bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thyroid hormones: Metabolism and transportation in the fetoplacental unit
Authors: Zuñiga Luis Felipe Falla , Muñoz Yhoiss Smiht , Pustovrh Maria Carolina
Published: October 2022

The thyroid hormones (THs), thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), are of vital importance for fetal development. The concentration of THs in fetal circulation varies throughout gestation and differs from the concentration in the maternal serum, indicating the presence of maternal‐fetal thyroid homeostasis regulatory mechanisms in the placenta. The passage of THs from maternal circulation to fetal circulation is modulated by plasma membrane transporters, enzymes, and carrier proteins. Monocarboxylate transporter 8, iodothyronine deiodinases (DIO2 and DIO3), and transthyretin are especially involved in this maternal‐fetal thyroid modulation, shown by a greater expression in the placenta. THs also play a role in placental development and as expected, abnormal variations in TH levels are associated with pregnancy complications and can result in damage to the fetus. Although new evidence regarding TH regulation during pregnancy and its effects in the mother, placenta, and fetus has been published, many aspects of these interactions are still poorly understood. The objective of this review is to provide an evidence‐based update, drawn from current data, on the metabolism and transport of THs in the placenta and their vital role in the maternal‐fetal relationship.
Women with functional constipation have a worse ability to relax their pelvic floor muscle: A cross sectional study
Authors: Miotto Viviane G. , Fernades Ana C. N. L. , de la Ossa Aura M. P. , Bazanelli Gabriela S. , Fretta Tatiana de B. , de Paula Nicole A. , Homsi Jorge Cristine
Published: October 2022

Introduction

Functional intestinal constipation (FIC) has a high prevalence worldwide. It is higher in adult and elderly women, and in those with alterations in the pelvic floor muscle (PFM) structure and function.

Objective

The primary aim of this study was to characterize PFM function, including tone, of women with and without FIC. The secondary aim was to assess and compare the general and symptom‐related quality of life (QoL) between participants with and without FIC and its correlation with the assessed PFM function.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional observational study, the outcomes were assessed using vaginal palpation, vaginal manometry and validated questionnaires: the Pelvic Floor Impact Questionnaire Short Form 7 (PFIQ‐7), the Pelvic Floor Distress inventory (PFDI‐20), and the Short‐Form Health Survey (SF‐36). This study included 60 women, 30 with FIC and 30 without FIC. The mean age of women with FIC was 48.2 years (standard deviation [SD] 12.22) and 51 years (SD 13.47) for those without FIC. Both groups were overweight. There was a significant difference between groups in the bowel domain of the PFIQ‐7 (p = 0.016) and in the anal dysfunction domain of the PFDI‐20 (p < 0.001), being higher in those women with FIC. Women with FIC presented a significantly worse ability to voluntarily relax their PFM (38.3%) than those without FIC (11.7%; p = 0.008). participants without FIC presented higher values of maximum voluntary contraction (MVC) assessed by vaginal manometry compared to participants without FIC (p = 0.008). PFM tone was not different between groups.

Conclusion

Women with FIC have more difficulty in relaxing their PFM and lower MVC values than women without FIC. FIC negatively impacts women's symptom‐related QoL. The main contribution of this study was to reavel the difficulty of the participants with FIC to relax their PFM. This finding is important to guide clinical decision making for an adequate treatment program direct to women with FIC.
Home pelvic floor exercises in children with non‐neurogenic Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms: Is fitball an alternative to classic exercises?
Authors: Sollini Maria Laura , Capitanucci Maria Luisa , Foti Calogero , Nocentini Ugo , Castelli Enrico , Mosiello Giovanni
Published: October 2022

Introduction

Biofeedback with home pelvic floor exercises were recommended as non‐pharmacologic treatment for non‐neurogenic Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (LUTS) in children. Fitball is recommended to improve all‐over flexibility, balance, and coordination, especially for pelvic floor. Aim of the study was to investigate efficacy of standard home pelvic floor exercises versus exercises using fitball.

Methods

From April 2021 to February 2022 to all children arrived in our clinic with non‐neurogenic LUTS nonresponder at urotherapy, our pelvic floor rehabilitative program was proposed. During the rehabilitation children performed: standard urotherapy, pelvic floor animated biofeedback therapy and pelvic floor exercises in a standard way and using a fitball. After the first session, patients received prescription to repeat at home the same exercises performed at hospital. Children who chose classic exercises were enrolled in group A and they who chose fitball in group B. Continence rate, pelvic floor muscles activity, adherence and satisfaction were evaluated by means of bladder diary, external pubococcygeus test and Likert‐type psychometric scale (from 1 = very unsatisfied to 5 = very satisfied) respectively.

Results

Twenty‐six children affected by LUTS were enrolled: 13 in group A and 13 in B. At 4th control urinary incontinence was reduced by 72,5% in A and 71.4% in B. Pubococcygeus test increased in both groups. Adherence at home was 92% in group A and 62% in group B. Satisfaction with the treatment (4 or 5 points) was 95% in both groups. Four patients of group A and all of group B decided to maintain home exercises including fitball.

Conclusions

Our preliminary study shows that efficacy of home exercises, with or without fitball, is comparable. Satisfaction with fitball is high, regardless results obtained, because parents and children have learned a new, interesting and stimulating way to manage urinary problems. The opportunity to perform these exercises using fitball, it's an important finding for pediatric population.
Preconditioners for robust optimal control problems under uncertainty
Authors: Nobile Fabio , Vanzan Tommaso
Published: October 2022

The discretization of robust quadratic optimal control problems under uncertainty using the finite element method and the stochastic collocation method leads to large saddle‐point systems, which are fully coupled across the random realizations. Despite its relevance for numerous engineering problems, the solution of such systems is notoriously challenging. In this manuscript, we study efficient preconditioners for all‐at‐once approaches using both an algebraic and an operator preconditioning framework. We show in particular that for values of the regularization parameter not too small, the saddle‐point system can be efficiently solved by preconditioning in parallel all the state and adjoint equations. For small values of the regularization parameter, robustness can be recovered by the additional solution of a small linear system, which however couples all realizations. A mean approximation and a Chebyshev semi‐iterative method are proposed to solve this reduced system. We consider a random elliptic partial differential equation whose diffusion coefficient is modeled as an almost surely continuous and positive random field, though not necessarily uniformly bounded and coercive. We further provide estimates of the dependence of the spectrum of the preconditioned system matrix on the statistical properties of the random field and on the discretization of the probability space. Such estimates involve either the first or second moment of the random variables and , where is the spatial domain. The theoretical results are confirmed by numerical experiments, and implementation details are further addressed.
Effectiveness of an eHealth intervention to improve subjective well‐being and self‐efficacy in cardiovascular disaease patients: A pilot non‐randomized controlled trial
Authors: Farhane‐Medina Naima Z. , Castillo‐Mayén Rosario , Tabernero Carmen , Rubio Sebastián J. , Gutiérrez‐Domingo Tamara , Cuadrado Esther , Arenas Alicia , Luque Bárbara
Published: October 2022

Aim

To evaluate the effectiveness of a multicomponent, eHealth‐based self‐efficacy intervention to promote subjective well‐being and self‐efficacy in patients with cardiovascular disease, exploring sex differences.

Design

A pilot study of a two‐arm non‐randomized controlled trial.

Methods

Forty‐two cardiovascular patients (31% women) participated in the study. The experimental group received a personalized psychoeducational session and a 14‐days eHealth intervention. Subjective well‐being (positive and negative affect) and self‐efficacy (chronic and cardiac) were assessed at baseline, post‐psychoeducational session, post‐eHealth intervention and at two follow‐ups.

Results

The levels of the experimental group in positive affect, at post‐eHealth and follow‐up 1, and self‐efficacy, at post‐eHealth, and both follow‐ups, were statistically significantly higher compared to the control group (all ps < .05). When considering sex, the intervention was effective only for men. The results highlight the potential of eHealth interventions for cardiac patients and underline the importance of considering a gender perspective in their treatment.
Solving the2Dand3Dnonlinear inverse source problems of elliptic type partial differential equations by a homogenization function method
Authors: Liu Chein‐Shan , Qiu Lin
Published: October 2022

In this article, the inverse source problems of 2D and 3D elliptic type nonlinear partial differential equations are resolved. For this purpose, a family of single‐parameter homogenization functions that automatically meet the given boundary conditions are deduced and employed as the bases to expand the solution. We solve a linear algebraic equations system which satisfies the over‐specified Neumann boundary condition to obtain the unspecified coefficients, and then the solution in the entire domain is permitted. Taking the solution into the governing equation, the unknown source function can be determined quickly. The present novel method is verified to be an accurate, effective, and robust scheme which is without solving nonlinear equations and iterations, and the additional data used are quite economical.
Whose talon is this? A manual for the identification of ungual phalanges of European accipitrid birds of prey
Authors: Bochenski Zbigniew M. , Tomek Teresa , Wertz Krzysztof
Published: October 2022

Claws of avian raptors have been used to make symbolic objects and decorations in many geographic regions and cultures; thus, their species identification increases our ability to draw more in‐depth conclusions from zooarcheological materials. It is the first ever manual for identification of ungual phalanges of European Accipitridae. It can be used in conjunction with a previously published manual for owls and falcons as well as independently.
Highly Efficient Darzens Reactions Mediated by Phosphazene Bases under Mild Conditions
Authors: Lops Carmine , Pengo Paolo , Pasquato Lucia
Published: October 2022

The highly basic and poorly nucleophilic phosphazene base P1‐t‐Bu promotes the Darzens condensation of α‐halo esters with aromatic aldehydes affording α,β‐epoxy esters in nearly quantitative yields under mild conditions and in short reaction times. The more basic P4‐t‐Bu phosphazene was found useful with low reactivity aldehydes. These reactions can be performed in aprotic organic solvents of low polarity, thus minimizing the hydrolysis of α,β‐epoxy esters which often accompanies the base‐promoted Darzens condensations.
Highly Strong Interaction between Fe/Fe3C Nanoparticles and N‐Doped Carbon toward Enhanced Oxygen Reduction Reaction Performance
Authors: Li Jianpeng , Xiao Dingshu , Wang Peichu , Chen Hongyan , Deng Minghua , Zhu Degang , Yu Jie
Published: October 2022

Transition metal compounds anchored on N‐doped carbon (NC) show intrinsic activity and stability for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). However, the interaction between the transition metal compounds and NC still needs to be strengthened for electron transfer at the compounds/carbon interface. Herein, Fe/Fe3C hybrid nanoparticles encapsulated into N‐doped carbon (Fe@NC) are used as high‐performance ORR catalysts. Benefiting from the strong interaction at Fe/Fe3C nanoparticles/NC interface, the electrons can transfer from Fe/Fe3C hybrid nanoparticles to NC, redistributing the electron density of active sites and promoting the ORR process. The as‐synthesized Fe@NC exhibits outstanding ORR catalytic activity with an onset potential of 1.01 V and a half‐wave potential of 0.92 V in alkaline media. It also shows prominent cycling stability and tolerance to methanol crossover, superior to Pt/C catalyst. The theoretical analysis reveals that the Fe nanoparticles have regulated the electron distributions at the heterojunction interface. The Gibbs free energy diagrams for ORR illustrate that the rate‐determining step is the conversion of OH* to OH−. In situ Raman spectra give evidence of O‐containing intermediates to prove the ORR process.
Indirect GC‐MS Method via Alcoholysis Reaction for Rapid Detection of Organoaluminum Compounds and its Impurities: A Case Study of Triethylaluminium
Authors: Su Pengfei , E Xiu‐tian‐feng , Wang Jingna , Zhu Yanlong , Zhang Gao , Chang Hai , Liu Ke , Meng Zihui
Published: October 2022

Organoaluminum compounds have been employed as catalysts in many reactions. However, due to their high reactivity of the Al−C bond towards water or air, the accurate analysis and detection of organoaluminum compounds are still challenging. Here we demonstrate the possibility of rapidly and precisely detecting the purity and impurities of triethylaluminium (TEAL). An indirect GC‐MS method via alcoholysis reaction using a designed alcoholysis reactor was adopted to detect and separate the main components and impurities of the synthesized TEAL. Previously, the nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and the inductively coupled plasma‐mass spectrometer (ICP‐MS) methods were also selected to detect the main compounds in the synthesized TEAL. The impurities in TEAL was identified as n‐butyl aluminum, and the purity of synthesized TEAL is 97.47 % with high accuracy (ca. 99 %). This work suggests a new strategy to detect the purity and impurities of some kind of hazardous compounds.
Copper coordination states affect the flexibility of copper Metallochaperone Atox1: Insights from molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Schwartz Renana , Ruthstein Sharon , Major Dan Thomas
Published: October 2022

Copper is an essential element in nature but in excess, it is toxic to the living cell. The human metallochaperone Atox1 participates in copper homeostasis and is responsible for copper transmission. In a previous multiscale simulation study, we noticed a change in the coordination state of the Cu(I) ion, from 4 bound cysteine residues to 3, in agreement with earlier studies. Here, we perform and analyze classical molecular dynamic simulations of various coordination states: 2, 3, and 4. The main observation is an increase in protein flexibility as a result of a decrease in the coordination state. In addition, we identified several populated conformations that correlate well with double electron–electron resonance distance distributions or an X‐ray structure of Cu(I)‐bound Atox1. We suggest that the increased flexibility might benefit the process of ion transmission between interacting proteins. Further experiments can scrutinize this hypothesis and shed additional light on the mechanism of action of Atox1.
Initial outcomes and insights from a novel high‐risk prostate cancer screening clinic
Authors: Harper Jonathan B. , Greenberg Samantha E. , Hunt Trevor C. , Cooney Kathleen A. , O'Neil Brock B.
Published: October 2022

Introduction

Guidelines for germline testing in patients with prostate cancer (PCa) are identifying family members who require additional surveillance given pathogenic variants (PVs) that confer increased PCa risk. We established an interdisciplinary clinic for cancer surveillance in high‐risk individuals aimed to implement screening recommendations. This study aimed to characterize the clinical features of this cohort.

Patients and Methods

The Prostate Cancer Risk Clinic (PCRC) was established for unaffected individuals with germline PVs or a strong PCa family history. PCa screening, urine labs, and questionnaires were included in the visit. Individuals with BRCA1/2 PVs underwent clinical breast exam as well. Data from the initial visit were abstracted from the medical record and questionnaires for analysis.

Results

Thirty‐five individuals with increased PCa risk were followed by the PCRC with a median age of 47 years of age. Twenty individuals (57%) had a family history of PCa, and 34 (97%) had a germline PV associated with an increased risk for developing PCa. Four individuals underwent biopsy due to care in the PCRC, with one PCa identified in an individual with TP53 PV. Median patient response scores indicated mild symptoms of an enlarged prostate (AUASS), normal erectile function (SHIM), and relatively low anxiety about developing PCa (MAX‐PC). However, there were notable “outlier” scores on each questionnaire.

Conclusions

Individuals with prostates and BRCA1/2 PVs, among other germline PVs, can benefit from a comprehensive interdisciplinary approach to high‐risk management. PCa was identified in an individual with a non‐BRCA PV, emphasizing the importance and need for high‐risk screening guidelines across all genes with increased risk for PCa. “Outlier” patient response scores demonstrate that some participants experienced worse symptoms or anxiety than was indicated by median scores alone.
CTPC, a combined transcriptome data set of human prostate cancer cell lines
Authors: Cheng Siyuan , Yu Xiuping
Published: October 2022

Background

Cell lines are the most used model system in cancer research. The transcriptomic data of established prostate cancer (PCa) cell lines help researchers explore differential gene expressions across the various PCa cell lines.

Methods

Through large scale datamining, we established a curated Combined Transcriptome dataset of PCa Cell lines (CTPC) which contains the transcriptomic data of 1840 samples of 9 commonly used PCa cell lines including LNCaP, LNCaP‐95, LNCaP‐abl, C4‐2, VCaP, 22Rv1, PC3, DU145, and NCI‐H660.

Results

The CTPC dataset provides an opportunity for researchers to not only compare gene expression across different PCa cell lines but also retrieve the experiment information and associate the differential gene expression data with meta data, such as gene manipulation and drug treatment information. Additionally, based on the CTPC dataset, we built a platform for users to visualize the data (https://pcatools.shinyapps.io/CTPC_V2/).

Conclusions

It is our hope that the combined CTPC dataset and the user‐friendly platform are of great service to the PCa research community.
Radiative Recombination and Carrier Injection Efficiencies in 265 nm Deep Ultraviolet Light‐Emitting Diodes Grown on AlN/Sapphire Templates with Different Defect Densities
Authors: Muhin Anton , Guttmann Martin , Montag Verena , Susilo Norman , Ziffer Eviathar , Sulmoni Luca , Hagedorn Sylvia , Lobo-Ploch Neysha , Rass Jens , Cancellara Leonardo , Wu Shaojun , Wernicke Tim , Kneissl Michael
Published: October 2022

The electro‐optical characteristics of deep ultraviolet light‐emitting diodes (DUV LEDs) emitting at 265 nm and grown on AlN/sapphire templates with different threading dislocation densities, i.e., high‐temperature annealed (HTA) AlN, epitaxially laterally overgrown (ELO) AlN, and HTA‐ELO AlN are analyzed. The external quantum efficiency of each individual device is separated into maximum radiative recombination efficiency, carrier injection efficiency, and light extraction efficiency. This is achieved by combining an ABC‐model‐based fit of the current‐dependent external quantum efficiency together with calibrated Monte Carlo ray‐tracing simulations. A maximum radiative recombination efficiency between 50% and 60% is estimated for DUV LEDs grown on ELO and HTA‐ELO AlN/sapphire, whereas the values for devices grown on HTA AlN/sapphire are around 45%. The extracted radiative recombination efficiency does not scale with the measured threading dislocation density (TDD), even when accounting for the inhomogeneous TDD in the AlN base layers. This discrepancy is attributed to the formation of dislocation half‐loops introduced by additional compressive strain caused by the HTA process and may result in the formation of additional nonradiative recombination centers in the AlGaN multi‐quantum well region. In addition, the carrier injection efficiency values ranging from 45% to 55% are determined for devices grown on all three templates.
Glass‐Assisted Chemical Vapor Deposition‐Grown Monolayer MoS2: Effective Control of Size Distribution via Surface Patterning
Authors: Aras Fikret Gonca , Avad Jihad , Yeltik Aydan
Published: October 2022

Transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) are of interest for next‐generation electronics and optoelectronics owing to their unique optical and electronic functionalities. Although atomically thin flat TMD layers have been investigated in various device applications, pattern‐mediated growth serves great promise for revealing novel properties and application opportunities of TMDs. Herein, controlled size distribution of CVD‐grown monolayer MoS2flakes by varying the distance between surface pattern features and the effects of patterning on the optical properties of MoS2domains is reported. Larger flakes and higher uniformity in size distribution are obtained via patterning in comparison with the results from bare surface. Superior photoluminescence (PL) performances are observed for the 2D MoS2grown on the pattern valleys when compared with the sample on the hill regions and the bare surface. The results demonstrate the notable potential of 2D TMDs for applications in electronics and optoelectronics.
An Auxetic Metamaterial Based on Rotating and Nonrotating Rigid Units Inspired by an Aztec Geometric Pattern
Authors: Lim Teik-Cheng
Published: October 2022

An auxetic metamaterial based on a semirotation system is designed herein by combining rigid units of two different shapes, such that each unit cell consists of one nonrotating rhombus and four rotating right triangles. The on‐axes Poisson's ratios are obtained for both infinitesimal and finite deformations by geometrical consideration. The on‐axes Young's moduli of this metamaterial are established by matching the spring potential energy stored at the hinged joints with the strain energy of deformation for the homogenized continuum of the metamaterial. Plotted results describe the interlacing effect of the shape descriptor, the original separation angles, and the change in the separation angle on the on‐axes Poisson's ratio and Young's modulus. The latter is directly proportional to the equivalent spring stiffness per unit cell. In addition to attaining auxetic behavior, this metamaterial can also be designed to achieve specific Young's modulus behavior including extreme stiffness in one of the directions either at infinitesimal or finite deformation.
Observer‐based prescribed‐time consensus control for heterogeneous multi‐agent systems under directed graphs
Authors: Ke Jin , Zeng Jianping , Duan Zhisheng
Published: October 2022

This work studies the prescribed‐time robust consensus tracking problem of heterogeneous multi‐agent systems over directed graphs. Aiming at multi‐agent systems with a static leader and only matched disturbances, a distributed observer‐based consensus algorithm is developed, to ensure that the tracking errors converge to zero accurately in prescribed time. For the case of multi‐agent systems with a dynamic leader and mismatched/matched disturbances, an adaptive strategy based on a distributed observer and a disturbance observer is designed by the dynamic damping reciprocal technology. Such strategy can avoid the numerical singularity, adapt to the situation that the upper bounds of the disturbances are unknown, and assure that the tracking errors converge to an adjustable neighborhood of zero within prescribed time. Finally, simulations are given to verify the effectiveness of the proposed control strategies.
Single Step Assembly of Janus Porous Biomaterial by Sub‐Ambient Temperature Electrodeposition
Authors: Lei Miao , Liao Haitao , Wang Shijia , Zhou Hang , Zhao Zhiling , Payne Gregory F. , Qu Xue , Liu Changsheng
Published: October 2022

Janus porous biomaterials are gaining increasing attention and there are considerable efforts to develop simple, rapid, and scalable methods capable of tuning micro‐ and macro‐structures. Here, a single‐step electro‐fabrication method to create a Janus porous film by the electrodeposition of the amino‐polysaccharide chitosan is reported. Specifically, a Janus structure emerges spontaneously when electrodeposition is performed at sub‐ambient temperature (0–5 °C). Sub‐ambient temperature electrodeposition experiments show that: a Janus microstructure emerges (potentially as the result of a subtle alteration of the intermolecular interactions responsible for self‐assembly); important microstructural features (pore size, porosity, and thicknesses) can be tuned by conditions; and this method is readily scalable (vs serial printing) and can yield complex tubular structures with Janus faces. In vitro studies demonstrate anisotropic cell guidance, and in vivo studies using a rat calvarial defect model further confirm the beneficial features of such Janus porous film for guided bone regeneration. In summary, these results further demonstrate that electro‐fabrication provides a simple and scalable platform technology for the controlled functional structures of soft matter for applications in regenerative medicine.
Knowledge and use of work‐related musculoskeletal disorder (WRMSD) prevention techniques in the daily practice of final‐year Australian sonography students: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Felton Jacinta L. , Kennedy Narelle , Thoirs Kerry , Alphonse Jennifer , Quinton Ann E.
Published: October 2022

Introduction

Work‐related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSD) commonly occur among student and qualified sonographers. While students may be educated about preventative techniques, transfer of this knowledge to practice may not occur. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between the theoretical knowledge final‐year students had of some common WRMSD prevention techniques, and the use of these techniques on clinical placement.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study via anonymous online survey was distributed to Australian sonography students from a single institution completing their final year of clinical placement.

Results

There were 31/81 participants equating to a response rate of 42%. Of the 12 sonography WRMSD prevention techniques selected to be part of this study, participants had theoretical knowledge of 11/12 (91.7%) prevention techniques. A significant association was established between the theoretical knowledge of, and the use of 8/11 (72.7%) prevention techniques. Ergonomic adjustment of equipment 29/31 (92.6%) and postural modifications 28/31 (90.3%) were the WRMSD prevention techniques implemented most frequently. No association was found between the theoretical knowledge and use of stretching prior to or between scanning patients, or the use of ergonomic aids for WRMSD prevention.

Conclusion

Students were found to have retained ergonomic knowledge, utilising both postural and equipment adjustments during clinical placement. Consistent implementation of WRMSD prevention techniques may reduce students' risk of developing a future WRMSD. Longitudinal research is suggested to ascertain if students continue to implement prevention techniques once qualified.
The Significant Influence of Cooling Rate and Intercritical Annealing Temperature on Austenite Stability and Relationship to Mechanical Behavior in Medium Manganese Steel
Authors: Cai Zhihui , Li Shuaijun , Zhang Deliang , Ma Lifeng , Feng Yi , Hu Jun , Misra Raja Devesh Kumar
Published: October 2022

The influence of cooling rate and intercritical annealing temperature on austenite stability and mechanical properties of cold rolled Fe‐11Mn‐4Al‐0.2C steel are elucidated. The samples are intercritical annealed in the range of 700–900 °C for 5 min followed by either water‐quenched or furnace‐cooled. For 700–750 °C samples, the cooling rate has an insignificant influence on the mechanical properties. However, austenite in 800–900 °C water‐quenched samples is characterized by smaller grain size, lower Mn and C content and higher residual stress than the furnace‐cooled samples, which result in lower austenite stability, stronger transformation‐induced plasticity effect and higher ultimate tensile strength in water‐quenched samples. The specific contribution of factors relates to austenite stability is quantified. The contribution of grain size and elements is much higher than the residual stress. However, residual stress becomes a decisive factor because the opposite contribution of grain size and elements is almost offset.
Ultraconformal Horizontal Zinc Deposition toward Dendrite‐Free Anode
Authors: Zou Juan , Zeng Ziyue , Wang Chenyang , Zhu Xiaohui , Zhang Jiaqian , Lan Haihui , Li Linyang , Yu Yantao , Wang Huiliu , Zhu Xiaolong , Zhang Yile , Zeng Mengqi , Fu Lei
Published: October 2022

Aqueous zinc (Zn)‐ion batteries (ZIBs) have been considered as the most promising candidate for large‐scale energy storage system. However, the severe and uncontrollable dendrite growth of Zn anodes hinders the practical application. Herein, an ultraconformal horizontal Zn deposition is achieved, which is profiting from the epitaxial interface (InGaZn6O9) formed via spontaneously alloying between liquid Ga–In alloy (EGaIn) and Zn. The exposed (0016) plane of InGaZn6O9 matches well with (002) plane of Zn, inducing horizontal and dense Zn deposition. The resultant anode endows with prolonged cycling stability, and the full battery paired with MnO2 exhibits a stable lifespan over 4400 cycles at 5 A g−1. Meanwhile, the self‐formed ultraconformal interface realizes 360° no dead angle protection of anode, which is promising in flexible electronics. And there is no obvious capacity recession of the pouch cell even after bending 180°, demonstrating impressive flexibility. More importantly, the interface can be simply fabricated over a large area, displaying the large‐scale viability. The tailored approach delivers a constructive guideline for dendrite‐free Zn anode, showing great potential in the industrial production.
A 576 m long creep and shrinkage specimen – Long‐term deformation of a semi‐integral concrete bridge with a massive solid cross‐section
Authors: Herbers Max , Wenner Marc , Marx Steffen
Published: October 2022

For creep and shrinkage investigations, relatively small cylindrical specimens are generally exposed to constant climatic conditions. The derived mainly empirical prediction models are used for the calculation of large engineering structures with massive cross‐sections. In this paper, the expected values of the material models according to fib Model Code 2010 and Eurocode 2 are compared with monitoring data, which were acquired over a period of more than 12 years during a structural health monitoring of a large viaduct. It was found that in addition to the measured continuous increase in the viscous deformations, seasonal fluctuations due to climatic influences could also be detected. The numerical calculations show that the material models differ significantly in their magnitude and time course of the predicted viscous concrete deformations. In comparison with the monitoring data, a good agreement was achieved when using the material models according to Eurocode 2. The models of the fib Model Code 2010, on the other hand, underestimated the deformations of the massive bridge girder.
Removal of phosphate from synthetic wastewater: A comparative study between both activated clays using an experimental design methodology
Authors: Yahya Kawthar , BA Mohamedou , Msadok Imed , Mlayah Ammar , Srasra Ezzeddine , Hamdi Noureddine
Published: October 2022

Phosphate‐loaded industrial wastewaters have resulted in numerous environmental issues that have hard hit the Gulf of Gabes‐Tunisia, making the environmental protection one of the most compelling priorities. Consequently, this study aimed first to compare the amounts of phosphate adsorbed by two types of Tunisian activated clays. The second goal was to assess and optimize the phosphate removal efficiency of these clays, using Box–Behnken design (BBD) under response surface methodology. Results showed that the highest adsorption amounts of 130.16 mg g−1, 125.42 mg g−1 were yielded for Jebel Haidoudi clay and Douiret clay, respectively. These values demanded an initial phosphate concentration of 300 mg L−1, a contact time of 5 h, and a pH of 2). Thus, kinetic and isotherm studies of phosphate elimination from synthetic solutions demonstrated that for both activated clays, the pseudo‐second‐order and Langmuir equation fitted very well the experimental data, respectively. These results indicate that phosphate adsorption might be mainly a chimisorption phenomenon and a monolayer process. All these findings confirmed that both activated clays could be considered as a competent, cost‐effective, efficient and ecological alternative for the elimination of phosphate from industrial wastewaters.

Practitioner Points

Activated clay could be adopted as an efficient and cost‐effective adsorbent.

The optimum conditions were nominated as 300 mg L−1 of initial phosphate concentration, 5 h contact times and pH = 2.

The probable uptake mechanism of phosphate followed predominantly the acid‐base interaction and hydrogen bond.
Medical Additive Manufacturing in Surgery: Translating Innovation to the Point of Care
Authors: Thieringer Florian M. , Honigmann Philipp , Sharma Neha
Published: October 2022

Alongside computed tomography, additive manufacturing (also known as three-dimensional or 3D printing) is a significant MedTech innovation that allows the fabrication of anatomical biomodels, surgical guides, medical/dental devices, and customized implants. Available since the mid-1980s, 3D printing is growing increasingly important in medicine by significantly transforming today’s personalized medicine era. 3D printing of biological tissues will provide a future for many patients, eventually leading to the printing of human organs. Unlike subtractive manufacturing (where the material is removed and 3D objects are formed by cutting, drilling, computer numerical control milling, and machining), the critical driver for the exponential growth of 3D printing in medicine has been the ability to create complex geometric shapes with a high degree of functionality. 3D printing also offers the advantage of developing highly customized solutions for patients that cannot be achieved by any other manufacturing technology.
On the polarization of the non-prompt contribution to inclusive J/ψ production in pp collisions
Authors: Faccioli Pietro , Lourenço Carlos
Published: October 2022

Abstract

Of the J/ψ mesons (inclusively) produced in pp collisions, a big fraction results from B decays, increasing with transverse momentum and exceeding 50% for pT> 20 GeV. These events must be subtracted in measurements of the polarization of prompt J/ψ mesons. While several studies have addressed the ψ(2S) and χc impact on the determination of the polarization of the directly-produced J/ψ mesons, the theoretical and experimental knowledge of the non-prompt polarization is very poor. Furthermore, non-prompt J/ψ polarization measurements can provide interesting information on quarkonium hadroproduction, complementing the studies of prompt production. We review the method of measuring the polarization of non-prompt J/ψ mesons (produced in decays of unreconstructed B mesons and detected in the dilepton channel), in conditions typical of LHC experiments studying J/ψ production. Realistic model-independent scenarios are validated with data from experiments studying e+e− → Υ(4S) interactions, converted to the high-momentum regime using B differential cross sections measured at the LHC. The non-prompt J/ψ polarization measurements are seen to remain dependent on the event selection criteria, even after correcting for the dilepton acceptance and efficiencies. This implies that reproducible definitions of all relevant analysis choices must be reported with the polarization result, for rigorous comparisons with other measurements and/or theoretical calculations. We also discuss how the non-prompt J/ψ polarization significantly depends on the relative importance of two complementary B → J/ψ decay topologies, two-body (reasonably dominated by singlet production) and multi-body (including octet contributions), providing, hence, valuable information for studies of the charmonium formation mechanisms.
Massless fermions on a half-space: the curious case of 2+1-dimensions
Authors: Biswas Shovon , Semenoff Gordon W.
Published: October 2022

Abstract

Boundary conditions for a massless Dirac fermion in 2+1 dimensions where the space is a half-plane are discussed in detail. It is argued that linear boundary conditions that leave the Hamiltonian Hermitian generically break C P and T symmetries as well as Lorentz and conformal symmetry. We show that there is essentially one special case where a single species of fermion has C PT and the full Poincare and conformal symmetry of the boundary. We show that, with doubled fermions, there is a second special case which respects C PT but still violates Lorentz and conformal symmetry. This second special case is essentially the unique boundary condition where the Dirac operator has fermion zero mode edge states. We discuss how the edge states lead to exotic representations of scale, phase and translation symmetries and how imposing a symmetry requirement leads to edge ferromagnetism of the system. We prove that the exotic ferromagnetic representations are indeed carried by the ground states of the system perturbed by a class of interaction Hamiltonians which includes the non-relativistic Coulomb interaction.
Quasinormal modes and stability of accelerating Reissner-Norsdtröm AdS black holes
Authors: Fontana Rodrigo D.B. , Mena Filipe C.
Published: October 2022

Abstract

We investigate the numerical stability of accelerating AdS black holes against linear scalar perturbations. In particular, we study the evolution of a probe non-minimally coupled scalar field on Schwarzschild and Reissner-Nordström AdS black holes with small accelerations by computing the quasinormal modes of the perturbation spectrum. We decompose the scalar field Klein-Gordon equation and study the eigenvalue problem for its angular and radial-temporal parts using different numerical methods. The angular part is written in terms of the Heun solution and expanded through the Frobenius method which turns out to give eigenvalues qualitatively similar to the ones obtained through the spherical harmonics representation. The radial-temporal evolution renders a stable field profile which is decomposed in terms of damped and purely imaginary oscillations of the quasinormal modes. We calculate the respective frequencies for different spacetime parameters showing the existence of a fine-structure in the modes, for both real and imaginary parts, which is not present in the non-accelerating AdS black holes. Our results indicate that the Schwarzschild and Reissner-Nordström AdS black holes with small accelerations are stable against linear scalar perturbations.
Brane dynamics of holographic BCFTs
Authors: Izumi Keisuke , Shiromizu Tetsuya , Suzuki Kenta , Takayanagi Tadashi , Tanahashi Norihiro
Published: October 2022

Abstract

In this paper we study various dynamical aspects of the AdS/BCFT correspondence in higher dimensions. We study properties of holographic stress energy tensor by analyzing the metric perturbation in the gravity dual. We also calculate the stress energy tensor for a locally excited state on a half plane in a free scalar CFT. Both of them satisfy a reflective boundary condition that is expected for any BCFTs. We also study the behavior of the scalar field perturbation in the AdS/BCFT setup and show that they also show complete reflections. Moreover, we find that the entanglement entropy of a BCFT computed from the AdS/BCFT matched with that calculated from the Island formula, which supports the Island/BCFT correspondence in higher dimensions. Finally we show how we can calculate one point functions in a BCFT in our gravity dual.
Good clinical and radiological results following remnant-preserving posterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: a systematic review
Authors: D’Ambrosi Riccardo , Hallé Aurélien , Hardy Alexandre
Published: October 2022

Purpose

The objective of this systematic literature review was to report the results and complications of recent remnant preservation techniques in posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) reconstruction.

Methods

A systematic review was conducted based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Two independent reviewers searched the PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases using the terms “posterior cruciate ligament” or “PCL” and “remnant preserving.” The outcome measures extracted from the studies were the Lysholm score, the International Knee Documentation Committee’s (IKDC) subjective and objective scores, Tegner scores, Orthopädische Arbeitsgruppe Knie (OAK) rate of return to sports, and rate of complications. Data were also extracted from studies that used stress radiographs to perform a quantitative assessment of the preoperative and postoperative anteroposterior stability.

Results

The systematic review included 13 studies. The patient cohort of consisted of 643 participants (544 [84.6%] men and 99 [15.4%] women) with a mean age of 32.9 ± 4.0 years. The mean postoperative follow-up was 34.5 ± 10.9 months (range: 24–96 months), while the mean time from injury to surgery was 14.4 ± 9.9 months (range: 0–240 months). All studies reported clinically significant improvement at final follow-up, as evident from the measured subjective and objective IKDC scores, Lysholm score, Tegner score, and OAK rate. Only three studies reported return to sports activity, with a mean percentage of 90.8% (99/109). All studies showed a significant improvement in posterior translation, from 11.5 ± 1.2 mm to 3.3 ± 1.1 mm, using radiography (side-to-side difference). This systematic review revealed 13 (2.0%) failures and 33 (5.1%) minor complications: 10 (1.6%) cases of stiffness, 21 (4.9%) screws removal, 1 (0.2%) injury of the peroneal nerve, and 1 (0.2%) fibular fracture.

Conclusions

With the currently available data, all studies included in the review on posterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with remnant preservation demonstrated satisfactory outcomes at mid-term follow-up (> 24 months), despite varying surgical techniques and graft types, and intervals from injury to surgery. For clinical relevance, standard PCL reconstruction is a highly effective operation in terms of improvement in functional status, knee stability, quality of life, and cost effectiveness. The remnant preservation technique requires more comprehensive diagnostic assessments of the PCL remnant patterns and more complicated surgical procedures. Given the absence so far of high quality studies with long-term follow-up, the remnant-preserving techniques should be recommended only by experienced knee arthroscopic surgeons.

Level of evidence

Level IV.

Study registration

reviewregistry1376—www.researchregistry.com.
Neuroimaging features of genetic syndromes associated with CNS overgrowth
Authors: Zamary Anthony R. , Mamlouk Mark D.
Published: October 2022

Overgrowth syndromes can manifest with enlargement of the brain and other body parts and are associated with malignancy. Much of the current literature focuses on the imaging findings of the somatic overgrowth, while there is relatively little describing the overgrowth of the central nervous system. In this pictorial essay, we discuss common syndromes with central nervous system overgrowth, highlight key imaging features, and review the underlying genetics, including the PI3K-AKT-mTOR pathway as well as other syndromes from various genes.
Using Structured Decision Making to Evaluate Wetland Restoration Opportunities in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed
Authors: Martin David M. , Jacobs Amy D. , McLean Chase , Canick Michelle R. , Boomer Kathleen
Published: October 2022

Wetland restoration is an important water quality and climate resilience strategy. Wetland restoration rarely considers tradeoffs at large spatial and temporal scales, which limits capacity to aid decision makers. High resolution data can reveal hundreds to thousands of possible restoration options across a landscape, but guidance for setting restoration targets at these scales is limited. This study uses structured decision making (SDM) as a process for evaluating the desirability of numerous restoration options, with a case study on the Outer Coastal Plain of the Chesapeake Bay watershed, USA. The Nature Conservancy, in partnership with federal, state, and nonprofit organizations, evaluated a decision to target large-scale wetland restoration based on two fundamental objectives: improve water quality and enhance climate resilience. A total of 964 potentially restorable alternatives were delineated across the study area. The alternatives were evaluated on seven water quality and climate resilience criteria. High-priority alternatives were mapped based on multi-criteria ranking methods and principal component analysis. Sensitivity analysis included varying nutrient load data, implementing multiple ranking methods with different assumptions, and varying criteria weights. The maps revealed seven distinct regions of restoration opportunities. Tradeoffs were evaluated to distinguish between desirable and less desirable regions. Results indicated that three regions were promising choices to initiate landowner engagement and outreach. This study highlights the advantages of SDM to structure large-scale restoration decisions. In doing so, our work offers a roadmap toward further developing SDM in future applied restoration contexts.
Finally Throwing Those Wellies Away? Collaborating in Search of a Solution for Venice Flooding
Authors: Cristofoli Daniela , Trivellato Benedetta , Micacchi Marta , Valotti Giovanni
Published: October 2022

Collaborative governance is often advocated as a way to address ‘messy’ problems that individual stakeholders cannot solve alone. However, whereas stakeholders’ participation brings a broad range of response options to public decision-making, the complexities of the perspectives at stake may also lead to conflicts and stalemates. This is especially true in collaborative environmental governance, where conflict is common and stakeholders’ interdependence in more than one arena tends to be frequent. Based on a longitudinal field study, we explore how to break stalemates in collaborative environmental governance when they occur, and move the collaboration towards a shared decision. The successful collaborative decision-making for the defence of Venice against floods represents our empirical setting. Our findings show that, in this context, the combined effect of three factors seems to be important to break stalemates and lead stakeholders towards a shared decision in collaborative environmental governance: stakeholders’ reactivation, fear of marginalization and leaders acting as orchestrators.