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Atomically dispersed active sites and hierarchical porosity in Fe–N–C catalyst materials are essential for efficient oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) electrocatalysis and effective mass transport, respectively. However, the majority of these catalysts fail to deliver outstanding electrocatalytic activity and stumble when used as cathode materials in fuel cells. Herein, we developed a catalyst with partially transformed metallic Fe into Fe-N x sites embedded in the carbonaceous matrix, and its excellent electrocatalytic performance is attributed to the hybrid nanoparticles and built-in Fe-N x site structures. The optimized Fe@Fe–N–C catalyst was tested for ORR performance both ex-situ using the rotating (ring)-disk electrode technique and in an anion exchange membrane fuel cell (AEMFC). The Fe@Fe–N–C electrocatalyst exhibited remarkably enhanced ORR activity in alkaline media with a half-wave potential of 0.822 V vs. reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE) and showed the maximum power density (P max) of 242 mW cm−2 in an AEMFC test, surpassing the peak power density obtained from the Pt/C cathode catalyst (P max = 220 mW cm−2) under H 2 –O 2 conditions. Therefore, the study provides a promising prospect for designing improved, cost-effective, and noble metal-free electrocatalysts for achieving high performance in AEMFCs. [Display omitted] • Hybrid Fe–N–C electrocatalysts with metallic Fe nanoparticles was developed. • A new strategy is proposed using melamine and N-hydroxysuccinimide to produce Fe–N–C. • The hybrid electrocatalyst with Fe and FeN x sites jointly promote the ORR activity. • The Fe@Fe–N–C cathode catalyst in AEMFC exhibits a peak power density of 242 mW cm−2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new crystallographically characterized samarium complexes, [Sm(fod)3(L1)] (1) and [Sm(fod)3(L2)] (2) {L1 = 4,7-diphenyl-1,10-phenanthroline (bath), L2 = 2,2′:6′,2′′-terpyridine and fod = anion of 6,6,7,7,8,8,8-heptafluoro-2,2-dimethyl-3,5-octanedione (Hfod)}, were synthesized and thoroughly characterized. Single-crystal (SC) analysis shows that complex 1 is an eight-coordinate structure with a distorted square antiprism geometry (D4d), whereas complex 2 possesses a nine-coordinate structure with distorted muffin geometry (Cs). The NMR results are in line with SC-XRD analysis, which further validate that the complexes remain intact in solutions. The photophysical characteristics of the complexes were studied in both visible and near infra-red (NIR) regions. The PLQY values of the present complexes were found to be higher than those reported in the literature except for a tetrakis Sm complex. This result indicates that both the ligands act as effective antennas for the present systems. A comparison of PLQY and emission lifetime values within the present complexes (in solid state) reveals that energy transfer from terpy to Sm3+ is more effective than that from the bath ligand. Various color parameters of the complexes were calculated, and the determined CCT values suggest that the complexes may be used as warm light sources. The determined band gap values for the complexes are in the range of those for semiconductors, which suggest the application of present systems in the field of optoelectronics. The curve between the emission intensity and temperature for complex 1 shows a perfect linearity (χ2 = 0.99), which suggests that this complex can have potential application as a temperature sensor in the range 60–350 K. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This cross-sectional study aimed to evaluate the association between the vasoactive-inotropic score (VIS) and post-operative morbidity and mortality in pediatric patients undergoing cardiac surgery for congenital heart diseases (CHDs). Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted at the Pediatric Cardiac Intensive Care Unit (PCICU) of the National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Karachi, Pakistan, between October 2021 and March 2022. A total of 101 children up to 18 years of age admitted to the PCICU were included in the analysis. Demographic characteristics and peri-operative variables were recorded, and VIS scores were collected to assess their association with post-surgery outcomes. A score of ≥15 was considered high, while a score <15 was considered low. Results: Among the 101 children included in the study, 49 (48.5%) were male and 52 (51.5%) were female, with a mean age of 7.45±2.81 years. Fifteen (14.9%) patients had a high VIS score during their ICU stay, while 86 patients had a low VIS score. Low cardiac output was the most common post-operative morbidity observed in 9 (8.9%) children, followed by hepatic dysfunction and acute kidney injury, each reported in 8 (7.9%) children. Significant associations were found between high VIS and hepatic dysfunction (p<0.001), acute kidney injury (p<0.001), low cardiac output (p<0.001), neurological dysfunction (p=0.016), and mortality (p<0.001). Conclusion: High VIS scores were significantly associated with poor short-term morbidity and mortality in children undergoing corrective surgery for CHDs. The VIS system can aid in predicting disease progression, severity, and outcomes in pediatric cardiac surgical patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reports three new crystallographically characterized europium complexes with composition as follows: [Eu(fod)3(L1)] (1), [Eu(fod)3(L2)] (2) and [Eu(fod)3(L3)] (3) {L1 = benzimidazole (bzi), L2 = 4,7-diphenyl-1,10-phenanthroline (bath), L3 = 2-(2-pyridyl) benzimidazole (py-im) and fod = anion of 6,6,7,7,8,8,8-heptafluoro-2,2-dimethyl-3,5-octanedione (Hfod)}. The single crystal (SC) XRD analysis shows that complex 1 is seven-coordinated while complexes 2 and 3 are eight-coordinated with the geometrical structures of a mono-capped octahedron and a trigonal dodecahedron, respectively. The NMR spectra of the complexes validate the SC-XRD results in solution. The complexes are stable in solution as no dissociation of any ligand was observed in the NMR spectra of the complexes. The photophysical properties of the complexes in solution, solid state, and PMMA thin films were studied. The hypersensitive transition 5D0 → 7F2 dominates the emission spectra in all phases, showing the highly asymmetric environment around the Eu(III) ion. The bath ligand is found to be the best sensitizer of the Eu ion and hence complex 2 shows the strongest luminescence properties with the highest absolute quantum yield among the three complexes. The CIE coordinate analysis shows that pure red-luminescence is emitted by the Eu complexes in the solid state since the coordinates found in this phase are closer to the standard NTSC 1987 values. The optical band gaps were determined for the complexes and the observed values suggest that the complexes can have possible applications in the field of semiconductor materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trichodes sedlaceki sedlaceki Winkler is newly recorded from Beshgram, Chitral, KPK, Pakistan. Both the genus and the species are new to this region. Figures of the habitus and the aedeagus, along with a distributional map, are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a condition that affects the main nerves in the wrist area that causes numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand and arm. CTS affects 5% of the general population and results in pain in the wrist due to repetitive use, most commonly affecting women and office workers. Conservative management of CTS includes neurodynamic modulation to promote median nerve gliding during upper limb movements to maintain normal function. However, evidence for the benefits of neurodynamic modulation found disparities, and hence, the effectiveness of neurodynamic modulation remains unclear. This study aimed to systematically review the current evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to establish the effectiveness of neurodynamic techniques as a non-surgical treatment option for CTS. Using the PRISMA guidelines, two authors searched four electronic databases, and studies were included if they conformed to pre-established eligibility criteria. Primary outcome measures included outcomes from the Boston carpal tunnel syndrome questionnaire, while secondary outcomes included nerve conduction velocity, pain, and grip strength. Quality assessment was completed using the Cochrane RoB2 form, and a meta-analysis was performed to assess heterogeneity. Twelve RCTs met our inclusion/exclusion criteria with assessments on 1003 participants in the treatment and control arms. High heterogeneity and some risks of bias were observed between studies, but the results of the meta-analysis showed a significant reduction in our primary outcome, the Boston carpal tunnel syndrome questionnaire-symptom severity scale (mean difference = −1.20, 95% CI [−1.72, −0.67], p < 0.00001) and the Boston carpal tunnel syndrome questionnaire-functional severity scale (mean difference = −1.06, 95% CI [−1.53, −0.60], p < 0.00001). Secondary outcomes such as sensory and motor conduction velocity increased significantly, while motor latency was significantly reduced, all positively favoring neurodynamic techniques. Pain was also significantly reduced, but grip strength was not significantly different. Our systematic review demonstrates significant benefits of neurodynamic modulation techniques to treat CTS and specifically that it reduces symptom severity, pain, and motor latency, while at the same time improving nerve conduction velocities. Hence, our study demonstrates a clear benefit of neurodynamic techniques to improve recovery CTS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To describe differences in clinical and demographic characteristics between patients with episodic migraine (EM) or chronic migraine (CM) and determine the effect of migraine subtype on patient‐reported outcome measures (PROM). Background: Prior studies have characterized migraine in the general population. While this provides a basis for our understanding of migraine, we have less insight into the characteristics, comorbidities, and outcomes of migraine patients who present to subspecialty headache clinics. These patients represent a subset of the population that bears the greatest burden of migraine disability and are more representative of migraine patients who seek medical care. Valuable insights can be gained from a better understanding of CM and EM in this population. Methods: We conducted a retrospective observational cohort study of patients with CM or EM seen in the Cleveland Clinic Headache Center between January 2012 and June 2017. Demographics, clinical characteristics, and patient‐reported outcome measures (3‐Level European Quality of Life 5‐Dimension [EQ‐5D‐3L], Headache Impact Test‐6 [HIT‐6], Patient Health Questionnaire‐9 [PHQ‐9]) were compared between groups. Results: Eleven thousand thirty‐seven patients who had 29,032 visits were included. More CM patients reported being on disability 517/3652 (14.2%) than EM patients 249/4881 (5.1%) and had significantly worse mean HIT‐6 (67.3 ± 7.4 vs. 63.1 ± 7.4, p < 0.001) and median [interquartile range] EQ‐5D‐3L (0.77 [0.44–0.82] vs. 0.83 [0.77–1.00], p < 0.001), and PHQ‐9 (10 [6–16] vs. 5 [2–10], p < 0.001). Conclusions: There are multiple differences in demographic characteristics and comorbid conditions between patients with CM and EM. After adjustment for these factors, CM patients had higher PHQ‐9 scores, lower quality of life scores, greater disability, and greater work restrictions/unemployment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reports the synthesis, structure, photophysical, and optoelectronic properties of five eight-coordinate Europium(III) ternary complexes, namely, [Eu(hth)3(L)2], bearing 4,4,5,5,6,6,6-heptafluoro-1-(2-thienyl)-1,3-hexanedione (hth) as a sensitizer and L = H2O (1), dpso (diphenyl sulphoxide, 2), dpsoCH3 (4,4′-dimethyl diphenyl sulfoxide, 3), dpsoCl (bis(4-chlorophenyl)sulphoxide, 4), and tppo (triphenylphosphine oxide, 5) as co-ligands. The NMR and the crystal structure analysis confirmed the eight-coordinate structures of the complexes in solution and in a solid state. Upon UV-excitation on the absorption band of the β-diketonate ligand hth, all complexes showed the characteristic bright red luminescence of the Europium ion. The tppo derivative (5) displayed the highest quantum yield (up to 66%). As a result, an organic light-emitting device, OLED, was fabricated with a multi-layered structure—ITO/MoO3/mCP/SF3PO:[complex 5] (10%)/TPBi:[complex 5] (10%)/TmPyPB/LiF/Al—using complex 5 as the emitting component. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For the boiler-turbine unit in power systems, a coordinated control structure plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance in supply and demand of energy, reducing pollutant emissions and optimizing energy efficiency. The matching requirements of the turbine and boiler, the wide range of load changes, and the cooperative operation of many devices in the power system pose many challenges to designing a coordinated control system for the boiler turbine system, thus making the control design a difficult task. In this paper, iterative learning control (ILC) is used to maintain the throttle pressure and megawatt output power of a boiler turbine at the desired set points by controlling the hybrid pattern design structure. Simulation results show that the proposed approach can maintain the desired set points, and the desired response can also be obtained faster by using the proposed approach compared to the ones available in the literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work presents the design techniques for generalized Chebyshev miniaturized monolithic ceramic bandpass filters. The integrated ceramic dielectric waveguide filters occupy less than 50% volume of conventional coaxial TEM filters. Generalized Chebyshev filter response is achieved using metal-plated blind holes embedded at various places in the dielectric slab, which provide inter-resonating couplings and/or attenuation poles at the same time. The measured results of an equivalent air-filled model are presented for the verification of the concept. The measurements closely agree with the design theory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is characterized by a complex and prolonged injury process that exacerbates the damage induced by the primary injury and inhibits the potential for regeneration. SCI frequently results in the devastating loss of neurological functions and thus has serious consequences on patient quality of life. Current treatments are limited and focus on early interventions for the acute management of complications. Therefore, the development of novel treatments targeting ongoing injury processes is required to improve SCI outcomes. We aimed to systematically review studies published in the last 10 years that examined experimental treatments with neuroregenerative and neuroprotective capabilities for the improvement of SCI. We analyzed treatments from 44 studies that were identified through a systematic literature search using three databases: PubMed, Web of Science and EMBASE (searched through Ovid). We performed a meta-analysis for Basso-Beattie-Bresnahan (BBB) locomotion test data and collected immunohistochemistry results to demonstrate neuroregenerative and neuroprotective properties of the treatments, respectively. The two treatments that illustrated the most significant improvements in functional recovery using the BBB test were the combined use of tetrahedral framework nucleic acid (tFNA) with neural stem cells (NSCs) and Fortasyn® Connect (FC) supplementation. Both treatments also attenuated secondary injury processes as demonstrated through immunohistochemistry. Combined tFNA with NSCs and FC supplementation are promising treatments for the improvement of SCI as they both demonstrate neuroregenerative and neuroprotective properties. Further pre-clinical testing is required to validate and determine the long-term efficacies of these treatments for the improvement of SCI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Primary blast lung injury (PBLI) is the most common and fatal of all primary blast injuries. The majority of those with PBLI will require early intubation and mechanical ventilation, and thus, ventilation strategy forms a crucial part of any management plan. Methods : A comprehensive, but not systematic, PubMed and Google Scholar database search identified articles that contribute to our current understanding of ventilation strategies in PBLI for a narrative educational review. Results: A PBLI ventilation strategy must strive to minimise all four of ventilator-associated lung injury (VALI), volutrauma, barotrauma and biotrauma. The three main ventilation strategies available are conventional low tidal volume (LTV) ventilation, airway pressure release ventilation (APRV) and high frequency oscillatory ventilation (HFOV). Conventional LTV ventilation together with a variable positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) and permissive hypercapnia has demonstrated reduced inflammation and mortality with a greater number of ventilator-free days. APRV has the potential to reduce dynamic strain, PaO2/FiO2 ratios, levels of applied mechanical power and extravascular lung water while encouraging spontaneous breathing. HFOV is able to effectively avoid VALI while curbing inflammation and histological lung injury, though not necessarily mortality. Conclusions : Presently, PBLI should largely be managed with conventional LTV ventilation alongside a variable PEEP and permissive hypercapnia with APRV and HFOV reserved as rescue strategies for where conventional LTV ventilation fails. Clinicians should additionally consider supplementing their strategy with adjunctive therapies such as prone positioning, inhaled nitric oxide and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation that may further reduce mortality and combat severe respiratory and/or cardiac failure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Co 3 O 4 nanosheets were produced as a carbon analog to engulf mesoporous TiO 2 particles as a heterostructured catalyst for OER. • The heterostructure efficiently performed OER with a 340 mV overpotential at 10 mA/cm2 and lasted up to 20 h. • This study can be expanded to develop heterostructured catalysts with different metal oxides and analyze their interaction with TiO 2 for water oxidation. 2D ultrathin Co 3 O 4 sheets are a promising new material with the potential to emulate the desirable properties of graphene-based materials for use in a wide range of electrochemical applications. Anode oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and its complex four-electron transfer mechanism is the subject of this investigation because of their potential relevance to the problem of industrial-scale hydrogen generation by water electrolysis. The development of long-lasting, efficient, and inexpensive electrocatalysts for the oxygen evolution process is thus of immediate importance. An interesting inorganic graphene counterpart was created in this study by synthesizing Co 3 O 4 nanosheets enclosing mesoporous spherical TiO 2 nanoparticles using economical and straightforward technique. With overpotential of 340 mV at 10 mA/cm2, the resultant catalyst was very long-lasting, continuing to function even after 20 h in an alkaline environment. The catalyst's synergistic interaction at the interface of the inorganic graphene counterpart is credited with its extraordinary activity, which was accompanied by a low Tafel slope value of 70 mV/dec and turnover frequencies (TOFs) reaching 0.025 sec -1 at an overpotential of 400 mV. The formation of a heterostructure between the Co 3 O 4 sheets and mesoporous spherical TiO 2 nanoparticles leads to interfacial electron transfer, resulting in an increase in the electron density of active metals. This elevated electron density, along with the altered electronic arrangement, enhanced electrical conductivity, and accelerated charge transfer, contributes to the improved catalytic activity of the catalyst compared to its individual components. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Fe, Co, and N co-doped graphene-coated alumina nanofiber catalysts were prepared. • These materials exhibit good oxygen reduction and evolution reaction reversibility. • Prepared catalysts were successfully employed at the zinc-air battery air electrode. • The maximum power density of 149 mW cm−2 was observed during the battery discharge. • The charge–discharge cycling of the battery revealed the long catalyst lifetime. Aqueous rechargeable zinc-air battery (RZAB) is an emerging environmentally friendly energy storage device for a wide variety of industrial applications such as electric vehicles, consumer electronics, and stationary power plants. For successful commercialization of RZABs, a cost-effective bifunctional catalyst is highly required to catalyze the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) at the air electrode. Dual transition-metal and nitrogen-doped nanocarbon materials have shown good potential as an affordable and scalable bifunctional oxygen electrocatalysts alternative to Pt-group metal-based catalysts for RZAB. To achieve this goal, we have developed electrocatalysts based on Fe, Co, and nitrogen co-doped graphene-augmented inorganic alumina nanofibers (Fe/Co-NGr). The Fe/Co-NGr catalysts demonstrate high oxygen reduction and evolution reaction reversibility (Δ E) of 0.85–0.88 V due to the graphene-covered nanofibrous structure doped with FeCo alloy nanoparticles and containing nitrogen, transition metal (TM) coordinated to nitrogen and TM oxide active sites. The primary zinc-air battery with Fe/Co-NGr air electrode exhibits a high maximum power density of 149 mW cm−2 and a specific capacity of 807 mAh g Zn -1. The RZAB assessment has shown a low charge–discharge voltage gap of 0.86 V and high energy utilization efficiency of 58 % up to 90 h of charge–discharge cycling at 5 mA cm−2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The brain-penetrant ATM inhibitor, AZD1390, promotes axon regeneration and functional recovery in preclinical models of spinal cord injury This study demonstrates that AZD1390, an orally bioavailable, brain-penetrant, potent, and highly selective inhibitor of ataxia-telangiectasia mutated (ATM), promotes dramatic recovery after spinal cord injury (SCI). Consistent with the suppression of pATM levels in AZD1390-treated animals, cholera toxin B tracing of axons showed that only oral AZD1390, but not KU-60019, promoted DC axon regeneration through the lesion site and into the rostral cord (Figure 2C,D). [Extracted from the article]

Background: A national study analyzing the association between preoperative steroid use and outcomes after pancreatic resections is lacking. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the association between preoperative steroids and outcomes after pancreaticoduodenectomy using a national database. Materials and Methods: A retrospective analysis of patients undergoing pancreaticoduodenectomy was performed using the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database (2014–2019). In addition, we utilized propensity score matching to compare patients on preoperative steroids to those who were not. Outcomes measured included 30-day complications and mortality, need for readmission, a prolonged hospital length of stay, delayed gastric emptying, and pancreatic fistula. Results: After propensity score matching, there were 438 patients in the steroid group and 876 patients in the no steroid group. There was no difference in pancreatic fistula (23.8% vs. 21.7%; p-0.3), delayed gastric emptying (21.1% vs.20.1%; p-0.06), major complications (31.8% vs. 30.1%; p-0.1), and mortality (3.5% vs. 3.2%; p-0.6) between the two groups. Conclusion: Glucocorticoids did not reduce the incidence of overall complications, postoperative fistula, and delayed gastric emptying following pancreaticoduodenectomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is one of the leading causes of morbidity, disability and mortality across all age groups globally. Currently, only palliative treatments exist, but these are suboptimal and do little to combat the progressive damage to the brain that occurs after a TBI. However, multiple experimental treatments are currently available that target the primary and secondary biochemical and cellular changes that occur after a TBI. Some of these drugs have progressed to clinical trials and are currently being evaluated for their therapeutic benefits in TBI patients. The aim of this study was to identify which drugs are currently being evaluated in clinical trials for TBI. A search of ClinicalTrials.gov was performed on 3 December 2021 and all clinical trials that mentioned "TBI" OR "traumatic brain injury" AND "drug" were searched, revealing 362 registered trials. Of the trials, 46 were excluded due to the drug not being mentioned, leaving 138 that were completed and 116 that were withdrawn. Although the studies included 267,298 TBI patients, the average number of patients per study was 865 with a range of 5–200,000. Of the completed studies, 125 different drugs were tested in TBI patients but only 7 drugs were used in more than three studies, including amantadine, botulinum toxin A and tranexamic acid (TXA). However, previous clinical studies using these seven drugs showed variable results. The current study concludes that clinical trials in TBI have to be carefully conducted so as to reduce variability across studies, since the severity of TBI and timing of therapeutic interventions were key aspects of trial success. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since the rat DC injury model better recapitulates human SCI pathophysiology,1,5 the same profile of MMP-9 (Figure S10A) and MMP-12 (Figure S10B) mRNA expression was also observed. (D) Inhibition of MMP-9 and MMP-12 by oral AZD1236 attenuates mRNA levels of proinflammatory pain markers interleukin-1 (IL-1 ), tumour necrosis factor- (TNF- ) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in the DC injury model. This study demonstrated that short-term inhibition of matrix metalloprotease (MMP)-9 and MMP-12 in both mouse and rat models of spinal cord injury (SCI) using the clinic-ready, orally bioavailable and specific inhibitor, AZD1236, attenuated injury-induced oedema, proinflammatory pain markers, pain sensation and blood-spinal cord barrier (BSCB) breakdown. (E) Inhibition of MMP-9 and MMP-12 by intrathecal AZD1236 also attenuates mRNA levels of proinflammatory pain markers IL-1 , TNF- and IL-6 in the DC injury model. [Extracted from the article]

The streptozotocin (STZ)-induced rodent model is one of the most commonly employed models in preclinical drug discovery for diabetic retinopathy (DR). However, standardization and validation of experimental readouts are largely lacking. The aim of this systematic review was to identify and compare the most useful readouts of STZ-induced DR and provide recommendations for future study design based on our findings. We performed a systematic search using 2 major databases, PubMed and EMBASE. Only articles describing STZ-induced DR describing both functional and structural readouts were selected. We also assessed the risk of bias and analyzed qualitative data in the selected studies. We identified 21 studies that met our inclusion/exclusion criteria, using either rats or mice and study periods of 2 to 24 weeks. Glucose level thresholds used to define hyperglycemia were inconsistent between studies, however, most studies used either 250 or 300.6 mg/dL as a defining criterion for hyperglycemia. All included studies performed electroretinography (ERG) and reported a reduction in a-, b-, or c-wave and/or oscillatory potential amplitudes. Spectral-domain optical coherence tomography and fluorescein angiography, as well as immunohistochemical and histopathological analyses showed reductions in retinal thickness, vascular changes, and presence of inflammation. Risk of bias assessment showed that all studies had a high risk of bias due to lack of reporting or correctly following procedures. Our systematic review highlights that ERG represents the most consistent functional readout in the STZ model. However, due to the high risk of bias, caution must be used when interpreting these studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Raw soil core physical data used in machine learning algorithms with corresponding spatial remotely sensed data is an emerging science. Using data derived from soil core samples previously collected in Universal Transverse Mercator zone 50 (Western Australia) and remotely sensed data, a model that predicted ground movement (GM) was developed specific to Australian Standards manual AS 1726–2017. This is the first approach for Australian soils and first in the world for soils older than 200 million yr. The model developed reliably predicted GM with 91.1% accuracy. The error obtained from the prediction is within acceptable limits currently used by engineers in calculations concerning soil classification for engineering purposes. Concerning the remotely sensed data analyzed, accuracy of the Atterberg limits method might be improved if additional information about soil structure (layering and horizon) or other variables (seasonal data) are built into this model. This model can be used to save on construction material costs, reduce the potential for human error associated with data collection and sample manipulation, but also fast‐track (by up to 6 wk based on current wait times) building approvals while ensuring compliance to the relevant legislation. This platform also reduces the environmental effects of invasive drilling techniques. A requirement within principles of sustainable building practices, and associated with current standards commonly used by structural engineers who may seek better understanding of soil properties in Australia as a software service (with application potential in North America). Core Ideas: High‐resolution spatial analysis gives deep soil insights about an ancient Mediterranean soil.We discuss a new soil machine learning engineering prediction method and corresponding software platform.Eliminating misconceptions about machine learning through sound statistics consolidates Atterberg values used to determine "ground movement" in the context of Australian (and international) standards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oxygen electrochemistry that comprises oxygen evolution and reduction reactions (OER/ORR) is vital for sustainable, clean, and efficient energy generation. However, the high activation barrier due to the multi-electron transfer process makes them sluggish and requires noble metals (e.g. Ir, Ru, or Pt) to overcome the kinetic barrier. This increases the cost of sustainable devices such as metal–air batteries and fuel cells and, in turn, obstructs their wide-scale applications. In this context, it is necessary to explore noble-metal-free efficient oxygen electrocatalysts to produce a surge in the practical applicability of these technologies. Since Fe facilitates these reactions and is widely available, it has emerged as an element of interest in different forms, such as oxides, phosphides, chalcogenides, layered double hydroxides, Fe–N–C, single atoms, and some other hetero-structured composites with carbon-based (graphene, carbon nanotubes, etc.) materials. This review assesses the strategies utilized in the development of Fe-derived materials without involving noble metals in the catalysis under alkaline conditions. It also focuses on the approaches used to transform well-known Fe-derived ORR materials to OER and vice versa or into bifunctional catalysts. Furthermore, we highlight the significant role of modifying various fundamentally important parameters, such as the fabrication methods and their consequent morphological and electronic deviations in establishing promising new Fe-based catalytic materials. This assessment will bring valuable fit to the existing literature and assist in gaining important information to extract practical applications from Fe-derived noble-metal-free electrocatalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

9 Logan, A., Ahmed, Z., Baird, A., Gonzalez, A. M., & Berry, M. (2006). 3 Ahmed, Z., Suggate, E. L., Brown, E. R., Dent, R. G., Armstrong, S. J., Barrett, L. B., Berry, M., & Logan, A. (2006). Martin Berry (Figure 1), Emeritus Professor of Neuroanatomy at the University of Birmingham and a former Chairman of the Department of Anatomy, Kings College London (Guys Campus), died on 30 July 2021 after a valiant fight with cancer. [Extracted from the article]

Objective: To quantify the proportion of headache‐related grand rounds in academic neurology programs and to compare this with adult neurology residency director views on the need for an increase in headache‐related grand rounds. Background: Although headache are among the most prevalent and most burdensome neurologic conditions, headache medicine is often considered underrepresented in neurology departments. Additionally, prior studies have shown that many neurology residency directors feel that training programs do not include an adequate amount of exposure to headache clinics or headache‐related didactics. One important aspect of didactic education in neurology departments is adult neurology grand rounds. Previous publications have evaluated neither the proportion of headache‐related grand rounds in academic neurology departments nor the residency program directors' views on appropriate amount of headache‐related grand rounds. Our study has attempted to quantify this information to elucidate opportunities to improve practice educational gaps. Methods: In this cross‐sectional study, we surveyed adult neurology residency directors (from the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education [ACGME] listing of academic adult neurology residency programs) between October 2018 and September 2019. In addition, we used two methods to obtain the proportion of headache‐related grand rounds in neurology: (1) emailing residency directors a questionnaire asking for a list of prior grand rounds topics and (2) an online search for each academic neurology program. Results: First, for our grand rounds analysis, headache medicine consisted of 3.7% of the lectures in 2017–2018 and 6.3% of the lectures in 2018–2019 (average of each institution; 17 institutions and 411 total lectures in 2017–2018, 21 institutions and 463 total lectures in 2018–2019). The most common number of lectures on headache medicine for each grand rounds series was zero (for 7 of 17 grand rounds series in 2017–2018 and 7 of 21 in 2018–2019), followed closely by one lecture (for 6 of 17 grand rounds series in 2017–2018 and 6 of 21 in 2018–2019). Second, for our survey, the response rate was 19.3% (29/150). No residency director thought their institution had too many grand rounds dedicated to headache medicine, and 62.1% (18/29) thought they had an adequate amount of headache grand rounds. Within the survey responders, 75.9% (22/29) of adult neurology residency programs have a board‐certified headache specialist at their institution. Conclusions: Although most adult neurology residency directors believe that headache is adequately represented in adult neurology grand rounds, headache medicine makes up 4%–6% of all neurology grand rounds. Compared with other neurology subspecialties and the other core ACGME milestones, headache makes up the fewest grand rounds lectures that were assessed in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adaptor protein (AP) complexes mediate selective intracellular vesicular trafficking and polarized localization of somatodendritic proteins in neurons. Disease-causing alleles of various subunits of AP complexes have been implicated in several heritable human disorders, including intellectual disabilities (IDs). Here, we report two bi-allelic (c.737C>A [p.Pro246His] and c.1105A>G [p.Met369Val]) and eight de novo heterozygous variants (c.44G>A [p.Arg15Gln], c.103C>T [p.Arg35Trp], c.104G>A [p.Arg35Gln], c.229delC [p.Gln77Lys∗11], c.399_400del [p.Glu133Aspfs∗37], c.747G>T [p.Gln249His], c.928−2A>C [p.?], and c.2459C>G [p.Pro820Arg]) in AP1G1 , encoding gamma-1 subunit of adaptor-related protein complex 1 (AP1γ1), associated with a neurodevelopmental disorder (NDD) characterized by mild to severe ID, epilepsy, and developmental delay in eleven families from different ethnicities. The AP1γ1-mediated adaptor complex is essential for the formation of clathrin-coated intracellular vesicles. In silico analysis and 3D protein modeling simulation predicted alteration of AP1γ1 protein folding for missense variants, which was consistent with the observed altered AP1γ1 levels in heterologous cells. Functional studies of the recessively inherited missense variants revealed no apparent impact on the interaction of AP1γ1 with other subunits of the AP-1 complex but rather showed to affect the endosome recycling pathway. Knocking out ap1g1 in zebrafish leads to severe morphological defect and lethality, which was significantly rescued by injection of wild-type AP1G1 mRNA and not by transcripts encoding the missense variants. Furthermore, microinjection of mRNAs with de novo missense variants in wild-type zebrafish resulted in severe developmental abnormalities and increased lethality. We conclude that de novo and bi-allelic variants in AP1G1 are associated with neurodevelopmental disorder in diverse populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extracellular vesicles (EVs), including exosomes, microvesicles, and other lipid vesicles derived from cells, play a pivotal role in intercellular communication by transferring information between cells. EVs secreted by progenitor and stem cells have been associated with the therapeutic effects observed in cell-based therapies, and they also contribute to tissue regeneration following injury, such as in orthopaedic surgery cases. This review explores the involvement of EVs in nerve regeneration, their potential as drug carriers, and their significance in stem cell research and cell-free therapies. It underscores the importance of bioengineers comprehending and manipulating EV activity to optimize the efficacy of tissue engineering and regenerative therapies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spreading quickly throughout populations, whether animal or human-borne, infectious illnesses provide serious risks and difficulties. Controlling their spread and averting disinformation requires effective risk assessment and epidemic identification. Technology-enabled data analysis on diseases allows for quick solutions to these problems. A Combinational Data Assessment Scheme intended to accelerate disease detection is presented in this paper. The suggested strategy avoids duplicate data replication by sharing data among edge devices. It uses indexed data gathering to improve early detection by using tree classifiers to discern between various kinds of information. Both data similarity and index measurements are considered throughout the data analysis stage to minimize assessment errors. Accurate risk detection and assessment based on information kind and sharing frequency are ensured by comparing non-linear accumulations with accurate shared edge data. The suggested system exhibits high accuracy, low mistakes, and decreased data repetition to improve overall effectiveness in illness detection and risk reduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the modern digital sphere, graph theory is a significant field of research that has a great deal of significance. It finds widespread application in computer science, robotic directions, and chemistry. Additionally, graph theory is used in robot network localization, computer network problems and the formation of various chemical structures for networks. Moreover, it finds uses in exploring diffusion mechanisms and scheduling aircraft as well. The present research project examines and concentrates on the edge version of metric dimension of the Concealed Non-Kekuléan Benzenoid Hydrocarbon, Polythiophene, Backbone DNA network and Bakelite networks. All the mentioned networks have constant edge metric dimension except Bakelite network, as demonstrated by the results. If we talk about the applications of these networks, Polythiophene are used to treat prion disorders. It is also capable of detecting metal ions. The concept of Bakelite, which finds applications in the jewelry, electrical, cookware, sports, and clock industries, had an impact on the invention of modern polymers. The functions of DNA include information encoding, replication, mutation, and recombination gene expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reports the synthesis, structures, photophysics and optoelectronics of three NIR-emitting ternary neodymium tris β-diketonate complexes, [Nd(hfpd)3(L)n=1–2(H2O)x=0–2](H2O)y=0–1 (hfpd = anionic form of 1,1,1,5,5,5-hexafluoropentane-2,4-dione; L = diphenyl sulfoxide (dpso), n = 1, x = 2, y = 1 (1); L = dibenzyl sulfoxide (dbso), n = 1, x = 1, y = 0 (2); L = triphenyl phosphine oxide (tppo), n = 2, x = 0, y = 0 (3)). The complexes were used as active components in emitting layers to fabricate NIR-OLEDs with multilayered structures: ITO/MoO3 (2 nm)/β-NPB (30 nm)/TcTa:[Nd-complex] (20 nm)/TPBi:[Nd-complex] (10 nm)/TPBi (10 nm)/Alq3 (40 nm)/LiF (0.1 nm)/Al (100 nm). The performance of the present devices is on a par with the best Nd complex based devices reported so far. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reports three structurally characterised Ln(III) ternary complexes, [Ln(hfaa)3(Hind)n] {Ln = La (n = 3), Er and Yb (n = 2); hfaa = hexafluoroacetylacetone anion and Hind = indazole}, and their photophysical properties in the pure near infra-red (NIR) region. The hfaa and H-indazole were used as a sensitizer and antenna ligands, respectively, in the complexes. The single crystal XRD and solution NMR studies show that the La complex is nine-coordinate, while the Er and Yb complexes are octa-coordinated. The paramagnetic Er and Yb complexes show very fast longitudinal relaxation rates (ρ = 1/T1), which make them very useful for para-shift relaxation probes used in MRI. Upon UV excitation, erbium and ytterbium exhibit their characteristic luminescence in the pure NIR region (800–1600 nm). These could be very useful in various advanced applications ranging from optical communication to defence. The complexes showed the highest oscillator strength in dichloromethane followed by acetonitrile, and the oscillator strength was lowest in methanol since methanol molecules replaced the Hind ligands and provided a symmetrical ligand field around the Ln ions. The complexes in solid state showed stronger NIR photophysical properties compared to those in solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A partial notch loading technique for E-plane sidelobe reduction and gain enhancement of higher order TM30 and TM70 mode rectangular patch antennas is proposed. In this technique, out of phase surface current distribution regions of higher order TMm0 (m = 3, 7) mode patch antennas are partially removed to create new radiating edges. It is shown that superposition of radiated fields of these additional radiating edges and that of unperturbed TMm0 (m = 3, 7) mode can be used to achieve sidelobe reduction and gain enhancement in single-layer configuration. Two novel single layer, easy to fabricate higher order mode patch antennas, namely, notch loaded TM30 mode patch antenna (Antenna 1) and notch loaded TM70 mode patch antenna (Antenna 2), are presented. Antenna 1 shows a measured gain of 12.9 dBi and E-plane sidelobe levels (SLL) of -10.5 dB, whereas Antenna 2 shows a measured gain of 16 dBi and SLL of -12.8 dB. To the best of authors' knowledge, this is the highest reported antenna gain for single-layer TM70 mode rectangular patch antenna. Due to their high gain, proposed antennas are suitable for short range point to point communication applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review addresses issues relating to the survival and axon regeneration of both intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGC) and αRGC, and possible ensuing patterns of functional recovery after optic nerve crush, all of which are broadly relevant to recovery from injury in the central nervous system (CNS) as whole. Although much needs to be clarified about the connectivity, function and patterns of myelination of regenerated CNS axons, the results of recent research on activity-induced αRGC axon regeneration associated with functional restitution have highlighted key focal obstacles to recovery including neurotrophic support, axon misguidance, target recognition failure and dysmyelination. Pan RGC survival/axon regeneration requires receptor binding and downstream signalling by a cocktail of growth factors, more generally defined in the CNS by the individual trophic requirements of neuronal subsets within a given disconnected centre. Resolution of the problem of failed axon guidance and target recognition is complicated by a confounding paradox that axon growth inhibitory ligand disinhibition required for axon regeneration may mask axon guidance cues that are essential for accurate re-innervation. The study of the temporal parameters of remyelination of regenerated αRGC axons may become feasible if they establish permanent homologous connections, allowing time for new myelin sheaths to fully form. Unless near complete re-innervation of denervated targets is re-instated in the CNS, debilitating dysfunctional neurological sequelae may ensue from the resulting imbalance in connectivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prediction of effective elastic properties of a granular medium using ultrasonic data based on contact models has been studied widely in both laboratory experiments and numerical simulations. In contrast, a calculation of the elastic properties of the constituent grains using similar data by inverting the equations from those models is a rather new concept. To do so, we have developed a controlled experiment technique that includes a uniaxial compaction test and measures ultrasonic velocities of four unconsolidated quartz sand samples with different sorting and grain shapes. We observe that both P‐ and S‐wave velocities are significantly influenced by the microstructure or internal arrangement of the grains. Well sorted and more spherical and rounded samples show higher velocities than the poorly sorted and less spherical and rounded samples. A microstructural parameter – namely coordination number – we have calculated from high resolution micro computed tomography images provides a good match between the model and dynamic effective bulk moduli of the sand pack. Combining this coordination number with a frictional parameter calculated from the measured velocity ratios has been very effective to fit the model with the dynamic effective shear moduli. Using these two key parameters along with the experiment results in the contact model we have been able to obtain the elastic parameters of the quartz sand grains in the sample. Elastic parameters obtained thus are very close to the actual values of the quartz grains found in the literature. This technique can be useful in hard rock mineral exploration where missing core samples or an absence of well logs can be replaced by laboratory measurements of powders to find the elasticity or velocities of the rocks. Moreover, the elastic properties of the solid phase calculated using this technique can be used as input parameters for the fluid substitution and rock physics characterization of unconsolidated reservoir sands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Elastic properties of an unconsolidated sand are largely dependent on the elastic properties of its constituent grain and the micro‐structure that defines how the grains are arranged within themselves. Coordination number, that is the average number of contacts a grain has with its neighbours, and contact surface area are the two parameters closely related to the microstructure. Moreover, grain shapes and sorting also have substantial influence on these parameters. To calculate these parameters and find any potential relationships with the shape factors, we acquire high‐resolution micro computed tomography images of four mechanically compacted unconsolidated dry sand samples that are of different shape factors and sorting indices. After a comprehensive voxel‐based data processing, we calculate shape factors such as sphericity and roundness of each grain in all samples. Using own algorithm, we then calculate the coordination number and contact surface area. Results show that samples of well‐sorted and higher spherical and rounded grains have higher coordination number and contact surface area than the samples of poorly sorted and lower spherical and rounded grains. Among the poorly sorted samples, coordination number is largely dependent on the fraction of larger grain sizes present in the sample. Inside any given sample, grains of lower sphericity tend to have higher coordination numbers. Moreover, more spherical and rounded grains have greater contact surface area with their neighbours. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents three crystallographically and solution NMR (one- and two-dimensional) characterised ternary Ln(iii) complexes, and their photo-physical and opto-electronic properties in the visible and NIR regions. The single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis indicates that the complexes are nona-coordinate with a chemical composition of [Ln(hfaa)3(Hind)3] (hfaa = anion of hexafluoroacetylacetone, Hind = indazole and Ln = Pr, Nd and Sm). The Ln ions, in the complexes, are coordinated to six O-atoms of three hfaa and three N-atoms of three monodentate Hind ligands, making the coordination polyhedra LnO6N3 with distorted monocapped square antiprismatic geometries, low symmetry structures that promote radiative transitions, suggesting efficient energy transfer from the organic ligands to the metal ion. The NMR analysis confirms the nona-coordinate structures and shows the isostructurality of the complexes in solution. The excitation of the complexes at 310 nm led to the characteristic of both visible and near infrared luminescence of the Pr, Nd and Sm complexes. The samarium complex displayed very strong orange-red luminescence. In contrast to the solution, the PMMA doped samples of the complexes showed an enhancement in the emission lifetime and the quantum yield. A triple layered NIR-emitting OLED, fabricated using the Nd-complex as an emitting layer, showed good optical and electrical performances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The elastic properties of crystalline rocks can be estimated from ultrasonic measurements on the powders of crushed rocks produced by the drilling process. To determine the elastic properties of grains from properties of powder packs, we study the dependence of their ultrasonic wave velocities on pressure. From this dependency, using the Hertz–Mindlin theory, we can calculate the effective ratio of the grain shear modulus to one minus the Poisson ratio. The Hertz–Mindlin theory requires the knowledge of grain coordination number as a function of pressure, which can be obtained using an empirical relation based on published numerical simulations. Previous work has shown that this approach gives an accurate prediction of the effective bulk modulus of glass beads but produces a significant discrepancy for sand. This discrepancy may be attributed to the angularity of sand grains. To overcome this problem, we introduce a shape factor into the empirical relation for the coordination number. This new shape factor allows us to reconcile the rock physics model with laboratory measurements. We show that the shape factor varies from 1 to 2.5 for different grain shape angularity and sorting (grain size distributions). The modified theory allows us to estimate a combination of elasticity parameters of the grains from the measured dependence of P‐wave velocity in the pack on the pressure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pseudoprotapion coeleste (Faust, 1886) is first recorded from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province of Pakistan, the northernmost locality for this species. Distribution map for this species is given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since 2016, a survey was carried out on the distribution of Scarabaeidae from Kotli District, Azad Kashmir, Pakistan, and unpublished data of some scarab species from Balochistan are added. The list consists of 20 species and three subspecies in 18 genera. The subfamily Scarabaeinae had the highest number of taxa with ten species and two subspecies. The Rutelinae had five species and one subspecies, Cetoniinae with three species, and one species each in Dynastinae and Melolonthinae. A taxonomic account of Scarabaeidae from the northern part of Pakistan, including some areas of Azad Kashmir, was studied by RATCLIFFE & AHMED (2010), SABATINELLI & AHRENS (2015) and SIDDIQUI et al. (2014) but never attempted from Kotli District, Azad Kashmir. For this reason, all the records reported from this area are new. Furthermore, new data and a new record are provided for some Scarabaeidae species from Balochistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Migraine is associated with several important visual symptoms, during both acute attacks and headache‐free intervals. The purpose of this investigation was to use validated vision‐related quality of life instruments to assess the effect of migraine on visual quality of life. Background: Many migraineurs experience visual aura, increased photophobia during and between headache attacks, and increased symptoms of dry eye with structural changes in corneal nerve endings. Other visual symptoms associated with migraine include positive persistent visual phenomenon (visual snow) and transient vision changes. Previous research looking at the disability associated with migraine has shown that patient‐reported quality of life data can be useful in determining the severity of disease burden. Recent published literature has suggested that visual symptoms related to migraine represent a proportionally minor burden to patients, compared to other manifestations of migraine, but no previous studies have assessed how migraine affects visual quality of life. Methods: In this cross‐sectional quantitative survey, visual quality of life in individuals with chronic and episodic migraine was assessed using the National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire‐25, and the 10‐item National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire‐25 Neuro‐Ophthalmic Supplement. Overall headache severity and impact was assessed using the Migraine‐specific Quality of Life Questionnaire (Version 2.1) and the Headache Impact Test‐6. Participants were recruited from Headache and Neuro‐ophthalmology subspecialty clinics. The target sample size was 30 participants per subgroup. The results were compared to those from disease‐free controls and to results from other neuro‐ophthalmic disease quality of life studies. Results: Among 29 participants with chronic migraine, vision‐specific quality of life scores were all statistically significantly decreased compared to disease‐free controls. The National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire‐25 median composite score was 85 for chronic migraineurs and 96 for controls (P < .001). The 10‐item National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire‐25 Neuro‐Ophthalmic Supplement median score was 72 for chronic migraineurs and 95 for controls (P < .001). Among 37 participants with episodic migraine, vision‐specific quality of life scores were also decreased compared to disease‐free controls. In the episodic migraine group, decreases in the National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire‐25 scores were not statistically significant (median score 91, P = .01 compared to the control group), but decreases in the 10‐item National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire‐25 Neuro‐Ophthalmic Supplement remained statistically significant (median score 85, P = .003 compared to the control group). Chronic migraineurs had decreased visual quality of life scores compared to those with episodic migraines. Participants with chronic migraine had visual quality of life scores that were as poor as those previously published for patients with other neuro‐ophthalmic disorders such as multiple sclerosis, myasthenia gravis, and ischemic optic neuropathy. Conclusions: Visual quality of life is significantly adversely affected in migraine sufferers. In fact, patients with chronic migraine may have visual quality of life impacts that are as significant as those associated with other common neuro‐ophthalmic disorders. Future studies of the overall disease burden in patients with migraine should include an evaluation of the effects on visual functioning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Circular organic thin film transistor (OTFT) structures are proposed to reduce the impact of variable grain alignment on the drive current of the polycrystalline organic thin film transistor (OTFT). As the circular structure is planar symmetric, the orientation of the grain cannot affect the drive current of the circular OTFT. Thus, circular electrodes expected to provide a lower variation. Top-gate, bottom-contact circular and conventional OTFTs with drop-casted polycrystalline 6,13-Bis(triisopropyl-silylethynyl) (TIPS)-Pentacene organic semiconducting layer (OSC) are fabricated to verify the theoretical variation reduction. The relative standard deviation (RSD), defined as the ratio of standard deviation and the average of drive current is used as the degree of variations in different structures. According to our fabrication result, circular transistors have a significantly lower variation (20% RSD), compared to the variation of conventional OTFTs (61% RSD). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A pyrazine as ancillary ligand coordinated to dysprosium(III) tris-acetylacetonate complex was synthesized and thoroughly characterized. Photophysical properties of the Dy(III) complex were investigated both in solution and solid powder. The quantum yield ( ɸ) of the complex in chloroform is 0.024. The UV excitation of the complex in the solid state generates white light emission which indicates significant energy transfer from the ligands (acetylacetone and pyrazines) to the Dy(III) ion. This could be due to the appropriate balancing of the intensity ratio of the yellow and blue emission bands of the Dy(III) complex. This represents an example of a single component system. The correlated colour temperature (CCT) of this white light is calculated as 5340.21 K which lies in a cool region. The radiative properties of the Dy(III) complex are calculated using Judd-Ofelt analysis and the phenomenological parameters calculated are Ω 2  = 8.07 × 10 −20  cm 2 , Ω 4  = 1.94 × 10 −20  cm 2 and Ω 6  = 1.67 × 10 −20  cm 2 . The branching ratio ( β R ) ratio calculated from the emission spectrum follows the order: 4 F 9/2  →  6 H 13/2  >  4 F 9/2  →  6 H 15/2  >  4 F 9/2  →  6 H 11/2 . The β R for the 4 F 9/2  →  6 H 13/2 transition is highest, and it contributes 83% to the total emission branching and can be considered as a possible transition for laser amplification. The white light emission from the solid powder Dy(III) complex as a single component may possibly find its use in white light emitting devices (WLEDs). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A modifier variant can abrogate the risk of a monogenic disorder. DFNM1 is a locus on chromosome 1 encoding a dominant suppressor of human DFNB26 recessive, profound deafness. Here, we report that DFNB26 is associated with a substitution (p.Gly116Glu) in the pleckstrin homology domain of GRB2-associated binding protein 1 (GAB1), an essential scaffold in the MET proto-oncogene, receptor tyrosine kinase/HGF (MET/HGF) pathway. A dominant substitution (p.Arg544Gln) of METTL13, encoding a predicted methyltransferase, is the DFNM1 suppressor of GAB1-associated deafness. In zebrafish, human METTL13 mRNA harboring the modifier allele rescued the GAB1-associated morphant phenotype. In mice, GAB1 and METTL13 colocalized in auditory sensory neurons, and METTL13 coimmunoprecipitated with GAB1 and SPRY2, indicating at least a tripartite complex. Expression of MET-signaling genes in human lymphoblastoid cells of individuals homozygous for p.Gly116Glu GAB1 revealed dysregulation of HGF, MET, SHP2, and SPRY2, all of which have reported variants associated with deafness. However, SPRY2 was not dysregulated in normal-hearing humans homozygous for both the GAB1 DFNB26 deafness variant and the dominant METTL13 deafness suppressor, indicating a plausible mechanism of suppression. Identification of METTL13-based modification of MET signaling offers a potential therapeutic strategy for a wide range of associated hearing disorders. Furthermore, MET signaling is essential for diverse functions in many tissues including the inner ear. Therefore, identification of the modifier of MET signaling is likely to have broad clinical implications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To develop and implement an algorithm for the management of headaches presenting to the emergency department (ED) in order to decrease the frequency of opioid and barbiturate treatment both acutely as well as on discharge. Background Headache is the fifth leading cause of ED visits in the United States. In the case of primary headache, particularly migraine, treatment in the ED can be highly variable. Patients with migraine continue to be treated with opioids more commonly than nonopioid, migraine specific medications. In addition, discharge plans seldom include measures to prevent recurrence or instructions to re-treat if pain persists. At this time, there is no standardized management protocol directed at acute headaches presenting to the ED. Methods An ED headache treatment algorithm with step-wise instructions for diagnosis, treatment, and discharge planning was piloted at Lakewood Hospital, a regional Cleveland Clinic affiliated hospital. This non-randomized interventional study compared outcomes after implementation of the algorithm to historical controls. Patient demographic data including age, gender, and payer mix was collected. Outcomes measured included the frequency of treatment with opioids or barbiturates, imaging, neurology consults, admissions, and a patient reported pain score. Data relevant to patient disposition and follow-up, including prescriptions for opioids or barbiturates given at discharge, and ensuring PCP or neurology follow-up appointments at discharge was also reviewed. Results Demographic data did not differ significantly between the pre- and post-algorithm groups. There was a significant decline in the number of patients treated with opioids and barbiturates from 66.0% pre-algorithm to 6.8% immediately after algorithm implementation ( P <. 001), and to 28% ( P < .001) one year after algorithm implementation, indicating both an immediate effect of the algorithm and a sustained effect. Similarly, pre-algorithm implementation, 37% of patients were discharged with a prescription for opioids or barbiturates as compared to 12% and 6% in the early post-algorithm cohort and at 1 year, respectively. There was also an increase in scheduled follow-up appointments after discharge from the ED from 59% to 98% immediately post algorithm ( P < .001). Other measures including the frequency of imaging, and patient reported pain did not significantly change. There was a significant increase in neurology consults and admissions a year after the algorithm was implemented. Conclusions A quality improvement pilot study aimed at treating headache in an Emergency Department setting was successfully implemented in a regional Cleveland Clinic Hospital. Our results demonstrated significant decrease in acute treatment with opioids or barbiturates and a decrease in prescriptions written for opioids or barbiturates on discharge. This study is limited by small sample size. More data are needed to determine the reason for 1) increased consultation and subsequent admission after algorithm implementation and 2) decreased scheduled follow-up appointments at one-year post algorithm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A novel Forked-Contact, Dynamically-Doped Multigate Nanosheet transistor that enables sub-30-nm pitch scaling is proposed. • DFT-NEGF fundamentals and cell layout extrinsics demonstrate a 10 nm scaling boost both for Si and 2D material devices. • The material-specific fundamental gate-length limit for transistor scaling for Si and 2D materials is also assessed here. We propose a novel Forked-Contact, Dynamically-Doped Multigate transistor as ultimate scaling booster for both Si and 2D materials in aggressively-scaled nanosheet devices. Using accurate dissipative DFT-NEGF atomistic-simulation fundamentals and cell layout extrinsics, we demonstrate superior and optimal device characteristics and invertor energy – delays down to sub-30-nm pitches, i.e., a 10 nm scaling boost compared to the nanosheet MOSFET references, regardless of the material system used. This gain is linked to a more compact architecture but does not change the material-specific fundamental gate-length limit that we also assess here. By switching from Si to 2D materials, however, an additional 5 nm reduction in gate length scaling could be enabled. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of NIR emitting novel ytterbium tris β-diketonate ternary complexes, [Yb(tta) 3 (L)]·H 2 O {tta = thenoyltrifluoroacetylacetone and L = dibenzyl sulphoxide (dbso), diphenyl sulphoxide (dpso) and benzoguinamine (bga)} was synthesised, and the photophysical and optoelectronic properties of their films were studied. Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) analysis indicates that the complexes are seven-coordinate which is a highly asymmetric structure enhancing the radiative transitions. It is an indicative of efficient energy transfer from coordinated ligands to Yb ion. The complexes were doped in Tris(4-carbazoyl-9-ylphenyl)amine (TcTa) organic matrix and the doped samples were used as the emitting layers to fabricate near-infrared organic light emitting diodes (NIR-OLEDs) with the structure: Indium tin oxide/{N,N′-bis(naphtalen-2-yl)-N,N′-bis(phenyl) benzidine} (25 nm)/[Yb-complexes] (10%): TcTa (40 nm)/(2,9-Dimethyl-4,7-diphenyl-1,10-phenanthroline) (15 nm)/tris(8-hydroxy-quinolinato) aluminium (10 nm)/LiF (0.5 nm)/Al (120 nm). The complex, [Yb(tta) 3 (dpso)]·H 2 O shows the highest electroluminescence (EL) efficiency with maximum irradiance of 22.48 μW/cm 2 and current density of 29.5 mA/cm 2 at 15 V. It indicates an improved EL performance over the reported devices based on the Yb (III) complexes. In view of electrical characteristics, the current-voltage responses were interpreted by using Mott–Gurney model which allows us to determine the carrier mobility of the complexes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel Er(III) β-diketonate complex, tris(dibenzoylmethanate)mono(triphenylphosphine oxide) erbium(III) or [Er(dbm) 3 (tppo)] was synthesised with dbm as a main sensitizer and tppo as a synergic ligand. The single crystal X-ray analysis reveals that the crystal structure of the complex is a triclinic centrosymmetric where Er(III) ion is coordinated to seven oxygen atoms; one O-atom from one tppo and six O-atoms from three dbm ligands. Shape-measure criterion measurements show that the complex possesses a distorted monocapped octahedron geometry, which facilitates the radiative transitions that is an indicative of efficient energy transfer from coordinated ligands to Er ion. The crystal structure is stabilised by the π–π stacking and CH/π interactions which lead to its high photo- and thermal stabilities. The complex was doped into a polymer matrix and the resulted material shows an enhanced luminescence intensity as well as full width at half maximum (fwhm) which allow its possible use for optical-amplification applications. Finally, a single layered organic diode was fabricated to determine charge carrier mobility ( μ 0 ) inside the complex. For this purpose, the Mott–Gurney model was used which gave sizable μ 0 of 3.39 × 10 −9 cm 2 /Vs (at <5 V). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A low symmetry NIR emitting ytterbium (III) β-diketonate ternary complex with composition, [Yb(tta) 3 (tppo)]·H 2 O (tta = thenoyltrifluoroacetylacetone and tppo = triphenyl phosphine oxide) was synthesized and fully characterized. Single crystal X-ray analysis and shape measurement calculations indicate that the complex is a seven-coordinate and possesses distorted trigonal prism geometry with coordination polyhedra YbO 7 where the Yb(III) ion is surrounded by seven oxygen atoms of three tta and one tppo ligands. It is a highly asymmetric structure enhancing the radiative transitions which is an indicative of efficient energy transfer from coordinated ligands to Yb ion. The complex was doped in a tris(4-carbazoyl-9-ylphenyl)amine (TcTa) matrix and used as an emitting layer to fabricate near-infrared organic light emitting device (NIR-OLED) with the structure: ITO/{N,N′-bis(naphtalen-2-yl)-N,N′-bis(phenyl) benzidine} (25 nm)/[Yb-complex] (10%): TcTa (40 nm)/BCP (15 nm)/Alq 3 (10 nm)/LiF (0.5 nm)/Al (120 nm). The complex based NIR-OLED showed good EL efficiency with maximum irradiance of 19.29 μW/cm 2 and current density of 27.3 mA/cm 2 at 15 V. In view of electrical characteristics, the charge carrier mobility, μ 0 , of the complex was determined by using Mott–Gurney model which gave a sizable value of 4.50 × 10 −8 cm 2 /Vs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Secretariat Building is located inside the Chandigarh, Capitol Complex, India. The exterior surface of the building has deteriorated due to weathering effects. The aim of the present study was to assess efficacy of selected protective materials on exposed heritage reinforced concrete surface of the Secretariat Building for restoration. Selected concrete sealers and Evercrete DPS with essential oil of peppermint and eucalyptus were evaluated for UV degradation yellowing test on white cement panels, accelerated ageing test on concrete beams up to 5 years, field trial on the exterior surface of the Secretariat Building up to 38 weeks and test for determining the water absorption on concrete cores (ASTM D 6489-99) up to 4 years. The result reveals that Konex WRA-2318 and La Shield WR Xtra are effective for surface treatment of the Secretariat Building without changing the colour of the surface up to 4 and 2 years respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]