bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A high‐power coaxial to rectangular waveguide transition
Authors: Yi Zixuan , Huang Zhengyan , Yang Xue‐Xia , Zhou Bin , Li Meiling
Published: June 2024

The high‐power characteristic of the coaxial to waveguide transition plays an important role in modern communication and radar systems. In this letter, a novel design of a high‐power transition from a 50 Ω coaxial line with an N‐type connector to a WR‐90 rectangular waveguide. The power handling capability (PHC) of the proposed structure is significantly enhanced by a cone‐shaped excitation probe with a bold end, a transitional cavity, and a mode conversion cavity with a curved shorted back wall. The simulated results reveal that the transition possesses high PHC of 257 kW at 8.5 GHz, which is the upper limit of the power tolerance for the N‐type connector. The measured results show that the return loss and insertion loss are better than 15 and 0.15 dB, respectively, in the range of 7.96–9.16 GHz. In addition, experimental validation confirms the normal operation of the structure under a 250 kW power level test, demonstrating the applicability of the proposed transition in high‐power microwave systems.
Technical note: Quantifying radionuclide residues in hospital wastewater: A case study on [131I]I and [177mLu]Lu/[177Lu]Lu
Authors: Kupitz Dennis , Einspänner Eric , Wissel Heiko , Volk Martin , Hohn Alexander , Kreissl Michael C. , Grosser Oliver S.
Published: June 2024

Background

Historically, [131I]I has been a common isotope in radionuclide therapy, with [177Lu]Lu‐labelled radiopharmaceuticals now seeing a surge in use. These can include no‐carrier‐added or carrier‐added [177Lu]Lu with slight impurities of [177mLu]Lu with a significantly longer half‐life than [131I]I. Wastewater from therapy wards can contain a mixture of these radioisotopes. In some countries, national regulations require wastewater to be stored in dedicated systems before it is discharged into the public sewage system. To fulfill legal requirements, the nuclide specific activity concentration must be verified.

Purpose

We evaluate a method for determining the activity concentration of [177mLu]Lu /[177Lu]Lu at equilibrium and [131I]I in pure and mixed samples in order to prove that the determined values are reliably below the limits for release.

Methods

We analysed the emitted energy spectrum of 1 L samples with a wastewater counter using an energy window‐based approach by evaluating measurements from two different time points.

Based on the law of decay and the time and energy‐dependent measured values, equation systems were set up to calculate the count rates for [131I]I and [177mLu]Lu, which were converted into activity concentration using calibration factors.

Results

There is strong linear correlation between the nominal and determined activity concentrations (correlation coefficients R = 0.99; coefficient of determinations R2 = 0.99). We underestimate the actual activity concentration by a median of −1.4% for [177mLu]Lu and overestimate the activity concentration for [131I]I by a median of 7.1%.

Conclusion

We show that an undercut of the clearance levels for material release is measurable. We analyse and determine activity concentrations of mixed samples consisting of [131I]I and [177mLu]Lu/[177Lu]Lu in equilibrium. The method is simple to implement using a conventional wastewater counter, however with a slightly increased effort, as two samples and measurements are required. The methodology can be adapted for the analysis of other nuclide mixtures.
Maintaining resilience over time: A qualitative exploration of the experiences of living with chronic musculoskeletal pain
Authors: Zelčāne Elīna , Pipere Anita
Published: June 2024

Background

Living with chronic pain can have several negative consequences. However, some individuals are more resilient despite pain. Although a large body of research exploring resilience‐enhancing factors exists, there is a lack of research focused on the changes of individual's resilience over time.

Objectives

This study aims to explore how people with chronic musculoskeletal pain (CMP) describe their experience regarding the maintenance of resilience in the long term.

Methods

Within the framework of the qualitative research strategy, semi‐structured interviews and two focus groups with 17 purposefully selected research participants (ages 29–64) were conducted. The data were analysed by integrating thematic analysis and narrative analysis.

Results

To maintain resilience in the long term, it is important to take responsibility for one's physical and mental well‐being by practicing regular ability‐adjusted physical activity, giving up unrealistic expectations, focussing on finding opportunities, not obstacles, maintaining a positive future perspective, and finding significance in life despite experiencing chronic pain. Financial support from the government and access to rehabilitation can facilitate better self‐care for those with limited finances.

Conclusion

This study may be useful for healthcare professionals, psychologists, social workers, and other specialists who daily encounter patients with CMP and aspire to understand the main challenges and needs of this particular group of patients.
A numerical method for consensus control of leader‐following multi‐agent systems with the input delay
Authors: Bao Kunlong , Cong Yuhao , Hu Renhong
Published: June 2024

In this paper, the consensus control problem of leader‐following linear multi‐agent systems with the input delay is investigated. We first present a necessary and sufficient condition for the leader‐following consensus of linear multi‐agent systems with the input delay. Then by means of the state transition matrix of linear delay systems, the leader‐following consensus problem is transformed into a distributed nonconvex optimization problem. Furthermore, a numerical method based on the successive convex approximation (SCA) technique is proposed to solve the distributed nonconvex optimization problem. Finally, numerical examples are given to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Avoiding visitors to a protected area increases predation risk for the endangered mountain gazelle
Authors: Zukerman Yuval , Arnon Amir , Roll Uri , Berger‐Tal Oded
Published: June 2024

People's recreational activities in nature are essential to promote wildlife conservation. The interplay between humans and the environment is complex, as the presence of humans may impact wildlife both directly and by altering species interactions. Thus, conservation management in protected areas where people frequently interact with wildlife is challenging.

We investigated the combined impact of different recreational activities of varying intensity, along with environmental and temporal factors, on the activity of the endangered mountain gazelle (Gazella gazella) and its predator, the golden Jackal (Canis aureus) in Ramat Hanadiv Nature Park—a protected area in northern Israel.

We placed 109 camera traps in gazelles' activity centres over 5 years. We analysed the activity patterns of both species and how these patterns were affected by visitor activity.

We found that gazelles became more nocturnal in areas with higher visitor activity, which led to greater overlap in their activity periods with golden Jackals. Both species were less active when there were more visitors in the park, but jackals were more attracted to disturbed areas, while gazelles avoided them. Furthermore, we found that gazelles' activity was primarily affected by visitor activity compared to environmental factors, study year or predator activity.

Policy implications. We show direct and indirect effects of visitors on a predator–prey system and highlight the importance of understanding these impacts to manage protected areas and support human–wildlife coexistence.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Synthesis, characterization and microwave absorption properties of BaFe12O19/Ni0.5Mn0.5Fe2O4@ polyaniline nanocomposites with different ferrite percentages
Authors: Hosseinabad Tavus , Nabiyouni Gholamreza , Hedayati Kambiz
Published: June 2024

In this paper, BaFe12O19/Ni0.5Mn0.5Fe2O4@PANI core‐shell nanocomposites were synthesized with different ferrite/PANI ratios. The Ferrite nanoparticles were prepared by the auto‐combustion sol–gel method. Chemical oxidative polymerization of aniline in acidic solution along with adding ferrite nanoparticles to the composition was used for the synthesis of nanocomposites. The product then was studied by X‐ray diffractometer)XRD(, field emission scanning electron microscope (FE‐SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analyses. The magnetic properties of samples were investigated with vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM). Also, nanocomposite samples were examined in terms of the ability to absorb microwaves. Using Vector Network Analyzer (VNA). the reflection loss (RL) of nanocomposites was measured at frequencies between 2 and 18 GHz. The minimum reflection loss (RLmin) was obtained at −36.98 dB at the frequency of 13.8 GHz with an effective absorption bandwidth of 4.87 GHz for the sample with the equal ratio of ferrite/PANI. Synthesized nanocomposite as an effective compound has very high reflection loss in a wide frequency range.

Highlights

Thermal stability is improved by adding ferrite nanoparticles to polyaniline.

The polymer shell reduces the magnetic properties of ferrite nanoparticles.

There is a strong exchange coupling between hard and soft ferrite.

Ferrite/polymer ratio of 1:1 has the lowest amount of reflection loss.

In the X and Ku band, magnetic loss is mainly caused by eddy currents.
A Tribological investigation of fly ash particulate‐loaded E‐glass fiber reinforced interpenetrating polymer network composites
Authors: Vezhavendhan R. , Ganesamoorthy R. , Suresh G. , Madheswaran Dinesh Kumar , Thangamuthu Mohanraj , Chandramohan P. , Rathinasabapathi G.
Published: June 2024

Environmentally‐friendly materials are increasingly sought in use of both structural and non‐structural applications. Most of the prominent places, particulates and fibers are exclusively utilized to reinforce polymeric composites, aiming to enhance their strength and provide effective protection against wear. Currently, one of the most pressing issues encountered in current industries are wear and tear, mostly happens during manufacturing and agricultural operations. To overcome this issue, the current study examines into exploring the effects of different weight ratios (0%, 1%, 3%, 5%, 7%, 9% by wt.%) of fly ash (FA) loading on the abrasive characteristics of Interpenetrating Polymer Networks (IPNs) composites strengthened with E‐Glass fibers. Abrasion tests, conducted in accordance with ASTM D99 standard which involves five control parameters: load, FA content, speed, sliding distance, and surface roughness. Experimental design utilized Taguchi's orthogonal array (L25), with opts ANOVA to identify significant control factors. Results indicate that the addition of FA substantially enhances the wear resistance of particulate‐loaded E‐Glass fiber reinforced IPN composites. Moreover, the specific wear rate is significantly influenced by the applied load and FA content. However experimental data suggests that optimal wear behavior for IPN composites occurs under the conditions of 50 N load, 3% FA content, 300 rpm speed, 4000 m sliding distance, and 0.3 μm disc roughness. Further, scanning electron microscopy was also employed to examine microstructural details to better know the micro‐mechanism behavior happens between the particulates with fiber and matrix reinforcement.

Highlights

Utilization of fly ash significantly enhances composite strength.

IPN laminates fabricated with 0%–7% particulate loads.

IPN laminates thoroughly evaluated through wear testing.

DOE guided experimental design using L25 orthogonal array.

SEM analysis reveals superior quality of fly ash‐loaded IPN.
Relationship between secondary metabolites and insect loads in cabbage with different leaf shapes and positions
Authors: Rasool Samreen Ghulam , Abdullah Muhammad , Li Dezhi , Yanping Liu
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Secondary metabolites in plants play a crucial role in defense mechanisms against insects, pests, and pathogens. These metabolites exhibit varying distributions within and among plant parts under different biotic and abiotic conditions. Understanding the intricate relationships between secondary metabolites and insect populations can be helpful for elucidating plant defense mechanisms and enhancing agricultural managing efficiencies.

Objective

To investigate the influence of the glucosinolate profile in the leaves of three cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata L.) varieties on insect loads.

Methods

Glucosinolate profiles across different leaf positions (such as bottom, middle, and center) and leaf shapes (such as curly and non‐curly leaf) of three cabbage varieties (Xiagan [XGA], Xiaguang [XGU], and Qiangxia [QIX]) were analyzed by using high‐performance liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry (LC–MS). The insect loads were recorded by visually inspecting the upper and lower layers of each target leaf.

Results

Increasing concentrations of four glucosinolates, namely, glucoiberin, progoitrin, glucoraphanin, and glucobrassicin, were positively related to insect loads. While increasing concentrations of the other four glucosinolates, such as neoglucobrassicin, 4‐methoxyglucobrassicin, sinigrin, and gluconapin, were negatively related to insect loads. Furthermore, both glucosinolate synthesis and insect loads were significantly higher in the curly‐shaped and middle‐position leaves than in the non‐curly‐shaped and bottom‐ and central‐position leaves across the cabbage varieties.

Conclusion

Differences in glucosinolate profiles across leaf positions and shapes strongly influenced the insect loads of the three Brassica varieties. This link may further extend our understanding of the real defense power of a particular variety against herbivore damage.
A case of reinitiation of modified electroconvulsive therapy 2 weeks after modified electroconvulsive therapy‐induced Takotsubo cardiomyopathy in a male patient with major depressive disorder
Authors: Kezuka Dai , Haruyama Akiko , Suzuki Eiji , Sakuma Kei
Published: June 2024

Background

Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TCM) is a left ventricular dysfunction resembling acute coronary syndrome. Its prognosis is generally favorable; however, a subset of patients may present with severe complications. TCM is a rare side‐effect of modified electroconvulsive therapy (ECT); it has been reported in 22 female and two male patients. Eight cases of ECT reinitiation after TCM have been reported (all females), with the shortest duration being 3 weeks.

Case Presentation

We report the case of a 61‐year‐old man with a history of major depressive disorder and no history of heart disease or previous ECT treatment. Antidepressants had been ineffective, and ECT was indicated. After the third ECT session, the patient complained of chest pain and shortness of breath. Electrocardiography revealed ST elevation, and catheter angiography was used to diagnose TCM. The patient had mild heart failure but remained stable. Recognizing that ECT was effective, the patient asked for it to be reinitiated. We confirmed that the cardiac function had been normalized, applied a bisoprolol fumarate patch as a preventive measure, and reinitiated ECT 14 days after the onset of TCM. ECT was performed five times, with no recurrence of TCM and a marked improvement in depression.

Conclusion

We describe a male patient with major depressive disorder who underwent reinitiation of ECT 2 weeks after ECT‐induced TCM. Therefore, TCM should be recognized as a side‐effect of ECT, even in men. Moreover, depending on whether the patient's condition is stable, ECT can be successfully performed in patients with TCM.
Synergistic performance of polyethersulfone membranes embedded with graphene oxide‐zinc oxide nanocomposites for efficient heavy metal and dye removal with strong antibacterial properties
Authors: Goyat Rohit , Singh Joginder , Umar Ahmad , Saharan Yajvinder , Kumar Vikas , Ibrahim Ahmad A. , Akbar Sheikh , Baskoutas Sotirios
Published: June 2024

Water pollution caused by heavy metal ions (HMI) and dyes is a global issue challenging current solutions. Membrane filtration shows promise, yet faces limitations like fouling and low flux. This study proposes a new membrane by incorporating graphene oxide zinc oxide (GO‐ZnO) nanocomposites into a polyethersulfone (PES) matrix to overcome these challenges. The synthesized membrane exhibits strong antimicrobial activity, crucial for water treatment, and high efficiency in removing HMIs (Cu2+ and Ni2+) and dyes (BB9 and EBT) from water samples and industrial wastewater. Characterization via FTIR and FESEM confirms its chemical composition and morphology, while contact angle measurements assess its hydrophilicity. Mechanical strength tests ensure durability. Overall, the membrane demonstrates exceptional antimicrobial activity, pollutant removal efficiency, and mechanical robustness, highlighting the potential of integrating GO‐ZnO nanoparticles into PES membranes for water treatment.

Highlights

Synthesis of innovative PES membrane embedded with GO‐ZnO for durable and fast energy‐saving filtration.

Thorough Membrane Characterization and its various applications with mechanisms.

Efficient Heavy Metal and Dye Removal, Inherent Antibacterial Prowess.
Using a fiber Bragg grating technique to investigate temperature cycling strain of pressed TATB‐based polymer‐bonded explosives
Authors: Xu Yao , Gao Siyue , Zhang Jianzhong , Liu Yanlei , Zhang Weibin , Wang Jun , Wang Hui , Wang Shujing , Ma Zhiqiang , Chen Pengwan , Liu Rui
Published: June 2024

Pressed 1,3,5‐triamino‐2,4,6‐trinitrobenzene (TATB)‐based polymer‐bonded explosive (PBX) exhibits significant anisotropic and irreversible expansion characteristics during temperature cycling, resulting in both safety and service issues. The anisotropic and irreversible expansion properties of PBX have shown to be closely related to the microstructures, including explosive crystals, binders, micro voids, el. Fiber Bragg grating (FBG) technology has advantages of high reliability, accuracy, and sensitivity, which is more conducive to real‐time capture of the changes in strain throughout the temperature cycling. In this study, temperature cycling strain monitoring experiments of PBX pressed under different thermal–mechanical coupling loading conditions were studied using FBG technology. The effect of the pressing parameters on the anisotropic and irreversible expansion characteristics of the PBX's during temperature cycling was measured and analyzed, taking into account potential microstructural factors such as crystal orientation, binders, and porosity. The results indicated that the strain on the side and top of PBX cylinders were distributed with increasing strain in the direction of higher density. The strain stratification was significant during the high‐temperature stage of temperature cycling and was not obvious during the low‐temperature stage. The degree of strain stratification decreased with an increase in temperature cycling cycles and increased with higher pressing temperatures. The anisotropic expansion of PBX cylinders increased with an increase in temperature during cycling and decreased with a reduction in temperature. The axial expansion degree of PBX cylinders pressed under different compression conditions in the later cycles of temperature cycling is consistent with the different crystal orientations intensity inside them.
Fit‐for‐purpose heterodivalent single‐domain antibody for gastrointestinal targeting of toxin B fromClostridium difficile
Authors: Rodriguez Rodriguez Everardo R. , Nordvang Rune Thorbjørn , Petersson Marcus , Rendsvig Jakob Kræmmer Haar , Arendrup Emma Wenzel , Fernández Quintero Monica L. , Jenkins Timothy P. , Laustsen Andreas H. , Thrane Sandra Wingaard
Published: June 2024

Single‐domain antibodies (sdAbs), such as VHHs, are increasingly being developed for gastrointestinal (GI) applications against pathogens to strengthen gut health. However, what constitutes a suitable developability profile for applying these proteins in a gastrointestinal setting remains poorly explored. Here, we describe an in vitro methodology for the identification of sdAb derivatives, more specifically divalent VHH constructs, that display extraordinary developability properties for oral delivery and functionality in the GI environment. We showcase this by developing a heterodivalent VHH construct that cross‐inhibits the toxic activity of the glycosyltransferase domains (GTDs) from three different toxinotypes of cytotoxin B (TcdB) from lineages ofClostridium difficile. We show that the VHH construct possesses high stability and binding activity under gastric conditions, in the presence of bile salts, and at high temperatures. We suggest that the incorporation of early developability assessment could significantly aid in the efficient discovery of VHHs and related constructs fit for oral delivery and GI applications.
Investigating Stability in Subgroup Identification for Stratified Medicine
Authors: Hair G. M. , Jemielita T. , Mt‐Isa S. , Schnell P. M. , Baumgartner R.
Published: June 2024

Subgroup analysis may be used to investigate treatment effect heterogeneity among subsets of the study population defined by baseline characteristics. Several methodologies have been proposed in recent years and with these, statistical issues such as multiplicity, complexity, and selection bias have been widely discussed. Some methods adjust for one or more of these issues; however, few of them discuss or consider the stability of the subgroup assignments. We propose exploring the stability of subgroups as a sensitivity analysis step for stratified medicine to assess the robustness of the identified subgroups besides identifying possible factors that may drive this instability. After applying Bayesian credible subgroups, a nonparametric bootstrap can be used to assess stability at subgroup‐level and patient‐level. Our findings illustrate that when the treatment effect is small or not so evident, patients are more likely to switch to different subgroups (jumpers) across bootstrap resamples. In contrast, when the treatment effect is large or extremely convincing, patients generally remain in the same subgroup. While the proposed subgroup stability method is illustrated through Bayesian credible subgroups method on time–to–event data, this general approach can be used with other subgroup identification methods and endpoints.
Do You Want to Stay Single? Considerations on Single‐Arm Trials in Drug Development and the Postregulatory Space
Authors: Dyachkova Yulia , Dunger‐Baldauf Cornelia , Barbier Nathalie , Devenport Jenny , Franzén Stefan , Kazeem Gbenga , Künzel Thomas , Mancini Pierre , Mordenti Giacomo , Richert Knut , Ridolfi Antonia , Saure Daniel
Published: June 2024

Single‐arm trials (SATs), while not preferred, remain in use throughout the drug development cycle. They may be accepted by regulators in particular contexts (e.g., in oncology or rare diseases) when the potential effects of new treatments are very large and placebo treatment is unethical. However, in the postregulatory space, SATs are common, and perhaps even more poorly suited to address the questions of interest. In this manuscript, we review regulatory and HTA positions on SATs; challenges posed by SATs to address research questions beyond regulators, evolving statistical methods to provide context for SATs, case studies where SATs could and could not address questions of interest, and communication strategies to influence decision making and optimize study design to address evidence needs.
Innovation and adaption in local governments in the face of COVID‐19: Determinants of effective crisis management
Authors: Zaychik Danielle , Beeri Itai , Rein‐Sapir Yonat , Avni Nufar , Altshuler Alex
Published: June 2024

Local governments were instrumental in managing the COVID‐19 crisis in countries worldwide. This study examines the methods that local governments in Israel used to successfully manage the COVID‐19 crisis. We explored the structural characteristics of the localities that excelled at managing the pandemic. Furthermore, we used measures of the spread of the virus and vaccination rates to identify a group of localities that managed the crisis with relative success. We conducted interviews with officials from these localities to determine the methods, policies, and conditions that led to success. We found that ethnicity, distance from urban centers, and socioeconomic status were associated with effective COVID‐19 management. We also identified several intraorganizational and interorganizational policies and practices that were successful: crisis‐adjusted management, a unified organizational atmosphere, digitalization, information management, autonomous decision making, and the fostering of collaborative relationships. Implications of the findings for the All Hazards Approach to disaster management are discussed.
Soil amendment and N fertilization strategies to improve C sequestration and storage in soil aggregates
Authors: Andrade Maria Gabriela de Oliveira , Cordeiro Carlos Felipe dos Santos , Calonego Juliano Carlos , Franzluebbers Alan , Rosolem Ciro Antonio
Published: June 2024

Management can affect soil quality through changes in carbon (C) stock, especially in protected C fractions of soil aggregates. Soil aggregation and C sequestration may be improved with soil correction (liming and gypsum) and nitrogen (N) fertilization, but it is not clear how these factors might interact to affect humic substances. The objective of the study was to evaluate the effects of calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), and N fertilizatilizer amendments on the accumulation of C, N, and humic substances in soil aggregates from an Oxisoil in Brazil. The production system was no‐till soybean [Gycine max (L.) Merr.] double‐cropped with maize (Zea mays L.) and intercropped with forage grass since 2016. Treatments were no amendment, lime only, and lime + phosphogypsum, factorially arranged with and without annual N fertilization of maize. Soil was collected at 0–10, 10–20, 20–40, and 40–60 cm 6 years after initiation of the experiment. The combination of lime, gypsum, and N led to 13% greater total C stock and 20% greater total N stock within the 0–60 cm soil profile than the control. Levels of fulvic acid (FA) and humic acid (HA) were similar among aggregate classes, but humin was greatest in larger aggregates. Liming plus N decreased FA and HA, but gypsum application mitigated this negative effect. Application of limestone, gypsum, and N increased humin, mainly in the soil surface (0–10 cm). Soil C storage and stabilization was enhanced in large soil aggregates with the combined use of lime, gypsum, and N fertilization in humid tropical soils.
Proton Solvation Free Energy in Liquid Ammonia at Room Temperature
Authors: Ariche Berkane , Alali Kouider , Rahmouni Ali
Published: June 2024

The investigation of experimental pKa values in liquid ammonia at room temperature for a series of 30 organic compounds containing eight distinct chemical groups enabled an accurate assessment of the proton ammoniation free energy. The deprotonation free energies, as well as the solvation free energies of acids and conjugate bases, were computed using a combination of quantum chemical and electrostatic approaches. Two thermodynamic schemes were employed to reproduce experimental pKa values while scanning a large interval of probable values of proton ammoniation free energy. The desired quantity corresponded to the lowest mean absolute deviation of the overall reproduced pKa values of the series. As a result, the proton ammoniation free energy was evaluated to be −275.0 Kcal/mol. Test results show that this proposed value is well suited for pKa calculation in liquid ammonia at room temperature.
Cisplatin Resistance in Cancer Therapy: Causes and Overcoming Strategies
Authors: Shruthi S. , Bhasker Shenoy K.
Published: June 2024

Dr. S. Shruthi, Prof. Dr. K. Bhasker Shenoy. Cisplatin (CDDP) is the first metal‐based drug and has been a popular drug in the treatment of various types of cancer for decades. Cancer cell death is promoted by this platinum‐based drug by generating DNA adducts and activating apoptotic signaling pathways. The development of drug resistance is the foremost clinical concern that compromises its efficacy. The mechanism of CDDP resistance encompasses changes in drug influx and efflux, drug accumulation reduction, enhanced drug detoxification, and repair which may affect its therapeutic value. Researchers have paid significant attention to overcoming CDDP resistance, which provides an opportunity to enhance clinical outcomes. Combinational therapy, use of CDDP analogs, phytochemicals, nanoparticle‐mediated drug delivery, gene targeting and regulation of drug induced epigenetic changes are the specific regimens to overcome CDDP resistance and treatment burden. In this review, we summarize the mechanisms involved in CDDP resistance and strategies considered to overcome these hurdles concerning preclinical and clinical studies. This may provide insights into the further development of novel approaches to uproot CDDP resistance, to ascertain a safer and more effective cancer therapy.
Finding a road less traveled: Combining analysis and intuition to develop novel problem formulations
Authors: Park Chan Hyung
Published: June 2024

Research Summary

Novel formulations of strategic problems are key to innovation and exploration. Conventional wisdom suggests that intuitive thinking, rather than rational‐analytic thinking, facilitates novel problem formulations. This article proposes that intuitive thinking is insufficient and that novel formulations instead depend on sequencing rational‐analytic and intuitive thinking across two phases of the problem formulation task. Two experiments using samples of strategists in organizations support the importance of analysis followed by intuition when developing novel problem formulations. This article advances the “both‐and” approach to managerial cognition by investigating how harnessing intuition and analysis in combination may lead to a desirable outcome for a managerial task. This approach moves beyond the typical, “either‐or” approach to cognition in past studies, which pit analysis against intuition in achieving desirable outcomes.

Managerial Summary

Unique and potentially contrarian theories on problems—novel problem formulations—are key to innovation, exploration, and value creation. Past research indicates that strategists should rely on intuition and gut feeling rather than analysis to boldly develop novel problem formulations. I propose that intuition alone can lead to premature, obvious conclusions. This article instead claims that novel formulations depend on combining analysis and intuition in a specific sequence. Analysis helps identify hidden needs and pain points that allow strategists to think of diverse possibilities for underlying causes. Intuition helps strategists boldly utilize these ambiguous, unstructured symptoms based on subjective beliefs to develop novel problem formulations. Two experiments with real‐world strategists support the arguments.
Solar Energy‐Driven Reverse Water Gas Shift Reaction: Photothermal Effect, Photoelectric Activation and Selectivity Regulation
Authors: Yu Jianbo , Muhetaer Aidaer , Li Qi , Xu Dongsheng
Published: June 2024

Excessive carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions are one of the main causes of the greenhouse effect. Thermal catalytic reverse water gas shift (RWGS) reaction, which is a pre reaction for Fischer–Tropsch synthesis, is considered an effective way to convert CO2 and synthesize high value‐added chemicals in industry. However, traditional thermal catalysis requires a large amount of fossil fuels to drive reactions, which cannot achieve the true goal of carbon neutrality. Photothermal catalysis, as a novel conversion pathway, can achieve efficient CO2 conversion while significantly improving solar energy utilization. This review provides a detailed introduction of CO2 and H2 adsorption/activation and reaction pathways in thermal catalysis, as well as the catalytic mechanisms of thermal and chemical effects in photothermal catalytic RWGS to supply readers valuable insights on the mechanism of photothermal catalytic RWGS reaction and provide a reference for better catalyst design.
Heterogeneous Acrylic Resins with Bicontinuous Nanodomains as Low‐Modulus Flexible Adhesives
Authors: Back Jong‐Ho , Kim Ji‐Soo , Kim Youngdo , Kim Hyun‐Joong
Published: June 2024

Adhesives play a critical role in the assembly of electronic devices, particularly as devices become more diverse in form factors. Flexible displays require highly transparent and rapidly recoverable adhesives with a certain stiffness. In this study, novel structured adhesives are developed that incorporate bicontinuous nanodomains to fabricate flexible adhesives with low moduli. This structure is obtained via polymerization‐induced microphase separation using a macro chain transfer agent (CTA). Phase separation is characterized using small‐angle X‐ray scattering, transmission electron microscopy, and dynamic mechanical analysis. By optimizing the length of the macro CTA, an adhesive with both hard and soft nanodomains is produced, resulting in exceptional flexibility (strain recovery = 93%) and minimal modulus (maximum stress/applied strain = 7 kPa), which overperforms traditional adhesives. The optimized adhesive exhibits excellent resilience under extensive strain, as well as strong adhesion and transparency. Furthermore, dynamic folding tests demonstrate the exceptional stability of the adhesive under various temperature and humidity conditions, which is attributed to its unique structure. In summary, the distinct bicontinuous phase structure confers excellent transparency, flexibility, and reduced stiffness to the adhesive, rendering it well‐suited for commercial foldable displays and suggesting potential applications in stretchable displays and wearable electronics.
The effects of artificial intelligence on organizational culture in the perspective of the hermeneutic cycle: The intersection of mental processes
Authors: Canbul Yaroğlu Aslıhan
Published: June 2024

Artificial intelligence technology has spread rapidly in the business world in recent years and has transformed the business processes of many organizations. This transformation has caused significant changes not only in the technological infrastructure but also in the organizational culture and way of doing business. However, the effects of artificial intelligence on organizational culture are complex and diverse. While artificial intelligence applications can change businesses' values, norms, and ways of working, they can also make it difficult to maintain a human‐centered approach. In this context, it is important to understand and evaluate the effects of artificial intelligence on organizational culture. This article examines the effects of artificial intelligence on organizational culture from the perspective of the hermeneutic cycle. The hermeneutic cycle allows us to understand the interaction between organizational culture and artificial intelligence as a continuous process of interpretation and understanding. In addition, by making use of the experience anecdote of phenomenology, it is emphasized how mental processes are shaped and that these processes have a structure suitable for the hermeneutic cycle. This framework helps us more comprehensively evaluate and analyze the effects of artificial intelligence on organizational culture. Our findings reveal that integrating AI within organizational frameworks requires nuanced understanding and adaptations that align with human‐centric values.
Numerical analysis of reinforced concrete beams enhanced in shear with external polymer cement mortar‐bonded FRP grid
Authors: Monier Ahmed , Saifeldeen Mohamed A. , Fouad Nariman
Published: June 2024

This paper presents a finite element (FE) modeling approach to assess the performance of reinforced concrete (RC) beams strengthened in shear using external polymer cement mortar (PCM)‐bonded basalt fiber‐reinforced polymer (BFRP) grids. The study begins with an experimental program and FE modeling of a double shear bond test, simulating the bond behavior between the BFRP grid and RC beams with PCM. Subsequently, a FE model for BFRP shear‐strengthened beams explores key parameters, including shear span to depth ratio, bonding agent type (PCM and epoxy resin), and angles between BFRP grid bars and the beam axis. Comparative analysis with experimental results verifies the accuracy of the FE models. Additionally, a critical parameter, the BFRP reinforcement ratio, is numerically investigated, revealing that achieving a ratio between 1.33% and 1.55% enhances both maximum load and deflection in beams strengthened with externally bonded composite reinforced mortar.
Fire behavior of high‐contents recycled aggregate concrete composite slabs with small openings
Authors: Kefyalew Fetih , Imjai Thanongsak , Garcia Reyes , Son Nguyen Khanh
Published: June 2024

Recycled aggregate concrete (RAC) is increasingly being used in the construction of structural elements. However, the performance of RAC elements under fire is usually considered to be inferior to that of normal concrete (NC) elements. This study investigates the fire behavior of RAC composite steel slabs with and without openings. Ten slabs of size of 1.0 m × 2.2 m were cast either with no opening, one or two circular openings, and one or two square openings. Five of the slabs were manufactured with 100% RAC, while the other five slabs were made with NC. The concrete slabs were loaded and subjected to fire tests at a temperature of about 900°C for 120 min. Test results show that RAC composite slabs have lower stiffness (thus larger mid‐span deflections) under fire exposure compared to their counterpart NC slabs. In terms of the recorded temperature–time curves, RAC slabs showed similar performance to that of NC slabs. The ratio of soffit temperature to the temperature at the top of slab was considerably smaller for RAC slabs compared to NC slabs. RAC slabs also showed more spalling than NC slabs. Experimental test results were numerically verified using PyroSim® software with the two showing good agreement. A series of new design charts for composite RAC slabs with desired fire endurance are proposed. This study is expected to promote the wider use of RAC in construction of structural elements, particularly of composite slabs exposed to extreme temperatures.
Video consent significantly improves patient knowledge of general surgery procedures
Authors: Bremer Kristin , Brown Emily , Schenkel Rachel , Walters Ryan W. , Nandipati Kalyana C.
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Informed consent is essential in ensuring patients’ understanding of their medical condition, treatment, and potential risks. The objective of this study was to investigate the impact of utilizing a video consent compared to standard consent for patient knowledge and satisfaction in selected general surgical procedures.

Methods and procedures

We included 118 patients undergoing appendectomy, cholecystectomy, inguinal hernia repair, and fundoplication at two hospitals in Omaha, NE. Patients were randomized to either a standard consent or a video consent. Outcomes included a pretest and posttest objective knowledge assessment of their procedure, as well as a satisfaction survey which was completed immediately after consent and following discharge. Given the pre-post design, a linear mixed-effect model was estimated for both outcomes. A two-way interaction effect was of primary interest to assess whether pre-to-post change in the outcome differed between patients randomized to standard or video consent.

Results

Baseline characteristics were mostly similar between groups except for patient sex, p = 0.041. Both groups showed a statistically significant increase in knowledge from pretest to posttest (standard group: 0.25, 95% CI 0.01 to 0.51, p = 0.048; video group: 0.68, 95% CI 0.36 to 1.00, p < 0.001), with the video group showing significantly greater change (interaction p = 0.043) indicating that incorporating a video into the consent process resulted in a better improvement in patient’s knowledge of the proposed procedure. Further, both groups showed a decrease in satisfaction post-discharge, but no statistically significant difference in the magnitude of decrease between the groups (interaction p = 0.309).

Conclusion

Video consent lead to a significant improvement in a patient’s knowledge of the proposed treatment. Although the patient satisfaction survey didn’t show a significant difference, it did show a trend. We propose incorporating videos into the consent process for routine general surgical procedures.
Current status of the surgical training system in Japan: results of a nationwide questionnaire survey of graduating surgical trainees
Authors: Kiyasu Yoshiyuki , Poudel Saseem , Koike Daisuke , Watanabe Jun , Kowatari Ryosuke , Fukumoto Masayuki , Yamaoka-Fujikawa Yoshiko , Kikuchi Yuta , Arai Keisuke , Booka Eisuke , Ishida Sonoko , Yokoyama Shinichiro , Saito Mitsue
Published: June 2024

Purpose

To identify the problems trainees face during surgical training in Japan.

Methods

A nationwide online questionnaire survey was conducted targeting newly certified surgical trainees.

Results

The response rate was 53.8% (758/1410). Among those respondents, 25.6% were women, 71.4% were either married or had a partner, 41.3% had children, 72.7% had performed over 200 surgeries under general anesthesia, and 54.1% had chosen, before graduating from medical school, to become a surgeon. While 88.8% were interested in learning surgical techniques, 63.8% were hesitant to become a surgeon for fear of a compromised quality of private life (QOL). Conversely, only 1.4% chose their surgical training programs based on QOL. Overall, 84.6% of the trainees were satisfied with their training and this correlated with the number of surgeries performed. Only 29.9% received non-technical skill training. The average number of night shifts per month was 5.6, and 10.6% worked over 80 h per week. Harassment was reported by 41.5% of the respondents. Moreover, 33.0% had considered dropping out at some time, primarily because of their QOL (51.1%) or the harassment they had encountered (50.4%).

Conclusion

This survey revealed that while trainees were satisfied with the overall training system, issues such as long working hours and harassment are prevalent. Working to improve these issues could make surgery more attractive for young trainees.
An organometallic hybrid antibiotic of metronidazole with a Gold(I) N-Heterocyclic Carbene overcomes metronidazole resistance in Clostridioides difficile
Authors: Büssing Rolf , Bublitz Arne , Karge Bianka , Brönstrup Mark , Strowig Till , Ott Ingo
Published: June 2024

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has been emerging as a major global health threat and calls for the development of novel drug candidates. Metal complexes have been demonstrating high efficiency as antibacterial agents that differ substantially from the established types of antibiotics in their chemical structures and their mechanism of action. One strategy to exploit this potential is the design of metal-based hybrid organometallics that consist of an established antibiotic and a metal-based warhead that contributes an additional mechanism of action different from that of the parent antibiotic. In this communication, we describe the organometallic hybrid antibiotic 2c, in which the drug metronidazole is connected to a gold(I) N-heterocyclic carbene warhead that inhibits bacterial thioredoxin reductase (TrxR). Metronidazole can be used for the treatment with the obligatory anaerobic pathogen Clostridioides difficile (C. difficile), however, resistance to the drug hampers its clinical success. The gold organometallic conjugate 2c was an efficient inhibitor of TrxR and it was inactive or showed only minor effects against eucaryotic cells and bacteria grown under aerobic conditions. In contrast, a strong antibacterial effect was observed against both metronidazole-sensitive and -resistant strains of C. difficile. This report presents a proof-of-concept that the design of metal-based hybrid antibiotics can be a viable approach to efficiently tackle AMR.

Graphical abstract

A metronidazole-gold hybrid metalloantibiotic with high efficacy against resistant C. difficile
Archival meta-metadata: revision history and positionality of finding aids
Authors: King Owen C.
Published: June 2024

This article starts from two observations about archival description. First, creating finding aids requires significant judgment and interpretation, and is therefore inevitably influenced by the positionalities—the perspectives, personal histories, and social identities—of the archivists. Second, finding aids occasionally call for revision, sometimes to fit a new data standard or reflect an evolving collection, but also to correct errors, reduce bias, and remove harmful language. In light of these observations, this article has two aims. First, it develops and presents a theoretical rationale for recording metadata about finding aids, including revision history and authorship, arguing for transparency about positionality as a response to recognizing the infeasibility of impartiality. Second, it presents the results of a survey of state archivists in the US, who were asked about their descriptive practices and their attitudes regarding disclosing their authorship of finding aids. Results of the survey reveal diverse practices, as well as some hesitation to embrace expressions of positionality in the context of description. The article closes with a discussion of options for conceptualizing metadata about finding aids and the professional role of archivists, concluding with two general recommendations.
First- vs second-line CDK 4/6 inhibitor use for patients with hormone receptor positive, human epidermal growth-factor receptor-2 negative, metastatic breast cancer in the real world setting
Authors: Kimmick Gretchen , Pilehvari Asal , You Wen , Bonilla Gloribel , Anderson Roger
Published: June 2024

Purpose

To compare CDK4/6 inhibitor (CDK4/6i) with endocrine therapy (ET) in the first- versus second-line setting for treatment of hormone receptor positive (HR+), HER2 negative, metastatic breast cancer (MBC) using real-world evidence.

Methods

Patients with HR+, HER2 negative MBC, diagnosed between 2/3/2015 and 11/2/2021 and having ≥ 3 months follow-up were identified from the nationwide electronic health record-derived Flatiron Health de-identified database. Treatment cohorts included: (1) first-line ET with a CDK 4/6i (1st-line CDK4/6i) versus (2) first-line ET alone followed by second-line ET with a CDK4/6i (2nd-line CDK4/6i). Differences in baseline characteristics were tested using chi-square tests and two-sample t-tests. Time to third-line therapy, time to start of chemotherapy, and overall survival were compared using Kaplan-Maier method.

Results

The analysis included 2771 patients (2170 1st-line CDK4/6i and 601 2nd-line CDK4/6i). Patients receiving 1st-line CDK4/6i were younger (75% vs 68% < 75 years old, p = 0.0001), less likely uninsured or not having insurance status documented (10% vs. 13%, p = 0.04), of better performance status (50% vs 43% with ECOG 0, p = 0.03), and more likely to have de novo MBC (36% vs. 24%, p < 0.001). Time to third-line therapy (49 vs 22 months, p < 0.001) and time to chemotherapy (68 vs 41 months, p < 0.001) were longer in those receiving first-line CDK4/6i. Overall survival (54 vs 49 months, p = 0.33) was similar between groups.

Conclusion

Use of CDK4/6i with first-, vs second-, line ET was associated with longer time to receipt of 3rd-line therapy and longer time to receipt of chemotherapy.