bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deep Learning–Based Approach for Identifying and Measuring Focal Liver Lesions on Contrast‐Enhanced MRI
Authors: Dai Haoran , Xiao Yuyao , Fu Caixia , Grimm Robert , von Busch Heinrich , Stieltjes Bram , Choi Moon Hyung , Xu Zhoubing , Chabin Guillaume , Yang Chun , Zeng Mengsu
Published: June 2024

Background

The number of focal liver lesions (FLLs) detected by imaging has increased worldwide, highlighting the need to develop a robust, objective system for automatically detecting FLLs.

Purpose

To assess the performance of the deep learning–based artificial intelligence (AI) software in identifying and measuring lesions on contrast‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) images in patients with FLLs.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Subjects

395 patients with 1149 FLLs.

Field Strength/Sequence

The 1.5 T and 3 T scanners, including T1‐, T2‐, diffusion‐weighted imaging, in/out‐phase imaging, and dynamic contrast‐enhanced imaging.

Assessment

The diagnostic performance of AI, radiologist, and their combination was compared. Using 20 mm as the cut‐off value, the lesions were divided into two groups, and then divided into four subgroups: <10, 10–20, 20–40, and ≥40 mm, to evaluate the sensitivity of radiologists and AI in the detection of lesions of different sizes. We compared the pathologic sizes of 122 surgically resected lesions with measurements obtained using AI and those made by radiologists.

Statistical Tests

McNemar test, Bland–Altman analyses, Friedman test, Pearson's chi‐squared test, Fisher's exact test, Dice coefficient, and intraclass correlation coefficients. A P‐value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

The average Dice coefficient of AI in segmentation of liver lesions was 0.62. The combination of AI and radiologist outperformed the radiologist alone, with a significantly higher detection rate (0.894 vs. 0.825) and sensitivity (0.883 vs. 0.806). The AI showed significantly sensitivity than radiologists in detecting all lesions <20 mm (0.848 vs. 0.788). Both AI and radiologists achieved excellent detection performance for lesions ≥20 mm (0.867 vs. 0.881, P = 0.671). A remarkable agreement existed in the average tumor sizes among the three measurements (P = 0.174).

Data Conclusion

AI software based on deep learning exhibited practical value in automatically identifying and measuring liver lesions.

Level of Evidence

4.

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2.
Evaluation of pediatric patients for intestinal transplantation in the modern era
Authors: Bryan Nathan S. , Russell Shannon C. , Ozler Oguz , Sugiguchi Fumitaka , Yazigi Nada A. , Khan Khalid M. , Ekong Udeme D. , Vitola Bernadette E. , Guerra Juan‐Francisco , Kroemer Alexander , Fishbein Thomas M. , Matsumoto Cal S. , Ghobrial Shahira S. , Kaufman Stuart S.
Published: June 2024

Objectives

To review recent evaluations of pediatric patients with intestinal failure (IF) for intestinal transplantation (ITx), waiting list decisions, and outcomes of patients listed and not listed for ITx at our center.

Methods

Retrospective chart review of 97 patients evaluated for ITx from January 2014 to December 2021 including data from referring institutions and protocol laboratory testing, body imaging, endoscopy, and liver biopsy in selected cases. Survival analysis used Kaplan–Meier estimates and Cox proportional hazards regression.

Results

Patients were referred almost entirely from outside institutions, one‐third because of intestinal failure‐associated liver disease (IFALD), two‐thirds because of repeated infective and non‐IFALD complications under minimally successful intestinal rehabilitation, and a single patient because of lost central vein access. The majority had short bowel syndrome (SBS). Waiting list placement was offered to 67 (69%) patients, 40 of whom for IFALD. The IFALD group was generally younger and more likely to have SBS, have received more parenteral nutrition, have demonstrated more evidence of chronic inflammation and have inferior kidney function compared to those offered ITx for non‐IFALD complications and those not listed. ITx was performed in 53 patients. Superior postevaluation survival was independently associated with higher serum creatinine (hazard ratio [HR] 15.410, p = 014), whereas inferior postevaluation survival was associated with ITx (HR 0.515, p = 0.035) and higher serum fibrinogen (HR 0.994, p = 0.005).

Conclusions

Despite recent improvements in IF management, IFALD remains a prominent reason for ITx referral. Complications of IF inherent to ITx candidacy influence postevaluation and post‐ITx survival.
Improved long‐term outcome of children with congenital diarrhea followed by an intestinal rehabilitation program
Authors: Spector Cohen Inna , Belza Christina , Courtney‐Martin Glenda , Srbely Victoria , Wales Paul W. , Muise Aleixo , Avitzur Yaron
Published: June 2024

Background

Long‐term outcomes of congenital diarrheas and enteropathies (CODE) are poorly described. We evaluated the morbidity and mortality of children with CODE followed by an intestinal rehabilitation program (IRP) compared to children with short bowel syndrome (SBS).

Methods

Matched case‐control study of children with intestinal failure (IF) due to CODE (diagnosed between 2006 and 2020; N = 15) and SBS (N = 42), matched 1:3, based on age at diagnosis and duration of parenteral nutrition (PN). Nutritional status, growth, and IF‐related complications were compared. Survival and enteral autonomy were compared to a nonmatched SBS cohort (N = 177).

Results

Fifteen CODE patients (five males, median age 3.2 years) were followed for a median of 2.9 years. Eleven children were alive at the end of the follow‐up, and two achieved enteral autonomy. The CODE group had higher median PN fluid and calorie requirements than their matched SBS controls at the end of the follow‐up (83 vs. 45 mL/kg/day, p = 0.01; 54 vs. 30.5 kcal/kg/day, p < 0.01), but had similar rates of growth parameters, intestinal failure associated liver disease, central venous catheter complications and nephrocalcinosis. Kaplan–Meier analyses of 10‐year survival and enteral autonomy were significantly lower in CODE patients compared to the nonmatched SBS population (60% vs. 89% and 30% vs. 87%, respectively; log‐rank p < 0.008).

Conclusions

Despite higher PN needs in CODE, rates of IF complications were similar to matched children with SBS. Enteral autonomy and survival rates were lower in CODE patients. Treatment by IRP can mitigate IF‐related complications and improve CODE patient's outcome.
A case of Burkitt Lymphoma discovered by digital rectal exam
Authors: Winke Colin , Moore Brandon , Gelman Jacob , Paul Stephan , Rouster Audra , Guido Amy
Published: June 2024

Burkitt Lymphoma (BL) is an aggressive B‐cell lymphoma predominantly encountered in pediatrics. Sporadic type typically involves the abdomen and/or pelvis. We present an 8‐year‐old Caucasian male with vomiting, weight loss, fatigue, and abdominal pain. An abdominal X‐ray was unremarkable without any acute findings. Pediatric gastroenterology was consulted and recommended esophagogastroduodenoscopy and colonoscopy. A digital rectal exam (DRE) was performed, and a firm lesion was palpated. The colonoscopy was normal. Subsequent magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography scans revealed a lesion in the left lower quadrant with mass‐like processes involving the porta hepatis and encasing the left distal ureter. Tissue biopsy confirmed BL. The patient completed chemotherapy and achieved remission. This case highlights DRE as a basic physical exam skill in the evaluation of patients with nonspecific gastrointestinal symptoms.
Management of pediatric patients admitted for colonic disimpaction: A scoping review protocol
Authors: Berg Alaina , Ebach Dawn , Justice Nathaniel A. , Smelser Andrew , Samuelson Riley , Mahmood Zunaira , Imdad Aamer
Published: June 2024

Objectives

Chronic constipation is a common condition in pediatric patients worldwide and is associated with decreased quality of life. Inpatient management of constipation is required when outpatient therapy fails and a child becomes obstipated, and unable to pass stool or gas. There is a growing body of evidence regarding different management strategies for pediatric obstipation. This scoping review aims to map the existing literature regarding inpatient management of pediatric obstipation and identify gaps in knowledge.

Methods

We will follow the methodology described by the Joanna Briggs Institute and outlined in the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews guidelines. The search strategy will include Embase, PubMed, CINAHL, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Web of Science, Scopus, and gray literature sources. Two independent reviewers will complete screening for eligible studies in two steps: a scan of the title and abstracts followed by a full‐text review. Studies regarding inpatient management of pediatric obstipation, with experimental or cohort design, and with full text available in English will be included. Systematic reviews will also be included. Two independent reviewers will extract data using a standardized form. Extracted data will be presented in visual and narrative formats, including an evidence map to meet the objectives of this scoping review. This protocol is registered at Open Science Framework.

Conclusion

In this scoping review, we will outline the current evidence available regarding the efficacy and safety of various hospital interventions for the treatment of pediatric obstipation.
Barriers to resection following neoadjuvant chemotherapy for resectable pancreatic adenocarcinoma: A national and local perspective
Authors: Fromer Marc W. , Mouw Tyler J. , Scoggins Charles R. , Egger Michael E. , Philips Prejesh , McMasters Kelly M. , Martin Robert C. G.
Published: June 2024

Background

Neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) use for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has increased, but some patients never get resection following NAC.

Methods

Data from January 2012 to December 2019 for all clinically resectable patients across two health networks were utilized, as well as data from the ACS NCDB registry. Univariate testing, multivariable logistic regression, and survival analyses were employed to evaluate failure to resection after neo‐adjuvant chemotherapy.

Results

Of the 10 007 registry patients eligible for resection, the resected group was younger (64.6 vs. 69.5 years; p < 0.001) and had a slightly lower mean comorbidity index (0.41 vs. 0.45; p < 0.001) than the nonsurgical group. The nonsurgical group was composed of a higher percentage of Black and Hispanic patients (17.5 vs. 13.1%; p < 0.001). After adjusting for age and comorbidities, the factors associated with decreased probability of resection after NAC were evaluation at a community hospital (OR 2.4), Black or Hispanic race (OR 1.6), areas of increased high school drop‐out rates (OR 1.4), and lack of private health insurance (OR 1.3). The median overall survival for nonsurgery was markedly worse than the surgical cohort (10.6 vs. 26.6 months; p < 0.001). The most frequent reasons for a lack of definitive resection were operative upstaging to unresectable (39.6%), patient preference (14.5%), progression on NAC (13.2%), deconditioning or comorbidity severity (12.5%), and nonreferral to a surgeon (8.8%).

Conclusions

Racial, economic, and educational disparities have a considerable influence on the successful completion of a neoadjuvant approach for resectable PDAC. A comprehensive closed or highly collaborative/communicative multidisciplinary neoadjuvant program is optimal for treatment success and completion.
A dermoscopy case series of cutaneous metastases from breast cancer in Filipino females
Authors: Alfaro Rouslia Q. , Siripunvarapon Arunee H. , Quinio Maria F. S. , Duran Celine M. H. , Pamin Joanne R. , Habito Claire M. R.
Published: June 2024

There is a limited number of dermoscopic images of cutaneous metastases from breast cancer. We report three cases of cutaneous metastases in Filipino females with breast cancer. They were referred to the Dermatology outpatient clinic with round, firm, nontender, erythematous nodules on the chest and trunk. Dermoscopic findings noted were linear, irregular, arborizing and polymorphic vessels, bright white lines at the periphery and white areas, homogenous yellow to yellow‐orange structureless areas with linear fissure‐like structures and irregular diffuse blue‐black pigmentation, multiple brown dots and globules, and pink homogeneous areas. The clinical presentation, dermoscopy, histopathology and immunohistochemistry findings were consistent with cutaneous metastases from breast cancer. Familiarity and knowledge of dermoscopic patterns will improve diagnostic accuracy and early recognition of cutaneous metastases.
Quality of life in patients with anogenital warts: A cross‐sectional study using the Dermatology Life Quality Index questionnaire
Authors: Sagar GC , Paudel Sushil , Pudasaini Prajwal , Adhikari Sadiksha
Published: June 2024

Background

Anogenital warts are Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) caused predominantly by Human Papilloma Viruses (HPV) serotypes 6 and 11. These are one of the commonest causes of STDS, presenting to the Venereology Out Patient Department (OPD)in Nepal. Occurrence of Anogenital warts can affect sexual health of patient and subsequently cause significant embarrassment and impairment in Quality of Life (QoL).

Objectives

In this study we plan to assess the demographic data of anogenital warts and its impact in Nepalese patients, using a Nepali version of generic Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) questionnaire.

Methods

All consenting patients with anogenital warts presenting to our OPD from December 2022 to December 2023 were enrolled in this observational study. Clinical evaluation for anogenital warts, sites involved and patient demographics were recorded. All participants were asked to complete the Nepali Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) questionnaire.

Results

A total of 59 patients were included in this study, of which 71.2 % were males and 28.8% were females. The DLQI score of 10.15 ± 5.09 indicated that genital warts caused a very significant impact on the quality of life of patients. This impact was higher in females as compared to males and in those with shorter duration of disease. Younger patients had a greater impairment in QoL in our study as evidenced by higher DLQI scores.

Conclusions

Patients with anogenital warts have a significant impact on QoL.
Inverse kinematic total knee arthroplasty using conventional instrumentation restores constitutional coronal alignment
Authors: Keyes Sarah , Russell Shane P. , Bertalan Zsolt , Harty James A.
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Restricted inverse kinematic alignment (iKA) is a contemporary alignment strategy for total knee arthroplasty (TKA), commonly performed with robotic assistance. While superior clinical results are reported for kinematic‐type alignment strategies, registry data indicate no survivorship benefit for navigation or robotic assistance. This study aimed to determine the efficacy of an instrumented, restricted iKA technique for achieving patient‐specific alignment.

Methods

Seventy‐nine patients undergoing 84 TKAs (five bilateral procedures) using an iKA technique were included for preoperative and postoperative lower limb alignment analysis. The mean age was 66.5 (range: 43–82) with 33 male and 51 female patients. Artificial intelligence was employed for radiographic measurements. Alignment profiles were classified using the Coronal Plane Alignment of the Knee (CPAK) system. Preoperative and postoperative alignment profiles were compared with subanalyses for preoperative valgus, neutral and varus profiles.

Results

The mean joint‐line convergence angle (JLCA) reduced from 2.5° to −0.1° postoperatively. The mean lateral distal femoral angle (LDFA) remained unchanged postoperatively, while the mean medial proximal tibial angle (MPTA) increased by 2.5° (p = 0.001). By preservation of the LDFA and restoration of the MPTA, the mean hip knee ankle angle (HKA) moved through 3.5° varus to 1.2° valgus.

The CPAK system was used to visually depict changes in alignment profiles for preoperative valgus, neutral and varus knees; with 63% of patients observing an interval change in classification.

Conclusion

Encouraged by the latest evidence supporting both conventional instrumentation and kinematic‐type TKA strategies, this study describes how a restricted, conventionally instrumented iKA technique may be utilised to restore constitutional lower limb alignment.

Level of Evidence

Level III.
Association of Alzheimer's Disease With Peripheral Vestibular Disorder: A Case–Control Study
Authors: Hung Shih‐Han , Xirasagar Sudha , Cheng Yen‐Fu , Lin Herng‐Ching , Chen Chin‐Shyan
Published: June 2024

Objectives

Vestibular disorders can impact cognitive domains, including spatial orientation and memory, which are also affected in Alzheimer's disease. This study aimed to examine the association between Alzheimer's disease and a prior diagnosis of peripheral vestibular disorders in the elderly Taiwanese population.

Methods

The case–control study sample was retrieved from Taiwan's Longitudinal Health Insurance Database 2010. We included 3138 cases with Alzheimer's disease and 9414 propensity‐matched controls. We conducted multivariable logistic regression modeling to investigate the association between Alzheimer's disease and a prior diagnosis of peripheral vestibular disorders after accounting for sociodemographic characteristics and medical comorbidities including diabetes, coronary heart disease, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and hearing loss.

Results

The results revealed a statistically significant difference in the prevalence of prior peripheral vestibular disorders between patients with Alzheimer's disease and controls; 20.6% among patients with Alzheimer's disease and 11.4% among controls (p < 0.001). Multivariable logistic regression analysis found that patients with Alzheimer's disease were twice as likely as controls to have had a prior diagnosis of peripheral vestibular disorders, adjusted odds ratio 2.040 (95% confidence interval: 1.829–2.274).

Conclusions

The findings suggest the possibility of shared or related pathophysiological pathways in Alzheimer's disease and vestibular dysfunction disorders.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 134:4730–4735, 2024
Metals in coastal groundwater systems under anthropogenic pressure: a synthesis of behavior, drivers, and emerging threats
Authors: McKenzie Tristan , Moody Amy , Barreira João , Guo Xiaoyi , Cohen Anael , Wilson Stephanie J. , Ramasamy Murugan
Published: June 2024

Submarine groundwater discharge (SGD) dynamically links land‐ and ocean‐derived chemical constituents, such as metals, in the coastal ocean. While many metals are sediment‐bound, changing environmental conditions, particularly along the coast, may lead to increased release of metals to their dissolved and more bioavailable form. Here, we review metal behavior, speciation, and drivers of mobilization in the coastal environment under anthropogenic influence. We also model global metal contamination risk to the coastal ocean via SGD considering anthropogenic and hydrogeologic pressures, where tropical regions with high population density, SGD, and acid sulfate soils (4% of the global coast) present the highest risk. Although most SGD studies focus on other analytes, such as nutrients, this review demonstrates the importance of considering SGD as a critical pathway for metals to reach the coastal ocean under rapidly changing environmental conditions.
Influence of TP53 mutation on efficacy and survival in advanced EGFR‐mutant non‐small cell lung cancer patients treated with third‐generation EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors
Authors: Zhang Zhonghan , Xue Jinhui , Yang Yunpeng , Fang Wenfeng , Huang Yan , Zhao Shen , Luo Fan , Cao Jiaxin , Zeng Kangmei , Ma Wenjuan , Zhan Jianhua , Lu Feiteng , Zhang Li , Zhao Hongyun
Published: June 2024

TP53 comutation is related to poor prognosis of non‐small cell lung cancer. However, there is limited study focusing on the structural influence of TP53 mutation on third‐generation epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR‐TKIs) treatment. We retrospectively analyzed the clinical and molecular data of patients treated with third‐generation EGFR‐TKIs in two independent cohorts. A total of 117 patients from the Sun Yat‐sen University Cancer Center (SYSUCC) and 141 patients from the American Association for Cancer Research Project GENIE database were included. In the SYSUCC cohort, TP53 comutations were found in 59 patients (50.4%) and were associated with poor median progress‐free survival (mPFS) and median overall survival (mOS). The additional subtype analysis found that TP53 mutation in the alpha‐helix region had shorter mOS compared with those with TP53 mutations in other regions in the SYSUCC cohort (mOS, 12.2 vs. 21.7 months; p = 0.027). Similar findings were confirmed in the GENIE cohort. Specifically, the presence of TP53 mutation in the alpha‐helix region was an independent negative predictive factor for PFS [hazard ratio (HR) 2.05(1.01–4.18), p = 0.048] and OS [HR 3.62(1.60–8.17), p = 0.002] in the SYSUCC cohort. TP53 mutation in alpha‐helix region was related to inferior clinical outcomes in patients treated with third‐generation EGFR‐TKIs.
Stress enhances expression of calcium‐binding proteins and NMDAR subunit genes in the rat hippocampus
Authors: Parthasarathy Aravind , Hanumanthappa Ramesha , Bulbule Sarojini R. , P.C. Kiran , Nanjaiah Hemalatha , G. Gopinath , B.M. Siddaiah , Muniswamy David , Kuramkote Shivanna Devaraju
Published: June 2024

Backgrounds

Oxidative stress impairs the function of calcium‐binding proteins and deregulates calcium signaling in living organisms. We have previously explored the overexpression of calcium‐binding protein genes in a reactive oxygen and nitrogen species‐induced in vitro cell model of stress that leads to apoptosis. However, in in vivo models, low levels of stress leads to depressive‐like behavior. Here, we aimed to analyze gene expression of major calcium‐binding proteins (calcineurin, calmodulin, calsyntenin, synaptotagmin, and calreticulin) and N‐methyl‐d‐aspartic acid (NMDA) receptor subunits (glutamate receptor ionotropic [GluN] GluN1, GluN2A, and GluN2B) in the hippocampus of stress‐induced rats.

Methods

Six‐week‐old male Wistar rats were assigned to two stress induction groups and a control group without stress (n = 6). Stress was induced by using H2O2 (3% in water) or by immobilization (using a sticky mat) over a period of 30 days. Expression of calcium‐binding protein genes in the hippocampus, antioxidant assays, structural alterations in hippocampal neurons, and depressive‐like behavior were determined.

Results

Expression of genes encoding calcium‐binding proteins calcineurin, calsyntenin, synaptotagmin and NMDA receptor subunit GluN1 was enhanced in both chemical and physical stress‐induced rats compared with control rats (4.25 ± 0.05 vs. 1.03 ± 0.02, p < 0.05, 2.05 ± 0.08 vs. 1.03 ± 0.02, p < 0.005; 2.2 ± 0.4 vs. 1.02 ± 0.03, p < 0.05, 1.98 ± 0.07 vs. 1.02 ± 0.03, p < 0.005; 1.4 ± 0.6 vs. 1.15 ± 0.09, p < 0.05, 1.39 ± 0.05 vs. 1.15 ± 0.09, p < 0.005), respectively. In stress‐induced rats, neurons in the CA2 region of the hippocampus were fewer and appeared disorganized compared with control rats. Furthermore, stress‐induced rats showed decreased mobility and lower sucrose preference in behavioral studies compared with control rats.

Conclusion

Lower levels of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) can also lead to stress in rats by affecting their calcium signaling, buffering capacity in the neurons leading to depressive symptoms.
Integrated spatial and multimodal single‐cell transcriptomics reveal patient‐dependent cell heterogeneity in splenic marginal zone lymphoma
Authors: Cerapio Juan Pablo , Gravelle Pauline , Quillet‐Mary Anne , Valle Carine , Martins Frederic , Franchini Don‐Marc , Syrykh Charlotte , Brousset Pierre , Traverse‐Glehen Alexandra , Ysebaert Loic , Fournie Jean‐Jacques , Laurent Camille
Published: June 2024

Biological hallmarks of splenic marginal zone lymphoma (SMZL) remain poorly described. Herein, we performed in‐depth SMZL characterization through multimodal single‐cell analyses of paired blood/spleen samples. The 3’‐single‐cell RNA‐sequencing, Cellular Indexing of Transcriptomes and Epitopes by sequencing, and 5’‐V(D)J single‐cell RNA‐sequencing datasets were integrated to characterize SMZL transcriptome profiles, including B‐cell receptor and T‐cell receptor repertoires. Hyperexpanded B‐cell clones in the spleen were at a memory‐like stage, whereas recirculating tumor B‐cells in blood encompassed multiple differentiation stages, indicating an unexpected desynchronization of the B‐cell maturation program in SMZL cells. Spatial transcriptomics showed the enrichment of T‐effector and T‐follicular helper (TFH) signatures in the nodular subtype of SMZL. This latter also exhibited gene‐based cell–cell interactions suggestive of dynamic crosstalk between TFH and cancer cells in transcriptomics, further substantiated by using imaging mass cytometry. Our findings provide a comprehensive high‐resolution description of SMZL biological hallmarks and characterize, for the first time in situ, inter‐ and intra‐patient heterogeneity at both transcriptomic and protein levels. © 2024 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Multi‐physics field coupling modeling and simulation to study the stress evolution during HTCLS curing process
Authors: Li Haiying , Cao Zheng , Li Shujian , Chen Yizhe , Wang Zhineng , Wang Xiaochuan
Published: June 2024

Hybrid titanium carbon laminates (HTCLs) are a new type of fiber metal laminates, that are attracting extensive attention due to their comprehensive mechanical and physical properties. The curing stress is an important factor affecting the manufacturing performance of HTCLs. Based on viscoelastic mechanics and temperature variation characteristics of materials in this work, the multi‐physics field coupling modeling and simulation are conducted, and the stress evolution mechanism during HTCLs curing process is investigated. Furthermore, the interlayer interfacial damage of HTCLs induced by the curing stress is analyzed combined with the microscope images. Results show that the restriction of metal layers and the stacking sequence of carbon fiber prepregs are the primary reasons for generating significant stress during HTCLs curing. The secondary insulation stage of HTCLs curing process has a positive effect on suppressing the curing stress, by which the interfacial stress between the different metal layers and prepregs layers can decrease by 10.53%, 4.06%, 10.24%, and 1.11%. From the beginning of cooling to the end of curing, the residual stress in HTCLs increases rapidly, and the maximum can increase by 197%. Stress concentration is easily generated on the edges of HTCLs, and the interfaces near the bottom of HTCLs are more prone to forming cracks and delamination.

Highlights

A multi‐physics field coupling model for HTCLs curing process is established.

The viscoelastic mechanics and the temperature variation characteristics of materials are considered in this model.

The stress evolution mechanism during HTCLs curing is studied.

The interface damage of HTCLs induced by the curing stress is analyzed combined with experiments.
Effect of hygrothermal aging on mechanical properties of continuous flax fiber composites
Authors: Mu Wenlong , Li Shijie , Zhang Shikun , Chen Xianglin , Sun Yufeng , Zhou Kaiyuan , Qin Guofeng
Published: June 2024

The influence of hygrothermal aging on the mechanical properties of flax fiber‐reinforced polymer (FFRP) composites was studied by examining the mechanical properties and failure mechanism of the composite laminates exposed in distilled water at different temperatures. The resin transfer molding (RTM) process was used to manufacture FFRP laminates, which were then subjected to accelerated aging tests in distilled water at different temperatures. The moisture absorption characteristics of FFRP were analyzed by a water absorption test. Tensile, bending, and low‐velocity impact tests of laminates after different aging conditions were performed. Combined with DSC and FTIR tests, the failure mechanism of FFRP exposure to hygrothermal aging was analyzed. The result indicated that the increase in temperature will accelerate the moisture absorption process of FFRP, and the hygroscopic behaviors at different temperatures conform to Fick's law. In the early stage of hygrothermal aging, the composites undergo post‐curing, and the tensile and bending strengths increase. After that, the tensile and bending strengths are decreased because of the thermo‐oxygen aging of materials and fiber/matrix interface damage. After hygrothermal aging, the impact peak force of FFRP decreases obviously while the absorbed energy increases due to the increase of internal defects and plasticization of composites. The increase of hygrothermal aging temperature aggravates the aging of materials, resulting in a more obvious decline in the tensile, bending, and impact properties of the composites.

Highlights

The effect of hygrothermal aging on the mechanical properties of FFRP is investigated.

With the increase of hygrothermal aging time, the tensile and bending strength of FFRP increased at the early stage of aging and then decreased.

After hygrothermal aging, the impact peak force of FFRP decreases and the absorbed energy increases due to the increase of internal defects and plasticization of composites.
Research on size effects in the low‐velocity impact (LVI) and compression after impact (CAI) characteristics of composite laminates
Authors: Zou Xionghui , Gao Weicheng , Xi Wei
Published: June 2024

The load‐bearing capacity and failure characteristics of composite structures are closely related to their dimensions. In this study, low‐velocity impact, ultrasonic non‐destructive testing, and compression after impact tests were conducted on composite laminates of varying widths to investigate the influence of size effects. Distinct impact response profiles and compression failure modes were characterized. The results indicate that under impact loading, the delamination threshold load (6700 N ~ 7200 N) and the knee‐point energy (40 J) are not affected by width. However, variations in width lead to differences in indentation depth, impact duration, peak load, delamination characteristics, and energy absorption. Furthermore, increasing impact energy further magnifies these differences. Under compression loading, wider laminates exhibit lower residual strength, with the influence of impact energy on residual strength decreasing as width increases. Importantly, the observed compression failure deformation mode transitions from localized buckling to widespread sub‐layer delamination‐induced compression failure. This suggests that changes in width alter the governing mechanical mechanisms of CAI failure. Consequently, the use of a single‐size laminate to represent both LVI and CAI processes is not recommended. Based on experimental results, the reliability of the equivalent damage method in predicting the residual compression strength of laminates of different widths was confirmed, providing valuable insights for practical engineering applications.

Highlights

Assess the variations in the low‐velocity impact process of laminates with different widths.

Evaluate the delamination damage of laminates after impacts by ultrasonic C‐scan techniques.

Investigate the effect of variation in widths on the compression behavior of laminates after impact.

Validate the feasibility of equivalent damage modeling for calculating residual strength.
Impact of babyface schema on time perception: Insights from neutral and crying facial expressions
Authors: Jia Lina , Shao Bingjie , Wang Lili , Wang Xiaocheng , Shi Zhuanghua
Published: June 2024

Facial expressions in infants have been noted to create a spatial attention bias when compared with adult faces. Yet, there is limited understanding of how adults perceive the timing of infant facial expressions. To investigate this, we used both infant and adult facial expressions in a temporal bisection task. In Experiment 1, we compared duration judgments of neutral infant and adult faces. The results revealed that participants felt that neutral infant faces lasted for a shorter time than neutral adult faces, independent of participant sex. Experiment 2 employed sad (crying) facial expressions. Here, the female participants perceived that the infants' faces were displayed for a longer duration than the adults' faces, whereas this distinction was not evident among the male participants. These findings highlight the influence of the babyface schema on time perception, nuanced by emotional context and sex‐based individual variances.
Use of electronic health record data to examine administrations of pro re nata analgesics during hip fracture post‐acute care
Authors: Riester Melissa R. , Zhang Yuan , Hayes Kaleen N. , Beaudoin Francesca L. , Zullo Andrew R.
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Medications prescribed to older adults in US skilled nursing facilities (SNF) and administrations of pro re nata (PRN) “as needed” medications are unobservable in Medicare insurance claims. There is an ongoing deficit in our understanding of medication use during post‐acute care. Using SNF electronic health record (EHR) datasets, including medication orders and barcode medication administration records, we described patterns of PRN analgesic prescribing and administrations among SNF residents with hip fracture.

Methods

Eligible participants resided in SNFs owned by 11 chains, had a diagnosis of hip fracture between January 1, 2018 to August 2, 2021, and received at least one administration of an analgesic medication in the 100 days after the hip fracture. We described the scheduling of analgesics, the proportion of available PRN doses administered, and the proportion of days with at least one PRN analgesic administration.

Results

Among 24 038 residents, 57.3% had orders for PRN acetaminophen, 67.4% PRN opioids, 4.2% PRN non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs, and 18.6% PRN combination products. The median proportion of available PRN doses administered per drug was 3%–50% and the median proportion of days where one or more doses of an ordered PRN analgesic was administered was 25%–75%. Results differed by analgesic class and the number of administrations ordered per day.

Conclusions

EHRs can be leveraged to ascertain precise analgesic exposures during SNF stays. Future pharmacoepidemiology studies should consider linking SNF EHRs to insurance claims to construct a longitudinal history of medication use and healthcare utilization prior to and during episodes of SNF care.
Molecular dynamics study of free volume coalescence around nonyl ethoxylate in polyethylene with vinyl acetate‐modified branches
Authors: Kavyani Sajjad , Soares João B. P. , Choi Phillip
Published: June 2024

Polyethylene (PE) is susceptible to environmental stress cracking (ESC). In the presence of an amphiphilic compound and subjected to stress, ESC starts with cavitation followed by slow crack growth and ends with brittle fracture. In this study, we used molecular dynamics simulation to study how branch ends which were chemically modified with vinyl acetate groups affect free volume coalescence around an amphiphilic compound, nonyl ethoxylate (NE), dispersed in branched PE models. Branch ends modified with vinyl acetate significantly impact the free volume coalescence dynamics around NE. Compared with methyl branch ends, vinyl acetate branch ends show a much higher affinity, as quantified by the corresponding radial distribution functions, for the hydrophilic ethylene oxide‐segment of NE. However, this is not the case for the hydrophobic ethylene‐segment. Interestingly, vinyl acetate branch ends tend to reduce the power (amplitude) of the free volume size fluctuations around both the ethylene oxide‐ and ethylene‐segments. Indeed, the powers of the fluctuations with different PE branching characteristics decrease with increasing vinyl acetate concentration. We believe that free volume coalescence leads to cavitation and that vinyl acetate branches could inhibit cavitation, thereby crack propagation in PE. The power results seem to be consistent with the experimental observation that the addition of copolymer ethylene vinyl acetate to low‐density polyethylene improves the ESC resistance of the blend.

Highlights

Vinyl acetate branches reduce free volume coalescence activities.

Vinyl acetate branches are attracted to the hydrophilic segment of NE.

Cavitation likely starts from the free volume coalescence around NE.
Sustainable biomaterials for tissue engineering: electrospun polycaprolactone fibers enriched with freshwater snail calcium carbonate and waste human hair keratin
Authors: Erdemli Özge , Yilmaz Bengi , Saran İrem Göksu , Serin Erdal
Published: June 2024

This study focuses on developing a sustainable and biocompatible polycaprolactone (PCL)‐based scaffold for bone tissue engineering through electrospinning, utilizing calcium carbonate (CaCO3) from Pomacea canaliculata shells and keratin from human hair, known for stimulating bone regeneration. The isolated CaCO3 has been identified to demonstrate two polymorphs, vaterite and calcite, as determined by X‐ray diffraction. The isolation of keratin from human hair was confirmed through sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis, revealing the presence of α‐keratin structures around 45–50 kDa and β‐keratin structures around 55–60 kDa. According to scanning electron microscope observations, the addition of keratin to PCL fibers reduced their diameter from 457 ± 345 to 371 ± 103 nm. Further addition of calcium carbonate led to a mean diameter of 258 ± 76 nm. The melting temperature of PCL fibers containing keratin and CaCO3 was determined to be 76.17 °C via differential scanning calorimetry, while thermogravimetric analysis, conducted at temperatures up to 600 °C, revealed a remaining ash content of 9.59%. Calcium phosphate accumulation was observed to initiate on PCL fibers containing keratin and CaCO3 following a 7‐day exposure to simulated body fluid. The fibers exhibit cytocompatibility, showing no toxicity while supporting the growth and proliferation of Saos‐2 osteosarcoma cells. The results suggest that the innovative incorporation of keratin and CaCO3 into PCL nanofibers could serve as a bioactive matrix compared to pure PCL matrices, thereby offering enhanced potential for bone tissue engineering applications. © 2024 The Author(s). Polymer International published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Shaping the structure and properties of HyTemp using polyethylene glycol diglycidyl ether cross‐linkers
Authors: Dossi Eleftheria , Mutele‐Nkuna Khuthadzo Lourate , Wilkinson Peter , Kister Guillaume , Patrick Hugh , Khalili Mohammad Hakim , Hawi Sara
Published: June 2024

Novel elastomers are made by reaction of hydroxyl‐terminated polyacrylic ester (HyTemp) with polyethylene glycol (PEG, number of ethylene glycol units 1, 3, 6, 9) based cross‐linkers. The influence of the cross‐linker length, the HyTemp/cross‐linker (w/w) ratio and the cross‐linking accelerator trifluoromethanesulfonate scandium salt (ScTFMS) on the structure and the properties of the materials are studied. The cross‐linker length has not influence on the glass transition (Tg) of the products because of the presence of the flexible PEG units that cancels out the cross‐linking effect associated to a shift to higher Tg. A two‐domain structure is seen by the presence of a dual Tg in samples cured with ScTFMS. Mathematical analysis of the modulated differential scanning calorimetry curves offers for the first time the possibility to identify/confirm structural differences in complex three‐dimensional polymeric structures. Scanning electron microscopy and swelling experiments in ethyl acetate respectively reveal an increase in the pore size (1.13 to 5.48 nm) and in the absorption ability of the elastomers cured with different types and quantities of PEG cross‐linker. The new elastomeric materials are exhibiting a rubbery state over a wide temperature range and absorptivity for the potential recovery of pollutants in soil and/or water.
Redox Stability and Electrical Properties of a Series of Novel Quadruple Dopant BIMEVOX: Bi2V1−4x(CuNiNbTi)xO5.5−δ
Authors: Song Xingping , Zhang Mingze , Liu Laijun , Xu Jungu
Published: June 2024

Bi2VO5.5‐based materials are well‐known oxide ion conductors owing to their exceptionally high ionic conductivity. However, their poor phase and redox stabilities under a reducing atmosphere hinder their practical application as electrolytes for solid oxide fuel cells. Here, a series of novel quadruple metal‐doped bismuth vanadium system materials Bi2V1−4x(CuNiNbTi)xO5.5−δ (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.1) are prepared through a traditional solid state reaction method, aiming to enhance the phase and redox stability under reducing atmosphere. The results reveal that multiple‐metal‐doping can stabilize the tetragonal phase of Bi2VO5.5 to room temperature and show good phase and structural stabilities under inert or high oxygen partial pressure atmospheres, as well as pure oxide ion conduction which is slightly lower than that of the parent material. However, under a reducing environment, the Bi2V1−4x(CuNiNbTi)xO5.5−δ materials would still undergo a phase decomposition, yielding elemental bismuth impurity, and introducing strong electronic conduction. Thus, how to improve the phase and redox stabilities under the reducing atmosphere of the Bi2VO5.5‐based materials is still the endeavor direction in the future.
Deep‐learning‐based downscaling of precipitation in the middle reaches of the Yellow River using residual‐based CNNs
Authors: Fu He , Guo Jianing , Deng Chenguang , Liu Heng , Wu Jie , Shi Zhengguo , Wang Cailing , Xie Xiaoning
Published: June 2024

The middle reaches of the Yellow River (MRYR), located in northern China, are the transition zone between semi‐arid and semi‐humid climates. As one of the climate‐sensitive regions in China, MRYR has a fragile ecological environment and serious soil loss, which leads to geological disasters such as landslides, collapses, and mudslides caused by extreme precipitation. However, scarceness of high‐resolution precipitation data over MRYR limits assessment of the environmental impacts caused by climate change, especially for extreme precipitation. In this article, we design a Residual‐in‐Residual Dense Block based Network (RRDBNet) model for the statistical downscaling of precipitation in MRYR, and compare the proposed RRDBNet with a generalized linear regression model (GLM) and two popular deep‐learning‐based models. The multi‐level residuals and dense connectivity strategies introduced in RRDBNet help it to learn more abstract features and complex nonlinear relationships among climate variables to improve downscaling performance. The results show that the proposed RRDBNet has good performance in precipitation simulations, which can reproduce the spatial–temporal characteristics of high‐resolution precipitation well. RRDBNet reduces the root‐mean‐squared error (RMSE) by 19% and improves the Pearson correlation coefficient (CC) by 6% relative to GLM for climatology mean precipitation. Especially, RRDBNet has substantial improvements in extreme precipitation compared with other models. It reduces RMSE by 58% (79%) and improves CC by 38% (145%) relative to GLM for R95P (R99P), where R95P and R99P represent extreme precipitation and very extreme precipitation, respectively. For the probability density function of daily precipitation, it is further demonstrated that RRDBNet performs better as regards extreme precipitation frequency. Our results suggest that statistical downscaling based on RRDBNet may be an effective tool for historical and future climate simulations from global climate models.
Dynamic channel selection based on vertical sensitivities for the assimilation of FY‐4A geostationary interferometric infrared sounder targeted observations
Authors: Li Yonghui , Han Wei , Duan Wansuo
Published: June 2024

Target observations have garnered significant attention owing to their successful applications in enhancing forecasting skills of extreme weather events, particularly tropical cyclone (TC) events. The key step of implementing target observation is to determine the sensitive area in advance. Previous studies often obtained the sensitive areas for TC forecasting by vertically integrating the energy of optimal perturbation and taking the horizontal area of large energy, in an attempt to use it to represent roughly the sensitivity of the whole atmospheric layer. The advent of the geostationary interferometric infrared sounder on the FY‐4A satellite and then corresponding satellite data assimilation have opened up a new possibility for identifying the vertical sensitivity for TC forecasting to improve the forecasting skill. This article proposes a targeting satellite channel (TSC) approach to accurately capture the sensitivity along vertical directions of the atmosphere that allows one to preferentially select the channels whose observations locate on the sensitive vertical atmospheric layers. Numerical experiments demonstrate that, when preferentially assimilating the channel observations obtained from the TSC approach, the TC tracks achieve a considerably smaller forecast error than the information entropy channel selection approach. The TSC approach, therefore, has the potential for the satellite data assimilation to improve TC track forecasting skill very effectively, which can also provide guidance to targeting observations in field campaigns for TC forecasting.
Enhanced Redox Activity of Anthraquinone on N‐Doped Porous Carbon Electrode
Authors: Desa Susilo Sudarman , Nueangnoraj Khanin
Published: June 2024

Anthraquinone is one of the organic molecules that can potentially replace metal‐based electrodes due to its fast and reversible redox reaction as well as the abundance in nature. Here, we reported the redox activity of anthraquinone on N‐doped porous carbon electrodes derived from chemical activation of tea leaves with potassium carbonate. Electrochemical behavior was evaluated by cyclic voltammetry and galvanostatic charge/discharge in sulfuric acid, with X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy providing insights into the surface chemistry of the electrodes. Anthraquinone on the composite electrode was able to achieve 97 % of its theoretical storage capacity. We found that nitrogen‐containing functional groups, especially graphitic and pyrrolic groups, had a major impact on the enhanced redox activity of anthraquinone.