Effective Transfer Research Articles

How to enhance the novices’ learning in ultrasound-guided procedures utilizing handmade phantoms?

IntroductionThis prospective study aims to evaluate the learning effect of US-guided thoracocentesis and pericardiocentesis in novices through simulation training using handmade phantoms.MethodsThe novices included undergraduate-year (UGY) students and first postgraduate-year (PGY-1) residents. Handmade phantoms were utilized for training and immediate assessment. Novices were re-evaluated using high-fidelity phantoms three months after training, while experienced PGY-3 emergency medicine residents were recruited and evaluated with high-fidelity phantoms simultaneously. Data on their performance, puncture time, and number of attempts were collected.ResultsThirty-six novices (18 PGY-1 and 18 UGYs) and 12 PGY-3 emergency medicine residents were recruited. Alongside clinical observation, novices demonstrated improved skill retention and performance at the 3-month assessment compared to the immediate assessment [5 (4–5) vs. 3.5 (3–4), p = 0.0005] in thoracocentesis, achieving a comparable level of proficiency with the PGY-3 emergency medicine residents [5 (4–5) vs. 5 (5), p = 0.105]. Without clinical observation, novices exhibited a decline in skill proficiency in pericardiocentesis at the 3-month assessment [3 (3–4) vs. 4 (4–4.5), p = 0.015]. The puncture time was comparable between novices and PGY-3 emergency medicine residents for both thoracocentesis and pericardiocentesis. However, novices required a greater number of puncture attempts for pericardiocentesis.ConclusionsNovices showed superior performance in thoracocentesis but experienced skill decay in pericardiocentesis at the 3-month assessment following training with handmade phantoms. This decline may be attributed to the very low frequency of pericardiocentesis cases encountered by novices after training, as well as the higher-stakes nature of the procedure. Further investigation is needed to evaluate the long-term effects of training, skill retention, and transfer of skills to actual patient care. Additionally, research should focus on determining optimal retraining intervals for pericardiocentesis and evaluating the use of standardized pericardiocentesis videos as an alternative to clinical observation.Trial registrationRegistered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04792203) on March 7, 2021.

Highly enhanced reactivity of HCl on the Ag/Au(111) alloy surface via rotational quantum state excitation.

Rotational excitations of reactants are often considered to have little impact on chemical reactivity compared to the excitations of vibrational modes and translational motion. Here, we reveal a significant influence of the rotational excitation of HCl on its dissociation on an Ag/Au(111) alloy surface. This finding is based on six-dimensional time-dependent wave packet calculations performed on an accurately fitted machine learning potential energy surface. Rotational energy is found to be 90 times more effective in driving the reaction than an equivalent amount of translational energy. The reactivity of HCl on Ag/Au(111) is diminished due to a charge transfer effect, which induces a strongly non-monotonic dependence of the minimum energy path on molecular orientation, resulting in the HCl molecule deviating from the minimum barrier. We identify and detail two underlying mechanisms by which rotationally excited HCl can overcome the charge transfer effect between Au and Ag atoms, leading to enhanced reactivity and an intriguing rotational-alignment phenomenon. This finding underscores the profound impact that rotational excitations can exert on molecular reactivity, emphasizing a delicate interplay between various forms of molecular energy and their respective contributions to the reaction mechanism.

Constructing Atomic Tungsten-Based Solid Frustrated-Lewis-Pair Sites with d-p Interactions for Selective CO2 Photoreduction.

Solid frustrated Lewis pair (FLP) shows remarkable advantages in the activation of small molecules such as CO2, owing to the strong orbital interactions between FLP sites and reactant molecules. However, most of the currently constructed FLP sites are randomly distributed and easily reunited on the surface of catalysts, resulting in a low utilization rate of FLP sites. Herein, atomic tungsten-based FLP (N···WSA FLP) sites are constructed for photocatalytic CO2 conversion through introducing W single-atoms into polymeric carbon nitride. In the atomically dispersed N···WSA FLP, the electron-deficient W single-atom acts as the Lewis acid (LA), and the adjacent electron-rich N atom acts as the Lewis base. Through the combination of various characterizations, including pyridine-IR, in situ diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy, CO2-temperature programmed desorption, and theoretical calculations, the positive effects of N···WSA FLP on photocatalytic CO2 reduction are well revealed. The N···WSA FLP can effectively adsorb CO2 to form an unusual W-O-C-N structure with significant d-p orbital interactions, which leads to an interesting "push-push" electron transfer effect. The π back-donation from W 5d to the antibonding orbital (2π) of CO2 realizes reverse electron transfer from the W single-atom to the O site, while the electrons are transferred from the electron-rich N site to the electropositive C site via Lewis acid-base interactions, therefore effectively breaking the C═O bond to activate CO2 molecules and boost CO2-to-CO performance. This work provides a brand new route for the research on high-efficiency activation of small molecules based on single-atom-based FLP catalysts.

A Method for Calculating the Bearing Capacity of Basic Members of an Underground Concrete-Filled Steel Tube Supporting Arch with a D-Shaped Cross Section

High-strength concrete-filled steel tube (CFST) arches have been widely applied in underground engineering, among which there are special-shaped arches such as D-shaped sections. At present, most studies have concentrated on members with square or circular sections, while relatively few studies have been conducted on D-shaped section members. In this study, firstly, D-shaped sections were initially transformed into sections with a part square and part elliptical shape using an equivalent section method. The formulas for the axial compression and pure bending bearing capacities of the basic D-shaped CFST members were deduced using unified theory, and the bearing capacity of the D-shaped members was calculated in a given case. Secondly, numerical simulations of axial compression and pure bending of the basic CFST members with three section types (square, circular, and D-shaped) were carried out using ABAQUS software. To ensure the reliability of the numerical simulations, the concrete damage constitutive model and the elastic–plastic model were adopted to simulate the core concrete and the steel tube, respectively. In the results, the axial compression and pure bending bearing capacities of the D-shaped section obtained via theoretical calculation were 2339.6 kN and 84.8 kN·m, respectively, while the results obtained via numerical simulation were 2335.8 kN and 85.4 kN·m, respectively, which were relatively close. Among the three section types of members, the D-shaped members had the highest axial compression bearing capacity, which was 1.45% and 4.58% higher than those of the circular and square section members, respectively. However, their bending moment bearing capacity was relatively low. The stress distribution of the D-shaped members presented a characteristic where the circular part dominated, and the stress transfer effect of the members was favorable. In practical engineering, when the surrounding rock pressure is high and evenly distributed, D-shaped section arches can be selected, and increasing the proportion of the square area in D-shaped sections can enhance the overall flexural capacity of arches.

Perspectives on non-emergent neonatal intensive care unit to pediatric intensive care unit care transfers in the United States.

There is a substantial population of long-stay patients who non-emergently transfer directly from the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) to the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) without an interim discharge home. These infants are often medically complex and have higher mortality relative to NICU or PICU-only admissions. Given an absence of data surrounding practice patterns for non-emergent NICU to PICU transfers, we hypothesized that we would encounter a broad spectrum of current practices and a high proportion of dissatisfaction with current processes. To characterize non-emergent NICU to PICU transfer practices across the United States and query PICU providers' evaluations of their effectiveness. A cross-sectional survey was drafted, piloted, and sent to one physician representative from each of 115 PICUs across the United States based on membership in the PARK-PICU research consortium and membership in the Children's Hospital Association. The survey was administered via internet (REDCap). Analysis was performed using STATA, primarily consisting of descriptive statistics, though logistic regressions were run examining the relationship between specific transfer steps, hospital characteristics, and effectiveness of transfer. One PICU attending from each of 81 institutions in the United States completed the survey (overall 70% response rate). Over half (52%) indicated their hospital transfers patients without using set clinical criteria, and only 33% indicated that their hospital has a standardized protocol to facilitate non-emergent transfer. Fewer than half of respondents reported that their institution's non-emergent NICU to PICU transfer practices were effective for clinicians (47%) or patient families (38%). Respondents evaluated their centers' transfers as less effective when they lacked any transfer criteria (P = 0.027) or set transfer protocols (P = 0.007). Respondents overwhelmingly agreed that having set clinical criteria and standardized protocols for non-emergent transfer were important to the patient-family experience and patient safety. Most hospitals lacked any clinical criteria or protocols for non-emergent NICU to PICU transfers. More positive perceptions of transfer effectiveness were found among those with set criteria and/or transfer protocols.

Social transfers and poverty alleviation in Taiwan from 2000 to 2020

AbstractThis study explored the effectiveness of government social transfers in alleviating poverty and investigated the profile and reduction of income poverty in Taiwan before and after these transfers by using the Foster–Greer–Thorbecke (FGT) class of poverty measures. Data were obtained from the 2000–2020 Survey of Family Income and Expenditure. Significant progress was made in reducing poverty over the study period. The three FGT poverty measures before and after transfers peaked in 2009 and 2010, respectively, during the global financial crisis. The findings also suggested that poverty varied considerably across the subgroups. Poverty was more prevalent in female‐headed and older adult‐headed households than in male‐headed and younger adult‐headed households before and after transfers. However, the degree of poverty reduction was greater in female‐headed and older adult–headed households, and these households made greater contributions to overall poverty over time. In addition, heterogeneity was identified among the household types, and grandparent, couple, and single‐person households were identified as the most disadvantaged groups. The high number of means‐tested programs suggests piecemeal welfare benefits in Taiwan. The people living in poverty in our study relied considerably on various social transfers. Accordingly, integrated and universal welfare programs should become a key focus of policy.

Integration and Design of Cryogenic Hydrogen Fuel Systems for Sustainable Commercial Aviation

The transition to hydrogen-powered aircraft offers an opportunity to significantly reduce carbon emissions in commercial aviation. The use of renewable hydrogen in commercial aviation has the potential to significantly reduce the carbon footprint of the industry. Aviation currently accounts for around 3% of global carbon emissions, a figure that is projected to grow without the adoption of sustainable fuels like hydrogen [1]. Hydrogen can be stored as a compressed gas at high pressure and as a liquid at cryogenic temperatures. However, the unique properties of hydrogen, particularly its low density and cryogenic storage requirements need a complete redesign of aircraft fuel systems. The low density of hydrogen necessitates larger storage volumes compared to conventional fuels, and cryogenic storage requires maintaining extremely low temperatures to prevent boil-off, which can lead to significant fuel loss [2]. This research aims to develop innovative fuel system designs that can efficiently store and deliver cryogenic liquid hydrogen. Numerous tank designs including cylindrical, spherical, and double-walled configurations will be explored. Cylindrical tanks are commonly used for high-pressure gas storage and must be designed to withstand pressure loads effectively. Spherical tanks offer a lower surface area-to-volume ratio, which is advantageous for reducing heat transfer and boil-off. Double-walled configurations provide additional insulation and structural integrity, essential for maintaining cryogenic temperatures [3]. Additionally, effective heat management is crucial in hydrogen fuel systems. The research will explore strategies to recover waste heat from fuel cells or combustion processes, which can be utilized to improve overall system efficiency. This is particularly important in preventing excessive boil-off in cryogenic tanks, which can lead to increased pressure and potential safety issues. By conceiving aircraft designs optimized for either direct liquid hydrogen combustion or fuel cell propulsion, this research aims to create sustainable aviation solutions. Furthermore, this study will develop a detailed thermodynamic model to simulate the behaviour of cryogenic hydrogen fuel systems under various operating conditions, including heat transfer, phase changes and boil-off effects. The goal is to optimize the design and operation of hydrogen fuel systems to achieve maximum efficiency and safety. The findings from this research aim to provide a comprehensive framework for the future of hydrogen-powered commercial aviation. By addressing the unique challenges of hydrogen storage and fuel system design, the study seeks to contribute to the development of sustainable aviation solutions that can significantly reduce the carbon footprint of the airline industry.

Effect of Oral Screen Training After Stroke-A Randomised Controlled Trial.

To assess the effects of oral screen training in patients with dysphagia post-stroke. Oral screen training has been identified as an effective method for improving orofacial and oropharyngeal motor functions. However, the evidence supporting a positive transfer effect on swallowing capacity post-primary stroke rehabilitation is still unclear. The aim of this randomised controlled trial was to investigate the effect of a 12-week oral screen training programme using a prefabricated oral screen, with swallowing capacity as the primary outcome. In a randomised trial, stroke survivors with residual dysphagia post-rehabilitation were randomised into intervention group (n = 12) and control group (n = 12). The intervention group underwent 12 weeks of oral screen training. The main outcome was swallowing capacity, with lip force as a training indicator. Secondary outcomes were assessed by the Eating Assessment Tool, Masticatory performance, Nordic Orofacial Test-Screening, Life Satisfaction Questionnaire and the Edmonton Symptom Assessment System. At the 3-month follow-up, the group that trained with an oral screen showed a significantly greater increase in lip force than the control group (mean lip force increase 10.2 N vs. 3.1 N; p = 0.02). There was no significant improvement in swallowing capacity (mean increase 0.7 mL/min vs. 0.8 mL/min; p = 0.43), or in any of the secondary variables in the intervention group relative to the control group. The findings from this study showed that oral screen training initiated after completion of regular rehabilitation post-stroke can increase lip force. However, there was no indication of any transfer effect on swallowing capacity. Clinicaltrial.gov identifier: NCT03167892.

Heterojunction Nanozyme Hydrogels Containing Cu-O-Zn Bonds with Strong Charge Transfer for Accelerated Diabetic Wound Healing.

The complex microenvironment of persistent inflammation and bacterial infection is a major challenge in chronic diabetic wounds. The development of nanozymes capable of efficiently scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS) is a promising method to promote diabetic wound healing. However, many nanozymes show rather limited antioxidant activity and ROS-dependent antibacterial effects under certain circumstances, further weakening their ability to scavenge ROS. To meet these challenges, electronically regulated bioheterojunction (E-bio-HJ) nanozyme hydrogels derived from metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) were designed and prepared via an interface engineering strategy. Owing to the electron transfer and redistribution effects of the abundant and highly dispersed Cu-O-Zn sites at the heterogeneous interface, the E-bio-HJ nanozymes exhibited catalase (CAT)-like activity with ultrahigh hydrogen peroxide affinity (Km = 25.76 mM) and sustained ROS consumption. In addition, owing to the enhanced interfacial effect of E-bio-HJ and the good biocompatibility and cell adhesion of the methacryloylated gelatin (Gel) hydrogel, the E-bio-HJ gelatin hydrogel (E-bio-HJ/Gel) further reduced inflammation by inducing macrophage transformation to the M2 phenotype, accompanied by excellent antimicrobial properties and enhanced cell migration, angiogenesis, and collagen deposition, which synergistically promoted diabetic wound healing. This highly effective and comprehensive strategy offers a new approach for the rapid healing of diabetic wounds.

Exploring the Multifunctional Properties of Tm‐Doped AlxGa1−xN Alloys: From Potoluminescence to Spintronics

ABSTRACTThis study delves into the electronic, magnetic, and optical properties of Tm‐doped wurtzite AlxGa1−xN alloys, utilizing first‐principles density functional theory (DFT) calculations. By applying the LSDA+U approach to capture the strong correlation effects of 4f‐Tm electrons, our findings reveal that Tm‐doped AlxGa1−xN exhibits semiconducting behavior with inherent ferromagnetic order. Remarkably, the bandgap of Tm‐doped AlxGa1−xN transitions from indirect to direct at an Al content (x) of 0.25, highlighting its potential for dual electrical and magnetic functionalities. The magnetic moments are highly localized at Tm sites, suggesting the feasibility of Tm as a dopant for developing AlGaN‐based diluted magnetic semiconductors. Moreover, the observed spin‐dependent characteristics and magnetic interactions in Tm‐doped AlxGa1−xN underscore its applicability in spintronic devices, including spin transistors and spin logic circuits, which could significantly advance next‐generation electronic systems. Additionally, the study predicts a blue shift in luminescence for Tm‐doped AlxGa1−xN, which is attributed to the interplay between Tm dopant energy levels, Al composition, and the host alloy's band structure, as well as energy transfer and quantum confinement effects. This positions Tm‐doped AlxGa1−xN as a promising material for applications in solid‐state lighting, displays, lasers, and other optoelectronic devices requiring blue light emission.

Water droplet evaporation in air: Effects of interfacial thermal and mass diffusion resistance

Evaporation of water droplets in air is a process highly relevant to a variety of environmental, industrial, and biomedical applications. In conventional hydrodynamic modeling of droplet evaporation, it is usually assumed that thermodynamic equilibrium exists at the water-air interface. However, such an assumption could result in considerable errors in predicting the evaporation rate of micro/nanoscale water droplets in air. In this work, we use the combination of kinetic theory-based model and hydrodynamic model to study the effects of interfacial resistance on the evaporation behavior of water droplets in air. The interfacial thermal resistance and interfacial mass diffusion resistance predicted by the kinetic theory-based model are first validated by MD simulation results, and then incorporated into the hydrodynamic model to predict the influence of the water droplet size, air temperature, pressure and humidity on the water droplet evaporation rate and droplet temperature. The evaporation behavior of water droplets in air predicted by our kinetic-hydrodynamic model are corroborated by MD simulation results and the recent experimental data. Our modeling results show that, at normal temperature and pressure (i.e., 25 °C and 1 atm by NIST), the equivalent length of thermal resistance and mass diffusion resistance at water-air interface are both ∼200 nm. This indicates that, at normal temperature and pressure, the effects of interfacial thermal and mass diffusion resistance on evaporation of water droplets in air cannot be ignored if the droplet diameter is less than 20 μm. The thermodynamic equilibrium assumption is only valid if the droplet diameter is greater than 20 μm. Once the droplet size is greater than 100 μm, the radiation heat transfer and convection effects must also be taken into account to give a more accurate prediction of droplet evaporation rate.

Mindfulness-based Neurofeedback: A Systematic Review of EEG and fMRI studies

Abstract Neurofeedback concurrent with mindfulness meditation may reveal meditation effects on the brain and facilitate improved mental health outcomes. Here, we systematically reviewed EEG and fMRI studies of mindfulness meditation with neurofeedback (mbNF) and followed PRISMA guidelines. We identified 9 fMRI reports, consisting of 177 unique participants, and 9 EEG reports, consisting of 242 participants. Studies of fMRI focused primarily on downregulating the default-mode network (DMN). Although studies found decreases in DMN activations during neurofeedback, there is a lack of evidence for transfer effects, and the majority of studies did not employ adequate controls, e.g. sham neurofeedback. Accordingly, DMN decreases may have been confounded by general task-related deactivation. EEG studies typically examined alpha, gamma, and theta frequency bands, with the most robust evidence supporting the modulation of theta band activity. Both EEG and fMRI mbNF have been implemented with high fidelity in clinical populations. However, the mental health benefits of mbNF have not been established. In general, mbNF studies would benefit from sham-controlled RCTs, as well as clear reporting (e.g. CRED-NF).

Advanced A-B fractional modeling of nonlocalized viscoelastic polymer micro-rod caused by mobile heat source including fractional strain

Current investigation is aimed to develop the concept of fractional derivatives proposed by Atangana–Baleanu that captures the memory effects of heat transfer and stress–strain relation inside a nonlocal viscoelastic polymer micro rod affected from a mobile heat input. Laplace Transform algorithm is bestowed to stimulate the closed-form solutions of temperature, displacement, thermal stress. Structured mechanism of numerical inversion of Laplace Transform is carried out for obtaining the quantitative outcomes in physical domain. Impacts of the fractional parameter, fractional order strain quantity, nonlocal parameter, and heat source velocity are analyzed. Results under fractional derivatives reveal stable characteristics of thermal waves.

Deposition simulations of realistic dosages in patient-specific airways with two- and four-way coupling.

Inhalers spray over 100 million drug particles into the mouth, where a significant portion of the drug may deposit. Understanding how the complex interplay between particle and solid phases influence deposition is crucial for optimising treatments. Existing modelling studies neglect any effect of particle momentum on the fluid (one-way coupling), which may cause poor prediction of forces acting on particles. In this study, we simulate a realistic number of particles (up to 160 million) in a patient-specific geometry. We study the effect of momentum transfer from particles to the fluid (two-way coupling) and particle-particle interactions (four-way coupling) on deposition. We also explore the effect of tracking groups of particles ('parcels') to lower computational cost. Upper airway deposition fraction increased from 0.33 (one-way coupled) to 0.87 with two-way coupling and 10µm particle diameter. Four-way coupling lowers upper airway deposition by approximately 10% at 100µg dosages. We use parcel modelling to study deposition of 4-20µm particles, observing significant influence of two-way coupling in each simulation. These results show that future studies should model realistic dosages for accurate prediction of deposition which may inform clinical decision-making.

Thermal coupling study during the co-processing of coal and biomass in the lab-scale adiabatic reactor

A lab-scale adiabatic reactor has been self-made to characterize the coupled properties of heat and reactions during the co-thermal-processing of coal and biomass with steam or steam/O2 gasification agents. Results showed that the synergistic effects caused by heat transfer between corncob and coal at different mixing ratios were heavily determined by coal rank and gasification agent. During steam co-processing, the heat transfer from corncob char to adjacent bituminous coal char promoted the water-gas reaction on coal char and contributed to synergistic effects; the heat transfer from anthracite char to adjacent corncob char reduced the kinetic rate of the water-gas reaction on coal char and contributed to inhibitory effects, and the inhibitory effect caused by heat transfer was greater than the promotion effects of biomass mass transfer. The introduction of O2 diminished the impact of inter-particle heat transfer and altered the intensity of synergy, decreasing the values of synergy factor of bituminous coal/corncob blends by 17% and increasing the value of synergy factor of anthracite/corncob blends by 142.5%. This study provides sufficient support for the process conditions selection for the production of syngas with specific H2/CO molar ratios and the desired level of gasification performance.

Exploring the antecedents of knowledge transfer among stakeholders in green building projects: From the configuration perspective

With the rapid development of green buildings around the world, knowledge transfer among stakeholders is of great significance in promoting the innovation and application of green building technologies. However, due to the complexity and specificity of green building projects, current studies have not fully established a comprehensive understanding of how elements from various dimensions (i.e., subject, relationship, context, and activity) collectively impact knowledge transfer among stakeholders in green building projects. Therefore, this study aims to explore the key factors that affect knowledge transfer among stakeholders in green building projects and how these factors work together to enhance the effectiveness of knowledge transfer (EKT). Firstly, the key factors influencing knowledge transfer were pinpointed: cognitive differences, connection strength, organizational climate, information technology capability, transmit willingness, receive willingness, perceived policy support, and richness of transfer channels. Then, an examination of the collected valid samples was conducted through configuration analysis utilizing the fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) method. The findings reveal five configurations, categorized as strong connection-driven, policy support-driven, and both-driven. Lastly, some combination strategies were outlined for different categories to assist green building companies in enhancing EKT. This study not only enhances the existing green building literature by developing a framework of factors that influence knowledge transfer among stakeholders, but also provides a reference for corporate executives to choose the best strategies to enhance EKT in green building projects.

GENERATIVE APPROACHES TO BEHDINI-KURDISH STUDENTS' ACQUISITION OF ENGLISH PASSIVIZATION

This research examines how Behdini-Kurdish students acquire passive voice in English, focusing on the interaction between their innate linguistic abilities and external language input. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study investigates the strategies used by Kurdish learners on acquiring passive voice constructions, which pose a notable challenge for many individuals learning English as a foreign language. By analyzing the cognitive processes and tactics used by these students, this research aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of the mechanisms involved in second language acquisition (SLA) from the perspective of generative grammar. Preliminary observations suggest that Kurdish students' acquisition of the passive voice in English is influenced by factors such as the linguistic structure of their native language, exposure to language input, and their inherent language acquisition ability. This study emphasizes the importance of tailored pedagogical strategies that align with the theories of generative grammar to enhance Kurdish students' competence in mastering passive voice structures in English. Practical results show that explicit instruction and increased exposure to passive constructions in English significantly improve learners' proficiency. In addition, error analysis reveals common problems with verb forms and agent placement, necessitating focused educational interventions. This study provides important insights into the challenges faced by Behdini-Kurdish students in acquiring passive voice structures in English. Several key conclusions are drawn from this study including challenges in learning passive voice in English among the majority of Behdini-Kurdish learners due to the effect of language transfer in most cases.

Enhancing SNR in CEST imaging: A deep learning approach with a denoising convolutional autoencoder.

To develop a SNR enhancement method for CEST imaging using a denoising convolutional autoencoder (DCAE) and compare its performance with state-of-the-art denoising methods. The DCAE-CEST model encompasses an encoder and a decoder network. The encoder learns features from the input CEST Z-spectrum via a series of one-dimensional convolutions, nonlinearity applications, and pooling. Subsequently, the decoder reconstructs an output denoised Z-spectrum using a series of up-sampling and convolution layers. The DCAE-CEST model underwent multistage training in an environment constrained by Kullback-Leibler divergence, while ensuring data adaptability through context learning using Principal Component Analysis-processed Z-spectrum as a reference. The model was trained using simulated Z-spectra, and its performance was evaluated using both simulated data and in vivo data from an animal tumor model. Maps of amide proton transfer (APT) and nuclear Overhauser enhancement (NOE) effects were quantified using the multiple-pool Lorentzian fit, along with an apparent exchange-dependent relaxation metric. In digital phantom experiments, the DCAE-CEST method exhibited superior performance, surpassing existing denoising techniques, as indicated by the peak SNR and Structural Similarity Index. Additionally, in vivo data further confirm the effectiveness of the DCAE-CEST in denoising the APT and NOE maps when compared with other methods. Although no significant difference was observed in APT between tumors and normal tissues, there was a significant difference in NOE, consistent with previous findings. The DCAE-CEST can learn the most important features of the CEST Z-spectrum and provide the most effective denoising solution compared with other methods.

RhB intercalated Zr(VI)-bipyridine architecture for efficient ratiometric fluorescent response toward Cr(VI) analyte and decontamination of Cr(VI) and reactive dye via photochemical REDOX

It is extremely‌ imperative to enhance the sensing accuracy of water-stable Zr-MOFs for Cr(VI), because the single emission signal in a sole Zr-MOF is rather vulnerable to external factors. Interpolation of guest luminous species into Zr-MOF crystals presents a feasible way to achieve dual-emission signals. In this contribution, a highly water-stable Zr-MOF (Zr-bcu-22bipy44dc) which emits bright-blue fluorescence was deployed as matrix to intercalate fluorochrome Rhodamine B (RhB), creating a novel dual-emission (at 410 and 580 nm) luminescent platform, RhB@Zr-MOF. Then, it was utilized as a fluorescence probe to accurately detect trace-level Cr(VI) ions, by assessing the relative fluorescence intensity (IR) difference between the host Zr-MOF (I410) and the guest RhB (I580). Interestingly, the septal interpolation of luminescent species within Zr-MOF matrix effectively suppresses aggregation-induced quenching (ACQ), which tends to occur easily for RhB molecules. Moreover, its determined detection limits (DL) for CrO42- (6.13 ppb) and Cr2O72- (10.04 ppb) ions have been remarkably enhanced by approximately 4.92-fold and 3.66-fold, respectively, compared to the initial Zr-MOF (30.11 and 36.76 ppb). DFT and TD-DFT calculations have confirmed that the orange-yellow photoluminescence exhibited by RhB@Zr-MOF should be attributed to the PET process inherent to the intercalated RhB molecules, rather than the commonly accepted intermolecular Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) mechanism or the photo-induced electron transfer (PET) effect previously identified by us. Efficient antenna effect of RhB module synergizes with Zr-MOF's appropriate band structure, also enables RhB@Zr-MOF convincing ability to photochemically deoxidize Cr(VI) and bleach reactive dark blue K-R (K-R)

Eu(III) encapsulation strategy to construct intelligent ratiometric luminescent sensor for efficient detection of phenylglyoxylic acid biomarker in bodily fluids

Herein, a desirable MOF-based luminescent sensor of Eu3+@ZnMOF is fabricated through post-synthesis strategy. Based on response differences of the inherent monitoring signal at 442 nm and the secondary monitoring signal at 699 nm introduced by encapsulating Eu3+ ions, the prepared Eu3+@ZnMOF displays great superior as a ratiomertic luminescent sensor with high sensitive and selective, rapid response time (less than 1 min), superior detection limit (3.89 ng·mL−1), and favorable recyclable performance (at least 6 cycles) in detecting phenylglyoxylic acid (PGA) biomarker over other urine and serum species. Furthermore, Eu3+@ZnMOF also demonstrates exceptional detectability and remarkable reliability in tracing PGA levels within actual serum and urine samples. On the basis of PGA levels controlled luminescence changes of Eu3+@ZnMOF under UV light, an intelligent detection platform is developed by integrating tandem combinational “AND” logic gates to achieve more convenient and intuitive detection of PGA levels in body fluids. Besides, photoinduced electron transfer and internal filtering effect are demonstrated to be responsible for the luminescence sensing. This work not only offers a validated strategy for the design of MOFs-based ratiometric luminescent sensors, but also presents an approach in efficient, rapid, and intelligent detection of biomarkers in body fluids.