bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sustainable dropwise condensation enabled ultraefficient heat pipes
Authors: Chang Wei , Luo Kai , Wang Pengtao , Abdulshaheed Ahmed A. , Li Chen
Published: January 2023

Heat pipes play a critical role in determining the operations, safety, and energy efficiency of electronics. The main focus to improve the heat pipe performance is on the evaporator design or wicking structures. However, the intrinsic limitation comes from the condenser, which is fundamentally constrained by inefficient filmwise condensation (FWC). In this study, we successfully achieved a peak effective thermal conductivity (keff) of ~140 kW/(m·K) on widely used groove heat pipes by implementing sustianble dropwise condensation (DWC) and integrating with enhanced evaporator. To better understand the working mechanisms of the ultraefficient heat pipe, both the evaporator and condenser of the heat pipes have been modified accordingly. Our results show that up to 296% enhancements on the keff can be achieved under various inclination angles by only inducing DWC in the condenser section. The drawback of temperature fluctuations induced by DWC in smooth heat pipes appears to be effectively solved using the grooves‐wicking structure. Furthermore, by integrating the nanostructured evaporator, the keff of the heat pipe can be boosted up to 517% compared to conventional groove heat pipes. This study, for the first time, demonstrates the huge potential of engineering both the condenser and evaporator simultaneously in developing ultraefficient heat pipes.
Enhancing structural complexity: An experiment conducted in the Black Forest National Park, Germany
Authors: Asbeck Thomas , Benneter Adam , Huber Alexander , Margaritis Damaris , Buse Jörn , Popa Flavius , Pyttel Patrick , Förschler Marc , Gärtner Stefanie , Bauhus Jürgen
Published: January 2023

We report on a structural complexity enhancement (SCE) experiment that was designed to test ecological restoration measures in the Black Forest National Park, Germany. The main goal was to understand as to whether the creation of standing and downed deadwood within previously managed, single‐layered Norway spruce (Picea abies L.) forests accelerates the development of forest structure, richness, and diversity of a range of taxonomic groups. Here we introduce the experimental design and describe the development of stand structure including abundance and richness of tree‐related microhabitats (TreMs) within 5 years after initiation of the experiment in October 2016. To enhance structural complexity in treatment plots, 10 trees per plot were toppled using a skidder winch, and another 10 trees were ring barked at a height of around 60 cm above ground level with a chainsaw. To monitor stand structure, we collected data on common forest attributes such as diameter at breast height (DBH), tree height, and TreMs of all trees in the six experimental and six control plots measuring 0.25 ha in size before the treatments were carried out in 2016 and again in 2020/21. We analyzed the abundance and richness of TreMs using generalized linear mixed models with DBH and treatment vs. control as predictors. The SCE treatment resulted in a significant increase in deadwood volumes (4.2 vs. 439.5 m3) as well as in TreM abundance and richness (increase of 0.74 TreMs per tree). This indicates that the SCE treatment was effective to increase biodiversity‐relevant structures such as deadwood and TreMs, in previously managed Norway spruce‐dominated stands. The ongoing monitoring of a range of taxonomic groups (birds, bats, small mammals, coleoptera, fungi, mosses, and vascular plants) in this experiment will demonstrate to what extent the enhancement in structural complexity will lead to an enrichment in species richness and diversity.
Synthesis of [FeFe] Hydrogenase Mimics with Lipoic acid and its Selenium Analogue as Anchor Groups
Authors: Benndorf Stefan , Groni Sihem , Stafast Leanne M. , Görls Helmar , Fave Claire , Schöllhorn Bernd , Weigand Wolfgang
Published: January 2023

[FeFe] hydrogenase (H2ase) mimicking complexes containing lipoic and selenolipoic acid moieties connected to 2‐hydroxy‐1,3‐dithiopropane and 2‐hydroxy‐1,3‐diselenopropane bridging ligands were synthesized and characterized using different spectroscopic methods. X‐ray diffraction analysis was utilized to determine the molecular structure of a triphenylphosphane substituted analogue. Cyclic voltammetry (CV) investigations on the redox chemistry in presence and absence of acetic acid (AcOH) revealed differing behaviours among the mimics. IR spectroelectrochemistry (IR SEC) enabled deeper insights of structural changes during electrochemical measurements. The elaboration of surface confined systems was studied in preliminary experiments. CV experiments showed that the lipoic acid derivatives of the [FeFe] H2ase mimics formed well‐organized self‐assembled monolayers (SAMs) on Pt electrodes, a promising result for future work.
Effect of organic loading on bioelectricity generation potential of dual‐chambered microbial fuel cell treating chocolaterie wastewater
Authors: Chandrasekarabarathi Subha , ArunKumar Priya , Jeyakumar Rajesh Banu
Published: January 2023

Microbial fuel cells (MFC) are recent advancements in treating wastewater and generating power simultaneously. In the present study, chocolaterie wastewater rich in organic content was the substrate in a dual‐chambered MFC. Activated Carbon Fiber Felt (ACFF) electrodes (anode and cathode) were separated by Nafion 117 proton exchange membrane in the dual‐chambered reactor. The primary goal was to investigate the impact of organic loading on MFC efficiency in treating chocolaterie wastewater and carrying out microbial analysis. 1, 2, 3, and 4 gCOD/L were the organic loadings of the reactor. MFC performance increased till the optimum value, and after that, it declined. A total of 2 gCOD/L was the optimum organic loading. At this optimum organic loading, dual‐chambered MFC removed 79% of total chemical oxygen demand (TCOD), 70% of soluble chemical oxygen demand (SCOD), and 67% of total suspended solids (TSS). At 2 gCOD/L organic loading, the maximum power density was 99 mW/m2. Coulombic efficiency was 58% at 1 gCOD/L and 30% at 2 gCOD/L organic loadings. Microbial analysis revealed the presence of Ochrobactrum and Pseudomonas sp. as dominant exoelectrogens in the anodic biofilm. These species were proven for the contaminant degradation efficiency and potential for power generation. Hence dual‐chambered MFCs can treat high‐strength chocolaterie wastewaters efficiently at optimum operating conditions.
A disease concept model for STXBP1‐related disorders
Authors: Sullivan Katie R. , Ruggiero Sarah M. , Xian Julie , Thalwitzer Kim M. , Ali Rahma , Stewart Sydni , Cosico Mahgenn , Steinberg Jackie , Goss James , Pfalzer Anna C. , Horning Kyle J. , Weitzel Nicole , Corey Sydney , Conway Laura , Rigby Charlene Son , Bichell Terry Jo , Helbig Ingo
Published: January 2023

Objective

STXBP1‐related disorders are rare genetic epilepsies and neurodevelopmental disorders, but the impact of symptoms across clinical domains is poorly understood. Disease concept models are formal frameworks to assess the lived experience of individuals and their families and provide a basis for generating outcome measures.

Methods

We conducted semistructured, qualitative interviews with 19 caregivers of 16 individuals with STXBP1‐related disorders and 7 healthcare professionals. We systematically coded themes using NVivo software and grouped concepts into the domains of symptoms, symptom impact, and caregiver impact. We quantified the frequency of concepts throughout the lifespan and across clinical subgroups stratified by seizure history and developmental trajectories.

Results

Over 25 hours of interviews, we coded a total of 3626 references to 38 distinct concepts. In addition to well‐recognized clinical features such as developmental delay (n = 240 references), behavior (n = 201), and seizures (n = 147), we identified previously underrepresented symptoms including gastrointestinal (n = 68) and respiratory symptoms (n = 24) and pain (n = 30). The most frequently referenced symptom impacts were autonomy (n = 96), socialization (n = 64), and schooling (n = 61). Emotional impact (n = 354), support (n = 200), and daily life & activities (n = 108) were highly cited caregiver impacts. We found that seizures were more commonly referenced in infancy than in other age groups, while behavior and socialization were more likely to be referred to in childhood. We found that caregivers of individuals with ongoing seizures were less likely to reference developmental delay, possibly due to the relatively high impact of seizures.

Significance

STXBP1‐related disorders are complex conditions affecting a wide range of clinical and social domains. We comprehensively mapped symptoms and their impact on families to generate a comprehensive disease model as a foundation for clinical endpoints in future trials.
Seismic analysis of 3D train–wheel–bridge–bearing systems: Illustrative examples
Authors: Li Hong‐Wei , Xu Zhao‐Dong , Gomez Daniel , Dyke Shirley J. , Wang You‐Wu , Ni Yi‐Qing
Published: January 2023

This paper presents numerical studies using the model of the three‐dimensional train–wheel–bridge–bearing (TWBB) system. The system responses under train‐induced excitation only, earthquake excitation only, and combined train‐induced plus earthquake excitation are evaluated in terms of structural safety, running safety, and ride comfort. By coupling the subsystem models, these numerical simulations require just seconds to execute, exhibiting high computational efficiency. Based on the simulation results, the main conclusion is that although the bearings may reduce the seismic bridge responses, they also are likely to deteriorate the train's running safety and ride comfort. Therefore, there is a requirement in future bearings design procedures for railway bridges to find a balance between the bridge and train seismic responses.
Importance of private and communal lands to sustainable conservation of Africa's rhinoceroses
Authors: Clements Hayley S , Balfour Dave , Di Minin Enrico
Published: January 2023

A new path for rhinoceros (rhino) conservation is needed. Recent data signal the alarming impact of poaching on populations in Africa's rhino stronghold, the state‐run Kruger National Park (South Africa), which today supports one quarter the rhinos than a decade ago. We aggregated African rhino population data, highlighting the growing role of private and community rhino custodians, who likely now conserve >50% of Africa's rhinos. Their contribution has been enabled by a supportive policy and economic environment, but this arrangement is becoming more difficult to sustain as costs associated with protecting rhinos skyrocket and revenue‐generating options become insufficient. Some privately held rhino populations are small or intensively managed, raising questions about their conservation value. As the role of private and community custodianship becomes increasingly central to the protection of Africa's remaining rhinos, its resilience must be strengthened through implementation of adaptive policies that incentivize rhino conservation. We outline policy pathways to provide an enabling environment for rhino conservation beyond state parks.
Looking Beyond Power Generation to Achieve Electricity Sector Net‐Zero Goals
Authors: Clémençon‐Charles Elena , Baranek Kasia
Published: January 2023

It has long been accepted that decarbonization of the electric power sector is critical for achieving the reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions necessary for combatting the worst impacts of climate change. Electricity generation is one of the main sources of global carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions and reducing the carbon intensity of electricity production can increase the efficacy of other decarbonization efforts, such as electrification of transportation or heating. Due to the importance of electricity decarbonization, there has been increasing public and regulatory pressure for retail electricity providers—including distribution utilities—to decarbonize, resulting in 29 of the 30 largest utilities in the United States committing to a net‐zero goal by 2050 at the latest, with some committing to the landmark as early as 2030. To achieve these net‐zero goals, load serving utilities will need to reduce emissions across their Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions as illustrated in Figure 1. Historically, utilities have primarily focused on their Scope 1 emissions, transitioning their generation and market purchases of electricity away from fossil fuels. While decarbonization of the energy generation mix is critical to achieving the reduction of emissions necessary to achieve net‐zero goals, utilities also need to make investments to decarbonize other areas of their operations if they want to make meaningful claims of achieving net‐zero.
Digital resilience monitoring of informal caregivers of persons with dementia for early detection of overburden: Development and pilot testing
Authors: Oostra Dorien L. , Vos Wouter L. , Olde Rikkert Marcel G. M. , Nieuwboer Minke S. , Perry Marieke
Published: January 2023

Objectives

Informal caregiving is becoming increasingly important in dementia care, but causes a considerable burden on caregivers which impacts their wellbeing. We aimed to develop and pilot test a digital monitoring tool (REsilience Monitor for INformal caregivers in Dementia [REMIND]) for wellbeing and resilience of informal caregivers to provide timely support and thereby prevent their overburden and eventually crises admissions of persons with dementia.

Methods

A human‐centered design method based on co‐creation with informal caregivers and professionals was used to design REMIND. During co‐creation meetings and in‐between sprint sessions, a point of focus was formulated, and a prototype was created. Case manager‐caregiver duos pilot‐tested REMIND for 3 months. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted to determine usability and acceptability. Thematic analysis was applied to the transcripts.

Results

Informal caregivers and professionals with varying backgrounds participated in three co‐creation meetings. Defined point of focus was to develop a tool that is able to provide insight into the experienced burden of informal caregivers. The REMIND prototype consisted of weekly questions about wellbeing and resilience for informal caregivers and a dashboard with answers for case managers. Eight case managers and 13 informal caregivers considered REMIND easy‐to‐use. Informal caregivers mentioned that REMIND stimulated self‐reflection. Case managers appreciated the tool's ability to gain insight in the actual wellbeing of informal caregivers.

Conclusions

The REMIND tool developed in co‐creation with end‐users potentially increases insight in actual wellbeing of informal caregivers for both caregivers and case managers. A long‐term (controlled) follow‐up study is needed to evaluate REMIND's impact on caregiver burden and crisis admissions.
Returns to scale, spillovers and persistence: A network perspective of U.S. bank size
Authors: Glass Anthony J. , Kenjegalieva Karligash
Published: January 2023

The methods for ray‐scale economies (RSE) and expansion‐path scale economies (EPSE) are extended to the dynamic spatial setting. We apply these methods to large U.S. banks using dynamic spatial cost and revenue models and key findings include the following. First, accounting for spillovers and dynamics strengthens the case for EPSE over RSE. Second, own, spillover and total EPSE are very persistent in future periods. Third, the EPSE suggest that an appropriate regulatory size cap would shift one systemically important bank to its contemporaneous optimal scale. However, the EPSE suggest that this would be a sub‐optimal dynamic scale in future periods.
XCapsNet: A deep neural network for automated detection of diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Gour Mahesh , Jain Sweta , Kaushal Sushant
Published: January 2023

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a retinal condition in which the blood vessels of the retina are damaged. If DR is not detected in its early stage, it can lead to visual impairment and even blindness. For DR diagnosis, ophthalmologists manually examine the condition of the retina using fundus images. This manual way of DR detection is cumbersome, error‐prone, and time‐consuming, and it requires skilled ophthalmologists. To address these issues, we propose a deep learning‐based hybrid model named XCapsNet, which combines the discriminative ability of the Xception and Capsule networks for automated detection of DR from the fundus images. In the proposed approach, we applied the CLAHE image preprocessing technique to improve the discriminative information in fundus images by enhancing the contrast of the images. Furthermore, in the proposed XCapNet model, we utilized the pretrained Xception and CapsNet models to learn the discriminative and hierarchically deep features of the DR fundus images at multiple labels of abstraction for diagnosing the DR disease. The performance of the proposed method is evaluated on the two publicly available APTOS2019 and Messidor datasets. The proposed method achieved a classification accuracy of 83.06% and 98.91% on the APTOS2019 dataset for multiclass and binary‐class classification of DR images, respectively. On the Messidor dataset, the proposed approach achieved an accuracy of 98.33% for the classification of fundus images into DR and Normal classes. Additionally, we have also investigated the performance of different pretrained CNN models for DR detection. The proposed method shows its superiority over the existing methods.
Quantum model of dynamic Stark‐induced degenerate vibronic state by two nonresonant shift‐up lasers for π‐electron angular momentum generation
Authors: Mineo Hirobumi , Ho Quang Huy , Phan Ngoc‐Loan , Fujimura Yuichi
Published: January 2023

A theoretical scenario for the generation of coherent π‐electron angular momentum in a low‐symmetry aromatic molecule using two nonresonant shift‐up lasers is presented. The effects of vibrational modes on coherent π‐electron angular momentum are considered in the adiabatic approximation. In this scenario, two electronic excited states are irradiated with two linearly polarized nonresonant lasers. This causes a consistent up‐shift in the vibronic energy levels of each electronically excited state toward higher energy as a result of the dynamic Stark effect. For the weak coupling case of the electronic‐vibrational interactions, the lowest vibronic states in the two electronic excited states are designed to be degenerate by varying the parameters (frequency and intensity) of each laser. The resultant degenerate state, called the dynamic Stark‐induced degenerate vibronic state (DSIDVS), is the origin of the coherent π‐electron angular momentum generation. An optimal laser parameter set is determined under conditions in which the lowest two vibronic states form the DSIDVS. The DSIDVS was formulated by the method of Laplace transformations. An analytical expression for the coherent π‐electron angular momentum was derived in the displaced harmonic oscillator model. We examined the dependence of the time‐averaged z‐component of the coherent angular momentum on the ratio of the two detunings and potential displacements of toluene, a typical low‐symmetry aromatic ring molecule, which belongs to the weak coupling case and is adopted to demonstrate the theoretical scenario. The inclusion of potential displacements in the angular momentum generation was found to reduce the value of by half, compared with that in the frozen nuclear approximation.
Identification of the phytohormones indole‐3‐acetic acid and trans‐zeatin in microalgae
Authors: Cruz Camila Gonzales , da Rosa Ana Priscila Centeno , Costa Jorge Alberto Vieira
Published: January 2023

BACKGROUND

Microalgae can biosynthesize phytohormones that promote plant growth and development. These compounds can potentially replace synthetic agricultural inputs that are harmful to the environment. The main plant growth‐promoting phytohormones present in microalgae are auxins and cytokinins. The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of culture conditions (autotrophic and heterotrophic) on the concentrations of the endogenous phytohormones indole‐3‐acetic acid (IAA) and trans‐zeatin (tZ) in the microalgae Chlorella fusca LEB 111, Chlorella vulgaris LEB 112, Scenedesmus obliquus LEB 117, Synechococcus nidulans LEB 115 and Spirulina sp. LEB 18.

RESULTS

All microalgae produced IAA and tZ under the three evaluated conditions (autotrophic light/dark (12/12 h), autotrophic continuous light (24 h) and heterotrophic). The IAA concentrations ranged from 1.94 to 56.45 nmol g−1, whereas those of tZ ranged from 0.06 to 35.52 pmol g−1. The cultivation conditions increased the carbohydrate and protein concentrations. Continuous light favored the production of carbohydrates in the studied cyanobacteria (Synechococcus nidulans LEB 115 and Spirulina sp. LEB 18). However, the light/dark condition (12/12 h) afforded the highest protein concentrations for green algae and cyanobacteria. There were no statistically significant differences in the lipid content of the strains studied.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study are valuable and indicate that the cultivation conditions and species used in this study may be applied in sustainable agriculture, providing alternatives that may contribute to minimizing the environmental impact of synthetic chemical inputs in agriculture. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Negotiating the second mesiobuccal canal: A comparison of nickel titanium files through the experience of undergraduate dental students
Authors: Atav Ateş Ayfer , Arıcan Burçin , Çiftçioğlu Elif , Küçükay Enver Sedat
Published: January 2023

Objectives

The aim of this study was to compare the ability of undergraduate students to reach working length (WL) in second mesiobuccal root canals (MB2) of maxillary first molars (n = 210) by using Reciproc Blue without glide path preparation, and One Curve with glide path preparation.

Methods

The students (n = 105) attended theoretical and practical courses. The first group (n = 53) shaped MB2 root canals using the One Curve system and then Reciproc Blue; the second group (n = 52) shaped MB2 root canals following the reverse sequence. Participants completed a questionnaire. The chi‐square and Mann–Whitney U test were used for statistical analysis using significance of p < 0.05.

Results

The full WL was reached and shaping procedures were completed without complications in Reciproc Blue and One Curve groups at rates of 86.67% and 82.85%, respectively (p > 0.05). Treatment time was shorter in Reciproc Blue (p < 0.05). More (62.9%) students felt the One Curve system safer, while 61% felt the Reciproc Blue system faster.

Conclusions

Within the limitations of this study, instrument kinematics and glide path preparation did not interfere with undergraduate students’ ability to achieve the WL in MB2 root canals.
Novel thiosemicarbazone and thiazolidin‐4‐one derivatives containing vanillin core: Synthesis, characterization, and anticancer activity studies
Authors: Tokalı Feyzi Sinan , Şenol Halil , Katmerlikaya Tuğba Gençoğlu , Dağ Aydan , Şendil Kıvılcım
Published: January 2023

Cancer is one of the most common and lethal disease in the world, therefore, patients need new and potent anticancer agents for treatment. In this study, starting from vanillin, 24 new compounds, which are 12 thiosemicarbazone (4a‐h, 5i‐j, 6k) and 12 thiazolidin‐4‐one (7a‐h, 8i‐j and 9k) derivatives, were synthesized and characterized by Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR), High‐Resolution Mass Spectroscopy (HRMS), and Fourier‐transform Infrared (FTIR) techniques. In vitro cytotoxic effects were investigated on CCD‐1079Sk human healthy fibroblast and MDA‐MB‐231 human breast cancer cell lines. For MDA‐MB‐231, molecules showed IC50 in ranging of 88.08 ± 0.027–16.54 ± 0.031 μM (Doxorubicin: 61.70 ± 0.021 μM) and for CCD‐1079Sk, molecules showed IC50 in ranging of 192.36 ± 0.018–13.58 ± 0.035 μM (Doxorubicin:52.01 ± 0.028 μM). Compounds 6k and 7f were found most selective and potent anticancer agents compared to Doxorubicin used as a standard drug.
Evaluation of sodium‐glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors for renal prognosis and mortality in diabetes patients with heart failure on diuretics
Authors: Weng Yi‐Fang , Chen Chung‐Yu , Hwang Shang‐Jyh , Huang Yaw‐Bin
Published: January 2023

Previous studies about renal protection of sodium‐glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients with heart failure (HF) on diuretics were still limited. The goal of the study is to survey the efficacy of SGLT2i to reduce all‐cause mortality and renal impairments in patients with T2DM and HF using diuretics. The retrospective cohort study was analyzed from Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital Research Database (KMUHRD) in Taiwan. Adults with T2DM and HF using any diuretics at least 28 days during 2016–2018 were enrolled and then divided into the SGLT2i group and the non‐SGLT2i group. Propensity score matching was used to balance baseline characteristics between the two groups. The primary outcome was all‐cause mortality. Secondary outcomes contained dialysis occurrence, renal progression, and acute kidney injury (AKI). After 1:1 matching, there were 183 patients in each group respectively. When compared with the non‐SGLT2i group, the SGLT2i group had significantly lower all‐cause mortality (hazard ratios [HR]: 0.49, 95% CI 0.29–0.83, p = 0.008) and reduction of renal progression (HR: 0.30, 95% CI 0.12–0.75, p = 0.010). SGLT2i showed the trend to decrease dialysis occurrence (HR: 0.83, 95% CI 0.20–3.47, p = 0.797) and an increase in AKI (HR: 1.38, 95% CI 0.67–2.87, p = 0.383) but without significance. SGLT2 inhibitors were associated with reduced all‐cause mortality and less renal progression with significance in T2DM patients with HF on diuretics.
Deep Neuromuscular Block for Endolaryngeal Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Zheng Jianqiao , Du Li , Zhang Lu , Du Bin , Zhang Weiyi , Chen Guo
Published: January 2023

Objectives

To determine the safety and efficacy of deep neuromuscular block (NMB) for endolaryngeal surgery.

Data Sources

PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Ovid Medline, Embase, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang, VIP databases, and trial registry database.

Methods

Inclusion criteria followed the PICOS principles: Participants, adults undergoing endolaryngeal surgery; Intervention, deep NMB performed during the surgery; Control, no‐deep NMB performed; Outcomes, primary outcome: the incidence of clinically acceptable surgical conditions. Secondary outcome: the incidence of intraoperative complications (including vocal fold movement and coughing) and total incidence of postoperative complications [including postoperative residual curarization (PORC), postoperative sore throat (POST), and postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV)]. Study design, randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Duplicate publications, editorials, letters, abstracts, and reviews were excluded.

Results

Four articles with 242 patients were identified for analysis. The results indicated that compared with no‐deep NMB, deep NMB provides a higher incidence of clinically acceptable surgical conditions (98.36% vs. 76.67%; relative ratio [RR] = 1.29, 95% CI: 1.07–1.56), a lower incidence of intraoperative complications (10.83% versus 37.16%; RR = 0.32; 95% CI: 0.21–0.49) (lower incidence of vocal fold movement [1.85% vs. 34%; RR = 0.08, 95% CI: 0.02–0.41] and coughing [15.53% vs. 38.78%; RR = 0.42, 95% CI: 0.27–0.66]). There were no differences in the overall incidence of postoperative complications (RR = 2.10, 95% CI: 0.12–36.40).

Conclusions

Based on current published evidence, deep NMB provides better surgical conditions with a higher incidence of clinically acceptable surgical conditions and a lower incidence of intraoperative complications (lower incidence of vocal fold movement and coughing) without increasing the overall incidence of postoperative complications.

Level of Evidence

1 Laryngoscope, 133:2055–2065, 2023
Land degradation in the European Union—Where does the evidence converge?
Authors: Gianoli Federico , Weynants Mélanie , Cherlet Michael
Published: January 2023

Land degradation, as a compound of processes that affect land resources worldwide, is notoriously difficult to assess. In Europe, the European Commission has been pressed by the Court of Auditors (ECA) to invest in better understanding land degradation and desertification within the European Union. In the World Atlas of Desertification (WAD), the convergence of evidence (CoE) has been put forward as an integration mechanism to help focus attention on areas where human‐induced global land change issues (LCIs) are putting pressure on the planetary boundaries, potentially leading to land degradation. Rather than trying to map degradation itself, the CoE explores how many of these processes are simultaneously at play and where they occur. In this study, we tailor the CoE framework to the European Union through a more appropriate selection of regionally relevant LCIs and a focus on finer input data. Our analysis draws attention to areas in Europe confronted with specific environmental challenges (e.g., the Po Valley or the Ruhr region) and confirms that LCIs mostly accumulate in croplands and urban areas. We found that more LCIs consistently coincide with a specific Sustainable Development Goal indicator (SDG indicator 15.3.1, calculated using the Trends.Earth tool), signals a degrading status. However, our analysis also shows that many areas with a stable or improving status are subject to LCIs not considered in that indicator. We therefore advise including other indicators of land status and trends when assessing land degradation, while stressing that the link to contextual knowledge remains necessary for a final interpretation.
Sarkisov links for index 1 Fano 3‐folds in codimension 4
Authors: Campo Livia
Published: January 2023

We classify Sarkisov links from index 1 Fano 3‐folds anticanonically embedded in codimension 4 that start from so‐called Type I Tom centres. We apply this to compute the Picard rank of many such Fano 3‐folds.
Mathematical analysis of a competition model with mutualism
Authors: Cheribet Fatima Zohra , Abdellatif Nahla
Published: January 2023

We perform the mathematical analysis of a model describing the interaction of two species in a chemostat, involving competition and mutualism, simultaneously. The model is a five‐dimensional system of differential equations with nonlinear growth functions. We give a comprehensive description of the dynamics of the system by determining analytically the existence and the local stability conditions of all steady‐states, considering a large class of growth rates. We prove that there exists a unique stable coexistence steady‐state and give the conditions under which bistability can occur. We give bifurcation diagrams and operating diagrams showing the rich behavior of the system.
Optimal timing of needle electromyography to diagnose lesion severity in traumatic radial nerve injury
Authors: Steenbeek Esli D. , Pondaag Willem , Tannemaat Martijn R. , Van Zwet Erik W. , Malessy Martijn J. A. , Groen Justus L.
Published: January 2023

Introduction/Aims

In patients with traumatic radial nerve injury (RNI), the chance of spontaneous recovery must be balanced against the benefits of early surgical reconstruction. We aimed to explore the time‐specific value of needle electromyography (NEMG) to diagnose nerve lesion severity.

Methods

In this retrospective diagnostic accuracy study at Leiden Nerve Center, patients at least 12 years of age with RNI caused by fractures or fracture treatment were included. The sensitivity and specificity of the patients' first NEMG examination were assessed, stratified by the timing after the nerve injury. The absence of motor unit potentials (MUPs) in muscles distal to the nerve lesion was considered a positive test result. Lesion severity was dichotomized to moderate injury (spontaneous Medical Research Council grade ≥3 recovery) or severe injury (poor spontaneous recovery or surgical confirmation of a mainly neurotmetic lesion).

Results

Ninety‐five patients were included in our study. The sensitivity of NEMG to detect severe RNI was 75.0% (3 of 4) in the fourth, 66.7% (2 of 3) in the fifth, and 66.7% (2 of 3) in the sixth month after the nerve injury. The specificity in the first to the sixth month was 0.0% (0 of 1), 50.0% (2 of 4), 77.3% (17 of 22), 95.5% (21 of 22), 95.8% (23 of 24), and 100.0% (12 of 12), respectively.

Discussion

The specificity of NEMG is higher than 95% and therefore clinically relevant from the fourth month after the nerve injury onward. Absence of MUPs at this time can be considered an indication to plan nerve exploration. Moreover, the presence of MUPs on NEMG does not completely exclude the necessity for surgical reconstruction.
Modeling melt conveying and power consumption of co‐rotating twin‐screw extruder kneading blocks: Part B. Prediction models
Authors: Stritzinger Ursula , Roland Wolfgang , Berger‐Weber Gerald , Steinbichler Georg
Published: January 2023

Intermeshing co‐rotating twin‐screw extruders are very versatile because their screw configurations can be tailored both to the application and to the properties of the materials used. Finding the best screw configuration is one of the main purposes of twin‐screw extrusion modeling, and requires models that accurately predict conveying and power consumption. The better the process can be predicted, the better the requirements of the final product can be met. We present novel prediction models of the conveying and power‐consumption behaviors of intermeshing co‐rotating twin‐screw extruder kneading blocks for Newtonian fluids. These are based on numerical simulations and therefore consider the complex three dimensional (3D) geometry of this element type without the need for common simplifications. Our models are thus capable of including all leakage flows and gap influences, which are usually ignored, for example, by the flat‐plate model. Since our models are derived by symbolic regression based on genetic programming, they consist of algebraic functions and are low‐threshold. They can be used to calculate various process parameters for individual kneading blocks or entire screw configurations, as illustrated by a use case.
Analysis and improvement of hot work management in China
Authors: Wang Xin
Published: January 2023

Hot work, work involving electric or gas welding, cutting, brazing, or similar flame or spark‐producing operations, is a major industrial hazard. Many countries have formulated relevant regulations and standards for hot work to regulate their management procedures and operational requirements. This article compares and analyses the safety‐related regulations and standards for hot work in China and the United States. The article puts forward relevant suggestions for the revision and improvement of China's hot work regulations and standards in comparison with the US regulations and standards. In terms of details, the US regulations and standards are more scientific, stringent, and guiding. China's standards are more closely related to China's national conditions, but some provisions lack scientific basis and are poorly operable. Further enhancement of the scientific, guidance, and operationality of China's hot work‐related regulations and standards is recommended.
A fatigue reliability assessment approach for wind turbine blades based on continuous time Bayesian network and FEA
Authors: Liu Zheng , He Zhenfeng , Tu Liang , Liu Xin , Liu Haodong , Liang Jinlong
Published: January 2023

Wind turbine blades made by composite materials (CWTBs), encounter fatigue failures, such as cracks, fractures, delamination, etc. Finite Element Analysis (FEA) is applied for fatigue performance simulations of CWTBs as the full‐scale testing is costly. To consider correlated failures and uncertainties in load and material parameters, this paper proposes a fatigue reliability assessment method based on continuous time Bayesian network and FEA. Specifically, the dangerous regions of each component of CWTBs are determined by finite element fatigue simulation. The failure probability distributions of components are then computed by quantifying the uncertainties of several factors including the load and material parameters. A continuous time Bayesian network model is constructed for the fatigue reliability of CWTBs. The performance of the proposed method is verified by a comprehensive analysis with the results of discrete time Bayesian networks.
Adaptive sliding mode control of Markov jump systems with completely unknown mode information
Authors: Jiang Baoping , Karimi Hamid Reza , Li Bo
Published: January 2023

This paper aims to investigate the problem of adaptive sliding mode control for Markov jump systems with deficient transition probability. Different from the existing literature, we propose a novel method to design a mode‐dependent sliding mode controller when the mode information is completely unknown, while the controller gain parameters can be designed by solving feasible conditions. Firstly, by designing an integral‐type sliding surface, on which an ideal sliding mode dynamics is obtained. Then, for different types of mode transition information, a set of feasible easy‐checking stochastic stability criteria are proposed for the sliding mode dynamics in terms of strict linear matrix inequalities. Further, relying on the parameters obtained from the stability criteria, an adaptive sliding mode controller is successfully designed with respect to different types of system mode transition information. Finally, a numerical example is provided to illustrate the advantage of the developed strategy.
Bioactivity and Catalytic Reduction of Aryl Nitro‐Compounds by Biosynthesized Silver Nanoparticles using Skimmiaanquetilia
Authors: Gondwal Manjul , Sharma Nidhi , Joshi nee Pant Geeta , Pratap Singh Gautam Bhanu , Singh Sangeeta , Tumba Kaniki , Bahadur Indra
Published: January 2023

The green synthesis of silver nanoparticles is a rapid and environmentally friendly technique (AgNPs). Silver ions are bioreduced into AgNPs by a compound found in Skimmiaanquetilia's aqueous leaf extract, which consists primarily of alkaloids and coumarins. AgNPs were synthesized and characterized by multiple techniques, including ultraviolet‐visible spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared analysis, scanning electron microscopy with X‐ray energy dispersive (EDX) investigation, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and X‐ray diffraction (XRD). The results demonstrated that the AgNPs are highly effective in inhibiting the growth of Escherichia coli. The scavenging activity and hemolysis (2.85 %) of the AgNPs of S. anquetilia leaf extract were also observed and found that the catalyst was useful in the catalytic reduction of aromatic nitro compounds to aromatic amines. NaBH4 was used to catalyse the reduction of nitro compounds by a UV‐Visible spectrophotometer, and the reduction rates of compounds like 4‐nitrophenol, 2‐nitrophenol, 4‐nitroaniline, 2‐nitroaniline, 4‐nitrobenzaldehyde, 2‐nitrobenzaldehyde, 4‐chloronitrobenzene, and 3‐chloronitrobenzene were measured. AgNPs produced from S. anquetilia leaf extract were found to be an effective catalyst for the reduction reaction and to possess potent antibacterial properties. In higher concentrations, AgNPs were found to have greater antioxidant potential than plant extracts.
Acid Autocatalysis Best Served Hot: The Chlorate–Sulfite–Gluconolactone System as a Thermochemical Clock
Authors: Kürsteiner Ronny , Panzarasa Guido
Published: January 2023

The autonomous activation of acid‐autocatalyzed sulfite–halogenate (iodate, bromate, chlorate) reactions is programmed using slow acid generators (δ‐gluconolactone GL, and 1,3‐propanesultone PrS). A remarkable correlation is found between the pH‐ and temperature‐time profiles, especially for the chlorate–sulfite–GL system. Further optimization of the latter resulted in a chemical system able to generate sudden temperature and pH changes after a tailorable induction time, that is a “thermochemical clock”.
The effect of reducing dietary lipid and food availability on precocious male maturation in Chinook Salmon: A production-scale hatchery experiment
Authors: Harstad Deborah L. , Larsen Donald A. , Clarke Lance , Spangenberg Dina K. , Hogg Robert , Requa Brett , Beckman Brian R.
Published: January 2023

Objective

Age of maturation in Chinook Salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha is phenotypically plastic, influenced by both genotype and environmental factors, including the availability and composition of the diet. Salmon hatchery programs often rear fish under accelerated growth regimes using high-lipid diets that can result in earlier age at maturity, including increased prevalence of age-2 males (minijacks). The goal of this investigation was to compare alternative dietary regimes to mitigate for this shift in age at maturity in hatchery-reared Umatilla River fall Chinook Salmon.

Methods

Juvenile fish were reared at Bonneville Hatchery, Oregon, under four dietary treatments across four replicate brood years. Dietary treatments included two feeding frequencies (standard [fed 7 days/week] and reduced [fed 4 days/week]) and two dietary lipid levels (standard [18%] and reduced [12%]) in a 2 × 2 factorial design. Dietary treatments were applied for approximately 9 months, beginning in March (a month after fry emergence) and lasting until December of the first year, after which all fish were reared on the standard feeding regime (7 days–18%) until the time of release the following spring as yearlings.

Result

We observed significant interannual variation in the proportion of minijacks produced among dietary treatments. For all brood years, decreasing the feeding frequency from 7 to 4 days/week reduced the proportion minijacks by 35.9%, and lowering dietary lipid from 18% to 12% reduced the proportion minijacks by 30%. The combined effects of reducing the feeding frequency and lowering dietary lipid were additive, reducing the proportion minijacks by 65.5% compared to the standard rearing regime. Growth and energetic indices were monitored throughout and confirmed findings from previous laboratory-based studies indicating that physiological status 10–12 months prior to spawn timing is important for the “decision” to mature.

Conclusion

Results of this investigation provide useful insights for optimizing rearing regimes for the Umatilla River program and other Chinook Salmon hatchery programs.
Beginnings of Solar Radio Astronomy, 1944–1945
Authors: Goss W. M. , Hooker Claire , Ekers Ronald D.
Published: January 2023

The very early history of radio astronomy is well known, and here we merely briefly recapitulate the events for readers.
Sea-Cliff Interferometry: Dover Heights, 1946
Authors: Goss W. M. , Hooker Claire , Ekers Ronald D.
Published: January 2023

By mid-November 1945, Pawsey had begun planning for an observational programme in the post-54RS era. Although Pawsey was clearly appreciative of the excellent cooperation of the RAAF at Collaroy, the radio group at RPL now needed a site closer to the Laboratory at Sydney University, with accessible and convenient public transport. In addition, RPL needed a field station site under their own control, allowing modifications on the equipment to be made by their staff. The obvious solution was to start work at the Dover Heights ShD (Shore Defence) or C.D. (Coastal Defence) station of the Australian Military Forces. This station had been used by RPL during WWII for radar development and was only 10 km from the lab and reachable by public buses. The station was called CA No. 1 (Costal Artillery). As we have seen, Pawsey had begun planning for the first observations (January 1946) the previous November. An image from the WWII era of the Shore Defence aerial at Dover Heights is shown in Fig. 13.1.
Just a Boy from the Bush, 1908–1925
Authors: Goss W. M. , Hooker Claire , Ekers Ronald D.
Published: January 2023

Of course Lade Pawsey’s family were enormously keen on education. Writing much later in his life, Joe particularly credited his mother with a single-minded focus on ensuring he had a good education. In this, Margaret Pawsey was typical of many of her generation in highly prizing education, both for its own sake as well as for the opportunities that it could open up, and who were fierce in their defence of it amid other family economic priorities.
Overseas Again: Jodrell Bank and IAU, August 1955
Authors: Goss W. M. , Hooker Claire , Ekers Ronald D.
Published: January 2023

The Pawseys had been hopeful of spending much of 1955 in the USA and Canada. But late in 1954 Lenore’s ill health threatened that plan. Greenstein wrote on 12 January 1955: “I hope your projected visit to the [US in 1955] will come off; and that we will see you.”
Radio Source Survey: Reconciliation, 1958–1962
Authors: Goss W. M. , Hooker Claire , Ekers Ronald D.
Published: January 2023

It was one matter for Hewish and Pawsey to come to a quiet agreement in Illinois—and quite another to achieve a change in view across a scientific community. This community was now more diverse and included astronomers, cosmologists, and newly retrained radio physicists and engineers, with varying predilections, experiences and assumptions about what information about the cosmos was important or reliable.
Conclusion: J.L. Pawsey (1908–1962) and the Development of Radio Astronomy
Authors: Goss W. M. , Hooker Claire , Ekers Ronald D.
Published: January 2023

What have we learned about Joe Pawsey, and how does a deeper understanding of his life and career provide a deeper understanding of the first 17 years of the field of radio astronomy? Along the way in assembling a detailed record of Pawsey’s life and career, there have been many opportunities to develop an understanding of the complexities of science-in-action. What circumstances, what factors, influenced discoveries being made or missed? What analogies can be drawn between past and present radio astronomy research? What kind of social systems might best promote good science? In what ways do scientists contribute substantially beyond their direct intellectual contributions, for example to national prestige, or economic development, or the public communication of science? These questions have underpinned our analysis, and we return to them here.
Research for PhD Thesis at Cambridge, 1931–1934
Authors: Goss W. M. , Hooker Claire , Ekers Ronald D.
Published: January 2023

Pawsey’s PhD research saw him systematically explore the repertoire of methods (Ankeny, 2019) in ionospheric research. We will see later how this repertoire so strongly shaped his approach to early radio astronomy.
The Role of Translational Landslides in the Evolution of Cuesta Topography
Authors: Abe Shinro , Higaki Daisuke , Hayashi Kazunori
Published: January 2023

In recent years, large-scale earthquakes such as the 2004 Mid-Niigata Prefecture Earthquake in Japan and the 1999 Chi-Chi Earthquake in Taiwan have caused rockslides on the back slopes of cuestas. These rockslides in cuestas appear not only in earthquakes but also during rainfalls. This study focuses on the rockslides on cuesta’s back slopes. From field surveys in Japan, Taiwan, Switzerland, and Nepal, we extracted geological, structural, and morphological features common to them. We examined the relationships between these features and triggers, such as pore pressure increases and earthquakes. The majority of landslides initially occur as primary landslides; the forms of these masses then change gradually over a long period. However, our results show that landslides on cuesta’s back slopes slide over and over along the same laminar rock joints and thus hardly change their landscape essence. We demonstrate that rockslides on cuesta’s back slopes play a vital role in the evolution of cuesta landscapes.