bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Importance of the Nature of Acidic Sites of Different Aluminosilicates on Fixation of Carbon Dioxide with Styrene Oxide
Authors: Ramesh Aishwarya , Ray Saumi
Published: March 2023

The nature of acidic sites in commercially available aluminosilicates, zeolite Na−Y, zeolite NH4+‐ZSM‐5, and as‐synthesized Al‐MCM‐41 have been investigated by employing them as catalysts for capturing CO2 by styrene oxide. The catalysts, in tandem with tetrabutylammonium bromide (TBAB), produce styrene carbonate, and the yield of the product is observed to be governed by the acidity of the catalysts and hence, the Si/Al ratio. All these aluminosilicate frameworks have been characterized by IR, BET, TGA, and XRD. XPS, NH3‐TPD, and 29Si solid‐state NMR studies have been carried out to analyze the Si/Al ratio and the acidity of these catalysts. According to TPD studies, the number of weak acidic sites of these materials follow an order as NH4+‐ZSM‐5 < Al‐MCM‐41 < zeolite Na−Y, which is just in accordance with their Si/Al ratios and the yield of the cyclic carbonates obtained, i. e., 55.3 %, 68 %, and 75.4 % respectively. The TPD data and the yield of the product carried out with calcined zeolite Na−Y indicate that not only the weak acidic sites but also the role of strong acidic sites might appear crucial in the cycloaddition reaction.
Bernoulli polynomial‐based control technique for PV‐integrated grid system under distorted supply
Authors: Rai Kanchan Bala , Singh Alka , Kumar Narendra
Published: March 2023

This paper discusses the performance of the Bernoulli Polynomial‐based artificial neural network (BePANN) for the control of a single‐phase grid‐integrated solar photovoltaic (PV) system. A single‐phase, single‐stage topology of a grid‐integrated PV system is utilized to feed nonlinear loads at the point of common coupling. The fundamental load component is extracted from distorted load current using a single‐layer neural network. There are several control techniques mentioned in the literature for load compensation. However, many techniques show slower convergence response, higher oscillations, and a large computational burden. The designed BePANN controller attenuates harmonic components from nonlinear current and improves the power quality (PQ) under normal and distorted grid conditions. The single‐layer BePANN control has a simplified structure based on several polynomial terms; this reduces the computational burden and complexity of the controller. The objective of the designed controller is to fulfill the load's active power demand from the generated solar PV power and feed the excess power back to the grid when surplus. When solar PV is not integrated with the grid, the voltage source converter acts as a distribution static compensator, improving the system's utilization factor. The proposed control technique is simulated in MATLAB Simulink, and results are experimentally verified through laboratory prototype under normal and abnormal grid conditions. The application of higher order polynomials for PV‐integrated systems with multifunctional PQ capabilities has been implemented for the first time in this article. The main outcomes of the proposed control technique are solving current‐related PQ issues and reactive power compensation and providing improved power factor under both normal and distorted polluted grids.
Triaxial creep damage characteristics of sandstone under high crustal stress and its constitutive model for engineering application
Authors: Chen Dongxu , Wang Laigui , Versaillot Pierre Darry , Sun Chuang
Published: March 2023

The creep characteristics of rock under high crustal stress are of important influence on the long‐term stability of deep rock engineering. To study the creep characteristics and engineering application of sandstone under high crustal stress, this study constructed nonlinear creep damage (NCD) constitutive mode based on the triaxial graded loading‒unloading creep test of sandstone in the Yuezhishan Tunnel. A numerical NCD constitutive model and a breakable lining (BL) model were developed based on FLAC3D and then applied to the stability analysis of the Yuezhishan Tunnel. Based on the creep test results of sandstone, a power function of creep rate and stress level was constructed, by which the long‐term strength was solved. The results show that the long‐term strength of the red sandstone based on the related function of the steady‐state creep rate and stress level is close to the measured stress value in engineering. The NCD model considering damage factors reflects the instantaneous and viscoelastic plasticity deformation characteristics of the red sandstone. The numerical NCD constitutive model and the BL model can reflect surrounding rock deformation characteristics and lining failure characteristics in practical engineering. The research results provide theoretical references for long‐term stability analysis of rock engineering and the deformation control of surrounding rock under high crustal stress.
Enhanced Performance of Transfer‐Free Graphene Transparent Conductive Films on Insulating Substrates by Introducing Array Nanostructure
Authors: Lu Meng , Zhang Xiaoling , Yin Wanying , Wang Yao , Li Dezeng , Zhao Qingbiao
Published: March 2023

Graphene is one of the most prevailing materials to replace traditional transparent conductive films (TCFs). In order to improve the performance of graphene TCFs, it is proposed to directly deposit graphene on insulating substrates via assisted catalysis of Cu foil to avoid intricate transfer process, and further effectively enhance the optical performance by introducing the close‐packed antireflection array nanostructure. The graphene TCFs grown on bare quartz substrates have sheet resistance of 0.766 kΩ sq−1 and transmittance of 86.83 %. Graphene composite TCFs with transmittance of 95.79 % were obtained by introducing the close‐packed solid/hollow SiO2 nanospheres antireflection array nanostructure. Compared with graphene TCFs, transmittance of graphene composite TCFs increased significantly, while the sheet resistance remained at the same level. This method combining direct synthesis technique with novel antireflection array nanostructure provides a significant design idea to grow transfer‐free graphene with controllable optoelectronic properties and promotes the application and development of the future electronic devices.
Pyridine Adducts of Tricyano‐ and Dicyanoboranes
Authors: Riefer Jarno , Zapf Ludwig , Wirthensohn Raphael , Hennig Philipp T. , Ribbeck Tatjana , Sprenger Jan A. P. , Ignat'ev Nikolai V. , Finze Maik
Published: March 2023

Cyanoborane adducts of the Lewis acids B(CN)3, BF(CN)2, and BH(CN)2 with pyridine and 4‐cyanopyridine have been obtained in high yields. The syntheses were accomplished by oxidation of the readily available potassium salts of the cyano(hydrido)borate anions [BH(CN)3]− (MHB), [BFH(CN)2]− (FHB), and [BH2(CN)2]− (DHB) with bromine in the presence of the respective pyridine derivative C5H5N or 4‐CN‐C5H4N as starting material. All six cyanoborane adducts have been characterized by NMR and vibrational spectroscopy, elemental analysis, and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. The reduction of the cyanoborane adducts has been investigated by cyclic voltammetry and the Lewis acidity of the different cyanoboranes has been assessed using the Gutmann‐Beckett method. Selected experimental data and trends are compared to theoretical ones, for example fluoride ion affinities (FIAs).
Carbon black supported PtCu nanoparticles derived from mix‐phased Cu precursor for high‐performanced oxygen reduction reaction in acid medium
Authors: Xie Peng , Wang Yingqian , Yao Pengfei , Zhang Dezheng , Zhang Huimin , Cao Jing , Liu Cong , Mei Xuanhao , Song Ping , Gong Xue , Han Ce , Xu Weilin
Published: March 2023

Alloying high‐cost Pt with transition metals has been considered as an effective route to synthesize the electrocatalysts with low Pt loading and excellent activity towards oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) under acid solution. The galvanic replacement method, as featured with efficiency and simplicity, is widely reported to produce Pt‐based bimetallic alloys and thereby declare the significance of reductive transition metal precursor on the enhancement of ORR performance. Herein, mix‐phased Cu−Cu2O precursor was applied to prepare carbon black supported highly dispersed PtCu alloy nanoparticles (PtCu/C). The proper Cu−Cu2O ratios can exactly facilitate the generation of small sized PtCu alloy nanoparticles with regulated bimetallic content. Meanwhile, the Cu2O phase is revealed to benefit the electron transfer from Pt to Cu and thus improve the intrinsic activity of Pt active sites. And the metallic Cu can favor the promotion of electrochemical active surface area. Consequently, the as‐prepared PtCu/C behaves impressive ORR activity with half‐wave potential of 0.88 V (vs. RHE) and mass activity of 0.49 A cm−2 mgPt−1 at 0.8 V, which is 9.8 times of commercial Pt/C catalysts. Our work will offer helpful advices for the development and regulation of novel Pt‐based alloy materials towards diverse electrocatalysis.
Integrating graphic correlation and similarity matrix of the Early Paleogene rock units in South Sinai, Egypt
Authors: Hassan Hatem F. , Al‐Helal Anwar B. , Platon Emil
Published: March 2023

This article aims to provide a simple and applicable method of measuring the rock accumulation rate and recording the depositional events based on the application of graphic correlation and similarity matrix of the Paleogene planktonic foraminifera in two surface sections in South Sinai. Fifteen continuous biozones and subzones were recorded spanning from P0 to E3. The average RAR of the Beida Formation was somewhat equal to that recorded for the Dakhla Formation, however, the Selandian‐Ypresian Garra Formation was more than twice that recorded for the Esna Formation. On the other hand, the Thebes Formation represents a reverse setting which is relatively higher in the south than the north. Seven (T1‐T7) and twelve (T1‐T12) terraces were recorded at different stratigraphic positions. The terraces diverged in the Palaeocene and converged in the Eocene, whereas they lengthen in the Palaeocene and shortened in the Eocene. Breaks identified in the SM support many of the poorly constrained terraces on the GC, however, the SM technique efficiently recorded around 60% of the terraces recorded by GC. For confirming the terraces identified, field and faunal parameters confirm all the recorded events, however, a further correlation with their equivalent in and outside Egypt has been made which confirms another support of the technique applied. Therefore, the integration between these techniques in recognizing the depositional events and sedimentation breaks supports further depositional and palaeobathymetical studies and regional correlation as well.
Short‐term effect of retirement on health: Evidence from nonparametric fuzzy regression discontinuity design
Authors: Ebeid Mohamed , Oguzoglu Umut
Published: March 2023

We estimate the short‐term effect of retirement on health in the US using the Health and Retirement Study survey. We use the nonparametric fuzzy regression discontinuity design to avoid assuming any functional form on the age‐health profile and minimize potential bias in identifying the causal effect of retirement on health status in the short term. Estimates indicate an 8% decline in the cognitive functioning score of retirees and a 28% increase in the CESD depression scale. The likelihood of being in good health status declined by 16%. The transition from working to retirement has more significant negative impacts on males than females. In addition, retirement has more considerable adverse effects on less‐educated individuals compared to high‐educated individuals. The short‐term effects of retirement on health are consistent and robust across different bandwidths, weighting kernel functions, and age‐profile specifications. Moreover, the Treatment Effect Derivative test results highly support the external validity of the nonparametric estimates of the retirement effect on health.
Self‐reported reflective functioning and father–child interactions in a sample of fathers who have used intimate partner violence
Authors: Stover Carla S. , Farren Angela , Campbell Ryan , Day Michele J. , Sernyak Zoe
Published: March 2023

Reflective functioning (RF) has been found to be associated with mother–child interactions, but less is known about the association of fathers’ self and child‐focused RF and father–child relationships.  Fathers who have histories of intimate partner violence (IPV) are known to have poor RF, which may impact their father–child interactions.  The current study was designed to examine how types of RF are associated with father–child relationships.  Pretreatment assessments and recorded, coded father–child play interactions were used to examine associations among fathers’ history of adverse childhood experiences (ACES), RF and coded father‐child play interactions in a sample of 47 fathers with a history of IPV use in the last 6 months with their coparent.  Fathers’ ACES and their child's mental states (CM) were associated with father‐child dyadic play interactions.  Fathers with greater ACES and higher scores on CM had the most dyadic tension and constriction during play interactions.  Those with high ACES but low CM had scores similar to those with low ACES and low CM.  These results indicate that fathers who have used IPV and have a history of significant adversity may benefit from interventions to increase their child‐focused RF and further improve their interactions with their children.
Inorganic arsenic exposure promotes malignant progression by HDAC6‐mediated down‐regulation of HTRA1
Authors: Chen Jiafeng , Lei Cece , Nie Daibang , Ge Huan , Li Jian , Lei Changbin , Wang Wang
Published: March 2023

Inorganic arsenic (iAs) has been a human health concern and is associated with intestinal malignancies. However, the molecular mechanisms of the iAs‐induced oncogenic process in intestine epithelial cells remain elusive, partly because of the known hormesis effect of arsenic. Here, we established that six‐month exposure to iAs at a concentration similar to those found in contaminated drinking water could promote malignant characteristics, including enhanced proliferation and migration, resistance to apoptosis, and mesenchymal‐like transition in Caco‐2 cells. Transcriptome analysis and mechanism study revealed that key genes and pathways involved in cell adhesion, inflammation and oncogenic regulation were altered during chronic iAs exposure. Specifically, we uncovered that down‐regulation of HTRA1 was essential for the iAs‐induced acquisition of the cancer hallmarks. Further, we evidenced that the loss of HTRA1 during iAs‐exposure could be restored by HDAC6 inhibition. Caco‐2 cells with chronic exposure to iAs exhibited enhanced sensitivity to WT‐161, a specific inhibitor of HDAC6, when used alone than in combination with a chemotherapeutic agent. These findings provide valuable information for understanding the mechanisms of arsenic‐induced carcinogenesis and facilitating the health management of populations in arsenic‐polluted areas.
Polyacrylamide‐based hydrogel coatings improve biocompatibility of implanted pump devices
Authors: Chan Doreen , Maikawa Caitlin L. , d'Aquino Andrea I. , Raghavan Shyam S. , Troxell Megan L. , Appel Eric A.
Published: March 2023

The introduction of transcutaneous and subcutaneous implants and devices into the human body instigates fouling and foreign body responses (FBRs) that limit their functional lifetimes. Polymer coatings are a promising solution to improve the biocompatibility of such implants, with potential to enhance in vivo device performance and prolong device lifetime. Here we sought to develop novel materials for use as coatings on subcutaneously implanted devices to reduce the FBR and local tissue inflammation in comparison to gold standard materials such as poly(ethylene glycol) and polyzwitterions. We prepared a library of polyacrylamide‐based copolymer hydrogels, which were selected from materials previously shown to exhibit remarkable antifouling properties with blood and plasma, and implanted them into the subcutaneous space of mice to evaluate their biocompatibility over the course of 1 month. The top performing polyacrylamide‐based copolymer hydrogel material, comprising a 50:50 mixture of N‐(2‐hydroxyethyl)acrylamide (HEAm) and N‐(3‐methoxypropyl)acrylamide (MPAm), exhibited significantly better biocompatibility and lower tissue inflammation than gold standard materials. Moreover, when applied to polydimethylsiloxane disks or silicon catheters as a thin coating (45 ± 1 μm), this leading copolymer hydrogel coating significantly improved implant biocompatibility. Using a rat model of insulin‐deficient diabetes, we showed that insulin pumps fitted with HEAm‐co‐MPAm hydrogel‐coated insulin infusion catheters exhibited improved biocompatibility and extended functional lifetime over pumps fitted with industry standard catheters. These polyacrylamide‐based copolymer hydrogel coatings have the potential to improve device function and lifetime, thereby reducing the burden of disease management for people regularly using implanted devices.
Engineering high throughput screening platforms of cervical cancer
Authors: Cadena Ines A. , Buchanan Mina R. , Harris Conor G. , Jenne Molly A. , Rochefort Willie E. , Nelson Dylan , Fogg Kaitlin C.
Published: March 2023

Cervical cancer is the second leading cause of cancer‐related death in women under 40 and is one of the few cancers to have an increased incidence rate and decreased survival rate over the last 10 years. One in five patients will have recurrent and/or distant metastatic disease and these patients face a 5‐year survival rate of less than 17%. Thus, there is a pressing need to develop new anticancer therapeutics for this underserved patient population. However, the development of new anticancer drugs remains a challenge, as only 7% of novel anticancer drugs are approved for clinical use. To facilitate identification of novel and effective anticancer drugs for cervical cancer, we developed a multilayer multicellular platform of human cervical cancer cell lines and primary human microvascular endothelial cells that interfaces with high throughput drug screening methods to evaluate the anti‐metastatic and anti‐angiogenic drug efficacy simultaneously. Through the use of design of experiments statistical optimization, we identified the specific concentrations of collagen I, fibrinogen, fibronectin, GelMA, and PEGDA in each hydrogel layer that maximized both cervical cancer invasion and endothelial microvessel length. We then validated the optimized platform and assessed its viscoelastic properties. Finally, using this optimized platform, we conducted a targeted drug screen of four clinically relevant drugs on two cervical cancer cell lines. Overall, this work provides a valuable platform that can be used to screen large compound libraries for mechanistic studies, drug discovery, and precision oncology for cervical cancer patients.
Alfalfa in rotation with annual crops reduced nitrate leaching potential
Authors: Singh Arshdeep , Afzal Tahseen , Woodbury Bryan , Wortmann Charles , Iqbal Javed
Published: March 2023

Rotation of perennial alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) with annual crops has the potential to reduce nitrate‐nitrogen (NO3‐N) in the vadose zone and increase soil organic carbon (SOC) sequestration. The objective of this study was to determine the long‐term effects on SOC, NO3‐N, ammonium‐N (NH4‐N), and soil water in the 7.2 m depth with an alfalfa rotation compared with continuous corn (Zea mays L.). Soils from six pairs of alfalfa rotation versus continuous corn observation points were sampled to 7.2 m depth in 0.3 m increments. The uppermost 0.3 m was divided into 0–0.15 and 0.15–0.30 m. For the 0–7.2 m depth, the alfalfa rotation compared with continuous corn had 26% less soil water (0.29 vs. 0.39 g cm−3) and 55% less NO3‐N (368 vs. 824 kg ha−1). The cropping system and NO3‐N concentration did not affect NH4‐N in the vadose zone. The alfalfa rotation compared with continuous corn had 47% higher SOC (105.96 Mg ha−1 vs. 72.12 Mg ha−1) and 23% higher total soil nitrogen (TSN) (11.99 Mg ha−1 vs. 9.73 Mg ha−1) in the 0–1.2 m depth. The greater depletion of soil water and NO3‐N with alfalfa rotation was primarily below the rooting zone of corn, suggesting no negative implications for corn following alfalfa but greatly reduced potential of NO3‐N leaching to the aquifer with the alfalfa rotation. Alfalfa rotation compared with continuous corn is a means to greatly reduce the leaching of NO3‐N to the aquifer and improve the surface soil with the potential to increase SOC sequestration.
Cellular communication through extracellular vesicles and lipid droplets
Authors: Amarasinghe Irumi , Phillips William , Hill Andrew F. , Cheng Lesley , Helbig Karla J. , Willms Eduard , Monson Ebony A.
Published: March 2023

Cellular communication is essential for effective coordination of biological processes. One major form of intercellular communication occurs via the release of extracellular vesicles (EVs). These vesicles mediate intercellular communication through the transfer of their cargo and are actively explored for their role in various diseases and their potential therapeutic and diagnostic applications. Conversely, lipid droplets (LDs) are vesicles that transfer cargo within cells. Lipid droplets play roles in various diseases and evidence for their ability to transfer cargo between cells is emerging. To date, there has been little interdisciplinary research looking at the similarities and interactions between these two classes of small lipid vesicles. This review will compare the commonalities and differences between EVs and LDs including their biogenesis and secretion, isolation and characterisation methodologies, composition, and general heterogeneity and discuss challenges and opportunities in both fields.
A critical assessment of dose effects of post‐thaw CD34 on autologous stem cell transplantation treatment of haematological malignancies
Authors: Duarte Gustavo de Carvalho , Butler Andrew , Atkinson Gavin , Badami Krishna , Wei Wen‐Hua
Published: March 2023

A consensus threshold of pre‐cryopreservation CD34‐positive cells (CD34s) has been used as the minimum dose to initiate autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT). Advances in cryopreservation posed a debate whether post‐thaw CD34s might be a superior surrogate instead. We addressed the debate in this retrospective study of 217 adult ASCTs in five different haematological malignancies treated at a single centre. We showed that post‐thaw CD34s was highly correlated with pre‐cryopreservation CD34s (r = 0.97) and explained ∼2.2% (p = 0.003) of the variation of the post‐thaw total nucleated cell viability that however had no power to predict engraftment outcomes. After stratifying the ASCT cases into four dose groups based on post‐thaw CD34s reinfused, stepwise multivariate regression analyses detected significant effects in dose group and interactions with diseases for neutrophil and platelet recovery respectively. The significant dose effects and interactions were triggered by two technical outliers in the low dose group, and disappeared in the repeated regressions after exclusion of the outliers where disease and age were the significant predictors remained. Our data clearly support the validity of the consensus threshold in ASCT applications but also highlight neglected conditions where monitoring post‐thaw CD34s and clinical attributes are valuable.
Neurologic outcome following liver transplantation for methylmalonic aciduria
Authors: Martinelli Diego , Catesini Giulio , Greco Benedetta , Guarnera Alessia , Parrillo Chiara , Maines Evelina , Longo Daniela , Napolitano Antonio , De Nictolis Francesca , Cairoli Sara , Liccardo Daniela , Caviglia Stefania , Sidorina Anna , Olivieri Giorgia , Siri Barbara , Bianchi Roberto , Spagnoletti Gionata , Dello Strologo Luca , Spada Marco , Dionisi‐Vici Carlo
Published: March 2023

Liver and liver/kidney transplantation are increasingly used in methylmalonic aciduria, but little is known on their impact on CNS. The effect of transplantation on neurological outcome was prospectively assessed in six patients pre‐ and post‐transplant by clinical evaluation and by measuring disease biomarkers in plasma and CSF, in combination with psychometric tests and brain MRI studies. Primary (methylmalonic‐ and methylcitric acid) and secondary biomarkers (glycine and glutamine) significantly improved in plasma, while they remained unchanged in CSF. Differently, biomarkers of mitochondrial dysfunction (lactate, alanine, and related ratios) significantly decreased in CSF. Neurocognitive evaluation documented significant higher post‐transplant developmental/cognitive scores and maturation of executive functions corresponding to improvement of brain atrophy, cortical thickness, and white matter maturation indexes at MRI. Three patients presented post‐transplantation reversible neurological events, which were differentiated, by means of biochemical and neuroradiological evaluations, into calcineurin inhibitor‐induced neurotoxicity and metabolic stroke‐like episode. Our study shows that transplantation has a beneficial impact on neurological outcome in methylmalonic aciduria. Early transplantation is recommended due to the high risk of long‐term complications, high disease burden, and low quality of life.
The role of Antarctic sea ice in modulating the relationship between September–October Antarctic Oscillation and following January–February wet and cold weather in southern China
Authors: Yuan Zhengxuan , Qin Jun , Du Liangmin , Huang Sijing , Wang Yajuan , Mbululo Yassin
Published: March 2023

A previous study found that the September–October (SO) Antarctic Oscillation (AAO) shows an out‐of‐phase variation of late January–February (JF) wet and cold weather (wet–cold) in southern China. This study explored the underlying mechanism and found that Antarctic sea ice may be responsible partially for such a relationship. The SO AAO stimulates the Antarctic sea‐ice dipole pattern (ADP) anomalies, which induce the anomalous convective precipitation of the Inter‐Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) in Latin America‐Atlantic (LAA) and Western Pacific (WP) in following JF. The anomalous convections over the ITCZ regions trigger planetary wave dispersions from the tropical LAA and WP to adjust the East Asian atmospheric circulation. Through the bridge of anomalous ITCZ, an increased JF ADP decreases the invasion of both northerly cold air flow and southwesterly moist airflow into southern China, resulting in the dissipation of wet–cold and vice versa. Furthermore, the variation of JF ADP is well correlated with the in‐phased polar vortex, connecting to the stratospheric Quasi‐Biennial Oscillation (QBO). The variation of JF QBO induces the anomalous convection over the tropical North Atlantic and ITCZ in LAA and WP, in turn modulating the contemporary invasion of cold and wet airflow into southern China by Rossby wave dispersion, subsequently wet–cold in southern China. To summarize, JF ADP affects the simultaneous wet–cold in southern China through the anomalous ITCZ. The turning phase of QBO modulates such correlation by inducing the anomalous ITCZ correlated with ADP and the anomalous convection due to QBO itself over tropical North Atlantic.
Incomplete cytoreductive surgery for appendiceal and colorectal peritoneal carcinomatosis: Characteristics and outcomes of an overlooked group
Authors: Goffredo Paolo , Aguirre Nicole , Mohamed Mostafa , Kleiman David A. , Cercek Andrea , Joshua Smith J. , Paty Philip B. , Weiser Martin , Garcia‐Aguilar Julio , Nash Garrett M.
Published: March 2023

Background ond Objectives

Complete cytoreductive surgery (CRS) may prolong survival for selected patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis from colorectal cancer (CRC). However, there is a paucity of data on outcomes following incomplete procedures.

Methods

Patients with incomplete CRS for well‐differentiated (WD) and moderate/poorly‐differentiated (M/PD) appendiceal cancer, right and left CRC were identified at a single tertiary center (2008–2021).

Results

Of 109 patients, 10% were WD and 51% M/PD appendiceal cancers, and 16% right and 23% left CRC. There were no differences in gender, BMI (mean = 27), ASA score, previous abdominal surgery (72%), and extent of CRS. The PC Index differed between appendiceal and colorectal cancers (mean = 27 vs. 17, p < 0.01). Overall, the perioperative outcomes were similar among the groups, with 15% experiencing complications. Postoperatively, 61% received chemotherapy, and 51% required ≥1 subsequent procedure. The 1 and 3‐year survival for the WD, M/PD, right and left CRC subgroups were 100%, 67%, 44%, 51%, and 88%, 17%, 12%, and 23%, respectively (p = 0.02).

Conclusions

Incomplete CRS was associated with significant morbidity and number of subsequent palliative procedures. Prognosis correlated with histologic subtype; WD appendiceal cancer patients having superior outcomes, while those with right sided CRC the worst survival. These data may help guiding expectations in the setting of incomplete procedures.
Disturbance of wintering waterbirds by simulated road traffic noise in Arkansas wetlands
Authors: Veon John T. , McClung Maureen R.
Published: March 2023

As humans intensify their activity on landscapes, it is important to consider anthropogenic noise when managing habitat for wildlife. Wetlands along rural to urban gradients are subject to road noise pollution, and the waterbirds that live there could be at risk for behavioral disturbance. We tested the positional response of wintering waterbirds to road traffic noise (i.e., sound pressure level) in a playback study in wetlands of Arkansas, USA, from January through March 2018. Each trial consisted of 3, 20‐minute phases of road noise playback designated as pre, during, and post. We repeated instantaneous scan sampling every minute during each phase to collect the number, species, and distance of each bird relative to the playback speaker. Distance bins were designated as 0–25, 26–50, 51–75, and 76–100 m from the speaker. Birds approached the speaker at closer distances during the pre phase compared to during and post phases. There was an increase in the probability of a bird occurring in the distance bin farthest from the speaker over the course of the trial. Our results suggest waterbirds might avoid noisier areas within a habitat; however, more study is needed to assess species‐specific responses, determine thresholds for disturbance, and examine downstream effects of habitat avoidance. If these results persist at larger scales, the soundscape of a wetland could be an important consideration in conservation planning.
Chain Sliding versus β‐Sheet Formation upon Shearing Single α‐Helical Coiled Coils
Authors: Tsirigoni Anna‐Maria , Goktas Melis , Atris Zeynep , Valleriani Angelo , Vila Verde Ana , Blank Kerstin G.
Published: March 2023

Coiled coils (CCs) are key building blocks of biogenic materials and determine their mechanical response to large deformations. Of particular interest is the observation that CC‐based materials display a force‐induced transition from α‐helices to mechanically stronger β‐sheets (αβT). Steered molecular dynamics simulations predict that this αβT requires a minimum, pulling speed‐dependent CC length. Here, de novo designed CCs with a length between four to seven heptads are utilized to probe if the transition found in natural CCs can be mimicked with synthetic sequences. Using single‐molecule force spectroscopy and molecular dynamics simulations, these CCs are mechanically loaded in shear geometry and their rupture forces and structural responses to the applied load are determined. Simulations at the highest pulling speed (0.01 nm ns−1) show the appearance of β‐sheet structures for the five‐ and six‐heptad CCs and a concomitant increase in mechanical strength. The αβT is less probable at a lower pulling speed of 0.001 nm ns−1 and is not observed in force spectroscopy experiments. For CCs loaded in shear geometry, the formation of β‐sheets competes with interchain sliding. β‐sheet formation is only possible in higher‐order CC assemblies or in tensile‐loading geometries where chain sliding and dissociation are prohibited.
History of corrosion studies on container materials for the final disposal of VHLW and SF conducted in Belgium
Authors: Kursten Bruno , Gaggiano Roberto , Caes Sébastien , de Souza Valdir
Published: March 2023

In Belgium, an extensive corrosion program on a wide range of metals has been studied as candidate container material, which is considered in the geological disposal concept of high‐level radioactive waste or spent fuel. This paper presents an overview of the corrosion studies initiated by SCK CEN more than 40 years ago. The experiments conducted in these studies were conceived based on early disposal designs, that is, designs in which the radioactive waste was to be enclosed in a metallic overpack that would be directly emplaced in an argillaceous environment. A step‐wise approach was adopted consisting of laboratory screening studies, detailed studies, and demonstration tests. The screening studies included accelerated tests, conducted in a surface laboratory, and exposure tests carried out either in autoclaves or in the field in a surface clay quarry. The detailed studies involved both in situ and laboratory experiments. Gradually, the emphasis shifted from basic research to large‐scale integrated demonstration experiments enabling the simultaneous study of different parameters and/or processes and their coupling.
AXIN2‐related oligodontia‐colorectal cancer syndrome with cleft palate as a possible new feature
Authors: Roht Laura , Hyldebrandt Hanne K. , Stormorken Astrid T. , Nordgarden Hilde , Sijmons Rolf H. , Bos Dennis K. , Riegert‐Johnson Douglas , Mantia‐Macklin Sarah , Ilves Pilvi , Muru Kai , Wojcik Monica H. , Kahre Tiina , Õunap Katrin
Published: March 2023

Background

Pathogenic variants in AXIN2 have been associated with tooth agenesis, colon polyps, and colon cancer. Given the rare nature of this phenotype, we set out to collect additional genotypic and phenotypic information.

Methods

Data were collected via a structured questionnaire. Sequencing was performed in these patients mostly due to diagnostic purpose. A little more than half of the AXIN2 variant carriers were identified by NGS; other six were family members.

Results

Here, we report 13 individuals with a heterozygous AXIN2 pathogenic/likely pathogenic variant who have a variable expression of oligodontia‐colorectal cancer syndrome (OMIM 608615) or oligodontia‐cancer predisposition syndrome (ORPHA 300576). Three individuals from one family also had cleft palate, which might represent a new clinical feature of AXIN2 phenotype, also given the fact that AXIN2 polymorphisms have been found in association with oral clefting in population studies. AXIN2 has already been added to multigene cancer panel tests; further research should be conducted to determine whether it should be added to cleft lip/palate multigene panels.

Conclusion

More clarity about oligodontia‐colorectal cancer syndrome, about the variable expression, and associated cancer risks is needed to improve clinical management and to establish guidelines for surveillance. We collected information about the surveillance that was advised, which might support clinical management of these patients.
What guides guided self‐help? Recognising the role of formulation in Low Intensity CBT
Authors: Cromarty Paul , Gallagher Dominic
Published: March 2023

The emphasis on formulation, as a lynchpin and driver of cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) has received increasing attention, consensus of value among practitioners and emerging studies of efficacy. The terms, “formulation” and “conceptualisation” are frequently used interchangeably in literature which is exclusively focussed on high intensity CBT. In contrast, little has been included on the value or recognising the existence of formulation, for Low Intensity CBT practitioners providing guided self‐help. This may contribute to misconceptions that Low Intensity CBT is a mechanistic set of techniques. Links to CBT competencies, curricula, role of supervision and roots in UK Behavioral Nurse Therapist training, are made to highlight the implicit presence of Low Intensity formulation. We suggest a definition of formulation, as a key Low Intensity competency. This uses an individualised treatment rationale and problem statement, derived from a structured functional assessment. We propose, explicitly emphasising these, constitutes Low Intensity case formulation, which guides intervention. This is a refocus of existing practice, not introduction of completely new elements. A brief illustration of “how to” deliver formulation‐driven Low Intensity CBT is made. This promotes a concise “within‐session” and “between‐session” thread. This adjustment, on what guides Low Intensity interventions, is relevant to practitioners, supervisors and trainers in promoting Low Intensity best practice. This argues that recognising the value of formulation assists in optimising skills development, client outcomes and satisfaction with Low Intensity CBT. Cautions with the approach and the need for further research are noted.
Pseudo‐differential operator in quaternion space
Authors: Kundu Manab , Prasad Akhilesh
Published: March 2023

This paper introduces the quaternion Schwarz type space, and quaternion linear canonical transform (QLCT) mapping properties are also discussed. Further, the quaternion pseudo‐differential operator (QPDO) associated with QLCT is described. Some of its characteristics, including estimates, boundedness, and integral representation in quaternion Sobolev type space, are derived. Some applications of QLCT, quaternion differential equations, are also discussed.
Facial nerve vulnerability in spinal muscular atrophy and motor unit number index of the orbicularis oculi muscle
Authors: Barp Andrea , Carraro Elena , Salmin Francesca , Lizio Andrea , Cheli Marta , Sansone Valeria
Published: March 2023

Introduction/Aims

Measures for assessing cranial nerve vulnerability in spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) have not yet been determined. Motor unit number index (MUNIX) studies have shown correlations with disease severity but have been used only in limb muscles. In the present study, we explore facial nerve response, MUNIX, and motor unit size index (MUSIX) of the orbicularis oculi muscle in a cohort of patients with SMA.

Methods

Facial nerve response (measured as compound muscle action potential, CMAP), MUNIX, and MUSIX of the orbicularis oculi muscle were cross‐sectionally recorded in patients with SMA and compared to healthy control subjects (HCs). Active maximum mouth opening (aMMO) was also measured at baseline in our SMA cohort.

Results

Thirty‐seven patients with SMA (21 SMA II; 16 SMA III) and 27 HCs were recruited. CMAP of the facial nerve and MUNIX of orbicularis oculi proved to be feasible and well tolerated techniques. CMAP amplitude and MUNIX scores were significantly lower in patients with SMA compared to HCs (p < .0001). Both MUNIX and CMAP amplitude were significantly higher in patients with SMA III compared to SMA II. No significant difference emerged comparing CMAP amplitude, MUNIX and MUSIX scores between those with different functional status or nusinersen treatment.

Discussion

Our results provide neurophysiological evidence of facial nerve and muscle involvement in patients with SMA. CMAP of the facial nerve and MUNIX of orbicularis oculi showed high accuracy in discriminating between the various subtypes of SMA and in quantifying the motor unit loss of the facial nerve.
Health literacy correlates with abbreviated full‐scale IQ in adolescent and young adults with sickle cell disease
Authors: Bhatt Nidhi , Calhoun Cecelia , Longoria Jennifer , Nwosu Chinonyelum , Howell Kristen E. , Varughese Taniya , Kang Guolian , Jacola Lisa M. , Hankins Jane S. , King Allison
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a chronic condition with progressive neurocognitive deficits. Health literacy (HL) is essential during adolescence and young adulthood, as the transition to adult care requires healthcare decisions. HL is known to be low in SCD; however, relation between general cognitive ability and HL has not been investigated.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study included adolescent and yound adults (AYAs) with SCD from two institutions. Logistic regression measured the association between HL, measured by the Newest Vital Sign tool, and general cognitive ability, measured with abbreviated full‐scale intelligence quotient (FSIQ) on the Wechsler Abbreviated Scale of Intelligence.

Results

Our cohort contained 93 participants at two sites: 47 (51%) at Memphis, TN and 46 (49%) at St. Louis, MO, ranging from ages 15–45 years (mean = 21 years) and with a majority (70%) possessing a high school education or greater. Only 40/93 participants (43%) had adequate HL. Lower abbreviated FSIQ (p < .0001) and younger age at assessment (p = .0003) were associated with inadequate HL. For every standard score point increase in abbreviated FSIQ, the odds of having adequate HL compared to limited or possibly limited HL increase by 1.142 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.019–1.322) and 1.116 (95% CI: 1.045–1.209), respectively, after adjusting for age, institution, income, and educational attainment.

Conclusions

Understanding and addressing HL is imperative in improving self‐management and health outcomes. Among AYA with SCD, low HL was prevalent and influenced by abbreviated FSIQ. Routine screening for neurocognitive deficits and HL should be performed to guide development of interventions to adapt to the HL of AYA with SCD.
Long‐term performance and reliability of silicon heterojunction solar modules
Authors: Arriaga Arruti Olatz , Virtuani Alessandro , Ballif Christophe
Published: March 2023

The high‐efficiency silicon heterojunction (SHJ) technology is now perceived mature enough to enter the Giga‐Watt manufacturing scale with several players around the globe. The growth of the SHJ technology requires confidence from manufacturers, investors, and system developers about its reliability and long‐term performance. In this work, we perform a literature survey collecting performance data (and performance loss rates [PLRs]) published for SHJ modules. Publications on this specific subject are still limited; however, enough available data exist to drive some preliminary conclusions. Despite a long list of caveats specific to this type of meta‐analysis, when considering all published datasets, we obtain for SHJ modules median and average PLR values of 0.56%/year and 0.70%/year, respectively. These numbers are in line with PLR generally reported for field‐deployed crystalline silicon (c‐Si modules). We then apply a filtering procedure to distinguish what we perceive to be high‐accuracy datasets from less accurate ones. This methodology is understandably arbitrary, but it helps increasing the robustness of the present analysis. Our refined analysis leads us to slightly higher PLR for SHJ modules: 0.80%/year and 0.83%/year for median and average values, respectively. These values fall between previously reported PLR of c‐Si and thin‐film modules. Additionally, we observe some mild correlations between the PLRs and the climatic conditions of the installation sites, even if we need to stress that for each climate, we find a large variability, including a PLR value as low as 0.29%/year. We complement the survey with information about the main failure modes reported in the literature for this technology and an analysis of the limits and caveats for this type of study. The most significant one is that the reported numbers refer—for the vast majority—to modules from just one manufacturer (i.e., the first company manufacturing and commercializing the SHJ technology). We finally point out that a deep understanding of the potential weaknesses of the technology—collected over the years—has led to several improvements in terms of reliability. A careful material choice and module design may in fact allow the SHJ technology targeting extended service lifetimes of 35+ years.
Does ICT diffusion reduce poverty? Evidence from SAARC countries
Authors: Verma Anushka , Giri Arun K. , Debata Byomakesh
Published: March 2023

The present study aims to explore the relationship between ICT diffusion and poverty reduction in SAARC countries using panel data from 2005 to 2020. This study uses econometric techniques robust to cross‐sectional dependence (CSD) including Pesaran's CSD tests; second‐generation unit root test; Pedroni, Kao, Westerlund cointegration tests; CS‐ARDL, Driscoll‐Kraay (DK) standard error approach; and D&H causality test. The investigation is based on the ICT diffusion index constructed using principal component analysis (PCA). The study's major finding shows that ICT diffusion reduces poverty both in the long and short run, indicating the favorable impact of ICT on the development process in SAARC countries. Further, economic growth, financial development, and remittances all serve to minimize the poverty level. The causality test reveals bidirectional causation between ICT diffusion and poverty reduction. The study highlights the crucial role of ICT diffusion and selected economic variables in reducing poverty. The findings of the present research shall benefit policymakers to formulate appropriate policies and programs to improve the well‐being of people and enhance macroeconomic performance, which impacts both the societal and environmental development of a country.
Device Structures of Perovskite Solar Cells: A Critical Review
Authors: Deepika  , Singh Arjun , Verma Upkar K. , Tonk Anu
Published: March 2023

In recent years, perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have been in huge demand because of their ease of production, low cost, flexibility, long diffusion length, lightweight, and higher performance than their counterparts. The PSCs have demonstrated remarkable progress with power conversion efficiency (PCE) up to 25.7% using FAPbI3 as an active layer component. However, lower PCE and device stability restrict PSCs' commercial viability. Further, the photocurrents in PSCs are close to the maximum Shockley–Queisser (SQ) limit. The focus now is on enhancing the open‐circuit voltage and fill factor through modifying charge‐selective contacts, the morphology of perovskite material, and interface modification. The large grain size, uniformity, and coverage area distinguish the crucial factors affecting the PCE of PSCs. Long‐term device stability and degradation mechanisms have also shown significant dependence on the device structure. Therefore, the tailoring of the device structure continues to play a crucial role in the device's performance and stability. In this review, the illustration of the structural development of perovskite solar cells, including advanced interfacial layers and their associated parameters, is discussed in detail. In addition, the challenges that hinder the PSCs' performance are also discussed.