bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assimilation of data from the MWHS‐II onboard the first early morning satellite FY‐3E into the CMA global 4D‐Var system
Authors: Xiao Hongyi , Han Wei , Zhang Peng , Bai Yihong
Published: June 2023

Radiance data from satellite microwave radiometers are becoming increasingly important in the assimilation of numerical prediction systems. FengYun‐3E (FY‐3E), which was launched in July 2021, as the first early morning orbital satellite among FY‐3 polar‐orbiting meteorological satellite series, can greatly enhance the atmospheric sounding capacity in three orbits compared with the two‐orbit system that is distributed in morning or afternoon orbit. Focusing on MicroWave Humidity Sounder‐2 (MWHS‐II) onboard it, the schemes for thinning, quality control, bias correction and observational error calculation are developed. The scan‐position‐dependent biases are assessed in each channel and increasing biases near the edges of scanline are found in several temperature‐sounding channels. The data quality is compared with four analogous instruments used in Global/Regional Assimilation and Prediction System–Global Forecast System (CMA_GFS), and the performance improvements are confirmed relative to the previous FY‐3C/D MWHS‐II. Three batch experiments were implemented in CMA_GFS with four‐dimensional variational (4D‐Var) system—assimilating only the humidity‐sounding channels, the temperature‐sounding channels and the combined channels—to reveal the impact of assimilation by different channel groupings. Analysis results conclude that FY‐3E MWHS‐II radiances are beneficial to the humidity and temperature analysis fields. These results emphasize the advantage of simultaneously assimilating the humidity/temperature‐sounding channels, in which the former dominates the improvement above 700 hPa while the latter have a positive impact below 700 hPa. The forecast results also show that assimilating both the 183‐ and 118‐GHz channels further improves the forecast skills, especially short‐ to medium‐term forecasts in both hemispheres. FY‐3E MWHS‐II also improves the short‐term prediction of heavy rain, which is always weakly predicted in global forecast systems. This study shows that a three polar orbits system that FY‐3E began can produce marked effects in the numerical prediction system. This study also shines light on the application potential of the distinctive 118‐GHz channels of MWHS‐II.
Creaky knees: Is there a reason for concern? A qualitative study of the perspectives of people with knee crepitus
Authors: Drum Elise E. , Kovats Alexandre , Jones Matthew D. , Dennis Sarah , Naylor Justine , Mills Kathryn , Thom Jeanette M.
Published: June 2023

Objective

Crepitus is a feature of osteoarthritis that may affect one's participation in exercise. An informed understanding is required of the perceptions that people have of their knee crepitus and how it affects their exercise behaviours. This study aims to investigate the role that crepitus may play in beliefs about exercise and knee health.

Methods

Focus group and individual interviews were conducted online with participants who had knee crepitus. The transcripts were thematically analysed through an inductive approach.

Results

Five main themes were identified from 24 participants: (1) individual variation of, (2) occurrence of, (3) meaning of knee crepitus, (4) attitudes and exercise behaviours regarding crepitus, and (5) knowledge deficits and needs concerning crepitus during exercise. The variety of crepitus sounds described occurred with a range of exercises or after inactivity. For those already with osteoarthritis or other symptoms, crepitus was of less concern than symptoms such as pain. Most participants had not ceased exercise but may have modified movement due to crepitus and associated symptoms; some had increased intentional strength training to try alleviating it. Participants agreed that more understanding about the processes causing crepitus and what exercise was safe for knee health would be beneficial.

Conclusion

Crepitus does not appear to be a major cause of concern for people who experience it. However, it is a factor that influences exercise behaviours as is pain. If health professionals could guide people with concerns about their crepitus, they may be more confident in exercising to benefit their joint health.
Sex differences in the characteristics of stimulant offenders with a history of substance use disorder treatment
Authors: Kondo Ayumi , Shimane Takuya , Takahashi Masaru , Kobayashi Michiko , Otomo Marie , Takeshita Yoshiko , Matsumoto Toshihiko
Published: June 2023

We analyzed the results of a nationwide questionnaire administered to 699 stimulant offenders and examined sex differences in the association between various psychosocial problems and treatment history for substance use disorder. Based on their attributes, we predominantly evaluated the treatment and support provided to women with substance use disorder. The rates of childhood (before the age of 18) traumatic experiences (physical, psychological, and sexual abuse and neglect) and lifetime intimate partner violence were significantly higher in women than in men. The history of treatment for substance use disorder was also significantly higher in women than in men, at 15.8% for men and 42.4% for women [χ2(1) = 41.223, p < 0.001]. Logistic regression analysis was performed using the treatment history of substance use disorder as the dependent variable. The results showed that treatment history was significantly associated with the total drug abuse screening test‐20 score and suicidal ideation in men and with survivors of child abuse and eating disorders in women. A comprehensive assessment is required for several issues, such as child abuse, domestic violence, trauma symptoms, eating disorders, and drug problems. Moreover, an integrated treatment for substance use disorder, trauma, and eating disorders is required for female stimulant offenders.
The effect of e‐cigarette taxes on pre‐pregnancy and prenatal smoking
Authors: Abouk Rahi , Adams Scott , Feng Bo , Maclean Johanna Catherine , Pesko Michael F.
Published: June 2023

E‐cigarette taxes are an active area of legislation and have important regulatory implications by proxying e‐cigarette accessibility. We examine the effect of e‐cigarette taxes on prepregnancy and prenatal smoking using the near‐universe of births to mothers conceiving between 2013 and 2019 in the United States. Using fixed effect regressions, we show that e‐cigarette taxes increase prepregnancy and prenatal smoking. We also find evidence that e‐cigarette taxes reduce prepregnancy and 3rd trimester e‐cigarette use. Finally, we show that e‐cigarette taxes increase news coverage of e‐cigarettes and raise perceptions of risk of e‐cigarettes.
New low‐temperature resistant shape memory elastomer: Ethylene‐octene copolymer/methyl vinyl silicone rubber composites
Authors: Ma Yuan , Li Yutao , Xia Lin
Published: June 2023

A new series of thermoplastic elastomers were fabricated in this study employing ethylene‐octene copolymer (POE) and methyl vinyl silicone rubber (MVQ) as the thermoplastic phase and the elastomeric phase, respectively. The effect of POE/MVQ blending ratios on the vulcanization, mechanical, and thermal properties, cold resistance, shape memory properties, and hydrophobicity of the thermoplastic composites was investigated. Moreover, specific properties such as low‐temperature impact (LTI), shape memory and hydrophobicity properties exhibited by the POE/MVQ thermoplastic composites were studied in detail. The results indicated that the POE/MVQ composites exhibited remarkable mechanical properties and LTI strength. With the MVQ content reaching 10 phr, their tensile strength reached 30.07 MPa, significantly higher than that of pure POE. Regarding shape memory properties, the shape fixing ratio and the shape recovery ratio were 97.6% and 94.3%, respectively, at the MVQ content of 40 phr.
In vivo activity of the dual SYK/FLT3 inhibitor TAK‐659 against pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia xenografts
Authors: Hughes Keira , Evans Kathryn , Earley Eric J. , Smith Christopher M. , Erickson Stephen W. , Stearns Tim , Philip Vivek M. , Neuhauser Steven B. , Chuang Jeffrey H. , Jocoy Emily L. , Bult Carol J. , Teicher Beverly A. , Smith Malcolm A. , Lock Richard B.
Published: June 2023

Background

While children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) experience close to a 90% likelihood of cure, the outcome for certain high‐risk pediatric ALL subtypes remains dismal. Spleen tyrosine kinase (SYK) is a prominent cytosolic nonreceptor tyrosine kinase in pediatric B‐lineage ALL (B‐ALL). Activating mutations or overexpression of Fms‐related receptor tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3) are associated with poor outcome in hematological malignancies. TAK‐659 (mivavotinib) is a dual SYK/FLT3 reversible inhibitor, which has been clinically evaluated in several other hematological malignancies. Here, we investigate the in vivo efficacy of TAK‐659 against pediatric ALL patient‐derived xenografts (PDXs).

Methods

SYK and FLT3 mRNA expression was quantified by RNA‐seq. PDX engraftment and drug responses in NSG mice were evaluated by enumerating the proportion of human CD45+ cells (%huCD45+) in the peripheral blood. TAK‐659 was administered per oral at 60 mg/kg daily for 21 days. Events were defined as %huCD45+ ≥ 25%. In addition, mice were humanely killed to assess leukemia infiltration in the spleen and bone marrow (BM). Drug efficacy was assessed by event‐free survival and stringent objective response measures.

Results

FLT3 and SYK mRNA expression was significantly higher in B‐lineage compared with T‐lineage PDXs. TAK‐659 was well tolerated and significantly prolonged the time to event in six out of eight PDXs tested. However, only one PDX achieved an objective response. The minimum mean %huCD45+ was significantly reduced in five out of eight PDXs in TAK‐659‐treated mice compared with vehicle controls.

Conclusions

TAK‐659 exhibited low to moderate single‐agent in vivo activity against pediatric ALL PDXs representative of diverse subtypes.
Comparative analysis of hydrothermal properties of ramie fiber‐reinforced phenolic resin and ramie fiber‐reinforced unsaturated polyester composites
Authors: Wang Anni , Yin Peng , Liu Xiaogang , Xian Guijun
Published: June 2023

Ramie fiber‐reinforced polymer (RFRP) composites are widely used in various fields owing to their environmental friendliness and cost efficiency. To understand the influence of different resin matrices on the mechanical properties and durability of RFRP composites under the same conditions and obtain better performance, ramie fiber‐reinforced phenolic resin (RFRPR) composites and ramie fiber‐reinforced unsaturated polyester (RFRUP) composites produced through compression molding were studied under hydrothermal conditions of 60°C with 50%, 85%, and 98% relative humidity for 3 months. The water absorption, tensile, flexural, and short‐beam shear properties were studied. The RFRPR composite had better flexural strength and short‐beam strength than the RFRUP composite. The saturated water absorption, water molecule diffusion coefficient, and retention rate of the RFRUP composite were higher than those of the RFRPR composite owing to the difference in the interfacial adhesion properties. The erosion of water molecules led to serious deterioration in the interfacial bonding performance of the RFRPR composite. It was found that the greater the humidity, the greater was the degree of interfacial degradation. This study lays the foundation for the further promotion and application of RFRP composites.
Toward understanding the crystallization behavior of polypropylene‐based nanocomposites: Effect of ethylene–octene copolymer and nanoclay localization
Authors: Tarashi Sara , Nazockdast Hossein , Karbalaei‐Bagher Milad , Rostami Amir , Mehranpour Milad
Published: June 2023

The crystallization properties of polypropylene (PP), a widely used polymer in industry, can be modified to overcome its mechanical limitations. In the current work, we investigated the effect of ethylene octene copolymer (EOC), blend morphology, nanoclay loading, nano‐localization, and component ratios on PP/EOC crystallization behavior in various aspects, including crystallization rate, degree of crystallinity, nucleation state, and crystalline phases. The results revealed that adding EOC with varying ratios can decrease PP crystallinity both in degree and rate due to the partial miscibility of components through grafting. Furthermore, it was found that the effect of the nanoclay on the crystallization behavior of PP is dependent on the nanoclay loading and its localization in the blend. The nanoclay, therefore, served as a nucleation agent at low nanoparticle contents, accelerating the crystallization rate regardless of the blend's microstructure. However, the crystallization rate of the blend samples at high nanoclay contents (above the rheological percolation threshold) was strongly influenced by the type of morphology. Accordingly, high nanoclay concentrations in blends with matrix‐dispersed morphologies reduced crystallization rates (increasing half‐time from 164 to 216 and 186 s), primarily because PP chains slowed down due to their interactions with nanoparticles and nanoclay hindrance. In contrast, in a blend with a co‐continues‐type morphology, the crystallization rates increased (decreasing half‐time from 624 to 270 and 236 s) due to nano‐localization at the interface and morphology transformation to the matrix‐dispersed one. The blends and nanocomposites based on PP/EOC were also investigated to determine the relationship between the crystallization behavior and mechanical properties.
Cardanol derivatives as compatibilizers for strengthening and toughening polylactic acid/bamboo fiber bio‐composites
Authors: Song Xinyu , Zhang Caili , Yang Yang , Yang Fan , Weng Yunxuan
Published: June 2023

The application of bamboo fibers (BFs) as a reinforcing filler in polylactic acid (PLA) is hindered by their poor compatibility owing to the intrinsic hydrophilia of BFs and the hydrophobicity of PLA. To solve this issue, cardanol (CD) and epoxidized cardanol glycidyl ether (ECGE) were used as compatibilizers to strengthen and toughen PLA/BF bio‐composites, to the best of our knowledge, preparing PLA/BF/CD and PLA/BF/ECGE bio‐composites. The impact strengths of the synthesized bio‐composites increased from 7.75 to 23.75 and 7.75 to 23.95 kJ/m2, respectively, compared with that of a PLA/BF composite without compatibilizer. The investigation of the mechanical properties, crystallization, fractured surface morphology, and solvent stress‐cracking resistance properties revealed that the toughening mechanism of the PLA/BF/CD bio‐composites are mainly based on the plasticization of CD, which results in high impact toughness but low tensile strength. Moreover, the modification with ECGE improves the impact and tensile strengths of the bio‐composite owing to the following factors: (1) the epoxy groups of ECGE generate strong interactions with the BF surface and PLA to form an enhanced interfacial structure; (2) when present at high concentrations, chain extension reaction between ECGE and PLA to increase the molecular chain entanglement of PLA; and (3) upon curing and crosslinking, ECGE forms an entangled network structure that toughens the matrix.
Prenatal testing for imprinting disorders: A laboratory perspective
Authors: Beygo Jasmin , Russo Silvia , Tannorella Pierpaola , Santen Gijs W. E. , Dufke Andreas , Schlaich Elia , Eggermann Thomas
Published: June 2023

Imprinting Disorders (ImpDis) are a group of congenital syndromes associated with up to four different types of molecular disturbances affecting the monoallelic and parent‐of‐origin specific expression of genomically imprinted genes. Though each ImpDis is characterized by aberrations at a distinct genetic site and a specific set of postnatal clinical signs, there is a broad overlap between several of them. In particular, the prenatal features of ImpDis are non‐specific. Therefore, the decision on the appropriate molecular testing strategy is difficult. A further molecular characteristic of ImpDis is (epi)genetic mosaicism, which makes prenatal testing for ImpDis challenging. Accordingly, sampling and diagnostic workup has to consider the methodological limitations. Furthermore, the prediction of the clinical outcome of a pregnancy can be difficult. False‐negative results can occur, and therefore fetal imaging should be the diagnostic tool on which decisions on the management of the pregnancy should be based. In summary, the decision for molecular prenatal testing for ImpDis should be based on close exchanges between clinicians, geneticists, and the families before the initiation of the test. These discussions should weigh the chances and challenges of the prenatal test, with focus on the need of the family.
Where flexibility meets precision
Authors: Rimgaila Lukas , Bartulevičius Tadas , Andriukaitis Deividas , Stankevič Valdemar , Vyšniauskas Arnas , Rohm Oliver
Published: June 2023

The development of ultrafast lasers with higher functionality as a result of recent advances in the study of light‐matter interaction has revolutionized the micromachining of materials with greater accuracy and a smaller heat‐affected zone. The popularity of femtosecond lasers in industry has furthered enhancements to their flexibility and efficiency, including different methods of operation such as in the FemtoLux 30, enabling new techniques in material processing.
Ultrashort‐pulse lasers help to observe more
Authors: van Mourik Frank , Groot Marloes , Prochnow Oliver
Published: June 2023

The choice of femtosecond lasers for use in multiphoton microscopy is not trivial. It is a fine balance between peak power, pulse energy and laser wavelength. In this white paper we discuss important laser parameters and the impact these have on the quality of the results.
Phabulous developments in European micro‐optics
Authors: Picot‐Clémente Jérémy
Published: June 2023

Jessica van Heck, managing director, and Ton Offermans, technical coordinator of the European pilot‐line association Phabulous which is providing highly advanced and robust manufacturing technology for optical free‐form microstructures, talk to EPIC photonics technologies program manager Jérémy Picot‐Clémente.
How does upward social comparison impact the delay discounting: The chain mediation of belief in a just world and relative deprivation
Authors: Pan Chao , Zhao Menghan
Published: June 2023

This present study aimed to explore the relationship between upward social comparison, relative deprivation, belief in a just world, and delay discounting by surveying 614 college students. The results showed the following: (1) Upward social comparison could significantly and negatively predict individuals' delay discounting; and (2) belief in a just world and relative deprivation had a chain mediating effect on the impact of upward social comparison on delay discounting. Specifically, when individuals experienced more upward social comparison, their belief in a just world will be weakened, which increased feelings of relative deprivation and ultimately led them to be more likely to choose the recent but smaller rewards and forego rewards that require waiting but are larger.
Childhood asthma treatment based on indirect hyperresponsiveness test: Randomized controlled trial
Authors: Ciółkowski Janusz , Hydzik Paweł , Rachel Marta , Mazurek-Durlak Zofia , Skalska-Izdebska Renata , Mazurek Henryk
Published: June 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to assess the usefulness of indirect airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) test using hypertonic saline in determining the dose of inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) to maintain asthma control in children.

Methods

A group of 104 patients (7–15 years) with mild–moderate atopic asthma were monitored for their asthma control and treatment for 1 year. Patients were randomly assigned to a symptom‐only monitored group and a group with therapy changes based on the symptoms and severity of AHR. Spirometry, exhaled nitric oxide, and blood eosinophils (BEos) were assessed on enrollment and every 3 months thereafter.

Results

During the study period, the number of mild exacerbations was lower in the AHR group (44 vs. 85; the absolute rate per patient 0.83 vs. 1.67; relative rate 0.49, 95% confidence interval: 0.346–0.717 (p < 0.001)]. Mean changes from baseline in clinical (except asthma control test), inflammatory, and lung function parameters were similar between groups. Baseline BEos correlated with AHR and was a risk factor for recurrent exacerbation in all patients. There was no significant difference in the final ICS dose between AHR and symptoms group: 287 (SD 255) vs. 243 (158) p = 0.092.

Conclusions

Adding an indirect AHR test to clinical monitoring of childhood asthma reduced the number of mild exacerbations, with similar current clinical control and final ICS dose as in the symptom‐monitored group. The hypertonic saline test appears to be a simple, cheap, and safe tool for monitoring the treatment of mild‐to‐moderate asthma in children.
Changes in glucose tolerance in people with cystic fibrosis after initiation of first‐generation CFTR modulator treatment
Authors: Ekblond Rikke Spragge , Nielsen Bibi Uhre , Højte Christine , Almdal Thomas Peter , Shaw James , Pressler Tacjana , Faurholt‐Jepsen Daniel , Mathiesen Inger Hee Mabuza
Published: June 2023

Background

Cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) modulators have been shown to have a beneficial effect on pulmonary function and nutritional status in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF), but the extent to which they affect glucose tolerance is not fully understood. In the current study, we evaluated the change in glucose tolerance and insulin secretion after first‐generation CFTR modulator treatment in adults with CF.

Methods

We performed a longitudinal observational study with an oral glucose tolerance test performed at baseline and after three and a half years of follow‐up. The test comprised glucose, C‐peptide and insulin measured at fasting, 1 h, and 2 h, and HbA1c at fasting. We compared changes in parameters of glucose tolerance and insulin secretion from baseline to follow‐up.

Results

Among 55 participants, 37 (67%) were treated with a first‐generation CFTR modulator for a median of 21 months. Glucose levels were unchanged in both the treated and untreated group. In the treated group, C‐peptide levels declined, yet no significant differences in glucose, insulin, and C‐peptide levels were observed between the groups. HbA1c increased in both groups, while no significant change in the insulin sensitivity indices was detected in either group. However, homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance tended to decline in the treated group, whilst tending towards an increase in the untreated group. The difference between the groups reached statistical significance (p = 0.040).

Conclusion

Treatment with first‐generation CFTR modulators, mainly tezacaftor/ivacaftor, did not seem to be associated with glucose tolerance nor insulin secretion in adults with CF. However, CFTR modulators may still have a beneficial effect on insulin sensitivity.
Childhood sarcoidosis in the middle Anatolia of Turkey
Authors: Hangül Melih , Köse Mehmet , Pekcan Sevgi , Ersoy Ali , Unal Gokcen , Caglar Hanife Tugce
Published: June 2023

Objective

This retrospective study aimed to describe the clinical and radiological features, diagnostic methods, laboratory findings, organ involvement, and treatment strategies of 22 patients who followed up with late‐onset childhood sarcoidosis and compare them with the literature.

Material and Method

This retrospective multicenter study reviewed the medical records of 22 children with sarcoidosis who applied to the Pediatric pulmonology department of Erciyes University Faculty of Medicine and Necmettin Erbakan Faculty of Medicine in 2012 and 2022.

Results

The mean age of the patients at the time of diagnosis was 13.1/year (interquartile range [IQR]1:6.3‐[IQR]3:15.7). The most common first presenting symptom was cough 40.9% (n = 9), weight loss 31.8% (n = 7), and dyspnea 22.7% (n = 5). There were elevated levels of C‐reactive protein (CRP; 59%), angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE; 54.5%), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR; 54.5%), and immunoglobulin G (IgG; 54.5%). Twenty patients (90%) received systemic steroid treatment. Eighteen (81.8%) of these patients responded positively to treatment. Two patients had a recurrence.

Conclusion

The incidence of sarcoidosis in children in Turkey is currently unknown. However, a regional average of 2.2 cases per year has been documented for the first time. Contrary to previous studies, a significant prevalence of consanguineous marriage was observed in our study. While constitutional symptoms were most common in other studies, the cough was the most common symptom in our study. To our knowledge, this is one of the Turkish studies with the highest number of sarcoidosis in children and one of the few European studies on sarcoidosis in children.
Social networks and drivers of highly skilled migration: The case of Shenzhen City in China
Authors: Gong Yue , Sun Li , Xuan Lingyi
Published: June 2023

In China, the number of highly skilled domestic migrants has been growing significantly. Many highly skilled personnel have migrated to megacities located in eastern China. Through semistructured interviews with 54 highly skilled migrants in the city of Shenzhen, we find that economic incentives, urban amenities, preferential policies and social networks act as drivers for their migration. Because the role of social networks has been overlooked in the existing literature, we focus on this particular driver of migration. The desire to be physically embedded in social networks has driven migrants to move to Shenzhen: they cite proximity to parents, partners and former schoolmates as motivating factors. Such embeddedness provides them with a sense of ‘social affiliation’. While previous research has highlighted the role of migrants' social capital, we suggest that highly skilled migrants do not necessarily rely on this resource. Instead, we focus on what we call ‘migration for social affiliation’, and offer a novel angle on the precise role of migrants' social networks.
Maternal mortality in Greece: The evolution from traditional mammis to overmedicalized obstetric care during the 20th century
Authors: Raftakis Michail
Published: June 2023

Greece has been absent from the literature on maternal mortality in historical Europe, as very little evidence is yet available regarding maternal mortality patterns before the 1950s. The discontinuity in the collection and publication of demographic data in Greece, as well as the nonavailability of continuous national published statistics are the most important reasons for the lack of studies on maternal mortality. Therefore, this study aims to address this gap by utilising annual published statistics at the aggregate level, focusing primarily on the first half of the 20th century, while also making a significant contribution to the postwar period. The results of the study indicate a high incidence of maternal deaths in Greece, particularly in the northern—mostly rural and later annexed—regions of the country until the late 1930s. An important reason may be the lack of obstetric care in these areas. Although major urban centres were primarily served by qualified midwives by the mid‐1920s, rural Greece had access only to untrained midwives due to the insufficient number of trained midwives that could cater the needs of the entire country. Other contributing factors may include the high prevalence of infectious diseases, such as tuberculosis and malaria in certain areas of the country, poor nutritional status throughout the country before the 1950s, low literacy rates, low living standards, and lack of public health infrastructures. Greece's case study is intriguing as it has transitioned from an almost absolute lack of obstetric care, with the exception of the mostly untrained rural midwives known asmammisbefore the 1950s, to becoming one of the most highly medicalised countries in Europe by the end of the 20th century, succeeding very low levels of maternal mortality.
Analyzing a designed experiment with a dispersion response and many replicates per condition
Authors: Kirsch Andrew , Mercer Michael C.
Published: June 2023

Most designed experiments (DOEs) seek to shift a mean response, but a few aim to minimize the dispersion of a response, using the standard deviation (STD) of replicates at each condition. Obtaining sufficient statistical power is often a challenge; dozens of replicates may well be needed to detect a substantial reduction in dispersion. For the problem which motivated this paper, many replicates were feasible, since the two‐level factorial DOE studied a highly automated gage for measuring the axial strength of a mass‐produced metal object. After 30 replicates per condition had been collected, the question arose whether to calculate one dispersion estimate per condition (based on 30 raw data), two estimates per condition (15 raw data each), three estimates (10 each) etc.? A Monte Carlo simulation showed that the best arrangement of the raw data is often one that approximately balances the number of dispersion estimates and the dispersion subgroup size per each condition (e.g., five dispersion estimates of subgroup size 6) for all but the most severely skewed raw data distributions. The authors provide free access to a simulator which may be used by the reader to explore a variety of two‐level factorial DOEs, as needed. This enables experimenters in any subject domain to design such DOEs with sufficient power, while making best use of the raw data in the analysis.
Paediatric foreign body aspiration and endobronchial granuloma
Authors: Lim Adeline Y. L. , Suresh Sadasivam
Published: June 2023

Key message

Paediatric foreign body aspiration can result in pulmonary complications including the formation of endobronchial granuloma, which can be managed conservatively or via surgical or bronchoscopic intervention. This case highlights the importance of having a high index of suspicion for foreign body aspiration in patients with persistent symptoms or abnormal imaging.
Finite‐time input/output‐to‐state stability of nonlinear stochastic switched time‐varying systems with mode‐dependent average dwell time
Authors: Zhang Meng , Zhu Quanxin , Gao Lijun
Published: June 2023

This article investigates the finite‐time input/output‐to‐state stability (FTIOSS) of stochastic switched nonlinear delay systems (SSNDS). This article extends the well‐known concepts of input/output‐to‐state stability to finite‐time control problems. By using the finite‐time stable function and generalized function, we establish an unified FTIOSS criteron for stochastic switched systems, where both stable and unstable switching signals are considered. Compare with the existing works, the main advantage is that the constructed Lyapunov function (LF) is permitted to own indefinite‐derivative. Meanwhile, the Razumikhin technique and the mode‐dependent average‐dwell time (MDADT) approach are introduced to guarantee the FTIOSS of the system. The efficacy of the obtained results is demonstrated by an example.
Event‐triggered model‐free adaptive predictive control for multiple‐input and multiple‐output networked control systems under deception attacks
Authors: Li Fanghui , Hou Zhongsheng
Published: June 2023

The event‐triggered model‐free adaptive predictive control (ET‐MFAPC) problem for a class of multiple‐input and multiple‐output nonlinear networked control systems (NCSs) with network delay under deception attacks is addressed in this article. First, a data driven MFAPC strategy with adaptive predictive gain is proposed by transforming the NCSs into an equivalent data model via dynamic linearization technology and designing controller only with I/O information rather than the system model. Meanwhile, an ET mechanism is applied to reduce the amount of data transmission under the limited network bandwidth. Further, the boundedness and convergence of tracking error is rigorous proved through the contraction mapping principle. Finally, the theoretical results are demonstrated through detailed simulations.
Permutation‐based multiple testing corrections for P$$ P $$‐values and confidence intervals for cluster randomized trials
Authors: Watson Samuel I. , Akinyemi Joshua O. , Hemming Karla
Published: June 2023

In this article, we derive and compare methods to derive P‐values and sets of confidence intervals with strong control of the family‐wise error rates and coverage for estimates of treatment effects in cluster randomized trials with multiple outcomes. There are few methods for P‐value corrections and deriving confidence intervals, limiting their application in this setting. We discuss the methods of Bonferroni, Holm, and Romano and Wolf and adapt them to cluster randomized trial inference using permutation‐based methods with different test statistics. We develop a novel search procedure for confidence set limits using permutation tests to produce a set of confidence intervals under each method of correction. We conduct a simulation‐based study to compare family‐wise error rates, coverage of confidence sets, and the efficiency of each procedure in comparison to no correction using both model‐based standard errors and permutation tests. We show that the Romano‐Wolf type procedure has nominal error rates and coverage under non‐independent correlation structures and is more efficient than the other methods in a simulation‐based study. We also compare results from the analysis of a real‐world trial.
Enhancing the Performance of Cobalt‐based Oxide Electrode Material for Asymmetric Supercapacitor Devices
Authors: Afzal Amir Muhammad , Ejaz Tahir , Iqbal Muhammad Waqas , Almutairi Badriah S. , Imran Muhammad , Manzoor Alina , Hegazy H. H. , Yasmeen Aneeqa , Zaka Asma , Abbas Tasawar
Published: June 2023

Supercapattery is an energy storage device which shows high power and energy densities compared to supercapacitors and batteries. A simple and cost‐effective sol‐gel method was used to synthesize the aluminium‐doped cobalt oxide (Al‐Co3O4). The structural, morphological and composition analyses were investigated using X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Further, Brunauer‐Emmett‐Teller (BET) calculations were performed, which showed an enhancement in surface area. The specific capacity of the Al‐doped sample was increased up to 708 C/g compared to the reference sample (Co3O4=420 C/g). A supercapattery device was designed by using the activated carbon as a negative electrode and the Al‐Co3O4 as the positive electrode in two electrode assemblies. The estimated value of the specific capacity of Al‐Co3O4 was 189 C/g. Furthermore, the obtained energy and power density values were 42 Wh/kg and 2080 W/kg, respectively. To investigate the stability, this device was subjected to 5000 charging/discharging cycles that maintained 90 % of its initial capacity. Our findings provide a foundation for improving the performance of energy storage devices.
Synthesis, Swelling, Diffusion and Cationic Dye Adsorption Studies of Semi‐IPN Sodium Alginate/ Poly(HEMA‐co‐MA) Hydrogels
Authors: Taşdelen Betül
Published: June 2023

In this study, the novel pH‐sensitive s‐IPN consist of sodium alginate integrated with poly(HEMA‐co‐MA) hydrogel matrix are prepared by using two‐step methodology. In the first step, 2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA)/maleic acid (MA) copolymeric hydrogels are prepared by gamma radiation polymerization. Then, poly(HEMA‐co‐MA) hydrogel was immersed in sodium alginate solution (SA) and finally gamma radiation polymerization was carried out. The swelling, pH‐sensivity and diffusion properties of the prepared s‐IPN gels in deionized water and in dye solutions were investigated. Methylene Blue (MB) was used as a model dye. MB adsorption capacities of the hydrogels were found to be 0.26, 0.40 and 13.77 mg MB/g dry gel in PHEMA, P(HEMA‐co‐MA) and s‐IPN SA/P(HEMA‐co‐MA) hydrogels, respectively. MB release data was fitted to various kinetic models to study the dye release behavior. The MB release from all the prepared hydrogels fitted the Korsmeyer‐Peppas model. Swelling, diffusion and MB adsorption properties of the new s‐IPN hydrogel were improved with the inclusion of SA and MA in the gel structure.
Halogen Bonding Interactions of Haloaromatic Endocrine Disruptors and the Potential for Inhibition of Iodothyronine Deiodinases
Authors: Bayse Craig A.
Published: June 2023

Halogen bonding (XB) is a potential mechanism for the inhibition of the thyroid‐activating/deactivating iodothyronine deiodinase family of selenoproteins through interactions with halogenated endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs). Trends in XB interactions were examined using density functional theory for a series of polyhalogenated dibenzo‐1,4‐dioxins, biphenyls, and other EDCs with methylselenolate, a simple model of the Dio active site selenocysteine. The strengths of the interactions depend upon the halogen (Br>Cl), the degree of substitution, and the position of the acceptor. In terms of donor‐acceptor energies, interactions at the meta position are often the strongest, suggesting a link to the topology of THs, especially for outer‐ring deiodination of thyroxine, which occurs at a meta iodine, and produces the active TH. However, relationships between XB interaction strengths and potential for Dio inhibition should be made in the context of the binding to the active sites, the topology of which are not fully characterized.
A systematic review and meta‐analytic confirmatory factor analysis of the perceived stress scale (PSS‐10 and PSS‐14)
Authors: Yılmaz Koğar Esin , Koğar Hakan
Published: June 2023

Stress is defined as a person's interaction with their environment that is thought to threaten or affect an individual's potential, resources, and well‐being. The most popular instrument to assess perceived stress is the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS). Therefore, making a systematic review of studies testing the internal structure of PSS and conducting a Meta‐Analytic Confirmatory Factor Analysis (MACFA) on the database created with the information obtained from these studies are the aims of this research. A total of 76 samples from 57 unique studies were included in this database using various inclusion criteria (total N for PSS‐14 = 28,632, for PSS‐10 = 46,053). The correlated two‐factor model for PSS was confirmed by MACFA performed on the pooled correlation matrix generated by the random effects meta‐analysis. Findings of dimensionality analyses, factor loadings, omega values, and measurement invariance showed that the model that best explained the factor structure of PSS was the correlated two‐factor model. The strict measurement invariance of the PSS was achieved across age and clinical status, and the internal consistency was high according to the omega values. Several recommendations moving forward are discussed.
WO3‐Assisted Synergetic Effect Catalyzes Efficient and CO‐Tolerant Hydrogen Oxidation for PEMFCs
Authors: Tian Han , Yu Xu , Huang Weimin , Chang Ziwei , Pei Fenglai , Zhou Jiangdong , Dai Ningning , Meng Ge , Chen Chang , Cui Xiangzhi , Shi Jianlin
Published: June 2023

Developing anode catalysts with substantially enhanced activity for hydrogen oxidation reaction (HOR) and CO tolerance performance is of great importance for the commercial applications of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). Herein, an excellent CO‐tolerant catalyst (Pd‐WO3/C) has been fabricated by loading Pd nanoparticles on WO3 via an immersion‐reduction route. A remarkably high power density of 1.33 W cm−2 at 80 °C is obtained by using the optimized 3Pd‐WO3/C as the anode catalyst of PEMFCs, and the moderately reduced power density (73% remained) in CO/H2 mixed gas can quickly recover after removal of CO‐contamination from hydrogen fuel, which is not possible by using Pt/C or Pd/C as anode catalyst. The prominent HOR activity of 3Pd‐WO3/C is attributed to the optimized interfacial electron interaction, in which the activated H* adsorbed on Pd species can be effectively transferred to WO3 species through hydrogen spillover effect and then oxidized through the H species insert/output effect during the formation of HxWO3 in acid electrolyte. More importantly, a novel synergetic catalytic mechanism about excellent CO tolerance is proposed, in which Pd and WO3 respectively absorbs/activates CO and H2O, thus achieving the CO electrooxidation and re‐exposure of Pd active sites for CO‐tolerant HOR.
Ultra‐Tough Waterborne Polyurethane‐Based Graft‐Copolymerized Piezoresistive Composite Designed for Rehabilitation Training Monitoring Pressure Sensors
Authors: Yu Xu , Yang Hua , Ye Zhihao , Chen Kaifeng , Yuan Ting , Dong Yabo , Xiao Rui , Wang Zongrong
Published: June 2023

Effective training is crucial for patients who need rehabilitation for achieving optimal recovery and reducing complications. Herein, a wireless rehabilitation training monitoring band with a highly sensitive pressure sensor is proposed and designed. It utilizes polyaniline@waterborne polyurethane (PANI@WPU) as a piezoresistive composite material, which is prepared via the in situ grafting polymerization of PANI on the WPU surface. WPU is designed and synthesized with tunable glass transition temperatures ranging from −60 to 0 °C. Dipentaerythritol (Di‐PE) and ureidopyrimidinone (UPy) groups are introduced, endowing the material with good tensile strength (14.2 MPa), toughness (62 MJ−1m−3), and great elasticity (low permanent deformation: 2%). Di‐PE and UPy enhance the mechanical properties of WPU by increasing the cross‐linking density and crystallinity. Combining the toughness of WPU and the high‐density microstructure derived by hot embossing technology, the pressure sensor exhibits high sensitivity (168.1 kPa−1), fast response time (32 ms), and excellent stability (10 000 cycles with 3.5% decay). In addition, the rehabilitation training monitoring band is equipped with a wireless Bluetooth module, which can be easily applied to monitor the rehabilitation training effect of patients using an applet. Therefore, this work has the potential to significantly broaden the application of WPU‐based pressure sensors for rehabilitation monitoring.
Anion Exchange of Metal Particles on Carbon‐Based Skeletons for Promoting Dielectric Equilibrium and High‐Efficiency Electromagnetic Wave Absorption
Authors: Hou Tianqi , Wang Jianwei , Zheng Tingting , Liu Yue , Wu Guanglei , Yin Pengfei
Published: June 2023

The combination of carbon materials and magnetic elements is considered as an effective strategy to obtain high‐performance electromagnetic wave (EMW) absorption materials. However, using nanoscale regulation to the optimization of composite material dielectric properties and enhanced magnetic loss properties is facing significant challenges. Here, the dielectric constant and magnetic loss capability of the carbon skeleton loaded with Cr compound particles are further tuned to enhance the EMW absorption performance. After 700 °C thermal resuscitation of the Cr3‐polyvinyl pyrrolidone composite material, the chromium compound is represented as a needle‐shaped structure of nanoparticles, which is fixed on the carbon skeleton derived from the polymer. The size‐optimized CrN@PC composites are obtained after the substitution of more electronegative nitrogen elements using an anion‐exchange strategy. The minimum reflection loss value of the composite is −105.9 dB at a CrN particle size of 5 nm, and the effective absorption bandwidth is 7.68 GHz (complete Ku‐band coverage) at 3.0 mm. This work overcomes the limitations of impedance matching imbalance and magnetic loss deficiency in carbon‐based materials through size tuning, and opens a new way to obtain carbon‐based composites with ultra‐high attenuation capability.
Theoretical Insights into Single‐Atom Catalysts Supported on N‐Doped Defective Graphene for Fast Reaction Redox Kinetics in Lithium–Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Duan Tengfei , Wang Li , Ma Zhongyun , Pei Yong
Published: June 2023

Single‐atom catalysts are proven to be an effective strategy for suppressing shuttle effect at the source by accelerating the redox kinetics of intermediate polysulfides in lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries. However, only a few 3d transition metal single‐atom catalysts (Ti, Fe, Co, Ni) are currently applied for sulfur reduction/oxidation reactions (SRR/SOR), which remains challenging for screening new efficient catalysts and understanding the relationship between structure–activity of catalysts. Herein, N‐doped defective graphene (NG) supported 3d, 4d, and 5d transition metals are used as single‐atom catalyst models to explore electrocatalytic SRR/SOR in Li–S batteries by using density functional theory calculations. The results show that M1/NG (M1 = Ru, Rh, Ir, Os) exhibits lower free energy change of rate‐determining step and Li2S decomposition energy barrier, which significantly enhance the SRR and SOR activity compared to other single‐atom catalysts. Furthermore, the study accurately predicts the by machine learning based on various descriptors and reveals the origin of the catalyst activity by analyzing the importance of the descriptors. This work provides great significance for understanding the relationships between the structure–activity of catalysts, and manifests that the employed machine learning approach is instructive for theoretical studies of single‐atom catalytic reactions.
Advance in Nanomedicine for Improving Mucosal Penetration and Effective Therapy of Cervical Cancer
Authors: Liu Yu , Yang Ziyi , Feng Linglin , Xia Yu , Wei Gang , Lu Weiyue
Published: June 2023

Insufficient intratumor drug distribution and serious adverse effects are often associated with systemic chemotherapy for cervical cancer. Considering the location of cervical cancer, access to the cervix through the vagina may provide an alternative administration route for high drug amounts at the tumor site, minimal systemic exposure as well as convenience of non‐invasive self‐medication. Enormous progress has been made in nanomedicine to improve mucosal penetration and enhance the effectiveness of therapy for cervical cancer. This review article first introduce the physiological state of cervicovaginal cavity and the characteristics of intravaginal environment in cervical cancers. Based on introduction to the physiological state of cervicovaginal cavity and the characteristics of intravaginal environment in cervical cancers, both “first mucus‐adhering then mucosal penetration” and “first mucus‐penetrating then mucosal penetration” strategies are discussed with respect to mechanism, application condition, and examples. Finally, existing challenges and future directions are envisioned in the rational design, facile synthesis, and comprehensive utilization of nanomedicine for local therapy of cervical cancer. This review is expected to provide useful reference information for future research on nanomedicine for intravaginally administered formulations for topical treatment of cervical cancer.