bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Network analysis studies in patients with eating disorders: A systematic review and methodological quality assessment
Authors: Tomei Giuliano , Pieroni Maria Francesca , Tomba Elena
Published: October 2022

Introduction

Network psychometrics has been enthusiastically embraced by researchers studying eating disorders (ED), but a rigorous evaluation of the methodological quality of works is still missing. This systematic review aims to assess the methodological quality of cross‐sectional network analysis (NA) studies conducted on ED clinical populations.

Methods

PRISMA and PICOS criteria were used to retrieve NA studies on ED. Methodological quality was evaluated based on five criteria: variable‐selection procedure, network estimation method, stability checks, topological overlap checks, and handling of missing data.

Results

Thirty‐three cross‐sectional NA studies were included. Most studies focused on populations that were female, white and, with an anorexia nervosa (AN) diagnosis. Depending on how many criteria were satisfied, 27.3% of studies (n = 9) were strictly adherent, 30.3% (n = 10) moderately adherent, 33.3% (n = 11) sufficiently adherent, and 9.1% (n = 3) poorly adherent. Missing topological overlap checks and not reporting missing data represented most unreported criteria, lacking, respectively, in 63.6% and 48.5% of studies.

Conclusions

Almost all reviewed cross‐sectional NA studies on ED report those methodological procedures (variable‐selection procedure, network estimation method, stability checks) necessary for a network study to provide reliable results. Nonetheless these minimum reporting data require further improvement. Moreover, elements closely related to the validity of an NA study (controls for topological overlap and management of missing data) are lacking in most studies. Recommendations to overcome such methodological weaknesses in future NA studies on ED are discussed together with the need to conduct NA studies with longitudinal design, to address diversity issues in study samples and heterogeneity of assessment tools.

Public Significance

The present work aims to evaluate the quality of ED NA studies to support applications of this approach in ED research. Results show that most studies adopted basic procedures to produce reliable results; however, other important procedures linked to NA study validity were mostly neglected. Network methodology in ED is extremely promising, but future studies should consistently include topological overlap control procedures and provide information on missing data.
Linking animal migration and ecosystem processes: Data‐driven simulation of propagule dispersal by migratory herbivores
Authors: Somveille Marius , Ellis‐Soto Diego
Published: October 2022

Animal migration is a key process underlying active subsidies and species dispersal over long distances, which affects the connectivity and functioning of ecosystems. Despite much research describing patterns of where animals migrate, we still lack a framework for quantifying and predicting how animal migration affects ecosystem processes. In this study, we aim to integrate animal movement behavior and ecosystem functioning by developing a predictive modeling framework that can inform ecosystem management and conservation.

We propose a framework to model individual‐level migration trajectories between populations' seasonal ranges as well as the resulting dispersal and fate of propagules carried by the migratory animals, which can be calibrated using empirical data at every step of the modeling process. As a case study, we applied our framework to model the spread of guava seeds, Psidium guajava, by a population of migratory Galapagos tortoises, Chelonoidis porteri, across Santa Cruz Island. Galapagos tortoises are large herbivores that transport seeds and nutrients across the island, while Guava is one of the most problematic invasive species in the Galapagos archipelago.

Our model can predict the pattern of spread of guava seeds alongside tortoises' downslope migration range, and it identified areas most likely to see establishment success. Our results show that Galapagos tortoises' seed dispersal may particularly contribute to guava range expansion on Santa Cruz Island, due to both long gut retention time and tortoise's long‐distance migration across vegetation zones. In particular, we predict that tortoises are dispersing a significant amount of guava seeds into the Galapagos National Park, which has important consequences for the native flora.

The flexibility and modularity of our framework allow for the integration of multiple data sources. It also allows for a wide range of applications to investigate how migratory animals affect ecosystem processes, including propagule dispersal but also other processes such as nutrient transport across ecosystems. Our framework is also a valuable tool for predicting how animal‐mediated propagule dispersal can be affected by environmental change. These different applications can have important conservation implications for the management of ecosystems that include migratory animals.
Snowtography quantifies effects of forest cover on net water input to soil at sites with ephemeral or stable seasonal snowpack in Arizona, USA
Authors: Dwivedi Ravindra , Biederman Joel A. , Broxton Patrick D. , Lee Kangsan , van Leeuwen Willem J. D.
Published: October 2022

Forested, snow‐dominated watersheds provide a range of ecosystem services including water supply, carbon sequestration, habitat and recreation. While hydrologic partitioning has been well‐studied in watersheds with stable seasonal snowpack, less is known about watersheds with ephemeral snowpack. Furthermore, drought‐related disturbances and/or management practices are altering vegetation cover in many forests, with unknown and potentially different, consequences for stable seasonal versus ephemeral snowpacks. This study quantifies net water input (NWI) to soil for two sites with contrasting stable seasonal and ephemeral snowpacks, respectively, for three water years in Arizona, USA. Observations include a network of automated cameras and graduated snow stakes (snowtography) deployed across gradients of forest structure, airborne lidar maps of topography and forests and SNOTEL station records. Given the importance of mixed‐phase precipitation in ephemeral snowpack watersheds, an algorithm is developed to distinguish among snowfall and rainfall that does/does not contribute to snowpack mass. Finally, existing canopy interception and snowpack models are used to estimate how NWI varies with canopy cover. At the ephemeral snowpack site, increasing canopy cover reduces NWI amount and advances its seasonal timing less strongly than at the stable seasonal snowpack site. Interestingly, canopy reduces NWI duration at the ephemeral site but prolongs it at the stable seasonal snowpack site. These effects are more important in a cool/wet and average year than a warm/dry year. Understanding differences between canopy impacts on amount, timing and duration of NWI for areas with ephemeral versus stable seasonal snowpack is increasingly important as the number of watersheds with ephemeral snowpack grows.
Riverine fish density, predator–prey interactions, and their relationships with artificial light at night
Authors: Nelson T. Reid , Michel Cyril J. , Gary Meagan P. , Lehman Brendan M. , Demetras Nicholas J. , Dudley Peter N. , Hammen Jeremy J. , Horn Michael J.
Published: October 2022

Artificial light at night (ALAN) has emerged as a prevalent anthropogenic stressor in many aquatic ecosystems impacting a wide range of taxa and ecological processes. In fishes, ALAN attracts both predators and prey, potentially resulting in increased predation mortality and sublethal impacts. Increased predation mortality is especially problematic in anadromous fishes, given that many populations are diminished and out‐migrating juveniles must transit illuminated waterways. Additionally, ALAN management is complex, because lighting benefits human safety, economies, and recreational pursuits. The Sundial Bridge (Redding, CA) is an iconic illuminated structure that spans a section of the little remaining spawning habitat of the endangered winter‐run Chinook Salmon. It was hypothesized that bridge ALAN increased Rainbow Trout predation of winter‐run fry, and a lighting management plan was implemented. However, ALAN impacts on this predator–prey interaction and species‐specific responses were unknown. Therefore, we used tethered salmonid fry and ARIS sonar cameras to determine whether variable ALAN treatments (0%, 25%, 50%, and 100% intensity) altered Rainbow Trout density (RTD) and fry predation risk, while investigating the temporal relationships of RTD with ALAN. ALAN significantly increased RTD on river right when any amount of ALAN was present, potentially leading to competition and fitness consequences; RTD did not change significantly in response to ALAN on river left. Although RTD generally increased in response to ALAN, salmonid fry predation was almost nonexistent. Therefore, while ALAN may decrease out‐migrant survival in other waterways, there was no evidence at our study site. Furthermore, the discrepancies between riverbanks demonstrate the complexity of ALAN and how it interacts with other environmental parameters potentially providing optimal foraging habitat. The Rainbow Trout attraction to ALAN, which occurred immediately with diminishing ambient light, indicates that complete ALAN removal may be necessary to mitigate ecological consequences of ALAN. When removal is unrealistic, ALAN should be diminished as early in the night as possible to minimize aquatic ecosystem impacts, while maintaining benefits for human populations.
Design Optimization of Energy‐Storing Hybrid Supercapacitor Composite for Electric Vehicle's Body Panel
Authors: Pandey Deepak , Gurjar Rajkumar , Kumar Kowsik Sambath , Henderson Leaford Nathan , Tresa Maydenee Maydur , Roberson Luke , Mohammed Hussain AbdulJabbar , Dale Nilesh , Thomas Jayan
Published: October 2022

As electric vehicles (EVs) are evolving, innovative technologies like “energized composite” that can store energy in the car's body helps extend its range per charge. The composite's unique ability to function as both structural body panel and charge storage medium stems from its unique pattern design between “electrochemical areas (EcA)” and “epoxy area (EpA)”. Herein, a design optimization study is presented to obtain a balanced ratio between EcA versus EpA to maximize the charge storage ability of the composite while maintaining a decent tensile and bending strength. Simulations using ANSYS software and experimental confirmation using universal testing machines and electrochemical analyzers are used to derive optimum ratios between EcA and EpA. Uniaxial tension test and 3‐point bend test have been performed to optimize the tensile and bend strengths, whereas cyclic voltammetry, galvanic charge–discharge, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy are used to determine the electrochemical performance of various design configurations by modulating the ratios of EcA versus EpA. Overall, the highest achieved energy storage per lamina is 2531 mWh m−2 for a maximum of 81.6% EcA with a tensile strength of 417.73 MPa and bending strength of 263.13 MPa. This study is highly beneficial for EVs and aerospace applications.
Enhanced Surface Charge Density of Nanogenerators by Small Molecules: A Review
Authors: Tayyab Muhammad , Zhu Zhiguo , Wu Bo , Abbasi Nasir Mahmood , Joseph Yvonne , Gao Deqing
Published: October 2022

A triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) is a promising approach to harvest electric power from the environment by converting mechanical energy into electrical energy. Various nanocomposites and nanofillers are incorporated to enhance triboelectric surface charge density. Researchers recently attempted to incorporate small molecules into TENGs and boost surface charge density after being used in drug delivery and solar cells. However, among the numerous small molecules, the fundamental physics for selecting small molecules has not been reported. Herein, approaches are carefully selected based on small molecules to enhance the surface charge density of the TENG. In addition to that, different surface and bulk approaches are also suggested to incorporate and assimilate small molecules into triboelectric layers. This systematic review provides the historical background, selection mechanisms, and fabrication methods of small‐molecule‐based TENGs to boost the surface charge density.
Visualizing water inside an operating proton exchange membrane fuel cell with video‐rate terahertz imaging
Authors: Alves‐Lima Decio Filipe , Williams Bryan M. , Schlegl Harald , Gupta Gaurav , Letizia Rosa , Dawson Richard , Lin Hungyen
Published: October 2022

Successful
water management is critical to achieving high performance in proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). The relatively high sensitivity of terahertz radiation to liquid water is promising as a complementary alternative for flooding detection in PEMFCs. Using a novel, commercially available terahertz source and camera, this paper investigates the feasibility of a compact and low‐cost terahertz imaging system for visualizing water build‐up inside an operating PEMFC, supported by simultaneous high‐resolution optical imaging. Several phenomena of water accumulation and transport, such as membrane hydration, main droplet appearance, water pool formation, growth, and eventual flush out by gases are imaged by terahertz imaging. These results agree with optical imaging and cell voltage readings. The proposed setup is also able to distinguish the effect of different air flow rates.
Resource dependence theory in international business: Progress and prospects
Authors: Jiang Han , Luo Yadong , Xia Jun , Hitt Michael , Shen Jia
Published: October 2022

Research Summary

Resource dependence theory (RDT) has been widely applied in the context of international business (IB) over the past four decades. This study reviews and synthesizes the insights of RDT in IB literature accumulated over the past 40 years and derives an integrative addendum for future research. We highlight three critical dependence dimensions (i.e., locational, interorganizational, and intraorganizational dependencies) and three essential RDT themes (i.e., dependence solutions, dependence‐managing outcomes, and macro environmental conditions of RDT) in the IB context. Our review concludes that the IB literature has reached a good level of conceptual and empirical consensus concerning how multinational corporations (MNCs) take a large array of resource dependence actions and manage their resource dependence in various situations. We also find a strong need for further extension of RDT in IB research, offering suggestions for future research, including additional theoretical integration, underlying processes, and new dynamics that change the course of cross‐border interdependencies under the new global reality.

Managerial Summary

This study systematically reviews the stock of knowledge over the past 40 years on how the logic of resource dependencies unfolds in IB practices (e.g., cross‐border M&As, alliances and joint ventures, global supply chains, corporate political strategies, headquarters‐subsidiary relationships, and upper‐echelon decisions). Our findings and conclusions offer a decision roadmap for IB practitioners to assess various resource dependence situations with external and internal stakeholders in IB operations and to effectively manage such interdependencies. We also elaborate on the important implications of MNCs' strategies for effectively managing their resource dependencies in international exchanges in the modern world, which is characterized by the coexistence of trends leading of both globalization and de‐globalization.
Spontaneous regression of an human papillomavirus‐positive oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Seo Stefanie , Rooper Lisa , Seiwert Tanguy Y. , Fakhry Carole
Published: October 2022

Background

Spontaneous regression (SR) of cancer is an exceedingly rare phenomenon. While SR is well‐documented for some cancers, very few reports exist in oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinomas (OPSCCs) and none in human papillomavirus (HPV)‐positive OPSCCs.

Methods

A 67‐year old man presented with a left‐sided neck mass. Neck CT, PET, and biopsies showed a SCC in a left‐sided lymph node without a primary lesion. Immunohistochemistry confirmed HPV16. Six weeks after biopsy, the patient underwent left selective tonsillectomy and neck dissection.

Results

Surgery revealed a left tonsillar SCC and no lymph nodes with tumor. Histology revealed homogenous fibrosis and intermixed immune cells indicative of tumor regression analogous to reports of immune‐related pathologic responses. AE1/AE3 immunostain was also negative for tumor. All lymph nodes remained negative at 1 year follow‐up.

Conclusion

We described a spontaneously regressed lymph node in a tonsillar HPV‐positive SCC. The unique immune environment of HPV‐positive OPSCCs, and unknown environmental or host factors, may have played a role in our patient's SR which requires future studies to elucidate.
Chemical Tools to Study Bacterial Glycans: A Tale from Discovery of Glycoproteins to Disruption of Their Function
Authors: Barrett Katharine , Dube Danielle H.
Published: October 2022

Bacteria coat themselves with a dense array of cell envelope glycans that enhance bacterial fitness and promote survival. Despite the importance of bacterial glycans, their systematic study and perturbation remains challenging. Chemical tools have made important inroads toward understanding and altering bacterial glycans. This review describes how pioneering discoveries from Prof. Carolyn Bertozzi's laboratory inspired our laboratory to develop sugar probes to facilitate the study of bacterial glycans. As described below, we used metabolic glycan labelling to install bioorthogonal reporters into bacterial glycans, ultimately permitting the discovery of a protein glycosylation system, the identification of glycosylation genes, and the development of metabolic glycan inhibitors. Our results have provided an approach to screen bacterial glycans and gain insight into their function, even in the absence of detailed structural information.
One hundred years of drainage development in the Holland Marsh, Canada, and implications for long‐term sustainability
Authors: Madramootoo Chandra A. , Abbasi Naeem A.
Published: October 2022

The low‐lying peatlands of the Holland Marsh are intensively cultivated with high‐value vegetable crops, worth some $450 million Canadian annually. This high productivity is due to the fact that there have been significant investments to empolder the marsh, through the construction of dykes, embankments, canals, ditches, tile drainage, and installation of pumping stations. However, attention must be paid to the long‐term environmental sustainability of the Holland Marsh, given the high phosphorus loads and eutrophication in Lake Simcoe, the principal drainage outlet for the agricultural run‐off from the marsh. It is important that non‐point source pollution be reduced and drainage water quality better managed. In addition to agro‐environmental best management practices, adoption of controlled drainage, and improved drainage water pumping strategies are recommended. These could help achieve the P reduction target established by the government of Ontario and the Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority.
Toward an information systems architecture model for university hospitals: A case study in a Brazilian public hospital
Authors: Júnior Silvano Herculano da Luz , Medeiros Francisco Petrônio Alencar de , Lira Heremita Brasileiro
Published: October 2022

The implementation of information systems (IS) architecture is a step in constructing enterprise architecture (EA) according to The Open Group Architecture Framework (TOGAF) and can introduce notable benefits in supporting the management and governance of information and communications technology (ICT) in organizations. However, the literature lacks models that support the construction of IS architectures in university hospitals (UHs). The Hospital das Clínicas of the Federal University of Pernambuco (HC‐UFPE) is a large UH that confronts ICT misalignments of with other internal areas. In this context, this study investigates and proposes an IS architecture model for UHs through a case study conducted at HC‐UFPE. The data collection methodology for constructing the IS architecture of this hospital was based on consultations with institutional documents, interviews with strategic stakeholders, and participant observations in the hospital's ICT sector. Open coding and data triangulation were used to analyze the data. This study presents two main contributions. (1) The development of a model used to assist in the construction of IS architecture for UHs. The model developed in this study has a practical application with the TOGAF 9.2 framework and Archi software for constructing an IS architecture for HC‐UFPE. (2) The development and delivery of an HC‐UFPE IS architecture to support the hospital's ICT governance, providing, through EA artifacts, a holistic view of the hospital's current and future ICT processes, in addition to the identification of gaps, challenges, and viable solutions to be considered for decision making to improve service delivery and ICT alignment with other hospital areas.
In vivo biocompatibility of SrO and MgO doped brushite cements
Authors: Nandi Samit K. , Roy Mangal , Bandyopadhyay Amit , Bose Susmita
Published: October 2022

The addition of dopants in biomaterials has emerged as a critical regulator of bone formation and regeneration due to their imminent role in the biological process. The present work evaluated the role of strontium (Sr) and magnesium (Mg) dopants in brushite cement (BrC) on in vivo bone healing performance in a rabbit model. Pure, 1 wt% SrO (Sr‐BrC), 1 wt% MgO (Mg‐BrC), and a binary composition of 1.0 wt% SrO + 1.0 wt% MgO (Sr + Mg‐BrC) BrCs were implanted into critical‐sized tibial defects in rabbits for up to 4 months. The in vivo bone healing of three doped and pure BrC samples was examined and compared using sequential radiological examination, histological evaluations, and fluorochrome labeling studies. The results indicated excellent osseous tissue formation for Sr‐BrC and Sr + Mg‐BrC and moderate bone regeneration for Mg‐BrC compared to pure BrC. Our findings indicated that adding small amounts of SrO, MgO, and binary dopants to the BrC can significantly influence new bone formation for bone tissue engineering.
Laboratory and clinical evaluation of a microarray for the detection of ATP7B mutations in Wilson disease in China
Authors: Jia Siyu , Li Xiaojin , Zhang Wei , Zhang Bei , Wu Zhen , Duan Weijia , Ou Xiaojuan , Zhou Donghu , Huang Jian
Published: October 2022

Background and objective

Wilson disease (WD) is an autosomal recessive copper metabolic disorder caused by mutations in ATP7B. Sanger sequencing is currently used for ATP7B variant identification. However, the ATP7B gene contains 21 exons, which makes sequencing of the entire gene both complex and time‐consuming. Therefore, a simpler assay is urgently needed.

Methods

We performed a laboratory and clinical evaluation of an oligonucleotide microarray for the detection of 24 ATP7B recurrent mutations (except p.P992L) in Chinese patients with WD.

Results

The accuracy of the microarray was evaluated by screening for ATP7B mutations in 126 patients including 106 suspected WD samples and 20 patients with other liver diseases as negative control. Results were confirmed by Sanger sequencing. We established a reliable microarray system for the rapid detection of the 24 ATP7B mutations, with a sensitivity of 30 ng/test genomic DNA and specificity of 100% for all loci; the coefficient of variation in repeatability tests was <10%. Clinical evaluation showed an overall concordance between the microarray detection and sequencing of 100%, and 81.13% (86/106) of suspected WD cases showed ATP7B mutations by microarray detection. Microarray and Sanger sequencing identified p.R778L (50.94%), p.A874V (17.92%), p.P992L (11.32%), p.V1106I (11.32%), and p.I1148T (6.60%) as the most common mutations in WD patients.

Conclusions

Our microarray system is customizable and easily used for high‐throughput detection of certain recurrent ATP7B mutations, providing a simpler method suitable for WD genetic diagnosis in China.
Louse flies holding on mammals' hair: Comparative functional morphology of specialized attachment devices of ectoparasites (Diptera: Hippoboscoidea)
Authors: Hayer Sarah , Sturm Beeke P. , Büsse Sebastian , Büscher Thies H. , Gorb Stanislav N.
Published: October 2022

Hippoboscidae and Nycteribiidae of the dipteran superfamily Hippoboscoidea are obligate ectoparasites, which feed on the blood of different mammals. Due to their limited flight capability, the attachment system on all tarsi is of great importance for a secure grasp onto their host and thus for their survival. In this study, the functional morphology of the attachment system of two hippoboscid species and two nycteribiid species was compared in their specificity to the host substrate. Based on data from scanning electron microscopy and confocal laser scanning microscopy, it was shown that the attachment systems of both Hippoboscidae and Nycteribiidae (Hippoboscoidea) differ greatly from that of other calyptrate flies and are uniform within the respective families. All studied species have an attachment system with two monodentate claws and two pulvilli. The claws and pulvilli of the Hippoboscidae are asymmetric, which is an adaptation to the fur of even‐toed ungulates (Artiodactyla). The fur of these mammals possesses both, thinner woolen and thicker coat hair; thus, the asymmetry of the attachment system of the hippoboscid species enables a secure attachment to all surfaces of their hosts. The claws and pulvilli of the nyceribiid species do not show an asymmetry, since the fur of their bat (Chiroptera) hosts consists of hairs with the same thickness. The claws are important for the attachment to mammals' fur, because they enable a secure grip by mechanical interlocking of the hairs through the claws. Additionally, well‐developed pulvilli are able to attach on thicker hairs of Artiodactyla or on smooth substrates such as the skin.
Production of tomato powder from tomato puree with foam‐mat drying using green pea aquafaba: drying parameters and bioaccessibility of bioactive compounds
Authors: Kilicli Mahmut , Erol Kubra Feyza , Toker Omer Said , Tornuk Fatih
Published: October 2022

Background

The purpose of this study was to valorize green pea cooking water (aquafaba) as a foaming agent in foam‐mat drying of tomato. For this aim, density of foam‐mats (green pea aquafaba+tomato puree) changed between 1.06 and 0.45 g/mL depending on the aquafaba concentration. Foam‐mats with 5 mm thickness were dried at 50, 60 and 70°C at 1.3 m/s air velocity.

Results

The results showed that the porous structure of foams with lower densities resulted in higher drying rates and moisture diffusivities. Redness (a*) value decreased with increasing aquafaba content (p < 0.05). Total phenolic content (TPC) and antioxidant activity (CUPRAC, DPPH and FRAP) of the resulting tomato powders were also determined. Moreover, bioaccessibility of phenolics and antioxidant activities were also determined using in vitro digestion.

Conclusions

All of the bioactive parameters are positively affected by foam‐mat drying process. Using aquafaba as a foaming agent accelerated the drying period and improved bioactive characteristics of the powders. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
The use of an automated organism tracking microscope in mesocosm experiments
Authors: Blackburn Nicholas , Haecky Pia , Jurgensone Iveta , Griniene Evelina , Brugel Sonia , Andersson Agneta , Carstensen Jacob
Published: October 2022

A method for automatically counting and measuring sizes and motility behavior of zooplankton and phytoplankton in water samples is presented. Two video cameras are focused on separate optical chambers of different sizes. The chambers are filled and emptied repeatedly by synchronized pumps. Real‐time motion analysis is performed by computer on the respective video feeds. Fluorescence from chlorophyll a (Chl a) is imaged at single pixel resolution. Measured parameters for individual organisms include size, swimming velocity, motility patterns, and chlorophyll fluorescence density. The system was tested during a mesocosm experiment where it was mounted on one of several mesocosm columns. The results were validated against Chl a measurements and microscopy counts. A sampling interval of 1 per day revealed detailed dynamics of chlorophyll activity as well as shifts in both the phytoplankton and zooplankton community structure over the course of a month. A helix coefficient, a metric related to organism motility behavior, showed substantial variation over time, consistent with changing plankton communities. Sampling rates as frequent as 1 per hour enables detailed analysis of diurnal vertical migration and similar phenomena at fixed sampling points.
Cationic Modified PVA Hydrogels Provide Low Friction and Excellent Mechanical Properties for Potential Cartilage and Orthopedic Applications
Authors: Chen Yuru , Song Jian , Wang Song , Liu Weiqiang
Published: October 2022

Poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) hydrogel is a promising candidate for articular cartilage repair yet restrained by its mechanical strength and tribological property. Current work reports a newly designed PVA‐based hydrogel modified by glycerol (g), bacterial cellulose (BC), and a cationic polymer poly (diallyl dimethylammonium chloride) (PDMDAAC), which is a novel cationic strengthening choice. The resultant PVA‐g‐BC‐PDMDAAC hydrogel proves the effectiveness of this modification scheme, with a confined compressive modulus of 19.56 MPa and a friction coefficient of 0.057 at a joint‐equivalent load and low sliding speed. The water content, swelling property, and creep behavior of this hydrogel are also within a cartilage‐mimetic range. The properties of PVA‐based hydrogels before PDMDAAC addition are likewise studied as a cross‐reference. Besides, PDMDAAC‐modified PVA hydrogel realizes ideal mechanical and lubrication properties with a relatively low PVA concentration (10 wt.%) and facile fabrication process, which lays a foundation for mass production and marketization in the future.
Predictive Tools to Assist the Development of Flame Retarded Phosphorus‐Free Polypropylene and Identify Synergy between Flame Retardants
Authors: Ulisse Federico , Boaretti Carlo , Rossignolo Gabriele , Roso Martina , Modesti Michele , Lorenzetti Alessandra
Published: October 2022

The development of flame‐retarded polypropylene is carried out with the ultimate goal of obtaining a UL94‐V0 not only halogen‐ but also phosphorus‐free formulation because phosphate rocks, precursors of phosphorus‐based flame retardants, are recognized as critical raw materials within Europe. Different flame retardants (FRs) (melamine, phosphate ester, and radical generator) are used. A statistical approach is applied to predict UL94 behavior and develop optimized formulations in terms of cost, filler or phosphorus content. Models for most common “nondripping” as well as “nonflaming dripping” UL94‐V0 behavior are proposed. The experimental validation has shown the reliability of the models proposed and their usefulness to assist and speed up the development of optimized formulations. The use of the models also gives insight into the interactions between flame retardants, thus suggesting if potential synergies take place, before studying the FRs system in details. Indeed, synergies between melamine and phosphate ester as well as melamine and radical generator are discovered. Thanks to these synergies that V0 rating can be achieved. A UL94‐V0 formulation, comprising melamine and radical generator, is identified as the optimal halogen‐ and phosphorus‐free formulation with a reduced filler content.
Switchable RAFT Polymerization Employing Photoresponsive HABI as a Mediator
Authors: Sun Yue , Weng Yuyan , Chen Gaojian , Zhang Weidong
Published: October 2022

Recently, considerable interest has been devoted to developing switchable reversible addition fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerizations via photoactivation methods. Herein, a photo‐deactivation strategy is introduced to regulate RAFT polymerization using photoresponsive hexaarylbiimidozole (HABI) as a mediator, which leads to switchable RAFT polymerization by repeated ON/OFF experiments. In comparison with well‐known PET‐RAFT polymerization, photo‐deactivation RAFT (PD‐RAFT) polymerization can be temporally stopped with UV light ON, where photoresponsive HABI can reversibly quench propagating radicals, resulting in switchable RAFT polymerization. The proposed mechanism of PD‐RAFT polymerization in the presence of HABI involving radical quenching is based on ESR, NMR, GPC, MALDI‐TOF‐MS, and kinetics studies.
(Dis‐)Connected Dots in Dementia with Lewy Bodies—A Systematic Review of Connectivity Studies
Authors: Habich Annegret , Wahlund Lars‐Olof , Westman Eric , Dierks Thomas , Ferreira Daniel
Published: October 2022

Studies on dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) have mainly focused on the degeneration of distinct cortical and subcortical regions related to the deposition of Lewy bodies. In view of the proposed trans‐synaptic spread of the α‐synuclein pathology, investigating the disease only in this segregated fashion would be detrimental to our understanding of its progression. In this systematic review, we summarize findings on structural and functional brain connectivity in DLB, as connectivity measures may offer better insights on how the brain is affected by the spread of the pathology. Following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, we searched Web of Science, PubMed, and SCOPUS for relevant articles published up to November 1, 2021. Of 1215 identified records, we selected and systematically reviewed 53 articles that compared connectivity features between patients with DLB and healthy controls. Structural and functional magnetic resonance imaging, positron emission tomography, single‐positron emission computer tomography, and electroencephalography assessments of patients revealed widespread abnormalities within and across brain networks in DLB. Frontoparietal, default mode, and visual networks and their connections to other brain regions featured the most consistent disruptions, which were also associated with core clinical features and cognitive impairments. Furthermore, graph theoretical measures revealed disease‐related decreases in local and global network efficiency. This systematic review shows that structural and functional connectivity characteristics in DLB may be particularly valuable at early stages, before overt brain atrophy can be observed. This knowledge may help improve the diagnosis and prognosis in DLB as well as pinpoint targets for future disease‐modifying treatments. © 2022 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Time second‐order splitting conservative difference scheme for nonlinear fractional Schrödinger equation
Authors: Xie Jianqiang , Ali Muhammad Aamir , Zhang Zhiyue
Published: October 2022

This paper concentrates on the error estimation of novel time second‐order splitting conservative finite difference method (FDM) for high‐dimensional nonlinear fractional Schrödinger equation rigorously. The discrete preservation property of our scheme is exhibited. By virtue of the cut‐off technique and discrete energy method, it is shown that our scheme possesses the accuracy of
in sense of
‐ norm. Numerical experiments are exhibited to validate the accuracy and conservation property of our scheme.
Reconfigurable dual‐beam leaky‐wave antenna based on spoof surface plasmon polariton
Authors: Chen Yusong , Ni Hao , Liu Leilei
Published: October 2022

In this paper, a reconfigurable leaky‐wave antenna (LWA) based on spoof surface plasmon polariton (SSPP) transmission line (TL) is proposed. Patches placed nearby the SSPP TL effectively convey the energy from the transmission mode to the radiation mode. SSPP units are loaded with variable capacitors, which enable the antenna to achieve free switching between fixed‐beam and beam scanning. When the antenna is working on a fixed beam in broadside, operating at 7.6–8.6 GHz, and the beam deviation is within ±1° by adjusting the capacitors. When the proposed antenna operates at fixed frequencies, up to 28° scanning range can be obtained with a stable gain. The antenna is fabricated and proved effective in the experiment. The proposed SSPP LWA provides a solution to narrow‐band and point‐to‐point communication systems.
Foot function in rheumatoid arthritis: Correlation between the Rheumatoid and Arthritis Outcome Score and performance‐based physical tests
Authors: Ben Tekaya Aicha , Ben Dhia Siwar , Hannech Emna , Rouached Leila , Bouden Selma , Tekaya Rawdha , Saidane Olfa , Mahmoud Ines , Abdelmoula Leila
Published: October 2022

Background

Foot function is usually assessed using self‐reported outcome measures which remain subjective in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Physical performance tests were recommended for functional assessment in lower limb osteoarthritis. However, foot function assessment's guidelines in RA are lacking. We aimed to investigate the correlation between a self‐reported outcome measure and two performance‐based physical tests for assessing foot function in RA patients.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was performed over 7 months' period including RA patients. We used Rheumatoid and Arthritis Outcome score (RAOS) as a self‐reported functional tool. Physical performance tests were 4‐min walk test (4‐MWT) and Timed up and go test (TUGT).

Results

Fifty RA patients were included with 96% females and a mean age of 54.7 ± 10.4 years. Foot involvement occurred since the diagnosis of RA in 36% of patients. Foot pain was reported by 68% of patients (48% forefoot), and foot stiffness in 46% of patients. Skin lesions of the feet were found in 78% of patients, 90% had foot deformities and 56% had inflammatory disorders of feet. Radiographic lesions were found in 94% of patients. The most impaired RAOS subscales were Sports and Recreation and Quality of life.

Poor physical‐based performance was found in 34% of RA patients according to 4‐MWT, in 42% of RA patients according TUGT, and in 46% of patients based on at least one performance test. RAOS was negatively correlated to the 4‐MWT and positively correlated in the subscales pain, other symptoms, activities of daily living, and Sport/Rec of the RAOS. Poor performance‐based physical tests were significantly associated with advanced age, sedentary lifestyle, higher disease activity score and impaired functional status. Foot‐related parameters significantly associated with poor performance‐based physical tests were: foot pain, foot deformity and inflammatory disorders. Multivariate analysis identified foot deformities and higher functional impairment as predictive factors for lower gait speed (4‐MWT) and older age and higher functional impairment for higher duration of TUGT.

Conclusion

RAOS was significantly associated with performance‐based physical function. In the era of connected technologies, these results encourage the regular assessment of rheumatoid foot function by the RAOS score through a connected programme using wearable trackers.
From sacred symbolism to luxury display and consumption: The peacock in medieval Catalonia—Data from zooarcheological, iconographic, and literary evidences
Authors: Fernández Marina , Nadal Maria , Ramos Jordi , Miró Carme , Banks Philip , Nadal Jordi , Riera Santiago , Lloveras Lluís
Published: October 2022

This work presents the first remains of a peacock (Pavo cristatus Linnaeus 1758) discovered in an archeological context in Catalonia. It is a well‐preserved animal (14 remains of an adult female) located in medieval levels—datable to the 13th century (1210–1278 cal. AD) at the site of Carrer de Sotstinent Navarro, in the city of Barcelona. We present the study of the remains of this animal together with that of the other birds recovered from the same excavation. In addition, by referring to iconographic and literary sources, some reflections are made on the species in Catalonia in medieval times. The interpretation of the remains could range from a symbolic religious use of the animal to a more profane one, as an element of identification of social status and economic ostentation, in the field of gastronomy or as an ornamental animal. The study of the remains and their archeological context seem to support this last hypothesis.
Thermosetting epoxidized polybutadiene/low‐molecular weight polyphenylene oxide compatible system with quite low‐dielectric constant and loss prepared through co‐curing reaction
Authors: Dai Tianwen , Jiang Xinyue , Ge Ying , Zou Huawei , Liu Pengbo
Published: October 2022

Through the redistribution reaction of PPO, the hydroxyl‐terminated low molecular weight PPO (PPO‐OH) was prepared. Furthermore, after the reacting of PPO‐OH with methacrylic anhydride, the double‐bond‐terminated low‐molecular weight PPO (R‐PPO) were synthesized, its Mn was 2631 g/mol. The R‐PPO were co‐cured with epoxidized polybutadiene (JP‐100) to prepare JP‐100/R‐PPO cured systems. The JP‐100/R‐PPO cured systems showed single‐phase morphology. The co‐curing reaction with R‐PPO could effectively improve the thermal performance of JP‐100, the glass transition temperature (Tg) of cured JP‐100/R‐PPO systems raised greatly. For the cured JP‐100/R‐PPO (100/30) system, its Tg was 192°C. The dielectric constant and dissipation factor of cured JP‐100/R‐PPO systems were both decreased and showed good frequency stability. The dielectric constant and dissipation factor at 1 MHz of cured JP‐100/R‐PPO (100/30) system were 2.61 and 0.0038, respectively, were obviously lower than those of cured JP‐100 system (which were 3.10 and 0.0099, respectively). The JP‐100/R‐PPO systems exhibited an excellent thermal stability. The 5% weight loss temperature (T5%) of cured JP‐100/R‐PPO system was around 340°C.
A review of salt occurrences in soils of the Transantarctic Mountains, Antarctica
Authors: Campbell Iain B. , Sheppard Douglas S.
Published: October 2022

Salts are pervasive throughout the Transantarctic Mountains cold desert soils and are derived primarily from atmospheric sources. Their composition is varied and dependent on local or regional climatic conditions. Their presence within soil profiles ranges from small flecks to continuous salt horizons and their abundance and distribution have a distinct relationship with climatic attributes and land surface age which extends back to the Miocene. While liquid water is seldom present, salts are present in saturated solutions surrounding mineral grains in the soil and may move deeply into the soil or underlying icy permafrost. Extensive ground surface salt efflorescence occurs on freshly exposed surfaces that have been disturbed by human activities, the salts being derived from within the thawed permafrost ice.
Simulating the Effects of Grain Surface Morphology on Hot Spots in HMX with Surrogate Model Development
Authors: Springer H. Keo , Miller Christopher M. , Kroonblawd Matthew P. , Bastea Sorin
Published: October 2022

There have been several numerical studies on the collapse of internal voids in energetic grains but fewer investigations have probed grain‐grain interface effects. In this study, we examine the effects of grain surface morphology and binder conditions on hot spot mechanisms during shock loading using the multi‐physics hydrocode, ALE3D, coupled with the thermochemical code, Cheetah. To improve the accuracy of our grain‐scale simulations, the HMX material models have been updated from previous studies to incorporate new property predictions from molecular dynamics simulations. In our simulations of the interface between two neighboring energetic grains, the upstream grain surface is described by a single sinusoid with amplitude (0.5–2 μm) and wavelength (0.5–2 μm). The effects of grain surface coating, i. e., no binder, partially coated, and fully coated with binder, is also explored. A range of shock loading pressures (10–30 GPa) is considered. Binder coating reduces hot spots at grain‐grain interfaces by limiting plastic deformation and heating of upstream grain surfaces as well as preventing transmission of localized deformation modes (e. g., jetting) to the downstream grain. More plastic work and heating is observed with new HMX material models versus the previous models because the strength does not thermally soften as much as a result of the higher melt temperature; this also reduces vortical flow and jetting mechanisms with the new HMX material models. A surrogate model based on neural networks is developed for the early stage reaction rate. Physics‐based input features improve the performance of the neural networks over basic input features alone with a root mean squared error=1.05 μs−1 and R2=0.98. Accurate and fast‐running surrogate models can effectively serve as structure‐property‐sensitivity relationships.
High‐Pressure Characterization of Two Stereoisomers of Tetranitroester Cyclobutane
Authors: Bennion Jonathan C. , Jenkins Timothy A.
Published: October 2022

The high‐pressure behavior of two stereoisomeric cyclobutane nitric ester materials were studied at room temperature to near 25 GPa via Raman spectroscopy and powder X‐ray diffraction. The materials investigated included [cis‐trans‐cis]‐ and [all‐cis]‐tetranitrate ester cyclobutanes. Over the course of these studies no evidence of polymorphism was observed, highlighting the stability of the ambient pressure crystal structures of the cyclobutanes to conditions near the detonation pressure of the material. Differences were observed between the bulk moduli of the two stereoisomers, suggesting potential tunability in materials response under dynamic conditions through the use of isomeric materials. Such findings suggest that these high‐performance materials can serve as TNT replacement in novel melt‐castable energetic formulations without the concern of uncontrolled polymorphism that might otherwise affect the performance and safety of a munition.
A New‐Type Lightweight Helical Elastic Metamaterial with Ultra‐Low‐Frequency Bandgaps
Authors: Miao Xiang Jie , Zhou Zong Tuan , Zhang Yong Yan , Yang Lei Peng , Liang Xiao , Wu Jiu Hui , Liu Chong Rui
Published: October 2022

The local resonance (LR) structure can effectively suppress the low‐frequency noise and vibration, but how to obtain a lightweight and small‐scale LR structure with broadbands to satisfy engineering requirements is still a great challenge. This article proposes an LR structure by designing a helical spring group, in which not only the stability and bearing capacity can be greatly improved by properly designing its number of helical spring wires, but also the dynamic equivalent stiffness of the system can be better adjusted. Based on the theory, the initial frequency of the broadband within the LR structure can be successfully adjusted from 93 to 67 Hz only by adjusting the number of helical spring wires from 3 to 6. Finally, there are two bandgaps obtained by the finite element method (FEM), the first is the ultra‐low‐frequency bandgap of 11–15 Hz, the second is the broadband of 67–315 Hz. Thus, the regulation mechanism of bandgaps by adjusting the number of the wires can overcome the big structures or heavy mass in traditional methods. Most importantly, the helical structure provides a new idea for lightweight and small‐scale LR structures with the low‐frequency broadband, which would have a potential application in the field of vibration isolation.