bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the effects of palm kernel meal feeding on the meat quality and rumen microorganisms of Qinghai Tibetan sheep
Authors: Ma Ying , Han Lijuan , Raza Sayed Haidar Abbas , Gui Linsheng , Zhang Xue , Hou Shengzhen , Sun Shengnan , Yuan Zhenzhen , Wang Zhiyou , Yang Baochun , Hassan Mohamed M. , Alghsham Ruqaih S. , Al Abdulmonem Waleed , Alkhalil Samia S.
Published: April 2023

Palm kernel meal (PKM) has been shown to be a high‐quality protein source in ruminant feeds. This study focused on the effects of feed, supplemented with different amounts of PKM (ZL‐0 as blank group, and ZL‐15, ZL‐18, and ZL‐21 as treatment group), on the quality and flavor profile of Tibetan sheep meat. Furthermore, the deposition of beneficial metabolites in Tibetan sheep and the composition of rumen microorganisms on underlying regulatory mechanisms of meat quality were studied based on ultra‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry as well as 16S rDNA sequencing. The results of the study showed that Tibetan sheep in the ZL‐18 group exhibited superior eating quality and flavor profile while depositing more protein and fat relative to the other groups. The ZL‐18 group also changed significantly in terms of the concentration and metabolic pathways of meat metabolites, as revealed by metabolomics. Metabolomics and correlation analyses finally showed that PKM feed mainly affected carbohydrate metabolism in muscle, which in turn affects meat pH, tenderness, and flavor. In addition, 18% of PKM increased the abundance of Christensenellaceae R‐7 group, Ruminococcaceae UCG‐013, Lachnospiraceae UCG‐002, and Family XIII AD3011 group in the rumen but decreased the abundance of Prevotella 1; the above bacteria groups regulate meat quality by regulating rumen metabolites (succinic acid, DL‐glutamic acid, etc.). Overall, the addition of PKM may improve the quality and flavor of the meat by affecting muscle metabolism and microorganisms in the rumen.
Functional profile and encapsulating properties of Colocasia esculenta (Taro)
Authors: Zubair Muhammad Waqas , Imran Ali , Islam Fakhar , Afzaal Muhammad , Saeed Farhan , Zahra Syeda Mahvish , Akhtar Muhammad Nadeem , Noman Muhammad , Ateeq Huda , Aslam Muhammad Arslan , Mehta Shilpa , Shah Mohd Asif , Awuchi Chinaza Godswill
Published: April 2023

Especially in tropical and subtropical countries, tuber and root crops have developed into important food crops. Due to its use in food preparation, aesthetics, and medicine, taro (Colocasia esculenta) is ranked as the fifth most important root crop. In comparison, it stores a considerable quantity of starch – even more than potatoes, sweet potatoes, cassava, and other similar crops. Colocasia leaves are lower in calories and high in dietary fiber minerals and proteins. The corms of Colocasia antiquorum contain anthocyanins such as pelargonidin‐3‐glucoside, cyanidin‐3‐glucoside, and cyanidin‐3‐chemnoside, which are reported to possess antifungal and antioxidative characteristics. The underground corms of taro (Colocasia esculenta), which contain 70%–80% starch, are the primary reason for its cultivation. Taro is a highly digestible root vegetable with a high content of mucilaginous gums and trivial starchy granules. It is used to make a variety of dishes. This review article highlights the functional properties, phytochemical profile, encapsulating properties, and various industrial applications. Its health advantages and dietary uses were also addressed.
How health literacy associates with healthcare utilization and health promotion behaviours in Turkey?: Contributions to discussions concerning the Anderson model and ecological models
Authors: Tüzün Hakan , Özkan Seçil , Dikmen Asiye Uğraş , Aksakal Nur Baran , Çalışkan Deniz , Taşçı Özge , Ünal Selime Ceylan
Published: April 2023

Background

This study examined how health literacy (HL) levels are associated with health care utilization (HCU) and health promotion behaviours (HPB) in Turkey.

Methods

We conducted face‐to‐face interviews and utilised the Turkish HL Scale‐32 (n = 6228).

Results

HL score was inversely related to the number of outpatient admissions (OAs) (β = −0.001) and emergency department admissions (EAs) (β = −0.006) in the Poisson regression model. Sex, age, perceived health, income group, and education level were other variables related to the number of OAs and EAs. Health literacy levels were related to physical activity (PA) (for excellent HL, OR: 3.93 (95% CI: 2.54–6.08)) and acquiring healthy eating habits (HEHs) (for excellent HL, OR: 3.56 (95% CI: 2.40–5.29) in the logistic regression model. Education levels are related to PA, HEHs, and smoking cessation or reduction. Income groups, except those with very sufficient income, are related to PA and HEHs.

Conclusion

Improving HL can help reduce health admissions. The relationship of HCU with gender, age, education, perceived health, and income group supports the Anderson model. Limited HL groups should be prioritised as risk groups in health promotion programs. The association of HL and socio‐economic variables with HPB supports the ecological model.
Understanding trend inflation through the lens of the goods and services sectors
Authors: Eo Yunjong , Uzeda Luis , Wong Benjamin
Published: April 2023

We distinguish between the goods and services sectors in an unobserved components model of U.S. inflation. We find that prior to the early 1990s, both sectors contributed to volatility of aggregate trend inflation, while since then, this has been predominantly driven by the services sector, with the trend in goods inflation being essentially flat. We document that the large reduction in the volatility of the trend for goods inflation has been the most important driver of the decline in the volatility in aggregate trend inflation reported by Stock and Watson (2007). Our results appear robust to COVID‐19 inflation developments.
Emerging potential of phototherapy in management of symptomatic oral lichen planus: A systematic review of randomised controlled clinical trials
Authors: Hanna Reem , Dalvi Snehal , Tomov Georgi , Hopper Colin , Rebaudi Federico , Rebaudi Alberto Luigi , Bensadoun René Jean
Published: April 2023

Phototherapy incorporating photobiomodulation therapy and antimicrobial photodynamic therapy has been utilised as antioxidants in symptomatic oral lichen planus (OLP) management; however, its role of intervention remains controversial. The aim of this systematic review of CRD42021227788 PROSPERO (an international prospective register of systematic reviews in health and social care) registration number was to oversee and determine phototherapy efficacy in patients with symptomatic OLP, identifying and bridging the literature gaps by proposing recommendations for future studies. A search strategy was developed in consistent with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Various electronic databases were exercised to search for randomised controlled clinical trials (RCTs). Several search engines were employed to analyse a total of 177 studies of which nine included. A wide range of utilised laser and light‐emitted diode wavelengths between 630 and 808 nm and irradiance ranged between 10 and 13 mW/cm2were noted. 67% of studies reported a high risk of bias and a high heterogeneity obtained from numerical data for quantitative analysis, therefore meta‐analysis was impossible to conduct. Despite inconsistency and diversity in phototherapy parameters, treatment protocols, photosensitiser (type, concentration and method of application) and outcome assessment tools, the majority of the studies showed positive results compared with standard care treatments. Hence, a necessity to perform well‐designed RCTs with robust methodology is warranted, after acknowledging the current drawbacks and addressing the suggested recommendations highlighted in our review. Moreover, advanced knowledge in understanding further phototherapy‐antioxidants molecular mechanistic in symptomatic OLP is required.
Biochanin‐A alleviates fibrosis and inflammation in cardiac injury in mice
Authors: Sharma Meemansha , Singh Thakur Uttam , Rana Abhinav , Kumar Tarun , Gari Manju , Mani Pashupathi , Lingaraju Madhu Cholenahalli , Parida Subhashree , Singh Vidya , Sahoo Monalisa , Kumar Dinesh
Published: April 2023

Biochanin‐A (BCA), is an isoflavonoid, exhibits protective effects against various diseases. This study was conducted to observe the effect of BCA on isoprenaline (ISP)‐induced cardiac fibrosis and explore the underlying mechanism. The curative effect of BCA was investigated with oral administration for 14 days in ISP‐induced cardiac fibrosis in mice. The fibrotic biomarkers, like collagen I and III, were estimated by ELISA. Commercial kits were used to estimate cholesterol, triglycerides, and creatine kinase‐myocardial band (CK‐MB) levels. The messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) expression studies were performed by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction. Gelatin zymography was used to study the expression of matrix metalloproteinases‐2 (MMP‐2). BCA co‐administration significantly improved the morphometric parameters; including heart weight, heart weight to body weight, heart weight to tibial length, and lipid profile. BCA treatment showed a reduction in inflammatory cells and collagen deposition as depicted in the histopathology of heart tissues. The enhanced levels of collagen‐I, III, and hydroxyproline were significantly decreased by BCA co‐treatment, whereas CK‐MB level was reduced slightly. BCA co‐administration increased the activity of reduced glutathione enzyme, showing the antioxidative effects of BCA. BCA treatment significantly reduced interleukin‐6 (Il6) inflammatory cytokine along with partially decreased mRNA expression of fibrotic signaling markers such as natriuretic peptide type B (Nppb), α‐smooth muscle actin (Acta2), connective tissue growth factor (Ctgf), transforming growth factor β (Tgfb), small mothers against decapentaplegic homolog‐3 (Smad‐3). However, BCA did not modify Mmp‐2 expression, which was significantly increased by ISP. In conclusion, BCA exerts an antifibrotic effect by modulating lipid profile, enhancing antioxidant enzyme, and reducing collagen content and inflammation.
Effect of social cohesion on crime control strategies among rural dwellers in Nigeria
Authors: Adeleke Gbadebo Fatai , Lawal Musediq Olufemi , Lanre‐Babalola Folake Olubunmi , Akinpelu Temitayo Oluwakemi
Published: April 2023

This study examined how social cohesion variables, SCV are associated with effective crime control strategies, CCS in Nigeria's rural areas. With mixed‐methods, we collected data from 3408 participants and 12 interviewees in 48 rural areas; the results showed that strong SCV indirectly hindered an effective CCS. Significant correlation was found between SCV and CCS. The SCV are shared emotions, strong‐family and religious‐ties, mutual‐trust, communal cohesion, well‐articulated common information network, and longstanding age‐group bond. The CCS adopted by the law enforcement agents were largely ineffective; these strategies are indiscriminate arrest or search with/without warrant, secret deployment of informants, liaising with local security guards and prompt documentation of cases. Other strategies include monitoring crime black‐spots, collaboration among different security agencies, awareness programs and strong community‐police relationship. There is a need for public awareness about the negative effects of communal bond on crime control to have a crime‐free society in Nigeria.
GDNF family receptor alpha‐like antagonist antibody alleviates chemotherapy‐induced cachexia in melanoma‐bearing mice
Authors: Lee Beom Yong , Jeong Jongwon , Jung Inseong , Cho Hanchae , Jung Dokyung , Shin Jiwon , Park Jun‐kook , Park Eunju , Noh Soojeong , Shin Sanghee , Kang Sungmin , Heo Jong‐Ik , Baek Moon‐Chang , Yea Kyungmoo
Published: April 2023

Background

Patients with cancer undergoing chemotherapy experience cachexia with anorexia, body weight loss, and the depletion of skeletal muscles and adipose tissues. Effective treatment strategies for chemotherapy‐induced cachexia are scarce. The growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15)/GDNF family receptor alpha‐like (GFRAL)/rearranged during transfection (RET) axis is a critical signalling pathway in chemotherapy‐induced cachexia. In this study, we developed a fully human GFRAL antagonist antibody and investigated whether it inhibits the GDF15/GFRAL/RET axis, thereby alleviating chemotherapy‐induced cachexia in tumour‐bearing mice.

Methods

Anti‐GFRAL antibodies were selected via biopanning, using a human combinatorial antibody phage library. The potent GFRAL antagonist antibody A11 was selected via a reporter cell assay and its inhibitory activity of GDF15‐induced signalling was evaluated using western blotting. To investigate the in vivo function of A11, a tumour‐bearing mouse model was established by inoculating 8‐week‐old male C57BL/6 mice with B16F10 cells (n = 10–16 mice per group). A11 was administered subcutaneously (10 mg/kg) 1 day before intraperitoneal treatment with cisplatin (10 mg/kg). Animals were assessed for changes in food intake, body weight, and tumour volume. Plasma and key metabolic tissues such as skeletal muscles and adipose tissues were collected for protein and mRNA expression analysis.

Results

A11 reduced serum response element‐luciferase reporter activity up to 74% (P < 0.005) in a dose‐dependent manner and blocked RET phosphorylation up to 87% (P = 0.0593), AKT phosphorylation up to 28% (P = 0.0593) and extracellular signal regulatory kinase phosphorylation up to 75% (P = 0.0636). A11 inhibited the action of cisplatin‐induced GDF15 on the brainstem and decreased GFRAL‐positive neuron population expressing c‐Fos in the area postrema and nucleus of the solitary tract by 62% in vivo (P < 0.05). In a melanoma mouse model treated with cisplatin, A11 recovered anorexia by 21% (P < 0.05) and tumour‐free body weight loss by 13% (P < 0.05). A11 significantly improved the cisplatin‐induced loss of skeletal muscles (quadriceps: 21%, gastrocnemius: 9%, soleus: 13%, P < 0.05) and adipose tissues (epididymal white adipose tissue: 37%, inguinal white adipose tissue: 51%, P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Our study suggests that GFRAL antagonist antibody may alleviate chemotherapy‐induced cachexia, providing a novel therapeutic approach for patients with cancer experiencing chemotherapy‐induced cachexia.
Give and gain: Black engineering students as near‐peer mentors
Authors: Taylor Leonard , Mastrogiovanni Margaret , Lakin Joni M. , Davis Virginia
Published: April 2023

Background

Engineering‐oriented bridge programs and camps are popular strategies for broadening participation. The students who often serve as counselors and mentors in these programs are integral to their success.

Purpose

Predicated on the belief that mentoring contributes to positive outcomes for the mentors themselves, we sought to understand how undergraduate student mentors approached and experienced their work with a 6‐day overnight, NSF‐sponsored youth engineering camp (YEC). This study was guided by the question: How did YEC camp counselors approach and experience their roles as mentors?

Design/Methods

We conducted an exploratory qualitative study of four Black undergraduate engineering students' experiences with and approaches to near‐peer mentorship in the YEC program. Data consisted of transcripts from two post‐program interviews and one written reflection from each participant. We analyzed data through abductive coding and the funds of knowledge framework.

Results

Through subsequent interpretation of code categories, we found YEC mentors: (1) engaged in altruistic motivations as YEC mentors, (2) leveraged previous experiences to guide their approaches to mentorship, and (3) engaged in self‐directed learning and development.

Conclusions

This study highlights the knowledge and strategies that YEC mentors drew upon in their roles, and how they sought and achieved various personal, academic, and professional benefits. Insights from this study illustrate how near‐peer mentors can support their and others' engineering aspirations.
A model of embedded autonomy and asymmetric information
Authors: Lyu Weicheng , Singh Nirvikar
Published: April 2023

We model the concept of embedded autonomy, introduced by Peter Evans, as an interaction between bureaucrats and entrepreneurs, where bureaucrats must approve projects proposed by entrepreneurs. Entrepreneurs are better informed about their own projects than are bureaucrats, but bureaucrats can receive signals about project quality from entrepreneurs. If bureaucrats and entrepreneurs are more closely connected, say through social ties, they receive more informative signals. However, greater closeness will simultaneously relax the standards for project approval. Hence, there is a tradeoff between these two effects of social closeness, which helps capture the concept of embedded autonomy.
Structural characteristics of radiation‐amorphized ZrSiO4:U,Th according to Raman spectroscopy of Boson peak
Authors: Shchapova Yuliya V. , Krylov Alexander S. , Votyakov Sergei L.
Published: April 2023

The structure of the amorphous fraction and the tensile‐compressive stresses in amorphous‐crystalline radiation‐damaged zircon ZrSiO:U,Th depending on radiation dose and temperature (8–350 K) are investigated according to Raman spectroscopy of Boson peak for the first time. The Boson peak at 60–70 cm−1 associated with localized phonon states in the amorphous fraction (
) is recorded at low temperatures (
 K) for samples with
and over the entire temperature range 8–350 K for
. The wider localized states distribution in the latter case is considered as a sign of the amorphous phase structure evolution with an increase in radiation dose. The estimates of an atomic correlation radius based on the Ioffe–Regel criterion are similar to those in glasses,
 nm. The monotonic increase in
value during heating of zircon with
is governed by thermal expansion of the percolating amorphous fraction. The nonmonotonic variations of the
value in zircon with
is determined by the stresses in the amorphous fraction due to the mismatch in thermal expansion coefficient (CTE) and elastic moduli of the amorphous and crystalline phases depending on temperature; a change in the sign of the crystalline fraction CTE at 30 K is assumed. The Boson peak disappearance at 100 K in zircon with
during heating conforms to with the violation of the phonon localization as a consequence of amorphous fraction contraction and partial ordering. The data obtained are important for predicting the thermal and mechanical properties of heterogeneous radiation‐damaged materials and nanocomposites.
Ultraviolet photodetectors and readout based on a‐IGZO semiconductor technology
Authors: Schellander Yannick , Winter Marius , Schamber Maurice , Munkes Fabian , Schalberger Patrick , Kuebler Harald , Pfau Tilman , Fruehauf Norbert
Published: April 2023

In this work, real‐time ultraviolet photodetectors are realized through metal–semiconductor–metal (MSM) structures. Amorphous indium gallium zinc oxide (a‐IGZO) is used as semiconductor material and gold as metal electrodes. The readout of an individual sensor is implemented by a transimpedance amplifier (TIA) consisting of an all‐enhancement a‐IGZO thin‐film transistor (TFT) operational amplifier and a switched capacitor (SC) as feedback resistance. The photosensor and the transimpedance amplifier are both manufactured on glass substrates. The measured photosensor possesses a high responsivity R, a low response time tRES, and a good noise equivalent power value NEP.
Transmission dynamics of visceral leishmaniasis with PKDL and periodic delays
Authors: Wang Wei , Wu Guoxiao , Fan Xiaoting , Lai Xiulan
Published: April 2023

We consider the transmission of visceral leishmaniasis in three populations: humans, dogs and sandflies. To investigate the effects of spatial heterogeneity and temporal periodicity on disease transmission, a nonlocal periodic reaction‐diffusion equation model is developed. We introduce the basic reproduction number
and establish the global dynamics. Numerical simulations show that (i)
is overestimated in the absence of spatial heterogeneity; (ii)
is underestimated without considering the effect of temporal seasonality; and (iii) shortening periodic delays of visceral leishmaniasis reduces the risk of disease transmission.
Stability and controllability of nonautonomous neutral system with two delays
Authors: Ali Shah Khadija , Zada Akbar , Popa Ioan‐Lucian , Ben Moussa Sana
Published: April 2023

This article investigates the exact and approximate controllability, finite time stability, and
–Hyers–Ulam–Rassias stability of a neutral impulsive system of differential equations with two delays. Fixed point theory is associated in the analysis of controllability of the system. The stability analysis is carried out with the help of Grönwall type inequality.
Data‐driven modeling of band‐pass filter for sub‐5G applications
Authors: Belen Aysu , Belen Mehmet A.
Published: April 2023

Radiofrequency noise is one of the challenging problems in the design of high‐performance wireless communication systems, for which microstrip band‐pass filters are one of the most commonly used design solutions for this challenge. However, for having high‐performance designs. usage of a 3D Electromagnetic simulation tool is a must in which the computation efficiency of the whole design optimization process might not be acceptable or even feasible. An efficient solution is utilization of AI‐based algorithms to create data‐driven surrogate models of the handled problem. In this paper, for achieving design optimization of an edge‐coupled band‐pass filter AI‐based algorithms have been used to create a data‐driven surrogate model. To achieve this, by using a 3D full‐wave simulator a data set for the aimed bandpass filter is generated. Then a series of state‐of‐the‐art regression algorithms, Support Vector Regression Machine, MultiLayer Perceptron, Ensemble Learning, Gaussian Process Regression, and Convolutional Neural Network have been used to create a data‐driven surrogate model for the aimed filter design. In the third step, the obtained data‐driven surrogate model is used to assist an optimization process directed by the Bayesian optimization technique to optimally determine geometrical design parameters of the desired band‐pass filter for sub‐5G applications at frequency of 3.4 GHz. The obtained results of the surrogate model are compared with experimental results and found to be in high agreement level. Furthermore, the performance of the optimally designed filter is compared with the counterpart designs in literature. Thus, based on the obtained results, it can be said that the proposed surrogate‐assisted optimization process is not only an efficient method in terms of computational costs but also is an efficient method to obtain high‐performance microwave filter designs.
Modeling the Formation of Rigid Polyurethane Foams Using Hydrofluorolefin as Expanding Agent
Authors: Cassens Beatriz N. , Giudici Reinaldo
Published: April 2023

Polyurethanes are probably the most versatile among polymers of greater industrial use due to the possibility of being produced in a wide range of density, hardness, and mechanical properties and through different conversion processes. Its synthesis involves a great variety of raw materials and proportions between them. A mathematical model that describes the polyurethane foam formation can be very useful for the development of formulations and in the definition of the processing conditions, avoiding great consumption of time and errors in the development and experiments. The present work studies this process using industrial formulation. The kinetic parameters of the reaction between polyol with isocyanate are determined calorimetrically using the adiabatic temperature rise method, obtaining the values of activation energy 22.2 kJ mol−1 and heat of reaction 91.8 kJ mol−1. Data liquid–vapor equilibrium of the hydrofluorolefin blowing agent in a polyol mixture are obtained and treated with Flory–Huggins model with good agreement with experimental data (deviation of 1.6%). The mathematical model is satisfactory to describe the expanding process in a pilot scale, under different conditions.
Biofiltration Reactivation Kinetics of a Cyclobio Fluidized Sand Filter in a Warmwater Recirculating Aquaculture System
Authors: Pfeiffer Timothy J. , Ott Brian D.
Published: April 2023

The ability of a commercial-scale Cyclobio fluidized sand filter was evaluated for ammonia and nitrite removal by dosing with ammonia chloride, NH4Cl, as part of the water treatment unit for the U.S. Department of Agriculture Agricultural Research Service Warmwater Aquaculture Research Unit's (WARU) catfish hatchery in Stoneville, Mississippi, USA. Treatment system water was recirculated through the Cyclobio filter for several months without any feed inputs; thus, our objective was to investigate how quickly a full-scale Cyclobio fluidized sand filter could be reactivated with NH4Cl substrate dosing in preparation for the upcoming spawning season. A second objective of the study was to examine the decline of the filter's nitrification ability when the supplementary NH4Cl substrate dosings were removed or limited. The effects of daily and weekly substrate additions were evaluated over a 14-week winter period, with the system water temperature ranging between 20° and 23°C. Total ammonia nitrogen (TAN) concentration decreased within hours of initial dosing. After approximately a 2-h lag period, the nitrite–nitrogen concentration peaked and then decreased. The rate of TAN nitrification followed a simple first-order reaction kinetics and increased over time during the 4 weeks of daily NH4Cl substrate dosing. The return to a weekly substrate dosage resulted in a decrease in the kinetic reaction rate, but adequate to maintain the filter during periods of system inactivity. The once-daily substrate dosage was consumed within hours of the initial dosing and was sufficient for current system loading.
Robust reliability‐based design approach by inverse FORM with adaptive conjugate search algorithm
Authors: Ji Jian , Wang Zhaocheng , Zhang Zheming , Liao Wenwang
Published: April 2023

The concept of reliability‐based design (RBD) of geotechnical works has seen great success in recent years, nevertheless, its application in real‐world engineering practice is still limited. This phenomenon could be mainly attributed to two aspects: the engineer's unfamiliarity of reliability algorithms even in their simplest forms, and the lack of direct connection between reliability algorithms and deterministic design tools. To promote the geotechnical RBD application, this study proposes an inverse first‐order reliability method (FORM) integrating adaptive conjugate direction search technique (RBD via conjugate FORM) to solve classical RBD problems where the number of (multiple) limit state functions is usually equal to the number of unknown design parameters. Notably, the RBD via conjugate FORM can readily back‐calculate those unknown design parameters subject to prescribed reliability index or probability of failure, by means of iterative evaluation of the parametric sensitivities. The proposed algorithm is first verified by several well‐documented examples. Comparative studies show that when the reliability problem to solve is highly nonlinear, the RBD results based on steepest descent search direction may fall in oscillation and non‐convergence, while the proposed RBD via conjugate FORM algorithm performs robustly and efficiently. It is then illustrated in combination with standalone numerical codes to conduct risk‐based optimization of unknown design parameters for two soil slope stability models. The first slope RBD model achieves designing the slope angle under specified reliability index, and the second slope RBD model is to optimize multiple design parameters of the stabilization pile, which can meet different slope reliability requirements under static and seismic loading conditions simultaneously.
Using simulation to train clinical providers in the effective use of telehealth
Authors: Pfeil Sheryl A. , Shellhaas Cynthia S.
Published: April 2023

With the onset of the COVID‐19 pandemic, telehealth became a widely used method to provide patient care. Providers had to quickly learn how to adapt traditional clinical care to the virtual environment. The existing literature focuses on the technological aspects of telehealth with only a few publications addressing optimization of communication, with even fewer looking at the use of simulation to fill the knowledge gap in this area. Simulation training is one such avenue that can be used to practice virtual encounters. This review outlines how to effectively use simulation as an educational method to teach clinical skills needed for effective telehealth communication. The experiential nature of simulation provides learners with an opportunity to adapt their clinical skills to a telehealth encounter, and an opportunity to practice challenges unique to a telehealth environment, such as patient privacy, patient safety, technology disruption, and performance of an examination virtually. The goal of this review is to discuss how simulation may be used to train providers for best practices in telehealth.
Characteristics and health service utilization of children most at risk for prolonged temporary tube feeding
Authors: Syrmis Maryanne , Reilly Claire , Frederiksen Nadine , Bell Kristie L.
Published: April 2023

Background

This study aimed to describe children at risk of prolonged temporary tube feeding and evaluate associations between tube feeding duration and child and health service variables.

Methods

A prospective medical hospital records audit was conducted between November 1, 2018, and November 30, 2019. Children at risk of prolonged temporary tube feeding were identified as having a tube feeding duration of >5 days. Information was collected on patient characteristics (eg, age) and service delivery provision (eg, tube exit plans). Data were collected from the pretube decision‐making phase until tube removal (if applicable) or until 4 months after tube insertion.

Results

Descriptively, 211 at‐risk children (median, 3.7 years; interquartile range [IQR], 0.4–7.7) differed from 283 not‐at‐risk children (median age, 0.9 years; IQR, 0.4–1.8) in terms of age, geographical location of residence, and tube exit planning. Medical diagnoses of neoplasms, congenital abnormalities, perinatal problems, and digestive system diseases in the at‐risk group were individually associated with longer than average tube feeding duration, as were the primary reasons for tube feeding of nonorganic growth faltering and inadequate oral intake related to neoplasms. Yet, variables independently associated with greater odds of lengthier tube feeding durations were consultations with a dietitian, speech pathologist, or interdisciplinary feeding team.

Conclusion

Children at risk of prolonged temporary tube feeding access interdisciplinary management because of their complexity. Identified descriptive differences between at‐risk and not‐at‐risk children may be useful when selecting patients for tube exit planning and developing tube feeding management education programs for health professionals.
The gut microbiome and regional fat distribution: Findings from the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging
Authors: Tilves Curtis , Tanaka Toshiko , Differding Moira K. , Spira Adam P. , Chia Chee W. , Ferrucci Luigi , Mueller Noel T.
Published: April 2023

Objective

The aim of this study was to examine associations of gut microbiome diversity and composition with directly measured regional fat distribution, including central fat, in a large community‐based cohort.

Methods

A cross‐sectional investigation was conducted in the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging (N = 815, 55.2% female, 65.9% White). The fecal microbiome was assessed using whole‐genome shotgun metagenomic sequencing, and trunk and leg fat was measured using dual x‐ray absorptiometry. Multivariable‐adjusted associations of regional fat measures, BMI, or waist circumference with microbiome alpha diversity metrics, microbiome beta diversity metrics, and species differential abundance (verified using two compositional statistical approaches) were examined.

Results

Trunk fat, leg fat, BMI, and waist circumference all significantly explained similar amounts of variance in microbiome structure. Differential abundance testing identified 11 bacterial species significantly associated with at least one measure of body composition or anthropometry. Ruminococcus gnavus was strongly and consistently associated with trunk fat mass, which is congruent with prior literature.

Conclusions

Microbiome diversity and composition, in particular higher abundance of Ruminococcus gnavus, were associated with greater trunk fat, in addition to other measures of obesity. Longitudinal studies are needed to replicate these findings, and if replicated, randomized trials are needed to determine whether interventions targeting microbiome features such as abundance of Ruminococcus gnavus can lead to reductions in trunk fat and its metabolic sequelae.
Carbon‐based composite nanofibers for photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue dye under visible light
Authors: Syed Noureen , Feng Yongqiang , Fahad Raja , Huang Jianfeng , Mahar Faraz Khan
Published: April 2023

Photocatalytic degradation from Photocatalytic Nanomaterials composites is a great possibility to investigate the energy shortage and potential natural risks determined by nanomaterial composites. Graphite oxide and carbon quantum dots (CQDs) were added to Polyacrylonitrile nanofibers to improve the photocatalytic activity and mechanical qualities of the composite nanofibers. Under visible light irradiation, the photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes—methylene blue dye from the simulated industrial wastewater has been studied. Electrospinning is used to create polyacrylonitrile nanofibers, which are then chemically cross‐linked with graphite oxide and CQDs to get efficient photocatalytic degradation. In‐depth analysis has been done on every parameter relating to dyes and the photocatalytic degradation mechanism. Using scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis, the surface sensitization and morphological changes of the synthesized composite nanofibers were investigated. With a 100% degradation efficiency for MB after 25 min, sensitized CQDs with graphite oxide demonstrated better efficiency in the degradation of MB when compared with pristine elements. The ideal catalytic conditions, including pH and starting organic dye content, were discussed. Methylene blue dye degraded more effectively as initial concentrations dropped. The reaction rate slows down at a pH of 7. The proposed composite demonstrated high stability and reusability for MB dye, and the cost‐controlling method can be utilized in advanced applications.
Influence of material modification and fillers on the dimensional stability and warpage of polypropylene in screw‐extrusion‐based large area additive manufacturing
Authors: Austermann Johannes , Kuscera Renata , Wipperfürth Jens , Hopmann Christian , Dahlmann Rainer
Published: April 2023

In this work, the influence of a modification and fillers on the dimensional stability and warpage of semi‐crystalline polypropylene compounds in screw‐based Large Area Additive Manufacturing is investigated by material characterization and experimental testing. Polypropylene is modified by blending an amorphous polyolefin‐copolymer as well as the addition of three different fillers talc, glass fibers, and hollow glass beads, resulting in eight investigated compounds. A material characterization using Differential Scanning Calorimetry, Thermogravimetric Analysis, thermal conductivity measurements, and pvT‐measurements is carried out. Experimental investigations regarding dimensional stability and warpage deformation during processing are performed. By increasing the crystallization temperature and thermal conductivity from 112.3°C and 0.208 W/(m°C) to 127°C and 0.232 W/(m°C) through the use of a modification and talc, a better dimensional stability during processing is reached. Furthermore, both the modification of the base material and the introduction of talc or glass fibers lead to a significant reduction in the decrease in specific volume during cooling, as determined by pvT‐measurements, thus reducing warpage. The experimentally determined warpage deformation could be reduced by 69% when using 10 wt. % talc‐filler and by 78% when using 10 wt. % glass fibers, compared to the unmodified and unfilled base polypropylene.
Application of radiomics in lung immuno‐oncology
Authors: Yan Weisi , Quan Chen , Mourad Waleed F. , Yuan Jianda , Shi Zheng , Yang Jun , Lu Qiuxia , Zhang Jie
Published: April 2023

Radiomics is a rapidly evolving field of research that extracts and analyzes quantitative features within medical images. Those features are termed as radiomic features that can characterize a tumor in a comprehensive and quantitative manner with regard to its internal structure and heterogeneity. Radiomic features can be used, alone or in combination with demographic, histological, genomic, or proteomic data, for predicting prognosis or treatment response. Immunotherapy, or immune‐oncology, is the study of cancer treatment by taking advantage of the body's immune system to prevent, control, and eliminate cancer. In this review, we first provide a brief introduction to both radiomics and immune‐oncology in lung cancer. Then, we discuss the need for developing immune‐oncology biomarkers, and the advantages of radiomics in identifying biomarkers related to immunotherapy. We also discuss potential areas in and out of tumors, such as the intra‐tumoral hypoxic region and tumor microenvironment, where radiomic markers might be extracted, as well as a potential application of radiomic biomarkers in clinical lung cancer management. Finally, we present radiation and immune modulation in non‐small cell lung cancer, clinical trials and their design to incorporate radiomic biomarkers, and radiomics‐guided precision radiation therapy.
Electronic, Structural, Optical, and Magnetic Characteristics A2MgS4 of (A=Dy, Er) Spinel Sulfides: A Density Functional Theory Study
Authors: Nazar Mubashir , Nasarullah  , Aldaghfag Shatha A. , Yaseen Muhammad , Waqas Muhammad , Butt Mehwish Khalid , Boukhris Imed
Published: April 2023

Density functional theory (DFT) simulations are performed to explore the physical features of Dy2MgS4 and Er2MgS4. Local density approximation with Hubbard potential (LDA + U) functional is utilized to examine the magnetic and electronic features. Half metallic ferromagnetic (HMF) behavior is confirmed by the spin‐resolved density of states (DOS) and band structure (BS) plots. Spin‐resolved BS and DOS show that Dy2MgS4 and Er2MgS4 for spin‐down are metallic, whereas both compounds in spin‐up show semiconductor nature with the bandgaps of 1.731 and 3.081 eV for Dy2MgS4 and Er2MgS4, correspondingly. Both compounds also feature exchange energies and crystal field splitting, indicating the magnetic characteristics. The estimated magnetic moments of X2MgS4 (X = Dy, Er) are 20μB and 12μB, correspondingly, also revealed by spin‐polarized magnetic density. Optical properties such as refractive index n(ω), absorption coefficient α(ω), dielectric constant , reflectivity R(, extinction coefficient k(ω), and optical conductivity σ(ω) are also explored. The optical bandgaps for MgX2S4 (X = Dy, Er) are 1.70 and 1.51 eV, respectively; it shows that both are transparent to visible light. Results indicate that both materials can be suitable for spintronic and solar‐cell usage.
Krukenberg tumour as the initial manifestation of lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Lim Guat Yee , Wong Yen Shen , Tawil Zahrah , Abdul Kadir Roqiah Fatmawati , Ramanathan Annamalai , Natasya Musa Aisya
Published: April 2023

Krukenberg tumours are unusual metastatic tumours of the ovary with primary tumours from the stomach, breast and gastrointestinal malignancies. Krukenberg tumour from pulmonary malignancy represents an extremely rare situation. This is an elaboration of a case of young women with Krukenberg tumour rising from lung adenocarcinoma. A 38‐year‐old woman presented with progressive abdominal distention for the past 2‐years. Computed tomography (CT) of thorax, abdomen and pelvis revealed a huge ovarian mass with left lung nodules and left‐sided pleural effusion. A detailed immunohistochemical staining on pleural fluid cytology confirmed the diagnosis of metastatic adenocarcinoma of lung origin. She underwent doublet platinum chemotherapy as molecular testing for oncogenic mutation was negative. The patient responded well to chemotherapy with a significant reduction in ovarian tumour size. Early identification of the primary source of Krukenberg tumour is paramount to avoid invasive diagnostic surgical intervention for ovarian metastasis.
Mapping CPAT I/O Data to CIM and Setting the Multiplicity of Attributes and Associations
Authors: Dozaki Takashi , Otani Tetsuo
Published: April 2023

This study demonstrates the mapping of input/output (I/O) data of Central Research Institute of Electric Power Industry's Power System Analysis Tool (CPAT) with the Common Information Model (CIM) and the setting of the multiplicity of attributes and associations. The mapping describes which CIM classes defined in IEC 61970‐301 Edition 7.0 and IEC 61970‐302 Edition 1.0 correspond to which I/O data of CPAT. In addition, the multiplicity of their attributes and associations is determined by requirements of the I/O data of CPAT. © 2023 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Full Feedback Dynamic Neural Network with Exogenous Inputs for Dynamic Data‐Driven Modeling in Nonlinear Dynamic Power Systems
Authors: Zhang Zhenhui , Zhang Zhengjiang , Zhao Sheng , Hong Zhihui , Huang Shipei , Li Quanfang
Published: April 2023

Dynamic neural networks (DNNs) are widely used in data‐driven modeling of nonlinear control systems. Due to the complexity of the actual operating nonlinear power systems, rigorous dynamic models are always unknown. DNNs can focus on methods that only use input and output information to establish accurate dynamic models and reduce noise in measured data, which is called data‐driven modeling. The core of the DNN is the feedback with memory function. This paper analyzes the traditional Elman neural network (ENN) and nonlinear auto‐regression with exogenous input (NARX) neural network with different structure feedback structures, and proposes a full feedback dynamic neural network (FF‐DNN) with exogenous input. Eight different kinds of neural networks (including ENN, NARX, etc.) are compared and analyzed. The eight kinds of neural networks are applied on the experimental data of the DC‐AC inverter and the power system of Zhejiang Juchuang Smart Technology Company Park in Wenzhou. The experimental results are used to compare the performance of the data‐driven models established by eight different kinds of neural networks under different noise conditions, verify the robustness and generalization performance of dynamic data‐driven modeling based on FF‐DNN, and demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of FF‐DNN in actual power systems. © 2023 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
A Novel Frequency Compensation Scheme for Heavy Load LDO with Improved Load Regulation and High Open Loop Gain
Authors: Li Jiping , Wang Shuo , Zhao Tianting , Yang Xin , Xiao Zhiming , Zhao Yue
Published: April 2023

This paper presents a novel frequency compensation scheme for the stability of low dropout regulator (LDO). The proposed compensation scheme introduces a zero in the voltage regulation loop to enlarge gain and phase margin at high‐frequencies. As a result, high open‐loop‐gain and improved load regulation performances are achieved, and a particular resistor is introduced in the compensation structure to cancel the voltage drop originating from cable resistances at the output to further improve the load regulation performance. The proposed LDO with wide input/output range and high‐power supply rejection is designed and implemented in a 180 nm CMOS process. The LDO operates with an input voltage range of 4–16 V, an output voltage range of 1.5–5 V and an output current range of 0–1000 mA. High open loop gain and high bandwidth are achieved, and the simulated performances of load regulation and line regulation are less than 32 μV/mA and less than 3 mV/V over the whole operation range, respectively. The on‐chip compensation capacitor required by the compensation module is only 1.8 pF. © 2023 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Enhancement of suppression oxidative stress and inflammation of quercetin by nano‐decoration for ameliorating silica‐induced pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Yao Jingjing , Li Yuxuan , Meng Fei , Shen Wenwen , Wen Hao
Published: April 2023

Silicosis is a life‐threatening lung fibrotic disease caused by excessive inhalation of environmental exposure to crystalline silica‐containing dust, whereas achieving therapeutic cures are constrained. Antioxidation and anti‐inflammation are currently recognized as effective strategies to counteract organ fibrosis. Using naturally occurring phytomedicines quercetin (Qu) has emerged in antagonizing fibrotic disorders involving oxidative stress and inflammation, but unfortunately the hydrophilicity deficiency. Herein, chitosan‐assisted encapsulation of Qu in nanoparticles (Qu/CS‐NPs) was first fabricated for silicosis‐associated fibrosis treatment by pulmonary delivery. Qu/CS‐NPs with spherical diameters of ~160 nm, demonstrated a high Qu encapsulated capability, excellent hydrophilic stability, fantastic oxidation radical scavenging action, and outstanding controlled as well as slow release Qu action. A silicosis rat model induced by intratracheal instillation silica was established to estimate the anti‐fibrosis effect of Qu/CS‐NPs. After intratracheal administration, CS‐NPs markedly enhanced Qu anti‐fibrotic therapy efficacy, accompanying the evident changes in reducing ROS and MDA production to mitigate oxidative stress, inhibiting IL‐1β and TNF‐α release, improving lung histological architecture, down‐regulating α‐SAM levels and suppressing ECM deposition, and thereby ameliorating silica‐induced pulmonary fibrosis. Results manifested that the augmented antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory activities of Qu by CS‐NPs delivery was a result of achieving this remarkable improvement in curative effects. Combined with negligible systemic toxicity, nano‐decorated Qu may provide a feasible therapeutic option for silicosis therapy.
Introduction
Authors: Earnshaw Rae
Published: April 2023

Human creators are capable of great feats of imagination and inventiveness. History and tradition testify to the masterpieces that have been produced over the centuries. Most of these have been created in human time with the tools that were available. The current digital revolution is providing a new set of tools and environments that creators can use, but this does raise issues such as to how best to preserve traditions and esthetic values that have been built up over many generations. Technology can provide both continuity and discontinuity which has both opportunities and challenges. A number of the factors influencing creativity are summarized, and suggestions made for evaluating the outcomes of the creative process. Mixed interdisciplinary environments offer opportunities for the production of creative works. The rise of commercial art for the Internet and interactive gaming is noted.