bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sensemaking and Power
Authors: Storgaard Merete
Published: November 2018

The modernization of governance and the marketization of the Danish public education sector since the 1980s, has resulted in changes both in the constitutive conditions and in the discursive understandings framing the purpose of the public education system for educational leaders, teachers, and social educators working in schools. We know less about how the neoliberal modernization processes affect the schools at a micro-processual sensemaking level and a relational power level. In this analytical perspective, there is a scientific need to understand how these organizing and sensemaking processes are conducted through the discursive construction of power relations in modernized, institutional settings, and how these processes affect the organizational understandings, professional identities and social relations of the members in a high-achieving Danish public school. I investigate leadership from a micro-analytical perspective, as inter-action processes centered around the creation of common understanding and the enactment of policy, and mobilize a theoretical understanding of leadership processes as social sensemaking constructions that are constituted, framed and transformed in a given context of discursive and institutional power. I argue that the members of the organization holding both formal and informal leadership positions construct under-standings through social power struggles in ambiguous and contradictory discursive orders. Further, these struggles create new power relations and democratic forms of leadership within a hidden power structure of a high-achieving Danish school owing to governance transitions in the Danish public education sector.
Leadership Strategies in Diverse Intake Environments
Authors: Ballangrud Brit Bolken , Paulsen Jan-Merok
Published: November 2018

The case study subjected in this paper was designed to illuminate how school leadership strategies and interventions mediate external demands, in the form of the academic press, for raised outcomes, imposed from the policy environment on a school with a heterogeneous pupil population. The Norwegian research site is situated in a demographic environment of low pupil socioeconomic status, a group of factors that in other systems predicts 60%—70% of academic achievement. More specifically, the intake environment in which the school is situated is characterized by high ethnic heterogeneity and, for some parts, low scores on parents’ social welfare indicators. Data was collected from a school characterized as low performing, defined by pupil achievement on national tests, yet these outcomes had been progressing over time. Find-ings are based on observations as well as interviews with school leaders, teachers, the superintendent in the municipality, and pupils, together with a pupil survey. The paper analyzes various leadership strategies and interventions as mediating functions between the external academic press from the school district level and the internal cultural context of the school. Specifically, the findings suggest that building a core culture of inclusive ethos for all pupils, paired with pedagogical collaboration, and democratic and servant leadership, are important devices for mastering this form of diversity. The leadership practices and collaborative focus were furthermore anchored in a systemic and more integrative school organization that purposefully com-bined hierarchical structure with horizontal elements in a matrix-like design.
Creating Cultures of Equity and High Expectations in a Low-Performing School
Authors: Møller Jorunn
Published: November 2018

The literature on successful schools has revealed that a school culture of high expectations is beneficial for student achievement and that leaders may exercise significant influence on their school’s success trajectory. However, less information is known about how leaders at different levels interact to build such cultures in local schools or how standards of professional work and new demands interact to support teachers’ com-mitment to quality education for a diverse student population. This study aimed to examine the interplay between district and school leadership in creating cultures of equity and high expectations for all students in a Norwegian low-performing school. Methods included interviews with the principal and the superin-tendent, focus group interviews with deputies, teachers and students, and a survey among all students in grade 10 at the selected school. The study demonstrated how leading teachers’ effort to raise academic and social standards among students was a complex endeavour and how a productive interplay between district level leadership and school-level leadership became one of the key enabling factors. A main argument is that promoting quality education for all begins with the question of purpose and requires understanding how principals’ and teachers’ work is embedded in broader social structures of power.
Nursing Students Respond to Opioid Crisis with Naloxone Education
Authors: Paynter Martha , Richardson Brianna
Published: November 2018

This report describes how graduate students in nursing education have developed capacity among student nurses in response to the opioid crisis in Canada by using education on harm reduction practice and naloxone administration.
Establishing National Standards for Carceral Health Care—The Federal Prison Oversight Act
Authors: Haber Lawrence A. , Boudin Chesa , Williams Brie A.
Published: November 2024

This Viewpoint discusses how the health care quality that individuals receive while incarcerated is often deficient and how the passage of the Federal Prison Oversight Act represents an opportunity to improve the health of those living and working in carceral facilities.
Over-the-Counter Medication Abortion as a Strategy to Expand Access to Care
Authors: Grossman Daniel , Chew Murphy Emma
Published: November 2024

This Viewpoint discusses the growing body of evidence that indicates that mifepristone and misoprostol meet the US Food and Drug Administration’s criteria for over-the-counter sale.
AI Devices in Neurology—Moving From Diagnosis to Prognosis
Authors: Hillis James M. , Cliff Edward R. Scheffer , Vokinger Kerstin N.
Published: November 2024

This Viewpoint describes considerations for regulatory oversight in the implementation of artificial intelligence–enabled prognostic devices.
Dopaminergic therapy disrupts decision‐making in impulsive‐compulsive Parkinsonian patients
Authors: Taddeini Fabio , Ordali Erica , Govoni Alessandra , Piattellini Francesca , Valente Simone , Caremani Luca , Vergani Alberto A , Kaymak Ahmet , Rustichini Aldo , Russo Eleonora , Rapallini Chiara , Ramat Silvia , Mazzoni Alberto
Published: November 2024

Impulsive‐compulsive behaviors (ICB) are common non‐motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease (PD) often associated with dopaminergic drugs (DD) therapy. We investigated the acute effects of DD on decision‐making in PD patients with ICB (ICB+) and without it (ICB−), and in healthy controls (HC). Participants performed a risk‐based decision‐making task twice, with PD patients tested before (DD OFF) and after (DD ON) DD intake. In DD OFF, all groups developed a risk‐averting strategy. In DD ON, ICB+ patients (but not ICB− nor HC) reverted to riskier choices. We conclude that DD has a specific strong acute effect on ICB+ patients' decision‐making.
Comprehensive multicentre retrospective analysis for predicting isocitrate dehydrogenase‐mutant lower‐grade gliomas
Authors: Zhao Dongxu , Duan Lin , Juratli Tareq A. , Shen Fazheng , Zhou Liyun , Cui Shulin , Zhang Hang , Ren Hang , Cheng Luyao , Wang Hailan , Shi Wenhan , Li Tianxiao , Li Ming
Published: November 2024

Objective

To differentiate glioma grading and determine isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) mutation status, which are crucial for prognosis assessment and treatment planning in glioma patients.

Methods

This retrospective study included patients diagnosed with adult diffuse glioma from 1 January, 2018 to 31 July, 2023 in two independent institutions. It documented and analysed clinical and radiographic features. A nomogram model was constructed using stepwise regression to predict lower‐grade gliomas and IDH mutation status.

Results

A total of 383 adult patients with diffuse glioma were included in the study, with Cohort A (297 patients) serving as the training set and Cohort B (86 patients) serving as the validation cohort. Consistent with previous reports, the Hyper fluid‐attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) rim sign exhibited higher sensitivity in lower‐grade gliomas for IDH mutant gliomas compared with the T2‐FLAIR mismatch sign. However, the Hyper FLAIR rim sign was also present in Grade 4 gliomas, and thus, the T2‐FLAIR mismatch sign exhibited better clinical efficacy in predicting glioma grade and IDH mutation compared with the Hyper FLAIR rim sign in clinical applications. Meanwhile, preoperative magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) indicators, particularly the Cho/Cr ratio, have shown excellent performance in predicting glioma grade and IDH mutation status. The nomogram developed through stepwise regression demonstrated excellent predictive capabilities in distinguishing glioma grade and IDH mutation status.

Interpretation

Combining imaging and molecular features, the predictive model established in this study offers a reliable non‐invasive tool for predicting glioma grading and IDH mutation status, aiding the clinical decision‐making process and improving patient management.
Metal‐Organic Framework‐Derived Elastic Solid Polymer Electrolytes Enabled by Covalent Crosslinking for High‐Performance Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Li Sha , Pei Fei , Ding Yu , Guo Xiangyang , Zhang Xiaoping , Tao Hongwei , He Zhengyou , Hu Haitao , Zhang Li
Published: November 2024

The key issue in utilizing solid polymer electrolytes for high‐energy‐density lithium metal batteries is to balance the conflicting demands of superior processability, adequate ionic conductivity, and mechanical stability. Inspired by molecular structure design, a metal‐organic framework‐derived polyether poly(urethane urea) solid polymer electrolyte (denoted as ePU@H SPE) has been synthesized via a facile polycondensation method involving covalent crosslinking. The reduced crystallinity and numerous polar groups in ePU@H SPEs enhance Li salt dissociation and create efficient Li+ ion diffusion channels, yielding remarkable ionic conductivity (1.48 × 10−4 S cm−1). The polymer backbones, incorporating covalent bonds and dynamic hydrogen bonds, provide superb mechanical strength (5.12 GPa), high toughness (1240%), and excellent resilience, which suppress lithium dendrite growth and buffer electrode volume fluctuations during cycling. Leveraging these attributes, the well‐designed ePU@H SPE enables ultra‐high durability in lithium plating/stripping over 2300 h. Moreover, the integrated LFP|ePU@H|Li batteries, generating delicate electrode/electrolyte interfacial contact, deliver an exceptionally long lifespan (86% retention over 500 cycles at 1 C). Moreover, the LFP|ePU@H|Li pouch cell operates reliably even under severe deformation and external damage. Impressively, the stable cycling performance of full batteries incorporating high‐voltage LCO and high‐capacity S cathodes further verifies the significant potential of advanced ePU@H SPEs for practical applications.
Schottky Interface Engineering in Ti3C2Tx/ZnS Organic Hydrogels for High‐Performance Multifunctional Flexible Absorbers
Authors: Cui Yuhong , Ru Guoliang , Zhang Tianyi , Yang Ke , Liu Shujuan , Qi Weihong , Ye Qian , Liu Xuqing , Zhou Feng
Published: November 2024

With the rapid advancement of wearable electronics, soft robotics, and camouflage technologies, there is an urgent demand for flexible, multifunctional electromagnetic wave absorbing materials. Traditional absorbers, including metal‐ and carbon‐based materials, often lack the flexibility required for such applications. In this work, a novel strategy is proposed for developing a flexible absorber by combining a conductive filler with a Schottky heterogeneous interface and a polymer network framework. Ti3C2Tx MXene is modified with ZnS via a low‐temperature hydrothermal method, forming a Ti3C2Tx/ZnS composite. This composite is subsequently embedded in a copolymer matrix of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and acrylamide (AAm), dispersed in a binary water‐glycerol solution. The Schottky interface between Ti3C2Tx and ZnS enhances electron transfer at the heterophase boundary, significantly improving interface polarisation. Simultaneously, interactions between water and glycerol restrict the rotation of polar molecules under external electromagnetic fields, optimising polarisation loss within the gel. Experimental results demonstrate that the Ti3C2Tx/ZnS gel achieves a minimum reflection loss (RLmin) of −43.76 dB at 8.79 GHz, with an effective absorption bandwidth (EAB) covering the entire X‐band. Additionally, the gel exhibit exceptional stretchability, frost resistance, shape adaptability, and photothermal conversion properties.
Poly(Lactic Acid): Recent Stereochemical Advances and New Materials Engineering
Authors: Hu Chenyang , Zhang Yu , Pang Xuan , Chen Xuesi
Published: November 2024

Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) is a representative biobased and biodegradable aliphatic polyester and a front‐runner among sustainable materials. As a semicrystalline thermoplastic, PLA exhibits excellent mechanical and physical properties, attracting considerable attention in commodity and medical fields. Stereochemistry is a key factor affecting PLA's properties, and to this end, the engineering of PLA's microstructure for tailored material properties has been an active area of research over the decade. This Review first covers the basic structural variety of PLA. A perspective on the current states of stereocontrolled synthesis as well as the relationships between the structures and properties of PLA stereosequences are included, with an emphasis on record regularity and properties. At last, state‐of‐the‐art examples of high‐performance PLA‐based materials within an array of applications are given, including packaging, fibers, and textiles, healthcare and electronic devices. Among various stereo‐regular sequences of PLA, poly(L‐lactic acid) (PLLA) is the most prominent category and has myriad unique properties and applications. In this regard, cutting‐edge applications of PLLA are mainly overviewed in this review. At the same time, new materials developed based on other PLA stereosequences are highlighted, which holds the potential to a wide variety of PLA‐based sustainable materials.
Ion‐Permeable Electrospun Scaffolds Enable Controlled In‐Vitro Electrostimulation Assay of Myoblasts
Authors: Pacilio Serafina , Decataldo Francesco , Costa Roberta , Cramer Tobias , Fraboni Beatrice , Cenacchi Giovanna , Focarete Maria Letizia
Published: November 2024

In‐vitro models are fundamental for studying muscular cell contractility and for wide‐screening of therapeutic candidates targeting skeletal muscle diseases, owing to their scalability, reproducibility, and circumvention of ethical concerns. However, in‐vitro assays permitting reliable electrical stimulation of cell contractile activity still require technological development. Here, a novel approach to electrically stimulate differentiated muscular cell contractility is reported exploiting the ionic conductivity and mechanical flexibility of 3D nanofibrous scaffolds. The electrospun poly(L‐lactide‐co‐caprolactone) scaffold allowed for C2C12 murine myoblasts horizontal elongation and myotubes formation. Scaffold porosity enables high ionic conductivity and strong electric field generation, orthogonally oriented to the scaffold surface. Electrically induced cell contractility is determined with atomic force microscopy (AFM) enabling real‐time monitoring of scaffold vibrations in liquid environment. Differentiated cell actuation is found to be linearly correlated to current amplitude and number of current stimuli. Integrating the 3D nanofibrous scaffolds with real‐time AFM monitoring provides highly accurate in‐vitro assays for biomedical research. The induction of electric fields orthogonal to the scaffold surface allows for accurately mimicking the excitation‐contraction coupling mechanism observed in native skeletal muscle tissue. This work paves the way for the quantitative study of muscular cell dynamic behavior and physiology, further evaluating therapy effectiveness for muscular pathologies.
Identification of Defects and the Origins of Surface Noise on Hydrogen–Terminated (100) Diamond
Authors: Sung Yi‐Ying , Oberg Lachlan , Griffin Rebecca , Schenk Alex K. , Chandler Henry , Gallo Santiago Corujeira , Stacey Alastair , Sergeieva Tetiana , Doherty Marcus W. , Weber Cedric , Pakes Christopher I.
Published: November 2024

Near‐surface nitrogen vacancy centres are critical to many diamond‐based quantum technologies such as information processors and nanosensors. Surface defects play an important role in the design and performance of these devices. The targeted creation of defects is central to proposed bottom‐up approaches to nanofabrication of quantum diamond processors, and uncontrolled surface defects may generate noise and charge trapping which degrade shallow NV device performance. Surface preparation protocols may be able to control the production of desired defects and eliminate unwanted defects, but only if their atomic structure can first be conclusively identified. This work uses a combination of scanning tunnelling microscopy (STM) imaging and first‐principles simulations to identify several surface defects on H:C(100)—2 × 1 surfaces prepared using chemical vapour deposition (CVD). The atomic structure of these defects is elucidated, from which the microscopic origins of magnetic noise and charge trapping are determined based on the modeling of their paramagnetic properties and acceptor states. Rudimentary control of these deleterious properties is demonstrated through STM tip‐induced manipulation of the defect structure. Furthermore, the results validate accepted models for CVD diamond growth by identifying key adsorbates responsible for the nucleation of new layers.
Flexible and Self‐Healable Fluorescent Films with Tunable Emission via Solid‐Phase Molecular Self‐Assembly Design
Authors: Xu Yanlei , Wu Shuting , Jin Hongjun , Wu Ziyan , Wu Tongyue , Cai Wenning , Xiao Wei , Qian Qingrong , Chen Qinghua , Yan Yun
Published: November 2024

Flexible luminescent materials are usually in the form of gels and films. Solid‐state films have advantages in practical applications due to their long‐term stability. However, the fabrication process by conventional methods remains laborious and unsustainable. Here, a facile and green route is reported for fabricating flexible luminescent films via an elegant solid‐phase molecular self‐assembly design. First, Eu3+/Tb3+‐based metallosupramolecular coordination polyelectrolytes (MEPEs) and tetraphenylethylene (TPE)‐based MEPEs are designed with an antenna bis‐ligands to get individual R, G, and B emission. Then, by repeatedly pressing the MEPEs‐cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) precipitates, obtained from their mixing aqueous solutions, R, G, and B emission films are obtained at room temperature, respectively. The emission color can be simply tuned by adjusting molar ratio of Eu3+: Tb3+: TPE. Notably, humidity‐responsive white emission film is obtained when Eu3+: Tb3+: TPE = 3:1:2.5. Owing to the dynamic coordination and electrostatic interaction, which can be activated by hydrating water, these films can be facilely reprocessed and self‐healed with the aid of water at room temperature. It is hoped that this approach to fabricate flexible supramolecular luminescent films can be applied to design various advanced functional soft materials.
Synergistic Palladium/Silver/Ligand Catalysis for C−H Alkenylation of 2,1,3‐Benzofused Heterodiazoles
Authors: Jeong Siyeon , Lee Chaerin , Joo Jung Min
Published: November 2024

The combination of palladium and silver complexes has emerged as a bimetallic catalytic system in C−H activation, frequently outperforming palladium‐only systems. Beyond the conventional roles of silver (I) salts serving as oxidants, halide scavengers, and Lewis acids, Pd−Ag bimetallic synergism has been shown to facilitate C−H cleavage. In this study, we explore the incorporation of a pyrazolopyridone (PzPyOH) ligand into a Pd−Ag bimetallic catalytic system, which together promote both C−H cleavage and migratory insertion processes. This synergistic approach enables dehydrogenative C−H alkenylations at the C4 position of 2,1,3‐benzothiadiazole, 2,1,3‐benzoxadiazole, and 2,1,3‐benzotriazole with alkenes. These results demonstrate the potential of combining novel ligands with heterobimetallic systems to facilitate other elementary steps beyond C−H cleavage, suggesting their broader applicability in C−H functionalization.
3D Printing‐Based Hydrogel Dressings for Wound Healing
Authors: Zhou Xuan , Yu Xunzhou , You Tingting , Zhao Baohua , Dong Lanlan , Huang Can , Zhou Xiaoqing , Xing Malcolm , Qian Wei , Luo Gaoxing
Published: November 2024

Skin wounds have become an important issue that affects human health and burdens global medical care. Hydrogel materials similar to the natural extracellular matrix (ECM) are one of the best candidates for ideal wound dressings and the most feasible choices for printing inks. Distinct from hydrogels made by traditional technologies, which lack bionic and mechanical properties, 3D printing can promptly and accurately create hydrogels with complex bioactive structures and the potential to promote tissue regeneration and wound healing. Herein, a comprehensive review of multi‐functional 3D printing‐based hydrogel dressings for wound healing is presented. The review first summarizes the 3D printing techniques for wound hydrogel dressings, including photo‐curing, extrusion, inkjet, and laser‐assisted 3D printing. Then, the properties and design approaches of a series of bioinks composed of natural, synthetic, and composite polymers for 3D printing wound hydrogel dressings are described. Thereafter, the application of multi‐functional 3D printing‐based hydrogel dressings in a variety of wound environments is discussed in depth, including hemostasis, anti‐inflammation, antibacterial, skin appendage regeneration, intelligent monitoring, and machine learning‐assisted therapy. Finally, the challenges and prospects of 3D printing‐based hydrogel dressings for wound healing are presented.
Simultaneous Suppression of Phonon Transport and Carrier Concentration for Efficient Rhombohedral GeTe Thermoelectric
Authors: Qi Xia , Kang Te , Yang Long , Zhang Xinyue , Luo Jun , Li Wen , Pei Yanzhong
Published: November 2024

Superior electronic performance due to the highly degenerated Σ valence band (Nv∼12) makes rhombohedral GeTe a promising low‐temperature (<600 K) thermoelectric candidate. Minimizing lattice thermal conductivity (κL) is an essential route for enhancing thermoelectric performance, but the temperature‐dependent κL, corelated to T−1, makes its reduction difficult at low temperature. In this work, a room‐temperature κL of ≈0.55 W m−1‐K−1, the lowest ever reported in GeTe‐based thermoelectric, is realized in (Ge1‐ySbyTe)1‐x(Cu8GeSe6)x, primarily due to strong phonon scattering induced by point defects and precipitates. Simultaneously, Cu8GeSe6‐alloying effectively suppresses the precipitation of Ge, enabling the optimization of carrier concentration with the additional help of aliovalent Sb doping. As a result, an extraordinary peak zT of up to 2.3 and an average zTavg. of ≈1.2 within 300–625 K are achieved, leading to a conversion efficiency of ≈9% at a temperature difference of 282 K. This work robustly demonstrates its potential as a promising component in thermoelectric generator utilizing low‐grade waste heat.
High Quality–Factor All–Dielectric Metacavity for Label–Free Biosensing
Authors: Zheng Yuqiao , Sun Jiacheng , Ma Yaqing , Zhang Hongyong , Cui Zhen , Paschos Giannis G. , Song Xixi , Tao Ying , Savvidis Pavlos , Kong Wei , Wen Liaoyong , Bian Sumin , Sawan Mohamad
Published: November 2024

High sensitivity and high quality‐factor are crucial for achieving outstanding sensing performance in photonic biosensors. However, strong optical field confinement and high light–biomolecule interactions on photonic surfaces are usually contradictory and challenging to satisfy simultaneously. Here, a distinctive configuration for addressing this issue is reported: embedding a nanophotonic metasurface inside a micro vertical cavity as a meta‐channel (metacavity) biosensor. The analyte solution serves as the cavity medium, thereby maximizing the light–analyte interaction. Simulation validation is conducted to optimize the metacavity with high structural robustness and remarkable optical and sensing properties. Large‐scale low‐cost metacavity biosensors are realized by combining anodic aluminum oxide template technique and wafer bonding. Experimentally, the metacavity biosensor demonstrates a notable quality‐factor (maximum 4140) and high bulk refractometric sensitivity (450 nm RIU−1), resulting in an unprecedented figure‐of‐merit (1670 RIU−1). Moreover, the metacavity biosensor achieves high surface sensitivity, together with a detection‐limit of 119 viral copies mL−1 for label‐free severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) pseudovirus sensing, revealing remarkable performance in both bulk and surface sensing.
Spontaneous cerebrovascular reactivity at rest in older adults with and without mild cognitive impairment and memory deficits
Authors: Engstrom Allison C. , Alitin John Paul M. , Kapoor Arunima , Dutt Shubir , Lohman Trevor , Sible Isabel J. , Marshall Anisa J. , Shenasa Fatemah , Gaubert Aimée , Ferrer Farrah , Nguyen Amy , Bradford David Robert , Rodgers Kathleen , Sordo Lorena , Head Elizabeth , Shao Xingfeng , Wang Danny J. J. , Nation Daniel A.
Published: November 2024

INTRODUCTION

Older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) exhibit deficits in cerebrovascular reactivity (CVR), suggesting CVR is a biomarker for vascular contributions to MCI. This study examined if spontaneous CVR is associated with MCI and memory impairment.

METHODS

One hundred sixty‐one older adults free of dementia or major neurological/psychiatric disorders were recruited. Participants underwent clinical interviews, cognitive testing, venipuncture for Alzheimer's disease (AD) biomarkers, and brain magnetic resonance imaging. Spontaneous CVR was quantified during 5 minutes of rest. Respiratory gases analyzed through nasal cannula to quantify end‐tidal carbon dioxide (ETCO2) levels were used to estimate CVR.

RESULTS

Whole brain CVR was negatively associated with age, but not MCI. Lower CVR in the parahippocampal gyrus (PHG) was found in participants with MCI and was linked to worse memory performance on memory tests. Results remained significant after adjusting for AD biomarkers and vascular risk factors.

DISCUSSION

Spontaneous CVR deficits in the PHG are observed in older adults with MCI and memory impairment, suggesting medial temporal microvascular dysfunction is observed in cognitive decline.

Highlights

Aging is associated with decline in whole brain spontaneous cerebrovascular reactivity (CVR).

Older adults with mild cognitive impairment exhibit deficits in spontaneous CVR in the parahippocampal gyrus (PHG).

Memory impairment is correlated with reduced spontaneous CVR in the PHG.
Electrolyte Engineering to Construct Robust Interphase with High Ionic Conductivity for Wide Temperature Range Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Li Yanan , Wen Bo , Li Na , Zhao Yuanjun , Chen Yuzhi , Yin Xiangkai , Da Xinyu , Ouyang Yuxin , Li Xinyang , Kong Pengxiang , Ding Shujiang , Xi Kai , Gao Guoxin
Published: November 2024

Unstable interphase formed in conventional carbonate‐based electrolytes significantly hinders the widespread application of lithium metal batteries (LMBs) with high‐capacity nickel‐rich layered oxides (e.g., LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2, NCM811) over a wide temperature range. To balance ion transport kinetics and interfacial stability over wide temperature range, herein a bifunctional electrolyte (EAFP) tailoring the electrode/electrolyte interphase with 1,3‐propanesultone as an additive was developed. The resulting cathode‐electrolyte interphase with an inorganic inner layer and an organic outer layer possesses high mechanical stability and flexibility, alleviating stress accumulation and maintaining the structural integrity of the NCM811 cathode. Meanwhile, the inorganic‐rich solid electrolyte interphase inhibits electrolyte side reactions and facilitates fast Li+ transport. As a result, the Li||Li cells exhibit stable performance in extensive temperatures with low overpotentials, especially achieving a long lifespan of 1000 h at 30 °C. Furthermore, the optimized EAFP is also suitable for LiFePO4 and LiCO2 cathodes (1000 cycles, retention: 67 %). The Li||NCM811 and graphite||NCM811 pouch cells with lean electrolyte (g/Ah grade) operate stably, verifying the broad electrode compatibility of EAFP. Notably, the Li||NCM811 cells can operate in wide climate range from −40 °C to 60 °C. This work establishes new guidelines for the regulation of interphase by electrolytes in all‐weather LMBs.
Non‐selective Defect Minimization towards Highly Efficient Metal‐Organic Framework Membranes for Gas Separation
Authors: Dorosti Fatereh , Ge Lei , Wang Hao , Bell John , Lin Rijia , Hou Jingwei , Zhu Zhonghua
Published: November 2024

The persistence of defects in polycrystalline membranes poses a substantial obstacle to reaching the theoretical molecular sieving separation and scaling up production. The low membrane selectivity in most reported literature is largely due to the unavoidable non‐selective defects during synthesis, leading to a mismatch between the well‐defined pore structure of polycrystalline molecular sieve materials. This paper presents a novel approach for minimizing non‐selective defects in metal–organic framework (MOF) membranes by a constricted crystal growth strategy in a confined environment. The in situ ZIF formation using the densely packed seeding array between the substrate and the pre‐grown top ZIF layer yields a confined membrane interlayer, which is highly uniform with a tightly packed crystalline structure. Unlike uncontrolled crystal growth, we purposely regulate the interlayer membrane growth in the direction parallel to the substrate. A notable 99 % decrease in defects in the confined interlayer was achieved compared to the random‐grown top layer, leading to a ~353 % increment in H2/N2 selectivity over the non‐confined reference MOF membrane. The performance of this new membrane sits in the optimal range above the Robeson upper bound. The membrane boasts a balanced high H2 permeability (>5000 Barrer) and selectivity (>50), significantly surpassing peer ZIF membranes.
Arylhydrazone‐Thioeter Palladium Pincer Complexes Catalyzed Carbonylative Suzuki–Miyaura Cross‐Coupling Using Fe(CO)5 as CO Surrogate
Authors: Reyes‐Deloso Alberto , Penieres‐Carrillo José Guillermo , Toscano Alfredo , López‐Cortés José Guadalupe , Castillo‐Baltazar Alejandro , Ponce‐Pérez Leon D. , Ortega‐Jiménez Fernando
Published: November 2024

A series of Pd(II)‐pincer complexes 3a–d have been synthesized and characterized in good yields, via C–H bond activation on arylhydrazone‐thioether ligands. The investigation of these new Pd(II)‐pincer complexes has proved that the possesses excellent catalytic activity for carbonylative Suzuki–Miyaura cross‐coupling reactions of aryl iodides with arylboronic acids using Fe(CO)5 as carbonyl source. Notably, this strategy offers several advantages such as shorter reaction time, nonrequirement of toxic CO gas, and good to excellent yield of the desired products for wide range of applicable substrate; mainly, carbonylative Suzuki–Miyaura coupling just requires only 0.5 mol% of Pd(II)‐pincer complexes. We have also demonstrated a new efficient route for the synthesis of an antineoplastic agent 4‐(methoxyphenyl)‐(3,4,5‐trimethoxyphenyl)methanone. Additionally, the possible mechanism of this Pd(II)‐pincer complexes process is further supported by the density functional theory (DFT) study.
Is (Independent) Subordination Relevant in Equity Derivatives?
Authors: Azzone Michele , Baviera Roberto
Published: November 2024

Monroe (1978) demonstrates that any local semimartingale can be represented as a time‐changed Brownian Motion (BM). A natural question arises: does this representation theorem hold when the BM and the time‐change are independent? We prove that a local semimartingale is not equivalent to a BM with a time‐change that is independent from the BM. Our result is obtained utilizing a class of additive processes: the additive normal tempered stable (ATS). This class of processes exhibits an exceptional ability to calibrate the equity volatility surface accurately. We notice that the sub‐class of additive processes that can be obtained with an independent additive subordination is incompatible with market data and shows significantly worse calibration performances than the ATS, especially on short time maturities. These results have been observed every business day in a semester on a dataset of S&P 500 and EURO STOXX 50 options.
Pulsed and Polarized X‐Ray Emission From Neutron Star Surfaces
Authors: Baring Matthew G. , Thi Hoa Dinh , Younes George A. , Hu Kun
Published: November 2024

The intense magnetic fields of neutron stars naturally lead to strong anisotropy and polarization of radiation emanating from their surfaces, both being sensitive to the hot spot position on the surface. Accordingly, pulse phase‐resolved intensities and polarizations depend on the angle between the magnetic and spin axes and the observer's viewing direction. In this paper, results are presented from a Monte Carlo simulation of neutron star atmospheres that uses a complex electric field vector formalism to treat polarized radiative transfer due to magnetic Thomson scattering. General relativistic influences on the propagation of light from the stellar surface to a distant observer are taken into account. The paper outlines a range of theoretical predictions for pulse profiles at different X‐ray energies, focusing on magnetars and also neutron stars of lower magnetization. By comparing these models with observed intensity and polarization pulse profiles for the magnetar 1RXS J1708‐40, and the light curve for the pulsar PSR J0821‐4300, constraints on the stellar geometry angles and the size of putative polar cap hot spots are obtained.
Using Augmented Reality to Strengthen Consumer/Brand Relationships: The Case of Luxury Brands
Authors: Arya Vikas , Sethi Deepa , Hollebeek Linda D.
Published: November 2024

Though augmented reality (AR) is increasingly adopted in marketing, its capacity to foster consumers' engagement and attachment remain tenuous, exposing an important literature‐based gap. Addressing this gap, we deploy social presence theory and luxury consumption theory to develop and test a model that proposes that consumers' engagement with AR‐deploying luxury brands drives the development of their perceived brand warmth, social value, and brand competence, in turn impacting their brand attachment. To explore these issues, we draw on survey data from a sample of 537 luxury apparel and automotive consumers. The results using structural equation modelling (SEM) show that first, luxury consumers who exhibit high engagement with the AR‐deploying brand perceive higher levels of brand warmth, ‐competence, and social value, in turn raising their attachment to the AR‐deploying luxury brand. Overall, the findings highlight AR's strategic capacity to engage consumers and raise the brand's perceived brand warmth, competence, and social value, in turn boosting individuals' attachment to the AR‐deploying brand.
Percutaneous Pulmonary Valve Implantation With Self‐Expanding Valves for Carcinoid Heart Diseases
Authors: Un Ka‐Chun , Wong Chun‐Ka , Yong San‐Fui Sophia , Winter Robbert de , Straver Bart , Chamuleau Steven , Rosenthal Eric , Qureshi Shakeel A. , Beijk Marcel , Jones Matthew I.
Published: November 2024

Carcinoid heart disease is an important complication of neuroendocrine tumors that may lead to significant morbidity and mortality. Right‐sided heart valve involvement with consequent valve dysfunction is one of the common manifestations. Patients often have multiple, significant comorbidities with advanced metastatic disease and, as such, may not be suitable for surgical valve replacement due to excessive risk. Transcatheter valve replacement using balloon‐expandable valves has been the mainstay of management for these patients, particularly with stenotic lesions but there is limited experience in patients with pulmonary regurgitation and dilated pulmonary arteries outside the dimensions that would be suitable for these valves. We report three successful cases of percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation with the VenusP‐valve, a large self‐expanding valve platform, and highlight the technical aspects and challenges specific to treatment of pulmonary regurgitation in patients with carcinoid heart disease. Percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation, using the VenusP‐valve, may be considered an effective treatment in this patient group.
Global disparities in cancer care: Bridging the gap in affordability and access to medications between high and low‐income countries
Authors: Tfayli Arafat H. , El‐Halabi Laura N. , Khuri Fadlo R.
Published: November 2024

Background

Cancer remains a significant challenge for health care systems, despite notable progress in the field. These advancements have significant financial implications that disproportionately affect low‐income countries. This review article aims to explore the present state of drug development, assessing the availability of drugs in different income countries, and proposing potential solutions to address the inequality in access to new cancer treatments.

Methods

A search was conducted on MEDLINE and PubMed on October 2, 2023 and updated on December 14, 2023, limited to English language articles.

Results

There is a projected rise in cancer cases worldwide, particularly in low‐income countries where most cancer‐related deaths are expected. Although the approval rate of cancer treatments has risen, their excessive cost and lack of affordability pose significant barriers to widespread access. Disparities in the costs of crucial cancer medications are influenced by geographic location and procurement connections. Potential solutions to address the inequity in drug distribution include sharing production secrets, implementing price discrimination, international funding, improved primary health care measures, and the implementation of cost‐effective screening methods.

Conclusion

Preventing, screening for, and treating cancer should be a global priority with minimal differences in access to therapy among various countries.
Thermoresponsive Polymers as Viscosity Modifiers: Innovative Nanoarchitectures as Lubricant Additives
Authors: Carfora Raffaele , Notari Marcello , Assanelli Giulio , Caramia Sara , Nitti Andrea , Pasini Dario
Published: November 2024

The world of lubricants is driven by the constant pursuit of improved performance in response of the requests of new engine generations. Engine oils play a critical role as lubricants in mitigating wear, reducing friction and ensuring optimal engine operation under diverse conditions. Modern commercial engine oils are complex formulations, comprising of a base oil, generally coming from petroleum sources, formulated with specific, important additives able to optimize the viscosity, thickening and shear stress in the operating temperature range. Such additives are produced in the thousand tons per year scale range. The most important class of additives for modern lubrication is made of organic polymers with variable architectures and topologies, generally referred as “viscosity modifiers” (VMs): they act as “moderators” of viscosity at different working temperatures. The tremendous advances in polymer science have been reflected in the realm of VMs, allowing the commercialization of products obtained by controlled polymerization techniques, and the experimentation of a broad variety of different macromolecular architectures and topologies as VMs. In this review we introduce the reader, together with the basic principles of viscosity modification and thermal‐dependent rheological response, to the fascinating chemistry towards the improvement of VMs, through optimization of macromolecular design and architecture.
Investigation Into the Equine Metabolism of Phosphodiesterase‐4 Inhibitor Roflumilast for Potential Doping Control
Authors: Philip Moses , Karakka Kal Abdul Khader , Subhahar Michael Benedict , Karatt Tajudheen K. , Graiban Fatma Mohammed , Ajeebsanu Meleparappil Muhammed , Joseph Marina , Jose Shantymol V.
Published: November 2024

The phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibitors constitute a relatively modern class of medications that are known for inducing bronchodilation and exhibiting anti‐inflammatory properties within the body. Due to these properties, there is concern regarding their potential misuse as performance‐enhancing substances in competitive sports. This study delves into the metabolic conversion of roflumilast in thoroughbred horses following oral administration and in vitro experimentation using equine liver microsomes and Cunninghamella elegans. High‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with a Q Exactive Orbitrap mass spectrometer (HPLC‐HRMS) was employed for analysis. The investigation identified 10 metabolites of roflumilast, including six phase I and four phase II metabolites from in vivo studies, and 11 metabolites from in vitro studies, consisting of eight phase I and three phase II metabolites. The identified biotransformation products encompassed processes such as hydroxylation, chlorine substitution, methylation, N‐oxide formation, and even the dissociation of methylenecyclopropane and difluoromethane. Furthermore, the study identified three glucuronic acid and one sulfonic acid conjugated phase II metabolites of the investigated drug candidate. The aforementioned findings contribute to the detection and comprehension of the unauthorized utilization of roflumilast in equestrian sports.
Cilostazol in patients with heart failure and preserved ejection fraction—The CLIP‐HFpEF trial
Authors: Aiad Norman , du Fay de Lavallaz Jeanne , Zhang Michael J. , Chaikijurajai Thanat , Ye Bo , Nijjar Prabhjot S. , Lahiri Julie A. , Martin Cindy M. , Alexy Tamas , Meyer Markus
Published: November 2024

Background and Aims

Patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) tend to have low resting and exercise heart rates. Phosphodiesterase‐3 (PDE‐3) inhibitors improve heart rates, haemodynamics and symptoms in patients with HFpEF. Cilostazol is an oral PDE‐3 inhibitor used in peripheral artery disease. This study thought to evaluate the short‐term effects of cilostazol on health status, N‐terminal brain natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP) levels and mechanisms of action.

Methods

The effect of cilostazol was evaluated in 23 patients with HFpEF in a randomized placebo controlled multiple crossover trial (CLIP‐HFpEF). Participants received placebo or cilostazol for 1 week followed by three crossovers to the alternate assignment at weeks 2, 3 and 4. The primary endpoint was the Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire (KCCQ‐12) overall summary score obtained at the end of each treatment period. NT‐proBNP was the secondary endpoint. In an exploratory mechanistic analysis, pulmonary artery (PA) pressures and heart rates were followed amongst the five participants with implanted pressure monitors.

Results

Cilostazol improved the KCCQ score by 4.8 points (95% confidence interval, 2.0–7.7, P = 0.003). NT‐proBNP levels were 448 (154–1056) pg/mL on placebo and 375 (68–974) pg/mL on cilostazol (P = 0.006). In patients with PA pressure monitors, diastolic pressure was 20.5 (18.7–23.0) mmHg on placebo and 18.0 (17.0–20.0) mmHg on cilostazol, an effect linked to higher heart rates (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Amongst patients with HFpEF, short‐term treatment with cilostazol leads to improvements in health status and NT‐proBNP when compared with placebo. These effects are likely conveyed by a heart rate‐dependent reduction in cardiac filling pressures.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05126836.
Outcome Analysis of Solitary Extramedullary Plasmacytoma in the Head and Neck: A Clinical Perspective
Authors: Chuang Po‐Wen , Chuang Wen‐Yu , Lee Ta‐Jen , Chang Po‐Hung , Chen Yi‐Wei , Fu Chia‐Hsiang
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Solitary extramedullary plasmacytomas (SEP) of the head and neck are rare and pose unique challenges. This study aimed to explore the clinical spectrum and treatment outcomes of these neoplasms using multimodal management.

Methods

A retrospective review of 13 patients with SEP of the head and neck. Data on demographics, clinical presentation, diagnostics, treatment, and survival outcomes were analyzed.

Results

One patient refused the treatment and was lost to follow‐up. Another one received operation alone. The other 11 patients underwent surgical resection when feasible and showed favorable responses to radiation. Two of them (16.7%) experienced local recurrence, and another two patients (16.7%) progressed to multiple myeloma (MM) within the first 2 years following the initial treatment. Tumor > 2.6 cm significantly affected the post‐radiation prognosis.

Conclusion

Although radiotherapy yields favorable immediate outcomes in our limited case series, a subset of cases progresses to MM within the initial 2 years. Despite all tumors being categorized as Stage I, tumor size may still influence prognosis.
Hardware Complication Risks in Head and Neck Cancer Patients Undergoing Reconstructive Surgery With Segmental Mandibulectomy
Authors: Chen Kevin Yu‐Ting , Chen Angela Chien‐Yu , Tsao Chung‐Kan , Hung Shao‐Yu , Cheong David Chon‐Fok , Kao Huang‐Kai
Published: November 2024

Background

The primary objective of this study was to ascertain the risk factors associated with hardware complications following segmental mandibular reconstruction in head and neck cancer patients. Additionally, we sought to develop a nomogram model that enables accurate risk prediction.

Methods

Patients who underwent segmental mandibulectomy with immediate free or local regional tissue transfer between January 2016 and December 2020 were reviewed. Hardware complications were defined. Patient demographics and perioperative parameters were analyzed.

Results

A total of 510 patients were analyzed. Postoperative radiation therapy (OR = 2.296, 95% CI = 1.339–3.938, p = 0.003), postoperative wound infection (OR = 2.367, 95% CI = 1.472–3.806, p < 0.001), and debridement for flap‐related complications (OR = 5.484, 95% CI = 3.269–9.199, p < 0.001) were identified as independent risk factors. The nomogram model demonstrated good discriminatory ability.

Conclusion

This comprehensive analysis identified three independent risk factors, and the nomogram provides a valuable tool for predicting the risks. Further research is needed to validate these findings and explore preventive strategies.
Analytical Investigation on Flow Reversal in a Fully Developed Steady Mixed Convection Flow With Boundary Condition of the Third Kind
Authors: Jha Basant K. , Hussaini Ayyub M. , Altine Muhammad M.
Published: November 2024

This work presents exact solutions to analyze the effect of the Biot number on mixed convection flow in a vertical channel with asymmetric heating and flow reversal. The equations governing flow formation and temperature distributions are offered with convective boundary conditions. Closed‐form solutions for temperature, velocity, and skin friction are found and simulated graphically.