bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PhiPipe: A multi‐modal MRI data processing pipeline with test–retest reliability and predicative validity assessments
Authors: Hu Yang , Li Qingfeng , Qiao Kaini , Zhang Xiaochen , Chen Bing , Yang Zhi
Published: December 2022

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been one of the primary instruments to measure the properties of the human brain non‐invasively in vivo. MRI data generally needs to go through a series of processing steps (i.e., a pipeline) before statistical analysis. Currently, the processing pipelines for multi‐modal MRI data are still rare, in contrast to single‐modal pipelines. Furthermore, the reliability and validity of the output of the pipelines are critical for the MRI studies. However, the reliability and validity measures are not available or adequate for almost all pipelines. Here, we present PhiPipe, a multi‐modal MRI processing pipeline. PhiPipe could process T1‐weighted, resting‐state BOLD, and diffusion‐weighted MRI data and generate commonly used brain features in neuroimaging. We evaluated the test–retest reliability of PhiPipe's brain features by computing intra‐class correlations (ICC) in four public datasets with repeated scans. We further evaluated the predictive validity by computing the correlation of brain features with chronological age in three public adult lifespan datasets. The multivariate reliability and predictive validity of the PhiPipe results were also evaluated. The results of PhiPipe were consistent with previous studies, showing comparable or better reliability and validity when compared with two popular single‐modality pipelines, namely DPARSF and PANDA. The publicly available PhiPipe provides a simple‐to‐use solution to multi‐modal MRI data processing. The accompanied reliability and validity assessments could help researchers make informed choices in experimental design and statistical analysis. Furthermore, this study provides a framework for evaluating the reliability and validity of image processing pipelines.
Prognostic significance of head and neck spindle cell carcinoma
Authors: Patel Aman M. , Choudhry Hannaan S. , Desai Amar D. , Shah Vraj P. , Patel Prayag , Eloy Jean Anderson , Roden Dylan F. , Fang Christina H.
Published: December 2022

Background

Our study investigates the prognostic significance of spindle cell histology on overall survival (OS) of conventional head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC).

Methods

The 2004 to 2017 National Cancer Database was queried for patients with head and neck spindle cell carcinoma (HNSpCC) (n = 1572) or HNSCC (n = 242 697) of the oral cavity, major salivary glands, sinonasal tract, oropharynx, hypopharynx, and larynx treated with curative intent.

Results

Patients with HNSpCC presented more frequently with higher‐grade tumors and cN0 disease than those with HNSCC (p < 0.001). In the oral cavity, the HR for death for SpCC compared with SCC was 1.33 (p < 0.001). In the oropharynx, the HR for death for SpCC compared with SCC was 1.47 (p = 0.028).

Conclusions

After adjusting for patient, tumor, and treatment characteristics, SpCC histology had an independent adverse prognostic effect on OS in the oral cavity and oropharynx. SpCC histology does not necessarily portend poorer survival in all HNSCC.

Level of Evidence: 4.
Emerging roles of circRNAs in leukemia and the clinical prospects: An update
Authors: Deng Wei , Chao Rong , Zhu Shengdong
Published: December 2022

Background

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a new category of endogenous non‐protein coding RNAs (ncRNAs), and show the characteristics of high conservation, stability, and tissue specificity. Due to rapid advances in next‐generation sequencing and transcriptome profiling technologies, circRNAs have been widely discovered in many organisms and participated in the development and progress of a variety of diseases. As a type of molecular sponge, circRNAs mainly absorb micro RNAs competitively and interplay with RNA‐binding proteins to modulate the splicing as well as transcription of target genes.

Methods

This review is based on a literature search using the Medline database. Search terms used were “circular RNAs and leukemia,” “circRNAs and leukemia,” “circRNAs and acute lymphoblastic leukemia,” “circRNAs and chronic lymphoblastic leukemia,” “circRNAs and acute myeloid leukemia,” “circRNAs and chronic myeloid leukemia,” and “circRNAs, biomarker, and hematological system.”

Results

CircRNAs have been proven as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets in a variety of tumors. Recent research has found that circRNAs aberrantly exist in hematological cancers, especially leukemia, and are significantly associated with the incidence, progress, and metastasis of diseases as well as the prognosis of patients.

Conclusion

The current work summarizes the latest findings on circRNAs in various types of leukemia, aiming to propose prospective therapies and new drug screening methods for the treatment of leukemia.
Maternal and perinatal outcome of women with early‐onset severe pre‐eclampsia before 28 weeks: Is expectant management beneficial in a low‐resource country? A prospective observational study
Authors: Gangadhar Lekha , Rengaraj Sasirekha , Thiyagalingam Sutharsika , Bethou Adhisivam
Published: December 2022

Objective

To study the maternal and perinatal outcomes in women with severe pre‐eclampsia before 28 weeks of pregnancy.

Methods

A descriptive study from a tertiary care center. All consecutive women with severe pre‐eclampsia withonset before 28 weeks of pregnancy were included. The details were collected in a predesigned structured proforma prospectively.

Results

The study cohort included 145 women with a mean maternal age of 26.97 ± 5.36 years (range 19–47 years). The mean duration of prolongation of pregnancy was 13.04 ± 10.57 days (range 1–51 days). A total of 29.7% (n = 43) of women had at least one major adverse maternal outcome, and the most common was HELLP (hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, low platelet count) syndrome (n = 24,16.6%), followed by eclampsia (n = 12,8.3%). The stillbirth rate was high (n = 103,68.7%), and most occurred in the antepartum period. Of 47 (31.3%) neonates born alive, only eight (17.02%;8/47) survived up to 28 days of life. Fetal growth restriction with Doppler abnormalities and neonatal sepsis were the most common reasons for perinatal mortality.

Conclusion

Expectant management should not be considered routinely when the onset of severe pre‐eclampsia is before 25+6 weeks of pregnancy. Between 26 and 27+6 weeks it can be offered under close monitoring and the perinatal survival depends on the neonatal services available in their facility.
Bioactive ZnO‐assisted 1393 glass scaffold promotes osteogenic differentiation: Some studies
Authors: Ali Akher , Paladhi Ankush , Hira Sumit Kumar , Singh Bhisham Narayan , Pyare Ram
Published: December 2022

We developed ZnO‐assisted 1393 bioactive glass‐based scaffold with suitable mechanical properties through foam replica technique and observed to be suitable for bone tissue engineering application. However, the developed scaffolds' ability to facilitate cellular infiltration and integration was further assessed through in vivo studies in suitable animal model. Herein, the pure 1393 bioactive glass (BG) and ZnO‐assisted 1393 bioactive glass‐ (ZnBGs; 1, 2, 4 mol% ZnO substitution for SiO2 in pure BG is named as Z1BG, Z2BG, Z3BG, respectively) based scaffolds were prepared through sol–gel route, followed by foam replica techniques and characterized by a series of in vitro and some in vivo tests. Different cell lines like normal mouse embryonic cells (NIH/3T3), mouse bone marrow stromal cells (mBMSc), peripheral blood mononuclear cells, that is, lymphocytes and monocytes (PBMC) and U2OS (carcinogenic human osteosarcoma cells) were used in determination and comparative analysis of the biological compatibility of the BG and ZnBGs. Also, the alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, and osteogenic gene expression by primer‐specific osteopontin (OPN), osteocalcin (OCN), and glyceraldehyde‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) genes were performed to study osteogenic differentiability of the stromal cells in different BGs. Moreover, radiological and histopathological tests were performed in bone defect model of Wister rats to evaluate the in vivo bone regeneration and healing. Interestingly, these studies demonstrate augmented biological compatibility, and superior osteogenic differentiation in ZnBGs, in particular Z3BG than the pure BG in most cases.
Design, synthesis, and in silico study of hybrid oxoazetidine conjugated thiazoles as anti‐EGFR with cytotoxicity activity
Authors: Pathak Prateek , Gupta Santosh , Grishina Maria , Khalilullah Habibullah , Verma Amita
Published: December 2022

We report a series of hybrid oxoazetidine conjugated thiazoles as epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors, which were synthesized and tested using a variety of in silico and in vitro studies. The compounds were found to be active against breast and hepatic cancer cell lines, with Compounds 7a, 7b, and 7e being the most potent ones. The derivatives were also evaluated for molecular docking and complementarity studies to explicate fundamental substituent groups essential for their bioactivity. Moreover, the structural activity relationship of the analogues was performed for future compound optimization. These studies advocated that the analogues have a high affinity towards EGFR with favorable anticancer potential. The study advised that the derivatives have potency against breast and hepatic cancer and can assist as an initial scaffold for further development of anti‐EGFR compounds.
Development of an MRI‐Based Radiomics‐Clinical Model to Diagnose Liver Fibrosis Secondary to Pancreaticobiliary Maljunction in Children
Authors: Yang Yang , Zhang Xinxian , Zhao Lian , Mao Huimin , Cai Tian‐na , Guo Wan‐liang
Published: December 2022

Background

Preoperative diagnosis of liver fibrosis in children with pancreaticobiliary maljunction (PBM) is needed to guide clinical decision‐making and improve patient prognosis.

Purpose

To develop and validate an MR‐based radiomics‐clinical nomogram for identifying liver fibrosis in children with PBM.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

A total of 136 patients with PBM from two centers (center A: 111 patients; center B: 25 patients). Cases from center A were randomly divided into training (74 patients) and internal validation (37 patients) sets. Cases from center B were assigned to the external validation set. Liver fibrosis was determined by histopathological examination.

Field Strength/Sequence

A 3.0 T (two vendors)/T1‐weighted imaging and T2‐weighted imaging.

Assessment

Clinical factors associated with liver fibrosis were evaluated. A total of 3562 radiomics features were extracted from segmented liver parenchyma. Maximum relevance minimum redundancy and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator were recruited to screen radiomics features. Based on the selected variables, multivariate logistic regression was used to construct the clinical model, radiomics model, and combined model. The combined model was visualized as a nomogram to show the impact of the radiomics signature and key clinical factors on the individual risk of developing liver fibrosis.

Statistical Tests

Mann–Whitney U and chi‐squared tests were used to compare clinical factors. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant in the final models.

Results

Two clinical factors and four radiomics features were selected as they were associated with liver fibrosis in the training (AUC, 0.723, 0.927), internal validation (AUC, 0.718, 0.885), and external validation (AUC, 0.737, 0.865) sets. The radiomics‐clinical nomogram yielded the best performance in the training (AUC, 0.977), internal validation (AUC, 0.921), and external validation (AUC, 0.878) sets, with good calibration (P > 0.05).

Data Conclusion

Our radiomic‐based nomogram is a noninvasive, accurate, and preoperative diagnostic tool that is able to detect liver fibrosis in PBM children.

Evidence Level

3.

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2.
Weekly symptom profiles of nonhospitalized individuals infected with SARS‐CoV‐2 during the Omicron outbreak in Hong Kong: A retrospective observational study from a telemedicine center
Authors: Luo Jingyuan , Zhang Jialing , Tang Hiu To , Wong Hoi Ki , Ma Yanfang , Xie Duoli , Peng Bo , Lyu Aiping , Cheung Chun Hoi , Bian Zhaoxiang
Published: December 2022

Omicron BA.2.2 is the dominant variant in the Hong Kong outbreak since December 31, 2021. There is no study reporting the weekly symptom profile after infection. In this retrospective study, participants who tested positive for SARS‐CoV‐2 after December 31, 2021, and registered in the telemedicine system between March 14 and May 6, 2022, were analyzed. Among registered 12 950 self‐quarantined COVID‐19‐positive patients, 11 776 symptomatic patients were included for weekly symptom profile analysis. A total of 4718 (40.1%) patients reported symptoms in the first week after a positive test, 2501 (21.2%) in the second week, 1498 (12.7%) in the third week, 1048 (8.9%) in the fourth week, and 2011 (17.1%) in over 4 weeks. Cough was the most common symptom in all participants. Patients in the first week had higher odds of reporting fever (0.206, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.161–0.263, p < 0.001) and sore throat (0.228, 95% CI: 0.208–0.252, p < 0.001). Patients in over 4 weeks had higher odds of reporting fatigue (1.263, 95% CI: 1.139–1.402, p < 0.001). Further, having at least two vaccine doses linked to lower odds of having fever (0.675, 95% CI: 0.562–0.811, p < 0.001), but not associated with the presence of cough and fatigue. Diabetic patients had higher odds of reporting diarrhea (1.637, 95% CI: 1.351–1.982, p < 0.001). Symptoms from Omicron infection may last for more than 4 weeks and symptom profiles vary from week to week. Vaccination and comorbidity affect the symptom profiles.
Disparities in survival outcomes among Black patients with HPV‐associated oropharyngeal cancer
Authors: Baliga Sujith , Mitchell Darrion , Yildiz Vedat O. , Gogineni Emile , Konieczkowski David J. , Grecula John , Blakaj Dukagjin M. , Liu Xuefeng , Gamez Mauricio E.
Published: December 2022

Patients with human papillomavirus‐associated oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (HPV‐OPSCC) have a favorable prognosis and excellent overall survival (OS), and studies have demonstrated these findings in cohorts of predominantly White patients. Racial/ethnic (R/E) minorities, particularly Black patients, with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) have worse survival outcomes compared with White patients. In this study, we aimed to determine if Black patients with HPV‐OPSCC have a similar favorable prognosis to the White population. This was a population‐based retrospective cohort study that analyzed HNSCC patients using the National Cancer Database from 2010 to 2016. We identified patients with Stage I–IV HPV‐ OPSCC who were treated with radiation, surgery, chemotherapy, or a combination of modalities. Patient outcomes were stratified by R/E groups including White Versus Black patients. The main outcome in this study was OS. Analyses for proportions of categorical variables were performed using a χ2 or Fisher's exact test. Univariate and multivariate time‐to‐event survival analyses were performed using Kaplan–Meier product limit estimates and log‐rank test to test the differences between strata. A Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to assess the association between covariates and risk of death (OS). We identified 9256 OPSCC patients who met inclusion criteria and were treated between 2010 and 2016, of which 7912 were White (85.5%) and 1344 were Black (14.5%). A total of 1727 were HPV‐OPSCC, of which 1598 were White (92.5%) and 129 (7.5%) were Black. By race, the 5‐year OS for White versus Black OPSCC patients was 42% versus 23%, respectively (log‐rank, p < 0.0001). Among HPV‐positive OPSCC patients, the 5‐year OS for White versus Black patients was 65% versus 39% (log‐rank, p < 0.0001). Among HPV‐negative patients, the 5‐year OS for White versus Black patients was 36% versus 13% (log‐rank, p < 0.0001). On multivariate analysis, after accounting for age, sex, insurance status, income, Charlson–Deyo score, receipt of surgery, distance from facility, and total treatment time, Black race trended toward, but was not associated with worse survival. Hazard ratio (HR:1.24, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.85–1.81, p = 0.255). This national cohort study of OPSCC patients demonstrates that Black patients with HPV‐OPSCC have a poor prognosis and OS similar to HPV‐negative White patients. This may be partly due to socioeconomic barriers such as insurance and income. Further work is needed to better understand the specific drivers of inferior survival outcomes in this specific patient population.
Physical compatibility of medications with concentrated neonatal and pediatric parenteral nutrition: A simulated Y‐site drug compatibility study
Authors: Ross Emma L. , Petty Kirsten , Salinas Allison , Her Cheng , Carpenter John F.
Published: December 2022

Background

The physical intravenous Y‐site compatibility of 15 different medications with highly concentrated neonatal and pediatric parenteral nutrition (PN) compounds is described, using existing and novel methods.

Methods

PN formulations were developed based on common prescribing practices in a 400+‐bed freestanding children's hospital. Medications at commonly used pediatric concentrations were mixed in a 1:1 ratio with both pediatric and neonatal PN formulations and incubated at room temperature for 4 h to simulate Y‐site administration. Samples were then analyzed using the light obscuration (LO) technique, as recommended by United States Pharmacopeia (USP) chapter <788>, in addition to novel flow imaging (FI) microscopy and backgrounded membrane imaging (BMI). Physical compatibility was determined using USP <788> particle count limits for all techniques.

Results

Most combinations were found to be compatible per USP <788> thresholds. Pediatric PN was incompatible by at least two methods with cisatracurium 2 mg/ml, sildenafil 0.8 mg/ml, furosemide 10 mg/ml, and ketamine 10 mg/ml. Neonatal PN was incompatible by at least two methods with cisatracurium 2 mg/ml and furosemide 10 mg/ml. Overall, results for 20 of the 30 combinations (66%) agreed across all three methods. FI and BMI results agreed for 22 of 30 combinations. LO agreed with FI in 25 of 30 combinations, and BMI and LO results agreed in 23 of 30 combinations.

Conclusion

Most combinations tested were found to be compatible across all methods. Novel methods of FI and BMI seem useful to further evaluate LO findings and improve accuracy of particle counts when assessing PN‐medication combinations.
High‐performance liquid chromatography micro‐fraction bioactive evaluation combined with countercurrent chromatographic separation of antioxidants from Citrus peel and their tyrosinase inhibition activities
Authors: Fang Liqun , Lin Tingting , Chen Ben , You Haibo , Wu Chunyan , Chu Chu , Tong Shengqiang
Published: December 2022

In the present study, high‐performance liquid chromatography micro‐fraction bioactive evaluation and high speed countercurrent chromatography were performed on screening, identification and isolation of antioxidants from Citrus peel. Three compounds were screened as antioxidants and tyrosinase inhibitors using 2,2′‐azino‐bis (3‐ethyl‐benzothiazoline‐6‐sulfonic acid) radical cation scavenging assay and tyrosinase activity test, then they were identified as eriocitrin, narirutin and hesperidin. Moreover, the solvent system ethyl acetate‐n‐butanol‐water (6:4:10, v/v/v) was used for separation of ethyl acetate extract of Citrus peel by high speed countercurrent chromatography. In total, 0.45 mg of eriocitrin with 87.10% purity, 2.04 mg of narirutin with 95.19% purity and 1.35 mg of hesperidin with 95.19% purity were obtained from 20 mg of ethyl acetate extract of Citrus peel in a single run and then each component was subjected to 2,2′‐azino‐bis (3‐ethyl‐benzothiazoline‐6‐sulfonic acid) radical cation scavenging assay and tyrosinase inhibition assay. Eriocitrin showed great antioxidant activity (the half‐maximum concentration: 3.65 µM) and tyrosinase inhibition activity (the half‐maximum concentration: 115.67 µM), while narirutin and hesperidin exhibited moderate activity. Tyrosinase inhibition activity for eriocitrin in vitro was reported for the first time. Furthermore, molecular docking between eriocitrin and mushroom tyrosinase was also studied.
Phosphorus adsorption in a degraded soil under forestry recovery after bauxite mining in Paragominas, eastern Amazon, Brazil
Authors: dos Santos Cassio Rafael Costa , Kato Osvaldo Ryohei , Noronha Norberto Cornejo , do Socorro Freitas Souza Luana , de Oliveira Ferreira Eric Victor , de Matos Gilson Sérgio Bastos , de Araújo Dênmora Gomes , Gama Marcos André Piedade
Published: December 2022

The availability and retention of phosphorus (P) in soils under recovery process after mining operations play an important role in the management of this nutrient. The objective of this study was to evaluate the P adsorption in a reconstituted soil as a function of two forest recovery processes after bauxite mining. We evaluated three systems: native forest (FOR), planting of forest seedlings after bauxite mining (TPL), and natural regeneration of vegetation after bauxite mining (NRV). In each system, eight sampling plots were deployed. In each plot, we collected litter and soil samples. The soil samples were collected at depths of 0–5, 5–10, 10–20, and 20–40 cm, for soil chemical analysis and adjustment of P adsorption isotherms. We also performed an inventory of the tree vegetation to obtain basal area (G) and species diversity (H′). Forest was significantly superior with respect to most soil fertility, litter, and vegetation attributes, followed by natural regeneration and planting. In general, the adsorption curves and maximum phosphorus adsorption capacity (MPAC) in soil followed the order planting > natural regeneration > forest. We observed a negative relationship between phosphorus adsorption and soil organic matter, potential acidity, and available phosphorus. This result highlights the importance of biomass conservation and maintenance to ensure phosphorus availability in reclamation practices. Furthermore, such results indicate that both soil cover and plant species diversity should be considered when selecting species to improve P availability for reclamation of mined areas.
Interactive effects of nutrients and temperature on herbivorous predation in a coastal plankton community
Authors: Franzè Gayantonia , Anderson Stephanie I. , Kling Joshua D. , Wilburn Paul , Hutchins David A. , Litchman Elena , Rynearson Tatiana A. , Menden‐Deuer Susanne
Published: December 2022

Marine microbial communities in coastal environments are subject to both seasonal fluctuations and anthropogenic alterations of environmental conditions. The separate influences of temperature and resource‐dependency on phytoplankton growth, community, and ecosystem metabolism are relatively well understood. However, winners and losers in the ocean are determined based on the interplay among often rapidly changing biological, chemical and physical drivers. The direct, indirect, and interactive effects of these conditions on planktonic food web structure and function are poorly constrained. Here, we investigated how simultaneous manipulation of temperature and nutrient availability affects trophic transfer from phytoplankton to herbivorous protists, and their resulting implications at the ecosystem level. Temperature directly affected herbivorous protist composition; ciliates dominated (66%) in colder treatment and dinoflagellates (60%) at warmer temperatures. Throughout the experiments, grazing rates were < 0.1 d−1, with higher rates at subzero temperatures. Overall, the nutrient–temperature interplay affected trophic transfer rates antagonistically when nutrients were amended, and synergistically, when nutrients were not added. This interaction resulted in higher percentages of primary production consumed under nutrient unamended compared to nutrient amended conditions. At the ecosystem level, these changes may determine the fate of primary production, with most of the production likely exported out of the pelagic zone in high‐temperature and nutrient conditions, while high‐temperature and low‐nutrient availability strengthened food web coupling and enhanced trophic transfer. These results imply that in warming oceans, management of coastal nutrient loading will be a critical determinant of the degree of primary production removal by microzooplankton and dependent ecosystem production.
Alternating [1.1.1]Propellane‐(Meth)Acrylate Copolymers: A New Class of Dielectrics with High Energy Density for Film Capacitors
Authors: Cheng Xiang‐Yue , Feng Qi‐Kun , Dang Zhi‐Min , Du Fu‐Sheng , Li Zi‐Chen
Published: December 2022

Polymer dielectrics with high energy density are of urgent demand in electric and electronic devices, but the tradeoff between dielectric constant and breakdown strength is still unsolved. Herein, the synthesis and molar mass control of three alternating [1.1.1]propellane‐(meth)acrylate copolymers, denoted as P‐MA, P‐MMA, and P‐EA, respectively, are reported. These copolymers exhibit high thermal stability and are semi‐crystalline with varied glass transition temperatures and melting temperatures. The rigid bicyclo[1.1.1]pentane units in the polymer backbone promote the orientational polarization of the polar ester groups, thus enhancing the dielectric constants of these polymers, which are 4.50 for P‐EA, 4.55 for P‐MA, and 5.11 for P‐MMA at 10 Hz and room temperature, respectively. Moreover, the high breakdown strength is ensured by the non‐conjugated nature of bicyclo[1.1.1]pentane unit. As a result, these copolymers show extraordinary energy storage performance; P‐MA exhibits a discharge energy density of 9.73 J cm–3 at 750 MV m–1 and ambient temperature. This work provides a new type of promising candidates as polymer dielectrics for film capacitors, and offers an efficient strategy to improve the dielectric and energy storage properties by introducing rigid non‐conjugated bicyclo[1.1.1]pentane unit into the polymer backbone.
Verification of the shaped beam feed for high aperture usage efficiency single offset parabolic reflector compact antenna test range
Authors: Zhang Liang , Yao Yuan , Chen Tianyang , Li Zhi , Ruan Jinbo , Yu Junsheng , Chen Xiaodong
Published: December 2022

In this letter, to verify that the shaped beam feed can enhance the aperture usage efficiency of a single‐offset parabolic reflector compact antenna test range (CATR), a shaped beam horn is proposed. First, we obtain the radiation intensity function of the feed. Then, a coaxial cavity horn feed with a half‐ring is designed to shape the illumination that reaches the main reflector. Measured results demonstrate that, with no edge treatment, the quiet zone size can be up to 75% of the main reflector diameter under 1.20 dB amplitude variations and 12° phase variations at 102.40 GHz, and 70% aperture usage efficiency ranging from 102 to 103 GHz with phase variations less than 12° and amplitude variations less than 1.40 dB. The design verifies that the shaped beam feed can enhance the aperture usage efficiency of a single‐offset CATR.
Sonographic peripheral nerve cross‐sectional area in adults, excluding median and ulnar nerves: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Eby Sarah F. , Teramoto Masaru , Lider Joshua , Lash Madison , Caragea Marc , Cushman Daniel M.
Published: December 2022

Introduction/Aims

Although electromyography remains the “gold standard” for assessing and diagnosing peripheral nerve disorders, ultrasound has emerged as a useful adjunct, providing valuable anatomic information. The objective of this study was to conduct a systematic review and meta‐analysis evaluating the normative sonographic values for adult peripheral nerve cross‐sectional area (CSA).

Methods

Medline and Cochrane Library databases were systematically searched for healthy adult peripheral nerve CSA, excluding the median and ulnar nerves. Data were meta‐analyzed, using a random‐effects model, to calculate the mean nerve CSA and its 95% confidence interval (CI) for each nerve at a specific anatomical location (= group).

Results

Thirty groups were identified and meta‐analyzed, which comprised 16 from the upper extremity and 15 from the lower extremity. The tibial nerve (n = 2916 nerves) was reported most commonly, followed by the common fibular nerve (n = 2580 nerves) and the radial nerve (n = 2326 nerves). Means and 95% confidence interval (CIs) of nerve CSA for the largest number of combined nerves were: radial nerve assessed at the spiral groove (n = 1810; mean, 5.14 mm2; 95% CI, 4.33 to 5.96); common fibular nerve assessed at the fibular head (n = 1460; mean, 10.18 mm2; 95% CI, 8.91 to 11.45); and common fibular nerve assessed at the popliteal fossa (n = 1120; mean, 12.90 mm2; 95% CI, 9.12 to 16.68). Publication bias was suspected, but its influence on the results was minimal.

Discussion

Two hundred thirty mean CSAs from 15 857 adult nerves are included in the meta‐analysis. These are further categorized into 30 groups, based on anatomical location, providing a comprehensive reference for the clinician and researcher investigating adult peripheral nerve anatomy.
Energiespeicher: Aluminium statt Lithium
Authors: Wunderwald Ulrike , von Czarnecki Peter , Eckert Martin , Mukundan Charan , Frisch Gero , Drillet Jean‐François , Fuhrmann Felix , Jach Franziska
Published: December 2022

Lithiumfreie Systeme könnten helfen, den Bedarf an elektrochemischen Energiespeichern zu decken. Aluminium‐Graphit‐Batterien nutzen bieten eine hohe Leistungsdichte und sind langlebig. Sie sind allerdings noch in einer frühen Entwicklungsphase. Es fehlen etwa korrosionsfreie Elektrolyte.
Gefahrguttransport: Von Tallin bis Lissabon
Authors: Berg Patrik
Published: December 2022

Um gefährliche Güter auf der Straße über Grenzen hinweg transportieren zu können, ohne dass sich dabei die Gesetzeslage ändert, gibt es seit 66 Jahren ein internationales Übereinkommen. Was es enthält und wann es angewendet werden muss.
A beam on elastic foundation method for predicting deflection of braced excavations considering uncertainties
Authors: Tang Cong , He Shu‐Yu , Zhou Wan‐Huan
Published: December 2022

Predicting wall deflection is important to provide a critical reference to evaluate the current construction conditions and prevent potential damage risks of adjacent facilities during excavations. This paper presents a combination of a beam on elastic foundation model (BEFM) and the Bayesian framework to realize effective probabilistic predictions of wall deflection at various depths in braced excavations. First, a finite element solving algorithm to calculate wall deflection for the BEFM is developed and incorporated into the Bayesian framework. Next, the most suitable distribution pattern for soil resistance and an appropriate set of uncertain parameters in the BEFM are determined through the application of the Bayesian model selection technique. Meanwhile, the uncertain parameters are updated. A prediction is then made using the optimal model and corresponding posterior probability distributions of the updated parameters at each stage. The parameter updating and prediction process are repeated as additional field observations become available during construction. The performance of the proposed method is examined using a field case study. The results show that this method provides a satisfactory approach to predict both the magnitudes and profile of deflection when considering uncertainties. Additionally, comparisons with a Bayesian updating framework using a surrogate model (i.e., the KJHH model) indicate higher updating efficiency of the developed method.
A C0 interior penalty method for the phase field crystal equation
Authors: Diegel Amanda E. , Sharma Natasha S.
Published: December 2022

We present a C0 interior penalty finite element method for the sixth‐order phase field crystal equation. We demonstrate that the numerical scheme is uniquely solvable, unconditionally energy stable, and convergent. We remark that the novelty of this paper lies in the fact that this is the first C0 interior penalty finite element method developed for the phase field crystal equation. Additionally, the error analysis presented develops a detailed methodology for analyzing time dependent problems utilizing the C0 interior penalty method. We furthermore benchmark our method against numerical experiments previously established in the literature.
A meshfree radial basis function method for simulation of multi‐dimensional conservation problems
Authors: Foy Brody H. , Burrage Kevin , Turner Ian
Published: December 2022

Many computational fluid dynamics problems utilize finite volume frameworks for simulation, due to the simplifications provided by conservative formulation of the driving partial differential equations (PDEs). However, fluid dynamics applications can often involve temporal shifts in the domain structure—such as moving boundaries, or pore structure changes—requiring mesh adaptation throughout computation. These mesh adaptations often render classical numerical methods such as the finite volume method infeasible, due to their reliance on a well‐defined static mesh structure. This limitation has led to the development of a wide variety of meshless methods—techniques that can simulate PDEs without requiring a rigid connective structure between nodes. However, most meshless methods are typically based on finite element or finite difference formulations, and the limited number of meshless finite volume methods (MFVMs) either introduce a weak background mesh, or use weak‐form approximations that do not take full advantage of the strong conservative form of the driving equations. Addressing this gap within this study we outline a meshfree numerical scheme for simulation of partial different equations, based on strong‐form finite volume style formulations. Building upon the previously developed MFVM, this technique uses radial basis functions to interpolate the problem domain, and approximate fluxes in a disjoint finite volume scheme, removing reliance on a mesh structure. We present method derivation, including promising new techniques for enforcing boundary conditions in a meshless environment. Following this we discuss method accuracy and computational performance across a variety of problems in two and three dimensions. We then illustrate how this method may prove beneficial for applications in porous media modeling, and computational fluid dynamics. For completeness, we provide a sensitivity analysis of the method hyper‐parameters and investigate the conservative properties of the method. We also illustrate similarities of this approach to the widely used meshless point collocation methods. We close with a discussion of the strengths, limitations, and broader applicability of the technique.
Implications of deferred diagnosis of paediatric intracranial germ cell tumours
Authors: Partenope Cristina , Pozzobon Gabriella , Weber Giovanna , Carceller Fernando , Albanese Assunta
Published: December 2022

Aims

This study analysed the clinical features of a cohort of children with intracranial germ cell tumours (IC‐GCTs). We retrospectively reviewed timelag between symptoms onset, clinic‐radiological findings, diagnosis and outcomes.

Methods

Symptoms at diagnosis were divided into four groups: (1) raised intracranial pressure (RICP); (2) visual impairment; (3) endocrinopathies; (4) other. Total diagnostic interval (TDI), defined as the interval between symptom onset (including retrospective recall of symptoms) and definitive diagnosis of IC‐GCT, was calculated and compared to survival rates.

Results

Our cohort included 55 children with median follow‐up of 78.9 months (0.5–249.9). The majority (63.6%) had germinomas and 10.9% were metastatic at diagnosis. IC‐GCTs were suprasellar (41.8%), pineal (36.4%), bifocal (12.7%) or in atypical sites (9.1%). The most common presenting symptoms were related to RICP (43.6%); however, by the time of tumour diagnosis, 50.9% of patients had developed endocrine dysfunctions. All pineal GCTs manifested with RICP or visual impairment. All suprasellar GCTs presented with endocrinopathies. TDI ranged between 0.25 and 58.5 months (median 4 months). Pineal GCTs had the shortest TDI (median TDI 1 month versus 24 months in suprasellar GCTs, p < .001). TDI > 6 months was observed in 47.3% of patients and was significantly associated with endocrine presenting symptoms. No statistically significant difference was found in progression‐free survival and overall survival between patients with TDI > 6 months and with TDI ≤ 6 months.

Conclusion

Approximately half of the IC‐GCT patients in this cohort had TDI > 6 months. These presented mostly with endocrine deficits. TDI > 6 months was not associated with increased relapse or mortality rates.
Primary care providers’ comfort in caring for cancer survivors: Implications for risk‐stratified care
Authors: Nekhlyudov Larissa , Snow Craig , Knelson Lauren P. , Dibble Kate E. , Alfano Catherine M. , Partridge Ann H.
Published: December 2022

Personalized, risk‐stratified care aims to “right size” the involvement of primary care providers (PCPs), oncology and specialized practitioners in caring for cancer survivors. Our survey found limited comfort among PCPs in cancer surveillance and management of treatment‐related effects. In hypothetical case scenarios, PCPs reported least comfort in caring for a survivor of childhood cancer, followed by young adult‐onset cancer, and greater comfort in caring for a survivor of adult‐onset breast cancer. While education and training of PCPs is essential, risk‐stratification strategies need to identify patients who may transition to primary care and those who may require ongoing survivorship‐focused follow‐up.
Individual‐level behavioral interventions to support optimal development of children with sickle cell disease: A systematic review
Authors: Hoyt Catherine R , Hurwitz Sadie , Varughese Taniya E , Yaeger Lauren H , King Allison A
Published: December 2022

This review aimed to identify and describe individual‐level behavioral interventions for children 0–18 years of age with sickle cell disease (SCD). PRISMA guidelines were followed at each stage of this review. Twenty‐seven studies were included, representing six intervention types: disease knowledge (n = 7), self‐management (n = 7), pain management (n = 4), school functioning (n = 4), cognitive health (n = 4), and mental health (n = 2). Most interventions targeted older children (5+ years), while only two examined interventions for children 0–3 years. This review suggests that offering education about disease knowledge, self‐management, and pain management interventions can be beneficial for this population. Future research is needed to understand interventions to support young children and the impact of SCD on development.
Microwave absorption and bending properties of three‐dimensional gradient honeycomb woven composites
Authors: Zhang Huawei , Zhou Xinghai , Gao Yuan , Wu Liwei , Lyu Lihua
Published: December 2022

To avoid the narrow absorption bandwidth and delamination in uniform honeycomb composites, three‐dimensional (3D) gradient honeycomb composites were prepared through a vacuum‐assisted resin transfer molding (VARTM) process. The 3D gradient honeycomb woven composite (3D GHWC) was made by using 3D gradient woven fabric with basalt and carbon fibers as reinforcement and epoxy resin mixed with carbon black and carbonyl iron powder as the matrix. For further optimization of the effective absorbing bandwidth and/or reflection loss (RL), especially at a specific incident angle, the type of absorbing agent and gradient honeycomb structure could be altered in the weaving process. The minimum RL value achieved by the 3D GHWC with 18.5‐mm thickness is −47 dB in the C band at a 30° incident angle using an Agilent vector network analyzer. In addition, the bending strength of the 3D GHWC with 18.5‐mm thickness reaches 101.7 MPa by a universal testing machine, which suggests excellent mechanical properties and ultra‐strong environmental adaptability of the 3D GHWC material. This work offers an adjustable method for the fabrication of microwave absorption (MA) composites, showing potential prospects in civilian and military MA applications.
Modification of nanofibrous scaffolds to mimic extracellular matrix in physical and chemical structuring
Authors: Jing Xin , Hu Xiangshu , Feng Peiyong , Liu Yuejun , Yang Jian
Published: December 2022

Regulating the surface chemistry and topography of the scaffolds is an effective way to improve the scaffolds' biocompatibility. A nanofibrous scaffold with topographical and chemical biomimicry to ECM was developed in this study. In which, PCL nanofibrous scaffold was employed as a substrate which was shish‐kebab structured first to provide the topographical similarity with ECM and then coated with polydopamine and arginylglycylaspartic acid (RGD) to endow the chemical biomimicry. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) results confirmed the successful grafting of RGD on the scaffolds. It was proved that the introduced shish‐kebab structure and grafted RGD not only enhanced the surface roughness but also improved the surface wettability of the nanofibrous scaffolds. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) exhibited a more flourishing living state onto the modified scaffolds. Moreover, the present modification method was further employed to graft other bioactive molecules (VEGF) onto the scaffold to further investigate its applicability. HEF1 fibroblast cells displayed great affinity on the modified scaffolds, indicating that the green modification approach was highly feasible to enhance the synthesized scaffolds' biocompatibility, which not only provides topographical similarity but also enhances the chemical biomimicry simultaneously.
Urea‐glutaraldehyde‐formaldehyde resin with low formaldehyde emission and high flexibility: Structure and toughening mechanism
Authors: Dai Changfa , Ye Lin , He Wenjun , Zhao Xiaowen
Published: December 2022

Urea‐formaldehyde (UF) resin with excellent intrinsic flame retardancy, high strength, and low cost has been widely used as adhesives, coatings as well as molding compounds, and it is a challenge to prepare UF resin with combined properties of high toughness/strength and low formaldehyde emissions. In this work, glutaraldehyde was introduced into the synthesis system of UF resin to partially replace formaldehyde, and urea‐glutaraldehyde‐formaldehyde (UGF) copolycondensation resin was prepared. It was found that glutaraldehyde participated in additional/condensation reactions of UF resin, and the crosslinking reaction of UGF resin was hindered with higher curing activation energy than that of neat UF resin. Due to the controllable curing kinetics and introduction of long methylene chains, UGF resin presented relatively low crosslinking density, and under external force, it underwent distinct yielding before fracture and many yield folds appeared on the fractured surface, showing high toughness and strength. Compared with neat UF resin, the tensile strength, elongation at break, impact strength, and critical stress intensity factor (KIC) of UGF resin increased by 26%, 42.30%, 14.6%, and 30%, respectively. Meanwhile, the free formaldehyde emission for UGF resin decreased by 47.5%, meeting the requirement of E0 grade. Such developed eco‐friendly UGF resin exhibited promising application potentials.
Effect of elastomeric nanoparticles as co‐reinforcing agent on rubber composites
Authors: Wang Xiang , Zhou Zhifeng , Qi Guicun , Li Binghai , Song Zhihai , Zhang Xiaohong
Published: December 2022

Elastomeric nanoparticles (ENPs) are rubber nanoparticles that have different effects than carbon black (CB) when added to rubber composites. To further understand the effects of ENPs on rubber composites, the morphologies, viscoelasticity, mechanical properties, and interactions with rubber were carefully studied. The results revealed that ENPs and CB differed in terms of their dispersion states and reinforcing effects on rubber. The addition of ENPs can reduce the free chain ends of rubber composites, which helps reduce the rolling resistance, making it a possible way to develop energy‐saving tires. Compared with current techniques for lowering the free chain ends of vulcanisates, it is easier and simpler to add ENPs to rubber composites. The results also show that ENPs and CB had a synergistic effect on rubber reinforcement. The optimal ENP content, considering the vulcanisate characteristics, was approximately 10 phr.
On the injection molding of thick‐walled thermoplastic vulcanizates: linking static and dynamic mechanical properties with morphology
Authors: Burgoa Aizeti , Arriaga Aitor , Badiola Jon Haitz , Ibarretxe Julen , Iturrondobeitia Maider , Martinez‐Amesti Ana , Vilas Jose Luis
Published: December 2022

Elastomers are widely used in the automotive industry in anti‐vibration components. Commonly, elastomeric anti‐vibration components are made of thermoset rubbers. However, new drivers related to the requirements of the new sustainable mobility industry are pushing towards the substitution of thermoset rubbers by thermoplastic elastomers. Among thermoplastic elastomers, thermoplastic vulcanizates (TPVs) represent an interesting material choice for anti‐vibration products due to their light weight, recyclability, ease of processing by means of injection molding and design flexibility. In this work, the correlation between static and dynamic mechanical properties and the morphology of injection molded thick‐walled TPVs is investigated. Interestingly, when comparing TPVs of different hardnesses, the softest TPV demonstrated an improvement in elastic ability to recover of up to 50% in transverse to flow direction as well as a highly anisotropic viscoelastic behavior. These phenomena are interpreted in terms of the orientation of ethylene‐propylene‐diene particles together with polypropylene crystals and chain alignment observed in microstructural characterization tests. This study opens new opportunities to develop TPV‐based anti‐vibration components with superior elasticity and customizable static and dynamic mechanical properties by considering the anisotropic character of soft TPV materials in product design and development strategies. © 2022 Society of Industrial Chemistry.
Topical Review of Quantum Materials and Heterostructures Studied by Polarized Neutron Reflectometry
Authors: Causer Grace L. , Guasco Laura , Paull Oliver , Cortie David
Published: December 2022

A review of the applications of polarized neutron reflectometry (PNR) for the investigation of quantum materials is provided. Recent studies of superconductors, strongly correlated oxides, hydrogen‐induced modifications, topological insulators and chiral magnets are highlighted. The PNR technique uses a quantum beam of spin‐polarized neutrons to measure the nanomagnetic structure of thin films and heterostructures, with a sensitivity to magnetization at the scale of 10–2000 emu cm−3 and a vertical spatial resolution of 1–500 nm. From simple beginnings studying the magnetic flux penetration at superconducting surfaces, today the PNR technique is widely used for investigating many different types of thin film structures, surfaces, interfaces, and 2D materials. PNR measurements can reveal a number of details about magnetic, electronic, and superconducting properties, in tandem with chemical information including the stoichiometry of light elements such as oxygen and hydrogen.