bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A heart valve dedicated for aortic regurgitation: Review of technology and early clinical experience with the transfemoral Trilogy system
Authors: Baumbach Andreas , Patel Kush P. , Kennon Simon , Ozkor Mick , Mathur Anthony , Huerta Frank de la , Tamm Alexander R.
Published: August 2023

Aortic regurgitation (AR) is associated with morbidity and premature mortality. Surgical aortic valve replacement is not an option for many patients due to an adverse surgical risk profile, whilst transcatheter aortic valve implantation with most available prostheses has demonstrated suboptimal implantation success and outcomes. The JenaValve Trilogy™ system provides an attractive solution for such patients as it utilizes clips that directly attach onto the native valve leaflets to anchor. Initially designed for transapical delivery, the current transfemoral delivery system is under investigation in the United States and approved for aortic stenosis and regurgitation in Europe. We present an expert review on the technical aspects of the Trilogy system, provide a guide for implantation, discuss the available evidence for the technology and provide illustrative case examples.
In Situ Ultrasonic Measurements as a Tool to Characterize the Stages of the Zeolite A Crystallization Process
Authors: Baser Hasan , Selvam Thangaraj , Schwieger Wilhelm , Hartmann Martin
Published: August 2023

Zeolite A (LTA) was synthesized at 80 °C under hydrothermal conditions from a gel with the molar composition of 2.5 Na2O : 2 SiO2 : Al2O3 : 80 H2O. In the present study, we report the use of home‐made ultrasound devices as a real‐time, in situ diagnostic tool for monitoring the progress of zeolite formation. In addition, the specific aim of this study was to show that the measured ultrasound parameters – ultrasonic (US) velocity and attenuation – simultaneously provide independent information about the changes in the liquid and solid phase, respectively, during the crystallization process. Both views are necessary for extracting kinetic data about the zeolite crystallization processes and allow elucidating the different stages of zeolite LTA formation process. The obtained in situ US data were compared with conventional ex situ powder X‐ray diffraction measurements following the formation of zeolite LTA from dense gels. The results demonstrate that a good correlation exists between the crystallization progress of zeolite LTA in terms of crystallinity changes and the ultrasonic attenuation and velocity.
Seed pelleting and storage effects on germination of Pennycress (Thlaspi arvense L.)
Authors: Koirala Nasib , Barker David J. , Gesch Russ W. , Heller Nicholas J. , Hard Alexander W. , Wells Samantha S. , Phippen Winthrop B. , Lindsey Alexander J.
Published: August 2023

Pennycress (Thlaspi arvense L.) is an emerging bioenergy oilseed crop of interest to farmers in the Upper Midwestern United States. Improved lines with beneficial agronomic traits are being developed, including lines with reduced silicle shattering and altered seed coat characteristics, though planting and establishment is still challenging for this small‐seeded crop. A controlled‐environment experiment was conducted to assess the impact of seed treatment and pelleting on pennycress germination and seedling vigor of four pennycress lines (three black and one golden colored seed) following storage for 0, 1, 3, 9, and 12 months in warm or cold conditions (23°C or 10°C, respectively). Seeds were either treated with a gibberellin A4+7 (GA) soak (positive control), seed pelleting, or pelleting with GA added to the binder solution in addition to the untreated control (negative control). After each storage duration, seeds were germinated in darkness and counted daily for 7 days to obtain total germination. Vigor indices were calculated using changes in daily germination values. For black‐seeded lines, GA treatment increased germination over the untreated by 5%–75% and pelleting alone increased germination by 4%–30%, but only until 3 months of storage. The GA treatment did not increase germination of the golden‐seeded line, and pelleting decreased germination after 3 months of storage. The GA soak treatment was most effective at improving seed vigor indices compared with other treatments, while pelleting negatively affected vigor scores at 9 and 12 months of storage. Similar effects on germination from treatment were observed under both warm and cold storage conditions. Results indicate seed treatment can benefit germination and vigor within 3 months of storage for black‐seeded lines but may negatively affect performance of golden‐seeded lines, or all pennycress seed types after 9 months of storage.
The brachytic2 mutation alone or its combination with the brown midrib3 mutation improves fiber digestibility in forage maize
Authors: Bourdoncle William , Lemke Bryce , Maloney Peter , Pellet Jean‐Luc , Zhao Jing , Fouquet Romain , Cargill Edward , Barten Ty
Published: August 2023

Short stature maize (SSM), which carries the brachytic2 (br2) mutation, has reduced plant height and increased plant standability. Since a large area of maize (Zea mays L.) is planted for silage, it is important to investigate the forage nutritive value of SSM. Our aim was to evaluate the effect of the br2 mutation alone or its combination with the brown midrib3 (bm3) mutation on feeding value parameters, notably fiber digestibility and lignification. SSM hybrids had forage feeding value equivalent to BMR hybrids and better than that of tall hybrids. The br2 mutation significantly increased fiber digestibility in the sets of near‐isogenic inbreds by 4 percentage units and hybrids by 2.7 percentage units. Those favorable effects could be attributed to reduction in lignin concentration and changes in the distribution of lignin within the stem. Furthermore, the combination of br2 with bm3 resulted in an increase in fiber digestibility, which appeared to be additive. Altogether, our results indicated that SSM has the potential to create fodder of high feeding value and favorable standability.
Environmental flow assessment for benthic macroinvertebrate communities using pseudo‐2D hydraulic habitat modelling at a green small hydropower plant
Authors: Hu Shuyi , Feng Meili , Xu Shuyang , Wu Chaofan , Zeng Zhen
Published: August 2023

The determination of minimum flow requirements for green small hydropower plants (GSHP) in China primarily relies on hydrological methods such as the Tennant method with no seasonal variation. However, the direct application of hydrological methods without local ecological data for calibration lacks ecological validity, potentially resulting in unsuitable minimum flow recommendations for local aquatic biota. Hydraulic‐habitat modelling (HHM) is assumed to provide more ecologically relevant and reliable environmental flow recommendations (EFRs), but benthic macroinvertebrates (BMs), crucial in the aquatic food web, have rarely been the focus in HHM studies. Moreover, the strong subjectivity in HHM processes hinders the comparison of EFRs across different biota and geographical regions. This study aims to investigate the ecological validity of using the Tennant method to set minimum flow requirements for local BM communities and the impacts of various methods used in HHM on derived EFRs. To achieve this, a pseudo‐2D HHM approach is employed, integrating the 1D hydraulic models HEC‐RAS and CASiMiR with the habitat model HABFUZZ. The EFRs downstream of Jiufeng reservoir, one of China's first GSHPs, are derived for wet (April–June) and dry seasons (July–September). Our findings highlight that setting minimum flow alone is inadequate for preserving BM community integrity downstream of GSHPs. It is crucial to incorporate more diverse environmental flow criteria, including minimum flows and peak flows, into GSHP assessment standards, with recommended flow levels varying across different seasons. Additionally, the development of a standardized HHM methodology is essential to mitigate the inherent subjectivity in HHM and facilitate the comparison of EFRs generated from different studies. This study's innovative modelling framework and findings will enhance the optimization of minimum flow assessment criteria for GSHP in China, deepen understanding of seasonal e‐flow requirements of BM communities, and refine the methodology used in BM HHM for e‐flow recommendation.
Diastolic exercise stress testing in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction: The DEST‐HF study
Authors: Wernhart Simon , Goertz Annika , Hedderich Juergen , Papathanasiou Maria , Hoffmann Julia , Rassaf Tienush , Luedike Peter
Published: August 2023

Aims

Pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PAWP) ≥25 mmHg during bicycle ergometry is recommended to uncover occult heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. We hypothesized that PAWP increase would differ in available diastolic stress tests and that the margin of PAWP ≥25 mmHg would only be reliably achieved through ergometry.

Methods and results

We conducted a prospective, single‐arm study in patients with an intermediate risk for heart failure with preserved ejection fraction according to the ESC HFA‐PEFF score. A total of 19 patients underwent four stress test modalities in randomized order: leg raise, fluid challenge, handgrip, and bicycle ergometry. The primary outcome was the difference (Δ) between resting and exercise PAWP in each modality. Secondary outcomes were differences (Δ) in mean pulmonary artery pressure (mPAP), cardiac output (CO), as well as the ratios between mPAP and PAWP to CO. Compared to resting values, passive leg raise (Δ7.7 ± 8.0 mmHg, p = 0.030), fluid challenge (Δ9.2 ± 6.4 mmHg, p = 0.003), dynamic handgrip (Δ9.6 ± 7.5 mmHg, p = 0.002), and bicycle ergometry (Δ22.3 ± 5.0 mmHg, p < 0.001) uncovered increased PAWP during exercise. Amongst these, bicycle ergometry also demonstrated the highest ΔmPAP (27.2 ± 7.1 mmHg, p < 0.001), ΔCO (3.3 ± 2.6 L/min, p < 0.001), ΔmPAP/CO ratio (2.3 ± 2.0 mmHg/L/min, p < 0.001), and ΔPAWP/CO ratio (2.2 ± 1.4 mmHg/L/min, p < 0.001) compared to other modalities. PAWP ≥25 mmHg was only reliably achieved in bicycle ergometry (31.1 ± 3.9 mmHg). In all other modalities only 10.5% of patients achieved PAWP ≥25 mmHg (handgrip 18.4 ± 6.6 mmHg, fluid 18.1 ± 5.6 mmHg, leg raise 16.5 ± 7.0 mmHg).

Conclusions

We demonstrate that bicycle ergometry exhibits a distinct haemodynamic response with higher increase of PAWP compared to other modalities. This finding needs to be considered for valid detection of exercise PAWP ≥25 mmHg when non‐bicycle tests remain inconclusive.
An Imidazolylidene‐Based Mesoionic Carbene–Mn(I) Complex and Its Catalytic Potential in N‐Heteroarene Hydrogenation
Authors: Kumar Ravi , Pandey Madhusudan K. , Pandey Indresh K. , Kumar Abhishek , Choudhury Joyanta
Published: August 2023

Herein we report the first mesoionic carbene (MIC)‐Mn(I) complex Mn‐bim‐MICimz derived from imidazolylidene motif. Structurally the octahedral Mn(I) complex Mn‐bim‐MICimz was assembled with an anionic benzimidazolato‐anchored imidazolylidene MIC‐based bidentate ligand (bim‐MICimz) and four CO ligands, as supported by detailed characterization using NMR and FTIR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, and single crystal X‐ray diffraction study. We reckoned that the bim‐MICimz ligand would provide a robust and stable bonding with the Mn(I) centre, and also enhance electron density at the Mn(I) centre through its stronger σ‐donating/weaker π‐accepting property. These structural and electronic attributes triggered to exploit Mn‐bim‐MICimz in catalytic hydrogenation of N‐heteroarenes, where efficient hydride (Mn−H) delivery is a key step.
Nondestructive Defect Detection in Battery Pouch Cells: A Comparative Study of Scanning Acoustic Microscopy and X‐Ray Computed Tomography
Authors: Pitta Bauermann Luciana , Münch Johannes , Kroll Moritz , Enghardt Stefan , Vetter Matthias
Published: August 2023

The identification and location of critical defects inside battery cells before the performance decreases or safety issues arise remain a challenge. This study compares two nondestructive testing methods for the 3D visualization of defects at different depths inside a pouch battery cell: scanning acoustic microscopy (SAM) and X‐ray computed tomography (CT). A manufactured pouch cell with eight electrode sheets is used for this investigation. SAM using a 15 MHz transducer in reflection mode can detect defects at depths of up to four electrode sheets with a lateral resolution of 150 μm in 2 min. CT can locate defects on all eight stacked electrode sheets inside the pouch cell. The CT measurements take about 12.5 h. Both methods can complement each other in detecting defects inside thin pouch cells as an end‐of‐line test after the production or for qualifying individual battery cells for second‐life applications. As an in‐line quality check, SAM has proven to be a cost‐effective and efficient method for detecting defects such as misalignment on stacked electrodes. Both methods have the potential to expand the portfolio of nondestructive quality assurance tests in the production of lithium‐ion battery cells. This contributes to increasing the safety and productivity of battery technology.
Hypouricemia in the emergency department: A retrospective, single‐center study
Authors: Makinouchi Ryuichiro , Koyama Teppei , Machida Shinji , Imai Naohiko
Published: August 2023

Backgrounds

Few studies have reported the prevalence and characteristics of hypouricemia in the emergency department (ED). We investigated the prevalence and characteristics of hypouricemia in the ED of a university‐affiliated hospital in Japan.

Methods

This is a retrospective cross‐sectional single‐center study. All adult patients (18 years old or older) who had their serum uric acid (SUA) measured at the ED between 2011 and 2021 were included. Information collected included age, sex, SUA, and serum creatinine. Hypouricemia was defined as an SUA level ≦2.0 mg/dL.

Results

A total of 10,551 patients were included in the study. Fifty‐one percent were male. The median SUA levels were significantly higher in men than in women (6.0 [4.8−7.4] vs. 4.7 [3.7−6.1], p < 0.001). The prevalence of hypouricemia was higher in women than in men (2.0% vs. 0.9%, p < 0.001). A possible cause of hypouricemia was identified in 88 patients. Malignancy and diabetes were the major possible cause of hypouricemia (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The distribution of SUA levels and prevalence of hypouricemia differed significantly by sex and age in the ED. Malignancy was the leading cause of hypouricemia in the ED.
Protecting Group‐Free Gold‐Catalyzed Synthesis of 2‐Acylidene‐3‐Oxindoles and Azaaurones via a Double Oxidation Strategy
Authors: Song Xinlong , Zhao Ximei , Zeng Zhongyi , Rominger Frank , Rudolph Matthias , Hashmi A. Stephen K.
Published: August 2023

A one‐pot synthesis of 2‐acylidene‐3‐oxindole and azaaurone derivatives starting from O‐alkynylanilines and alkynes is presented. By means of oxidative gold catalysis the two starting materials are transferred to reactive intermediates that in situ form the target products. This double oxidation strategy enables a protecting group‐free step‐economic strategy towards these valuable substrate classes.
Case Report: Unexplained Mild Hypophosphatemia and Very High Serum FGF23 Concentrations
Authors: Bosman Ariadne , Ratsma Danielle MA , van der Eerden Bram CJ , Zillikens M Carola
Published: August 2023

Fibroblast growth factor (FGF)23 is one of the major regulators of phosphate homeostasis. Hypophosphatemia can lead to muscle weakness, fatigue, and osteomalacia. In the setting of hypophosphatemia, serum FGF23 can be measured to differentiate between FGF23‐mediated and non‐FGF23‐mediated renal phosphate wasting. C‐terminal FGF23 (cFGF23) assays detect both cFGF23 and intact FGF23 (iFGF23). Circulating FGF23 is regulated by 1.25‐dihydroxy‐vitamin D, parathyroid hormone (PTH), serum phosphate, and serum calcium but also by, for example, iron status, inflammation, erythropoietin, and hypoxia‐inducible‐factor‐1‐α. We present the case of a 48‐year‐old woman with unexplained mild hypophosphatemia, very high cFGF23, and normal iFGF23. The patient proved to have an iron deficiency. Iron deficiency alters the iFGF23‐to‐cFGF23 ratio. After initiation of iron treatment, cFGF23 strongly decreased. This case report illustrates the limitation of cFGF23 assays and urges clinicians to be aware that cFGF23 concentrations do not necessarily reflect iFGF23 concentrations and that alternative causes for its elevation should be considered (eg, iron deficiency). © 2023 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals LLC. on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Isoliquiritigenin pretreatment regulates ER stress and attenuates cisplatin‐induced nephrotoxicity in male Wistar rats
Authors: Gómez‐Sierra Tania , Ortega‐Lozano Ariadna J. , Rojas‐Morales Pedro , Medina‐Reyes Estefany I. , Barrera‐Oviedo Diana , Pedraza‐Chaverri José
Published: August 2023

Cisplatin (CP) is a chemotherapeutic drug used to treat solid tumors. However, studies have revealed its nephrotoxic effect. Oxidative stress, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction are involved in CP‐induced renal damage. Thus, preconditioning (hormetic effect) of ER stress is a strategy to prevent CP‐induced renal damage. On the other hand, isoliquiritigenin (IsoLQ) is recognized as a flavonoid with antioxidant properties and an inducer of ER stress. Therefore, we evaluated the ER stress‐inducing capacity of IsoLQ and its possible protective effect against CP‐induced nephrotoxicity in adult male Wistar rats. The findings reflected that IsoLQ pretreatment might decrease renal damage by reducing plasma creatinine and blood urea nitrogen levels in animals with CP‐induced nephrotoxicity. These may be associated with IsoLQ activating ER stress and unfolded protein response (UPR). We found increased messenger RNA levels of the ER stress marker glucose‐related protein 78 kDa (GRP78). In addition, we also found that pretreatment with IsoLQ reduced the levels of CCAAT/enhancer‐binding protein‐homologous protein (CHOP) and X‐box‐binding protein 1 (XBP1) in the renal cortex, reflecting that IsoLQ can regulate the UPR and activation of the apoptotic pathway. Moreover, this preconditioning with IsoLQ of ER stress had oxidative stress‐regulatory effects, as it restored the activity of glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase enzymes. Finally, IsoLQ modifies the protein expression of mitofusin 2 (Mfn‐2) and voltage‐dependent anion channel (VDAC). In conclusion, these data suggest that IsoLQ pretreatment has a nephroprotective effect; it could functionally regulate the ER and mitochondria and reduce CP‐induced renal damage by attenuating hormesis‐mediated ER stress.
Francis S. Morrison MD—Tribute to an apheresis leader
Authors: Linz Walter , Thigpen James T. , Strauss Ronald G.
Published: August 2023

Francis S. Morrison MD was among the early developers and promoters of the American Society for Apheresis (ASFA). His work was pivotal in creating a lasting institutional structure from which American apheresis medical practice would develop decades after his death. Francis Morrison is honored each year at the ASFA annual meeting as ASFA awards the Francis S. Morrison MD Memorial Award Lecture to an individual who stands out as among its most accomplished members. This tribute seeks to describe the person and the key accomplishments of Francis S. Morrison in the historical context of a time when the future of apheresis medicine was uncertain.
The role of between‐session homework in cognitive‐behavioral therapy for comorbid obsessive‐compulsive disorder and autism: A case vignette
Authors: Church Molly J. , Mangen Katie H. , Stiede Jordan T. , Spencer Samuel D. , Storch Eric A.
Published: August 2023

Objective

Cognitive‐behavioral therapy (CBT), which includes a decided emphasis on exposure and response/ritual prevention (ERP) and between‐session practice of treatment principles, has consistently demonstrated efficacy for the treatment of obsessive‐compulsive disorder (OCD) and is a gold standard, recommended first‐line treatment. CBT with ERP has been successfully adapted to fit the needs of autistic individuals with OCD. The present article provides a brief overview of CBT for OCD and outlines special considerations and adaptations needed when working with patients with OCD and comorbid autism, with an emphasis on the importance of between‐session homework.

Method

A case vignette is presented.

Results

This case study illustrates the role of homework in the exposure‐based treatment of an adult autistic individual with comorbid OCD.

Conclusion

Implications of this case vignette are discussed, and recommendations are offered for clinicians working with autistic individuals with OCD, especially in regard to bolstering completion of between‐session ERP homework.
Multiple forms of cell death: A focus on the PI3K/AKT pathway
Authors: Xu Jiawei , Li Yu , Kang Meili , Chang Cuicui , Wei Hong , Zhang Chi , Chen Yuhua
Published: August 2023

Cell death is a natural biological process that occurs in living organisms. Since 1963, extensive research has shed light on the occurrence, progress, and final outcome of cell death. According to different cell phenotypes, it is classified into different types, including apoptosis, pyroptosis, necroptosis, autophagy, ferroptosis, cuproptosis, and so on. However, regardless of the form of cell death, what we ultimately expect is the disappearance of abnormal cells, such as tumor cells, while normal cells survive. As a result, it is vital to investigate the details of cell death, including death triggers, potent regulators, and executioners. Although significant progress has been made in understanding molecular pathways of cell death, many aspects remain unclear because of the complex regulatory networks in cells. Among them, the phosphoinositide‐3‐kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B(AKT) pathway is discovered to be a crucial regulator of the cell death process. AKT, as a proto‐oncogene, has become a major focus of attention in the medical community due to its role in regulating a multiplicity of cellular functions counting metabolism, immunity, proliferation, survival, transcription, and protein synthesis. Here, we explored the connection between the PI3K/AKT pathway and cell death, aiming to enhance our comprehension of the mechanism underlying this process. Such knowledge may pave the way for the subsequent development of more effective disease treatments, such as finding suitable targets for drug intervention.
Pharmacokinetics, Safety, and Tolerability of Imipenem/Cilastatin/Relebactam in Children with Confirmed or Suspected Gram‐Negative Bacterial Infections: A Phase 1b, Open‐Label, Single‐Dose Clinical Trial
Authors: Bradley John S. , Makieieva Nataliia , Tøndel Camilla , Roilides Emmanuel , Kelly Matthew S. , Patel Munjal , Vaddady Pavan , Maniar Alok , Zhang Ying , Paschke Amanda , Chen Luke F.
Published: August 2023

Imipenem/cilastatin/relebactam is approved for the treatment of serious gram‐negative bacterial infections in adults. This study assessed the pharmacokinetics (PK), safety, and tolerability of a single dose of imipenem/cilastatin/relebactam (with a fixed 2:1 ratio of imipenem/cilastatin to relebactam, and with a maximum dose of 15 mg/kg imipenem and 15 mg/kg cilastatin [≤500 mg imipenem and ≤500 mg cilastatin] and 7.5 mg/kg relebactam [≤250 mg relebactam]) in children with confirmed/suspected gram‐negative bacterial infections receiving standard‐of‐care antibacterial therapy. In this phase 1, noncomparative study (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier, NCT03230916), PK parameters from 46 children were analyzed using both population modeling and noncompartmental analysis. The PK/pharmacodynamic (PD) target for imipenem was percent time of the dosing interval that unbound plasma concentration exceeded the minimum inhibitory concentration (%fT>MIC) of ≥30% (MIC = 2 mcg/mL). For relebactam, the PK/PD target was a free drug area under the plasma concentration–time curve (AUC) normalized to MIC (at 2 mcg/mL) of ≥8.0 (equivalent to an AUC from time zero extrapolated to infinity of ≥20.52 mcg·h/mL). Safety was assessed up to 14 days after drug infusion. For imipenem, the ranges for the geometric mean %fT>MIC and maximum concentration (Cmax) across age cohorts were 56.5%‐93.7% and 32.2‐38.2 mcg/mL, respectively. For relebactam, the ranges of the geometric mean Cmax and AUC from 0 to 6 hours across age cohorts were 16.9‐21.3 mcg/mL and 26.1‐55.3 mcg·h/mL, respectively. In total, 8/46 (17%) children experienced ≥1 adverse events (AEs) and 2/46 (4%) children experienced nonserious AEs that were deemed drug related by the investigator. Imipenem and relebactam exceeded plasma PK/PD targets; single doses of imipenem/cilastatin/relebactam were well tolerated with no significant safety concerns identified. These results informed imipenem/cilastatin/relebactam dose selection for further pediatric clinical evaluation.
Disciplinary Expertise and Faculty Credentialing in Leadership Studies: Advancing a Necessary Conversation
Authors: Purcell Jennifer W. , Smith Deborah N.
Published: August 2023

The disciplinary backgrounds of leadership studies educators have considerable influence on the future of the field; however, disciplinary expertise and credentialing have yet to be examined thoroughly in the literature. Decisions pertaining to the preparation and credentialing of leadership educators, particularly among faculty, are a necessary supplement to existing discourse on the standardization of academic programs and the aim and scope of scholarship privileged within the field. While disciplinary boundaries are permeable and fluid, the organizational boundaries defined within institutions based on disciplinary affiliation impose specific expectations and limitations that may artificially constrain interdisciplinary pursuits, including those within leadership studies. The current article presents a conceptualization of how disciplinary expertise and faculty credentialing may shape the future of leadership studies. It is recommended that leadership studies faculty cultivate program‐level consensus, demonstrate the integrity of leadership studies curricula, enhance interdisciplinary legitimacy through boundary spanning, determine the future trajectory of leadership studies, and set the course accordingly.
Omicron breakthrough infections in wild‐type SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccinees elicit high levels of neutralizing antibodies against pangolin coronavirus GX_P2V
Authors: Lu Shanshan , Luo Shengdong , Bai Bingke , Fan Zhenping , Hong Bixia , Xu Wen , Ma Hongbin , Chen Weiwei , Fan Huahao , Tong Yigang , Song Lihua
Published: August 2023

Omicron BF.7 became the predominant SARS‐CoV‐2 variant in Beijing after the abolishment of Zero‐COVID policy in December 2022. The ability of antibodies elicited by BF.7 infection to cross‐react with SARS‐CoV‐2‐like viruses is unknown. This study aimed to investigate the cross‐reactive neutralizing antibodies against SARS‐CoV‐2‐related pangolin coronavirus GX_P2V in sera from vaccinated and/or SARS‐CoV‐2‐infected individuals. All vaccinated individuals who recovered from Omicron BF.7 breakthrough infections exhibited substantially higher levels of neutralizing antibodies against GX_P2V, compared to other subject groups, with a geometric mean titer (GMT) of 362. Uninfected individuals who received four‐mixed‐dose vaccines also demonstrated higher levels of neutralizing antibodies (GMT = 44) against GX_P2V than those uninfected individuals who received two‐ or three‐dose vaccines and those unvaccinated convalescents of wild‐type SARS‐CoV‐2. This study highlights the significance of prior vaccinations with wild‐type SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccines in generating potent cross‐protective immunity against future spillovers of SARS‐CoV‐2‐like viruses.
The I‐STOP Program and Narcotic Prescriptions Following Facial Reconstructive Plastic Surgeries
Authors: Debick Nadia Alexandra , Wilson Danielle , Suryadevara Amar
Published: August 2023

Objectives

To explore the effect of e‐prescribing requirements on narcotic dispersion in New York State.

Slicer Dicer was used to identify patient records based on CPT codes.

Methods

We investigated the influence of New York State e‐prescribing requirements on narcotic dispersion following five common facial plastics procedures. Slicer Dicer was used to identify patient records based on CPT codes.We then looked at narcotic prescription rates following those surgeries between March 2014 and March 2018 at an academic institution.

Results

Overall, between March 2014 and March 2018, 76.1% of the sample received a narcotic prescription following a facial reconstructive plastic surgery. Patients who underwent rhinoplasty were most likely to receive a prescription for postoperative narcotics. The implementation of ISTOP, CPT code, use of non‐narcotic adjuvant, and insurance type were each significantly associated with prescription of postoperative narcotics. Surgery time and age in years were significantly associated with prescription of postoperative narcotics. Ultimately, when controlling for the aforementioned clinical and sociodemographic variables included in the study, those who underwent surgery after the implementation of ISTOP were 42.8% less likely to receive a prescription for postoperative narcotics, aOR = 0.572, 95% CI 0.356, 0.919, p = 0.021.

Conclusions

New York State's ISTOP program has succeeded in reducing the number of postoperative narcotic prescriptions following facial plastic reconstructive surgeries at this academic institution. However, opioid medications can still be utilized for postoperative analgesia when clinically appropriate.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 134:1208–1213, 2024
Energy‐based approach for fastening processes on the example of impulse tightening – possible parameters for extended and tool‐independent fastening quality assessment
Authors: Merten M. , Dawood A. , Mai T. , Fuessel U.
Published: August 2023

Für die Montage sicherheitsrelevanter Verschraubungen kommen vorrangig kontinuierlich drehende Werkzeuge zum Einsatz. Ergänzend dazu kann das Wirkprinzip der gesteuerten Impulsschraubtechnik, im Hinblick auf eine mögliche Einsparung der Fertigungszeit bei gleichzeitig hohen Verbindungsqualitäten, eine sinnvolle Alternative darstellen. In der Praxis gestaltet sich die Anwendung pulsender Werkzeuge aufgrund teils fehlender und gleichzeitig sehr umständlicher Vorgehensweisen und Richtlinien für die rückführbare Kalibrierung als schwierig. Auch bedingt die aktuelle Bewertung des maximalen Drehmoments eines Impulses teilweise große Schwankungen in der Abschaltgenauigkeit dieser Werkzeuge. In diesem Zusammenhang bietet die Anwendung der energetischen Betrachtungsweise bei Schraubenverbindungen das Potenzial einer werkzeugunabhängigen Bewertung der Qualität des Montageprozesses. Basierend auf Analysen ablaufender energetischer Umwandlungen vom Eintrag des Antriebsmediums in das Schraubwerkzeug bis hin zur Vorspannkrafterzeugung als Zielfunktion soll die Energie als Größe zur Prozessbewertung befähigt werden. Voraussetzung hierfür ist zunächst ein umfangreiches theoretisches Verständnis für die ablaufenden Prozesse während des pulsenden Energieeintrags, welches es durch praktische Untersuchungen zu verifizieren gilt. Ziel soll es sein, die gesamte Verlaufsform der jeweiligen Impulse für die Prozessbewertung pulsender Werkzeuge zu berücksichtigen sowie die Vergleichbarkeit unterschiedlicher Werkzeugtypen energiebasierend zu ermöglichen. Weiterhin soll dem Anwender durch Aufzeigen der „Strategien“ Leistungsbegrenzung und Überdimensionierung die Nutzung und Parametrierung gesteuerter Impulsschraubtechnik erleichtert werden.
Machinability study of silicon carbide and cenosphere reinforced Al7075 composite using three different tool materials
Authors: Setia Sunil , Chahuan Sant Ram
Published: August 2023

This research conducted a machinability study on Al7075 composite reinforced with nano‐sized (100 nm) silicon carbide and cenosphere (industrial waste) particulates with 1.8 % weight. These composites were fabricated utilizing an ultrasonically assisted stir‐casting setup and scanning electron microscope investigation was conducted to evaluate the dispersion properties of the reinforcement in the matrix phase. During the study, the effect of variation of feed rate, cutting speed and depth of cut on cutting forces and tool tip temperature has been studied. A total of 253 experiments were conducted using three different tool inserts polycrystalline diamond, cermet, and coated carbide under dry cutting conditions. Among the two components of the cutting force, it was noted that the primary cutting force was the largest. A full factorial response surface regression model has been developed and it is found that the regression model can predict cutting force and temperature with fair accuracy.
Photoelectrochemical, optical and magnetic properties of magnetite nanoparticles
Authors: Chetibi L. , Ouazouaz R. , Hamana D. , Achour S.
Published: August 2023

Magnetite magnetic nanoparticles are prepared using olive leaf extract as a green reducing and stabilizing agents. After reaction the product is heated up to get rid of the organic compounds and get pure magnetite nanoparticles. Differential scanning calorimetry is used to study the phase transformation as a function of heating temperature. Scanning electron microscope and high resolution transmission electron microscope show spherical and crystallized nanoparticles with a size of 5 nm. X‐ray diffraction and Raman and x‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy indicate the formation of Magnetite phase with high cristallinity and purity. The synthesized Magnetite nanoparticles are semiconductors with gap energy around 2 eV. Observed by transmission electron microscope graphite rods with stacked carbon disks are decorated with the prepared nanoparticles and show enhanced photocurrent. The vibrating sample magnetometer measurements indicate that the prepared Magnetite nanoparticles have superparamagnetic behavior. These results are very promising for clinical and water splitting applications.
Dual‐polarized filtering antenna and its application for compact multi‐array
Authors: Wu Rui , Lin Jian‐Hong , Chen Fu‐Chang , Cao Wei‐Ping , Yuan‐Liu  , Cai Shu‐Ting , Chu Qing‐Xin , Xue Quan
Published: August 2023

This article presents a ±45° dual‐band dual‐polarized filtering antenna. The filtering antenna element is a dual‐polarized patch antenna that loads a parasitic patch with two rectangle slots to achieve compact multi‐array. Multi‐array consists of three 1×2 subarrays arranged, which are designed for 1.8/2.1 GHz FDD band applications. Very close‐arranged antennas exhibit radiation pattern invariance as well as in‐band radiation property. Radiation patterns are conformal with a compact subarray distance of 45 mm (0.29λ0), which is 56% smaller than that of the array using traditional filtering elements. Moreover, the total width is only 180 mm for three subarray‐composed antenna arrays. The average gain is 8.7 dBi with a low profile of 0.069λ0. The proposed array exhibits the filtering property of the subarrays with a very simple structure.
The cumulative school bus routing problem: Polynomial‐size formulations
Authors: Farzadnia Farnaz , Bektaş Tolga , Lysgaard Jens
Published: August 2023

This article introduces the cumulative school bus routing problem, which concerns the transport of students from a school using a fleet of identical buses. The objective of the problem is to select a drop‐off point for each student among potential locations within a certain walking distance and to generate routes such that the sum of arrival times of all students from their school to their homes is minimized. The article describes six polynomial‐size mixed integer linear programming formulations based on original and auxiliary graphs, and the formulations are numerically compared on real instances. The article reports the results of computational experiments performed to evaluate the performance of the proposed models.
Connected graph partitioning with aggregated and non‐aggregated gap objective functions
Authors: Fernández Elena , Lari Isabella , Puerto Justo , Ricca Federica , Scozzari Andrea
Published: August 2023

This article deals with the problem of partitioning a graph into connected components by optimizing some balancing objective functions related to the vertex weights. Objective functions based on the gap or range of the partition's components, that is, the difference between the maximum and minimum weight of a vertex in the component, have been already introduced in the literature. Here we introduce the notion of aggregated gap, defined as the sum of the differences between the weights of the vertices and the minimum weight of a vertex in the component. We study new connected ‐partitioning problems whose objective is a function of the components' aggregated gap, and give NP‐hardness results for these problems on general graphs. Mathematical programming formulations are proposed for these problems adopting flow‐based constraints for modeling connectivity in a partition. Even if they are introduced for the new aggregated gap problems, such formulations are rather general and apply also to the classical non‐aggregated gap problems. Extensive computational tests, both for aggregated and non‐aggregated gap problems, are performed on a set of squared grids and randomly generated graphs with up to 120 vertices, and a number of components ranging from 2 to 9. In our experiments, we test several alternative formulations for our problems providing a comparative analysis of their performance.
The coating based on phenolic resin gives rigid polyurethane foam excellent flame retardant properties
Authors: Zhang Wei , Zheng Hui , Zhu Chao‐nan , Xing Feng‐qin , Tong Ming‐yu
Published: August 2023

A flame retardant coating was designed and synthesized using phenolic resin (PF), 9,10‐dihydro‐9‐oxa‐10‐phosphazephenanthrene‐10‐oxide (DOPO), and nano‐SiO2 as raw materials. The coating is applied to the surface of rigid polyurethane foam (RPUF) to give it a flame retardant effect. Based on the excellent adhesion of PF, the coating effectively suppresses heat transfer, and the synergistic effect of DOPO and nano‐SiO2 improves the flame retardancy of RPUF. In addition, vertical combustion experiments have shown that when the ratio of DOPO to nano‐SiO2 is 2:1, there is no dripping, the flame is self‐extinguishing, and the internal structure remains basically unchanged, resulting in the best flame retardant effect. The cone calorimetric test shows that the coating can effectively reduce the total heat release and heat release rate of the substrate, and the smoke release rate and total smoke release data show that its smoke suppression effect is significantly improved. Thermogravimetric analysis shows that the coating can effectively improve the residual carbon rate of RPUF, and its mechanical properties are good. This study confirms that coatings based on PF/DOPO/Nano‐SiO2 can effectively improve the flame retardancy of RPUF, providing a potential direction for the development of green insulation materials.
Examining the influence of pain and fatigue on neurocognitive functioning in adolescents and young adults with sickle cell disease
Authors: Semko Joshua H. , Longoria Jennifer , Porter Jerlym , Potter Brian , Bhatia Shalini , Pan Haitao , Hankins Jane S. , Heitzer Andrew M.
Published: August 2023

Pain and fatigue are among the most common and impactful complications of sickle cell disease (SCD). Individuals with SCD are also more likely to have neurocognitive deficits. Previous studies have suggested that pain and fatigue might influence neurocognitive functioning in patients with SCD. However, these studies are limited by small sample sizes and inadequate measurement of cognitive performance. The present study aimed to investigate the relationship between pain and fatigue with neurocognitive functioning using performance‐based measures of neurocognition. Pain and fatigue were not associated with neurocognitive performance. Implications and directions for future research are discussed.
Long‐term nephrotoxicity in irradiated pediatric kidney tumor survivors: A systematic review
Authors: Dávila Fajardo Raquel , Raymakers‐Janssen Paulien , van Grotel Martine , van Wösten‐van Asperen Roelie M. , Terhaard Christianus H. , Lilien Marc R. , van den Heuvel‐Eibrink Marry M. , Janssens Geert O.
Published: August 2023

Objective

Nephrotoxicity can occur as a side effect after treatment for kidney tumor in childhood. The use of radiotherapy (RT) has a potential additional effect.

Methods

A systematic electronic literature search that combined childhood kidney cancer with different treatments and nephrotoxicity terms was performed in EMBASE. Studies were included based on the reporting of nephrotoxicity occurrence after treatment for kidney tumor during pediatric age, with 75% of participants being under the age of 25 years at the time of diagnosis, and having been treated with any type of kidney surgery, chemotherapy, and/or RT.

Results

A pooled analysis did not show significant difference in estimated glomerular filtration rate between the group of patients who received RT compared with the group treated without RT (SMD −0.11 [95% CI −1.07–0.84] p = .733).

Conclusion

The current literature suggests that the use of RT does not have a significant impact on the decline of kidney function as independent factor.
Intrinsic and extrinsic self‐healing fiber‐reinforced polymer composites: A review
Authors: Wang Juntao , Tang Jun , Chen Dingding , Xing Suli , Liu Xuanyi , Hao Jingye
Published: August 2023

With their high specific modulus, high specific strength and designability, fiber‐reinforced polymer (FRP) composites have replaced or surpassed traditional metallic materials in a wide range of applications. However, the polymer matrix of commonly used FRP composites is usually a thermosetting polymer that is difficult to rework once formed, which implants a substantial challenge for the repair and recycling of composites. Self‐repair, as an emerging method of repairing polymer‐based materials, has the advantages of simplification, high efficiency and repeatability against traditional repair methods. Research on self‐healing polymer materials is developing rapidly and becoming more systematic. With the development of self‐healing polymer, polymer‐based composites with self‐healing capabilities are becoming possible. This paper reviews the current development of self‐healing polymers in recent years, with specific emphasis on their applications in FRP composites. According to the difference in healing mechanisms, the self‐healing polymer composites are split into two categories, intrinsic and extrinsic ones. The essential concepts and different types of intrinsic and extrinsic self‐healing composites are first introduced. Then, their pros and cons are discussed, respectively. Finally, the perspectives of intrinsic as well as extrinsic self‐healing FRP composites are put forward.

Highlights

Development of self‐healing fiber‐reinforced polymer composites.

Extrinsic and intrinsic self‐healing fiber‐reinforced polymer composites.

Pros and cons of self‐healing fiber‐reinforced polymer composites.

Perspectives of self‐healing fiber‐reinforced polymer composites.
Void content of polypropylene/carbon fiber wet‐laid nonwoven composites: Effect of fiber content and molding conditions, and void elimination mechanism
Authors: Yan Xin , Zhao Guang‐lei , Yang Jin , Wang Xi‐wen
Published: August 2023

Various wet‐laid nonwoven composites have been well‐developed in recent decades. However, studies that systematically investigate the factors affecting the void content of wet‐laid nonwoven composites are still missing. This paper aims to study the factors affecting the void content of wet‐laid nonwoven composites and propose a mechanism for void elimination in wet‐laid nonwoven composites. Polypropylene (PP) and carbon fiber (CF) were chosen to manufacture PP/CF wet‐laid nonwoven composites. An orthogonal experimental design found that the CF content and molding pressure can dominate the void content while molding temperature and time have non‐significant effects. Subsequently, this paper proposed that the void elimination mechanism is the compression of the impregnated CF network and the trapped air (compression mechanism) instead of the matrix's infiltration to the dry CF network (infiltration mechanism). In order to validate the compression mechanism, we developed an analytical model for predicting the void content of the PP/CF wet‐laid nonwoven composites. Good agreement between the predicted and the experimental void content suggests that void elimination follows the compression mechanism.

Highlights

An orthogonal experimental design reveals that the CF content and molding pressure can dominate the void content of the PP/CF wet‐laid nonwoven composite, while molding temperature and time have non‐significant effects.

A mechanism (i.e., compression mechanism) is proposed to explain the effect of CF content and molding conditions on the void content of the PP/CF wet‐laid nonwoven composite.

Good agreement between the experimental and the predicted void content validates the compression mechanism.
A case for screening real‐world data for collateral drug benefits: Glucagon‐like peptide 1 receptor agonists and bile acid diarrhea
Authors: Rahbek Martin Torp , Lund Lars Christian , Hallas Jesper
Published: August 2023

Purpose

Collateral drug benefits are hitherto unknown beneficial effects that might lead to repurposing of already marketed drugs. A randomized controlled trial has found liraglutide to be non‐inferior to colesevelam in reducing bile acid diarrhea. We hypothesized that this collateral drug benefit of liraglutide could have been detected using observational data.

Methods

We performed a sequence symmetry analysis (SSA). In the SSA, we indexed individuals on the date of the first prescription of GLP1‐RA and restricted the analysis to all individuals who had a first prescription of bile acid sequestrants between 365 days prior to until 365 days after the index date. Sequence ratios (SR), that is, the ratio between counts of persons initiating GLP1‐RA first versus last, were calculated, and 95% confidence intervals were obtained. We adjusted for prescribing trends using null‐effect SR adjustment.

Results

We included 158 individuals, with a median age of 58 years. The trend‐adjusted SR was 0.96 (95% confidence interval 0.70–1.31). When stratifying on the type of GLP1‐RA (liraglutide or semaglutide), we found results compatible with the previous trial (SRliraglutide 0.75, 0.51–1.10 and SRsemagltuide 1.23, 0.80–1.89). Since BAS also can be used as a cholesterol lowering drug, we repeated the main analysis while excluded statin users, resulting in a stronger association (SR 0.56, 0.33–0.96).

Conclusion

Using the SSA methodology, we obtained estimates of a collateral drug benefit that were compatible with trial results. These results support the use of epidemiological analyses of observational data as instrument for detecting collateral drug benefits.