bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Population Pharmacokinetics of Tacrolimus in Pediatric Patients With Umbilical Cord Blood Transplant
Authors: Zuo Meiling , Shang Yue , Guo Ye , Sun Yuxuan , Xu Gaoqi , Chen Jingtao , Zhu Liqin
Published: October 2022

Tacrolimus was frequently used in pediatric patients with umbilical cord blood transplant for the prevention of graft‐versus‐host disease. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the population pharmacokinetics of tacrolimus among pediatric patients with umbilical cord blood transplant and find potential influenced factors. A total of 275 concentrations from 13 pediatric patients were used to build a polulation pharmacokinetic model using a nonlinear mixed‐effects modeling approach. The impact of demographic features, biological characteristics, and concomitant medications, including sex, age, body weight, postoperative day, white blood cell count, red blood cell count, hemoglobin, platelets, hematocrit, blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase, total bilirubin, albumin, and total protein were investigated. The pharmacokinetics of tacrolimus were best described by a 1‐compartment model with first‐ and zero‐order mixed absorption and first‐order elimination. The clearance and volume of distribution of tacrolimus were 1.93 L/h and 75.1 L, respectively. A covariate analysis identified that postoperative day and co‑administration with trimethoprim‐sulfamethoxazole were significant covariates influencing clearance of tacrolimus. Frequent blood monitoring and dose adjustment might be needed with the prolongation of postoperative day and coadministration with trimethoprim‐sulfamethoxazole.
Novel machine learning algorithm can identify patients at risk of poor overall survival following curative resection for colorectal liver metastases
Authors: Amygdalos Iakovos , Müller‐Franzes Gustav , Bednarsch Jan , Czigany Zoltan , Ulmer Tom Florian , Bruners Philipp , Kuhl Christiane , Neumann Ulf Peter , Truhn Daniel , Lang Sven Arke
Published: October 2022

Background/Purpose

The primary cause of mortality in colorectal cancer is metastatic disease. We investigated the ability of a machine learning (ML) algorithm to stratify overall survival (OS) of patients undergoing curative resection for colorectal liver metastases (CRLM).

Methods

Patients undergoing curative liver resection for CRLM between 2010‐2021 at the University Hospital RWTH Aachen were eligible for this retrospective study. Patients with recurrent metastases, incomplete resections, or early deaths, were excluded. A gradient‐boosted decision tree (GBDT) model identified patients at risk of poor OS, based on clinicopathological characteristics. Differences in survival were compared with Kaplan‐Meier analysis and the log‐rank test.

Results

A total of 487 patients were split into training (n = 389, 80%) and test cohorts (n = 98, 20%). Of the latter, 20 (20%) were identified by the GBDT model as high‐risk and showed significantly reduced OS (23 months vs 52 months, P = .005) and increased hazard ratio (2.434, 95%CI 1.280‐4.627, P = .007). The strongest predictors were preoperative serum carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), age, diameter of the largest metastasis, number of metastases, body mass index, and primary tumor grading.

Conclusion

A GBDT model can identify high‐risk patients regarding OS after curative resection of CRLM. Closer follow‐up and aggressive systemic treatment strategies may be beneficial to these patients.
Climatic water balance forecasting with machine learning and deep learning models over Bangladesh
Authors: Jalal Uddin Md. , Li Yubin , Abdus Sattar Md. , Mistry Sunit
Published: October 2022

Understanding the impact of input variables on black‐box machine learning and deep learning models is necessary. Therefore, this study proposed SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) values to address the problem of the interpretability of the output of the support vector machine (SVM), random forest (RF), convolutional neural network (CNN), and long short‐term memory (LSTM) models to forecast climatic water balance (CWB) within 1–3 months lead‐time. The current study uses two Koppen–Geiger climate zones over Bangladesh: the humid subtropical climate with dry winter and hot summer (Cwa) and the tropical climate (Af‐Am). Monthly antecedent CWB, potential evapotranspiration (PET), convective available potential energy (CAPE), relative humidity (RH), air temperature (TEM), El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO), Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD), and North Atlantic oscillation (NAO) are used as the inputs to the proposed model. SHAP values show that CWB (current month) for both climate zones has the maximum impact on the prediction. The effects of atmospheric variables and ocean–atmospheric teleconnections on CWB forecasts over Bangladesh are low. Forecasting results show that the SVM model shows the best performance for CWB forecasts in the Cwa and Af‐Am climate zones in terms of antecedent CWB as input. And this model effectively decreases the negative effect of increasing forecast lead‐time. Since the proposed model can predict CWB in 3‐months lead‐time, it would help policy‐makers and practitioners to reduce the drought and flood impacts in the future by adopting better preparedness plans.
Coronal‐plane leg alignment in adolescence and the effects of activity: A full leg length MRI study
Authors: Fernquest Scott , Lloyd Thomas , Pereira Claudio , Gimpel Mo , Birchall Richard , Broomfield John , Glyn‐Jones Sion , Palmer Antony
Published: October 2022

The aim of this study was to explore the association between developing coronal‐plane leg alignment and activity levels during adolescence. We performed a cross‐sectional cohort study with individuals from soccer club academies and an age‐matched control population. Outcome measures were the hip knee angle (HKA), medial proximal tibial physeal angle (MPTPhyA), lateral distal femoral physeal angle (LDFPhyA) on full leg length magnetic reasonance imagine scans, and the physical activity questionnaire (PAQ) score. The cohort comprised 57 elite male soccer players, 34 male and 34 female controls aged 11−21 years. Mean HKA became more varus with age, with little change after 16 years or skeletal maturity. Skeletally mature elite male soccer players were significantly more varus than male controls with a HKA 2.28° less than male controls (p < 0.001). Skeletally mature male controls had a HKA 1.34° less than female controls (p < 0.001). A negative correlation existed between HKA and PAQ score (coefficient −0.24, p = 0.029). A positive correlation existed between HKA and MPTPhyA (coefficient 0.32, p = 0.008). In conclusion, high activity levels during adolescence are associated with the development of varus leg alignment. Mean HKA becomes more varus with age until skeletal maturity. The development of varus alignment may represent a physiological adaptation to load at the proximal tibial physis. Clinical Significance: A time period may exist for intervention before the development of varus leg alignment in young athletes, such as training load modification or proximal tibial morphology monitoring.
Node Count as a Quality Indicator in Surgically Treated Mucosal Head and Neck Squamous Cell Cancer
Authors: Lopez Joseph , Reategui Maria Laura , Rooper Lisa , Koch Wayne , Fakhry Carole , Mydlarz Wojtech , Tan Marietta , Eisele David W. , Mandal Rajarsi , Vosler Peter , Gourin Christine G.
Published: October 2022

Introduction

A yield of ≥18 nodes from neck dissection has been shown to be associated with improved locoregional recurrence rates and survival. We sought to determine factors associated with lymph node yields below this threshold.

Materials and Methods

A retrospective review of patients who underwent neck dissection as part of definitive surgical treatment for mucosal head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) between January 2015 and December 2018 at an academic tertiary referral center was performed. Patients with a history of prior radiation or neck dissection were excluded.

Results

There were 412 neck dissections performed in 323 patients. Specimens containing <18 nodes decreased from 16.2% in 2015–2016 to 7.4% of neck dissections in 2017–2018. The proportion of neck dissections removing <3 levels decreased from 9.1% of neck dissections in 2015–2016 to 4.0% in 2017–2018. Multivariable regression analysis demonstrated that dissection of ≥3 levels (OR = 0.2 [0.1–0.4]) and neck dissection in 2017–2018 compared to 2015–2016 (OR = 0.4 [0.2–0.8]) were significantly associated with a lower odds of <18 nodes. Stage, site, race, sex, human papillomavirus status, positive nodes, surgeon volume, and pathologist volume were not associated with neck dissection specimens with <18 nodes, after controlling for all other variables.

Conclusions

Increased recognition of the importance of node count as a quality indicator, and the extent of neck dissection is associated with increased nodal yield from neck dissection. These data suggest that node count can be used as a quality measure of neck dissection for mucosal SCC.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 133:2160–2165, 2023
Anterolateral thigh flap for upper extremity reconstruction in older patients
Authors: Ikeguchi Ryosuke , Noguchi Takashi , Ando Maki , Yoshimoto Koichi , Sakamoto Daichi , Matsuda Shuichi
Published: October 2022

Background

The anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap has been used in upper extremity reconstruction. However, there is no consensus about the age at which the flap can be used safely, which is a concern when applying ALT flaps for upper extremity reconstruction in older patients. We present the results of the use of ALT flap for upper extremity reconstruction in a series of older patients.

Patients and methods

Seventeen patients who underwent ALT flaps for soft tissue defects in the upper extremities from 2010 to 2020 were included. The patients' mean age was 63.5 (range, 26–83) years. Ten of seventeen patients were smokers. Defect locations were the dorsum of the hand in seven patients, palm in two patients, dorsum and palm in two patients, and forearm in six patients. Etiologies of the defect were traumatic in 14 patients and malignant tumor in three patients. The defect size was 8 to 25 × 5 to 11 cm. When dissecting the perforators, we preserved the surrounding small muscular and fatty tissue with the perforators and to harvest them together to prevent intima damage. Flap thinning was performed for 16 flaps to adjust the flap thickness to match defect site requirements. We used an end‐to‐side or interposition arterial anastomosis to regulate the blood flow.

Results

The flap size was 9 to 28 × 5 to 13 cm. One patient had venous congestion and vein re‐anastomosis was needed. All flaps survived. One patient had a methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus infection and debridement and irrigation was needed. The mean follow‐up period was 20 (range, 13–37) months. Fifteen patients returned their previous activities. The mean DASH score was 30.6 (range, 3–70).

Conclusions

Regardless of patient age or smoking status, the ALT flap was a safe and reliable surgical option for soft tissue defect reconstruction of the upper extremity.
MLC performance prognosis using a degradation model based on trajectory log data from a daily test
Authors: Calama‐Santiago Juan Agustín , Molina‐Lopez María Yolanda , Infante‐Utrilla Miguel Ángel , Lavado‐Rodríguez María Elisa
Published: October 2022

Purpose

This paper investigates the feasibility of implementing a predictive maintenance program for a multileaf collimator (MLC) based on data collected in trajectory logs (TLs) obtained by conducting a simple daily test, with the aim of minimizing unscheduled downtime.

Methods

A dynamic field test was designed, and the TLs generated in the course of daily administration in a linear accelerator were collected to evaluate trajectory deviations of the MLC leaves as well as interlocks (COL 420219/20, COL 420207/08) reported by the machine. During this evaluation, we observed that the trajectory deviations of some leaves increased up to a threshold value beyond which certain interlocks began to appear in treatment fields in those leaves. An exponential degradation model was therefore developed to predict this drift and determine each leaf's remaining useful life (RUL). Once the applicability of the model was confirmed, we added a second accelerator equipped with an MLC with the same configuration to validate the model.

Results

The model was able to predict certain COL 420219/20 interlocks resulting from primary readout/expected position discrepancies and to estimate each leaf's RUL. In total, 11 cases (8 interlocks + 3 potential interlocks avoided due to service interventions [27.3% of the total]) were detected over 7 days in advance, with no false positive results. Scheduling of service interventions several days prior to MLC failure would therefore be possible. When these types of interlocks were not predicted by the model, they were always generated by leaf motor failure. Consequently, intervention time could also be optimized by directly replacing the motor. During the study period, for these types of interlocks, our approach would have reduced downtime from 35.25 to 4.00 h (88.7%) and from 34.75 to 22.83 h (34.3%) for each accelerator, respectively. For COL 420207/08 interlocks, which are generated by primary/secondary readout discrepancies, no correlation with leaf trajectory deviation increases recorded in the TLs was found. Throughout the study period, these types of interlocks requiring service intervention, also mainly for motor replacement, represented a downtime of 9.50 h for the first accelerator (21.2% of total downtime) and by 4.33 h (11.1% of total downtime) for the second accelerator.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that by applying a predictive MLC maintenance program based on information collected in TLs, it is possible to predict certain interlocks and therefore schedule preemptive interventions to avoid their occurrence. This could optimize health‐care delivery performance and minimize the loss of treatment sessions.
Accelerated 4D‐flow MRI with 3‐point encoding enabled by machine learning
Authors: Kim Dahan , Jen Mu‐Lan , Eisenmenger Laura B. , Johnson Kevin M.
Published: October 2022

Purpose

To investigate the acceleration of 4D‐flow MRI using a convolutional neural network (CNN) that produces three directional velocities from three flow encodings, without requiring a fourth reference scan measuring background phase.

Methods

A fully 3D CNN using a U‐net architecture was trained in a block‐wise fashion to take complex images from three flow encodings and to produce three real‐valued images for each velocity component. Using neurovascular 4D‐flow scans (n = 144), the CNN was trained to predict velocities computed from four flow encodings by standard reconstruction including correction for residual background phase offsets. Methods to optimize loss functions were investigated, including magnitude, complex difference, and uniform velocity weightings. Subsequently, 3‐point encoding was evaluated using cross validation of pixelwise correlation, flow measurements in major arteries, and in experiments with data at differing acceleration rates than the training data.

Results

The CNN‐produced 3‐point velocities showed excellent agreements with the 4‐point velocities, both qualitatively in velocity images, in flow rate measures, and quantitatively in regression analysis (slope = 0.96, R2 = 0.992). Optimizing the training to focus on vessel velocities rather than the global velocity error and improved the correlation of velocity within vessels themselves. The lowest error was observed when the loss function used uniform velocity weighting, in which the magnitude‐weighted inverse of the velocity frequency uniformly distributed weighting across all velocity ranges. When applied to highly accelerated data, the 3‐point network maintained a high correlation with ground truth data and demonstrated a denoising effect.

Conclusion

The 4D‐flow MRI can be accelerated using machine learning requiring only three flow encodings to produce three‐directional velocity maps with small errors.
Contrast‐optimal simultaneous multi‐slice bSSFP cine cardiac imaging at 0.55 T
Authors: Tian Ye , Cui Sophia X. , Lim Yongwan , Lee Nam G. , Zhao Ziwei , Nayak Krishna S.
Published: October 2022

Purpose

To determine if contemporary 0.55 T MRI supports the use of contrast‐optimal flip angles (FA) for simultaneous multi‐slice (SMS) balanced SSFP (bSSFP) cardiac function assessment, which is impractical at conventional field strengths because of excessive SAR and/or banding artifacts.

Methods

Blipped‐CAIPI bSSFP was combined with spiral sampling for ventricular function assessment at 0.55 T. Cine movies with single band and SMS factors of 2 and 3 (SMS 2 and 3), and FA ranging from 60° to 160°, were acquired in seven healthy volunteers. Left ventricular blood and myocardial signal intensity (SI) normalized by background noise and blood–myocardium contrast were measured and compared across acquisition settings.

Results

Myocardial SI was slightly higher in single band than in SMS and decreased with an increasing FA. Blood SI increased as the FA increased for single band, and increment was small for FA ≥120°. Blood SI for SMS 2 and 3 increased with an increasing FA up to ∼100°. Blood–myocardium contrast increased with an increasing FA for single band, peaked at FA = 160° (systole: 28.43, diastole: 29.15), attributed mainly to reduced myocardial SI when FA ≥120°. For SMS 2, contrast peaked at 120° (systole: 21.43, diastole: 19.85). For SMS 3, contrast peaked at 120° in systole (16.62) and 100° in diastole (19.04).

Conclusions

Contemporary 0.55 T MR scanners equipped with high‐performance gradient systems allow the use of contrast‐optimal FA for SMS accelerated bSSFP cine examinations without compromising image quality. The contrast‐optimal FA was found to be 140° to 160° for single band and 100° to 120° for SMS 2 and 3.
NOE‐weighted imaging in tumors using low‐duty‐cycle2π‐CEST
Authors: Cui Jing , Sun Casey , Zu Zhongliang
Published: October 2022

Purpose

Nuclear Overhauser enhancement (NOE)‐mediated CEST imaging at −3.5 ppm has shown clinical interest in diagnosing tumors. Multiple‐pool Lorentzian fit has been used to quantify NOE, which, however, requires a long scan time. Asymmetric analysis of CEST signals could be a simple and fast method to quantify this NOE, but it has contamination from the amide proton transfer (APT) at 3.5 ppm. This work proposes a new method using an asymmetric analysis of a low‐duty‐cycle pulsed‐CEST sequence with a flip angle of 360°, termed 2π‐CEST, to reduce the contribution from APT.

Methods

Simulations were used to evaluate the capability of the 2π‐CEST to reduce APT. Experiments on animal tumor models were performed to show its advantages compared with the conventional asymmetric analysis. Samples of reconstituted phospholipids and proteins were used to evaluate the molecular origin of this NOE.

Results

The 2π‐CEST has reduced contribution from APT. In tumors where we show that the NOE is comparable to the APT effect, reducing the contamination from APT is crucial. The results show that the NOE signal obtained with 2π‐CEST in tumor regions appears more homogeneous than that obtained with the conventional method. The phantom study showed that both phospholipids and proteins contribute to the NOE at −3.5 ppm.

Conclusion

The NOE at −3.5 ppm has a different contrast mechanism from APT and other CEST/NOE effects. The proposed 2π‐CEST is more accurate than the conventional asymmetric analysis in detecting NOE, and requires much less scan time than the multiple‐pool Lorentzian fit.
Sodium and quantitative hydrogen parameter changes in muscle tissue after eccentric exercise and in delayed‐onset muscle soreness assessed with magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Höger Svenja A. , Gast Lena V. , Marty Benjamin , Hotfiel Thilo , Bickelhaupt Sebastian , Uder Michael , Heiss Rafael , Nagel Armin M.
Published: October 2022

The objective of the current study was to assess sodium (23Na) and quantitative proton (1H) parameter changes in muscle tissue with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) after eccentric exercise and in delayed‐onset muscle soreness (DOMS). Fourteen participants (mean age: 25 ± 4 years) underwent 23Na/1H MRI of the calf muscle on a 3‐T MRI system before exercise (t0), directly after eccentric exercise (t1), and 48 h postintervention (t2). In addition to tissue sodium concentration (TSC), intracellular‐weighted sodium (ICwS) signal was acquired using a three‐dimensional density‐adapted radial projection readout with an additional inversion recovery preparation module. Phantoms containing saline solution served as references to quantify sodium concentrations. The 1H MRI protocol consisted of a T1‐weighted turbo spin echo sequence, a T2‐weighted turbo inversion recovery, as well as water T2 mapping and water T1 mapping. Additionally, blood serum creatine kinase (CK) levels were assessed at baseline and 48 h after exercise. The TSC and ICwS of exercised muscles increased significantly from t0 to t1 and decreased significantly from t1 to t2. In the soleus muscle (SM), ICwS decreased below baseline values at t2. In the tibialis anterior muscle (TA), TSC and ICwS remained at baseline levels at each measurement point. However, high‐CK participants (i.e., participants with a more than 10‐fold CK increase, n = 3) displayed different behavior, with 2‐ to 4‐fold increases in TSC values in the medial gastrocnemius muscle (MGM) at t2. 1H water T1 relaxation times increased significantly after 48 h in the MGM and SM. 1H water T2 relaxation times and muscle volume increased in the MGM at t2. Sodium MRI parameters and water relaxation times peaked at different points. Whereas water relaxation times were highest at t2, sodium MRI parameters had already returned to baseline values (or even below baseline values, for low‐CK participants) by this point. The observed changes in ion concentrations and water relaxation time parameters could enable a better understanding of the physiological processes during DOMS and muscle regeneration. In the future, this might help to optimize training and to reduce associated sports injuries.
Machine learning based asymptotic homogenization and localization: Predictions of key local behaviors of multiscale configurations bearing microstructural varieties
Authors: Zhou Zhengcheng , Zhu Yichao , Guo Xu
Published: October 2022

In this article, a general framework is devised for reliable predictions over the local behaviors, such as the failure strength and stress intensity factor, of multiscale configurations bearing microstructural varieties. Methodologically, a mutually complementing use of asymptotic analysis and machine learning is addressed. On using asymptotic analysis, we manage to identify several key but implicit interrelationships, which link the local quantities of our interest with other onsite mean‐field quantities. Then these identified interrelationships are represented by neural networks in an offline stage, where the training data are also generated based on the formulation devised through asymptotic analysis. Then for the upcoming online simulation, those desired local behaviors can be quickly captured without resolving the microstructural configurations. Numerical examples are presented showing that for relatively complex multiscale configurations, the predicting error here can be theoretically controlled at a satisfactory level.
Operators Need to Know the Meaning of Limit Types in Lab Reports
Authors: Consolvo John , Adams Hunter , Turner Elizabeth , Ash Steve , Southard Mark
Published: October 2022

Understanding the meaning behind different types of limits listed on lab reports allows operators to make informed decisions based on water quality data.
Coming to Terms With CT Values
Authors: Schott Guy
Published: October 2022

Understanding the concept of CT can provide an overall understanding of disinfection and ensure compliance with pathogen inactivation.
Amine‐modified graphene enhanced mechanical properties and catalytic effect on imidization of polyimide composite films
Authors: Zhao Yuzhuo , Hu Yanbing , Zhang Shaopeng , Wang Song , Zhang Ailing , Liang Bing , Li Sanxi
Published: October 2022

The degree of the imidization reaction determines the properties of polyimide (PI) obtained by the thermal curing process. In this paper, amine‐modified graphene (N‐GO) was designed by integrating pyridine structure with graphene and acting as a catalyst to promote the imidization reaction of PI. Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscope (SEM) were then used to confirm the morphology and structure of N‐GO. The catalytic effect of N‐GO in imidization reaction was obtained by FTIR and subsequently characterized by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and water contact angle (WCA). Surprising results suggest that the agglomeration of N‐GO can also contribute to solid‐phase reactions in imidization reactions. Lastly, the results of mechanical property tests, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and FTIR demonstrated that the composite films showed excellent tensile strength (176.2 MPa) and thermal stability (513.0 °C); at the same content, only 0.5% of N‐GO addition reduced the imidization temperature by 20°C, exhibiting remarkable enhancement effects. This research is a valuable solution to the problem in performance caused by low‐temperature curing agent residues in films, and it is expected to be used in the microelectronics field.
Psychometric properties of the Greek translation of the Friendship Quality Questionnaire
Authors: Kouvava Sofia , Antonopoulou Katerina , Kokkinos Constantinos M. , Voulgaridou Ioanna
Published: October 2022

The present study examines the psychometric properties of the long form (LF) of the Greek translation of the Friendship Quality Questionnaire (FQQ), a widely recognized self‐report instrument that assesses children's perceptions of the qualities of their friendships. Four hundred seventeen (417) typically developing primary‐school students (50.8% boys), aged between 8 and 12 years (M = 9.77 years old, SD = 1.2), who had a mutual best friend in their class, completed the survey at school. Confirmatory factor analysis verified the six‐factor structure of the original FQQ with all items fitting into the respective subscales. All factors presented high positive intercorrelations except for the Conflict and Betrayal subscale. All subscales demonstrated adequate internal consistency. Significant gender differences were observed. The Greek translation of the FQQ‐LF shows strong evidence of validity and reliability and provides a suitable instrument for assessing the qualitative characteristics of best friendships.
Fundamentals behind the specificity of Cysteinyl‐tRNA synthetase: MD and QM/MM joint investigations
Authors: Chen Binbin , Mansour Basel , Zheng En , Liu Yingchun , Gauld James W. , Wang Qi
Published: October 2022

Cysteinyl‐tRNA synthetase (CysRS) catalyzes the aminoacylation reaction of cysteine to its cognate tRNACys in the first step of protein translation. It is found that CysRS is different from other aaRSs as it transfers cysteine without the need for an editing reaction, which is not applicable in the case of serine despite the similarity in their structures. Surprisingly, the reasons why CysRS has high amino acid specificity are not clear yet. In this research, the binding configurations of Cys‐AMP and its near‐cognate amino acid Ser‐AMP with CysRS are compared by Molecular Dynamics (MD). The results reveal that CysRS screens the substrate Cys‐AMP to a certain extent in the process of combination and recognition, thus providing a guarantee for the high selectivity of the next reaction. While Ser‐AMP is in a folded state in CysRS. In the meanwhile, the interaction between Cys‐AMP and Zn963 in CysRS is much stronger than Ser‐AMP. The substrate‐assisted aminoacylation mechanism in CysRS is also explored by Quantum Mechanics/Molecular Mechanics (QM/MM) modeling. According to the QM/MM potential energies, the energy barrier of TSCys‐AMP is 91.75 kJ/mol, while that of TSSer‐AMP is close to 150 kJ/mol. Based on thermochemistry calculations, it is found that the product of Cys‐AMP is more stable than the reactant. In contrast, Ser‐AMP has a reactant that is more stable than its product. As a result, it reflects that the specificity of CysRS originates from both the kinetic and thermodynamical perspectives of the reaction. Our investigations demonstrate comprehensively on how CysRS recognizes and catalyzes the substrate Cys‐AMP, hoping to provide some guidance for researchers in this area.
Effects of transgenic cotton lines expressing dsAgCYP6CY3‐P1 on the growth and detoxification ability of Aphis gossypii glover
Authors: Zhang Lianjun , Wei Yuanjie , Wei Linyu , Liu Xiaoning , Liu Ning
Published: October 2022

Background

The pest Aphis gossypii Glover globally causes considerable economic losses on various crops by its feeding damage and disease transmission. Transgenic plants that produce double‐stranded RNA (dsRNA) targeted to insect genes are being developed as a pest control strategy. In this study, we evaluated the effects of transgenic cotton‐mediated RNA interference (RNAi) on the growth and detoxification ability of A. gossypii after the transgenic cotton lines expressing dsAgCYP6CY3‐P1 (the TG cotton lines) were obtained on the basis of exploring the functions of CYP6CY3 in our previous research.

Results

The developmental time of third‐ and fourth‐instar nymphs which fed on the TG cotton lines were significantly prolonged. Life table parameters showed that the fitness of cotton aphids from the TG cotton lines decreased. Additionally, the relative expression level of CYP6CY3 in cotton aphids which fed on the TG cotton lines was significantly reduced by 47.3 % at 48 h compared with that from the nontransgenic cotton (the NT cotton). Bioassay showed that silencing of CYP6CY3 increased mortality of the nymphs to imidacloprid by 28.49 % (at 24 h) and to acetamiprid by 73.77 % (at 48 h), respectively.

Conclusion

These results indicated that the TG cotton lines delayed the growth and development of A. gossypii, but also decreased population density and increased its sensitivity to imidacloprid and acetamiprid, respectively. The results provide further support for the development and application of plant‐mediated RNAi. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
First‐Principles Study of the Electronic Structure and Magnetic Properties of NaxSr1−xFeO2
Authors: Rahman Mavlanjan , He Jiuyang , Tuerxun Adili
Published: October 2022

Herein, the first‐principles calculations in the framework of density functional theory (DFT) with generalized gradient approximation plus on‐site repulsion (GGA + U) are used to study the electronic structure and magnetic properties of NaxSr1−xFeO2. With different amounts of Na doping (x = 0.0625, x = 0.083, and x = 0.125), the crystal structure, magnetic structure, and electronic structure of the compounds are calculated and it is found that doping induces a transition from a high‐spin state to an intermediate‐spin state and from an antiferromagnetic (AFM) insulating state to a ferromagnetic (FM) half‐metallic state.
First‐Principles Investigation on Thermoelectric and Vibrational Properties of Half‐Metallic Ir2MnX (X = B, Al, Ga, In) Heusler Alloys
Authors: Balakrishnan Kanimozhi , Alagarsamy Suresh , Veerapandy Vasu
Published: October 2022

The electronic structure and thermoelectric (TE) properties of Ir (iridium)‐based Heusler alloys (HAs), Ir2MnX (X = B, Al, Ga, In), are examined by density functional theory (DFT). To the best of the authors' knowledge, there are no findings on the TE properties of these Ir‐based Heusler compounds. All of the Ir2MnX (X = B, Al, Ga, In) alloys are stabilized to ferromagnetic ordering. The calculated equilibrium lattice constants vary from other results by 0.2%. This study is focused on the half‐metallic behavior of the alloys based on their electronic structure and finite magnetic moment, which defines their viability for spintronic applications and TE device fabrication. The computed spin magnetic moments follow the Slater–Pauling rule. Among the four investigated compounds, Ir2MnB is dynamically unstable. The transport property is explored using the semiclassical Boltzmann transport theory for structurally and dynamically stable alloys Ir2MnX (X = Al, Ga, In). At 800 K, the maximum power factor of the alloys is achieved at a hole concentration of −1.25 × 1011 W m−1 K−2 s−1, indicating that these are promising TE application alloys.
Lung cancer that recurred as carcinoma en cuirasse
Authors: Nozu Shohei , Nakanishi Norihiko , Sadamoto Yasushi , Sugita Atsuro
Published: October 2022

Key message

Cutaneous metastasis from lung cancer is rare. We report an unusual cutaneous metastasis known as “carcinoma en cuirasse” 7 years after left upper lobectomy to treat an adenocarcinoma of the lung.
A comparison of radiological and clinical outcomes between robotic‐assisted and conventional total hip arthroplasty: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Wang Yuxiang , Wang Ruoyu , Gong Song , Han Lizhi , Gong Tianlun , Yi Yihu , Feng Yong , Wang Guohong , Xu Weihua
Published: October 2022

Background

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether robotic‐assisted total hip arthroplasty (RATHA) is superior to conventional total hip arthroplasty (CTHA) in terms of radiological and clinical outcomes.

Methods

Three databases (PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Embase) were searched for articles published before 11 May 2021. The comparison outcomes of interest included radiological and clinical outcomes.

Results

Eighteen studies involving 2845 hips that compared the radiological and clinical outcomes of RATHA and CTHA were included in this study. There was no significant difference between RATHA and CTHA in cup anteversion or complications. However, RATHA showed better outcomes in terms of leg‐length discrepancy, stem alignment, cup inclination, the Lewinnek safe zone, Callanan safe zone, total complications, and intraoperative complications. Robotic‐assisted total hip arthroplasty was inferior to CTHA in terms of operative time and dislocations (all p‐values < 0.05).

Conclusions

The radiological and clinical outcomes of RATHA were comparable and even better than those of CTHA, except for operative time and dislocation outcomes.
Neural learning impedance control of lower limb rehabilitation exoskeleton with flexible joints in the presence of input constraints
Authors: Yang Yong , Huang Deqing , Jin Chengwu , Liu Xia , Li Yanan
Published: October 2022

This article presents neural learning based adaptive impedance control for a lower limb rehabilitation exoskeleton with flexible joints (LLREFJ). First, the full model consisting of both the rigid link and the flexible joint is obtained for the LLREFJ. Second, neural networks are used to compensate for the system uncertainties and external disturbance and an adaptive impedance controller is proposed by establishing an impedance error. In order to improve the control performance and enhance the system robustness, periodic dynamics is considered according to the repetitive motion of the rehabilitation process and handled by a repetitive learning algorithm. Then, the stability of the full system is proved rigorously by Lyapunov methods. Finally, comparative simulation reveals that the designed adaptive neural learning controller has improved the control performance.
ECAAP‐SG: Efficient certificateless anonymous authentication protocol for SG
Authors: Nkurunziza Egide , Tandoh Lawrence , Elfadul Issameldeen , Li Fagen
Published: October 2022

A smart meter (SM) is an essential device within a smart grid (SG). It collects electrical power data from the customer and reports it to the service provider at regular intervals. Unfortunately, these regular reports may disclose confidential customer information without their knowledge. Moreover, SM is a device with limited resources, which means it cannot manage heavy security protocols. To mitigate these problems, an efficient certificateless anonymous authentication protocol for SG (ECAAP‐SG) protocol was designed. It cannot allow an adversary to tap into the communication channel and access exchanged information. In addition, the designed scheme fits SM's resource capacity. Furthermore, the authentication security provided by ECAAP‐SG guarantees that legal entities are communicating. Moreover, ECAAP‐SG provides key agreement security that establishes the session key. The established session key will be used to secure future communication. Besides, a random oracle model is used for the security analysis of the proposed protocol, and we prove that it is secure under the discrete logarithm problem and the computational Diffie–Hellman problem.
Rebooting the systems approach by applying the thinking of Bogdanov and the pragmatists
Authors: Jackson Michael C.
Published: October 2022

The systems approach continues to lack agreed philosophical foundations. As a result, it has become fragmented and offers numerous different theories and methodologies. This proliferation of perspectives makes it difficult for those in other disciplines to interact with and learn from systems thinkers and vice versa. It also puts practitioners off. They are confused and find it hard to believe that the systems approach has the special capacity it claims for helping them succeed in the volatile, uncertain, complex, ambiguous world in which they have to act. This paper argues that the systems approach needs rebooting on the basis of the work of Bogdanov and the pragmatists if it is to realize its full theoretical and practical potential. This task is less daunting than may at first appear. The systems approach has, often without realizing it, taken forward the tradition of thought initiated by Bogdanov and the pragmatists. This is true whether in the guise of general systems theory, cybernetics, complexity theory or systems methodologies. There is a bright future for the systems approach if it self‐consciously embraces that philosophical tradition, further develops it and enhances its practice. A philosophically empowered systems approach, united in its aspirations, can play a leading role in improving life on our planet.
Resistance against Abrasive Wear and Corrosion of Laser Powder Bed Alloyed High Chromium Tool Steels
Authors: Köhler Marie Luise , Radtke Felix , Norda Michael , Herzog Simone , Kaletsch Anke , Petzoldt Frank , Broeckmann Christoph
Published: October 2022

Additive manufacturing by laser‐based powder bed fusion of metals (PBF‐LB/M) enables the production of complex shaped components. High‐carbon tool steels tend to cracking during PBF‐LB/M due to internal stresses caused by the rapid solidification. Expensive atomization and long lead times for powder generate high costs in this processing route. In situ alloying during PBF‐LB/M of powder blends from conventionally available powders enables a more flexible approach of alloy design. For industrial use, the mechanical properties of in situ alloyed parts must be comparable to those of conventionally manufactured parts. In some cutting and forming applications, high wear resistance and corrosion resistance are required simultaneously. High alloyed cold work tool steels with sufficient chromium solved in the metal matrix fulfill these demands. Herein, AISI H13 is modified by Cr3C2 and elemental Cr to suit these requirements. Two novel alloys are modeled thermodynamically and processed by PBF‐LB/M. In‐depth microstructural investigations by backscatter electron imaging and diffraction in combination with abrasive wear tests and potentiodynamic polarization curves allow microstructure property correlations for different heat‐treated conditions. Partial crack‐free processing, hardenability, formation of Cr‐rich carbides, and residual Cr‐rich inclusions are observed and their influence on the wear and corrosion resistance is discussed.
Optimizing Design of Vortex Suppression Utilizing Static Electromagnetic Field during Steel Teeming from Ladle
Authors: He Ming , Ma Shuai , Zhao Lijia , Zhu Xiaowei , Jiang Zhouhua , Wang Qiang
Published: October 2022

Vortex slag entrapment during ladle teeming process causes liquid steel pollution, nozzle clogging, etc. Tangential velocity of molten steel is directly related to the vortex. Herein, the tangential velocity is reduced by the electromagnetic force generated by the interaction between a static electromagnetic field and the molten steel. Through the multiphysical field simulation, influences of the electromagnetic parameter, coil structure, coil position, and ladle structure on the vortex are investigated. Results demonstrate that magnetic induction intensity is proportional to the coil ampere‐turns, thereby affecting the vortex suppression. The action region of the static electromagnetic field expands when the coil diameter increases from 180 to 360 mm; it is beneficial to reduce the vortex critical height by 37.9%. The reduction of the distance between the coil and the molten steel also promotes the vortex suppression. The coil misalignment is beneficial to fully utilize the electromagnetic field; the critical height is reduced by 15%. The tangential velocity is changed when the nozzle diameter and eccentricity are optimized, and the vortex suppression will be amplified by using the electromagnetic field. This study provides the theoretical guidance for the optimizing design of the vortex suppression utilizing the static electromagnetic field.
Anaesthetic management of a horse with atrial fibrillation undergoing transvenous electrical cardioversion in combination with amiodarone
Authors: Asorey Iago , Corletto Federico
Published: October 2022

A 664 kg, 19‐year‐old, Irish sport horse gelding with chronic atrial fibrillation presented for transvenous electrical cardioversion under general anaesthesia. Five incremental electrical shocks were delivered in combination with intraoperative pharmacological cardioversion using amiodarone, which caused significant arterial hypotension treated with dobutamine infusion. Final successful cardioversion to sinus rhythm was achieved, and the horse recovered smoothly from general anaesthesia. Unfortunately, atrial fibrillation reoccurred early in the postoperative period.
Theory for Invisible Thermal Sensors: Monolayer Scheme
Authors: Xu Liu-Jun , Huang Ji-Ping
Published: October 2022

In this chapter, we propose an anisotropic monolayer scheme to prevent thermal sensors from distorting local and background temperature profiles, making them accurate and thermally invisible. We design metashells with anisotropic thermal conductivity and perform finite-element simulations in two or three dimensions for arbitrarily given thermal conductivity of sensors and backgrounds. We further experimentally fabricate a metashell with an anisotropic thermal conductivity based on the effective medium theory, which confirms the feasibility of our scheme. Our results are beneficial to improving the performance of thermal detection and may also guide other diffusive physical fields.
Theory for Omnithermal Illusion Metasurfaces: Cavity Effect
Authors: Xu Liu-Jun , Huang Ji-Ping
Published: October 2022

In this chapter, we consider multifold heat-transfer modes and propose a class of restructurable metasurfaces to show illusions in infrared and similarity in visible-light view. We consider the three basic modes of heat transfer (omnithermotics) in theoretical designs and adopt radiation-cavity effects in experimental manufacture. We also make it feasible to tune surface temperature and emissivity synergistically. Besides, such metasurfaces can work in temperature-varying backgrounds and transient states. This scheme may provide a platform for the design of adaptable thermal illusion and show robustness under multifrequency detections.
Theory for Active Thermal Control: Thermal Dipole Effect
Authors: Xu Liu-Jun , Huang Ji-Ping
Published: October 2022

In this chapter, we establish a theory for thermal-dipole-based thermotics. Tailoring the thermal dipole moment allows thermal invisibility without the requirements of singular and uncommon thermal conductivities. Furthermore, finite-element simulations and laboratory experiments both validate the theoretical analyses. Thermal-dipole-based thermotics offers a distinct mechanism to achieve thermal invisibility and provides guidance to other physical fields, such as electrostatics, magnetostatics, and particle diffusion. These results also pave the way for heat regulation with thermal dipoles, and potential applications can be expected in thermal protection, infrared detection, etc.
Introduction
Authors: Xu Liu-Jun , Huang Ji-Ping
Published: October 2022

In this chapter, we present the background and organization of this book.
Theory for Thermal Wave Control: Transformation Complex Thermotics
Authors: Xu Liu-Jun , Huang Ji-Ping
Published: October 2022

In this chapter, we develop a transformation theory for controlling wavelike temperature fields (called thermal waves herein) in conduction and advection. We first unify these two basic heat transfer modes by coining a complex thermal conductivity whose real and imaginary parts are related to conduction and advection. Consequently, the conduction-advection process supporting thermal waves is described by a complex conduction equation, thus called complex thermotics. We then propose the principle for transforming complex thermal conductivities. We further design three metamaterials to control thermal waves with cloaking, concentrating, and rotating functions. Experimental suggestions are also provided based on porous media.
Theory for Hele-Shaw Convective Cloaks: Bilayer Scheme
Authors: Xu Liu-Jun , Huang Ji-Ping
Published: October 2022

Thermal convection is one of the three basic heat transfer mechanisms, profoundly influencing the natural environment, social production, and daily life. However, the high complexity of governing equation, which describes the coupling of heat and mass transfer, makes it challenging to manipulate thermal convection at will in both theory and experiment. Here, we consider the heat transfer in Hele-Shaw cells, a widely-used model of Stokes flow between two parallel plates with a small gap, and apply the scattering-cancellation technology to construct convective thermal materials with bilayer structures and homogeneous isotropic materials. By tailoring thermal conductivity and viscosity, we demonstrate cloaking devices that can simultaneously hide obstacles from heat and fluid motion and verify their robustness under various thermal-convection environments by numerical simulations. Our results show that about 80% of the temperature and pressure disturbances in the background caused by obstacles can be eliminated by the cloak. The developed approach can be extended to control other convection-diffusion systems or multiphysics processes. The results pave a promising path for designing various metadevices such as concentrators or sensors.
Theory for Coupled Thermoelectric Metamaterials: Bilayer Scheme
Authors: Xu Liu-Jun , Huang Ji-Ping
Published: October 2022

In this chapter, we theoretically design bilayer thermoelectric metamaterials based on the generalized scattering-cancellation method. By solving the governing equations directly, we formulate the specific parameter requirements for desired functionalities beyond existing single-field or decoupled multi-field Laplacian metamaterials. Unlike the recently reported transformation thermoelectric flows, bilayer schemes do not require inhomogeneity and anisotropy in constitutive materials. Finite-element simulations confirm the analytical results and show robustness under various exterior conditions. Feasible experimental design with naturally occurring materials is also proposed for further proof-of-principle verification. Our theoretical method may be extended to other coupled multiphysical systems such as thermo-optics, thermomagnetics, and optomechanics.