bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Regulation of expression of murine transferrin receptor 2
Authors: Kawabata Hiroshi , Germain Rasha S. , Ikezoe Takayuki , Tong Xiangjun , Green Eric M. , Gombart Adrian F. , Koeffler H. Phillip
Published: July 2002

Complementary and genomic DNA for the murine transferrin receptor 2 (TfR2) were cloned and mapped to chromosome 5. Northern blot analysis showed that high levels of expression of murine TfR2 occurred in the liver, whereas expression of TfR1 in the liver was relatively low. During liver development, TfR2 was up-regulated and TfR1 was down-regulated. During erythrocytic differentiation of murine erythroleukemia (MEL) cells induced by dimethylsulfoxide, expression of TfR1 increased, whereas TfR2 decreased. In MEL cells, expression of TfR1 was induced by desferrioxamine, an iron chelator, and it was reduced by ferric nitrate. In contrast, levels of TfR2 were not affected by the cellular iron status. Reporter assay showed that GATA-1, an erythroid-specific transcription factor essential for erythrocytic differentiation at relatively early stages, enhanced TfR2 promoter activity. Interestingly, FOG-1, a cofactor of GATA-1 required for erythrocyte maturation, repressed the enhancement of the activity by GATA-1. Also, CCAAT-enhancer binding protein, which is abundant in liver, enhanced the promoter activity. Thus, tissue distribution of TfR2 was consistent with the reporter assays. Expression profiles of TfR2 were different from those of TfR1, suggesting unique functions for TfR2, which may be involved in iron metabolism, hepatocyte function, and erythrocytic differentiation.
The different process of class switching and somatic hypermutation; a novel analysis by CD27− naive B cells
Authors: Nagumo Haruo , Agematsu Kazunaga , Kobayashi Norimoto , Shinozaki Koji , Hokibara Sho , Nagase Hisashi , Takamoto Masaya , Yasui Kozo , Sugane Kazuo , Komiyama Atsushi
Published: July 2002

The relationship between class switch recombination (CSR) and somatic hypermutation has been unclear. By using human CD27− naive B cells, we investigated the somatic hypermutation and producibility of immunoglobulins (Igs) that occur after CSR. Although neither adult CD27− nor cord blood B cells, which showed the unmutated Ig V-region genes, produced IgG, IgM, or IgA in response to conventional stimuli, they produced IgG and IgM but not IgA in the presence of Staphylococcus aureus Cowan strain (SAC) + interleukin-2 (IL-2) + IL-10 + anti-CD40 mAb + CD32 transfectants (CD40/CD32T). The naive B cells also produced IgE when combined with IL-4 + CD40/CD32T. In parallel with IgG production, the expression of mature γ1 and γ 2 transcripts was induced from naive B cells by the stimuli. The CD27 expression on human naive B cells was induced remarkably by CD40 signaling or B-cell receptor engagement, but somatic hypermutation could not be induced. The proliferation and differentiation into plasma cells were induced from naive B cells, whereas most of the plasma cells displayed very low levels of mutations in Ig V-region genes. CD27− naive B cells expressed activation-induced cytidine deaminase messenger RNA by the stimuli later than CD27+memory B cells. Our results demonstrate that CSR, but not noticeable somatic hypermutation, can be induced from CD27− naive B cells upon B-cell receptor engagement and CD40 signaling in cooperation with cytokines, suggesting that CSR and somatic hypermutation processes can occur independently, and the antibodies produced in this in vitro system are low-affinity antibodies.
Phase I Study of the Cyclin-Dependent Kinase Inhibitor Flavopiridol in Combination With Paclitaxel in Patients With Advanced Solid Tumors
Authors: Schwartz Gary K. , O’Reilly Eileen , Ilson David , Saltz Leonard , Sharma Sunil , Tong William , Maslak Peter , Stoltz Maxine , Eden Larry , Perkins Pam , Endres Sandra , Barazzoul John , Spriggs David , Kelsen David
Published: July 2002

PURPOSE: Preclinical studies indicate that the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor flavopiridol potentiates the induction of apoptosis by paclitaxel, provided paclitaxel is followed by flavopiridol. We therefore designed a phase I clinical trial of sequential paclitaxel and flavopiridol.

PATIENTS AND METHODS: Paclitaxel was administered at a fixed dose, as either a 24- or 3-hour infusion on day 1, followed by a 24-hour infusion of flavopiridol on day 2. Doses of flavopiridol were escalated in successive cohorts according to a modified Fibonacci design. Flavopiridol pharmacokinetics were obtained on all patients.

RESULTS: Dose-limiting neutropenia developed with 24-hour paclitaxel doses of 135 and 100 mg/m2 and flavopiridol doses of 10 and 20 mg/m2, respectively. With 3-hour paclitaxel at 100 mg/m2, flavopiridol could be escalated to 70 mg/m2 without dose-limiting toxicity. With 3-hour paclitaxel next escalated to 135 mg/m2, dose-limiting neutropenia and pulmonary toxicity occurred when flavopiridol was escalated to 94 mg/m2. This did not correlate with any change in flavopiridol or paclitaxel pharmacokinetics. At a 3-hour paclitaxel dose of 175 mg/m2, dose-limiting pulmonary toxicity occurred in only one patient at flavopiridol doses under 94 mg/m2. Clinical activity was observed in patients with esophagus, lung, and prostate cancer, including patients who had progressed on paclitaxel.

CONCLUSION: The recommended phase II doses will be a 3-hour infusion of paclitaxel at 175 mg/m2 on day 1 followed by a 24-hour infusion of flavopiridol at 70 mg/m2 on day 2. Flavopiridol dose escalations to 80 mg/m2 are possible. At these doses, toxicities are manageable and clinical activity is promising.
Linear Antennas
Authors: Bhattacharyya Asoke K.
Published: November 2024

Historically, using a piece of radiating straight wire as an aerial, or antenna, was a natural choice for wireless communications. This radiating piece of straight wire without curvature is the linear antenna. A simple example of a linear antenna is a two‐wire transmission line carrying equal currents in opposite directions and hence no resultant radiation. A two‐wire transmission line may be bent to create an efficient radiator such as a dipole. We will describe key features of linear antennas in this article.
Transmitters for Analog Television
Authors: Collins Gerald W.
Published: November 2024

This article discusses the relevant technology and provides the information needed to understand the operation, design criteria, and some of the future developments of TV transmitters. Although this information is presented from the viewpoint of equipment used in the United States, the principles apply to analog TV broadcasting worldwide. Specific details and numerical constants may differ in other systems, but the fundamental principles are the same.
Digital Microwave Receivers
Authors: Luy Johann F. , Mueller TH.
Published: November 2024

Reducing complexity in RF systems is a challenge. Research for new broadband and multistandard antennas, high‐frequency bus concepts, and software‐configurable hardware platforms in order to fulfill the needs caused by an increasing number of communication and navigation standards are ongoing tasks.

The high‐speed building blocks of software‐configurable digital receivers are composed of lowpass or bandpass filters, sampling and analog‐to‐digital converter (ADC) circuits, and decimator functions that convert the high‐speed sampling rates into lower rates and higher resolution, respectively. The specific design of receiver hardware architecture is a compromise between the specifications of the services to be handled by the receiver and the availability of components.

The concept of bandpass‐limited subsampling (i.e., where the sampling frequency is lower than the carrier frequency) has become a very appropriate architectural approach as increasing cutoff frequency and speed of semiconductor technologies can be traded against resolution in this concept.

Direct sampling poses high requirements for the analog‐to‐digital converter (ADC). The requirements are reduced significantly if a six‐port digital receiver architecture is used. The functional principle of six‐port devices is based on the measurement of four independent output powers corresponding to the complex ratio between two superposed electromagnetic waves under different phase angles. The six‐port architecture can work under broadband conditions but may be disadvantageous compared to direct‐sampling receivers with respect to their dynamic properties.

Antialiasing filters are necessary components in ADCs. Three‐dimensional micromachined filter structures can provide high quality factors and low insertion losses at microwave and millimeter‐wave frequencies. Transimpedance amplifiers for a bandpass‐limited subsampling approach and limiting amplifiers can be designed and realized in commercial SiGe technology. The sampling circuit itself may use high‐speed Schottky diodes. Using these technologies, digital receivers are now approaching the millimeter‐wave range.
Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Jin Jian-Ming , Botha Matthys M.
Published: November 2024

The finite‐element method is a numerical procedure for obtaining approximate solutions to boundary value problems. It is a general, preeminent approach to solving a wide variety of problems occurring in engineering practice, including those in RF and microwave engineering. It is a powerful tool in the design and characterization of RF and microwave devices. The popularity of the finite‐element method can be ascribed to its ability to model very complex geometries and to deal with a variety of media, including inhomogeneous and anisotropic cases. Moreover, the method yields a very sparse matrix that can be generated, stored and solved efficiently. This article describes the basic principle, the numerical formulation, and some applications of the finite‐element method for analysis of electromagnetic problems in RF and microwave engineering. It also briefly discusses some computational aspects and advanced topics associated with the method.
Reflectometers, Time‐Domain
Authors: Rusek Andrew
Published: November 2024

Time-domain reflectometry
(TDR
) is one of the most useful methods of analyzing signal integrity in transmission media. This includes conventional “hardwired” devices such as cables, microstrip transmission lines, and other transmission paths found in radiofrequency, microwave, and high‐speed digital circuits and systems. This article describes the basic concepts of the TDR
technique as well as associated with a related technique:
time-domain transmission
(TDT
). Through the course of this article, conventional TDR
signal measurements related to various transmission‐line loads are demonstrated and discussed. In addition, a
differential
TDR
system is presented. Finally, TDR
/TDT
test results illustrating reflections due to parasitic effects, as well as
normalization techniques
in modern TDR
systems, are described.
Elliptic Filters
Authors: Noren Kenneth V. , Grimm Jerry Michael
Published: November 2024

This article provides an overview of elliptic filter synthesis for RF and microwave frequencies. The characteristics of an elliptic filter function are discussed and compared to other classical filter function responses. An overview of the mathematics of the lowpass elliptic filter function is discussed. Methods for transforming the low‐pass elliptic function to highpass, bandpass, and band‐reject functions are provide. The article concludes with a discussion of the realizations for RF and microwave elliptic filters and discusses issues related to RF and microwave elliptic filter synthesis.
Impedance Transformers and Matching Networks
Authors: Wu Ke , Deslandes Dominic , Cassivi Yves
Published: November 2024

Impedance transformers and matching networks are probably the most widely used building blocks in both passive and active radiofrequency (RF ) and microwave circuits, which can be found everywhere in various systems and applications. The transmission‐line technique is fundamental in the design of impedance transformers and matching networks at microwave frequencies, whatever distributed or lumped element platforms are used. This article presents the basic structures and electrical mechanisms of impedance transformers and matching networks as well as transmission‐line transitions, including typical balun structures. Properties and performances of various circuit elements are summarized, discussed, and compared. Popular examples are shown to highlight application aspects and technical features of practical impedance transformers and matching networks.
Surface Acoustic Wave Applications
Authors: Malocha Donald C.
Published: November 2024

Since the introduction of the surface acoustic wave (SAW) interdigital transducer in the late 1960s, SAW devices have tremendously affected a broad range of systems. The key to this technology is the ability to sense or tap a traveling electroacoustic wave on a piezoelectric substrate whose velocity is 105 times slower than an electromagnetic wave. The highest cost precision devices are typically used for military and satellite systems, which have the most demanding specifications; the intermediate cost devices are used in modest volume military man packs, military base stations, and commercial base stations; and the lowest cost devices are used in a broad range of commercial and consumer applications. In addition to device technological innovation, research and development on other propagating Rayleigh‐like modes, called pseudo‐SAW, and new substrate materials, such as lithium tetraborate and langasite, have provided lower loss, higher frequency, and wider bandwidth devices.
Thin Films
Authors: Wasa Kiyotaka , Setsune Kentaro
Published: November 2024

Thin film ferroelectric materials and hexagonal piezoelectric materials are essential for fabrication of electronic and/or photonic devices. Ferroelectric materials are dielectrics that have a spontaneous polarization with nonlinear hysteretic properties and show several unique properties including high dielectric permittivity, high piezoelectricity, high pyroelectricity, and high electrooptic characteristics. Thin film ferroelectric materials have a high potential for miniaturization and/or integration with the semiconductive devices. Thin films are also important to the understanding of ferroelectricity. Thin films are commonly fabricated by depositing individual atoms on a substrate. The film thickness is typically less than several micrometers.
Molecular Crowding Agent Modified Polyanionic Gel Electrolyte for Zinc Ion Batteries Operating at 100 °C
Authors: Huang Shimin , He Shenggong , Huang Shilin , Zeng Xianggang , Li Yanzhao , Noor Hadia , Hou Xianhua
Published: November 2024

Aqueous zinc‐ion batteries (AZIBs) attract attention due to their safety and high specific capacity. However, their practical applications are constrained by Zn anode corrosion, dendritic growth, and poor high‐temperature adaptability induced by a strong hydrogen‐bond network in aqueous electrolytes. In this work, a dual network polyanionic gel electrolyte (denoted as PAM‐PAMPS‐10PD) is developed capable of withstanding high temperatures (100 °C) by in situ polymerization. The abundant anionic groups in the gel electrolyte greatly improve Zn2+ transport and inducing uniform deposition of Zn2+. Then the addition of the high‐boiling molecular crowding agent 1,5‐pentanediol (PD) can inhibit the water activity by enhancing hydrogen bonding with H2O and changing the solvation structure of Zn2+ to inhibit Zn anode corrosion. As a result, the symmetric battery using the PAM‐PAMPS‐10PD gel electrolyte can be stably cycled for at least 500 h at 100 °C and 0.5 mA cm−2/0.5 mAh cm−2, realizing dendrite‐free zinc anodes at high temperatures. Moreover, the Zn–AC full battery has a capacity retention of 47.8% after 3000 cycles at 100 °C and 4 mA cm−2. This study provides a beneficial reference for the design of high‐performance high‐temperature gel electrolytes and establishes a solid foundation for the practical application of AZIBs.
Entropy and Enthalpy Co‐Tuning Strategy in Cu2‐yAgy(In0.06Sn0.94)Se2S System toward Excellent Thermoelectric Performance
Authors: Zhang Wanjia , Wu Fanshi , Hua Yezhen , Nie Haonan , Xu Pengfei , Zhao Wei , Wang Xiyang , Bang Shinhyo , Guo Xiaofeng , Lou Yue , Xu Biao
Published: November 2024

With the reduction in size, nanoparticles (NPs) exhibit unique chemical and physical properties due to surface effects and size‐dependent electronic bands. However, a significant challenge that limits their practical application is the tendency for grain growth at elevated temperatures. Herein, an entropic and enthalpic‐co‐stabilization strategy is employed in a series of high‐entropy Cu2‐yAgy(In0.06Sn0.94)Se2S materials. Remarkably, the grain size of these materials remains at 70 nm even after repeated tests up to 873 K. This stability has enabled to achieve an ultra‐low thermal conductivity (κtot) of 0.22 W m−1 K−1, a record‐high peak zT value of 1.76, and a high average zT value of 0.54 for nanostructured Cu1.73Ag0.27(In0.06Sn0.94)Se2S. Additionally, a high thermoelectric conversion efficiency of 4.5% for the segmented single‐leg module and 3.8% for the 2‐pair module at ΔT ≈ 460 K are achieved with the Cu2SnSe3‐based material, marking its debut in thermoelectric power generation. These findings provide a paradigm to stabilize grain size and improve the thermoelectric performance of nano‐sized high‐entropy materials (HEMs), presenting a promising avenue for substantial advancements across various applications.
Constructing Fast Ion/Electron Conducting Pathway within 3D Stable Scaffold for Dendrite‐Free Lithium Metal Anode
Authors: Liu Xueting , Tan Hongming , Li Yuting , Wu Heng , Wu Shijie , Yang Li , Liang Yaru , Xu Guobao , Huang Jianyu , Wang Gang , Su Jincang , Ou Xing
Published: November 2024

Utilizing limited Li‐metal (<10 mAh cm−2) is desirable to achieve high‐specific‐energy Li‐metal batteries (LMBs). However, the rapid Li‐metal depletion and anode pulverization severely restrict the cycle life of LMBs. Herein, 3D carbon‐based scaffold is proposed as a host to construct a composite Li‐metal anode (ZOS‐CF@Li) with a limited Li amount of 8 mAh cm−2 via molten Li infusion assisted by the lithiophilic ZnO/ZnS. In situ TEM reveals that the ZnO/ZnS can spontaneously convert into ionically conductive Li2O/Li2S and electronically conductive LiZn‐alloy, contributing to faster ion/electron transport and favorable dendrite‐free deposition. The experiment results combined with theoretical calculations confirm that the inorganic Li‐salts with high elastic modulus and super lithiophilicity enable homogenous electric field distribution and reduced Li‐diffusion energy barriers. Therefore, the ZOS‐CF@Li anode exhibits stable cycling over 1100 h with low overpotential under 5 mAh cm−2 in the symmetric cell. Furthermore, stable cycle performances coupled with high mass loading of LiFePO4 (20 mg cm−2) and LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 (18 mg cm−2) at low N/P ratios of 2.38 and 2.25 are achieved in the full‐cells, respectively. The Li||LFP pouch‐cell can maintain a high‐capacity retention of 97.7% after 90 cycles. This work will shed light on the design of a carbon‐based host for building stable Li‐anode in high‐energy‐density LMBs.
Ultrahigh Plateau‐Capacity Sodium Storage by Plugging Open Pores
Authors: Peng Jiao , Wang Huanwen , Shi Xiaojun , Fan Hong Jin
Published: November 2024

Hard carbon (HC) stands out as the most promising anode material for sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs), and a precise adjustment of the pore structure is the key to achieving high plateau‐capacity. In this work, composite hard carbon is developed by integrating graphitic carbon with biomass waste (banana peel)‐derived activated carbon (AC). In this design, N‐doped pseudographite layer is stacked at the entrance of open pores, forming a long‐range graphitic layer without excessive graphitization. As a result, the surface area of AC is decreased by 170 times down to less than 10 m3 g−1, and the corresponding open pores are in situ converted into closed pores. In an optimized electrolyte solvation structure, the obtained HC anode achieves the reversible sodium‐storage capacity up to 524 mAh g−1. In particular, a large portion of the capacity (490 mAh g−1) lies below the plateau of 0.25 V, which originates from the pore‐filling mechanism as revealed by in situ Raman. This study provides a straightforward method to modulate the pore structure of carbon materials, and an energy‐efficient (900 °C) synthesis for HC compared to traditional high‐temperature routes (e.g., ≈1300–2000 °C).
Physical Fields Coupling Freeze‐Drying Process of Carbon‐Based Composite Aerogels for Microwave Absorption and Electromagnetic Interference Shielding
Authors: Xiao Hang , Lv Jiangbo , Yi Maoyu , Chen Menghao , He Xian , Tan Wei , Yang Wenjie , Zeng Ke , Hu Jianghuai , Yang Gang
Published: November 2024

Inspired by physical field freezing technology from frozen food engineering, the ultrasonic field and static magnetic field are integrated simultaneously into the freeze‐drying process to prepare aerogel for the first time. Taking polyimide(PI)‐derived carbon composite aerogels as an example, it is demonstrated that the ultrasonic field and magnetic field are capable of regulating the ice crystal size by affecting the liquid cooling phase and the phase transition phase, respectively. The aerogel structure with small pore size and narrow pore size distribution is obtained. Thus leading to the formation of an abundant conductive network and heterogeneous interface, so as to realize the regulation of the porous structure of aerogels. Secondly, the coupling of ultrasound and magnetic fields addresses the agglomeration and realizes the orientation alignment of nanofillers. The charge storage capacity and conductivity of the system are improved. Therefore, the electrical conductivity, conductive loss, polarization loss, and multiple reflections of the composite aerogel are enhanced to obtain improved electromagnetic shielding performance microwave absorption property. The present work provides a scalable reactive processing pathway for the structural modulation of aerogels.
Soil inoculation with nitrogen‐fixing bacteria to supplement maize fertilizer need
Authors: Woodward Logan P. , Sible Connor N. , Seebauer Juliann R. , Below Frederick E.
Published: November 2024

Nitrogen (N) is an essential plant nutrient, but low and variable plant‐available N levels in agricultural soils often limit maximum grain production. The objective of this study was to determine if a free‐living nitrogen‐fixing bacterial inoculant (NFI) could supply biologically‐fixed N as an additional N source and if this enhances maize (Zea mays L.) N uptake and grain yield. Maize was grown at four site‐years in Illinois during 2019–2021. The NFI, a mixture of edited Klebsiella variicola and Kosakonia sacchari, was applied in furrow at planting with urea‐N rates from 0 to 225 kg N ha−1. Using quadratic regression models, across N rates, the NFI supplemented the fertilizer‐N equivalent of 38.5 or 12.1 kg N ha−1 at V8 or R1, respectively. Increases in N accumulation were observed in all plant fractions, and δ15N abundance measurements confirmed that some of this additional N was derived from biological N fixation. The NFI treatment increased N accumulation by an average of 4.8% and 3.7% at V8 and R1, respectively, which was the result of greater biomass, with no effect on plant N concentration. Application of NFI resulted in an average of 1.5% more kernels m−2 and 0.11 Mg ha−1 more grain yield. This work reveals that NFI can provide an additional source of N for maize production but identifies that the season‐long benefit of fixed‐N from an NFI is yet to be fully optimized.
Effects of an increase in emergency cases with difficulties in transport to hospital during the COVID‐19 pandemic on postoperative short‐term outcomes of colorectal perforation: A study based on the National Clinical Database
Authors: Ogawa Shimpei , Endo Hideki , Yoshida Masahiro , Tsuru Tomomitsu , Itabashi Michio , Yamamoto Hiroyuki , Kakeji Yoshihiro , Ueno Hideki , Shirabe Ken , Hibi Taizo , Taketomi Akinobu , Ikeda Norihiko , Mori Masaki
Published: November 2024

Aim

During the COVID‐19 pandemic, there were delays in transport of emergency cases to hospital by ambulance due to increased difficulties in obtaining hospital acceptance. The aim of this study was to examine if this had a negative effect on postoperative short‐term outcomes in patients with colorectal perforation.

Methods

The National Clinical Database (NCD) includes >95% of surgical cases in Japan. Postoperative 30‐day mortality, surgical mortality, and postoperative complications (Clavien–Dindo grade ≥3) were examined in 17 770 cases of colorectal perforation registered from 2019 to 2022 in the NCD. These outcomes were compared for cases with new COVID‐19 infection and emergency cases with difficulties in transport to hospital. Months were considered to have significantly high or low mortality or complication rates, if the 95% confidence interval (CI) of the standardized mortality (morbidity) ratio (SMR) did not contain 1.

Results

Postoperative 30‐day mortality occurred in 1826 cases (10.3%), surgical mortality in 2382 cases (13.4%), and postoperative complications in 5276 cases (29.7%). Significantly higher SMRs were found for 30‐day mortality in November 2020 (1.44 [95% CI: 1.07–1.89]) and February 2021 (1.54 [95% CI: 1.14–2.03]), and for postoperative complications in June 2020 (1.27 [95% CI: 1.07–1.50]). In 2022, there were marked increases in new COVID‐19 cases and in emergency cases with difficulties in transport to hospital, but no month had a significantly high SMR.

Conclusions

Emergency cases with difficulties in transport markedly increased during the COVID‐19 pandemic but had little effect on short‐term outcomes of colorectal perforation.
Advancements in Machine Learning for Microrobotics in Biomedicine
Authors: Salehi Amar , Hosseinpour Soleiman , Tabatabaei Nasrollah , Soltani Firouz Mahmoud , Zadebana Niloufar , Nauber Richard , Medina‐Sánchez Mariana
Published: November 2024

Microrobotics, particularly in the field of biomedicine, has garnered considerable attention due to its potential for noninvasive medical interventions enabled by the small size of microrobots. However, controlling and imaging them present unique challenges compared to their macroscale counterparts, primarily due to the intricate anatomical spaces and dynamic environments within the human body. Existing imaging modalities also face limitations, hindering real‐time visualization and control of microrobots in deep tissue. Machine learning (ML) algorithms offer promising solutions to these challenges by enabling adaptive motion control and enhancing image resolution through robust data analysis and decision‐making capabilities. In this review, a comprehensive overview of recent advancements in ML‐based techniques for microrobotic research is provided, emphasizing their applications in imaging and control in biomedical contexts. Additionally, current obstacles and potential future directions for ML algorithms in microrobotics, particularly regarding their translation to clinical settings, are discussed.
Introduction: The Influences of Religion and Spirituality on Human Biology
Authors: Lynn Christopher D.
Published: November 2024

The objective of this special issue is to highlight the absence of religion and spirituality in the human biological enterprise. We have assembled a set of articles covering physiology, psychology, cognition, and neurophenomenology. The influences on human biology are diverse, yet many have been historically overlooked, which we hope this special issue takes a large step in remedying. Here, we outline how this issue came together and introduce readers to the articles to follow.
Risk‐Based Decision Making: Estimands for Sequential Prediction Under Interventions
Authors: Luijken Kim , Morzywołek Paweł , van Amsterdam Wouter , Cinà Giovanni , Hoogland Jeroen , Keogh Ruth , Krijthe Jesse H. , Magliacane Sara , van Ommen Thijs , Peek Niels , Putter Hein , van Smeden Maarten , Sperrin Matthew , Wang Junfeng , Weir Daniala L. , Didelez Vanessa , van Geloven Nan
Published: November 2024

Prediction models are used among others to inform medical decisions on interventions. Typically, individuals with high risks of adverse outcomes are advised to undergo an intervention while those at low risk are advised to refrain from it. Standard prediction models do not always provide risks that are relevant to inform such decisions: for example, an individual may be estimated to be at low risk because similar individuals in the past received an intervention which lowered their risk. Therefore, prediction models supporting decisions should target risks belonging to defined intervention strategies. Previous works on prediction under interventions assumed that the prediction model was used only at one time point to make an intervention decision. In clinical practice, intervention decisions are rarely made only once: they might be repeated, deferred, and reevaluated. This requires estimated risks under interventions that can be reconsidered at several potential decision moments. In the current work, we highlight key considerations for formulating estimands in sequential prediction under interventions that can inform such intervention decisions. We illustrate these considerations by giving examples of estimands for a case study about choosing between vaginal delivery and cesarean section for women giving birth. Our formalization of prediction tasks in a sequential, causal, and estimand context provides guidance for future studies to ensure that the right question is answered and appropriate causal estimation approaches are chosen to develop sequential prediction models that can inform intervention decisions.
Patients' Characteristics Associated With Size of Ruptured and Unruptured Intracranial Aneurysms
Authors: Dinger Thiemo Florin , Chihi Mehdi , Gümüs Meltem , Rieß Christoph , Santos Alejandro Nicolas , Moskopp Mats Leif , Rodemerk Jan , Schüßler Maximilian , Darkwah Oppong Marvin , Li Yan , Wrede Karsten Henning , Dammann Philipp René , Sure Ulrich , Jabbarli Ramazan
Published: November 2024

Objective

The size of unruptured intracranial aneurysms (UIA) remains the most crucial risk factor for treatment decisions. On the other side, there is a non‐negligible portion of small ruptured IA and large stable UIA. This study aimed to identify the patients' characteristics related to IA size in the context of IA rupture status.

Methods

A total of 2152 patients, with 1002 being hospitalized for an acute aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), were included from our institutional IA database. Different demographic and clinical characteristics of patients and IA were collected. IA size was the study endpoint, assessed as continuous variable in univariate and multivariable linear regression analysis, separately for ruptured (R) IA and UIA.

Results

The mean IA size was 8.3 and 7.3 mm in the UIA and RIA subpopulations, respectively. Higher age (p = 0.003) and baseline blood urea level (p < 0.001) were independently associated with increasing UIA size. In contrast, location at the posterior circulation (p < 0.001), familiar intracranial aneurysms (p < 0.001), serum potassium (p = 0.006), and total serum protein (p = 0.019) were related to smaller UIA size in the multivariate analysis. For RIA, a statistically significant and independent association was detected for location (p = 0.019), history of gastrointestinal diseases (p = 0.042), and levothyroxine intake (p = 0.002).

Conclusions

Identification of clinical characteristics related to the size of ruptured and unruptured IA allows a more differentiated view on the genesis of RIA and UIA and the value of sack size as a basis for therapeutic decision‐making. More research is needed to verify the identified risk factors.
Ni/Fe Fluorides (Hydroxide) Nanocomposite as Efficient OER Catalyst
Authors: Zhang Yanli , Dong Liangliang , Zhang Qiang , Wang Li , He Xiangming
Published: November 2024

The synthesis of efficient oxygen evolution reaction (OER) catalysts that markedly reduce the overpotential over an extended period is crucial for electrolytic water splitting toward hydrogen production. A kind of Ni/Fe fluoride (hydroxide) nanocomposite OER catalyst is designed and prepared by a two‐step method for the first time. The nanocomposite with the optimal OER performance (Ni : Fe precursor ratio of 9 : 1) is observed to possess a nanoparticle morphology with size of about 100 nm. Each nanoparticle hosts extensive nanoregions of Ni4OHF7, NiFeF5 ⋅ 2H2O and Fe1.9F4.75 ⋅ 0.95H2O phases. The optimal nanocomposite (Ni : Fe precursor ratio of 9 : 1) exhibits OER overpotential of merely 208 mV and 349 mV at 10 mA cm−2 and 100 mA cm−2 respectively, tafel slope of 53.1, and outstanding stability for 10 h duration at 100 mA cm−2. The superior OER catalytic performance of the optimal nanocomposite after CV activation is mainly ascribed to the comprehensive catalytic effect of multiple Ni, Fe active sites from three phases, the smaller charge transfer resistance achieved at this particular Ni : Fe precursor ratio. The abundant resources of Ni, Fe, F elements and the superior OER properties of the Ni/Fe fluorides (hydroxide) nanocomposite, make it a good OER catalyst candidate for electrolytic water splitting toward hydrogen production.
Exploring the Formulation and Efficacy of Phosphazene‐Based Flame Retardants for Conventional Supercapacitor Electrolytes
Authors: Sayah Simon , Douihri Ilias , Karbak Mehdi , Baazizi Mariam , Martinez Hervé , Jacquemin Johan , Ghamouss Fouad
Published: November 2024

The formulation of safe electrolytes for supercapacitors based on phosphazene used as a flame‐retardant (FR) is carried out. 3 molecules are used: hexafluorocyclotriphosphazene (FR1), (ethoxy)pentafluorocyclotriphosphazene (FR2) and pentafluoro(phenoxy)cyclotriphosphazene (FR3). A comparative study on the efficacy from a safety point of view is performed to determine the minimum percentages of each to be used in a conventional acetonitrile (ACN)/1.0 M tetraethylammonium tetrafluoroborate (Et4NBF4) electrolyte to make it non‐flammable. Flammability tests have shown that 5%FR1, 15%FR2 or 20%FR3 are required to do that. The FTIR coupled to the TGA as well as the measurements of surface tensions and contact angles showed that the FRs tend to protect the surface of the electrolyte. The transport properties always remain good, superior to PC/1.0 M Et4NBF4 for example, and the electrochemical stability windows determined in 3‐electrode cells with platinum or activated carbon are at least 2.5 V. The cycling performances are also interesting because the AC|AC EDLCs made in this study are compatible with these FRs, which makes it possible to operate devices providing energies and powers of 23.0 Wh.kg‐1 and 3.7 kW.kg‐1 with the electrolytes based on FR1 or FR2 between 0 and 2.5 V.
Hydrogen Production from Formic Acid Using KIT‐6 Supported Non‐Noble Metal‐Based Catalysts
Authors: Eslek Koyuncu Dilsad Dolunay , Tug Ilkin , Oktar Nuray , Murtezaoglu Kirali
Published: November 2024

The aim of this study is to investigate the activity of KIT‐6 supported nickel (Ni) and cobalt (Co) catalysts, and the effect of Co incorporation to the Ni@KIT‐6 catalyst in the formic acid (FA) dehydrogenation. Ni and Co are inexpensive and readily available non‐noble transition metals that are considered ideal for dehydrogenation reactions due to their high activity against C−C and C−H bond breaking. In this study, KIT‐6 supported catalysts were tested for hydrogen production from FA in a conventionally heated packed‐bed continuous‐flow system. N2 adsorption‐desorption isotherms of the samples were found to be consistent with Type‐IV according to the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) classification. The introduction of metal loading resulted in the preservation of the mesoporous structure of the support material. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) patterns of the catalysts exhibited the characteristic amorphous silica structure. Diffuse Reflectance Infrared Fourier Transform Spectroscopy (DRIFT) analysis, Lewis acidity of Co‐based catalysts was found to be higher than the Ni‐based catalysts. The complete formic acid conversion was observed at 200–350 °C. The highest H2 selectivity was obtained with the 3Ni@KIT‐6 catalyst. The Co‐based catalysts exhibited relatively lower catalytic activity, which was linked to increased coke formation within these catalysts.
A 24‐ to 28‐GHz 4×1$$ 4\times 1 $$ MIMO Transmitter/Receiver for 5G Phased‐Array Applications With High Amplitude and Phase Control
Authors: Serhan Ozboz Serafettin , Burak Abdurrahman , Alper Ozkan Tahsin , Kandis Hamza , Gungor Berke , Bahadir Ozdol Ali , Kalyoncu Ilker , Gurbuz Yasar
Published: November 2024

This paper introduces a 4‐channel 24‐ to 28‐GHz RF front‐end MIMO system designed for 5G applications. The transmitter (Tx) and receiver (Rx) chips are fabricated using 130‐nm SiGe BiCMOS technology. The chips contain a 6‐bit phase shifter (PS), 1‐bit attenuator (ATT), 3‐bit variable gain amplifier (VGA), serial peripheral interface (SPI), Wilkinson combiner, power amplifier (PA), and low noise amplifier (LNA). The designed vector‐sum PS, employing a current DAC for semi‐digitization, achieves a 6‐bit phase resolution with minimal root‐mean‐square (RMS) phase error. This design choice allows for the high bit control of the current DAC within a compact chip area. Four‐bit amplitude control is obtained with VGA and ATT. The VGA provides 8‐dB amplitude range while ATT enlarges overall amplitude control with additional 8 dB. L‐R‐L phase compensation technique is utilized to reduce the phase error that arises from ATT. The sub‐blocks are designed to operate with low DC power such that the DC power consumption of overall RX and TX is 50 and 97 mW, respectively. The measurement results of a single‐channel indicate a gain of 15.5‐dB and −25‐dBm IP1dB for the RX chip and 26.5‐dB and 10‐dBm OP1dB for the TX chip while each chip occupies 0.83 mm. The RX chip exhibits a measured noise figure (NF) of 4.3 dB at 26 GHz. Both Tx and Rx chips achieve 6‐bit phase control and 4‐bit amplitude control with low RMS phase error of 2.6° and gain error of 0.3 dB. Low RMS gain and phase errors over a wide bandwidth are attributed to the high precision DAC employed in the control of VGA and PS. Both chips are flip‐chip packaged and undergo upconversion/downconversion via external mixers on a printed circuit board (PCB). System‐level tests with 64‐quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM) show an error vector magnitude (EVM) of 2.72% at 27 GHz for RX and 5.02% at 24 GHz for TX, with a 50‐MBaud modulated signal applied at a data rate of 300 MBps.
Failure mechanism of the coal wall at the working face based on an eccentric compression mechanical model
Authors: Tian Maolin , Wang Jiabao , Wang Changsheng , Sun Shijie , Han Lijun , Meng Qingbin , Zhang Sunhao
Published: November 2024

The deformation and failure of coal walls in front of a working face cause significant difficulties during mining operations. This study reveals the nonuniform distribution of bearing pressure in front of coal walls based on in situ monitoring data and numerical simulation. Therefore, an eccentric compression mechanical model was established to study the deformation and failure characteristics of a coal wall. The slenderness ratio of the compression bar is introduced to define coal walls. The results showed that instability failure occurs when λ > λc and material failure occurs when λ ≤ λc. The instability failure‐type coal wall spalling was related to the mining height, eccentricity of roof pressure, the horizontal force, and the reaction moment of the floor. The material failure‐type coal wall spalling was related to the cohesion, the internal friction angle of the coal, the upper pressure, and the horizontal force of coal walls. Unstable and destructive coal wall peeling usually occurs at a height of 0.5–0.6 times the mining height, while material damage to coal wall peeling is determined to occur within the range of 0.4–0.6 times the mining depth. The findings contribute to the understanding of the deformation and failure of coal walls.
Highly Efficient and Stable Capacitive Deionization Based on a Flower‐Like Conjugated Polymer with Double Active‐Sites
Authors: Zhuang Zhiyun , Sun Lei , Tao Yueheng , Shao Jian , Yang Jinggang , Yu Peng , Chen Huanxu , Zhou Jianhua , Xiao Jing , Yin Kangyong , Shi Minjie , Xiao Peng
Published: November 2024

Hybrid capacitive deionization (HCDI) shows promise for desalinating brackish and saline water by utilizing the pseudocapacitive properties of faradaic electrodes. Organic materials, with their low environmental impact and adaptable structures, are attractive for this application. However, their scarcity of active sites and tendency to dissolve in water‐based solutions remain significant challenges. Herein, we synthesized a polynaphthalenequinoneimine (PCON) polymer with stable long‐range ordered framework and rough three‐dimensional floral surface morphology, along with high‐density active sites provided by C=O and C=N functional groups, enabling efficient redox reactions and achieving a high Na+ capture capability. The synthesized PCON polymer showcases outstanding electroadsorption characteristics and notable structural robustness, attaining an impressive specific capacitance of 500.45 F g−1 at 1 A g−1 and maintaining 86.1% of its original capacitance following 5000 charge–discharge cycles. Benefiting from the superior pseudocapacitive properties of the PCON polymer, we have developed an HCDI system that not only exhibits exceptional salt removal capacity of 100.8 mg g−1 and a remarkable rapid average removal rate of 3.36 mg g−1 min−1 but also maintains 97% of its initial desalination capacity after 50 cycles, thereby distinguishing itself in the field of state‐of‐the‐art desalination technologies with its comprehensive performance that significantly surpasses reported organic capacitive deionization materials. Prospectively, the synthesis paradigm of the double active‐sites PCON polymer may be extrapolated to other organic electrodes, heralding new avenues for the design of high‐performance desalination systems.
Associations of iron deficiency with cardiac function, congestion, exercise capacity and prognosis in heart failure
Authors: De Biase Nicolò , Del Punta Lavinia , L'Hoyes Wouter , Pellicori Pierpaolo , Cleland John G.F. , Masini Gabriele , Gargani Luna , Moura‐Ferreira Sara , Hoedemakers Sarah , Di Fiore Valerio , Herbots Lieven , Stassen Jan , Mengozzi Alessandro , Armenia Silvia , Taddei Stefano , Masi Stefano , Verwerft Jan , Pugliese Nicola Riccardo
Published: November 2024

Aims

Uncertainty exists about defining true iron deficiency (ID) in heart failure (HF) patients. We assessed the relationship of different ID definitions with cardiac structure and function, congestion, exercise capacity, and prognosis in HF outpatients.

Methods and results

Iron deficiency was defined according to guidelines (G‐ID: ferritin <100 ng/ml or ferritin 100–299 ng/ml with transferrin saturation [TSAT] <20%). Alternative ID definitions based on TSAT (<20%), iron (≤13 μmol/L), and ferritin (<100 or < 300 ng/ml) were explored. Relationships with rest/exercise measures of cardiac function and congestion using ultrasound, effort intolerance and adverse outcome (HF hospitalizations or all‐cause mortality) were assessed. Of 1502 patients (72% with left ventricular ejection fraction [LVEF] ≥50%), 471 (31%) had TSAT <20%, while 728 (48%) had G‐ID. Patients with TSAT <20% or G‐ID had greater left atrial volume but similar LVEF. Lower TSAT, iron and haemoglobin, but not ferritin, were associated with more signs of congestion by ultrasound. After correcting for multiple clinical variables, including haemoglobin, TSAT was directly associated with peak oxygen uptake (standardized coefficient 0.069, p = 0.041), while ferritin was not. There was no interaction with HF phenotype (HF with preserved vs. reduced LVEF). During a median follow‐up of 18 months, TSAT <20% and iron ≤13 μmol/L were associated with worse outcomes in models adjusted for clinical variables, including LVEF and N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide (hazard ratio 2.48, 95% confidence interval 1.88–3.17 and 1.93, 1.48–2.52, respectively), while G‐ID or ferritin <100 or <300 ng/ml were not.

Conclusion

In HF outpatients, TSAT <20% is more consistently associated with congestion by ultrasound and poorer functional capacity than other ID definitions, irrespective of LVEF. TSAT <20% and iron ≤13 μmol/L, but not G‐ID or ferritin‐based ID, predict a worse prognosis in HF outpatients with preserved and reduced LVEF.
Visualizing Uncertainty in Time Series Forecasts: The Impact of Uncertainty Visualization on Users' Confidence, Algorithmic Advice Utilization, and Forecasting Performance
Authors: Leffrang Dirk , Müller Oliver
Published: November 2024

Time series forecasts are always associated with uncertainty. However, experimental studies on the impact of uncertainty communication provide inconclusive results on the effect of providing this uncertainty to end users. In this study, we examine the impact of uncertainty visualizations on advice utilization in the context of time series forecasts with line charts. Based on a literature review, we identified probabilistic framing versus frequency framing as a theoretical foundation for studying the topic. We then used the Judge Advisor System (JAS) as a framework to create an experimental design with two treatments (95% prediction interval [PI] and ensemble plots), one control group (point plot), and various mediating variables (e.g., confidence, graph literacy, and domain knowledge). The results of an online experiment () indicate a U‐shaped relation between uncertainty visualization and forecasting performance. Additionally, we examine how confidence, advice utilization, and other factors mediate the effect of uncertainty visualizations. This paper highlights the benefits of PI plots for researchers and practitioners engaged in the development of effective uncertainty visualizations for decision‐making processes.
Strategic Human Resource Management in the Era of Algorithmic Technologies: Key Insights and Future Research Agenda
Authors: Kim Sunghoon , Khoreva Violetta , Vaiman Vlad
Published: November 2024

This article presents a contemporary review of human resource management (HRM) research on algorithmic technologies, including artificial intelligence, machine learning, and natural language processing. By connecting these recent advancements to the long‐standing scholarly tradition of HRM‐technology relations, this review examines current knowledge on how algorithmic technologies are reshaping three key areas: (1) work structures and design, (2) HR delivery activities, and (3) the management of technology workers. Using a threefold conceptualization of technology—the tool view, proxy view, and ensemble view—this review explores how organizations employ algorithmic systems to enhance productivity, how the human agency interacts with and resists these technologies, and how broader social, cultural, and institutional contexts shape the use of algorithms in HRM. Additionally, this article offers suggestions for future research, highlighting the unique opportunities algorithmic technologies provide to HR scholars for making enduring contributions to the broader conversations on HRM and technology.