bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Pediatric advanced complex endoscopy team enhances endoscopy quality and provider satisfaction
Authors: Barakat Monique T. , Bass Dorsey , Goyal Alka , Fink Christopher , Mostamand Shikib , Gugig Roberto 
Published: July 2024

AbstractBackgroundTherapeutic endoscopic procedures are increasingly necessary for children. Pediatric gastroenterologist training and experience with endoscopic hemostasis and other complex therapeutic endoscopy procedures are often limited. We evaluated the impact of the implementation of an advanced complex endoscopy (ACE) team, which provides 24/7 inpatient/outpatient back‐up endoscopy support.MethodsWe analyzed hemostasis quality outcomes in the 2 years before implementation of ACE (2018−2020) versus the year following the implementation of ACE (2020−2021). We analyzed pediatric gastroenterology provider satisfaction and perspectives with a survey that was distributed to faculty, fellows, and advanced practice providers 1 month before implementation of ACE and again 12 months following ACE implementation.ResultsEndoscopy volume and outcome metrics for hemostasis procedures, including latency to endoscopy, need for reintervention, and administration/diversity of hemostatic therapy, including multimodal therapy, improved in the year following implementation of the ACE (p < 0.05 for each). Survey results demonstrated a positive impact on provider endoscopy experience and high utilization of ACE. Twenty‐two percent of providers reported activating ACE in the prior month and 66% in the prior year. Most providers who activated ACE were very satisfied (85%) or satisfied (7.7%). Eighty‐three percent noted ACE had a positive impact on inpatients, and 50% noted a positive impact on outpatient endoscopy. Provider anxiety with endoscopy diminished post‐ACE implementation (62% vs. 28%). Respondents unanimously found ACE beneficial to patient care (100%).ConclusionsACE implementation was associated with improved provider perspectives surrounding endoscopy and significant improvement in hemostasis quality parameters, escalation of hemostasis procedure volume, and broadening the range of hemostasis interventions.
Impact of pediatric inflammatory bowel disease on caregivers' work productivity: A multicenter study by the SEGHNP
Authors: Velasco Rodríguez‐Belvís Marta  , Palomino Laura , Pujol Muncunill Gemma , Martin‐Masot Rafael , Muñoz Codoceo Rosa Ana  , Barrio Torres Josefa , Navas‐López Víctor Manuel  , Martín de Carpi Javier  ,   Collaborating Researchers of the Pediatric Inflammatory Bowel Disease Working Group
Published: July 2024

AbstractObjectives/BackgroundPediatric inflammatory bowel disease (PIBD) poses significant challenges not only to patients but also to their families, particularly affecting the work productivity of caregivers. This Spanish multicenter study aims to elucidate the extent of this impact.Materials and MethodsA cross‐sectional, multicenter study was conducted between February 2021 and June 2023, involving parents or caregivers of PIBD patients aged 10–18 years. The study utilized the Work Productivity and Activity Impairment (WPAI) questionnaires alongside assessing disease activity and socioeconomic status to quantify work productivity loss and its economic implications.ResultsThe study included 370 patients from 37 centers, highlighting a significant loss of work productivity among caregivers, especially mothers. The global unemployment rate was notably higher in this group compared to national averages (22.9% vs. 13.8%), particularly among females (30.7% vs. 13.7%), with absenteeism and presenteeism rates (26.4% and 39.9%) significantly impacting the caregivers' ability to work. The study also identified active disease and treatment with biologics or steroids as risk factors for increased work productivity loss.ConclusionsCaregivers of children with inflammatory bowel disease face considerable challenges in maintaining employment, with a notable economic impact due to lost work hours. The findings underscore the need for targeted support and interventions to assist these families, suggesting potential areas for policy improvement and support mechanisms to mitigate the socioeconomic burden of PIBD on affected families.
Surface Functionalization of Carbon Black for PEM Fuel Cell Electrodes
Authors: Kumar Ajay , Park Eun Joo , Kim Yu Seung , Spendelow Jacob S. 
Published: July 2024

AbstractCarbon‐based materials are extensively used in fuel cell applications due to their crucial role in maintaining high performance. Particularly, carbon black (CB) stands out as a preferred electrode material for fuel cells, owing to its high electrical conductivity and large surface area. This review focuses on the functionalization of CB and its use as a support for Pt‐based catalysts in proton exchange membrane fuel cells. Functionalization strategies include oxidation, covalent functionalization, as well as polymer grafting or impregnation. Various approaches to functionalize the CB surface are discussed that effectively tailor the surface properties of electrodes, leading to improved fuel cell performance. The improvements are seen in enhanced dispersibility of catalyst particles, better ionomer distribution, increased catalyst stability, and reduced carbon corrosion. This review provides an overview of various modifications applied to CB to enhance their structural and electrochemical properties, thereby boosting fuel cell performance.
Controlling Hybrid Polyhydroxyurethane Adhesive and Rheological Properties by Partial Carbonation of Biobased Epoxy Monomer
Authors: Delliere Pierre , Laborie Dorian , Caillol Sylvain , Bakkali‐Hassani Camille 
Published: July 2024

AbstractControlling hybrid material properties by simple monomer design offers an elegant pathway to prepare thermoset adhesives with tunable properties. Herein, biobased hybrid polyhydroxyurethane/polyepoxy is prepared starting from partially carbonated cashew nut shell epoxy derivatives (NC514) and m‐xylene diamine (MXDA). The curing reactions, that is, epoxy‐amine and cyclic carbonate aminolysis, monitored by ATR‐IR spectroscopy at 50 °C are found to be concomitant yielding highly homogeneous materials. Hybrid networks are extensively characterized by swelling tests, TGA, DMA, DSC, tensile tests, rheology, and lap‐shear‐test on aluminum substrates. The introduction of hydroxyurethane moieties within the epoxy‐amine networks enhanced the adhesion properties (up to 20% compare to neat epoxy resins) by combining hydrogen bonding capability and vitrimeric properties (thermoset able to flow). Rheological characterizations and reprocessing tests demonstrated that hybrid adhesives with up to 47 mol% of cyclic carbonate groups are capable of covalent exchange (internally catalyzed by tertiary amine) while keeping similar thermomechanical properties and enhanced adhesion strength compare to the permanent epoxy network.
Mechanical Effect Produced by Photo‐Switchable Reactions: Insights from Molecular Simulations
Authors: Villegas Orlando , Serrano Martínez Marta , Le Bras Laura , Ottochian Alistar , Pineau Nicolas , Perrier Aurélie , Lemarchand Claire A. 
Published: July 2024

AbstractLight‐responsive shape‐changing polymers are photonastic materials: they can convert light into mechanical energy through macroscopic transformations. Indeed, photochromic molecules embedded in these polymer films present light‐induced structural modifications that can trigger a significant macroscopic deformation. In this theoretical study based on molecular dynamics simulations, analysis tools ranging from atomic to supramolecular scales are developed to investigate this photonastic phenomenon. To this purpose, a model system built upon an azobenzene photochrome embedded in different environments (tetrahydrofuran, cis‐1,4‐polybutadiene and hydroxyl‐terminated polybutadiene) is considered. First, the impact of the environment on the photochrome properties is discussed through the analysis of the structural properties, ultra‐violet visible (UV–vis) absorption spectra and dynamical properties of the photoswitch. Then, the impact of the presence of the photochrome on the polymer is studied. At the atomic scale, the radial distribution functions show some differences between the cis and trans isomers due to geometrical effects. At the molecular scale, the analysis of the size and shape of the polymer chains reveals that the photochrome has no impact on the chain properties. Finally, at the macroscopic scale, the cohesive energy density shows that the polymer is stabilized by the presence of photochrome molecules.
Wideband null frequency scanning monopole antenna under triple‐mode resonance
Authors: Ji Fei‐Yan , Mao Xiao‐Hui , Lu Wen‐Jun , Zhu Lei 
Published: July 2024

AbstractSemianalytical design approach to a triple‐mode resonant, wideband null frequency scanning sectorial monopole antenna is proposed. As is demonstrated, TE3/5,1, TE9/5,1, and TE3,1 mode within a 150°, circumferentially resonant sectorial monopole are simultaneously excited to realize null frequency scanning functionality. The prototype antenna exhibits a wide impedance bandwidth of 75.3%, ranging from 1.40 to 3.09 GHz. Within the frequency band of 1.55–2.70 GHz, the radiation null linearly scans from θ = +90° to +8° with a null frequency scanning sensitivity of 12.9 MHz/°. Moreover, the antenna possesses maximum gain of 2.5 dBi in the backfire, ‐x‐direction, which indicates that it should exhibit quasi‐unidirectional radiation pattern in the azimuth plane.
Toward real‐time, volumetric dosimetry for FLASH‐capable clinical synchrocyclotrons using protoacoustic imaging
Authors: Wang Siqi , Gonzalez Gilberto , Owen Daniel Rocky , Sun Leshan , Liu Yan , Zwart Townsend , Chen Yong , Xiang Liangzhong 
Published: July 2024

AbstractBackgroundRadiation delivery with ultra‐high dose rate (FLASH) radiotherapy (RT) holds promise for improving treatment outcomes and reducing side effects but poses challenges in radiation delivery accuracy due to its ultra‐high dose rates. This necessitates the development of novel imaging and verification technologies tailored to these conditions.PurposeOur study explores the effectiveness of proton‐induced acoustic imaging (PAI) in tracking the Bragg peak in three dimensions and in real time during FLASH proton irradiations, offering a method for volumetric beam imaging at both conventional and FLASH dose rates.MethodsWe developed a three‐dimensional (3D) PAI technique using a 256‐element ultrasound detector array for FLASH dose rate proton beams. In the study, we tested protoacoustic signal with a beamline of a FLASH‐capable synchrocyclotron, setting the distal 90% of the Bragg peak around 35 mm away from the ultrasound array. This configuration allowed us to assess various total proton radiation doses, maintaining a consistent beam output of 21 pC/pulse. We also explored a spectrum of dose rates, from 15 Gy/s up to a FLASH rate of 48 Gy/s, by administering a set number of pulses. Furthermore, we implemented a three‐dot scanning beam approach to observe the distinct movements of individual Bragg peaks using PAI. All these procedures utilized a proton beam energy of 180 MeV to achieve the maximum possible dose rate.ResultsOur findings indicate a strong linear relationship between protoacoustic signal amplitudes and delivered doses (R2 = 0.9997), with a consistent fit across different dose rates. The technique successfully provided 3D renderings of Bragg peaks at FLASH rates, validated through absolute Gamma index values.ConclusionsThe protoacoustic system demonstrates effectiveness in 3D visualization and tracking of the Bragg peak during FLASH proton therapy, representing a notable advancement in proton therapy quality assurance. This method promises enhancements in protoacoustic image guidance and real‐time dosimetry, paving the way for more accurate and effective treatments in ultra‐high dose rate therapy environments.
Bio‐Inspired Polydiacetylene Vesicles for Controlling Stimulus Sensitivity
Authors: Nakayama Shota , Suga Keishi , Kamata Tatsuya , Watanabe Kanako , Namigata Hikaru , Welling Tom A. J. , Nagao Daisuke 
Published: July 2024

AbstractPolydiacetylene (PDA) is a kind of photopolymerizable polymer, which exhibits a unique color transition in response to external stimuli such as heat, pH, and solvent. PDAs are attractive as eye‐detection stimulus sensors with excellent time performance; however, the sensitivity of PDAs should be improved. Considering the biological membrane‐like structure of diacetylene (DA) vesicles, their modification by incorporating membrane lipids (e.g., diacylphosphocholine, PC) can be used to control the membrane fluidity, and consequently molecular ordering of DAs in the vesicle. Inspired by biological membrane systems, lipid vesicles are employed as platforms to generate PDA, and essential factors that influence the sensitivity of PDA are investigated. By lowering the polymerization temperature, the generation of PDA becomes slower, while the sensitivity improves. By adding PCs at the molar ratio of lipid:DA = 1:1, the sensitivity of PDA can be varied: the PCs with lower phase transition temperatures (Tm) made PDA insensitive, while the PCs with higher Tm improved the sensitivity as compared to pure poly(PCDA). It is concluded that the photopolymerization of DAs with a lower membrane fluidity induces highly sensitive PDA, while the photopolymerization of DAs with a higher membrane fluidity induces insensitive PDA with robustness toward stimuli.
Homecare amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS): A multidisciplinary, home‐based model of care for patients with ALS and their caregivers
Authors: Bublitz Sarah Kristina , Eham Magdalena , Ellrott Helena , Littger Benno , Richter Jana , Lorenzl Stefan 
Published: July 2024

AbstractIntroduction/AimsMultidisciplinary care for patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is recommended in international guidelines, but reaches its limits when immobility increases. This pilot project addresses this gap by delivering home‐based, specialized, multiprofessional support to ALS patients who are not able to attend outpatient care. The study assessed the feasibility of this model of care and the satisfaction of both patients and caregivers.MethodsThis was a longitudinal cohort study of patients with ALS and their caregivers in the surroundings of Munich, Germany. Patients were regularly visited at home by a multiprofessional team (neurologists/palliative care physicians, nurse, social worker, chaplain).ResultsA total of 94 patients with ALS were included in the homecare project and 88 patients and 74 caregivers were enrolled in the accompanying study. The mean care duration was 221 days, enabling 61% of the 49 deceased patients to die at home. Notably, 20% of patients chose a way to hasten death. Patient satisfaction (ICECAP Supportive Care Measure [SCM]: 23.7/28, CollaboRATE: 10.6/12) and caregiver perception of the end‐of‐life phase (Caregiver Evaluation of the Quality of End‐Of‐Life Care [CEQUEL]: 24.9/26) were high.DiscussionThis pilot project successfully implemented specialized, home‐based multidisciplinary care for ALS patients and caregivers, demonstrating both feasibility and high satisfaction. The program enabled a large proportion of patients to remain in their homes, reducing the need for hospital care. The multiprofessional approach, including neuropalliative, psychosocial and spiritual support provided comprehensive care that addressed needs of patients and caregivers. Further research is warranted to explore cost‐effectiveness.
Risk factors associated with overactive bladder severity in patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Khadour Fater A. , Khadour Younes A. , Alhatem Weaam , Barroush Deema Al , Xu Tao 
Published: July 2024

AbstractBackgroundThe prevalence of overactive bladder (OAB) is known to be higher in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) however there are not many studies about specific risk factors contributing to its progression among diabetes mellitus (DM) patients, so this study aimed to investigate the risk factors specific to DM that influence the progression of OAB in Syrian population.MethodsThis cross‐sectional study was carried out at five endocrinology centers situated in four Syrian provinces: Damascus, Aleppo, Homs, Hama, and Latakia. The study comprised patients who were diagnosed with both T2DM and OAB and had visited these centers from March 2020 and February 2024. The Arabic version of the OAB Symptom Score (OABSS) scale was used to categorize the participants based on the severity score into two groups: the mild OAB group and the moderate‐severe OAB group. A logistic analysis was conducted to assess the risk factors associated with the progression of OAB among patients with diabetes.ResultAmong the 186 patients diagnosed with both DM and OAB, significant distinctions were found between the two groups concerning the severity of OAB, age, duration of diabetes, symptomatic diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN), and ankle reflex (p < 0.05). Furthermore, a multivariate analysis revealed that age (odds ratio [OR] 1.07, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.68–1.58), duration of diabetes (OR 2.14, 95% CI 1.75–3.74), and symptomatic DPN (OR 2.47, 95% CI 1.17–3.54) independently acted as risk factors for the advancement of OAB.ConclusionThe progression of OAB in Syrian patients with diabetes is closely associated with the severity of DM. Factors such as age, duration of diabetes, and symptomatic DPN are independent predictors of the severity of OAB. Patients who experience symptomatic DPN are at an increased risk of developing OAB.
Optimized mechanical properties of carbon fiber reinforced thermoplastics by tuning polymer chain length based on quad‐screw extrusion
Authors: Choi Woo Seong , Kim Ki Hoon , Kim Seong Yun 
Published: July 2024

AbstractThere is a need for cost‐effective manufacturing methods to optimize the impregnation and mechanical properties of carbon fiber reinforced thermoplastics (CFRTPs) by overcoming the low flowability of thermoplastics due to their high melt viscosity. In this study, to improve the impregnation of the CFRTP by inducing low melt viscosity, a strategy to control the molecular weight (MW) of thermoplastic polymer was developed. Through the quad‐screw extrusion (QSE) process, as the rotational speed of the QSE increased, the MW of the polypropylene (PP) matrix decreased, resulting in improved flowability and impregnation characteristics of the matrix, as well as enhanced mechanical strength of the CFRTP. The tensile and flexural strengths of the CFRTP were optimized at 1500 rpm, resulting in 77% and 23% improvements, respectively, compared to the CFRTP with raw PP. Therefore, the applied QSE process effectively controlled the MW, melt viscosity, and flowability of the PP matrix and produced CFRTP with improved mechanical strength.Highlights
Mechanical degradation using QSE was applied to improve flowability of matrix.
As polymer chain length decreased, impregnation between CF and matrix was improved.
The improved impregnation characteristics resulted in the improved mechanical strengths.
There is an optimal matrix MW to optimize the mechanical strengths of CFRTP.
Investigation of morphometric features of auricle in newborns and etiology of auricle deformity
Authors: Zhou Xueqing , Peng Xieling , Ding Yuran , Zhu Yingjie , Tian Dan , Wu Minyan , Zhang Bin , Qi Xiangdong 
Published: July 2024

ABSTRACTImportanceThe diagnosis of congenital auricular deformity often relies on the clinical experience of clinicians, leading to a high incidence of misdiagnosis and missed diagnosis due to the lack of quantitative diagnostic criteria.ObjectiveTo characterize auricle morphology in newborns from southern China and explore the underlying etiology of congenital auricle deformity.MethodsA total of 636 neonates (1272 ears) with less than seven days old were included. The auricles of each infant were measured and photographed. The relationship between maternal factors and the occurrence of congenital auricle deformity was analyzed.ResultsThe incidence of auricular deformity in southern China was 79.87%. Helical rim deformity and mixed deformity had the highest incidence (17.30% each), while cryptotia had the lowest incidence (0.31%). Among mixed deformities, lop ear with conchal crus ear was the most common (22.73%). Each type of auricle deformity had distinct measurement indicators: the vertical distance of cephalo‐auricular was 73.97% longer and cephalo‐superaurale was 70.00% longer in protruding ears compared to normal auricle; the vertical distance of cephalo‐auricular was 10.96% less in lop ears, 15.07% less in conchal crus ears, and 41.1% longer in cup ears; the distance between helix and antihelix was 22.35% less in constricted ear, 12.94% greater in helical rim deformity, and 43.53% greater in Stahl's ear. Family history of hereditary ear deformity and paternal smoking were significant factors associated with ear deformity in southern China.InterpretationThe incidence of auricle deformities is high in southern China, with significant differences in the morphometric structures of different auricle types.
Super tough, electrochemical stability and puncture resistant electrolyte for lithium‐metal batteries
Authors: Zhang Wanyi , Yang Ziyu , He Xiaoheng , Xiang Yong , Wu Fang 
Published: July 2024

AbstractPolymer electrolytes (PEs) are widely used in the field of flexible energy storage due to their high safety, good flexibility, and ease of processing. Developing PEs with both high mechanical properties, high ionic conductivity and wide electrochemical stability window (ESW) for lithium‐metal batteries (LMBs) is an urgent issue to be addressed. In this work, we designed and synthesized the poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA)‐polyacrylic acid (PAA)‐LiCl electrolyte for LMBs with a high ionic conductivity, wide ESW, high modulus and puncture resistance simultaneously. Through the construction of dual cross‐linking networks, the PVA‐PAA‐LiCl exhibits a wide ESW (6.2 V), achieves a notable ionic conductivity (1.08 × 10−4 S cm−1) at room temperature and can realize a high cycle stability of Li symmetric battery more than 300 h at 1 mA cm−2/1 mA h cm−2. Furthermore, it demonstrates exceptional puncture resistance, capable of withstanding pressures up to 5.73 × 108 Pa exerted by a steel nail, while simultaneously exhibites a commendable tensile strength of 4.9 MPa. Hence, this conceptual framework featuring dual‐crosslink network structure offers profound implications for the progression of next‐generation flexible energy storage.
Substrate O‐glycosylation actively regulates extracellular proteolysis
Authors: Madzharova Elizabeta , Sabino Fabio , Kalogeropoulos Konstantinos , Francavilla Chiara , auf dem Keller Ulrich 
Published: July 2024

AbstractExtracellular proteolysis critically regulates cellular and tissue responses and is often dysregulated in human diseases. The crosstalk between proteolytic processing and other major post‐translational modifications (PTMs) is emerging as an important regulatory mechanism to modulate protease activity and maintain cellular and tissue homeostasis. Here, we focus on matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐mediated cleavages and N‐acetylgalactosamine (GalNAc)‐type of O‐glycosylation, two major PTMs of proteins in the extracellular space. We investigated the influence of truncated O‐glycan trees, also referred to as Tn antigen, following the inactivation of C1GALT1‐specific chaperone 1 (COSMC) on the general and MMP9‐specific proteolytic processing in MDA‐MB‐231 breast cancer cells. Quantitative assessment of the proteome and N‐terminome using terminal amine isotopic labelling of substrates (TAILS) technology revealed enhanced proteolysis by MMP9 within the extracellular proteomes of MDA‐MB‐231 cells expressing Tn antigen. In addition, we detected substantial modifications in the proteome and discovered novel ectodomain shedding events regulated by the truncation of O‐glycans. These results highlight the critical role of mature O‐glycosylation in fine‐tuning proteolytic processing and proteome homeostasis by modulating protein susceptibility to proteolytic degradation. These data suggest a complex interplay between proteolysis and O‐GalNAc glycosylation, possibly affecting cancer phenotypes.