bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of mixing in nanoparticle hetero‐aggregates by convolutional neural networks
Authors: Mahr Christoph , Stahl Jakob , Gerken Beeke , Baric Valentin , Frei Max , Krause Florian F. , Grieb Tim , Schowalter Marco , Mehrtens Thorsten , Kruis Einar , Mädler Lutz , Rosenauer Andreas
Published: January 2024

Formation of hetero‐contacts between particles of different materials in nanoparticle hetero‐aggregates can lead to new functional properties. Improvement of the functional behavior requires a detailed characterization of mixing between the two types of particles, in order to correlate different mixing with the performance of the material. Scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) is an option for this task. To obtain statistically relevant results, STEM‐images of many hetero‐aggregates have to be acquired and evaluated. This can be time‐consuming if it is done manually. In the present work, the applicability of convolutional neural networks for the automated analysis of STEM‐images acquired from TiO–WO nanoparticle hetero‐aggregates is investigated. Hetero‐aggregates are obtained in a double flame spray pyrolysis (DFSP) setup, in which a variation of setup parameters is expected to affect the mixing of TiO and WO. Mixing is investigated by a measurement of cluster sizes (the number of connected particles of the same material within an aggregate) and coordination numbers (the number of particle contacts with particles of the same or the different material). Results show that the distribution of measured values is wide for both quantities, rendering it challenging to correlate mixing with parameters varied in the DFSP setup.
Investigation of anxiety levels in caregivers who perform clean intermittent catheterization on their children and affecting factors
Authors: Sari Canan , Demirbağ Birsel C.
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The study aimed to determine the anxiety levels of caregivers who performed clean intermittent catheterization (CIC) on their children and the factors affecting them.

Methods

This descriptive study was conducted between January 6, and May 29, 2023 with caregivers of 42 patients who were followed up by the pediatric nephrology outpatient clinic of a university for CIC. The study data were collected using the “Participant Information Form” and the “State and Trait Anxiety Scale.”

Results

According to the results, of the children included in the study, 73.8% were female, 64.3% were diagnosed with spina bifida (SB), and 76.2% received CIC applications 4–6 times a day. All the caregivers were mothers, and 76.2% received CIC training from a doctor. However, 78.6% of them found the training insufficient, leading them to rely on self‐experimentation when applying CIC to their own children. None of the caregivers received information or training on the CIC application from nurses, and there were no home visits or telephone counseling provided after the hospital discharge. The mean score for the state anxiety scale among the caregivers was 45.90 ± 10.57, while the mean score for the trait anxiety scale was 46.92 ± 8.43. Significantly higher mean trait anxiety scores were observed among caregivers with chronic diseases who did not receive training on the CIC application (p < 0.05). Additionally, caregivers of children who experienced 3–4 urinary tract infections (UTIs) within the last 3 months also had significantly higher mean trait anxiety scores (p < 0.05). The mean trait anxiety level scores of caregivers of children who had 3–4 UTIs in the last 3 months were significantly higher (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

It was concluded that caregivers' lack of training on CIC implementation, having chronic disease, and having frequent UTIs in their children were effective on anxiety levels.
Water pollution remediation: Synthesis and characterization of poly(o‐methylaniline)/ZnO/rGO composite for photocatalytic degradation of dyes
Authors: Ahmad Mirza Nadeem , Anjum Muhammad Naveed , Farid Muhammad Fayyaz , Haq Atta‐ul , Ali Akbar , Rehman Muhammad Fayyazur , Assiri Mohammed A. , Akram Muhammad Safwan
Published: January 2024

Water pollution is growing at an alarming rate, particularly due to the colored wastewater released by the various industries into aquifers and fresh water sources, and in some extreme cases, they have reached the water table. Faisalabad, a city in Pakistan where there is an industrial cluster of textiles dyeing and manufacturers, water table has become undrinkable. The presence of hazardous dyes and chemicals imposes serious health issues on humans, animals, and plants. The treatment of such toxic dye effluents is crucial and could be done by efficient degradation methods such as photocatalysis. The current study presents synthesis of poly(o‐methylaniline)/zinc oxide/reduced graphene oxide nanocomposite (POMA/ZnO/rGO NC) using a chemical oxidative polymerization process and explores its properties as a photocatalyst by demonstrating degradation of three dyes. The composite was characterized using X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), photoluminescence emission spectroscopy (PL), Brunauer Emmett–Teller analysis (BET), and UV–visible spectroscopy (UV–visible). Further, the photocatalytic activity of POMA/ZnO/rGO NC was evaluated and compared by degrading the direct yellow 12 (DY 12), congo red (CR), and malachite green (MG) dyes in aqueous media under UV irradiation. The results indicated that after 110 min, POMA/ZnO/rGO composite degraded the dyes by 92% (DY 12), 86.1% (CR), and 82.1% (MG), respectively. Moreover, kinetic studies of the photocatalyst were also performed along with reusability test, total organic carbon, chemical oxygen demand, and degradation mechanism.
Construction of high‐toughness and self‐healing gel‐matrix/aramid fabric soft composites with high‐performance puncture resistance
Authors: Lin Jia‐Horng , Han Xiao , Zhang Xia‐Yun , Zhang Xue‐Fei , Wang Yan‐Ting , Peng Hao‐Kai , Liu Li‐Yan , Zhang Lu , Lou Ching‐Wen , Shiu Bing‐Chiuan , Li Ting‐Ting
Published: January 2024

In order to develop a soft composite with high‐performance puncture resistance and self‐healing property property, herein, we introduced Pluronic F127 diacrylate (F127DA) into titania‐based nanocomposite hydrogels (PAMT) and then compounded hydrogel and aramid fabric to form gel‐matrix soft composites (GMSCs). The result shows that, with the addition of 5 wt% TiO2 nanoparticles, the hydrogels exhibited a fracture strain of 3898%, a toughness of 12.23 MJ/m3 and a self‐healing efficiency of 99.45% after healing at 100°C for 12 h, indicating multiple recycling feature. In addition, a series of mechanical tests had shown that the resultant GMSCs exhibited incredible spike puncture resistance and knife puncture resistance, 17.66 times and 13.78 times greater than that of pure fabrics, and could achieve 33.84% spike puncture self‐healing efficiency and 26.62% knife puncture self‐healing efficiency. The synergetic reinforcement mechanism of the hydrogel and fabrics was also analyzed. This study provides a valuable reference for designing a puncture resistant soft composite with rapid self‐healing and repeated recycling.
The comparison of polymerization activity of typical cationic quaternary ammonium salt monomers
Authors: Ming Anqi , Li Xiaoxiao , Sun Jun , Liu Yanyan , Tian Xingyou , Wang Hua , Chen Lin , Cao Yuxiang , Yuan Yun
Published: January 2024

The cationic water‐soluble polymers, which are widely used in many areas such as papermaking and separation process, are typically synthesized through polymerization of cationic monomers represented by quaternary ammonium salt. In this work, the polymerization reaction kinetics of three typical quaternary ammonium salt cationic monomers including acryloyl oxygen ethyl trimethyl ammonium chloride (DAC), methyl acryloyl oxygen ethyl trimethyl ammonium chloride (DMC), and methyl acrylamide propyl trimethyl ammonium chloride (MAPTAC) was examined by using the dilatometer method. The results showed that the polymerization rate of all three monomers increased with the increase of initiation temperature, monomer concentration, and initiator concentration. Under the same conditions, the polymerization activity of the three monomers followed the order: DAC > DMC > MAPTAC. The activation energies for the polymerization reaction under the specified conditions were EaDAC = 138.97 kJ/mol, EaDMC = 141.24 kJ/mol, and EaMAPTAC = 226.97 kJ/mol, respectively. The polymerization rate equations were RpDAC = k1[M]4.25[I]0.51, RpDMC = k2[M]3.77[I]0.50, and RpMAPTAC = k3[M]3.30[I]0.49. The polymerization activity of the monomers may be influenced by electronic effects and steric hindrance of the monomer structure. This work has provided a theoretical and experimental foundation for the actual work of structural design and preparation of cationic water‐soluble polymers.
Preferential formation of the stereocomplex crystals of poly(L‐lactide) and poly(D‐lactide) blend by epoxidized soybean oil under nonisothermal crystallization
Authors: Li Wenwei , Srithep Yottha , Shen Jun , Pholharn Dutchanee , Sriprateep Keartisak , Worajittiphon Patnarin , Khoklang Nattamon
Published: January 2024

Formation of stereocomplex crystals (SCs) in enantiomeric poly(L‐lactide) (PLLA) and poly(D‐lactide) (PDLA) blends is an effective way to improve the heat resistance and mechanical performance of polylactide (PLA) products. However, obtaining PLAs with high stereocomplex content is not straightforward as the homocrystal and SCs occur simultaneously and compete with one another. In this work, various amounts of epoxidized soybean oil (SO) or SO at 3%–20% by weight were added to equal amounts of the stereoisomers (PLLA/PDLA; 50/50). From differential scanning calorimetry, it was found that epoxidized SO increased the crystallization temperature, facilitated the SC crystallization, and suppressed the homecrystal formation, whereas SO did not affect the crystallization behavior for the racemic blends. Moreover, epoxidized SO reduced the glass transition temperature, cold crystallization temperature, and melting temperature of the racemic blends. We examined how epoxidized SO affected the crystallization of PLLA/PDLA at cooling rates from 2 to 20°C/min. We discovered that epoxidized SO still encouraged SC crystallization. The activation energy, calculated from Takhor and Kissinger equations, indicated that adding 5 wt% epoxidized SO effectively promoted the crystallization and facilitated the SC formation of the PLLA/PDLA blend.
Synthesis of novel colorless polyimides from benzimidazole diamines with various linearity
Authors: Xu Ke , Ke Zhao , Li Dongpeng , Li Tao , Qian Guangtao , Deng Zhiqing , Li Dandan , Yu Youhai
Published: January 2024

To synthesize colorless superheat‐resistant polyimide films, one of the valid approaches is the incorporation of the asymmetric and warped structures in the main chain. Applying this approach on 5(6)‐amino‐2‐(4‐aminobenzene)benzimidazole (PABZ) and changing its linearity, 6, 5′‐diamine‐2′‐methyl‐1‐methyl‐2‐phenylbenzimidazole (5a) and 6, 3′‐diamine‐2′‐methyl‐1‐methyl‐2‐phenylbenzimidazole (5b) were devised and synthesized successfully, then polymerized with 1,2,4,5‐cyclohexanetetracarboxylic dianhydride (HPMDA). The prepared poly(benzimidazole imide)s (PBIIs) with the rigid main chain and loose packing had the excellent heat‐resistant level (Tg > 400°C) and optical properties (T400 > 80%). Besides, the alterations resulting from various linearities were discussed comprehensively. This research is beneficial to the application of optical field, providing a promising candidate of heat‐resistant colorless materials.
Beyond appearance: Can morphologically low‐grade euploid blastocysts yield successful pregnancies?
Authors: Suzuki Takahiro , Ishida Chiharu , Yoshioka Yoko , Kojima Masae , Tokoro Mikiko , Fukunaga Noritaka , Asada Yoshimasa
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The primary objective of this investigation is to evaluate how morphological quality affects the pregnancy outcomes in euploid embryos determined by preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidies (PGT‐A). Concurrently, as a secondary objective, we aim to identify which specific aspects of morphological evaluation exert the most significant impact on these outcomes.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of 451 single euploid embryo transfer cycles at our clinic was conducted. Embryos were evaluated based on the degree of blastocyst expansion, inner cell mass (ICM), trophectoderm (TE) morphology, and the day of blastocyst vitrification. Outcomes between morphologically low‐grade and high‐grade embryos were compared. Additionally, the study analyzed which morphological factors most influenced pregnancy outcomes.

Results

Pregnancy outcomes were significantly lower in morphologically low‐grade blastocysts compared to high‐grade ones. Among the morphological evaluations, the ICM assessment was significantly associated with the live birth rate.

Conclusion

Our study indicates that the morphological quality of euploid embryos, particularly the evaluation of the ICM, plays a crucial role in IVF‐ET success.
Exploring the past to discern the present: The role of historico‐geographical study in differentiating natural river channels from artificial canals
Authors: Das Balai C.
Published: January 2024

The historical background of a watercourse, whether it be a natural river or an artificial canal, holds great importance in understanding hydrological heritage, landscape evolution, planning processes, and making informed predictions for the future. This study focuses on the case study of the Churni River, which has been regarded as an artificial canal in the local literature, history, and geography research papers. The objective of this study is to investigate the authenticity of the claims and explore whether the Churni River is a natural river or an artificially constructed canal. Through an examination of existing literature and the present channel morphology, it becomes apparent that the alleged myths and rumors surrounding the origin of the Churni River, proposing its deliberate construction as a man‐made canal by Maharaja Krishnachandra, lack substantial evidence. Conversely, a more plausible scenario emerges, suggesting that the Maharaja's endeavors were likely focused on rejuvenating the degraded and silt‐laden course of an already existing river. Additionally, no evidence is found to support the claim that the name “Churni” was assigned by Maharaja Krishnachandra, and the alternative name “Kangkana” lacks substantiation as a name for the river. This research contributes to a comprehensive understanding of the historical and geographical context of the Churni River, shedding light on its origin and nature while emphasizing the significance of historical analysis in distinguishing natural river channels from artificial canals and will widen the avenue of future research on river heritage of like situation.
Lessons from a professional learning community: Navigating tensions while moving between theory and practice in teaching chemistry for social justice
Authors: Ribay Kathryn
Published: January 2024

Maintaining a commitment to social justice teaching can be especially challenging when navigating the bureaucratic systems and ever‐spiraling responsibilities of the education system. To better understand how social‐justice‐oriented educators navigate these tensions, this paper uses qualitative methods to investigate the social justice problems of practice identified by five chemistry teachers in a year‐long professional learning community. By analyzing the challenges described in their problem‐posing segments, I identify seven major themes that represent key sources of tension and possibility as teachers move from theory to practice in teaching chemistry for social justice. These findings indicate that the practical considerations of day‐to‐day teaching practice create the most salient tensions when moving from theoretical ideas of social justice to a deeply integrated enactment of social justice teaching. Through a deeper analysis of two cases, I demonstrate the effects of discussing problems of practice with a group of teachers who had similar disciplinary backgrounds and ideological stances. These discussions shifted the tensions from potential barriers to areas of possibility in which they were able to enact new ideas within the confines of their context. Taken together, these findings indicate that developing social justice educators requires attention to navigating the practical details of teaching from a social justice lens.
Societal sustainable development and long‐run economic growth: How do we stand?
Authors: Dima Bogdan , Dima Ştefana Maria , Tudor Adriana Tiron
Published: January 2024

The United Nations' 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development proposes the ambitious goal of an inclusive and sustainable economy. Thus, a realistic assessment of individual countries' possibilities to implement the Sustainable Development Goals might provide helpful insights. We seek to contribute to the existing literature by proposing a working framework for assessing, at the individual country level, the impact of long‐run economic growth on societal sustainable development. The framework is based on composite models from the Structural Equation Modeling‐SEM with a Partial Least Squares Path Modeling (PLS‐PM) estimator. In contrast, societal sustainable development is viewed as emerging from its various dimensions (environmental protection, human development and public health). Based on the analyses of an extended sample of 99 countries, including data for thirty years (from 1990 to 2019), we find that economic growth matters in explaining societal sustainable development, and different countries have benefited unequally from this situation. The key finding reveals that countries aiming to follow the SDGs should recognize their significant disparities and engage in profound structural, institutional, functional and cultural transformations. Thus, a more holistic approach to societal sustainable development is currently needed to enhance government effectiveness as a transmission channel for the impact of growth. In addition, governments need to adjust their economic mechanisms to internalize the costs of environmental degradation and negative externalities for human development and public health.
Therapeutic Delivery Potential of Covalent Organic Framework (COF): Intuition from Theoretical Calculations
Authors: Mohammadi Mohsen D. , Louis Hitler , Benjamin Innocent , Oche Daniel , Patel Hitendra M. , Edet Henry O.
Published: January 2024

Regardless of the benefits, pharmaceutical companies are reticent to engage further in covalent organic framework‐based drug development and drug delivery systems, preferring rather to explore preexisting chemical compound libraries for drug delivery. As such, this study aims to account for the efficacy of covalent organic frameworks (COFs) in the delivery of seven conventional drugs: Acetaminophen, Clodronic Acid, Hydroxyurea, Mercaptoporine, Thiotepa, Tioguanine, and Arsenic trioxide. Herein, Gaussian 16 software package is employed for the purpose of optimizing the systems at the DFT/ωB97XD/def2svp level of theory. Substantially, the nature of the inter‐ and intra‐ molecular interactions between the COF and each of the drugs utilized resulted in the re‐adjustment of the molecular orbitals and yielded a distinct set of results for the most reactive and least stable and vice versa as deducible from the magnitudes of the highest occupied molecular orbital and lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (HOMO‐LUMO) gaps. Furthermore, the natural bond orbital (NBO) study indicates that the interacting molecules exhibit similar stability and reactivity, as evidenced by the proximity of their mean stabilization energies. Additionally, the topological analysis revealed that the most positive interaction occurred in Acetaminophen_COF, Clodronic acid_COF, Hydroxyurea_COF, and Tioguanine_COF. Also, the adsorption studies demonstrate that the above‐mentioned drugs have weak interaction kinetics when they interact with the investigated COF. Strong adsorbing contacts were detected in the interactions of Arsenic trioxide, Hydroxyurea, and Tioguanine with the COF in the order Arsenic trioxide_COF < Hydroxyurea_COF < Tiog_COF, with corresponding values of −9.413 kcal/mol, −12.550 kcal/mol, and −17.570 kcal/mol, respectively. Overall, the study hypothesizes that when delivering the various drugs studied through the COF to biological systems, Acetaminophen, Hydroxyurea, Tioguanine, and Mercaptopurine have high reactivity with the COF and would be better adsorbed on it, as well as a longer recovery time of desorption due to their high adsorption on the COF surface.
Interfacial‐Confined Isochronous Conversion to Biphasic Selenide Heterostructure with Enhanced Adsorption Behaviors for Robust High‐Rate Na‐Ion Storage
Authors: Cao Jun‐Ming , Ma Ming‐Yang , Liu Han‐Hao , Yang Jia‐Lin , Liu Yue , Zhang Kai‐Yang , Butt Faaz A. , Gu Zhen‐Yi , Li Kai , Wu Xing‐Long
Published: January 2024

Sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) have gradually become one of the most promising energy storage techniques in the current era of post‐lithium‐ion batteries. For anodes, transitional metal selenides (TMSe) based materials are welcomed choices , owing to relatively higher specific capacities and enriched redox active sites. Nevertheless, current bottlenecks are blamed for their poor intrinsic electronic conductivities, and uncontrollable volume expansion during redox reactions. Given that, an interfacial‐confined isochronous conversion strategy is proposed, to prepare orthorhombic/cubic biphasic TMSe heterostructure, namely CuSe/Cu3VSe4, through using MXene as the precursor, followed by Cu/Se dual anchorage. As‐designed biphasic TMSe heterostructure endows unique hierarchical structure, which contains adequate insertion sites and diffusion spacing for Na ions, besides, the surficial pseudocapacitive storage behaviors can be also proceeded like 2D MXene. By further investigation on electronic structure, the theoretical calculations indicate that biphasic CuSe/Cu3VSe4 anode exhibits well‐enhanced properties, with smaller bandgap and thus greatly improves intrinsic poor conductivities. In addition, the dual redox centers can enhance the electrochemical Na ions storage abilities. As a result, the as‐designed biphasic TMSe anode can deliver a reversible specific capacity of 576.8 mAh g−1 at 0.1 A g−1, favorable Na affinity, and reduced diffusion barriers. This work discloses a synchronous solution toward demerits in conductivities and lifespan, which is inspiring for TMSe‐based anode development in SIBs systems.
The nature and extent of bomb tritium remaining in deep vadose zone: A synthesis and prognosis
Authors: Huang Yanan , Evaristo Jaivime , Li Zhi , Chun Kwok P. , Sutanudjaja Edwin H. , Cardenas M. Bayani , Bierkens Marc F. P. , Kirchner James W. , van Genuchten Martinus Th.
Published: January 2024

Tritium present in deep vadose zones is a useful tracer for estimating groundwater recharge, but its full utility is constrained by not knowing where and for how long the tritium tracing method remains applicable. We obtained 44 tritium profiles from 17 globally distributed sites with vadose zone thicknesses of 12–624 m and used transport models to estimate the number of years that tritium may still be useful. Results show that the method may still be usable for 26 of 44 soil profiles surveyed, mainly in China, Australia, the United States, South Africa, and Senegal, with a remaining useful period of between 6 and 83 years. We also developed a statistical model that uses outputs from a hydrological model to predict the applicability of the tritium tracing method. Global implementation of the statistical model showed that the method remains usable at 20% of Earth's land mass (excluding Antarctica and Greenland) over the next few decades.
Evaluating the structures and arrangements of water institutions to include in‐stream modeling for water quality management and control pollution: Insights from the Awash Basin, Ethiopia
Authors: Zinabu Eskinder , Alamirew Tena , Whitehead Paul , Charles Katrina , Abebe Yosef , Zeleke Gete
Published: January 2024

Healthy rivers and stream waters support sustainable use and protect the ecological health of water flows. Developing countries rarely include in‐stream water quality modeling in their strategic policy documents. In the sub‐Saharan regions, stream water quality is declining due to many human activities. Ethiopian is no different, and its environmental policy does not directly target the importance of impact and planning analyses. Also, it does not include decision making processes for the protection of water ecology and multiple water uses. In this study, stream water quality issues in the Awash Basin have been assessed. The key sources of land‐based pollutants have been identified, and the availability and appropriateness related data have been examined and evaluated as well as the capacity of model users of institutions. Applicable models with the capability of simulating the Awash streams are presented and the changes needed for the existing settings suggested. The model selection was undertaken using a set of criteria based on environmental assumptions to enable environmental improvement into the future. The available hydrological and monitoring information provides an opportunity to apply model analyses, while the poor capacity of the governmental model users is of concern. With limited supporting conditions in governmental water institutions, the level of in‐stream water quality modeling integration in the Awash Basin development plans is too low to make recommendations based on key areas of support. It is time to apply and capitalize on the potential opportunity of using the models in local, regional, and national institutions for planning and impact analyses and strategic policy documents. The methods described in this study can be a guidance for model practitioners of the Awash basin targeting improvement in their institutions.
Budding yeast as an ideal model for elucidating the role of N6‐methyladenosine in regulating gene expression
Authors: Albihlal Waleed S. , Chan Wei Yee , van Werven Folkert J.
Published: January 2024

N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) is a highly abundant and evolutionarily conserved messenger RNA (mRNA) modification. This modification is installed on RRACH motifs on mRNAs by a hetero‐multimeric holoenzyme known as m6A methyltransferase complex (MTC). The m6A mark is then recognised by a group of conserved proteins known as the YTH domain family proteins which guide the mRNA for subsequent downstream processes that determine its fate. In yeast, m6A is installed on thousands of mRNAs during early meiosis by a conserved MTC and the m6A‐modified mRNAs are read by the YTH domain‐containing protein Mrb1/Pho92. In this review, we aim to delve into the recent advances in our understanding of the regulation and roles of m6A in yeast meiosis. We will discuss the potential functions of m6A in mRNA translation and decay, unravelling their significance in regulating gene expression. We propose that yeast serves as an exceptional model organism for the study of fundamental molecular mechanisms related to the function and regulation of m6A‐modified mRNAs. The insights gained from yeast research not only expand our knowledge of mRNA modifications and their molecular roles but also offer valuable insights into the broader landscape of eukaryotic posttranscriptional regulation of gene expression.
Influence of the Homoatomic and Multicenter Bonding on the Formation of CsCl‐type RhCd
Authors: Roy Nilanjan , Giri Sucharita
Published: January 2024

The electronic structure and chemical bonding analysis of the recently uncovered CsCl‐type RhCd have been discussed thoroughly in this article. It is observed that a more complex combination of long‐range heteroatomic (Rh−Cd) and homoatomic (Rh−Rh and Cd−Cd) interactions as well as multicenter Rh−Cd−Rh interactions influence the formation of CsCl type‐RhCd. On the other hand, the other two structurally closely related phases (Rh2Cd5 and Rh3Cd5−δ) are mostly dominated by the partially covalent Rh−Cd heteroatomic interactions.
On Barenblatt's pseudoparabolic equation with forcing on the half‐line via the Fokas method
Authors: Chatziafratis Andreas , Fokas Athanassios S. , Aifantis Elias C.
Published: January 2024

A novel technique is presented for explicitly solving inhomogeneous initial‐boundary‐value problems (IBVPs) (Dirichlet, Neumann and Robin) on the half‐line, for a well‐known pseudo‐parabolic partial differential equation. This so‐called Barenblatt's equation arises in a plethora of important applications, ranging from heat‐mass transfer, solid‐fluid‐gas dynamics and materials science, to mechanical, chemical and petroleum engineering, as well as electron physics, radiation and diffusive processes. Our approach is based on the extension of the Fokas method, so that it can be applied to problems with mixed derivatives. First, we derive formally effective solution representations and then justify a posteriori their validity rigorously. This includes the reconstruction of the prescribed initial and boundary conditions, which requires careful analysis of the various integral terms appearing in the formulae, proving that they converge in a strictly defined sense. In each type of IBVP, the novel formulae are utilized to rigorously deduce the solution's regularity properties near the boundaries of the spatiotemporal domain and the problem's well‐posedness. Furthermore, importantly, our solutions’ numerical advantages are demonstrated and highlighted by way of a concrete and illustrative example. Our rigorous approach can be extended to IBVPs for other significant models.
An MHD boundary layer flow of Casson fluid due to a moving wedge analyzed by the Bernoulli wavelet method
Authors: Ramareddy Vidyashree , Basawaraj Patil Mallikarjun , Mahabaleshwar Ulavathi Shettar , Souayeh Basma
Published: January 2024

The current study adopts a Bernoulli wavelet technique to explore the magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) boundary layer flow of a Casson fluid through a wedge. A nanofluid across a wedge has been investigated for its stable laminar MHD flow, heat, and mass transport characteristics. By choosing worthwhile non‐dimensional parameters, the governing boundary layer equation is reformed into a dimensionless Falkner–Skan equation. The consequent nonlinear equation is addressed via the Bernoulli wavelet method. For a range of different values of the physical parameters, the nature of the boundary layer flow is visually observed. Fluid velocity rises with rise in the values of Casson parameter, wedge parameter, and magnetic parameter. Local wall skin friction increases with increase in wedge parameter and magnetic parameter values. To ensure the accuracy of the findings, local wall skin friction is estimated and tested with other techniques that are already reported in the existing research.
Nearly critical superfluids in Keldysh-Schwinger formalism
Authors: Donos Aristomenis , Kailidis Polydoros
Published: January 2024

Abstract

We examine the effective theory of critical dynamics near superfluid phase transitions in the framework of the Keldysh-Schwinger formalism. We focus on the sector capturing the dynamics of the complex order parameter and the conserved current corresponding to the broken global symmetry. After constructing the theory up to quadratic order in the a-fields, we compare the resulting stochastic system with Model F as well as with holography. We highlight the role of a time independent gauge symmetry of the effective theory also known as “chemical shift”. Finally, we consider the limiting behaviour at energies much lower than the gap of the amplitude mode by integrating out the high energy degrees of freedom to reproduce the effective theory of superfluids.
Effect of stress relief and solubilization heat treatments on laser additive manufactured Inconel 625: microstructure and properties
Authors: Bon Douglas , Cavalcante Thiago , Thiesen Anselmo , Santos Henrique , Gutjahr Jhonattan , Cintho Osvaldo , Coelho Reginaldo , de Oliveira Marcelo Falcão , Ribamar Giovani Gonçalves , Avila Julian Arnaldo
Published: January 2024

This work assesses the effect of the energy input and the stress relief and solubilization heat treatment on the microstructure and mechanical properties of an Inconel 625 alloy processed by laser additive manufacturing using directed energy deposition. Two processing conditions were used to deliver high productivity with a high energy input (HEI) and another with better geometrical precision using a lower energy input (LEI). The mechanical test samples were built vertically and horizontally aligned with the tensile test direction. The samples were submitted to residual stress relief (SR) and SR + solubilization (S) heat treatments (SR + S). Results showed increased elongation with solubilization heat treatment, while UTS and YS decreased with heat treatment combination, which was linked to the stronger texture developed in HEI condition. Samples built in the vertical direction presented lower YS. The fracture toughness of solubilization heat-treated samples showed higher values, while LEI gave just slightly higher values. Although the microstructural and mechanical features are similar between the HEI and LEI conditions, the first stands out because parts can be fabricated quickly without losing mechanical performance under quasi-static conditions, impact fracture tests, or the production of unwanted phases.
Effect of nozzle wear on mechanical properties of 3D printed carbon fiber-reinforced polymer parts by material extrusion
Authors: Bianchi Iacopo , Mancia Tommaso , Mignanelli Chiara , Simoncini Michela
Published: January 2024

A widespread problem of manufacturing processes is represented by the occurrence of tool wear that can lead to both poor surface finish and poor mechanical properties in the workpiece. This issue affects also additive manufacturing technologies such as the material extrusion technique. In this process, the wear mechanisms of the extrusion nozzle can be severe, in particular when materials with a high abrasive capacity, such as carbon fiber-reinforced polymers, are 3D printed. Despite the significance of this problem, scientific literature lacks systematic evaluations of nozzle wear and its correlation with parts mechanical properties. In this framework, the present paper aims at investigating the effect of the nozzle wear evolution on the mechanical properties of additively manufactured parts in short carbon fiber-reinforced polyamide. To this purpose, 3D printing processes were performed. The time dependence of the nozzle wear was analyzed by interrupting the additive manufacturing process at fixed time intervals. To analyze the effect of nozzle wear on the mechanical performances of printed parts, tensile specimens were 3D printed and tested at room temperature. A reduction in mechanical performances of the printed samples and a worsening in the surface quality were observed with increasing the nozzle wear. Optical microscopy investigation and X-ray computed tomography were used to monitor the external and internal nozzle wear evolution. The surface roughness measurements were performed to evaluate the surface quality of the 3D printed parts. Furthermore, the scanning electron microscopy was used to observe the three-dimensional topography of the longitudinal sections of filament in Carbon PA, at different printing time values, and fractured surfaces of tensile samples. This study can help to better understand nozzle wear and to predict tool service life for industrial applications. In addition, it can prompt future studies focused on the reduction of tool wear.
Lax Uterosacral Ligament and Urge Urinary Incontinence: MRI Findings in Symptomatic Patients Versus Healthy Volunteers
Authors: El-Sayed Rania F. , Moqbel Noha M. , Hussein Ahmed F. , Abdelatty Mohamed A. , Hanna Sameh A. , Azim Mohamed S. Abdel
Published: January 2024

Introduction and hypothesis

The objective was to explore the association between urge urinary incontinence (UUI) and lax uterosacral ligaments (USL) using MRI.

Methods

Sixty-seven female participants were recruited prospectively: 41 continent volunteers (control group) and 26 patients with UUI. Static proton density- and T2-weighted turbo spin echo sequences of MR images were used. A radiologist employed a standardized grid system to record structural observations of the USLs on sequentially numbered axial MR images and then applied a four-point grading scale to assess ligament visibility. MR images were interpreted by a radiologist and a urologist, and then validated by an expert radiologist.

Results

The comparison between the mean length of uterosacral ligaments in the control and UUI groups was highly statistically significant (p < 0.001). The mean length of the right USL was 38 ± 11 mm, and the left USL was 35 ± 12 mm in the UUI group. In the control group, the mean length of the USL was 22 ± 9 mm on the right side and 18 ± 9 mm on the left side, along their craniocaudal extent. The highest inter-observer agreement was on the level of origin and insertion (image numbers), whereas the lowest agreement was on the anatomical site of origin and insertion of the USL in both the control and UUI groups.

Conclusions

The average length of USLs in patients with UUI is significantly longer than that in healthy continent women, indicating laxity. Our findings support the relationship between the laxity of the USL and UUI symptoms and have therapeutic implications.
Meta-analysis and systematic review of vesicular monoamine transporter (VMAT-2) inhibitors in schizophrenia and psychosis
Authors: Connolly Anne , Wallman Phoebe , Dzahini Olubanke , Howes Oliver , Taylor David
Published: January 2024

Rationale

Dopamine antagonists induce dopamine receptor supersensitivity. This may manifest in late-appearing movement disorders (tardive dyskinesia (TD). VMAT-2 inhibitors reduce dopaminergic transmission but have limited activity at postsynaptic receptors and so may have antipsychotic activity with lower risk of tardive dyskinesia.

Methods

We conducted a systematic database search from inception to September 2022 for articles describing the use of VMAT-2 inhibitors in psychosis. Inclusion criteria were as follows: Population: adults diagnosed with psychosis or schizophrenia; Intervention: treatment with tetrabenazine, deutetrabenazine or valbenazine; Comparison: comparison with placebo or/and antipsychotic drug; Outcomes: with efficacy outcomes (e.g. Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS) change or clinician assessment) and adverse effects ratings (e.g. rating scale or clinician assessment or dropouts); and Studies: in randomised controlled trials and non-randomised studies.

Results

We identified 4892 records relating to VMAT-2 inhibitor use of which 5 (173 participants) met our a priori meta-analysis inclusion criteria. VMAT-2 inhibitors were more effective than placebo for the outcome ‘slight improvement’ (risk ratio (RR) = 1.77 (95% CI 1.03, 3.04)) but not for ‘moderate improvement’ (RR 2.81 (95% CI 0.27, 29.17). VMAT-2 inhibitors were as effective as active comparators on both measures for—‘slight improvement’ (RR 1.05 (95% CI 0.6, 1.81)) and ‘moderate improvement’ (RR 1.11 (95% CI 0.51, 2.42). Antipsychotic efficacy was also suggested by a narrative review of 37 studies excluded from the meta-analysis.

Conclusions

VMAT-2 inhibitors may have antipsychotic activity and may offer promise for treatment of psychosis with the potential for a reduced risk of TD.
Old and new strategies in therapy and diagnosis against fungal infections
Authors: Vanzolini Tania , Magnani Mauro
Published: January 2024

Fungal infections represent a serious global health threat. The new emerging pathogens and the spread of different forms of resistance are now hardly challenging the tools available in therapy and diagnostics. With the commonly used diagnoses, fungal identification is often slow and inaccurate, and, on the other hand, some drugs currently used as treatments are significantly affected by the decrease in susceptibility. Herein, the antifungal arsenal is critically summarized. Besides describing the old approaches and their mechanisms, advantages, and limitations, the focus is dedicated to innovative strategies which are designed, identified, and developed to take advantage of the discrepancies between fungal and host cells. Relevant pathways and their role in survival and virulence are discussed as their suitability as sources of antifungal targets. In a similar way, molecules with antifungal activity are reported as potential agents/precursors of the next generation of antimycotics. Particular attention was devoted to biotechnological entities, to their novelty and reliability, to drug repurposing and restoration, and to combinatorial applications yielding significant improvements in efficacy.

Key points

• New antifungal agents and targets are needed to limit fungal morbidity and mortality.

• Therapeutics and diagnostics suffer of delays in innovation and lack of targets.

• Biologics, drug repurposing and combinations are the future of antifungal treatments.
Coordination of anti-CTLA-4 with whole-brain radiation therapy decreases tumor burden during treatment in a novel syngeneic model of lung cancer brain metastasis
Authors: Blethen K. E. , Wolford C. P. , Pecar G. L. , Arsiwala T. A. , Adjeroh E. , Dykstra L. P. , Kielkowski B. N. , Lockman P. R.
Published: January 2024

Lung cancer is the most common primary tumor to metastasize to the brain. Although advances in lung cancer therapy have increased rates of survival over the past few decades, control and treatment of lung cancer brain metastasis remains an urgent clinical need. Herein, we examine the temporal coordination of α-CTLA-4 administration in combination with whole-brain radiation therapy in a syngeneic preclinical model of lung cancer brain metastasis in both C57Bl/6 and athymic nude mice. Brain tumor burden, survival, and weight loss were monitored. Immunotherapy administration 24 h prior to irradiation resulted in increased brain tumor burden, while administration of immunotherapy 12 h after radiation decreased tumor burden. Neither of the treatments affected survival outcomes or weight loss due to brain tumor recurrence. These findings suggest that the coordination of α-CTLA-4 administration in addition to whole-brain radiation therapy may be a viable strategy for reduction of tumor burden for the management of lung cancer brain metastasis.
The offshore wind speed changes in China: an insight into CMIP6 model simulation and future projections
Authors: Deng Kaiqiang , Yang Song , Liu Wanlei , Li Hairong , Chen Deliang , Lian Tao , Zhang Gangfeng , Zha Jinlin , Shen Cheng
Published: January 2024

Offshore wind speed in China plays a key role in affecting air–sea interactions, coastal tides, and wind energy, but its changes in a warming climate and the associated causes remain unclear. Based on the ERA5 reanalysis and the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6 (CMIP6) models, this study evaluates the past and future variations of wind speed at 10 m (WS10) over China’s offshore seas in summer and winter. The results show that the CMIP6 multi-model mean performs well in simulating the climatological patterns (1981–2010) of WS10 for both seasons. The trends and leading variabilities in WS10 are also reasonably reproduced in the South China Sea (SCS). In the northern SCS, WS10 has strengthened during both seasons in the recent decades. In contrast, in the East China Sea (ECS), WS10 has increased (decreased) during summer (winter). Further attribution analysis suggests that the forcing of greenhouse gasses (aerosols) may make WS10 stronger (weaker) in the two seas and for both seasons, while natural variability tends to slow down (speed up) WS10 in the SCS and ECS during summer (winter). In addition, according to the CMIP6 model projections under various warming scenarios, WS10 is likely to increase over both the northern SCS and the ECS in summer, while WS10 will increase over the northern SCS but decrease over the ECS in winter. Differences in the projected WS10 changes in the ECS during summer and winter are attributed to the projected intensification (weakening) of the East Asian summer (winter) monsoon circulation.
Role of visceral fat on postoperative complications and relapse in patients with Crohn's disease after ileocecal resection: Is it overrated?
Authors: Schineis Christian Hans Wolfgang , Pozios Ioannis , Boubaris Katharina , Weixler Benjamin , Kamphues Carsten , Margonis Georgios Antonios , Kreis Martin Ernst , Strobel Rahel Maria , Beyer Katharina , Seifarth Claudia , Luitjens Jan , Kaufmann David , Lauscher Johannes Christian
Published: January 2024

Introduction

The role of visceral fat in disease development, particularly in Crohn´s disease (CD), is significant. However, its preoperative prognostic value for postoperative complications and CD relapse after ileocecal resection (ICR) remains unknown. This study aims to assess the predictive potential of preoperatively measured visceral and subcutaneous fat in postoperative complications and CD recurrence using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The primary endpoint was postoperative anastomotic leakage of the ileocolonic anastomosis, with secondary endpoints evaluating postoperative complications according to the Clavien Dindo classification and CD recurrence at the anastomosis.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of 347 CD patients who underwent ICR at our tertiary referral center between 2010 and 2020. We included 223 patients with high-quality preoperative MRI scans, recording demographics, postoperative outcomes, and CD recurrence rates at the anastomosis. To assess adipose tissue distribution, we measured total fat area (TFA), visceral fat area (VFA), subcutaneous fat area (SFA), and abdominal circumference (AC) at the lumbar 3 (L3) level using MRI cross-sectional images. Ratios of these values were calculated.

Results

None of the radiological variables showed an association with anastomotic leakage (TFA p = 0.932, VFA p = 0.982, SFA p = 0.951, SFA/TFA p = 0.422, VFA/TFA p = 0.422), postoperative complications, or CD recurrence (TFA p = 0.264, VFA p = 0.916, SFA p = 0.103, SFA/TFA p = 0.059, VFA/TFA p = 0.059).

Conclusions

Radiological visceral obesity variables were associated with postoperative outcomes or clinical recurrence in CD patients undergoing ICR. Preoperative measurement of visceral fat measurement is not specific for predicting postoperative complications or CD relapse.
Changes in urinary stable nitrogen isotope ratios during controlled short-term energy deficit: a proof-of-principle analysis
Authors: Wasserfurth Paulina , Huelsemann Frank , Koehler Karsten
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Stable isotope ratios of nitrogen (δ15N) have previously been shown to increase in human hair during periods of catabolism. The goal of this study was to assess changes in δ15N in urinary urea (δ15Nurea) and Δ15N during a short-term controlled energy deficit.

Methods

We analyzed samples from 6 recreationally active men (25 ± 1 years, BMI: 23.5 ± 0.6 kg/m2) who participated in a repeated measures cross-over study involving 4 days of energy deficit (ED, ~ 15 kcal/kg FFM) without and with exercise (ED-EX, ED + EX) and control conditions in energy balance (CON-EX, CON + EX). δ15Nurea was analyzed from urine samples, and Δ15N was calculated as δ15Nurea–δ15Ndiet, with δ15Ndiet obtained from diet prescriptions.

Results

δ15Nurea was significantly elevated in ED-EX (4.4 ± 0.2‰) when compared to CON-EX (3.7 ± 0.1‰; p = 0.026) and CON + EX (3.34 ± 0.13‰, p = 0.001). As a consequence, Δ15N was positive in ED-EX (0.2 ± 0.2‰) and remained negative in ED + EX (− 0.6 ± 0.5‰), CON-EX (− 1.0 ± 0.2) and CON + EX (− 1.1 ± 0.2). Differences in Δ15N were significant between ED-EX and CON-EX (p = 0.005) and ED-EX and CON + EX (p = 0.006).

Conclusion

Our results suggest that δ15Nurea and subsequently Δ15N are responsive to a short-term energy deficit, likely due to increased amino acid oxidation to meet energy demands and preferable elimination of 14N.