bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Battery lumped fractional‐order hysteresis thermoelectric coupling model for state of charge estimation adaptive to time‐varying core temperature conditions
Authors: Zeng Jiawei , Wang Shunli , Takyi‐Aninakwa Paul , Zhang Mengyun , Cao Wen , Fernandez Carlos , Guerrero Josep M.
Published: June 2024

As electric vehicles become more common, there is increasing concern regarding their battery reliability and safety. The estimation accuracy is strongly correlated with the performance of the battery model. The lumped fractional‐order hysteresis thermoelectric coupling model (LFHTCM), considering temperature and hysteresis effects, is established in this paper. Firstly, the fractional‐order hysteresis sub‐model is established based on the Grunwald‐Letnikov (G‐L) fractional calculus principle and the recursive model of hysteresis voltage. Then, the thermal sub‐model is established by integrating the Bernardi heating mechanism and the heat transfer model. The fractional‐order sub‐model provides voltage to the thermal sub‐model for heat generation calculation. The thermal sub‐model provides temperature to the fractional‐order model for parameter correction. Finally, the fractional‐order unscented Kalman filtering (FOUKF) algorithm was developed to estimate the state of charge (SOC) of the battery. Experimental results confirmed the effectiveness of the model, with its estimation enhancing the utilization, operational optimization, and calibration of batteries in practical applications.
A broadband continuous class‐B/J power amplifier with novel output matching network
Authors: Cai Angang , Yao Ruohe , Liu Yurong , Geng Kuiwei , Zhu Yingbin
Published: June 2024

This paper presents a broadband continuous class‐B/J power amplifier (PA) based on a novel output matching network (OMN). In order to realize a compact and broadband OMN design, a multiband harmonic control network (MHCN) with a simple structure consisting of a combination of open‐circuited stubs and a microstrip radial stub (MRS) is designed, which is capable of tuning the second harmonic impedance at the upper and lower sideband frequencies and at the center frequency well and consumes low power. Also, a fundamental matching network (FMN) is designed by means of the simplified real frequency technique (SRFT) algorithm of the computer‐aided program, which improves the efficiency of the circuit design. Both of them satisfy the requirements of a wideband PA and enhance the frequency‐selective performance of the OMN. For validation purposes, practical measurements of the designed and fabricated continuous class‐B/J PA with size of 61 × 51 mm2 have been carried out. The results show that at an operating frequency of 2.4–4.4 GHz, the 53%–73% drain efficiency (DE) at the output power of 38.4–42.4 dBm, and the maximum gain is 13.3 dB.
Fine‐needle aspiration cytology of retroperitoneal myoepithelial carcinoma: A rare encounter with diagnostic dilemmas
Authors: Kerkar Aadya , Savlania Ajay , Kundu Reetu , Mitra Suvradeep , Rohilla Manish , Singh Harmandeep , Bhujade Harish
Published: June 2024

Myoepithelial carcinoma (MC) arises from the myoepithelial cells. It is a rare tumor with a predilection for salivary glands. MC in soft tissue is uncommon. Soft tissue MC exhibits dual epithelial and smooth muscle phenotype. The extremities and limb girdles are commonly affected. We present cytological findings of retroperitoneal MC with an accurate diagnosis being rendered with the aid of immunocytochemistry on the cell block and demonstration of EWSR1 rearrangements by fluorescence in situ hybridization on cytology smear. The smears were cellular, showing loose clusters and sheets of tumor cells embedded in dense eosinophilic to myxoid matrix material. The cells were oval to polygonal, with focal areas showing moderate nuclear pleomorphism, vesicular to coarse chromatin, and vacuolated cytoplasm with clearing. On immunocytochemistry, tumor cells were positive for epithelial membrane antigen, pan‐cytokeratin, calponin, smooth muscle actin, and S‐100. A literature review shows only a handful of cases of soft tissue MC. The current report emphasizes the need for cytomorphological awareness with the employment of ancillary testing for accurately diagnosing this rare tumor at an uncommon location. We also discuss the diagnostic challenges and troubleshooting.
A tale of recurrent secretory carcinoma of submandibular gland in an adolescent male: A rare presentation of a rare tumor
Authors: Kapatia Gargi , Kaur Manjit , Jain Dhwani , Rajasekaran Sangamitra , Rajan Nikhil , Soni Ankita , Sekar Aravind
Published: June 2024

Mammary analogue secretory carcinoma (MASC) is a rare salivary gland tumor which shares its histologic, immunohistochemical, and genetic features with the secretory carcinoma (SC) of breast. In this case report, we describe a case of MASC in a young adolescent male with swelling in the right angle of mandible which is a relatively rare site to present along with its correlation of cytological, histological, and immunohistochemical features. A 16‐year‐old male came with the complaint of swelling in the right angle of mandible since 2 years. Contrast‐enhanced computed tomography (CECT) neck revealed differential diagnosis of nerve sheath tumor, pleomorphic adenoma, and adenoid cystic neoplasm was kept, and subsequently fine‐needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) was done. FNAC was done in which differential diagnosis of myoepithelial neoplasm, acinic cell carcinoma, and SC was given. Surgical excision was done followed by histopathological examination. Immunohistochemistry panel was also applied, and final diagnosis of SC was rendered. SC has distinct cytological, histological, and immunohistochemical features which should be recognized by the pathologists for the appropriate management of the patient.
Colorectal endoscopic submucosal dissection in the USA: The current state and future perspectives
Authors: Qatomah Abdulrahman , Aihara Hiroyuki
Published: June 2024

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is a transformative advancement in the endoscopic management of superficial gastrointestinal lesions. Initially conceived for the treatment of early gastric cancer, ESD has demonstrated proficiency in achieving en‐bloc resection of superficial gastrointestinal lesions. ESD has experienced widespread acceptance in Japan and East Asia; however, its adoption in the USA remains delayed. This initial hesitancy could be attributed to procedural complexity and training demands; nonetheless, recently, ESD has been gaining popularity in the USA. This is due to the advancements in endoscopic technology, tailored training programs, and cumulative evidence regarding the efficacy and safety of ESDs. This review aimed to deliberate the historical progress, current implementation, and prospective trajectory of ESDs in the USA. With ongoing clinical research, technological integration, and educational efforts, ESD is likely to become the gold standard for managing large gastrointesitinal lesions. This progress marks an imperative step toward less invasive, more precise, and patient‐centric approaches regarding advanced therapeutic endoscopy in the USA.
Artificial Intelligence in Infectious Skin Disease
Authors: Rokni Ghasem Rahmatpour , Gholizadeh Nasim , Babaei Mahsa , Das Kinnor
Published: June 2024

Background

Infective and infectious dermatological diseases, which range from minor diseases like impetigo to serious diseases like deep fungal infections, pose significant public health issues. Given the growth of drug‐resistant microorganisms, it is critical to investigate novel techniques in dermatology. Artificial Intelligence (AI) has shown promising results in improving the diagnosis, treatment, and management of infectious skin disorders. This has the potential to significantly improve dermatological treatment by combining physician experience with data‐driven insights.

Objective

This review will look into the existing uses and future possibilities of AI technologies in infectious dermatology, including machine learning and deep learning. Its goal is to highlight major advances, identify gaps in understanding and technical advancement, and recommend viable future research directions.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search of the scientific literature was performed using well‐known databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, and Embase. A specific set of phrases relevant to AI and infectious dermatology was used to ensure a thorough search. Articles were picked based on their relevance, timeliness, and quality, with a particular emphasis on research demonstrating how AI is being utilized to prevent, detect, diagnose, or manage infectious skin disorders.

Results

AI has made significant contributions to the management of infection in dermatology. It has improved diagnostic accuracy, predictive modeling of drug resistance, and individualized care regimens. Deep learning is used to evaluate clinical images, predictive models are developed to forecast antibiotic resistance, and AI‐powered diagnostic tools for uncommon infections. The assessment also throws light on AI's role in pandemic preparedness and response.
Effect of guar gum and fortification by haritaki (Terminalia chebula) extract and its encapsulates on physicochemical, textural, and rheological properties of yogurt
Authors: Jha Avinash K. , Sit Nandan
Published: June 2024

In the present study functional yogurt was prepared by addition of guar gum (0.5% and 1.5%) and fortification by phytochemical extract of haritaki (Terminalia chebula) extracted using supercritical CO2 and freeze dried encapsulates of the extracts. The results indicated that the addition of guar gum led to a concentration‐dependent reduction in pH, with yogurt containing 1.5% guar gum exhibiting the highest acidity. During a 24‐day storage period at 4°C, all samples displayed a decrease in pH and an increase in acidity. Notably, all variations exhibited sporadic syneresis patterns, with higher syneresis observed on the 1st day, followed by a decline on the 12th day and a subsequent rise on the 24th day of storage. The color of haritaki encapsulated yogurt appeared greener and more yellowish compared to the control samples on the 1st day, with noticeable changes in L*, a*, and b* values during storage. Texture analysis revealed that encapsulation significantly affected textural characteristics, with reduced firmness but comparable adhesiveness in some cases. The firmness of plain yogurt ranged from 0.69 to 0.72 N, while its adhesiveness was between 6.14 × 10−2 and 8.51 × 10−2 N.s. The stiffness of the samples made with encapsulates (E1–E6) ranged from 0.38 to 0.70 N, while their adhesiveness was 5.74 × 10−2 to 8.78 × 10−2 N.s. The findings demonstrate that encapsulation significantly affected the textural characteristics. However, the samples' firmness (F1–F3) was less than the control, ranging from 0.36 to 0.54 N. Encapsulated haritaki extract outperformed nonencapsulated haritaki extract in terms of phenolic and antioxidant activities, making it a preferred option for yogurt fortification. Furthermore, yogurt enriched with up to 0.5% guar gum exhibited sensory qualities similar to or even better than the control sample.
Counselling with a focus on product and price transparency for over‐the‐counter headache medicines: A simulated patient study in community pharmacies in Munich, Germany
Authors: Langer Bernhard , Kunow Christian , Bolduan Josephine , Sackmann Lea , Schreiter Laura , Schüler Katja , Ulrich Marie
Published: June 2024

Background

In Germany, over‐the‐counter (OTC) medicines may only be dispensed by community pharmacies (CPs). German CPs must ensure ‘adequate’ counselling, including the cost of medicines. Along with information gathering and advice giving as classic aspects of counselling, the aim was also to investigate counselling indicators of product and price transparency.

Methods

The cross‐sectional study was based on the covert simulated patient (SP) methodology and was conducted in a random sample of CPs stratified by districts in the major German city of Munich. Each of the 178 selected CPs was visited once by one of five trained female students. They simulated a symptom‐based sub‐scenario 1 with a request for an OTC medicine for a headache and a sub‐scenario 2 with standardised information regarding product and price transparency. The assessment, completed immediately postvisit by the SPs, included a total of 23 items.

Results

All 178 scheduled visits were completed successfully. The median counselling score with the classic items was 3.0 out of 12 points (interquartile range [IQR] 4.25) and when expanded by items for product and price transparency the score was 4.0 out of 14 points (IQR 4.00). A selection of medicines was offered unsolicited in 38.2% of the visits and in 5.6% of the visits voluntary price information was provided before the transaction. A request for a cheaper medicine led to a significant price reduction (Wilcoxon signed‐rank test; p < 0.001, r = 0.869).

Conclusion

Due to the below‐average level of counselling, the regional chambers of pharmacists are recommended to initiate measures for improvement. There is also potential for optimisation with regard to product and price transparency as an important extension of the classic counselling aspects. It is therefore recommended that the government raise customers' awareness of the cost of medicines.
Electrocardiographic findings in patients with sickle cell disease: A protocol for systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Sadeghi Alireza , Taherifard Ehsan , Movahed Hamed , Ahmadkhani Alireza , Dehdari Ebrahimi Niloofar , Taherifard Erfan
Published: June 2024

Background

Despite advancements in the management of patients with sickle cell disease (SCD), the involvement of the cardiovascular system in these patients remains a significant concern. Cardiovascular manifestations of SCD are well‐documented, with electrocardiography (ECG) serving as a valuable diagnostic tool. Studies have reported a high rate of critical ECG findings in patients with SCD that warrants consideration when managing these patients, indicating the need for proactive cardiac screening and management strategies in this patient population. This study aims to systematically review the literature to identify sociodemographic, clinical, and paraclinical factors associated with ECG abnormalities in patients with SCD.

Methods

A comprehensive search strategy will be employed across multiple online databases, including PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, for published and gray literature. Eligible studies will include original articles reporting associations between sociodemographic, clinical, and paraclinical variables and a spectrum of ECG findings in patients with SCD. Independent reviewers will conduct the screening, quality assessment, and data extraction. Quantitative analyses will be performed under a random‐effect model using Comprehensive Meta‐Analysis software, with subgroup analyses based on SCD status, sickle hemoglobinopathy form, and age group.
Temperament ratings by parents and teachers as predictors of non‐verbal ability in Argentinean preschoolers
Authors: Hermida Maria Julia , Ruetti Eliana , Lipina Sebastián Javier , Segretin Maria Soledad
Published: June 2024

Child temperament is a predictor of non‐verbal ability (i.e. thinking and problem‐solving skills that do not fundamentally require verbal language production and comprehension). Given that temperament scores might vary depending on whether the reporter is a parent or a teacher, this study analyses (a) whether those reports are different and (b) how each report predicts child non‐verbal ability in a non‐western, educated, industrialized, rich and democratic sample. The Matrix subtest of KABC‐II (a non‐verbal ability task widely used in non‐western, educated, industrialized, rich and democratic contexts) was administered to 85 Argentinian children (47 girls, 38 boys) aged 4–5 years, from middle‐to‐low socioeconomic status homes. Also, the Child Behaviour Questionnaire‐Very Short Form was administered to obtain temperament reports from parents and teachers. We will compare the parent's and teacher's reports on temperament using Mann–Whitney U‐tests. Finally, multiple linear regression analyses will be conducted to explore how parent and teacher reports of temperament predict non‐verbal ability. Each temperament dimension will be analysed separately. Results should be interpreted considering the low sample size.
Household dog fecal composting: Current issues and future directions
Authors: Bryson Emily , Anastasi Amie , Bricknell Lisa , Kift Ryan
Published: June 2024

Dog feces are a known source of nutrient, pathogen, and plastic pollution that can harm human and ecosystem health. Home composting may be a more environmentally sustainable method of managing dog feces and reducing this pollution. While composting is an established method for recycling animal manures into low‐risk soil conditioners for food production, few studies have investigated whether household‐scale compost methods can safely and effectively process dog feces for use in backyard edible gardens. A broad range of literature on in situ composting of dog feces is evaluated and compared according to scale, parameters tested, and compost methods used. Studies are analyzed based on key identified knowledge gaps: appropriate compost technologies to produce quality soil conditioner on small scales, potential for fecal pathogen disinfection in mesophilic compost conditions, and biodegradation of compostable plastic dog waste bags in home compost systems. This review also discusses how existing methods and quality standards for commercial compost can be adapted to dog fecal home composting. Priorities for future research are investigation of household‐scale aerobic compost methods and potential compost amendments needed to effectively decompose dog feces and compostable plastic dog waste bags to produce a good‐quality, sanitized, beneficial soil conditioner for use in home gardens. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2024;00:1–16. © 2024 The Author(s). Integrated Environmental Assessment and Management published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of Society of Environmental Toxicology & Chemistry (SETAC).
Regulatory Role of RNA N6‐Methyladenosine Modification in Plants
Authors: Tayier Subiding , Tian Enlin , Jia Guifang
Published: June 2024

N6‐methyladenosine (m6A), as the most abundant and well‐studied RNA modification, can be reversibly added or removed by m6A methyltransferase and demethylase. The further molecular and biological function of m6A is achieved by the recognition of its binding protein. m6A functions in the diverse progress of RNA processing, including transcription regulation, splicing, nuclear export, stability, and translation, to regulate the fate of cells. Although been extensively studied in various animal cell systems, research on m6A's regulatory functions in plant cells lags. In recent years, with a deepening understanding of the functions of m6A and the development of various sequencing technologies, researches on m6A in plant cells have gradually increased. In this review, we focused on discussing the molecular functions of m6A in the nucleus and cytoplasm, aiming to elucidate the specific molecular mechanisms by which m6A regulates the fate of RNAs in plants. Finally, we provide some perspectives on future investigations of the detailed molecular mechanism of m6A‐mediated regulation in plants, which might provide insights into future strategies for achieving multiple growth regulatory processes in crops.
Transformer Skip‐Fusion Based SwinUNet for Liver Segmentation From CT Images
Authors: Kumar S. S. , Vinod Kumar R. S.
Published: June 2024

Liver segmentation is a crucial step in medical image analysis and is essential for diagnosing and treating liver diseases. However, manual segmentation is time‐consuming and subject to variability among observers. To address these challenges, a novel liver segmentation approach, SwinUNet with transformer skip‐fusion is proposed. This method harnesses the Swin Transformer's capacity to model long‐range dependencies efficiently, the U‐Net's ability to preserve fine spatial details, and the transformer skip‐fusion's effectiveness in enabling the decoder to learn intricate features from encoder feature maps. In experiments using the 3DIRCADb and CHAOS datasets, this technique outperformed traditional CNN‐based methods, achieving a mean DICE coefficient of 0.988% and a mean Jaccard coefficient of 0.973% by aggregating the results obtained from each dataset, signifying outstanding agreement with ground truth. This remarkable accuracy in liver segmentation holds significant promise for improving liver disease diagnosis and enhancing healthcare outcomes for patients with liver conditions.
Cover Image
Authors: Ling Ying , He Bing , Han Lijie , Gong Wenbin , Chang Chaofeng , Zhang Qichong
Published: June 2024

A potassium‐free copper hexacyanoferrate cathode with dual‐active sites serves as a high‐capacity cathode for aqueous Mg‐ion batteries.

image
Combined regenerative rehabilitation improves recovery following volumetric muscle loss injury in a rat model
Authors: Johnson David , Tobo Connor , Au Jeffrey , Nagarapu Aakash , Ziemkiewicz Natalia , Chauvin Hannah , Robinson Jessica , Shringarpure Saloni , Tadiwala Jamshid , Brockhouse Julia , Flaveny Colin A. , Garg Koyal
Published: June 2024

Volumetric muscle loss (VML) injury causes irreversible deficits in muscle mass and function, often resulting in permanent disability. The current standard of care is physical therapy, but it is limited in mitigating functional deficits. We have previously optimized a rehabilitation technique using electrically stimulated eccentric contraction training (EST) that improved muscle mass, strength, and size in VML‐injured rats. A biosponge scaffold composed of extracellular matrix proteins has previously enhanced muscle function postVML. This study aimed to determine whether combining a regenerative therapy (i.e., biosponge) with a novel rehabilitation technique (i.e., EST) could enhance recovery in a rat model of VML. A VML defect was created by removing ~20% of muscle mass from the tibialis anterior muscle in adult male Lewis rats. Experimental groups included VML‐injured rats treated with biosponge with EST or biosponge alone (n = 6/group). EST was implemented 2 weeks postinjury at 150 Hz and was continued for 4 weeks. A linear increase in eccentric torque over 4 weeks showed the adaptability of the VML‐injured muscle to EST. Combining biosponge with EST improved peak isometric torque by ~52% compared with biosponge treatment alone at 6 weeks postinjury. Application of EST increased MyoD gene expression and the percentage of large (>2000 μm2) type 2B myofibers but reduced fibrotic tissue deposition in VML‐injured muscles. Together, these changes may provide the basis for improved torque production. This study demonstrates the potential for combined regenerative and rehabilitative therapy to improve muscle recovery following VML.
Roles and challenges encountered by midwives in the management of postpartum haemorrhage following normal vaginal delivery: A scoping review
Authors: Yao Xiao , Shan Shan‐Shan , Li Yue‐Hong , Ding Li‐Jing , Wan Yue , Zhao Yin‐Yi , Huang Rong
Published: June 2024

Aims

To establish a comprehensive understanding of the roles of midwives and the challenges they encounter in the prevention, diagnosis and management of postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) following normal vaginal delivery.

Design

We conducted a scoping review following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analysis for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA‐ScR) recommendations.

Methods

We considered studies related to the roles of midwives and the challenges they encounter in the prevention, diagnosis and management of PPH during vaginal delivery. We excluded guidelines, consensuses, abstracts of meetings and non‐English language studies. Databases, including the Cochrane Library, PubMed, Web of Science, Ovid, Medline, Embase, JBI EBP and BIOSIS Previews, were searched on January 1, 2023, with no time limitations.

Results

We included 28 publications. Midwives play important roles in the prevention, diagnosis and management of postpartum haemorrhage during vaginal delivery. In the prevention of PPH, midwives' roles include identifying and managing high‐risk factors, managing labour and implementing skin‐to‐skin contact. In the diagnosis of PPH, midwives' roles include early recognition and blood loss estimation. In the management of PPH, midwives are involved in mobilizing other professional team members, emergency management, investigating causes, enhancing uterine contractions, the repair of perineal tears, arranging transfers and preparation for surgical intervention. However, midwives face substantial challenges, including insufficient knowledge and skills, poor teamwork skills, insufficient resources and the need to deal with their negative emotions. Midwives must improve their knowledge, skills and teamwork abilities. Health care system managers and the government should give full support to midwives. Future research should focus on developing clinical practice guidelines for midwives for preventing, diagnosing and managing postpartum haemorrhage.
Associations of short‐term changes in obesity indices with all‐cause mortality and cardiovascular disease
Authors: Wang Lyu , Deng Yun‐Yang , Yu Tsung , Lao Xiang‐Qian , Wong Martin C. S.
Published: June 2024

Objective

This study aimed to investigate how short‐term changes (1‐, 3‐, and 5‐year) in obesity measures affect mortality and cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk.

Methods

We analyzed longitudinal data from the MJ Health Centre (n = 43,304 for the 1‐year study; 24,295 for the 3‐year study; 16,138 for the 5‐year study) with median follow‐up periods of 15.8, 13.9, and 12.3 years, respectively. Associations of short‐term obesity indices changes with mortality and Framingham Risk Score changes were explored using time‐dependent coefficient Cox regression models, restricted cubic splines, and multivariable linear regression models.

Results

All‐cause mortality was negatively associated with short‐term weight and BMI changes, with greater reductions causing poorer outcomes. Compared with stable groups, short‐term reduced weight and BMI were associated with greater risks of all‐cause mortality and CVD‐specific mortality (5‐year study only). Also, either 1‐ and 3‐year reduced or 3‐year increased waist circumference and waist to height ratio were related to higher all‐cause and CVD deaths than stable groups, respectively. Nonlinear relationships indicated lower cutoff values for short‐term changes in obesity indices in predicting all‐cause mortality. Decreased obesity indices significantly improved CVD profiles.

Conclusions

Short‐term changes in obesity indices show complex mortality risks, urging personalized approaches beyond a simple weight loss focus.
Effects of grinding mode on grinding performance of anisotropic CF/PEEK composites
Authors: Yan Xin , Zhao Huan , Li Pulin , Wen Zihang , Wang Rongguo , Ding Han
Published: June 2024

Grinding could be used to enhance accuracy and quality of carbon fiber‐reinforced poly‐ether‐ether‐ketone (CF/PEEK) composites. However, the grinding mode, namely up‐grinding (UG) or down‐grinding (DG), is usually neglected while unbefitting grinding mode choice may cause inferior surface quality. To investigate effects of grinding modes on grinding performance of anisotropic CF/PEEK, grinding experiments in UG and DG were carried out under different fiber orientation angles θ. Experimental results indicated that maximum grinding temperatures and normal grinding forces in UG were lower than DG regardless of the abrasive grit sizes. Material removal mechanisms of CF/PEEK affected by grinding mode were revealed by analyzing morphologies of surface, chip and grinding wheel. When θ = 0°, the dominant mechanisms in DG were extrusion fracture and fiber deformation, while they were interface shear debonding and bending fracture in UG. When θ = 90°, the dominant mechanisms in DG included interface layer separation and bending fracture, while they were shear and extrusion fracture of well‐supported fibers in UG. Thus, UG was more favorable for material removal, obtaining lower surface roughness values, fewer machining defects and less wheel wear than DG. This study will provide technical guidance for high‐quality grinding of carbon fiber‐reinforced thermoplastic composites.

Highlights

The effects of grinding modes (DG and UG) on the grinding performance of anisotropic CF/PEEK composites were investigated.

Material removal mechanisms of CF/PEEK affected by grinding mode were revealed under different fiber orientation angles.

The maximum grinding temperatures and normal grinding forces in UG were lower than DG.

UG was more favorable for material removal in grinding, and could produce better ground surface quality than DG.
Bending behavior and damage evolution of GLARE laminate using in‐situ AE technology and FEM
Authors: Hu Kejun , Zheng Yingxiao , Zhang Mai , Shi Qinghe , Zhao Fengling , Zhu Fuxian , Xie Li , Duan Liuyang , Han Wenqin , Cao Zhongliang
Published: June 2024

GLARE laminate experiences multiple damage modes during bending failure, including fiber fracture, matrix cracking, interlayer delamination, and fracture of aluminum alloy. In most cases, two or more failure modes occur together, which makes the damage process complex and unpredictable. This paper proposes a combination of experimental testing and numerical simulation to investigate the influence of fiber lay‐up direction and center open‐hole on the bending failure behavior of GLARE laminate. Simultaneously, Acoustic Emission (AE) technology was used to monitor the bending process of GLARE laminates in real‐time, and a numerical simulation model for the three‐point bending of GLARE laminates was established. The experimental results showed that the bending strength of intact specimens decreased significantly with the increase of the fiber off‐axis angle, whereas the strength retention of open‐hole specimens increased significantly with the increase of the fiber off‐axis angle. Based on the K‐means++ clustering algorithm, the peak frequencies corresponding to different damage modes of GLARE laminates were identified as follows: aluminum alloy damage [1–70 kHz], matrix cracking [93–210 kHz], interlaminar delamination [211–304 kHz], and fiber breakage [304–516 kHz]. The simulation results agreed well with the experimental results, showing that the damage in intact specimens initiated at the laminate edges and propagated sequentially along the thickness direction, while the damage in open‐hole specimens initiated at the hole edges and then propagated towards the laminate edges.

Highlights

The present study investigated the effects of fiber lay‐up direction and central open‐hole on the bending performance and failure behavior of GLARE laminate.

In‐situ monitoring of the GLARE laminate during three‐point bending was conducted using AE technology.

A model for simulating the progressive damage of GLARE laminate was established and its accuracy was verified.
Durability of glass FRP bar‐reinforced seawater–sea sand concrete beams under sustained loading in a subtropical coastal environment
Authors: Wang Zhihao , Zhao Jinxia , Liu Peng , Zhang Xinpeng , Lu Zhongyu , Xie Jianhe
Published: June 2024

The replacement of conventional bars with fiber‐reinforced polymer (FRP) bars in seawater–sea sand concrete (SSC) structures is a promising method for sustainable construction. To promote the engineering application of the aforementioned structures, the primary objective of this study was to investigate the concerns regarding the durability of SSC beams reinforced with GFRP bars. For this purpose, three‐point bending tests were conducted on GFRP bar‐reinforced SSC beams to examine the coupled effects of sustained loading and exposure to a subtropical coastal environment on the flexural behavior of exposed SSC beams. The test results revealed that SSC beams reinforced with GFRP bars exhibited excellent durability in a subtropical coastal environment. The coupled effect of sustained loading and exposure to the subtropical coastal environment had an insignificant negative influence on the ultimate flexural capacity of GFRP bar‐reinforced SSC beams at 540 days of age. The failure mechanism of the exposed GFRP bar‐reinforced SSC beams was concrete crushing due to overreinforcement. Finally, the flexural capacity of the exposed beams was predicted by a function of the degradation in the tensile strength of the GFRP bars.

Highlights

The coupled effects of loading and environmental exposure on GFRP‐SSC beams were examined.

The failure mechanisms of the exposed GFRP‐SSC beams was investigated.

The long‐term flexural capacity of the GFRP‐SSC beams was predicted.
Dynamic damage and non‐shock ignition behavior of polymer bonded explosive under lower velocity impact
Authors: Xiao Youcai , Pei Kelei , Zou Yu , Han Yong , Gong Tianyuan , Xiao Xiangdong , Sun Yi
Published: June 2024

The accidental ignition of polymer‐bonded explosives (PBXs) caused by hot spots has been the focus of domestic and international research. Micro‐crack friction plays a crucial role in the formation these hot spots. In this study, confined tests were conducted to investigate the ignition response of PBX under impact loading. The experimental results revealed that the PBX underwent ignition under the given conditions of a pressure load with a pulse width of 50 μs and an amplitude of 638 MPa. The viscoelastic statistical cracking model (Visco‐SCRAM) and hot‐spot ignition model were used to describe the damage behaviors and ignition responses of the PBX. The simulation results revealed that more severe damage occurs at the center of the impact face and its vicinity under confined impact conditions, which is consistent with the observed post‐test samples. Additionally, simulation results also predict a trapezoidal shape for the severely damaged region within the PBX. The findings of this study provide insights for understanding the damage behavior and the critical ignition of PBX under impact loading.
Synthesis of HHTPB by partial hydrogenation of HTPB using copper chromite as a catalyst
Authors: Prasad Ch Devi Vara , Kanakaraju P. , Vinu R. , Deshpande Abhijit P.
Published: June 2024

HTPB (hydroxyl‐terminated polybutadiene) is a well‐established binder in the composite solid propellant owing to its excellent compatibility with ammonium perchlorate (AP) and aluminium (Al) particles in giving rise to optimal ballistic and mechanical properties. Efforts are being made to improve the ballistic properties further, such as specific impulse. One way of increasing the specific impulse is to hydrogenate HTPB, which decreases the molecular mass of the combustion product gases. This paper is a summary of efforts in synthesizing hydrogenated HTPB (HHTPB) using copper chromite (CC) as a catalyst. A novel synthesis methodology is developed for HHTPB using a temperature‐programmed batch reactor with a variable speed stirrer and an instrumentation system to maintain the desired liquid reactant temperature. A process cycle is developed that includes addition sequence and reaction time. The product is analyzed using 1H‐NMR and FTIR to estimate the degree of hydrogenation and the geometrical isomers respectively. The estimated apparent equilibrium rate constants from the degree of hydrogenation values are respectively 74 and 2034 L/(mol MPa) for non‐catalyzed and catalyzed systems, indicating the effectiveness of the catalyst. This is also substantiated by the reduction in Gibbs free energy (ΔG), to an extent of 4.48 kJ/mol. Thermogravimetry examination indicates that the decomposition temperature of HHTPB produced by the catalytic method is marginally higher compared to HTPB. DSC curves indicate that the decomposition enthalpy of HHTPB is higher than that of HTPB. In summary, this paper proposed and validated a novel method in the preparation of HHTPB using copper chromite.
Protein–Protein Interaction Prediction via Structure‐Based Deep Learning
Authors: Liu Yucong , Liu Yijun , Li Zhenhai
Published: June 2024

Protein–protein interactions (PPIs) play an essential role in life activities. Many artificial intelligence algorithms based on protein sequence information have been developed to predict PPIs. However, these models have difficulty dealing with various sequence lengths and suffer from low generalization and prediction accuracy. In this study, we proposed a novel end‐to‐end deep learning framework, RSPPI, combining residual neural network (ResNet) and spatial pyramid pooling (SPP), to predict PPIs based on the protein sequence physicochemistry properties and spatial structural information. In the RSPPI model, ResNet was employed to extract the structural and physicochemical information from the protein three‐dimensional structure and primary sequence; the SPP layer was used to transform feature maps to a single vector and avoid the fixed‐length requirement. The RSPPI model possessed excellent cross‐species performance and outperformed several state‐of‐the‐art methods based either on protein sequence or gene ontology in most evaluation metrics. The RSPPI model provides a novel strategy to develop an AI PPI prediction algorithm.
Nonsurgical treatment of a patient with decompensated right ventricular failure due to chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension with proximal clot location—A case report
Authors: Braksator Marta , Jachymek Magdalena , Rahmani Amena , Widecka Katarzyna , Lewandowski Maciej , Jodko Łukasz , Peregud‐Pogorzelska Małgorzata
Published: June 2024

Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) is a disease resulting from impaired patency of the pulmonary arteries by a clot, and the treatment method of choice is pulmonary endarterectomy (PEA). In inoperable patients, balloon pulmonary angioplasty (BPA) is recommended, but we need to implement pharmacological bridge therapy to BPA in some cases. We report a case of a 38‐year‐old male diagnosed with CTEPH, disqualified from PEA due to comorbidity, who developed right ventricular (RV) failure. The case shows a complex pharmacological treatment method that can be successfully used as an effective bridge therapy to BPA in patients with CTEPH and severe RV dysfunction, disqualified from surgery.
Mass spectrometric characterization of aminophospholipids containing N‐(2‐hydroxyethyl)glycine in kombu algae extracts
Authors: Ventura Giovanni , Bianco Mariachiara , Calvano Cosima Damiana , Bianco Giuliana , Di Capua Angela , Coniglio Davide , Losito Ilario , Cataldi Tommaso R. I.
Published: June 2024

Rationale

1,2‐Diacyl‐sn‐glycero‐3‐phospho‐O‐[N‐(2‐hydroxyethyl)glycines] (PHEGs) are a class of rare aminophospholipids found specifically in brown algae, including kombu seaweed. Despite their potential importance in algal physiology, a comprehensive mass spectrometry (MS) characterization, useful to understand their biological behaviour, is still lacking.

Methods

To establish the structural regiochemical features of PHEGs, we employed hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography (HILIC). Following separation, the isolated band of PHEGs was analyzed using MS techniques. This included multistage tandem MS experiments, performed in both positive and negative electrospray ionization modes at low and high resolution.

Results

By comparing MS/MS and MS3 spectra acquired in negative ion mode, the regiochemical rules for PHEG identification were established. The most abundant PHEG species in kombu seaweed, from both Laminaria ochroleuca (European Atlantic) and Laminaria longissima (Japan), was identified as PHEG 20:4/20:4. Less abundant species included PHEG 20:4/20:5 and hydroxylated forms of both PHEG 20:4/20:4 (i.e. 40:8;O) and 20:4/20:5 (40:9;O). The presence of a lyso PHEG 20:4 was consistently detected but at very low levels.

Conclusions

This study employed MS analysis to elucidate the regiochemical patterns of PHEGs in kombu seaweed. We identified PHEG 20:4/20:4 as the dominant species, along with several less abundant variants, including hydroxylated forms. These findings provide valuable insights into the potential roles and metabolism of PHEGs in brown algae, paving the way for further investigation into their biological functions.
Explaining regulatory change in the European Union: The role of the financial crisis in ratcheting up of risk regulation
Authors: Justo‐Hanani Ronit
Published: June 2024

The European Union was hit by the financial crisis of 2008. The impact of this crisis, however, and the extent to which this has led to strengthening environmental, health and safety risk regulation in the EU remain open to debate. This article advances the discussion of the “ratcheting‐up” hypothesis by adding a new explanatory factor, namely the financial crisis, and shows what role it played in two cases of risk regulation: Nanotechnology and Alien Invasive Species. It is argued that the crisis, acting as an external economic pressure for the competitiveness and growth of the single market, advanced the economic rationale for strengthening environmental, health and safety standards with implications for effective risk governance, namely regulatory convergence across its (then) 28 member states.
KEAP1–NRF2 system regulates age‐related spermatogenesis dysfunction
Authors: Kuribayashi Sohei , Fukuhara Shinichiro , Kitakaze Hiroaki , Tsujimura Go , Imanaka Takahiro , Okada Koichi , Ueda Norichika , Takezawa Kentaro , Katayama Kotoe , Yamaguchi Rui , Matsuda Koichi , Nonomura Norio
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The average fatherhood age has been consistently increasing in developed countries. Aging has been identified as a risk factor for male infertility. However, its impact on various mechanisms remains unclear. This study focused on the KEAP1–NRF2 oxidative stress response system, by investigating the relationship between the KEAP1–NRF2 system and age‐related changes in spermatogenesis.

Methods

For examination of age‐related changes, we used 10‐, 30‐, 60‐, and 90‐week‐old mice to compare sperm count, sperm motility, and protein expression. For assessment of Keap1 inhibition, 85‐week‐old C57BL/6J mice were randomly assigned to the following groups: control and bardoxolone methyl (KEAP1 inhibitor). Whole‐exome sequencing of a Japanese cohort of patients with non‐obstructive azoospermia was performed for evaluating.

Results

Sperm count decreased significantly with aging. Oxidative stress and KEAP1 expression in the testes were elevated. Inhibition of KEAP1 in aging mice significantly increased sperm count compared with that in the control group. In the human study, the frequency of a missense‐type SNP (rs181294188) causing changes in NFE2L2 (NRF2) activity was significantly higher in patients with non‐obstructive azoospermia than in healthy control group.

Conclusions

The KEAP1–NRF2 system, an oxidative stress response system, is associated with age‐related spermatogenesis dysfunction.
Bioinspired Nanolayered Structure Tuned by Extensional Stress: A Scalable Way to High‐Performance Biodegradable Polyesters
Authors: Li Lei , Jia De‐Zhuang , Sun Zhao‐Bo , Zhou Sheng‐Yang , Dai Kun , Zhong Gan‐Ji , Li Zhong‐Ming
Published: June 2024

The nacre‐inspired multi‐nanolayer structure offers a unique combination of advanced mechanical properties, such as strength and crack tolerance, making them highly versatile for various applications. Nevertheless, a significant challenge lies in the current fabrication methods, which is difficult to create a scalable manufacturing process with precise control of hierarchical structure. In this work, a novel strategy is presented to regulate nacre‐like multi‐nanolayer films with the balance mechanical properties of stiffness and toughness. By utilizing a co‐continuous phase structure and an extensional stress field, the hierarchical nanolayers is successfully constructed with tunable sizes using a scalable processing technique. This strategic modification allows the robust phase to function as nacre‐like platelets, while the soft phase acts as a ductile connection layer, resulting in exceptional comprehensive properties. The nanolayer‐structured films demonstrate excellent isotropic properties, including a tensile strength of 113.5 MPa in the machine direction and 106.3 MPa in a transverse direction. More interestingly, these films unprecedentedly exhibit a remarkable puncture resistance at the same time, up to 324.8 N mm−1, surpassing the performance of other biodegradable films. The scalable fabrication strategy holds significant promise in designing advanced bioinspired materials for diverse applications.
Removal of Minor Components From Vegetable Oils by a Multistage Chromatography Column in a Specific Order
Authors: Shen Mengqi , Lian Qi , You Sicong , Zhou Lu , Xu Baocheng , Zhang Hongwei , Amjad Muhammad Usman , Liu Lili
Published: June 2024

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of different chromatographic column absorbents (activated clay, silica gel, and activated aluminum oxide) on the adsorption and removal of minor components (sterols, tocopherols, β‐carotene, free fatty acids (FFAs), secondary oxidation products, and peroxides) in vegetable oils. For single absorbents, activated aluminum oxide was the most effective material for removing tocopherols and FFAs from oil. All the adsorbents used have the capacity to remove β‐carotene from edible oils, and activated clay has the strongest ability, with removal rates reaching 99.8%. The brassicasterol, campesterol, β‐sitosterol, γ‐tocopherol, and δ‐tocopherol in vegetable oil can be completely removed by silica gel. Using a combination of these absorbents, a multistage optimized method was developed to maximize the removal of various minor components from vegetable oils. After multistage purification, free sterols, tocopherols, FFAs, β‐carotene, and secondary oxidation products were completely removed, whereas peroxides were also removed at concentrations less than 0.71 mmol/kg. The purified oils could be used as standard samples for in‐depth study of the effects of minor components on formation of association colloids and their influence on oil oxidation, as well as for evaluating the antioxidant potential of novel antioxidants or extracts.
Concepts for a New Rapid and Simple HPLC Method for Simultaneous Determination of Rosuvastatin and Perindopril in Dosage Forms
Authors: Piponski Marjan , Halka Liudmyla , Kucher Tetyana , Kryskiw Liubomyr , Horyn Mariana , Zarivna Nadiya , Duve Khrystyna , Logoyda Liliya
Published: June 2024

Simultaneous determination of a tandem of drugs like perindopril and rosuvastatin with differences in water and organic solvent solubilities, hydrophobicity, polarities, and UV‐absorbing possibilities between them necessitates careful selection of chromatographic conditions. The four specified and different bonded reversed‐phase columns were tested with running mobile phases containing various composition contents concepts; the concept of using diluted trifluoroacetic acid in mobile phase composition with acetonitrile enabled simultaneous acidification and weak ion‐pairing with protonized molecules of analytes, yielding appropriate, short, reasonable run times and resolutions of analytes, satisfying UV‐transparency, and good peak symmetries. These facts especially stand for the peak of perindopril, as a member of the group of proline‐containing moiety in its structure, often and easily prone to peak‐tailing, skewing, or splitting on the high‐performance liquid chromatography chromatograms, which is usually solved by using alkyl‐sulfonate base and ion pairs on higher concentrations of buffering salts with low pH values and with column temperatures increasing by 50°C–60°C. Linearity range was 0.002/004–0.5 mg/mL. The score for method AGREE was 0.73–0.77. The method development approaches, with all columns employing our concepts in mobile phases and experimental conditions, can cover the complete needs and demands of quality control departments and laboratories as simple high‐throughput analysis methods.