bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bayesian optimization algorithm‐based Gaussian process regression for in situ state of health prediction of minorly deformed lithium‐ion battery
Authors: Liu Qi , Bao Xubin , Guo Dandan , Li Ling
Published: January 2024

Accurate on‐board state‐of‐health (SOH) prediction is crucial for lithium‐ion battery applications. This study presents an in situ prediction technique for minorly deformed battery SOH, utilizing a Gaussian process regression (GPR) model tuned by a Bayesian optimization algorithm. Unlike previous methods that interpret voltage–time data as incremental capacitance curves, our approach directly operates on raw voltage–time data. We apply gray relational analysis to select feature variables as inputs and train the Bayesian Gaussian process regression (BGPR) model using experimental data from batteries under different working conditions. To demonstrate the performance of the BGPR model, we compare it with stepwise linear regression, neural network, and Bayesian support vector machine (BSVM) models. The performance of these four models is evaluated using different performance indicators: mean absolute percentage error (MAPE), root‐mean‐squared percentage error (RMSPE), and coefficient of determination (R²). The results demonstrate that the BGPR model exhibits superior prediction performance with the lowest MAPE (0.11%), RMSPE (0.12%), and the highest R² (0.9915) for minorly deformed batteries. Furthermore, the BGPR model exhibits excellent robustness for SOH prediction of normal batteries under different conditions. This study provides an effective and robust method for accurate on‐board SOH prediction in lithium‐ion battery applications.
A viscoelastic–plastic constitutive model incorporating creep initiation stress for surrounding rock in deep roadways and its practical application
Authors: Kang Hui , Gong Peilin , Yi Kang , Wen Guang , Zhao Tong , Li Peng
Published: January 2024

With the increasing depth of engineering in rock masses, the issue of significant rheological deformation becomes notably prominent. To accurately characterize the deformation and failure behavior of the surrounding rock near the goaf in deep small coal pillars, we have developed a viscoelastic–plastic constitutive model that takes into account the initial stress associated with creep. This model builds upon an existing viscoelastic–plastic constitutive framework and is implemented numerically using C++ in the FLAC3D. The Oedometer test method is used to check the creep components and the calculated parameter (η/G) ensure convergence of numerical operations. We conducted both pre‐improvement and post‐improvement tests of the constitutive model in a simple numerical analysis of roadways. The enhanced model demonstrates improved accuracy in deviational stress calculations and proves suitable for modeling deep, soft roadways. Furthermore, we applied the improved model to simulate actual working conditions at Zhaozhuang Mine, where mining operations near the working face induce a fracture zone of approximately 3 m in the small coal pillar located at the goaf's edge. The new model closely aligns with the observed results, further validating its suitability for tunneling along the goaf. Tunneling and mining activities result in significant deformation at various locations, including the shoulder socket of the working face, the top angle of the coal pillar, and the bottom angle of the floor. The crushing zone at the working face extends up to 4 m. Rheological effects transform the triangular elastic core, from its original high‐pressure elastic state to a fracture and plastic zone in the deep coal. Stress in deep coal is transmitted along the triangular elastic core. Numerical simulation results closely match the excavation profile of the tunneling, providing valuable insights into the impact of mining activities. This study can provide reference for deformation of similar geological conditions and engineering situation.
Enhanced innate responses in microglia derived from retinoblastoma patient‐specific iPSCs
Authors: Xu Jia , Yu Si‐Jian , Sun Shuning , Li Yan‐Ping , Zhang Xiao , Jin Kangxin , Jin Zi‐Bing
Published: January 2024

RB1 deficiency leads to retinoblastoma (Rb), the most prevalent intraocular malignancy. Tumor‐associated macrophages (TAMs) are related to local inflammation disorder, particularly by increasing cytokines and immune escape. Microglia, the unique resident macrophages for retinal homeostasis, are the most important immune cells of Rb. However, whether RB1 deficiency affects microglial function remain unknown. In this study, microglia were successfully differentiated from Rb patient‐ derived human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) and human embryonic stem cells (hESCs), and then we investigated the function of RB1 in microglia by live imaging phagocytosis assay, immunofluorescence, RNA‐seq, qRT‐PCR, ELISA and retina organoids/microglia co‐culturing. RB1 was abundantly expressed in microglia and predominantly located in the nucleus. We then examined the phagocytosis ability and secretion function of iMGs in vitro. We found that RB1 deficiency did not affect the expression of microglia‐specific markers or the phagocytic abilities of these cells by live‐imaging. Upon LPS stimulation, RB1‐deficient microglia displayed enhanced innate immune responses, as evidenced by activated MAPK signaling pathway and elevated expression of IL‐6 and TNF‐α at both mRNA and protein levels, compared to wildtype microglia. Furthermore, retinal structure disruption was observed when retinal organoids were co‐cultured with RB1‐deficient microglia, highlighting the potential contribution of microglia to Rb development and potential therapeutic strategies for retinoblastoma.
Orofacial complications from immune checkpoint inhibitors: A retrospective analysis from two academic medical centers
Authors: Al‐Eryani Kamal , Epstein Joel B. , Monreal Anette Vistoso , Villa Alessandro
Published: January 2024

Background

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are FDA‐approved for various cancers, yet their orofacial immune‐related adverse events (irAEs) remain poorly understood. Our two‐center retrospective study aims to better understand the prevalence and nature of these orofacial irAEs.

Methods

We retrospectively collected demographics, ICI details, and onset of orofacial irAEs in ICI‐treated patients at University of California San Francisco and City of Hope (2013–2021). Orofacial irAEs were identified by ICD‐10 codes and data categorized as dry mouth/xerostomia, oral mucosal lesions, and orofacial neuropathies. Patients with pre‐existing orofacial conditions resembling the reported irAEs were excluded.

Results

Among 3768 ICI‐treated patients, 408 (10.8%) developed 467 orofacial irAEs: oral mucosal diseases (41.4%), dry mouth/xerostomia (41.0%), and orofacial neuropathies (17.6%). Notably, head and neck cancers had the highest incidence of orofacial irAEs.

Conclusions

Orofacial irAEs are relatively common in patients receiving ICIs, necessitating careful monitoring and management of these complications during and after the treatment.
Do political connections matter for bank efficiency in times of crisis?
Authors: Abdelsalam Omneya , Mollah Sabur , Tortosa‐Ausina Emili , El‐Masry Ahmed A.
Published: January 2024

Do political connections affect bank efficiency during crises? This study addresses this question by adopting a two‐stage approach that performs a quantile regression analysis on a unique dataset of listed banks in a region that has witnessed both financial and political crises, namely the Middle East and North Africa. Our results show that political connections are a driving force behind bank inefficiency. We find that the least efficient banks have the most significant association with political connections, thus supporting bailout theory. We also find that political connections influenced the efficiency of banks during the financial crisis, but not during the regional political crisis. Our results provide new evidence on the applicability of established political connection theories during political turmoil.
Development of pedotransfer functions for predicting saturated hydraulic conductivity in a Himalayan catchment: Sikkim, India
Authors: Deb Proloy , Das Susanta , Patle Ghanshyam T. , Elbeltagi Ahmed , Yadav Sudhir
Published: January 2024

Saturated hydraulic conductivity (Ks) plays a vital role in irrigation and drainage system design. Generally, Ks is estimated in the laboratory; however, it is expensive and tedious, especially in the Himalayan ranges where soil sampling is challenging due to topographical constraints. Therefore, in this study, pedotransfer functions were generated using multiple linear regression (MLR) models for the predictability of Ks in a Himalayan catchment in India. Fifty soil samples were collected and divided into two groups at a 70:30 ratio. Different soil attributes derived from 70% of samples were used for MLR generation, and attributes of the remaining 30% of samples were used for model validation. Six different MLR models constituting different independent soil attributes were generated and compared statistically. The results indicate that the MLR model comprising soil texture, bulk density, particle density, soil moisture content (MC), organic carbon content and porosity results in the highest adjusted coefficient of determination (R2; 0.93 and 0.89 during model generation and validation, respectively). Additionally, it was found that the weight basis MC ranged from 14% to 29% with a median value of 24%. These results demonstrate that simple MLR models can be used as an alternative to laborious experimental setups for Ks estimation. These findings can be used as guidelines for proper irrigation planning and design in mountainous catchments.
Front Cover
Authors: Song Xianlin , Zhong Wenhua , Li Zilong , Peng Shuchong , Zhang Hongyu , Wang Guijun , Dong Jiaqing , Liu Xuan , Xu Xiaoling , Liu Qiegen
Published: January 2024

A novel accelerated model‐based iterative reconstruction strategy for sparse‐view PAT aided by multi‐channel autoencoder priors was proposed. A multi‐channel denoising autoencoder network was designed to learn prior information, which provides constraints for model‐based iterative reconstruction. This integration accelerates the iteration process, leading to optimal reconstruction outcomes. The results show that the proposed method can achieve superior sparse‐view reconstruction with a significant acceleration of iteration. Notably, the proposed method exhibits excellent performance under extremely sparse condition.

For further details please visit the article by Xianlin Song, Wenhua Zhong, Zilong Li, Shuchong Peng, Hongyu Zhang, Guijun Wang, Jiaqing Dong, Xuan Liu, Xiaoling Xu, Qiegen Liu (e202300281)

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Development of a multi‐step screening procedure for redox active molecules in organic radical polymer anodes and as redox flow anolytes
Authors: Achazi Andreas J. , Fataj Xhesilda , Rohland Philip , Hager Martin D. , Schubert Ulrich S. , Mollenhauer Doreen
Published: January 2024

Benzo[d]‐X‐zolyl‐pyridinyl (XO, S, NH) radicals represent a promising class of redox‐active molecules for organic batteries. We present a multistep screening procedure to identify the most promising radical candidates. Experimental investigations and highly correlated wave function‐based calculations are performed to determine benchmark redox potentials. Based on these, the accuracies of different methods (semi‐empirical, density functional theory, wave function‐based), solvent models, dispersion corrections, and basis sets are evaluated. The developed screening procedure consists of three steps: First, a conformer search is performed with CREST. The molecules are selected based on the redox potentials calculated using GFN2‐xTB. Second, HOMO energies calculated with reparametrized B3LYP‐D3(BJ) and the def2‐SVP basis set are used as selection criteria. The final molecules are selected based on the redox potentials calculated from Gibbs energies using BP86‐D3(BJ)/def2‐TZVP. With this multistep screening approach, promising molecules can be suggested for synthesis, and structure–property relationships can be derived.
Optimized protocol for high‐vacuum scanning electron microscopy analysis of polyacrylamide hydrogel‐attached sperm cells in a binary system
Authors: Ebel Francisca , Ramírez‐Reveco Alfredo , Strobel Pablo , Wagenknecht Lisbeth , Rodríguez Nancy , Bosch Pablo , Rivarola Claudia
Published: January 2024

A protocol for the analysis of a binary system comprising polyacrylamide hydrogel‐attached sperm cells using high‐vacuum scanning electron microscopy (SEM) is presented. This protocol focuses on optimizing the SEM procedure to obtain accurate and detailed imaging of the sperm cells and their interactions with the hydrogel scaffold. The methodology involves a stepwise sample preparation, including sample dehydration through a gradual exchange of ethanol/water ratios, followed by the application of a conductive metal coating. By employing this modified protocol, the traditional use of acetone dehydration, which may introduce chemical alterations to the materials, is avoided. The proposed approach enables a comprehensive evaluation of the morphology and interactions within the biological system in contact with the soft material scaffold. Furthermore, the potential application of this protocol extends to the study of other mammalian reproductive cells or cells of different origins adhered to hydrogel scaffolds.

Research Highlights

Novel SEM protocol reveals precise imaging of sperm‐hydrogel attachment in a binary system, enhancing our understanding of cell‐material interactions.

By optimizing SEM procedures, the protocol achieves precise imaging of sperm‐hydrogel interactions using ethanol/water dehydration and a conductive metal coating.

This modified approach enables a thorough assessment of morphology and interactions in the binary system,extending its potential applicability to other reproductive cells on hydrogelscaffolds.
Exploring the use of mobile translation applications for culturally and linguistically diverse patients during medical imaging examinations in Australia – a systematic review
Authors: Taylor Bridget , McLean Glenda
Published: January 2024

Australian healthcare provides services to a vast culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) population. Professional interpreters are the gold standard for medical interpretation during healthcare interactions with CALD patients with limited English proficiency (LEP). However, accessing interpretation services can be difficult and may not be appropriate when timely translation is needed. Mobile translation applications (MTAs) have been suggested as a way for healthcare workers (HCWs) to provide timely translation when engaging with CALD patients. This systematic review aimed to investigate the potential for MTAs to be used in Australian medical imaging (MI) departments to enhance communication and safety for CALD patients and HCWs. Enablers and limitations of MTAs were appraised for use in MI and important design considerations suggested. Results found that MTAs may enhance communication between CALD patients and MI professionals and uphold safety by more accurately performing procedure matching and healthcare assessments. MTAs also offer readily available translation during out of hours care, emergency scenarios and everyday care. However, reliability of free‐input translation and patient confidentiality were flagged as important limitations of MTAs that need to be addressed should a safe MTA be designed for MI purposes. MTAs also need to be designed with consideration for CALD patients who have low literacy levels and mental impairment. Devices should be installed close to the point of care to enable MI professionals to easily retrieve and use the MTA. MTAs used in this way can potentially improve care of CALD patients in MI when professional interpreters are absent.
Cardiac injury in hospitalized patients with severe fever and thrombocytopenia syndrome
Authors: Ding Wenqian , Gong Chen , Meng Tao , Xiang Xinjian , Hong Baoyu , Shen Shichun , Ding Shenggang
Published: January 2024

Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS), an emerging infectious disease with a high fatality rate. Cardiac injury in SFTS patients is a major concern. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of cardiac injury and its association with mortality in hospitalized patients infected with novel Bunyavirus. Cardiac injury was defined as the presence of any of the following abnormalities: (1) blood levels of cardiac biomarkers (creatine kinase‐MB, troponin‐I, B‐type natriuretic peptide or N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide); (2) new abnormalities in electrocardiography. The 203 SFTS patients were included in the final analysis. The proportion of SFTS patients developing cardiac injury during hospitalization was 71.4% (145/203). Compared with the uninjured group, the cardiac injury group had the severity of cardiac injury was underscored by higher median hospital costs (31420 vs. 12911, p < 0.001), higher proportion of intensive care units admissions (13.1% vs. 3.4%, p = 0.041), and higher hospital mortality rate (33.8% vs. 6.9%, p < 0.001). Multivariable‐adjusted Cox proportional hazards regression analysis showed that cardiac injury was associated with higher mortality during hospitalization (hazards ratio, 7.349; 95% CI: 2.352–22.960). Cardiac injury is common among hospitalized SFTS patients, and it is associated with higher risk of mortality.
Transition paths for condition‐based maintenance‐driven smart services
Authors: Akkermans Henk , Basten Rob , Zhu Quan , Van Wassenhove Luk
Published: January 2024

This research investigates growth inhibitors for smart services driven by condition‐based maintenance (CBM). Despite the fast rise of Industry 4.0 technologies, such as smart sensoring, internet of things, and machine learning (ML), smart services have failed to keep pace. Combined, these technologies enable CBM to achieve the lean goal of high reliability and low waste for industrial equipment. Equipment located at customers throughout the world can be monitored and maintained by manufacturers and service providers, but so far industry uptake has been slow. The contributions of this study are twofold. First, it uncovers industry settings that impede the use of equipment failure data needed to train ML algorithms to predict failures and use these predictions to trigger maintenance. These empirical settings, drawn from four global machine equipment manufacturers, include either under‐ or over‐maintenance (i.e., either too much or too little periodic maintenance). Second, formal analysis of a system dynamics model based on these empirical settings reveals a sweet spot of industry settings in which such inhibitors are absent. Companies that fall outside this sweet spot need to follow specific transition paths to reach it. This research discusses these paths, from both a research and practice perspective.
Spectroscopic characterization of extra‐framework hydrated proton complexes with the extremely strong hydrogen bonds in microporous silicate minerals
Authors: Chukanov Nikita V. , Rastsvetaeva Ramiza K. , Zubkova Natalia V. , Vigasina Marina F. , Pekov Igor V. , Zolotarev Andrey A. , Mikhailova Julia A. , Aksenov Sergey M.
Published: January 2024

Microporous materials containing hydrated silanol groups Si–OH as well as hydrated proton complexes, H2n+1On+, including hydronium (n = 1), Zundel (n = 2), and Eigen (n = 4) cations, are of practical importance as potential ion exchangers and ion conductors. In this paper, we provide data on crystal‐chemical features, hydrogen bonding and Raman spectra of alkaline microporous titano‐, niobo‐, zircono‐, and aluminosilicate minerals belonging to the labuntsovite, lovozerite, eudialyte, and sodalite groups in which a part of sodium was substituted by hydrated proton complexes under low‐temperature hydrothermal or supergene conditions. Most minerals studied in this work do not have synthetic analogues and are considered as possible natural prototypes of microporous materials with technologically important properties. The obtained experimental data and their comparison with the results of ab initio theoretical calculations published elsewhere show that Raman spectroscopy is an effective tool for the precise identification of hydrated proton complexes with extremely strong hydrogen bonds and estimation of corresponding O···O distances in the range of 2.37–2.68 Å. The presence of hydrated proton complexes in microporous silicates is a clear and sensitive geological indicator showing that a rock underwent the low‐temperature alteration.
Sun protection knowledge, attitudes and practices: A Lebanese‐based survey
Authors: Hasbani Divina Justina , Ghaoui Nohra , Haddad Firas , Shahla William Abou , Saade Serena , Bandali Tarek , Menhem Zahraa , Saade Dana
Published: January 2024

Background

Despite extensive research on sun protection, there remains a gap in certain populations like Lebanon. It is essential to assess how Lebanese adults handle sun exposure and its risks.

Objectives

To examine the knowledge and habits of sun protection use among adults in Lebanon and explore the possible association between a history of skin cancer or photo‐related disorder and sun protection behaviours.

Methods

We conducted a single‐centre cross‐sectional study on 1001 patients presenting to the American University of Beirut Medical Center dermatology clinics from August 2020 till April 2023. Participants were between 18 and 80 years of age and recruited by convenience sampling. Those younger than 18 years old or not proficient in English or Arabic were excluded.

Results

Among 1001 adults (mean age, 36.06 years [SD, 14.72]; 708 [71.08%] female), 512 (52.78%) use sunscreen, 449 (46.29%) do not and 9 (0.93%) do not know. Respondents with a history of a photo‐related condition (melasma, lentigos/freckles and rosacea) were significantly more likely to be sunscreen users (p < 0.001), but a history of skin cancer did not significantly increase the odds of using sunscreen (odds ratio, 1.42; 95% confidence interval, 0.79–2.56). Participants who reported obtaining their sun protection information from dermatologists and/or social media were associated with increased sunscreen use.

Conclusions

The results of this cross‐sectional survey suggest that half of the patients presenting to dermatology clinics at a tertiary care centre in Beirut tend to use sunscreen. Future investigations are needed to better understand the photoprotective awareness and practices of the Lebanese population. The lack of patients' behaviours towards skin protection should gear a nation‐wide campaign to improve these practices. Our outcomes indicate that dermatologists should be at the forefront of such campaigns tackling sun‐protective measures and skin cancer prevention, especially using social media platforms.
Arthroscopic Bankart with remplissage results in lower rates of recurrent instability with similar range of motion compared to isolated arthroscopic Bankart for anterior glenohumeral instability: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Villarreal‐Espinosa Juan Bernardo , Kay Jeffrey , Ramappa Arun J.
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The addition of the remplissage procedure to an arthroscopic Bankart procedure has been shown to improve clinical outcomes, yet at the expense of potentially decreasing shoulder range of motion. The purpose of this study was to assess recurrent instability, range of motion, functional outcomes and rates of return to sport outcomes in patients undergoing an isolated arthroscopic Bankart repair compared to those undergoing arthroscopic Bankart repair in addition to the remplissage procedure.

Methods

According to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, a search was conducted using three databases (MEDLINE/OVID, EMBASE and PubMed). Retrieved studies were screened based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria for comparative studies. Data were extracted and meta‐analysis performed using a random‐effects model.

Results

A total of 16 studies (13 level III studies, 2 level II studies and 1 level I) were included with a total of 507 and 704 patients in the Bankart plus remplissage and isolated Bankart repair groups, respectively. No studies reported glenoid bone loss of >20% with the least percentage of glenoid bone loss reported among studies being <1%. There was a significantly increased rate of recurrent dislocations (odds ratio [OR] = 4.22, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.380–7.48, p < 0.00001) and revision procedures (OR = 3.36, 95% CI: 1.52–7.41, p = 0.003) in the isolated Bankart repair group compared to the Bankart plus remplissage group. Additionally, there were no significant differences between groups in terms of external rotation at side (n.s.), in abduction (n.s.) or at forward flexion (n.s.) at final follow‐up. Furthermore, return to preinjury level of sport favoured the Bankart plus remplissage group (OR = 0.54, 95% CI: 0.35–0.85, p = 0.007).

Conclusion

Patients undergoing arthroscopic Bankart plus remplissage for anterior shoulder instability have lower rates of recurrent instability, higher rates of return to sport, and no significant difference in range of motion at final follow‐up when compared to an isolated arthroscopic Bankart repair. Further large, prospective studies are needed to further determine which patients and degree of bone loss would benefit most from augmentation with the remplissage procedure.

Level of Evidence

Level III.
Breaking Through the Luminescence Stability Bottleneck of Oxyfluoride Phosphor for Sun‐Like Led Lighting
Authors: Li Ying , Fang Shuangqiang , Zhu Qiangqiang , Li Shuxing , Liu Bo , Feng Fu , Xie Rongjun , Wang Le
Published: January 2024

Sunlight like optical source is the primary objective of healthy lighting. In contrast, achieving full spectrum lighting with high stability remains challenging, mostly due to the scarcity of purple chip‐pumped cyan‐green phosphors and their inherent emission instability. In this study, a novel strategy is presented that realizes simultaneous enhancements in both humidity stability (increased by 2.9 times) and luminescence quantum efficiency (enhanced by 1.5 times) for cyan‐emitting Sr3AlO4F:Ce3+ phosphor by employing Si/N doping. Theoretical modelling shows that these improvements are attributed to the regulation of energy bands and structural rigidity as well as modulation of the ionicity of chemical bonds. Furthermore, blending the other violet chip‐pumped phosphors, sun‐like LEDs that accurately replicate solar spectra in different times of the day with an optimal color rendering index of 99 is successfully engineered. Moreover, the universality of this strategy on other oxyfluoride phosphors has also been validated. This groundbreaking outcome offers a practical solution to overcome the inherent luminescence stability limitations in oxyfluoride phosphors, thus catalyzing the application of these cyan‐green candidates in sun‐like LED lighting.
3D‐Printed Inherently Antibacterial Contact Lens‐Like Patches Carrying Antimicrobial Peptide Payload for Treating Bacterial Keratitis
Authors: Ch Sanjay , Mishra Priyasha , Padaga Sri Ganga , Ghosh Balaram , Roy Sanhita , Biswas Swati
Published: January 2024

Delivery of therapeutic agents through contact lenses‐like patches is a promising strategy to achieve significant bioavailability with negligible eye drainage. The present study investigates the preparation and 3D printing of mucoadhesive gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA)/chitosan methacryloyl (ChiMA) hydrogels to fabricate them as contact lens‐like patches (CLP) loaded with antimicrobial peptide, S100A12 (AMP) for treating bacterial keratitis (BK). Extrusion technology is used to print the patches layer by layer to form a hemispherical scaffold suitable for eyewear, and 3D‐printed CLP is crosslinked using Irgacure 2959 under UV light. The results from the in vivo experiment conducted on Pseudomonas aeruginosa‐infected BK rabbit model after the treatment with AMP‐loaded CLP have shown a significant decrease in bacterial load when plated for CFU. The newly developed delivery system containing AMP has great potential to overcome the treatment challenges of multidrug resistance (MDR) in bacteria and eliminate the frequent dosing associated with eye drops. The presence of chitosan in the formulation provides a synergetic effect on the AMP in disrupting bacterial biofilms. The ease of using 3D printing will open new avenues for optimizing the dosage depending on the severity of the BK in the patients, which can be used as personalized medicine.
Jacobi spectral method for the fractional reaction–diffusion equation arising in ecology
Authors: Singh Harendra , Pathak Ramta Ram
Published: January 2024

In this paper, we study fractional reaction–diffusion equation using Jacobi spectral method. Reaction–diffusion equation is used as model for spatial effects in ecology. In this method, the reaction–diffusion equation is changed to the systems of equations. Convergence analysis for the proposed spectral method is established from theoretical as well as numerical point of view. Some numerical examples are solved using proposed numerical method showing the feasibility of the method. The efficiency of the spectral method is shown by listing CPU time of computation.
13C NMR as an analytical tool for the detection of carbonic acid and pKa determination
Authors: Oliveira Daniel Rossado , da Costa Eric Tavares , Schenberg Leonardo Araujo , Ducati Lucas Colucci , do Lago Claudimir Lucio
Published: January 2024

NMR spectroscopy has become a standard technique in studies both on carbon capture and storage. 13C NMR allows the detection of two peaks for carbonated aqueous samples: one for CO2(aq) and another one for the species H2CO3, HCO3−, and CO32−—herein collectively named HxCO3x‐2. The chemical shift of this second peak depends on the molar fraction of the three species in equilibrium and has been used to assess the equilibrium between HCO3− and CO32−. The detection of H2CO3 at low pH solutions is hindered, because of the concurrent liberation of CO2 when the medium is acidified. Herein, a valved NMR tube facilitates the detection of the HxCO3x‐2 peak across a wide pH range, even at pH 1.8 where the dominant species is H2CO3. The method employed the formation of frozen layers of NaH13CO3 and acid solutions within the tube, which are mixed as the tube reaches room temperature. At this point, the tube is already securely sealed, preventing any loss of CO2 to the atmosphere. A spectrophotometry approach allowed the measurement of the actual pH inside the pressurized NMR tube. The chemical shift for H2CO3 was determined as 160.33 ± 0.03 ppm, which is in good agreement with value obtained by DFT calculations combined with Car–Parrinello molecular dynamics. The H2CO3 pKa value determined by the present method was 3.41 ± 0.03, for 15% D2O aqueous medium and 0.8 mol/L ionic strength. The proposed method can be extended to studies about analogs such as alkyl carbonic and carbamic acids.
Sleep and fatigue management strategies: How nurses, midwives and paramedics cope with their shift work schedules—a qualitative study
Authors: Booker Lauren A. , Fitzgerald Jarrah , Mills Jane , Bish Melanie , Spong Jo , Deacon‐Crouch Melissa , Skinner Timothy C.
Published: January 2024

Aims

To understand the benefits and challenges of shift work, and the coping strategies used by nurses, midwives and paramedics to manage the impact of shift work on sleep and fatigue from shift work.

Design

A single case study with embedded units.

Methods

Twenty‐seven participants were interviewed exploring their shift work experiences, coping strategies used to improve sleep, and what their recommendations are for improving shift work management. Interviews were completed between November and December 2022.

Results

Participants enjoyed the lifestyle, flexibility and financial rewards offered by working shift work. However, fatigue and sleep deprivation undermined these benefits, as it impacted their ability to enjoy social and family events. There were also concerns of long‐term health consequences of shift work and delivery of care. Changes to rostering practices and sleep and shift work education were common recommendations.

Conclusion

This study provides insights on how healthcare professionals manage sleep and fatigue due to shift work and the inadequate support. There is absence of adequate policies, processes and training at an organizational, academic and personal level on how to best manage sleep and fatigue when working shift work. Future research is needed to explore how to equip healthcare shift workers with the skills to successfully manage their schedules to mitigate the negative impact that poor sleep and fatigue has on the health and safety of themselves and their patients.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

Understanding the specific challenges of shift work and how workers manage their shift work schedules is critical for improving the health and safety of themselves and their patients. This study identified that there is insufficient training regarding sleep and shift work management strategies, potentially leading to occupational health and safety concerns. Further education and training to equip staff with the necessary information, training and guidance to staff on how to reduce fatigue risk is required.

Patient or Public Contribution

This study involved healthcare shift workers in semi‐structured interviews. Data gathered from a previous survey that participants were involved in helped shape the interview topics and the study design.
A multicenter, single‐arm, open‐label interventional study of adherence to brexpiprazole during switching from previous antipsychotic drugs in patients with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder
Authors: Nakagome Kazuyuki , Tachimori Hisateru , Endo Shiro , Murakami Ken , Azekawa Takaharu , Hongo Seiji , Niidome Kazunari , Kojima Yoshitsugu , Yamada Sakiko , Oi Hideki , Sumiyoshi Tomiki
Published: January 2024

The rate of medication persistence was examined in patients with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder during switching from previously administered antipsychotics to brexpiprazole, a new dopamine D2 receptor partial agonist. A multicenter, single‐arm, open‐label 24‐week interventional study was conducted, consisting of two 12‐week consecutive periods: an initial switch (by plateau cross‐titration) with the subsequent period, followed by a second maintenance period. Prior antipsychotics were olanzapine or risperidone/paliperidone. The primary and secondary outcome measures were medication persistence rates after the first 12 weeks and changes from baseline in the Specific Levels of Functioning Scale (SLOF), Subjective Well‐being under Neuroleptic drug treatment Short form (SWNS), and Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) scores, respectively. In total, 79 patients were administered brexpiprazole and the medication persistence rate at 12 weeks was 78.5%, which was significantly higher than the predefined threshold of 65%. Regarding the prior medication, the persistence rate at 12 weeks was 84.6% for olanzapine and 72.5% for risperidone/paliperidone. Significant improvements from baseline were observed in the SLOF, SWNS, and PANSS scores. There were no adverse events of concern. Thus, brexpiprazole appeared to be a suitable antipsychotic on switching from olanzapine, risperidone, or paliperidone.
A ketogenic diet lowers myocardial fatty acid oxidation but does not affect oxygen consumption: a study in overweight humans
Authors: Luong Thien Vinh , Pedersen Mette Glavind Bülow , Abild Caroline Bruun , Cunnane Stephen C. , Croteau Etienne , Lauritsen Katrine Meyer , Kjærulff Mette Louise Gram , Tolbod Lars Poulsen , Møller Niels , Søndergaard Esben , Gormsen Lars Christian
Published: January 2024

Objective

A ketogenic diet (KD) characterized by very low carbohydrate intake and high fat consumption may simultaneously induce weight loss and be cardioprotective. The “thrifty substrate hypothesis” posits that ketone bodies are more energy efficient compared with other cardiac oxidative substrates such as fatty acids. This work aimed to study whether a KD with presumed increased myocardial ketone body utilization reduces cardiac fatty acid uptake and oxidation, resulting in decreased myocardial oxygen consumption (MVO2).

Methods

This randomized controlled crossover trial examined 11 individuals with overweight or obesity on two occasions: (1) after a KD and (2) after a standard diet. Myocardial free fatty acid (FFA) oxidation, uptake, and esterification rate were measured using dynamic [11C]palmitate positron emission tomography (PET)/computed tomography, whereas MVO2 and myocardial external efficiency (MEE) were measured using dynamic [11C]acetate PET.

Results

The KD increased plasma β‐hydroxybutyrate, reduced myocardial FFA oxidation (p < 0.01) and uptake (p = 0.03), and increased FFA esterification (p = 0.03). No changes were observed in MVO2 (p = 0.2) or MEE (p = 0.87).

Conclusions

A KD significantly reduced myocardial FFA uptake and oxidation, presumably by increasing ketone body oxidation. However, this change in cardiac substrate utilization did not improve MVO2, speaking against the thrifty substrate hypothesis.

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Electron beam radiation constructed and improved bone repairing performance based on hierarchical thermoplastic polyurethane/graphene oxide/hydroxyapatite hot melt adhesive with high flow ductility
Authors: Yang Jinyu , Liu Kun , Wang Zhijun , Rao Lu , Fu Lili , Tang Dongxu , Yang Xiaojie , Li Yuesheng , Chen Huangqin , Liu Yi
Published: January 2024

The aging population increased the demand for the development and utilization of bone filling materials. In this study, hydroxyapatite (HAP) and graphene oxide (GO) were introduced into thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) by melt mixing and electron beam radiation to obtain the new hot melt adhesive (TPU/HAP/GO). The structures and morphologies of the TPU/HAP/GO were analyzed using FTIR, XRD, SEM, BET, DSC. The mechanical properties of the TPU/HAP/GO were evaluated using a universal testing machine. TPU/HAP/GO was demonstrated to have good bacterial inhibition by the zone of inhibition test and plate method. The good biocompatibility of the hot melt adhesive was demonstrated using the MTT method and the Hoechst 33342/PI double staining method. The osteogenic differentiation of mouse osteoblasts (MC3T3‐E1) treated with TPU/HAP/GO was detected by alkaline phosphatase (ALP) staining. ALP staining showed that the hot melt adhesive promoted the differentiation of MC3T3‐E1 cells into osteoblasts. This hot melt adhesive had great application potential in bone tissue engineering.

Highlights

Green electron beam radiation method for synthesizing hot melt adhesives.

Enhanced mechanical properties of composites by incorporation of graphene oxide.

Improvement of antimicrobial and osteogenic capacities for polyurethane.
Multiscale simulation of hygrothermal stress and mechanical properties degradation of carbon fiber reinforced polymers laminates
Authors: Yu Haiyan , Ze Gao , Zhang Daixin , Xing Ping
Published: January 2024

A mesoscopic representative volume element (RVE) model of carbon fiber reinforced polymers (CFRP) laminate with 15 plies was established based on the principle of fiber random disturbance. The RVE model was validated by comparing the elastic parameters calculated by the RVE model, Chamis model, and Bridge model. Wet stress and thermal stress were coupled using a sequential method. Macroscopic and microscopic subroutines were developed to calculate the stress–strain field of CFRP laminate and RVE model. A multiscale numerical simulation of three‐point bending of moisture‐saturated CFRP laminate was conducted. Failure process and failure modes of CFRP laminate were discussed based on the multiscale simulation and SEM observations. The results show that the RVE model and the multiscale simulation strategy presented in this work can predict the coupled hygrothermal stress and the strength degradation due to moisture absorption very well. The maximum error between the simulated and experimental averaged force of the moisture‐saturated CFRP laminate subjected to three‐point bending is about 3.4%. Multiscale simulation demonstrated that uneven distribution of fibers can result in the fiber/matrix interfaces bearing a larger transverse stress in the fiber's dense distribution area. It is the main reason that results in fiber/matrix interface failure of CFRP laminates working in hygrothermal environments.

Highlights

A RVE model of CFRP laminate was presented using fibers random disturbance.

Coupled hygrothermal stress of single fiber and surrounded matrix was obtained.

A multiscale simulation of the strength change of the CFRP plate due to wet‐thermal stress was conducted.

Failure modes of CFRP laminate are discussed based on the multiscale simulation.
Void stability process window and parametric optimization for filament‐wound composite riser
Authors: Kang Chao , Zhan Jun , Ye Shuang , Liu Zan , Guo Jian , Deng Bo , Chen Zhen
Published: January 2024

The manufacturing process parameters play a critical role in determining the quality of resin‐matrix composite structures. This study aims to investigate the impact of process parameters on void content and identify the stable and minimal void content of nano‐reinforced filament‐wound risers. Fourteen process parameters were initially designed, taking into account winding tension, speed, and curing time, based on the Box–Behnken design method. Subsequently, a void content model was developed using the response surface method, utilizing experimental data. The study further explores the effects of individual and combined process parameters on void content and establishes a stable process window through sensitivity analysis. Finally, the PSO‐GWO algorithm is employed to optimize winding tension, speed, and curing time with the objective of reducing void content. The results of the numerical analysis highlight the significant influence of curing time on void content, and the optimal parametric combination is determined to be 48.4 N winding tension, 12.6 m/min winding speed, and 6.7 h of curing time.

Highlights

Winding tension and rate have a similar impact on porosity content.

Void content sensitivity to tension is affected by feed rate and curing time.

The stable process windows are winding tension [28 N, 53 N], feed rate [30%, 78%], and curing time [5.1 h, 8.4 h].

The optimal parameters combination is 48.4 N, 63%, and 6.7 h.
Bio‐guided isolation of aromatic abietane diterpenoids from Salvia canariensis as biopesticides in the control of phytopathogenic fungi
Authors: López‐Cabeza Rocío , Rodríguez‐Sabina Samuel , Reyes Carolina P , Expósito Daniela G , Giménez Cristina , Jiménez Ignacio A , Cabrera Raimundo , Bazzocchi Isabel L
Published: January 2024

Background

Biofungicides arise as a promising alternative to the indiscriminate use of harmful synthetic fungicides in crop management.

Results

The present study reports the bio‐guided fractionation of an endemic plant from the Canary Islands, Salvia canariensis against the phytopathogens, Alternaria alternata, Botrytis cinerea, and Fusarium oxysporum. This procedure allowed identifying a series of diterpenoids with an abietane skeleton (1–5), which exhibited remarkable activity against the phytopathogenic fungi assayed. Their structures were established by means of spectroscopic and spectrometric methods, as well as comparison with reported data. Compounds 2 (carnosic acid), 4 (11‐acetoxy carnosic acid) and 5 (11,12‐diacetoxy carnosic acid) showed significant mycelium growth inhibition (%GI > 50 at 0.1 mg/mL concentration) on all the assayed fungi, and with a potency also higher than the positive control, Fosbel‐Plus, a fungicide commonly used in agriculture. A preliminary structure–activity relationship is also discussed.

Conclusions

These findings underline the aromatic abietane diterpenoids as promising eco‐friendly alternatives to conventional fungicides to use in integrated pest management. © 2024 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Threshold Voltage Extraction Using Conductance–Voltage Method for Nano‐Organic/Oxide Thin‐Film Transistors: Comparative Study of P‐ and N‐Type Devices
Authors: Pream Krishna Illa , Agarwal Rajesh
Published: January 2024

Threshold voltage is an essential component for a transistor to operate properly. In this work, an alternate technique for obtaining the threshold voltage, which is referred to as the conductance–voltage method, is suggested. In this technique, the threshold voltage is estimated by measuring the change in drain current with an applied gate voltage when the device transits from the weak accumulation to the strong accumulation mode of operation. The 2D simulations are then used to apply this strategy to pentacene‐based and amorphous indium‐gallium‐zinc‐oxide‐based thin‐film transistors (TFTs) in their linear region of operation. These seem promising, and the technique offers a useful tool for enhancing the functionality of complementary organic/oxide TFTs in the future.
Biochar/α‐Fe2O3/γ‐Fe2O3 Heterjunction Composite for Photocatalytic Removal of Amino Black
Authors: Chen Feng , Chen Xiao , Li Peihe , Zhang Jingwen , Li Wanfei , Wang Gelan , Zhou Haoyu , Xie Youfeng , Chen Zhigang , Liu Chengbao
Published: January 2024

Herein we synthesized biochar/iron oxide composite (C/α‐Fe2O3/γ‐Fe2O3) by two‐step calcination method. The prepared C/α‐Fe2O3/γ‐Fe2O3 had a highly pure and a concentration ratio of α‐Fe2O3 and γ‐Fe2O3 about 1 : 1. The optical properties of as‐synthesized C/α‐Fe2O3/γ‐Fe2O3 show a lower bandgap energy (1.90 eV) than that of pure C/α‐Fe2O3 (2.02 eV). The effects of different biochar composite catalysts on the removal of amino black were investigated. Upon illumination, the total removal rate of amino black dye by C/α‐Fe2O3/γ‐Fe2O3 catalyst reached 98 %, which was about 1.7 times that of C/α‐Fe2O3. In addition, the coercivity and the remanence intensity of C/α‐Fe2O3/γ‐Fe2O3 is respectively 1.81 times and 7.17 times that of C/α‐Fe2O3. The catalyst could be magnetically separated and reused for five times with a slight loss of its reactivity. The study of biochar composite provides a new direction for the removal of toxic organic dye in wastewater.
Nickel Hydroxides: Requirements, Targeted Construction and Choice of Characteristics and Industrially Applicable Synthesis for Targeted Use in Electrochemical Devices
Authors: Kovalenko Vadym , Kotok Valerii
Published: January 2024

Nickel hydroxides (monohydroxides of several modifications and layered double hydroxides, based on nickel hydroxide) have high electrochemical, electrochromic, and electrocatalytic properties that allow them to be effectively used as an active substance in alkaline batteries, hybrid supercapacitors, electrochemical sensors, for electrocatalytic oxidation of organic substances and as an electrochromic device. Each application has its specific requirements for nickel hydroxides which must be defined. For an effective application, it is necessary to carry out a targeted construction of structure and composition, and selection of characteristics of nickel hydroxides and to develop targeted methods and conditions for nickel hydroxide synthesis. The structure, properties, and methods of preparation for use in various fields of nickel hydroxide application have been considered from the targeted ternary points of view: requirements definition, types and characteristics selection, and applying the synthesis method in industry. The 3‐level hierarchical complex of mechanisms for the formation of nickel hydroxides has been described. Also, the contribution of Ukrainian scientists to research in the field of nickel hydroxides is considered.