bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Na–X Zeolite Synthesis Using the Response Surface Methodology Design of an Experimental Method for Atmospheric Water Harvesting
Authors: Mehdikhani Ali , Salahi Esmaeil , Shahmoradi Jahangir
Published: March 2024

Currently, obtaining clean water requires expenditures on fossil fuels and water purification costs. In recent years, due to the excessive expansion of CO2 gas, which has caused climate warming, much attention has been given to the use of renewable energy in the production of fresh water. Since air contains a significant amount of fresh water in the form of moisture, adsorption‐based atmospheric water harvesting is considered an efficient strategy for water production. In this method, at night, air humidity is adsorbed by an adsorbent material, and during the day, evaporated using solar energy and stored. Na–X zeolite has a high moisture adsorption capacity at low relative humidity (RH) due to the bonding and arrangement of tetrahedral silicate and aluminate ions. In the current research, it is aimed to optimize the synthesis conditions of Na–X zeolite materials to adsorb more moisture. The optimization is achieved via the response surface methodology method of the design of experiment. Powder with optimal properties (DOE) is obtained with a specific surface area of 688.45 m2 g−1, a total pore volume of 0.45 cm3 g−1, and an average pore diameter of 2.06 nm; this material adsorbs moisture up to 31.7% of its weight at 20% RH.
Preparation of Sea Urchin‐Like Co/Ni Alloy Compounds for Pseudocapacitive Supercapacitor
Authors: Wei Guimei , Hu Fang , Tian Ye , Jiang Jiaxin , Liu Xue , Yao Lei , Sun Lixian , Xu Fen , Peng Hongliang , Kannan Palanisamy
Published: March 2024

Energy density and power density are the two most crucial metrics in advanced electrochemical energy storage (EES) devices. The design of pseudocapacitor materials with good structure and reasonable composition can ensure that the power density can be greatly increased under the condition of little or no reduction in energy density. However, how to reasonably design excellent pseudocapacitor materials is still a huge challenge. Herein, layered double hydroxides containing Ni and Co elements on carbon materials derived from distillers’ grains by hydrothermal synthesis (NiCo‐LDH/JKPC‐2) are grown. The fabricated NiCo‐LDH/JKPC‐2 has exhibited a sea urchin‐like nanostructure that primarily consists of mesoporous and possesses a high specific surface area (303 m2 g−1), which facilitates the formation of larger active sites, thereby increasing the rate of charge transport. The specific capacitance of the NiCo‐LDH/JKPC‐2 reaches a maximum value of 1454 F g−1 at 1 A g−1. When it combines with carbon materials originating from distillers’ grains, the assembled asymmetric supercapacitor electrode exhibits a remarkable energy density (40.86 Wh kg−1 at 775 W kg−1) and superior power density (7750.8 W kg−1 at 21.53 Wh kg−1). Thus, the NiCo‐LDH/JKPC‐2 asymmetric supercapacitor electrode can be considered as a potential candidate in advanced energy storage device systems.
Capacity sizing method of virtual power plants based on game theory
Authors: Liu Xiaoou
Published: March 2024

In the context of a low‐carbon economy, considering the output uncertainties of the renewable energy sources and the fluctuation of electrical price, the cost–benefit analysis is proposed for multi‐investor virtual power plant (VPP) under different risk preferences, and multi‐investor VPP capacity sizing problem is researched. First, the structural organization and flexible regulation characteristics of multi‐investor VPPs are analyzed. Second, integrated model and cost–benefit analysis indexes of VPP are built. Third, an optimal capacity sizing model of multi‐investor VPP is established, aiming at income maximization. Game theory is used to configure the distributed generators in the VPP under various cooperative modes and noncooperative modes of multiple investors. Fourth, according to the installed proportion of each distributed generator and the risk preference coefficient of each investor, the income allocation correction model based on the improved Shapley value method is proposed to stabilize the optimal VPP alliance. Finally, the demonstration project in the animation industry park of Sino‐Singapore Tianjin Eco‐City is employed as representative scenarios, which is used to validate the effectiveness of the proposed model. The results prove that the method proposed in this paper can guide knowledge for the investors with different risk preferences when planning the optimal capacity of multiple distributed generators in the VPP.
Experimental study on the dissolution characteristics of ethane into oil‐based mud in complex oil and gas wellbore environments
Authors: Xuncheng Song , Yongwang Liu , Hongqiang Huang , Guojun Lin , Francis Sukari Bernard , Jun Cai , Lei Wang , Zhiqiang Jiang
Published: March 2024

Accurately determining the solubility of ethane in oil‐based mud is crucial for assessing the severity of gas kicks and implementing appropriate well control procedures. The key factors influencing the solubility of ethane gas in oil‐based drilling fluids include the content of base oil, pressure, temperature, and the viscosity of the drilling fluid. This study aims to test the solubility of high‐purity ethane in oil‐based mud under simulated downhole conditions in a 5000 m deep well. The test covers a temperature range of 40–140°C and a partial pressure range of 0.17–5.92 MPa. The effects of temperature, pressure, base oil content, and drilling fluid viscosity on the solubility of ethane are analyzed using various experimental data processing methods. The results show that the variation in ethane solubility with pressure and temperature is nearly linear within the specified ranges. Furthermore, the impact of pressure (1.24–2.78%/MPa) on solubility is approximately 50 times greater than that of temperature (−0.013 to −0.049%/°C) in oil‐based drilling mud. Additionally, ethane's solubility decreases as the drilling fluid's viscosity increases. The ethane solubility in 80% and 90% oil‐based muds is roughly 1.6 times and 2.0 times higher than in 70% oil‐based mud under the same testing conditions. Models for predicting ethane solubility have been developed using screening procedures and statistical regression. These models can be incorporated into gas–liquid flow models to analyze flow behavior during gas kicks.
A legacy in three discourse shifts: Stafford Hood, culturally responsive evaluation, and the continual interrogation of and resistance against European/Euro‐settler colonial/capitalist hegemony in, through, and around evaluation
Authors: Shanker Vidhya , Hopson Rodney K.
Published: March 2024

The subtitle of this special issue, “We Know Your Name,” is as much an homage to Stafford Hood as it is to the Nobody Knows My Name oral and archival historical project he begat (2001), laying the foundation for a set of written projects that highlight the contributions of evaluation groundbreakers before the Brown v. Board of Education 1954 Supreme Court decision. The purpose of this article is twofold: (a) to historicize and contextualize the contributions of Hood and culturally responsive evaluation (CRE), and (b) to engage in dialogue about the future of CRE, including its application among those advancing critical consciousness in and around academia, government agencies, research and evaluation firms, nonprofit/nongovernmental organizations, and philanthropy. We fulfill this purpose by identifying, naming, and explaining three shifts within evaluation discourse that we attribute to Hood's scholarship and activism within the field, with mixed results for the liberation of minoritized and otherized groups. CRE seems everywhere at the moment. Amidst its mainstreaming, diluting, and whitewashing, we see an opening for critique and resistance. Failure to critique diminishes both Hood's legacy and the critical and liberatory roots underlying CRE. This article honors the past while catalyzing the continual interrogation and resistance against the hegemony waged within and through evaluation.
Impact of urban productive safety net programme on poverty reduction and food security: Evidence from major cities of Eastern Ethiopia (Dire Dawa, Harar and Jigjiga)
Authors: Abdulahi Salah Mohammed , Feyisa Habtamu Legese , Ayen Dereje Degu
Published: March 2024

Different social protection programs are designed in low‐income countries to eradicate poverty and improve the food security of poor people. Currently, the Urban Productive Safety Net Program (UPSNP) is designed to support those who are living in poverty and face food insecurity with predictable and reliable support through food, cash, or vouchers. However, limited empirical evidence has been presented about the significant impact of the program on the well‐being of households who participated in the program and the factors that affect the households' decision to participate in the program. Hence, this study aims to evaluate the impact of participation in UPSNP on well‐being using household survey data gathered from three main cities of Ethiopia: Dire Dawa, Harar, and Jigjiga in 2022. This study employed both propensity score matching (PSM) and endogenous switching regression (ESR) models to assess the impact of the UPSNP. The result shows that the probability of a household's participation decision is determined by the age of the household head, number of children, savings, house ownership, employment status of the household head, and shock. Furthermore, we found a consistently positive impact across models, indicating that participation in UPSNP reduces poverty and increases food security of households.
3D printing of gellan‐dextran methacrylate IPNs in glycerol and their bioadhesion by RGD derivatives
Authors: Paoletti Luca , Baschieri Francesco , Migliorini Claudia , Di Meo Chiara , Monasson Olivier , Peroni Elisa , Matricardi Pietro
Published: March 2024

The ever‐growing need for new tissue and organ replacement approaches paved the way for tissue engineering. Successful tissue regeneration requires an appropriate scaffold, which allows cell adhesion and provides mechanical support during tissue repair. In this light, an interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) system based on biocompatible polysaccharides, dextran (Dex) and gellan (Ge), was designed and proposed as a surface that facilitates cell adhesion in tissue engineering applications. The new matrix was developed in glycerol, an unconventional solvent, before the chemical functionalization of the polymer backbone, which provides the system with enhanced properties, such as increased stiffness and bioadhesiveness. Dex was modified introducing methacrylic groups, which are known to be sensitive to UV light. At the same time, Ge was functionalized with RGD moieties, known as promoters for cell adhesion. The printability of the systems was evaluated by exploiting the ability of glycerol to act as a co‐initiator in the process, speeding up the kinetics of crosslinking. Following semi‐IPNs formation, the solvent was removed by extensive solvent exchange with HEPES and CaCl2, leading to conversion into IPNs due to the ionic gelation of Ge chains. Mechanical properties were investigated and IPNs ability to promote osteoblasts adhesion was evaluated on thin‐layer, 3D‐printed disk films. Our results show a significant increase in adhesion on hydrogels decorated with RGD moieties, where osteoblasts adopted the spindle‐shaped morphology typical of adherent mesenchymal cells. Our findings support the use of RGD‐decorated Ge/Dex IPNs as new matrices able to support and facilitate cell adhesion in the perspective of bone tissue regeneration.
Mineral matrix deposition of MC3T3‐E1 pre‐osteoblastic cells exposed to silicocarnotite and nagelschmidtite bioceramics: In vitro comparison to hydroxyapatite
Authors: Rincón‐López July Andrea , Hermann‐Muñoz Jennifer Andrea , Detsch Rainer , Rangel‐López Raúl , Muñoz‐Saldaña Juan , Jiménez‐Sandoval Sergio , Alvarado‐Orozco Juan Manuel , Boccaccini Aldo R.
Published: March 2024

This work presents the effect of the silicocarnotite (SC) and nagelschmidtite (Nagel) phases on in vitro osteogenesis. The known hydroxyapatite of biological origin (BHAp) was used as a standard of osteoconductive characteristics. The evaluation was carried out in conventional and osteogenic media for comparative purposes to assess the osteogenic ability of the bioceramics. First, the effect of the material on cell viability at 24 h, 7 and 14 days of incubation was evaluated. In addition, cell morphology and attachment on dense bioceramic surfaces were observed by fluorescence microscopy. Specifically, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity was evaluated as an osteogenic marker of the early stages of bone cell differentiation. Mineralized extracellular matrix was observed by calcium phosphate deposits and extracellular vesicle formation. Furthermore, cell phenotype determination was confirmed by scanning electron microscope. The results provided relevant information on the cell attachment, proliferation, and osteogenic differentiation processes after 7 and 14 days of incubation. Finally, it was demonstrated that SC and Nagel phases promote cell proliferation and differentiation, while the Nagel phase exhibited a superior osteoconductive behavior and could promote MC3T3‐E1 cell differentiation to a higher extent than SC and BHAp, which was reflected in a higher number of deposits in a shorter period for both conventional and osteogenic media.
Study of absorption and emission spectra of substituted terthiophene compounds by methods of theoretical chemistry
Authors: Kužela Tomáš , Bondarev Dmitrij , Kutálková Eva , Benková Zuzana , Hrnčiřík Josef , Ingr Marek
Published: March 2024

Terthiophene derivatives attract interest due to their prospective applications in optoelectronic or sensor devices. Due to their nontoxicity they can be considered as suitable candidates in biological applications. Supramolecular organization of the matter is one of the most interesting topics in contemporary materials science. Amphiphilic chromophores based on substituted terthiophenes are capable of self‐assembly into supramolecular architectures. In this work, we aim at simulation of the spectral properties of terthiophene with oligo(ethylene oxide) substituents by the methods of quantum chemistry and molecular dynamics (MD). The potential energy surface (PES) of this molecule was determined by the methods of density functional theory (DFT) for the ground state and time‐dependent density‐functional theory (TD‐DFT) for the excited state. MD simulations in water than revealed the most frequented molecular conformations in both these states. Absorption and fluorescence spectra were determined for all these conformations, including the surrounding water molecules, using TD‐DFT and averaged over the conformation space to obtain the final absorption and fluorescence spectrum. The calculated spectra were compared with their experimental counterparts and the differences were discussed in context of the supramolecular structure revealed by confocal microscopy. In spite of its simplicity, this approach provides a satisfactory approximation of absorption and fluorescent spectra of these molecules obtained by computational methods.
Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Modeling Analysis of Delpazolid (LCB01‐0371) in Adult Patients with Pulmonary Tuberculosis
Authors: Lee Sang Min , Choi Seung Chan , Mun Kyung Ran , Seo Ji Young , Cho Young Lag , Shim Tae Sun , Lim Hyeong‐Seok
Published: March 2024

Delpazolid (LCB01‐0371) is a novel oxazolidinone derivative with a good safety profile for treating gram‐positive pathogenic infections such as Mycobacterium abscessus, a highly pathogenic drug‐resistant Mycobacterium. In this study, we evaluated the pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmacodynamics (PD) of delpazolid after 14 days of multiple oral administration, using data from adult patients with pulmonary tuberculosis. 800 mg once a day, 400 mg twice a day, 800 mg twice a day, and 1200 mg once a day delpazolid for 14 days were tested in 63 patients with pulmonary tuberculosis. For PK blood collection, inpatient and outpatient scheduling were separately implemented. Plasma concentrations of delpazolid were measured at visits 2, 4, 6, and 8 in outpatients, and four sparse blood samples were measured in inpatients. PD models were sequentially fitted using individual PK parameter estimates obtained from PK compartmental models. For PK modeling, 180 plasma concentrations of delpazolid from 56 patients were included. A two‐compartment mixed first‐ and zero‐order absorption model best described the time course of plasma concentration. For the PD model, 448 bacterial titer data from 60 patients were used. The time course of bacterial titers (log10 CFU/mL) was described by a model that consists of the growth and killing rate of bacteria with the sigmoid Emax model. The PK–PD simulation suggested that the bacterial titers are the lowest on the 800 mg bid regimen among the four, consistent with observed data, as all regimens substantially decrease. In the dose–response relationship, the effectiveness of delpazolid was suggested.
Mechanobiology of bacterial biofilms: Implications for orthopedic infection
Authors: Blondel Margaux , Machet Camille , Wildemann Britt , Abidine Yara , Swider Pascal
Published: March 2024

Postoperative bacterial infections are prevalent complications in both human and veterinary orthopedic surgery, particularly when a biofilm develops. These infections often result in delayed healing, early revision, permanent functional loss, and, in severe cases, amputation. The diagnosis and treatment pose significant challenges, and bacterial biofilm further amplifies the therapeutic difficulty as it confers protection against the host immune system and against antibiotics which are usually administered as a first‐line therapeutic option. However, the inappropriate use of antibiotics has led to the emergence of numerous multidrug‐resistant organisms, which largely compromise the already imperfect treatment efficiency. In this context, the study of bacterial biofilm formation allows to better target antibiotic use and to evaluate alternative therapeutic strategies. Exploration of the roles played by mechanical factors on biofilm development is of particular interest, especially because cartilage and bone tissues are reactive environments that are subjected to mechanical load. This review delves into the current landscape of biofilm mechanobiology, exploring the role of mechanical factors on biofilm development through a multiscale prism starting from bacterial microscopic scale to reach biofilm mesoscopic size and finally the macroscopic scale of the fracture site or bone–implant interface.
Chronology of drill cores and the inferred coastal environmental evolution on Haitan Island, South China
Authors: Qiu Junjie , Jin Jianhui , Zuo Xinxin , Fan Xuechun , Wei Junjie , Xu Daiyu , Hou Chenyang
Published: March 2024

Southeastern China's coastal region is considered one of the key areas for studying prehistoric human–land relationships in the Western Pacific region. This region, which is rich in records of marine civilization, provides an ideal location for recording coastal environmental evolution. In this study, the chronological framework of three borehole cores recovered from Haitan Island, South China, near the Keqiutou group of sites, was established using both optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) and accelerator mass spectrometry radiocarbon (AMS 14C) dating techniques. Various analyses, including lithologic characteristics, chroma, clay–water electric conductivity (EC), grain size and elemental geochemistry, were conducted to elaborate the sedimentary sequence and its paleoenvironmental implications. The findings suggest that (i) since the late Quaternary, the Haitan Island sedimentary sequence can be divided into three deposition stages: Old Red Sand formed during Marine Isotope Stage 3 (MIS3), intermittent sedimentation during the Last Glacial Maximum and coastal aeolian deposition during the Holocene. Furthermore, the study reveals that terrestrial debris was significant as a material source for Haitan Island. (ii) Due to the absence of tectonic uplift, Haitan Island has no thick marine sedimentary record during the Holocene period of high sea level. The Luyangpu coastal sand sheet can be dated to 2.78 ka, which is consistent with previous reports giving dates of 2.4 ka. Prior to the formation of the sand sheet, the sedimentary environment in the area was characterized by lagoon or marsh facies. (iii) Paleoanthropological activities were influenced by sedimentary environmental evolution and geomorphic processes, among others. The Keqiutou Culture experienced high sea levels, which created an intertidal environment near the site and facilitated fishing. However, regression at 5.7 ka led to terrestrial environments, which prompted the inhabitants to migrate. Approximately 3 ka ago, sea levels rose again, coinciding with the initiation of rice cultivation. These factors may have influenced the transition from the Neolithic to Bronze Age culture. This study reconstructs evolution of the sedimentary sequence since the late Quaternary, enhancing our understanding of past human–terrestrial relationship in the region.
Evolution of fermented grain yeast communities in strong‐flavored baijiu and functional validation of yeasts that produce superior‐flavored substances
Authors: Duan Zhong‐Fu , Han Mei‐Yue , Niu Jia‐Liang , Zhao Jing‐Rong , Li Wei‐Wei , Zhu Li‐Ning , Ma Hui‐Feng , Wu Yan‐Fang , Li Xiu‐Ting , Sun Bao‐Guo
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

Baijiu is a well‐known alcoholic beverage in China and the quality is determined by various microorganisms during the fermentation process. Yeast is one of the most important microorganisms in the fermentation of baijiu. It has a strong esterification capacity and also affects the aroma.

RESULTS

High‐throughput sequencing results showed that the fermented grains (jiupei) during baijiu production were mainly composed of eight highly abundant yeast species. The species and abundance of yeasts changed significantly with the fermentation process. The flavor of 30 yeast strains in the jiupei was determined by a sniffing test and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). The strain with the highest flavor substance content (2.34 mg L−1), named YX3205, was identified as Clavispora lusitaniae. Tolerance results showed that C. lusitaniae YX3205 can tolerate up to 15% (v v−1) ethanol. In a solid‐state simulated fermentation experiment, the content of 24 flavor substances was significantly increased in the fortified group, and the total ester content reached 4240.73 μg kg‐1, which was 2.8 times higher than that of the control group.

CONCLUSION

The present study demonstrated the potential of C. lusitaniae YX3205 to enhance the flavor of baijiu, thereby serving as a valuable strain for the improvement of the flavor quality of baijiu. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Behavior of diclofenac from contaminated fish after cooking and in vitro digestion
Authors: Mello Flávia V. , Marmelo Isa , Fogaça Fabíola H.S. , Déniz Fernando Lafont , Alonso Mariana B. , Maulvault Ana Luísa , Torres João Paulo M. , Marques Antônio , Fernandes José O. , Cunha Sara C.
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

Seafood consumers are widely exposed to diclofenac due to the high contamination levels often present in aquatic organisms. It is a potential risk to public health due its endocrine disruptor properties. Limited information is available about diclofenac behavior after food digestion to enable a more realistic scenario of consumer exposure. This study aimed to evaluate cooking effects on diclofenac levels, and determine diclofenac bioaccessibility by an in vitro digestion assay, using commercial fish species (seabass and white mullet) as models. The production of the main metabolite 4′‐hydroxydiclofenac was also investigated. Fish hamburgers were spiked at two levels (150 and 1000 ng g−1) and submitted to three culinary treatments (roasting, steaming and grilling).

RESULTS

The loss of water seems to increase the diclofenac levels after cooking, except in seabass with higher levels. The high bioaccessibility of diclofenac (59.1–98.3%) observed in both fish species indicates that consumers' intestines are more susceptible to absorption, which can be worrisome depending on the level of contamination. Contamination levels did not affect the diclofenac bioaccessibility in both species. Seabass, the fattest species, exhibited a higher bioaccessibility of diclofenac compared to white mullet. Overall, cooking decreased diclofenac bioaccessibility by up to 40% in seabass and 25% in white mullet. The main metabolite 4′‐hydroxydiclofenac was not detected after cooking or digestion.

CONCLUSION

Thus, consumption of cooked fish, preferentially grilled seabass and steamed or baked white mullet are more advisable. This study highlights the importance to consider bioaccessibility and cooking in hazard characterization studies. © 2024 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Two‐view autostereoscopic display independent of differences of interocular distance and viewing condition
Authors: Hori Takumi , Yoshimoto Kayo , Hamagishi Goro , Takahashi Hideya
Published: March 2024

We have previously proposed the parallax barrier autostereoscopic display with eye tracking control. This display realized a wide viewing area. However, the previous method simplifies the process by using the average interocular distance and composing images corresponding to the center position of both eyes. As a result, crosstalk caused by individual differences in interocular distance and changes in viewing condition, such as facial tilt and rotation, was occurred. The crosstalk caused by individual differences in interocular distance is an important factor that must be eliminated. Therefore, we propose the method to compose a parallax image by using positions of both eyes to expand the viewing zone. We use the black images to the crosstalk subpixels, which can be determined from the positions of each eye and achieves more comfortable stereoscopic viewing. To verify the effectiveness of the proposed method, we constructed the prototype 3D display using the parallax barrier with 50% aperture ratio and confirmed the wide viewing area with the crosstalk ratio of less than 5%. We can achieve an autostereoscopic display that has bright and high‐quality stereoscopic image and independent of individual differences in interocular distance and changes in viewing condition.
Enabling knowledge sharing in a production context in China
Authors: Muniz Jorge , Ribeiro Vagner Batista , Hong Jacky Fok Loi , Wintersberger Daniel , Salomon Valerio Antonio Pamplona
Published: March 2024

There is limited research on the cultural influence on knowledge sharing in production contexts. In view of the gap in literature, this study draws on a multi‐criteria decision‐making approach, the analytic hierarchy process (AHP), to identify and rank different enabling factors of knowledge sharing in the workplace of a Chinese electronics plant on the basis of the relative importance ascribed to them by operators, leaders, and managers. The fieldwork research was conducted in a Chinese electronic plant, considering the judgment of 121 operators (blue‐collar workers), 56 production leaders, and 9 managers selected by convenience. The findings reinforce the understanding about the importance of integrating factors related to people, process, and knowledge to enable knowledge management in different cultural contexts, which may support managers' needs for lessons learned from other organizations in the areas of knowledge management, organizational learning, and process management.
Up to date diagnosis and treatment of massive irreparable cuff tears: Results of the survey of the U45 ESSKA Committee
Authors: Cerciello Simone , Ollivier Matthieu , Giordano Matthew Charles , Kocaoglu Baris ,   The ESSKA U45 Committee
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Irreparable rotator cuff tears are disabling and can severely affect daily life activities, especially when young and active patients are involved. The definition is still debated, and they can have several clinical presentations. The treatment depends on the clinical presentation and the patient's age.

Methods

The survey was developed by the ESSKA U45 Committee and was uploaded on the ESSKA website. Fifty‐seven questionnaires were returned. Several aspects of the diagnosis and treatment of massive irreparable cuff tears were investigated. Moreover, treatment options for specific clinical scenarios were given for posterior‐superior and anterior‐superior cuff tears in young and old patients.

Results

Fatty degeneration of the muscles was the most common criterion to define an irreparable tear (59.7%). In young patients with external rotation with the arm at side lag, partial repair of the cuff was the most common option (41.8%); in case of external rotation with the arm at side + external rotation at 90° of abduction lag without pseudoparalysis, the most common option was partial repair of the cuff + latissimus dorsi or lower trapezius transfer (39.3%), and in case of external rotation with the arm at side + external rotation at 90° of abduction lag with pseudoparalysis, partial repair of the cuff + latissimus dorsi or lower trapezius transfer was still the most common option (25.5%). The same scenarios in old patients yielded the following results: reverse prosthesis (49.1%), reverse prosthesis (44.6%) and reverse prosthesis ± latissimus dorsi or lower trapezius transfer (44.6%), respectively.

Conclusions

The present survey clearly confirms that biological options (partial cuff repairs and tendon transfers) are the reference in the case of young patients with deficient cuffs (both posterior and anterior). Reverse shoulder prosthesis is the most common treatment option in old patients in all clinical scenarios.

Level of Evidence

Level IV.
Quantification and Functional Studies of Neutrophilic Cells Identifies Distinct Papilloma Phenotypes
Authors: Bai Ke , Clavijo Paul E. , Robbins Yvette , Norberg Scott M. , Allen Clint T.
Published: March 2024

Objectives

To characterize the distribution of immune cell subsets within laryngeal papillomas and to study the function of potentially immunosuppressive neutrophilic and regulatory T cells (Tregs).

Methods

Fresh clinical papilloma specimens were collected at the time of surgery and studied with multiparameter flow cytometry. Papilloma infiltrating neutrophilic cells and Tregs were sorted and studied functionally with ex vivo T cell suppression assays.

Results

Flow cytometric analysis of fresh laryngeal papillomas samples from 18 adult patients with recurrent respiratory papillomatosis revealed patterns in immune constituency between patients. Clearly divergent phenotypes based primarily on the degree of neutrophilic and T cell infiltration were identified. Relative neutrophilic cell enrichment and T cell depletion were observed in 50% of samples and neutrophilic cell depletion and T cell enrichment were observed in the others. Greater papilloma neutrophilic cell enrichment was positively associated with the number of clinically indicated interventions required in the 12 months prior to sample collection, linking papilloma neutrophil inflammation to disease severity. Functional assays revealed the ability of both papilloma infiltrating neutrophilic and Tregs to suppress T cell function at roughly equal magnitudes, but substantially increased infiltration of neutrophilic cells compared to Tregs across samples.

Conclusion

Neutrophilic cells are an important contributor to immunosuppression within the respiratory papilloma microenvironment. Given these data and the association between greater neutrophilic cell infiltration and lack of clinical response to therapeutic vaccination, additional study of strategies aimed at limiting neutrophilic cell infiltration or function within papillomas is warranted.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 134:3238–3244, 2024
The effect of SMAW welding parameters on stress corrosion cracking of the X65 gas pipelines steel
Authors: Nooriun Hanie , Hamidi Ahmad Ghaderi , Momeni Amir
Published: March 2024

Steel pipelines used for oil and gas transmission are at risk of stress corrosion cracking (SCC). Extensive research has been carried out to evaluate the SCC susceptibility of pipeline steels. Those research studies were mainly specific to the steels of pipes without welding. In this research, pieces of X65 steel plates were welded by the shielded metal arc welding process. The speeds of electrode travel were set as the main welding parameter. Slow strain rate tests (SSRTs) in the air and the NS4 standard solution were conducted. The results showed that the tensile behavior of the samples in the solution was very different from that in the air. For the samples tested in the solution, the strength amounts of the weld zones were higher than the strength of the base metal, but in the case of SSRT in the air, the strength of the base metal was higher. As a result, the UTS strength of one of the weld zones reached levels as high as 480 MPa and also 34% elongation under the SSRT. Therefore, the conditions of welding have a high degree of importance and must be controlled to have less SCC susceptibility.
A Unique Temperature‐Induced Reverse Supramolecular Chirality‐Assisted Gel‐to‐Gel Transition
Authors: Duraisamy Dinesh Kumar , Reddy Samala Murali Mohan , Saveri Puchalapalli , Deshpande Abhijit P. , Shanmugam Ganesh
Published: March 2024

Supramolecular hydrogels typically undergo a gel‐to‐sol transition with heat, as intermolecular interactions within the gel weaken. Although gel‐to‐gel transitions during heating are rare, they may occur due to minor rearrangements caused by thermal forces in the supramolecular self‐assembled structure. Here, an unprecedented temperature‐induced gel‐to‐gel transition assisted by supramolecular chiral inversion in a hydrogel system is presented. The transition results from a left‐handed M‐type helix to a right‐handed P‐type helix, attributed to the π‐system‐conjugated amino acid, l‐Tyrosine (Fm‐ l‐Tyr). Upon solvent dilution, Fm‐l‐Tyr induces translucent hydrogel formed by entangled fibers with a kinetically stable left‐handed M‐type supramolecular helix. At 70 °C, hydrogel transforms into an opaque gel with a reverse supramolecular chirality yielding a thermodynamically stable right‐handed P‐type helix. Supramolecular chiral inversion is substantiated by two chiroptical methods. This unique gel‐to‐gel transition, accompanied by chiral inversion, is anticipated to attract attention, especially for applications sensitive to chirality.
Sign‐changing solutions of fractional Laplacian system with critical exponent
Authors: Li Qi , Wen Shixin
Published: March 2024

This paper deals with the following fractional Laplacian system with critical exponent:

where
is a bounded smooth open connected set in
is the fractional critical Sobolev exponent,
and
is the first eigenvalue of fractional Laplacian
under the condition
in
. We prove that, for each fixed
and
slightly smaller than
, the above system with
admits a sign‐changing solution in the following sense: one component changes sign, while the other one is positive. Our result includes the lower dimensional case
. Compared with the classical Laplacian case, our problem is nonlocal and the first component of the solution is sign‐changing, some new difficulties arise and new arguments and estimates should be introduced.
Neuroprotective effects of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation on Alzheimer's disease: Undetermined therapeutic protocols and mechanisms
Authors: Zhu Yang , Liao Lingyi , Gao Shihao , Tao Yong , Huang Hao , Fang Xiangqin , Yuan Changyan , Gao Changyue
Published: March 2024

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a prevalent neurodegenerative disorder characterized by gradual deterioration of cognitive functions, for which an effective treatment is currently unavailable. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), a well‐established noninvasive brain stimulation method, is utilized in clinical settings to address various neuropsychiatric conditions, such as depression, neuropathic pain, and poststroke dysfunction. Increasing evidence suggests that rTMS may enhance cognitive abilities in individuals with AD. However, its optimal therapeutic protocols and precise mechanisms are currently unknown, impeding its clinical implementation. In the present review, we aimed to summarize and discuss the efficacy‐related parameters in rTMS treatment, encompassing stimulus frequency, stimulus pattern, stimulus intensity, and the configuration of the stimulus coil. Furthermore, we reviewed promising rTMS therapeutic protocols involving various combinations of these factors, that were examined in clinical studies. Based on our analysis, we propose that a multisite high‐frequency rTMS (HF‐rTMS) regimen has value in AD therapy, and that promising single‐site protocols, such as HF‐rTMS, applied over the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, precuneus, or cerebellum are required to be validated in larger clinical studies. Lastly, we provide a comprehensive review of the potential mechanisms underlying the neuroprotective effects of rTMS on cognition in AD in terms of brain network modulation as well as cellular and molecular reactions. In conclusion, the interaction of diverse mechanisms may be responsible for the total therapeutic effect of rTMS on AD. This review provides theoretical and practical evidence for the future clinical application and scientific research of rTMS in AD.
Beyond the model organism—Mechanistic analysis of protein post‐translational modifications is ready for all challengers
Authors: Orsburn Benjamin C.
Published: March 2024

A historic challenge for shotgun proteomics has been the requirement for high quality, simple, and nonredundant curated protein sequences in small .fasta text files. Due to the intrinsic informatic challenges and time required to assemble these files, proteomics has struggled to expand beyond the confines of a few model organisms. When considering post‐translational modifications that may or may not be present on a specific peptide sequence, these factors inevitably compound. A study on how mangos continue to ripen on the shelf may not be the first thing you'd think of as proof of a scientific discipline shedding historic limitations. However, Bautiste‐Valle et al., may be just that. These authors present a quantitative comparison of both peptide and glycopeptide alterations through the complexity of the fruit ripening process and in this we see the present state of a field that no longer needs to wait on genomics to obtain deep mechanistic insights.
Two novel approaches for solving the contradiction between efficient penetration and low recoil for the low‐velocity penetrator
Authors: Xu Cheng , Feng Jingkai , Liu Jinguo , Tian Yuanzheng , Lu Da
Published: March 2024

The low‐velocity penetrator (LVP) is a planetary penetration device that can drive itself to a target depth through its internal periodic impacts. When LVP generates impact energy, it inevitably produces a recoil that can only be counteracted by friction with the soil, if there is no other auxiliary device. Unfortunately, LVP is extraordinarily sensitive to the recoil during the initial stage since the small contact area with the soil results in minor friction between them. Significantly, once the recoil exceeds the friction, LVP cannot work properly and may even retreat, inducing mission failure. In this paper, we develop an optimized LVP with an auxiliary device for lower recoil and higher performance. Specifically, we establish a dynamic model to analyze the single‐cycle motion of LVP and provide essential support for its optimization and design. Meanwhile, an integration method is proposed to calculate the friction between LVP and the soil reasonably and accurately. On the basis of these, we obtain the optimal mass and stiffness parameters of LVP that meet both high penetration efficiency and low recoil. Furthermore, only relying on the parameter optimization is insufficient to eliminate the recoil, and an auxiliary penetration scheme is proposed to provide an external force counteracting the recoil until LVP arrives at a certain depth. Through multiple comparative penetration experiments, we validate the effectiveness of our approaches in promoting penetration ability, stability, and restraining the recoil of LVP. This work provides two novel approaches for solving the contradiction of efficient penetration while reducing the recoil for LVP.
High‐Loading Lithium‐Sulfur Batteries with Solvent‐Free Dry‐Electrode Processing
Authors: Sul Hyunki , Lee Dongsoo , Manthiram Arumugam
Published: March 2024

Lithium‐sulfur (Li‐S) batteries, with their high energy density, nontoxicity, and the natural abundance of sulfur, hold immense potential as the next‐generation energy storage technology. To maximize the actual energy density of the Li‐S batteries for practical applications, it is crucial to escalate the areal capacity of the sulfur cathode by fabricating an electrode with high sulfur loading. Herein, ultra‐high sulfur loading (up to 12 mg cm−2) cathodes are fabricated through an industrially viable and sustainable solvent‐free dry‐processing method that utilizes a polytetrafluoroethylene binder fibrillation. Due to its low porosity cathode architecture formed by the binder fibrillation process, the dry‐processed electrodes exhibit a relatively lower initial capacity compared to the slurry‐processed electrode. However, its mechanical stability is well maintained throughout the cycling without the formation of electrode cracking, demonstrating significantly superior cycling stability. Additionally, through the optimization of the dry‐processing, a single‐layer pouch cell with a loading of 9 mg cm−2 and a novel multi‐layer pouch cell that uses an aluminum mesh as its current collector with a total loading of 14 mg cm−2 are introduced. To address the reduced initial capacity of dry‐processed electrodes, strategies such as incorporating electrocatalysts or employing prelithiated active materials are suggested.
Pleurotomariida (Gastropoda) from the upper Anisian platform carbonates of the Dolomites (Southern Alps, Italy): systematics, palaeobiogeography and Triassic recovery
Authors: Monari Stefano , Dellantonio Elio
Published: March 2024

A very rich gastropod fauna from the upper Anisian (Nevadites secedensis Zone) platform carbonates of the Dolomites, represented by more than 200 species, was collected over recent decades. Its study contributes to a better understanding of the dynamics of the recovery after the end‐Permian mass extinction. This paper deals with the Pleurotomariida. A total of 35 species, 22 genera and 9 families have been identified. Of these, 12 species and 7 genera are new, namely Rufilla wilckensi sp. nov., Rufilla giacomellii sp. nov., Viezzenella ruvida gen. et sp. nov., Temnotropis maestroettorei sp. nov., Cancellotomaria boninsegnai sp. nov., Stuorella crenulata sp. nov., Codinella? fontanai sp. nov., Fiacconella pericincta gen. et sp. nov., Fiemmespira gen. nov., Texturaspira gen. nov., Nodocingulum ogilvieae sp. nov., Dimorphotomaria fassaensis gen. et sp. nov., Moenaspira crassa gen. et sp. nov. and Predazzella elongata gen. et sp. nov. Comparison with the gastropod fauna of the St Cassian Formation indicates that, from the late Anisian to the Carnian, in the Dolomites the richness of the Pleurotomariida increased by 54% at species level, 26% at genus level and 22% at family level. A comprehensive palaeobiogeographical analysis highlights a very high degree of endemism: 90% of the species are exclusive to single palaeogeographical units. This suggests that species diversification at a strict local scale was a major feature of the Middle Triassic phase of recovery of the Pleurotomariida. Seemingly, the non‐planktotrophic development of this group combined with a patchy resurgence of the carbonate platforms played an important role in hampering dispersal.
Effect of Elements Segregation at α‐Fe/Al2O3 Interface on Microareas Corrosion Activity around Al2O3 Inclusions
Authors: Hou Yanhui , Chen Jianglong , Li Guangqiang
Published: March 2024

Segregation of interface elements is the main factor affecting the corrosion activity of microareas around Al2O3 inclusions rather than galvanic corrosion. In this work, the effects of segregation of Cu, V, Ni, Mo, B, and P elements on the interfacial bonding strength and microareas corrosion activity around Al2O3 inclusions are analyzed in detail using 3D atomic probe and first‐principles calculations. In the results, it is shown that Cu, V, Mo, B, and P elements reduce the stability of the α‐Fe/Al2O3 interface. In addition, the segregation of Cu, V, Mo, B, and P elements at the interface also enhances the adsorption capacity of Cl and ultimately improves the microarea corrosion activity around Al2O3 inclusions. Ni element can enhance the stability of α‐Fe/Al2O3 interface, and the segregation of Ni element at the interface weakens the adsorption capacity of Cl and ultimately reduces the microarea corrosion activity around Al2O3 inclusions.
PRODEC for human systems integration of increasingly autonomous systems
Authors: Boy Guy André , Masson Dimitri , Durnerin Élise , Morel Chloé
Published: March 2024

The purpose of the PRODEC scenario‐based design method is the incremental cross‐fertilization and refinement of procedural scenarios and declarative configurations. It uses virtual prototypes of the developed systems (mainly life‐critical systems) to conduct human‐in‐the‐loop simulations (HITLSs). Based on human systems integration (HSI) principles and criteria, as well as expertise and experience in the domain at stake, this HSI approach grounded in virtual environments requires a clear definition of physical and cognitive tangibility metrics to assess the distance between virtual and tangible (grasp) dimensions of the system being developed when it is put to work. PRODEC considers human and machine systems described in terms of structures and functions incrementally designed using procedural scenarios (i.e., stories) in task and activity networks, which provide life to declarative configurations (i.e., system's functions and structures). This active modeling and simulation process enables the discovery of emergent structures and functions of the system being developed when it is virtually operated. PRODEC's use is illustrated in an example. We discuss the use of PRODEC and its results as to how they can be used with digital twins.