bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Post-percutaneous Nephrolithotomy Urosepsis: Does Stone Culture Add Value?
Authors: Sureka M Deepti , Deshmukh Hrishikesh , Patil Sachin , Jain Devendra Kumar , Modak Meera
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL) is the most commonly performed intrarenal surgery worldwide for the management of renal stones. Despite the administration of perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis, a significant number of patients develop Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (SIRS), and several research articles have reported post-PCNL sepsis in 0.4-3% of cases. Despite having a sterile preoperative urine culture, the incidence of sepsis mentioned above could possibly be attributed to the presence of organisms in the stone. These organisms may enter the bloodstream during surgery and manifest as urosepsis. Aim: To determine whether the microbial spectrum of preoperative urine and postoperative stone culture can serve as predictors of urosepsis. Materials and Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted at the Department of Urology at Bharati Medical College and Hospital, Pune, Maharashtra, India involving all patients (sample size=167) undergoing PCNL between August 2019 and July 2021. The PCNL procedure was performed according to standard guidelines. To obtain a renal stone culture, authors followed the technique described by Nemoy NJ and Stamey TA. Postoperatively, patients were closely monitored for signs of systemic inflammatory response. Demographic and continuous variables were summarised using mean and standard deviation, while categorical variables (such as urine culture and stone culture, organisms isolated) were summarised using frequency and percentage. Statistical analysis was performed using unpaired t-test for quantitative variables and Chi-square test for qualitative variables, with a significance level set at 5%. Results: The mean age of the study participants was 39 years. Although the spectrum of organisms differed in many cases, E.coli (11.4% versus 12.6%) was more prevalent in stone cultures compared to Enterococcus (9% versus 7.2%). Staphylococcus saprophyticus (66.6%) was isolated from stone cultures, while E.coli (66.6%) was predominant in urine cultures. Sepsis/SIRS was effectively managed with antibiotic treatment based on stone culture (p=0.001) rather than urine culture (p=0.047). Conclusion: Routine stone culture not only helps in better prediction of potential sepsis but also guides the appropriate choice of antibiotics for sepsis management.
An Overview of Leaf Litter Decomposition and Nutrient Dynamics of Multipurpose Tree Species
Authors: Bhalawe Shailendra , Bisen Uttam , Pandre Bhagwat Prasad , Ahirwar Rameshwar
Published: December 2023

The multipurpose tree species is a plant species that is purposefully grown so as to provide two or more than two products and their leaf litter decomposition in our ecosystems has a play major role in nutrient dynamics in the atmosphere. From this review paper examined different leaf litter decomposition assessing methods in which litter bag method is most suitable methods to determination of decomposition rate. Abiotic factors such as temperature, rainfall, humidity, moisture, evaporation rate and soil physical factors such as soil pH, texture directly correlated to soil microbial such as algae, actinomycetes, bacteria and fungi communities to stimulating action for the breakdown of leaf litter composition (like- cellulose, hemicelluloses, tannin, lignin) and transfer of organic matter to nutrients, release of CO2 to the environment etc.
Effect of Whistleblowing Mechanisms on the Financial Reporting Quality of Quoted Multinational Oil and Gas Firms in Nigeria
Authors: Boluwaji Olayinka Dominion , Igbekoyi Olusola Esther , Osatuyi Ogunyemi Abraham , Azeez Oyabanji Abiola
Published: December 2023

In the dynamic landscape of corporate governance, the role of whistleblowing mechanisms has become increasingly prominent, serving as a crucial tool in promoting transparency, accountability, and ethical conduct within organizations. This study aimed to explore the effect of whistleblowing mechanisms on financial reporting quality in quoted multinational oil and gas firms in Nigeria. This study utilized a qualitative method to examine financial data, incorporating qualitative perspectives gathered through the distribution of questionnaires among accountants and key stakeholders of quoted multinational oil and gas firms in Nigeria. Out of the 185 questionnaires disseminated, 168 were appropriately completed and returned. The analysis of the collected data in this research employed both descriptive and inferential statistical methods. The study found a positive and significant correlation between well-established whistleblowing mechanisms and improved financial reporting quality. Specifically, Reporting Mechanisms (REM), Protection Mechanisms (PRM), and Investigation Mechanisms (INM) were individually analyzed, and all demonstrated a statistically significant and positive effect on financial reporting quality. The findings highlight the importance of effective reporting processes, protection measures for whistleblowers, and robust investigation procedures in enhancing transparency, accountability, and the reliability of financial information within multinational oil and gas firms. In conclusion, the study affirms that a well-functioning whistleblowing system, comprising reporting, protection, and investigation mechanisms, is crucial for enhancing financial reporting quality in the multinational oil and gas firms in Nigeria. The study recommends that the multinational oil and gas sector should invest in and enhance reporting mechanisms to ensure effective and reliable channels for employees to report concerns related to financial matters.
Potassium and Micronutrient Fertilization for Enhancement of Tef Yield in Vertisols of Hawzen and Enderta Districts, Tigray Region, Ethiopia
Authors: Brhane Hagos , Berhe Daniel
Published: December 2023

Field study was conducted in Enderta and Hawzen districts of Tigray region on six farmers’ fields aimed at evaluating potassium and micro-nutrient effect on yield and yield components of the tested crop. The experiment comprised of eight treatments including control and recommended NP arranged in Randomized Complete Block Design with two replications. Phosphorus fertilizers were applied at planting, while the nitrogen fertilizer was applied in two splits. The micronutrients and Typrosine were applied in foliar forms. SAS version 9 statistical software was used for data analysis. The analyzed results depicted that Tef yield was increased with potassium and micro-nutrient application in both districts mathematically even though it was not consistent. In line to this, the highest grain and straw yields of Tef was recorded at recommended NP with application of 50 kg/ha K2SO4 and recommended NP with a foliar application of Typrosine, respectively. But this result was statistically similar with the recommended NP. Thus, application of additional fertilizer without yield increment is uneconomical rather than maximizing costs. Hence, potassium, copper, and zinc in the current sources were not Tef yield limiting nutrients in the study sites even though the soil statuses are low. On the other hand nitrogen and phosphorus were observed the Tef yield limiting nutrients in this study. For this reason maximizing the use of nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizers with detailed research on its level and their interactions, sources and application times is important to maximize the Tef productivity in the Vertisols of Enderta and Hawzen district.
Facility Fees for Colonoscopy Procedures at Hospitals and Ambulatory Surgery Centers
Authors: Wang Yang , Wang Yuchen , Plummer Elizabeth , Chernew Michael E. , Anderson Gerard , Bai Ge
Published: December 2023

This cross-sectional study investigates commercial facility fee differences for colonoscopy procedures between US hospitals and ambulatory surgery centers located within the same county and contracting with the same insurers.
Development of a mouse embryonic stem cell model for investigating the functions of the linker histone H1‐4
Authors: Abu Alhaija Abed Alkarem , Lone Imtiaz Nisar , Sekeroglu Esin Ozkuru , Batur Tugce , Angelov Dimitar , Dimitrov Stefan , Hamiche Ali , Firat Karalar Elif Nur , Ercan Muhammed Erdem , Yagci Tamer , Alotaibi Hani , Diril Muhammed Kasim
Published: December 2023

The linker histone H1 C‐terminal domain (CTD) plays a pivotal role in chromatin condensation. De novo frameshift mutations within the CTD coding region of H1.4 have recently been reported to be associated with Rahman syndrome, a neurological disease that causes intellectual disability and overgrowth. To investigate the mechanisms and pathogenesis of Rahman syndrome, we developed a cellular model using murine embryonic stem cells (mESCs) and CRISPR/Cas9 genome engineering. Our engineered mES cells facilitate detailed investigations, such as H1‐4 dynamics, immunoprecipitation, and nuclear localization; in addition, we tagged the mutant H1‐4 with a photoactivatable GFP (PA‐GFP) and an HA tag to facilitate pulldown assays. We anticipate that these engineered cells could also be used for the development of a mouse model to study the in vivo role of the H1‐4 protein.
Using Medicaid funds to transport patients to OTPs
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: December 2023

Yes, Medicaid funds pay for transportation to and from opioid treatment programs (OTPs), otherwise known as methadone clinics, at least in California via Medi‐Cal. Here are the details, obtained exclusively from California's Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) for ADAW. If the patient is covered by Medicaid, Medicaid will pay for transport.
Service Characteristic Evolution of 3D Four‐Directional Braided C/SiC Ceramic Matrix Composites Under Space Electron Radiation Erosion Environment
Authors: Zhang Pei , Yang Xiaohui , Bai Longteng
Published: December 2023

The specific effects on the evolution of microstructure, components, and mechanical properties of the 3D braided C/SiC composites under different‐time electron irradiation environment tests are analyzed and discussed to elaborate the corresponding corrosion damage mechanism. The damage to the C/SiC composites is intensified by the continuous electron irradiation, the areas of surface bulges and cracks are significantly enlarged, and the surface roughness increases. The density of white dots on the surface of the specimen increased as the electron irradiation time is prolonged, while the size does not change significantly, and the oxygen content on the surface of the specimen increases to some extent. With the prolongation of electron irradiation time, the decrease of bending strength of C/SiC composites increases, but does not level off after a certain degree, probably because of the existence of certain pores on the surface layer of the C/SiC composite. With the increase of electron radiation time, the crack defects on the surface layer of the C/SiC composite increase, and the electron radiation further damages the internal matrix and reinforcing fibers in the C/SiC composite; thus, the mechanical properties decline continuously and seriously after the radiation exceeds 1 h.
Interfacial Rivet to Fill Structural Defects: A Spacer Engineering Gift for 3D Solar Cells
Authors: Jia Wei , Zhao Qiangqiang , Zhuang Yan , Wei Yulin , Tian Juanhua , Wang Chenyun , Qiao Jingyuan , Shi Guangchao , Shang Jingzhi , Cheng Qi , Pang Shuping , Wang Kai , Rong Zi‐Qiang , Huang Wei
Published: December 2023

The combination of 2D and 3D perovskites to passivate surfaces or interfaces with a high concentration of defects shows great promise for improving the efficiency of perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Constructing high‐quality perovskite film systems by precisely modulating 2D perovskites with good morphologies and growth sites on 3D perovskite films remains a formidable challenge due to the complexity of spacer‐engineered surface reactions. In this study, phase‐pure 2D (HA)2(MA)n−1PbnI3n+1 perovskites with a controlled number of layers (n) are separated on a large scale and exploited as interface rivets to optimize 3D perovskite films, resulting in tunable film structural defects and grain boundaries. The optimized PSCs system benefits from a reduction in non‐radiative recombination, resulting in improved optical performance, higher mobility, and lower trap density. The corresponding device achieves a champion power conversion efficiency (PCE) of more than 25%, especially for voltage (VOC) and fill factor (FF). The quality and uniformity of the perovskite films are further confirmed using large‐area devices with an active area of 14 cm2, which exhibits a PCE of more than 21.24%. The high‐quality thin‐film system based on the 2D perovskites presented herein provides a new perspective for improving the efficiency and stability of PSCs.
Empowering CO2 Eco‐Refrigeration With Colossal Breathing‐Caloric‐Like Effects in MOF‐508b
Authors: Gelpi María , García‐Ben Javier , Rodríguez‐Hermida Sabina , López‐Beceiro Jorge , Artiaga Ramón , Baaliña Álvaro , Romero‐Gómez Manuel , Romero‐Gómez Javier , Zaragoza Sonia , Salgado‐Beceiro Jorge , Walker Julian , McMonagle Charles James , Castro‐García Socorro , Sánchez‐Andújar Manuel , Señarís‐Rodríguez María Antonia , Bermúdez‐García Juan Manuel
Published: December 2023

Today, ≈20% of the electric consumption is devoted to refrigeration; while, ≈50% of the final energy is dedicated to heating applications. In this scenario, many cooling devices and heat‐pumps are transitioning toward the use of CO2 as an eco‐friendly refrigerant, favoring carbon circular economy. Nevertheless, CO2 still has some limitations, such as large operating pressures (70–150 bar) and a critical point at 31 °C, which compromises efficiency and increases technological complexity. Very recently, an innovative breathing‐caloric mechanism in the MIL‐53(Al) compound is reported, which implies gas adsorption under CO2 pressurization boosted by structural transitions and which overcomes the limitations of stand‐alone CO2. Here, the breathing‐caloric‐like effects of MOF‐508b are reported, surpassing by 40% those of MIL‐53(Al). Moreover, the first thermometry device operating at room temperature and under the application of only 26 bar of CO2 is presented. Under those conditions, this material presents values of ΔT ≈ 30 K, reaching heating temperatures of 56 °C and cooling temperatures of −10 °C, which are already useful for space heating, air‐conditioning, food refrigeration, and freezing applications.
Defining curative endpoints for transfusion‐dependent β‐thalassemia in the era of gene therapy and gene editing
Authors: Corbacioglu Selim , Frangoul Haydar , Locatelli Franco , Hobbs William , Walters Mark
Published: December 2023

β‐thalassemia is a monogenic disease that results in varying degrees of anemia. In the most severe form, known as transfusion‐dependent β‐thalassemia (TDT), the clinical hallmarks are ineffective erythropoiesis and a requirement of regular, life‐long red blood cell transfusions, with the development of secondary clinical complications such as iron overload, end‐organ damage, and a risk of early mortality. With the exception of allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation, current treatments for TDT address disease symptoms and not the underlying cause of disease. Recently, a growing number of gene addition and gene editing‐based treatments for patients with TDT with the potential to provide a one‐time functional cure have entered clinical trials. A key challenge in the design and evaluation of these trials is selecting endpoints to evaluate if these novel genetic therapies have a curative versus an ameliorative effect. Here, we present an overview of the pathophysiology of TDT, review emerging gene addition or gene editing therapeutic approaches for TDT currently in clinical trials, and identify a series of endpoints that can quantify therapeutic effects, including a curative outcome.
Rapid Identification of Phenolics in Mixtures by Two‐Dimensional Tandem Mass Spectrometry with Microdroplet Accelerated Derivatization Reactions
Authors: Hu Yanyang , Dziekonski Eric T. , Wang Donna M. , Gonzalez L. Edwin , Cooks R. Graham
Published: December 2023

Complex mixtures are typically analyzed by chromatographic separation followed by mass spectrometry. Two‐dimensional tandem mass spectrometry (2D MS/MS) may eliminate the need for separation and therefore significantly reduce analysis time while expanding the information space by recording the intensities of all fragment ions generated from all trapped precursor ions. Additional chemical specificity can be provided by using chemical derivatization. In this study phenolic compounds are identified after triazole click derivatization by the observation of two diagnostic features in the 2D MS/MS data domain, a mass shift of 175 Da on the precursor ion axis and a neutral loss (NL) of 119 Da. Additional NL transitions were highly correlated with particular substituents including carbonyl, ester, amino, and alkyl/phenyl groups. Substituent position information was also easily diagnosed. The derivatization reactions are accelerated in the charged electrosprayed microdroplets. Using this method, members of this single class of compounds can be identified within 1–2 minutes while structural information on the individual compounds is acquired simultaneously.
Preparation of epoxy resin elastic particles and their application in oil well cement
Authors: Peng Zhigang , Zhang Huan , Feng Qian , Zheng Yong
Published: December 2023

To solve the problem of high brittleness and easy cracking of cement stone, epoxy resin powder elastic particles (HEEP) were developed to improve the elasticity of cement stone. HEEP was prepared from epoxy resin and trimeric anhydride by solution polymerization. The surface wettability and particle size of HEEP were analyzed by contact angle test and laser particle size analysis respectively. Mechanical performance tests, scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis and x‐ray diffraction analysis were conducted on the cement stone containing HEEP. The results showed that HEEP was the target product, with a hydrophilic surface and a water contact angle of 75.2° on the HEEP surface. The particle size distribution of HEEP was uniform, and the median particle size was 36.5 μm. The initial decomposition temperature of HEEP was 300°C, indicating a good thermal stability. The stress–strain curve showed that when the HEEP dosage was 3%, 6%, and 9%, the elastic modulus of the cement stone was 6.382, 4.017, and 3.148 GPa, respectively. Compared with the blank cement without HEEP, the elastic modulus was reduced by 28.3%, 54.9%, and 64.6%, respectively. This showed that HEEP could effectively improve the elasticity of cement stone. In addition, the compressive strength and flexural strength of cement stone containing HEEP can meet the requirements of on‐site applications. SEM analysis of cement stone showed that HEEP was well filled in cement stone. When the cement stone was subjected to complex stress, HEEP could effectively buffer and disperse the stress, thereby enhancing the resistance of cement stone to external force impact.
Curing and thermal degradation behavior of epoxy‐based vitrimers
Authors: Yang Shuguang , Zhang Shiheng , Luo Fubin , Li Hongzhou , Xiao Fei
Published: December 2023

Epoxy with associative covalent adaptable networks (CANs), called vitrimer, is reported to be promising to realize the recyclable utilization. The typical epoxy vitrimers are synthesized from diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A and dicarboxylic catalyzed by triazabicyclodecene (TBD). The study on the curing and thermal degradation behavior facilitates in‐depth understanding of the associative CANs. In this work, the effect of TBD on the curing and thermal degradation behavior is investigated via curing kinetics and thermal degradation performance analysis. The results reveal that the activation energy of curing reaction is increased as the amount of TBD is increased. EST‐5 has an average activation energy of 70.1 kJ/mol, while EST‐15 reaches as high as 75.1 kJ/mol. Especially, when the conversion is up to 50%, the activation energy shows an obvious increment. In addition, it has been demonstrated that TBD accelerates the thermal degradation of cured networks at lower temperature and increases the amount of volatiles during thermal decomposition.
Surface and curvature tensions of cold quark matter in the SU(3)fNJL model with vector interactions
Authors: Izzo Villafañe M. F. , Lugones G. , Grunfeld A. G.
Published: December 2023

We investigate the surface and curvature tensions of three‐flavor cold quark matter in a state of electric charge neutrality and chemical equilibrium under weak interactions, employing the Nambu–Jona–Lasinio model with the inclusion of vector interactions. To account for finite‐size effects we adopt the multiple‐reflection expansion framework and present our results for various input parameters. Our results indicate that both surface and curvature tensions increase with heightened vector interactions and density. Furthermore, we note that the restoration of chiral symmetry in the strange quark sector leads to a modest reduction in curvature tension and a substantial increase in surface tension.
Risk factors and clinical correlates of sensory dysfunction in preschool children with and without autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Wiggins Lisa D. , Overwyk Katie , Daniels Julie , Barger Brian , Crain Hayley , Grzadzinski Rebecca , Moody Eric , Reynolds Ann , Reyes Nuri , Rosenberg Cordelia , Rosenberg Steven , Pazol Karen
Published: December 2023

Sensory dysfunction is a common feature of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The objectives of this analysis were to examine risk factors and clinical correlates of sensory dysfunction in preschool children with and without ASD. Children aged 2–5 years were enrolled in a multi‐site case–control study. Data were collected in eight areas across the United States in three phases. Caregivers completed an interview with questions on assisted delivery, maternal alcohol use, maternal anxiety during pregnancy, pregnancy weight gain, neonatal jaundice, preterm birth, and child sensory diagnosis given by a healthcare provider. Caregivers also completed an interview and questionnaires on sensory symptoms and clinical correlates of sensory dysfunction in their child. There were 2059 children classified as ASD, 3139 as other developmental delay or disability (DD), and 3249 as population comparison (POP). Caregivers reported significantly more sensory diagnoses and sensory symptoms in children classified as ASD than DD or POP (23.7%, 8.6%, and 0.8%, respectively, for a sensory diagnosis and up to 78.7% [ASD] vs. 49.6% [DD] for sensory symptoms). Maternal anxiety during pregnancy and neonatal jaundice were significantly associated with a sensory diagnosis and certain sensory symptoms in children with ASD and DD. Children's anxiety, attention deficits/hyperactivity, and sleep problems were significantly albeit subtly correlated with both a sensory diagnosis and sensory symptoms in children with ASD and DD. These findings support sensory dysfunction as a distinguishing symptom of ASD in preschool children and identify risk factors and clinical correlates to inform screening and treatment efforts in those with atypical development.
Simultaneous determination of five compounds of fried Radix Paeoniae Alba extract in beagle dogs plasma by Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography Tandem Mass Spectrometry and its application in a pharmacokinetic study
Authors: Cheng Wenhao , Yuan Zheng , Wu Siyang , Yu Xin , Xia Kexin , Zhao Lifeng , Wang Yuyan , Kang Chen , Yang Wei , Liu Luyang , Li Yingfei
Published: December 2023

In this present study, we developed a reliable and simple ultra‐performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC–MS/MS) assay for the simultaneous quantification of paeoniflorin, albiflorin, oxypaeoniflorin, benzoylpaeoniflorin and isomaltopaeoniflorin in beagle dog plasma. We also analyzed the pharmacokinetics of those components after oral administration of fried Radix Paeoniae Alba (FRPA) in beagle dogs. Plasma samples were processed by protein precipitation with methanol. Chromatographic separation was performed with a Waters HSS‐T3 C18 column (100 × 2.1 mm, 1.8 μm, kept at 40°C) using multiple reaction monitoring mode. A gradient elution procedure was used with solvent A (0.02% formic acid–water) and solvent B (0.02% formic acid–acetonitrile) as mobile phases. Method validation was performed as US Food and Drug Administration guidelines, and the results met the acceptance criteria. The method we establish in this experiment was successfully applied to the pharmacokinetic study after oral administration of FRPA extract to beagle dogs.
NSDUH finds depression, suicidality high among youth
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: December 2023

Epigenetics refers to the modification of gene expression rather than alteration of the genetic code itself. The DNA doesn't
Growth, Optical, Thermal, Antibacterial Activity and Computational Study of Highly Efficient Organic NLO Crystal: 2‐Amino‐1‐methyl‐4‐oxo‐4, 5‐dihydro‐1H‐imidazol‐3‐ium 4‐methyl‐benzene‐sulfonate
Authors: Shyla L. , Jebamalar A. S. , Vinitha G.
Published: December 2023

A good organic single crystal of 2‐Amino‐1‐methyl‐4‐oxo‐4, 5‐di‐hydro‐1H‐imidazol‐3‐ium 4‐methyl‐benzene‐sulfonate (2ADPTS) is grown by slow evaporation technique, and the orthorhombic system with noncentrosymmetric space group (P212121) is corroborated by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis. The structural parameters of the 2ADPTS crystal are investigated and weighted up with the theoretical interpretation. The Hydrogen–Hydrogen interaction with (43.6%) in 2ADPTS promotes crystal structure packing stabilization. The presence of various functional groups and chemical composition of the 2ADPTS compound is identified by FTIR and FT‐Raman spectroscopy. The natural bond orbital evaluation interprets all the possible hydrogen bonding interactions and charge delocalizations in the crystal structure. Thermal analysis confirmed the thermal stability of the 2ADPTS crystal. The absorption spectrum of the 2ADPTS crystal is recorded using UV–Vis spectroscopy. The third‐order nonlinear property of the 2ADPTS crystal is confirmed by using the Z‐scan technique. The higher significant antibacterial activity of 2ADPTS is carried out by the standard Kirby‐Bauer test against four pathogenic bacteria commonly called the agar well diffusion process.
A three‐dimensional wideband mmWave multiple‐input multiple‐output channel model for aerial reconfigurable intelligent surface‐assisted communication systems
Authors: Wu Xiaona , Bian Ji , Wang Zili , Zheng Xiangwei , Tian Jie , Qiao Jingping
Published: December 2023

This paper presents a wideband millimeter wave (mmWave) channel model for aerial reconfigurable intelligent surface (ARIS) communications, in which the reconfigurable intelligent surface (RIS) is attached to an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) to enable intelligent signal reflections in the air. The model is established according to standard 3GPP channel models and considers important propagation factors, for example, large‐scale fading, small‐scale fading, and radiation pattern of reflection units (RUs). In addition, the model assumes three‐dimensional (3D) rotations of RIS and can capture its effects on channel characteristics. Based on the model, we propose a design method for RIS reflection phases. Statistics including channel amplitude, spatial, temporal, and frequency correlation functions (CFs), and space‐Doppler power spectral density (SD‐PSD) are obtained. The impacts of RU number, UAV height and speed, and RIS rotation on channel statistics are investigated. Results suggest that the designed reflection phases can effectively mitigate multipath fading and Doppler effect. Compared to the yaw angle of the UAV platform, channel characteristics are more sensitive to the roll and pitch angles.
Application of capillary electrophoresis with capacitively contactless conductivity detection for biomedical analysis
Authors: Elbashir Abdalla A. , Osman Abdelbagi , Elawad Mohammed , Ziyada Abobakr K. , Aboul‐Enein Hassan Y.
Published: December 2023

The coupling of capillary electrophoresis (CE) with capacitively coupled contactless conductivity detection (C4D) has become convenient analytical method for determination of small molecules that do not possess chromogenic or fluorogenic group. The implementations of CE with C4D in the determination of inorganic and organic ions and amino acids in biomedical field are demonstrated. Attention on background electrolyte composition, sample treatment procedures, and the utilize of multi‐detection systems are described. A number of tables summarizing highly developed CE‐C4D methods and the figures of merit attained are involved. Lastly, concluding remarks and perspectives are argued.
Structure Optimization of Hydrogen‐Fueled Multiple Direct‐Injection Trapped Vortex Combustor Using Response Surface Method
Authors: Wu Ruibing , Zeng Zhuoxiong , Liu Hong , Guo Kaifang
Published: December 2023

A hydrogen‐fueled multiple direct‐injection trapped vortex combustor is proposed to improve the unstable combustion and reduce NO emission. The effects of bluff‐body depth, bluff‐body height, and bluff‐body angle on the combustion flow characteristics are analyzed. NO emission is used as the main response value, the response surface method (RSM) is adopted to optimize the bluff‐body depth, bluff‐body height, and bluff‐body angle. The results show that the bluff‐body depth, bluff‐body height, and bluff‐body angle have significant effects on the NO emission, with the increase of the three parameters, NO emission first drops and then rises, but the effects on the pressure loss and outlet temperature distribution factor (OTDF) are very small. After optimization by RSM, the optimal bluff‐body parameters are the bluff‐body depth a = 56.5 mm, the bluff‐body height b = 128.9 mm, and the bluff‐body angle α = 77.6°. Under these circumstances, the maximum radial distances of the front concave vortex and the rear concave vortex reach 48 mm and 57 mm, respectively, which enhances the combustion stability. Furthermore, NO emission of 1.64 ppmv in the optimization structure is significantly optimized compared to NO emission of 4.32 ppmv in the original structure.
CSAT‐FRMET: An energy‐efficient hybrid FiWi network‐based 5G model
Authors: Kali Raman Nitin , Saini Himanshi
Published: December 2023

Hybrid fiber wireless (FiWi) access networks seek to combine the vast amount of bandwidth that is available for optical networks and wireless network mobility; hence, it favors larger bandwidth request but cause the highly nonlinear lagrangian dual problem that decrease energy‐efficient network resilience. Hence, a novel Ceplato‐SAT3 model has been proposed in which the SAT3 algorithm locates the optical network unit (ONU) in an optimal position with high‐speed cost‐efficient placement and weight factor introduced into the position update to improve the exploitation and exploration capability of the algorithm. To prioritize the large bandwidth request during resource allocation, gradient priority justifier requests (GPJR) has been utilized and a novel messaging technique termed flow‐random‐message‐exchanger‐topology (FRMET) provides the index for these prioritized requests depending on QoS parameters such as notification control, reflective QoS attribute (RQA), flow bit rates and maximum packet loss rate thereby decreasing the overhead and eliminate nonlinear langrage dualand perform O2U scheduling to reduce network resilience however synchronization between different ONU clocks may cause upstream data fatal crash at the optical line terminal (OLT). Hence, curl‐trio‐opt control mechanism has been proposed in which the minimization problem is transformed into a joint optimization problem of energy consumption, traffic demand, network requests, and service flow requests by the Lyapunov technique thereby minimizing the upstream data fatal lash. The proposed model has been implemented in Python and the output obtained showed better performance in terms of ONU arrangement, throughput, energy consumption, computation, latency, and error.
A comparison of timing and patterns of treatment failure, and survival outcomes after progression between HPV+ and HPV− patients undergoing chemoradiation for oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinomas
Authors: Laxague Francisco , Zeng Peter Y. F. , Zabihi Dorsa , Fnais Naif , Alshahrani Mohammed , Fung Kevin , MacNeil Danielle , Mendez Adrian , Yoo John , Mymryk Joseph S. , Barrett John W. , Palma David A. , Nichols Anthony C.
Published: December 2023

Background

We aimed to analyze and compare the timing and patterns of treatment failure, and survival after progression between HPV‐positive (HPV+) and HPV‐negative (HPV−) patients undergoing chemoradiation for oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinomas (OPSCC).

Methods

A retrospective review was performed of all patients undergoing primary chemoradiation for OPSCC between 2008 and 2021. Demographic and clinical data were collected. Kaplan–Meier estimates for overall survival (OS), and time to recurrence/metastases (TTR) were compared using the log‐rank test, with Cox regression used for multivariable modeling comparing HPV+ and HPV− patients.

Results

HPV− patients developed recurrence or metastases at earlier time points than HPV+ patients (8.8 vs. 15.2 months, p < 0.05), due to earlier local/locoregional recurrence and distant metastases, but not isolated regional recurrences. HPV− distant metastases exclusively occurred in a single organ, most commonly the lungs or bone, while HPV+ metastases frequently had multi‐organ involvement in a wide variety of locations (p < 0.05). Once progression (recurrence/metastases) was diagnosed, HPV+ patients experienced superior survival to HPV− patients on univariate and multivariate analysis, largely due to improved outcomes after treatment of local/locoregional recurrences (p < 0.05). There were no differences in survival after isolated regional recurrences or distant metastases.

Conclusion

HPV+ OPSCC patients relapse later compared to HPV− patients in local/locoregional and distant sites. HPV+ patients with local/locoregional recurrence experience superior survival after recurrence, which does not hold true for isolated regional recurrences or distant metastases. These data can be useful to inform prognosis and guide treatment decisions in patients with recurrent OPSCC.
Characterization of biomarkers in blood serum for cancer diagnosis in dogs using Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Lopes Daniela Franco , Silverio Alessandra , Schmidt Ana Karina Arima , Picca Gerson Baptista , Silveira Landulfo
Published: December 2023

Biomarkers of cancer in sera of domestic dogs were detected through Raman spectroscopy with 830 nm excitation. Raman spectra of sera from 61 dogs (31 healthy and 30 with cancer, resulting in 154 and 200 spectra, respectively) were submitted to principal component analysis (PCA) for feature extraction and partial least squares (PLS) regression for discrimination between Healthy and Cancer groups. In the PCA, the peaks at 1132, 1342, 1368, and 1453 cm−1 (albumin and phenylalanine) were higher for the Cancer group. The “redshift” of the peaks at 621, 1003, and 1032 cm−1 (conformational change in proteins and/or bonds at sites close to the aromatic ring of amino acids) occurred in the Cancer group, and the peaks at 451 cm−1 (tryptophan) and 1441 cm−1 (lipids) were higher for the Healthy group. The PLS‐DA classified the serum spectra in Healthy and Cancer groups with high accuracy (78%).
Cytological features of human papillomavirus‐infected immature squamous metaplastic cells from cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2
Authors: Okodo Mitsuaki , Okayama Kaori , Teruya Koji , Shinohara Ruku , Mizuno Shuichi , Settsu Rei , Ishii Yasuyoshi , Fujii Masahiko , Kimura Hirokazu , Oda Mizue
Published: December 2023

In reflex cytology, the presence of prominent nucleoli in immature metaplastic squamous cells (IM) may be underdiagnosed due to variations in interpretation. The aim of this study is to identify human papillomaviruses (HPVs) that infect IM clusters in cervical intraepithelial neoplasia 2 (CIN2) on Papanicolaou (Pap) smears to determine the cytological features of lesion‐derived cells. Thirty‐two patients with a simultaneous diagnosis of CIN2 on biopsy and high‐grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL) on cytology as well as with IM clusters on HSIL smears were included. CIN2 tissues and HSIL and IM clusters on Pap smears were isolated by manual microdissection, and HPV types were identified by PCR‐based genotyping. The nuclear area within the IM clusters was also measured. The median nuclear area of HPV‐negative IM clusters was 48 μm2, with a coefficient of variation (CV) of 0.20; those of HPV‐positive clusters were 66 μm2 and 0.34, respectively. The cut‐off values of the nuclear area and CV for HPV positivity were 62 μm2 and 0.25, respectively. IM clusters composed of cells with a nuclear area of more than twice that of neutrophils or cells with a wide variation in nuclear sizes are likely to be neoplastic cells caused by HPV.
The Raman spectrum of florencite‐(REE) [REEAl3(PO4)2(OH)6]: An integrated experimental and computational approach
Authors: Ghignone Stefano , Prencipe Mauro , Manzotti Paola , Bruno Marco , Boero Federica , Borghini Alessia , Costa Emanuele , Ciriotti Marco , Scaramuzzo Emanuele
Published: December 2023

Florencite is a hydrous light rare‐earth elements (LREE) aluminium phosphate [REEAl3(PO4)2(OH)6], that amongst the REE‐rich minerals is quite common. The main end‐members are Ce‐, La‐ and Nd‐rich terms that were found in several genetic environments. Despite the large occurrence worldwide, to the authors' knowledge, florencite has attracted very few studies, particularly concerning the characterization of its Raman spectrum. We present a detailed study of the Raman spectrum of florencite, combining experimental measurements and theoretical calculations. Experimental Raman spectra (in the 100–1300 cm−1 spectral range) are measured on four florencite samples characterized by different chemical composition, that is, different REE abundance. The results highlight a remarkable coincidence between different Raman spectra measured on each sample, despite the significantly different chemical compositions in terms of their REE content. The same similarities were also observed in the computed spectra at the ab initio level; moreover, the calculations allowed the attributions of the different Raman signals to specific vibrational modes.
The ASLO Multicultural Program: 34 Years of Leading the Way for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Success
Authors: Cuker Benjamin E. , Davis Jeanette , Gibson Deidre
Published: December 2023

The ASLO Multicultural Program (ASLOMP) began in 1990 to promote diversity in the aquatic sciences. It involves brining diverse undergraduate and graduate students to annual ASLO meetings. The students participate in special programing that includes an opening dinner and keynote speaker, a student symposium where they present their work, a field trip, and work with meeting mentors. Between 1990 and 2023, 1443 different students participated in ASLOMP. They were a diverse lot; 43.0% African American, 33.0% Hispanic, 6.4% white, 6.4% Native American, 5.3% Pacific Islander, 3.5% Asian, and 2.4% other. Participants have gone on to be the first persons of color to serve on the ASLO Board of Directors and to assume other leadership positions in the society. Many former ASLOMP participants have gone on for advanced degrees and often return as mentors in the program. The ASLOMP model has been adopted by various other scientific societies including the Ecological Society of America (Strategies for Ecology Education, Diversity and Sustainability ‐ SEEDS), the Society of Wetland Scientists, Sigma Xi, and the Coastal and Estuarine and Research Federation. The founding of ASLOMP demonstrated the usefulness of empowered allies in leading efforts to address issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Green functions for stationary Stokes systems with conormal derivative boundary condition in two dimensions
Authors: Choi Jongkeun , Kim Doyoon
Published: December 2023

We construct Green functions of conormal derivative problems for the stationary Stokes system with measurable coefficients in a two‐dimensional Reifenberg flat domain.
On the persistence of spatial analyticity for generalized KdV equation with higher order dispersion
Authors: Getachew Tegegne , Tesfahun Achenef , Belayneh Birilew
Published: December 2023

Persistence of spatial analyticity is studied for solutions of the generalized Korteweg‐de Vries (KdV) equation with higher order dispersionwhere , are integers. For a class of analytic initial data with a fixed radius of analyticity , we show that the uniform radius of spatial analyticity of solutions at time cannot decay faster than as . In particular, this improves a recent result due to Petronilho and Silva [Math. Nachr. 292 (2019), no. 9, 2032–2047] for the modified Kawahara equation (, ), where they obtained a decay rate of order . Our proof relies on an approximate conservation law in a modified Gevrey spaces, local smoothing, and maximal function estimates.
MHA's youth cohort shares hope, challenges, activism
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: December 2023

Observing the ongoing youth mental health crisis, young advocates are challenging the status quo and insisting that the world pay attention, while ushering in a new era of mental health advocacy, according to a new report released Dec. 7 by Mental Health America and written by members of its Young Leaders Council (YLC).
Wavelet MRE: Imaging propagating broadband acoustic waves with wavelet‐based motion‐encoding gradients
Authors: Le Yuan , Chen Jun , Rossman Phillip J. , Bolster Bradley , Kannengiesser Stephan , Manduca Armando , Glaser Kevin J. , Sui Yi , Huston John , Yin Ziying , Ehman Richard L.
Published: December 2023

Purpose

To demonstrate a novel MR elastography (MRE) technique, termed here wavelet MRE. With this technique, broadband motion sensitivity is achievable. Moreover, the true tissue displacement can be reconstructed with a simple inverse transform.

Methods

A wavelet MRE sequence was developed with motion‐encoding gradients based on Haar wavelets. From the phase images' displacement was estimated using an inverse transform. Simulations were performed using a frequency sweep and a transient as ground‐truth motions. A PVC phantom was scanned using wavelet MRE and standard MRE with both transient (one and 10 cycles of 90‐Hz motion) and steady‐state dual‐frequency motion (30 and 60 Hz) for comparison. The technique was tested in a human brain, and motion trajectories were estimated for each voxel.

Results

In simulation, the displacement information estimated from wavelet MRE closely matched the true motion. In the phantom test, the MRE phase data generated from the displacement information derived from wavelet MRE agreed well with standard MRE data. Testing of wavelet MRE to assess transient motion waveforms in the brain was successful, and the tissue motion observed was consistent with a previous study.

Conclusion

The uniform and broadband frequency response of wavelet MRE makes it a promising method for imaging transient, multifrequency motion, or motion with unknown frequency content. One potential application is measuring the response of brain tissue undergoing low‐amplitude, transient vibrations as a model for the study of traumatic brain injury.
Dynamic responses and damage evolution of conformal radome composites under blast loading
Authors: Luo Bailu , Wang Ben , Zhang Chundi
Published: December 2023

In this paper, the dynamic responses and damage evolution of two types of conformal radome composites (CRCs), namely single‐window conformal radome (SWCR) and multi‐window conformal radome (MWCR), under blast loading, were investigated using numerical methods. The results show that the local dynamic response of the conformal window is dominating. The window deformation of SWCR is larger than that of MWCR under the same scaled distance, and the MWCR exhibits better blast resistance. The increase in window size causes the reduction of the bending stiffness of CRCs. The obvious stress concentration appears in the notch of carved foam cores, caused by the window effect. The conformal windows are weak parts for the CRCs under the blast loading. It was revealed that the damages of CRCs are mainly concentrated at the edges, center, and diagonal areas of the conformal windows.

Highlights

Designed two types of conformal radome composites with hierarchical configuration.

Established the finite element (FE) models of two types of conformal radome composites

Revealed the dynamic responses and damage evolution of conformal radome composites under blast loading.
Effect of GNP coating on carbon fibers on the deformation modes of composites under flexural loading
Authors: Srivastava Alok K. , Singh Aparna
Published: December 2023

Graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) are extremely useful nanofillers in epoxy in carbon fiber‐reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites as they make CFPRs sustain higher loads before failure in different kinds of loading for example flexural, tensile and fatigue. The current study aims to investigate the effect of GNP coating on carbon fibers on the deformation modes of CFRPs under flexural loading. Laminates have been fabricated using vacuum‐assisted resin transfer molding (VARTM) after spray coating GNPs on unidirectional carbon fiber fabrics. One set of flexural tests were carried out where the strain was recorded using DIC and the other set had in‐situ deformation while recording optical images to monitor deformation. Since, the most probable causes of failure under flexural loading are local compression, shear or contact stresses due to a sharp ram, other mechanical tests like compression test and nano‐indentation were also carried out on the composites. Compressive stress–strain response was ascertained using combined loading compression (CLC) fixture and digital image corelation (DIC) while contact response was evaluated using nanoindentation. GNP‐coated CFRPs were shown to have an increase in compressive modulus of 16% and failure strain of 6%, respectively. Axial and transverse strains measured through DIC were more than two times higher in GNP‐coated CFRPs. Nano‐indentation tests across the entire composite showed some data with intermediate modulus (~10–45 GPa) and hardness (~1–5 GPa) between the epoxy and the fiber and this corresponded to an interphase region which was thicker in 0.4GNP laminate compared to pristine laminate. Flexural strength, flexural modulus and strain at maximum stress improved by 10%, 8%, and 9% respectively in GNP‐coated CFRPs compared to uncoated CFRPs. In addition, while pristine laminates showed non‐uniform distribution of strains during flexural loading, the distribution of strains was much more uniform in GNP‐coated laminate. However, in both kinds of laminates, the failure initiation was in the region of compressive bending stresses.

Highlights

GNP‐added laminate showed an intermediate modulus and hardness interphase through a nanoindentation test.

Digital image correlation analysis has been performed to obtain the strain maps during compressive and flexural loading.

GNP‐added laminates showed higher failure strains compared to pristine laminates under the compressive loads.

GNP‐added laminates performed well under flexural loading.