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In this paper, an adaptive quantized output feedback event‐triggered (ET) distributed consensus control approach for an uncertain nonstrict nonlinear switched fractional‐order (FO) multi‐agent system (SFOMAS) subject to communication limitation is proposed. By relying on the common Lyapunov function method, the switch signals are arbitrarily, and no information regarding the switching instants is required. The consensus error of each agent has its own asymmetric time‐varying constraints (ATCs). By adopting the common barrier Lyapunov function (BLF), violation of these constraints is prevented. For each agent, different input nonlinearities can be considered in different modes, and the controllers need no information about their types and characteristics. The communication burden between outputs sensors and the controllers is reduced by applying uniform‐logarithmic‐hysteresis quantizers to the outputs signals. By using FO filters, which can be considered as a FO version of the dynamic surface control (DSC) method, the so‐called explosion of complexity is avoided and the discontinuity problem of FO derivatives of virtual controllers due to outputs quantization is resolved. Observers are designed to estimate the unmeasured states. Also, function approximators (FAs) are employed to approximate uncertainties. A novel lemma that correlates observer states to consensus errors and their constraints, FO filters errors, adaptive parameters and backstepping error surfaces, has been proposed to establish the observer stability. To reduce the communication burden between the controllers and actuators, relative threshold ET mechanisms have been applied to control signals. The combination problem of unmeasured states with the mentioned input constraints for SFOMASs is coped with another novel lemma. Utilizing the common Lyapunov functions (CLFs) and the backstepping technique, virtual controllers, adaptive law and control signal for each agent have been designed and boundedness of closed‐loop signals and avoidance of Zeno behavior have been proved. The effectiveness of the proposed control scheme is demonstrated through a simulation study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

RNA and protein‐based therapeutics constitute almost half of recent drug approvals and receive considerable attention within biotechnology industries. Ensuring their stability and longevity in the context of heat, freezing, and lyophilization processes are paramount to a successful deployment. However, the advancement of formulations designed to achieve this goal is still in its nascent phase. To address these challenges, a new class of semi‐dendritic hydrophilic polymer with extended linear units is reported, which showcase very high hydration. These novel polymers demonstrated exceptional efficacy in preserving messenger RNA‐ (mRNA‐) and self‐amplifying RNA‐ (saRNA‐) lipid nanoparticles during freezing and lyophilization. Additionally, they have been found to protect therapeutic proteins against external stressors such as freezing, heat, and lyophilization. These polymers are non‐toxic, which enables their utilization at high concentrations and eliminates the requirement for removal prior to administration. It is found that their unique topology contributes to the high hydration. These excipients are anticipated to create new prospects in biotechnology, food science, and cryopreservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dynamic wavefront shaping with optical metasurfaces has presented a major challenge and inspired a large number of highly elaborate solutions. Here, this study experimentally demonstrates thermo‐optically reconfigurable, nonlocal metasurfaces using simple device architectures and conventional CMOS‐compatible dielectric materials. These metasurfaces support quasi‐bound states in the continuum (q‐BICs) derived from symmetry breaking and encoded with a spatially varying geometric phase, such that they shape optical wavefront exclusively on spectrally narrowband resonances. Due to the enhanced light‐matter interaction enabled by the resonant q‐BICs, a slight variation of the refractive index introduced by heating and cooling the entire device leads to a substantial shift of the resonant wavelength and a subsequent change to the optical wavefront associated with the resonance. This study experimentally demonstrates a metalens modulator, the focusing capability of which can be thermally turned on and off, and reconfigurable metalenses, which can be thermo‐optically switched to produce two distinct focal patterns. The devices offer a pathway to realize reconfigurable, multifunctional meta‐optics using established manufacturing processes and widely available dielectric materials that are conventionally not considered “active” materials due to their small thermo‐optic or electro‐optic coefficients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Changes in gene expression related to obesity are linked to microRNAs, such as miR‐141, which play a crucial role in metabolic homeostasis. Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1), an enzyme that plays a crucial role in regulating various cellular functions and metabolism, is implicated in obesity and the ensuing non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The aim of this research was to evaluate the levels of miR‐141 and its relationship with SIRT1 and NAFLD. Methods: A group of 100 adults (50 with obesity and 50 with normal‐weight) were selected and underwent complete clinical evaluation and anthropometric measurements. Biochemical parameters were assessed in blood serum, and the levels of miR‐141 in plasma were measured by real‐time PCR. The expression of the SIRT1 gene was also evaluated in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells using Real‐time PCR. The ELISA technique was used to determine insulin levels. Liver steatosis was assessed by ultrasound. Results: The results showed that levels of miR‐141 were significantly increased in participants with obesity compared with the control group. Conversely, the expression of the SIRT1 gene in individuals with obesity was lower than that in control participants. A strong negative correlation was observed between miR‐141 and SIRT1 and a strong positive association was observed between miR‐141 and metabolic parameters. Furthermore, participants with fatty liver had significantly elevated levels of miR‐141 gene expression and lower expression of SIRT1 gene, compared to those without fatty liver. Conclusion: elevated levels of miR‐141 in individuals with obesity might be a contributing factor in the repression of SIRT1 in obesity and its consequences, including NAFLD. Therefore, miR‐141 might serve as a suitable diagnostic and therapeutic target in obesity and NAFLD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We study in this paper a geometric inverse problem in fluid mechanics. The goal is to determine the location of an object in the fluid domain from boundary information. We consider the case of a nonstationary two‐dimensional Stokes flow. Our approach is based on the Kohn–Vogelius concept and the topological gradient method. We develop a new topological asymptotic expansion, which can be used as a basic step for developing accurate detection algorithms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By increasing the number of electric vehicles (EVs) to achieve a less carbon environment, not only they consume power from the grid to be charged, but also do they deliver power to the grid, and this can play a significant role in load frequency control. However, EVs take part in frequency regulation based on their state of charge (SoC) which will cause uncertainties. In order to manage these uncertainties, EV aggregator (EVA) concept has been introduced. The EV owner participates in the demand response program provided by the EVA arbitrarily considering her/his requirements. Accordingly, EVA calculates the up and down power reserve for the power system operator. Following any frequency deviation, EVA sends the proper commands to each EV to consume or to inject power to the system. There are also communication delays between different parts, uncertainties, and non‐linearities that existed in the power system. To overcome these issues, this study proposes a new robust load frequency controller based on feedback theory and artificial neural network which is designed through the non‐linear multi‐machine power system. Simulation results on IEEE 39‐bus power system show that the proposed controller regulates frequency more desirably in comparison with other methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While whole genome sequencing (WGS) of cell-free DNA (cfDNA) holds enormous promise for detection of molecular residual disease (MRD), its performance is limited by WGS error rate. Here we introduce AccuScan, an efficient cfDNA WGS technology that enables genome-wide error correction at single read-level, achieving an error rate of 4.2 × 10−7, which is about two orders of magnitude lower than a read-centric de-noising method. The application of AccuScan to MRD demonstrated analytical sensitivity down to 10−6 circulating variant allele frequency at 99% sample-level specificity. AccuScan showed 90% landmark sensitivity (within 6 weeks after surgery) and 100% specificity for predicting relapse in colorectal cancer. It also showed 67% sensitivity and 100% specificity in esophageal cancer using samples collected within one week after surgery. When AccuScan was applied to monitor immunotherapy in melanoma patients, the circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) levels and dynamic profiles were consistent with clinical outcomes. Overall, AccuScan provides a highly accurate WGS solution for MRD detection, empowering ctDNA detection at parts per million range without requiring high sample input or personalized reagents. Synopsis: A novel approach, named AccuScan, was developed for molecular residual disease (MRD) detection and immunotherapy monitoring. This technology uses whole genome sequencing (WGS) with single-read error correction for circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) analysis. AccuScan reduced WGS error rate to less than 5 × 10−7, enabling an ultralow limit of detection for circulating tumor variant allele frequency down to the parts-per-million (PPM) range. When applied to MRD detection, AccuScan achieved 90% landmark sensitivity and 100% specificity in post-surgical colorectal cancer patients. AccuScan showed high sensitivity and specificity for MRD detection in esophageal cancer and for immunotherapy monitoring in melanoma patients. AccuScan established a simple, white blood cell-free workflow for tumor-specific variant identification and tumor-informed MRD detection. A novel approach, named AccuScan, was developed for molecular residual disease (MRD) detection and immunotherapy monitoring. This technology uses whole genome sequencing (WGS) with single-read error correction for circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aim: The study aims to describe the role of diabetes in patients with heart failure. Methods: In all, 1052 chronic heart failure patients were included in the FARmacology and NeuroHumoral Activation (FAR NHL) multicenter prospective registry. They had ejection fraction below 50% and were on stable medication for at least 1 month. Results: More than one‐third (38.9%) of the patients had diabetes mellitus (DM). Diabetic patients (N = 409) were older (median 67 vs. 64, p < 0.001), had higher body mass index (BMI) (30 vs. 28 kg/m2, p < 0.001), much more frequently had ischemic heart disease (71 vs. 47%, p < 0.001), hypertension (80 vs. 67%, p < 0.001), dyslipidemia (89 vs. 69%, p < 0.001), worse renal function (estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] median 63 vs. 73 mL/min/1.73 m2, p < 0.001), and higher N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP) (median 681 vs. 463 pg/mL, p = 0.003). All‐cause death, left ventricle assist device implantation, and orthotopic heart transplantation were set as the combined primary end point, which was present in 15.5% (163 patients) within the 2‐year follow‐up. In the 2‐year follow‐up, 81.0% of patients with diabetes survived without a primary end point, while 85.4% of the patients without diabetes survived, the difference being on the verge of statistical significance (p = 0.089). DM is a statistically significant predictor of NT‐proBNP value in univariate analysis, but it is not an independent predictor in a multivariate analysis. When the NT‐proBNP level was high, the presence of DM did not influence the prognosis. Conclusion: The combination of diabetes and NT‐proBNP levels may better stratify the prognosis of patients with chronic heart failure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: This paper presents low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellation configuration based on the performance of Doppler effect in laser intersatellite links (LISLs). It studies the impact of the LEO constellation's parameters on the performance of the Doppler effect in LISLs. The paper aims to develop LEO satellite constellation configurations that evolve LISLs with minimal Doppler shift. It evaluates the impact of the variation of the relative distance, the inclination angle of the LEO constellation orbital planes, the orbital planes number in the LEO constellation, and the altitude on the performance of Doppler wavelength shift (DWS) in LISLs, for different operating laser wavelengths (OLWs) with respect to two possible intersatellite links (ISL) connection modes within the constellation, straight ISL (n‐to‐n) and inclined ISL (n‐to‐n − 1). n is the order of the satellite in the orbital plane. Simulations are conducted to evaluate the performance of these configurations in terms of altitude, OLW, inclination angle, and the number of orbital planes. In addition, both OneWeb and Starlink constellations are studied to evaluate DWS performance. The study demonstrates that DWS decreases either with the diminution of the relative distance between linked LEO satellites, the inclination of LEO constellation, and the OLW, or with the augmentation of the orbital planes number and altitude. Moreover, the overall DWS between two LEO satellites in the proposed constellation is at least 50% lower than the constellation configuration in other literature. The paper proposes the LEO constellation's configurations that perform LISLs with less possible Doppler effect by optimizing the LEO constellation parameters that impact the Doppler effect. The result of this study helps in the early stage of LEO satellite constellation designing in terms of payload simplicity and cost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The physiological role of α‐melanocyte stimulating hormone in regulating integumental pigmentation of many vertebrate species has been recognized since the 1960's. However, its physiological significance for human pigmentation remained enigmatic until the 1990's. α‐Melanocyte stimulating hormone and related melanocortins are synthesized locally in the skin, primarily by keratinocytes, in addition to the pituitary gland, and therefore act as paracrine factors for melanocytes. Human melanocytes express the melanocortin 1 receptor, which recognizes α‐melanocyte stimulating hormone and the related adrenocorticotropic hormone as agonists. This review summarizes the current knowledge of the pleotropic effects of the activated melanocortin 1 receptor that maintain human melanocyte homeostasis by regulating melanogenesis and the response to environmental stressors, mainly solar radiation. Certain allelic variants of the melanocortin 1 receptor gene are associated with specific pigmentary phenotypes in various human populations. Variants associated with red hair phenotype compromise the function of the encoded receptor. Activation of the human melanocortin 1 receptor regulates eumelanin synthesis and enhances DNA damage response of melanocytes to solar radiation and oxidative stressors. We describe how synthetic selective melanocortin 1 receptor agonists can be efficacious as sunless tanning agents, for treatment of vitiligo and photosensitivity disorders, and for prevention of skin cancer, including melanoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: IMAGE is a retrospective cohort study of patients enrolled in early access programs (EAPs) in France with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM) receiving isatuximab with pomalidomide and dexamethasone (Isa‐Pd). Methods: Patients aged ≥18 years with RRMM who received ≥1 dose of Isa under the EAPs between July 29, 2019 and August 30, 2020 were included. Effectiveness endpoints included progression‐free survival (PFS) and response rates. Verbatim terms for adverse events (AEs) were coded using the Medical Dictionary for Regulatory Activities and not graded for severity. Results: A total of 294 and 299 patients were included in the effectiveness and safety populations, respectively. IMAGE included patients who received one prior line of treatment (10.2%) and were daratumumab‐refractory (19.1%). At median follow‐up of 14.2 months, median PFS in the effectiveness population was 12.4 months (95% CI 9.0–15.0). Overall response and very good partial response rates were 46.3% and 27.9%, respectively. Subgroup analyses reflected similar results. In the safety population, 26.4% of patients reported at least one AE; the most common any‐grade AE was neutropenia (9.4%). Conclusion: IMAGE demonstrated Isa‐Pd had meaningful effectiveness in median PFS and depth of response and no new safety signals in a real‐world context, consistent with clinical trial results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cervical cancer is a disease that affects a lot of people all over the world. The success of treatment is significantly increased by early detection. The new surface plasmon resonance sensor (SPRS) described in this article is constructed from layers of silver, BaTiO3, and graphene, as well as a coupling prism. The transfer matrix (TM) approach is used to evaluate the SPRS structure. To obtain the highest sensitivity of the suggested SPRS, the thicknesses of the Ag and BaTiO3 and the number of Gr sheets are evaluated. Investigations are done on all factors of performance of the proposed device. Exemplary efficiency is achieved using 4 nm (BaTiO3) and 60 nm (Ag) materials. Three layers are chosen as the optimal amount of graphene after investigation. When the optimal thicknesses are employed, the suggested SPRS's greatest sensitivity of 300° RIU−1 has been attained. The suggested SPRS displays better sensitivity when compared to SPRS structures that have already been published in the literature. This SPRS is promising to be used in different biosensing applications due to its high performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Knot(s) of the umbilical cord have received emphasis because the clinical assessments and sonographic literature show a crucial role in fetal outcomes. The true umbilical cord knot could be a knot in a singleton pregnancy or an entanglement of two umbilical cords in monoamniotic twins. Clinical manifestations are almost silent, which can raise clinical challenges. They worsen outcomes, and the pathology can be easily missed during prenatal visits because ultrasonographers do not pay attention to the cord during an obstetric ultrasound scan. However, most medical centers now have ultrasound machines that improve fetal assessment. The umbilical cord should be routinely evaluated during a fetal assessment, and suspicion of an umbilical cord knot can be more frequently diagnosed and is detected only incidentally. Clinical outcome is usually good but depends on the knot's characteristics and if it is tight or loose. In this review, we discuss pathophysiology, the theories on formation, the main risk factors, ultrasound signs and findings, different opinions in the management, and features of pregnancy outcomes feature. Synopsis: Umbilical knots impact fetal outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent observations of crystallization by thermal chemical vapor deposition systems indicate that the classical mechanism of nucleation and growth is followed. Information on aragonite nanocrystal growth and formation on substrate have been lacking due to the lack of reports on diffusional growth that can observe calcium carbonate nucleation processes in thin film formation. This report is important due to the additive‐free method able to grow stable single‐phase nanocrystals without the presence of other phases, amorphous or impurities. This work demonstrates homogeneous nucleation occurred in gas phase reaction in a constant flow of carbon dioxide gas (100 sccm) with optimally 0.5 M calcium chloride precursor in atmospheric pressure at 400 °C resulting in a calculated crystallite size of 27.8 nm. X‐ray diffraction and energy dispersive spectrometer confirm the presence of calcium carbonate nanocrystal, whereas its structural changes are observed by its micrograph from field emission scanning electron microscope. The aim is to convey its importance in gaining control of aragonite nanocrystal morphology and structural properties, and thus generate nanocrystals with controlled phase. This work may contribute to development of more sensitive and crucial applications of calcium carbonate nanocrystal thin film such as in biosensors and biomedical. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: Vitamin D deficiency impacts a significant proportion of the world's population, and this deficiency has been linked to various conditions characterized by imbalanced serotonin regulation. The objective of this systematic review and meta‐analysis was to evaluate the effect of vitamin D supplementation on serum serotonin levels. Methods: We conducted a comprehensive search of PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Central for Randomized Clinical Trials, and Web of Science up to September 2022, without any language restrictions. The effect sizes were calculated using the standard mean difference (SMD) and 95% confidence interval (CI). Results: Six randomized clinical trials involving 356 participants were included in the analysis. Our findings indicated no significant changes in serotonin levels between the intervention and control groups (SMD: 0.24 ng/mL, 95% CI: −0.28, 0.75, p > 0.10). Subgroup analysis also did not reveal any significant changes in serotonin levels among children, participants with autism spectrum disorders, interventions lasting 10 weeks or longer, or those receiving vitamin D doses below 4000 IU/day. Conclusion: Although the results obtained in this systematic review are inconclusive, they support the need for further well‐designed randomized trials to assess the potential role of vitamin D supplementation in regulating serotonin levels and potentially ameliorating depression and related disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of using camel milk on the physiochemical, microbiological and sensory properties, and free amino acid and biogenic amine contents of processed Domiati cheese was investigated during pickling (90 days) at 4°C. The results revealed a decrease in biogenic amines and an increase in free amino acids in cheese made from camel milk compared to cheese made from buffalo milk. Histamine and tryptamine were the most predominant amines in all the treatments (13 and 12 mg/kg), respectively. All samples had lower than the allowable level of biogenic amines, according to the Food and Drug Administration (10 mg/100 g). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stevens‐Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) are acute, life‐threatening and rare severe cutaneous adverse reactions induced by drugs in most cases. The drugs most often reported to be implicated in inducing TEN/SJS are allopurinol, antibacterial sulfonamides, antiepileptic drugs and oxicam. Pristinamycin is an oral streptogramin antibiotic with bactericidal activity against Gram‐positive bacteria that is rarely linked to TEN. Typically, this condition develops 4‐28 days after drug exposure, Herein, we report a case of a 71‐year‐old female who developed TEN within 3 days of administration of pristinamycin and was managed successfully with supportive care, including intravenous fluids, pain control, prophylactic antibiotics and intravenous methylprednisolone. This case of rapidly developing SJS/TEN after administration of pristinamycin highlights the possibility that these complications can develop within only a few days following ingestion of drugs thought to be probably safe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION: Commercially available plasma p‐tau217 biomarker tests are not well studied in ethnically diverse samples. METHODS: We evaluated associations between ALZPath plasma p‐tau217 and amyloid‐beta positron emission tomography (Aβ‐PET) in Hispanic/Latino (88% of Cuban or South American ancestry) and non‐Hispanic/Latino older adults. One‐ and two‐cutoff ranges were derived and evaluated to assess agreement with Aβ‐PET. RESULTS: A total of 239 participants underwent blood draw and Aβ‐PET (age 70.8 ± 7.8, 55.2% female, education 15.6 ± 3.4 years, 48.9% Hispanic/Latino, 94.9% white). Plasma p‐tau217 showed excellent discrimination of Aβ‐PET positive and negative participants (visual read: AUC = 0.91 [0.87–0.95], p < 0.001; Centiloids quantification: AUC = 0.90 [0.86–0.94]). There was a greater percent agreement between low p‐tau217 and negative Aβ‐PET (95.8%) than high p‐tau217 and positive Aβ‐PET (86.3%). Analyses within ethnicity‐specific subgroups suggested similar p‐tau217 performance. DISCUSSION: Plasma p‐tau217 (ALZPath) relates to brain Aβ in Hispanic/Latino and non‐Hispanic/Latino older adults. Independent validation and replication are necessary to establish reference ranges and inform appropriate contexts of use across ethno‐racially diverse populations. HIGHLIGHTS: Plasma p‐tau217 (ALZPath) and Aβ‐PET were measured in Hispanic/Latino and non‐Hispanic/Latino older adults.Plasma p‐tau217 accurately discriminated Aβ‐PET positive and negative participants.Applying a two‐cutoff "intermediate" plasma p‐tau217 approach could reduce need for more invasive and costly testing.Plasma p‐tau217 associations with Aβ‐PET were strong within both Hispanic/Latino and non‐Hispanic/Latino groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key Clinical Message: Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) can have an insidious onset and a fatal prognosis in children. Patients presenting without typical signs of SLE should undergo further evaluation if they are not responding to the initial diagnosis and treatment. This is especially true for patients with rapidly progressing symptoms and deterioration in spite of treatment. Pediatric Systemic Lupus Erythematosus is a chronic autoimmune disorder with various organ involvement pulmonary involvement in the course of this disorder is a rare yet potentially life‐threatening complication. In this case report we highlight the findings of a 16‐year‐old girl acutely and initially presenting with cough and fever, eventually complicating to diffuse alveolar hemorrhage and gradual loss of consciousness. Although the patient was started on immunosuppressive treatment after the diagnosis of lupus, based on renal and hematological impairment, was made and initially responded, she eventually deteriorated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solid‐state lithium batteries (SSLBs) with high safety have emerged to meet the increasing energy density demands of electric vehicles, hybrid electric vehicles, and portable electronic devices. However, the dendrite formation, high interfacial resistance, and deleterious interfacial reactions caused by solid–solid contact between electrode and electrolyte have hindered the commercialization of SSLBs. Thus, in this review, the state‐of‐the‐art developments in the rational design of solid‐state electrolyte and their progression toward practical applications are reviewed. First, the origin of interface instability and the sluggish charge carrier transportation in solid–solid interface are presented. Second, various strategies toward stabilizing interfacial stability (reducing interfacial resistance, suppressing lithium dendrites, and side reactions) are summarized from the physical and chemical perspective, including building protective layer, constructing 3D and gradient structures, etc. Finally, the remaining challenges and future development trends of solid‐state electrolyte are prospected. This review provides a deep insight into solving the interfacial instability issues and promising solutions to enable practical high‐energy‐density lithium metal batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The continually advancing landscape of neuroscientific and imaging research has broadened our comprehension of sex differences encoded in the human brain, expanding from the hypothalamus and sexual behaviour to encompass the entire brain, including its diverse lobes, structures, and functions. However, less is known about sex differences in the brains of neonates and infants, despite their relevance to various sex‐linked diseases that develop early in life. In this review, we provide a synopsis of the literature evidence on sex differences in the brains of neonates and infants at the morphological, structural and network levels. We also briefly overview the present evidence on the sex bias in some brain disorders affecting infants and neonates. In the dynamic realm of neuroscientific and imaging research, we navigate beyond traditional confines to illuminate sex disparities throughout the neonatal and infant brain. Our systematic review integrates evidence across morphological, structural and network dimensions, spanning disciplines from neuroscience to neonatology. By synthesizing findings from a wide spectrum of studies, we offer a global perspective, empowering investigators to explore sex differences in normal brain development and unveiling crucial insights into the pathophysiology of early‐onset brain abnormalities, from neural tube defects to autism spectrum disorder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nano vehicles for drug delivery with stimuli‐responsive characteristics are gaining prominence due to their ability to enhance traditional drug delivery methods by minimizing side effects and improving drug efficacy. Among the various stimuli‐responsive systems, pH‐responsive drug delivery nano vehicles have garnered significant attention. Utilizing this pH variance, tailored drug delivery nano vehicles can release encapsulated drugs on demand. Here, we developed pH‐responsive catanionic vesicles to create customized drug delivery nano vehicles responsive to stimuli, particularly pH. we have designed catanionic vesicles through interacting two oppositely charged surface active ionic liquids (SAILs), i. e. cationic ‐methyl‐4‐(2‐(dodecyloxycarbonylmethyl)morpholin‐4‐ium bromide [C12EMorph][Br] with anionic Choline Oleate ([Ch][Ol]). The spherically shaped micellar aggregates of [C12EMorph][Br] are transformed into pH responsive vesicular nanoaggregates through judicious addition of [Ch][Ol]. The morphological transition was studied through various analytical techniques including DLS, FRET and SANS. We used these pH responsive vesicular nanoaggregates to load representative hydrophobic drug curcumin in order to enhance its solubility, efficacy and bioavailability. This innovative approach in designing pH‐responsive vesicular nanoaggregates using two biocompatible SAILs signifies a breakthrough in biomedical research, holding promise for advancements in drug delivery and therapeutic applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This pilot randomized clinical trial (RCT) sought to examine the preliminary efficacy of an internet‐based version of written exposure therapy delivered to veterans through an online program supported by peer coaches. Veterans (N = 124) with clinically significant posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms were randomly assigned to imaginal exposure either via writing (written exposure) or verbal recounting (verbal exposure). The online treatment involved four to eight sessions of imaginal exposure preceded and followed by an online chat with a peer coach. Participants completed assessments at baseline, posttreatment, and 3‐month follow‐up. Half of the participants never started treatment; among those who started treatment, the mean number of sessions completed was 4.92. At posttreatment, participants in both conditions reported clinically meaningful improvements in PTSD symptoms, d = 1.35; depressive symptoms, d = 1.10; and functioning, d = 0.39. Although participants in both treatment conditions demonstrated significant improvements in PTSD symptom severity, equivalence results were inconclusive, as the 95% confidence interval of the change score difference exceeded the specified margin and overlapped with 0. Estimated mean change scores demonstrated that both conditions showed significant reductions at posttreatment and follow‐up. Although engagement with the online program was a significant challenge, the findings suggest that written exposure therapy is effective for improving PTSD symptoms, depressive symptoms, and functioning when adapted for internet‐based delivery and facilitated by peer coaches. Using technology to deliver exposure therapy and task‐shifting the role of the therapist to peer coaches are promising strategies to increase access to effective PTSD care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: GPP is a rare, chronic, neutrophilic skin disease, with limited real‐world data characterizing patients with flares and the impact of flares on disease progression and morbidity. Objective: Describe the clinical characteristics of patients with GPP, comorbidities, disease epidemiology and frequency and severity of flares, and compare patients with GPP with a matched severe psoriasis population. Methods: In this population‐based real‐world cohort study an algorithm was developed to identify patients with GPP flares. Three cohorts were identified using the Système National des Données de Santé (SNDS) database covering almost the entire French population; a prevalent cohort (2010–2018), an incident cohort (2012–2015). A severe psoriasis cohort was compared with the GPP incident cohort using propensity score matching. Results: The prevalent and incident cohorts comprised 4195 and 1842 patients, respectively. In both cohorts, mean age was 58 years; 53% were male. Comorbidities were significantly more common in the incident cohort versus matched psoriasis cohort, respectively, including hypertension (44% vs. 26%), ischaemic heart disease (26% vs. 18%) and hyperlipidaemia (25% vs. 15%). In the incident cohort, the flare rate was 0.1 flares/person‐year and 0.4 flares/person‐year among the 569 out of 1842 patients hospitalized with flares. These patients had a mean (±SD) stay of 11.6 ± 10.4 days; 25% were admitted to the intensive care unit. In 2017, the cumulative incidence and cumulative GPP age–sex standardized prevalence were 7.1 and 45.2 per million, respectively. Conclusions: Patients with GPP had a distinct comorbidity profile compared to patients with severe psoriasis, and GPP flares were associated with long hospitalizations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses a case of gnatophyma, an uncommon form of rosacea, in a 45-year-old man. The patient presented with facial redness, swelling, and an enlarged chin. After unsuccessful treatment with medication, the patient underwent ablative carbon dioxide laser treatment, which resulted in significant aesthetic improvements. The article highlights the challenges in diagnosing and managing gnatophyma and suggests that further studies are needed to confirm the effectiveness of this treatment. The authors obtained appropriate patient consent and followed ethical guidelines in conducting the study. [Extracted from the article]

We consider the multiple knapsack problem (KP) with setup (MKPS), which is an extension of the KP with setup (KPS). We propose a new solving approach denoted by LP&DP‐VNS that combines linear programming (LP) relaxation and dynamic programming (DP) to enhance variable neighborhood search (VNS). The LP&DP‐VNS is tailored to the characteristics of the MKPS and reduced to LP&DP to solve the KPS. The approach is tested on 200 KPS and 360 MKPS benchmark instances. Computational experiments show the effectiveness of the LP&DP‐VNS, compared to integer programming (using CPLEX) and the best state‐of‐the‐art algorithms. It reaches 299/342 optimal solutions and 316/318 best‐known solutions and provides 127 new best solutions. An additional computational study shows that the LP&DP‐VNS scales up extremely well, solving optimally and near‐optimally very large instances with up 200 families and 300,000 items in a reasonable amount of time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mesoporous silica particles (MSPs) are highly important in applications like H2 storage, catalysis/biocatalysis, adsorption, separation, and particularly in biomedical applications. The typical methods for producing MSPs are fast self‐assembly, soft and hard templating, and the modified Stöber method. These approaches have drawbacks like high cost, being time‐consuming, and low scale. Herein, as a novel strategy, a polymer‐derived ceramic method for large‐scale production of mesoporous and dense silica submicron particles with high yield and low cost is presented. This method requires commercial silicone resin, polydimethylsiloxane, as the main precursor of silica. However, this technique did not show high control over the size and surface area compared with the typical methods of MSPs synthesis but is definitely a significant step toward the large‐scale synthesis of MSPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The incorporation of noble metals with metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) are conducive to the simultaneous electrochemical detection of analytes owing to multiple accessible reaction sites. Herein, Au@Cu‐metal organic framework (Au@Cu‐MOF) is successfully synthesized and modified as a screen‐printed carbon electrode (SPCE), which serves as an excellent electrocatalyst for the oxidation of dopamine (DA) and uric acid (UA). The sensor shows a linear range from 10 μM to 1000 μM, with sensitivity and detection limit of 0.231 μA μM−1 cm−2 and 3.40 μM for DA, and 0.275 μA μM−1 cm−2 and 10.36 μM for UA. Au@Cu‐MOF could realize the individual and simultaneous electrochemical sensing of DA and UA, with distinguishable oxidation peak potentials. Moreover, it exhibits reproducibility, repeatability, and stability. Ultimately, the sensor provides an avenue for an ultrasensitive label‐free electrochemical detection of DA and UA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Israeli–Palestinian conflict is one of the world's most persistent and intractable conflicts. Despite extensive and in‐depth analyses to help understand and transform it, the parties have failed to reach sustainable peace. In this article, I extend group and family psychoanalytic theories to analyze the unconscious dynamics that potentially underlie this relationship, interpreting it in light of the biblical narrative of Abraham, his wives—Sarah and Hagar, and sons—Isaac and Ishmael. Using the above‐mentioned framework, I interpret the Israeli–Palestinian conflict over land as an enactment of the archaic fraternal complex, whereby each sibling unconsciously entertains the fantasy of returning to the maternal womb and aspires to be the exclusive owner of maternal space and the mother's phallus. Consideration of the archaic fraternal complex dynamics offers psychoanalytically oriented mediators an additional tool to understand conflicts, especially land‐related disputes. To work through intractable conflict, these mediators can help the belligerent parties perform the psychic work of trauma and primal mourning to stop enacting the fantasy of returning to the maternal womb and to accept symbolic castration. This work could contribute to the warring parties' ability to renounce their rigid ideological positions and seal new fraternal pacts under the aegis of the law of reason. Their fraternal complex would thus be transformed from archaic and talionic to symbolic and Oedipal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Despite recent advances in prenatal genetic diagnosis, medical geneticists still face considerable difficulty in interpreting the clinical outcome of copy‐number‐variant duplications and defining the mechanisms underlying the formation of certain chromosomal rearrangements. Optical genome mapping (OGM) is an emerging cytogenomic tool with proved ability to identify the full spectrum of cytogenetic aberrations. Methods: Here, we report on the use of OGM in a prenatal diagnosis setting. Detailed breakpoint mapping was used to determine the relative orientations of triplicated and duplicated segments in two unrelated foetuses harbouring chromosomal aberrations: a de novo 15q23q24.2 triplication and a paternally inherited 13q14.2 duplication that overlapped partially with the RB1 gene. Results: OGM enabled us to suggest a plausible mechanism for the triplication and confirmed that the RB1 duplication was direct oriented and in tandem. This enabled us to predict the pathogenic consequences, refine the prognosis and adapt the follow‐up and familial screening appropriately. Conclusion: Along with an increase in diagnostic rates, OGM can rapidly highlight genotype–phenotype correlations, improve genetic counselling and significantly influence prenatal management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the quest for superior materials, especially in industrial applications demanding strength, stiffness, low density, and cost‐efficiency, composite materials have emerged as game changers. Combining a polymer matrix with reinforcement materials, they hold great promise. However, the challenge of particle agglomeration looms large, especially at high loadings. Particle agglomeration disrupts filler distribution and gives rise to voids in polymer composites. This study investigates the fusion behavior of agglomerated Nylon particles and their influence on Nylon/epoxy composites. Using epoxy resin and Nylon SP301, a micron‐sized Nylon 12 powder with a 185°C melting point, composites were prepared at 3%, 9%, and 15% Nylon loading. After curing, these composites underwent controlled heating at 185, 195, and 205°C, with a fusion of 20–100 min. At 185°C, particles initially remain separate, forming slight clumps after 20 min and increasingly sticking together at 60 and 100 min. Shifting to 195°C, particles begin consolidating into a solid mass even after 20 min. The introduction of Nylon decreases composite density compared to pure epoxy, and density changes vary with fusion time, exhibiting complete fusion, partial fusion, and shrinkage‐induced gap formation. Differential scanning calorimetry analysis reveals evolving glass transition temperatures (Tg) influenced by the fusion process, with longer fusion times yielding higher Tg and greater heat capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For thousands of years, date fruit (Phoenix dactylifera L.) has been a popular diet in arid and semi‐arid locations. It has religious importance for Muslims and is especially important during the holy month of Ramadan. The global output of date fruits has been continuously expanding, with Arab nations accounting for a sizable portion. The emphasis of this research is on two popular semi‐dry Algerian date fruit types, Deglet Noor and Arechti, which are grown in the Ziban region. These fruits' physical parameters, such as size, sphericity, surface area, volumes, and density, were determined. The goal of this study was to create a mass model based on these physical attributes to help in the grading and sorting of date fruits. Fruit mass was shown to be closely connected to linear dimensions, arithmetic and geometric mean diameters, surface area, and volumes. Correlations between mass and physical attributes were established using a variety of mathematical models, including linear, quadratic, S‐curve, and power models. The results demonstrated the applicability of specific factors for mass modeling, offering useful insights for the development of system sizing and conservation. With good correlation, multivariate data analysis was employed to correctly estimate the mass of both kinds. This research advances our understanding of the physical features of Algerian date fruits and their connection to mass, allowing for better handling, sorting, and packing processes in the worldwide date market. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have exceeded 26% efficiency. One attribute of PSCs is their printability at relatively low temperatures, particularly advantageous for flexible solar cells. However, developing efficient, fully printable flexible PSCs on rough and soft plastic substrates remains a challenge. Herein, efficient flexible PSCs fabricated by only scalable methods in ambient conditions are reported. First, the source of the issue in fabricating flexible PSCs—the presence of charge carrier shorting pathways within electron‐transport layer (ETL) due to incomplete coverage of surface of flexible substrates—is identified. To address this challenge, the ETL deposition ink is modified with a phase‐transfer catalyst, often used in synthetic organic chemistry. Dynamic light scattering and nuclear‐magnetic resonance studies show that the catalyst enhances ETL particle‐to‐particle interaction in the ink, eventually leading to conformal coverage of rough flexible substrates. As a result, a power conversion efficiency of 17.6% for all‐scalable flexible n–i–p‐structured PSCs based on methylammonium lead iodide (MAPbI3) is demonstrated, among the highest reported to date for fully scalable flexible PSCs, all fabricated in ambient air. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work addresses design of an adaptive controller for nonlinear fractional‐order (FO) systems in the strict‐feedback form. The system is subject to unknown dynamics, unavailable state variables, quantized input and output, and input nonlinearity. The fuzzy logic system (FLS) is used to estimate the unknown dynamics, and instead of updating all the regressor weights, only the maximum of their norms is updated, which significantly reduces the computational load. Limitations imposed by data transmission bandwidth have been addressed by incorporating sector‐bounded quantizers, which include both logarithmic and hysteresis quantizers at the system input and output, and their errors have been considered in the controller design. It is assumed that system states are not measured. To estimate the system states, a linear observer has been used. Because of output quantization, the continuous output signal is not available, and therefore the observer has been designed based on the quantized output signal. In addition, the constraints of input nonlinearities, including symmetric and asymmetric saturation, backlash, hysteresis, and dead‐zone, have been considered in the controller design. Input nonlinearity and input quantization have been investigated simultaneously, which makes the analysis more challenging. Moreover, it is assumed that the type of input nonlinearity and its characteristics are not known, which makes the controller design more difficult. These problems have been resolved by using two novel adaptive laws. The adaptive backstepping method and the direct Lyapunov stability analysis have been used to construct the controller, and a nonlinear modified FO filter is used to avoid the explosion of complexity occurring in the traditional backstepping technique. Stability of the closed loop system has been established, and it has been shown that the tracking and state estimation errors converge to a small neighborhood of the origin. Finally, the proposed controller performance has been demonstrated via three simulation examples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel conductive Ni‐based metal–organic framework (MOF) decorated with Au nanoparticles (AuNPs; Au@Ni‐MOF) was developed and used as a drop‐cast thin‐film electrode to individually and simultaneously quantify dopamine (DA) and uric acid (UA). The Ni‐MOF composite was synthesized using an in situ growth strategy involving the growth of [Ni3(BTC)2(H2O)6]n (BTC = 1,3,5‐benzenetricarboxylate) with coordinatively unsaturated Ni (II) sites. The Ni‐MOF powder was then mixed with a AuNP solution to produce a Au@Ni‐MOF hybrid material. The synthesized Au@Ni‐MOF hybrid material was employed as a surface modifier for a screen‐printed carbon electrode, and its efficacy for the detection of DA and UA was assessed using differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) and cyclic voltammetry. The developed sensor exhibited remarkable sensitivity, achieving low detection limits of approximately 0.027 and 0.028 μM (S/N = 3) in the simultaneous quantification of DA and UA, respectively. The sensor exhibited an extensive linear range of 0.5 μM to 1 mM, coupled with excellent sensitivities for DA and UA of 1.43 and 1.35 μA μM−1 cm−2, respectively. Furthermore, the sensor performance in human serum and urine samples was successfully validated using DPV, which revealed outstanding recovery rates of 93.8–105.0% with a minimal relative standard deviation below 3%. Moreover, the synthesized Au@Ni‐MOF composite exhibited exceptional dispersion stability, high sensitivity, and remarkable selectivity, which were attributed to the well‐arranged combination of AuNPs and Ni‐MOFs, enabling its use in non‐enzymatic sensing applications targeting DA and UA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Papillary renal neoplasm with reverse polarity (PRNRP) is a recently described indolent entity with distinct features and its recognition from other oncocytic/eosinophilic papillary renal cell carcinoma (ePRCC) has important prognostic implications. ABCC2, a renal drug transporter, is overexpressed in aggressive PRCCs. In this study, we compared the clinicopathological parameters and the biological ABCC2 expression between PRNRP and ePRCC. PRNRP (n = 8) and ePRCC (n = 21) cases were selected from resection specimens and corresponding clinicopathological data were collected. ABCC2 immunohistochemical (IHC) staining was performed and ABCC2 staining patterns were classified as negative, cytoplasmic, and brush‐border. RNA in‐situ hybridization (ISH) was used to assess ABCC2 transcript levels. All eight PRNRP cases had weak cytoplasmic ABCC2 IHC reactivity; however, they showed no detectable ABCC2 transcripts on RNA ISH. In comparison, 76% (16/21) of ePRCCs showed ABCC2 IHC brush‐border expression and significantly higher ABCC2 RNA ISH transcript levels (p < 0.001). Additionally, the ePRCC group showed a significantly larger tumor size (p = 0.004), higher WHO/ISUP grade (p < 0.001), and stage (p = 0.044). None of the PRNRP cases showed disease progression, while 9.5% (2/21) ePRCCs had disease progression. PRNRP is clinically and biologically distinct from ePRCC. Hence, it is crucial to differentiate between these two entities, particularly in needle core biopsies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reactivity and selectivity of a transition metal catalyst is intimately related to its ligand‐sphere geometry, and, in many cases, the ideal ligand geometry for one step of a catalytic cycle is poorly matched to the ideal ligand geometry for another. For this reason, methods for reversibly modulating ligand geometry on the time scale of catalytic turnover or monomer enchainment are highly desirable. Mechanical force represents a heretofore untapped approach to modulate catalyst geometry and/or reactivity, with the potential to do so on the timescale of catalytic turnover or monomer enchainment. Macroscopic mechanical forces are large, directional and localized to an extent that differentiates them from other forms of energy input such as heat or light. In this Concept, we describe our efforts to address the fundamental challenges associated with force‐modulated transition metal catalysis by employing molecular force probe ligands comprising a stiff stilbene photoswitch tethered to rotationally flexible biaryl bisphosphine ligand. Our efforts to date include the modulation of catalytic activity through force‐mediated ligand perturbations, quantification of the force‐coupled ligand effects on the energetics of elementary organometallic transformations, and evaluation of the mechanisms of force transduction in these systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Environmental factors play an important role in the pathogenesis of rheumatic diseases. Smoking is thought to be a risk factor for autoimmune rheumatic diseases. Aims: The purpose of the present study was to assess the association between smoking and adult‐onset Still disease (AOSD) and the effect of smoking on outcomes of this disease. Methods: In this case‐control study, patients with AOSD who met the Yamaguchi criteria, were older than 16 years at the disease onset and were in follow‐up for at least 12 months were consecutively enrolled in the study. The outcome of AOSD was assessed by acquiring remission on treatment, remission off treatment, time to remission and rate of flare. The smoking status of participants was defined by direct or phone interviews. Individuals who had smoked daily for at least 6 months were defined as a smoker. We performed propensity score matching analyses by using four parameters, including age, sex, educational status and marital status. Results: Propensity score matching resulted in 72 patients with AOSD and 216 matched controls. The number of ever smokers in the AOSD and control groups were 11 (15.3%) and 25 (11.6%) respectively. There was no significant increase in the risk of AOSD in multivariate analysis after adjustment for age, sex, marital status and educational level. There were no significant differences in the outcomes of AOSD between ever and never smokers. Conclusions: Smoking probably is not a risk factor for AOSD and did not affect the response to treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is conflicting evidence on the role of acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) use in the development of cardiac allograft vasculopathy (CAV). Methods: A nationwide prospective two‐center study investigated changes in the coronary artery vasculature by highly automated 3‐D optical coherence tomography (OCT) analysis at 1 month and 12 months after heart transplant (HTx). The influence of ASA use on coronary artery microvascular changes was analyzed in the overall study cohort and after propensity score matching for selected clinical CAV risk factors. Results: In total, 175 patients (mean age 52 ± 12 years, 79% male) were recruited. During the 1‐year follow‐up, both intimal and media thickness progressed, with ASA having no effect on its progression. However, detailed OCT analysis revealed that ASA use was associated with a lower increase in lipid plaque (LP) burden (p =.013), while it did not affect the other observed pathologies. Propensity score matching of 120 patients (60 patient pairs) showed similar results, with ASA use associated with lower progression of LPs (p =.002), while having no impact on layered fibrotic plaque (p =.224), calcification (p =.231), macrophage infiltration (p =.197), or the absolute coronary artery risk score (p =.277). According to Kaplan–Meier analysis, ASA use was not associated with a significant difference in survival (p =.699) Conclusion: This study showed a benefit of early ASA use after HTx on LP progression. However, ASA use did not have any impact on the progression of other OCT‐observed pathologies or long‐term survival. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pharmacological importance of quinoxaline derivatives in antibacterial research is well recognized. This study focuses on the synthesis of new 2,3‐dichloroquinoxaline derivatives containing thioether/ether groups to explore their potential as potent antibacterial agents against various pathogenic bacteria. Most of the compounds exhibited significant antibacterial properties comparable to the standard drug chlorhexidine (CHX). The derivatives of 2‐chloro‐3‐(arylthiol)quinoxaline demonstrated efficacy against Escherichia coli with minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of 2.5 mg/mL and minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBC) of 2.5 to 5.0 mg/mL. These derivatives also showed similar sensitivity to Bacillus pumilus. In addition, molecular docking simulations were performed to investigate the interaction between the synthesized compounds and the DNA gyrase protein (PDB ID: 1KZN), a target for antibiotics. Among the synthesized compounds, 2,3‐bis(3‐nitrophenoxy)quinoxaline exhibited the most favourable docking score of −8.36 kcal/mol, with a binding affinity comparable to that of the reference ligand clorobiocin (−9.3 kcal/mol). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microneedles (MNs) offer a promising solution for increasing the effectiveness of transdermal drug delivery and diagnostics. However, challenges such as large‐scale manufacturing, partial MN penetration, and uncontrolled drug delivery limit the effectiveness of the technology. To overcome these challenges, current research examines the effects of skin strain and vibration on MN insertion and drug delivery. A novel multifeatured impact applicator are developed for improving skin insertion that features a combination of skin stretching, eccentric rotating mass (ERM), and linear resonant actuator (LRA) micro‐vibration capabilities. In addition, a scalable replication method for dissolving microneedle patches (DMNPs) are developed using two‐photon polymerization (TPP) and soft embossing processes. The DMNPs are used to evaluate the diffusion and concentration of a model drug, fluorescein sodium salt (FSS), when applied using ERM and LRA micro‐vibration at different frequencies. Additionally, a new computer simulation method is presented to model the MN insertion into the multilayered hyperelastic skin model, incorporating skin strain and vibrational effects. The results indicate that applying skin strain and vibration decreases the force required for MN insertion and enhances the dissolution and diffusion depth of the drug in the skin, which can enhance the drug permeability and effectiveness of MN devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]