bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nine new species of Piper sect. Isophyllon Miq. (Piperaceae) from Brazil
Authors: de Queiroz George Azevedo , Guimarães Elsie Franklin , Sakuragui Cássia Mônica
Published: August 2022

Piper section Isophyllon comprised about 120 species with a Neotropical distribution, with the greatest diversity occurring in Central America and the Brazilian Atlantic Forest. Based on analysis of the largest Brazilian herbaria, we describe nine new species of Piper sect. Isophyllon: P. arianeae G.A. Queiroz, Sarnaglia & E.F. Guim.; P. forzzae G.A. Queiroz & E.F. Guim.; P. jaramilloae G.A. Queiroz & E.F. Guim.; P. marquetii G.A. Queiroz, E.F. Guim. & Sarnaglia; P. martinellii G.A. Queiroz & E.F. Guim.; P. michelineae G.A. Queiroz & E.F. Guim.; P. moreiranum G.A. Queiroz & E.F. Guim.; P. rizzinii G.A. Queiroz & E.F. Guim.; and P. sucreanum G.A. Queiroz & E.F. Guim. In addition to the taxonomical descriptions, illustrations, maps, and comments, we provide an identification key for the Brazilian species of this group.
Thermogelling hydrogel charge and lower critical solution temperature influence cellular infiltration and tissue integration in an ex vivo cartilage explant model
Authors: Pearce Hannah A. , Swain Joseph W. R. , Victor Luis Hector , Hogan Katie J. , Jiang Emily Y. , Bedell Matthew L. , Navara Adam M. , Farsheed Adam , Kim Yu Seon , Guo Jason L. , Hartgerink Jeffrey D. , Grande‐Allen K. Jane , Mikos Antonios G.
Published: August 2022

Thermogelling hydrogels based on poly(N‐isopropyl acrylamide) (p[NiPAAm]) and crosslinked with a peptide‐bearing macromer poly(glycolic acid)‐poly(ethylene glycol)‐poly(glycolic acid)‐di(but‐2‐yne‐1,4‐dithiol) (PdBT) were fabricated to assess the role of hydrogel charge and lower critical solution temperature (LCST) over time in influencing cellular infiltration and tissue integration in an ex vivo cartilage explant model over 21 days. The p(NiPAAm)‐based thermogelling polymer was synthesized to possess 0, 5, and 10 mol% dimethyl‐γ‐butyrolactone acrylate (DBA) to raise the LCST over time as the lactone rings hydrolyzed. Further, three peptides were designed to impart charge into the hydrogels via conjugation to the PdBT crosslinker. The positively, neutrally, and negatively charged peptides K4 (+), zwitterionic K2E2 (0), and E4 (−), respectively, were conjugated to the modular PdBT crosslinker and the hydrogels were evaluated for their thermogelation behavior in vitro before injection into the cartilage explant models. Samples were collected at days 0 and 21, and tissue integration and cellular infiltration were assessed via mechanical pushout testing and histology. Negatively charged hydrogels whose LCST changed over time (10 mol% DBA) were demonstrated to promote the greatest tissue integration when compared to the positive and neutral gels of the same thermogelling polymer formulation due to increased transport and diffusion across the hydrogel‐tissue interface. Indeed, the negatively charged thermogelling polymer groups containing 5 and 10 mol% DBA demonstrated cellular infiltration and cartilage‐like matrix deposition via histology. This study demonstrates the important role that material physicochemical properties play in dictating cell and tissue behavior and can inform future cartilage tissue engineering strategies.
The depth of stories: How Black young adults' disclosure of high arousal negative affect in narratives about the COVID‐19 pandemic and the BLM protests improved adjustment over the year 2020
Authors: Audet Élodie C. , Thai Helen , Holding Anne C. , Davids John , Fang Xiaoyan , Koestner Richard
Published: August 2022

The present study investigates whether the way Black young adults constructed their narratives regarding the stressful events of the COVID‐19 pandemic and the black lives matter (BLM) protests related to adjustment over time. A two‐wave mixed prospective and retrospective longitudinal study was conducted in July and December 2020 and included a total of 90 Black young adults. Narrative reports were collected at baseline to determine the psychological interpretations of the two events and were coded based on affect disclosure. Both time points examined adjustment to the COVID‐19 pandemic and the BLM protests as well as the extent to which the basic psychological needs for autonomy, relatedness, and competence were affected. Our results showed that disclosure of high arousal negative affect in narratives at baseline was associated with better adjustment over time. Additionally, results of process analyses showed that satisfaction of the basic psychological need for autonomy (e.g., feelings of personal agency, choice, and volition) mediated the association between narratives and adjustment. These results suggest that engaging in disclosure of high arousal negative affect may be associated with heightening adjustment because it enhances individuals' autonomy, perhaps resulting in a beneficial integration of the events into their broader life narratives. These findings highlight the potential of well‐constructed narratives to impact adjustment over time and have implications for clinical practice to support Racialized communities during unprecedented events.
Locating longitudinal study participants 10 years after last contact: Contemporary approaches to sample retention
Authors: Dimakos Christina , Loomis Colleen , Gilmer Alexis , Wright Carrie , Christens Brian D. , Pelletier Janette , Peters Ray DeV.
Published: August 2022

Aims

Despite their advantages, longitudinal studies often face high rates of attrition. This study documents the extensive efforts associated with retaining a longitudinal cohort last contacted 10 years earlier.

Method

We examine the processes and outcomes of attempts to reach 1736 individuals who have been part of a multiwave study about growing up in Ontario, Canada. Contact methods include email, phone, text, social media, postal mail, announcements in newspapers, subway stations, and music streaming services.

Results

Challenges included a lack of consistent annual communication with participants, children moving out of the parental home, and changes in email addresses and phone numbers. The most effective contact method was phone; text messages and friend referrals were the least effective. Overall, 41.5% of the original sample was reached. Locating former research participants years later necessitated multiple and repeated contact attempts, and intensive human resources.

Conclusion

Ten lessons for effective sample retention are discussed. In summary, reducing attrition depends on a comprehensive study design and an organized and flexible protocol that adapts to a study's ever‐changing needs.
Effectiveness and Safety of Histamine H2 Receptor Antagonists: An Umbrella Review of Meta‐Analyses
Authors: Meng Rui , Chen Li‐Rong , Zhang Man‐Li , Cai Wen‐Ke , Yin Sun‐Jun , Fan Yu‐Xin , Zhou Tao , Huang Yan‐Hua , He Gong‐Hao
Published: August 2022

Histamine H2 receptor antagonists (H2RAs) were widely used to inhibit gastric acid secretion, but its association with adverse events remains controversial and unclear. We conducted an umbrella review of meta‐analyses to systematically assess the quality and credibility of the correlations between H2RA use with the risk of adverse outcomes through searching 4 major databases from inception to April 30, 2022. Forty‐six individual meta‐analyses were identified, including 29 meta‐analyses of observation studies with 32 unique outcomes and 19 meta‐analyses of randomized controlled trials with 3 unique outcomes for comparing the H2RA versus non‐H2RA group. A Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews 2 rating for the included meta‐analyses showed that 4 of 46 meta‐analyses were assigned as high scores, 3 were assigned as “moderate,” and 25 were assigned as low scores. Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation assessment for combined results demonstrated that 6 outcomes were rated as “moderate,” 9 outcomes were rated as “low,” and 17 outcomes were rated as “very low.” We confirmed significant associations of H2RA use with pneumonia, peritonitis, necrotizing enterocolitis, Clostridium difficile infection, liver cancer, gastric cancer, and hip fracture diseases. No associations for colorectal cancer, melanoma, kidney cancer, lung cancer, or common reproductive system cancer or renal, neurological, and cardiovascular system diseases were observed. We found a variety of evidence for the associations between H2RAs and adverse outcomes, which would give clinicians more positive guidance on prescription of H2RAs in clinical practice.
Extravasation injury management for neonates and children: A systematic review and aggregated case series
Authors: Dufficy Mitchell , Takashima Mari , Cunninghame Jacqueline , Griffin Bronwyn R. , McBride Craig A. , August Deanne , Ullman Amanda J.
Published: August 2022

Background

Pediatric extravasation injuries are significant healthcare‐associated injuries, with sometimes significant sequelae. Evidence‐based guidance on management is necessary to prevent permanent injury.

Purpose

A systematic review of the literature, including aggregated case series, investigating extravasation injury management of hospitalized pediatric patients.

Data Sources

PubMed, Cummulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), and Excerpta Medica database (EMBASE) were searched on December 13, 2021.

Study Selection

Primary research investigating extravasation injury management of hospitalized pediatric patients (to 18 years), published from 2010 onwards and in English, independently screened by two authors, with arbitration from a third author.

Data Extraction

Data regarding the study, patient (age, primary diagnosis), extravasation (site, presentation, outcome), and treatment (first aid, wound management) were extracted by two authors, with arbitration from a third author.

Data Synthesis

From an initial 1769 articles, 27 studies were included with extractable case data reported in 18 studies, resulting in 33 cases. No clinical trials were identified, instead, studies were primarily case studies (52%) of neonates (67%), with varied extravasation symptoms. Studies had good selection and ascertainment, but few met the causality and reporting requirements for quality assessments. Signs and symptoms varied, with scarring (45%) and necrosis (30%) commonly described. Diverse treatments were categorized into first aid, medical, surgical, and dressings.

Conclusions

Despite infiltration and extravasation injuries being common within pediatric healthcare, management interventions are under‐researched, with low‐quality studies and no consensus on treatments or outcomes.
A morphological analysis of carnivoran ossicles from Rancho La Brea
Authors: Dickinson Edwin , Elminowski Erin E. , Flores Deanna , Eldridge Emma I. , Granatosky Michael C. , Hartstone‐Rose Adam
Published: August 2022

The morphology of the mammalian middle ear—including the size, shape, and stiffness of individual ossicles—controls their vibrational response to sound and, is closely related to an animal's auditory capabilities. While the relationship between middle ear morphology and hearing frequency has been explored in living carnivorans, the size and shape of ossicles in fossil carnivorans have been sparsely documented. In this study, we present the first morphological data on four iconic carnivoran taxa from the Rancho La Brea Tar Pits: Smilodon fatalis, Panthera atrox, Canis dirus, and Arctodus simus. These data are contextualized with samples of extant felids, canids, and ursids to determine the extent to which the ossicles of these iconic fossil taxa resemble their living relatives. Six, five, and seven linear measurements were taken from the malleus, incus, and stapes, respectively. Comparisons of geometric means reveal that the ossicles of fossil canids and felids are similar in size to living analogs, but those of A. simus are significantly larger than those of any living ursid. Further, principal components analyses demonstrate close morphological affinities between fossil and extant taxa within canids and felids, and again, a greater disparity between fossil and extant ursids. Canids and ursids occupy distinct regions of the morphospace, yet both overlap the morphological range spanned by felids. While some elements—for example, the stapes—require further specimens to facilitate more nuanced interpretations of variation, our findings underscore the need for concerted efforts towards identifying and preserving these bones within fossil assemblages.
Global regulatory factor AaLaeA upregulates the production of antitumor substances in the endophytic fungus Alternaria alstroemeria
Authors: Yin Xuemin , Han Long , Zheng Wen , Cai Lu , Qin Min , He Zhangjiang , Kang Jichuan
Published: August 2022

The global regulatory factor LaeA has been shown to be involved in the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites in various fungi. In a previous work, we isolated an endophytic fungus from Artemisia annua, and its extract had a significant inhibitory effect on the A549 cancer cell line. Phylogenetic analysis further identified the strain as Alternaria alstroemeria. Overexpression of AalaeA gene resulted in significantly increased antitumor activity of this strain's extract. The 3‐(4, 5‐ dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2, 5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay results showed that the inhibition rate of the AalaeAOE29 mutant extract on A549 cancer cells was significantly higher than that of the WT extract, as the IC50 decreased from 195.0 to 107.4 μg/ml, and the total apoptosis rate was enhanced. Overexpression of the AalaeA gene significantly increased the contents of myricetin, geraniol, ergosterol, and 18 other antitumor compounds as determined by metabolomic analysis. Transcriptomic analysis revealed significant changes in 95 genes in the mutant strain, including polyketide synthases, nonribosomal peptide synthases, cytochrome P450s, glycosyltransferases, acetyl‐CoA acetyltransferases, and others. These results suggested that AaLaeA mediated the antitumor activity of the metabolites in A. alstroemeria by regulating multiple metabolic pathways.
The impact of prior head injury on outcomes following group and individual cognitive processing therapy among military personnel
Authors: Wachen Jennifer Schuster , Mintz Jim , LoSavio Stefanie T. , Kennedy Jan E. , Hale Willie J. , Straud Casey L. , Dondanville Katherine A. , Moring John , Blankenship Abby E. , Vandiver Richard , Young‐McCaughan Stacey , Yarvis Jeffrey S. , Peterson Alan L. , Resick Patricia A. ,   for the STRONG STAR Consortium
Published: August 2022

This study examined the impact of a history of head injury (HHI) on posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression symptoms in active duty military personnel following group and individual cognitive processing therapy (CPT). Data for these secondary analyses were drawn from a clinical trial comparing group and individual CPT. Service members (N = 268, 91.0% male) were randomized to 12 sessions of group (n = 133) or individual (n = 135) CPT. Most participants (57.1%) endorsed a deployment‐related HHI, 92.8% of whom reported currently experiencing symptoms (CES) related to the head injury (i.e., HHI/CES). Patients classified as non‐HHI/CES demonstrated large, significant improvements in PTSD symptom severity in both individual and group therapy, ds = 1.1, p < .001. Patients with HHI/CES status showed similar significant improvements when randomized to individual CPT, d = 1.4, p < .001, but did not demonstrate significant improvements when randomized to group CPT, d = 0.4, p = .060. For participants classified as HHI/CES, individual CPT was significantly superior to group CPT, d = 0.98, p = .003. Symptoms of depression improved following treatment, with no significant differences by treatment delivery format or HHI/CES status. The findings of this clinical trial subgroup study demonstrate evidence that group CPT is less effective than individual CPT for service members classified as HHI/CES. The results suggest that HHI/CES status may be important to consider in selecting patients for group or individual CPT; additional research is needed to confirm the clinical implications of these findings.
Perioperative pain management based on enhanced recovery after surgery in children undergoing adenotonsillectomy: A prospective, randomized controlled trial
Authors: Yang Yujuan , Cao Jiayu , Chen Xiumei , Liu Dawei , Lv Qiaoying , Ma Jiahai , Zhang Yu , Song Xicheng
Published: August 2022

Background

Pain management, as a key component of enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS), can effectively relieve perioperative pain and anxiety. However, there are few studies on the application of pain management based on ERAS in pediatric surgery patients. We aimed to examine the effect of ERAS‐based perioperative pain management in children with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) undergoing adenotonsillectomy.

Methods

From March 2021 to July 2021, a randomized controlled single‐blind study was conducted on children with OSA and scheduled to undergo adenotonsillectomy. The children were randomly assigned to either control group (n = 60) or ERAS group (n = 60). Traditional analgesia measures were provided to children in the control group, whereas ERAS‐based optimized analgesia measures were provided to children in the ERAS group. The pain scores, anxiety scores and diet quality scores were compared between the two groups.

Results

The pain scores after surgery in the ERAS group were significantly lower than those in the control group at 6 h, 1 day, 3 days, and 5 days after surgery. Furthermore, the diet quality scores in the ERAS group were significantly higher than those in the control group at 6 h, 1 day, 3 days, and 5 days after surgery. The anxiety scores after surgery in the ERAS group were significantly lower than those in the control group.

Conclusions

Perioperative pain management based on ERAS can significantly alleviate postoperative pain, improve quality of life, and promote the accelerated rehabilitation of children with OSA undergoing adenotonsillectomy.

Level of evidence

1.
Comparison of two multiple plankton samplers: MOCNESS and Multinet Mammoth
Authors: Strand Espen , Broms Cecilie , Bagøien Espen , Knutsen Tor , Arnesen Hilde , Mozfar Bahar
Published: August 2022

To ensure an optimal continuation of a long time series of zooplankton monitoring surveys, two types of equipment for depth‐stratified mesozooplankton sampling were compared. The Institute of Marine Research (Norway) has applied the MOCNESS with good results since 1985, but recent events have made it necessary to change to the Multinet Mammoth. During a cruise in March 2019, both sampling devices were calibrated before 17 paired deployments of the 2 gears were undertaken. During each deployment, three nets and depth‐strata covering ~ 425–200, 200–100, and 100–0 m were sampled. All samples were size‐fractionated or taxonomically fractionated into 10 different biomass categories. The results revealed no significant differences between the two gears when comparing total depth‐integrated biomass (2.46 ± 0.36 vs. 2.61 ± 0.59 gDW m−2) or depth‐integrated biomass of any specific biomass category. Running paired t‐tests separately for all combinations of biomass categories and nets, the differences were only significant for zooplankton biomasses in the 180–1000 μm size fraction and only for Net 2. Possible reasons for this result are discussed in the paper. Gears produced similar catches whether sampling during day or night. We conclude that the MOCNESS and Multinet Mammoth in this study provided comparable results regarding abundances of various zooplankton categories.
Effect of backfilled stone/brine media on the initial electrochemical performance of aluminum sacrificial anode
Authors: Zhao Yongtao , Wang Yanbin , Huang Qingfei , Liu Jian , Wang Hui , Song Shenyou , Qiu Yubing
Published: August 2022

Aluminum alloy sacrificial anodes applied to protect the subsea immersed tunnels' steel shells are buried in an unfamiliar inhomogeneous backfilled stone/brine media. To verify its influence, the effect of the backfilled stone (10–12, 6–10, and 3–6 mm)/brine (40 Ω cm) media, denoted as Stone 1, Stone 2, and Stone 3, on the initial electrochemical performance of an Al─Zn─In─Si─Sn─Ti anode is investigated by electrochemical and surface analysis techniques. With decreasing the stone size, the Stones 1–3 media's resistivity increases to 100, 125, and 150 Ω cm, respectively. The backfilled stone/brine media inhibits the anode′s free corrosion and pitting process and accelerates its activation in the initial period. The anode′s capacity and current efficiency decrease slightly; however, the anode′s output current and its transmission are depressed more heavily by decreasing the backfilled stone size. Also, the backfilled stone shields parts of the cathode surfaces, decreases dissolved oxygen concentration, and blocks the diffusion of the anode's dissolution product in the media, resulting in the change of the anode's protective effect.
Sweat it for sustainability: Impact of physical activity/exercise on sustainable consumption
Authors: Sarkar Juhi G. , Sarkar Abhigyan , Dwivedi Yogesh K. , Balaji M. S.
Published: August 2022

What would make the “elusive” green consumer actually choose sustainable products? This research draws from “dopamine hypothesis of reward” to demonstrate that physical activity/exercise (regular and immediate) is a vital factor in determining consumers' sustainable behaviors. More specifically, it examines the role of physical activity/exercise on sustainable consumption behaviors as well as the role of emotional intelligence and sustainability claims. Five studies were conducted to test the hypothesized relationships. The findings from Study 1a and 1b establish direct causal link between physical activity/exercise and customers' sustainable consumption behaviors. Studies 2a and 2b show that emotional intelligence (trait‐based and ability‐based) may explain the effect of physical activity/exercise (regular and immediate) on sustainable consumption behaviors. Finally, the findings from Study 3 demonstrate that sustainability claims moderate the effect of emotional intelligence on sustainable consumption behaviors. These findings offer significant implications for retailers and marketers to use physical activity/exercise as a strategic intervention to positively influence consumers' evaluation and behaviors toward sustainable products.
Relationship of internal institutions, knowledge sharing, and technological innovation in characteristic cultural enterprises: Evidence from China
Authors: Liu Lingyan , Lin Minghua , Yu Ming
Published: August 2022

The paper empirically studies the relationship between internal institutions, knowledge sharing, and technological innovation based on the data of investigating 163 China's characteristic culture enterprises by applying structural equation model. The study shows that the internal institution of characteristic cultural enterprises can significantly enhance the knowledge sharing of employees in characteristic cultural enterprises; the knowledge sharing of employees will significantly enhance the technical innovation level of characteristic cultural enterprises; the internal institution of characteristic cultural enterprises does not directly and significantly improve the technical innovation level, but indirectly through enhancing the knowledge sharing of enterprise employees.
A standardized ultrasound approach in neuralgic amyotrophy
Authors: Cignetti Natalie E. , Cox Rebecca S. , Baute Vanessa , McGhee Marissa B. , van Alfen Nens , Strakowski Jeffrey A. , Boon Andrea J. , Norbury John W. , Cartwright Michael S.
Published: August 2022

Neuralgic amyotrophy (NA), also referred to as idiopathic brachial plexitis and Parsonage‐Turner syndrome, is a peripheral nerve disorder characterized by acute severe shoulder pain followed by progressive upper limb weakness and muscle atrophy. While NA is incompletely understood and often difficult to diagnose, early recognition may prevent unnecessary tests and interventions and, in some situations, allow for prompt treatment, which can potentially minimize adverse long‐term sequalae. High‐resolution ultrasound (HRUS) has become a valuable tool in the diagnosis and evaluation of NA. Pathologic HRUS findings can be grouped into four categories: nerve swelling, swelling with incomplete constriction, swelling with complete constriction, and fascicular entwinement, which may represent a continuum of pathologic processes. Certain ultrasound findings may help predict the likelihood of spontaneous recovery with conservative management versus the need for surgical intervention. We recommend relying heavily on history and physical examination to determine which nerves are clinically affected and should therefore be assessed by HRUS. The nerves most frequently affected by NA are the suprascapular, long thoracic, median and anterior interosseous nerve (AIN) branch, radial and posterior interosseous nerve (PIN) branch, axillary, spinal accessory, and musculocutaneous. When distal upper limb nerves are affected (AIN, PIN, superficial radial nerve), the lesion is almost always located in their respective fascicles within the parent nerve, proximal to its branching point. The purpose of this review is to describe a reproducible, standardized, ultrasonographic approach for evaluating suspected NA, and to share reliable techniques and clinical considerations when imaging commonly affected nerves.
Predictors of improvement in urinary incontinence in the postacute setting: A Canadian cohort study
Authors: Egbujie Bonaventure A. , Northwood Melissa , Turcotte Luke A. , McArthur Caitlin , Berg Katherine , Heckman George A. , Wagg Adrian S. , Hirdes John P.
Published: August 2022

Purpose

To determine factors associated with improvement in urinary incontinence (UI) for long‐stay postacute, complex continuing care (CCC) patients.

Design

A retrospective cohort investigation of patients in a CCC setting using data obtained from the Canadian Institute for Health Information's Continuing Care Reporting System collected with interRAI Minimum Data Set 2.0.

Setting and participants

Individuals aged 18 years and older, were admitted to CCC hospitals in Ontario, Canada, between 2010 and 2018.

Methods

Multivariable logistic regression was used to determine the independent effects of predictors on UI improvement, for patients who were somewhat or completely incontinent on admission and therefore had the potential for improvement.

Results

The study cohort consisted of 18 584 patients, 74% (13 779) of which were somewhat or completely incontinent upon admission. Among those patients with potential for improvement, receiving bladder training, starting a new medication 90 days prior (odds ratio, OR: 1.54 [95% confidence interval, CI: 1.36–1.75]), and triggering the interRAI Urinary Incontinence Clinical Assessment Protocol to facilitate improvement (OR: 1.36 [95% CI: 1.08–1.71]) or to prevent decline (OR: 1.32 [95% CI: 1.13–1.53]) were the strongest predictors of improvement. Conversely, being totally dependent on others for transfer (OR: 0.62 [95% CI: 0.42–0.92]), is rarely or never understood (OR: 0.65 [95% CI: 0.50–0.85]), having a major comorbidity count of ≥3 (OR: 0.72 [95% CI: 0.59–0.88]), Parkinson's disease, OR: 0.77 (95% CI: 0.62–0.95), Alzheimer/other dementia, OR: 0.83 (95% CI: 0.74–0.93), and respiratory infections, OR: 0.57 (95% CI: 0.39–0.85) independently predicted less likelihood of improvement in UI.

Conclusions and Implications

Findings of this study suggest that improving physical function, including bed mobility, and providing bladder retraining have strong positive impacts on improvement in UI for postacute care patients. Evidence generated from this study provides useful care planning information for care providers in identifying patients and targeting the care that may lead to better success with the management of UI.
Investigation of the way to enhance the synergistic effect between polyimide and graphene on the tribological performance of polytetrafluoroethylene composites
Authors: Niu Xiaoxing , Zhou Shidong , Pan Deng , Zhao Yuanliang , Li Lei
Published: August 2022

In this article, two different preparation methods were employed to explore the way to maximize the synergistic effect between polyimide (PI) and graphene (Gr) on the friction and wear of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) composites. Results indicate that the incorporation of Gr into PI firstly is more beneficial for the improvement of tribological performance rather than the blending of Gr and PTFE firstly. The incorporation of Gr into PI firstly enhances the wear resistance of PI/Gr phases. Gr fillers is not taken away easily by the plastic flow of PTFE resin and Gr will accumulate on the wear surface of PI/Gr. The synergistic effect of PI and Gr will play a better role in the friction and wear of PTFE/PI/Gr. However, the wear performance of PI phases cannot be enhanced effectively by the blending of Gr and PTFE firstly. And Gr will be taken away by the severe wear of PTFE phases in PTFE/Gr/PI. Only tiny Gr accumulates on the wear surface of PI phases, the synergistic effect of PI and Gr will not play a better role in friction and wear.
Respiratory muscle fatigability in patients with spinal muscular atrophy
Authors: Kant‐Smits Kim , Hulzebos Erik H. J. , Habets Laura E. , Asselman Fay‐Lynn , Veldhoen Esther S. , van Eijk Ruben P. A. , de Groot Janke F. , van der Pol W. Ludo , Bartels Bart
Published: August 2022

Background

Respiratory failure is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA). Lack of endurance, or “fatigability,” is an important symptom of SMA. In addition to respiratory muscle weakness, respiratory function in SMA may be affected by Respiratory Muscle Fatigability (RMF).

Aim

The purpose of this study was to explore RMF in patients with SMA.

Methods

We assessed a Respiratory Endurance Test (RET) in 19 children (median age [years]: 11) and 36 adults (median age [years]: 34) with SMA types 2 and 3. Participants were instructed to breath against an inspiratory threshold load at either 20%, 35%, 45%, 55%, or 70% of their individual maximal inspiratory mouth pressure (PImax). RMF was defined as the inability to complete 60 consecutive breaths. Respiratory fatigability response was determined by change in maximal inspiratory mouth pressure (ΔPImax) and perceived fatigue (∆perceived fatigue).

Results

The probability of RMF during the RET increased by 59%−69% over 60 breaths with every 10% increase in inspiratory threshold load (%PImax). Fatigability response was characterized by a large variability in ΔPImax (−21% to +16%) and a small increase in perceived fatigue (p = 0.041, range 0 to +3).

Conclusion and Key Findings

Patients with SMA demonstrate a dose‐dependent increase in RMF without severe increase in exercise‐induced muscle weakness or perceived fatigue. Inspiratory muscle loading in patients with SMA seems feasible and its potential to stabilize or improve respiratory function in patients with SMA needs to be determined in further research.
The therapeutic potential of berberine chloride against SARM1‐dependent axon degeneration in acrylamide‐induced neuropathy
Authors: Wang Shuai , Zhang Yifan , Lou Jianwei , Yong Hui , Shan Shulin , Liu Zhidan , Song Mingxue , Zhang Cuiqin , Kou Ruirui , Liu Zhaoxiong , Yu Wenhao , Zhao Xiulan , Song Fuyong
Published: August 2022

Chronic acrylamide (ACR) intoxication causes typical pathology of axon degeneration. Moreover, sterile‐α and toll/interleukin 1 receptor motif‐containing protein 1 (SARM1), the central executioner of the programmed axonal destruction process under various insults, is up‐regulated in ACR neuropathy. However, it remains unclear whether inhibitors targeting SARM1 are effective or not. Among all the pharmacological antagonists, berberine chloride (BBE), a natural phytochemical and the first identified non‐competitive inhibitor of SARM1, attracts tremendous attention. Here, we observed the protection of 100 μM BBE against ACR‐induced neurites injury (2 mM ACR, 24 hr) in vitro, and further evaluated the neuroprotective effect of BBE (100 mg/kg p.o. three times a week for 4 weeks) in ACR‐intoxicated rats (40 mg/kg i.p. three times a week for 4 weeks). The expression of SARM1 was also detected. BBE intervention significantly inhibited the overexpression of SARM1, ameliorated axonal degeneration, alleviated pathological changes in the sciatic nerve and spinal cord, and improved neurobehavioral symptoms in ACR‐poisoned rats. Thus, BBE exhibits a strong neuroprotective effect against the SARM1‐dependent axon destruction in ACR neuropathy. Meanwhile, our study underscores the need for appropriate inhibitor selection in diverse situations that would benefit from blocking the SARM1‐dependent axonal destruction pathway.
Fast and Robust Multiqubit Gates on Rydberg Atoms by Periodic Pulse Engineering
Authors: Wu Jin‐Lei , Wang Yan , Han Jin‐Xuan , Su Shi‐Lei , Xia Yan , Song Jie , Jiang Yongyuan
Published: August 2022

The idea of periodic pulse engineering (PPE) is exploited to achieve unconventional Rydberg pumping for a robust multiqubit gate on Rydberg atoms trapped in a 2D array. By designing component parameters in PPE, fast regimes of full and partial Rydberg antiblockade (RAB) among three atoms are explored. Furthermore, through assigning appropriate components in PPE a phenomenon of RAB‐based blockade emerges and then a three‐qubit gate can be achieved. It is identified that two kinds of Rydberg–Rydberg interaction (RRI), van der Waals interaction and dipole–dipole Förster resonance interaction, are both applicative for implementing the proposed scheme. Different from recent schemes of Rydberg atom multiqubit gates, the operated atoms are indistinguishable with respect to the laser field of PPE, and the present one‐step scheme is essentially fast owing to the first‐order dynamics where the dominant component in PPE is not degraded. In addition, the proposed multiqubit gate is robust against atomic decay and deviation of RRI strengths, because the excitation duration of atoms is short, with the total excitation number ⩽1. This work may facilitate experimental demonstration of RAB‐based gates of strongly coupled atoms.
Nonlinear model predictive control of a radiative heating process with movable radiators
Authors: Rötzer Florian , Dörschel Lorenz , Deutschmann‐Olek Andreas , Abel Dirk , Kugi Andreas
Published: August 2022

A nonlinear model predictive control concept for a heating process with dominant radiation and movable radiators is derived. Such processes can be described by a nonlinear integro‐partial differential equation with full domain coupling for the thermal subsystem and an ordinary differential equation for the mechanical subsystem. For model‐based control, a reduced‐order model based on a tailored proper orthogonal decomposition Galerkin approach is used. To enable real‐time capability, a rigorous formulation of the optimization problem is presented, which allows to split the optimization problem into two subproblems using a separation of time scales. These subproblems are subsequently simplified by employing averaging methods and appropriate analytical solutions. An extensive simulation study illustrates the high performance and fast calculation times of the proposed control concept.
Integrating two‐dimensional water temperature simulations into a fish habitat model to improve hydro‐ and thermopeaking impact assessment
Authors: Antonetti Manuel , Hoppler Luca , Tonolla Diego , Vanzo Davide , Schmid Martin , Doering Michael
Published: August 2022

Storage hydropower plants, which are an important component of energy production in Switzerland, can lead to hydro‐ and thermopeaking, affecting river habitats and organisms. In this study, we developed an approach for integrating water temperature simulations into a habitat model to assess the impact of both hydro‐ and thermopeaking on the availability of suitable fish habitats. We focused on the habitat requirements of juvenile brown trout (Salmo trutta) in a semi‐natural braided floodplain along the Moesa River (Southern Switzerland) in early summer. First, we defined different scenarios (with and without hydropeaking) based on the local hydrological and meteorological conditions. Second, we used a two‐dimensional depth‐averaged hydro‐ and thermodynamic model to simulate the spatial distributions of water depth, flow velocity, and water temperature. Third, we applied generalized preference curves for juvenile brown trout to identify hydraulically suitable habitats, and developed a new index to assess the availability of thermally suitable habitats. Finally, we quantified the extent to which hydraulically and thermally suitable habitats overlap in space and time. During both base and peak flow phases, most of the hydraulically and thermally suitable habitats are located in the side channels. High flow conditions combined with strong cold‐thermopeaking lead to a higher thermal heterogeneity. However, disconnected habitats originate in the dewatering zone, increasing the risk of stranding as well as thermal stress. By helping to better understand the effects of thermopeaking on the availability of fish habitats, our approach could contribute to the design and evaluation of ecological restoration in hydropeaking rivers.
Single‐Particle Tracking and Trajectory Analysis of Fluorescent Nanodiamonds in Cell‐Free Environment and Live Cells
Authors: Sigaeva Alina , Hochstetter Axel , Bouyim Sighom , Chipaux Mayeul , Stejfova Miroslava , Cigler Petr , Schirhagl Romana
Published: August 2022

Diamond magnetometry can provide new insights on the production of free radicals inside live cells due to its high sensitivity and spatial resolution. However, the measurements often lack intracellular context for the recorded signal. In this paper, the possible use of single‐particle tracking and trajectory analysis of fluorescent nanodiamonds (FNDs) to bridge that gap is explored. It starts with simulating a set of different possible scenarios of a particle's movement, reflecting different modes of motion, degrees of confinement, as well as shapes and sizes of that confinement. Then, the insights from the analysis of the simulated trajectories are applied to describe the movement of FNDs in glycerol solutions. It is shown that the measurements are in good agreement with the previously reported findings and that trajectory analysis yields meaningful results, when FNDs are tracked in a simple environment. Then the much more complex situation of FNDs moving inside a live cell is focused. The behavior of the particles after different incubation times is analyzed, and the possible intracellular localization of FNDs is deducted from their trajectories. Finally, this approach is combined with long‐term magnetometry methods to obtain maps of the spin relaxation dynamics (or T1) in live cells, as FNDs move through the cytosol.
Effect of Catechin on the Retrogradation and Structural Properties of Chestnut Starch
Authors: Xie Yamin , Chen Jie , Xu Fei , Chen Ling , Cao Fei , Cui Chaoyue
Published: August 2022

Catechin (EC) is a natural plant extract and has great health benefits. EC interacts with the starch isolated from Chinese chestnut to form complexes. The effect of EC addition on the structure and retrogradation properties of chestnut starch (CS) is investigated in this study. Compared with CS, when the addition of EC is 10%, the peak viscosity (PV), trough viscosity(TV), and setback (SB) of CS decreased by 45.65%, 39.95%, and 47.38% (2185.62, 922.35, and 445.42 cp), respectively. Thermogravimetric shows that the EC addition can decrease the degradation temperature of starch. Scanning electron microscope shows that EC can cause a looser gel structure of CS. The results of Fourier transform infrared show that the absorption peak of the complex at 3000–3600 cm−1 is enhanced to a high wavenumber. X‐ray diffraction results in a reduction in the relative crystallinity with the increase of EC addition. In summary, the overall results suggest CS interacted with EC to form the non‐inclusive complex, resulting in changes in starch structure. These results indicate that EC is a promising ingredient to restrain the retrogradation of starchy food and provides new insights for the application of other starch and polyphenols.
Density functionals based on the mathematical structure of the strong‐interaction limit of DFT
Authors: Vuckovic Stefan , Gerolin Augusto , Daas Kimberly J. , Bahmann Hilke , Friesecke Gero , Gori‐Giorgi Paola
Published: August 2022

While in principle exact, Kohn–Sham density functional theory—the workhorse of computational chemistry—must rely on approximations for the exchange–correlation functional. Despite staggering successes, present‐day approximations still struggle when the effects of electron–electron correlation play a prominent role. The limit in which the electronic Coulomb repulsion completely dominates the exchange–correlation functional offers a well‐defined mathematical framework that provides insight for new approximations able to deal with strong correlation. In particular, the mathematical structure of this limit, which is now well‐established thanks to its reformulation as an optimal transport problem, points to the use of very different ingredients (or features) with respect to the traditional ones used in present approximations. We focus on strategies to use these new ingredients to build approximations for computational chemistry and highlight future promising directions.

This article is categorized under:

Electronic Structure Theory > Density Functional Theory
Efficacy of ground‐based trapping of coastal American black bears in Prince William Sound, Alaska
Authors: Westing Charlotte L. , Skinner John P. , Burcham Milo G.
Published: August 2022

Ground‐based trapping can be the most practical approach for capturing American black bears (Ursus americanus) in remote portions of Alaska. During the summers of 2016–2018 we captured 106 black bears in a coastal portion of southcentral Alaska, USA, using bucket cable traps and Aldrich snare sets, 2 common foot snaring techniques. Despite widespread use, little research has focused on factors contributing to success and differences in safety for both foot snaring techniques. We compared trap engagement and success and found that bears engaged with bucket cable traps at a 31% (CL = 3–50%) lower rate than with Aldrich snare sets but once engaged were equally likely to be successfully snared. Prebaiting sites increased capture success 362% (CL = 21–1663%) but it was unclear if success improved when sites were prebaited multiple times. Regardless of trap type, bear engagement with sets were 194% higher (CL = 94–345%) during mid‐day hours (0800–1559) compared to crepuscular or nocturnal hours. We observed average injury scores of less than 11 points (out of 400 possible points) for both set types, consistent with the score given for minor lacerations. Both methods performed well within the recommended safety standards of the American Society of Mammalogists.
Europe in the U.S.-Russian Security Dilemma: Is There a Way Out?
Authors: Kunz Barbara
Published: August 2022

One implication of Europe’s security being coupled to that of the United States is Europe’s being part of the U.S.-Russian security dilemma, a notion at the heart of defensive realism. This has considerable implications for European security. Against the backdrop of current policy debates, this explorative essay seeks to analyze Europe’s policy options in this context. It concludes that Europe has no way to escape the U.S.-Russian security dilemma. This, however, does not leave Europeans without avenues for action in order to contribute to better management of that security dilemma. The chapter intends to bridge a gap between empirical debates on the future of the European security order and more theoretical takes on the emergence of a multipolar world and Europe’s role in it.
Modeling and Simulation of a Turbulent Multi-component Two-phase Flow Involving Phase Change Processes Under Supercritical Conditions
Authors: Kuetemeier Dennis , Sadiki Amsini
Published: August 2022

The present paper aims at developing a generally valid, consistent numerical description of a turbulent multi-component two-phase flow that experiences processes that may occur under both subcritical and trans-critical or supercritical operating conditions. Within an appropriate LES methodology, focus is put on an Euler-Eulerian method that includes multi-component mixture properties along with phase change process. Thereby, the two-phase flow fluid is considered as multi-component mixtures in which the real fluid properties are accounted for by a composite Peng-Robinson (PR) equation of state (EoS), so that each phase is governed by its own PR EoS. The suggested numerical modelling approach is validated while simulating the disintegration of an elliptic jet of supercritical fluoroketone injected into a helium environment. Qualitative and quantitative analyses are carried out. The results show significant coupled effect of the turbulence and the thermodynamic on the jet disintegration along with the mixing processes. Especially, comparisons between the numerical predictions and available experimental data provided in terms of penetration length, fluoroketone density, and jet spreading angle outline good agreements that attest the performance of the proposed model at elevated pressures and temperatures. Further aspects of transcritical jet flow case as well as comparison with an Eulerian-Lagrangian approach which is extended to integrate the arising effects of vanishing surface tension in evolving sprays are left for future work.
Experimental Investigation of Transient Injection Phenomena in Rocket Combusters at Vacuum with Cryogenic Flash Boiling
Authors: Rees Andreas , Oschwald Michael
Published: August 2022

The substitution of the toxic hydrazine in current high-altitude rocket engines like upper stages or reaction control thrusters by green propellants is a major key driver in the current technology development of rocket propulsion systems. Operating these kind of rocket engines at high-altitude leads to a sudden pressure drop in the liquid propellants during their injection into the combustion chamber with a near-vacuum atmosphere prior to ignition. The resulting superheated thermodynamic state of the liquid causes a fast and eruptive evaporation which is called flash boiling. The degree of atomisation is important for a successful ignition and a secure operation of the rocket engine. The development and operation of a cryogenic high-altitude test bench at DLR Lampoldshausen enables the systematical experimental characterization of cryogenic flash boiling due to its ability to adjust and control the injection parameters like temperature, pressure or geometry. Several test campaigns with liquid nitrogen (LN2) were performed using two optical diagnostic methods: First, flash boiling LN2 spray patterns were visualised by means of high-speed shadowgraphy and, secondly, we determined the droplet size and velocity distributions in strongly superheated LN2 sprays with the help of a laser-based Phase Doppler system (PDA). The experimental data generated within these measurement campaigns provide defined boundary conditions as well as a broad data base for the numerical modelling of cryogenic flash boiling like e.g. the publications [8, 9].
Modelling and Simulation of Flash Evaporation of Cryogenic Liquids
Authors: Gärtner Jan Wilhelm , Loureiro Daniel D. , Kronenburg Andreas
Published: August 2022

Rocket engine manufacturers attempt to replace toxic, hypergolic fuels by less toxic substances such as cryogenic hydrogen and oxygen. Such components will be superheated when injected into the combustion chamber prior to ignition. The liquids will flash evaporate and subsequent mixing will be crucial for a successful ignition of the engine. We now conduct a series of DNS and RANS-type simulations to better understand this mixing process including microscopic processes such as bubble growth, bubble-bubble interactions, spray breakup dynamics and the resulting droplet size distribution. Full scale RANS simulations provide further insight into effects associated with flow dynamic such as shock formation behind the injector outlet. Capturing these gas dynamic effects is important, as they affect the spray morphology and droplet movements.