviewed.
Erosionsrekonstruktion aufgrund anatomischer Veränderungen in Eschenwurzeln | Reconstruction of erosion dynamics with exposed roots of European ash
Authors: Hitz Oliver Markus , Gärtner Holger , Heinrich Ingo , Monbaron Michel
Published: February 2008

Global climatic changes affect fluvial processes, such as erosion, on forested slopes and riverbanks. Both the continuous and discontinuous erosion of riverbanks often lead to destabilized and uprooted tree stems. Dating of the stem-wood grown along riverbanks in combination with dendrogeomorphic analysis help to reconstruct the erosion dynamics. The current study analyses the anatomical wood features of exposed roots from European ash (Fraxinus excelsior L.). First results show different reactions in vessel and fiber cell growth: fiber cells show a distinct decrease in lumen width due to the exposure, whereas vessel lumens show a higher variation in width. The results demonstrate that with European ash it is possible to determine the time of exposure at an annual resolution.
Rekonstruktion von Massenbewegungen mithilfe der Holzanatomie | Reconstruction of geomorphic events by means of wood anatomy
Authors: Heinrich Ingo , Gärtner Holger
Published: February 2008

Geomorphic events such as debris flows and avalanches are likely to increase in magnitude and frequency due to the influence of global warming. Such processes usually have an impact on the growth of affected trees. As a consequence, dendroecological techniques have been developed to determine the frequency of these events. It is, however, rarely possible to retrieve information on the type and intensity of the geomorphic event. A comprehensive wood anatomical analysis of reaction wood has the potential to obtain more complete information on this matter. This paper presents the wood anatomical analysis of four European tree species. In growth experiments the impacts of the most common geomorphic events were realistically imitated. It was shown that in all four tree species the treated trees exhibited significant growth reactions compared to the untreated reference trees. The treatments are significantly different only in some cases but trends in the data can be identified. The stronger the bending was the more severe reaction wood was formed. Additional treatments to the apex of the trees resulted in a weakening of the reaction wood formation. The results showed that the accuracy of dendrogeomorphic reconstructions profits from further wood anatomical investigations, which should be applied if an intraseasonal reconstruction is aimed for.
Medicine—Both a Science (Care) and an Art (CARE)
Authors: Strange Theodore J. , Castellanos Mario R.
Published: April 2024

This Viewpoint discusses the concept of CARE (compassion, assistance, respect, and empathy) as a way physicians can practice the art of medicine in the current era of care that increasingly incorporates predictive analytics and artificial intelligence.
Risk of Cardiac Arrhythmias Among Climbers on Mount Everest
Authors: Sherpa Kunjang , Sherpa Pasang Phurba , Sherpa Tendi , Rothenbühler Martina , Ryffel Christoph , Sherpa Dhukpa , Sherpa Dawa Renji , Sherchand Ojaswee , Galuszka Oskar , Dernektsi Chrisoula , Reichlin Tobias , Pilgrim Thomas
Published: April 2024

Importance

Arterial hypoxemia, electrolyte imbalances, and periodic breathing increase the vulnerability to cardiac arrhythmia at altitude.

Objective

To explore the incidence of tachyarrhythmias and bradyarrhythmias in healthy individuals at high altitudes.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This prospective cohort study involved healthy individuals at altitude (8849 m) on Mount Everest, Nepal. Recruitment occurred from January 25 to May 9, 2023, and data analysis took place from June to July 2023.

Exposure

All study participants underwent 12-lead electrocardiogram, transthoracic echocardiography, and exercise stress testing before and ambulatory rhythm recording both before and during the expedition.

Main Outcome

The incidence of a composite of supraventricular (>30 seconds) and ventricular (>3 beats) tachyarrhythmia and bradyarrhythmia (sinoatrial arrest, second- or third-degree atrioventricular block).

Results

Of the 41 individuals recruited, 100% were male, and the mean (SD) age was 33.6 (8.9) years. On baseline investigations, there were no signs of exertional ischemia, wall motion abnormality, or cardiac arrhythmia in any of the participants. Among 34 individuals reaching basecamp at 5300 m, 32 participants climbed to 7900 m or higher, and 14 reached the summit of Mount Everest. A total of 45 primary end point–relevant events were recorded in 13 individuals (38.2%). Forty-three bradyarrhythmic events were documented in 13 individuals (38.2%) and 2 ventricular tachycardias in 2 individuals (5.9%). Nine arrhythmias (20%) in 5 participants occurred when climbers were using supplemental bottled oxygen, whereas 36 events (80%) in 11 participants occurred at lower altitudes when no supplemental bottled oxygen was used. The proportion of individuals with arrhythmia remained stable across levels of increasing altitude, while event rates per 24 hours numerically increased between 5300 m (0.16 per 24 hours) and 7300 m (0.37 per 24 hours) before decreasing again at higher altitudes, where supplemental oxygen was used. None of the study participants reported dizziness or syncope.

Conclusion and Relevance

In this study, more than 1 in 3 healthy individuals experienced cardiac arrhythmia during the climb of Mount Everest, thereby confirming the association between exposure to high altitude and incidence of cardiac arrhythmia. Future studies should explore the potential implications of these rhythm disturbances.
Barriers and Facilitators Affecting Long-Term Antibiotic Prescriptions for Acne Treatment
Authors: Festok Ronnie A. , Ahuja Avni S. , Chen Jared Y. , Chu Lena , Barron Jason , Case Katherine , Thompson Elaine , Chen Suephy C. , Weiss Jonathan , Swerlick Robert A. , Escoffery Cam , Yeung Howa
Published: April 2024

Importance

Dermatologists prescribe more oral antibiotics per clinician than clinicians in any other specialty. Despite clinical guidelines that recommend limitation of long-term oral antibiotic treatments for acne to less than 3 months, there is little evidence to guide the design and implementation of an antibiotic stewardship program in clinical practice.

Objective

To identify salient barriers and facilitators to long-term antibiotic prescriptions for acne treatment.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This qualitative study assessed data collected from stakeholders (including dermatologists, infectious disease physicians, dermatology resident physicians, and nonphysician clinicians) via an online survey and semistructured video interviews between March and August 2021. Data analyses were performed from August 12, 2021, to January 20, 2024.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Online survey and qualitative video interviews developed with the Theoretical Domains Framework. Thematic analyses were used to identify salient themes on barriers and facilitators to long-term antibiotic prescriptions for acne treatment.

Results

Among 30 participants (14 [47%] males and 16 [53%] females) who completed the study requirements and were included in the analysis, knowledge of antibiotic guideline recommendations was high and antibiotic stewardship was believed to be a professional responsibility. Five salient themes were to be affecting long-term antibiotic prescriptions: perceived lack of evidence to justify change in dermatologic practice, difficulty navigating patient demands and satisfaction, discomfort with discussing contraception, iPLEDGE-related barriers, and the absence of an effective system to measure progress on antibiotic stewardship.

Conclusions and Relevance

The findings of this qualitative study indicate that multiple salient factors affect long-term antibiotic prescribing practices for acne treatment. These factors should be considered in the design and implementation of any future outpatient antibiotic stewardship program for clinical dermatology.
Human Leukocyte Antigens and Sulfamethoxazole/Cotrimoxazole–Induced Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions
Authors: Wu Po-Chien , Chen Wei-Ti , Huang I-Hsin , Chen Chun-Bing , Wang Chuang-Wei , Tai Cheng-Chen , Chung Wen-Hung , Chi Ching-Chi
Published: April 2024

Importance

Sulfamethoxazole (SMX) and cotrimoxazole (CTX), a fixed-dose combination of SMX and trimethoprim in a 5:1 ratio, are antibacterial sulfonamides commonly used for treating various diseases. A substantial prevalence of severe cutaneous adverse reactions (SCARs) following the administration of these drugs has been reported. However, the association between human leukocyte antigen (HLA) genotypes and SMX/CTX-induced SCARs has remained unclear.

Objective

To investigate the association between HLA genotypes and SMX/CTX-induced SCARs.

Data sources

A comprehensive search was conducted in CENTRAL (Cochrane Library), MEDLINE, and Embase from inception to January 17, 2023.

Study Selection

Case-control studies that recruited patients who had experienced SCARs following SMX or CTX were included, and HLA alleles were analyzed.

Data Extraction and Synthesis

Two independent authors extracted data on study characteristics and outcome data. The Meta-analysis of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (MOOSE) reporting guideline and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) reporting guidelines were followed. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale for case-control studies was used to assess study quality. Odds ratios (ORs) were calculated using a random-effects model for meta-analysis.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The prespecified outcome was the OR comparing SMX/CTX-induced SCARs with healthy or SMX/CTX-tolerant controls based on different HLA alleles.

Results

Six studies involving 322 patients with SCAR were included, including 236 patients with Stevens-Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis, 86 with drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms, 8448 healthy controls, and 229 tolerant controls. Significant associations were found in HLA-A*11:01 (OR, 2.10; 95% CI, 1.11-4.00), HLA-B*13:01 (OR, 5.96; 95% CI, 1.58-22.56), HLA-B*15:02 (OR, 2.23; 95% CI, 1.20-4.14), HLA-B*38:02 (OR, 3.47; 95% CI, 1.42-8.48), and HLA-C*08:01 (OR, 2.63; 95% CI, 1.07-6.44) compared with tolerant controls. In the Stevens-Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis subgroup, significant associations were found in HLA-B*15:02 (OR, 3.01; 95% CI, 1.56-5.80) and HLA-B*38:02 (OR, 5.13; 95% CI, 1.96-13.47). In the drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms subgroup, significant associations were found in HLA-A*68:01 (OR, 12.86; 95% CI, 1.09-151.34), HLA-B*13:01 (OR, 23.09; 95% CI, 3.31-161.00), HLA-B*39:01 (OR, 4.56; 95% CI, 1.31-15.82).

Conclusions and Relevance

The results of this systematic review and meta-analysis suggest that multiple HLA alleles (HLA-A*11:01, HLA-B*13:01, HLA-B*15:02, HLA-B*38:02, and HLA-C*0801) are associated with SMX/CTX-induced SCARs.
Tofacitinib Treatment for Pretibial Myxedema
Authors: Wang Su , Chen Xinyi , Bai Juan , Sun Qingmiao , Fang Hong , Qiao Jianjun
Published: April 2024

This case report describes tofacitinib treatment for 2 patients with pretibial myxedema.
Area Deprivation and Postpartum Readmission Facility Location and Timing
Authors: Beckley Nicole A. , Young Sean G. , Hook Jessica S. , McIntire Donald D. , Duryea Elaine L. , Spong Catherine Y. , Nelson David B.
Published: April 2024

This cohort study evaluates the role that community-level socioeconomic status plays in hypertension-related hospital readmission within 12 weeks after delivery.
Heritability of Clinically Diagnosed Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Among Twins
Authors: Mataix-Cols David , Fernández de la Cruz Lorena , Beucke Jan C. , De Schipper Elles , Kuja-Halkola Ralf , Lichtenstein Paul , Pol-Fuster Josep
Published: April 2024

This cohort study estimates the heritability of clinically diagnosed obsessive-compulsive disorder in a sample of twins.
Medicaid Reentry Section 1115 Demonstration Opportunity
Authors: Lieber William C. , Zhang Jade , Brinkley-Rubinstein Lauren
Published: April 2024

This Viewpoint explains the Medicaid Reentry Section 1115 Demonstration Opportunity of April 2023 and recommends strategies to optimize this opportunity for community connection and mental health care.
Mechanical Characterization Potentials of Aluminide Diffusion Coatings on Molybdenum Substrates
Authors: Filipovic Jurica , Beck Katharina , Kontermann Christian , Galetz Mathias , Oechsner Matthias
Published: April 2024

A mechanical test strategy is designed to determine the resistance of protective intermetallic aluminum layers on molybdenum substrates. Performing mechanical experiments, such as compression, four‐point bending and indentation tests, the specific failure behavior and a potential impact of observed phase transformations within the interface zone on the structural integrity and adhesion strength are examined. Herein, the applied test structure aims at the description of damage characteristics and critical deformation states regarding the type of loading. In this respect, it focuses on delamination behavior under compressive load and crack channeling due to bending stress. The analysis of the mechanical experiments is supported by various measurement techniques, including 3D camera equipment (GOM) and an acoustic emission (AE) analysis system. In particular, the application of the AE technique in this work provides a helpful contribution to the detection of delamination failure and the development of multiple crack channeling. Considering the successfully applied experimental approaches, it is assumed that more complex coating‐base material combinations can be characterized this way with respect to preceding annealing effects and the thereby influenced load capacity of thin films under different loading types.
Formation of Highly Robust Superhydrophobic Nanocomposite Coatings via Dual Spraying Technique
Authors: Liu Ruidi , Li Ke , Ma Jun , Wang Qiang , Wu Binrui , Yi Xian
Published: April 2024

The development of materials that repel water, known as superhydrophobic materials, has been hindered by their vulnerability to mechanical abrasion. This issue is particularly pronounced for superhydrophobic nanocomposite coatings fabricated using a simple blend of resin and nanoparticles (NPs) through uncomplicated methods such as spraying or brushing, where an excessive amount of NPs can deteriorate the mechanical property. Moreover, the limitation of thickness puts forward a request for a high retention rate of the coatings. In response to these challenges, this study presents an innovative approach aimed at enhancing the robustness of superhydrophobic nanocomposite coatings through the utilization of a straightforward dual spraying technique. The results demonstrate that the particles with hierarchical micro/nanostructures fabricated by the primary spraying process provide abundant roughness feedstocks for the secondary‐sprayed coatings, in which superhydrophobicity properties can be achieved with less NP content. Additionally, the mechanical durability of the coatings can be reinforced by the addition of appropriate amounts of aluminum oxide (Al2O3) NPs and the continuous‐distributed particles fabricated by the primary‐spraying process, exhibiting a longer abrasion distance and a higher retention rate. Also, the prepared sample shows comprehensive robustness in adhesion, abrasion, and dynamic impact tests. By offering insights into material selection and process optimization, this study paves the way for creating resilient superhydrophobic coatings using a streamlined and convenient approach.
Photochromic Thermoelectric Smart Window for Season‐Adaptive Solar Heat and Daylight Management
Authors: Meng Weihao , Kragt Augustinus J.J. , Hu Xiaowen , van der Burgt Julia S. , Schenning Albertus P.H.J. , Yue Yuchen , Zhou Guofu , Li Laifeng , Wei Ping , Zhao Wenyu , Li Yong , Wang Jingxia , Jiang Lei
Published: April 2024

Photochromic smart windows have drawn increasing attention as an approach to improve building energy efficiency and enhance indoor daylight comfort. However, existing photochromic smart windows still block sunlight from entering the room on sunny winter days, causing additional energy consumption for heating. Herein, a dual‐mode smart window is designed with decoupled photo and thermal functions by combining colorless Fe‐doped WO3 photochromic film with window rotation. Based on this, selective heating and cooling of the room between winter and summer is achieved while maintaining the daylight comfort benefits during all seasons. As a proof of concept, the smart window reduces the temperature of a model house by up to 7.9 °C in summer mode, while in winter mode the temperature is only reduced by 0.7 °C. The proposed seasonally adaptive dual‐mode smart window obtains by window rotation overcomes the limitations of conventional photochromic smart windows, which not only achieves better energy efficiency but also retains improved daylight comfort. Furthermore, it demonstrates that the heat absorbed by the smart window can be harnessed to produce electricity through the integration of thermoelectric modules within the glazing, which enhances its impact on reducing energy consumption.
Biocompatible Electronic Skins for Cardiovascular Health Monitoring
Authors: Du Yucong , Kim Ji Hong , Kong Hui , Li Anne Ailina , Jin Ming Liang , Kim Do Hwan , Wang Yin
Published: April 2024

Cardiovascular diseases represent a significant threat to the overall well‐being of the global population. Continuous monitoring of vital signs related to cardiovascular health is essential for improving daily health management. Currently, there has been remarkable proliferation of technology focused on collecting data related to cardiovascular diseases through daily electronic skin monitoring. However, concerns have arisen regarding potential skin irritation and inflammation due to the necessity for prolonged wear of wearable devices. To ensure comfortable and uninterrupted cardiovascular health monitoring, the concept of biocompatible electronic skin has gained substantial attention. In this review, biocompatible electronic skins for cardiovascular health monitoring are comprehensively summarized and discussed. The recent achievements of biocompatible electronic skin in cardiovascular health monitoring are introduced. Their working principles, fabrication processes, and performances in sensing technologies, materials, and integration systems are highlighted, and comparisons are made with other electronic skins used for cardiovascular monitoring. In addition, the significance of integrating sensing systems and the updating wireless communication for the development of the smart medical field is explored. Finally, the opportunities and challenges for wearable electronic skin are also examined.
Wearable Coaxially‐Shielded Metamaterial for Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Zhu Xia , Wu Ke , Anderson Stephan W. , Zhang Xin
Published: April 2024

Recent advancements in metamaterials have yielded the possibility of a wireless solution to improve signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Unlike traditional closely packed local coil arrays with rigid designs and numerous components, these lightweight, cost‐effective metamaterials eliminate the need for radio frequency cabling, baluns, adapters, and interfaces. However, their clinical adoption is limited by their low sensitivity, bulky physical footprint, and limited, specific use cases. Herein, a wearable metamaterial developed using commercially available coaxial cable, designed for a 3.0 T MRI system is introduced. This metamaterial inherits the coaxially‐shielded structure of its constituent cable, confining the electric field within and mitigating coupling to its surroundings. This ensures safer clinical adoption, lower signal loss, and resistance to frequency shifts. Weighing only 50 g, the metamaterial maximizes its sensitivity by conforming to the anatomical region of interest. MRI images acquired using this metamaterial with various pulse sequences achieve an SNR comparable or even surpass that of a state‐of‐the‐art 16‐channel knee coil. This work introduces a novel paradigm for constructing metamaterials in the MRI environment, paving the way for the development of next‐generation wireless MRI technology.
Recent Progress in High‐Entropy Alloy Electrocatalysts for Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Wang Qian , Xie Jiacheng , Qin Yao , Kong Yafen , Zhou Shunxin , Li Qingyi , Sun Qian , Chen Bo , Xie Peng , Wei Zengxi , Zhao Shuangliang
Published: April 2024

High‐entropy alloys (HEAs) materials, as promising nanomaterials, have garnered significant attention from researchers due to their excellent performance in the field of hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). The four core effects of HEAs, including the high‐entropy effect, severe lattice distortion effect, sluggish diffusion effect, and cocktail effect, are pivotal in underpinning their remarkable mechanical and thermodynamic properties. Nevertheless, the intricate geometric and electronic structures of HEAs make their catalytic mechanisms exceptionally complex and challenging to decipher. In particular, a thorough analysis of the underlying factors responsible for the outstanding catalytic activity, selectivity, and the ability to maintain stable hydrogen production, even at high current densities, in HEAs is lacking. To provide a systematic exploration of the design and application of HEAs in HER systems, this review commences with an examination of the physicochemical properties of HEAs. It covers a wide range of topics, including the synthesis methods of HEAs, and the major reaction mechanisms of HERs, and presents innovative methods and approaches for designing HEAs specifically in the context of HERs.
Plasma‐Damage Free Efficiency Scaling of Micro‐LEDs by Metal‐Assisted Chemical Etching
Authors: Chan Clarence Y. , Roberts Henry C. , Xiao Yixin , Froeter Paul J. , Sievers Dane J. , Mi Zetian , Li Xiuling
Published: April 2024

Since its inception, LEDs have slowly transitioned from traditional solid‐state lighting applications to full‐color, self‐emissive displays. Micro‐LEDs (µLEDs) are poised to become the next mass‐market technology for displays in lower pixel‐density, large‐area and mobile devices alongside emerging applications for high pixel‐density augmented, virtual and mixed reality. However, it is well known that µLEDs suffer from efficiency cliff – a drastic efficiency reduction as device dimension reduces with increased severity at the single digit micron scale, often attributed to material damage from reactive ion etching (RIE) that is fundamental to the process. In this paper, a first‐ever demonstration of µLED devices ranging from 45 µm down to 5 µm fabricated by the plasma‐free metal‐assisted chemical etching (MacEtch) is presented. These devices demonstrate converging external quantum efficiencies (EQE) irrespective of mesa dimension with a spread of only 3.7% without optimization. Additionally, a multi‐pronged comparison between MacEtch and RIE is provided in terms of smoothness, material damage, macroscale uniformity and throughput. These findings carry profound implications for damage‐free scaling of multi‐heterojunction III‐V optoelectronic devices, providing a pathway for high‐density, high performance top‐down fabricated µLED arrays.
Double Passivation Using Ultra‐Thin Insulators for Improved Stability and Efficiency of Quasi‐2D Perovskite Light Emitting Diodes
Authors: Laxmi  , Misra Manas , Gaur Nrita , Gupta Saurabh , Kabra Dinesh
Published: April 2024

Interface engineering is a critical parameter for optimal optoelectronic device performance. In quasi‐2D perovskite light emitting diodes (PeLEDs), traditional poly (3,4‐ethylene dioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) hole injection layer (HIL) is replaced by self‐assembled monolayer (SAM) [2‐(3,6‐dibromo‐9H‐carbazol‐9‐yl) ethyl] phosphonic acid (Br‐2PACz) HIL. The deep highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO @ −5.73 eV) of Br‐2PACz facilitates the efficient hole‐injection along with a reduction in leakage current by 4–5 orders of magnitude as compared to PEDOT:PSS (HOMO @  −5.00 eV) HIL based optimized PeLEDs. Ultra‐thin SAM‐based Br‐2PACz HIL presents two challenges: i) device reproducibility is hindered by spatial inhomogeneity, and ii) it fails to regulate nonradiative recombination at the perovskite/HIL interface. To address these challenges, the ultra‐thin interlayer of atomic layer deposited aluminum oxide (Al2O3) is utilized between Br‐2PACz, and perovskite which aids in passivating the interfacial states at the HIL/perovskite interface. With the optimized thickness of Al2O3 interlayer (3 nm), the device's external quantum efficiency (EQE) improved from 9.47% to 13.14%, accompanied by luminous efficiency of 42.8 cd A−1. An ultra‐thin interlayer of lithium fluoride (LiF) (2 nm) is implemented on the top side of the perovskite, which can provide 1.5 times increase in the device's LT50 stability.
Laser Processing of Emerging Nanomaterials for Optoelectronics and Photocatalysis
Authors: Lipovka Anna , Garcia Aura , Abyzova Elena , Fatkullin Maxim , Song Ziyang , Li Yuxiang , Wang Ranran , Rodriguez Raul D. , Sheremet Evgeniya
Published: April 2024

Optoelectronics and photocatalysis are two rapidly developing photonic fields that are revolutionizing green energy, medicine, communications, and robotics. To advance these areas and explore new applications, there is a need for new materials and technologies that enable fast, scalable, and customizable production of high‐performing optoelectronics, including the future development of flexible devices. This review is focused on the strategies to synthesize novel, not fully explored materials and/or enhance their properties using the powerful method of laser processing. The discussion includes the laser treatment of MXenes, Metal‐Organic Frameworks, and perovskites, materials' advantages in terms of structural, electronic, and optical properties, and the role of different laser‐based techniques in boosting their performance. Additionally, there is a demonstration of the existing and potential applications of these three materials and their combinations, especially in optoelectronics and photocatalytic platforms. This review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the current state‐of‐the‐art in this field to help researchers identify opportunities and challenges in laser processing of emerging nanomaterials for optoelectronics and photocatalysis.
3‐Amido‐benzo[b]silines: Straightforward Modular 2‐Step Synthesis and Photophysical Properties
Authors: Golling Stéphane , Yan Tianhong , Mazan Valérie , Leroux Frédéric R. , Ciofini Ilaria , Donnard Morgan
Published: April 2024

In this manuscript we report the synthesis of 3‐amido‐benzo[b]silines thanks to a 2‐step strategy involving a 3‐component silylformylation of ynamides followed by a Friedel‐Crafts cyclization/isomerizing dehydration domino sequence. This reaction is tolerant to various structural variations and has allowed us to synthesize a library of diversely substituted silacycles with yields from 33 to 85%. We also studied the fluorescence properties of these compounds which show structural similarities with recognized probes such as Si‐Rhodamine for example.
YBX1 Promotes Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma Progression via m5C‐Dependent SMOX mRNA Stabilization
Authors: Liu Liwen , Chen Yu , Zhang Tao , Cui Guangying , Wang Weiwei , Zhang Guizhen , Li Jianhao , Zhang Yize , Wang Yun , Zou Yawen , Ren Zhigang , Xue Wenhua , Sun Ranran
Published: April 2024

The modification and recognition of 5‐methylcytosine (m5C) are involved in the initiation and progression of various tumor types. However, the precise role and potential mechanism of Y‐box‐binding protein 1 (YBX1) in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) remains unclear. Here, it is found that YBX1 is frequently upregulated in ESCC compared with matched nontumor tissues. Gain‐ and loss‐of‐function assays show that YBX1 promoted the proliferation and metastasis of ESCC cells both in vitro and in vivo. Functional studies revealed that NOP2/Sun RNA methyltransferase family member 2 (NSUN2) is a critical RNA methyltransferase that facilitates YBX1‐mediated ESCC progression. Mechanistically, integrated analysis based on RNA immunoprecipitation sequencing (RIP‐seq) and m5C methylated RNA immunoprecipitation and sequencing (MeRIP‐seq) assays identified spermine oxidase (SMOX) as a target gene containing an m5C site in its coding sequence (CDS) region, which coincided well with the binding site of YBX1. Overexpression of SMOX‐WT but not SMOX‐Mut partially restored the proliferation and invasion ability of ESCC cells curbed by YBX1 knockdown. Moreover, YBX1 activated the mTORC1 signaling pathway by stabilizing SMOX mRNA. The study reveals that YBX1 promotes ESCC development by stabilizing SMOX mRNA in an m5C‐dependent manner, thus providing a valuable therapeutic target for ESCC.
A Self‐Amplifying ROS‐Responsive Nanoplatform for Simultaneous Cuproptosis and Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Wu Hangyi , Zhang Zhenhai , Cao Yanni , Hu Yuhan , Li Yi , Zhang Lanyi , Cao Xinyi , Wen Haitong , Zhang Youwen , Lv Huixia , Jin Xin
Published: April 2024

Cuproptosis is an emerging cell death pathway that depends on the intracellular Cu ions. Elesclomol (ES) as an efficient Cu ionophore can specifically transport Cu into mitochondria and trigger cuproptosis. However, ES can be rapidly removed and metabolized during intravenous administration, leading to a short half‐life and limited tumor accumulation, which hampers its clinical application. Here, the study develops a reactive oxygen species (ROS)‐responsive polymer (PCP) based on cinnamaldehyde (CA) and polyethylene glycol (PEG) to encapsulate ES‐Cu compound (EC), forming ECPCP. ECPCP significantly prolongs the systemic circulation of EC and enhances its tumor accumulation. After cellular internalization, the PCP coating stimulatingly dissociates exposing to the high‐level ROS, and releases ES and Cu, thereby triggering cell death via cuproptosis. Meanwhile, Cu2+‐stimulated Fenton‐like reaction together with CA‐stimulated ROS production simultaneously breaks the redox homeostasis, which compensates for the insufficient oxidative stress treated with ES alone, in turn inducing immunogenic cell death of tumor cells, achieving simultaneous cuproptosis and immunotherapy. Furthermore, the excessive ROS accelerates the stimuli‐dissociation of ECPCP, forming a positive feedback therapy loop against tumor self‐alleviation. Therefore, ECPCP as a nanoplatform for cuproptosis and immunotherapy improves the dual antitumor mechanism of ES and provides a potential optimization for ES clinical application.
Predicting surgical outcomes of acute diffuse peritonitis: Updated risk models based on real‐world clinical data
Authors: Sato Naoya , Hirakawa Shinya , Marubashi Shigeru , Tachimori Hisateru , Oshikiri Taro , Miyata Hiroaki , Kakeji Yoshihiro , Kitagawa Yuko
Published: April 2024

Aim

The existing predictive risk models for the surgical outcome of acute diffused peritonitis (ADP) need renovation by adding relevant variables such as ADP's definition or causative etiology to pursue outstanding data collection reflecting the real world. We aimed to revise the risk models predicting mortality and morbidities of ADP using the latest Japanese Nationwide Clinical Database (NCD) variable set.

Methods

Clinical dataset of ADP patients who underwent surgery, and registered in the NCD between 2016 and 2019, were used to develop a risk model for surgical outcomes. The primary outcome was perioperative mortality.

Results

After data cleanup, 45 379 surgical cases for ADP were derived for analysis. The perioperative and 30‐day mortality were 10.6% and 7.2%, respectively. The prediction models have been created for the mortality and 10 morbidities associated with the mortality. The top five relevant predictors for perioperative mortality were age >80, advanced cancer with multiple metastases, platelet count of <50 000/mL, serum albumin of <2.0 g/dL, and unknown ADP site. The C‐indices of perioperative and 30‐day mortality were 0.859 and 0.857, respectively. The predicted value calculated with the risk models for mortality was highly fitted with the actual probability from the lower to the higher risk groups.

Conclusions

Risk models for postoperative mortality and morbidities with good predictive performance and reliability were revised and validated using the recent real‐world clinical dataset. These models help to predict ADP surgical outcomes accurately and are available for clinical settings.
Sex dimorphisms in coagulation: Implications in trauma‐induced coagulopathy and trauma resuscitation
Authors: Coleman Julia R. , Gumina Richard , Hund Thomas , Cohen Mitchell , Neal Matthew D. , Townsend Kristy , Kerlin Bryce A.
Published: April 2024

Trauma‐induced coagulopathy (TIC) is one of the leading causes of preventable death in injured patients. Consequently, it is imperative to understand the mechanisms underlying TIC and how to mitigate this mortality. An opportunity for advancement stems from the awareness that coagulation demonstrates a strong sex‐dependent effect. Females exhibit a relative hypercoagulability compared to males, which persists after injury and confers improved outcomes. The mechanisms underlying sex dimorphisms in coagulation and its protective effect after injury have yet to be elucidated. This review explores sex dimorphisms in enzymatic hemostasis, fibrinogen, platelets, and fibrinolysis, with implications for resuscitation of patients with TIC.
ECEL1 related distal arthrogryposis 5D in an Indian cohort—Report of recognizable musculoskeletal phenotype and a possible founder variant
Authors: Endrakanti Mounika , Sharma Jyoti , Ethayathulla Abdul S. , Kaur Punit , Khan Shah Alam , Kabra Madhulika , Gupta Neerja
Published: April 2024

Distal arthrogryposis type 5D (DA5D) is clinically characterized by knee extension contractures, distal joint contractures, clubfoot, micrognathia, ptosis, and scoliosis. We report nine affected individuals from eight unrelated Indian families with DA5D. Although the overall musculoskeletal phenotype is not very distinct from other distal arthrogryposis, the presence of fixed knee extension contractures with or without scoliosis could be an important early pointer to DA5D. We also report a possible founder variant in ECEL1 along with four novel variants and further expand the genotypic spectrum of DA5D.
Metal‐Free [2+3] Dipolar Cycloaddition/Denitration Cascade between Nitroalkenes and α‐Diazoesters: Regioselective Access to Functionalized NH−Pyrazoles
Authors: Kumar Ganesh , Ray Subhasish , Saha Satyen , Shankar Singh Maya
Published: April 2024

An efficient one‐pot synthesis of 1H‐pyrazoles has been realized via cascade cyclocondensation of β‐nitroalkenes as C2 synthon with α‐diazoesters as C1N2 unit. The reaction proceeds via concomitant formation of two new (C−N & C−C) bonds in one stretch leading to ethyl‐5‐nitro‐4‐phenyl‐4,5‐dihydro‐3H‐pyrazole‐3‐carboxylate intermediate, which undergoes base mediated denitration enabling the formation of NH−pyrazoles. This protocol not only features easy operation, catalyst−free conditions, good to high yields, wide scope and late‐stage functionalization, but also opens up a new avenue for synthetically demanding and structurally non‐traditional pyrazoles. A combination of experimental and DFT studies provide evidence for the proposed mechanism.
Effects of host identity on the gut microbiota: A comparative study on three microtinae species
Authors: Yao Zhen , Zhao Wenli , Tang Baohong , Li Qinghua , Wang Zhenlong
Published: April 2024

Background

Gut microbiota exert an immense effect on host health and host environmental adaptation. Furthermore, the composition and structure of gut microbiota are determined by the environment and host genetic factors. However, the relative contribution of the environment and host genetic factors toward shaping the structure of gut microbiota has been poorly understood.

Methods

In this study, we characterized the fecal microbial communities of the closely related voles Neodon fuscus, Lasiopodomys brandtii, and L. mandarinus after caged feeding in the laboratory for 6 months, through high‐throughput sequencing and bioinformatics analysis.

Results

The results of pairwise comparisons of N. fuscus vs. L. brandtii and L. mandarinus vs. L. brandtii revealed significant differences in bacterial diversity and composition after domestication. While 991 same operational taxonomic units (OTUs) were shared in three voles, there were 362, 291, and 303 species‐specific OTUs in N. fuscus, L. brandtii, and L. mandarinus, respectively. The relative abundances of Proteobacteria and Prevotella, which are reported to be enriched in high‐altitude populations, were significantly higher in high‐altitude N. fuscus than in low‐altitude L. brandtii after domestication. Firmicutes, which produce various digestive enzymes for energy metabolism, and Spirochaetes, which can degrade cellulose, were found in higher abundance in subterranean L. mandarinus than that in L. brandtii which dwells on the earth surface.

Conclusion

Our findings showed that some components of gut microbiota still maintained dominance even when different host species are reared under the same environmental conditions, suggesting that these bacteria are substantially influenced by host factors.