bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interfacial Morphology and Mechanical Properties of A-B-A Triblock Copolymers
Authors: Kaelble D. H.
Published: July 2002

The unique thermoplastic elastomer properties of A-B-A triblock polymers, where A is polystyrene and B is polybutadiene or polyisoprene, are analyzed by means of an adsorption-interdiffusion (A-I) model for the interfacial phase. The model defines the size, shape, and connectivity of the domain microstructure based upon free energy balances for the interfacial phase. The interfacial phase model is utilized to predict the phase relationships: A in B⇄A in B+B in A⇄B in A and consequent mechanical properties based upon the volume fractions φA and φB of A and B components. The filler-reinforcing function of polystyrene is isolated in terms of the A-I interfacial phase model and analyzed by means of the Takayanagi series-parallel (S-P) analog model of mechanical response. Triblock polymers of A-B-A type are distinguished from (a) elastomers with rigid fillers, (b) incompatible polyblends, and (c) semi-crystalline polymers based upon the A-I interfacial phase model.
Considerations of Unconstrained Elastic Recovery in Viscoelastic Fluids
Authors: White James Lindsay
Published: July 2002

Analyses are presented of 3-dimensional unconstrained elastic recovery of viscoelastic fluids following the release of stresses. The influence of the nature, variation, and duration of the deformation history are discussed. The problem of recovery from a stressed state is considered. Primary attention has been given to the character of the viscoelastic constitutive equation, especially the significance of the relaxation function which may be deformation rate-dependent and the strain measures. Calculations of instantaneous unconstrained elastic recovery in viscoelastic fluids following steady flow have been carried out for: (i) uniaxial extension, (ii) biaxial extension, (iii) planar extension (pure shear) and (iv) simple shear. It is shown that for fluids with equivalent maximum relaxation times and (Maxwellian) relaxation functions but different strain measures, the 3-dimensional character of the recovery may vary considerably. For specified Maxwellian relaxation time and deformation and deformation rate, the elastic recovery from uniaxial extension is greater for constitutive equations based upon the Finger deformation tensor than for those based upon a Cauchy deformation tensor. The reverse is true for biaxial extension. Lateral recovery from planar extension (pure shear) even possesses opposite signs for these two fluids. The lateral recovery from simple shear for a constitutive equation containing a Cauchy deformation tensor is the square of that for a Finger deformation tensor. The relationship of these responses to the second normal stress difference is discussed.
Studies in Non-Isothermal Rheology
Authors: Matsui M. , Bogue D. C.
Published: July 2002

Almost all basic work in rheology, both experimental and theoretical, has dealt with isothermal flows, with the temperature being held constant during any one measurement. The present paper presents systematic studies of the nonisothermal behavior of two polystyrenes (a commercial sample and a sample of sharp molecular weight distribution). The experiments involve stress growth and stress relaxation during elongation in an Instron tensile tester, with rapid changes of temperature being imposed during the pulling and after it. Generalized non-isothermal viscoelastic theory is proposed and tested. The generalized time-temperature superposition involved there works well in simple stress relaxation (when the temperature changes are imposed after the pulling) but in the simultaneous type of experiments (when the temperature changes are imposed during the pulling), the accommodation to the new state seems to be more rapid than expected from theory.
Direct Yield Stress Measurement with the Vane Method
Authors: Dzuy Nguyen Q. , Boger D. V.
Published: July 2002

In the vane method for measuring the yield stress, the conventional analysis assumes that the stress is uniformly distributed on a cylindrical sheared surface to calculate the yield stress from the maximum torque and vane dimensions. By using two simple procedures, the present work shows that this assumption is justified at the moment of yielding. The yield stress calculated using the proposed methods compares favorably with that obtained with the conventional procedure. A comparison with the yield stress independently determined by other methods again confirms the usefulness of the vane technique as a simple but accurate method for direct yield stress measurement.
A “Three‐Region” Configuration for Enhanced Electrochemical Kinetics and High‐Areal Capacity Lithium–Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Hou Ruohan , Zhang Shijie , Zhang Yongshang , Li Neng , Wang Shaobin , Ding Bin , Shao Guosheng , Zhang Peng
Published: February 2022

A main hurdle for the commercial application of lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries lies in inadequate loading of sulfur due to a huge volume change over charging–discharging, poor electric conductivity of sulfur and associated sulfides, and the shuttling effect of lithium polysulfides (LiPS). Herein, a universal “three‐region” configuration including: Region I (sulfur source region), Region II (LiPS electrocatalysis region), and Region III (multi‐functional shield) for high‐areal capacity Li–S batteries is proposed. Mechanism of the configuration including the competitive relationship between Region II and Region III based on the Sabatier principle is further confirmed through density functional theory theoretical simulation and a series of in situ experimental methods. Compared with a conventional mechanical mixing electrode structure, it is demonstrated that the orderly integration “three‐region” configuration is able to prevent shuttling of LiPS effectively, which delivers high gravimetric energy density at the sulfur loading of 10.7 mg cm−2. Furthermore, a pouch cell achieves a high capacity of 148.15 mAh at a sulfur loading of 108 mg, which is by far higher than that of most previous batteries and pouch Li–S cells. Impressively, with bending and even partial damage, the pouch cell can still work normally, showing considerable safety.
Phenotypic spectrum of the recurrent TRPM3 p.(Val837Met) substitution in seven individuals with global developmental delay and hypotonia
Authors: Lines Matthew A. , Goldenberg Paula , Wong Ashley , Srivastava Siddharth , Bayat Allan , Hove Hanne , Karstensen Helena Gásdal , Anyane‐Yeboa Kwame , Liao Jun , Jiang Nan , May Alison , Guzman Edwin , Morleo Manuela , D'Arrigo Stefano , Ciaccio Claudia , Pantaleoni Chiara , Castello Raffaele ,   TUDP Study Group, McKee Shane , Ong Jinfon , Zibdeh‐Lough Hana , Tran‐Mau‐Them Frederic , Gerasimenko Anna , Heron Delphine , Keren Boris , Margot Henri , de Sainte Agathe Jean‐Madeleine , Burglen Lydie , Voets Thomas , Vriens Joris , Innes A. Micheil , Dyment David A.
Published: February 2022

TRPM3 encodes a transient receptor potential cation channel of the melastatin family, expressed in the central nervous system and in peripheral sensory neurons of the dorsal root ganglia. The recurrent substitution in TRPM3: c.2509G>A, p.(Val837Met) has been associated with syndromic intellectual disability and seizures. In this report, we present the clinical and molecular features of seven previously unreported individuals, identified by exome sequencing, with the recurrent p.(Val837Met) variant and global developmental delay. Other shared clinical features included congenital hypotonia, dysmorphic facial features (broad forehead, deep‐set eyes, and down turned mouth), exotropia, and musculoskeletal issues (hip dysplasia, hip dislocation, scoliosis). Seizures were observed in two of seven individuals (febrile seizure in one and generalized tonic–clonic seizures with atonic drops in another), and epileptiform activity was observed in an additional two individuals. This report extends the number of affected individuals to 16 who are heterozygous for the de novo recurrent substitution p.(Val837Met). In contrast with the initial report, epilepsy was not a mandatory feature observed in this series. TRPM3 pathogenic variation should be considered in individuals with global developmental delays, moderate–severe intellectual disability with, or without, childhood‐onset epilepsy.
Platelet function and filamin A expression in two families with novel FLNA gene mutations associated with periventricular nodular heterotopia and panlobular emphysema
Authors: Tanner Laura M. , Kunishima Shinji , Lehtinen Elina , Helin Tuukka , Volmonen Kirsi , Lassila Riitta , Pöyhönen Minna
Published: February 2022

Pathogenic variants of the X‐linked FLNA gene encoding filamin A protein have been associated with a wide spectrum of symptoms, including the recently described pulmonary phenotype with childhood‐onset panlobular emphysema. We describe three female patients from two families with novel heterozygous FLNA variants c.5837_2del and c.508C > T. Analysis of immunofluorescence of peripheral blood smears and platelet function was performed for all patients. FLNA‐negative platelets were observed, suggesting that these variants result in the loss of a functional protein product. All three patients also had periventricular nodular heterotopia and panlobular emphysema. However, they had considerably milder symptoms and later age of onset than in the previously reported cases. Therefore, patients with pathogenic FLNA variants should be studied actively for lung involvement even in the absence of pronounced respiratory symptoms. Conversely, any patient with unexplained panlobular emphysema should be analyzed for pathogenic FLNA variants. We also suggest that immunofluorescence analysis is a useful tool for investigating the pathogenicity of novel FLNA variants.
Effects of atmosphere and blending ratios on emission characteristics of pollutants from co‐combustion of municipal solid waste and aged refuse
Authors: Li Debo , Feng Yongxin , Chen Zhihao , Chen Zhaoli , He Hanyan , Zhang Yaqi , Du Binyun , Yu Zhaosheng
Published: February 2022

The emission of pollutants caused by incineration has imposed a severe burden on the atmospheric environment. In this study, the thermogravimetric thermal analyzer (TGA) was used to study the characteristic behavior of co‐combustion of municipal solid waste (MSW) and aged refuse (AR). And combined with Fourier transform infrared measurement, the emissions of several typical gaseous pollutants (NO, COx, CH4, HCl, HCN, SO2) have been investigated. Also, the release characteristics of heavy metals (As, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb, Zn, Ti) during the co‐combustion process were explored using inductively coupled plasma–optical emission spectrometry (ICP‐OES). This research found that both the combustion atmosphere and the mixing ratios impacted the experimental results. As the proportion of AR in the blends increased, the ignition index decreased, the burnout temperature rose, but the burnout efficiency increased. The addition of AR inhibited the generation of CO2, CH4, and HCl and promoted the production of NO and CO. Aerobic environment mainly inhibited the release of Cr and Mn. The research results provided important information for the study of pollutant emission characteristics during the co‐combustion of MSW with AR.
The use of virtual laboratory in teaching respiration subject in the Covid‐19 process
Authors: Çıngıl Barış Çiğdem
Published: February 2022

Along with the Covid‐19 pandemic, universities in Turkey as well as all over the world have started to carry out their education activities with the distance education method. In this case, many difficulties were encountered in the application of the Biology course, which is one of the applied courses carried out in the laboratory. Virtual laboratory applications can be preferred especially in teaching abstract subjects that are difficult to understand such as respiration. The teacher can write the process steps and theory related to the experiment to be designed, and the students can follow these process steps and perform the experiment in an interactive way. In this way, students can have a real‐like laboratory experience by following the experimental procedure with laboratory materials step by step.
Associations between alcohol use and peripheral, genetic, and epigenetic markers of oxytocin in a general sample of young and older adults
Authors: Rung Jillian M. , Kidder Quintin A. , Horta Marilyn , Nazarloo H. P. , Carter C. Sue , Berry Meredith S. , Ebner Natalie C.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Human and nonhuman animal research suggests that greater oxytocin (OT) activity is protective against harmful substance use. Most research on this topic is preclinical, with few studies evaluating the association between substance use and individual differences in the human OT system. The present study sought to fill this gap by evaluating the relationship between alcohol use and multiple biological measures of OT activity in an overall low to moderate‐drinking sample.

Method

As part of a larger study, generally healthy young (n = 51) and older (n = 53) adults self‐reported whether they regularly used alcohol and how much alcohol they consumed per week. Participants also provided blood samples from which peripheral OT, and in an age‐heterogeneous subset of participants (n = 56) variation in the oxytocin receptor gene (the OXTR rs53576 polymorphism) and OXTR DNA methylation levels (at cytosine–guanine dinucleotide sites ‐860, ‐924, ‐934), were obtained.

Results

A‐allele carriers of the OXTR rs53579 polymorphism were less likely to regularly consume alcohol. Among regular alcohol consumers, number of alcoholic drinks per week was positively associated with peripheral OT in regression models excluding observations of high influence (postdiagnostic models). Number of alcoholic drinks per week was consistently negatively associated with OXTR DNA methylation at site ‐860; and with OXTR DNA methylation at site ‐924 in postdiagnostic models.

Conclusions

The significant associations between alcohol use and individual differences in OT activity support the involvement of the OT system in alcohol use, which most likely reflect the role of OT when alcohol use is under control of its rewarding properties and/or the acute impacts of alcohol on the OT system. Additional research with markers of OT activity and alcohol use, particularly longitudinal, is needed to clarify the bidirectional effects of OT and alcohol use in moderate to harmful drinking and dependence.
Bioequivalence and Safety of Levetiracetam Granules and Oral Solution: A Randomized, Single‐Dose, 2‐Period Crossover Study in Healthy Chinese Volunteers Under a Fasting Condition
Authors: Liu Yun , Zou Yang , Wang Yijun , Jiang Fan , Xu Wenjing , Liu Shuyun , Jia Jingying , Yu Chen , Fang Liming , Hu Liwei , Zhang Kanyin E. , Long Jingwen , Pu Huahua
Published: February 2022

The bioequivalence and safety of levetiracetam granules (test formulation) and oral solution (reference formulation) were evaluated in Chinese healthy volunteers under a fasting condition. A total of 24 subjects randomly received the test or reference formulation at the rate of 1:1. The alternative formulation was administered after a 7‐day washout period. The blood samples were collected at designated time points. Liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry was applied to determine the plasma concentrations of levetiracetam. Adverse events were monitored and recorded. The 90% CIs for the geometric mean ratios of maximum plasma concentration, area under the plasma concentration–time curve from time 0 to the last quantifiable concentration, and area under the plasma concentration‐time curve from time 0 to infinity between test preparation and reference preparation were 95.5% to 110.7%, 100.2% to 105.3%, and 100.3% to 105.7%, respectively, all within an acceptable bioequivalence range of 80.00% 125.00%. Both test and reference preparations were well tolerated. The trial confirmed that a single dose of 500‐mg levetiracetam granules was bioequivalent to oral solution under a fasting condition, and may serve as a new dosage form of levetiracetam for clinical practice.
Longitudinal changes in blood biomarkers and their ability to predict type 2 diabetes mellitus—The Tromsø study
Authors: Allaoui Giovanni , Rylander Charlotta , Averina Maria , Wilsgaard Tom , Fuskevåg Ole‐Martin , Berg Vivian
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Identification of individuals at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is important for early prevention of the disease. Once T2DM is established, it is difficult to treat and is associated with cardiovascular complications and increased mortality. We aimed to describe pre‐ and post‐diagnostic changes in blood biomarker concentrations over 30 years in individuals with and without T2DM, and to determine the predictive potential of pre‐diagnostic blood biomarkers.

Methods

This nested case–control study included 234 participants in the Tromsø Study who gave blood samples at five time points between 1986 and 2016: 130 did not develop T2DM and were used as controls; 104 developed T2DM after the third time point and were included as cases. After stratifying by sex, we investigated changes in pre‐ and post‐diagnostic concentrations of lipids, thyroid hormones, HbA1c, glucose and gamma‐glutamyltransferase (GGT) using linear mixed models. We used logistic regression models and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AROC) to assess associations between blood biomarker concentrations and T2DM, as well as the predictive ability of blood biomarkers.

Results

Cases and controls experienced different longitudinal changes in lipids, free T3, HbA1c, glucose, and GGT. The combination of selected blood biomarker concentrations and basic clinical information displayed excellent (AROC 0.78–0.95) predictive ability at all pre‐diagnostic time points. A prediction model that included HDL (for women), HbA1c, GGT, and basic clinical information demonstrated the strongest discrimination 7 years before diagnosis (AROC 0.95 for women, 0.85 for men).

Conclusion

There were clear differences in blood biomarker concentrations between cases and controls throughout the study, and several blood biomarkers were associated with T2DM. Selected blood biomarkers (lipids, HbA1c, GGT) in combination with BMI, physical activity, elevated blood pressure, and family history of T2DM had excellent predictive ability 1–7 years before T2DM diagnosis and acceptable predictive ability up to 15 years before diagnosis.
The permeability properties of bedded coal and rock: Review and new insights
Authors: Song Zhixiang , Zhang Junwen , Zhang Lichao , Dong Xukai , Niu Weimin , Zhang Yang
Published: February 2022

It is beneficial to understand deeply the permeability properties of coal and rock for the stability control of mining engineering, underground engineering, oil and gas engineering, nuclear waste storage engineering, and so on. Therefore, new insights for the permeability properties of bedded coal and rock are summarized and proposed. (1) "Five guarantees" coring technology is worth for vigorous promotion and application. (2) The internal spatial fabric has the significant effect on the mechanical behavior evolution law of (bedded) coal and rock, but the effect is not dominant. (3) The permeability‐energy evolution models of (bedded) coal and rock should be constructed considering the idea of initial high in situ stress reduction, which is helpful for the energy visualization characterization of (bedded) coal and rock. Meanwhile, it can be combined with the structural evolution theory for in‐depth characterization and disclosure. (4) Researches on the permeability properties of (bedded) coal and rock under multi‐field or multi‐phase or phase‐field coupling conditions should be strengthened based on considering the initial damage produced and the distribution characteristics of in situ stress under the coring environment. (5) More accurate and scientific permeability evolution models of (bedded) coal and rock should be vigorously constructed based on the above insights.
Reconstruction of the Grenfell tower fire—Part 6—Numerical simulation of the Grenfell tower disaster: Contribution to the understanding of the tenability conditions inside the common areas of the tower
Authors: Guillaume Eric , Drean Virginie , Girardin Bertrand , Fateh Talal
Published: February 2022

The recent dramatic events at Grenfell Tower in London involving a combustible façade system have raised concerns regarding the fire risk that these systems pose. The spread of fire over the façade of the Tower was previously modelled numerically and the results of this modelling were validated by comparison with observations of the real fire. This model was used to determine the fire behaviour of the façade and the propagation of the façade fire into the apartments through windows. The modelling used an impact model according to ISO 13571 and included fire loads from the façade and, when relevant, from apartment contents. Tenability levels inside the apartments were quantified by an analysis of the toxic and thermal conditions due to the combustion of the façade materials and the apartment contents. In the present paper, the conditions inside the lobbies and stairs of the Tower are investigated, building on the previous analysis of the apartments. This allows an understanding of the evolution of toxic and thermal conditions whilst the fire spread, and their impact on egress during the fire event.
rpavirtual: Key lessons in healthcare organisational resilience in the time of COVID‐19
Authors: Shaw Miranda , Anderson Teresa , Sinclair Tim , Hutchings Owen , Dearing Cassandra , Raffan Freya , Jagers Dianna , Greenfield David
Published: February 2022

The COVID‐19 pandemic is an unfolding crisis which is continually testing the resilience of healthcare organisations. In this context, a key requirement for executives, managers and frontline staff is continually adapting, learning and coping with complexity under pressure to deliver high quality and safe care. Sydney Local Health District has responded to the COVID‐19 crisis, in part, through the pivoting of rpavirtual, a newly established virtual health service, to deliver an innovative model of care in a clinically rigorous and safe manner. Through reviewing the rapid evolution of rpavirtual's purpose, implementation challenges and impact, we investigate how it has displayed resilience and derive key lessons for health organisations.
Creativity among ICT professionals and students in Thailand
Authors: Winley Graham Kenneth , Wongwuttiwat Jittima
Published: February 2022

Creativity and innovation related to Information and Communication Technology (ICT) leads to improved competitiveness among individuals, organizations, and nations. In the context of the cultural profile of the developing nation of Thailand, this exploratory study examines the practical problem of improving creativity among ICT professionals and students. The study compares the importance of creativity perceived by ICT lecturers and managers and the extent to which ICT students and officers believe that they display creativity. The purpose is to align perceptions about creativity among these groups in order to promote creativity in ICT. Creativity is characterized by traits derived from studies in neuroscience and this study contributes to the validation of this relatively new approach. Data is collected by questionnaire from: 182 students distributed across the 4 years of ICT bachelor degree programs in three universities in Bangkok and 126 lecturers in these programs; 190 ICT managers and 210 ICT officers from 60 organizations in Bangkok. The findings identify: differences (gaps) among the groups' perceptions of creativity; and possible influences due to cultural characteristics of Thai society. The number of gaps is greatest between lecturers and managers followed by lecturers and students and managers and officers. The gaps are noticeable between males and females but less evident in relation to levels of education and ICT experience. The findings provide practical insights relevant to ICT academics, educators, practicing ICT professionals, and those concerned with the relationships among creativity, innovation, and competitiveness at organizational or national levels, especially in developing nations.
Low‐dose radiation‐induced demethylation of 3β‐HSD participated in the regulation of testosterone content
Authors: Huang Cong‐Shu , Qiu Li‐Zhen , Yue Lanxin , Wang Ning‐Ning , Liu Hong , Deng Hui‐Fang , Ni Yu‐Hao , Ma Zeng‐Chun , Zhou Wei , Gao Yue
Published: February 2022

The effects of low‐dose radiation (LDR, ≤0.1 Gy) on living organisms have been the hot areas of radiation biology but do not reach a definitive conclusion yet. So far, few studies have adequately accounted for the male reproductive system responses to LDR, particularly the regulation of testosterone content. Hence, this study was designed to evaluate the effects of LDR on Leydig cells and testicular tissue, especially the ability to synthesize testosterone. We found that less than 0.2‐Gy 60Co gamma rays did not cause significant changes in the hemogram index and the body weight; also, pathological examination did not find obvious structural alterations in testis, epididymis, and other radiation‐sensitive organs. Consistently, the results from in vitro showed that only more than 0.5‐Gy gamma rays could induce remarkable DNA damage, cycle arrest, and apoptosis. Notably, LDR disturbed the contents of testosterone in mice serums and culture supernatants of TM3 cells and dose dependently increased the expression of 3β‐HSD. After cotreatment with trilostane (Tril), the inhibitor of 3β‐HSD, increased testosterone could be partially reversed. Besides, DNA damage repair‐related enzymes, including DNMT1, DNMT3B, and Sirt1, were increased in irradiated TM3 cells, accompanying by evident demethylation in the gene body of 3β‐HSD. In conclusion, our results strongly suggest that LDR could induce obvious perturbation in the synthesis of testosterone without causing organic damage, during which DNA demethylation modification of 3β‐HSD might play a crucial role and would be a potential target to prevent LDR‐induced male reproductive damage.
Oral exposure to aluminum chloride for 28 days suppresses neural stem cell proliferation and increases mature granule cells in adult hippocampal neurogenesis of young‐adult rats
Authors: Shimizu Saori , Maeda Natsuno , Takahashi Yasunori , Uomoto Suzuka , Takesue Keisuke , Ojiro Ryota , Tang Qian , Ozawa Shunsuke , Okano Hiromu , Takashima Kazumi , Woo Gye‐Hyeong , Yoshida Toshinori , Shibutani Makoto
Published: February 2022

Aluminum (Al), a common light metal, affects the developing nervous system. Developmental exposure to Al chloride (AlCl3) induces aberrant neurogenesis by targeting neural stem cells (NSCs) and/or neural progenitor cells (NPCs) in the dentate gyrus (DG) of rats and mice. To investigate whether hippocampal neurogenesis is similarly affected by AlCl3 exposure in a general toxicity study, AlCl3 was orally administered to 5‐week‐old Sprague Dawley rats at dosages of 0, 4000, or 8000 ppm in drinking water for 28 days. AlCl3 downregulated Sox2 transcript level in the DG at the highest dosage and produced a dose‐dependent decrease of SOX2+ cells without altering numbers of GFAP+ or TBR2+ cells in the subgranular zone, suggesting that AlCl3 decreases Type 2a NPCs. High‐dose exposure downregulated Pcna, upregulated Pvalb, and altered expression of genes suggestive of oxidative stress induction (upregulation of Nos2 and downregulation of antioxidant enzyme genes), indicating suppressed proliferation and differentiation of Type 1 NSCs. AlCl3 doses also increased mature granule cells in the DG. Upregulation of Reln may have contributed to an increase of granule cells to compensate for the decrease of Type 2a NPCs. Moreover, upregulation of Calb2, Gria2, Mapk3, and Tgfb3, as well as increased numbers of activated astrocytes in the DG hilus, may represent ameliorating responses against suppressed neurogenesis. These results suggest that 28‐day exposure of young‐adult rats to AlCl3 differentially targeted NPCs and mature granule cells in hippocampal neurogenesis, yielding a different pattern of disrupted neurogenesis from developmental exposure.
A theoretical perspective of the ultrafast transient absorption dynamics of CsPbBr3
Authors: Boziki Ariadni , Baudin Pablo , Liberatore Elisa , Ashari Astani Negar , Rothlisberger Ursula
Published: February 2022

Transient absorption spectra (TAS) of lead halide perovskites can provide important insights into the nature of the photoexcited state dynamics of this prototypical class of materials. Here, we perform ground and excited state molecular dynamics (MD) simulations within a restricted open shell Kohn‐Sham (ROKS) approach in order to interpret the characteristic features of the TAS of CsPbBr3. Our results reveal that properties such as the finite temperature band gap, the Stokes shift, and therefore, also the TAS are strongly size‐dependent. Our TAS simulations show an early positive red‐shifted feature on the fs scale that can be explained by geometric relaxation in the excited state. As excited‐state processes can crucially affect the electronic properties of this class of photoactive materials, our observations are an important ingredient for further optimization of lead halide based optoelectronic devices.
Impact of Medicaid Expansion on Rhinologic Cancer Presentation, Treatment, and Outcomes
Authors: Irace Alexandria L. , Sharma Rahul K. , Smith Timothy L. , Stewart Michael G. , Gudis David A.
Published: February 2022

Objective

The United States Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act allocated funds for states to expand Medicaid coverage. However, several states declined expansion. We aim to determine whether Medicaid expansion is associated with healthcare coverage, cancer stage at diagnosis, treatment, and survival among patients with rhinologic cancer. Rhinologic cancer was defined to include cancer of the nasal cavity, paranasal sinus, nasopharynx, or olfactory nerve.

Study design

Cohort study.

Methods

Patients diagnosed with primary rhinologic malignancies between 2007 to 2016 were extracted from the National Cancer Institute Surveillance, Epidemiology, End Results (SEER) registry. Patients were grouped by diagnosis before and after 2014 (when Medicaid expansion became effective) and whether their state had expanded Medicaid. Multivariable logistic regression controlling for age, sex, race, ethnicity, and income/education was utilized to examine associations between Medicaid expansion/insurance status and stage at diagnosis, treatment, and survival. Overall and disease‐specific survival were examined using Kaplan–Meier analysis.

Results

Analysis included 10,164 patients. The proportion of uninsured patients decreased after 2014 (2.4%) compared to before 2014 (4.8%, P < .001). After 2014, patients in nonexpanded states were more likely to be diagnosed with advanced stage disease compared to patients in expanded states (N = 2,364; OR = 1.27, 95% CI 1.01–1.60). Being uninsured in any state was associated with advanced stage disease at diagnosis (OR = 1.75, 95% CI 1.41–2.22) and increased risk of disease‐specific death (HR = 1.54, 95% CI 1.32–1.82). Survival measures were not associated with diagnosis before versus after 2014 or Medicaid expansion.

Conclusions

Patients lacking insurance or residing in nonexpanded states may be more likely to present with advanced stage rhinologic cancer. Longitudinal studies should validate these findings.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 133:43–50, 2023
Analysis of Systematic Reviews in Clinical Practice Guidelines for Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Dhillon Jaydeep , Khan Taimoor , Siddiqui Bilal , Torgerson Trevor , Ottwell Ryan , Johnson Austin L. , Skinner Mason , Buchanan Patrick , Hartwell Micah , Vassar Matt
Published: February 2022

Objective

Clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) are essential to clinical decision‐making as their recommendations are supported by published literature. Systematic reviews are considered the highest quality of evidence used to underpin these guidelines. However, research to support these recommendations may lack compliance to quality reporting among systematic reviews (SRs). Here, we aim to evaluate the quality of SRs underpinning CPG recommendations for the management of head and neck cancer (HNC).

Study Design

Retrospective cross‐sectional analysis.

Methods

Using PubMed, we searched for CPGs pertinent to the management of head and neck cancer published between January 2017 and May 2021. Relevant guidelines were analyzed for all SRs. Cited SRs in CPGs were evaluated using A Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews‐2 (AMSTAR‐2) and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) instruments. Study characteristics were extracted in a masked triplicate fashion.

Results

A total of 16 CPGs and 142 unique SRs were included in our study. PRISMA completion ranged from 67.15% to 87.65% across CPGs with a mean of 76.41% (SD = 16.9). AMSTAR‐2 completion ranged from 34.38% to 84.38% across CPGs with a mean of 67.55% (SD = 20.9) among all SRs. The lowest rated items included funding sources and publication bias. A higher score was achieved in SR done by Cochrane group and it was only 2.11% (3/142) of all SR's quoted in CPG.

Conclusion

Adherence to AMSTAR‐2 and PRISMA items exhibits a variation among SRs cited in CPGs for the management of HNC. The mature underpinning CPG recommendation of SRs cited as supportive evidence could be enhanced in reporting quality.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 132:1976–1983, 2022
A notched UWB microstrip patch antenna for 5G lower and FSS bands
Authors: Mahfuz M.M. Hasan , Islam Md Rafiqul , Habaebi Mohamed Hadi , Sakib Nazmus , Hossain A. K. M. Zakir
Published: February 2022

In ASEAN countries, the fifth generation (5G) forum proposed a 5G application lower frequency band (4.5–5.5) GHz and the fixed satellite service (FSS) C‐band at (3.3–4.2) GHz. Previous research works have demonstrated that the complexity of antenna design, large size and in most of the cases, active elements that were added to antenna has made the antenna costly. Therefore, this research work focused on developing a single band notched (SBN) and double band notched (DBN) antennas by creating notched bands for 5G lower band from 4.5 to 5.5 GHz and C‐band 3.3 to 4.2 GHz applications in antenna UWB spectrum. An UWB antenna has been developed using low‐cost FR‐4 substrate with partial grounding (PG) on a rectangular patch. A single band and dual band notched UWB antennas were realized for the 5G lower band through the use of a slot at the top of the radiating patch and by adding an arc shape open loop (ASOL) on the UWB antenna. Both antennas are fabricated using the same FR‐4 substrate and tested using Vector Network Analyzer (VNA). The voltage standing wave ratio (VSWR), return loss, gain, and 2‐D radiation pattern of the test results prove that all antennas have excellent performance (compared to previous research works) in notched band and UWB band frequencies. Therefore, developed single notch and dual notch UWB antennas are proposed as good candidates for 5G lower band and C‐band notched application environment.
Biopolyethylene/macaíba shell (Acrocomia intumescens) composites compatibilized with PE‐g‐MA and PE‐g‐AA: Influence of macaíba oil on processing
Authors: Marçal Vitória Sampaio , Luna Carlos Bruno Barreto , Araújo Edcleide Maria , da Silva Barbosa Ferreira Eduardo , dos Santos Filho Edson Antonio , Siqueira Danilo Diniz
Published: February 2022

The present investigation aimed to produce ecological composites of biopolyethylene (BioPE) with macaíba shell (MS), using polyethylene‐graft‐maleic anhydride (PE‐g‐MA) and polyethylene‐graft‐acrylic acid (PE‐g‐AA) as compatibilizers, as well as macaíba almond oil as a plasticizing agent. The composites were processed in a co‐rotational twin‐screw extruder and injection molded. The addition of 30% by weight of MS in the BioPE matrix caused a reduction in impact strength and elongation at break, but improved stiffness and heat deflection temperature. The PE‐g‐MA and PE‐g‐AA compatibilizers improved the impact strength of the composites, suggesting increased interactions between the phases. There was an increase in the composites degree of crystallinity, indicating that the MS acted as a nucleating agent. The macaíba oil addition to the composites increased the impact strength, indicating a plasticizing effect. However, the elastic modulus, tensile strength, and degree of crystallinity tended to decrease. In general, the use of PE‐g‐MA compatibilizer was more effective to improve the composites mechanical properties. The reuse of MS is feasible for the production of sustainable composites.
Pleural empyema with gas formation caused by mixed infection of Edwardsiella tarda with Streptococcus constellatus
Authors: Ikematsu Yuki , Izumi Miiru , Ueno Tsuyoshi , Moriuchi Yuki , Ose Mizuko , Noda Naotaka , Hara Makiko , Otsuka Junji , Wakamatsu Kentaro , Kawasaki Masayuki
Published: February 2022

Edwardsiella tarda is an anaerobic, gram‐negative rod bacterium associated with freshwater and marine life. Human E. tarda infections are rare, and most infections in humans cause gastroenteritis. Extraintestinal infections of E. tarda such as pleural empyema are particularly rare. A 72‐year‐old man was admitted with cough and purulent sputum. His medical history included periodontal disease and gastric cancer for which he had undergone total gastrectomy. Chest computed tomography showed left pleural effusion with foci of gas, and both E. tarda and Streptococcus constellatus were cultured from the pleural effusion. Thus, he was diagnosed with gas‐forming empyema. He was successfully treated with therapeutic thoracentesis and antibiotics. Our case suggests that a dietary habit of raw fish, undernutrition, gastrectomy and oral infection may be predisposing factors for empyema caused by E. tarda.
Assessment course aims to meet student affairs professionals’ needs
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: February 2022

Although accreditors cite assessment as one of the most significant missing components in student affairs, and despite the overall “heightened emphasis” on the importance of assessment in student affairs, many student affairs professionals “aren't necessarily primed for assessment work,” according to Joseph D. Levy, Ed.D. “So many student affairs professionals are having to start assessment from scratch,” noted Levy, Executive Director of Assessment and Accreditation and Accreditation Liaison Officer in the Provost Office at National Louis University and board member with Student Affairs Assessment Leaders.
Take steps to prevent violations and lawsuits related to wage‐and‐hour requirements
Authors: O'Brien Timothy
Published: February 2022

One common thread that runs through almost every higher ed department is that the entire operation requires long and irregular hours, extending from the traditional workday and into nights and weekends. The collective commitment of all employees to do their respective part enables each department to accomplish its varied missions. This approach is often demonstrated by the willingness of dedicated employees to work long hours well in excess of 40 hours per week. Although that commitment of extra time and effort is acceptable for many employees within the department who are considered exempt from wage‐related overtime payment obligations, higher ed administrators must tread carefully regarding expecting any additional time or effort from nonexempt hourly staff. One university recently learned this lesson the hard way.
Yeasts from temperate forests
Authors: Mozzachiodi Simone , Bai Feng‐Yan , Baldrian Petr , Bell Graham , Boundy‐Mills Kyria , Buzzini Pietro , Čadež Neža , Cubillos Francisco A. , Dashko Sofia , Dimitrov Roumen , Fisher Kaitlin J. , Gibson Brian , Gouliamova Dilnora , Greig Duncan , Heistinger Lina , Hittinger Chris Todd , Jecmenica Marina , Koufopanou Vassiliki , Landry Christian R. , Mašínová Tereza , Naumova Elena S. , Opulente Dana , Peña Jacqueline J. , Petrovič Uroš , Tsai Isheng Jason , Turchetti Benedetta , Villarreal Pablo , Yurkov Andrey , Liti Gianni , Boynton Primrose
Published: February 2022

Yeasts are ubiquitous in temperate forests. While this broad habitat is well‐defined, the yeasts inhabiting it and their life cycles, niches, and contributions to ecosystem functioning are less understood. Yeasts are present on nearly all sampled substrates in temperate forests worldwide. They associate with soils, macroorganisms, and other habitats and no doubt contribute to broader ecosystem‐wide processes. Researchers have gathered information leading to hypotheses about yeasts' niches and their life cycles based on physiological observations in the laboratory as well as genomic analyses, but the challenge remains to test these hypotheses in the forests themselves. Here, we summarize the habitat and global patterns of yeast diversity, give some information on a handful of well‐studied temperate forest yeast genera, discuss the various strategies to isolate forest yeasts, and explain temperate forest yeasts' contributions to biotechnology. We close with a summary of the many future directions and outstanding questions facing researchers in temperate forest yeast ecology. Yeasts present an exciting opportunity to better understand the hidden world of microbial ecology in this threatened and global habitat.
Universal algorithms for computing spectra of periodic operators
Authors: Ben-Artzi Jonathan , Marletta Marco , Rösler Frank
Published: February 2022

Schrödinger operators with periodic (possibly complex-valued) potentials and discrete periodic operators (possibly with complex-valued entries) are considered, and in both cases the computational spectral problem is investigated: namely, under what conditions can a ‘one-size-fits-all’ algorithm for computing their spectra be devised? It is shown that for periodic banded matrices this can be done, as well as for Schrödinger operators with periodic potentials that are sufficiently smooth. In both cases implementable algorithms are provided, along with examples. For certain Schrödinger operators whose potentials may diverge at a single point (but are otherwise well-behaved) it is shown that there does not exist such an algorithm, though it is shown that the computation is possible if one allows for two successive limits.
Wie wirkt das Miteinanderreden in Psychotherapien aus Sicht von Personen ohne Therapieerfahrung?
Authors: Wulf S. , Klapprott F. , Janning B. , Gumz A.
Published: February 2022

Hintergrund und Ziel

Das Miteinanderreden nimmt in Psychotherapien einen zentralen Raum ein – auch aus Sicht von Personen ohne Therapieerfahrungen. Es ist davon auszugehen, dass Personen ohne Therapieerfahrungen Ideen darüber entwickeln, auf welche Weise das therapeutische Miteinanderreden hilft. Diese Vorstellungen und Vorerwartungen können die therapeutische Interaktion in Psychotherapien beeinflussen. Um ein besseres Verständnis der Erwartungen an Prozesse in der Psychotherapie zu erhalten, soll untersucht werden, welches Bild sich Personen ohne Therapieerfahrungen vom Miteinanderreden in der Psychotherapie machen.

Material und Methode

Es handelt sich um eine „Mixed-methods“-Studie (qualitative Kategorienbildung mit anschließender quantitativer Häufigkeitsanalyse). An der querschnittlichen Onlineerhebung nahmen 225 Erwachsene ohne Therapie- oder Beratungserfahrung (Alter: Mittelwert [M] = 27,53 Jahre, Standardabweichung [SD] ± 9,93 Jahre, Range 19 bis 91 Jahre, Geschlecht: 207 weiblich, 18 männlich) teil. Neben soziodemografischen Daten wurden Antworten auf die offene Frage: „Wie und auf welche Art und Weise hilft das Miteinanderreden in der Psychotherapie?“ erhoben und inhaltsanalytisch ausgewertet.

Ergebnisse

Die Teilnehmer:innen erwarteten Wirksamkeit des Miteinanderredens in der Psychotherapie in Bezug auf die 4 Hauptkategorien 1) Therapeutische Beziehung erleben, 2) Erleichterung verschaffen, 3) Erkenntnis gewinnen sowie 4) Veränderungen ermöglichen. Jeder dieser Oberkategorien wurden eine bis 8 Subkategorien zugeordnet. Besonders häufig wurden die Subkategorien „von der Seele reden/Ballast loswerden“ und „Perspektivwechsel“ genannt.

Diskussion

Die vorliegenden Ergebnisse deuten auf hin, dass Personen ohne Psychotherapieerfahrung differenzierte und jeweils individuell unterschiedliche Annahmen darüber haben, wie das Miteinanderreden in der Psychotherapie heilen kann. Ein Austausch darüber, mit welchen diesbezüglichen Erwartungen Patient:innen in eine Psychotherapie kommen, kann hilfreich sein.
Adapting to extreme events: small drinking water system manager perspectives on the 2012–2016 California Drought
Authors: Klasic Meghan , Fencl Amanda , Ekstrom Julia A. , Ford Amanda
Published: February 2022

Under a changing climate, droughts are projected to increase in frequency and duration in the Southwestern USA. Between 2012 and 2016, California experienced one of the region’s worst droughts, with record high temperatures and low snowpack, runoff, and precipitation. This study documents small drinking water system managers’ experiences during the 2012–2016 Drought. We contribute to research on water system drought resilience by elevating small drinking water system manager perspectives and expertise. We are especially focused on small systems that are not reliant on imports from state or federal water projects. A mixed-method approach ensures each data collection period informs the next to gather statewide perspectives and experiences of managers.

Based on an analysis of drinking water manager reflections, the types of impacts, responses, and barriers differed based on both system size and water source portfolio. Common disadvantages that hinder small drinking water systems’ drought resilience and, similarly, climate adaptation include staff and administrative capacity; the financial burden of promoting water conservation over revenue compounded by onerous reporting and funding support programs; consumer awareness challenges; and challenges to consolidation from both local political differences and physical limitations. Systems that built technical, managerial, or financial capacity prior to the Drought were at an advantage over systems that lacked this capacity. In the long term, we found a dearth of adaptation planning among small water systems. Documentation of experiences from the 2012–2016 Drought can inform future planning for droughts and more broadly highlight needs for climate adaptation.