bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A General Strategy for Increasing the Air Stability of Phosphines Including Primary Phosphines
Authors: Horký Filip , Franz Roman , Bruhn Clemens , Pietschnig Rudolf
Published: August 2023

A general approach for increasing the air‐stability of various primary phosphines in the absence of kinetic stabilization is presented that contrasts with previous interpretations, which were limited to specific phosphines. This contribution shows the synthesis of a series of air‐stable primary phosphines Fc(CH2)nPH2, wheren=0,1,2,3; and Fc=ferrocenyl, and their corresponding isolable primary phosphine oxides. It was demonstrated that the ferrocene moiety exerts an antioxidant effect on the primary phosphine group, which is intermolecular, solvent dependent and increases with the electron density on the ferrocene moiety. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the presence of ferrocene in solution also inhibits the oxidation of other secondary and tertiary phosphines in air. Together our findings suggest that quenching of singlet oxygen is the actual reason for the antioxidant effect; this was experimentally confirmed by using other established singlet oxygen quenchers, thus demonstrating a key role of singlet oxygen in the aerobic oxidation of phosphines.
Importance of anemia in heart failure over blood pressure variability
Authors: Kiuchi Shunsuke , Hisatake Shinji , Kabuki Takayuki , Dobashi Shintaro , Murakami Yoshiki , Ikeda Takanori
Published: August 2023

Background

The evaluation of arteriosclerosis (vascular function) is important when treating heart failure (HF). Vascular dysfunction is associated with anemia through renal function and endothelial nitric oxide synthase. Additionally, blood pressure (BP) variability (BPV) caused by vascular dysfunction is also associated with HF prognosis. However, how anemia and BPV may affect HF prognosis is unclear.

Methods

Between January 2012 and July 2018, 214 patients with HF were hospitalized. The cardio‐ankle vascular index (CAVI) as an index of arteriosclerosis of these patients was measured. The patients were divided into the elevated and preserved CAVI groups. We investigated the factors related to major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) as cardiovascular death or rehospitalization within 1 year after discharge.

Results

In the elevated CAVI group, significant differences in body mass index (BMI), BPV, left ventricular dimension, and hemoglobin levels were observed between patients with and without MACEs. In the preserved CAVI group, significant differences in BMI, diastolic/mean BP, and hemoglobin levels were observed between those with and without MACEs. The multivariate analysis showed an independent association between hemoglobin levels and MACE occurrence in both the elevated and preserved CAVI groups (elevated CAVI group: hazard ratio [HR] = 0.800, p = .045 [model 1], HR = 0.802, p = .035 [model 2]; preserved CAVI group: HR = 0.783, p = .049 [model 1], HR = 0.752, p = .023 [model 2], and HR = 0.754, p = .024 [model 3]).

Conclusions

Anemia was independently associated with HF prognosis with or without arteriosclerosis.
Physical activity in recurrent colon cancer: Cancer and Leukemia Group B/SWOG 80702 (Alliance)
Authors: Brown Justin C. , Ma Chao , Shi Qian , Zemla Tyler , Couture Felix , Kuebler Philip , Kumar Pankaj , Tan Benjamin , Krishnamurthi Smitha , Chang Victor , Goldberg Richard M. , Venook Alan P. , Blanke Charles D. , O’Reilly Eileen M. , Shields Anthony F. , Meyerhardt Jeffrey A.
Published: August 2023

Background

One in three patients with stage III colon cancer will experience tumor recurrence. It is uncertain whether physical activity during and after postoperative chemotherapy for stage III colon cancer improves overall survival after tumor recurrence.

Methods

A prospective cohort study nested within a randomized multicenter trial of patients initially diagnosed with stage III colon cancer who experienced tumor recurrence (N = 399) was conducted. Postoperative physical activity before tumor recurrence was measured. Physical activity energy expenditure was quantified via metabolic equivalent task hours per week (MET‐h/week). The primary end point was overall survival after tumor recurrence. Multivariable flexible parametric survival models estimated relative and absolute effects with two‐sided hypothesis tests.

Results

Compared with patients expending <3.0 MET‐h/week of physical activity (comparable to <1.0 h/week of brisk walking), patients with ≥18.0 MET‐h/week of physical activity (comparable to 6 h/week of brisk walking) had a 33% relative improvement in overall survival time after tumor recurrence (hazard ratio, 0.67; 95% CI, 0.42–0.96). The overall survival rate at 3 years after tumor recurrence was 61.3% (95% CI, 51.8%–69.2%) with <3.0 MET‐h/week of physical activity and 72.2% (95% CI, 63.1%–79.6%) with ≥18 MET‐h/week of physical activity (risk difference, 10.9 percentage points; 95% CI, 1.2–20.8 percentage points).

Conclusions

Higher postoperative physical activity is associated with improved overall survival after tumor recurrence in patients initially diagnosed with stage III colon cancer. These data may be relevant to patients who, despite optimal postoperative medical therapy, have a high risk of tumor recurrence.
A framework to test interval arithmetic libraries and their IEEE 1788‐2015 compliance
Authors: Benet Luis , Ferranti Luca , Revol Nathalie
Published: August 2023

As developers of libraries implementing interval arithmetic, we faced the same difficulties when it comes to testing our libraries. What must be tested? How can we devise relevant test cases for unit testing? How can we ensure a high (and possibly 100%) test coverage? Before considering these questions, we briefly recall the main features of interval arithmetic and of the IEEE 1788‐2015 standard for interval arithmetic. After listing the different aspects that, in our opinion, must be tested, we contribute a first step towards offering a test suite for an interval arithmetic library. First we define a format that enables the exchange of test cases, so that they can be read and tried easily. Then we offer a first set of test cases, for a selected set of mathematical functions. Next, we examine how the Julia interval arithmetic library, IntervalArithmetic.jl, actually performs to these tests. As this is an ongoing work, we list extra tests that we deem important to perform.
Ambient Pressure X‐ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy Study of Oxidation Phase Transitions on Cu(111) and Cu(110)
Authors: Shi Shucheng , Han Yong , Yang Tian , Zang Yijing , Zhang Hui , Li Yimin , Liu Zhi
Published: August 2023

The surface structure effect on the oxidation of Cu has been investigated by performing ambient‐pressure X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (APXPS) on Cu(111) and Cu(110) surfaces under oxygen pressures ranging from 10−8 to 1 mbar and temperatures from 300 to 750 K. The APXPS results show a subsequential phase transition from chemisorbed O/Cu overlayer to Cu2O and then to CuO on both surfaces. For a given temperature, the oxygen pressure needed to induce initial formation of Cu2O on Cu(110) is about two orders of magnitude greater than that on Cu(111), which is in contrast with the facile formation of O/Cu overlayer on clean Cu(110). The depth profile measurements during the initial stage of Cu2O formation indicate the distinct growth modes of Cu2O on the two surface orientations. We attribute these prominent effects of surface structure to the disparities in the kinetic processes, such as the dissociation and surface/bulk diffusion over O/Cu overlayers. Our findings provide new insights into the kinetics‐controlled process of Cu oxidation by oxygen.
Impaired resolution of blood transcriptomes through tuberculosis treatment with diabetes comorbidity
Authors: Eckold Clare , van Doorn Cassandra L. R. , Ruslami Rovina , Ronacher Katharina , Riza Anca‐Lelia , van Veen Suzanne , Lee Ji‐Sook , Kumar Vinod , Kerry‐Barnard Sarah , Malherbe Stephanus T. , Kleynhans Léanie , Stanley Kim , Joosten Simone A. , Critchley Julia A , Hill Philip C. , van Crevel Reinout , Wijmenga Cisca , Haks Mariëlle C. , Ioana Mihai , Alisjahbana Bachti , Walzl Gerhard , Ottenhoff Tom H. M. , Dockrell Hazel M. , Vianello Eleonora , Cliff Jacqueline M. ,   the TANDEM Consortium$
Published: August 2023

Background

People with diabetes are more likely to develop tuberculosis (TB) and to have poor TB‐treatment outcomes than those without. We previously showed that blood transcriptomes in people with TB‐diabetes (TB‐DM) co‐morbidity have excessive inflammatory and reduced interferon responses at diagnosis. It is unknown whether this persists through treatment and contributes to the adverse outcomes.

Methods

Pulmonary TB patients recruited in South Africa, Indonesia and Romania were classified as having TB‐DM, TB with prediabetes, TB‐related hyperglycaemia or TB‐only, based on glycated haemoglobin concentration at TB diagnosis and after 6 months of TB treatment. Gene expression in blood at diagnosis and intervals throughout treatment was measured by unbiased RNA‐Seq and targeted Multiplex Ligation‐dependent Probe Amplification. Transcriptomic data were analysed by longitudinal mixed‐model regression to identify whether genes were differentially expressed between clinical groups through time. Predictive models of TB‐treatment response across groups were developed and cross‐tested.

Results

Gene expression differed between TB and TB‐DM patients at diagnosis and was modulated by TB treatment in all clinical groups but to different extents, such that differences remained in TB‐DM relative to TB‐only throughout. Expression of some genes increased through TB treatment, whereas others decreased: some were persistently more highly expressed in TB‐DM and others in TB‐only patients. Genes involved in innate immune responses, anti‐microbial immunity and inflammation were significantly upregulated in people with TB‐DM throughout treatment. The overall pattern of change was similar across clinical groups irrespective of diabetes status, permitting models predictive of TB treatment to be developed.

Conclusions

Exacerbated transcriptome changes in TB‐DM take longer to resolve during TB treatment, meaning they remain different from those in uncomplicated TB after treatment completion. This may indicate a prolonged inflammatory response in TB‐DM, requiring prolonged treatment or host‐directed therapy for complete cure. Development of transcriptome‐based biomarker signatures of TB‐treatment response should include people with diabetes for use across populations.
Fresh organic and soot particles from crop straw burning: Morphology, composition and size distribution
Authors: Li Yaowei , Shao Longyi , Wang Xinming , Wang Wenhua , Yang Cheng‐Xue , Li Wenjun , Fang Zheng
Published: August 2023

Particulate matter from biomass burning is considered to be one of the major sources of air pollution in China. To examine the characteristics of the particles emitted from the burning of crop straw, an open burning experiment is designed. Individual particles are collected in the flaming and smouldering stages, and analysed by individual particle analyses represented by high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy equipped with the energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectrometer. Five types of particles are identified, namely, pure organic particle, organic particle‐K (OP‐K), tar ball, K‐rich and soot particles. Of these, the OP‐K particles have the highest relative number percentage in all analysed particles in both the flaming and smouldering stages. Interestingly, the microscopic morphology of organic particles is completely different in the flaming and smouldering stages, being near‐spherical in the flaming stage and gel‐like in the smouldering stage. According to the elemental compositions, most of OP‐K particles contained potassium compounds in the form of KCl and K2SO4. High combustion efficiency and temperature promote the formation of crystal structure, resulting in the onion‐like microstructure of soot particles. Apparently, the soot microstructure is a fingerprint feature that helps identify combustion sources. In addition, the particles emitted in the flaming stage are smaller than those in the smouldering stage, implying that high temperature combustion tends to be associated with high combustion efficiency. The relationship between burning temperatures and particle sizes can help to understand the emission of particles from crop straw burning and find new ways to solve the problems caused by straw burning. The results of this study can provide more detailed ‘fingerprint’ characteristics of the particulate matter emitted from biomass‐burning sources, and an understanding of their potential impact on the atmospheric environment.
Complex System Reliability Analysis using a Model‐Based Shared Systems Simulation
Authors: Ross Jeremy
Published: August 2023

The continued growth of system complexity is challenging traditional qualitative, heuristics‐based approaches to architecting system emergence. As these emergent attributes are products of the architecture and established early in the system development lifecycle, where ambiguity is most pronounced, a shift to a model‐based approach is viewed as essential to understanding system interdependencies and the impacts of tradeoff decisions. This paper discusses how model‐based systems engineering methods and a coupled architecture‐simulation can be used to model system reliability. Employing a probabilistic model of system element failure, the coupled simulation is shown to predict system reliability for various architecture configurations early in the system design process. The advantages this quantitative system performance assessment provide to stakeholder decision‐making are reviewed, and the simulation model is extended to demonstrate how the complexity‐resilience tradeoff can impact system reliability.
A Social Enterprise Approach for Parenting in the Japanese Society
Authors: Hoffmann Raquel , Bori Ana Maria
Published: August 2023

Japan has one of the world's most family‐friendly parental leave systems. However, a government survey conducted in 2020 found that less than 13 percent of male respondents exercised their right to take paternity leave, leaving the burden of child‐rearing to the mothers. Although Japan's Government has made parental leave a top priority, the effects on society are still modest. Work culture, labor regulation, and gender bias are some of the challenges in the imbalanced parenting problem. Solving a society‐related issue requires a holistic approach that considers complex multidimensional aspects. This paper uses the Unified Architecture Framework to model a Social Enterprise by investigating the Japanese parenting problem. We use the challenges and drivers identified in the Japanese case to explore viewpoints that place the human aspect of parenting together with business and policymaking. Lastly, we introduce the next parenting phase considering principles from Society 5.0.
Proposing a DEI Strategy for INCOSE Based on the Diversity and Inclusion Progression Framework 2.0
Authors: Squires Alice F. , Harding Alan
Published: August 2023

Institutions that embody diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) as a key value and key objective of the organization better understand the positive and negative impacts of strategic decisions on the communities they serve. This paper describes a process for developing a DEI strategy for the International Council on Systems Engineering (INCOSE) based on the Royal Academy of Engineering and Science Council's Diversity and Inclusion Progression Framework 2.0. The paper investigates four of the eleven areas of the framework, benchmarking INCOSE's progress and developing a set of initiatives to support INCOSE's DEI progression. Based on this paper's research, and confirmed by dozens of other societies in similar exercises, DEI progression requires careful planning and proactive steps, as part of a comprehensive strategy consistently implemented over time. But most of all, success in transforming into a diverse, equitable, and inclusive institution requires the passion and motivation of the organizational members to change.
MBFHA: A Framework for Model‐Based Functional Hazard Assessment for Aircraft Systems
Authors: Lai Kimberly , Robert Thomas , Shindman David , Olechowski Alison
Published: August 2023

To address growing system complexity in the aerospace industry, a Model‐Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) approach has been increasingly adopted for the development of aircraft systems. This calls for a corresponding approach for performing safety assessment to maintain consistency between the system and safety domains. One of the key safety assessment processes for aircraft development is the Functional Hazard Assessment (FHA). The purpose of this paper is to build upon previously published works and introduce the MBFHA framework which describes the language, method, and tool needed for implementing a model‐based approach to performing FHA and integrating it into MBSE activities. A customised FHA profile is introduced for the modelling language, an overall workflow along with processes for FHA report and safety requirements generation is presented for the method, and a list of tool constraints is provided. A proof‐of‐concept is subsequently presented using safety data for the landing gear extension and retraction system of a generic business aircraft.
Physics‐Informed Gas Lifting Oil Well Modelling using Neural Ordinary Differential Equations
Authors: Ban Zhe , Pfeiffer Carlos
Published: August 2023

Modelling of oil well systems is important for a wide range of petroleum scientific and oil industrial processes. Considering the uncertainty of the measurements and the demand for empirical knowledge, a purely first‐principle model and a black‐box model based on data are not sufficient for accurately describing an oil well system. Thus, there is a growing body of literature that recognizes the importance of data‐driven methods combined with physical knowledge. However, the application of combination methods for dynamic nonlinear systems is still challenging. In this work, we demonstrate the application of a physics‐informed neural network to a gas lifting oil well system. The neural ordinary differential equation is the main tool for the modeling and the simulation is examined in Julia programming language. The advantage and drawbacks of the physics‐informed data‐driven method are analyzed.
Phased Demonstrations of MBSE in Small Demonstration Satellite Series: Development of System Model and Environment for Full Application of MBSE
Authors: Wada Atsushi , Komatsu Yutaka , Tate Daiki , Katsumata Haruhi , Shirasawa Yoji , Fujimoto Keiichiro , Kakehashi Yuya , Nakamura Kengo , Kaneko Yutaka , Suzuki Shinichi , Iwata Takanori
Published: August 2023

The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) has been implementing phased and progressive demonstrations of the Model‐Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) applications, using small demonstration satellite series, so called the Rapid Innovative Payload Demonstration Satellite (RAISE), as a demonstration pre‐cursor. The purpose of the activity is to establish a practical methodology of the MBSE application to satellite projects, to promote its practices, and to infuse MBSE to the Japanese space community. These RAISE satellites are 100kg‐class flagships in the Innovative Satellite Technology Demonstration Program, which provides on‐orbit demonstration opportunities for new technologies and key‐components. This paper presents the phased demonstration strategy, an overall approach, and the technology development of a system model being built for the full application of MBSE to RAISE‐4. For the technology development, the paper covers framework, modeling scope, system model building, system model collaboration with analysis/simulation tool, introduction of design rationale and concerns, information sharing through OpenMBEE, for our full application of MBSE.
Value‐driven Optimization Campaign Addressing Manufacturing, Supply Chain and Overall Aircraft Design Domains in the Early Development Stage
Authors: Merola Umberto , Donelli Giuseppa , Lefebvre Thierry , Bartoli Nathalie , Mello João M.G.D. , Odaguil Felipe I.K. , van der Laan Ton , Björn Nagel
Published: August 2023

In the last decades, several studies demonstrate how the integration of manufacturing and supply chain in the early design phase brings significant advantages to industries. Within the European Project (AGILE 4.0, 2022), a value‐driven methodology concurrently coupling design, manufacturing and supply chain has been developed. This study aims at addressing a new challenge: the identification of non‐dominated solutions simultaneously accounting for manufacturing, design and supply chain variables. For this purpose, an optimization design campaign has been addressed in this research activity and the main results are‐here presented.
A Systems View of Career Development for Systems Engineering Leadership
Authors: Gupta Stueti , Keim Jonathan , Kennedy Grace , Opland Brandi , Sigterman Yoeri , Wingate Brandi
Published: August 2023

SE leaders' career development journeys are primarily driven by their experiences that shape their capability, qualities, and perspective; however, the pathways that individuals take are not only broad and varied, but also equally affected by personal life decisions and external factors. This paper describes a two‐fold study that aimed to: a) provide insight into commonalities in the career journeys of SE leaders, and b) ascertain how key areas affect career development. Five key areas were explored: education, technical experience, soft skills experience, job satisfaction and work‐life balance. A mixed and multi‐method approach was taken, gathering data from sixty‐one participants through interviews, surveys and facilitated workshop. The study found that although there was no ‘blueprint’ that yields successful SE leadership, there were themes/trends that were common. An influence model was developed to highlight these trends in the form of the key areas, factors affecting them, and the interrelationships between them.
An Empirical Survey on the Prevalence of Technical Debt in Systems Engineering
Authors: Kleinwaks Howard , Batchelor Ann , Bradley Thomas
Published: August 2023

The technical debt metaphor is used within software engineering to describe technical concessions that produce a short‐term benefit but result in long‐term consequences. Systems engineering is subject to these concessions, yet there is a limited amount of research associating technical debt with systems engineering. This paper provides the results of an empirical survey investigating the prevalence of technical debt in systems engineering, including the occurrence of technical debt, the use of the metaphor, and the distribution of technical debt within the systems engineering lifecycle. The results of the survey show that while technical debt is common in systems engineering and occurs throughout the lifecycle, the metaphor and terminology of technical debt is not consistently applied. These results emphasize the need to enrich the usage of the technical debt metaphor within systems engineering to enable the management of technical debt and to reduce the risk of technical bankruptcy.
From Requirements to Product: an MBSE Approach for the Digitalization of the Aircraft Design Process
Authors: Bruggeman Anne‐Liza M.R.M. , La Rocca Gianfranco
Published: August 2023

During the aircraft conceptual design phase, many different design options need to be explored and compared in a short time frame. To speed up this process, efforts have been made in the past decades to digitalize parts of the design process, with a focus on the automation of the repetitive and non‐creative tasks inherent to the iterative design process. Whilst many of the newly developed methodologies focus on specific parts of the design process, a holistic model‐based design framework, incorporating the latest design technology developments, is lacking. To fill this gap, this paper presents the latest version of the Design and Engineering Engine (DEE) framework, originally proposed in the early 2000s and progressively matured through the experience of several international research collaborations. The DEE enables the setup and execution of Multidisciplinary Design Analysis and Optimization (MDAO) problems for aircraft (sub)systems, leveraging the automated, rule‐based modeling capabilities offered by Knowledge‐Based Engineering (KBE) and recent developments in the automatic formulation and integration of MDAO workflows. While the traditional MDAO process focuses on a given product architecture, the DEE allows also architectural design studies and makes use of Model‐Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) principles to address the whole design process, from requirements modeling up to the automatic verification of the requirements. In practice, the DEE provides a single conceptual framework or template from which specific design framework instances can be formulated and executed, according to the user's needs. This paper describes the DEE architecture and its implementation concepts. Furthermore, it demonstrates the application of the DEE template to four different scenarios, ranging from a simple requirement verification study, up to the simultaneous synthesis and optimization of an aircraft system and its production process, including multiple system architecture options.
ScRNAPip: A systematic and dynamic pipeline for single‐cell RNA sequencing analysis
Authors: Xu Limin , Zhang Jing , He Yiqian , Yang Qianqian , Mu Tianhao , Guo Qiushi , Li Yingqiang , Tong Tian , Chen Shifu , Ye Richard D.
Published: August 2023

With the advancement of sequencing technology, cell separation, and whole‐genome amplification techniques, single cell technology for genome sequencing is emerging gradually. In comparison to traditional genome sequencing at the multi‐cellular level, single‐cell sequencing can not only measure the gene expression level more accurately but also can detect a small amount of gene expression or rare noncoding RNA. This technology has garnered increasing interest among researchers engaged in single‐cell studies in recent years. Here, we developed a reproducible computational workflow for scRNA‐seq data analysis which including tasks like quality control, normalization, data correction, pseudotime analysis, copy number analysis, etc. We illustrate the application of these steps using publicly available datasets and provide practical recommendations for their implementation. This study serves as a comprehensive tutorial for researchers keen on single‐cell data analysis, aiding users in constructing and refining their own analysis pipelines.
Design of subsurface drainage network with minimum overall cost using Lagrange multiplier optimization
Authors: Gabr Mohamed Elsayed , Fattouh Ehab , Eltarabily Mohamed Galal
Published: August 2023

Subsurface drainage is effective for not only controlling groundwater levels in agricultural lands but also alleviating soil salinity localized at the root zone, especially for arid and semi‐arid agro‐ecosystems. In this research, an optimization model that minimizes the overall costs of subsurface drainage systems subjected to design constraints was formulated. The Lagrange multiplier method for optimization was utilized to derive a general differential equation for obtaining the most economical design of the subsurface drainage system. Design charts for the minimum cost of the subsurface drainage network ($ ha−1) for lateral diameters (dL) of 2.5, 5, 7.5, 10 and 12.5 cm; hydraulic conductivities (K) of 0.5, 1, 2, 3 and 4 m day−1; different lateral lengths (LL) of 100, 150, 200, 250, and 300 m; a constant collector length (LC) of 1000 m (assuming laterals join the collector from both sides); drainage recharge (q) values of 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 mm day−1; and excavation depths of 1.5 and 2.0 m were developed. The minimum computed subsurface drainage network (SSDN) costs observed at a lateral length (LL) of 300 m were 205, 246, 288, 331 and 374 ($ ha−1) for lateral diameters of 2.5, 5, 7.5, 10 and 12.5 cm, respectively, corresponding to lateral spacing of 175, 176, 177, 178 and 179 m. The suggested charts for the optimum design of a subsurface drainage system have lower overall costs than using conventional design approaches for pipelines and tube wells. The results will support solutions for designers to implement subsurface drainage systems with less and more affordable expenses in the old lands of the Nile delta of Egypt and other regions with similar agrosystems. Quality control during construction is very necessary for guaranteeing the effective and sustainable performance of subsurface drainage systems for many years.
A Handbook of Content Literacy Strategies: 75 Practical Reading and Writing Ideas
Authors: Trites Latricia
Published: August 2023

Elaine C. Stephens and Jean E. Brown. Norwood, MA: Christopher‐Gordon Publishers, 2000
Dentists’ education, knowledge, and professional behavior concerning the diagnosis and treatment of dentin hypersensitivity: An exploration
Authors: Agheli Nastaran , De Faria Neiva Gisele , Maia Rodrigo Rocha , Siddanna Geetha Duddanahalli , Inglehart Marita R.
Published: August 2023

Objectives: Dentin hypersensitivity (DH) affects patients’ oral health‐related quality of life, but is not always optimally treated in dental offices. The objectives were to assess dentists’ DH‐related education, knowledge, and professional behavior and explore relationships between education, knowledge, and behavior.

Methods: Survey data were collected from 220 ADA members in the United States. Descriptive and correlational analyses were performed.

Results: About half of the respondents agreed/strongly agreed that their dental school had educated them well about diagnosing DH in classroom‐based (53.6%) and clinical settings (48.9%). Lower percentages agreed being well educated about treating DH (40.9%/37.3%). The majority self‐educated themselves about DH after dental school by attending continuing education courses in person or online (60.6%/36.8%), reading articles (64.1%), or consulting with colleagues (59.6%). The majority knew that patients with DH describe their pain as stimulated (91.4%) and that recessed gingiva (89.6%), abrasion lesions (72.3%), tooth whitening (63.1%), erosion lesions (58.6%), and abfraction lesions (51.4%) are risk factors for DH. The majority diagnosed DH with patient self‐reporting, confirmed by exams (81.8%), applying air blasts (53.7%), or cold‐water (52.3%). They treated patients with DH often/very often with over‐the‐counter desensitizing agents (90%), and prescribing fluoride formulations toothpaste (82.8%) and/or potassium nitrate toothpastes (60.9%). In their offices, the majority (73.2%) educated their patients often/very often about DH and used fluoride dental varnish for treating DH (71.8%). The more recently respondents had graduated from dental school, the more positively they described their dental school education (r = 0.14;p < 0.05), the more ways to diagnose DH they used (r = 0.16;p < 0.05) and the more often they used fluoride dental varnish in their offices (r = 0.23;p < 0.001). The more dentists had educated themselves, the more methods for diagnosing DH they used (r = 0.23;p < 0.001) and the more often they used potassium oxalate products (r = 0.19;p < 0.01), Arginine/calcium products (r = 0.19;p < 0.01) and dentin bonding (r = 0.22;p < 0.001).

Conclusions: More recently graduating from dental school correlates with more positive evaluations of DH‐related dental school education. The finding that most dentists engage in self‐education about DH after dental school should motivate dental educators to increase education about this topic not only in dental school, but also in continuing education courses.
Effects of reduced rainfall on coffee quality and volatile composition
Authors: Pappo Emily , Keene Shea , Smith Hunter , Song Yangyang , Colquhoun Thomas , Wilson Chris , Flory S. Luke
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND

For a significant subset of agricultural products, including coffee, wine and tea, sensory perceptions of terroir (i.e., characteristic flavors imparted by the growing environment) are tightly linked to the product's value. With increasing climate change, it is critical to understand how shifts in climate, such as changes in precipitation, may interact with management practices (e.g., cultivar selection) to impact sensory quality in terroir‐driven crops, and what biochemical compounds may be associated with those impacts. Here, sensory quality and volatile profile composition were assessed for four Arabica coffee (Coffea arabica) cultivars grown in a field experiment where precipitation was reduced by rainout shelters, resulting in 14% lower soil moisture on average.

RESULTS

Our results indicate an overall increase in yield coincident with a moderate decrease in sensory quality in response to reduced precipitation. The presence and magnitude of the sensory quality shift varied by cultivar and sensory attribute, though the Acidity attribute was consistently negatively impacted across cultivars, albeit with a high degree of uncertainty. Additionally, 31 volatile compounds were identified across green coffee samples that were variably impacted by reduced precipitation. Hierarchical clustering analysis identified patterns in volatile clustering associated with sensory attributes suggesting that reduced precipitation effects on sensory attributes may depend on nonlinear combinations of secondary metabolites.

CONCLUSION

Ultimately, our results advance efforts to improve predictions of climate impacts on coffee‐growing landscapes and communities and highlight the value of considering indicators of harvest value beyond yield to improve economic forecasts for agroecosystems under climate change.
Further Validity Evidence for Patient‐Specific Virtual Reality Temporal Bone Surgical Simulation
Authors: Andersen Steven Arild Wuyts , Hittle Brad , Värendh Maria , Lee Julian , Varadarajan Varun , Powell Kimerly A. , Wiet Gregory J.
Published: August 2023

Objective

Patient‐specific virtual reality (VR) simulation of cochlear implant (CI) surgery potentially enables preoperative rehearsal and planning. We aim to gather supporting validity evidence for patient‐specific simulation through the analysis of virtual performance and comparison with postoperative imaging.

Methods

Prospective, multi‐institutional study. Pre‐ and postoperative cone‐beam CT scans of CI surgical patients were obtained and processed for patient‐specific VR simulation. The virtual performances of five trainees and four attendings were recorded and (1) compared with volumes removed during actual surgery as determined in postoperative imaging, and (2) assessed using the Copenhagen Cochlear Implant Surgery Assessment Tool (CISAT) by two blinded raters. The volumes compared were cortical mastoidectomy, facial recess, and round window (RW) cochleostomy as well as violation of the facial nerve and chorda.

Results

Trainees drilled more volume in the cortical mastoidectomy and facial recess, whereas attendings drilled more volume for the RW cochleostomy and made more violations. Except for the cochleostomy, attendings removed volumes closer to that determined in postoperative imaging. Trainees achieved a higher CISAT performance score compared with attendings (22.0 vs. 18.4 points) most likely due to lack of certain visual cues.

Conclusion

We found that there were differences in performance of trainees and attendings in patient‐specific VR simulation of CI surgery as assessed by raters and in comparison with actual drilled volumes. The presented approach of volume comparison is novel and might be used for further validation of patient‐specific VR simulation before clinical implementation for preoperative rehearsal in temporal bone surgery.

Level of Evidence

n/a Laryngoscope, 134:1403–1409, 2024
Raw data consistent deep learning‐based field of view extension for dual‐source dual‐energy CT
Authors: Maier Joscha , Erath Julien , Sawall Stefan , Fournié Eric , Stierstorfer Karl , Kachelrieß Marc
Published: August 2023

Background

Due to technical constraints, dual‐source dual‐energy CT scans may lack spectral information in the periphery of the patient.

Purpose

Here, we propose a deep learning‐based iterative reconstruction to recover the missing spectral information outside the field of measurement (FOM) of the second source‐detector pair.

Methods

In today's Siemens dual‐source CT systems, one source‐detector pair (referred to as A) typically has a FOM of about 50 cm, while the FOM of the other pair (referred to as B) is limited by technical constraints to a diameter of about 35 cm. As a result, dual‐energy applications are currently only available within the small FOM, limiting their use for larger patients. To derive a reconstruction at B's energy for the entire patient cross‐section, we propose a deep learning‐based iterative reconstruction. Starting with A's reconstruction as initial estimate, it employs a neural network in each iteration to refine the current estimate according to a raw data fidelity measure. Here, the corresponding mapping is trained using simulated chest, abdomen, and pelvis scans based on a data set containing 70 full body CT scans. Finally, the proposed approach is tested on simulated and measured dual‐source dual‐energy scans and compared against existing reference approaches.

Results

For all test cases, the proposed approach was able to provide artifact‐free CT reconstructions of B for the entire patient cross‐section. Considering simulated data, the remaining error of the reconstructions is between 10 and 17 HU on average, which is about half as low as the reference approaches. A similar performance with an average error of 8 HU could be achieved for real phantom measurements.

Conclusions

The proposed approach is able to recover missing dual‐energy information for patients exceeding the small 35 cm FOM of dual‐source CT systems. Therefore, it potentially allows to extend dual‐energy applications to the entire‐patient cross section.
Technical note: Exploring the detectability of coronary calcification using ultra‐high‐resolution photon‐counting‐detector CT
Authors: Chang Shaojie , Ren Liqiang , Tang Shanshan , Marsh Jeffrey F. , Hsieh Scott , McCollough Cynthia H. , Leng Shuai
Published: August 2023

Background

Coronary calcification is a strong indicator of coronary artery disease, and patients with a “zero” coronary calcification score have a much lower risk of future cardiac events than those with even small amounts of calcium. However, false‐negative (incorrect zero scores) may occur if small calcifications are missed at CT due to limited spatial resolution.

Purpose

To demonstrate lower limits of detection for coronary calcification using an ultra‐high‐resolution (UHR) mode on a clinical photon‐counting‐detector CT (PCD‐CT), compared to a conventional energy‐integrating‐detector CT (EID‐CT).

Methods

Chicken eggshell fragments (0.4–0.8 mm) mimicking coronary calcifications were scanned on a clinical PCD‐CT (NAEOTOM Alpha) in UHR mode and a conventional EID‐CT (SOMATOM Force) with matched tube potential and radiation dose levels to the PCD‐CT. PCD‐CT images were reconstructed with a sharp kernel (Qr68) and a quantum iterative algorithm (QIR‐3). Two sets of EID‐CT images were reconstructed: routine clinical kernel (Qr36, ADMIRE‐3) and a sharper kernel (Qr54) with similar noise to PCD‐CT images. With institutional review board approval, in vivo exams performed with the PCD‐CT in UHR mode were compared against patients’ clinical EID‐CT exams. The visibility of calcifications on PCD‐CT and EID‐CT images was assessed and compared qualitatively.

Results

PCD‐CT images visualized all calcified fragments, while EID‐CT failed to detect those below 0.6 mm using a routine protocol. EID‐CT with Qr54 improved visibility but distorted boundaries. Calcifications were less visible on EID‐CT than PCD‐CT as phantom sizes increased. 0.6‐ and 0.7‐mm calcified fragments were barely visible on 35‐ and 40‐cm phantom EID‐CT images. Patient cases showed small calcifications missed on EID‐CT but detected on PCD‐CT.

Conclusion

At matched radiation dose, PCD‐CT in UHR mode provided higher spatial resolution and improved the detectability of small calcified fragments for different phantom/patient sizes in comparison to EID‐CT.
Chemiedidaktik: Farbige Zwischenstufen zeigen das Wesen der Katalyse
Authors: Zell Lukas , Lüke Dennis , Oetken Marco
Published: August 2023

Um Schülern nahezubringen, wie Katalyse funktioniert, gibt es für den Chemieunterricht verschiedene Versuche. Allerdings haben sie alle einen Haken: Die Ursache der herabgesetzten Aktivierungsenergie bleibt unbekannt.
Vielfältige chemische Forschung an der TU Graz
Authors: Wrodnigg Tanja
Published: August 2023

Im Jahr 2024 begrüßt die TU Graz nationale und internationale Chemiker:innen zu den 20. Chemietagen der GÖCH.
Robust transshipment problem under consistent flow constraints
Authors: Büsing Christina , Koster Arie M. C. A. , Schmitz Sabrina
Published: August 2023

In this article, we study robust transshipment under consistent flow constraints. We consider demand uncertainty represented by a finite set of scenarios and characterize a subset of arcs as so‐called fixed arcs. In each scenario, we require an integral flow that satisfies the respective flow balance constraints. In addition, on each fixed arc, we require equal flow for all scenarios. The objective is to minimize the maximum cost occurring among all scenarios. We show that the problem is strongly ‐complete on acyclic digraphs by a reduction from the ‐Sat problem. Furthermore, we prove that the problem is weakly ‐complete on series‐parallel digraphs by a reduction from a special case of the Partition problem. If in addition the number of scenarios is constant, we observe the pseudo‐polynomial‐time solvability of the problem. We provide poly‐nomial‐time algorithms for three special cases on series‐parallel digraphs. Finally, we present a polynomial‐time algorithm for pearl digraphs.
Poly(vinylidene fluoride) and thermoplastic polyurethane composites filled with carbon black‐polypyrrole for electromagnetic shielding applications
Authors: Bertolini Mayara C. , Ramoa Silvia D. A. S. , Pereira Elaine C. L. , Soares Bluma G. , Barra Guilherme M. O. , Pegoretti Alessandro
Published: August 2023

This study aims to investigate the electromagnetic interference shielding properties of composites based on immiscible polymer blends of poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) filled with carbon black doped with polypyrrole (CB‐PPy) prepared by compression molding and fused filament fabrication. Composites of PVDF/CB‐PPy and TPU/CB‐PPy were also prepared for comparison. Rheological measurements showed that although the rheological behavior of PVDF/TPU composites was an intermediate behavior between PVDF/CB‐PPy and TPU/CB‐PPy composites, the effect of the conductive filler was much more pronounced in PVDF than in TPU. Moreover, the addition of CB‐PPy was found to increase the storage modulus of the composites leading to more rigid materials, and to decrease the Tg values of the composites due to the reduction of the mobility of the polymeric chains. In addition, PVDF/TPU composites presented an intermediate behavior when compared to composites based on the neat polymers demonstrating that the addition of TPU to PVDF contributes to the development of composites with improved flexibility. Furthermore, the addition of CB‐PPy increased the electrical conductivity of all composites. However, the electrical conductivity of PVDF/TPU 50/50 vol% co‐continuous blends was higher than the electrical conductivity of PVDF/TPU 38/62 vol% composites with the same amount of conductive filler. Composites with higher electrical conductivity showed better shielding from electromagnetic radiation. As expected, composites based on the co‐continuous blend displayed higher EMI shielding efficiency than the 38/62 vol% composites. The main mechanism of shielding was absorption for all composites. Overall, composites based on the PVDF/TPU 50/50 vol% co‐continuous blend showed a better combination of EMI shielding efficiency and mechanical properties. Moreover, specimens prepared by fused filament fabrication displayed diminished electrical conductivity and EMI‐SE responses when compared to compression‐molded samples with the same composition. This difference is attributed to the presence of voids, defects, and overlapping layers, which can hamper the electron flow.
STING1 deficiency ameliorates immune‐mediated crescentic glomerulonephritis in mice
Authors: García‐Giménez Jorge , Córdoba‐David Gina , Rayego‐Mateos Sandra , Cannata‐Ortiz Pablo , Carrasco Susana , Ruiz‐Ortega Marta , Fernandez‐Fernandez Beatriz , Ortiz Alberto , Ramos Adrián M
Published: August 2023

Rapidly progressive/crescentic glomerulonephritis (RPGN/CGN) involves the formation of glomerular crescents by maladaptive differentiation of parietal epithelial cells that leads to rapid loss of renal function. The molecular mechanisms of crescent formation are poorly understood. Therefore, new insights into molecular mechanisms could identify alternative therapeutic targets for RPGN/CGN. Analysis of kidney biopsies from patients with RPGN revealed increased interstitial, glomerular, and tubular expression of STING1, an accessory protein of the c‐GAS‐dependent DNA‐sensing pathway, which was also observed in murine nephrotoxic nephritis induced by an anti‐GBM antibody. STING1 was expressed by key cell types involved in RPGN and crescent formation such as glomerular parietal epithelial cells, and tubular cells as well as by inflammation accessory cells. In functional in vivo studies, Sting1−/− mice with nephrotoxic nephritis had lower kidney cytokine expression, milder kidney infiltration by innate and adaptive immune cells, and decreased disease severity. Pharmacological STING1 inhibition mirrored these findings. Direct STING1 agonism in parietal and tubular cells activated the NF‐κB‐dependent cytokine response and the interferon‐induced genes (ISGs) program. These responses were also triggered in a STING1‐dependent manner by the pro‐inflammatory cytokine TWEAK. These results identify STING1 activation as a pathological mechanism in RPGN/CGN and TWEAK as an activator of STING1. Pharmacological strategies targeting STING1, or upstream regulators may therefore be potential alternatives to treat RPGN. © 2023 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Cx43 regulates mechanotransduction mechanisms in human preterm amniotic membrane defects
Authors: Costa Eleni , Thrasivoulou Christopher , Becker David L. , Deprest Jan A. , David Anna L. , Chowdhury Tina T.
Published: August 2023

Objective

The effects of mechanical stimulation in preterm amniotic membrane (AM) defects were explored.

Methods

Preterm AM was collected from women undergoing planned preterm caesarean section (CS) due to fetal growth restriction or emergency CS after spontaneous preterm prelabour rupture of the membranes (sPPROM). AM explants near the cervix or placenta were subjected to trauma and/or mechanical stimulation with the Cx43 antisense. Markers for nuclear morphology (DAPI), myofibroblasts (αSMA), migration (Cx43), inflammation (PGE2) and repair (collagen, elastin and transforming growth factor β [TGFβ1]) were examined by confocal microscopy, second harmonic generation, qPCR and biochemical assays.

Results

In preterm AM defects, myofibroblast nuclei were highly deformed and contractile and expressed αSMA and Cx43. Mechanical stimulation increased collagen fibre polarisation and the effects on matrix markers were dependent on tissue region, disease state, gestational age and the number of fetuses. PGE2 levels were broadly similar but reduced after co‐treatment with Cx43 antisense in late sPPROM AM defects. TGFβ1 and Cx43 gene expression were significantly increased after trauma and mechanical stimulation but this response dependent on gestational age.

Conclusion

Mechanical stimulation affects Cx43 signalling and cell/collagen mechanics in preterm AM defects. Establishing how Cx43 regulates mechanosignalling could be an approach to repair tissue integrity after trauma.