bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thermal decomposition mechanism analysis of circulating solids sampled from Ende pulverized‐coal gasifier
Authors: Song Minhang , Jiao Xiaolong , Liu Xiaoying , Hou Buying
Published: March 2023

Ende pulverized‐coal gasifier (EPCG) is a type of circulating fluidized bed gasifier, in which the circulating solids are resent into the furnace through a return conduit for regasification. Since the solid circulation in the return conduit mainly relies on gravity self‐balancing, it is easy to cause low and unstable solid circulation rate and increase unburned combustible of fly ash. To solve these problems, a circulation enhancement technique using an ejector to provide a stable pressure barrier to promote solid circulation was proposed. To verify its feasibility, considering that the circulating solid‐CO2 reaction is a rate‐controlling step in the gasification process, it is of great significance to explore the reactivity characteristics of the circulating solids under CO2 atmosphere. In this work, thermal decomposition characteristics of Hailar circulating solids (HLE‐CS), Hailar char (HLE‐C), and Shenhua circulating solids (SH‐CS) were investigated by non‐isothermal thermogravimetric analysis to compare the gasification reaction characteristics of circulating solids and char. The HLE‐CS and SH‐CS used in the experiments were taken from the return conduit of 45,000 and 20,000 Nm3/h EPCGs, respectively, while HLE‐C was made from the raw coal of 45,000 Nm3/h EPCG. The effects of different samples under the same thermal decomposition temperature range were investigated. The kinetic parameters were determined by the distributed activation energy model. The results indicated that remarkable peaks were found in the relationship between temperature (T) and activation energy (E) for HLE‐CS and SH‐CS, but there was no significant peak for HLE‐C, and kinetic compensation effects also existed between ln(k0) and E for different samples. The circulating solids of HLE‐CS and SH‐CS were more easily gasified than that of HLE‐C in the lower temperature ambience. Moreover, HLE‐CS and SH‐CS have obvious pyrolysis and gasification stages, which can be completely introduced into EPCG for regasification, and increasing the circulating solid rate and temperature within a certain range is beneficial to enhance the gasification rate.
Assessment of the genetic diversity of Chinese freshwater mussels and refuge areas in the Yangtze River floodplain
Authors: Liu Xiongjun , Lopes‐Lima Manuel , Chen Xu , Zhou Yu , Qin Dongmei , Zhou Chunhua , Ouyang Shan , Huang Xiao‐Chen , Wu Xiaoping
Published: March 2023

Freshwater mussels are one of the most diverse and endangered faunas worldwide. Owing to the continuing global biodiversity loss, it is essential to identify and protect populations that are not severely affected by human disturbances and ensure that natural genetic diversity is not inevitably lost. The generation of baseline genetic diversity data will help guide species conservation and restoration plans in the Yangtze River Basin where freshwater mussels are facing multiple threats and where strong declines have been observed.

The genetic diversity of freshwater mussels was assessed using 818 mtDNA cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (COI), 565 28S rRNA and 509 COI + 28S datasets, and refuge areas in the Yangtze River floodplain were predicted using a Maxent habitat suitability model.

The results showed that the genetic diversity of Aculamprotula spp., Sinosolenaia carinata, Cuneopsis rufescens, Lamprotula cornuumlunae, Lanceolaria lanceolata, Ptychorhynchus pfisteri, Schistodesmus spp. and Sinohyriopsis cumingii was lower than that of other freshwater mussels, which indicated that the conservation status of these species should be prioritized.

The habitat suitability modelling showed that Poyang Lake and Dongting Lake basins (lakes and tributary rivers connected to the Yangtze River mainstem) present the most suitable habitats for freshwater mussels, indicating that lateral hydrological connectivity may be the most important factor in maintaining the genetic diversity of Chinese freshwater mussels. Consequently, Poyang Lake and Dongting Lake basins should be established as protected areas.

This study provides valuable information for the conservation and management of freshwater mussel biodiversity in the Yangtze River basin, which will not only help conserve this vulnerable group but will also provide wider benefits to freshwater ecosystems.
The influence of firm digitalization on sustainable innovation performance and the moderating role of corporate sustainability practices: An empirical investigation
Authors: Ardito Lorenzo
Published: March 2023

This paper seeks to shed light on the relationship between firm digitalization and the likelihood of launching sustainable innovations (social and environmental, social only, and environmental only), for which the extant research has provided a paucity of evidence. In detail, the role of digitalization is considered in terms of (i) the specific effect of a given digital technology (DT)—among artificial intelligence, cloud computing, robotics, smart devices, big data analytics, high speed infrastructure, and blockchain—and (ii) the effect of the concurrent adoption of multiple DTs (degree of digitalization). Furthermore, the paper assesses if and how the effect of the degree of digitalization is moderated by the implementation of sustainability practices, as the two issues are often treated independently. Research questions are proposed instead of hypotheses. Econometric analysis to answer proposed questions is based on a sample of 14,125 firms, whose information is gathered from the survey Flash Eurobarometer 486. Results reveal that each DT differently affects the likelihood of launching sustainable innovations, while the degree of digitalization is always beneficial. Moreover, it appears that firm digitalization and the adoption of sustainability practices are not complementary. All in all, this paper helps to illuminate current representations of the interplay between digitalization, sustainability practices, and sustainable innovations at the firm level, with implications for research, managerial practice, and policymaking.
Temporal increase in the incidence of anal squamous cell carcinoma in Kentucky and factors associated with adverse outcomes
Authors: O'brien Stephen J. , Gaskins Jeremy T. , Ellis C. Tyler , Martin Brock A. , Mcdowell Jaclyn , Gondim Dibson Dibe , Galandiuk Susan
Published: March 2023

Background

Anal squamous cell cancer (ASCC) incidence in Kentucky is increasing at an alarming rate. In 2009, the incidence surpassed the US national average (2.66 vs. 1.77/100,000 people), and currently, Kentucky ranks second by state per capita. The reasons for this rise are unclear. We hypothesize individuals with ASCC in Kentucky have some unique risk factors associated with worse outcomes.

Methods

Individuals with ASCC in a population‐level state database (1995–2016), as well as those treated at two urban university‐affiliated tertiary care centers (2011–2018), were included and analyzed separately. We evaluated patient‐level factors including demographics, tobacco use, stage of disease, HIV‐status, and HPV‐type. We evaluated factors associated with treatment and survival using univariable and multivariable survival analyses.

Results

There were 1698 individuals in state data and 101 in urban center data. In the urban cohort, 77% of patients were ever‐smokers. Eighty‐four percent of patients had positive HPV testing, and 58% were positive for HPV 16. Seventy‐two percent of patients were positive for p16. Neither smoking, HPV, nor p16 status were associated with disease persistence, recurrence‐free survival, or overall survival (all p > 0.05). Poorly controlled HIV (CD4 count <500) at time of ASCC diagnosis was associated disease persistence (p = 0.032). Stage III disease (adjusted HR = 5.25, p = 0.025) and local excision (relative to chemoradiation; aHR = 0.19, p = 0.017) were significantly associated with reduced recurrence‐free survival.

Conclusions

The rate of ASCC in Kentucky has doubled over the last 10 years, which is outpacing anal SCC rates in the US with the most dramatic rates seen in Kentucky women. The underlying reasons for this are unclear and require further study. There may be other risk factors unique to Kentucky.
Inhibition of lncRNA PCAT19 promotes breast cancer proliferation
Authors: Feng Jianyuan , Zhang Jiarui , Li Yanling , Cheng Weilun , Liu Yansong , Chen Ziang , Duan Yunqiang , Yu Tianshui , Hu Anbang , Wang Ting , Zhang Hanyu , Li Mingcui , Rong Zhiyuan , Ma Fei , Guo Baoliang
Published: March 2023

Background

Breast cancer (BC) is the most common malignancy affecting women. It is vital to explore sensitive biological markers to diagnose and treat BC patients. Recent studies have proved that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) were involved in breast tumor progression. Nonetheless, whether lncRNA prostate cancer‐associated transcript 19 (PCAT19) impacts BC development remains unknown.

Methods

We performed various bioinformatic analyses, including machine learning models to identify critical regulatory lncRNAs affecting prognosis in BC. The in situ hybridization (ISH) assay was carried out to confirm the expression levels of lncRNA PCAT19 in tissue specimens. MTT assay, wound healing assay, and transwell assay were performed to investigate PCAT19's impact on proliferation, migration, and invasion of BC cells. Mouse xenografts were used to examine the proliferation‐inhibiting function of PCAT19 in vivo.

Results

Among the prognosis‐associated lncRNAs, PCAT19 predicted a favorable prognosis in BC. Patients with high expression levels of PCAT19 had a lower clinical stage and less lymph node metastasis. The PCAT19‐related genes were enriched in signaling pathways involved in tumor development, indicating PCAT19 was an essential regulator of BC. Using the ISH assay, we confirmed the expression level of lncRNA PCAT19 in human BC tissues was lower than normal breast tissues. Moreover, the knockdown of PCAT19 further confirmed its inhibiting ability in BC cell proliferation. Correspondingly, overexpressing PCAT19 reduced tumor size in mouse xenografts.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrated that lncRNA PCAT19 suppressed the development of BC. PCAT19 might be a promising prognostic biomarker, which provides new insights into risk stratification for BC patients.
Coronary artery disease and TAVI: Current evidence on a recurrent issue
Authors: Massussi Mauro , Adamo Marianna , Rosati Fabrizio , Chizzola Giuliano , Metra Marco , Tarantini Giuseppe
Published: March 2023

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a frequent finding in patients with aortic stenosis (AS). Concomitant coronary artery bypass and aortic valve replacement is considered the gold standard treatment in surgical candidates. However, limited evidence is available regarding the role of coronary revascularization in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). How to evaluate CAD severity in patients with AS, whether percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) needs to be performed and what is the timing for revascularization to minimize procedural risks, remains matters of debate. The aim of this review is to summarize epidemiology, diagnostic tools and possible options for CAD management in patients undergoing TAVI with specific focus on the pros and the cons of the different timing of PCI.
Echocardiography in left atrial thrombosis
Authors: Moghaddasfar Tara , Vahidi Hamed , Faramarzpour Maryam , Larti Farnoosh
Published: March 2023

Atrial fibrillation is one of the major predisposing factors in developing left atrial thrombosis, leading to morbidity and mortality. Echocardiography plays a paramount role in this condition's detection and subsequent treatment.
Adaptation of Dynamic Data‐Driven Models for Real‐Time Applications: From Simulated to Real Batch Distillation Trajectories by Transfer Learning
Authors: Rihm Gerardo Brand , Schueler Merlin , Nentwich Corina , Esche Erik , Repke Jens-Uwe
Published: March 2023

In the absence of knowledge about challenging dynamic phenomena involved in batch distillation processes, e.g., complex flow regimes or appearing and vanishing phases, generation of accurate mechanistic models is limited. Real plant data containing this missing information is scarce, also limiting the use of data‐driven models. To exploit the information contained in measurement data and a related but inaccurate first‐principles model, transfer learning from simulated to real plant data is analyzed. For the use case of a batch distillation column, the adapted model provides more accurate predictions than a data‐driven model trained exclusively on scarce real plant data or simulated data. Its enhanced convergence and lower computational cost make it suitable for optimization in real‐time.
Efficient photocatalytic removal of N‐nitrosamines from amine washing wastewater using bismuth tungstate
Authors: Maddineni Vasu , Ali Feysal M. , Ibrahim Hussameldin
Published: March 2023

The most mature and practical technology to reduce industrial CO2 emissions, the main contributor to global warming, is amine‐based post‐combustion CO2 capture. However, this results in amine degradation products that pose a threat to human health as well as marine life. To reduce the impact on human health and marine life, identifying and treating carcinogenic and mutagenic compounds like N‐nitrosamines is extremely important. Photocatalysis, in particular, an advanced oxidation process which uses a UV light source and semiconductor catalysts is studied for the degradation of organic and inorganic pollutants. N‐Nitrosodiethylamine (NDEA) is treated with strong reactive hydroxyl radicals generated by a bismuth tungstate (Bi2WO6) semiconductor under UV/visible irradiation. The Bi2WO6 was studied both in pure form and surface‐modified forms using transition metal impregnation like Ag, Fe, Cu, and La. Various catalyst characterization techniques like Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET), X‐ray diffraction analysis (XRD), UV–visible, and scanning electron microscopy–energy‐dispersive X‐ray (SEM‐EDS) are used to study the surface textural and morphological properties of the catalyst. Furthermore, the effect of pH of the solution, catalyst dosing, and metal impregnation (%) on the photocatalytic degradation of NDEA is analyzed. The face centred‐central composite design (FC‐CCD) experimental design method was used through response surface methodology (RSM) and optimization studies for removal of NDEA. The quadratic model was obtained as a functional link between NDEA concentration and three operation variables for all metal impregnated Bi2WO6. The results showed that the pH of the solution was the most significant factor compared to other variables like catalyst dosing and metal impregnation. The average degradation efficiency of NDEA was 89.2% for Fe‐Bi2WO6, 87.4% Ag‐Bi2WO6, 86.9% for La‐Bi2WO6, and 85% for Cu‐Bi2WO6.
Redefining the “crown”: Approaching chemotherapy‐induced alopecia among Black patients with breast cancer
Authors: Pleasant Versha A. , Purkiss Ava S. , Merjaver Sofia D.
Published: March 2023

Chemotherapy‐induced alopecia (CIA) can be a devastating side effect of breast cancer treatment for all racial groups, but may carry unique historical, social, political, and cultural significance for Black patients. Oncologists should gain a deeper understanding of the impact of CIA among their Black patients.
Three‐plane description of astroglial architecture and gliovascular connections of area postrema in rat: Long tanycyte connections to other parts of brainstem
Authors: Kálmán Mihály , Oszwald Erzsébet , Pócsai Károly
Published: March 2023

The study demonstrates the astroglial and gliovascular structures of the area postrema (AP) in three planes, and compares them to our former findings on the subfornical organ (SFO) and the organon vasculosum laminae terminalis (OVLT). The results revealed long glial processes interconnecting the AP with deeper areas of brain stem. The laminin and β‐dystroglycan immunolabeling altered along the vessels indicating alterations of the gliovascular relations. These and the distributions of glial markers displayed similarities to the SFO and OVLT. In every organ, there was a central area with vimentin‐ and nestin‐immunopositive glia, whereas GFAP and the water‐channel aquaporin 4 were found at the periphery. This separation supports different functions of the two regions. The presence of nestin may indicate stem cell capabilities, whereas aquaporin 4 has been suggested by other studies to be a possible participant of osmoperception. Numerous S100‐immunopositive glial cells were found approximately evenly distributed in both parts of the AP. Frequency of glutamine synthetase‐immunoreactive cells was similar in the surrounding brain tissue in contrast to that found in the OVLT and SFO. Our findings on the three sensory circumventricular organs (AP, OVLT, and SFO) are compared in parallel.
Pressure‐Induced Semiconductor‐to‐Metallic Transition of Monoclinic KCa2Nb3O10 Layered Perovskite: A Theoretical DFT Insight
Authors: Asrafusjaman Md. , Hasan Mehedi , Islam M. A. , Hossain A. K. M. Akther
Published: March 2023

The structural, electronic, optical, and semiconducting properties of monoclinic KCa2Nb3O10 layered perovskite at pressures ranging from 0 to 400 GPa are investigated using a first‐principles method based on density functional theory (DFT). The calculated lattice parameters and other properties are compared with available experimental values, and good agreement with them is found. The investigation of the electronic properties demonstrates that the compound's direct bandgap nature at the Z‐point appears for all pressure and the compound becomes metallic at 400 GPa. The most influential contribution to the total and partial density of states comes from Nb‐4d and O‐2p states at the Fermi level under applied pressure. The study of optical functions displays that, at 400 GPa pressure, the material is particularly reflective, with the maximum absorption in the infrared band. The outcomes of this study suggest that pressure has a significant effect on the structural, electronic, and optical properties of KCa2Nb3O10 perovskite that may be promising for optoelectronic applications.
Ventricular stiffening and chamber contracture in heart failure with higher ejection fraction
Authors: Popovic Dejana , Alogna Alessio , Omar Massar , Sorimachi Hidemi , Omote Kazunori , Reddy Yogesh N.V. , Redfield Margaret M. , Burkhoff Daniel , Borlaug Barry A.
Published: March 2023

Aims

Ancillary analyses from clinical trials have suggested reduced efficacy for neurohormonal antagonists among patients with heart failure and preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) and higher ranges of ejection fraction (EF).

Methods and results

A total of 621 patients with HFpEF were grouped into those with low‐normal left ventricular EF (LVEF) (HFpEF<65%, n = 319, 50% ≤ LVEF <65%) or HFpEF≥65% (n = 302, LVEF ≥65%), and compared with 149 age‐matched controls undergoing comprehensive echocardiography and invasive cardiopulmonary exercise testing. A sensitivity analysis was performed in a second non‐invasive community‐based cohort of patients with HFpEF (n = 244) and healthy controls without cardiovascular disease (n = 617). Patients with HFpEF≥65% had smaller left ventricular (LV) end‐diastolic volume than HFpEF<65%, but LV systolic function assessed by preload recruitable stroke work and stroke work/end‐diastolic volume was similarly impaired. Patients with HFpEF≥65% displayed an end‐diastolic pressure–volume relationship (EDPVR) that was shifted leftward, with increased LV diastolic stiffness constant β, in both invasive and community‐based cohorts. Cardiac filling pressures and pulmonary artery pressures at rest and during exercise were similarly abnormal in all EF subgroups. While patients HFpEF≥57% displayed leftward shifted EDPVR, those with HFpEF<57% had a rightward shifted EDPVR more typical of heart failure with reduced EF.

Conclusion

Most pathophysiologic differences in patients with HFpEF and higher EF are related to smaller heart size, increased LV diastolic stiffness, and leftward shift in the EDPVR. These findings may help to explain the absence of efficacy for neurohormonal antagonists in this group and raise a new hypothesis, that interventions to stimulate eccentric LV remodelling and enhance diastolic capacitance may be beneficial for patients with HFpEF and EF in the higher range.
Numerical investigation of the effect of using louver baffles on thermal performance in solar air collectors
Authors: Tuğan Volkan , Işık Erdem
Published: March 2023

Conventional flat plate solar air collectors have advantages such as low cost and simple design. However, their thermal efficiency is lower than that of other designs. The thermal efficiency of these collectors can be increased by detailed examination of parameters such as the shape, size, arrangement and material of the air duct. In this study, it is aimed to improve the thermal efficiency of solar air collectors. The effect of louver baffles, which were not previously used in solar air collectors, on thermal efficiency was investigated numerically via computational fluid dynamics. Three different solar air collectors with flat plates, segmented baffles, and louver baffles were compared in terms of thermal efficiency. In addition, pressure drops in solar air collectors were investigated. The mass flow rate of the air in all collectors is assumed to be 0.04 kg/s. Analyzes were carried out between 09:00 and 16:00. The thermal efficiency values obtained during the day for solar air collectors with flat plate, segmented baffles and louver baffles are 27.66%–56.35%, 29.57%–58.82% and 30.09%–59.47%, respectively. The daily thermal efficiency values obtained for solar air collectors with flat plate, segmented baffles and louver baffles are 46.98%, 49.18% and 49.87%, respectively. The pressure drop for solar air collectors with flat plate, segmented baffles and louver baffles were found to be 4.62, 18.82 and 5.96 Pa, respectively. Based on the data obtained from this study, louver baffles are recommended for use in solar heating applications due to their high thermal efficiency and low pressure drop.
Tuna Regional Fisheries Management Organizations Need to Prioritize Transition to Management Procedures
Authors: Pipernos Sara , Galland Grantly , Miller Shana
Published: March 2023

Tuna regional fisheries management organizations (tRFMO) have made strong commitments to developing and implementing management procedures as a more effective and science-based alternative to traditional management approaches. Management procedures have become popular in fisheries management as they use management strategy evaluation testing to successfully account for uncertainty, balance tradeoffs among competing objectives, and establish an algorithm to set fishing opportunities based on stock status. While four tRFMOs have seven management procedures in place and all five tRFMOs are developing management procedures for an additional 15 stocks, delays in development are widespread. No tRFMO has adhered to its agreed-upon adoption deadline for all 22 management procedures, with 13 management procedure deadlines being delayed by four or more years. Such delays can be reduced or avoided through increased stakeholder involvement, market pressure, and support from external organizations and governments, all of which can be achieved through capacity building as well as the establishment and regular meeting of science–management dialogue groups.
Chinese overseas development funds: An assessment of their sustainability approaches
Authors: Larsen Mathias Lund , Voituriez Tancrède , Nedopil Christoph
Published: March 2023

A growing number of emerging economies receive significant parts of their overseas finance and investment from Chinese state‐owned or state‐linked institutions. While academic research has focused on how Chinese policy and state‐owned banks approach sustainable development issues, Chinese sovereign‐backed overseas development funds are a critical yet overlooked component. This paper addresses this knowledge gap by providing the first comprehensive overview of such funds regarding their scope, activities and capitalization, as well as by assessing the funds' policy approach to sustainability. Qualitative and quantitative data are collected from databases, funds' websites, newspaper articles and public statements in both Chinese and English to identify common features between funds and to analyse their sustainability policies in comparison with global best practices. The paper specifically analyses the funds' sustainability approaches rather than impact due to a lack of comprehensive data on the funds' investments. First, the paper finds that given their number, announced capital size of US$213 billion, geographic scope and sectorial focus, including on high‐emissions projects such as mining, energy and heavy industry, the funds are influential players in global development finance. Second, regarding the funds' approaches to sustainability, the paper finds that the funds lack transparency about their policies and practices, which is a key component of sustainable fund management practices. Third, based on an in‐depth analysis of available information, we identify a lack of sustainability in the funds' mandates, an absence of safeguards, limited project pipeline disclosure and no sustainability performance assessment. Lastly, the paper provides four policy recommendations on how to improve the funds' sustainability approaches based on the unique way they are governed by different parts of the Chinese state apparatus.
Diaschisis Profiles in the Cerebellar Response to Hemodynamic Stimuli: Insights From Dynamic Measurement of Cerebrovascular Reactivity to Identify Occult and Transient Maxima
Authors: Dogra Siddhant , Wang Xiuyuan , Gee James Michael , Gupta Alejandro , Veraart Jelle , Ishida Koto , Qiu Deqiang , Dehkharghani Seena
Published: March 2023

Background

Crossed cerebellar diaschisis (CCD) refers to depressions in perfusion and metabolism within the cerebellar hemisphere contralateral to supratentorial disease. Prior investigation into CCD in cerebrovascular reactivity (CVR) has been limited to terminal CVR estimations (CVRend). We recently have demonstrated the presence of unsustained CVR maxima (CVRmax) using dynamic CVR analysis, offering a fully dynamic characterization of CVR to hemodynamic stimuli.

Purpose

To investigate CCD in CVRmax from dynamic blood oxygen level‐dependent (BOLD) MRI, by comparison with conventional CVRend estimation.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

A total of 23 patients (median age: 51 years, 10 females) with unilateral chronic steno‐occlusive cerebrovascular disease, without prior knowledge of CCD status.

Field Strength/Sequence

A 3‐T, T1‐weighted magnetization‐prepared rapid gradient‐echo (MPRAGE) and acetazolamide‐augmented BOLD imaging performed with a gradient‐echo echo‐planar imaging (EPI) sequence.

Assessment

A custom denoising pipeline was used to generate BOLD‐CVR time signals. CVRend was established using the last minute of the BOLD response relative to the first‐minute baseline. Following classification of healthy versus diseased cerebral hemispheres, CVRmax and CVRend were calculated for bilateral cerebral and cerebellar hemispheres. Three independent observers evaluated all data for the presence of CCD.

Statistical Tests

Pearson correlations for comparing CVR across hemispheres, two‐proportion Z‐tests for comparing CCD prevalence, and Wilcoxon signed‐rank tests for comparing median CVR. The level of statistical significance was set at P ≤ 0.05.

Results

CCD‐related changes were observed on both CVRend and CVRmax maps, with all CCD+ cases identifiable by inspection of either map. Diseased cerebral and contralateral cerebellar hemispheric CVR correlations in CCD+ patients were stronger when using CVRend (r = 0.728) as compared to CVRmax (r = 0.676). CVR correlations between healthy cerebral hemispheres and contralateral cerebellar hemispheres were stronger for CVRmax (r = 0.739) than for CVRend (r = 0.705).

Data Conclusion

CCD‐related alterations could be observed in CVR examinations. Conventional CVRend may underestimate CVR and could exaggerate CCD.

Evidence Level

4.

Technical Efficacy

Stage 3.
Improving maize quality from mechanical grain harvesting by matching maize varieties with accumulated temperature in northeast China
Authors: Huang Zhaofu , Ming Bo , Hou Liangyu , Xue Jun , Wang Keru , Xie Ruizhi , Hou Peng , Wang Zhigang , Ma Daling , Gao Julin , Li Shaokun
Published: March 2023

BACKGROUND

Global warming has led to methods of planting late‐maturing maize varieties in northeast China that have hindered the development of physiological maturity (PM) at harvest and the use of mechanical grain harvesting (MGH). Under these conditions it is difficult to balance the drying characteristics of maize varieties and to make full use of accumulated temperature resources in such a way as to reduce grain moisture content (GMC) at harvest.

RESULTS

The effective accumulated temperature (AcT) and the drying rates of different varieties vary. In northeast China, with a GMC of 25%, the growth periods of a fast‐drying variety (FDV) and a slow‐drying variety (SDV) were 114–192 days and 110–188 days respectively. After PM, the FDV needed 47 days and the SDV needed 51 days to reduce the GMC to be ready for MGH. Harvested with a GMC of 20%, the growth period for the FDV was 97–175 days and for the SDV it was 90–171 days. After PM, the FDV required 64 days and the SDV needed 70 days to reduce the GMC to be ready for MGH.

CONCLUSION

Matching cultivars with AcT can help farmers to choose suitable varieties. Promoting MGH may boost maize production, thus ensuring China's food security. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Recovery and adjustment trajectories among Hurricane Florence survivors: Analysis utilizing nonlinear dynamic system modeling
Authors: Littleton Heather , Ricca Bernard , Allen Ashley Batts , Benight Charles
Published: March 2023

Self‐regulation shift theory (SRST) argues that most individuals are able to successfully recover from trauma via engagement in self‐regulation processes as well as the effective utilization of internal and environmental resources. However, a minority of individuals may instead experience a self‐determination violation as a result of their self‐regulatory capacity being overwhelmed. This self‐determination violation is marked by chaotic and shifting adjustment, maladaptive regulation attempts, and, ultimately, a shift to an impaired self‐state and the development of persistent psychopathology, such as posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The current study utilized nonlinear dynamic system (NDS) analysis to identify adjustment trajectory dynamics among rural hurricane survivors in North Carolina (N = 131) who completed daily ecological momentary assessments (EMAs) regarding their distress (i.e., negative mood and PTSD symptoms), regulation efforts (e.g., coping), and appraisals (e.g., coping self‐efficacy) over a 6‐week period. Four adjustment trajectories were identified, including two largely adaptive trajectories (69.0% and 5.7%), a less stable adjustment trajectory (6.9%), and a fourth trajectory (18.4%) marked by shifting adjustment states and more frequent maladaptive regulation and negative appraisals, suggesting possible self‐determination violation. Consistent with this possibility, this final trajectory was also associated with more severe PTSD symptoms relative to the other three trajectories at enrollment and 6‐month follow‐up. Future work should utilize NDS to model posttrauma adjustment dynamics from within a SRST framework to identify patterns of positive and negative adjustment dynamics at different time points in the trauma recovery process.
Implementing a trauma‐informed system of care: An analysis of learning collaborative outcomes
Authors: Bills Lyndra J. , Hutchison Shari L. , Snider Mira D. H. , Skrzypek Brittany E. , Minnich Christopher L. , Korney Joseph M. , Taylor RaeAnn M. , Herschell Amy D.
Published: March 2023

Trauma exposure can negatively impact health. Trauma‐informed care implementation within health care systems may improve the identification and treatment of trauma‐related illness on a population health level. The current study investigated outcomes of a multiagency implementation of trauma‐informed care for Medicaid‐enrolled adults and children in 23 rural Pennsylvania (United States) counties. Changes in trauma symptom screening, the number of staff trained in trauma‐informed care, and clinician confidence in using trauma‐informed care were assessed in participating treatment agencies (N = 22) over the course of a 15‐month trauma‐informed care learning collaborative (TLC). Data included monthly agency‐reported screening, training, and confidence outcomes, which were analyzed using repeated‐measures analyses of variance. Trauma symptom screening rates improved from 41.1% (SD = 43.0%) to 93.3% (SD = 12.0), p < .001; ηp2 = .30. The average number of cumulative staff members trained in trauma‐informed care per agency increased from 24.43 (SD = 42.22) to 140.00 (SD = 150.87), p < .001, Kendall's W = .09. The percentage of agencies that reported high confidence in delivering trauma‐informed care increased from 15.8% (SD = 15.5%) to 80.5% (SD = 17.7%), p < .001; ηp2 = .45. Pairwise comparisons revealed both screening rates and confidence ratings reached significant improvement in Month 11 of the TLC, suggesting that these processes may be related. A total of 2,935 staff members were trained during the TLC. The immediate impact of system‐level implementation of trauma‐informed care was evident for agency processes and staff confidence, with support provided by multiple stakeholders.
Preparation of a Novel Sorbent Based on Pickering Emulsions Polymerization Method for Encapsulating Extractants and the Adsorption of Indium in an Aqueous Solution
Authors: Dong Chen , Gao Jing , Zhao Yunting , Ma TianTian , He Yongjun
Published: March 2023

The recovery of indium from impregnating resins in water is usually limited by the poor bonding of the extractant to the carrier resin. Pickering emulsion hydrogels (PEHGs) encapsulating extractant bis(2‐ethylhexyl) phosphate are prepared by oil‐in‐water Pickering emulsions polymerization method using polyvinyl alcohol and sodium alginate as continuous phases and nano‐SiO2 and alkylphenol ethoxylates‐10 (OP‐10) as emulsifiers. PEHGs are used to recover trivalent In(III) from water to study its encapsulation and adsorption properties. Pickering emulsions are characterized by optical microscopy. PEHGs are characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectrometer and scanning electron microscopy. The results showed that the stabilization time of Pickering emulsions improved from 3 min to ≈14 days after the addition of 5 wt.% of OP‐10. The internal structure of 4‐Pickering emulsion hydrogels (4‐PEHGs) prepared from Pickering emulsions co‐stabilized by nano‐SiO2 and OP‐10 is changed from core‐shell to honeycomb structure and no oil phase leakage occurred. In(III) adsorption is carried out on 4‐PEHGs. The results showed that the maximum adsorption of In(III) in water by 4‐PEHGs is 18.03 mg g−1. The adsorption process of In(III) is controlled by chemisorption. This study showed that 4‐PEHGs can be used as an effective adsorbent for the recovery of indium in water.
Marangoni‐Driven Patterning in Polymer Thin Film Supported on Shrinking Substrate for Resolution Enhancement
Authors: Choi Subin , Min Seong‐Bae , Jeon Dupyo , Kim Chae Bin
Published: March 2023

The Marangoni effect causes liquids to flow toward localized regions with higher surface tension. In a polymer thin film, the flow induced by photochemically programmed surface tension gradients can be harnessed to manufacture patterned surfaces. Patterned polymer films are particularly useful for controlling adhesion, improving photonic device efficiency, and directing cellular alignment. In general, a broader range of accessible pattern resolutions and/or aspect ratios ensures a broader range of applications. However, because of the process flow for pattern formation, the final pattern periodicity of the Marangoni‐driven features matches that of the initially prescribed surface energy pattern. To achieve better resolution without using sophisticated and complex tools, a shrinking (or pre‐strained) polymer film is used as a substrate. The shrinking substrate can “contract or densify” the features along the substrate plane. Consequently, the resolution of the patterns formed on the shrinking substrate is improved by the shrinkage rate of the substrate compared with those formed on the non‐shrinking substrate (i.e., silicon wafer).
Evaluation of repeatability and reproducibility of radiomic features produced by the fan‐beam kV‐CT on a novel ring gantry‐based PET/CT linear accelerator
Authors: Ketcherside Trevor , Shi Chengyu , Chen Quan , Leung David , Sundquist Andrew , Huntzinger Calvin , Court Laurence E. , Han Chunhui , Watkins Tyler , Ladbury Colton , Williams Terence M. , Liu An
Published: March 2023

Background

The RefleXion X1 is a novel radiotherapy delivery system on a ring gantry equipped with fan‐beam kV‐CT and PET imaging subsystems. The day‐to‐day scanning variability of radiomics features must be evaluated before any attempt to utilize radiomics features.

Purpose

This study aims to characterize the repeatability and reproducibility of radiomic features produced by the RefleXion X1 kV‐CT.

Materials and Methods

The Credence Cartridge Radiomics (CCR) phantom includes six cartridges of varied materials. It was scanned 10 times on the RefleXion X1 kVCT imaging subsystem over a 3‐month period using the two most frequently used scanning protocols (BMS and BMF). Fifty‐five radiomic features were extracted for each ROI on each CT scan and analyzed using LifeX software. The coefficient of variation (COV) was computed to evaluate the repeatability. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and concordance correlation coefficient (CCC) were used to evaluate the repeatability and reproducibility of the scanned images using 0.9 as the threshold. This process is repeated on a GE PET‐CT scanner using several built‐in protocols as a comparison.

Results

On average, 87% of the features on both scan protocols on the RefleXion X1 kVCT imaging subsystem can be considered repeatable as they met COV < 10% criteria. On GE PET‐CT, this number is similar at 86%. When we tighten the criteria to COV <5%, the RefleXion X1 kVCT imaging subsystem showed much better repeatability with 81% of features on average whereas GE PET‐CT showed only 73.5% on average. About 91% and 89% of the features with ICC > 0.9 respectively for BMS and BMF protocols on RefleXion X1. On the other hand, the percentage of features with ICC > 0.9 on GE PET‐CT ranges from 67% to 82%. The RefleXion X1 kVCT imaging subsystem showed excellent intra‐scanner reproducibility between the scanning protocols much better than the GE PET CT scanner. For the inter‐scanner reproducibility, the percentage of features with CCC > 0.9 ranged from 49% to 80%. between X1 and GE PET‐CT scanning protocols.

Conclusions

Clinically useful CT radiomic features produced by the RefleXion X1 kVCT imaging subsystem are reproducible and stable over time, demonstrating its utility as a quantitative imaging platform.
Extracting transition features among brain states based on coarse‐grained similarity measurement for autism spectrum disorder analysis
Authors: Pan Hongxin , Mao Yanyan , Liu Peiqiang , Li Yuan , Wei Guanglan , Qiao Xiaoyan , Ren Yande , Zhao Feng
Published: March 2023

Background

The abnormal brain functional connectivity (FC) of patients with mental diseases is closely linked to the transition features among brain states. However, the current research on state transition will produce certain division deviations in the measurement method of state division, and also ignore the transition features among multiple states that contain more abundant information for analyzing brain diseases.

Purpose

To investigate the potential of the proposed method based on coarse‐grained similarity measurement to solve the problem of state division, and consider the transition features among multiple states to analyze the FC abnormalities of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) patients.

Methods

We used resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging to examine 45 ASD and 47 healthy controls (HC). The FC between brain regions was calculated by the sliding window and correlation algorithm, and a novel coarse‐grained similarity measure method was used to cluster the FC networks into five states, and then extract the features both of the state itself and the transition features among multiple states for analysis and diagnosis.

Results

(1) The state as divided by the coarse‐grained measurement method improves the diagnostic performance of individuals with ASD compared with previous methods. (2) The transition features among multiple states can provide complementary information to the features of the state itself in the ASD analysis and diagnosis. (3) ASD individuals have different brain state transitions than HC. Specifically, the abnormalities in intra‐ and inter‐network connectivity of ASD patients mainly occur in the default mode network, the visual network, and the cerebellum.

Conclusions

Such results demonstrate that our approach with new measurements and new features is effective and promising in brain state analysis and ASD diagnosis.
Alatent‐factor self‐excitingpoint process for software failures
Authors: Ay Atilla , Landon Joshua , Ruggeri Fabrizio , Soyer Refik
Published: March 2023

Software debugging is the process of detecting and removing bugs during software development. Although the intent of modifications to the software is to remove bugs, one cannot rule out the possibility of introducing new bugs as a result of these modifications. We consider a self‐exciting point process, which can incorporate the case of reliability deterioration due to the potential introduction of new bugs to the software during the development phase. In order to account for the unobservable process of introducing bugs, latent variables are incorporated into the self‐exciting point process models. The models are then applied to two data sets in software reliability and additional insights that can be obtained from these models are discussed. Our results suggest that the self‐exciting processes with latent factors perform better than the standard point process models in describing the behavior of software failures during the debugging process.
Parameter‐robust mixed element method for poroelasticity with Darcy‐Forchheimer flow
Authors: Li Hongpeng , Rui Hongxing
Published: March 2023

In this paper, the Biot's consolidation model is considered, and Darcy‐Forchheimer equation is used to describe the relationship between the fluid velocity and pressure. The model is nonlinear and the unknown variables are the solid displacement, the fluid velocity and pressure. The Bernardi‐Raugel element is used for displacement and the RT mixed element is used for the fluid velocity and pressure. The parameter‐robust BR‐RT0‐P0 method presented here is uniformly stable not only with respect to the Lamé constant , but also with respect to the constrained specific storage coefficient . We demonstrate the well‐posedness of the BR‐RT0‐P0 finite element solutions, and give the error estimates of the finite element approximations using the monotonicity of the nonlinear Forchheimer term. The error estimates are divided into two cases, that is, is positive and is nonnegative. Numerical experiments are presented to verify theoretical analysis. Moreover we focus on the variation of pressure by several poroelasticity problems.
Integrative analysis of transcriptomic and metabolomic profiles reveals abnormal phosphatidylinositol metabolism in follicles from endometriosis‐associated infertility patients
Authors: Dai Yongdong , Lin Xiang , Liu Na , Shi Libing , Zhuo Feng , Huang Qianmeng , Gu Weijia , Zhao Fanxuan , Zhang Yi , Zhang Yinli , Pan Yinbin , Zhang Songying
Published: March 2023

Endometriosis is a common gynecological disorder that causes female infertility. Our recent research found that excessive oxidative stress in ovaries of endometriosis patients induced senescence of cumulus granulosa cells. Here, we analyzed the transcriptomic and metabolomics profiles of follicles in a mouse model of endometriosis and in patients with endometriosis and investigated the potential function of changed metabolites in granulosa cells. RNA‐sequencing indicated that both endometriosis lesions and oxidative stress in mice induced abnormalities of reactive oxidative stress, steroid hormone biosynthesis, and lipid metabolism. The mouse model and women with endometriosis showed altered lipid metabolism. Nontargeted metabolite profiling of follicular fluid from endometriosis and male‐factor infertility patients by liquid chromatography mass spectrometry identified 55 upregulated and 67 downregulated metabolites. These differential metabolites were mainly involved in steroid hormone biosynthesis and glycerophospholipid metabolism. Phosphatidylinositol (PI 16:0/18:2) was significantly elevated in follicular fluid from endometriosis patients compared with controls (p < 0.05), while lysophosphatidylinositol (LPI 18:2, 20:2, 18:1, 20:3 and 18:3) was reduced (p < 0.05). Upregulated PI and downregulated LPI correlated with oocyte retrieval number and mature oocyte number. LPI inhibited cellular reactive oxidative stress induced by hemin in granulosa cells. Cell proliferation inhibition, senescence, and apoptosis induced by hemin were partially reversed by LPI. Moreover, LPI administration rescued hemin blocking of cumulus‐oocyte complex expansion and stimulated expression of ovulation‐related genes. Transcriptomic Switching mechanism at 5' end of the RNA transcript sequencing and western blot revealed that LPI effects on granulosa cells were associated with its regulation of MAPK‐ERK1/2 signaling, which was suppressed in the presence of hemin. In conclusion, our results revealed the dysregulation of lipid metabolism in endometriotic follicles. LPI may represent a novel agent for in vitro follicular culture that reverses the excessive oxidative stress from endometriotic lesions. © 2023 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Preparation and properties of three‐dimensional boron nitride submicron tube/epoxy resin composites with high thermal conductivity
Authors: Wang Jilin , Li Zhengde , Chen Wenzhuo , Xuan Weiping , Li Wenbiao , Li Shaofei , Ji Yuchun , Zheng Guoyuan , Long Fei
Published: March 2023

Heat dissipation of electronic devices was an urgent problem to be addressed. In this paper, magnesium borate whiskers were used as the template for the preparation of the boron nitride submicron tube (BNST). Then the polymer‐free supported three‐dimensional boron nitride submicron tube skeleton was prepared by sacrificing the material ammonia bicarbonate. Finally, high thermal conductivity boron nitride submicron tube/epoxy resin (BNST/EP) composites were prepared by infiltrating technique. The phase, chemical composition, microstructure, thermal conductivity, and thermal stability of the samples were studied by X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and other characterization methods. The results show that BNST has an average diameter was 2 um and the tube length was 5–20 um. The surface of BNST was loaded with a large number of boron nitride nanosheets. The in‐plane thermal conductivity of the BNST/EP composite was improved by the three‐dimensional BNST skeleton. When the BNST was 39.28 wt%, the in‐plane thermal conductivity reached 1.632 W/(m K). Compared with pure EP, the in‐plane thermal conductivity was increased by 782.2%. BNST played a good physical barrier effect on the matrix, so the thermal stability of the composite was greatly improved. This strategy will open up a new path to prepare heat dissipation materials.