bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The influence of dynamic resources and stable isotope incorporation rates on aquatic consumer trophic position estimation
Authors: Feddern Megan L. , Nielsen Jens M. , Essington Timothy E. , Holtgrieve Gordon W.
Published: November 2023

A key assumption in trophic position (TP) estimation using stable isotope analysis is that consumers are in isotopic equilibrium with their resources. Here, we assess the degree to which time‐varying resource dynamics and isotope incorporation rates of consumers influence consumer TP estimates across multiple trophic levels and aquatic ecosystems. We constructed a first‐order kinetics model to explore consumer stable isotope incorporation rates and modeled the effect on TP calculations using bulk and compound‐specific stable isotope data from previous experimental and observational studies. We found TP estimates of higher trophic level consumers are less accurate than lower trophic level consumers when applying bulk stable isotope analysis (BSIA) and using particulate organic matter as the stable isotope baseline. The accuracy of TP estimates depended on the time‐varying dynamics of the stable isotope baseline. Tertiary consumers had the highest TP estimation error, and this error was not eliminated by sampling tissues with fast incorporation rates (i.e., blood) in the tertiary consumer. Compound‐specific stable isotope analysis (CSIA) of individual amino acids was more accurate in estimating TP for all consumers and ecosystems compared to BSIA. Our analysis confirms that consideration for the dynamic nature of stable isotope ratios is necessary for accurate TP estimates. Finally, we show how first‐order kinetics models can provide a useful framework for integrating prey and consumer incorporation rates in stable isotope studies to improve TP estimates.
Intra‐Cavity Laser Manipulation of High‐Dimensional Non‐Separable States
Authors: Hai Lan , Zhang Zhichao , Liu Shilong , Li Lang , Zhou Zhiyuan , Wang Qing , Gao Yanze , Gao Chunqing , Shen Yijie , Fu Shiyao
Published: November 2023

Non‐separable states of structured light have the analogous mathematical forms with quantum entanglement, which offer an effective way to simulate quantum process. However, the classical multi‐partite non‐separable states analogue to multi‐particle entanglements can only be controlled by bulky free‐space modulation of light through coupling multiple degrees of freedom (DoFs) with orbital angular momentum (OAM) to achieve high dimensionality and other DoFs to emulate multi‐parties. In this paper, a scheme is proposed to directly emit multi‐partite non‐separable states from a simple laser cavity to mimic multi‐particle quantum entanglement. Through manipulating three DoFs as OAM, polarization, and wavevector inside a laser cavity, the eight‐dimensional (8D) tripartite states and all Greenberger‐Horne‐Zeilinger (GHZ)‐like states can be generated and controlled on demand. In addition, an effective method is proposed to perform state tomography employing convolutional neural network (CNN), for measuring the generated GHZ‐like states with highest fidelity up to 95.11%. This work reveals a feasibility of intra‐cavity manipulation of high‐dimensional multipartite non‐separable states, opening a compact device for quantum‐classical analogy and paving the path for advanced quantum scenarios.
Manipulating the Exciton Dynamics in a MoS2/WS2 Heterobilayer with a Si/Au Nanocavity
Authors: Liu Shimei , Li Shulei , Mao Yuheng , Lin Zhenxu , Panmai Mingcheng , Li Guang‐Can , Zhou Lidan , Lan Sheng
Published: November 2023

Manipulating the exciton dynamics in a heterobilayer (HB) composed of two transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs) is important in the development of photonic/plasmonic devices based on TMDC HBs. Here, the realization of such a manipulation in a MoS2/WS2 HB is reported by using a Si/Au hybrid nanocavity composed of a Si nanoparticle and an Au film, which is manifested in the modification in the photoluminescence (PL) of the embedded MoS2/WS2 HB. It is shown that a transition from PL quenching to PL enhancement can be achieved by adjusting the diameter of the Si nanoparticle, which modifies the plasmon resonance supported by the Si/Au nanocavity. More interestingly, it is demonstrated that the enhancement factor can be manipulated by shifting the exciton/trion resonance close to or far away from the plasmon resonance by simply increasing the laser power. It is revealed that the manipulation is realized by effectively controlling the strain and Purcell effects induced by the Si/Au nanocavity. A PL enhancement factor as large as ≈187 in the MoS2/WS2 HB at a high laser power is observed. The findings suggest the potential applications of dielectric‐metal hybrid nanocavities in the manipulation of the exciton dynamics in TMDC HBs and the development of novel plasmonic devices.
Suspension Photopolymerization of Methyl Methacrylate and ATRP Grafting of Thermo‐Responsive Polymers Using a Perylediimide Derivative Photoinitiator
Authors: Diacon Aurel , Rizea Florica , Mocanu Alexandra , Dinescu Adrian , Stavarache Cristina , Jinga Luiza Izabela , Mihăilescu Cristian N. , Rusen Edina
Published: November 2023

The first aim of this study is to develop a photo‐ATRP process using methyl methacrylate (MMA) by employing a novel perylenediimide derivative (PDI) as photoinitiator. The analysis of the MMA photopolymerization process kinetics is performed in solution and in bulk, demonstrating control over the reaction progress even if the polymerizations display a slow initiation step. The photo‐ATRP process for MMA in suspension is also developed and the obtained PMMA particles are further used to reinitiate the ATRP polymerization of thermoresponsive polymers (different molecular weights poly(ethylene glycol) methyl ether methacrylate and poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide)) (PNIPAM) in solution and surface‐initiated processes. The synthesized polymers by surface‐initiated process display a bimodal molecular weight distribution with a clear modification of the signal areas ratio depending on the grafted monomer and on the reaction conditions. The grafting process can take place on the surface of the polymer particles (Mn2), or it can also involve polymer chains located further at the interior of the polymer particles (Mn1). The lower critical solution temperature (LCST) transition is demonstrated for the PNIPAM functionalized polymer particles.
Mechanical Recycling of Waste PLA Generated From 3D Printing Activities: Filament Production and Thermomechanical Analysis
Authors: Agbakoba Victor Chike , Webb Nicholas , Jegede Emmanuel , Phillips Russell , Hlangothi Shanganyane Percy , John Maya Jacob
Published: November 2023

There is a growing need to address waste generated from Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) 3D printing activities. This study explores the mechanical recycling of waste polylactic acid (PLA) accumulated from failed 3D printing operations and PLA biocomposite filaments containing nanocellulose fibres. FFF 3D printable filaments were produced via melt mixing and extrusion of virgin PLA containing varying amounts of waste PLA. The chemical, thermal and thermomechanical characterisation of each specimen was evaluated using Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), simultaneous thermal analysis (SDT), dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), and uniaxial tensile analysis (UTA). A desktop FFF 3D printer was used to fabricate UTA and DMA test specimens. The thermal stability of the filament specimens containing waste derived from the failed 3D prints were comparable with that of the commercial filaments. However, a 11% decrease in the onset of thermal degradation is observed for the filament containing waste biocomposites. The specimens containing waste PLA exhibited higher crystallinity and storage modulus. UTA results revealed similar tensile strength and % elongation, except for the specimen containing 50% waste PLA which exhibited a 29% decrease in tensile strength. This work successfully demonstrates mechanical recycling as a viable waste management strategy for waste materials generated during FFF 3D printing.
N, S‐Codoped Carbon Dots‐Based Reusable Solvatochromic Organogel Sensors for Detecting Organic Solvents
Authors: Jeong Gwajeong , Kim Taewook , Park Seong Dae , Yoo Myong Jae , Park Chan Ho , Yang Hyunseung
Published: November 2023

The visualization and analysis of organic solvents using fluorescent sensors are crucial, given their association with environmental safety and human health. Conventional fluorescent sensors are typically single‐use sensors and they often require sophisticated measurement instruments, which limits their practical and diverse applications. Herein, we develop solvatochromic nitrogen and sulfur codoped carbon dots (NS‐CDs)‐based organogel sensors that display color changes in response to different solvents. NS‐CDs are synthesized using a solvothermal method to produce monodispersed particles with exceptional solubility in various organic solvents. NS‐CDs exhibit distinct photoluminescent emission spectra that correlate with the solvent polarity, and the solvent‐dependent photoluminescent mechanism is investigated in detail. To highlight the potential application of solvatochromic NS‐CDs, portable and low‐cost NS‐CDs‐embedded organogel sensors are fabricated. These sensors exhibit highly robust solvatochromic performance despite repeated solvent switches, thus ensuring consistent and reliable measurements in practical applications. This study provides valuable insights into the solvatochromism of carbon dots and opens up new avenues for designing real‐time organic solvent sensing platforms.
Application of a structured decision‐making process in cryospheric hazard planning: Case study of Bering Glacier surges on local state planning in Alaska
Authors: Abdel‐Fattah Dina , Danielson Mats , Ekenberg Love , Hock Regine , Trainor Sarah
Published: November 2023

Surging glaciers are glaciers that experience rapidly accelerated glacier flow over a comparatively short period of time. Though relatively rare worldwide, Alaska is home to the largest number of surge‐type glaciers globally. However, their impact on the broader socioecological system in the state is both poorly understood and under‐researched, which poses a challenge in developing appropriate sustainability decisions in Alaska. We investigated how the surge patterns of the Bering Glacier in Alaska have potentially devastating effects on the local ecological biodiversity of its watershed via a structured decision‐making analysis of the different possible consequences. Specifically, this analysis was conducted to explore the various outcomes of a Bering Glacier surge particularly if humans have an increased presence near the glacier due to the area potentially becoming a state park. This work explored the benefits of applying a risk and decision analytical framework in a cryosphere context, to better understand the socioeconomic impact of glacier surges. This is a novel approach in which a decision analysis tool was used to better understand an environmental sustainability challenge, offering an innovative method to support the achievement of the United Nations Sustainability Development Goals in Alaska. We therefore emphasise the need for integrated biophysical and socioeconomic analyses when it comes to understanding glacier hazards. Our research highlights the importance of understanding and researching biophysical changes as well as using a structured decision‐making process for complicated hazard planning scenarios, exemplified via glaciated regions in Alaska, in order to create adaptation strategies that are sustainable and encompass the range of possible outcomes.
Can meteorological model forecasts initialize hydrological simulations rather than observed data in ungauged basins?
Authors: Ceppi Alessandro , Chaves González Nicolás Andrés , Davolio Silvio , Ravazzani Giovanni
Published: November 2023

Floods are among natural disasters which cause the largest damages worldwide each year, inducing fatalities of human lives, destruction of infrastructure and economical losses. Consequently, forecasting this type of events through hydro‐meteorological models is still of great importance from a civil protection point of view since it allows to reduce hydrological risk by means of early warning systems. Nevertheless, hydrological model initialization in ungauged basins, where there is lack of direct measurements of meteorological information, is a known issue affecting the entire prediction chain. The present study evaluates the possibility of using forecasts provided by the meteorological model MOLOCH developed by CNR‐ISAC forcing the FEST‐WB hydrological model developed by Politecnico di Milano to perform discharge simulations assuming that the forecasting errors are negligible when using the first 24 h of time horizon. The study is carried out in the urban catchments of Milan city, the Seveso‐Olona‐Lambro (SOL) river basins, located in northern Italy. The main hydro‐meteorological variables are analysed by comparing the spatialized and observed meteorological data, provided by an official regional network of weather stations plus a citizen scientists' contribution with the meteorological model forecasts. Moreover, a sensitivity analysis following the well‐known one‐factor‐at‐a‐time methodology is accomplished with the aim of defining which atmospheric forcing, beyond rainfall, mostly affects flowrate forecasts. Results generally show satisfactory correspondences between forecasts and observed data for the discharge variable at daily scale, although an underestimation of precipitation, particularly for severe events in summer, is present. Therefore, using meteorological forecasts to create daily initial conditions for hydrological model, instead of ground observations, might be a reliable and valuable approach, even if some considerations should be borne in mind when coupling the two models.
A novel homozygous missense variant in LRP4 causing Cenani‐Lenz syndactyly syndrome and literature review
Authors: Fu Yadong , Zhou Yueyun , Zhang Qing'e , Dong Jingjing , Zheng Jianli , Li Min , Liu Jianbing
Published: November 2023

Background

Cenani‐Lenzsyndactyly syndrome (CLSS; OMIM 212780) is a rare autosomal recessive acral deformity, which is mainly manifested in the fusion of fingers or toes, disordered phalangeal structure, shortening or fusion of the radius and ulna, and renal hypoplasia.

Case presentation

Our report described an individual with mild phenotypes from China. His parents were not consanguineous. The affected individual was non‐dysmorphic. Standard X‐ray showed that the both hands have only four metacarpal bones. The distal end of the first metacarpal bone on the right was relatively slender, and the distal phalanx was absent. Multiple phalanges and some soft tissues of both hands were fused. Exome sequencing revealed a novel biallelic c.282C⟩Avariant in low‐density lipoprotein receptor‐related protein 4 (LRP4; OMIM604270; NM_002334.4) causing p. (Asn94Lys) change in the encoded protein. This variant is predicted to be potentially pathogenic, affecting protein structure and function.

Conclusion

We report a novel missense variant present in homozygosity in LRP4 to broaden the pathogenic spectrum of LRP4 in syndactyly, and exome sequencing technology is a powerful tool for genetic analysis in prenatal diagnosis and medical research, as a preferred method for the diagnosis of syndactyly and related phenotypes.
CIPSI: An open chemical intellectual property service for medicinal chemists
Authors: Martinez‐Sevillano Maria , Falaguera Maria J. , Mestres Jordi
Published: November 2023

The availability of patent chemical data offers public access to a chemical space that is not well covered by other sources collecting small molecules from scholarly literature. However, open applications to facilitate the search and analysis of biologically‐relevant molecular structures present in patents are still largely missing. We have developed CIPSI, an open Chemical Intellectual Property Service @ IMIM to assist medicinal chemists in searching and analysing molecules in SureChEMBL patents. The current version contains 6,240,500 molecules from 236,689 pharmacological patents, of which 5,949,214 are confidently assigned to core chemical structures reminiscent of the Markush structure in the patent claim. The platform includes some graphical tools to facilitate comparative patent analyses between drugs, chemical substructures, and company assignees. CIPSI is available at https://cipsi.org.
Chemical language models for molecular design
Authors: Bajorath Jürgen
Published: November 2023

In drug discovery, chemical language models (CLMs) originating from natural language processing offer new opportunities for molecular design. CLMs have been developed using recurrent neural network (RNN) or transformer architectures. For the predictive performance of RNN‐based encoder‐decoder frameworks and transformers, attention mechanisms play a central role. Among others, emerging application areas for CLMs include constrained generative modeling and the prediction of chemical reactions or drug‐target interactions. Since CLMs are applicable to any compound or target data that can be presented in a sequential format and tokenized, mappings of different types of sequences can be learned. For example, active compounds can be predicted from protein sequence motifs. Novel off‐the‐beat‐path applications can also be considered. For example, analogue series from medicinal chemistry can be perceived and represented as chemical sequences and extended with new compounds using CLMs. Herein, methodological features of CLMs and different applications are discussed.
Decay estimates of solution to the two‐dimensional fractional quasi‐geostrophic equation
Authors: Zhao Haoyu , Zhang Jingjun , Li Jing
Published: November 2023

This paper studies the fractional quasi‐geostrophic equation with modified dissipation term. We first prove the existence and uniqueness of smooth solution of the fractional quasi‐geostrophic equation by using the regularization method. Then, utilizing the Fourier‐splitting method, we obtain the long‐time behavior of the solution. More precisely, we show that under suitable assumptions on the initial data, for any multi‐index
and
, the solution
satisfies

and
Integrated Metabolomics and Gut Microbiome Analysis Reveals the Efficacy of a Phytochemical Constituent in the Management of Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Zhang Kai , Ji Jianbin , Li Nana , Yin Zhaorui , Fan Guanwei
Published: November 2023

Scope

Cinnamaldehyde (CAH), a phytochemical constituent isolated from cinnamon, is gaining attention due to its nutritional and medicinal benefits. This study aimed to investigate the potential role of CAH in the treatment of ulcerative colitis (UC).

Methods and Results

Integrated metabolomics and gut microbiome analysis are performed for 2,4,6‐trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid (TNBS) induced UC rats. The effect of CAH on colonic inflammation, lipid peroxidation, metabolic profiles, and gut microbiota is systematically explored. It finds that CAH improves the colitis‐related symptoms, decreases disease activity index, increases the colon length and body weight, and alleviates histologic inflammation of UC rats. These therapeutic effects of CAH are due to suppression of inflammation and lipid peroxidation. Moreover, multi‐omics analysis reveals that CAH treatment cause changes in plasma metabolome and gut microbiome in UC rats. CAH regulates lipid metabolic processes, especially phosphatidylcholines, lysophosphatidylcholines, and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Meanwhile, CAH modulates the gut microbial structure by restraining pathogenic bacteria (such as Helicobacter) and increasing probiotic bacteria (such as Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus).

Conclusions

These results indicate that CAH exerts a beneficial role in UC by synergistic modulating the balance in gut microbiota and the associated metabolites, and highlights the nutritional and medicinal value of CAH in UC management.
Maternal Vitamin D Deficiency in Mice Sex‐Dependently Affects Hepatic Lipid Accumulation in Offspring
Authors: Haroun Nicole , Bennour Imene , Seipelt Eva , Astier Julien , Sani Léa , Tardivel Catherine , Svilar Ljubica , Martin Jean‐Charles , Mounien Lourdes , François Landrier Jean
Published: November 2023

Scope

Vitamin D deficiency (VDD) is becoming a global issue and low 25‐hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) plasma levels have been linked to hepatic steatosis in adulthood. Nevertheless, the impact of maternal VDD on lipid metabolism and hepatic steatosis remains poorly documented, especially under obesogenic condition. The goal of this study is to assess the effects of maternal VDD on hepatic lipid accumulation in adult offspring fed a normal or obesogenic diet.

Methods and results

Several approaches are implemented including histology and lipidomics on the liver in both males and females. No major impact of high‐fat (HF) or VDD is observed at histological level in both males and females. Nevertheless, in males born from VDD mice and fed an HF diet, an increase of total lipids and modulation of the relative lipid species distribution characterized by a decrease of triglycerides and increase of phospholipids is observed. In female no major lipid profile is noticed.

Conclusion

Maternal VDD combined with a HF diet in male may predispose to hepatic hypertrophia, with a specific lipid profile. Such observations reinforce our knowledge of the impact of maternal VDD on hepatic programming in the offspring.
Evaluation of Food Intake Biomarkers for Red Bell Peppers in Human Urine Based on HPLC‐MS/MS Analysis
Authors: Schulz Mareike , Hübner Florian , Humpf Hans‐Ulrich
Published: November 2023

Scope

The validation of dietary biomarkers is essential for the use in objective and quantitative assessment of the human dietary intake. In this study, the urinary excretion of previously identified potential biomarkers after intake of red bell peppers is analyzed.

Methods and results

The urine samples obtained after a two‐phase dietary intervention study in which 14 volunteers participated are quantitatively analyzed by high‐performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC‐MS/MS) after an extensive validation. In the first phase, the volunteers abstain completely from bell peppers and paprika products (control group) and in the second phase, the volunteers consume a defined amount of fresh red bell peppers (case group). After analysis, all potential biomarkers show high dispersions of their concentration, indicating interindividual differences. The glucuronidated apocarotenoid (compound 1), which probably resulted from the main carotenoids of red Capsicum fruits, shows a rapid urinary excretion. The other glucuronidated metabolites (compounds 2–8), described as potential derivatives of capsianosides from Capsicum, show a slightly delayed but longer urinary excretion.

Conclusions

A correlation between an intake of red bell pepper and the urinary excretion of recently described potential biomarkers is observed. Due to large interindividual differences, it is reasonable to assume that at least the qualitative detection of the consumption of bell peppers and possibly all Capsicum fruits is feasible.
In vivo characterization of glycogen storage disease type III in a mouse model using glycoNOE MRI
Authors: Zeng Qing , Machado Michael , Bie Chongxue , van Zijl Peter C. M. , Malvar Sofi , Li Yuguo , D'souza Valentina , Poon Kirsten Achilles , Grimm Andrew , Yadav Nirbhay N.
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Glycogen storage disease type III (GSD III) is a rare inherited metabolic disease characterized by excessive accumulation of glycogen in liver, skeletal muscle, and heart. Currently, there are no widely available noninvasive methods to assess tissue glycogen levels and disease load. Here, we use glycogen nuclear Overhauser effect (glycoNOE) MRI to quantify hepatic glycogen levels in a mouse model of GSD III.

Methods

Agl knockout mice (n = 13) and wild‐type controls (n = 10) were scanned for liver glycogen content using glycoNOE MRI. All mice were fasted for 12 to 16 h before MRI scans. GlycoNOE signal was quantified by fitting the Z‐spectrum using a four‐pool Voigt lineshape model. Next, the fitted direct water saturation pool was removed and glycoNOE signal was estimated from the integral of the residual Z spectrum within −0.6 to −1.4 ppm. Glycogen concentration was also measured ex vivo using a biochemical assay.

Results

GlycoNOE MRI clearly distinguished Agl knockout mice from wild‐type controls, showing a statistically significant difference in glycoNOE signals in the livers across genotypes. There was a linear correlation between glycoNOE signal and glycogen concentration determined by the biochemical assay. The obtained glycoNOE maps of mouse livers also showed higher glycogen levels in Agl knockout mice compared to wild‐type mice.

Conclusion

GlycoNOE MRI was used successfully as a noninvasive method to detect liver glycogen levels in mice, suggesting the potential of this method to be applied to assess glycogen storage diseases.
Accelerating spiral deblurring with square kernels and low‐pass preconditioning
Authors: Wang Dinghui , Chao Tzu Cheng , Pipe James G.
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Robust implementation of spiral imaging requires efficient deblurring. A deblurring method was previously proposed to separate and deblur water and fat simultaneously, based on image‐space kernel operations. The goal of this work is to improve the performance of the previous deblurring method using kernels with better properties.

Methods

Four types of kernels were formed using different models for the region outside the collected k‐space as well as low‐pass preconditioning (LP). The performances of the kernels were tested and compared with both phantom and volunteer data. Data were also synthesized to evaluate the SNR.

Results

The proposed “square” kernels are much more compact than the previously used circular kernels. Square kernels have better properties in terms of normalized RMS error, structural similarity index measure, and SNR. The square kernels created by LP demonstrated the best performance of artifact mitigation on phantom data.

Conclusions

The sizes of the blurring kernels and thus the computational cost can be reduced by the proposed square kernels instead of the previous circular ones. Using LP may further enhance the performance.
Adjustment of rotation and saturation effects (AROSE) for CEST imaging
Authors: Jin Tao , Chung Julius Juhyun
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Endogenous CEST signal usually has low specificity due to contaminations from the magnetization transfer contrast (MTC) and other labile protons with overlapping or close Larmor frequencies. We propose to improve CEST signal specificity with adjustment of rotation and saturation effects (AROSE).

Methods

The AROSE approach measures the difference between CEST signals acquired with the same average irradiation power but largely different duty cycles, for example, a continuous wave or a high duty cycle pulse train versus a low duty cycle pulse train with a flip angle φ. Simulation, phantom, and in vivo rodent studies were performed to evaluate the characteristics of the AROSEφ signal.

Results

Simulation and experimental results show that AROSE2π is a low‐pass filter that can suppress fast exchanging processes (e.g., >3000 s−1), whereas AROSEπ is a band‐pass filter suppressing both fast and slow exchange (e.g., <30 s−1) rates. For other φ angles, the sensitivity and the exchange‐rate filtering effect of AROSEφ falls between AROSEπ and AROSE2π. AROSE can also minimize MTC and improve the Larmor frequency selectivity of the CEST signal. The linewidth of the AROSE1.5π spectrum is about 60% to 65% when compared to the CEST spectrum measured by continuous wave. Depending on the needs of an application, the sensitivity, exchange‐rate filtering, and Larmor frequency selectivity can be adjusted by varying the flip angle, duty cycle, and average irradiation power.

Conclusion

Compared to conventional CEST signals, AROSE can minimize MTC and improve exchange rate filtering and Larmor frequency specificity.
Evaluation of coaxial dipole antennas as transceiver elements of human head array for ultra‐high field MRI at 9.4T
Authors: Solomakha G. A. , Bosch D. , Glang F. , Scheffler K. , Avdievich N. I.
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The aim of this work is to evaluate a new eight‐channel transceiver (TxRx) coaxial dipole array for imaging of the human head at 9.4T developed to improve specific absorption rate (SAR) performance, and provide for a more compact and robust alternative to the state‐of‐the art dipole arrays.

Methods

First, the geometry of a single coaxial element was optimized to minimize peak SAR and sensitivity to the load variation. Next, a multi‐tissue voxel model was used to numerically simulate a TxRx array coil that consisted of eight coaxial dipoles with the optimal configuration. Finally, we compared the developed array to other human head dipole arrays. Results of numerical simulations were verified on a bench and in the scanner including in vivo measurements on a healthy volunteer.

Results

The developed eight‐element coaxial dipole TxRx array coil showed up to 1.1times higher SAR‐efficiency than a similar in geometry folded‐end and fractionated dipole array while maintaining whole brain coverage and low sensitivity of the resonance frequency to variation in the head size.

Conclusion

As a proof of concept, we developed and constructed a prototype of a 9.4T (400 MHz) human head array consisting of eight TxRx coaxial dipoles. The developed array improved SAR‐efficiency and provided for a more compact and robust alternative to the folded‐end dipole design. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first example of using coaxial dipoles for human head MRI at ultra‐high field.
Dynamic T2* relaxometry of hyperpolarized [1‐13C]pyruvate MRI in the human brain and kidneys
Authors: Liu Xiaoxi , Cui Di , Xu Duan , Bok Robert , Wang Zhen J. , Vigneron Daniel B. , Larson Peder E. Z. , Gordon Jeremy W.
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This study aimed to quantify for hyperpolarized [1‐13C]pyruvate and metabolites in the healthy human brain and renal cell carcinoma (RCC) patients at 3 T.

Methods

Dynamic values were measured with a metabolite‐specific multi‐echo spiral sequence. The dynamic of [1‐13C]pyruvate, [1‐13C]lactate, and 13C‐bicarbonate was estimated in regions of interest in the whole brain, sinus vein, gray matter, and white matter in healthy volunteers, as well as in kidney tumors and the contralateral healthy kidneys in a separate group of RCC patients. was fit using a mono‐exponential function; and metabolism was quantified using pyruvate‐to‐lactate conversion rate maps and lactate‐to‐pyruvate ratio maps, which were compared with and without an estimated correction.

Results

The of pyruvate was shown to vary during the acquisition, whereas the of lactate and bicarbonate were relatively constant through time and across the organs studied. The of lactate was similar in gray matter (29.75 ± 1.04 ms), white matter (32.89 ± 0.9 ms), healthy kidney (34.61 ± 4.07 ms), and kidney tumor (33.01 ± 2.31 ms); and the of bicarbonate was different between whole‐brain (108.17 ± 14.05 ms) and healthy kidney (58.45 ± 6.63 ms). The of pyruvate had similar trends in both brain and RCC studies, reducing from 75.56 ± 2.23 ms to 22.24 ± 1.24 ms in the brain and reducing from 122.72 ± 9.86 ms to 57.38 ± 7.65 ms in the kidneys.

Conclusion

Multi‐echo dynamic imaging can quantify and metabolism in a single integrated acquisition. Clear differences were observed in the of metabolites and in their behavior throughout the timecourse.
Use of social media as a source of health information among patients with chronic low back pain
Authors: Taik Fatima Zahrae , Bensaid Rajaa , Adnine Anass , Mansouri Noema El , Aharrane Fatima Zahra , Amar Amine , Fourtassi Maryam , Abourazzak Fatima Ezzahra
Published: November 2023

Objective

To evaluate the use of social media (SM) as a source of health information among patients with chronic low back pain (LBP) and to evaluate the factors associated with this use.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional study involving patients with chronic LBP. Information on their sociodemographics, LBP characteristics, and comorbidities was collected. With the use of a questionnaire, we evaluated the use of SM as a source of information, examining the frequency of use, the type of SM used, and degree of confidence and application of information found. Catastrophising, trust in physicians, and concerns regarding medicines were assessed through the Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS), Trust in Physician Scale (TPS) and Beliefs about Medicines Questionnaire (BMQ Specific Concerns). A regression analysis was conducted to identify factors associated with the use of SM.

Results

A total of 118 patients were included. The mean age was 53.01 ± 14.09 years. Of the sample, 68.6% sought information regarding their LBP on social networks. The main source was YouTube (30%). Eighteen point six percent of patients trusted the information found through SM, and 16.1% have already acted on some of this information. The majority of patients (82%) would prefer to have healthcare professionals in their virtual spaces to answer their questions. In a multivariate analysis, only the degree of trust in the physician was negatively associated with SM use (OR = 0.95 IC 95% [0.91–0.99]; p = 0.03).

Conclusion

This survey showed that a proportion of patients suffering from chronic LBP use SM, YouTube in particular, as a source of health information. The level of trust in physicians was the strongest factor that impelled people to use SM as a source of health information.
Iteration acceleration methods for solving three‐temperature heat conduction equations on distorted meshes
Authors: Yu Yunlong , Chen Xingding , Yao Yanzhong
Published: November 2023

This article focuses on designing efficient iteration algorithms for nonequilibrium three‐temperature heat conduction equations, which are used to formulate the radiative energy transport problem. Based on the framework of relaxation iteration, we design a new accelerated iteration algorithm by reasonable approximation of the Jacobi matrix, according to the characteristics of the discrete scheme for the three‐temperature equations. Adopting the iteration framework, we analyze the advantages and disadvantages of several iteration algorithms commonly used in practice and the new iteration algorithm. Finally, we compare the new iteration algorithm with some other iteration algorithms by solving several nonlinear models, and show that the new algorithm can achieve significant acceleration effect.
Novel adaptive filter design for complex‐valued network systems under hybrid cyber attacks
Authors: Dai Xinqiang , Lu Hongqian , Zhou Wuneng
Published: November 2023

This paper is concerned with the problem of designing adaptive event‐triggered filter for complex‐valued network system under complex‐valued hybrid cyber attack. Firstly, the main contribution of the article is to propose a complex‐valued adaptive event triggered strategy to improve the resource utilisation in the network channel. Secondly, during the modeling process of the filtering error model, we introduce complex‐valued stochastic deception attacks and replay attacks that follow the Bernoulli distribution, thereby forming the complex‐valued hybrid network attacks investigated in this paper. Sufficient conditions for the asymptotic stability of the designed complex‐valued filtered error system are derived using Lyapunov stability theory. In addition, the parameters of the filter are derived using the linear matrix inequality (LMI) method. Finally, a numerical simulation example is given to verify the feasibility of the proposed method.
Sparse optimal control of Timoshenko's beam using a locking‐free finite element approximation
Authors: Hernández Erwin , Merino Pedro
Published: November 2023

This paper addresses the optimal control problem with sparse controls of a Timoshenko beam, its numerical approximation using the finite element method, and the numerical solution via nonsmooth methods. Incorporating sparsity‐promoting terms in the cost function is practically useful for beam vibration models and results in the localization of the control action that facilitates the placement of actuators or control devices. We consider two types of sparsity‐inducing penalizers: the ‐norm and the ‐penalizer, which measures function support. We analyze discretized problems utilizing linear finite elements with a locking‐free scheme to approximate the states and adjoint states. We confirm that this approximation has the looking‐free property required to achieve a linear convergence linear order of approximation for control case and depending on the set of switching points in the controls. This is similar to the purely ‐norm penalized optimal control, where the order of approximation is independent of the thickness of the beam.
Optimization of vibration control using a hybrid scheme with sliding‐mode and positive position feedback
Authors: Enríquez‐Zárate J. , Gómez‐Peñate S. , Hernández C. , Villarreal‐Valderrama Francisco , Velázquez R. , Trujillo Leonardo
Published: November 2023

This article presents the design of a nonlinear hybrid controller for an underactuated Duffing oscillator with 2 degrees of freedom. The main control purpose is to reduce the frequency‐response to specific resonant‐frequencies while maintaining its robustness to external disturbances. The resulting hybrid controller uses sliding mode control (SMC) with a positive position feedback (PPF) scheme. This is structured such that the SMC provides system robustness and tracking, while the PPF allows damping specific resonant frequencies. The system was evaluated using frequency sweeps in terms of acceleration in the second degree of freedom. In this case, the control input is applied through the first degree of freedom. Moreover, multi‐objective optimization is implemented to tune of the control parameters. Simulation results show that the system response to external vibrations can be reduced up to 83.88% by using the proposed PPF + SMC scheme.
ℋ∞ robust control of discrete‐time systems based on new linear matrix inequality formulations and evolutionary optimization
Authors: Gonçalves Eduardo Nunes , Oliveira Pauliana Rufino de Almeida Lima , da Silva Júnior João Horácio
Published: November 2023

This study presents novel formulations for robust state‐feedback control synthesis for discrete‐time linear time‐invariant systems based on linear matrix inequalities. The proposed formulations require searching for two adjustment matrices. The synthesis formulations include other formulations from the literature as particular cases according to specific values of the adjustment matrices. We propose the application of evolutionary optimization to determine the optimal values of these two adjustment matrices. One approach to obtaining a single‐step formulation for static output‐feedback control synthesis is to transform a state‐feedback control synthesis formulation via the simple change of variables. The alteration of variables considered in this study requires an adjustment matrix. The adjustment matrix influences the performance of the resulting controller or the existence of a feasible solution to the problem. Here, we also propose the application of evolutionary optimization to determine the optimal value of this adjustment matrix and the two adjustment matrices of the proposed formulations to obtain the optimal robust control system. Case studies verify that despite the increased complexity, the proposed formulations and the method required to tune them may be indispensable in achieving a robustly stable control system or an enhanced performance for more intricate problems.
Misty Bodies of Water and Artistic Relationality in the Hydrocene
Authors: Bailey‐Charteris Bronwyn
Published: November 2023

The Hydrocene is the watery, disruptive, conceptual epoch that I name for the tide of art going into the blue in response to the climate crisis. In this short watery provocation and essay, I share the potential significance of ‘misting’ as a hydro‐artistic method of reorientation from within fog, where fog becomes a portal towards embodied encounters in art practices. I look to the extensive fog‐based work of Japanese artist Fujiko Nakaya alongside Australian artists Emily Parsons‐Lord's misty installationThings fall apart(2017) and Janet Laurence's hazy site‐specific public workIn the Shadow(2000) as examples of misting. I relate the artists' pieces to theorist Ifor Duncan's concept of ‘Occult Meteorology’ and Janine Randerson's notion of ‘Weather as Medium’, and further propose misting as a hydro‐artistic method in the Hydrocene. The potential of artistic relationality between misty bodies of water in contemporary eco‐critical art practices opens up possibilities of engaging indeterminate watery futures.
Habit and skill retention in recycling
Authors: Brewer Dylan , Cameron Samantha
Published: November 2023

From 2002 to 2004, New York City ceased collecting residential glass and plastic recycling due to city budgetary pressure. We use data on recycling rates in New York City, New Jersey, and Massachusetts in a difference‐in‐differences (DID) research design to determine whether this exogenous pause weakened previously formed recycling habits. Despite a 50% decline in the overall recycling rate in 2003, by 2005 the overall recycling rate had fully recovered. Our results suggest that recycling habits are persistent in the short term and that the loss of previously established recycling habits and skills are not an unintended harm of pausing a recycling program. We show that these results hold in the standard DID approach, as well as a synthetic DID approach modified to estimate time‐disaggregated treatment effects separately, which eliminates pre‐trends and improves the precision of our estimates.
Improving flushing processes through targeted control of the temperature boundary conditions
Authors: Liebmann Vera , Heide Matti , Köhler Hannes , Rüdiger Frank , Fröhlich Jochen
Published: November 2023

In this contribution the authors investigate how flushing of chocolate using a follow‐up chocolate in a straight horizontal pipe is affected by temperature. The authors investigate a non‐uniform distribution of temperature across the considered domain. This is done using two cases, where the first exhibits a wall temperature deviating from the normal process temperature and the second exhibits a differently tempered follow‐up chocolate. The investigations are performed using unsteady three‐dimensional numerical simulations with an OpenFOAM multiphase solver, which is extended to include an additional equation for energy conservation. The physical properties of the chocolate are analyzed with respect to their dependence on temperature and implemented in a new model in OpenFOAM. The results of both cases are assessed according to industrially relevant questions. Among others, they include the amount of follow‐up chocolate needed to achieve a set goal of cleanliness. The time needed to achieve this is also considered. A dimensionless time is used to compare the different cases. Recommendations are provided on how different temperature of pipe wall and follow‐up chocolate may lead to improved flushing processes and which savings may be achieved with this strategy.
Polyurethane coatings modified with ladder‐like polysiloxane
Authors: Lobanovskaya Ekaterina S. , Mokeev Maxim V. , Zuev Vjacheslav V.
Published: November 2023

In this work, ladder‐like polyphenylsiloxane containing silanol groups was used for modification of polyurethane (PU) based on MDI and polypropylene oxide polyol. The obtained coatings have excellent mechanical performance and adhesion to steel. This improvement was confirmed through a combination of characterization techniques. The tensile strength and strength adhesion to steel increase by more than one order of magnitude when polysiloxane fraction increased from 10 to 50 wt.%. With an increase loading level, the coating transforms from hydrophilic to hydrophobic. The reinforcement effect was motivated by restriction of molecular mobility in PU matrix as was shown by solid‐state 1H NMR spectroscopy and formation of chemical bonds between PU and polysiloxane units.
Disruption of the TP53 locus in osteosarcoma leads to TP53 promoter gene fusions and restoration of parts of the TP53 signalling pathway
Authors: Saba Karim H , Difilippo Valeria , Kovac Michal , Cornmark Louise , Magnusson Linda , Nilsson Jenny , van den Bos Hilda , Spierings Diana CJ , Bidgoli Mahtab , Jonson Tord , Sumathi Vaiyapuri P , Brosjö Otte , Staaf Johan , Foijer Floris , Styring Emelie , Nathrath Michaela , Baumhoer Daniel , Nord Karolin H
Published: November 2023

TP53 is the most frequently mutated gene in human cancer. This gene shows not only loss‐of‐function mutations but also recurrent missense mutations with gain‐of‐function activity. We have studied the primary bone malignancy osteosarcoma, which harbours one of the most rearranged genomes of all cancers. This is odd since it primarily affects children and adolescents who have not lived the long life thought necessary to accumulate massive numbers of mutations. In osteosarcoma, TP53 is often disrupted by structural variants. Here, we show through combined whole‐genome and transcriptome analyses of 148 osteosarcomas that TP53 structural variants commonly result in loss of coding parts of the gene while simultaneously preserving and relocating the promoter region. The transferred TP53 promoter region is fused to genes previously implicated in cancer development. Paradoxically, these erroneously upregulated genes are significantly associated with the TP53 signalling pathway itself. This suggests that while the classical tumour suppressor activities of TP53 are lost, certain parts of the TP53 signalling pathway that are necessary for cancer cell survival and proliferation are retained. In line with this, our data suggest that transposition of the TP53 promoter is an early event that allows for a new normal state of genome‐wide rearrangements in osteosarcoma. © 2023 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.