bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A modified Koch‐snowflake monopole antenna for short‐range radio frequency identification reader and C band applications
Authors: Das Tanmaya Kumar , Dwivedy Biswajit , Behera Santanu Kumar
Published: August 2024

In this research work, the design and analysis of a compact microstrip antenna having a monopole structure with 64.86% of wide bandwidth is presented. The main radiator of the structure is a fractal‐based geometry with the shape of a half‐Koch snowflake, and the ground plane is partial (defected ground). The design methodology of the antenna is presented using analytical modeling, and the structure prototype is fabricated to verify the performance. Measurement outcomes confirm the −10 dB bandwidth in range of 4–7.84 GHz, thus covering approximately the C‐band with omnidirectional radiation patterns. The proposed antenna shows a peak realized gain of 3.4 dBi at 7.2 GHz and has an overall dimension of 0.33λ × 0.49λ × 0.03λ, at 5.8 GHz. The structure is found compact compared to some recently reported designs and the read range is found to be 1.98 cm at 5.8 GHz. The read range and validation of the propagation test indicate the suitability of the compact and wideband planar antenna in various short‐range reader applications.
On the performance of multiple‐IRS aided wireless networks over Nakagami‐m fading channels
Authors: Hindustani R. K. , Dixit Dharmendra , Sharma Sanjeev
Published: August 2024

Multiple intelligent reflecting surfaces (IRS) in a wireless system are considered to enhance performance, efficiency, and flexibility in wireless networks. In this paper, we analyze outage probability (OP) for multiple IRS panels‐assisted wireless systems over Nakagami‐
fading channels. We focus on selecting the best IRS panel to maintain the quality of service and enhance the user experience. We derive two closed‐form OP expressions using the central limit theorem and Laguerre series expansion. Additionally, we develop a novel asymptotic OP expression and obtain a novel diversity order. The diversity order of the considered system model depends on the minimum fading parameter (
) between the transmitter‐IRS panel and IRS panel‐receiver links and the number of IRS panels. We thoroughly investigate the impact of system parameters and validate our analytical results with simulations. Our findings emphasize that diversity order depends on the minimum fading parameter (
) between the transmitter‐IRS panel and IRS panel‐receiver links, the number of IRS elements in each panel, and the number of IRS panels.
Hydrocortisone treatment as a tool to study conjunctival placode induction
Authors: Drake Paige M. , Franz‐Odendaal Tamara A.
Published: August 2024

Background

Conjunctival placodes are a series of placodes that develop into the conjunctival (scleral) papillae and ultimately induce a series of scleral ossicles in the eyes of many vertebrates. This study establishes a hydrocortisone injection procedure (incl. dosage) that consistently inhibits all conjunctival papillae in the embryonic chicken eye. The effects of this hydrocortisone treatment on apoptosis, vasculature, and placode‐related gene expression were assessed.

Results

Hydrocortisone treatment does not increase apoptotic cell death or have a major effect on the ciliary artery or vascular plexus in the eye. β‐catenin and Eda expression levels were not significantly altered following hydrocortisone treatment, despite the absence of conjunctival papillae. Notably, Fgf20 expression was significantly reduced following hydrocortisone treatment, and the distribution of β‐catenin was altered.

Conclusions

Our study showed that conjunctival papillae induction begins as early as HH27.5 (E5.5). Hydrocortisone treatment reduces Fgf20 expression independently of β‐catenin and Eda and may instead affect other members of the Wnt/β‐catenin or Eda/Edar pathways, or it may affect the ability of morphogens to diffuse through the extracellular matrix. This study contributes to a growing profile of gene expression data during placode development and enhances our understanding of how some vertebrate eyes develop these fascinating bones.
Nutritional analysis of vegan recipes: From social media to plate
Authors: Yoldaş Tuba , Kaya Gözde Sultan , Parmaksız Ayhan , Işıklar Handan , Günalan Elif
Published: August 2024

The study aimed to determine the nutritional composition of vegan recipes shared on the Instagram social media platform and to compare these ingredients with their non‐vegan/omnivorous versions. Turkish and English vegan recipes of meatballs (n = 53), burgers (n = 12), pizza (n = 15), pasta (n = 38), cake (n = 58), and cookies (n = 52) were obtained from Instagram. They all met the criteria of being shared as #vegan labeled, presented detailed information about ingredients, and only included plant‐based ingredients. Afterward, non‐vegan/omnivorous recipes (n = 228) were determined as equivalent to the vegan recipes in each food group, and a total of 456 recipes were evaluated. The amounts of macro‐ and micronutrients per 100‐gram serving were obtained by the Nutritional Data System (BeBiS). According to the outcomes, the most significant differences in nutritional composition were found between vegan and non‐vegan meatball recipes. The levels of cholesterol and B12 were significantly lower in English vegan recipes of meatballs, pasta, cake, and cookies compared to their non‐vegan versions (p < .05). Consuming different vegan foods throughout the day could provide complementary nutrient intake and sustainable optimal health. Nevertheless, recipe‐based updates could be an innovative approach in future vegan studies. In addition, analysis of vegan recipes could be considered to modulate vegan supplementation programs.
Prognostic value of the “dynamic” R2‐ISS in patients with multiple myeloma undergoing anti‐CD38 antibody‐based triplet therapies
Authors: Kikuchi Taku , Oda Yuki , Kondo Ukyo , Tsukada Nobuhiro , Kunisada Kodai , Matsumoto Chiaki , Nomura‐Yogo Moe , Sato Kota , Takei Tomomi , Ogura Mizuki , Abe Yu , Suzuki Kenshi , Hosoya Osamu , Ishida Tadao
Published: August 2024

To retrospectively analyze whether the second revision of the international staging system (R2‐ISS) influenced prognosis at treatment initiation in patients with multiple myeloma (MM) receiving anti‐CD38 antibody‐based triplet treatments. High‐risk chromosomal abnormalities were examined from diagnosis to treatment initiation and considered positive if detected once. R2‐ISS was recalculated at the initiation of treatment and defined as “dynamic R2‐ISS." Data from 150 patients who underwent the defined treatments were analyzed. The median progression‐free survival (PFS) was 19.5 months, and the median overall survival (OS) was 36.5 months. Dynamic R2‐ISS significantly stratified prognoses for both PFS and OS. The median PFS for patients with dynamic R2‐ISS IV was 3.3 months, and the median OS was 11.7 months, indicating extremely poor outcomes. Although the Revised International Staging System (R‐ISS) calculated at the initiation of treatment significantly stratified treatment outcomes, the patients classified as R‐ISS could be further stratified by R2‐ISS to provide better prognostic information. Dynamic R2‐ISS showed potential as a prognostic tool in patients with MM who are treated with anti‐CD38 antibody‐based triplet therapies.
Implementing a real‐time patient experience feedback in inpatient rehabilitation: Process evaluation informed by the normalisation process theory
Authors: Struhar Jan , Walters Taylor , Gracz Kristen , Sheth Mansi , Fernandez Andrea , Lopez Courtney , Jesus Tiago S.
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Near real‐time patient experience feedback (NRTPEF) can enable a patient‐centric, immediate service recovery but has not been widely used in inpatient rehabilitation. We 1) assess the utility, feasibility, and acceptability of implementing a new NRTPEF, perceived by patients and providers; and 2) understand how the NRTPEF became embedded into routine provider practices.

Materials and Methods

Mixed methods process evaluation of the 8‐month implementation of an innovative NRTPEF in an inpatient rehabilitation unit, using interviews and focus groups with all the service‐unit leaders and interviews with a randomised sample of patients. Beyond descriptive statistics and content analysis, the Normalisation Process Theory (NPT) informed a framework analysis.

Results

Patients and service‐unit leaders perceived high utility in the NRTPEF (median: 9 for both; 0–10 scale) and qualitative comments emphasised the value of providing/obtaining timely feedback. The system was found feasible and acceptable for patients (median: 9.5), but with an improvement margin for providers (median: 7.3). Suggestions include strengthening the data‐relay format. Even in the pilot form, providers found the NRTPEF became embedded into practice (median 10; average: 8.6). The analysis based on the NPT shows how providers saw differential value, engaged with, and used the patient feedback into reconfigured practices.

Conclusion

An innovative NRTPEF was found useful, feasible and acceptable, but with refinement opportunities before scale‐up.
The mortality burden of cachexia or weight loss in patients with colorectal or pancreatic cancer: A systematic literature review
Authors: Dunne Richard F. , Crawford Jeffrey , Smoyer Karen E. , McRae Thomas D. , Rossulek Michelle I. , Revkin James H. , Tarasenko Lisa C. , Bonomi Philip D.
Published: August 2024

Cancer‐associated cachexia is a multifactorial wasting disorder characterized by anorexia, unintentional weight loss (skeletal muscle mass with or without loss of fat mass), progressive functional impairment, and poor prognosis. This systematic literature review (SLR) examined the relationship between cachexia and survival in patients with colorectal or pancreatic cancer in recent literature. The SLR was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. Embase® and PubMed were searched to identify articles published in English between 1 January 2016 and 10 October 2021 reporting survival in adults with cancer and cachexia or at risk of cachexia, defined by international consensus (IC) diagnostic criteria or a broader definition of any weight loss. Included publications were studies in ≥100 patients with colorectal or pancreatic cancer. Thirteen publications in patients with colorectal cancer and 13 with pancreatic cancer met eligibility criteria. Included studies were observational and primarily from Europe and the United States. Eleven studies (42%) reported cachexia using IC criteria and 15 (58%) reported any weight loss. An association between survival and cachexia or weight loss was assessed across studies using multivariate (n = 23) or univariate (n = 3) analyses and within each study across multiple weight loss categories. Cachexia/weight loss was associated with a statistically significantly poorer survival in at least one weight loss category in 16 of 23 studies that used multivariate analyses and in 1 of 3 studies (33%) that used univariate analyses. Of the 17 studies demonstrating a significant association, 9 were in patients with colorectal cancer and 8 were in patients with pancreatic cancer. Cachexia or weight loss was associated with significantly poorer survival in patients with colorectal or pancreatic cancer in nearly two‐thirds of the studies. The classification of weight loss varied across and within studies (multiple categories were evaluated) and may have contributed to variability. Nonetheless, awareness of cachexia and routine assessment of weight change in clinical practice in patients with colorectal or pancreatic cancer could help inform prognosis and influence early disease management strategies.
Unusual late‐onset hypertrophic pyloric stenosis in an adolescent girl with down syndrome: Case report and review of the literature
Authors: Chiodi Annalisa , Escolino Maria , Di Mento Claudia , Salvati Vincenzo , Mazzone Valerio , Esposito Giorgia , Porcaro Mauro , Esposito Ciro
Published: August 2024

A 16‐year‐old girl with down syndrome came to our attention for recurrent postprandial vomiting and significant weight loss (>5 kgs). Diagnostic assessment (barium swallow study, ultrasonography, and CT) confirmed hypertrophic pyloric stenosis (HPS). Initial attempt with endoscopic dilation was not successful. The patient underwent Heineke–Mikulicz pyloroplasty. Full oral feeding was achieved by Day 7 postoperatively. At 6‐month follow‐up, the patient reported relief of symptoms, normal feeding habits and substantial weight gain. HPS should be considered in the differential diagnosis of recurrent vomiting, regardless of age. A comprehensive diagnostic work‐up, including ultrasonography, endoscopy, and CT, is recommended to confirm the diagnosis.
Evaluating physiological barriers to oral intake in hospitalized patients: A secondary analysis
Authors: Viner Smith Elizabeth , Kouw Imre W. K. , Summers Matthew J. , Louis Rhea , Chapman Marianne J. , Chapple Lee‐anne S.
Published: August 2024

Background

Oral intake in hospitalized patients is frequently below estimated targets. Multiple physiological symptoms are proposed to impact oral intake, yet many have not been quantified objectively.

Aim

To describe the challenges of objectively measuring physiological nutrition‐impacting symptoms in hospitalized patients.

Method

A secondary analysis of data from a single‐center, descriptive cohort study of physiological nutrition‐impacting symptoms in intensive care unit (ICU) survivors and general medical patients was conducted. Demographic and clinical characteristics were extracted for patients who completed the original study and collected retrospectively for those who were screened and recruited but did not complete the original study. Reasons for patient exclusion from the original study were quantified from the screening database. Descriptive data are reported as mean ± SD, median [interquartile range], or number (percentage).

Results

ICU survivors and general medical patients were screened for inclusion in the original study between March 1 and December 23, 2021. Of the 644 patients screened, 97% did not complete the study, with 93% excluded at screening. Of the 266 ICU survivors and 398 general medical patients screened, 89% and 95% were excluded, respectively. Major exclusion criteria included the inability to follow commands or give informed consent (n = 155, 25%), the inability to consume the easy‐to‐chew and thin‐fluid buffet meal, and imminent discharge (both, n = 120, 19%).

Conclusion

Understanding physiological factors that drive reduced oral intake in hospitalized patients is challenging. Exclusion criteria required to objectively quantify physiological nutrition‐impacting symptoms significantly preclude participation and likely act as independent barriers to oral intake.
Travel market maven in a traditional marketplace
Authors: Taheri Babak , Olya Hossein , Kim Jinkyung Jenny
Published: August 2024

Market mavenism enhances the economic impacts of tourism. Using a convergent parallel mixed‐methods design, first, a quantitative study tests a conceptual model supported by goal‐setting theory to stimulate market mavenism in the traditional marketplace. Quantitative data are used to apply structural equation modeling and analysis of necessity to assess the sufficiency and necessity of market maven antecedents, respectively. The effect of nationality and travel types on the study variables are also investigated. Second, a qualitative study conducts interviews to explore mechanisms of market maven development through experience with the market in a traditional marketplace. Confusion proneness and choice confidence are sufficient and necessary predictors of market mavenism. Evaluation costs and final negative affect are sufficient but unnecessary to achieve market mavenism. Asian consumers receive a greater market maven experience compared to consumers from other regions.
The role of gender in shaping the destination service quality and its consequences
Authors: Tosun Cevat , Dedeoglu Bekir Bora , Usakli Ahmet
Published: August 2024

This study investigates the moderating role of gender on the relationships between destination service quality, affective image, and revisit intention. A convenience sample of 1768 visitors to Macau was surveyed and 1424 useable questionnaires were analyzed. The destination service quality was measured using seven dimensions: (1) accommodation, (2) local transport, (3) cleanliness, (4) hospitality, (5) activities, (6) language communication, and (7) airport services. The data was analyzed using covariance‐based structural equation modeling. The results indicate that “accommodation, local transport, hospitality, and airport services” have positive effects on affective image, and affective image, in turn, positively influences revisit intention. The study also reveals three significant findings regarding the moderating role of gender. While the positive impact of hospitality on affective image were found to be stronger for female visitors, the positive impacts of local transport and airport services on affective image were found to be stronger for male visitors.
Color and naturalness: How color saturation shapes tourists' perception and purchase intention
Authors: Zhang Ke , Hou Yuansi , Li Gang
Published: August 2024

Many tourist destinations and hospitality companies are using the idea of “naturalness” to attract consumers in the post‐pandemic era. The current research explores the impact of color, a fundamental element in tourism marketing materials, on shaping tourists' perceptions of naturalness and subsequent purchase intention. Through three experimental studies, our research reveals a lay belief that associates color saturation with naturalness perception. While prior research has indicated that highly saturated colors can positively impact consumers, our findings suggest that this effect may not always hold. Specifically, low color saturation in tourism marketing materials increased tourists' perceptions of naturalness and purchase intentions. These findings contribute to the theoretical development of color psychology and support the development of sustainable tourism and hospitality practices that prioritize managing natural resources.
Safety of Percutaneous Dilatational Tracheostomy in Critically Ill Adults With Obesity: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Siafa Lyna , El‐Malt Farida , Roy Catherine F. , Kost Karen M.
Published: August 2024

Objective

This study aimed to assess the safety and efficacy of endoscopic percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy (PDT) in obese and nonobese critically ill adults.

Methods

A retrospective study of all cases of PDT performed at two academic health centers between 2016 and 2023 was conducted. Primary outcomes included peri‐ and postoperative complications stratified by both timing and severity. body mass index (BMI) data were stratified according to the World Health Organization classification (class I obesity defined as BMI ≥ 30, class II obesity ≥35 and <40, class 3 obesity ≥40).

Results

Totally 336 patients underwent a PDT, 279 of whom had available BMI data: 193 (69.2%) patients had a normal BMI, 56 (20.1%) had class I obesity, 15 (5.4%) class II obesity, and 15 (5.4%) class III obesity. The overall complication rates for the class I, II, and III obesity were 8.9%, 13.3%, and 13.3%, respectively. All procedures were successfully completed at the bedside (no conversions to an open approach), and there was no procedure‐related mortality. The only accidental decannulation event was in a patient with class III obesity. There was no difference in overall complication rates between patients without obesity and patients with obesity (7.3% vs. 10.5%, respectively, p = 0.370).

Conclusion

This study significantly expands the current literature and represents one of the largest studies to date reporting on PDT in patients with obesity.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 134:5015–5020, 2024
Optics‐Enabled Highly Scalable Inverter for Multi‐Valued Logic
Authors: Kaushal Saket , Aadhi A. , Roberge Anthony , Morandotti Roberto , Kashyap Raman , Azaña José
Published: August 2024

The rapid advancements in machine learning have exacerbated the interconnect bottleneck inherent in binary logic‐based computing architectures. An interesting approach to tackle this problem involves increasing the information density per interconnect, i.e., by switching from a two‐valued to a multi‐valued logic (MVL) architecture. However, current MVL implementations offer limited overall performance and face challenges in scaling to process data signals with radix (number of logic levels) even just above 3. In this work, a novel concept is introduced for implementation of a highly scalable and fully passive inverter based on the frequency‐domain phase‐only linear manipulation of the input MVL data signal, which is encoded in the amplitude variations of an electromagnetic wave along the time axis. As a key advantage, this solution is entirely independent of the input radix. The proposed design is implemented using an optical fibre Bragg grating device. Inversion of quaternary signals is experimentally demonstrated, as well as binary and ternary signals, at a remarkable operation speed of 32 GBaud, with an estimated energy consumption of 24 fJ/bit. The proposed method is universal and can be applied to any system that supports transmission and detection of coherent waves, such as microwave, plasmonic, mechanical, or quantum.
Harnessing the Photoperformance of N‐Methyl‐Quinolinone for Gated Photo‐Driven Cyclability and Reversible Photoligation
Authors: Streicher Moritz , Stamp Claas‐Hendrik , Kluth Marco Dante , Ripp Alexander , Calvino Céline
Published: August 2024

[2π + 2π]‐photocycloadditions and their ability to trigger controlled and reversible photoligation through disparate wavelengths provide an attractive platform to unlock advanced functionalities in soft materials. Yet, among the limited amount of functional motifs enabling reversible photoreactions, cyclability is often overlooked due to poor reaction yield and orthogonality. In this study, the advantageous photocharacteristics of the previously underexplored N‐methyl‐quinolinone photoresponsive motif are leveraged to create a covalent gated system, enabling controlled formation and cleavage of covalent bonds on demand. A systematic evaluation of individual cycloadditions and reversions on the molecular scale, including reaction rates, conversions, and photoproducts, allows identification of the required conditions for generating controlled photoreactions with a remarkable degree of cyclability; while, maintaining high reaction yields. Ultimately, these controlled and cyclable reactions are translated to a macromolecular scale, showcasing a comparable performance in initiating reversible photoligation, as observed at the molecular level. In addition, it is also shown that this progressive methodology can be leveraged to gain a comprehensive understanding of cyclability and clarify the factors contributing to its decreasing yield. Overall, unlocking the potential of quinolinone derivatives through this step‐by‐step approach lays the foundation for the development of highly controlled and responsive polymer materials with unprecedented potential.
Transfusional hemosiderosis in childhood cancer patients and survivors
Authors: Baskin‐Miller Jacquelyn , Carson Susan , Jaffray Julie , Fletcher Craig , Singer Jessie , Freyer David R. , Wood John , Coates Thomas D. , Denton Christopher C.
Published: August 2024

Background

Children treated for cancer are at risk for adverse effects of iron due to transfusions administered during prolonged marrow suppression, which may increase exposure to toxic forms of iron, extrahepatic iron accumulation, and long‐term organ damage.

Objective

This study aimed to characterize the severity and organ distribution of clinically significant, multisystem iron overload (IO) in an at‐risk cohort of pediatric cancer patients.

Methods

This was a retrospective, cross‐sectional study of childhood cancer patients who underwent a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) due to clinical concern for IO. Data regarding cancer type and treatment, transfusion history, MRI and laboratory results, and treatment for IO were collected. Severity of IO was analyzed by non‐parametric tests with respect to clinical characteristics.

Results

Of the 103 patients, 98% of whom had a Cancer Intensity Treatment Rating (ITR‐3) of 3 or higher, 53% (54/102) had moderate or greater hepatic siderosis, 80% (77/96) had pancreatic siderosis, 4% (3/80) had cardiac siderosis, and 45% (13/29) had pituitary siderosis and/or volume loss. Pancreatic iron was associated with both cardiac (p = .0043) and pituitary iron (p = .0101). In the 73 off‐therapy patients, ferritin levels were lower (p = .0008) with higher correlation with liver iron concentration (LIC) (p = .0016) than on‐therapy patients. Fifty‐eight subjects were treated for IO.

Conclusion

In this heavily treated cohort of pediatric cancer patients, more than 80% had extrahepatic iron loading, which occurs with significant exposure to toxic forms of iron related to decreased marrow activity in setting of transfusions. Further studies should examine the effects of exposure to reactive iron on long‐term outcomes and potential strategies for management.
GPCR Signaling: A Study of the Interplay Between Structure, Energy, and Function
Authors: Chalopin Yann
Published: August 2024

G protein‐coupled receptors (GPCRs) exemplify sophisticated allosteric communication, transducing extracellular signals through ligand‐induced structural rearrangements that resonate through the molecular scaffold. Despite extensive study, the biophysical underpinnings of how conformational changes spread remain unclear. This work employs a novel physics‐based framework to characterize the role of energy dissipation in directing intramolecular signaling pathways. By modeling each residue as a network of coupled oscillators, we generate a localization landscape depicting the vibrational energy distribution throughout the protein scaffold. Quantifying directional energy flux between residues reveals distinct pathways for energy and information transfer, illuminating sequences of allosteric communication. Our analysis of CB1 and CCR5 crystal structures unveils an anisotropic pattern of energy dissipation aligning with key functional dynamics, such as activation‐related conformational changes. These anisotropic patterns of vibrational energy flow constitute pre‐configured channels for allosteric signaling. Elucidating the relationship between structural topology and energy dissipation patterns provides key insights into the thermodynamic drivers of conformational signaling. This methodology significantly advances our mechanistic understanding of allostery in GPCRs and presents a broadly applicable approach for rationally dissecting allosteric communication pathways, with potential implications for structure‐based drug design targeting these critical receptors.
Establishing a limited‐area model based on a global model: A consistency study
Authors: Zhang Yi , Liu Zhuang , Wang Yiming , Chen Siyuan
Published: August 2024

A limited‐area model (LAM) is established based on a global model (Global–Regional Integrated Forecast System; GRIST). GRIST–LAM inherits all the technical features of its global counterpart, enabling independent regional weather and climate modeling. The key advancement involves extending the original dynamical core to integrate it under the lateral boundary conditions (LBCs). As an initial development and evaluation study, this paper focuses on the consistency issue between the LAM and the global model. Three perfect‐model tests, using global solutions as LBCs and background truths, were performed to evaluate the LAM behaviors. In the pure dynamical core test, the LBC errors do not compromise the solutions within the interior domain. However, certain configurations can lead to more discontinuous solutions at the domain boundary. The solution error for a specified region decreases as the domain size increases when all other factors are equal. A small error pulse is generated during the initial stage of integration due to the presence of artificial transient waves induced by the LBCs. The model generates fine‐scale details and smaller errors based on coarser‐resolution LBCs. The consistency between LAM and LBC also influences the errors. The climate simulations demonstrate that both hydrostatic and non‐hydrostatic LAMs can reach statistical equilibrium. Regional model climates in the interior domain have higher quality but are sensitive to domain size and LBC configuration. Using a variable LBC coefficient is helpful to alleviate the artificial precipitation at the boundary. In the kilometer‐scale test, the global variable‐resolution model and its LAM counterpart show comparable results. Their performance is competitive with that of a uniform‐resolution global storm‐resolving simulation. Global variable‐resolution and LAM generate higher magnitudes in the tail part of the kinetic energy spectra due to higher local resolution and produce a consistent time evolution of precipitation. The broad implication of this study is also discussed.
High‐Energy Polynitrogen N10 Stabilized on Multi‐Walled Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Hou Tianyang , Guo Ke , Zhu Jiawei , Xu Ze , Zhang Xiaopeng , Zhang Kan , Lu Ming , Tao Li , Xu Yuangang
Published: August 2024

The synthesis of stable polynitrogen compounds with high‐energy density has long been a major challenge. The cyclo‐pentazolate anion (cyclo‐N5−) is successfully converted into aromatic and structurally symmetric bipentazole (N10) via electrochemical synthesis using highly conductive multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) as the substrate and sodium pentazolate hydrate ([Na(H2O)(N5)]·2H2O) as the raw material. Attenuated total refraction Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and density functional theory calculations confirmed the structure and homogeneous distribution of N10 in the sidewalls of the MWCNTs (named MWCNT‐N10‐n m). The MWCNT‐N10‐2.0 m is further used as a catalyst for electrochemical oxygen reduction to synthesize hydrogen peroxide from oxygen with a two‐electron selectivity of up to 95%.
Synthesis of Carboxyl‐Functionalized COFs with Alternate Stable β‐Ketoenamine and Benzimidazole Linkages: Unraveling Exceptional Solvent Effects for Efficient Uranium Separation
Authors: Liu Weijian , Li Xiaofeng , He Pan , Li Bo , Liu Ning , Li Yang , Ma Lijian
Published: August 2024

The prevalent π–π interactions in 2D covalent organic frameworks (COFs) impart a certain flexibility to the structures, making the stacking of COF layers susceptible to external stimuli and introducing some structural disorder. Recent research indicates that the flexibility between COF layers and the associated disorder significantly influence their selective adsorption performance toward gas molecules. However, the adsorption process in a solution environment is more complex compared to gas‐phase adsorption, involving interactions between adsorbents and adsorbates, as well as the solvation effects of flexible 2D COFs. Therefore, the inherent flexibility and disorder in 2D COFs under solution conditions and their impact on the adsorption performance of metal ions have not been observed yet. Herein, the synthesis of a novel carboxyl‐functionalized COF featuring stable β‐ketoenamine and benzimidazole linkages, named DMTP‐COOH, is presented. DMTP‐COOH exhibits excellent selective adsorption capability for uranium, with significantly different adsorption capacities observed after treatment with different solvents. This notable difference in adsorption capacity is observed under varying pH, concentration, time, and even in the presence of multiple competing ions. This work represents the first observation of the significant impact of solvent soaking treatment on the selective adsorption performance of COFs for uranium under liquid conditions.
Photo‐Activated Oxidative Stress Amplifier: A Strategy for Targeting Glutathione Metabolism and Enhancing ROS‐Mediated Therapy in Triple‐Negative Breast Cancer Treatment
Authors: Zhao Li , Tong Yao , Yin Jiawei , Li Hui , Du Lutao , Li Juan , Jiang Yanyan
Published: August 2024

Amplifying oxidative stress within tumor cells can effectively inhibit the growth and metastasis of triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC). Therefore, the development of innovative nanomedicines that can effectively disrupt the redox balance represents a promising yet challenging therapeutic strategy for TNBC. In this study, an oxidative stress amplifier, denoted as PBCH, comprising PdAg mesoporous nanozyme and a CaP mineralized layer, loaded with GSH inhibitor L‐buthionine sulfoximine (BSO), and further surface‐modified with hyaluronic acid that can target CD44, is introduced. In the acidic tumor microenvironment, Ca2+ is initially released, thereby leading to mitochondrial dysfunction and eventually triggering apoptosis. Additionally, BSO suppresses the synthesis of intracellular reduced GSH and further amplifies the level of oxidative stress in cancer cells. Furthermore, PdAg nanozyme can be activated by near‐infrared light to induce photothermal and photodynamic effects, causing a burst of ROS and simultaneously promoting cell apoptosis via provoking immunogenic cell death. The high‐performance therapeutic effects of PBCH, based on the synergistic effect of aforementioned multiple oxidative damage and photothermal ablation, are validated in TNBC cells and animal models, declaring its potential as a safe and effective anti‐tumor agent. The proposed approach offers new perspectives for precise and efficient treatment of TNBC.
In Situ Synthesis of High‐Entropy (Oxy)Hydroxides Via Electrochemical Reconfiguration As Catalysts For Efficient Water Oxidation
Authors: Shen Weilin , Du Yan , Liu Huibin , Tsang Chi‐Wing , Chen Xiao , Liang Changhai
Published: August 2024

Surface reconstruction plays a pivotal role in enhancing the activity of the oxygen evolution reaction (OER), particularly in terms of the structural transformation from metal oxides to (oxy)hydroxides. Herein, a novel (oxy)hydroxide (FeCoNiCuMoOOH) with high entropy is developed by the electrochemical reconstitution of corresponding oxide (FeCoNiCuMoOx). Significantly, the FeCoNiCuMoOOH exhibits much higher OER electrocatalytic activity and durability with an overpotential as low as 201 mV at a current density of 10 mA cm−2, and with a Tafel slope of 39.4 mV dec−1. The FeCoNiCuMoOOH/NF presents high stability when testing under a constant current at 100 mA cm−2 within 1000 h. The surface reconstruction is a process of dissolution‐reprecipitation of Cu and Mo species and co‐hydroxylation of five metal species, which ultimately leads to the formation of FeCoNiCuMoOOH from FeCoNiCuMoOx. This study holds great significance in the realm of designing high‐entropy (oxy)hydroxides catalysts with exceptional activity and stability for OER.
Pd Nanoparticle Size‐Dependent H* Coverage for Cu‐Catalyzed Nitrate Electro‐Reduction to Ammonia in Neutral Electrolyte
Authors: Zhu Hongbo , Wang Jiacheng Jayden , Xu Zian , Tan Yongwen , Wang Jiacheng
Published: August 2024

Electrochemical conversion of nitrate (NO3−) to ammonia (NH3) is an effective approach to reduce nitrate pollutants in the environment and also a promising low‐temperature, low‐pressure method for ammonia synthesis. However, adequate H* intermediates are highly expected for NO3− hydrogenation, while suppressing competitive hydrogen evolution. Herein, the effect of H* coverage on the NO3RR for ammonia synthesis by Cu electrocatalysts is investigated. The H* coverage can be adjusted by changing Pd nanoparticle sizes. The optimized Pd@Cu with an average Pd size of 2.88 nm shows the best activity for NO3RR, achieving a maximum Faradaic efficiency of 97% (at −0.8 V vs RHE) and an NH3 yield of 21 mg h−1 cm−2, from an industrial wastewater level of 500 ppm NO3–. In situ electrochemical experiments indicate that Pd particles with 2.88 nm can promote NO3− hydrogenation to NH3 via well‐modulated coverage of adsorbed H* species. Coupling the anodic glycerol oxidation reaction, ammonium and formate are successfully obtained as value‐added products in a membrane electrode assembly electrolyzer. This work provides a feasible strategy for obtaining size‐dependent H* intermediates for hydrogenation.
BELIEVE in collaboration: Effective evaluation partnerships for National Professional Development projects
Authors: Moore Raeal , Gimbert Belinda G. , Becce Melissa
Published: August 2024

Quality partnerships are imperative for successful project implementation. The partnership between project personnel and independent evaluators is often overlooked. In effective partnerships, both the evaluators and the education project management team collectively ensure that educational initiatives are well‐planned, executed, and assessed. This collaborative approach fosters a culture of continuous improvement and accountability, ultimately leading to better educational outcomes for English learner students, educators, and the community. This conceptual article highlights eight elements of an effective project management and evaluator partnership: (1) clear communication and collaboration, (2) goal alignment, (3) early planning for evaluation, (4) multi‐purpose evaluation activities, (5) shared responsibility, (6) feedback loops, (7) transparency, and (8) evaluation capacity building. The authors present these elements through the design, deployment, analysis, and use of the Better English Learners Instruction and Education in Varied Environments (BELIEVE) classroom observation tool. The tool was collaboratively created and deployed across two National Professional Development grants in response to the COVID‐19 pandemic, addressing the need for a tool that could be used in varying learning modes and capture how effectively classroom teachers were teaching academic content and literacy to English learners in elementary and middle schools. The article illustrates how this tool has been used by program personnel to inform the teacher–coach relationship and educate teachers and administrators about best practices, and by the evaluation team to assess the progress of teachers' use of research‐based practices to teach English learners.
Corrosion protection of mild steel in water‐in‐diesel emulsion using Ocimum gratissimum extract
Authors: Onuoha Chiamaka Prisca , Etim Ini‐ibehe Nabuk , Oguzie Emeka Emmanuel
Published: August 2024

Water‐in‐diesel emulsions (WiDEs) have been developed in recent times to assuage costs as well as to minimize lethal emissions from diesel combustion, without engine modification. This study investigated the stability behavior of WiDE and the corrosion inhibition efficacy of the ethanol extract of Ocimum gratissimum (O. gratissimum) toward mild steel. The corrosion susceptibility of mild steel coupons immersed in the different WiDE formulations was monitored using gravimetric and surface probe techniques. The anti‐corrosion effect of O. gratissimum was also assessed. The findings revealed that out of WiDE with three different water content, WiDE with 10% water content had optimal stability and emulsion stability declined with a rise in water content. The mild steel's corrosion rate decreased with a rise in exposure duration. The ethanol extract of O. gratissimum has a substantial impact on the corrosion behavior of mild steel in WiDE, reaching an inhibition efficiency of 91.58%. Also, the apparent surface roughness and roughness data (Sq, Sa,) of mild steel immersed in WiDE10 are higher than the WiDE10 inhibited with O. gratissimum extract, which shows that corrosion was reduced upon the addition of O. gratissimum extract. The FTIR spectra proved the adsorption of the extract constituents on the mild steel surface in WiDE.
Preventability of injury‐related morbidity & mortality at four hospitals in Cameroon: A systematic approach to trauma quality improvement
Authors: Zheng Dennis J. , Mbuh Lidwine Nsen , Oke Rasheedat , Tanjong Signe Mary Magdalene , Carvalho Melissa , Herman Banaken Louis , Guidam Débora , Mbengawoh Ndiformuche Zikirou , Nlong Mang René , Dissak‐Delon Fanny Nadia , Christie S. Ariane , Chichom‐Mefire Alain , Juillard Catherine
Published: August 2024

Background

Adverse events reviews are a fundamental component of trauma quality improvement (QI) that facilitate the correction of systemic issues in care. Although injury‐related mortality in Cameroon is substantial, to our knowledge, opportunities for QI have not been formally assessed. Thus, a formal review of adverse events in Cameroonian trauma patients was implemented as a first step toward identifying targets for systems modification.

Methods

A QI committee composed of multidisciplinary experts at four hospitals in Cameroon was formed to review adverse events including deaths among trauma patients from 2019 to 2021. Events were discussed at newly established morbidity and mortality conferences and committee meetings to identify contributing factors and overall preventability.

Results

During 50 meetings, 95 adverse events were reviewed, including 58 deaths (61%). Other adverse events were delays in diagnosis/treatment (22%) and surgical site infections (17%). Overall, 34 deaths (59%) were classified as preventable, 21% potentially preventable, and 21% not preventable. Over half (52%) of the 46 preventable or potentially preventable deaths occurred in the emergency department (ED); while brain injury (57%), respiratory failure (41%), and hemorrhage (39%) were the most frequent physiologic factors associated with mortality. Contributory factors identified include lack of a structured approach to patient management, absence of continuous training for personnel, and locally adapted protocols.

Conclusions

Basic improvements in evaluation and management of life‐threatening issues in the ED can significantly reduce the high rate of preventable trauma‐related deaths across Cameroon. Formal trauma QI methods can be utilized in low‐resource environments to determine mortality root causes and identify intervention targets.
Exploring the influence of morphology on magnetized Ree–Eyring tri‐hybrid nanofluid flow between orthogonally moving coaxial disks using artificial neural networks with Levenberg–Marquardt scheme
Authors: Rauf Abdul , Khan Hafiza Khadija , Shah Nehad Ali
Published: August 2024

The present study presents an analysis of Ree–Eyring tri‐hybrid nanofluid flow between two expanding/contracting disks with permeable walls by applying the computing power of Levenberg–Marquardt supervised neural networks (LM‐SNNs). The effects of thermal radiation, Brownian motion, and thermophoresis were also thoroughly examined. The results are presented for tri‐hybrid nanofluid with SWCNT and MWCNT and Fe2O3 and H2O base fluid. The coupled non‐linear PDE system is transformed into a system of ODE associated with convective boundary conditions by applying the appropriate transformations. This is then accomplished numerically by using the finite difference‐based BVP‐4c MATLAB code that implements the three‐stage Lobatto IIIA formula. The results are novel and have been validated with LM‐SNNs outcomes. It has been observed that both numerical outcomes and LM‐SNNs produce equivalent results, and both approaches exhibit a drop in the velocity profile for the magnetic field near the lower plate and a rise near the upper plate. The skin friction against the Prandtl number increases, whereas the Nusselt number decreases at the upper disc. Compared to BVP‐4c numerical approaches, the given LM‐SNNs model is more dependable, efficient, and time‐saving because it requires less work and produces results quickly.
Achievement Sets of Series in $$\mathbb {R}^2$$
Authors: Kula Mateusz , Nowakowski Piotr
Published: August 2024

We examine the properties of achievement sets of series in $$\mathbb {R}^2$$

R

2

. We show several examples of unusual sets of subsums on the plane. We prove that we can obtain any set of P-sums as a cut of an achievement set in $$\mathbb {R}^2.$$

R

2

.

We introduce a notion of the spectre of a set in an Abelian group, which is an algebraic version of the notion of the center of distances. We examine properties of the spectre and we use it, for example, to show that the Sierpiński carpet is not an achievement set of any series.
Conformal test martingales for hypergraphical models
Authors: Nouretdinov Ilia
Published: August 2024

In this work, we study applications of the Conformal Prediction machine learning framework to the questions of statistical data testing. This technique is also known as Conformal Test Martingales. Earlier works on this topic used it to detect deviations from exchangeability assumptions (such as change points). Here we move to test popular hypergraphical models. We adopt and compare two versions of Conformal Testing Martingales. First: testing the data against exchangeability assumption, but using the elements of hypergraphical model for setting its parameters. Second: combining Conformal Testing Martingale with Hypergraphical On-Line Compression Models. The latter is an extension of the Conformal Prediction technique beyond exchangeability.

We show how these approaches help to accelerate the detection of data deviation from i.i.d. by making use of the knowledge about relations between the features embedded into a hypergraphical model.
Classifying proportionality - identification of a legal argument
Authors: Lüders Kilian , Stohlmann Bent
Published: August 2024

Proportionality is a central and globally spread argumentation technique in public law. This article provides a conceptual introduction to proportionality and argues that such a domain-specific form of argumentation is particularly interesting for argument mining. As a major contribution of this article, we share a new dataset for which proportionality has been annotated. The dataset consists of 300 German Federal Constitutional Court decisions annotated at the sentence level (54,929 sentences). In addition to separating textual parts, a fine-grained system of proportionality categories was used. Finally, we used these data for a classification task. We built classifiers that predict whether or not proportionality is invoked in a sentence. We employed several models, including neural and deep learning models and transformers. A BERT-BiLSTM-CRF model performed best.
Minimal residual disease: premises before promises
Authors: Chin-Yee Benjamin
Published: August 2024

Minimal residual disease (MRD), a measure of residual cancer cells, is a concept increasingly employed in precision oncology, touted as a key predictive biomarker to guide treatment decisions. This paper critically analyzes the expanding role of MRD as a predictive biomarker in hematologic cancers. I outline the argument for MRD as a predictive biomarker, articulating its premises and the empirical conditions that must hold for them to be true. I show how these conditions, while met in paradigmatic cases of MRD use in cancer, may not hold across other cancers where MRD is currently being applied, weakening the argument that MRD serves as an effective predictive biomarker across cancer medicine.