bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Skin‐color‐independent robust assessment of capillary refill time
Authors: Bachour Raquel P. de Souza , Dias Eduardo Lopes , Cardoso George C.
Published: July 2023

Capillary Refill Time (CRT) assesses peripheral perfusion in resource‐limited settings. However, the repeatability and reproducibility of CRT measurements are limited for individuals with darker skin. This paper presents quantitative CRT measurements demonstrating good performance and repeatability across all Fitzpatrick skin phototypes. The study involved 22 volunteers and utilized controlled compression at 7 kPa, an RGB video camera, and cocircular polarized white LED light. CRT was determined by calculating the time constant of an exponential regression applied to the mean pixel intensity of the green (G) channel. An adaptive algorithm identifies the optimal regression region for noise reduction, and flags inappropriate readings. The results indicate that 80% of the CRT readings fell within a 20% range of the expected CRT value. The repetition standard deviation was 17%. These findings suggest the potential for developing reliable and reproducible quantitative CRT methods for robust measurements in patient triage, monitoring, and telehealth applications.
Photophysics of tzAdenine and tzGuanine fluorescent nucleobases embedded into DNA and RNA
Authors: Beal Roiney , Valverde Danillo , Gonçalvez Paulo F. B. , Borin Antonio Carlos
Published: July 2023

UV–VIS photoinduced events of tzA and tzG embedded into DNA and RNA are described by combining the Extended Multi‐State Second‐Order Perturbation Theory (XMS‐CASPT2) and electrostatic embedding molecular mechanics methods (QM/MM). Our results point out that the S1 1(ππ* La) state is the bright state in both environments. After the photoexcitation to the S1 1(ππ* La) state, the electronic population evolves barrierless towards its minimum, from where the excess of energy can be dissipated by fluorescence. As the minimum energy crossing point structure between the ground and first bright states lies in a high‐energy region, the direct internal conversion to the ground state is an unviable mechanism. Other spectroscopic properties (for instance, absorption and Stokes shifts) and comparisons with photochemical properties of canonical nucleobases are also provided.
Promoting effect ofN2calcination onFeCeOxfor selective catalytic reduction ofNOxwithNH3
Authors: Xie Lijuan , Du Kenan , Ren Sihan , Liu Fudong , Deng Yun , Ruan Wenquan
Published: July 2023

BACKGROUND

Selective catalytic reduction of NOxwith NH3(NH3‐SCR) technology is effective for NOxremoval. Acidity and redox ability are two significant characteristics for NH3‐SCR catalysts. This study investigated the effects of N2calcination on the NH3‐SCR performance of FeCeOx, inspired by the promotion of active oxygen species with inert atmosphere calcination. The structure‐activity relationship and reaction mechanism of the two catalysts (Fe9CeOx‐N2and Fe9CeOx‐air) were concluded based on the results of characterization.

RESULTS

Fe9CeOx‐N2showed better NOxconversion and SO2resistance than Fe9CeOx‐air, especially in low and medium temperature range. For fresh catalysts, a higher amount of Oα, Fe3+and Ce3+promoted the redox ability of Fe9CeOx‐N2, and further improved the NOxadsorption and activation. Additionally, the greater number of acid sites of Fe9CeOx‐N2was another reason for its competitive performance. For SO2‐poisoned catalysts, the primary reaction pathway was the reaction between pre‐adsorbed NH3species and NOx. The higher amount of acidity from metal sulfate contributed to its better SO2tolerance of Fe9CeOx‐N2.

CONCLUSION

Higher redox ability and acidity led to better NH3‐SCR activity and SO2tolerance of Fe9CeOx‐N2. This study provides a feasible preparation method for enhancing the NOxconversion and SO2tolerance of NH3‐SCR catalysts. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Synthesis, characterization, anti‐proliferative evaluation, and molecular docking study of some new N‐(1, 3‐dioxoisoindolin‐4‐yl)acetamide derivatives
Authors: Narode Hanuman , Gayke Manoj , Bhosale Rajesh S. , Kharat Kiran R. , Pawar Rajendra , Yadav Jhillu Singh
Published: July 2023

A series of new N‐(1,3‐dioxoisoindolin‐4‐yl)acetamide derivatives were designed and synthesized via a condensation reaction between N‐(1,3‐dioxo‐1,3‐dihydro isobenzofuran‐4‐yl)acetamide and various aliphatic and aromatic amines in water as an environmentally friendly solvent. All synthesized compounds (NPD 1–14) molecular structure was confirmed by their FTIR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and mass spectroscopy. The final target compounds were screened for their in vitro antiproliferative activity by taking 5‐Fluorouracil (5‐FU) as a reference drug. Among 14 newly synthesized compounds, five compounds were shown to be effectively cytotoxic against the MCF7 cells. In comparison to the standard medication drug 5‐FU (CC50 = 11.219 ± 0.847), the synthesized compounds NPD‐8 (CC50 = 16.14 ± 2.08 μM) and NPD‐12 (CC50 = 11.26 ± 1.158 μM) demonstrated the most active against the MCF7 cells. Furthermore, in silico study was performed to find molecular level interaction of active compounds with anticancer drug target enzyme NUDT5 inhibitors block hormone signaling in breast cancer cells. The compound NPD‐12 showed the highest molecular binding energy −8.3 kcal/mol which interacted more effectively than the reference drug 5‐FU binding energy −4.6 kcal/mol. These synthesized N‐(1,3‐dioxoisoindolin‐4‐yl) acetamide derivatives have been identified as a potential class of chemicals for further research as plausible new anticancer entities.
RNA‐binding motif protein 24 inhibits HBV replication in vivo
Authors: Yao Yong‐Xuan , Chen Yingshan , Huang Dan , Liu Canyu , Sun Hao , Zhou Yuan , Pei Rongjuan , Wang Yun , Wen Zhe , Yang Bo , Chen Xinwen
Published: July 2023

Despite the extensive use of effective vaccines and antiviral drugs, chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection continues to pose a serious threat to global public health. Therapies with novel mechanisms of action against HBV are being explored for achieving a functional cure. In this study, five murine models of HBV replication were used to investigate the inhibitory effect of RNA binding motif protein 24 (RBM24) on HBV replication. The findings revealed that RBM24 serves as a host restriction factor and suppresses HBV replication in vivo. The transient overexpression of RBM24 in hydrodynamics‐based mouse models of HBV replication driven by the CMV or HBV promoters suppressed HBV replication. Additionally, the ectopic expression of RBM24 decreased viral accumulation and the levels of HBV covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) in an rcccDNA mouse model. The liver‐directed transduction of adeno‐associated viruses (AAV)‐RBM24 mediated the stable hepatic expression of RBM24 in pAAV‐HBV1.2 and HBV/tg mouse models, and markedly reduced the levels of HBV cccDNA and other viral indicators. Altogether, these findings revealed that RBM24 inhibits the replication of HBV in vivo, and RBM24 may be a potential therapeutic target for combating HBV infections.
Interactions of zinc with phytate and phytase in the digestive tract of poultry and pigs: a review
Authors: Philippi Hanna , Sommerfeld Vera , Windisch Wilhelm , Olukosi Oluyinka Abiona , Monteiro Alessandra , Rodehutscord Markus
Published: July 2023

Phytase supplementation is gaining importance in animal nutrition because of its effect on phosphorus (P) digestibility and the increasing relevance of P for sustainable production. The potential inhibitors of phytase efficacy and phytate degradation, such as calcium (Ca) and zinc (Zn), have been a subject of intense research. This review focuses on the interactions of Zn with phytate and phytase in the digestive tract of poultry and pigs, with an emphasis on the effects of Zn supplementation on phytase efficacy and P digestibility. In vitro studies have shown the inhibitory effect of Zn on phytase efficacy. However, relevant in vivo studies are scarce and do not show consistent results for poultry and pigs. The results could be influenced by different factors, such as diet composition, amount of Zn supplement, mineral concentrations, and phytase supplementation, which limit the comparability of studies. The chosen response criteria to measure phytase efficacy, which is mainly tibia ash, could also influence the results. Compared to poultry, the literature findings are somewhat more conclusive in pigs, where pharmacological Zn doses (≥ 1000 mg kg−1 Zn) appear to reduce P digestibility. To appropriately evaluate the effects of non‐pharmacological Zn doses, further studies are needed that provide comprehensive information on their experimental setup and include measurements of gastrointestinal phytate degradation to better understand the mechanisms associated with Zn and phytase supplements. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Establishment and application of characteristic degradation fingerprint for the quality control of Compound Banlangen Granules polysaccharides
Authors: Liu Dan , Liu Jinbao , Li Xinke , Zhang Yu , Bai Ligai , Guo Huaizhong
Published: July 2023

Compound Chinese medicine preparation is a complex multi‐component system. The traditional methods such as physicochemical identification and quantification of several main index components cannot provide adequate quality evaluation for Compound Banlangen Granules. The objective of this work was to establish a characteristic degradation fingerprint of Compound Banlangen Granules polysaccharides, and the reference fingerprint was obtained from the model samples prepared using prescription medicinal herbs from different origins. The partial degradation products of Compound Banlangen Granules polysaccharides were profiled by capillary zone electrophoresis, and the quality difference of polysaccharides of these preparations was compared by cluster analysis and principal component analysis. It was found that the contents and the characteristic degradation fingerprints of the polysaccharides from 25 batches of Compound Banlangen Granules of 17 manufacturers were significantly different. The quality of Compound Banlangen Granules polysaccharides was evaluated by the characteristic degradation fingerprint tool with satisfactory results. The present method provides a reference for the quality control strategy development of polysaccharides in other compound Chinese medicine preparations.
The Effectiveness of Ultraviolet Smart D60 in Reducing Contamination of Flexible Fiberoptic Laryngoscopes
Authors: Ezeh Uche C. , Achlatis Efstratios , Crosby Tyler , Kwak Paul E. , Phillips Michael S. , Amin Milan R.
Published: July 2023

Objective

To compare the effectiveness of disinfection protocols utilizing a ultraviolet (UV) Smart D60 light system with Impelux™ technology with a standard Cidex ortho‐phthalaldehyde (OPA) disinfection protocol for cleaning flexible fiberoptic laryngoscopes (FFLs).

Methods

Two hundred FFLs were tested for bacterial contamination after routine use, and another 200 FFLs were tested after disinfection with one of four methods: enzymatic detergent plus Cidex OPA (standard), enzymatic detergent plus UV Smart D60, microfiber cloth plus UV Smart D60, and nonsterile wipe plus UV Smart D60. Pre‐ and post‐disinfection microbial burden levels and positive culture rates were compared using Kruskal‐Wallis ANOVA and Fisher's two‐sided exact, respectively.

Results

After routine use, approximately 56% (112/200) of FFLs were contaminated, with an average contamination level of 9,973.7 ± 70,136.3 CFU/mL. The standard reprocessing method showed no positive cultures. The enzymatic plus UV, microfiber plus UV, and nonsterile wipe plus UV methods yielded contamination rates of 4% (2/50), 6% (3/50), and 12% (6/50), respectively, with no significant differences among the treatment groups (p > 0.05). The pre‐disinfection microbial burden levels decreased significantly after each disinfection technique (p < 0.001). The average microbial burden recovered after enzymatic plus UV, microfiber plus UV, and nonsterile wipe plus UV were 0.40 CFU/mL ± 2, 0.60 CFU/mL ± 2.4, and 12.2 CFU/mL ± 69.5, respectively, with no significant difference among the treatment groups (p > 0.05). Micrococcus species (53.8%) were most frequently isolated, and no high‐concern organisms were recovered.

Conclusion

Disinfection protocols utilizing UV Smart D60 were as effective as the standard chemical disinfection protocol using Cidex OPA.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 133:3512–3519, 2023
Coding of real‐valued continuous functions under WKL$\mathsf {WKL}$
Authors: Kawai Tatsuji
Published: July 2023

In the context of constructive reverse mathematics, we show that weak Kőnig's lemma () implies that every pointwise continuous function is induced by a code in the sense of reverse mathematics. This, combined with the fact that implies the Fan theorem, shows that implies the uniform continuity theorem: every pointwise continuous function has a modulus of uniform continuity. Our results are obtained in Heyting arithmetic in all finite types with quantifier‐free axiom of choice.
The double‐edged role of neutrophil heterogeneity in inflammatory diseases and cancers
Authors: Zhou Wencheng , Cao Xinran , Xu Qiang , Qu Jiao , Sun Yang
Published: July 2023

Neutrophils are important immune cells act as the body's first line of defense against infection and respond to diverse inflammatory cues. Many studies have demonstrated that neutrophils display plasticity in inflammatory diseases and cancers. Clarifying the role of neutrophil heterogeneity in inflammatory diseases and cancers will contribute to the development of novel treatment strategies. In this review, we have presented a review on the development of the understanding on neutrophil heterogeneity from the traditional perspective and a high‐resolution viewpoint. A growing body of evidence has confirmed the double‐edged role of neutrophils in inflammatory diseases and tumors. This may be due to a lack of precise understanding of the role of specific neutrophil subsets in the disease. Thus, elucidating specific neutrophil subsets involved in diseases would benefit the development of precision medicine. Thusly, we have summarized the relevance and actions of neutrophil heterogeneity in inflammatory diseases and cancers comprehensively. Meanwhile, we also discussed the potential intervention strategy for neutrophils. This review is intended to deepen our understanding of neutrophil heterogeneity in inflammatory diseases and cancers, while hold promise for precise treatment of neutrophil‐related diseases.
A de novo variant of BICRA results in Coffin–Siris syndrome 12
Authors: Tu Youquan , Fang Chunyan , Xu Jian , Zhou Yun , Liang Mengmeng , Yang Zuozhen
Published: July 2023

Background

BICRA, a transcript regulator, was identified as the genetic factor of Coffin–Siris syndrome 12 (CSS12) recently, which was characterized by diverse neurodevelopmental delays. Up to now, limited studies of BICRA in neurodevelopmental delay have been reported.

Methods

Clinical data such as EEGs, MRIs, routine blood, and physical examination were collected. Trio whole exome sequencing (WES) of the family was performed, and all variants with a minor allele frequency (<0.01) in exon and canonical splicing sites were selected for further pathogenic evaluation. Candidate variants were validated by Sanger sequencing. The BICRA‐related literature was reviewed and the clinical characteristics were summarized.

Results

We reported a CSS12 proband with a narrow and slightly clinical phenotype who only exhibited language developmental delay, hypotonia, and slight gastrointestinal features. WES revealed a de novo variant in exon 6 of BICRA [NM_015711.3: c.1666C>T, p.Gln556*]. This variant resulted in an early translation termination at 556th of BICRA, not collected in the public population database (gnomAD), and classified as pathogenic according to the ACMG guideline.

Conclusion

Our results expanded the pathogenic genetic and clinical spectrum of BICRA‐related diseases.
Dual‐band coaperture 4G/5G base station antenna array with low scattering elements
Authors: Su Guosheng , Liu Peitao , Yang Wanchen , Xue Quan , Jia Feifei , Li Mingchao , Jiang Wen , Che Wenquan
Published: July 2023

A kite‐shaped low‐band (LB) element loaded with mushroom‐shaped structure is proposed. The element has a bandpass characteristic for the electromagnetic wave within the frequency range of 3.4–3.8 GHz and can reduce the influence on the high‐band (HB) antenna in the dual‐band coaperture antenna. The LB elements operating in the 0.698–0.96 GHz frequency band are embedded in the massive multiple input, multiple output (MIMO) antenna. One prototype of the coaperture antenna is fabricated for demonstration. The measured results show that the pattern distortion of most of the antenna ports of the HB antenna is very small after adding the LB antenna. The maximum gain deviation of the traffic beam scanning within the range of ±60° is less than 0.57 dB, indicating that the LB element can effectively suppress scattering and is suitable for multiband coaperture base‐station antenna.
Radiation performance improvement for wideband patch antenna by using characteristic mode analysis
Authors: Cao Yufan , Li Sen , Cai Yang , Wu Tao
Published: July 2023

A novel method is proposed to achieve radiation performance improvement for patch antennas by using characteristic mode analysis (CMA). In our previous work, a microstrip patch antenna composed of a driven patch and parasitic square patches was presented to realize wideband performance. To improve the radiation performance, the parasitic patches are replaced with split ring resonators (SRRs). Compared with the previous antenna, the unwanted higher‐order modes of the proposed antenna are effectively suppressed based on the simulated results of CMA, leading to good radiation performance. Meanwhile, wideband performance is maintained as well. Simulated results indicate that these two antennas share similar wide bandwidth more than 30%. However, the gains at the higher resonant frequency for these two antennas are 10.8 and 11.75 dBi, respectively. Finally, measured results show that the bandwidth of SRR loaded antenna is from 10.5 to 15.3 GHz, and the gain varies from 8 to 11.5 dBi across the operating bandwidth.
How registrars can boost student retention
Authors: D’Orio Wayne
Published: July 2023

AURORA, COLORADO — These days, your car can warn you when you’re leaving your lane or another vehicle is encroaching. Your phone might be able to detect if you were in an accident, and even Netflix will take a shot at guessing what show you might want to watch next.
5 questions with: Meaghan Milliorn of University of Arkansas at Little Rock
Authors: Talarico Donna
Published: July 2023

On occasion, our marketing column will profile a communications professional via a “5 questions with” feature to give you an inside look at what's happening in departments like yours.
Thalassemia‐related complications in pediatric, adolescent, and young adult patients with transfusion‐dependent thalassemia: A multicenter study in Thailand
Authors: Surapolchai Pacharapan , Songdej Duantida , Hantaweepant Chattree , Tantiworawit Adisak , Charoenkwan Pimlak , Lauhasurayotin Supanun , Torcharus Kitti , Sripornsawan Pornpun , Sutcharitchan Pranee , Konwilaisak Patcharee , Saengboon Supawee , Pongtanakul Bunchoo , Teawtrakul Nattiya ,   the Red Blood Cell Disorders Study Group
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Management of transfusion‐dependent thalassemia (TDT) can be challenging due to numerous potential disease‐related complications and comorbidities in particular age groups. The objective of this study was to report thalassemia‐related complications and risk factors in pediatric, adolescent, and young adult patients with TDT.

Methods

A multicenter web‐based registry was conducted in patients with TDT aged 25 years and younger from eight university hospitals covering all parts of Thailand. Factors significantly associated with each complication were analyzed by logistic regression methods.

Results

Of 605 patients, 267 thalassemia‐related complications were reported from 231 pediatric, adolescent, and young adult patients with TDT patients (38.2%). The most common complications were infections, followed by cholelithiasis and growth failure. Splenectomy and elevated pre‐transfusion hemoglobin were statistically significant risk factors for infections (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 2.3, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.2–4.5, p‐value = .01 and AOR = 1.5, 95% CI: 1.2–1.7, p‐value < .005, respectively). There were two statistically significant risk factors conferred endocrinopathies, including older age (AOR = 1.06, 95% CI: 1.01–1.1, p‐value = .01) and being male (AOR = 2.4, 95% CI: 1.4–4.0, p‐value = .002).

Conclusion

Nearly 40% of the patients in this cohort had thalassemia‐related complications. Periodic surveillance and optimal care for respective complications may minimize comorbidities in pediatric, adolescent, and young adult patients with TDT.
Hybrid reinforced effect of long carbon fiber and short glass fiber on polycarbonate foams
Authors: Zhou Ying‐Guo , Zhang Ying‐Long
Published: July 2023

Because of advantages such as remarkable mechanical properties and the ease of recycling, fiber‐reinforced thermoplastic polymer composites have been increasing in importance in industrial, transport, and sporting potential extraordinary applications. To fabricate polycarbonate (PC) components with lightweight and high mechanical properties, short glass fiber (SGF), long carbon fiber (LCF) reinforcement, and foaming technology were used in this study. The effects of SGF, LCF, and SGF/LCF on the mechanical properties and foaming quality of PC samples were carefully investigated and compared. The results show that SGF has a better foaming nucleation effect than LCF, and the mechanical enhancement effect of LCF is more significant than that of SGF. The combination of SGF and LCF can effectively improve the cell quality of foam samples and significantly enhance their mechanical properties. Therefore, a comprehensive application of the fiber‐reinforcement effect of PC resin is proposed.

Highlights

LCF and SGF reinforced PC foams have been successfully fabricated.

Hybrid reinforced effect of LCF and SGF on PC foams was verified.
Quality evaluation of Hawk tea from different months and regions based on quantitative analysis of multiple components with a single marker (QAMS) combined with HPLC fingerprint
Authors: Luo Juan , Cao Wei‐guo , Yu Bao , Chen Huan , Wu Ying‐qin , Li Yang‐hong , Pu Xi‐yu , Zhong Xue , Zhang Dan
Published: July 2023

Background

Hawk tea, a medicinal and edible plant, has been consumed for thousands of years in Southwest China. To date, no unified food safety standard for Hawk tea has been established, and systematic research on the quality of Hawk tea is lacking.

Objective

The aim of this study was to develop a comprehensive evaluation method for the quality of Hawk tea based on inclusions content, high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) fingerprinting combined with the quantitative analysis of multiple components with a single marker (QAMS) method.

Methods

The contents of total flavonoids, total phenols, total polysaccharides, and total protein were determined using the colorimetric method. An effective comprehensive evaluation method was established to classify the 16 batches of samples based on HPLC fingerprint analysis combined with similarity analysis (SA), hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA), principal component analysis (PCA), partial least‐squares discrimination analysis (PLS‐DA), and the QAMS method.

Results

Flavonoids were the main chemical components of Hawk tea. The accuracy of the QAMS method was verified by comparing the calculated results with those of the external standard method (ESM). No significant differences were found between the two methods. Additionally, the fingerprint of Hawk tea was also established.

Conclusion

The method established in this study can be used for the comprehensive quality evaluation of Hawk tea and can also provide a reference for the quality evaluation of other herbal medicines.
The influence of perceptual and semantic chunking on the neural mechanism of remote association
Authors: Sun Tie , Xiao Feng , Liang Pei‐Peng , Luo Jing
Published: July 2023

Studies on remote association tests (RATs) have mainly focused on cognitive processes involved in searching for remote associations. However, factors affecting these search processes and remote associations remain unclear. In order to address this issue, this study compared non‐chunking condition (e.g., “哲/财/由”) with perceptual chunking (two red color characters in the three‐character item “哲/财/由”) and semantic chunking (high‐frequency word‐pair in the item; e.g., “哲/学/由”, “哲学,” literally “philosophy”) conditions in the Chinese Remote Association Test (CRAT). The behavioral results on the CRAT found that the semantic ones resulted in significantly lower successful solving rates and longer response times than the other two conditions. The event‐related potential (ERP) results showed that in contrast to the perceptual‐chunking and the non‐chunking condition, the semantic‐chunking elicited enhanced P200, which might be related to the intuitive awareness of the mental fixation. However, relative to the non‐chunking condition, the two chunking conditions evoked increased N400 and late positive component (LPC), indexing the late reflection and implementation of cognitive control. Our results suggest that it is the early awareness of the semantic chunk, rather than the general cognitive control process involved in representing and solving the semantically and perceptually chunk‐induced interferences, that critically determines the final solving of RATs.
The effects of HeartMath Heart Lock‐In on elementary students' HRV and self‐reported emotion regulation skills
Authors: Bearden Anomi G. , van Oostrom Sanne , Brown Stephen B. R. E.
Published: July 2023

It is important to address social and emotional concerns early on, as they can adversely affect learning at all levels. The classroom is an ideal context for fostering healthy social and emotional development. For example, emotion regulation can be reinforced through simple daily practices within schools. The current applied research project was in collaboration with multiple community partners and assessed the effectiveness of a classroom‐based HeartMath practice (Heart Lock‐In) on resting heart rate variability (HRV) and self‐reported emotional benefits in elementary students. This repeated‐measures study was conducted in central Alberta, Canada, in 2020 and involved obtaining pre–post HRV measurements from N = 24 grade five students who participated in a teacher‐led 5‐min Heart Lock‐In (like loving‐kindness—radiating love to oneself and others) daily for 4 weeks. We hypothesized that the practice would increase resting HRV compared to a 4‐week relaxation control. Qualitative questions were included to capture perceptions of the utility and impact of the practice. Univariate analysis of variance revealed that the HeartMath intervention significantly increased HRV compared to the relaxation control. Students reported enhanced emotional stability, feeling more positive about themselves, and improved interpersonal relationships. They expressed that the practice gives them better focus, which helps us to improve their performance (e.g., in academics and athletics). These findings provide evidence that a simple and short HeartMath ER practice can be practical for school educators, administrators, and counselors to implement in the classroom.
Graduate migration, partisanship, and city preferences: An experimental approach to place‐consonant migration decisions
Authors: Ewers Michael , Shockley Bethany
Published: July 2023

How do university students evaluate prospective jobs in different cities after graduation? While the literature has identified drivers of graduate migration, research has yet to account for the role of individual social and political attitudes in shaping destination preferences. Using a conjoint survey experiment, this paper introduces the concept of place‐consonant migration to describe the desire for proximity to like‐minded communities with respect to political partisanship. Building on research that has established the utility of experiments in evaluating complex migration decision‐making, we provided University of North Carolina at Charlotte undergraduate students with hypothetical job packages to consider upon graduation which combined the city names with randomised levels of income and amenity factors. Adapting to rapidly changing social and political dynamics, we conducted the experiment across three cross‐sections of students to capture the potential impact of the Covid‐19 pandemic and other social and political developments on the migration decisions of college graduates. The analysis demonstrates how place characteristics combine with individual partisan attitudes to produce place‐consonant migration preferences among students. Moreover, by conducting multiple waves of our experiment during contemporaneous social and political events, our results show that place‐consonant preferences change over time.
The contribution of a mesoscale cyclone and associated meteotsunami to the exceptional flood in Venice on November 12, 2019
Authors: Ferrarin Christian , Orlić Mirko , Bajo Marco , Davolio Silvio , Umgiesser Georg , Lionello Piero
Published: July 2023

On November 12, 2019, an exceptional flood event took place in Venice, second only to the one that occurred on November 4, 1966. The sea level reached a peak value of 1.89 m above the local datum determining the flooding of almost 90% of the pedestrian surface of the historical city. Several processes concurred to raise the water level in Venice and the northern Adriatic Sea on November 12, 2019. Among these, a fast‐moving mesoscale cyclone travelled at about 12 m s in the northwestward direction over the northern Adriatic Sea, raising the sea levels at the shore in front of the Lagoon of Venice. High‐resolution numerical simulations indicated that atmosphere–ocean resonance occurred on November 12, 2019, generating a meteotsunami‐like wave that contributed significantly to the extreme sea level in Venice. The relative contributions of the wind and air pressure to the peak sea level were also estimated. Additional numerical experiments were performed to prove the occurrence of Proudman resonance and to determine a transfer function of such high‐frequency sea‐level perturbations for the Lagoon of Venice.
Convective systems and rainfall in East Africa
Authors: Hill Peter G. , Stein Thorwald H. M. , Cafaro Carlo
Published: July 2023

East Africa is particularly vulnerable to weather extremes, with severe weather linked to thousands of deaths per year. Improved forecasts of convective events in this region are urgently needed, from both nowcasting and numerical weather prediction models. Improving these forecasts requires further knowledge of convection in this region. This study aims to improve understanding of convective events in East Africa, based on a six‐year climatology of convective life cycles and the associated precipitation. Convective systems are identified as contiguous areas of cold cloud in geostationary satellite measurements over East Africa. A tracking algorithm is used to trace the evolution of the properties of these systems through time and space. Matching the systems to surface precipitation obtained from satellite microwave observations provides insight into how the life cycles of these systems relate to precipitation at the surface. Over the region as a whole, 59% of the accumulated precipitation can be attributed to the tracked convective systems. The majority (81%) of heavy precipitation events (10 mmhr−1) are attributable to convective systems, while light rainfall events (1 mmhr−1) are not (1.8%). Most of the tracked convective systems have an area less than 400 km2 and last for less than an hour. However, the less frequent larger longer‐lived systems produce the majority of the regional accumulated precipitation. Composite life cycles of the tracked systems show rapid intensification and the heaviest precipitation initially, followed by a steady increase in area and weakening in intensity before the system decays. Finally, the Madden–Julian oscillation, which plays a key role in intraseasonal rainfall variability in the region, is also linked to the amount of rainfall due to convective systems through changes in the frequency and properties of these systems.
Quantum Attacks on Type‐1 Generalized Feistel Schemes
Authors: Sun Hong‐Wei , Cai Bin‐Bin , Qin Su‐Juan , Wen Qiao‐Yan , Gao Fei
Published: July 2023

Generalized Feistel schemes (GFSs) are extremely important and extensively researched cryptographic schemes. In this paper, the security of Type‐1 GFS in quantum circumstances is investigated. On the one hand, in the qCCA setting, a new quantum polynomial‐time distinguisher on ‐round Type‐1 GFS with branches is given, which extends the previous results by rounds. This leads to a more efficient analysis of type‐1 GFS, that is, the complexity of some previous key‐recovery attacks is reduced by a factor of , wherekis the key length of the internal round function. On the other hand, for CAST‐256, which is a certain block cipher based on Type‐1 GFS, a 17‐round quantum distinguisher in the qCPA setting is given. Based on this, an ‐round quantum key‐recovery attack with complexity is constructed.
Did court dismiss student's Title IX claim?
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: July 2023

A Utah Valley University student was sexually assaulted by a University of Utah football player whom she  knew through mutual friends.
Statistical modeling of diabetic neuropathy: Exploring the dynamics of nerve mortality
Authors: Konstantinou Konstantinos , Ghorbanpour Farnaz , Picchini Umberto , Loavenbruck Adam , Särkkä Aila
Published: July 2023

Diabetic neuropathy is a disorder characterized by impaired nerve function and reduction of the number of epidermal nerve fibers per epidermal surface. Additionally, as neuropathy related nerve fiber loss and regrowth progresses over time, the two‐dimensional spatial arrangement of the nerves becomes more clustered. These observations suggest that with development of neuropathy, the spatial pattern of diminished skin innervation is defined by a thinning process which remains incompletely characterized. We regard samples obtained from healthy controls and subjects suffering from diabetic neuropathy as realisations of planar point processes consisting of nerve entry points and nerve endings, and propose point process models based on spatial thinning to describe the change as neuropathy advances. Initially, the hypothesis that the nerve removal occurs completely at random is tested using independent random thinning of healthy patterns. Then, a dependent parametric thinning model that favors the removal of isolated nerve trees is proposed. Approximate Bayesian computation is used to infer the distribution of the model parameters, and the goodness‐of‐fit of the models is evaluated using both non‐spatial and spatial summary statistics. Our findings suggest that the nerve mortality process changes as neuropathy advances.
Wood Lamella‐Inspired Photothermal Stearic Acid‐Eutectic Gallium‐Indium‐Based Phase Change Aerogel for Thermal Management and Infrared Stealth
Authors: Wei Zechang , Zhang Yaoxin , Cai Chenyang , Qu Hao , Fu Yu , Tan Swee Ching
Published: July 2023

Eutectic Gallium‐Indium (EGaIn) liquid metal is an emerging phase change metal material, but its low phase transition enthalpy and low light absorption limit its application in photothermal phase change energy storage materials (PCMs) field. Here, based on the dipole layer mechanism, stearic acid (STA)‐EGaIn‐based PCMs which exhibit extraordinary solar‐thermal performance and phase change enthalpy are fabricated by ball milling method. The wood lamella‐inspired cellulose‐derived aerogel and molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) are used to support the PCMs by the capillary force and decrease the interfacial thermal resistance. The resulted PCMs achieved excellent photothermal conversion performance and leakage proof. They  have excellent thermal conductivity of 0.31 W m−1 K−1(this is increased by 138% as compared with pure STA), and high phase change enthalpy of187.50 J g−1, which is higher than the most of the reported PCMs. Additionally, the thermal management system and infrared stealth materials based on the PCMs are developed. This work provides a new way to fabricate smart EGaIn‐based PCMs for energy storage device thermal management and infrared stealth.
Effect of Transition Metal Dichalcogenide Based Confinement Layers on the Performance of Phase‐Change Heterostructure Memory
Authors: Kim Tae Ho , Park Seung Woo , Lee Ho Jin , Kim Dong Hyun , Choi Jun Young , Kim Tae Geun
Published: July 2023

Phase‐change random‐access memory is a promising non‐volatile memory technology. However repeated phase‐change operations can cause durability issues owing to defects formed by long‐distance atom diffusion. To mitigate these issues, phase‐change heterostructure (PCH) devices with confinement material (CM) layers based on transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) such as TiTe2 have been proposed. This study implements PCH devices with additional TMDs, including NiTe2 and MoTe2, alongside TiTe2, and analyzes their characteristics by examining the differences in the CM layers. The results show that the NiTe2‐based PCH device demonstrates a RESET current of 1.4 mA, 38% lower than that of the TiTe2‐based device, enabling low‐power operation. Furthermore, the MoTe2‐based PCH device exhibits a cycling endurance exceeding 107 cycles, a five‐fold improvement in durability compare with the TiTe2‐based device. The performance differences observe in each PCH device can be attributed to the variation in the material properties, such as the cohesive energy and electrical conductivity, of the TMDs used as the CM layer. These results provide critical clues to improve the performance and reliability of conventional PCH memory devices.
Clamps and saddles – Part 1: Refined design approaches
Authors: Eltvik Liv , Haspel Lorenz , Misiek Thomas
Published: July 2023

The article presents the current status of the revision of EN 1993‐1‐11 with regard to the design of saddles and clamps for ropes or for parallel wire tension components for suspended structures. The focus here is on presenting a general approach for clamps. For saddles, emphasis is on types where the slip resistance is – in addition to the component from deviation forces – increased by clamping forces, although general aspects are also covered. The starting point is a (retrospective) look at the provisions in national standards and guidelines as well as in the current version of EN 1993‐1‐11 (2006). Subsequently, the new provisions are presented, and the different new coefficients are explained in detail.
Research on Electromagnetic Dynamics Algorithm of Reluctance Launcher during Acceleration Process
Authors: Mengkun Lu , Junhong Zhang , Xianglie Yi , Li Da
Published: July 2023

The structure of the reluctance electromagnetic launcher (REML) is equivalent to an inductor with a movable iron core. The dynamic current in the launching process is easy to be measured by instruments, but the data such as the position, velocity of the projectile and the equivalent inductance are not only difficult to solve by analytical methods, but also difficult to measure by instruments, which seriously hinders the development of the control technology. To solve this problem, referring to the method of introducing the inductance matrix into the motor algorithm model to realize semi‐analytic calculation, a special algorithm model is proposed to calculate the launch process data of REML based on the current data. According to the working characteristics of the reluctance coil transmitter, it is pointed out that its inductance matrix should be specifically expressed as a three‐dimensional data table rather than a traditional two‐dimensional table. The current can be obtained by closed‐loop calculation according to the proposed algorithm block diagram when the circuit parameters are known, or measured by instruments when the circuit parameters are unknown, and then the launch process data is obtained indirectly through calculation. In this study, an experimental platform was built, and the algorithm model was established using MATLAB/Simulink. The comparison of the dynamic launch process data of the finite element method (FEM) showed that the method was feasible. © 2023 Institute of Electrical Engineer of Japan and Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Electronic Health Records as Source of Research Data
Authors: Wang Wenjuan , Ferrari Davide , Haddon-Hill Gabriel , Curcin Vasa
Published: July 2023

Electronic health records (EHRs) are the collection of all digitalized information regarding individual’s health. EHRs are not only the base for storing clinical information for archival purposes, but they are also the bedrock on which clinical research and data science thrive. In this chapter, we describe the main aspects of good quality EHR systems, and some of the standard practices in their implementation, to then conclude with details and reflections on their governance and private management.
Machine Learning and Brain Imaging for Psychiatric Disorders: New Perspectives
Authors: Brossollet Ivan , Gallet Quentin , Favre Pauline , Houenou Josselin
Published: July 2023

Psychiatric disorders include a broad panel of heterogeneous conditions. Among the most severe psychiatric diseases, in intensity and incidence, depression will affect 15–20% of the population in their lifetime, schizophrenia 0.7–1%, and bipolar disorder 1–2.5%. Today, the diagnosis is solely based on clinical evaluation, causing major issues since it is subjective and as different diseases can present similar symptoms. These limitations in diagnosis lead to limitations in the classification of psychiatric diseases and treatments. There is therefore a great need for new biomarkers, usable at an individual level. Among them, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) allows to measure potential brain abnormalities in patients with psychiatric disorders. This creates datasets with high dimensionality and very subtle variations between healthy subjects and patients, making machine and statistical learning ideal tools to extract biomarkers from these data. Machine learning brings different tools that could be useful to tackle these issues. On the one hand, supervised learning can support automated classification between different psychiatric conditions. On the other hand, unsupervised learning could allow the identification of new homogeneous subgroups of patients, refining our understanding of the classification of these disorders. In this chapter, we will review current research applying machine learning tools to brain imaging in psychiatry, and we will discuss its interest, limitations, and future applications.
Discretion, Automation, and Proportionality
Authors: Enqvist Lena , Naarttijärvi Markus
Published: July 2023

This contribution examines the relationship between automation, discretion, and proportionality. It argues that automation efforts in public administration need to be further discussed and analyzed in relation to requirements of proportionality flowing from both national and European law, as the principle carries important implications for both the implementation of automated systems and the responsibilities of decision-makers within those systems. The different facets of proportionality flowing from, inter alia, constitutional, and human rights law, administrative law, and data protection law are explored, with four distinct stages of proportionality analysis identified: legislative, system, decision, and ex post proportionality. These stages all carry different implications for discretion and the prospects of automation. Through the requirements in these different stages, the authors conclude that proportionality ought to act as another driver of keeping human oversight of automated systems. This human oversight will however, in relation to proportionality, require further contextual awareness and control of correct output proportionality, a role which may be significantly more demanding than a more limited oversight implied by current legal discussions on “humans in the loop”.
Correction to: Rainfall Infiltration in Unsaturated Soil Slope Failure
Authors: Wu Lizhou , Zhou Jianting
Published: July 2023

Correction to:
L. Wu and J. Zhou, Rainfall Infiltration in Unsaturated Soil Slope Failure, SpringerBriefs in Applied Sciences and Technology,
https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-19-9737-2
Effectiveness of HyFlex Simulation-Based Clinical Learning in Comparison to Traditional Learning in Undergraduate Clinical Education
Authors: Abuzaid Mohamed M. , Elshami Wiam , Issa Bashar , Taha Mohamed H.
Published: July 2023

The use of blended educational approaches, including HyFlex simulation in recent years and during the COVID-19 pandemic, has impacted medical education and has drawn attention to a new teaching method. However, integrating new teaching methods has its advantages and disadvantages. The effectiveness of HyFlex simulation is not well studied in the literature. The study aims to assess the effectiveness of HyFlex simulation-based clinical learning in comparison to traditional learning in undergraduate clinical education. The study collected demographic data, satisfaction, effectiveness, and acceptance. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. The mean scores of satisfactions and previous experience among graduates and students were compared using an independent sample t-test. A p-value of less than 0.05 was used as the significant level. One hundred twenty-four participants in this cross-sectional study completed an online survey. These were graduates (n = 62) and students (n = 62) from the University of Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates. The results showed that students had positive feedback about the HyFlex simulation learning method, especially the content, design, rationale, effect of simulation in acquiring knowledge and improving objective achievement. In addition, HyFlex boosted students’ knowledge enhanced student-centered learning and clinical practice assessment. However, they reported that face-to-face learning was significantly more effective for acquiring practical skills than HyFlex simulation learning.
Learning Chemistry at the University of Sharjah: Before, During, and After the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Kawde Abdel-Nasser , Elgamouz Abdelaziz , Shehadi Ihsan
Published: July 2023

This study attempts to analyze the students’ satisfaction with learning chemistry before, during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic at the University of Sharjah. Microsoft Forms were used to build the questionnaire and collect the data. The widely used online class applications are Blackboard Ultra, Microsoft Teams, Zoom, and WhatsApp Group features. Students had printed textbooks, e-books, and lecture notes posted under Blackboard contents as learning media. The Chemistry laboratories were carried out in a hybrid mode during the pandemic; 30% of the experiments were conducted face-to-face inside the University in an alternate mode, while the remaining 70% were conducted virtually using home-developed videos, McGraw Hill simulation, or Journal of Visual Experiments platforms. Most students experienced challenges implementing the online learning process, so they prefer the usual traditional learning methods. In addition, the assessment of the educational program learning outcomes (PLO) was measured over the last three academic years, 2019, 2020, and 2021. Results of such an assessment indicated that there is a decline in the skill outcomes B, C, and E during the COVID-19 era. The study recommends the adoption of Flex-Hybrid Classrooms, using interactive online class applications like face-to-face learning, as hybrid learning can contribute positively to the quality assurance process of the instructional methodologies. Chemistry Laboratories must be conducted in person to enhance the technical and hands-on experience skills of students. All classes, regardless of delivery mode, should be recorded, as they can contribute positively to the quality assurance process of the instructional methodologies and material deliveries.