bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Desorption and transfer processes in different classes of dyes
Authors: Cova Camilla Maria , Conti Laura , Barbero Francesco , Berti Debora , Bianchetti Giulia Ottavia
Published: August 2022

We report an analytical approach to study dye desorption and transfer processes in aqueous environment. The study was conducted simulating standard laundry washes using two different donor textiles, a polyester textile dyed with Disperse Blue 79 and a cotton textile dyed with Reactive Red 239, and two acceptor textiles, undyed cotton and polyester, respectively. Dye bleeding/solubilization from a donor textile to the solution was investigated through UV–visible absorbance analysis, while the dye absorption onto acceptor textile was quantified by UV–visible reflectance analysis. Dye desorption and transfer processes were investigated in water and surfactant solutions at different concentrations. A desorption and transfer model for the two classes of dyes was hypothesized by performing kinetic experiments. The results show that both processes depend on the presence of surfactants for the disperse dye. Conversely, the presence of surfactants has little effect on the reactive dye. Finally, the presence of an acceptor polyester significantly increases the bleeding of the disperse dye, while the presence of an acceptor textiles less influences the total release of the reactive dye.
Dietary chitooligosaccharide supplementation improves mineral deposition, meat quality and intramuscular oxidant status in broilers
Authors: Li Jun , Wang Shiqi , Chen Yueping , Cheng Yefei , Wen Chao , Zhou Yanmin
Published: August 2022

BACKGROUND

The present study aimed at evaluating the in vitro adsorption capability of chitooligosaccharide (COS) with some metal elements (Fe, Zn, Cd, Pb) at different pH values along with potential effects of dietary COS supplementation on growth performance, mineral content, meat quality and oxidant status in broilers. Day‐old male chicks were randomly distributed into two groups and offered a basal diet supplemented with or without 30 mg kg−1 COS for 42 days.

RESULTS

In vitro trials demonstrated that Fe levels were higher (P < 0.001) in the COS‐treated group compared with the non‐treated group at pH of 2.5. However, these levels became lowered when pH values were raised to 5 (P < 0.01) or 6 (P < 0.001). Similarly, COS adsorbed more (P < 0.05) Zn at pH values of 2.5 and 6, and Cd contents at pH of 2.5 for 70 min when compared with the control. For in vivo trial, the feed‐to‐gain ratio, serum Cu (P < 0.01), hepatic Mn, Cr (P < 0.05) and intramuscular Cd (P < 0.01) were lower in response to COS treatment. Supplementation of COS improved (P < 0.05) meat quality of broilers in terms of lower drip loss, cooking loss and malondialdehyde content with a concomitant increase (P < 0.01) in the pH of breast meat at 24 h post mortem.

CONCLUSION

COS adsorbed heavy metal ions not only in vitro but also in broilers, and dietary supplementation with 30 mg kg−1 COS improved growth performance, breast meat quality and oxidant status in broilers. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Degradation kinetics of rutin encapsulated in oil‐in‐water emulsions: impact of particle size
Authors: Fu Yuteng , McClements David Julian , Luo Shunjing , Ye Jiangping , Liu Chengmei
Published: August 2022

BACKGROUND

Rutin is a natural bioactive flavonoid that is poor in water solubility and chemical stability. Encapsulation can be used to protect bioactive molecules from chemical or physical decomposition during food processing and storage. Thus, the effect of initial particle size on the ability of oil‐in‐water emulsions to retain rutin during storage was investigated.

RESULTS

Rutin was encapsulated in oil‐in‐water emulsions with different mean surface‐weighted diameters: d3,2 = 0.56 μm (small), 0.73 μm (medium), and 2.32 μm (large). As expected, the resistance of the emulsions to coalescence and creaming during storage increased as the particle size decreased due to weakening of the colloidal and gravitational forces acting on the droplets. The concentration of rutin in the emulsions decreased during storage (28 days), which was mainly attributed to photodegradation of the flavonoid. The loss of rutin from the emulsions during storage was fitted using a second‐order equation. The rutin degradation rate constant k decreased and the half‐life t1/2 increased with decreasing droplet size, which was attributed to the stronger encapsulation and light scattering by smaller oil droplets reducing the amount of light that can penetrate into the emulsions.

CONCLUSION

This study has important implications for the design of more efficacious emulsion‐based delivery systems for incorporating health‐promoting nutraceuticals into foods. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
A prospective real‐world study of the diffuse‐type tenosynovial giant cell tumor patient journey: A 2‐year observational analysis
Authors: Bernthal Nicholas M. , Healey John H. , Palmerini Emanuela , Bauer Sebastian , Schreuder Hendrik , Leithner Andreas , Martin‐Broto Javier , Gouin Francois , Lopez‐Bastida Julio , Gelderblom Hans , Staals Eric L. , Burke Zachary D. , Geiger Erik J. , Spierenburg Geert , Laeis Petra , Beyerlein Elisabeth , Ye Xin , van de Sande Michiel
Published: August 2022

Background and Objectives

Diffuse‐tenosynovial giant cell tumor (D‐TGCT) is a rare, locally aggressive, typically benign neoplasm affecting mainly large joints, representing a wide clinical spectrum. We provide a picture of the treatment journey of D‐TGCT patients as a 2‐year observational follow‐up.

Methods

The TGCT Observational Platform Project registry was a multinational, multicenter, prospective observational study at tertiary sarcoma centers spanning seven European countries and two US sites. Histologically confirmed D‐TGCT patients were categorized as either those who remained on initial treatment strategy (determined at baseline visit) or those who changed treatment strategy with specific changes documented (e.g., systemic treatment to surgery) at the 1‐year and/or 2‐year follow‐up visits.

Results

A total of 176 patients were assessed, mean diagnosis age was 38.4 (SD ± 14.6) years; most patients had a knee tumor (120/176, 68.2%). For the 2‐year observation period, most patients (75.5%) remained on the baseline treatment strategy throughout, 54/79 patients (68.4%) remained no treatment, 30/45 patients (66.7%) remained systemic treatment, 39/39 patients (100%) remained surgery. Those who changed treatment strategy utilized multimodal treatment options.

Conclusions

This is the first prospectively collected analysis to describe D‐TGCT patient treatments over an extended follow‐up and demonstrates the need for multidisciplinary teams to determine an optimal treatment strategy.
Extended vertical rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap for reconstruction of large pelviperineal defects following oncologic resection
Authors: Pérez‐García Alberto , García‐Granero Álvaro , Thione Alessandro , Frasson Matteo , Sánchez‐García Alberto , Salmerón‐González Enrique , Simón Eduardo , Domingo Santiago , García‐Granero E.
Published: August 2022

Background and Objectives

Extended vertical rectus abdominis myocutaneous (eVRAM) flap has been proposed for reconstruction of large pelviperineal defects where traditional VRAM flap is insufficient. We present our experience with eVRAM flap for pelviperineal reconstruction following oncologic resection.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted, including all the patients who underwent reconstruction with eVRAM flap after complex pelvic resection, between 2012 and 2020. EVRAM flap was indicated when traditional VRAM was considered deficient to cover or reach the skin defect or to fill the dead space.

Results

Forty‐four patients were included in the study. Successful reconstruction with eVRAM flap was achieved in 40 patients. There were three flap failures, and one patient died in the second postoperative day because of multiple organ failure. Perineal wound complications occurred in 17 patients (38.6%), eight of them requiring surgical reoperation. Donor site problems were present in five patients (11.4%), and only one patient required surgical closure because of a major dehiscence.

Conclusions

The authors found the eVRAM flap to be a useful and reliable flap for reconstruction of complex pelviperineal wounds, with a low rate of donor site morbidity.
Machine learning prediction of posttraumatic stress disorder trajectories following traumatic injury: Identification and validation in two independent samples
Authors: Tomas Carissa W. , Fitzgerald Jacklynn M. , Bergner Carisa , Hillard Cecilia J. , Larson Christine L. , deRoon‐Cassini Terri A.
Published: August 2022

Due to its heterogeneity, the prediction of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) development after traumtic injury is difficult. Recent machine learning approaches have yielded insight into predicting PTSD symptom trajectories. Using data collected within 1 month of traumatic injury, we applied eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGB) to classify admitted and discharged patients (hospitalized, n = 192; nonhospitalized, n = 214), recruited from a Level 1 trauma center, according to PTSD symptom trajectories. Trajectories were identified using latent class mixed models on PCL‐5 scores collected at baseline, 1–3 months posttrauma, and 6 months posttrauma. In both samples, nonremitting, remitting, and resilient PTSD symptom trajectories were identified. In the admitted patient sample, a unique delayed trajectory emerged. Machine learning classifiers (i.e., XGB) were developed and tested on the admitted patient sample and externally validated on the discharged sample with biological and clinical self‐report baseline variables as predictors. For external validation sets, prediction was fair for nonremitting versus other trajectories, areas under the curve (AUC = .70); good for nonremitting versus resilient trajectories, AUCs = .73–.76; and prediction failed for nonremitting versus remitting trajectories, AUCs = .46–.48. However, poor precision (< .57) across all models suggests limited generalizability of nonremitting symptom trajectory prediction from admitted to discharged patient samples. Consistency in symptom trajectory identification across samples supports prior studies on the stability of PTSD symptom trajectories following trauma exposure; however, continued work and replication with larger samples are warranted to understand overlapping and unique predictive features of PTSD in different traumatic injury populations.
Incidence and Prevalence of Cough in a Rural Health System: A 20‐Year Study
Authors: Altman Kenneth W. , Young Amanda J. , Gupta Mudit , Pichardo Priscilla F. A. , Troup Melissa A. , Blank Jackie
Published: August 2022

Objective

Understanding the cough population is critical to addressing clinical needs and gaps in best practice. We sought to characterize and stratify cough patients with the hypothesis that there are opportunities to improve access to care in our health system and characterize the population.

Methods

Following institutional review board exempt status, a retrospective electronic record review was performed on all patients coded with ICD‐9 786.2 or ICD‐10 is R05 from January 1, 2001 through December 31, 2020 at our health system. Inclusion criteria were one or more visits for cough. The subgroup with more than one visit in each of 2 years was classified as multiple encounters. Patients were characterized by sex, age at first cough encounter, number of cough encounters, smoking status, and insurance status. Results were stratified by year, calculating frequencies, and percentages.

Results

There were 302,284 unique patients diagnosed with cough, among 1,764,387 patients seen in our health system, representing an average incidence of 3.0% (2.7%–3.7%) and prevalence of 4.9% (3.1%–5.6%). New single encounter cough patients totaled 179,963, and new multiple encounter cough patients totaled 122,321. Of the 39,828,073 total encounters, there were 469,802 for new or existing cough (1.17%–1.73% annually). The age at initial presentation demonstrated 36.5% seen <10 years old, with an even distribution over the remaining decades of life. The majority were seen for cough once, but 23.8% of group two patients had two or more visits for cough in a year.

Conclusion

We demonstrate a lower‐than‐expected incidence and prevalence of cough in our health population, suggesting challenges with access to care when compared to 10% prevalence and 3% of encounters previously documented in the literature. The study also provides a platform to explore the importance of pediatric cough, as well as population health and the longitudinal journey of cough patients in underserved areas.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 133:1191–1196, 2023
Functional Cyanine‐Based PVA:PVP Polymers as Antimicrobial Tools toward Food and Health‐Care Bacterial Infections
Authors: Marcelo Gonçalo A. , Galhano Joana , Duarte Maria Paula , Kurutos Atanas , Capelo‐Martínez Jose Luis , Lodeiro Carlos , Oliveira Elisabete
Published: August 2022

The rising of multidrug‐resistant bacteria and their associated proliferation as harmful microorganisms boosts the creation of new antibacterial surfaces and biomaterials with applications ranging from health to food packing. Herein, low‐cost antibacterial PVA:PVP copolymers containing cyanine derivatives (1, 2, and 3) and their respective Cu2+ complexes are successfully obtained and tested against Gram‐negative and Gram‐positive bacteria. The possible application in food packing is addressed by covering the surface of typical paper mockups with the doped polymers. All dye‐doped polymers present a broad‐spectrum antibacterial effect against Gram‐positive bacteria, especially for Bacillus cereus (B. cereus), Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), and methicillin‐resistant S. aureus (MRSA) strains, with PVA:PVP@3 and PVA:PVP@3‐Cu being the most effective. Moreover, polymers containing cyanine derivatives present interesting inhibition effects against Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa), where the production of its characteristic blue/green virulent pigment is not observed. Of the coated paper mockups, PVA:PVP:paper@2 and PVA:PVP:paper@2‐Cu are most effective against B. cereus and S. aureus, while PVA:PVP:paper@3 and PVA:PVP:paper@3‐Cu are most effective against the MRSA strain. In these formulations, direct contact inhibition mechanisms appear to be more significant than diffusional mechanisms, due to cyanine release hindrance, making them very interesting and versatile platforms for medical and food applications.
In Situ Kinetics Reveal the Influence of Solvents and Monomer Structure on the Anionic Ring‐Opening Copolymerization of Epoxides
Authors: Dreier Philip , Matthes Rebecca , Barent Ramona D. , Schüttner Sandra , Müller Axel H. E. , Frey Holger
Published: August 2022

In‐depth understanding of copolymerization kinetics and the resulting polymer microstructure is crucial for the design of materials with well‐defined properties. Further, insights regarding the impact of solvents on copolymerization kinetics allows for precisely tuned materials. In this regard, in situ 1H NMR spectroscopy enables precise monitoring of the living anionic ring‐opening copolymerization (AROP) of ethylene oxide (EO) with the glycidyl ethers allyl glycidyl ether (AGE) and ethoxy vinyl glycidyl ether (EVGE), respectively. Determination of reactivity ratios reveals slightly higher reactivity of both glycidyl ethers compared to EO, emphasizing a pronounced counterion chelation effect by glycidyl ethers in AROP. Implementation of density functional theory (DFT) calculations further illustrates the complexation capability of ether‐containing side groups in glycidyl ethers, in analogy to crown ethers (“crown ether effect”). Investigation of the copolymerization in i) THF‐d8 and ii) DMSO‐d6 shows an increasing disparity of reactivity ratios for both glycidyl ethers compared to EO, clearly related to decreasing solvent polarity.
A Comparative Investigation of Various Binders for Silicon Anodes: Interactions with Other Components, Rheological Property, and Behavior in Operando Dilatometry
Authors: Li Xin‐Zhi , Yuan Shu‐Xia , Ding Guo‐Sheng
Published: August 2022

Benefitting from its outstanding advantages, silicon (Si) has been considered as one of the best candidates of anode materials for next‐generation lithium ion batteries (LIBs). Among various influencing factors on the electrochemical performance of Si anodes, binder attracts more and more attention though occupying only a small portion. Well‐designed binders play a critical role in improving cycling performance of Si anodes. Herein, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), poly (acrylic acid) (PAA), sodium alginate (SA), polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF), and polyacrylonitrile (PAN) are selected as binders, and their effects on the electrochemical performance are investigated. PAA, CMC, and SA form both dynamic hydrogen bonds and covalent bonds with Si while PAN and PVDF form monotonous hydrogen bonds with Si. Defects of PAA and CMC in slurry mixing and subsequent drying process originated from high modulus and poor liquidity are exposed. The binder influence on expansion/contraction behavior of silicon anodes is innovatively investigated in real time. Electrodes with PAA binder exhibit the greatest expansion but the highest reversibility, which contributes to superior electrochemical performance. This article aims to provide useful information for failure mechanism analysis of binders as well as design of advanced binders for high energy LIBs.
Facile Preparation of Light‐Weight Polyetheretherketone/Graphite/FeCo Ternary Heterogeneous Composite Foam with High Compressive Strength and Excellent Integrated Electromagnetic Wave Absorption Performance
Authors: Wu Shuoqi , Xu Pan , Wang Shan , Qi Desheng , Wang Le , Meng Lingcheng , Ge Shuyuan , Yue Xigui
Published: August 2022

The preparation of the electromagnetic wave (EMW) absorbing materials with 3D porous structural, light weight, and high mechanical strength has been receiving greater attention for a long time. A series of light‐weight polyetheretherketone/graphite/FeCo ternary heterogeneous composite foams (PEEK/C/FeCo) with high mechanical strength are prepared via thermally induced phase separation. Based on the high compressive strength of PEEK resin and its stable skeleton formed by thermally induced phase separation, the composite foam has high compressive strength and low density. In addition, during the thermally induced phase separation process, porous structures are formed inside the PEEK, and graphite and FeCo particles are uniformly dispersed between the pore structures, the composite foams possess excellent porous structure, moderate dielectric loss, and magnetic loss, exhibiting good absorbing properties. With the low density of 0.49 g cm−3 and high compressive strength of 6.40 MPa, the as‐synthesized optimal sample (PEEK‐50/C‐40/FeCo‐10) achieves a minimum reflection loss up to −35.9 dB covering a bandwidth of 3.6 GHz for a thickness of 1.5 mm. In a word, this study provides a novel, economical, and efficient way to obtain a light foam with high mechanical strength and good EMW absorbing property.
Sensitivity of Sniffer Dogs for a Diagnosis of Parkinson's Disease: A Diagnostic Accuracy Study
Authors: Gao Chang‐Qing , Wang Shan‐Ni , Wang Mei‐Mei , Li Jing‐Jing , Qiao Jiao‐Jiao , Huang Juan‐Juan , Zhang Xu‐Xiang , Xiang Ya‐Qin , Xu Qian , Wang Jun‐Ling , Liu Zheng‐Hua , Wang Jian‐Gang , Chen Zhi‐Heng , Hu Ping‐An , Song Zhi , Gu Shao‐Juan , Zhang Ru‐Xu , Lei Li‐Fang , Zhan Ke‐Bin , Long Yi‐Ting , Zhang Yang , Ye Min , Zhong Zhe , Liu Yun‐Bo , Zhang Chen , He Zheng‐Ming , Fang Xiang , Peng Jian‐Guo , Wang Chun‐Yu , Xu Hui , Xia Bing‐Hua , Shen Lu , Tang Bei‐Sha , Zheng Cui‐Wei , Li Ya‐An , Guo Ji‐Feng
Published: August 2022

Background

The diagnostic criteria for Parkinson's disease (PD) remain complex, which is especially problematic for nonmovement disorder experts. A test is required to establish a diagnosis of PD with improved accuracy and reproducibility.

Objective

The study aimed to investigate the sensitivity and specificity of tests using sniffer dogs to diagnose PD.

Methods

A prospective, diagnostic case‐control study was conducted in four tertiary medical centers in China to evaluate the accuracy of sniffer dogs to distinguish between 109 clinically established medicated patients with PD, 654 subjects without PD, 37 drug‐naïve patients with PD, and 185 non‐PD controls. The primary outcomes were sensitivity and specificity of sniffer dog's identification.

Results

In the study with patients who were medicated, when two or all three sniffer dogs yielded positive detection results in a sample tested, the index test sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative likelihood ratios were 91% (95% CI: 84%–96%), 95% (95% CI: 93%–97%), and 19.16 (95% CI: 13.52–27.16) and 0.10 (95% CI: 0.05–0.17), respectively. The corresponding sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative likelihood ratios in patients who were drug‐naïve were 89% (95% CI: 75%–96%), 86% (95% CI: 81%–91%), and 6.6 (95% CI: 4.51–9.66) and 0.13 (95% CI: 0.05–0.32), respectively.

Conclusions

Tests using sniffer dogs may be a useful, noninvasive, fast, and cost‐effective method to identify patients with PD in community screening and health prevention checkups as well as in neurological practice. © 2022 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Risk‐reducing mastectomy decisions among women with mutations in high‐ and moderate‐ penetrance breast cancer susceptibility genes
Authors: Comeaux Jacob G. , Culver Julie O. , Lee John E. , Dondanville Danielle , McArthur Heather L. , Quinn Emily , Gorman Nicholas , Ricker Charité , Li Ming , Lerman Caryn
Published: August 2022

Background

Women harboring mutations in breast cancer susceptibility genes are at increased lifetime risk of developing breast cancer and are faced with decisions about risk management, including whether to undergo high‐risk screening or risk‐reducing mastectomy (RRM). National guidelines recommend BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation carriers consider RRM, but that carriers of moderate penetrance mutations (e.g., ATM or CHEK2) should be managed based on family history. We aimed to investigate determinants of decision for RRM, and hypothesized that mutation status, age, family history, partner status, and breast cancer would impact RRM decision making.

Methods

We performed a retrospective study assessing RRM decisions for 279 women.

Results

Women with BRCA and moderate penetrance gene mutations, a personal history of breast cancer, or a first degree relative with a history of breast cancer were more likely to undergo RRM. Breast cancer status and age showed an interaction effect such that women with breast cancer were less likely to undergo RRM with increasing age.

Conclusion

Although national guidelines do not recommend RRM for moderate penetrance carriers, the rates of RRM for this population approached those for BRCA mutation carriers. Further insights are needed to better support RRM decision‐making in this population.
Existence and concentration of solutions for a class of biharmonic Kirchhoff equations with discontinuous nonlinearity
Authors: Yuan Ziqing
Published: August 2022

This paper concerns the existence and concentration of positive solutions for a class of biharmonic Kirchhoff equations with discontinuous nonlinearity. The proof relies on variational method, truncated methods, and nonsmooth critical points theory. Some related results are improved.
Analysis and design of a 1.7‐ to 27.1‐GHz low‐noise amplifier
Authors: Hu Jianquan , Ma Kaixue
Published: August 2022

This letter illustrates a 1.7‐ to 27.1‐GHz single‐stage cascode low‐noise amplifier (LNA) with high and flat gain response. In the presented LNA, to obtain high and flat gain response in the broad bandwidth, the Micro‐strip type pHEMT is utilized as the common‐source stage so as to alleviate the gain bandwidth degradation caused by parasitic parameters. Meanwhile, multiple inductive‐peaking inductors are employed to enhance the gain. By optimizing the combination of several bandwidth extension techniques, the experimental results indicate that the exhibited LNA achieves high average gain up to 14.6 dB with ±1.5 dB variation, 2.4 dB typical noise figure, and 14‐dBm OP1dB in the frequency range from 1.7 to 27.1 GHz. Fabricated by using 0.15‐μm GaAs pHEMT process, the presented LNA occupies a chip area of 0.96 mm2.
Reproducibility of resistance exercise therapy interventions in trials for chronic low back pain is challenging: A systematic review
Authors: MacPherson Kevin L. , Hughey Lindsey , Rhon Daniel I. , Young Jodi L.
Published: August 2022

Objective

Determine reproducibility of resistance exercise regimens in trials for CLBP and determine if recently available checklists are effective.

Methods

Four databases (Medline, PubMed, Cochrane and CINAHL) were searched for keywords related to back pain and resistance exercise. Reproducibility was assessed using two checklists, the 12‐item Template for Intervention Description and Replication (TIDieR) and the 19‐item Consensus on Exercise Reporting Template (CERT). The proportion reporting was analysed, with additional comparison of trials pre‐ and post‐availability of each checklist. A generalised linear regression was conducted with checklist items as the dependent variable and year of publication as the independent (PROSPERO ID = #CRD42020186036).

Results

Overall, details that facilitate reproducibility were under‐reported. No trials reported all checklist items, while only 18 trials (35.5%) and 5 trials (9.8%) reported 75%+ of checklist items for the TIDieR and CERT, respectively. A median of 8 (IQR 2) of 12 TIDieR criteria were reported and a median of 9 (IQR 7) of 19 criteria were reported for the CERT. There was no difference pre/post checklist publication (TIDieR median before = 8 (IQR 2), after = 8 (IQR 2.25); CERT mean before = 9 (IQR 5.25), after = 9 (IQR 7)). Regression failed to support improved reporting over time. The majority of studies (86.3%) were scored as having an elevated risk of bias.

Conclusions

Reproducibility of resistance exercise in CLBP trials appears questionable due to low levels of reporting. The publication reporting checklists have not resulted in improvement. Real‐world reproducibility is questionable. There is a need to improve reporting to maximise reproducibility.

Impact statement

The present results reveal a demand in improved reporting to ensure both enhanced clinical translation in the real‐world and replicability to enhance knowledge of best‐practice for resistance exercise in the CLBP population.
A posteriori error estimator for a multiscale hybrid mixed method for Darcy's flows
Authors: Batistela Gustavo Alcalá , de Siqueira Denise , Devloo Philippe R. B. , Gomes Sônia M.
Published: August 2022

This article presents a computable and efficient procedure for a posteriori error estimations of approximate solutions of Darcy's flows given by a Multiscale Hybrid Mixed method. Based on a partition of the domain by polytopal macro subregions, this is a strategy for efficient simulations of problems with strongly varying solutions. The flux approximations interacting with the skeleton (subregion boundaries) are strongly constrained by a given trace space. Whilst the dimension of the piecewise polynomial trace space is expected to be as low as possible, the small‐scale features of the solution are supposed to be accurately resolved by completely independent local stable mixed solvers, the trace variable playing the role of Neumann boundary data. As the method already gives an equilibrated global H(div)‐conforming flux approximation, the methodology for the error estimation only requires a potential reconstruction. In addition to usual residual errors and indicators associated with the potential reconstruction, the estimation also takes into account the effect of discretizations of practical nonhomogeneous Dirichlet and Neumann boundary conditions. Based on the proposed a posteriori error estimator, ‐adaptive algorithms are constructed to guide a proper choice of the trace space. The performance of the error estimator and the adaptive scheme is numerically investigated through a set of illustrating test problems.
An Efficient Method for the Preparation of Sulfonamides from Sodium Sulfinates and Amines
Authors: Tian Haiying , Li Ruiyan , Guo Fang , Chen Xiuling
Published: August 2022

Sulfonamides have a special role on medicine due to their broad biological activities, as bacterial infections, diabetes mellitus, oedema, hypertension prevention and treatment. In addition, sulfonamides are also useful in herbicides and pesticides. Herein, we communicate an efficient strategy for the preparation of sulfonamides via NH4I‐mediated amination of sodium sulfinates. This new method provides a general and environmentally friendly access to sulfonamide compounds and tolerates a wide range of functional groups.
Pedigree reconstruction for triploid apple cultivars using single nucleotide polymorphism array data
Authors: Howard Nicholas P. , Micheletti Diego , Luby James J. , Durel Charles‐Eric , Denancé Caroline , Muranty Hélène , Ordidge Matthew , Albach Dirk C.
Published: August 2022

Societal Impact Statement

Many economically, culturally, and historically important apple cultivars are triploids, which have three copies of each chromosome instead of the more typical two copies in diploids. Despite their prevalence and importance, there have been conflicting reports regarding their origin and their ability to beget diploids. New genetic analysis methodologies outlined in this study have clarified the genetic origin of triploid apple cultivars and suggest that triploidy has been a dead end in historic apple pedigrees. The specific results of this study have resolved the pedigrees of many cultivars, including the famous English cultivar Cox's Orange Pippin and the oldest known US cultivar Roxbury Russet.

In apple (Malus × domestica), most cultivars are diploid, though a sizeable number are triploids, which tend to be stronger growing, more robust, and bear larger fruit. However, triploidy is also associated with strongly reduced fertility. Some recorded pedigrees for historical apple cultivars include triploids as parents of diploids, despite this reputation of poor fertility. This information, coupled with some initiatives using triploids in breeding efforts, result in confusion about how possible or common it is for triploids to be parents of diploid offspring. To date, no studies have systematically evaluated and identified pedigrees of triploid apple cultivars to resolve these contradictions.

Here, we describe a method to make triploid genotype calls using Illumina Infinium single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) array data through a novel Python script: ploidyClassifier. SNP data for 219 unique triploids was compared alongside 2498 unique diploid apple accessions to conduct pedigree reconstruction.

Unreduced gamete‐donating parents were identified for over half of the triploid accessions. From those, reduced gamete‐donating parents were identified for nearly half. Full or partial pedigrees for many classic triploids were uncovered, including that of the oldest known American cultivar, ‘Roxbury Russet’. All tested pedigrees from literature that listed triploids as parents of diploids were deemed false, including that of the well‐known ‘Cox's Orange Pippin’, whose previously unreported second parent was also identified here as ‘Rosemary Russet’.

These results together suggest that historic triploids are mostly or solely the product of diploid parentage and that triploidy has been a dead end in historic apple pedigrees.
Auxeticity and Its Pressure Dependence for Strongly Anisotropic Hard Cyclic Tetramers
Authors: Tretiakov Konstantin V. , Wojciechowski Krzysztof W.
Published: August 2022

Elastic properties of strongly anisotropic hard cyclic tetramers are studied in the isobaric–isothermal ensemble using Monte Carlo simulations. The tetramers are model molecules consisting of four hard disks of diameter σ with centers forming a square of side d. Recently, it was shown that 2D crystals of hard cyclic tetramers (with anisotropy parameter ) can form a chiral phase, which is (completely) auxetic, that is, its Poisson's ratio is negative in all directions. Herein, the complete pressure dependence of the Poisson's ratio of the tetramer crystalline phase is presented. These studies show that the auxetic properties occur over a wide pressure range, but the tetramer system is only partially auxetic at low pressures. The Poisson's ratio of the system varies with pressure between and 0.500(3).
Early development of pembrolizumab‐induced fulminant myositis and cardiotoxicity in a patient with metastatic thymoma
Authors: Jang Soo Yeon , Lee Sung Yong , Lee Hye Lim , Choi Juwhan
Published: August 2022

Herein, we report the case of a 48‐year‐old woman with metastatic thymoma who developed fulminant myositis with cardiotoxicity after one cycle of pembrolizumab treatment. She presented with severe muscle weakness and dyspnea, and her laboratory test results revealed increased muscle and cardiac enzyme levels. Despite an urgent initiation of systemic steroids, her muscle weakness and hypercapnia worsened, for which intravenous immunoglobulin G was initiated. However, hypercapnia did not improve, but the patient recovered completely after plasma exchange. Patients with thymic neoplasms could be susceptible to fulminant forms of immune‐related adverse effects because they lack normal thymic physiology. Clinicians must not hesitate to consider immunoglobulin G administration and plasma exchange therapy as the next treatment steps for steroid‐refractory patients.
Hair Care and Epidemiological-Clinical Profile of Traction Alopecia Among Women in Hair Salons in Yaoundé, Cameroon
Authors: Mbussuh Nzeng Letitia Fiona , Nguefack-Tsague Georges , Kotto Rose , Tounouga Dahlia Noëlle , Sigha Odette Berline , Nkoro Grace Anita , Nida Martine , Kouotou Emmanuel Armand
Published: August 2022

Background

Hair is valued by all individuals especially women. The perception of beauty is specific to everyone. In order to fulfil their ideal beauty, women use various methods to modify their hair's appearance. Afro hair is particularly fragile, so using these methods can be particularly deleterious for black women's hair.

Objectives

Describe hair care practices of women living in Yaoundé, determine the prevalence of traction alopecia (TA) and describe its clinical profile.

Methods

We carried out a cross-sectional study in hairdressing saloon in Yaoundé. A questionnaire was administered and scalp exams were performed to determine Marginal TA severity score.

Results

We included 223 women with a mean age of 24.9 ± 7 years. The prevalence of TA was 34.5%. Mild and moderate stages were most represented. As far as haircare is concerned, extensions were regularly used by 95.1% of participants. Wigs were regularly worn by 58.7% of participants. Chemical hair straightening was done by 87.9% of women and was performed twice to thrice a year by 43.9%. Almost 76% of women used hair straightener and hair dryer. Hair washing was done monthly by 43.8% of participants and the main cosmetic used was shampoo (75.3%).

Conclusion

Traction alopecia is a very common disease in women living in Yaoundé. Extensions, wigs and shampooing are their main hair care practices.
The “CEO in context” technique revisited: A replication and extension of Hambrick and Quigley (2014)
Authors: Keller Tobias , Glaum Martin , Bausch Andreas , Bunz Thorsten
Published: August 2022

Research Summary

Hambrick and Quigley's (2014) “CEO in context” (CiC) technique leads to a much larger CEO effect than traditional ANOVA or multilevel modeling. We replicate H&Q's study, apply their CiC technique to a much more comprehensive U.S. sample, and assess the sensitivity of the model findings to variations in method and data. We generally confirm H&Q's finding of a high CEO effect, but find a smaller industry effect and a larger firm effect in our much larger sample. Applying the CiC technique with adjusted R2s has only a moderate impact on year, industry, and firm effects, but markedly reduces the CEO effect. We also document that CiC model findings are sensitive to sample characteristics, namely firm size and CEO tenure.

Managerial Summary

Hambrick and Quigley (2014) introduced a new method to analyze the influence of CEOs on firm performance. The study's empirical analysis focused on large U.S. firms. We replicate the original study and extend it to a much larger, comprehensive sample of U.S. firms that is composed of 33,996 firm‐year observations, compared to 4,866 firm‐years in the original study. Controlling for the number of variables used in the estimations, the model attributes about a third of the total variance of firm performance (ROA) to the CEO. Further analyses show that the model findings differ for firms of different size and CEO tenure; the larger the firms and the longer the CEO tenures, the smaller tends to be the percentage of variance explained by the CEO.
Advanced Flame Treatment
Authors: Holländer Andreas , Mancinelli Stefano
Published: August 2022

Flame treatments are applied on large industrial scale for the surface activation of polymers. The process of flame treatment of polymers can be improved by combining it with the treatment with an aerosol of a solution of a functional polymer. It was shown that it results in the covalent binding of the polymer molecules at the surface. This approach was demonstrated with PP and PET films as substrates and with poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) and poly(ethylene imine) (PEI) as a functionalizing polymers in continuous processes at up 50 m/min. PAA introduces carboxylic acid groups and PEI gives rise to amino groups at the surface. This approach opens up a completely new range of functionality, which is not accessible with a flame treatment only. The amino groups allow improved properties for the adhesive joining with epoxy or urethane resins, in lamination processes, or for metallization. The functionalization was found to be stable for at least one year of storage and it resists washing with water and isopropanol.
Plasma Nanocoating of Nonwovens
Authors: Legein Filip , Loulidi Sam
Published: August 2022

Low pressure plasma polymerization is a unique technology to deposit ultrathin coatings on all exposed surfaces of a material or product. It is increasingly used in the manufacturing of nonwo‐vens to achieve functionalities such as hydrophilic, hydrophobic, oleophobic or dielectric. Improvements in process and machine design allow to deposit the coatings in a very cost effective way, with a process that is completely dry and clean. The article will start with a short introduction of low pressure plasma polymerization technology. Then it will review industrial concepts for both batch and roll‐to‐roll treatment. An overview will be given of typical coating chemistries used for such coatings. Subsequently recent advances will be discussed using real industrial case studies. The article will conclude with an overview of the societal and environmental benefits of low pressure plasma technology.
Flame coatings by CCVD (Pyrosil) for R2R applications
Authors: Schimanski Arnd , Kretzschmar Björn S.M.
Published: August 2022

Most optical, electrical, mechanical or biological active thin films are deposited using the well known and established vacuum based physical vapor deposition and chemical vapor deposition methods. The deposition of thin functional layers under atmospheric pressure conditions is an attractive alternative for especially large‐area coatings like roll to roll applications (R2R). In recent years many different methods have been established for various applications. Particularly the flame‐based techniques offer a cost‐effective solution.

The basic principles of the flame‐based deposition techniques are shown and the technical realization is given by means of selected examples of the current research and developments. The formation of silicone oxide layers with a wide range of properties is investigated in detail. Applications like adhesion promotion, optical effective and barrier layers are reviewed.
Experimental Investigation of Tritium Compatible Stainless Steel Roots Pumps
Authors: Banerjee Indranil , Schopphoff Andreas , Hughes Shaun , Pearce Robert , Nasluzov Sergei
Published: August 2022

Part 1 of this paper describes the experiments performed to qualify the Roots pump Okta 1500 M for tritium applications at ITER. In Part 2, the goal was to define performance limits in normal operation mode. These performance limits led to some suggestions and optimization of operating parameters in order to enhance the performance of the pump. These modifications are mainly meant for introducing the purge gas into mechanical seals. This pump is the first pump equipped with dedicated gas lubricated mechanical seals capable to withstand tritium. The task of the experiments described in the article is to discover the best performance as well as the lowest influence of any kind of purge gases leaking into the process gas for tritium. The experiment was also designed to confirm that the pump mechanical seal is rugged against cross migration of process gas to ensure confinement integrity in operation range. With these suggested modifications, the pump should be even better suited for ITER's specification and commercial fusion power applications.
Combined use of non‐laboratory methods for the practical diagnosis of endometritis in postpartum dairy cows
Authors: Kusaka Hiromi , Kimura Taketoki , Nishimoto Namiko , Sakaguchi Minoru
Published: August 2022

Background

: Postpartum endometritis can cause subfertility in cows and reduce the reproductive performance of dairy herds. Thus, there is a critical need to improve the accuracy of the diagnosis of this disease, particularly in dairy cows.

Objectives

: This study confirmed the effects of the combined use of two non‐laboratory methods: Metricheck device (MT) and ultrasonography (UT) to detect signs of endometritis and therefore predict the likelihood of pregnancy.

Methods

: The reproductive tract of 67 lactating Holstein cows (25 primiparous and 42 multiparous) was observed at 4 and 6 weeks postpartum using the MT and UT. The cows with flecks and more purulent material in the vaginal discharge were defined as MT‐positive, and the cows with uterine echogenic contents were defined as UT‐positive. The combined definition was also used; both the UT and MT results or either the UT or MT result had to be positive for the final decision to be positive. The true‐negative cows were determined as both MT‐UT‐negative.

Results and discussion

When comparing the diagnostic results obtained by MT and UT, 37.3% and 32.8% of the total cows showed conflicting results at 4 and 6 weeks postpartum. The proportion of non‐pregnant cows until 200 days postpartum was significantly greater in both MT‐UT‐positive cows than in the true negative cows. The hazard ratios of pregnancy rate were 0.37 for both MT‐UT‐positives relative to the true negatives at 4 weeks postpartum. Similar significant differences were not detected using the MT or UT alone. These results indicate that a more severe effect on the chance of pregnancy could be detected in cows that are both MT‐UT‐positive compared with those positive for MT or UT alone.

Conclusions

: The combined use of MT and UT could support veterinary practitioners in diagnosing endometritis, potentially improving the accuracy of predicting subsequent reproductive performance.
Hematological and serum biochemical parameters of the captive long‐legged buzzard (Buteo rufinus) in Iran
Authors: Kordestani Hesamodin , Abdi‐Hachesoo Bahman , Bakhshaei Farnoosh , Safaeian Shirin , Nazifi Saeed
Published: August 2022

Background

Although normal haematological and serum biochemical values for both pet and wild birds have been published, little information is available on the haematological and serum biochemical values in long‐legged buzzards (Buteo rufinus).

Objectives

This is the first study that aimed to define reference values of haematological, biochemical parameters, and protein electrophoretic fractions of long‐legged buzzards in Iran.

Methods

Blood samples were collected from 30 clinically healthy adult long‐legged buzzards of both sexes. Hematological, biochemical parameters, and protein electrophoretic fractions were measured. The mean and standard deviations were calculated.

Results

Mean values for red blood cells, packed cell volume, haemoglobin, and white blood cells were 2.72 ± 0.60 ×106/μl, 39.10 ± 3.70%, 13.45 ± 1.30 g/dl, and 3.92 ± 1.39 ×103/μl, respectively. Mean values for biochemistry parameters were total protein 4.46 ± 1.27 g/dl, albumin 1.78 ± 0.55 g/dl, creatinine 0.54 ± 0.22 mg/dl, uric acid 7.81 ± 2.89 mg/dl, calcium 9.63 ± 2.22 mg/dl, phosphorus 4.31 ± 1.00 mg/dl, glucose 398.87 ± 96.90 mg/dl, blood urea nitrogen 10.46 ± 3.85 mg/dl, alkaline phosphatase 127.01 ± 1.46 IU/L, aspartate aminotransferase 262.22 ± 116.30 IU/L, and alanine aminotransferase 56.63 ± 27.85 IU/L. Mean values for serum protein fractions included pre‐albumin, albumin, α‐1 globulin, α‐2 globulin, β‐ globulin, and ϒ‐globulin was 0.20 ± 0.09, 2.35 ± 0.67, 0.28 ± 0.13, 0.32 ± 0.07, 0.62 ± 0.24, and 0.68 ± 0.53 g/dl, respectively.

Conclusion

The reference data presented in this study can be used as health assessment values for veterinary laboratories and clinicians when developing release criteria for rehabilitated long‐legged buzzards.
Ultrasonographic and radiographic features of a true gastrogastric intussusception with spontaneous resolution in a cat
Authors: Huguet Elodie E. , Spoldi Elisa , Guarino Aria , Cooke Kirsten L. , Roberts John F.
Published: August 2022

An 11‐year‐old, female spayed, domestic shorthair cat with a 1‐week history of vomiting was diagnosed with a gastrogastric intussusception using ultrasound. Distinguishing ultrasonographic findings included invagination of the gastric fundus into the body and were correlated to radiographs acquired at the time of the evaluation. Spontaneous resolution of the gastrogastric intussusception was observed on a positive‐contrast upper gastrointestinal fluoroscopic study done the following day. Due to worsening comorbidities, which most significantly included chronic renal disease and pancreatitis, and declining quality of life, the patient was humanely euthanized 10 months later. Necropsy revealed no gross and histopathologic abnormalities associated with the stomach. A definitive cause for the intussusception remains unknown.
Diligo 2.0: A Pilot Study for the Use of a Mobile App to Assess School Readiness
Authors: Diano Federico , Ferrara Fabrizio , Rosa Alessia , Ponticorvo Michela
Published: August 2022

Diligo 2.0 is a mobile app designed as a serious game to assess spatial and numerical cognition as key elements of the school readiness concept in association with a preference for slow and fast thinking strategies. School readiness is a key concept for the future development of cognitive and emotional abilities of children, and it is highly correlated with academic success. The app is also focused on evaluating a preference for slow or fast thinking activities. The Diligo 2.0 app has been developed for Android platform and has been distributed in two Italian schools as a pilot study with 44 children. Usage data have been collected and are discussed in this paper to show possible directions for this kind of digital tool both for assessment and for training children's abilities.
Multi-taxis Cross-Diffusion System
Authors: Ke Yuanyuan , Li Jing , Wang Yifu
Published: August 2022

Multi-taxis appears in society interactions and cancer treatment. Society interactions can lead to the complex dynamical behavior in biology and even in criminology ([43, 65, 190]).