bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of environmental humidity on the creep behavior of flax fiber‐reinforced polymer composites
Authors: Xu Bowen , van den Hurk Bart , Lugger Sean J. D. , Liu Tao , Blok Rijk , Teuffel Patrick
Published: July 2023

Flax fiber‐reinforced polymer (FFRP) composites are emerging popular environmental‐friendly construction materials. However, their significant creep properties have been a major concern for using FFRP in load‐bearing structures. This article presents an investigation of the effect of environmental humidity on the creep behavior of the FFRP. Samples with flax fiber in 0°, 90°, and ± 45° were manufactured, respectively, by the vacuum infusion method. Accelerated creep tests were conducted on samples in different relative humidities (RH), and the results were analyzed by the time–temperature superposition principle (TTSP). It is found the creep development of samples with 0° and 90° fiber increases with the RH, and their 30‐year total strain in 97% RH is about 10 times higher than that in 11% RH. The samples with ±45° fiber are found not obviously sensitive to the humidity change. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) check indicates the change in the fiber–matrix interface and cracks between microfibrils in a fiber bundle is the main reason for the change of creep behavior in high humidity. This study may benefit the design of structures made of natural fiber‐reinforced polymer composites, especially for load‐bearing structures working in high‐humidity environments.
The factor structure of mathematics anxiety and its relation to gender and mathematics performance
Authors: Namkung Jessica M. , Goodrich J. Marc , Lee Kejin
Published: July 2023

Mathematics anxiety (MA) refers to negative cognition and negative affect that interfere with mathematics performance. We examined the dimensionality of MA, measurement invariance across males and females, and whether the strength of relations between MA and mathematics performance varies by dimension and gender among 245 sixth‐grade students. Students were assessed on MA, arithmetic fluency, and on‐grade‐level computation skills. The confirmatory factor analysis and measurement invariance tests indicated that two distinct dimensions, cognition and affect, best represent MA across both genders. For the full sample, on‐grade‐level computation skills showed a significant negative relation with the cognitive dimension only, whereas arithmetic fluency was not significantly related to either dimension. We did not find any significant gender differences. Our findings provide support for the cognitive and affective model of MA and negative impact of MA on mathematics performance. Our findings further suggest incorporating the cognitive component in identifying and alleviating MA, and improving mathematics outcomes.
Genetic evidence that brassinosteroids suppress pistils in the maize tassel independent of the jasmonic acid pathway
Authors: Best Norman , Dilkes Brian
Published: July 2023

The developmental genetics of reproductive structure control in maize must consider both the staminate florets of the tassel and the pistillate florets of the ear synflorescences. Pistil abortion takes place in the tassel florets, and stamen arrest is affected in ear florets to give rise to the monoecious nature of maize. Gibberellin (GA) deficiency results in increased tillering, a dwarfed plant syndrome, and the retention of anthers in the ear florets of maize. The silkless1 mutant results in suppression of silks in the ear. We demonstrate in this study that jasmonic acid (JA) and GA act independently and show additive phenotypes resulting in androecious dwarf1;silkless1 double mutant plants. The persistence of pistils in the tassel can be induced by multiple mechanisms, including JA deficiency, GA excess, genetic control of floral determinacy, and organ identity. The silkless1 mutant can suppress both silks in the ear and the silks in the tassel of JA‐deficient and AP2 transcription factor tasselseed mutants. We previously demonstrated that GA production was required for brassinosteroid (BR) deficiency to affect persistence of pistils in the tassel. We find that BR deficiency affects pistil persistence by an independent mechanism from the silkless1 mutant and JA pathway. The silkless1 mutant did not prevent the formation of pistils in the tassel by nana plant2 in double mutants. In addition, we demonstrate that there is more to the silkless1 mutant than just a suppression of pistil growth. We document novel phenotypes of silkless1 mutants including weakly penetrant ear fasciation and anther persistence in the ear florets. Thus, the JA/AP2 mechanism of pistil retention in the tassel and silk growth in the ear are similarly sensitive to loss of the SILKLESS1 protein, while the BR/GA mechanism is not.
Caregiver and care recipient health literacy, social support and connectedness on caregiver psychological morbidity: A cross‐sectional dyad survey
Authors: Yuen Eva Y. N. , Wilson Carlene , Livingston Patricia M. , White Victoria , McLeod Vicki , Dufton Polly H. , Hutchinson Alison M.
Published: July 2023

Background

Caregivers play an important role supporting people diagnosed with cancer, yet report significant unmet information and support needs that impact on their psychological wellbeing. Health literacy and social connectedness are key factors that influence wellbeing, yet few studies have examined their relative role in psychological wellbeing of carers. This study investigated relationships between caregiver and care recipient health literacy, social support, and social connectedness on psychological morbidity in a cancer setting.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study included 125 caregiver‐cancer care recipient dyads. Participants completed the Health Literacy Survey‐EU‐Q16, Social Connectedness Scale‐Revised, the Medical Outcomes Study–Social Support Survey, and the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale‐21 (DASS21). Relationships between factors were examined using hierarchical multiple regression with care recipient factors entered at Step 1 and caregiver factors at Step 2.

Results

Most caregivers provided care for their spouse (69.6%); caregivers mean total DASS21 score was 24.38 (SD = 22.48). Mean DASS21 subscale scores for depression, anxiety, stress in caregivers were 4.02 (SD = 4.07), 2.7 (SD = 3.64), and 5.48 (SD = 4.24) respectively, suggesting normal range of depression and stress, and mild anxiety. Care recipients had a diagnosis of breast (46.4%), gastrointestinal (32.8%), lung (13.6%), or genitourinary (7.2%) cancer, and a mean DASS21 score of 31.95 (SD = 20.99). Mean DASS21 subscale scores for depression, anxiety, stress in care recipients were 5.10 (SD = 4.18), 4.26 (SD = 3.65), and 6.62 (SD = 3.99) respectively, suggesting mild depression and anxiety, and normal stress scores. Regression analyses showed that only caregiver factors (age, illness/disability, health literacy and social connectedness) were independent predictors of caregiver psychological morbidity (F [10,114] = 18.07, p < 0.001).

Conclusion(s)

Only caregiver, and not care recipient, factors were found to influence caregiver psychological morbidity. While both health literacy and social connectedness influenced caregiver psychological morbidity, perceived social connectedness had the strongest influence. Interventions that ensure caregivers have adequate health literacy skills, as well as understand the value of social connection when providing care, and are supported to develop skills to seek support, have the potential to promote optimal psychological wellbeing in cancer caregivers.
Corticosteroids for the treatment of respiratory infection by Mycoplasma pneumoniae in children: A cost‐utility analysis
Authors: Buendía Jefferson A. , Patiño Diana Guerrero
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Increasing evidence has demonstrated the effectiveness and safety of corticosteroids in community‐acquired pneumonia in children. More economic evaluations incorporating the new evidence and in the pediatric population are needed to know the efficiency of this treatment. This study aimed to evaluate the cost utility of the use of corticosteroids as adjuvant treatment for children with Mycoplasma pneumonia.

Methods

A decision tree model was used to estimate the cost and quality adjusted life years (QALY) associated with cost‐effectiveness as an adjunct treatment for children with Mycoplasma pneumonia with persistent signs after standard treatment with macrolide drugs for ≥1 week. Multiple sensitivity analyses were conducted.

Results

The QALYs per person estimated in the model for those treatments were 0.92 with corticosteroids plus antibiotics and 0.91 with antibiotics. The total costs per person were US$965 for corticosteroids plus antibiotics and US$1271 for antibiotics. This position of absolute dominance of corticosteroids plus antibiotics over antibiotics makes it unnecessary to estimate the incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio.

Conclusion

Corticosteroids are cost‐effective as an adjunct treatment for children with Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia with persistent signs after standard treatment with macrolide drugs for ≥1 week. Our evidence should motivate the evaluation of this treatment in other countries.
The average effectiveness of local migration exchanges
Authors: Rogerson Peter A. , Bagchi‐Sen Sharmistha
Published: July 2023

We develop a measure of the average effectiveness of migration exchanges with destinations, for local origins. We also decompose this new measure into components summarising the average effectiveness of a region's exchanges with places for which it has net out‐migration, and places for which it has net in‐migration. This makes it possible to define regions that are effective exchangers, balanced exchangers, effective gainers, or effective losers, with respect to their migration exchange patterns. This is discussed in the context of the measure's ability to add insights to migration theory. In addition, we provide an application of the approach to intercounty migration for counties in New York State.
A physiologically‐based pharmacokinetic model for tuberculosis drug disposition at extrapulmonary sites
Authors: Ramachandran Aparna , Gadgil Chetan J.
Published: July 2023

Tuberculosis (TB) is a leading cause of mortality attributed to an infectious agent. TB primarily targets the lungs, but in about 16% cases can affect other organs as well, giving rise to extrapulmonary TB (EPTB). However, an optimal regimen for EPTB treatment is not defined. Although the recommended treatment for most forms of EPTB is the same as pulmonary TB, the pharmacokinetics of EPTB therapy are not as well studied. To address this gap, we formulate a whole‐body physiologically‐based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model for EPTB that for the first time includes the ability to simulate drug concentrations in the pleura and lymph node, the most commonly affected sites of EPTB. Using this model, we estimate the time‐dependent concentrations, at potential EPTB infection sites, of the following four first‐line anti‐TB drugs: rifampicin, ethambutol, isoniazid, and pyrazinamide. We use reported plasma concentration kinetics data to estimate model parameters for each drug and validate our model using reported concentration data not used for model formulation or parameter estimation. Model predictions match the validation data, and reported pharmacokinetic parameters (maximum plasma concentration, time to reach maximum concentration) for the drugs. The model also predicts ethambutol, isoniazid, and pyrazinamide concentrations in the pleura that match reported experimental values from an independent study. For each drug, the predicted drug concentrations at EPTB sites are compared with their critical concentration. Simulations suggest that although rifampicin and isoniazid concentrations are greater than critical concentration values at most EPTB sites, the concentrations of ethambutol and pyrazinamide are lower than their critical concentrations at most EPTB sites.
Distributed Nash equilibrium seeking strategies via bilateral bounded gradient approach
Authors: Yuwen Cheng , Zhen Ziyang , Liu Shuai
Published: July 2023

This paper investigates distributed Nash equilibrium (NE) seeking problems. A bilateral bounded gradient approach, a novel optimization algorithm, is utilized to solve strongly convex problems. Furthermore, for a strongly monotone game, the NE can be obtained in finite time by the bilateral bounded gradient algorithm. In the distributed manner, two types of algorithms are proposed for seeking the NE: consensus‐based strategy and passivity‐based strategy. For each player, nonlinear protocols are proposed to estimate the actions of their rivals, enabling these estimations to converge to the actual actions in fixed time. To solve the optimization problem, the bilateral bounded gradient algorithm is employed, ensuring that all players' actions converge to the NE in finite time. Moreover, to reduce the communication consumption, event‐triggered schemes are introduced in the information exchange of players. Finally, swarm roundup behavior is analyzed by a non‐cooperative game in which the proposed algorithms drive all tanks to hunt the target in finite time. The roundup effectiveness is verified by the simulations.
Security event‐triggered control for uncertain NCSs against multi‐channel optimal jamming attacks
Authors: Geng Qing , Ma Haobin , Li Li
Published: July 2023

This article proposes an event‐triggering mechanism (ETM)‐based security control strategy for an uncertain networked control system (NCS) to cope with jamming attacks on multiple transmission channels. A structure of the system control block for the attacked uncertain NCS is constructed and a virtual system is designed to cope with the mismatched parametric uncertainty and derive both the optimal control gain and the virtual control gain. Under multiple wireless channels jamming attack, an optimal jamming attack strategy that maximizes the attack power from the attacker's point of view is engineered. Furthermore, an ETM‐based control strategy with jamming parameters is designed to ensure the input‐to‐state stability of NCS under uncertainty and jamming attacks. Finally, the numerical simulation results show the effectiveness of the control algorithm in this article.
Efficacy of machine learning image classification for automated occupancy‐based monitoring
Authors: Lonsinger Robert C. , Dart Marlin M. , Larsen Randy T. , Knight Robert N.
Published: July 2023

Remote cameras have become a widespread data‐collection tool for terrestrial mammals, but classifying images can be labor intensive and limit the usefulness of cameras for broad‐scale population monitoring. Machine learning algorithms for automated image classification can expedite data processing, but image misclassifications may influence inferences. Here, we used camera data for three sympatric species with disparate body sizes and life histories – black‐tailed jackrabbits (Lepus californicus), kit foxes (Vulpes macrotis), and pronghorns (Antilocapra americana) – as a model system to evaluate the influence of competing image classification approaches on estimates of occupancy and inferences about space use. We classified images with: (i) single review (manual), (ii) double review (manual by two observers), (iii) an automated‐manual review (machine learning to cull empty images and single review of remaining images), (iv) a pretrained machine‐learning algorithm that classifies images to species (base model), (v) the base model accepting only classifications with ≥95% confidence, (vi) the base model trained with regional images (trained model), and (vii) the trained model accepting only classifications with ≥95% confidence. We compared species‐specific results from alternative approaches to results from double review, which reduces the potential for misclassifications and was assumed to be the best approximation of truth. Despite high classification success, species‐level misclassification rates for the base and trained models were sufficiently high to produce erroneous occupancy estimates and inferences related to space use across species. Increasing the confidence thresholds for image classification to 95% did not consistently improve performance. Classifying images as empty (or not) offered a reasonable approach to reduce effort (by 97.7%) and facilitated a semi‐automated workflow that produced reliable estimates and inferences. Thus, camera‐based monitoring combined with machine learning algorithms for image classification could facilitate monitoring with limited manual image classification.
Soil microorganisms respond distinctively to adaptive multi‐paddock and conventional grazing in the southeastern United States
Authors: White Laura J. , Yeater Kathleen M. , Lehman Richard Michael
Published: July 2023

Variable results from studies of the associations between grazing management and soil microbiological properties in grasslands suggest the need for further investigation. We assessed the response of soil microbiological properties to conventional and adaptive multi‐paddock (AMP) grazing management practices at paired farms at five locations in the southeastern United States. We measured total DNA and abundances of fungi and bacteria by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) as proxies for soil microbial biomass, potential carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus cycling activities using qPCR of functional genes, and carbon mineralization activities by respiratory assays. Abundances of fungi (p = 0.009) and bacteria (p = 0.001) were greater under AMP management compared to conventional management; however, there was no difference in the fungal/bacterial ratios between management practices. Gene copies encoding for nitrification, denitrification, and phosphate hydrolysis were significantly greater (p < 0.05) under AMP compared to conventional management. Basal soil respiration was elevated (p = 0.004) under AMP compared to conventional management presumptively due to the greater abundance of microbes that were actively transforming plant exudates and residues. In contrast, labile carbon limitation of respiratory activities was greater (p ≤ 0.01) under conventional compared to AMP management indicating decreased processing of soil carbon and formation of microbial biomass. Using discriminant function analysis, the 19 biological response variables successfully classified 94% of the 180 soil samples according to grazing management. In summary, AMP grazing management influenced the numbers and key activities of soil microbes in a distinctive manner that is associated with the retention of soil organic carbon and nitrogen reported in these grazed grasslands.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Catalytic Performance of Modified Keggin‐type Calix[6]arene‐like Polyoxometalates
Authors: Zhang Taiwen , Guo Jun , Zhang Yiju , Zhang Dan , Lu Lin , Qiu Shuangyan , Zhong Jiangqin
Published: July 2023

Two modified Calix[6]arene‐like polyoxometalates of the Keggin type with similar structures were synthesized under hydrothermal conditions by H3PMo12O40. H3PW12O40, 4H‐1,2,4‐triazol‐3‐amine (3‐atrz) and copper ions were used as precursors, respectively, bridging organic ligand and transition metals. The result of single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction and elemental analysis showed that the structural formulas of the two crystalline compounds were: [2(C6H12N12Cu3PW12O40)] (3‐atrz‐Cu‐PW12), and [2(C6H12N12Cu3PMo12O40)] ⋅ 0.5H2O (3‐atrz‐Cu‐PMo12). They were composed of two classic Keggin‐type polyoxometalate anions and six [Cu(C2H4N4)]+ coordination polymers similar to Calix[6]arene. The catalytic studies represented that the two heterogeneous catalysts catalyzed the oxidation of iodide ions in hydrogen peroxide. The catalytic reaction of 3‐atrz‐Cu‐PW12 only took 30 min and 15 s to complete the reaction. The rate of iodine generation was 6.86×10−7 mol L−1 s−1. The 3‐atrz‐Cu‐PMo12 catalytic reaction needed only 1 min and 51 s, in which the rate of iodine generation was 1.126×10−5 mol L−1 s−1. The catalytic reaction rate of 3‐atrz‐Cu‐PMo12 was 16.35 times higher than 3‐atrz‐Cu‐PW12. Both catalysts were reused nine times, and the conversion rate was still 99.96 %, showing excellent catalytic activity and repeatability.
Mn(II)‐ and Zn(II)‐ Based Nanocomposites Metallopolymer for Corrosion Protective Coatings
Authors: Alam Manawwer , Ghosal Anujit , Zafar Fahmina , Ahmed Mukhtar , Altaf Mohammad
Published: July 2023

The transition from conventional polymeric material to green and sustainable, environment‐friendly biomaterials has been actively explored. The objective of the work involves the formulation of an oleo‐polymer (corn oil, CO), hybridization with metallic ions (Zn2+ and Mn2+) through coordination bonding, study of the impact of fully/half‐filled d‐orbitals, and development of eco‐friendly polymeric coating material. The formation of the nanoclusters (10–20 nm) within the polymeric matrix was estimated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analysis supports the predicted chemical mechanism involved during poly‐urethanation of the metal‐containing CO fatty amides. Interestingly, opposite to our expectations the metal ions with fully filled d‐orbital (Zn2+) showed relatively (Mn2+) better thermal and anti‐corrosion properties. The good adhesive strength of metallopolymers and the impact of the d‐orbital electrons on the corrosion protective performance, which was by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and potentiodynamic polarization (PDP). These nanocomposite coatings could be a suitable alternatives to petrochemical‐based polymers.
Substituted 1‐Azaphenothiazines and Their 10‐(2′‐Morpholinylethyl) Derivatives: Synthesis, Characterization and Anticancer Evaluation
Authors: Sharma Himshikha , Gupta Archana , Kumari Reshma , Low May Lee , Lim Wie Meng , Milton Marilyn Daisy
Published: July 2023

A series of substituted 1‐azaphenothiazine was synthesized by Smiles rearrangement and was further used to synthesize 10‐(2′‐morpholinylethyl) derivatives. All compounds were characterized by various specroscopic techniques. One derivative from each series was also characterized by single crystal X‐ray diffraction (SCXRD) method. Compounds of both series were screened for their anticancer activity toward colon (CaCO2, SW48), lung (A549), pancreatic (SW1990) and human breast (MDA‐MB‐231, MCF‐7) cancer cell lines. 10‐(2′‐Morpholinylethyl)‐1‐azaphenothiazine derivatives were found to be more potent than that of 1‐azaphenothiazine derivatives toward anticancer activities. Among all compounds, one of the morpholinylethyl derivative which is substituted with chlorine at 3‐position of pyridine ring, exhibits better selectivity toward both colon cancer (SW48) and breast cancer cells (MCF7).
Strained Small Nitrogen Heterocycles‐Azabicyclobutanes and Azirines
Authors: Rágyanszki Anita , Fiser Béla , Lee‐Ruff Edward , Liebman Joel F.
Published: July 2023

Small ring nitrogen heterocycles, azabicyclobutanes and azirines, were investigated by computational methods in order to address the discrepancy between their regioisomers 1‐ and 2‐azabicyclobutane and 1H‐ and 2H‐azirines. Both 1‐azabicyclobutane and 2H‐azirine are well known synthetic starting points to larger nitrogen heterocycles whereas 2‐azabicyclobutane and 1H‐azirine and their derivatives have yet to be reported as isolable compounds. Calculated parameters such as structure, base strength (proton affinities), NICS values and enthalpies of formation from which strain energies are derived are reported. The destabilization of the less stable regioisomers is attributed to homoantiaromaticity in 2‐azabicyclobutane and antiaromaticity in 1H‐azirine. Two stereoisomers exist for 2‐azabicyclobutane with the endo‐ stereoisomer being more stable. This phenomenon is indicative of the hydrogen bond acceptor properties of the neighboring cyclpropane and the π‐bond character of the central bond in 2‐azabicyclobutane.
Hydrophobic Tetracycline Immobilized in Fibrous Hyaluronan Regulates Adhesive Collagen‐Based Hydrogel Stability for Infected Wound Healing
Authors: Zou Yaping , Zhou Chen , Li Zhulian , Han Xiaowen , Tong Lei , Liu TangJinhai , Xiong Li , Bai Lang , Liang Jie , Fan Yujiang , Zhang Xingdong , Sun Yong
Published: July 2023

Collagen‐based hydrogels have a significant impact on wound healing, but they suffer from structural instability and bacterial invasion in infected wounds. Here, electrospun nanofibers of esterified hyaluronan (HA‐Bn/T) are developed to immobilize the hydrophobic antibacterial drug tetracycline by π–π stacking interaction. Dopamine‐modified hyaluronan and HA‐Bn/T are employed simultaneously to stabilize the structure of collagen‐based hydrogel by chemically interweaving the collagen fibril network and decreasing the rate of collagen degradation. This renders it injectable for in situ gelation, with suitable skin adhesion properties and long‐lasting drug release capability. This hybridized interwoven hydrogel promotes the proliferation and migration of L929 cells and vascularization in vitro. It presents satisfactory antibacterial ability against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. The structure also retains the functional protein environment provided by collagen fiber, inhibits the bacterial environment of infected wounds, and modulates local inflammation, resulting in neovascularization, collagen deposition, and partial follicular regeneration. This strategy offers a new solution for infected wound healing.
Carrier Dynamics Mechanisms in Bi‐Based Photocatalytic Materials
Authors: Ma Chi , Zhong Zhiyong , Liao Yulong , Xiang Quanjun
Published: July 2023

Bi‐based nanomaterials have unique physicochemical and structural properties, allowing them to respond to visible light effectively. The Bi‐based semiconductors can be used for degradation of pollutants, reduction of CO2, nitrogen fixation, and decomposition of water, having the strong potential to address environmental pollution and energy shortages. However, the large‐scale application is still limited by the separation and transfer of electron–hole pairs. Herein this review article, carrier dynamics are studied from three perspectives, including structural modulation, atomic conformational reorganization, and surface modification. The relevant mechanisms of different strategies are mainly highlighted, the variations of carrier motion or lifetime are explored, and the progress in practical studies is elucidated. The structural modulation strategy is first introduced, including different dimensional structures and heterogeneous junctions. Further, the atomic conformational reorganization strategy is presented, including Bi‐rich strategies, doping, and vacancy defects. Additionally, the surface modification strategy is outlined, including facet engineering, loading of semiconductor cocatalysts, precious metals, or single atoms. Finally, these strategies are summarized for regulating carrier dynamics and the outlook with the main research trend, providing more inspiration for designing desirable Bi‐based semiconductors.
Auslegungsmethode zum Kleben höchstfester Stahlwerkstoffe im Landmaschinenbau
Authors: Göddecke Johannes , Göhrs Tim , Meschut Gerson , Große Gehling Manfred
Published: July 2023

In Konstruktionen des Landmaschinenbaus aus dickeren Blechen (ca. 3–10 mm) findet die Klebtechnik bislang nur wenig Anwendung, obwohl sie in anderen Einsatzgebieten bereits ein etabliertes Fügeverfahren darstellt und viele Vorteile gegenüber anderen Fügeverfahren bietet, da es bisher an Regelwerken bei der Auslegung derartiger Verbindungen fehlt. Ein wesentliches Kriterium bei der Auslegung von Verbindungen im Landmaschinenbau ist die Ermüdungsfestigkeit aufgrund der langen Nutzungsphase der Produkte und der in der Landtechnik vorherrschenden Belastungscharakteristika. Geklebte Verbindungen weisen ein hervorragendes Verhalten bei zyklischer Belastung auf. Die steigenden Anforderungen im Hinblick auf Ressourceneffizienz und Leichtbau führen zu einem Umdenken, da durch den vermehrten Einsatz höherfester Stahlwerkstoffe in Kombination mit der Klebtechnik dieses als umsetzbar erscheint. Ziel ist die Entwicklung einer Methode zur Auslegung geklebter Verbindungen in Konstruktionen mit höherfesten Stahlwerkstoffen in Anlehnung an die FKM‐Richtlinie. Die betriebsrelevanten Beanspruchungen der Landtechnik werden analysiert und an speziellen Probekörpern untersucht. Dabei werden sowohl die mechanischen, thermischen und medialen Einflussfaktoren als auch der Einfluss der Klebfugengeometrie und von Betriebslastenkollektiven untersucht. Die Erkenntnisse werden in einer KMU‐relevanten Vorgehensweise zur Ermittlung von Abminderungsfaktoren zusammengefasst, wodurch die Auslegung der Bauteilfestigkeit sowohl statisch als auch dynamisch möglich ist.
Fake supersymmetry with tadpole potentials
Authors: Raucci Salvatore
Published: July 2023

Abstract

We study tadpole potentials of non-supersymmetric strings, resorting to a first-order formalism known in the literature as fake supersymmetry. We present a detailed analysis for vacua with only gravity and the dilaton, displaying the obstructions that forbid the simplest inclusion of form fluxes. Our focus is on codimension-one vacua, for which we propose a definition of energy that might be suitable for stability arguments. Our findings point to the central role of boundary conditions when supersymmetry is absent or broken.
Influence of the parameters of a minimum quantity lubrication system on micro milling process results
Authors: Kieren-Ehses Sonja , Mayer Tobias , Kirsch Benjamin , Aurich Jan C.
Published: July 2023

Micro end mills are characterized by high abrasive wear. To counteract this high abrasive wear, metalworking fluids can be applied. There are various methods to supply these fluids. One of these methods is the minimum quantity lubrication (MQL). The objective of this research is to investigate the influence of the supply direction and air pressure of a MQL system on the process result when micro milling. Micro milling tests were carried out using micro end mills made of cemented carbide with an effective diameter of 50 $$\upmu \text {m}$$

μ
m

. When machining commercially pure titanium, the supply direction was varied at four levels relative to the feed direction (0$${}^{\circ }$$

∘

, 90$${}^{\circ }$$

∘

, 180$${}^{\circ }$$

∘

and 270$${}^{\circ }$$

∘

) and the air pressure at three levels (0.1 MPa, 0.2 MPa and 0.3 MPa). At each air pressure, the spindle speed was varied at three levels (30,000 rpm, 60,000 rpm, 120,000 rpm). Tool wear, surface quality, burr formation, and manufacturing accuracy were analyzed. In terms of the supply direction, the best results were obtained with a supply direction of 180$${}^{\circ }$$

∘

(in feed direction) — the lowest roughness and the most uniform slot bottom structure were machined. Regarding the influence of the supply direction on tool wear and manufacturing accuracy, no significant differences could be found. With regard to the air pressure, no clear result could be achieved. The influence of the spindle speed on the process results was higher than the influence of the air pressure. However, it is possible to select a suitable air pressure depending on the spindle speed.
The Role of Diagnostic Laparoscopy in the Evaluation of Abdominal Trauma Patients: A Trauma Quality Improvement Program Study
Authors: Chiu Han‐Hsi , Tee Yu‐San , Hsu Chih‐Po , Hsu Ting‐An , Cheng Chi‐Tung , Liao Chien‐Hung , Hsieh Chi‐Hsun , Fu Chih‐Yuan
Published: July 2023

Purpose

We aimed to identify factors related to delayed intervention in abdominal trauma patients who underwent diagnostic laparoscopy using a nationwide databank.

Methods

From 2017 to 2019, abdominal trauma patients who underwent diagnostic laparoscopy were retrospectively evaluated using the Trauma Quality Improvement Program. Patients who underwent delayed interventions after a primary diagnostic laparoscopy were compared with those who did not. Factors associated with poor outcomes that are usually correlated with overlooked injuries and delayed interventions were also analyzed.

Results

Of the 5221 studied patients, 4682 (89.7%) underwent inspection without any intervention. Only 48 (0.9%) patients underwent delayed interventions after primary laparoscopy. Compared with patients receiving immediate interventions during primary diagnostic laparoscopy, patients receiving delayed interventions were more likely to have small intestine injuries (58.3% vs. 28.3%, p < 0.001). Among patients with hollow viscus injuries, a significantly higher probability of overlooked injuries that required delayed intervention was observed in patients with small intestine injuries (small intestine injury: 16.8%; gastric injury: 2.5%; large intestine injury: 5.2%). However, delayed small intestine repair did not significantly affect the risk of surgical site infection (SSI) (p = 0.249), acute kidney injury (AKI) (p = 0.998), or hospital length of stay (LOS) (p = 0.053). In contrast, significantly positive relationships between delayed large intestine repair and poor outcomes were observed (SSI, odds ratio = 19.544, p = 0.021; AKI, odds ratio = 27.368, p < 0.001; LOS, β = 13.541, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Most examinations and interventions (near 90%) were successful during primary laparoscopy for abdominal trauma patients. Small intestine injuries were easily overlooked. Delayed small intestine repair‐related poor outcomes were not observed.
McKeown Versus Ivor‐Lewis Esophagectomy for Patients with a History of Total Pharyngolaryngectomy: A Comparison Study
Authors: Kuriyama Kengo , Okamura Akihiko , Kanie Yasukazu , Maruyama Suguru , Sakamoto Kei , Kanamori Jun , Imamura Yu , Watanabe Masayuki
Published: July 2023

Background

Oncologic esophagectomy in patients with a history of total pharyngolaryngectomy (TPL) is challenging. There are two different esophagectomy procedures: total esophagectomy with cervical anastomosis (McKeown) and subtotal esophagectomy with intrathoracic anastomosis (Ivor‐Lewis). Differences in outcomes between McKeown and Ivor‐Lewis esophagectomies for patients with this history remain unclear.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 36 patients with a history of TPL who underwent oncologic esophagectomy and compared the clinical outcomes between the procedures.

Results

Twelve (33.3%) and 24 (66.7%) patients underwent McKeown and Ivor‐Lewis esophagectomies, respectively. McKeown esophagectomy was more frequently performed for the supracarinal tumors (P = 0.002). Other baseline characteristics, including the history of radiation therapy, were comparable between the groups. Postoperatively, the incidences of pneumonia and anastomotic leakage were higher in the McKeown group than in the Ivor‐Lewis group (P = 0.029 and P < 0.001, respectively). Neither tracheal necrosis nor remnant esophageal necrosis was observed. The overall and recurrence‐free survival rates were comparable between the groups (P = 0.494 and P = 0.813, respectively).

Conclusions

When performing esophagectomy for patients with a history of TPL, if it is oncologically acceptable and technically available, Ivor‐Lewis is preferable over McKeown esophagectomy for avoiding postoperative complications.
Direct Aortic Versus Supra‐Aortic Arterial Cannulation During Surgery for Acute Type A Aortic Dissection
Authors: Juvonen Tatu , Jormalainen Mikko , Mustonen Caius , Demal Till , Fiore Antonio , Perrotti Andrea , Hervé Amélie , Mazzaro Enzo , Gatti Giuseppe , Pettinari Matteo , Peterss Sven , Buech Joscha , Nappi Francesco , Conradi Lenard , Pinto Angel G. , Rodriguez Lega Javier , Pol Marek , Kacer Petr , Dell’Aquila Angelo M. , Rukosujew Andreas , Wisniewski Konrad , Vendramin Igor , Piani Daniela , Ferrante Luisa , Rinaldi Mauro , Quintana Eduard , Pruna‐Guillen Robert , Gerelli Sebastien , Di Perna Dario , Folliguet Thierry , Acharya Metesh , Field Mark , Kuduvalli Manoj , Onorati Francesco , Rossetti Cecilia , Mäkikallio Timo , Raivio Peter , Mariscalco Giovanni , Biancari Fausto
Published: July 2023

Aims

In this study we evaluated the impact of direct aortic cannulation versus innominate/subclavian/axillary artery cannulation on the outcome after surgery for type A aortic dissection.

Methods

The outcomes of patients included in a multicenter European registry (ERTAAD) who underwent surgery for acute type A aortic dissection with direct aortic cannulation versus those with innominate/subclavian/axillary artery cannulation, i.e. supra‐aortic arterial cannulation, were compared using propensity score matched analysis.

Results

Out of 3902 consecutive patients included in the registry, 2478 (63.5%) patients were eligible for this analysis. Direct aortic cannulation was performed in 627 (25.3%) patients, while supra‐aortic arterial cannulation in 1851 (74.7%) patients. Propensity score matching yielded 614 pairs of patients. Among them, patients who underwent surgery for TAAD with direct aortic cannulation had significantly decreased in‐hospital mortality (12.7% vs. 18.1%, p = 0.009) compared to those who had supra‐aortic arterial cannulation. Furthermore, direct aortic cannulation was associated with decreased postoperative rates of paraparesis/paraplegia (2.0 vs. 6.0%, p < 0.0001), mesenteric ischemia (1.8 vs. 5.1%, p = 0.002), sepsis (7.0 vs. 14.2%, p < 0.0001), heart failure (11.2 vs. 15.2%, p = 0.043), and major lower limb amputation (0 vs. 1.0%, p = 0.031). Direct aortic cannulation showed a trend toward decreased risk of postoperative dialysis (10.1 vs. 13.7%, p = 0.051).

Conclusions

This multicenter cohort study showed that direct aortic cannulation compared to supra‐aortic arterial cannulation is associated with a significant reduction of the risk of in‐hospital mortality after surgery for acute type A aortic dissection.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04831073.
The association of dietary patterns with muscle mass and strength in old age: The Hordaland Health Study
Authors: Sabir Zoya , Dierkes Jutta , Hjartåker Anette , Rosendahl-Riise Hanne
Published: July 2023

Purpose

The single nutrient approach in nutrition research lacks the ability to account for synergistic relationships between dietary components. Current evidence suggests that diet quality, reflecting overall dietary intake, may influence muscle health. In a community-based observational study in Western Norway, we examined dietary patterns in relation to muscle mass and strength at age 67–70.

Methods

The current analysis was conducted in men and women of The Hordaland Health Study (HUSK), who participated in both the second (HUSK2) and third study wave (HUSK3). Dietary patterns were extracted by principal component analysis (PCA) on food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) data. Individual dietary pattern scores (DPS) for HUSK2 (age 46–49) and HUSK3 (age 67–70), and overall DPS (oDPS) were calculated. Outcome variables were appendicular skeletal muscle mass (ASMM) and handgrip strength (HGS) measured in HUSK3. The relationships of HUSK3 DPS and oDPS with ASMM and HGS were assessed by multivariate linear regression analysis adjusted for potential confounding factors.

Results

We identified three distinct dietary patterns, labelled ‘Western’, ‘Healthy’, and ‘Sweets-focused’. A significant positive association was observed between the oDPS for the ‘Healthy’ dietary pattern and ASMM in both men and women at age 67–70. No significant associations were found between HUSK3 DPS or oDPS for any of the identified dietary patterns and HGS in our population.

Conclusion

Higher oDPS on a dietary pattern predominantly rich in fish, vegetables, nuts and seeds, fruit and berries, and eggs was associated with better ASMM at age 67–70. To establish the influence of diet quality on muscle health, further long-term studies with repeated dietary assessments are warranted.
Influence of the toxicological status on the diagnosis of fatal drowning
Authors: Poulain Clément , Mathieu Olivier , Gouetta Valérie , Baccino Éric , Peyron Pierre-Antoine
Published: July 2023

Drowning is the leading cause of death by accident of everyday life in people under 25 years of age. Xenobiotics are frequently involved in drowning cases but their influence on the diagnosis of fatal drowning has not been studied so far. This preliminary study aimed to assess the influence of an alcohol and/or a drug intoxication on the autopsy signs of drowning, and on the results of diatom analyses in drowning deaths. Twenty-eight autopsy cases of drowning including 19 freshwater drownings, 6 seawater drownings, and 3 brackish water drownings were prospectively included. Toxicological and diatom tests were performed in each case. The influence of alcohol and other xenobiotics on drowning signs and diatom analyses was assessed separately then in combination through a global toxicological participation score (GTPS). Diatom analyses showed positive results in lung tissue in every case. No significant association was found between the degree of intoxication and the diatom concentration in the organs, even after considering freshwater drowning cases only. The vast majority of the traditional autopsy signs of drowning were not significantly affected by the individual toxicological status either, with the exception of lung weight which tended to raise in case of intoxication, probably due to the pulmonary edema and congestion increase. Further research on larger autopsy samples is needed to confirm the results of this exploratory study.
Incidence and treatment approach of intraocular pressure elevation after various types of local steroids for retinal diseases
Authors: Wykrota Agata Anna , Abdin Alaa Din , Munteanu Cristian , Löw Ursula , Seitz Berthold
Published: July 2023

Purpose

For the treatment of macular edema, in addition to the use of antivascular endothelial growth factors, steroids are also used intravitreally and sub-Tenon. Side effects include among others cataract formation and elevation of intraocular pressure (IOP). The aim of this retrospective study was to elicit the IOP elevation after administration of various steroidal medication, the time of onset, and the efficacy of the administered IOP-lowering therapies.

Methods

We included 428 eyes with a postoperative (n = 136), diabetic (n = 148), uveitic macular edema (n = 61), and macular edema after retinal vein occlusion (n = 83). These patients were treated with one or more diverse steroidal agents once or multiple times. These drugs included: triamcinolone acetonide (TMC) as intravitreal injection (TMC IVI) or sub-Tenon (TMC ST), as well as dexamethasone (DXM) and fluocinolone acetonide (FA) intravitreally. An increase of IOP of ≥ 25 mmHg was designated as pathological. A steroid response in anamnesis, the time of onset of IOP rise from the first administration, and the therapy administered were documented.

Results

Of 428 eyes, 168 eyes (39.3%) had IOP elevation up to a mean of 29.7 (SD ± 5.6) mmHg, which occurred at a median of 5.5 months. Steroids most frequently leading to rise of IOP included DXM (39.1% of all eyes receiving that drug), TMC IVI (47.6%), TMC ST combined with DXM (51.5%), DXM with FA (56.8%), and TMC IVI with DXM (57.4%). A Kaplan–Meier analysis and the Log Rank test showed a significant difference (p < 0.001). IOP rise was treated as follows: 119 conservatively (70.8%), and 21 surgically (12.5%, cyclophotocoagulation 8.3%, filtering surgery 1.8%, in 4 the steroidal drug implant was removed 2.4%), and 28 eyes received no therapy (16.7%). Sufficient IOP regulation was achieved in 82 eyes (68.9%) with topical therapy. In 37 eyes (31.1%) with persistently elevated intraocular pressure, topical therapy had to be continued over the follow-up of 20 ± 7 months.

Conclusions

IOP increases after any type of steroid application are not rare. Results of our study let us suspect that especially therapy with intravitreal dexamethasone, either as a monotherapy or in combination with another steroid, tends to increase IOP more than other steroids. Regular IOP checks are necessary after each steroid administration, with possible initiation of long-term conservative and/or surgical therapy if necessary.
CSPG4 as a target for the specific killing of triple-negative breast cancer cells by a recombinant SNAP-tag-based antibody-auristatin F drug conjugate
Authors: Mungra Neelakshi , Biteghe Fleury A. N. , Malindi Zaria , Huysamen Allan M. , Karaan Maryam , Hardcastle Natasha S. , Bunjun Rubina , Chetty Shivan , Naran Krupa , Lang Dirk , Richter Wolfgang , Hunter Roger , Barth Stefan
Published: July 2023

Purpose

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is phenotypic of breast tumors lacking expression of the estrogen receptor (ER), the progesterone receptor (PgR), and the human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2). The paucity of well-defined molecular targets in TNBC, coupled with the increasing burden of breast cancer-related mortality, emphasizes the need to develop targeted diagnostics and therapeutics. While antibody–drug conjugates (ADCs) have emerged as revolutionary tools in the selective delivery of drugs to malignant cells, their widespread clinical use has been hampered by traditional strategies which often give rise to heterogeneous mixtures of ADC products.

Methods

Utilizing SNAP-tag technology as a cutting-edge site-specific conjugation method, a chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan 4 (CSPG4)-targeting ADC was engineered, encompassing a single-chain antibody fragment (scFv) conjugated to auristatin F (AURIF) via a click chemistry strategy.

Results

After showcasing the self-labeling potential of the SNAP-tag component, surface binding and internalization of the fluorescently labeled product were demonstrated on CSPG4-positive TNBC cell lines through confocal microscopy and flow cytometry. The cell-killing ability of the novel AURIF-based recombinant ADC was illustrated by the induction of a 50% reduction in cell viability at nanomolar to micromolar concentrations on target cell lines.

Conclusion

This research underscores the applicability of SNAP-tag in the unambiguous generation of homogeneous and pharmaceutically relevant immunoconjugates that could potentially be instrumental in the management of a daunting disease like TNBC.
Effect of differences in O-RADS lexicon interpretation between senior and junior sonologists on O-RADS classification and diagnostic performance
Authors: Yang Ya , Wang Hongyan , Liu Zhenzhen , Su Na , Gao Luying , Tao Xixi , Zhang Rui , Gu Yang , Ma Li , Wang Ruojiao , Xu Wen , Xie Yuhuan , Zhang Wenjun , Zhang Heng , Xue Gaiqin , Ru Tong , Dai Qing , Li Jianchu , Jiang Yuxin
Published: July 2023

Purpose

To assess the consistency of Ovarian-Adnexal Reporting and Data System (O-RADS) lexicon interpretation between senior and junior sonologists and to investigate its impact on O-RADS classification and diagnostic performance.

Methods

We prospectively studied 620 patients with adnexal lesions, all of whom underwent transvaginal or transrectal ultrasound performed by a senior sonologist (R1) who selected the O-RADS lexicon description and O-RADS category for the lesion after the examination. Meanwhile, the junior sonologist (R2) analyzed the images retained by R1 and divided the lesion in the same way. Pathological findings were used as a reference standard. kappa (к) statistics were used to assess the interobserver agreement.

Results

Of the 620 adnexal lesions, 532 were benign and 88 were malignant. When using the O-RADS lexicon, R1 and R2 had almost perfect agreement regarding lesion category, external contour of solid lesions, presence of papillary inside cystic lesions, and fluid echogenicity (к: 0.81–1.00). Substantial agreement in solid components, acoustic shadow, vascularity and O-RADS categories (к: 0.61–0.80). Consistency in classifying classic benign lesions in the O-RADS category was only moderate (к = 0.535). No significant difference in diagnostic performance between them using O-RADS (P = 0.1211).

Conclusion

There was good agreement between senior and junior sonologists in the interpretation of the O-RADS lexicon and in the classification of O-RADS, except for a moderate agreement in the interpretation and classification of classic benign lesions. Differences in O-RADS category delineation between sonologists had no significant effect on the diagnostic performance of O-RADS.