bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of Building Position and Printing Scheme on Mechanical Properties of Fused Filament Fabrication PLA Specimens
Authors: De Luca Alessandro , Greco Alessandro , Perfetto Donato , Sepe Raffaele
Published: October 2023

The recent improvement of additive manufacturing (AM) technologies has been attracting the industry and research community attention. This paper aims to investigate the influence of building position and printing scheme on the tensile mechanical properties of Tough polylactic acid (PLA) material, manufactured through a fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D printing – the S5 ProBundle Ultimaker. FDM 3D printing, also known as fused filament fabrication (FFF), is an AM process within the realm of material extrusion. FDM builds parts Layer by Layer by selectively depositing melted material in a predetermined path, and uses thermoplastic polymers that come in the form of filaments. In this paper, AM Tough PLA specimens are manufactured according to ASTM‐D638 requirement considering two different positions on the building plate and two printing schemes. Specimens are tested under static tensile test and the mechanical properties are extracted.
Single‐shot quantitative x‐ray imaging using a primary modulator and dual‐layer detector
Authors: Shi Linxi , Bennett Nathaniel Robert , Vezeridis Alexander , Kothary Nishita , Wang Adam S.
Published: October 2023

Background

Conventional x‐ray imaging and fluoroscopy have limitations in quantitation due to several challenges, including scatter, beam hardening, and overlapping tissues. Dual‐energy (DE) imaging, with its capability to quantify area density of specific materials, is well‐suited to address such limitations, but only if the dual‐energy projections are acquired with perfect spatial and temporal alignment and corrected for scatter.

Purpose

In this work, we propose single‐shot quantitative imaging (SSQI) by combining the use of a primary modulator (PM) and dual‐layer (DL) detector, which enables motion‐free DE imaging with scatter correction in a single exposure.

Methods

The key components of our SSQI setup include a PM and DL detector, where the former enables scatter correction for the latter while the latter enables beam hardening correction for the former. The SSQI algorithm allows simultaneous recovery of two material‐specific images and two scatter images using four sub‐measurements from the PM encoding. The concept was first demonstrated using simulation of chest x‐ray imaging for a COVID patient. For validation, we set up SSQI geometry on our tabletop system and imaged acrylic and copper slabs with known thicknesses (acrylic: 0–22.5 cm; copper: 0–0.9 mm), estimated scatter with our SSQI algorithm, and compared the material decomposition (MD) for different combinations of the two materials with ground truth. Second, we imaged an anthropomorphic chest phantom containing contrast in the coronary arteries and compared the MD with and without SSQI. Lastly, to evaluate SSQI in dynamic applications, we constructed a flow phantom that enabled dynamic imaging of iodine contrast.

Results

Our simulation study demonstrated that SSQI led to accurate scatter correction and MD, particularly for smaller focal blur and finer PM pitch. In the validation study, we found that the root mean squared error (RMSE) of SSQI estimation was 0.13 cm for acrylic and 0.04 mm for copper. For the anthropomorphic phantom, direct MD resulted in incorrect interpretation of contrast and soft tissue, while SSQI successfully distinguished them quantitatively, reducing RMSE in material‐specific images by 38%–92%. For the flow phantom, SSQI was able to perform accurate dynamic quantitative imaging, separating contrast from the background.

Conclusions

We demonstrated the potential of SSQI for robust quantitative x‐ray imaging. The integration of SSQI is straightforward with the addition of a PM and upgrade to a DL detector, which may enable its widespread adoption, including in techniques such as radiography and dynamic imaging (i.e., real‐time image guidance and cone‐beam CT).
Nutrition practices in hospitalized adults receiving noninvasive forms of respiratory support: A scoping review
Authors: Page Kaitlyn , Viner Smith Elizabeth , Chapple Lee‐anne S.
Published: October 2023

The use of noninvasive respiratory support is increasing, with noninvasive ventilation (NIV) and high‐flow nasal cannula providing unique barriers to nutrition support. Limited data related to nutrition management for these patients in the intensive care unit (ICU) exist; however, the literature in non–critically ill patients is not well described, and its improvement may help to inform practice within the ICU. Therefore, a scoping review was conducted of MEDLINE, EmCare, and Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) databases on August 18, 2022, to identify original publications that included adult patients receiving noninvasive respiratory support in a hospital setting with data related to nutrition management. Data were extracted on study design, population, details of respiratory support, and concepts relating to nutrition management (grouped into nutrition screening, assessment, delivery route, intake, and anthropometry). Eleven studies were included, most of which were small (<100 patients), single‐center, observational trials in patients receiving NIV only. Five studies reported results related to route of nutrition and nutrition assessment, two on anthropometry, and one each on quantifying intake and nutrition screening; some studies reported multiple parameters. There was a lack of consensus regarding the ideal method for nutrition assessment and route of nutrition. Oral nutrition was the route most frequently reported, yet calorie and protein delivery via this route were inadequate, and barriers to intake included poor appetite, fatigue, and patient cognition. Future research should address barriers pertinent to this population and the impact of nutrition on outcomes.
Noise reduction algorithm of GPR data based on MMSE‐PDS
Authors: Ma Dejun , Fan Meng , Zhang Di , Fan Baode
Published: October 2023

Ground‐penetrating radar (GPR) technology is widely used in tunnel engineering detection; however, various factors, such as environmental interference and low signal‐to‐noise ratio characteristics of the echo data, limit the detection accuracy. A noise and interference suppression algorithm based on improved singular value decomposition is proposed in this paper. Compared with traditional filtering methods, the proposed method has the advantages of thorough denoising, no clutter, efficient improvement of profile resolution and less dependence on parameters. The main features of the proposed algorithm are as follows. (1) Given the global characteristics of the noise disturbance on the signal space, the minimum mean square error estimation is employed to approximate the effective signal, introducing the correction factor to suppress the larger singular value from the noise output in the reconstructing process of the effective signal subspace and to eliminate the strong direct wave interference to avoid producing false signals. (2) A positive difference sequence search algorithm based on rank order variance as well as the method of selecting correction factors are proposed to improve the processing accuracy. In order to verify the design, the tunnel lining simulation model and the actual tunnel lining detection data are used. The results show good performance for noise and interference suppression, providing technical support for improving GPR data quality and tunnel detection accuracy.
Behavioral, psychological, and environmental predictors of weight regain in a group of successful weight losers in a widely available weight‐management program
Authors: Phelan Suzanne , Cardel Michelle I. , Lee Alexandra M. , Alarcon Noemi , Foster Gary D.
Published: October 2023

Objective

The aim of this study was to identify predictors of weight regain and continued weight maintenance among individuals already successful at long‐term weight loss in a widely available weight‐management program.

Methods

Participants were 2843 weight‐loss maintainers in WeightWatchers who had maintained weight loss ≥9.1 kg for ≥1 year (average 25.5 kg for 3.5 years; BMI = 26.7 kg/m2). Validated behavioral, psychosocial, and home environmental questionnaires were administered at study entry and 1 year later. Discriminant analysis identified variables that discriminated gainers (≥2.3‐kg gain) from maintainers (±2.3‐kg change).

Results

Over the 1 year of follow‐up, 43% were gainers (mean [SD], 7.2 [5.4] kg), and 57% were maintainers (0.4 [1.2] kg). Compared with maintainers, gainers were younger and had higher initial weight, more recent weight losses, and larger initial weight losses. Standardized canonical coefficients indicated that the 1‐year changes that most discriminated gainers from maintainers were greater decreases in the ability to accept uncomfortable food cravings, urges, and desires to overeat (0.232); self‐monitoring (0.166); body image (0.363); and body satisfaction (0.194) and greater increases in disinhibition (0.309) and bodily pain (0.147). The canonical correlation was 0.505 (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Future interventions to prevent regain should consider targeting overeating in response to internal and external food cues and declines in self‐monitoring and body image.
A machine learning framework for optimizing obesity care by simulating clinical trajectories and targeted interventions
Authors: Nudel Jacob , Kenzik Kelly M. , Rajendran Iniya , Hofman Melissa , Srinivasan Jayakanth , Woodson Jonathan , Hess Donald T.
Published: October 2023

Objective

This study aimed to determine the important clinical management bottlenecks that contribute to underuse of weight loss surgery (WLS) and assess risk factors for attrition at each of them.

Methods

A multistate conceptual model of progression from primary care to WLS was developed and used to study all adults who were seen by a primary care provider (PCP) and eligible for WLS from 2016 to 2017 at a large institution. Outcomes were progression from each state to each subsequent state in the model: PCP visit, endocrine weight management referral, endocrine weight management visit, WLS referral, WLS visit, and WLS.

Results

Beginning with an initial PCP visit, the respective 2‐year Kaplan‐Meier estimate for each outcome was 35% (n = 2063), 15.6% (n = 930), 6.3% (n = 400), 4.7% (n = 298), and 1.0% (n = 69) among 5876 eligible patients. Individual providers and clinics differed significantly in their referral practices. Female patients, younger patients, those with higher BMI, and those seen by trainees were more likely to progress. A simulated intervention to increase referrals among PCPs would generate about 49 additional WLS procedures over 3 years.

Conclusions

This study discovered novel insights into the specific dynamics underlying low WLS use rates. This methodology permits in silico testing of interventions designed to optimize obesity care prior to implementation.
Adipose triglyceride lipase gene expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of subjects with obesity and its association with insulin resistance, inflammation and lipid accumulation in liver
Authors: Ezzati‐Mobaser Samira , Yarahmadi Sahar , Dadkhah Nikroo Nikta , Maleki Mohammad Hasan , Yousefi Zeynab , Golpour Pegah , Nourbakhsh Mona , Nourbakhsh Mitra
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Adipose triglyceride lipase (ATGL) is a crucial enzyme responsible for the release of fatty acids from various tissues. The expression of ATGL is regulated by insulin and this enzyme is linked to Insulin resistance (IR). On the other hand, ATGL‐mediated lipolysis is connected to macrophage function and thus, ATGL is involved in inflammation and the pathogenesis of lipid‐related disorders. This study aimed to investigate the correlation between ATGL, obesity, Metabolic Syndrome (MetS), and inflammation.

Methods

A total of 100 participants, including 50 individuals with obesity and 50 healthy participants, were recruited for this study and underwent comprehensive clinical evaluations. Blood samples were collected to measure plasma lipid profiles, glycemic indices, and liver function tests. Additionally, peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were isolated and used for the assessment of the gene expression of ATGL, using real‐time PCR. Furthermore, PBMCs were cultured and exposed to lipopolysaccharides (LPS) with simultaneous ATGL inhibition, and the gene expression of inflammatory cytokines, along with the secretion of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), were measured.

Results

The gene expression of ATGL was significantly elevated in PBMCs obtained from participants with obesity and was particularly higher in those diagnosed with MetS. It exhibited a correlation with insulin levels and Homeostatic Model Assessment for IR (HOMA‐IR), and it was associated with lipid accumulation in the liver. Stimulation with LPS increased ATGL expression in PBMCs, while inhibition of ATGL attenuated the inflammatory responses induced by LPS.

Conclusions

Obesity and MetS were associated with dysregulation of ATGL. ATGL might play a role in the upregulation of inflammatory cytokines and act as a significant contributor to the development of metabolic abnormalities related to obesity.
Trapezoidal tearing behavior of laminated fabrics used in Firefighters' protective clothing
Authors: Munevar‐Ortiz Laura , Nychka John A. , Dolez Patricia I.
Published: October 2023

Laminated fabrics offer a unique combination of properties and are widely used in various applications, including as moisture barriers in firefighters' protective clothing. Tearing is a common testing method used to evaluate the mechanical performance of laminated fabrics. However, limited information is available on the tearing behavior of laminated fabrics using the trapezoidal procedure. Using high‐speed imaging, this study examined the tearing process of three moisture barriers commonly used in firefighters' protective clothing. The results revealed that the tearing process varied depending on factors such as the structure of the base fabric, the presence of an extra coating on top of the membrane, and the continuous or discontinuous nature of the adhesive layer. This study provides insight into the effect of each component of a laminated fabric on the tearing process, and can inform the design of better performing moisture barriers.

Highlights

Study of trapezoidal tearing behavior of moisture barriers.

Analysis by high‐speed imaging and field emission scanning electron microscope.

Influence of base fabric, adhesive configuration, presence of extra coating.

Cyclic tearing pattern for woven base fabric and dot adhesive.

Continuous tearing for nonwoven base fabric and continuous adhesive.
Numerical and experimental investigation on the load‐bearing performance of plain‐woven composites hybrid bonded‐bolted joints
Authors: Shi Jianwei , Yang Xiaodong , Chen Xishuai , Du Kou , Li Cheng , Yang Yaxu
Published: October 2023

The jointing problem has become increasingly prominent with the growing applications of composites in industrial fields. Besides, the hybrid bonded‐bolted (HBB) joint has aroused extensive attention for its excellent mechanical performance. In this study, numerous tests and simulations were conducted to investigate the load‐bearing performance of the plain‐woven carbon fiber‐reinforced plastic (CFRP) laminates HBB joints under quasi‐static uniaxial tensile conditions. The influence of HBB morphological parameters was systematically analyzed. The 3D Hashin failure criterion was successfully implemented in the finite element model for the failure analysis of a numerical equivalent cross‐ply laminate structure.

Highlights

FEA‐based mechanical property analysis tool for CFRP bonded‐bolted joint.

Quantitative influences of HBB morphological parameters are discussed.

Failure modes of HBB with different characteristics are revealed.
Site‐Selective Enhancement of Superconducting Nanowire Single‐Photon Detectors via Local Helium Ion Irradiation
Authors: Strohauer Stefan , Wietschorke Fabian , Zugliani Lucio , Flaschmann Rasmus , Schmid Christian , Grotowski Stefanie , Müller Manuel , Jonas Björn , Althammer Matthias , Gross Rudolf , Müller Kai , Finley Jonathan J.
Published: October 2023

Achieving homogeneous performance metrics between nominally identical pixels is challenging for the operation of arrays of superconducting nanowire single‐photon detectors (SNSPDs). Here, local helium ion irradiation is utilized to post‐process and tune single‐photon detection efficiency, switching current, and critical temperature of individual devices on the same chip. For 12 nm thick highly absorptive SNSPDs, which are barely sensitive to single photons with a wavelength of 780 nm prior to He ion irradiation, an increase of the system detection efficiency from <0.05% to (55.3 1.1)% is observed following irradiation. Moreover, the internal detection efficiency saturates at a temperature of 4.5 K after irradiation with 1800 ions nm−2. Compared to 8 nm SNSPDs of similar detection efficiency, a doubling of the switching current (to 20 µA) is observed for irradiated 10 nm thick detectors, increasing the amplitude of detection voltage pulses. Investigations of the scaling of superconducting thin film properties with irradiation up to a fluence of 2600 ions nm−2 revealed an increase of sheet resistance and a decrease of critical temperature towards high fluences. A physical model accounting for defect generation and sputtering during helium ion irradiation is presented and shows good qualitative agreement with experiments.
Malignant pleural mesothelioma with resolution of pleural effusion
Authors: Nishida Sayaka , Toriyama Kazutoshi , Yomota Makiko , Hosomi Yukio
Published: October 2023

Key message

In malignant pleural mesothelioma patients, pleural effusion may improve during the course of the disease. Pleural effusion with nodular shadows bordering the pleura should be followed up even if the pleural effusion improves.
Determination of Trace Water Using Fluorescence Probes Based on Nitrogen‐Doped Carbon Quantum Dot Fluorescence Senors (Y‐CDs and R‐CDs)
Authors: Yang Chunyan , Yang Qin , Chen Lei , Xu Nan , Chen Fubin , Pu Ting
Published: October 2023

In this work, we reported two nitrogen doped carbon quantum dot fluorescence sensors (Y‐CDs and R‐CDs) with good stability and luminescence efficiency, which can be quickly, sensitively and low‐cost for the determination of trace water content in organic solvents. Using o‐phenylenediamine and p‐phenylenediamine as nitrogen sources and terephthalic acid as carbon sources, the preparation was carried out through simple solvothermal synthesis and heteroatom doping. The luminescence characteristics and interaction mechanism with the target were discussed. The results indicate that the two carbon dots can effectively quench the water content in acetone, ethanol, and DMF, as well as physical interactions such as hydrogen bonding and dynamic quenching, which are the reasons for the observed quenching effect. Based on this, a new method for determining water content in organic solvents using carbon quantum dot fluorescence probes has been established. The linear relationship between the fluorescence quenching efficiency F0/F of two carbon quantum dots and the water content in different organic solvents was studied. The detection limits (LOD) of water in acetone, ethanol and N,N‐dimethylformamide (DMF) were 0.17 %, 2.35 %, 0.26 %, respectively, determined by Y‐CDs. The LOQ of acetone, ethanol, and DMF were 0.554 %, 7.83 %, 0.855 %, respectively. The LOD of water in acetone, ethanol and DMF determined by R‐CDs were 0.056 %, 0.69 %, 0.27 % and the LOQ was 0.187 %, 2.290 %, 0.909 %, respectively. Good recovery rates and precision were achieved in practical applications.
Robust Zinc Anode Enabled by Sulfonate‐Rich MOF‐Modified Separator
Authors: Chen Ruwei , Zhang Gengyuan , Zhou Hujing , Li Jianrong , Li Jiangtao , Chung Lai‐Hon , Hu Xuanhe , He Jun
Published: October 2023

Aqueous zinc ion batteries (ZIBs) hold great promise for large‐scale energy storage; however, severe zinc dendritic growth and side reactions on the anode dramatically impede their commercial application. Herein, a Zr‐based MOF (UiO‐66) functionalized with a high density of sulfonic acid (─SO3H) groups is used to modify the glass fiber (GF) separator of ZIBs, providing a unique solution for stabilizing Zn anode. Benefiting from the strong interaction between zincophilic −SO3H and Zn2+, this sulfonate‐rich UiO‐66 modified GF (GF@UiO‐S2) separator not only guarantees the homogeneous distribution of ion flux, but also accelerates the ion migration kinetics. Hence, the GF@UiO‐S2 separator promotes uniform Zn plating/stripping on the Zn anode and facilitates the desolvation of hydrated Zn2+ ions at the interface, which helps guide dendrite‐free Zn deposition and inhibit undesired side reactions. Accordingly, the Zn||Zn symmetric cell with this separator achieves excellent cycling stability with a long cycle life exceeding 3450 h at 3 mA cm−2. Besides, the Zn||MnO2 full cell paired with this separator delivers remarkable cyclability with 90% capacity retention after 1200 cycles. This design of metal–organic frameworks functionalized separators provides a new insight for constructing highly robust ZIBs.
The Magnesium Insertion Effects into P2‐Type Na2/3Ni1/3Mn2/3O2
Authors: Pérez‐Vicente Carlos , Ariza Rafaela , Zuo Wenhua , Yang Yong , Ortiz Gregorio F.
Published: October 2023

A Mg‐cell with P2‐Na2/3Ni1/3Mn2/3O2 layered oxide cathode provides novel reaction mechanism not observed in Na‐cells. The sodium/vacancy ordering and Jahn–Teller effects are suppressed with the insertion of magnesium ion. The Mg‐cell exhibits different features when operating between 4.5 and 0.15 V and 3.9 and 0.15 V versus Mg2+/Mg. To analyze the structural and chemical changes during Mg insertion, the cathode is first charged to obtain the Na1/3Ni1/3Mn2/3O2 compound, which is formally accompanied by an oxidation from Ni2+ to Ni3+. As structure models Mg1/6Na1/3Ni1/3Mn2/3O2 and Mg1/12Na1/2Ni1/3Mn2/3O2 are utilized with a large × supercell. On discharge, the Mg‐cell exhibits a multistep profile which reaches ≈100 mA h g−1 with the valence change from Ni3+ to Ni2+. Such profile is quite different from its sodium counterpart (230 mA h g−1) which exhibits the sodium/vacancy ordering and deleterious presence of Mn3+. Depending on how the two interlayer spacings are filled by Na and Mg the “staged,” “intermediated,” and “average” models are analyzed for MgyNa8Ni8Mn16O48 supercell. This fact suggests differences in the cell performance when Mg is used as counter electrode providing some tips to improve the structure engineering on cathode materials.
Multi‐Objective Optimization and Analysis of Asymmetric Hybrid‐Magnet Offset Motor for Electric Vehicles
Authors: Shi Liwei , Lv Bingchang , Li Lintao
Published: October 2023

Aiming at the high cost of permanent magnet synchronous motor and the reduction of motor output performance caused by high cogging torque and torque ripple, an asymmetric hybrid‐magnet offset motor is proposed. Based on the winding function theory and the equivalent magnetic circuit method, the expressions of stator and rotor magnetic potential are derived respectively, and the analytical model of torque ripple is established by combining with the Lorentz force law. By using the magnetic pole offset method, the phase offset model of the cogging torque is established, and the analytical expressions of the cogging torque and the magnetic pole offset angle are derived. The results of the simulation and experiments show that the asymmetric hybrid‐magnet offset motor has lower no‐load back‐EMF harmonic content and rare‐earth material ratio than the traditional permanent magnet motor, and its performance in terms of the cogging torque and the torque ripple is better than that of the traditional permanent magnet motor. © 2023 Institute of Electrical Engineer of Japan and Wiley Periodicals LLC.
A Temporal Power Surge Control in Microgrid Using Optimal Rotational Speed of Wind Turbine
Authors: Kawai Hisanao , Tsuji Takao
Published: October 2023

This paper examines an inertial response control for wind turbines in order to provide the system inertia decreased by the integration of asynchronous variable renewable energy sources. Specifically, an application of the temporal power surge, a strategy by which the output of a wind turbine can be temporarily increased with releasing the kinetic energy stored in the rotating mass, was proposed to address significant frequency drops in a microgrid. Since the rotational speed of turbine has to be decreased by this approach, it is necessary to further reduce the wind power output to recover the rotational speed after the temporal power surge. This drawback may lead to a second frequency drop, and it is effective to intentionally increase the rotational speed beforehand to mitigate this negative effect. However, this measure causes output curtailment under normal operating conditions. Hence, a determination method of the rotational speed considering the output curtailment was proposed in this paper to facilitate frequency regulation through the temporal power surge. The proposed methods for adjusting rotational speed are evaluated and their effectiveness were verified through numerical simulations. © 2023 Institute of Electrical Engineer of Japan and Wiley Periodicals LLC.
A novel surgical approach for feline stenotic nares: Bilateral wedge resection of the dorsal lateral nasal cartilage in seven cases
Authors: Chen Yen‐Chen , Chang Yung‐Shun
Published: October 2023

Objective

Surgical correction of stenotic nares, one component of brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS), is not referenced as often in cats as it is in dogs. Similar to dogs, stenotic nares emerge as a significant contributor in the development of BOAS in cats. In this study, we propose that stenotic nares in brachycephalic cats arise from an elongated dorsal lateral nasal cartilage. The aim of this paper is to illustrate a novel surgical technique to alleviate stenosis‐associated clinical signs by performing full‐thickness bilateral wedge resection of the excessive cartilage.

Animals

Seven cats that underwent rhinoplasty with full‐thickness bilateral wedge resection along the dorsal lateral nasal cartilage between 2019 and 2022 at Pan‐Asia Veterinary Clinic in Taipei, Taiwan.

Methods

Clinical data of all cats included in the study were retrospectively reviewed. Surgical procedures were recorded. A full‐thickness bilateral wedge resection was made along the dorsal lateral nasal cartilage adjacent to the non‐hairy area. The full‐thickness wedge resection was then apposed and closed, resulting in the abduction of the wing of the nostrils. Postoperative outcomes were evaluated according to follow‐up sessions by the authors, and an owner survey was conducted at least 6 months post‐surgery.

Results

All cats included in this study had a favourable outcome with no complications reported following surgery. The degree of nostril stenosis was improved, and relapse of clinical signs was not reported. Overall, the quality of life of cats that underwent rhinoplasty was significantly improved.

Clinical relevance

The results support that the innovative procedure described in this study is highly promising and holds great potential in restoring quality of life and halting disease progression of cats with BOAS.
Improving temperature prediction during curing of thick parts of unsaturated polyester resin/reduced graphene oxide composites
Authors: Yavari Neda , Poorabdollah Mehdi , Bashipour Fatemeh
Published: October 2023

In this study, the challenges of using reduced graphene oxide in the production of thick parts were investigated. The kinetic effects of the particles on the curing reaction rate can cause the parts to fracture during curing because of the increase in internal stresses. In this regard, using various kinetic models, the trend of temperature increase in pure unsaturated polyester resin (Neat UP) and resin containing 0.5 wt% of reduced graphene oxide (UPRGO) were investigated. The heat transfer equation was solved using programming code in MATLAB software, and the results of the modeling were compared with the experimental results. In the following, the role of the variation in density, convection heat transfer, and thermal conductivity on the prediction of temperature at different points in the parts is evaluated. The results showed that the choice of kinetic model could play an effective role in predicting the temperature in the parts. Considering the density variation, changes in the thermal conductivity and convection heat transfer coefficient could play an effective role in matching the experimental and theoretical results. An increase in temperature causes a decrease in the structural regularity of the resin network, intensifies phonon scattering, and decreases in the thermal conductivity coefficient.

Highlights

The RGO particles have influenced the reaction rate and the temperature gradients of thick parts during curing.

The influence of different parameters and kinetics during the curing process of polyester resin was observed on temperature changes.

The best prediction of temperature changes was provided by Vyazovkin's model, which had a high accuracy between the experimental and theoretical results.

The thermal conductivity coefficient is changed due to the changes in the contribution of the phonon thermal transport.

Considering the changes in density with the conversion degree improved the agreement between the experimental and theoretical results.
Surgical resection of an ectopic thyroid carcinoma mimicking a right atrial mass in a dog
Authors: Greco Natalie , Buote Nicole , Allen Justin
Published: October 2023

This case report describes the clinical presentation, imaging, treatment and outcome of a patient diagnosed with an ectopic thyroid carcinoma originating from the aortic body that was adhered to the right auricular appendage on the heart. The patient was diagnosed during investigation for pericardial effusion and underwent a surgical intervention with a subtotal pericardiectomy and excision of the mass. The mass was submitted for histopathology and was consistent with an ectopic thyroid carcinoma. The patient was followed up with an oncologist for treatment with toceranib phosphate (Palladia; Zoetis) and herbal supplements. Over 1 year and 7 months after surgery, the patient later developed and underwent treatment for a hepatic carcinoma and subsequently transitional cell carcinoma of the urinary bladder. The patient is still alive without evidence of metastasis of the ectopic thyroid carcinoma upon submission of this case report 35 months after initial presentation.
Water partitioning and migration in unsaturated bentonites by low‐field NMR characterization
Authors: Peng Ling , Zhang Fan , Dong Yi , Zhang Chi
Published: October 2023

Water behavior in bentonite clay pores is influenced by soil–water interaction mechanisms such as capillary and adsorptive forces. Quantitative measurement of these water statuses remains challenging, leading to the adoption of advanced techniques. This study uses low‐field nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) technique to investigate water partitioning dynamics and changes in the water state in sodium‐rich Wyoming bentonite and calcium‐rich Denver bentonite under various humidity conditions. NMR T2 relaxation and T1–T2 mapping techniques, along with a multi‐Gaussian decomposition method, enable a quantitative analysis of capillary and adsorptive water in both bentonites. A conceptual water partitioning model is derived to explain water molecule trajectories of water molecules under unsaturated conditions. Our findings indicate distinct transitions in hydrated layers for Na+‐smectite and Ca2+‐smectite at different relative humidity (RH) ranges. Characteristic T2 ranges are identified for capillary and adsorptive water in both clays and provide valuable insights into their water behavior. This study advances our understanding of soil properties at different RH environments and highlights the potential of low‐field NMR techniques in characterizing capillary and adsorptive water in bentonite clays.
Sampling-Like Dynamics of the Nonlinear Dynamical System Combined with Optimization
Authors: Yamashita Hiroshi
Published: October 2023

When considering computation using physical phenomena beyond established digital circuits, the variability of the device must be addressed. In this chapter, we will focus on random sampling for its algorithmic solution. In particular, we discuss the nonlinear dynamical system that achieves the sampling behavior. The system, called herding, is proposed as an algorithm that can be used in the same manner as Monte Carlo integration. The algorithm combines optimization methods in the system and does not depend on random number generators. In this chapter, we review this algorithm using nonlinear dynamics and related studies, including the author’s previous results. Then we discuss the perspective of the application of herding in relation to the use of physical phenomena in computation.
Bridging the Gap Between Reservoirs and Neural Networks
Authors: Hashimoto Masanori , García-Arias Ángel López , Yu Jaehoon
Published: October 2023

While reservoir computing is drawing attention, its applications are limited to small tasks. This chapter proposes a solution to this issue by introducing the Hidden-Fold Network, a recursive model with fixed random weights that resembles reservoir computing. The model is constructed based on recent discoveries in neural networks, namely the Strong Lottery Ticket Hypothesis and folding. By pruning an overparameterized model that is randomly initialized, it is possible to find accurate neural networks without the need for weight optimization. It is conjectured that residual networks may contain better subnetwork candidates for inference time when transformed into recurrent architectures, as they may be approximating unrolled shallow recurrent neural networks. This hypothesis is tested in image classification tasks, where subnetworks within the recurrent models are found to be more accurate and parameter-efficient than those within feedforward models, as well as the full models with learned weights.
Exploring Integrated Device Implementation for FRET-Based Optical Reservoir Computing
Authors: Hashimoto Masanori , Matsumoto Takuto , Tanaka Masafumi , Shirai Ryo , Tate Naoya , Nakagawa Masaki , Tokuda Takashi , Sasagawa Kiyotaka , Ohta Jun , Yu Jaehoon
Published: October 2023

This chapter explores a reservoir computing (RC) device based on fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) between quantum dots (QDs). We propose a compact structure in which optical input/output and quantum dots are adjacently placed without lenses or delay lines. The proposed structure exploits the QD-based optical reservoir as an intermediate layer and adopts memory to enable recurrent inputs. We evaluate the feasibility of the proposed structure by applying tasks that require nonlinearity. Simulation-based experimental results show that the proposed device can perform logistic map, time-series XOR, and NARMA10. A proof-of-concept implementation with a commercial image sensor demonstrates that the proposed structure can solve XOR and MNIST tasks. Also, we discuss the energy advantage over conventional digital circuit implementations.
Methylotrophic Communities Associated with a Greenland Ice Sheet Methane Release Hotspot
Authors: Znamínko Matěj , Falteisek Lukáš , Vrbická Kristýna , Klímová Petra , Christiansen Jesper R. , Jørgensen Christian J. , Stibal Marek
Published: October 2023

Subglacial environments provide conditions suitable for the microbial production of methane, an important greenhouse gas, which can be released from beneath the ice as a result of glacial melting. High gaseous methane emissions have recently been discovered at Russell Glacier, an outlet of the southwestern margin of the Greenland Ice Sheet, acting not only as a potential climate amplifier but also as a substrate for methane consuming microorganisms. Here, we describe the composition of the microbial assemblage exported in meltwater from the methane release hotspot at Russell Glacier and its changes over the melt season and as it travels downstream. We found that a substantial part (relative abundance 27.2% across the whole dataset) of the exported assemblage was made up of methylotrophs and that the relative abundance of methylotrophs increased as the melt season progressed, likely due to the seasonal development of the glacial drainage system. The methylotrophs were dominated by representatives of type I methanotrophs from the Gammaproteobacteria; however, their relative abundance decreased with increasing distance from the ice margin at the expense of type II methanotrophs and/or methylotrophs from the Alphaproteobacteria and Betaproteobacteria. Our results show that subglacial methane release hotspot sites can be colonized by microorganisms that can potentially reduce methane emissions.
Safety of dobutamine or adenosine stress cardiac magnetic resonance imaging in patients with left ventricular thrombus
Authors: Weberling Lukas D. , Seitz Sebastian , Salatzki Janek , Ochs Andreas , Heins Jannick , Haney Ailís C. , Siry Deborah , Frey Norbert , André Florian , Steen Henning
Published: October 2023

Background

Left ventricular (LV) thrombus formation is a common but potentially serious complication, typically occurring after myocardial infarction. Due to perceived high thromboembolic risk and lack of safety data, stress cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging especially with dobutamine is usually avoided despite its high diagnostic yield. This study aimed to investigate the characteristics, safety and outcome of patients with LV thrombus undergoing dobutamine or vasodilator stress CMR.

Methods

Patients undergoing stress CMR with concomitant LV thrombus were retrospectively included. Risk factors, comorbidities, and previous embolic events were recorded. Periprocedural safety was assessed for up to 48 h following the examination. Major adverse cardiac events (MACE) 12 months before the diagnosis were compared to 12 months after the exam and between patients and a matched control group. Additionally, patients were followed up for all-cause mortality.

Results

95 patients (78 male, 65 ± 10.7 years) were included. Among them, 43 patients underwent dobutamine (36 high-dose, 7 low-dose) and 52 vasodilator stress CMR. Periprocedural safety was excellent with no adverse events. During a period of 24 months, 27 MACE (14.7%) occurred in patients and controls with no statistical difference between groups. During a median follow-up of 33.7 months (IQR 37.6 months), 6 deaths (6.3%) occurred. Type of stress agent, thrombus mobility, or protrusion were not correlated to embolic events or death.

Conclusion

The addition of a stress test to a CMR exam is safe and does increase the generally high cardioembolic event rate in LV thrombus patients. Therefore, it is useful to support reperfusion decision-making.

Graphical Abstract
The effects of precarious employment and calling on the psychosocial health and work well-being of young and older workers in the care sector: a longitudinal study
Authors: Hult Marja , Kallio Hanna , Kangasniemi Mari , Pesonen Tanja , Kopra Juho
Published: October 2023

Objective

Employment conditions in the care sector are changing, and precarious employment (PE) is becoming more widespread, manifesting as undervaluation, adverse leadership, work overload, and inadequate control over work. This study aimed to examine changes in psychosocial health, work well-being, PE, and calling over time and explore the effects of PE and calling on psychosocial health and work well-being.

Methods

The longitudinal study collected follow-up panel data in the three time points (2020, 2022, and 2023) from care workers (n = 1502), linear mixed effects models.

Results

PE decreased (β =  – 0.02), and perceived work well-being increased (β = 0.04), but there were no change in psychosocial health (β =  – 0.01) and calling (β = 0.01) during the three-year period. Younger (< 39) care workers perceived higher levels of PE and had poorer psychological health. Moreover, PE had a negative effect on psychosocial health (β =  – 0.63) and work well-being (β =  – 0.68) and calling had a positive effect on psychosocial health (β = 0.41) and work well-being (β = 0.49) in multivariate models.

Conclusion

PE conditions affect work performance and employee well-being and may threaten patient care; therefore, it should be further investigated in the care sector. It is noteworthy that calling still seems to be central in care work. The results deepen the understanding of the current shortage crisis in health and social care workplaces but can also provide keys to resolving the crisis.
One bout of endurance exercise does not change gene expression or proliferation in a C26 colon carcinoma in immunocompetent mice
Authors: Mahnic Nik , Geremia Alessia , Straub Tobias , Zorzato Sabrina , Schönfelder Martin , von Lüttichau Irene , Steiger Katja , Saller Maximilian Michael , Blaauw Bert , Wackerhage Henning
Published: October 2023

Purpose

Exercise typically reduces tumour growth, proliferation and improves outcomes. Many of these effects require exercise to change gene expression within a tumour, but whether exercise  actually affects gene expression within a tumour has not been investigated yet. The aim of this study was, therefore, to find out whether one bout of endurance exercise alters gene expression and proliferation in a C26 carcinoma in immunocompetent mice.

Methods

BALB/c were injected with C26 colon carcinoma cells. Once the tumours had formed, the mice either ran for 65 min with increasing intensity or rested before the tumour was dissected. The tumours were then analysed by RNA-Seq and stained for the proliferation marker KI67.

Results

One bout of running for 65 min did not systematically change gene expression in C26 carcinomas of BALB/c mice when compared to BALB/c mice that were rested. However, when analysed for sex, the expression of 17, mostly skeletal muscle-related genes was higher in the samples of the female mice taken post-exercise. Further histological analysis showed that this signal likely comes from the presence of muscle fibres from the panniculus carnosus muscle inside the tumours. Also, we found no differences in the positivity for the proliferation marker KI67 in the control and exercise C26 carcinomas.

Conclusion

A bout of exercise did not systematically affect gene expression or proliferation in C26 carcinomas in immunocompetent BALB/c mice.
Ginsenoside Rh4 inhibits inflammation-related hepatocellular carcinoma progression by targeting HDAC4/IL-6/STAT3 signaling
Authors: Jiang Ruiyuan , Luo Shujuan , Zhang Meng , Wang Wei , Zhuo Shaoyuan , Wu Yajing , Qiu Qingmei , Yuan Yuan , Jiang Xiao
Published: October 2023

This study aimed to investigate the effects of Ginsenoside Rh4 (Rh4) on inflammation-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression and the underlying mechanism. HCC cells (HUH7 and LM3) were induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to establish an inflammatory environment in the absence or presence of Rh4. CCK-8, wound healing and transwell assays were employed to analyze the viability, migration and invasion of HCC cells. Ki67 expression was detected by immunofluorescence method. Besides, the levels of glucose and lactic acid were tested by kits. The expression of proteins related to migration, glycolysis and histone deacetylase 4 (HDAC4)/IL-6/STAT3 signaling was measured with western blot. The transplantation tumor model of HCC in mice was established to observe the impacts of Rh4 on the tumor growth. Results indicated that Rh4 restricted the viability and Ki67 expression in HCC cells exposed to LPS. The elevated migration and invasion of HCC cells triggered by LPS were reduced by Rh4. Additionally, Rh4 treatment remarkably decreased the contents of glucose and lactic acid and downregulated LDHA and GLUT1 expression. The database predicated that Rh4 could target HDAC4, and our results revealed that Rh4 downregulated HDAC4, IL-6 and p-STAT3 expression. Furthermore, the enforced HDAC4 expression alleviated the effects of Rh4 on the proliferation, migration, invasion and glycolysis of HCC cells stimulated by LPS. Taken together, Rh4 could suppress inflammation-related HCC progression by targeting HDAC4/IL-6/STAT3 signaling. These findings clarify a new anti-cancer mechanism of Rh4 on HCC and provide a promising agent to limit HCC development.
A universal variational framework for parabolic equations and systems
Authors: Auscher Pascal , Egert Moritz
Published: October 2023

We propose a variational approach to solve Cauchy problems for parabolic equations and systems independently of regularity theory for solutions. This produces a universal and conceptually simple construction of fundamental solution operators (also called propagators) for which we prove $${\text {L}}^2$$

L

2

off-diagonal estimates, which is new under our assumptions. In the special case of systems for which pointwise local bounds hold for weak solutions, this provides Gaussian upper bounds for the corresponding fundamental solution. In particular, we obtain a new proof of Aronson’s estimates for real equations. The scheme is general enough to allow systems with higher order elliptic parts on full space or second order elliptic parts on Sobolev spaces with boundary conditions. Another new feature is that the control on lower order coefficients is within critical mixed time-space Lebesgue spaces or even mixed Lorentz spaces.
Effects of enamel matrix derivative in nonsurgical periodontal therapy on pro-inflammatory profiles, microbial environment and clinical outcome: a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Wehner Christian , Tur Dino , Durstberger Gerlinde , Laky Markus , Laky Brenda , Andrukhov Oleh , Moritz Andreas , Rausch-Fan Xiaohui
Published: October 2023

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of enamel matrix derivative (EMD) application following subgingival instrumentation of residual pockets in periodontitis patients on inflammatory host response, microbiological composition, and clinical outcome.

Methods

In this double-blinded randomized controlled trial, a total of 22 patients with generalized periodontitis stage III or IV presenting with ≥ 6 mm probing pocket depth (PPD) at re-evaluation after initial periodontal therapy were included. Participants were randomly allocated at a 1:1 ratio to subgingival instrumentation with (EMD +) or without (EMD-) non-surgical EMD application into the pocket. PPD, clinical attachment level (CAL), bleeding on probing (BoP), plaque index (PI), as well as a panel of pro-inflammatory cytokines and periodontal pathogen count in the gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) of the respective sites were evaluated at baseline (T0) and six months afterwards (T1).

Results

Both treatment groups showed a significant PPD reduction (EMD + 1.33 ± 1.15 mm, p < 0.001; EMD- 1.32 ± 1.01 mm, p < 0.001) as well as CAL gain (EMD + 1.13 ± 1.58 mm, p < 0.001; EMD- 0.47 ± 1.06 mm, p = 0.005) from T0 to T1. While no intergroup differences for PPD reduction were observed, CAL gain was higher in EMD + sites compared to EMD- (p = 0.009). No essential effects on cytokine expression as well as bacterial count were detected.

Conclusions

Application of EMD as an adjunct to subgingival instrumentation of residual pockets yielded benefits regarding CAL gain; however, effects on PPD reduction, inflammatory cytokines, and bacterial count were negligible.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04449393), registration date 26/06/2020.

Clinical relevance

Based on the obtained results, additional non-surgical EMD application compared to subgingival instrumentation alone showed no clinically relevant effects on treatment outcome and underlying biological mechanisms.