bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Classifying spaces of monoids-applications in geometric combinatory
Authors: Rabrenovic Maja
Published: May 2006

We give two examples of application of the theory of simplicial sets in geometric combinatory. The emphasis is on monoids and their classifying spaces.
On graphs whose reduced energy does not exceed 3
Authors: Lazic Mirjana
Published: May 2006

In [3], Lepovic described all connected graphs whose reduced energy, i.e the sum of absolute values of all eigenvalues except the least and the largest ones, does not exceed 2.5. Here we describe all connected graphs whose reduced energy does not exceed 3.
On some results for λ-Spirallike and λ-Robertson functions of complex order
Authors: Aouf M.K. , Al-Oboudi F.M. , Haidan M.M.
Published: May 2006

We give some results of various kinds concerning ?-Spirallike functions of complex order and ?-Robertson functions of complex order in the unit disc U = (z: (z) < 1). They represent extensions and generalizations of many previous results. We mainly used the subordination method.
Dementia Prevention and Treatment
Authors: Reuben David B. , Kremen Sarah , Maust Donovan T.
Published: March 2024

Importance

Dementia affects 10% of those 65 years or older and 35% of those 90 years or older, often with profound cognitive, behavioral, and functional consequences. As the baby boomers and subsequent generations age, effective preventive and treatment strategies will assume increasing importance.

Observations

Preventive measures are aimed at modifiable risk factors, many of which have been identified. To date, no randomized clinical trial data conclusively confirm that interventions of any kind can prevent dementia. Nevertheless, addressing risk factors may have other health benefits and should be considered. Alzheimer disease can be treated with cholinesterase inhibitors, memantine, and antiamyloid immunomodulators, with the last modestly slowing cognitive and functional decline in people with mild cognitive impairment or mild dementia due to Alzheimer disease. Cholinesterase inhibitors and memantine may benefit persons with other types of dementia, including dementia with Lewy bodies, Parkinson disease dementia, vascular dementia, and dementia due to traumatic brain injury. Behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia are best treated with nonpharmacologic management, including identifying and mitigating the underlying causes and individually tailored behavioral approaches. Psychotropic medications have minimal evidence of efficacy for treating these symptoms and are associated with increased mortality and clinically meaningful risks of falls and cognitive decline. Several emerging prevention and treatment strategies hold promise to improve dementia care in the future.

Conclusions and Relevance

Although current prevention and treatment approaches to dementia have been less than optimally successful, substantial investments in dementia research will undoubtedly provide new answers to reducing the burden of dementia worldwide.
MACE and Hyperthyroidism Treated With Medication, Radioactive Iodine, or Thyroidectomy
Authors: Peng Carol Chiung-Hui , Lin Yu-Jie , Lee Sun Y. , Lin Shu-Man , Han Cheng , Loh Ching-Hui , Huang Huei-Kai , Pearce Elizabeth N.
Published: March 2024

Importance

Excessive thyroid hormones from hyperthyroidism increase cardiovascular risks. Among 3 available treatments for hyperthyroidism, comparisons of long-term outcomes associated with antithyroid drugs (ATDs), radioactive iodine (RAI), and surgery to treat newly diagnosed hyperthyroidism are lacking.

Objective

To compare risks of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) and all-cause mortality among patients with hyperthyroidism treated with ATDs, RAI, or surgery.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This nationwide cohort study used the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database. Patients aged 20 years or older with newly diagnosed hyperthyroidism between 2011 and 2020 were enrolled. Treatment groups were determined within 18 months from diagnosis, with follow-up until the development of MACE, death, or the end date of the database, whichever came first. Data were analyzed from October 2022 through December 2023.

Exposures

The ATD group received ATDs only. RAI and surgery groups could receive ATDs before treatment. Anyone who underwent thyroid surgery without RAI was classified into the surgery group and vice versa.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcomes included MACE (a composite outcome of acute myocardial infarction, stroke, heart failure, and cardiovascular mortality) and all-cause mortality.

Results

Among 114 062 patients with newly diagnosed hyperthyroidism (mean [SD] age, 44.1 [13.6] years; 83 505 female [73.2%]), 107 052 patients (93.9%) received ATDs alone, 1238 patients (1.1%) received RAI, and 5772 patients (5.1%) underwent surgery during a mean (SD) follow-up of 4.4 (2.5) years. Patients undergoing surgery had a significantly lower risk of MACE (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.76; 95% CI, 0.59-0.98; P = .04), all-cause mortality (HR = 0.53; 95% CI, 0.41-0.68; P < .001), heart failure (HR = 0.33; 95% CI, 0.18-0.59; P < .001), and cardiovascular mortality (HR = 0.45; 95% CI, 0.26-0.79; P = .005) compared with patients receiving ATDs. Compared with ATDs, RAI was associated with lower MACE risk (HR = 0.45; 95% CI, 0.22-0.93; P = .03). Risks for acute myocardial infarction and stroke did not significantly differ between treatment groups.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this study, surgery was associated with lower long-term risks of MACE and all-cause mortality, while RAI was associated with a lower MACE risk compared with ATDs.
Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Inhibitors and the Risk of Aortic Aneurysm and Aortic Dissection
Authors: Wu Chia-Wei , Huang Hsin-Yi , Lin Shin-Yi , Wang Chi-Chuan , Huang Chih-Fen , Wu I-Hui
Published: March 2024

Importance

Vascular endothelial growth factor pathway inhibitors (VPIs) pose a concern for aortic aneurysm (AA) and aortic dissection (AD), signaling potential vascular disease development.

Objective

To investigate VPI-associated AA and AD.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This case-control study with a nested design used full population data from a national claims database in Taiwan between 2011 and 2019. Eligible participants were aged 20 years or older with kidney, hepatic, gastrointestinal, or pancreatic cancer diagnosed between January 1, 2012, and December 31, 2019. The first cancer diagnosis date was defined as the cohort entry date. Cases were patients who received a diagnosis of AA or AD in hospitalizations or emergency visits between the cohort entry date and December 31, 2019. Controls were matched by ratio (up to 1:5) based on age, sex, cancer type, cohort entry date, and the index date (ie, the first AA or AD event date). Data analysis was performed between January 2022 and December 2023.

Exposures

Use of the oral VPIs sorafenib, sunitinib, and pazopanib between cohort entry date and index date.

Main Outcomes and Measures

In the primary analysis, AA and AD were evaluated compositely, while in the secondary analyses, they were evaluated separately. Adjusted odds ratios (aORs) were calculated using conditional logistic regression to assess the association with VPI use (sorafenib, sunitinib, and pazopanib) considering various VPI exposure windows and cumulative use.

Results

A total of 1461 cases were included (mean [SD] age, 73.0 [12.3] years; 1118 male patients [76.5%]), matched to 7198 controls. AA or AD risk increased with a VPI exposure of 100 days or less before the index date (aOR, 2.10; 95% CI, 1.40-3.15), mainly from VPI-associated AD (aOR, 3.09; 95% CI, 1.77-5.39). Longer VPI duration (68 days or more: aOR, 2.64; 95% CI, 1.66-4.19) and higher cumulative dose (61 or more defined daily doses: aOR, 2.65; 95% CI, 1.66-4.23) increased the risk.

Conclusions and Relevance

The use of the 3 study VPIs (sorafenib, sunitinib, and pazopanib) was associated with an increased risk of AA and AD in patients with cancer, essentially all of the risk from VPI-associated AD. Future studies are needed to determine the risk factors of VPI-associated AA and AD, as well as to establish a class effect.
Socioeconomic Status and Overall Survival Among Patients With Hematological Malignant Neoplasms
Authors: Nielsen Lars Hernández , Kristensen Daniel Tuyet , Jakobsen Lasse Hjort , Bøgsted Martin , Gregersen Henrik , Madsen Jakob , Severinsen Marianne Tang , Brøndum Rasmus Froberg
Published: March 2024

Importance

In recent years, there has been a focus on reducing the socioeconomic gap in survival for hematological malignant neoplasms. Understanding recent developments is important to develop further intervention to improve care.

Objective

To investigate the temporal trend in associations of socioeconomic status (SES) with survival among 3 aggressive hematological malignant neoplasms: multiple myeloma (MM), acute myeloid leukemia (AML), and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL).

Design, Setting, and Participants

This nationwide, population-based cohort study used retrospectively collected data from 3 clinical registries of patients diagnosed in Denmark between January 1, 2005, and December 31, 2020, with follow-up until December 31, 2021. Analyses were stratified by diagnosis year (2005-2009, 2010-2014, and 2015-2020). Participants were patients aged 25 to 65 years with hematological malignant neoplasms. Patients with missing data on education were excluded. Data were analyzed from October 14, 2022, to January 2, 2024.

Exposure

Education was used as a proxy for SES and defined low- and high-SES groups based on the completion of tertiary education.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The main outcome was overall survival (OS), analyzed using Kaplan-Meier (log rank) method and Cox proportional hazards regression adjusted for age, sex, performance status, comorbidities, and disease-specific prognostic indices. Two-year OS through time and survival difference were estimated using flexible parametric survival models.

Results

A total of 5677 patients (median [IQR] age, 58 [51-62] years; 3177 [57.0%] male) were assessed, including 1826 patients with MM, 1236 patients with AML, and 2509 patients with DLBCL. The 2-year OS increased over time for patients with MM (78.8% [95% CI, 75.4%-82.3%] to 91.4% [95% CI, 89.3%-93.5%]), AML (42.2% [95% CI, 37.8%-47.1%] to 52.7% [95% CI, 48.0%-57.9%]), and DLBCL (80.1% [95% CI, 77.4%-82.8%] to 88.1% [95% CI, 86.0%-90.3%]). For MM and DLBCL, no association of SES with survival was observed after adjustment (MM: hazard ratio [HR], 0.99 [95% CI, 0.85-1.15]; DLBCL: HR, 1.08 [95% CI, 0.91-1.29]). For AML, a negative association was observed between low SES and survival (HR, 1.49 [95% CI, 1.25-1.76]), but the association was attenuated in recent years. The difference in hazard for patients with low SES and AML was observed in the first 2 years after diagnosis.

Conclusions and Relevance

These findings suggest that survival has improved among patients with these hematological malignant neoplasms. While patients with MM and DLBCL had increased survival in all groups, disparities were observed in AML outcomes, primarily in the first years after diagnosis. These results suggest that differences originate in factors specific to AML.
Barriers, Facilitators, and Preferences for Mental Health Services Among Patients With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Goldschen Lauren , Peng Cynthia S. , Mufson Michael J. , Feldman Candace H. , Case Siobhan M. , Costenbader Karen H. , Amonoo Hermioni L.
Published: March 2024

Objective

Although patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) experience high levels of depression and anxiety disorders, evidence concerning patient perceptions of facilitators and barriers to effective uptake of mental health services (eg, referral to therapists and psychiatrists, psychoeducational interventions, or support groups) is limited.

Methods

We conducted semistructured qualitative interviews with 15 adults with SLE to explore patient experiences and perceptions of mental health services to identify facilitators and barriers to accessing mental health care among patients with SLE. Qualitative interviews were conducted via telephone and audio recorded for transcription and directed content analysis using NVivo software by two coders.

Results

The median age of the 15 participants was 48 years, 87% were female, 33% identified as Black or African American, and 33% identified as Hispanic or Latino. Qualitative themes were organized into three domains: barriers, facilitators, and preferences for mental health services. Barriers to the use of mental health services include mental health stigma, sociodemographic factors, lack of autonomy, and time commitment. Facilitators to the use of mental health services included strong relationships with their rheumatologists and mental health care clinician experience with patients with SLE. Preferences for mental health services included education‐based formats, mental health providers who work with patients with SLE, peer group formats, demographically and disease‐matched psychological resources, and an emphasis on non–disease‐related activities.

Conclusion

In the setting of persistent unmet psychosocial needs of patients living with SLE, data from this qualitative study will inform the development and refinement of mental health interventions that bolster psychological wellbeing in the SLE population.
Prominent Nonlinear Optical Absorption in SnS2‐Based Hybrid Inorganic–Organic Superlattice
Authors: Li Hui , Diao Mengjuan , Boukhvalov Danil W. , Ke Yuting , Humphrey Mark G. , Zhang Chi , Huang Zhipeng
Published: March 2024

Nonlinear optical materials hold great promise for applications in advanced opto‐/opto‐electronic devices. However, achieving a substantial nonlinear absorption coefficient and modulation depth concurrently remains challenging. This study proposes an effective strategy for enhancing the nonlinear optical response of materials through the construction of hybrid inorganic–organic superlattices via convenient organic intercalation. Synthesizing SnS2 intercalated with various tetra‐alkylammonium cations, it is revealed that the optimized sample (SnS2/CTA: SnS2 intercalated with cetyltrimethylammonium, CTA+) exhibits a substantial enhancement of nonlinear absorption across a broad wavelength range (from 515 to 1550 nm) and for diverse nonlinear optical processes (saturable absorption, two‐photon absorption, and three‐photon absorption). Specifically, the SnS2/CTA demonstrates a third‐order nonlinear absorption coefficient of (9.847 ± 0.084) × 103 cm GW−1 and a 69% modulation depth under laser excitation at 800 nm. Under 1550 nm excitation, it displays a fifth‐order nonlinear absorption coefficient of (45.3 ± 1.2) cm3 GW−2 and a 62% modulation depth. Notably, these values surpass those of the majority of non‐exfoliated materials. Structural, spectral, and density functional theory calculations indicate no induced structure defects post‐organic intercalation. The observed bandgap reduction is attributed to the electron injection associated with the organic molecule intercalation. The calculated performance enhancement, based on dielectric enhancement and bandgap reduction, qualitatively aligns with experimental findings.
Injectable Double Crosslinked Hydrogel‐Polypropylene Composite Mesh for Repairing Full‐Thickness Abdominal Wall Defects
Authors: Zhao Yixin , Li Xiaopei , Sun Ni , Mao Yan , Ma Teng , Liu Xiangping , Cheng Tao , Shao Xiangyu , Zhang Haifeng , Huang Xianggang , Li Junsheng , Huang Ningping , Wang Haibo
Published: March 2024

Abdominal wall defects are common clinical diseases, and mesh repair is the standard treatment method. The most commonly used polypropylene (PP) mesh in clinical practice has the advantages of good mechanical properties, stable performance, and effective tissue integration effect. However, direct contact between abdominal viscera and PP mesh can lead to severe abdominal adhesions. To prevent this, the development of a hydrogel‐PP composite mesh with anti‐adhesive properties may be an effective measure. Herein, biofunctional hydrogel loaded with rosmarinic acid is developed by modifying chitosan and Pluronic F127, which possesses suitable physical and chemical properties and commendable in vitro biocompatibility. In the repair of full‐thickness abdominal wall defects in rats, hydrogels are injected onto the surface of PP mesh and applied to intraperitoneal repair. The results indicate that the use of hydrogel‐PP composite mesh can alleviate abdominal adhesions resulting from traditional PP mesh implantation by decreasing local inflammatory response, reducing oxidative stress, and regulating the fibrinolytic system. Combined with the tissue integration ability of PP mesh, hydrogel‐PP composite mesh has great potential for repairing full‐thickness abdominal wall defects.
Ultrastable N‐Type Semiconducting Fiber Organic Electrochemical Transistors for Highly Sensitive Biosensors
Authors: Wang Xiu , Zhang Zhi , Li Peiyun , Xu Jingcao , Zheng Yuting , Sun Wenxi , Xie Mingyue , Wang Juanrong , Pan Xiran , Lei Xun , Wang Jingyi , Chen Jupeng , Chen Yiheng , Wang Shu‐Jen , Lei Ting
Published: March 2024

Organic electrochemical transistors (OECTs) have attracted increasing attention due to their merits of high transconductance, low operating voltage, and good biocompatibility, ideal for biosensors. However, further advances in their practical applications face challenges of low n‐type performance and poor stability. Here, it is demonstrated that wet‐spinning the commercially available n‐type conjugated polymer poly(benzimidazobenzophenanthroline) (BBL) into highly aligned and crystalline fibers enhances both OECT performance and stability. Although BBL is only soluble in high‐boiling‐point strong acids, it can be wet‐spun into high‐quality fibers with adjustable diameters. The BBL fiber OECTs exhibit a record‐high area‐normalized transconductance (gm,A) of 2.40 µS µm−2 and over 10 times higher figure‐of‐merit (µC*) than its thin‐film counterparts. More importantly, these fiber OECTs exhibit remarkable stability with no noticeable performance attenuation after 1500 cycles over 4 h operation, outperforming all previously reported n‐type OECTs. The superior performance and stability can be attributed to shorter π–π stacking distance and ordered molecular arrangement in the fibers, endowing the BBL fiber OECT‐based biosensors with outstanding sensitivity while keeping a miniaturized form factor. This work demonstrates that, beyond new material development, developing new fabrication technology is also crucial for addressing the performance and stability issues in n‐type OECTs.
High‐Entropy Photothermal Materials
Authors: He Cheng‐Yu , Li Yang , Zhou Zhuo‐Hao , Liu Bao‐Hua , Gao Xiang‐Hu
Published: March 2024

High‐entropy (HE) materials, celebrated for their extraordinary chemical and physical properties, have garnered increasing attention for their broad applications across diverse disciplines. The expansive compositional range of these materials allows for nuanced tuning of their properties and innovative structural designs. Recent advances have been centered on their versatile photothermal conversion capabilities, effective across the full solar spectrum (300–2500 nm). The HE effect, coupled with hysteresis diffusion, imparts these materials with desirable thermal and chemical stability. These attributes position HE materials as a revolutionary alternative to traditional photothermal materials, signifying a transformative shift in photothermal technology. This review delivers a comprehensive summary of the current state of knowledge regarding HE photothermal materials, emphasizing the intricate relationship between their compositions, structures, light‐absorbing mechanisms, and optical properties. Furthermore, the review outlines the notable advances in HE photothermal materials, emphasizing their contributions to areas, such as solar water evaporation, personal thermal management, solar thermoelectric generation, catalysis, and biomedical applications. The review culminates in presenting a roadmap that outlines prospective directions for future research in this burgeoning field, and also outlines fruitful ways to develop advanced HE photothermal materials and to expand their promising applications.
Virtual Reality‐Enabled Intuitive Magnetic Manipulation of Microrobots and Nanoparticles
Authors: Chowdhury A M Masum Bulbul , Abbasi Sarmad Ahmad , Gharamaleki Nader Latifi , Kim Jin‐young , Choi Hongsoo
Published: March 2024

Magnetic microrobots and nanoparticles offer unique capabilities for medical applications by granting unprecedented access to intricate and delicate anatomical structures. Nevertheless, an intuitive manipulation approach remains a challenge due to their small size and limited feedback. This study presents a new method for magnetic microrobot and nanoparticle control that employs virtual reality (VR), creating an immersive and realistic view of the bodily anatomy and the microrobot within. This study compares three manipulation modes: a traditional mode using 2D displays, VR mode using a VR headset and touch controllers, and VR autonomous programmed maneuvering. It is shown that VR‐assisted modes reduce the manipulation time by improving spatial awareness. Nanoparticles in a VR environment are also manipulated. The proposed method will find applications in terms of intuitive, immersive microrobots or magnetic nanoparticle control in complex biological environments, thus in many medical procedures and for drug and cell delivery. The immersive nature of this approach enhances the ability of the user to perceive and understand complex anatomical structures, facilitating better navigation within delicate environments; both dexterity and spatial awareness are improved. Thus, it is shown how microrobots and magnetic nanoparticles can be controlled using immersive simulations to improve both visualization and manipulation.
Novel Isoxazolylpyrimidine Derivatives: Design, Synthesis, Antifungal Activity and In‐Silico Studies
Authors: Nagaraja rao Hari Krishnapura , Poojary Boja , Mohan Kumar Kavya Kallahalli , Chandrasehar Govindan , Sannathammegowda Krishnaveni , Pandith Anup
Published: March 2024

The advancement of environmentally friendly chemical synthesis in both academic and corporate research has recently taken on enormous relevance. Pesticides are substances, either chemical or biological, that are used to get rid of or lessen the impact of pests. To control the fungi in crops a new set of isoxazolylpyrimidine derivatives were planned, synthesized, and characterized. The compounds indicated were synthesized in high yields, and their structures were determined using elemental analysis, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and LCMS. HPLC was used to assess the purity of the synthesized molecules, and the purity of some compounds were found to be >98 % a/a while a couple were found to be >95 % a/a. The synthesized compounds were assessed for their antifungal activity. Among these, compounds 5d, 5h, and 5l exhibit substantial antifungal action and considerably suppress the growth of Rhizoctonia solani, Sclerotium rolfsii, and Macrophominaphaseolina. Macrophominaphaseolina inhibition percentages were 77.60, 70.49, 69.03, Sclerotium rolfsii inhibition percentages were 78.73, 74.03, 68.44, and Rhizoctonia solani inhibition percentages were 81.77, 76.29, and 71.01 for compounds 5 d, 5 h and 5 l respectively. The plausible mechanism of fungal inhibitory activities of rationally designed isoxazolyl pyrimidine derivatives is attributed to the blocking of the oxygen activation of HEME iron in membrane‐bound 14α‐demethylase. The presence of pyrimidine unit in designed materials is a vital factor for inducing antifungal activities, which was further corroborated through the density functional theory (DFT),molecular docking studies and molecular dynamics simulation studies.
Anti‐Solvent‐Free Preparation for Efficient and Photostable Pure‐Iodide Wide‐Bandgap Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Nie Ting , Fang Zhimin , Yang Tinghuan , Zhao Kui , Ding Jianning , Liu Shengzhong (Frank)
Published: March 2024

The perovskite/silicon tandem solar cell (TSC) has attracted tremendous attention due to its potential to breakthrough the theoretical efficiency set for single‐junction solar cells. However, the perovskite solar cell (PSC) designed as its top component cell suffers from severe photo‐induced halide segregation owing to its mixed‐halide strategy for achieving desirable wide‐bandgap (1.68 eV). Developing pure‐iodide wide‐bandgap perovskites is a promising route to fabricate photostable perovskite/silicon TSCs. Here, we report efficient and photostable pure‐iodide wide‐bandgap PSCs made from an anti‐solvent‐free (ASF) technique. The ASF process is achieved by mixing two precursor solutions, both of which are capable of depositing corresponding perovskite films without involving anti‐solvent. The mixed solution finally forms Cs0.3DMA0.2MA0.5PbI3 perovskite film with a bandgap of 1.68 eV. Furthermore, methylammonium chloride additive is applied to enhance the crystallinity and reduce the trap density of perovskite films. As a result, the pure‐iodide wide‐bandgap PSC delivers efficiency as high as 21.30 % with excellent photostability, the highest for this type of solar cells. The ASF method significantly improves the device reproducibility as compared with devices made from other anti‐solvent methods. Our findings provide a novel recipe to prepare efficient and photostable wide‐bandgap PSCs.
Mechanochemical Birch Reduction with Low Reactive Alkaline Earth Metals
Authors: Nallaparaju Jagadeesh Varma , Satsi Riin , Merzhyievskyi Danylo , Jarg Tatsiana , Aav Riina , Kananovich Dzmitry G.
Published: March 2024

Birch reduction and similar dissolved metal‐type transformations hold significant importance in the organic synthesis toolbox. Historically, the field has been dominated by alkali metal reductants. In this study, we report that largely neglected, low‐reactive alkaline earth metals can become powerful and affordable reductants when used in a ball mill under essentially solvent‐free conditions, in the presence of ethylenediamine and THF as liquid additives. Calcium can reduce both electron‐deficient and electron‐rich arenes, with yields of products similar to those obtained with lithium metal. Magnesium reveals enhanced reducing power, enabling the reduction of benzoic acids while keeping electron‐rich aromatic moieties intact and allows for chemoselective transformations. The developed mechanochemical approach uses readily available and safer‐to‐handle metals, operates under air and ambient temperature conditions, and can be used for gram‐scale preparations. Finally, we demonstrate that the developed conditions can be used for other dissolved metal‐type reductive transformations, including reductive amination, deoxygenation, dehalogenation, alkene and alkyne reductions.
Convex unknown input observer for sensor fault estimation of nonlinear descriptor systems via linear matrix inequalities
Authors: Ortiz Nery , Linares Eduardo , Santillan Raul , López‐Estrada Francisco‐Ronay , Estrada‐Manzo Victor
Published: March 2024

This paper proposes a novel convex unknown input observer for simultaneously estimating system states and sensor faults in nonlinear systems. The observer design is based on the Lyapunov method and provides conditions in the form of linear matrix inequalities. The methodology allows handling a larger family of systems than previous approaches as it considers unknown premise variables for the convex error system. Numerical simulations and real‐time experiments demonstrate the effectiveness in practical applications. The results suggest that the proposed convex observer can accurately estimate system states and sensor faults.
Gestational thyroid hormones and autism‐related traits in the EARLI and HOME studies
Authors: Zhong Caichen , Rando Juliette , Patti Marisa A. , Braun Joseph M. , Chen Aimin , Xu Yingying , Lanphear Bruce P. , Yolton Kimberly , Croen Lisa A. , Fallin M. Daniele , Hertz‐Picciotto Irva , Newschaffer Craig J. , Lyall Kristen
Published: March 2024

Thyroid hormones are essential for neurodevelopment. Few studies have considered associations with quantitatively measured autism spectrum disorder (ASD)‐related traits, which may help elucidate associations for a broader population. Participants were drawn from two prospective pregnancy cohorts: the Early Autism Risk Longitudinal Investigation (EARLI), enrolling pregnant women who already had a child with ASD, and the Health Outcomes and Measures of the Environment (HOME) Study, following pregnant women from the greater Cincinnati, OH area. Gestational thyroid‐stimulating hormone (TSH) and free thyroxine (FT4) were measured in mid‐pregnancy 16 (±3) weeks gestation serum samples. ASD‐related traits were measured using the Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS) at ages 3–8 years. The association was examined using quantile regression, adjusting for maternal and sociodemographic factors. 278 participants (132 from EARLI, 146 from HOME) were included. TSH distributions were similar across cohorts, while FT4 levels were higher in EARLI compared to HOME. In pooled analyses, particularly for those in the highest SRS quantile (95th percentile), higher FT4 levels were associated with increasing SRS scores (β = 5.21, 95% CI = 0.93, 9.48), and higher TSH levels were associated with decreasing SRS scores (β = −6.94, 95% CI = −11.04, −2.83). The association between TSH and SRS remained significant in HOME for the 95% percentile of SRS scores (β = −6.48, 95% CI = −12.16, −0.80), but not EARLI. Results for FT4 were attenuated when examined in the individual cohorts. Our results add to evidence that gestational thyroid hormones may be associated with ASD‐related outcomes by suggesting that relationships may differ across the distribution of ASD‐related traits and by familial likelihood of ASD.
Nachhaltiger Hochwasserschutz in zweierlei Hinsicht
Authors: Ehlers Gerd
Published: March 2024

Die Küstenlinie der Insel Sylt ist im Besonderen im Bereich der Uferwand Westerland der Erosion ausgesetzt. Um einen fortschreitenden Abbruch der Küstenlinie zu verhindern, musste die vorhandene Ufermauer, im Ursprung aus dem Jahre 1912 und 1923 verstärkt, in ihrer Schutzfunktion zwingend erhalten bleiben. Auch bei der baulichen Umsetzung für den Neubau war dies maßgeblich und zu berücksichtigen. Die gesamte Hochwasserschutzanlage befand sich in einem schlechten Zustand, sodass akuter Handlungsbedarf bestand. Zusätzlich zur Beseitigung des schlechten Zustands der vorhandenen Uferwand wurde unter Berücksichtigung zukünftiger klimatischer Veränderungen eine Erhöhung der Küstenschutzanlage geplant und umgesetzt. Die aktuelle Wandhöhe entsprach nicht mehr dem technischen Standard, um Sturmflutereignisse abzuwehren. Der Neubau der Hochwasserschutzanlage hat nach aktuellem technischem Standard ein Schutzniveau von NHN +6,95 m. Die Wand kann zukünftig bei Bedarf mit relativ geringem Aufwand auf NHN +7,45 m erhöht werden und trägt somit bereits heute dem fortschreitenden Klimawandel Rechnung. Nachhaltiges Bauen in zweierlei Hinsicht – unter Erhalt des Bestands und unter Berücksichtigung künftiger Klimawandelanpassungsmaßnahmen. Die Bauunternehmung Gebr. Echterhoff GmbH & Co. KG – Niederlassung Hamburg – führte den Bau von fünf der insgesamt neun Abschnitte mit einer Länge von ca. 355 m bei einer Gesamtlänge von ca. 665 m erfolgreich durch.
The contours of evolution: In defence of Darwin's tree of life paradigm
Authors: van der Gulik Peter T. S. , Hoff Wouter D. , Speijer Dave
Published: March 2024

Both the concept of a Darwinian tree of life (TOL) and the possibility of its accurate reconstruction have been much criticized. Criticisms mostly revolve around the extensive occurrence of lateral gene transfer (LGT), instances of uptake of complete organisms to become organelles (with the associated subsequent gene transfer to the nucleus), as well as the implications of more subtle aspects of the biological species concept. Here we argue that none of these criticisms are sufficient to abandon the valuable TOL concept and the biological realities it captures. Especially important is the need to conceptually distinguish between organismal trees and gene trees, which necessitates incorporating insights of widely occurring LGT into modern evolutionary theory. We demonstrate that all criticisms, while based on important new findings, do not invalidate the TOL. After considering the implications of these new insights, we find that the contours of evolution are best represented by a TOL.
Contemporary experience of mitral transcatheter edge‐to‐edge repair technology in patients with mitral annular calcification
Authors: Mustafa Ahmad , Basman Craig , Cinelli Michael P. , Goldberg Ythan , Wang Denny , Patel Vidhi , Kaur Arpanjeet , Singh Priyanka , Wei Chapman , Paliwoda Ethan , Kodra Arber , Pirelli Luigi , Thampi Shankar , Maniatis Gregory , Rutkin Bruce , Kalimi Robert , Koss Elana , Trost Biana , Supariwala Azhar A. , Jacob Scheinerman Samuel , Kliger Chad A.
Published: March 2024

Background

Mitral annular calcification (MAC) has been an exclusion for many of the earlier pivotal trials that were instrumental in gaining device approval and indications for mitral transcatheter edge‐to‐edge repair (M‐TEER).

Aims

To evaluate the impact of MAC on the procedural durability and success of newer generation MitraClip® systems (G3 and G4 systems).

Methods

Data were collected from Northwell TEER registry. Patients that underwent M‐TEER with third or fourth generation MitraClip device were included. Patients were divided into −MAC (none‐mild) and +MAC (moderate‐severe) groups. Procedural success was defined as ≤ grade 2 + mitral regurgitation (MR) postprocedure, and durability was defined as ≤ grade 2 + MR retention at 1 month and 1 year. Univariate analysis compared outcomes between groups.

Results

Of 260 M‐TEER patients, 160 were −MAC and 100 were +MAC. Procedural success was comparable; however, there were three patients who required conversion to cardiac surgery during the index hospitalization in the +MAC group versus none in the −MAC group (though this was not statistically significant). At 1‐month follow‐up, there were no significant differences in MR severity. At 1‐year follow‐up, +MAC had higher moderate‐severe MR (22.1% vs. 7.5%; p = 0.002) and higher mean transmitral gradients (5.3 vs. 4.0 mmHg; p = 0.001) with no differences in mortality, New York Heart Association functional class or ejection fraction.

Conclusion

In selective patients with high burden of MAC, contemporary M‐TEER is safe, and procedural success is similar to patients with none‐mild MAC. However, a loss of procedural durability was seen in +MAC group at 1‐year follow‐up. Further studies with longer follow‐ups are required to assess newer mTEER devices and their potential clinical implications in patients with a high burden of MAC.
Design Strategy of Metal Nanoparticle Catalysis for C−H Bond Activation Reactions
Authors: Hasegawa Shingo , Motokura Ken
Published: March 2024

C−H bond activation reactions facilitate highly efficient molecular transformations without requiring pre‐activating substrates. While the majority of reported reaction systems for C−H activation rely on metal complexes, certain reactions have demonstrated unique or superior catalysis of metal nanoparticles. This Concept article seeks to delineate recent reports that examine the novel catalysis and design strategy of supported metal nanoparticles for C−H bond activation reactions. These reactions include oxidative homocoupling of arenes, dehydrogenative alkylation of benzenes, selective H/D exchange reactions, and α,β‐dehydrogenation of ketones.
Structured discriminative Gaussian graph learning for multimode process monitoring
Authors: Wang Jing , Liu Yi , Zhang Dongping , Xie Lei , Zeng Jiusun
Published: March 2024

Aiming at the actual industrial process background that different modes share the same system configurations and control structure, this article proposes a novel structured discriminant Gaussian graph learning for multimode process monitoring. The proposed method considers not only the sparsity of graph model but also the measurement of data variation based on a mismatched graph and the common node support between different graphical structures. The objective function involves two sets of regularization terms: the trace terms for mismatched measurements and the
‐norm imposed on the union of decomposed graph matrices. Due to the introduced mismatched trace terms, the cost of matching the data points and graph models that have inconsistent class labels can be expanded, which brings more discrimination for the graph‐based mode identification. While the common structure extracted by the
‐norm forces the estimated graph models to have structural similarities, thus alleviating the negative influence caused by graph discrimination. Once a relatively accurate and discriminative reference graph model is obtained, the downstream test graph learning and analysis can be conducted online by employing the moving window techniques. By comparing the matched and mismatched graph‐based measurements, the process mode can be identified correctly and stably. To grasp the abnormal process changes, the
‐norm for the row sparsity is again applied to the graph difference matrices, the sensitive monitoring statistics and the fault isolation results can be obtained effectively. All the optimization problems in this paper can be solved using the alternating direction multiplier (ADMM) algorithm. The effectiveness of our proposed approach is illustrated by the application to a real blast furnace iron‐making production process.
Determining the optimum planting date × maturity group combination for soybean produced in South Carolina
Authors: Holladay Sarah K. , Plumblee Michael T. , Marshall Michael W. , Jones Michael A. , Narayanan Sruthi
Published: March 2024

Previous research has shown that delayed planting of soybean (Glycine max L. Merr.) can reduce yield by as much as 30 lb ac−1 day−1 when planted after mid‐June. In South Carolina, soybean is often planted in rotation with other crops or double‐cropped behind cereal grains, which can lead to delayed planting and potential yield‐loss. In this study, our objective was to determine the optimum planting date (PD) × maturity group (MG) combination on non‐irrigated soybean yield in South Carolina, and to determine yield results for the entire planting window ranging from March through August. Four MGs (IV, V, VI, and VII) were planted on six PDs (March–August) in 2021 and 2022 in Florence and Blackville, SC. Data collection consisted of stand counts to determine final plant populations, end‐of‐season plant height and node counts, and yield/moisture content at harvest. The April, May, and June PDs resulted in the highest grain yield in Blackville in 2021 (averaging 76 bu ac−1) and 2022 (averaging 42 bu ac−1). The April and May PDs had the highest grain yield in Florence when averaged over both years (53 bu ac−1). MG alone did not influence yield in Florence. However, MGs V, VI, and VII produced the highest yields in Blackville. The optimum PD × MG combination for yield was the May planted MG V in Blackville (88 bu ac−1 in 2021 and 49 bu ac−1 in 2022) and the April planted MG VII in Florence (65 bu ac−1). Plant heights and node counts were highest when soybean was planted in April and May, and MG IV had the tallest plants overall due to its indeterminate growth habit. Results from this study suggest that planting soybean as early as late‐March and as late as late‐June may not reduce soybean yield in South Carolina as some late‐March and late‐June MG combinations met or exceeded the state yield average of 37 bu ac−1 and did not differ statistically from April and May yields. This research has already impacted soybean growers in South Carolina as the crop insurance window for full coverage has been extended to include earlier and later PDs as of 2023.
Am Taupunkt – Vom Vernebeln, Bewölken und Aufklaren
Authors: Sicker Dieter
Published: March 2024

Diesmal geht es um etwas, das nur zu sehen, aber nicht zu greifen ist: Nebel und Wolken. Mögen Sie Edgar‐Wallace‐Filme, die Krimis mit dem Augenzwinkern? Als erster lief „Der Frosch mit der Maske“ (1959). In einem Nachtclub, der Lolita Bar, singt die leicht verruchte Lolita „Nachts im Nebel an der Themse, soll man nicht alleine sein“. Das kann man sich sehr gut vorstellen und ihr dabei kräftig recht geben (Abbildung 1).
A comparative bibliometric study of the transport risk considerations of liquefied natural gas and liquefied petroleum gas
Authors: Huffman Mitchell , Hutchison Victoria , Ranganathan Sreenivasan , Noll Gregory , Baxter Christina , Hildebrand Michael , Wang Qingsheng
Published: March 2024

Prevailing safety guidance for the transportation of liquefied natural gas (LNG) is based on the guidance for liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) transportation; therefore, the safety considerations for LNG and LPG transport must be compared. A literature review was performed to understand and compare the development of research into LNG and LPG, their transportation, and the safety considerations involved. The literature review revealed key hazard differences, as well as the lack of transport safety studies compared to the vast field of research for both substances. With the scientific background established, the chemical and physical properties of LNG and LPG are compared, then the hazards related to their properties. Finally, with knowledge of the properties and hazards of both LNG and LPG, the available risk analyses are discussed. LNG transport has undergone minimal accident frequency analysis compared to LPG transport. Most of these frequency analyses have been for marine transport and contain high uncertainties in the determined probabilities due to sparse available data. It is also apparent that consequence analysis studies have not been adequately explored; however, modelling software provides consequence understanding via simulation. LNG transportation lacks the knowledge base from research and practice that LPG transportation has, and due to limited incident history, the lack of research into boiling liquid expanding vapour explosion (BLEVE) potential of LNG and the lack of understanding of the severity, likelihood, and repeated explosions of rapid phase transition limit understanding of the risk of LNG transportation. Potential future research is recommended to address these vital knowledge gaps.
Numerical simulation of inter‐stage of multistage centrifugal pump by varying number of blades
Authors: Yadav Durvesh , Singh Raj Kumar , Kumarswamy Manjunath
Published: March 2024

Numerous impellers are placed in line on the same shaft in a multistage centrifugal pump, comprising an impeller, diffuser, and return channel. The design of a two‐stage multistage centrifugal pump according to the specifications given in the literature was created using Creo Parametric software and validated by carrying out a numerical simulation of the first‐stage centrifugal pump by varying the number of blades and impeller speed and concluding that the pump with 7 blades and 1900 rpm rotation gives the best efficiency and head by comparing the obtained results to experimental ones. ANSYS Fluent 2022R1 was used for simulation. The optimal solutions from the first stage were used to analyze the second stage. It was observed that losses in the diffuser of the 1st stage and 2nd stage are almost the same, but head losses in the return passage of the 1st stage and 2nd stage have differences of 19.99%, 28.5%, and 23.59% for 5, 6, and 7 blades, respectively. The findings show that the multistage simulation could more accurately mirror the actual flow than the two‐stage simulation, but it also had more demanding computer configuration requirements. A two‐stage simulation is a good option for estimating pump performance because it balances computation time and numerical precision better.
Microservices‐based databank for Turkish hazelnut cultivars using IoT and semantic web technologies
Authors: Aydin Sahin , Aldara Dieaa
Published: March 2024

Information and communication technologies (ICTs) can play a crucial role in facilitating access to comprehensive information on the quality standards of Turkish hazelnut cultivars. In this regard, this study introduces a Hazelnut Databank System (HDS) that utilizes the microservices architecture, an integrated software system supported by the Internet of Things (IoT) and semantic web, to categorize Turkish hazelnut cultivars. The study focuses on developing microservices using various programming languages and frameworks. Specifically, C# on the .NET Core Framework was used for both microservices and the web‐based application implemented through the ASP.NET Core MVC Framework. Mobile‐based software applications were created using Xamarin. Forms, and the IoT application was developed using the Python programming language. The data storage is facilitated through the MS SQL Server database. Additionally, the study incorporates the implementation of a hazelnut species classification system using the DNN + ResNet50 machine learning model, achieving an impressive accuracy rate of 95.77%. The overall usability of the system was evaluated, resulting in a score of 42 out of 50. By providing detailed information on Turkish hazelnut cultivars, the HDS has the potential to greatly improve hazelnut production quality in Turkey and increase awareness of hazelnut agriculture among relevant stakeholders.
Sensitizing Explosives Through Molecular Doping
Authors: Nicolau Shelby T. , Matzger Adam J.
Published: March 2024

Cocrystallization assembles multicomponent crystals in defined ratios that are held together by intermolecular interactions. While cocrystals have seen extensive use in the pharmaceutical industry for solving issues with stability and solubility, extension to the field of energetic materials for improved properties has proven difficult. Predicting successful coformers remains a challenge for systems lacking well‐understood synthons that promote reliable intermolecular assembly. Herein, an alternative method is investigated for altering energetic properties that operates in the absence of well‐defined interactions by molecular doping. An impact sensitive primary explosive, cyanuric triazide (CTA), was selected as the dopant to test if less impact sensitive secondary explosives could gain increased sensitization to impact when CTA is inserted into their crystal lattices. Molecular doping was successful in sensitizing three melt‐castable energetics: 2,4,6‐trinitrotoluene (TNT), 2,4‐dinitroanisole (DNAN), and 1,3,3‐trinitroazetidine (TNAZ). CTA could also be incorporated as a stabilized inclusion to sensitize DNAN further. These results demonstrate how the judicious choice of dopant can lead to specific property improvements, providing a method for creating energetic materials with new properties to access metal‐free primary explosives and physical hot spot models for explosive ignition.