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Background: Children with dental caries are treated with stainless steel metal crowns (SSC), but the aesthetics and precision still need to be improved. Currently, both 3D‐printed resin crowns (PRC) and computer‐aided design/computer‐aided manufacture (CAD/CAM) resin crowns (CRC) meet the clinical requirements for crown applications in terms of strength, production time, cost, and aesthetics. Aim: This study replaced SSC with customized resin crowns by 3D printing and CAD/CAM. Design: In this study, PRC, CRC, and SSC were used for incisor and molar restorations, and 60 crowns were made with 10 for each group. The fabrication efficiency, surface characteristics, marginal fit, and stability of the two different crowns were evaluated. Results: PRC and CRC show superior color and surface characteristics, though production times are longer (5.3–12.4 times and 3.3–9.1 times, respectively) than for SSC (p <.05). They, however, can be completed within 80 min. Edge gaps for PRC and CRC are significantly lower (13.0–19.2 times and 13.0–13.7 times) than for SSC (p <.05). All materials exhibit good stability. Conclusion: The 3D‐PRCs and CAD/CAM resin crowns may replace SSCs as a potential choice for clinical child caries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental antineoplastics such as sorafenib may pose a risk to humans through water recycling, and the increased risk of cardiotoxicity is a clinical issue in sorafenib users. Thus, developing strategies to prevent sorafenib cardiotoxicity is an urgent work. Empagliflozin, as a sodium‐glucose co‐transporter‐2 (SGLT2) inhibitor for type 2 diabetes control, has been approved for heart failure therapy. Still, its cardioprotective effect in the experimental model of sorafenib cardiotoxicity has not yet been reported. Real‐time quantitative RT‐PCR (qRT‐PCR), immunoblot, and immunohistochemical analyses were applied to study the effect of sorafenib exposure on cardiac SGLT2 expression. The impact of empagliflozin on cell viability was investigated in the sorafenib‐treated cardiomyocytes using Alamar blue assay. Immunoblot analysis was employed to delineate the effect of sorafenib and empagliflozin on ferroptosis/proinflammatory signaling in cardiomyocytes. Ferroptosis/DNA damage/fibrosis/inflammation of myocardial tissues was studied in mice with a 28‐day sorafenib ± empagliflozin treatment using histological analyses. Sorafenib exposure significantly promoted SGLT2 upregulation in cardiomyocytes and mouse hearts. Empagliflozin treatment significantly attenuated the sorafenib‐induced cytotoxicity/DNA damage/fibrosis in cardiomyocytes and mouse hearts. Moreover, GPX4/xCT‐dependent ferroptosis as an inducer for releasing high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) was also blocked by empagliflozin administration in the sorafenib‐treated cardiomyocytes and myocardial tissues. Furthermore, empagliflozin treatment significantly inhibited the sorafenib‐promoted NFκB/HMGB1 axis in cardiomyocytes and myocardial tissues, and sorafenib‐stimulated proinflammatory signaling (TNF‐α/IL‐1β/IL‐6) was repressed by empagliflozin administration. Finally, empagliflozin treatment significantly attenuated the sorafenib‐promoted macrophage recruitments in mouse hearts. In conclusion, empagliflozin may act as a cardioprotective agent for humans under sorafenib exposure by modulating ferroptosis/DNA damage/fibrosis/inflammation. However, further clinical evidence is required to support this preclinical finding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) are recommended as the first‐line therapy for platinum‐refractory head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), a disease with a poor prognosis. However, biomarkers in this situation are rare. The objective was to identify radiomic features‐associated biomarkers to guide the prognosis and treatment opinions in the era of ICI. Methods: A total of 31 platinum‐refractory HNSCC patients were retrospectively enrolled. Of these, 65.5% (20/31) received ICI‐based therapy and 35.5% (11/31) did not. Radiomic features of the primary site at the onset of recurrent metastatic (R/M) status were extracted. Prognostic and predictive radiomic biomarkers were analysed. Results: The median overall survival from R/M status (R/M OS) was 9.6 months. Grey‐level co‐occurrence matrix‐associated texture features were the most important in identifying the patients with or without 9‐month R/M death. A radiomic risk‐stratification model was established and equally separated the patients into high‐, intermittent‐ and lower‐risk groups (1‐year R/M death rate, 100.0% vs. 70.8% vs. 27.1%, p = 0.001). Short‐run high grey‐level emphasis (SRHGE) was more suitable than programmed death ligand 1 (PD‐L1) expression in selecting whether patients received ICI‐based therapy. Conclusions: Radiomic features were effective prognostic and predictive biomarkers. Future studies are warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Sex differences in long‐term post‐discharge clinical outcomes in Asian patients hospitalized for acute decompensated heart failure (HF) persist despite the world‐wide implementation of guideline‐directed medical therapy for decades. The present study aims to elucidate the puzzling dilemma and to depict the directions of solution. Methods and results: Between 2011 and 2020, a total of 12 428 patients (6518 men and 5910 women, mean age 73.50 ± 14.85) hospitalized for acute decompensated HF were retrospectively enrolled from a university HF cohort. Compared with men, women hospitalized for acute decompensated HF were older in age (76.40 ± 13.43 vs. 71.20 ± 15.67 years old, P < 0.0001) with more coexisting hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidaemia and moderate to severe chronic kidney disease, but less with ischaemic heart disease, cerebrovascular disease and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (P < 0.0001). In echocardiography measurement parameters, women had smaller left ventricular and left atrial dimensions, higher left ventricular mass index, higher left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and more in HF with preserved ejection fraction (EF) category (LVEF > 50%) than men (P < 0.0001). In HF therapy, women compared with men received more guideline‐directed medical HF therapies including angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers, angiotensin receptor–neprilysin inhibitors and sodium–glucose cotransporter‐2 inhibitors, but similar beta‐blockers and mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (P < 0.0001). Post‐discharge long‐term clinical outcomes after multivariate‐adjusted analysis revealed that women compared with men had lower all‐cause mortality [adjusted hazard ratio (aHR): 0.89, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.84–0.93], lower cardiovascular mortality (aHR: 0.89, 95% CI: 0.80–0.99) and lower 1 year mortality (aHR: 0.91, 95% CI: 0.84–0.99) but similar HF rehospitalization rate (aHR: 1.02, 95% CI: 0.95–1.09) over 8 years of follow‐up. The superiority of women over men in all‐cause mortality was shown in HF with preserved EF (>50%) and HF with mildly reduced EF (40%–50%), but not in HF with reduced EF (<40%) category. Subgroup forest plot analysis showed body mass index, coexisting hypertension and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease as significant interacting factors. Conclusions: With more coronary risk factors and medical comorbidities, less cardiac remodelling and better adherence to guideline‐directed HF therapy, women hospitalized for acute decompensated HF demonstrated superiority over men in long‐term post‐discharge clinical outcomes, including all‐cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality and 1 year mortality, and mainly in HF with preserved and mid‐range EF categories, in the Asian HF cohort. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lately, carbazole‐based self‐assembled monolayers (SAMs) are widely employed as effective hole‐selective layers (HSLs) in inverted perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Nevertheless, these SAMs tend to aggregate in solvents due to their amphiphilic nature, hindering the formation of a monolayer on the ITO substrate and impeding effective passivation of deep defects in the perovskites. In this study, a series of new SAMs including DPA‐B‐PY, CBZ‐B‐PY, POZ‐B‐PY, POZ‐PY, POZ‐T‐PY, and POZ‐BT‐PY are synthesized, which are employed as interfacial repairers and coated atop CNph SAM to form a robust CNph SAM@pseudo‐planar monolayer as HSL in efficient inverted PSCs. The CNph SAM@pseudo‐planar monolayer strategy enables a well‐aligned interface with perovskites, synergistically promoting perovskite crystal growth, improving charge extraction/transport, and minimizing nonradiative interfacial recombination loss. As a result, the POZ‐BT‐PY‐modified PSC realizes an impressively enhanced solar efficiency of up to 24.45% together with a fill factor of 82.63%. Furthermore, a wide bandgap PSC achieving over 19% efficiency. Upon treatment with the CNph SAM@pseudo‐planar monolayer, also demonstrates a non‐fullerene organic photovoltaics (OPVs) based on the PM6:BTP‐eC9 blend, which achieves an efficiency of 17.07%. Importantly, these modified PSCs and OPVs all show remarkably improved stability under various testing conditions compared to their control counterparts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hyperbolic metamaterials (HMMs) are known for their robust light–matter interaction and ability to generate volume plasmon polaritons (VPPs). Au nanoparticles (Au NPs) enable to enhance this interaction through localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR), creating intense local electric fields. However, combining LSPR and VPPs in one device remains unexplored. This study proposes and demonstrates Au NP‐coupled‐HMMs (NPCHMMs), integrating Au NPs with HMMs to enhance random laser action and lower the lasing threshold. NPCHMMs boost emission intensity by ≈6 times compared to pure HMMs, with a ≈47% reduction in lasing threshold. Based on Fermi's golden rule, the calculated transition rate in NPCHMMs surpasses the algebraic sum of the individual transition rates derived from HMMs and Au NPs. It reveals the effect of the coherent coupling between the transition matrix elements of VPP and LSPR. This research indicates that NPCHMMs are a promising platform to create high‐performance optical and optoelectronic devices, such as lasers and phototransistors, for a wide range of application in many fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Osteoarthritis is a highly prevalent progressive joint disease that still requires an optimal therapeutic approach. Intermittent fasting is an attractive dieting strategy for improving health. Here this study shows that intermittent fasting potently relieves medial meniscus (DMM)‐ or natural aging‐induced osteoarthritic phenotypes. Osteocytes, the most abundant bone cells, secrete excess neuropeptide Y (NPY) during osteoarthritis, and this alteration can be altered by intermittent fasting. Both NPY and the NPY‐abundant culture medium of osteocytes (OCY‐CM) from osteoarthritic mice possess pro‐inflammatory, pro‐osteoclastic, and pro‐neurite outgrowth effects, while OCY‐CM from the intermittent fasting‐treated osteoarthritic mice fails to induce significant stimulatory effects on inflammation, osteoclast formation, and neurite outgrowth. Depletion of osteocyte NPY significantly attenuates DMM‐induced osteoarthritis and abolishes the benefits of intermittent fasting on osteoarthritis. This study suggests that osteocyte NPY is a key contributing factor in the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis and intermittent fasting represents a promising nonpharmacological antiosteoarthritis method by targeting osteocyte NPY. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The association between influenza infection and thromboembolism (TE) events, including cardiovascular events, cerebrovascular events, pulmonary embolism, and deep vein thrombosis, is supported by compelling evidence. However, there is a disparity in the risk factors that impact the outcomes of severe influenza‐complicated TE in intensive care unit (ICU) patients. The objective of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of severe influenza‐complicated TE in ICU patients and identify any associated risk factors. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted, recruiting consecutive patients with TE events admitted to the ICU between December 2015 through December 2018 at our institution in Taiwan. The study included a group of 108 patients with severe influenza and a control group of 192 patients with severe community‐acquired pneumonia. Associations between complicated TE, length of ICU stay, and 90‐day mortality were evaluated using logistic regression analysis, and risk factors were identified using univariate and multivariate generalized linear regression analyses. Results: TE event prevalence was significantly higher in ICU patients with severe influenza than in ICU patients with severe CAP (21.3% vs. 5.7%, respectively; p < 0.05). Patients with severe influenza who developed TE experienced a significant increase in the ratio of mechanical ventilation use, length of mechanical ventilation use, ICU stay, and 90‐day mortality when compared to patients without TE (all p < 0.05). The comparison of severe CAP patients with and without TE revealed no significant differences (p > 0.05). The development of thromboembolic events in patients with severe influenza or severe noninfluenza CAP is linked to influenza infection and hypertension (p < 0.05). Furthermore, complicated TE and the severity of the APACHE II score are risk factors for 90‐day mortality in ICU patients with severe influenza (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Patients with severe influenza and complicated TE are more likely to have an extended ICU stay and 90‐day mortality than patients with severe CAP. The risk is significantly higher for patients with a higher APACHE II score. The results of this study may aid in defining better strategies for early recognition and prevention of severe influenza‐complicated TE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Hereditary transthyretin (TTR) amyloidosis (ATTRv) is frequently complicated by polyneuropathy (ATTRv‐PN) and cardiomyopathy (ATTRv‐CM). The long‐term efficacy of diflunisal on both polyneuropathy and cardiomyopathy in ATTRv patients, especially those with non‐V30M genotypes, has not been fully investigated and compared with that of tafamidis. Methods: We compared the structural and biochemical characteristics of A97S‐TTR complexed with tafamidis with those of diflunisal, and prospectively followed up and compared the progression of polyneuropathy and cardiomyopathy between ATTRv‐PN patients taking diflunisal and those taking tafamidis. Results: Both diflunisal and tafamidis effectively bind to the two thyroxine‐binding sites at the A97S‐TTR dimer–dimer interface and equally and almost sufficiently reduce amyloid fibril formation. Thirty‐five ATTRv‐PN patients receiving diflunisal and 22 patients receiving tafamidis were enrolled. Compared with no treatment, diflunisal treatment significantly delayed the transition of FAP Stage 1 to 2 and Stage 2 to 3 and decreased the deterioration in parameters of the ulnar nerve conduction study (NCS). The progression of FAP stage or NCS parameters did not differ between patients treated with diflunisal and those treated with tafamidis. Both diflunisal and tafamidis treatments significantly decreased radiotracer uptake on 99mTc‐PYP SPECT and stabilized cardiac wall thickness and blood pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide levels. No significant adverse events occurred during diflunisal or tafamidis treatment. Interpretations: The binding patterns of both tafamidis and diflunisal to A97S‐TTR closely resembled those observed in the wild type. Diflunisal can effectively delay the progression of polyneuropathy and cardiomyopathy with similar efficacy to tafamidis and may become a cost‐effective alternative treatment for late‐onset ATTRv‐PN. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The use of stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR) over conventional fractionated radiotherapy (CFRT) for early‐stage non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) has been advocated, but is also debated in the literature. Methods: In this retrospective cohort study, we adopted a target trial emulation framework to identify eligible patients diagnosed between 2011 and 2021 using the Taiwan Cancer Registry. In the primary analysis, the overall survival (OS) was the primary endpoint, whereas incidences of lung cancer mortality and radiation pulmonary toxicity were the secondary endpoints. Extensive supplementary analyses were also conducted. Results: We included 351 patients in the primary analysis and found that the OS was not significantly different between the SABR (n = 290) and CFRT (n = 61) groups. The propensity score weighting adjusted hazard ratio of death was 0.75 (95% confidence interval 0.53–1.07, p = 0.118). The secondary endpoints and supplementary analyses showed no significant differences. Conclusions: The OS of patients with early‐stage NSCLC treated with SABR was not significantly different from that of patients treated with CFRT alone. The results of the relevant ongoing clinical trials are eagerly awaited. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Near‐infrared‐II (NIR‐II) phosphors are extensively used as NIR phosphor‐converted light‐emitting diodes across various applications. Nonetheless, their application in fiber communication remains underexplored. Furthermore, efficiency challenges persist in developing broadband NIR crystal fiber amplifiers. A series of the Y3−yAl5−xO12:xCr,yCa2+ phosphors with boosted Cr4+ concentration via calcium charge compensation is synthesized, and the optimized sample is fabricated to crystal fibers to reveal the application of the NIR‐II phosphors to fiber communication. The fabricated Cr4+‐doped crystal fiber, exhibiting broadband Cr4+ emission within 1100–1600 nm, effectively covers the high‐transmission loss region caused by water absorption in the telecommunication band. Comprehensive characterization and analyses of the Cr4+ are discussed. Y2.84Al4.9O12:0.1Cr,0.16Ca2+ crystal fiber, fabricated through phosphor synthesis, pellets’ production, and the laser‐heated pedestal growth method, exhibits superior photoluminescence compared to the commercial Cr4+‐doped Y3Al5O12 crystal fiber. Here the potential of NIR‐II phosphors is highlighted in enhancing fiber communication and valuable insights for their future application are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drastic increases in myofiber number and size are essential to support vertebrate post-embryonic growth. However, the collective cellular behaviors that enable these increases have remained elusive. Here, we created the palmuscle myofiber tagging and tracking system for in toto monitoring of the growth and fates of ~5000 fast myofibers in developing zebrafish larvae. Through live tracking of individual myofibers within the same individuals over extended periods, we found that many larval myofibers readily dissolved during development, enabling the on-site addition of new and more myofibers. Remarkably, whole-body surveillance of multicolor-barcoded myofibers further unveiled a gradual yet extensive elimination of larval myofiber populations, resulting in near-total replacement by late juvenile stages. The subsequently emerging adult myofibers are not only long-lasting, but also morphologically and functionally distinct from the larval populations. Furthermore, we determined that the elimination-replacement process is dependent on and driven by the autophagy pathway. Altogether, we propose that the whole-body replacement of larval myofibers is an inherent yet previously unnoticed process driving organismic muscle growth during vertebrate post-embryonic development. Synopsis: Post-embryonic development includes myofiber proliferation and growth to supply the needs of the adult organism. Here, extensive tracking of the entire skeletal myofiber population in the zebrafish model reveals that the majority of larval myofibers are replaced by their adult counterparts with distinct morphology, function, and lifespan. Development of a myofiber tracking system enables whole-body live monitoring of post-embryonic muscle growth at single-cell resolution. Most larval myofibers are eliminated and replaced by adult counterparts during development. Larval myofibers and adult myofibers represent two distinct populations. Autophagic cell death mediates larval myofiber removal. Autophagic cell death enables replacement of larval myofibers with their adult counterparts during zebrafish development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: A systematic review and meta‐analysis was conducted to evaluate the relative effectiveness of different dietary macronutrient patterns on changes in resting energy expenditure (REE) in relation to weight loss, categorized as minimal (<5%) and moderate to high (>5%). Changes in REE were assessed using a DerSimonian and Laird random‐effects meta‐analysis. A diet lower in carbohydrates (CHO) or higher in fat and protein was associated with smaller reductions in REE, with these trends being more pronounced among participants who experienced moderate to high weight loss. Adjusted meta‐regression analysis indicated that, within the participants who experienced moderate to high weight loss, each 1% increase in CHO intake was associated with a reduction of 2.30 kcal/day in REE (95% CI: −4.11 to −0.47, p = 0.013). In contrast, a 1% increase in protein and fat intake was correlated with an increase in REE by 3.00 (95% confidence interval [CI] [1.02, 5.07], p = 0.003) and 0.5 (95% CI [−2.43, 3.41], p = 0.740) kcal/day, respectively. No significant associations were found among participants who experienced minimal weight loss. These findings indicate that, under a caloric deficit, the impact of dietary macronutrient composition on REE may vary depending on the degree of weight loss and individual metabolic responses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate the structural, microvascular, and functional progression of normal tension glaucoma (NTG) with or without high myopia by examining longitudinal changes in optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) and visual field (VF) parameters. Methods: We evaluated 61 NTG eyes and classified 25 of the eyes with axial lengths (ALs) of ≥26 mm as highly myopic. We assessed the rate of change in OCTA parameters, namely radial peripapillary capillary (RPC) vessel density (VD), parafovea VD, deep parafovea VD, retinal nerve fibre layer (RNFL) thickness, and ganglion cell complex thickness. We evaluated the correlation of the rate of change in OCTA parameters with VF loss and AL. Results: Among the 61 NTG eyes, rates of loss of RPC VD, parafovea VD, deep parafovea VD, and RNFL thickness were significantly different from zero despite the nonsignificant rate of change in VF mean deviation (MD). Changes in these OCTA parameters did not differ significantly in highly myopic NTG eyes. The rate of change in VF MD was significantly correlated with the rate of change in parafovea VD in highly myopic and non‐highly myopic NTG eyes. In highly myopic NTG eyes, AL was negatively correlated with the rates of loss of RNFL thickness, VF MD, and VF PSD. Conclusion: NTG eyes with a relatively stable VF exhibited loss of VD and RNFL thickness. VF progression in NTG was correlated with decreasing parafovea VD, indicating a structure–function correlation. Greater AL may indicate faster VF loss and RNFL thinning in highly myopic NTG eyes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim Methods Results Conclusions Esophageal cancer significantly contributes to US cancer mortality, with notable racial disparities. This study aims to provide updated esophageal cancer mortality trends among Black and White adults from 1999 to 2020.CDC‐WONDER was used to identify Black and White adults in the United States from 1999 to 2020. We calculated age‐standardized mortality rates, absolute rate differences, and rate ratios to compare the mortality differences between these populations.From 1999 to 2020 in the United States, there were 303 267 esophageal cancer deaths, with significant racial disparities. The age‐adjusted mortality rate for Black adults fell from 6.52 to 2.62 per 100 000, while for White adults, it declined from 4.19 to 3.97 per 100 000, narrowing the racial mortality gap. Gender‐wise, the study showed a decrease in the mortality rate from 3.31 to 2.29 per 100 000 in Black women, but an increase from 1.52 to 1.99 per 100 000 in White women. Among young men, the rate dropped in Black men from 12.82 to 6.26 per 100 000 but rose in White men from 9.90 to 10.57 per 100 000. Regionally, Black adults in the Midwest and South initially had higher mortality rates than Whites, but this gap reduced over time. By 2020, Black men had lower mortality rates across all regions.Over the last two decades, age‐adjusted esophageal cancer mortality decreased in Black adults but stabilized in White adults, reflecting distinct cancer trends and risk factors. The study highlights the importance of tailored public health strategies for healthcare access and risk factor management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For multiple resonance (MR) type thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) emitters, electron cloud distributions of their π‐conjugated planes are crucial for determining their eventual performance. Currently, modulation attempts of MR‐TADF emitters are mainly inside the π‐conjugated planes. Possible out‐of‐plane interactions may also significantly impact the photophysical properties, but the exploration is quite limited. Here, a novel concept of using out‐of‐plane (e.g., π–π and lone pair‐π) interactions to introduce spatial perturbation (SPPT) to improve TADF performance is proposed. Two newly developed MR‐TADF emitters, namely, o‐BNPO and BNPO, which both consist of a popular MR framework, DtBuCzB, and diphenylphosphine oxide (DPPO), are compared in depth. In particular, for o‐BNPO, evident π–π interaction is observed between one side of the DtBuCzB π‐conjugated plane and a phenyl ring from DPPO, and lone pair‐π interaction with the oxygen atom from DPPO is noticed on the other side, resulting in significantly accelerated reverse intersystem crossing and better TADF without sacrificing narrowband emission features. Ultimately, in organic light‐emitting diodes with sensitizer‐free emitting layers, both emitters achieve similar narrowband emissions, while the o‐BNPO‐based device demonstrates a much higher external quantum efficiency of 36% and milder efficiency roll‐off. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Methods Results Conclusion Specific assays of plasma rivaroxaban level are not always readily available with short turnaround time, which hamper the management of urgent clinical situations. In this study, we aimed to build a predictive formula of plasma rivaroxaban levels from international normalized ratio (INR) value and validated in real world clinical situations.Ninety‐four patients who were taking rivaroxaban participated in the study. Patients were randomized into testing cohort and validation cohorts. The prediction formula was built from the testing cohort and then validated in validation cohort. The predictive performance was further validated on real‐world clinical requests.The root mean square error (RMSE) of the predictive formula for the testing and validation cohorts were 61.81 and 69.32 ng/mL, respectively. The sensitivity and specificity for the formula to predict the threshold plasma rivaroxaban level of 75 ng/mL were 95% (95% CI: 85.4%–100%) and 87.5% (95% CI: 71.3%–100%), respectively, in real‐world clinical situations.Plasma rivaroxaban level of threshold level of 75 ng/mL can be calculated from prediction formula by INR value with satisfactory accuracy and it can be used to guide the decision for reversal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Circadian rhythm disruptions and heat stress can cause gut microbiota dysbiosis and intestinal barrier damage, increasing the risk of inflammatory bowel disease. However, whether eating according to the circadian rhythm during the day when the ambient temperature is higher or eating against the circadian rhythm at night when the ambient temperature is relatively suitable, is better for the gut health of diurnal animals in summer has not been clarified. In this study, growing pigs were randomly assigned to a daytime‐restricted feeding or nighttime‐restricted feeding (NRF) group and raised for 18 days in summer with mild heat stress. Our results showed that NRF alleviated heat stress in pigs, as reflected by increased feed intake and decreased drinking. Microbiome analysis revealed that NRF increased the diversity of gut microbiota and abundance of short‐chain fatty acids (SCFAs)‐producing bacteria and decreased the abundance of gram‐negative and potentially pathogenic bacteria, thereby increasing SCFAs and reducing lipopolysaccharide production in the colon. These changes enhanced colonic barrier function and reduced colitis and systemic inflammation by upregulating tight junction proteins and mucin. Our findings indicate that although nighttime eating does not align with the biological habits of pigs, consuming food at a relatively suitable ambient temperature is more beneficial for gut health and homeostasis during hot seasons. Our research provides a reference for guiding the healthy feeding of farm animals in summer and a basis for developing a lifestyle that promotes gut health for individuals in tropical regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, the multidisciplinary team of the Taiwan Academy of Tumor Ablation, who have expertise in treating lung cancer, present their perspectives on percutaneous image‐guided thermal ablation (IGTA) of lung tumors. The modified Delphi technique was applied to reach a consensus on clinical practice guidelines concerning ablation procedures, including a comprehensive literature review, selection of panelists, creation of a rating form and survey, and arrangement of an in‐person meeting where panelists agreed or disagreed on various points. The conclusion was a final rating and written summary of the agreement. The multidisciplinary expert team agreed on 10 recommendations for the use of IGTA in the lungs. These recommendations include terms and definitions, line of treatment planning, modality, facility rooms, patient anesthesia settings, indications, margin determination, post‐ablation image surveillance, qualified centers, and complication ranges. In summary, IGTA is a safe and feasible approach for treating primary and metastatic lung tumors, with a relatively low complication rate. However, decisions regarding the ablation technique should consider each patient's specific tumor characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Segmental bone defects of the mandible result in the complete loss of the affected region. We had incorporated the pressure‐reducing device (PRD) designs into the customized mandible prostheses (CMP) and conducted a clinical trial to evaluate this approach. Methods: Seven patients were enrolled in this study. We examined the association among the history of radiotherapy, the number of CMP regions, the number of chin regions involved, and CMP exposure. Results: We included five men and two women with an average age of 55 years. We excised tumors with an average weight of 147.8 g and the average weight of the CMP was 68.5 g. No significant difference between the two weights was noted (p = 0.3882). Three patients received temporary dentures and the CMP remained stable in all patients. Conclusion: The use of PRD in CMP may address the previous challenges associated with CMP, but further research is necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Synchrotron protein crystallography (PX) remains an indispensable tool for uncovering the atomic structures of biomolecules. TLS 15A1, operated by the protein diffraction group of NSRRC, has been accessible to both academic and industrial users since January 2013. This beamline is energy‐tunable within a range between 5.6 and 15.5 keV, which is suitable for phasing experiments. Over the past 11 years, TLS 15A1 has supported 657 projects and facilitated 1523 experiments across 41,656 h of beamtime. This article describes the beamline layout, studies of factors influencing data quality, and significant scientific contributions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Purpose: Neuropathic pain affects millions of patients, but there are currently few viable therapeutic options available. Microtubule affinity‐regulating kinases (MARKs) regulate the dynamics of microtubules and participate in synaptic remodelling. It is unclear whether these changes are involved in the central sensitization of neuropathic pain. This study examined the role of MARK1 or MARK2 in regulating neurosynaptic plasticity induced by neuropathic pain. Experimental Approach: A rat spinal nerve ligation (SNL) model was established to induce neuropathic pain. The role of MARKs in nociceptive regulation was assessed by genetically knocking down MARK1 or MARK2 in amygdala and systemic administration of PCC0105003, a novel small molecule MARK inhibitor. Cognitive function, anxiety‐like behaviours and motor coordination capability were also examined in SNL rats. Synaptic remodelling‐associated signalling changes were detected with electrophysiological recording, Golgi‐Cox staining, western blotting and qRT‐PCR. Key Results: MARK1 and MARK2 expression levels in amygdala and spinal dorsal horn were elevated in SNL rats. MARK1 or MARK2 knockdown in amygdala and PCC0105003 treatment partially attenuated pain‐like behaviours along with improving cognitive deficit, anxiogenic‐like behaviours and motor coordination in SNL rats. Inhibition of MARKs signalling reversed synaptic plasticity at the functional and structural levels by suppressing NR2B/GluR1 and EB3/Drebrin signalling pathways both in amygdala and spinal dorsal horn. Conclusion and Implications: These results suggest that MARKs‐mediated synaptic remodelling plays a key role in the pathogenesis of neuropathic pain and that pharmacological inhibitors of MARKs such as PCC0105003 could represent a novel therapeutic strategy for the management of neuropathic pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The efficacy of adjuvant sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) in correcting structural problems in patients with allergic rhinitis (AR) caused by mite who have undergone septomeatoplasty (SMP) has not been studied. Methods: This non‐randomized controlled study recruited patients with AR (caused by mite) and concurrent septal deviation and inferior turbinate hypertrophy, at a tertiary hospital in Taiwan. SMP was performed on all patients as a surgical intervention. The patients were then divided into two groups: the control group, which underwent surgery only, and the experimental group, which received SLIT as an adjuvant treatment. Demographic data and rhinitis control assessment test (RCAT) results were analyzed. Results: A total of 96 patients were enrolled in the study (SMP + SLIT group, n = 52; SMP only group, n = 44). No significant differences were observed in any of the variables between the two groups before and one month after surgery. However, during evaluations at the third and sixth month, the SMP + SLIT group showed significant improvement in the total RCAT scores compared to the SMP only group (28.6 ± 1.56 vs. 24.5 ± 3.66, p < 0.001; 27.1 ± 2.87 vs. 19.9 ± 5.56, p < 0.001). In addition, significantly better control of all RCAT sub‐categories was observed in the SMP + SLIT group at the third and sixth month evaluations. Conclusions: SLIT may serve as an ideal adjuvant therapy after SMP in patients with AR. Level of Evidence: 3 Laryngoscope, 134:3073–3079, 2024 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transition from disorder to order and structural transformation are distinctive metal‐organic framework (MOF) features. How to adapt or control both behaviors in MOF has rarely been studied. In this case, we demonstrate that our successful synthesis of [Al(OH)(PDA)]n (AlPDA‐53‐DEF, AlPDA‐53‐H, and AlPDA‐68) with H2PDA=4,4′‐[1,4‐phenylenebis(ethyne‐2,1‐diyl)]‐di benzoic acid has shown the intricate world of Aluminum Metal‐Organic Frameworks (Al‐MOFs). It offers profound insights into defect structures to order and transformations. AlPDA‐53‐DEF, in particular, revealed a fascinating interplay of various pore sizes within both micro and mesoporous regions, unveiling a unique lattice rearrangement phenomenon upon solvent desorption. Defects and disorders emerged as crucial impacts of transforming AlPDA‐53‐DEF, with its initially imperfect crystallinity, into the highly crystalline, hierarchically porous AlPDA‐53‐H. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the most crucial considerations for practical applications of organic photovoltaics (OPV) is the stability under sunlight irradiation. It is necessary to translate the small device stability to the module level. Herein, the photostability of the OPV module with three cells connected in series with a total effective area of 10.8 cm2 is presented. The stability of the OPV module is studied under continuous irradiation by a UV light‐emitting diode (LED) with integrated UV intensity the same as AM1.5 solar irradiations. As a result, the OPV module achieves good stability under UV light with a half‐lifetime of about 1300 h without a UV filter. The lifetime is similar to the small device with the same materials. The series resistance and the encapsulation must be optimized simultaneously. The suitable metal of the external electrode greatly improves the OPV module's performance. In addition, the UV stability of the normal structure is shown to be better than the inverted structure because of the photoinstability of the ZnO layer. Moreover, the UV stability of semitransparent OPV modules is shown to be‐ similar to the opaque ones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The use of antiviral agents, specifically tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF), in pregnant women to prevent mother‐to‐child HBV transmission is a key step towards hepatitis elimination. However, data on using tenofovir alafenamide (TAF) is insufficient. The frequent occurrence of postpartum ALT flares may impact the clinical implementation. Methods: The maternal and infant outcomes were compared in multi‐centre trials of high viral load HBsAg/HBeAg+ pregnant women receiving TAF or TDF from the third trimester until 2 weeks postpartum with intensive follow‐ups. To explore the dynamic pre‐ and postpartum changes in ALT levels, we used a group‐based trajectory model for analysing data of 332 women from three prospective studies. Results: After treatment, the maternal HBV DNA levels significantly decreased from baseline to delivery: 7.87 ± 0.59 to 3.99 ± 1.07 Log10 IU/mL TAF (n = 78) and 8.30 ± 0.36 to 4.47 ± 0.86 Log10 IU/mL (TDF, n = 53), with viral load reductions of 3.87 versus 3.83 Log10 IU/mL. The HBsAg‐positive rates among 12‐month‐old infants were 1.28% (1/78) versus 1.82% (1/55) respectively (p = 1.00). Of the TAF or TDF‐treated mothers, 25.64% versus 16.98% experienced ALT > 2X ULN, and 11.54% versus 1.89% received extended antiviral treatment. Our model revealed four distinct ALT patterns: stable ALT (87.2%), moderate (8.0%) or marked (2.4%) postpartum flares, or prepartum elevations (2.4%). Conclusions: TAF effectively reduces mother‐to‐child HBV transmission, but prophylaxis failure still occurred in few cases. Postpartum ALT flares are common in women receiving TAF or TDF during pregnancy. Approximately 12.8% of mothers may require extended postpartum antiviral treatment. Clinical trial number: NCT03695029 (ClinicalTrials.gov). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Impaired lung function has been observed in patients following COVID‐19 infection, with studies reporting persistent lung volume and diffusing capacity impairments. Some studies have demonstrated significantly higher small airway resistance in COVID‐19 positive cases. This retrospective study aims to examine impulse oscillometry (IOS) data of patients with persistent symptoms after COVID‐19 infection, focusing on the relationship between time and symptoms. Material and Method: The study analyzed data from adult patients with persistent symptoms who underwent IOS testing within and after 84 days from the diagnosis date. Result: The results showed that patients within 84 days and those between 31 and 84 days had higher small airway resistance values, indicating peripheral airway disease. Patients with dyspnea exhibited higher IOS values compared to those with cough symptoms, suggesting more significant impairment in the peripheral airways. Conclusion: The study highlights the importance of using comprehensive diagnostic tools like IOS to assess respiratory impairments in post‐COVID‐19 patients, particularly in the small airways. Understanding the relationship between time and symptoms can provide valuable insights for the treatment of peripheral airway dysfunction in post‐COVID‐19 patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we utilized machine learning techniques to perform finger separation recognition. The research results show that using the machine learning method proposed in this article, in combination with Novatek TDDI NT36523 tablet TDDI IC, it can largely improve the resolution of finger enumeration, especially when two fingers are very close together. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

16‐inch FHD+ (Full High Definition Plus, 1920*1200) LCD featuring LTPS TFTs with a new low‐resistance alloy gate metal and fast response AFFS (Advanced Fringe Field Switching) liquid crystal technology has been developed, which achieves a ClearMR value of 9000 at 480Hz frame rate and fulfills the requirement for product reliability test. These technologies, including the new gate metal TFTs and employing Fast‐Response time liquid crystal, have also been implemented in a 17.3‐inch FHD (Full High Definition, 1920*1080) gaming laptop LCD. This larger panel operates at an even higher frame rate of 660Hz and higher ClearMR values with GtG (Gray to Gray) liquid crystal response time within 1ms. These advancements mark significant progress in the field of high‐performance gaming displays. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rationale: Shiduqing Capsules, a well‐known Chinese patent medicine, are widely used clinically for the treatment of pruritus. However, to date, there is a lack of research on its pharmacological substances and mechanisms of action. Methods: In the current study, the chemical components of Shiduqing Capsules were identified using UHPLC‐QE‐Orbitrap‐MS technology. Molecular network analysis was employed to identify structurally similar compounds to the known chemical components. The potential molecular targets of the active ingredients were predicted using the SwissTargetPrediction website. The identified targets were further analyzed using gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis through the DAVID database. Molecular docking was used to validate the network pharmacology results. Results: Ultimately, A total of 51 chemical components of Shiduqing Capsules were identified. Molecular network analysis identified 21 flavonoids and 13 terpenoids. The core targets of these ingredients include TP53, AKT1, and STAT3. GO and KEGG enrichment analysis revealed 1,371 different biological functions and 177 signaling pathways. Molecular docking confirmed the high affinity between multiple core active ingredients of Shiduqing Capsules and pruritus targets. Conclusion: In conclusion, the effective ingredients of Shiduqing Capsules exert a multifaceted therapeutic effect on pruritus through multiple targets and pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The device performance of deep‐blue perovskite light‐emitting diodes (PeLEDs) is primarily constrained by low external quantum efficiency (EQE) especially poor operational stability. Herein, we develop a facile strategy to improve deep‐blue emission through rational interface engineering. We innovatively reported the novel electron transport material, 4,6‐Tris(4‐(diphenylphosphoryl)phenyl)‐1,3,5‐triazine (P‐POT2T), and utilized a sequential wet‐dry deposition method to form the homogenic gradient interface between electron transport layer (ETL) and perovskite surface. Unlike previous reports that achieved carrier injection balance by inserting new interlayers, our strategy not only passivated uncoordinated Pb2+ in the perovskite via P=O functional groups but also reduced interfacial carrier recombination without introducing new interfaces. Additionally, this strategy enhanced the interface contact between the perovskite and ETL, significantly boosting device stability. Consequently, the fabricated deep‐blue PeLEDs delivered an EQE exceeding 5 % (@ 460 nm) with an exceptional halftime extended to 31.3 minutes. This straightforward approach offers a new strategy to realize highly efficient especially stable PeLEDs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extending covalent organic frameworks (COFs) into crystalline carbon‐free covalent backbones is an important strategy to endow these materials with more exotic functions. Integrating metal‐free inorganic and organic components into one covalent framework is an effective way to address the issue of poor thermal/solvent stability in the field of nonlinear optics (NLO). However, constructing such structures is very challenging. Here, we linked 3‐connected nods (BO3) and 2‐connected organic building blocks (Te(Ph)2) together to produce colorless single crystals (size up to 400 μm) of a three‐dimensional (3D) chiral covalent framework (CityU‐22). The single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction (SCXRD) analysis reveals that CityU‐22 has a non‐carbon Te−O−B−O bond‐based network with the srs topology. The chiral CityU‐22 displays good stability under the treatment of different common solvents or heat (the decomposition temperature above 300 °C). Due to its non‐π‐conjugated backbone (−Te−O−B−O−), CityU‐22 shows an ultraviolet NLO behavior with a second‐harmonic generation (SHG) response similar to KH2PO4 (KDP). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article investigates the formation composition and keeping problem for multi‐quadrotor systems under time‐varying communication delays. First, a distributed model predictive control (MPC) approach is employed to transform the formation composition and keeping of multi‐quadrotor systems into an online rolling optimization issue, accompanied by the event‐triggered mechanism to reduce solution frequency and communication load. Second, to address the asynchrony and time‐varying communication delays introduced by event‐triggered distributed MPC, a set of constraints is designed to restrict deviations between the current predictive state and previously broadcasted states. Consequently, based on the previously predicted states of neighbors, the cooperation of the multi‐quadrotor systems is achieved under asynchronous communication and time‐varying delays. This approach guarantees robust asymptotic stability and satisfactory formation performance for multi‐quadrotor systems under various delay scenarios. Finally, the numerical and software‐in‐the‐loop simulations validate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm of multi‐quadrotors under communication delays. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two‐photon high‐speed fluorescence calcium imaging stands as a mainstream technique in neuroscience for capturing neural activities with high spatiotemporal resolution. However, challenges arise from the inherent tradeoff between acquisition speed and image quality, grappling with a low signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) due to limited signal photon flux. Here, a contrast‐enhanced video‐rate volumetric system, integrating a tunable acoustic gradient (TAG) lens‐based high‐speed microscopy with a TAG‐SPARK denoising algorithm is demonstrated. The former facilitates high‐speed dense z‐sampling at sub‐micrometer‐scale intervals, allowing the latter to exploit the spatial redundancy of z‐slices for self‐supervised model training. This spatial redundancy‐based approach, tailored for 4D (xyzt) dataset, not only achieves >700% SNR enhancement but also retains fast‐spiking functional profiles of neuronal activities. High‐speed plus high‐quality images are exemplified by in vivo Purkinje cells calcium observation, revealing intriguing dendritic‐to‐somatic signal convolution, i.e., similar dendritic signals lead to reverse somatic responses. This tailored technique allows for capturing neuronal activities with high SNR, thus advancing the fundamental comprehension of neuronal transduction pathways within 3D neuronal architecture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Introduction Methods Results Conclusion Implantoplasty can be performed on implants diagnosed with peri‐implantitis to facilitate implant decontamination and improve access for oral home care. However, its effect on the mechanical strength of the implant is still uncertain. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of implantoplasty on the fracture resistance of dental implants with various degrees of bone loss, as well as its surface changes.Eighty 4.2 × 13 mm conical connection dental implants were allocated evenly into four groups based on the bone defect morphology: circumferential or semi‐circumferential, and 3 or 5 mm vertical height. Half of the implants underwent implantoplasty with tungsten carbide finishing burs. Weight, volume, and surface roughness of the implants were recorded prior to and after instrumentation. All implants were subjected to static loading to failure or fracture and the implant surfaces were then analyzed using optical microscopy. Finite element analysis was carried out to assess the stress pattern on dental implants after implantoplasty.Implantoplasty significantly reduced the fracture resistance of implants with all defect morphologies, aside from those with 3 mm of circumferential bone loss. Implants with 5 mm of peri‐implant bone loss also experienced significantly reduced fracture resistance compared to the 3 mm group. Significant decrease in fracture resistance was only observed between the circumferential and semi‐circumferential groups with 5 mm of bone loss. Surface roughness was also significantly reduced following implantoplasty. The results from finite element analysis revealed a change in pattern of stress concentration in the implant after implantoplasty.Implantoplasty negatively impacted the fracture resistance of standard diameter dental implants in most scenarios. The increase in exposed implant length resulted in a decrease in fracture resistance. This increase in fracture risk should be considered prior to implantoplasty, especially in implants with more advanced bone loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glaucoma is an irreversible blinding eye disease characterized by retinal ganglion cell (RGC) death.Previous studies have demonstrated that protecting mitochondria and activating the CaMKII/CREB signaling pathway can effectively protect RGC and axon. However, currently treatments are often unsatisfactory, and the pathogenesis of glaucoma requires further elucidation. In this study, a ROS‐responsive dual drug conjugate (OLN monomer) is first designed that simultaneously bonds nicotinamide and oleic acid. The conjugate self‐assembled into nanoparticles (uhOLN‐NPs) through the aggregation of multiple micelles and possesses ROS scavenging capability. Then, a polymer with a hypoxic response function is designed, which encapsulates uhOLN‐NPs to form nanoparticles with hypoxic and ROS responses (HOLN‐NPs). Under hypoxia in RGCs, the azo bond of HOLN‐NPs breaks and releases uhOLN‐NPs. Meanwhile, under high ROS conditions, the thioketone bond broke, leading to the dissociation of nano‐prodrug. The released nicotinamide and oleic acid co‐scavenge ROS and activate the CaMKII/CREB pathway, protecting mitochondria in RGCs. HOLN‐NPs exhibit a significantly superior protective effect on R28 cells in glutamate models of glaucoma. The accumulation of HOLN‐NPs in retinal RGCs lead to significant inhibition of RGC apoptosis and axonal damage in vivo. Notably, HOLN‐NPs provide a new therapeutic approach for patients with neurodegenerative disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Immunotherapy targeting immune checkpoints (ICPs), such as programmed death‐ligand‐1 (PD‐L1), is used as a treatment option for advanced or metastatic non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, overall response rate to anti‐PD‐L1 treatment is limited due to antigen heterogeneity and the immune‐suppressive tumor microenvironment. Human leukocyte antigen‐G (HLA‐G), an ICP as well as a neoexpressed tumor‐associated antigen, is previously demonstrated to be a beneficial target in combination with anti‐PD‐L1. In this study, a nanobody‐based trispecific T cell engager (Nb‐TriTE) is developed, capable of simultaneously binding to T cells, macrophages, and cancer cells while redirecting T cells toward tumor cells expressing PD‐L1‐ and/or HLA‐G. Nb‐TriTE shows broad spectrum anti‐tumor effects in vitro by augmenting cytotoxicity mediated by human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). In a humanized immunodeficient murine NSCLC model, Nb‐TriTE exhibits superior anti‐cancer potency compared to monoclonal antibodies and bispecific T cell engagers. Nb‐TriTE, at the dose with pharmacoactivity, does not induce additional enhancement of circulating cytokines secretion from PMBCs. Nb‐TriTE effectively prolongs the survival of mice without obvious adverse events. In conclusion, this study introduces an innovative therapeutic approach to address the challenges of immunotherapy and the tumor microenvironment in NSCLC through utilizing the dual ICP‐targeting Nb‐TriTE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Implementing algorithms purely on digital computing platforms dramatically halts the performance of conventional computing systems. Revolutionary computing systems with extreme energy efficiency and high accuracy are demanded to handle the growing computing tasks. Here, the research on hybrid analog–digital computing platforms enabled by memristor‐based optimization solvers for achieving ultrafast computations is presented. By utilizing tunable memristors as parameters to solve linear programming (LP) and quadratic programming (QP) problems, a real‐time control algorithm for micro air vehicles (MAVs) and a support vector machine (SVM) algorithm for cancer diagnosis are implemented. These experiments demonstrate over 2000x speed‐up compared to conventional digital platforms, with negligible energy consumption, using a memristor‐based system consisting of six memristors. These findings underscore the vast potential of memristor‐based optimization solvers not only in hybrid analog–digital computing platforms but also as a transformative solution for a wide range of modern computing challenges. This approach promises significant advancements in energy efficiency and ultrafast speed, positioning it as a leading contender for next‐generation computing paradigms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Technology brings new promises to transform second language teaching and learning. Successful technology integration depends on various factors, such as teachers’ professional identity and value beliefs. While scholars have investigated the influential factors for technology integration in language teaching holistically, studies focusing on specific language skills remain limited. With domain‐specific theories and technology applications, pronunciation instruction merits particular attention. In this study, the authors investigated how pre‐service teachers’ professional identity and value beliefs shaped their intended use of technology for pronunciation instruction. Five hundred ninety‐seven pre‐service English as a foreign language (EFL) teachers from China participated in this study. Structural equation modeling analysis identified educator identity orientation, learner‐centered orientation, didactic‐pedagogical orientation, and utility value beliefs of technology as significant predictors of technology integration for pronunciation instruction. In addition, results showed that utility value beliefs mediated the associations between professional identity and participants’ intended use of technology. These findings highlight the crucial role of professional identity and value beliefs in pre‐service teachers’ intended use of technology for language instruction. Findings suggest that teacher educators and teacher training programs may prepare innovative educators by fostering broad identity constructs and enhancing pre‐service teachers’ utility value beliefs of technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phototheranostics with second near‐infrared (NIR‐II) emissions show great potential for disease diagnosis and imaging‐guided phototherapy owing to deep tissue penetration, high imaging resolution, and excellent tumor eradication. Recently, molecular conjugation engineering and J‐aggregation have been used to construct organic NIR‐II materials. However, these molecules generally have extensive conjugation and large molecular weight in the range of 700–1700 g mol−1, requiring complicated molecular design and synthesis. Herein, a NIR‐II emissive through‐space charge‐transfer (TSCT) nanoparticle (NP) using short‐conjugated donor‐acceptor (D‐A) molecules (TTP) is reported for high‐performance bioimaging and cancer phototheranostics. Owing to the short conjugation of the TTP molecule with a small molecular weight of only 518 g mol−1, the TTP monomer possesses visible absorption and first near‐infrared (NIR‐I) emission. Upon forming NPs in water, the efficient TSCT between TTP monomers leads to significantly red‐shifted absorption to the NIR‐I and emission to the NIR‐II region with a tail that extends to 1400 nm. TTP NPs are employed in NIR‐II in vivo blood‐vessel bioimaging and cancer phototheranostics successfully. This work introduces a facile strategy to construct NIR‐II emissive NPs based on short‐conjugated D‐A molecules for high‐performance biomedical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solid‐state infrared sources designed to emit wavelengths above 2 µm often face challenges in achieving high emission efficiency, minimizing power consumption, and reducing fabrication costs. In response, a 2.4 µm wavelength light emitting diode (LED) is developed using metamorphic In0.83Ga0.17As/InAs0.3P0.65Sb0.05 multiple quantum well (MQW) heterostructures. The substantial conduction (94 meV) and valence band offsets (300 meV) within this type‐I MQW LED architecture result in strong carrier confinement, improving electron and hole wavefunction overlap. Despite a notable lattice mismatch of 2.0% between the MQWs and InP substrate, the resulting LED wafer exhibits exceptionally low surface roughness (1.1 nm) and well‐defined, sharp interfaces within the heterostructures. Furthermore, this MQW LED exhibits favorable emission properties, including a low turn‐on field, minimal efficiency droop, and stable emission wavelength across varying injection currents. These advancements underscore the potential of such short‐wave infrared emitters for scalable applications in fields such as inspection, optical on‐chip communication, and biomedical diagnostics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Athletes frequently compete only a few days after long‐haul travel. Longitudinal real‐world data on athletes’ sleep and sleep–wake cycle in competitive settings remain scarce. This study assessed the impact of a long‐haul travel across ∼13 time zones on sleep patterns, rest–activity circadian rhythms (RAR), and their subsequent effects on neuromuscular function and race performance in the Canadian Short‐Track Speed Skating Team. Nineteen athletes (24 ± 4 years, 11 women) travelled from Montréal (UTC‐5) to Asia (UTC+8, UTC+9) for World Cup races between 2017 and 2019. Actigraphy data were collected before (Baseline) and during travel, during the stay in Asia (SIA), and during competition days. RAR were computed using cosinor analyses on accelerometry data with 24 h phase periods. Countermovement jump height (CMJ) was measured in a subsample (n = 10). Compared to baseline (7:08 ± 0:53), athletes obtained less sleep during travel (6:16 ± 1:27) and competition days (6:35 ± 1:10), and more during SIA (7:32 ± 0:46; time effect P < 0.0001). Sleep efficiency and CMJ were greater in SIA than baseline (P = 0.007 and P = 0.0004, respectively). During SIA, sleep time increased by 9 min per night until the fifth day (P < 0.0001), with a slight decrease in sleep efficiency (P = 0.005) and an increase in CMJ (P < 0.0001). For RAR, mean activity peaked on day 2, shifting from late evening to ∼15:00. Race performance was not different from other races of the same season (P > 0.254). Our results demonstrated that, despite the possible sleep debt from the long‐haul travel, athletes recovered within 5 days, highlighting their adaptability to manage sleep debt and jetlag without impacting competitive outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Portal hypertension leads to lethal complications in liver cirrhosis. Oxidative stress induced hepatic vascular dysfunction, which exaggerated vasoconstriction and increases hepatic vascular resistance (HVR). Gut dysbiosis further exacerbates portal hypertension. Fructooligosaccharides are prebiotics with potent antioxidant effect. This study aimed to evaluate the roles of fructooligosaccharides in portal hypertension‐related vascular dysregulation and gut microbiome. Methods: Sprague–Dawley rats received bile duct ligation to induce cirrhosis or sham operation as controls. The rats then randomly received fructooligosaccharides or vehicle for 4 weeks. Experiments were performed on the 29th day after operations. Results: Fructooligosaccharides did not affect portal pressure. Interestingly, fructooligosaccharides significantly attenuated HVR (p =.03). Malondialdehyde, an oxidative stress marker, reduced significantly in the liver in fructooligosaccharides‐treated group. In addition, superoxide dismutase and trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity increased in the treatment group. On the other hand, vasodilatation‐related protein expressions, GTPCH and phospho‐eNOS, enhanced significantly. Fructooligosaccharides had no adverse vasodilatation effects on splanchnic vascular system or porto‐systemic collateral systems. Locomotor function was not affected by fructooligosaccharides. Faecal microbiota analysis showed that Negativicutes, Selenomonadales and Lactobacillus salivarius reduced in the fructooligosaccharides‐treated group. Conclusion: In conclusion, fructooligosaccharides attenuate hepatic vascular dysfunction in cirrhotic rats via at least partly, ameliorate of dysbiosis and oxidative stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Adverse pregnancy outcomes, which can be caused by multiple factors, present a significant threat to the health of mothers and their babies. Cell‐free fetal DNA (cffDNA) from placental trophoblast cells might be able to reflect placental and fetal status. Previous studies have yielded controversial results regarding the association of FF or cffDNA with various adverse pregnancy outcomes. A previous study has attempted to systematically assess the association between low fetal fraction (FF) and adverse pregnancy outcomes, but it failed to perform quantitative analyses due to the few studies included. In the present study, we attempted to quantitatively assess the association of FF (or cffDNA) with adverse pregnancy outcomes and further analyze the causes of heterogeneity. Objectives: To investigate the association of high/low FF or cffDNA with adverse pregnancy outcomes. Search Strategy: We searched the databases of PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, and Web of Science from January 1, 1990, to June 15, 2022 in this meta‐analysis. Selection Criteria: Studies on the relationships of adverse pregnancy outcomes in women with FF or cell free DNA were included. Non‐English literature was excluded. Data Collection and Analysis: Data about pregnancy outcomes and cell free DNA were extracted and meta‐analyzed. Subgroup analysis was performed by different outcomes. Main Results: There were 11 studies included involving 8280 participants. No significant heterogeneity was observed among the studies (I2 = 27%, 25%), and a fixed‐effect model was used for weighted quantitative analysis. The results revealed that the FF or cffDNA during pregnancy was significantly associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes in pregnant women (OR = 1.57, 95% CI [1.24, 1.99], P = 0.233). The overall incidence of the maternal adverse outcomes was 8% (95% CI: 5–13). Subgroup analysis of different outcomes showed an evident association between low FF or cffDNA and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) (OR = 1.76, 95% CI [1.36, 2.27], P = 0.581). There was no evidence that the occurrence of spontaneous preterm birth (sPTB) and placental abnormality was associated with FF or cffDNA. No association was observed between low FF or cffDNA during pregnancy and adverse outcomes in fetuses (OR = 1.39, 95% CI [0.99, 1.94], P = 0.242). The overall incidence of adverse outcomes in fetuses was 8% (95% CI: 6–11). There were controversies over the association between high FF or cffDNA and HDP, and sPTB and small for gestational age infant, among different studies. Conclusions: Pregnant women with low FF or cffDNA during the first or second trimester of pregnancy have an overall increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes, especially HDP. However, the association between FF and various pregnancy outcomes needs to be further explored by more prospective studies. Synopsis: Pregnant women with low FF or cffDNA have an overall increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes, especially HDP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: Correlations between the image analysis of CT scan, lung function and quality of life in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the impacts of pulmonary blood‐vessel distribution and the extent of fibrosis on the lung function and quality of life of patients with IPF. Methods: Patients were enrolled in an IPF registry and had completed pulmonary function tests, chest HRCT, St. George Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ) and echocardiography. Pulmonary blood‐vessel distribution, specific image‐derived airway volume (siVaw) and fibrosis extent (siVfib) were quantitatively calculated by functional respiratory imaging on HRCT. Results: The study subjects were categorized into DLco <40% pred. (n = 40) and DLco ≥40% pred. (n = 19) groups. Patients with DLco <40% pred. had significantly higher scores of SGRQ, composite physiologic index (CPI), exercise oxygen desaturation (∆SpO2), siVaw, lower FVC% pred. and 6‐minute walking distance% pred. The proportion of small blood vessels in the upper lobes (BV5PR‐UL) was significantly correlated with CPI, DLco % Pred., FVC% pred., SGRQ and ∆SpO2. Only BV5PR‐UL had a significant impact on all indices but not BV5PR in the lower lobes (BV5PR‐LL). siVfib was significantly negatively correlated with BV5PR‐UL, DLco% pred. and FVC% pred., as well as positively correlated with CPI, ∆SpO2 and siVaw. Conclusion: BV5PR‐UL and siVfib had significant correlations with lung function and may become important indicators to assess the severity of IPF and the impact on quality of life. The pulmonary small vessels proportion in upper lobes of lung and fibrotic extent of whole lung obtained from functional respiratory imaging analysis have significant correlations with lung function and may become important indicators to assess the severity of IPF and the impact on quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: As patients nowadays tend to have multiple diseases and complex medical histories, our aim was to identify high‐quality, non‐instrumental dysphagia screening tools used for the detection of adult dysphagia cases in all disease categories in acute‐care settings. Method: A literature search was conducted in five databases from each database's earliest inception to 31 July 2021 and guided by five keywords: 'dysphagia', 'deglutition', 'screening', 'test' and 'measure'. Without limiting the search in any specific disease category, reviewers assessed original studies and identified tools if they had been validated against instrumental evaluations and if they had been designed as a pass–fail procedure to screen whether dysphagia is absent or present. We further excluded any tool if it was (1) for pediatric focus, or (2) a patient self‐report questionnaire. All final tool candidates underwent a methodological quality appraisal using the Revised Tool for the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies (QUADAS‐2). Result: Out of 195 studies with 165 tools identified, 20 tool candidates underwent QUADAS‐2 review. We found six high‐quality, non‐instrumental screening tools for detecting adult dysphagia cases in acute‐care settings, including the Yale Swallow Protocol, Gugging Swallowing Screen, Toronto Bedside Swallowing Screening Test (both English and Portuguese versions), Sapienza Global Bedside Evaluation of Swallowing and Two‐Step Thickened Water Test. These high‐quality tools were developed primarily for patients with stroke. Only Yale Swallow Protocol was originally tested for heterogeneous populations with stroke, multiple sclerosis, traumatic brain injury, oesophageal surgery, neurosurgery and head‐and‐neck cancer. Conclusions: The results highlight the gap in the unavailability of high‐quality dysphagia screening tool in several emerged high‐risk populations including elderly inpatients, or patients following endotracheal extubation. Further research is needed to determine whether these six tools can be effectively applied across different high‐risk populations in acute‐care settings to screen for cases finding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The proportional‐integral‐derivative (PID) was developed and recognized for its reliability. A PID controller is not only simple but also relatively cheap. However, the controller causes system performance degeneration over time due to the presence of windup in a motor speed control system. The windup phenomenon is caused by the saturated control state. Various anti‐windup methods were introduced to decrease a system's long settling time and extreme overshooting. Most anti‐windup techniques require integral switching between saturated and unsaturated states, whereby both versions of steady‐state integral proportional‐integral controller do not need integral switching mechanism. They possess a certain degree of decoupling between kp$$ {k}_p $$ and ki$$ {k}_i $$ tuning parameters and tested to allow a more comprehensive range of tuning in the absence of derivative control. This research investigated the impact of derivative control component on the tuning gain decoupling through hardware simulation. By integrating the derivative component, kd$$ {k}_d $$, the control system demonstrated an improved system stability and reduced overshoot. Result shows that the decoupling feature allows SIPIC01+D and SIPIC02+D controllers to produce performance with zero overshoot and short settling time. However, SIPIC01+D has better dynamical performance with fastest rise and settling time with no overshoot as compared to other anti‐windup controllers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]