bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Straightforward Access to Block and Gradient Light‐Responsive Poly(2‐Oxazoline)S via Cationic Ring Opening Polymerization Of 2‐Azobenzenyl‐2‐Oxazoline
Authors: Wang Shu , Poudel Purushottam , Schacher Felix H. , Kaberov Leonid I.
Published: May 2023

Light‐responsive polymers are a prospective area of smart materials. The increasing number of potential applications of these materials require the development of new polymers sensitive to external irradiation. However, most of the polymers reported so far are represented by poly(meth)acrylates. In this work, the straightforward approach is proposed to the synthesis of light‐responsive poly(2‐oxazoline)s via cationic ring‐opening polymerization of 2‐azobenzenyl‐2‐oxazoline (2‐(4‐(phenyldiazenyl)phenyl)‐2‐oxazoline). Polymerization kinetics studies reveal significant activity of the new monomer in both homopolymerization and copolymerization with 2‐ethyl‐2‐oxazoline. The difference in monomer reactivity allows obtaining both gradient and block copolymers via simultaneous or subsequent one‐pot polymerization, respectively, leading to a set of well‐defined gradient and block copoly(2‐oxazoline)s with 10–40% of azobenzene units. Due to their amphiphilic nature, the materials self‐assemble in water, which is proven by dynamic light scattering and transmission electron microscopy. The change in polarity caused by the isomerization of azobenzene fragments in response to UV light irradiation results in a change of nanoparticle size. The obtained results provide a new impulse for the development of light‐responsive materials based on poly(2‐oxazoline)s.
The dark side of shareholder orientation: A reflection of Rappaport's concept of shareholder value
Authors: Follert Florian , Klingelhöfer Heinz E. , Daumann Frank
Published: May 2023

The concept of shareholder value has been the subject of heated debate for 40 years. Surprisingly, the literature seems to overlook the fact that shareholder orientation by management is something completely different from the implementation of this idea in the well‐known shareholder value concept, which aims to measure the contribution of management to shareholder welfare. Using a market‐oriented framework, this study shows that the fundamental orientation of shareholders' subjective preferences is supported by a property rights perspective inspired by the ideas of the Austrian School of Economics. In contrast, Alfred Rappaport's shareholder value concept is based on neoclassical equilibrium thinking and, therefore, counteracts the real, imperfect environment of the corporation's decision‐makers, especially their subjective values. This results from individual preferences and decision parameters, as well as incomplete and asymmetric information. Thus, it ignores the reality of managerial decision‐making. Based on these considerations, we argue that the advocacy of a general managerial orientation toward shareholders' objectives does not logically imply full support for the implementation of the idea under Rappaport's concept. In doing so, this essay contributes to a more differentiated discussion on valuation, corporate governance, and managerial decisions.
Least‐squares formulations for Stokes equations with non‐standard boundary conditions—A unified approach
Authors: Mohapatra S. , Kumar N. Kishore , Joshi Shivangi
Published: May 2023

In this paper, we propose a unified non‐conforming least‐squares spectral element approach for solving Stokes equations with various non‐standard boundary conditions. Existing least‐squares formulations mostly deal with Dirichlet boundary conditions and are formulated using ADN theory‐based regularity estimates. However, changing boundary conditions lead to a search for parameters satisfying supplementing and complimenting conditions, which is not easy always. Here, we have avoided ADN theory‐based regularity estimates and proposed a unified approach for dealing with various boundary conditions. Stability estimates and error estimates have been discussed. Numerical results displaying exponential accuracy have been presented for both two‐ and three‐dimensional cases with various boundary conditions.
Optimal large‐time estimates and singular limits for thermoelastic plate equations with the Fourier law
Authors: Chen Wenhui , Ikehata Ryo
Published: May 2023

In this paper, we study asymptotic behaviors for classical thermoelastic plate equations with the Fourier law of heat conduction in the whole space
, where we introduce a reduction methodology basing on third‐order (in time) differential equations and refined Fourier analysis. We derive optimal growth estimates when
, bounded estimates when
, and decay estimates when
for the vertical displacement in the
norm. Particularly, the new critical dimension
for distinguishing the decisive role between the plate model and the Fourier law of heat conduction is discovered. Moreover, concerning the small thermal parameter in the temperature equation, we study the singular limit problem. We not only show global (in time) convergence of the vertical displacements between thermoelastic plates and structurally damped plates but also rigorously demonstrate a new second‐order profile of the solution. Our methodology can settle several closely related problems in thermoelasticity.
Cross‐Sectional Study: New Approach for Diagnostic Identification of Non‐Robust Older Adult
Authors: Wen Chiung‐Jung , Koh Yen‐Chun , Tung Yen‐Chen , Ho Pin‐Yu , Hsieh Shu‐Chen , Lo Yi‐Chen , Tsai Jaw‐Shiun , Pan Min‐Hsiung
Published: May 2023

Scope

The aging biomarkers are alternatives and none of them can act as a strong predictor of frailty during the progression of aging. Several studies reveal the relationship between metabolites and frailty or gut microbiota and frailty. However, the connection between metabolites and gut microbiota in non‐robust older adults has not been discussed yet. The study aims to combine the findings of serum metabolites and gut microbiota in non‐robust subjects as a possible diagnostic biomarker.

Methods and results

Frailty‐related assessments are conducted to ensure the discrimination of non‐robustness. The serum and fecal are collected for serum metabolomics and gut microbiota analysis. Robust and non‐robust subjects show very different gut microbial compositions. Among the gut microbial differences, Escherichia/Shigella and its higher taxonomic ranks are found to have the most discriminative abundance among compared groups. More importantly, the abundance of Escherichia/Shigella is found to be positively correlated (p < 0.05) with the level of discriminant metabolites, such as serum oxoglutarate, glutamic acid, and 1‐methyladenosine.

Conclusion

These results indicate the obvious interrelation between gut microbiota and serum metabolites in non‐robust older adults. Besides, the findings suggest that Escherichia/Shigella can be a potential biomarker candidate for robustness sub‐phenotypic identification.
Adaptive model‐based Magnetic Resonance
Authors: Beracha Inbal , Seginer Amir , Tal Assaf
Published: May 2023

Purpose

Conventional sequences are static in nature, fixing measurement parameters in advance in anticipation of a wide range of expected tissue parameter values. We set out to design and benchmark a new, personalized approach—termed adaptive MR—in which incoming subject data is used to update and fine‐tune the pulse sequence parameters in real time.

Methods

We implemented an adaptive, real‐time multi‐echo (MTE) experiment for estimating T2s. Our approach combined a Bayesian framework with model‐based reconstruction. It maintained and continuously updated a prior distribution of the desired tissue parameters, including T2, which was used to guide the selection of sequence parameters in real time.

Results

Computer simulations predicted accelerations between 1.7‐ and 3.3‐fold for adaptive multi‐echo sequences relative to static ones. These predictions were corroborated in phantom experiments. In healthy volunteers, our adaptive framework accelerated the measurement of T2 for n‐acetyl‐aspartate by a factor of 2.5.

Conclusion

Adaptive pulse sequences that alter their excitations in real time could provide substantial reductions in acquisition times. Given the generality of our proposed framework, our results motivate further research into other adaptive model‐based approaches to MRI and MRS.
Lateral ultimate bearing capacity of modified suction caisson in uniform and linearly increasing strength undrained clays
Authors: Li Dayong , Lin Zixin , Wu Yuqi , Zhang Yukun , Li Shanshan
Published: May 2023

The modified suction caissons (MSCs) have a cylindrical external skirt surrounding the top of the traditional suction caisson to increase the horizontal bearing capacity. MSCs will be subjected to inclined lateral loadings for anchoring offshore floating facilities, and the maximum lateral bearing capacity will be reached when the loading direction passes through the rotation center of the MSCs to generate horizontal translation in the seabed. This paper proposed an analytical model consisting of a meniscus failure wedge near the mudline and a purely lateral flow‐around mechanism in deeper soil for MSCs moving laterally in clays. The upper‐bound analysis is conducted to obtain the ultimate bearing capacity of MSCs by optimizing only one parameter to approach the critical failure mechanism that offers the minimum energy dissipation. The influences of the external skirt length (L) and radius (R) and adhesion factor (λ) at the caisson‐soil interface on the bearing capacity of MSCs are investigated. The finite element limit analysis (FELA) results are used to verify the rationality of the presented failure mechanisms and upper‐bound predictions. It is proved that the presented upper‐bound analyses can well predict the lateral ultimate bearing capacity of the MSCs with a horizontal translation failure.
The effect of the pandemic period on Bladder Pain Syndrome patients under amitriptyline treatment
Authors: Şahin Mehmet Fatih , Özcan Rıdvan , Malak Arzu , Doğan Çağrı , Yazıcı Cenk Murat , Özcan Müge , Akgül Murat
Published: May 2023

Introduction

COVID‐19 is a disease that may cause anxiety, depression, and stress. Bladder pain syndrome (BPS) is a disease in which stress and psychological factors might negatively affect its course. In this study, we aimed to examine the possible clinical aggregation of the pandemic period on BPS patients.

Materials and Methods

A total of 35 BPS patients diagnosed between 2010 and 2018 were included. All patients were using medical treatment, and the follow‐up period was at least 6 months. According to our clinical follow‐up protocol, the BPS patients were given the King's Health Questionnaire (KHQ), Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), Overactive Bladder Form V8 (OAB‐V8), and Visual Analog Score (VAS) in every visit. In the sixth month of the pandemic, the clinical course of the patients was questioned by telephone or video interview, and their treatment continuities were questioned. Information was received about the delays in their follow‐up and the difficulties in accessing healthcare opportunities. The same questionnaires were filled out and compared with pre‐pandemic scores.

Results

The mean age of the patients included in the study was 50.2 ± 13.32 (min:20, max:74), 11 were males and 24 were females. The mean follow‐up periods were 71.8 ± 35.6 months. All questionnaire scores showed an increase compared to the pre‐pandemic period. A statistically significant increase was detected during the pandemic in all sub‐units of the KHQ. The VAS and OAB‐V8 scores of 16 patients who requested hospital admission were significantly higher than before the pandemic. However, there was no statistically significant difference in the increase in VAS and OAB‐V8 scores of the 19 patients who refused to come to the hospital.

Conclusion

BPS patients have been negatively affected by the emotional effects of the COVID‐19 pandemic. Due to the fear, stress, anxiety, and depression, the symptoms of BPS patients exacerbated, and the patients could not receive the necessary support due to a lack of regular follow‐ups.
A Team Effort: Show Your Community the Difference You Make
Authors: Lee Kelli
Published: May 2023

Through local news outlets, social media, and in‐person involvement, water utility employees can be ambassadors to show how the community benefits from the services they provide. Employees might even gain added appreciation for their coworkers.
Synthesis and characterization of biodegradable poly(ester‐imide) nanocomposites with L‐alanine, curcumin, and modified rGO
Authors: Abdolmaleki Amir , Zare Sayeh , Saghiri Mohammad Ali
Published: May 2023

The article discusses the synthesis of a novel biodegradable poly(ester‐imide) (PEI) based on L‐alanine, utilizing N‐trimellitylimido‐L‐alanine diacid and curcumin. The degradation tests of polymer in Tris‐Hcl buffer at 37.5°C after 2 weeks showed a decrease in average molecular weight from 2.38 × 104 to 1.85 × 104, which confirms the biodegradability of PEI. The PEI was further enhanced through in situ polymerization with reinforcing nanoparticles, rGO, and rGO‐EDA. Various characterization techniques were employed to evaluate the synthesized polymer and composites, including NMR, elemental analysis, FT‐IR, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and X‐ray diffraction (XRD). PEI composites exhibited higher thermal stability than pure PEI. Tensile strength also improved significantly, with increases of 29.55% and 87.42% for rGO and rGO‐EDA compared to pure PEI. We suggest that these polymers have tunable properties, which may potentially be considered for biodegradable polymer scaffolds.
Boron carbide reinforced electrospun nanocomposite fiber mats for radiation shielding
Authors: Özcan Mücahid , Avcıoğlu Suna , Kaya Cengiz , Kaya Figen
Published: May 2023

In this study, 1 wt% boron carbide (B4C) reinforced PVA nanofibers were fabricated by the electrospinning technique as a new generation of ultra‐thin, lightweight, and flexible neutron shielding nanocomposites. The influence of B4C particles' size and morphology on the fiber formation and radiation shielding performance of fiber mats was investigated. The results indicate that the particle characteristics have a dramatic influence on the formation and properties of nanocomposites. The thicknesses of individual fibers reinforced with sol–gel synthesized nano‐sized boron carbide particles were in the range of 50–250 nm, while those containing commercial B4C powder were produced in the thickness range of 1–2 μm. In contrast to the commercial particles, the sol–gel synthesized nano B4C particles enhanced the fiber mat's density and the roundness of individual fibers. Both theoretical and experimental radiation shielding studies showed that B4C reinforcement successfully improved the neutron and gamma attenuation of the neat PVA matrix. Furthermore, it was found that a 6.5 mm thick PVA nanofiber mat, reinforced with only 1 wt% B4C nanoparticles shielded up to about 7.4% of the initial neutron flux. Compared to the neat PVA fiber mat, reinforcement of PVA fibers with 1 wt% sol–gel synthesized nano‐sized boron carbide particles enhanced the neutron shielding by 50.31%. Moreover, even though B4C is not an effective gamma shielding reinforcement, the amplified density of nanocomposite fiber mats also enhanced gamma attenuation.
Ultrasound visualization of the central nervous system during embryonic and fetal periods: Neurosonoembryology utilizing multiple three‐dimensional transvaginal ultrasound technology
Authors: Liu Fengqin , Yang Zexuan , Xi Jimei , Yang Linhua , Liu Fangli , He Hui , Chen Lin , Zhou Liuying , Lin Yonghong
Published: May 2023

Objective

To study the ultrasonographic features of the central nervous system (CNS) in normally developing embryos and fetuses with a crown‐rump length (CRL) of 10–84 mm, utilizing a high‐frequency transvaginal probe in conjunction with various three‐dimensional (3D) imaging modes.

Methods

From January 2020 to February 2021, 210 normally developing embryos and fetuses in early pregnancy were enrolled and classified based on their gestational age. A high‐frequency transvaginal transducer was used to perform 2D and 3D ultrasounds, and the 3D images were saved. These images were then processed using multiple 3D technologies, such as HD live silhouette, OmniView, and TUI. Additionally, the circumference of the vermis was measured through the posterior fontanelle.

Results

Beginning at the 10 mm CRL stage of embryonic development, high‐frequency transvaginal 3D ultrasound imaging was able to clearly visualize the prosencephalon, mesencephalon, and rhombencephalon. Notable changes were observed in the rhombencephalon during the 16–22 mm CRL stage, including the visualization of the pontine flexure and cerebellar primordium. At 23–40 mm CRL, there was a distinct pontine flexure, and the developing cerebellum, the fourth ventricle, and choroid plexus of the fourth ventricle (4th VCP) could be observed. The roof of the rhombencephalon was partitioned by the 4th VCP into the anterior membranous area (AMA) located rostrally and the posterior membranous area situated caudally. Additionally, the original Blake's pouch was identifiable. Among fetuses measuring 41–84 mm CRL, the AMA progressively decreased in size as the vermis developed. From the mid‐sagittal view, the orientation of the 4th VCP seemed to shift from being perpendicular to the neural tube's long axis to being parallel to it. Furthermore, there was a significant correlation between CRL and vermis circumference.

Conclusion

Using three‐dimensional transvaginal ultrasound scanning, detailed visualization of the morphological changes in the CNS during normal embryonic development from 7 to 13+6 weeks is possible. This technology can aid in accurately characterizing the embryonic origin of the CNS.
A computational study of double perovskites A2BI6 (A = Cs, K, Rb; B = Pt, Sn) invoking density functional theory
Authors: Solanki Bobby , Sharma Pooja , Ranjan Prabhat , Kumar Pancham , Chakraborty Tanmoy
Published: May 2023

Lead‐free double perovskite materials A2BI6 (A = Cs, K, Rb; B = Pt and Sn) have been studied and analyzed invoking density functional theory (DFT). Computed values of the HOMO–LUMO gap for lead‐free double perovskites material A2BI6 are found in the range of 1.062–2.811 eV. The energy gaps of K2PtI6, K2SnI6, and Rb2SnI6 are in the optimal energy gap range (0.9 to 1.6 eV) required for a lead‐free double perovskite system. Conceptual DFT‐based descriptors, viz., molecular hardness, softness, electronegativity, electrophilicity index, dipole moment, and polarizability, are computed. The result reveals that K2PtI6 shows high efficacy towards electron injection and may show the maximum electron driving force. The optical properties—refractive index and dielectric constant—of these perovskites are also computed. The maximum value of refractive index and dielectric constant is found for K2PtI6. Our computed results are in good agreement with the available experimental and other theoretical data. Perovskite materials K2PtI6, K2SnI6, and Rb2SnI6 display a suitable energy gap as well as a high refractive index and dielectric constant, which makes them suitable for photovoltaic applications.
Total‐, LDL‐, and HDL‐cholesterol, apolipoproteins, and triglycerides with risk of total and fatal prostate cancer in Black and White men in the ARIC study
Authors: Marrone Michael T. , Prizment Anna E. , Couper David , Butler Kenneth R. , Astor Brad C. , Joshu Corinne E. , Platz Elizabeth A. , Mondul Alison M.
Published: May 2023

Background

Cholesterol reduction is considered a mechanism through which cholesterol‐lowering drugs including statins are associated with a reduced aggressive prostate cancer risk. While prior cohort studies found positive associations between total cholesterol and more advanced stage and grade in White men, whether associations for total cholesterol, low (LDL)‐ and high (HDL)‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, apolipoprotein B (LDL particle) and A1 (HDL particle), and triglycerides are similar for fatal prostate cancer and in Black men, who experience a disproportionate burden of total and fatal prostate cancer, is unknown.

Methods

We conducted a prospective study of 1553 Black and 5071 White cancer‐free men attending visit 1 (1987–1989) of the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities Study. A total of 885 incident prostate cancer cases were ascertained through 2015, and 128 prostate cancer deaths through 2018. We estimated multivariable‐adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) of total and fatal prostate cancer per 1‐standard deviation increments and for tertiles (T1–T3) of time‐updated lipid biomarkers overall and in Black and White men.

Results

Greater total cholesterol concentration (HR per‐1 SD = 1.25; 95% CI = 1.00–1.58) and LDL cholesterol (HR per‐1 SD = 1.26; 95% CI = 0.99–1.60) were associated with higher fatal prostate cancer risk in White men only. Apolipoprotein B was nonlinearly associated with fatal prostate cancer overall (T2 vs. T1: HR = 1.66; 95% CI = 1.05–2.64) and in Black men (HR = 3.59; 95% CI = 1.53–8.40) but not White men (HR = 1.13; 95% CI = 0.65–1.97). Tests for interaction by race were not statistically significant.

Conclusions

These findings may improve the understanding of lipid metabolism in prostate carcinogenesis by disease aggressiveness, and by race while emphasizing the importance of cholesterol control.
A variational Bayesian approach for ensemble filtering of stochastically parametrized systems
Authors: Ait‐El‐Fquih Boujemaa , Subramanian Aneesh C. , Hoteit Ibrahim
Published: May 2023

Modern climate models use both deterministic and stochastic parametrization schemes to represent uncertainties in their physics and inputs. This work considers the problem of estimating the involved parameters of such systems simultaneously with their state through data assimilation. Standard state‐parameter filtering schemes cannot be applied to such systems, owing to the posterior dependence between the stochastic parameters and the “dynamical” augmented state, defined as the state augmented by the deterministic parameters. We resort to the variational Bayesian (VB) approach to break this dependence, by approximating the joint posterior probability density function (pdf) of the augmented state and the stochastic parameters with a separable product of two marginal pdfs that minimizes the Kullback–Leibler divergence. The resulting marginal pdf of the augmented state is then sampled using a one‐step‐ahead smoothing‐based ensemble Kalman filter (EnKF‐OSAS), whereas a closed form is derived for the marginal pdf of the stochastic parameters. The proposed approach combines the effectiveness of the OSAS filtering approach to mitigate inconsistency issues that often arise with the joint ensemble Kalman filter (EnKF), with the advantage of obtaining a full posterior pdf for the stochastic parameters, which is not possible with the traditional maximum‐likelihood method. We demonstrate the relevance of the proposed approach through extensive numerical experiments with a one‐scale Lorenz‐96 model, which includes a stochastic parametrization representing subgrid‐scale effects.
Imagining the next pandemic: Finnish preparedness for chronic transboundary crises before and during COVID‐19
Authors: Räisänen Helmi , Eronen Jussi T. , Hukkinen Janne I.
Published: May 2023

Before the COVID‐19 pandemic, infectious disease experts had postulated that the next pandemic is only a matter of time, and Finland, among other nations, had prepared for it. Yet the COVID‐19 pandemic crossed the customary political, functional, and temporal boundaries of crisis management to a surprising degree. This study analyses pandemic preparedness among Finnish infectious disease experts at the central government level before and during the COVID‐19 pandemic (2017–2021). The study is based on interview material, participant observation in the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare's infectious disease unit in 2017, and health security‐related document analysis. By analyzing expert perceptions of preparedness in two points of time, the study provides insights on the challenges that increasingly transboundary crises have posed for preparedness efforts. The experts perceived that pandemic preparedness would benefit from a more generic approach to planning and from more comprehensive risk assessments and policy advice. The analysis shows that Finnish crisis management had overlooked the extent of transboundedness of present‐day crises and is lacking consideration of how crises turn into chronic conditions that deplete capacities over time. The crisis man.agement regime needs to develop structures to better analyze systemic risks and to extend its timeframe to cover long‐term crises.
Precision Therapy of Recurrent Breast Cancer through Targeting Different Malignant Tumor Cells with a HER2/CD44‐Targeted Hydrogel Nanobot
Authors: Chen Juan , Li Jinjin , Sun Xiaolu , Lu Huixia , Liu Kuai , Li Zhenbo , Guan Jianyue , Song Huiling , Wei Wei , Ge Yanhong , Fan Qiong , Bao Wei , Ma Buyong , Du Zixiu
Published: May 2023

Heterogeneity and drug resistance of tumor cells are the leading causes of incurability and poor survival for patients with recurrent breast cancer. In order to accurately deliver the biological anticancer drugs to different subtypes of malignant tumor cells for omnidirectional targeted treatment of recurrent breast cancer, a distinct design is demonstrated by embedding liposome‐based nanocomplexes containing pro‐apoptotic peptide and survivin siRNA drugs (LPR) into Herceptin/hyaluronic acid cross‐linked nanohydrogels (Herceptin‐HA) to fabricate a HER2/CD44‐targeted hydrogel nanobot (named as ALPR). ALPR delivered cargoes to the cells overexpressing CD44 and HER2, followed by Herceptin‐HA biodegradation, subsequently, the exposed lipid component containing DOPE fused with the endosomal membrane and released peptide and siRNA into the cytoplasm. These experiments indicated that ALPR can specifically deliver Herceptin, peptide, and siRNA drugs to HER2‐positive SKBR‐3, triple‐negative MDA‐MB‐231, and HER2‐negative drug‐resistant MCF‐7 human breast cancer cells. ALPR completely inhibited the growth of heterogeneous breast tumors via multichannel synergistic effects: disrupting mitochondria, downregulating the survivin gene, and blocking HER2 receptors on the surface of HER2‐positive cells. The present design overcomes the chemical drug resistance and opens a feasible route for the combinative treatment of recurrent breast cancer, even other solid tumors, utilizing different kinds of biological drugs.
Engineering CSFe Bond Confinement Effect to Stabilize Metallic‐Phase Sulfide for High Power Density Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Wang Fei , Liu Zhendong , Feng Huiyan , Wang Yuchen , Zhang Chengzhi , Quan Zhuohua , Xue Lingxiao , Wang Zhenxing , Feng Songhao , Ye Chong , Tan Jun , Liu Jinshui
Published: May 2023

Metallic‐phase iron sulfide (e.g., Fe7S8) is a promising candidate for high power density sodium storage anode due to the inherent metal electronic conductivity and unhindered sodium‐ion diffusion kinetics. Nevertheless, long‐cycle stability can not be achieved simultaneously while designing a fast‐charging Fe7S8‐based anode. Herein, Fe7S8 encapsulated in carbon‐sulfur bonds doped hollow carbon fibers (NHCFs‐S‐Fe7S8) is designed and synthesized for sodium‐ion storage. The NHCFs‐S‐Fe7S8 including metallic‐phase Fe7S8 embrace higher electron specific conductivity, electrochemical reversibility, and fast sodium‐ion diffusion. Moreover, the carbonaceous fibers with polar CSFe bonds of NHCFs‐S‐Fe7S8 exhibit a fixed confinement effect for electrochemical conversion intermediates contributing to long cycle life. In conclusion, combined with theoretical study and experimental analysis, the multinomial optimized NHCFs‐S‐Fe7S8 is demonstrated to integrate a suitable structure for higher capacity, fast charging, and longer cycle life. The full cell shows a power density of 1639.6 W kg−1 and an energy density of 204.5 Wh kg−1, respectively, over 120 long cycles of stability at 1.1 A g−1. The underlying mechanism of metal sulfide structure engineering is revealed by in‐depth analysis, which provides constructive guidance for designing the next generation of durable high‐power density sodium storage anodes.
Multicomponent flexible organic crystals
Authors: Ding Xuehua , Wei Chuanxin , Wang Lizhi , Yang Jing , Huang Wenxin , Chang Yongzheng , Ou Changjin , Lin Jinyi , Huang Wei
Published: May 2023

Flexible organic crystals are emerging as a potential candidate for smart materials and have aroused great interest over the past decade. In view of multicomponent supramolecular synthesis with a distinct advantage over single‐component approach on the control of molecular arrangements and physicochemical properties, we take note of various multicomponent flexible organic crystals in the range from organic co‐crystals, supramolecular salts, solvates, doping organic crystals to solid solution crystals, showing a great diversity of supramolecular architectures such as one‐dimensional columns, two‐dimensional layer packing, and three‐dimensional interlocked structures. Some of them serve as promising multifunctional materials with both flexibility and photoelectric properties such as fluorescence, optical waveguide, and ferroelectricity. In this review, we focus on the packing structures of multicomponent flexible organic crystals and their related mechanical properties, highlight typical research works, and point out the main possible directions that remain to be developed in this field. From the perspectives of crystal engineering and supramolecular chemistry, the flexible crystals outlined here should offer helpful information for further design and investigation on the elusive class of mechanically compliant crystalline compounds.
A space‐time model with temporal cyclostationarity for probabilistic forecasting and simulation of solar irradiance data
Authors: Das Soumya , Alshehri Yasser M. , Stenchikov Georgiy L. , Genton Marc G.
Published: May 2023

To establish a more sustainable future, Saudi Arabia is striving to reduce its dependency on fossil fuels and promote renewable energies. Solar energy is a major resource in Saudi Arabia because of the country's geographical location with year‐round clear skies and plentiful sunlight. However, although solar energy is a clean and safe renewable energy resource, it can be quite unpredictable. Therefore, solar irradiance needs to be forecasted and simulated as accurately as possible on both regional and national scales in the Kingdom to assist in planning for reserve usage, switching sources and short‐term power purchases. Based on an hourly solar diffuse horizontal irradiance (DHI) dataset from 45 different Saudi Arabian solar monitoring stations, this study proposes a novel spatio‐temporal model. We identify the temporal dependency of DHI as cyclostationary and incorporate this key observation in the model. This feature helps yield accurate (i.e. significantly close to the ground truth and with narrow confidence bands) probabilistic forecasts and realistic simulations in near‐future time points and at new locations. Then, the proposed model is compared with a stationary model that fails to recognize the cyclostationarity structure in the data. The proposed model produces significantly better predictions and simulations than the stationary model. Further, we calculate the photovoltaic power outputs using the simulated samples from both the models and the original observations and then compare them. The simulated samples from the proposed model afford photovoltaic power output estimates that are significantly closer to the original observed data than those from the stationary model, and therefore, they can better assist photovoltaic power output operators in assessing solar energy production and operational pre‐planning to mitigate impacts by the uncertain nature of solar irradiance.
Comorbidities, biomarkers and cause specific mortality in patients with irritable bowel syndrome: A phenome‐wide association study
Authors: Seeling Katharina Sophie , Hehl Leonida , Vell Mara Sophie , Rendel Miriam Daphne , Creasy Kate Townsend , Trautwein Christian , Mehler David Marc Anton , Keszthelyi Daniel , Schneider Kai Markus , Schneider Carolin Victoria
Published: May 2023

Background

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is one of the most common functional digestive disorders. Our understanding about its comorbidities, biomarkers, or long‐term risks is still incomplete.

Objective

To characterize comorbidities and biomarkers for IBS and establish the effect of IBS on overall‐ and cause specific mortality.

Methods

We analyzed data from the population‐based cohort of the UK Biobank (UKB) with 493,974 participants, including self‐reported physician‐diagnosed (n = 20,603) and ICD‐10 diagnosed (n = 7656) IBS patients, with a mean follow‐up of 11 years. We performed a phenome‐wide association study (PheWAS) and competing risk analysis to characterize common clinical features in IBS patients.

Results

In PheWAS analyses, 260 PheCodes were significantly overrepresented in self‐reported physician‐diagnosed IBS patients, 633 in patients with ICD‐10 diagnosed IBS (ICD‐10‐IBS), with 221 (40%) overlapping. In addition to gastrointestinal diseases, psychiatric, musculoskeletal, and endocrine/metabolic disorders represented the most strongly associated PheCodes in IBS patients. Self‐reported physician‐diagnosed IBS was not associated with increased overall mortality and the risk of death from cancer was decreased (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.78 [95% CI = 0.7–0.9]). Lastly, we evaluated changes in serum metabolites in IBS patients and identified glycoprotein acetyls (GlycA) as a potential biomarker in IBS. One standard deviation increase in GlycA raised the risk of self‐reported IBS/ICD‐10 coded by 9%–20% (odds ratio [OR] = 1.09 [95% CI = 1.1–1.1]/OR = 1.20 [95% CI = 1.1–1.3]) and the risk of overall mortality in ICD‐10‐IBS patients by 28% (HR = 1.28 [95% CI = 1.1–1.5]).

Conclusion

Our large‐scale association study determined IBS patients having an increased risk of several different comorbidities and that GlycA was increased in IBS patients.
Free Field Realisation of the Chiral Universal Centraliser
Authors: Beem Christopher , Nair Sujay
Published: May 2023

In the TQFT formalism of Moore–Tachikawa for describing Higgs branches of theories of class $${\mathcal {S}}$$
S
, the space associated to the unpunctured sphere in type $${{\mathfrak {g}}}$$
g
is the universal centraliser $${\mathfrak {Z}}_G$$

Z
G

, where $${{\mathfrak {g}}}=Lie(G)$$

g
=
L
i
e
(
G
)

. In more physical terms, this space arises as the Coulomb branch of pure $${\mathcal {N}}=4$$

N
=
4

gauge theory in three dimensions with gauge group $${{\check{G}}}$$

G
ˇ

, the Langlands dual. In the analogous formalism for describing chiral algebras of class $${\mathcal {S}}$$
S
, the vertex algebra associated to the sphere has been dubbed the chiral universal centraliser. In this paper, we construct an open, symplectic embedding from a cover of the Kostant–Toda lattice of type $${{\mathfrak {g}}}$$
g
to the universal centraliser of G—extending a classic result of Kostant. Using this embedding and some observations on the Poisson algebraic structure of $${\mathfrak {Z}}_G$$

Z
G

, we propose a free field realisation of the chiral universal centraliser for any simple group G. We exploit this realisation to develop free field realisations of chiral algebras of class $${\mathcal {S}}$$
S
of type $${{\mathfrak {a}}}_1$$

a
1

for theories of genus zero with $$n=1,\ldots ,6$$

n
=
1
,
…
,
6

punctures. These realisations make generalised S-duality completely manifest, and the generalisation to $$n\geqslant 7$$

n
⩾
7

punctures is conceptually clear, though technically burdensome.
Imaging of early-stage osteoarthritis: the needs and challenges for diagnosis and classification
Authors: Oei Edwin H. G. , Runhaar Jos
Published: May 2023

In an effort to boost the development of new management strategies for OA, there is currently a shift in focus towards the diagnosis and treatment of early-stage OA. It is important to distinguish diagnosis from classification of early-stage OA. Diagnosis takes place in clinical practice, whereas classification is a process to stratify participants with OA in clinical research. For both purposes, there is an important opportunity for imaging, especially with MRI. The needs and challenges differ for early-stage OA diagnosis versus classification. Although it fulfils the need of high sensitivity and specificity for making a correct diagnosis, implementation of MRI in clinical practice is challenged by long acquisition times and high costs. For classification in clinical research, more advanced MRI protocols can be applied, such as quantitative, contrast-enhanced, or hybrid techniques, as well as advanced image analysis methods including 3D morphometric assessments of joint tissues and artificial intelligence approaches. It is necessary to follow a step-wise and structured approach that comprises, technical validation, biological validation, clinical validation, qualification, and cost-effectiveness, before new imaging biomarkers can be implemented in clinical practice or clinical research.
Intensity of mental health treatment of cancer-related psychopathology: the predictive role of Early Maladaptive Schemas
Authors: de Vlaming Irene H. , Schellekens Melanie P. J. , van der Lee Marije L.
Published: May 2023

Purpose

With the limited availability of mental healthcare, it is of utmost importance to provide care that matches the needs of patients: short if possible, but also more intense when necessary. This study explored whether Early Maladaptive Schemas (EMSs) play a predictive role in the intensity of needed mental health treatment of cancer-related psychopathology.

Methods

EMSs were assessed before mental health treatment in 256 patients who sought help at a specialized mental health care centre for those affected by cancer in the Netherlands. Data about treatment indication and intensity of mental health treatment were collected. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis were used to assess the predictive value of the EMSs total score and specific domains on treatment indication and treatment intensity.

Results

The presence of more severe EMSs predicted an indication for a more intense mental health treatment before start of the treatment, and actual more intense mental health treatment. The domain Impaired Autonomy and Performance appeared to be conceptually close to the domain Disconnection and Rejection, we left the latter out in our multivariate analysis and then found that Impaired Autonomy was the best predictor of intensity of mental health treatment.

Conclusion

Our findings imply that assessing EMSs could help to identify patients who will receive more treatment time.
Optimal proportional and excess-of-loss reinsurance for multiple classes of insurance business
Authors: Torrente Maria-Laura
Published: May 2023

In this paper we consider a reinsurance strategy which combines a proportional and an excess-of-loss reinsurance in a risk model with multiple dependent classes of insurance business. Under the assumption that the claim number of the classes has a multivariate Poisson distribution, the aim is to maximize the expected utility of terminal wealth. In a general setting, after deriving the corresponding Hamilton–Jacobi–Bellman equation, we prove a Verification Theorem and identify sufficient conditions for the optimality. Then, in a special case with exponential utility, an explicit solution is found by solving an intricate associated static constrained optimization problem.
Sexual and Physical Victimization and Health Correlates Among Norwegian Adolescents
Authors: Frøyland Lars Roar , Pedersen Willy , Stefansen Kari , von Soest Tilmann
Published: May 2023

Large-scale epidemiological studies have documented that many children and adolescents are exposed to different forms of victimization experiences. However, such population-based studies have rarely examined how specific types of victimization are correlated with health indicators. Thus, we investigated sexual victimization, physical victimization by parents, and physical victimization by peers and their associations with sexual health, mental health, and substance use. We gathered data from a nationally representative sample of Norwegian 18–19-year-old students in their final year of senior high school (N = 2075; 59.1% girls). The analyses showed that 12.1% of the adolescents reported sexual victimization experiences. Physical victimization was more prevalent: 19.5% of the respondents had been exposed to victimization from parents and 18.9% from peers. Multivariate analyses revealed specific associations between sexual victimization and a range of sexual health indicators, such as early sexual intercourse debut, many sexual partners, engaging in sex without contraception while intoxicated, and participating in sexual acts for payment. Neither physical victimization from parents nor from peers were correlated with these variables. However, all three forms of victimization were associated with impaired mental health and potential substance use problems. We conclude that a variety of victimization experiences should be addressed in policies for prevention of adolescent mental health and substance use problems. In addition, a special emphasis is warranted regarding sexual victimization: Sexual health policies should address such potential experiences in addition to more traditional themes such as reproductive health and should also include low-threshold services for young victims of sexual victimization.
Morphology on Categorical Distributions
Authors: Ørting Silas Nyboe , Stephensen Hans Jacob Teglbjærg , Sporring Jon
Published: May 2023

Mathematical morphology (MM) is an indispensable tool for post-processing. Several extensions of MM to categorical images, such as multi-class segmentations, have been proposed. However, none provide satisfactory definitions for morphology on probabilistic representations of categorical images. The categorical distribution is a natural choice for representing uncertainty about categorical images. Extending MM to categorical distributions is problematic because categories are inherently unordered. Without ranking categories, we cannot use the standard framework based on supremum and infimum. Ranking categories is impractical and problematic. Instead, we consider the probabilistic representation and operations that emphasize a single category. In this work, we review and compare previous approaches. We propose two approaches for morphology on categorical distributions: operating on Dirichlet distributions over the parameters of the distributions and operating directly on the distributions. We propose a “protected” variant of the latter and demonstrate the proposed approaches by fixing misclassifications and modeling annotator bias.
CTLA4-Ig Effectively Controls Clinical Deterioration and Immune Condition in a Murine Model of Foxp3 Deficiency
Authors: Gerbaux Margaux , Roos Evelyne , Willemsen Mathijs , Staels Frederik , Neumann Julika , Bücken Leoni , Haughton Jeason , Yshii Lidia , Dooley James , Schlenner Susan , Humblet-Baron Stephanie , Liston Adrian
Published: May 2023

Purpose

FOXP3 deficiency results in severe multisystem autoimmunity in both mice and humans, driven by the absence of functional regulatory T cells. Patients typically present with early and severe autoimmune polyendocrinopathy, dermatitis, and severe inflammation of the gut, leading to villous atrophy and ultimately malabsorption, wasting, and failure to thrive. In the absence of successful treatment, FOXP3-deficient patients usually die within the first 2 years of life. Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation provides a curative option but first requires adequate control over the inflammatory condition. Due to the rarity of the condition, no clinical trials have been conducted, with widely unstandardized therapeutic approaches. We sought to compare the efficacy of lead therapeutic candidates rapamycin, anti-CD4 antibody, and CTLA4-Ig in controlling the physiological and immunological manifestations of Foxp3 deficiency in mice.

Method

We generated Foxp3-deficient mice and an appropriate clinical scoring system to enable direct comparison of lead therapeutic candidates rapamycin, nondepleting anti-CD4 antibody, and CTLA4-Ig.

Results

We found distinct immunosuppressive profiles induced by each treatment, leading to unique protective combinations over distinct clinical manifestations. CTLA4-Ig provided superior breadth of protective outcomes, including highly efficient protection during the transplantation process.

Conclusion

These results highlight the mechanistic diversity of pathogenic pathways initiated by regulatory T cell loss and suggest CTLA4-Ig as a potentially superior therapeutic option for FOXP3-deficient patients.
Protein structure prediction with energy minimization and deep learning approaches
Authors: Filgueiras Juan Luis , Varela Daniel , Santos José
Published: May 2023

In this paper we discuss the advantages and problems of two alternatives for ab initio protein structure prediction. On one hand, recent approaches based on deep learning, which have significantly improved prediction results for a wide variety of proteins, are discussed. On the other hand, methods based on protein conformational energy minimization and with different search strategies are analyzed. In this latter case, our methods based on a memetic combination between differential evolution and the fragment replacement technique are included, incorporating also the possibility of niching in the evolutionary search. Different proteins have been used to analyze the pros and cons in both approaches, proposing possibilities of integration of both alternatives.
Regularised Volterra series models for modelling of nonlinear self-excited forces on bridge decks
Authors: Skyvulstad Henrik , Petersen Øyvind W. , Argentini Tommaso , Zasso Alberto , Øiseth Ole
Published: May 2023

Volterra series models are considered an attractive approach for modelling nonlinear aerodynamic forces for bridge decks since they extend the convolution integral to higher dimensions. Optimal identification of nonlinear systems is a challenging task since there are typically many unknown variables that need to be determined, and it is vital to avoid overfitting. Several methods exist for identifying Volterra kernels from experimental data, but a large class of them put restrictions on the system inputs, making them infeasible for section model tests of bridge decks. A least-squares identification method does not restrict the inputs, but the identified model often struggles with noisy (non-smooth) kernels, which is deemed to be unphysical and a sign of overfitting. In this work, regularised least-squares identification is introduced to improve the performance of model identification using least-squares. Standard Tikhonov regularisation and other penalty techniques that impose decaying kernels are also explored. The performance of the methodology is studied using experimental data from wind tunnel tests of a twin deck section. The regularised Volterra models show equal or better results in terms of modelling the self-excited forces, and the regularisation makes the models less prone to overfitting.