bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dupilumab‐related ocular surface disorders in a paediatric cohort with atopic dermatitis, treated in a tertiary paediatric hospital in London
Authors: Rampersad Anjali , Gholam Karolina , Solman Lea , Cartledge Natalia , Gore Sri , Petrof Gabriela
Published: August 2024

Background

Dupilumab is the first human monoclonal antibody approved for the treatment of moderate–severe atopic dermatitis (AD) in children from 6 years of age. Real‐world studies reviewing dupilumab‐related ocular surface disorders (DROSD) in the paediatric population are needed to detail ophthalmological findings.

Objectives

This cross‐sectional observational study aimed to review the incidence, features, and ophthalmological findings of DROSD in a real‐world paediatric cohort, treated with dupilumab for AD.

Methods

Pharmacy and electronic medical records were used to identify all patients prescribed dupilumab for AD from April 2019 to July 2022. Data, including demographics, ocular signs and symptoms, severity and treatments, were collected and analysed.

Results

We identified 46 patients, with a median age of treatment initiation of 12 years (range 9–14 years). Twelve patients (26.1%) developed DROSD. Mean time to development of DROSD was 4.1 months (±2.4 months, 95% confidence interval). Two patients (16.7%) with DROSD had severe eye findings including peripheral corneal opacification, one of which had reported only asymptomatic red eyes. Ocular signs included 91.7% (11/12) bulbar conjunctival injection, 41.7% (5/12) follicle involvement (limbal or forniceal), 25% (3/12) diffuse tarsal‐conjunctival thickening, 16.7% (2/12) featureless thickening, 16.7% (2/12) peripheral corneal opacification, 8.3% (1/12) cicatrisation and 8.3% (1/12) periorbital skin changes. No patients ceased treatment due to DROSD.

Conclusions

This study had a higher incidence of DROSD, compared to other real‐world paediatric studies but had a similar incidence to real‐world adult studies. Patient‐reported eye symptoms did not always correlate to severity of DROSD. Larger paediatric studies looking at the incidence and long‐term outcome of DROSD are needed.
fNIRS Changes in the Middle Temporal and Occipital Cortices After a Cochlear Implant
Authors: Huang Wanyi , Huang Bixue , Sun Jincangjian , Sun Qiyang , Liang Yue , Chen Huiting , Wang Xianren , Xiong Guanxia
Published: August 2024

Objectives

The relationship between the middle temporal (MTG) and occipital cortices in post‐lingually deaf (PLD) individuals is unclear. This study aimed to investigate changes in the MTG and occipital cortices excitability and their effects on the occipital cortex in individuals with PLD after receiving a cochlear implant (CI).

Methods

Twenty‐six individuals with severe‐to‐profound binaural sensorineural PLD were assessed clinically. Nine individuals had received a unilateral cochlear implant over 6 months, while 17 had not. Brodmann area 19 (BA19, extra‐striate occipital cortex) and MTG (auditory‐related area of cortex) were selected as regions of interest. The excitability of the ROI was observed and compared in the surgery and no‐surgery groups by functional near‐infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) in the resting state, and correlations between connectivity of the MTG and occipital cortex, and as well as the duration of time that had elapsed following CI surgery, were investigated.

Results

fNIRS revealed enhanced global cortical connectivity in the BA19 and MTG on the operative side (p < 0.05) and the connectivity between BA19 and the MTG also increased (p < 0.05). The connectivity between the MTG and BA19 was positively correlated with the duration of cochlear implantation, as was the case for BA18.

Conclusion

There was evidence for remodeling of the cerebral cortex: increased excitability was observed in the MTG and BA19, and their connectivity was enhanced, indicating a synergistic effect. Moreover, the MTG may further stimulate the visual cortex by strengthening their connectivity after CI.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 2024
Postoperative Analgesic Regimens and Their Satisfaction Rates—Data from the Swedish Quality Register for Tonsil Surgery
Authors: Alm Fredrik , Odhagen Erik , Sunnergren Ola , Nerfeldt Pia
Published: August 2024

Objective

To describe postoperative analgesic regimens and patient‐reported pain‐related outcomes after tonsil surgery.

Methods

Cohort study including perioperative data (n = 9274) and patient‐reported outcome measures (n = 5080) registered in the Swedish Quality Register for Tonsil Surgery during 2023.

Results

After tonsil surgery, 92.7% received at least paracetamol and a NSAID/COX inhibitor, while 6.8% received no NSAID/COX inhibitor. Opioids were prescribed after tonsillectomy to 62.9% of adults and less often to adolescents and children (13–17‐year‐olds: 48.2%, 6–12‐year‐olds: 8.8%, 0–5‐year‐olds: 4.0%). Clonidine was frequently prescribed to 0–5‐year‐olds after tonsillectomy (54.4%). Overall, 11.7% reported dissatisfaction with the pain treatment, with the highest dissatisfaction rate after tonsillectomy in adolescents (20.6%) and adults (20.0%), and the lowest after tonsillotomy in children (4.9–6.8%). The most common complaint among dissatisfied patients was analgesics not being sufficiently helpful. Adult patients who received addition of opioids were less dissatisfied with the pain treatment (15.9% vs. 25.9%, p < 0.001), but also reported more side effects (5.7% vs. 2.7%, p = 0.039), compared with patients who received only paracetamol and NSAID/COX inhibitors.

Conclusion

Tonsil surgery patients in Sweden receive various analgesic regimens. Although most are satisfied with pain treatment, there is room for improvement, particularly among adolescents and adults undergoing tonsillectomy. Paracetamol and a NSAID/COX inhibitor seem advisable as basic treatment. However, many patients need more effective treatment. The addition of opioids in adults results in greater satisfaction with pain treatment, but safety issues with opioid prescriptions must be taken into consideration.

Levels of Evidence

Level 4 Laryngoscope, 2024
Influence of submerged arc welding process parameters and metallurgical behaviour in a thick carbon steel section for boiler application
Authors: Reddy V. M. , Hudgikar S. R. K.
Published: August 2024

The aim of the research is to investigate the weldability of thick sections of carbon steel using submerged arc welding with varying process parameters. The experimental design for joining thick carbon steel involves manipulating input weld process parameters such as current (A), voltage (V), weld speed (mm/h), and weld electrode diameter (mm). The quality of the weld material is assessed based on transformations in microstructure, weld hardness measured by Brinell hardness number, and tensile strength (MPa). It is crucial to note that the grain structure and metallurgical behavior of other hard materials may differ significantly. The presence of carbon in the ferrite phase has led to the formation of bainite, martensite, and composites of martensite and austenite within the weld zone, as confirmed by high‐resolution microscopy. The weldment‘s hardness has increased from 242.5 HV 30 in the base metal to 316.4 HV 30 in the weldment due to metallurgical alterations in the microstructure. Weld energy input emerges as the primary factor influencing weld quality. With increasing weld current and voltage, there is a corresponding increase in the joined metal, resulting in improved characteristics in the weld structure, particularly at maximal energy input and welding speed. In the context of boiler applications, understanding the weldability of thick carbon steel sections is paramount for ensuring structural integrity and longevity under high‐temperature and high‐pressure conditions. The optimized welding parameters identified in this study can contribute to enhancing the reliability and performance of boilers, thereby promoting safety and efficiency in industrial settings.
Effect of tungsten carbide and titanium dioxide particles on the properties of aluminium alloy 5052 hybrid composites
Authors: Dhas D. S. E. J. , Wins K. L. D. , Beatrice B. A. , Thomas D. S. , Correya S.
Published: August 2024

Aerospace and automotive industries, among others, utilize reinforced aluminium metal matrix composite materials extensively. Aluminium alloy 5052 matrix was reinforced with tungsten carbide and titanium dioxide particulate reinforcements by varying their weight fractions, to fabricate the hybrid composites. The melt‐stir casting route was used to process the materials, and their characteristics were determined by measuring Vickers microhardness, tensile strength and peak elongation. The cost‐effectiveness and productivity of the melt‐stir casting route led to its selection. Investigations were carried out to assess how reinforcement particles were mixed into the aluminium alloy matrix using scanning electron microscopy and energy‐dispersive x‐ray analysis. The microstructure of aluminium alloy 5052 showed a distinct homogenous structural integrity. Adding tungsten carbide and titanium dioxide particles to aluminium alloy 5052 led to a 6.57 % rise in the Vickers microhardness value. The tensile strength of the hybrid composites made of aluminium, tungsten carbide, and titanium dioxide increased by as much as 8.7 %. The findings demonstrated that all of the hybrid composites failed due to particle fracture and ductile fracture in the case of the as‐cast aluminium alloy 5052.
Social Cognition in Parkinson's Disease after Focused Ultrasound Subthalamotomy: A Controlled Study
Authors: Guida Pasqualina , Martínez‐Fernández Raúl , Máñez‐Miró Jorge U. , del Álamo Marta , Foffani Guglielmo , Fernández‐Rodríguez Beatriz , Monje Mariana H.G. , Obeso Ignacio , Obeso José A. , Gasca‐Salas Carmen
Published: August 2024

Social cognition (SC) encompasses a set of cognitive functions that enable individuals to understand and respond appropriately to social interactions. Although focused ultrasound subthalamotomy (FUS‐STN) effectively treats Parkinson's disease (PD) clinical motor features, its impact and safety on cognitive‐behavioral interactions/interpersonal awareness are unknown. This study investigated the effects of unilateral FUS‐STN on facial emotion recognition (FER) and affective and cognitive theory of mind (ToM) in PD patients from a randomized sham‐controlled trial (NCT03454425). Subjects performed SC evaluation before and 4 months after the procedure while still under blind assessment conditions. The SC assessment included the Karolinska Directed Emotional Faces task for FER, the Reading the Mind in the Eyes (RME) test for affective ToM, and The Theory of Mind Picture Stories Task (ToM PST) (order, questions, and total score) for cognitive ToM. The active treatment group showed anecdotal‐to‐moderate evidence of no worsening in SC after FUS‐STN. Anecdotal evidence for an improvement was recognized in the SC score changes, from baseline to post‐treatment, for the active treatment group compared with sham for the RME, ToM PST order, ToM PST total, FER total, and recognition of fear, disgust, and anger. This study provides the first evidence that unilateral FUS‐STN does not impair social cognitive abilities, indicating that it can be considered a safe treatment approach for this domain in PD patients. Furthermore, the results suggest FUS‐STN may even lead to some improvement in social cognitive outcomes, which should be considered as a preliminary finding requiring further investigation with larger samples sizes. © 2024 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Genetics healthcare providers' experiences counseling patients with results from consumer genomic testing
Authors: Trottier Magan , Green Dina , Ovadia Hannah , Catchings Amanda , Gruberg Julia , Groner Victoria , Fanjoy Catherine , Dandiker Sita , Blazer Kathleen , Hamilton Jada G. , Offit Kenneth
Published: August 2024

Background

Consumer genomic testing (CGT), including direct‐to‐consumer and consumer‐initiated testing, is increasingly widespread yet has limited regulatory oversight. To assess the current state, we surveyed genetics healthcare providers' experiences with CGT.

Methods

A retrospective survey about experiences counseling on CGT results was completed by 139 respondents recruited from the National Society of Genetic Counselors, Clinical Cancer Genomics Community of Practice, and genetics professional societies.

Results

Among respondents, 41% disagreed with the statement that potential benefits of CGT outweigh harms, 21% agreed, and 38% were undecided. A total of 94% encountered ≥1 challenge counseling CGT patients, including adverse psychosocial events (76%), incorrect variant interpretation (68%), and unconfirmed results (69%); unconfirmed results were more common among oncology providers (p = 0.03). Providers reporting higher total challenge scores (p = 0.004) or more psychosocial or interpretation challenges (p ≤ 0.01) were more likely to indicate CGT harms outweigh benefits. Those with higher CGT clinical volume were more likely to indicate benefits outweigh harms (p = 0.003). Additional CGT challenges included patient understanding and communication of results, false negatives, incorrect testing/care, and financial costs; seven respondents (6%) documented positive outcomes.

Conclusion

Providers counseling CGT patients encounter psychosocial and medical challenges. Collaborations between regulators, CGT laboratories, providers, and consumers may help mitigate risks.
Distributed consensus time‐varying optimization algorithm for multi‐agent systems in predefined time via event‐triggered sliding mode control
Authors: Zhao Xueqing , Wu Huaiqin , Cao Jinde
Published: August 2024

This paper proposes a distributed consensus algorithm in predefined time of time‐varying optimization with inequality constrains for multi‐agent systems (MASs) with external disturbances over an undirected graph. Firstly, by utilizing exponential function, a novel criterion with respect to the stability in predefined time is developed for the nonlinear systems. Secondly, a new distributed switching control protocol, which can inhibit the external unbounded disturbances, is piecewise designed to drive the states of agents to the sliding mode surface via the predefined‐time set by users. Subsequently, under the designed event‐triggered controller (ETC), the states of agents achieve consensus in predefined time on the sliding mode surface. Meanwhile, with the help of log barrier function, the consensus states of agents reach the feasible region and converge to the optimal solution in predefined time. Finally, the correctness and availability of the proposed optimization control algorithm are verified by a simulation example.
Multiple solutions to nonlocal Neumann boundary problem with sign‐changing coefficients
Authors: Hu Jiaqing , Mao Anmin
Published: August 2024

We consider the following Neumann boundary problem with a nonlocal Kirchhoff term

where
is a bounded smooth domain and
and
are sign‐changing coefficients which play important impact on the study. By using variational method and dividing corresponding Nehari manifold into two disjoint subsets, we study the existence of two positive solutions. To show the multiplicity of positive solutions, we find a set whose elements can be mapped to two subsets of Nehari manifold, which is also the key to proving strong convergence for minimizing sequences. Finally, the asymptotic behavior of solutions is studied as parameter
tends to 0. Different from Dirichlet boundary problem, we show that the two solutions of Neumann problem tend to two different positive constants, respectively.
Zinc Supplementation Reduces the Formation of Neutrophil Extracellular Traps by Decreasing the Expression of Peptidyl Arginine Deiminase 4
Authors: Cheng Jianan , Rink Lothar , Wessels Inga
Published: August 2024

Scope

Neutrophils play a decisive role during the immediate defense against infections. However, as observed during rheumatoid arthritis, activated neutrophils can also cause tissue damage. Previous studies indicate that zinc supplementation may alter certain neutrophil functions. However, precise underlying mechanisms and possible effects of zinc deficiency remain incompletely understood. The objective of this study is to investigate the effects of changes in zinc status on formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) and other fundamental neutrophil functions.

Methods and results

Interleukin (IL)‐17 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α are used to simulate the inflammatory environment observed in autoimmune diseases. The study analyzes the impact of the zinc status on NETs release, using a fluorescence plate reader, and on the expression of peptidylarginine deiminase 4 (PAD4), S100A8/A9, and certain cytokines by PCR and western blot. These results show that zinc supplementation significantly reduces NETs formation and downregulates PAD4 protein expression. Zinc supplementation results in increased protein expression of interleukin‐1 receptor antagonist (IL‐1RA) and IL‐8 in stimulated cells.

Conclusion

The results suggest that changes in extracellular zinc availability may influence the functions of neutrophils. Therefore, maintaining an appropriate zinc level is advisable for preserving innate immunity and to prevent hyper‐activation of neutrophils.
Synthesizing realistic sand assemblies with denoising diffusion in latent space
Authors: Vlassis Nikolaos N. , Sun WaiChing , Alshibli Khalid A. , Regueiro Richard A.
Published: August 2024

The shapes and morphological features of grains in sand assemblies have far‐reaching implications in many engineering applications, such as geotechnical engineering, computer animations, petroleum engineering, and concentrated solar power. Yet, our understanding of the influence of grain geometries on macroscopic response is often only qualitative, due to the limited availability of high‐quality 3D grain geometry data. In this paper, we introduce a denoising diffusion algorithm that uses a set of point clouds collected from the surface of individual sand grains to generate grains in the latent space. By employing a point cloud autoencoder, the three‐dimensional point cloud structures of sand grains are first encoded into a lower‐dimensional latent space. A generative denoising diffusion probabilistic model is trained to produce synthetic sand that maximizes the log‐likelihood of the generated samples belonging to the original data distribution measured by a Kullback‐Leibler divergence. Numerical experiments suggest that the proposed method is capable of generating realistic grains with morphology, shapes and sizes consistent with the training data inferred from an F50 sand database. We then use a rigid contact dynamic simulator to pour the synthetic sand in a confined volume to form granular assemblies in a static equilibrium state with targeted distribution properties. To ensure third‐party validation, 50,000 synthetic sand grains and the 1542 real synchrotron microcomputed tomography (SMT) scans of the F50 sand, as well as the granular assemblies composed of synthetic sand grains are made available in an open‐source repository.
Improvements in precision and accuracy of complex‐ relative to real‐domain linear combination model spectral fitting not necessarily recovered by zero filling
Authors: Campos Leonardo , Swanberg Kelley M. , Gajdošík Martin , Landheer Karl , Juchem Christoph
Published: August 2024

Although the information obtained from in vivo proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H MRS) presents a complex‐valued spectrum, spectral quantification generally employs linear combination model (LCM) fitting using the real spectrum alone. There is currently no known investigation comparing fit results obtained from LCM fitting over the full complex data versus the real data and how these results might be affected by common spectral preprocessing procedure zero filling. Here, we employ linear combination modeling of simulated and measured spectral data to examine two major ideas: first, whether use of the full complex rather than real‐only data can provide improvements in quantification by linear combination modeling and, second, to what extent zero filling might influence these improvements. We examine these questions by evaluating the errors of linear combination model fits in the complex versus real domains against three classes of synthetic data: simulated Lorentzian singlets, simulated metabolite spectra excluding the baseline, and simulated metabolite spectra including measured in vivo baselines. We observed that complex fitting provides consistent improvements in fit accuracy and precision across all three data types. While zero filling obviates the accuracy and precision benefit of complex fitting for Lorentzian singlets and metabolite spectra lacking baselines, it does not necessarily do so for complex spectra including measured in vivo baselines. Overall, performing linear combination modeling in the complex domain can improve metabolite quantification accuracy relative to real fits alone. While this benefit can be similarly achieved via zero filling for some spectra with flat baselines, this is not invariably the case for all baseline types exhibited by measured in vivo data.
Exploring the acceptability of three time‐matched exercise interventions for increasing fitness in women living with obesity: A mixed‐methods evaluation of the EXOFFIT study
Authors: Davis Mary E. , Cunningham Caitriona , Blake Catherine , O’Donoghue Gráinne
Published: August 2024

Background

The EXOFFIT study compared the effectiveness of three time‐matched exercise interventions in women with obesity for improving cardiorespiratory fitness. To best inform future research, evaluation of the interventions' acceptability is needed. Previous research has been inconsistent with methods and reporting of acceptability. Thus, the theoretical framework of acceptability (TFA) can be utilized to ensure that all aspects of acceptability are evaluated. No study to date in women with obesity has utilized the TFA in conjunction with quantitative data (i.e., frequencies of themes) to highlight the aspects of interventions that may be most important for participants.

Objective

This study aimed to examine the acceptability of the EXOFFIT program and gain insight into the participants' experience of participation, their perspective on the acceptability of trial procedures and interventions and gather their feedback on program changes.

Methods

A mixed‐methods approach was employed. Thirty‐eight participants who completed the exercise interventions were interviewed and completed a self‐reported exit questionnaire. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed in three phases: emergent themes were agreed upon, then mapped to the TFA constructs and the frequencies of each construct and theme were presented as counts. Data collected from the exit questionnaire were collated and reported using descriptive statistics.

Results

All seven TFA constructs were identified in the analysis. The EXOFFIT program was found to have a high level of acceptability, with affective attitude, perceived effectiveness and self‐efficacy being the most reported constructs. The burden and opportunity costs associated with the program were mainly related to family commitments and support needed to participate. Any negative impact of participation was noted to be outweighed by the perceived benefits.

Conclusions

The results of this study will inform the development of future programs with women with obesity and support the consideration of the TFA constructs from the outset of study design.

Clinical Trial Registration Number: ISRCTN13517067
Foreign patients and multicultural challenges in pediatric oncology: The experience of the Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori in Milan
Authors: Lombardi Martina , Silva Matteo , Giovanetti Monica , Cabibbe Daniele , Luksch Roberto , Terenziani Monica , Casanova Michela , Spreafico Filippo , Meazza Cristina , Podda Marta , Biassoni Veronica , Schiavello Elisabetta , Chiaravalli Stefano , Puma Nadia , Bergamaschi Luca , Gattuso Giovanna , Nigro Olga , Sironi Giovanna , Colombo Valeria , Ferrari Andrea , Massimino Maura , Clerici Carlo Alfredo
Published: August 2024

This paper describes the complexity of the clinical management of foreign minors suffering from cancer, through the clinical experience of an Italian referral center. The study includes 50 patients less than 18 years (22% of the patients admitted to the unit in 2023), 32 foreigners who were Italian resident and 18 who had come to Italy specifically to receive cancer treatment. Patients who migrate for healthcare reasons often arrive at the referral center with advanced disease or relapse. Numerous socio‐cultural issues were reported. To address them, specific strategies were implemented to ensure equal and high‐quality care for all patients, respecting their needs.
Cancer mortality in children surviving congenital heart interventions: A study from the Pediatric Cardiac Care Consortium
Authors: Thomas Amanda S. , Spector Logan G. , McCracken Courtney , Oster Matthew E. , Kochilas Lazaros K.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Children with congenital heart defects (CHD) have shorter life expectancy than the general population. Previous studies also suggest that patients with CHD have higher risk of cancer. This study aims to describe cancer‐related mortality among patients with a history of CHD interventions using the Pediatric Cardiac Care Consortium (PCCC), a large US cohort of such patients.

Methods

We performed a retrospective cohort study of individuals (<21 years) who underwent interventions for CHD in the PCCC from 1982 to 2003. Patients surviving their first intervention were linked to the National Death Index through 2020. Multivariable models assessed risk of cancer‐related death, adjusting for age, sex, race, and ethnicity. Patients with/without genetic abnormalities (mostly Down syndrome [DS]) were considered separately, due to expected differential risk in cancer.

Results

Among the 57,601 eligible patients in this study, cancer was the underlying or contributing cause of death for 208; with 20% among those with DS. Significantly increased risk of cancer‐related death was apparent among patients with DS compared to the non‐genetic group (aHR: 3.63, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.52–5.24, p < .001). For the group with non‐genetic abnormalities, the highest association with cancer‐related death compared to those with mild CHD was found among those with more severe CHD (severe two‐ventricle aHR: 1.82, 95% CI: 1.04–3.20, p = .036, single‐ventricle aHR: 4.68, 95% CI: 2.77–7.91, p < .001).

Conclusions

Patients with more severe forms of CHD are at increased risk for cancer‐related death. Despite our findings, we are unable to distinguish whether having CHD raises the risk of cancer or reduces survival.
Evaluation of wear and friction properties of graphite modified Lubri polylactic acid with various infill fabricated by additive manufacturing techniques
Authors: Şirin Şenol , Yıldırım Çağrı Vakkas , Sevinç Alperen Mehmet , Ceylan Alpertunga , Kara Muhammed İkbal
Published: August 2024

Three‐dimension (3D) printing technology, also known as additive manufacturing, is a manufacturing technology that creates three‐dimensional objects by depositing material layer by layer, as opposed to subtractive manufacturing methods. However, the newness of the technology brings with it many unknowns. In particular, the raw materials used are constantly increasing. For this reason, testing each raw material used in many aspects and to determine the optimum production conditions is important for the wide use of 3D printing technology. These optimal conditions may be the parameters used to produce a material, and sometimes they can appear as a new material. In addition, the production of new materials with varying production parameters is fundamental research topic that requires comprehensive study. For all these purposes, in this study, a new material type known as Lubri PLA (LPLA) was selected and produced in different filling types and subjected to a series of friction and wear tests. Thus, it is aimed to determine the tribological properties of the material. Additionally, samples were produced in ten different infill types (grid, lines, triangels, hexagon, cubic, octal, zigzag, diagonal, diagonal 3D and gyroid) to show the effect of filler type on friction and wear behavior. These filler types were used for both PLA and Lubri PLA materials and a total of twenty samples were produced. Thereby, it is aimed to conduct a comprehensive study showing the effect of both material difference and filling type on friction‐wear behavior. Diameter deviations, hardness deviations, friction coefficient, temperature, specific wear rates (SWr), and vibration were selected as output parameters. According to the analysis of the test results, the best result in terms of material structure was given by Lubri PLA, while the best result in terms of filling type was obtained with Diagonal 3D filling type. In addition, the lowest vibration level was obtained in the LP‐Diagonal 3D sample with 0.041 mm/s2, while the highest vibration level was obtained in the P‐Grid sample with 1.756 mm/s2.

Highlights

LPLA closed to nominal value in diameter and hardness deviations

Addition of graphite nanoparticle increased the dimensional accuracy

Diagonal 3D infill type Lubri PLA composites showed the superior performance

Graphite modified Lubri PLA composites demonstrated superior performance
Thermomechanical buckling and vibration of composite sandwich doubly curved shells with carbon nanotube‐reinforced face layers
Authors: Zhai Yanchun , Li Shichen , Zhang Xiaoxue
Published: August 2024

In this paper, the thermomechanical buckling and vibration analysis are investigated for carbon nanotube‐reinforced composite sandwich doubly curved shells (CNCSDS) under the action of both thermal loads and in‐plane compressive loads. Based on the von‐Karman non‐linear kinematic relations, First Order Shear Theory, and Hamilton's principle, the vibration and stability equations for CNCSDS under thermomechanical loads are deduced. For obtaining the critical thermomechanical buckling load and vibration frequency, an exact method is adopted. Subsequently, the results are validated by comparing with the finding in published literature and simulation results. At last, the influence of system parameters on critical thermomechanical buckling load and vibration frequency is studied and displayed graphically. Meanwhile, some new results about thermomechanical buckling and vibration analysis of CNCSDS are proposed for the first time.

Highlights

Thermomechanical buckling and vibration of carbon nanotube‐reinforced composite sandwich doubly curved shells was studied.

Vibration and stability equations under thermomechanical loads was deduced.

The change rules of thermomechanical buckling load and frequency were obtained.
Synergistic modification of continuous fiber reinforced Nylon‐6 composites with nano calcium carbonate and polyurethane
Authors: Hou Lianlong , Feng Bingtao , Wang Xiaoke , Zhang Meng , Yin Maofeng , Li Pengpeng , Zhang Xin , Ma Jinsong , Sun Guohua
Published: August 2024

Continuous fiber reinforced Nylon‐6 composites with high strength have been widely used in automotive, wind turbine blades, aerospace, and military fields. Here, we present a synergistically reinforced strategy to enhance the mechanical properties of the continuous glass‐fiber reinforced Nylon‐6 (CGF/PA6) and basalt‐fiber reinforced Nylon‐6 (CBF/PA6) composites via in‐situ polymerization, simultaneously employing thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) and modified calcium carbonate (M‐CaCO3) as the toughening and strengthening materials. The micro‐morphology, mechanical properties, thermostability, water absorption, and flowability of composites are investigated. Significantly, the synergistic effect of TPU and M‐CaCO3 can improve mechanical properties, thermal stability (335.6 and 396.5°C in the T50%), and flowability (43.02 and 40.56 g/10 min) of the modified continuous glass‐fiber reinforced Nylon‐6 (M‐CGF/PA6) and basalt‐fiber reinforced Nylon‐6 (M‐CBF/PA6) composites, especially the high tensile strength (96.07 and 217.43 MPa) and impact strength (95.03 and 206.36 kJ/m2) which increases by 8.53% and 5.18% for the tensile strength and 91.25% and 100.27% for impact strength compared with the unmodified CGF/PA6 composites and CBF/PA6 composites. This work provides theoretical support for continuous fiber reinforced Nylon‐6 composites.

Highlights

Continuous fiber reinforced Nylon‐6 Composites is prepared by in situ polymerization.

In situ polymerization is beneficial to the good impregnation of continuous fibers and uniform dispersion of modified calcium carbonate (M‐CaCO3).

The modified continuous fiber can improve the interfacial bonding properties of composites.

The TPU and M‐CaCO3 synergistically reinforce the mechanical properties of composites.

The M‐CaCO3 nanoparticles are uniformly dispersed in the composites.
Rhekiss—The German Register for Child Wish and Pregnancies in Inflammatory Rheumatic Diseases
Authors: Strangfeld Anja , Meissner Yvette , Weiß Anja , Rudi Tatjana , Zink Angela , Ellmann Tanja , Filla Tim , Aries Peer , Baraliakos Xenofon , Bungartz Christina , Glaser Cornelia , Henes Jörg , Lorenz Hanns‐Martin , Schneider Matthias , Späthling‐Mestekemper Susanna , Specker Christof , Richter Jutta G. , Fischer‐Betz Rebecca
Published: August 2024

In pharmacoepidemiology, robust data are needed to judge the impact of drug treatment on pregnancy, pregnancy outcomes and breast‐fed infants. As pregnant and breastfeeding women are usually excluded from randomised clinical trials, observational studies are required. One of those data sources are pregnancy registers specifically developed to focus on certain diseases or disease groups. The German Rhekiss register investigates pregnancies in women with chronic inflammatory rheumatic diseases (IRD). Rhekiss is a nationwide, multicentre, longitudinal study, in which women aged 18 years or older with an underlying IRD can be enrolled by a rheumatologist either when planning a pregnancy or in the first half of pregnancy. Data are collected prospectively at regular follow‐up visits. Rheumatologists and patients provide information in a web‐based system before conception (if enrolment was at the time of pregnancy planning), during and after pregnancy. A smartphone app is available for patients. Maternal and clinical information, general laboratory markers, treatment with antirheumatic and other drugs, adverse events, items related to course and outcome of pregnancy and the health of the child are uniformly assessed for all diseases. Individual information on the IRD includes classification criteria, diagnosis‐specific laboratory parameters, clinical parameters and validated instruments to measure disease activity or damage. Furthermore, patient‐reported outcome measures are captured. A total of 2013 individual patients have been enrolled in the register, and data on 1801 completed pregnancies are available. In summary, Rhekiss is a comprehensive and complex register that can answer various research questions about pregnancy in women with chronic IRDs.
A comparative study on thermo‐oxidative aging and tribological properties of perfluoroelastomer composites reinforced by different carbon nanomaterials at elevated temperatures: Molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Zhao Jing , Qu Dianhong , Yang Yadi , Wang Tianming
Published: August 2024

Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations are employed to assess the effects of diverse carbon nanomaterials on the thermo‐oxidative aging properties and tribological behavior of perfluoroelastomer (FFKM) in high‐temperature environments. In this study, carbon nanofillers such as graphene nanosheets (GNS), carbon nanotubes (CNTs), hydroxyl‐functionalized graphene (OH‐GNS), and hydroxyl‐functionalized carbon nanotubes (OH‐CNTs) are examined. The aging properties of composite systems are characterized by parameters like cohesive energy density and mean square displacement. The constant strain method is utilized to estimate the shear modulus and bulk modulus. Three‐layer friction structures are established to analyze the mechanism of fillers on the tribological behavior of composites by applying shear loads. According to the MD simulation results, the addition of carbon nanofillers enhances FFKM's thermo‐oxidative aging performance at 533 K, increases its bulk and shear moduli, and reduces the coefficient of friction and abrasion rate of each composite at high temperatures. Among the four nanofillers, OH‐CNTs is the most effective in terms of improving FFKM performance. Stronger dipoledipole interactions and hydrogen bonding are introduced into the system by OH‐CNTs, which improves the stability of the filler‐matrix interface and produces stronger interfacial interactions. This work offers theoretical predictions for the design and optimization of carbon nanomaterial and FFKM polymer composites.
Niobium Modification in Ni‐Rich Cathode Materials for Li‐Ion Batteries: Insights from Ab Initio Calculations
Authors: Lv Lu , Ma Yaoyao , Zhou Qinghua , Liu Wenhua , Zhang Yuhang , Chen Huiyuan , Hu Wei
Published: August 2024

Herein, a theoretical study on Nb‐doped LiNiO2 cathode materials for Li‐ion batteries is performed based on density functional theory within the projector augmented wave method. Due to the stronger NbO interaction, the Ni‐rich cathode modified by Nb has better electronic conductivity, higher potential, and larger O‐vacancy formation energy. During the charging and discharging process, Nb doping can reduce the lattice distortion, which is conducive to improve the cycle performance of the electrode. This work provides a new insight into the atomic configuration and the origin of the performance enhancement for Nb‐doped LiNiO2 cathode and is a necessary complement to the experiment, thus helpful for rational design and manufacture of high‐performance Ni‐rich cathode materials.
Estimates of soil taxonomic change due to near‐surface permafrost loss in Alaska
Authors: Jelinski N. A. , Pastick N. J. , Kholodov A. L. , Sousa M. J. , Galbraith J. M.
Published: August 2024

Gelisols (permafrost‐affected soils in US Soil Taxonomy) are extensive in Alaska, currently occurring on ∼45% of the land area of the state. Gelisol taxonomic criteria rely on the presence of near‐surface (less than 2 m deep) permafrost, but ongoing climatic and environmental change has the potential to affect the presence of near‐surface permafrost across much of Alaska throughout the 21st century. In this study, we utilized scenarios of near‐surface permafrost loss and active layer deepening through the 21st century under low (SRES B1, RCP 4.5), mid‐ (SRES A1B), and high (SRES A2, RCP 8.5) emissions scenarios, in conjunction with the statewide STATSGO soil map, to generate spatially explicit predictions of the susceptibility of Gelisols and Gelisol suborders to taxonomic change in Alaska. We find that 15%–53% of Alaskan Gelisols are susceptible to taxonomic change by mid‐century and that 41%–69% of Alaskan Gelisols are susceptible to taxonomic change by the end of the century. The extent of potential change varies between suborders and geographic regions, with Gelisols in Northern Alaska being the most resilient to taxonomic change and Western and Interior Alaskan Gelisols most susceptible to taxonomic change. The Orthel suborder is likely to be highly restricted by the late 21st century, while Histels and Tubels are more likely to be of greater extent. These results should be taken into consideration when designing initial survey and re‐mapping efforts in Alaska and suggest that Alaskan Gelisol taxa should be considered threatened soil taxa due to the proportional extent of likely loss.
Mg‐ZnO/CNT Nanocomposite as Electrode Materials with Enhanced Electrochemical Performance for Supercapacitor Applications
Authors: Sheoran Mahima , Sharma Rohit , Chaudhary Swati , Dawar Anit , Ojha Sunil , Mishra Ambuj , Dhakate Sanjay R. , Srivastava Anurag , Sinha Om Prakash
Published: August 2024

The present research work reported the study of nanocomposites of undoped and Mg‐doped ZnO with CNT as electrode materials for supercapacitor application. The undoped ZnO/CNT and Mg‐doped ZnO/CNT nanocomposites (i.e., 10 % Mg‐doped and 20 % Mg‐doped) were synthesized using a cost‐effective blending‐assisted hydrothermal method. The morphological (FESEM & TEM) studies revealed that the diameter of CNT was ~7 nm and the ZnO nanoparticles were spherical in shape with an average particle size of ~5 nm. In addition, it was also found that 10 % Mg‐ZnO and 20 % Mg‐ZnO had a sheet‐like structure. XRD and FTIR studies further confirmed the successful doping of Mg in ZnO and CNT nanocomposites. BET analysis showed that the value of specific capacitance increased with the increase in surface area. Further, the electrochemical performance of these nanocomposites revealed that the higher doping percentage, 20 % Mg‐ZnO/CNT nanocomposite achieved the highest specific capacitance value i.e., 458.5 F/g at 0.1 A/g current density in 3M H2SO4 electrolytic solution, having a retention of 99.8 % after 12,00 long cycles. In addition, the charge storage mechanism revealed that the as‐synthesized nanocomposites showed both the diffusion‐controlled and capacitive‐controlled behaviors. Thus, a higher value of specific capacitance with excellent cyclic stability indicated the higher efficiency of Mg‐doped ZnO/CNT nanocomposite for future supercapacitor applications.
Convenient Synthesis of Pyrano[3,2‐g]chromene‐6‐ones from Naturally Occurring Visnagin and Evaluation of their Antimicrobial Activity
Authors: Alhadhrami Nahlah A. , Al‐Harbi Reem A. K. , Abbas Samir Y.
Published: August 2024

It is well known that chromones possess numerous of biological activities. Due to their significant applications, there are increasing for synthesizing of several chromones but few pyranochromene have been synthesized. So, simple and convenient routes for the synthesizing of new pyrano[3,2‐g]chromenone derivatives in high yields were illustrated using visnagin as starting naturally occurring. Ring opening of visnagin afforded 6‐formyl‐7‐hydroxychromone derivative which was subjected to react with variety of active methlyene derivatives to afford pyrano[3,2‐g]chromenone derivatives. Thus, heating of 6‐formylchromone with aroylacetate gave the 3‐(aroyl)‐pyranochromene‐2,6‐dione. The desired pyranochromene‐3‐carboxamide derivatives were obtained when the precursor 6‐formylchromone was condensed with ethyl 3‐oxo‐3‐(arylamino)propanoates. When 6‐formylchromone was condensed with hippuric acid gave oxazolone derivative rather than pyranochromene derivative. Condensation of 6‐formylchromone with cyanothioacetamide led to the formation of thioamide derivative. 2‐Iminopyranochromene derivatives were synthesized through reaction of 6‐formylchromone with diverse cyanoacetamide derivatives. Finally, reaction of 6‐formylchromone with 3‐(dimethylpyrazolyl)‐3‐oxopropanenitrile gave 3‐cyano‐pyranochromenedione rather than pyrazole derivative. Antimicrobial activity of the synthesized pyranochromenone derivatives was evaluated. Nearly all compounds showed weak effects towards B. subtilis and P. vulgaris. All compounds showed no effects towards S. aureus and E. coli. All compounds showed no effects towards all tested fungi except thioamide derivative 6 showed moderate activity.
A Graphene/ZnO/ZnS/MoS2 Heterojunction with Excellent Photocatalytic Activity
Authors: Jia Mingming , Zhao Xuhao , Yu Shoushan , Chen Kezheng
Published: August 2024

In this work, a well‐defined flower‐like ZnO (ZnO−F) was prepared through the precipitation method, and a graphene/ZnO/ZnS/MoS2 heterojunction (GR/ZnO−H) was fabricated using the hydrothermal approach. The morphological, compositional, and optical characteristics of the prepared materials were systematically investigated employing various analytical techniques. The photodegradation performance of these materials were assessed through methylene blue (MB) photodegradation experiments. Remarkably, GR/ZnO−H exhibited superior photodegradation efficacy compared to both pure ZnO−F and ZnO/ZnS/MoS2 heterojunctions, with a degradation rate reaching 98.8 % within 240 minutes. The examination of the photocatalytic mechanism revealed that superoxide anions (O2⋅−), hydroxyl radicals (⋅OH), and holes (h+) are the principal photocatalytic active species during MB degradation. This investigation unveils a highly effective photoregenerative material with promising applications in wastewater treatment.
Dendritic Pt Aerogel for Highly Efficient Electrocatalytic Methanol Oxidation Reaction
Authors: Lin Shuai , Wang Lingwei , Liu Xia , Cai Chen , Cai Bin
Published: August 2024

Metallic aerogels, as featured by high surface area, porosity, and self‐supported metal skeleton, are regarded as an ideal platform for developing next‐generation electrocatalysts. However, the precise adjustment of their skeleton nanostructure to enhance catalytic properties remains significantly underexplored. Herein, inspired by the impact of the metal atoms’ coordination number on their reactivity, we devised and prepared dendritic Pt aerogels (DPAs) via a facile sol‐gel method. The synergy of aerogel structure and coordinatively distinct catalytic sites from dendritic morphology enables DPAs to exhibit markedly improved electrocatalytic activity and stability for methanol oxidation reaction. The mass activity and specific activity of DPAs are 1.28 A mgPt−1 and 1.5 mA cmPt−2, which are 4.1 and 3.2 times higher than those of commercial Pt/C, respectively.
VPreparation of Temperature/pH Dual‐Sensitive Hydrogels and Study of their Properties
Authors: Yuan Long , Liu Xinyun , Xiong Jing , Lei Hua
Published: August 2024

A temperature/pH dual‐sensitive hydrogel was prepared through simple solution radical polymerization. A novel temperature/pH dual‐sensitive terpolymerized semi‐interpenetrating network, P(NIPAAm‐co‐AA‐co‐HEAA)/SA hydrogel, was synthesized using interpenetrating network technology (IPN) with sodium alginate (SA) as the raw material. The temperature‐sensitive monomer N‐isopropylacrylamide (NIPAAm), the pH‐sensitive monomer acrylic acid (AA), and the hydrophilic monomer N‐hydroxyethylacrylamide (HEAA) were incorporated into the structure. The structure and morphology of the hydrogels were investigated using FTIR, TGA and SEM. Additionally, the swelling properties, as well as temperature and pH sensitivity, were examined. The results showed that the content of HEAA and SA influenced the swelling properties of the gels. The gels exhibited distinct swelling behaviors at different temperatures and pH levels, demonstrating remarkable temperature and pH sensitivity. Moreover, it shows rapid response speed and efficient recovery, making them suitable for use as anticancer drug carriers that meet specific requirements.
One‐Second Surface Graphenization Strategy for Highly Sensitive Valrubicin Electrochemical Sensor
Authors: AbdelHamid Ayman A. , Elgamouz Abdelaziz , Kawde Abdel‐Nasser
Published: August 2024

We report a novel one‐second strategy for the surface treatment of conventional graphite electrodes for the electrochemical detection of valrubicin, a potent chemotherapeutic agent used intravesically for the treatment of bladder cancer. The surface graphenization process enhances the surface area of the electrode and introduces surface defects and strain that increase its electrocatalytic activity and provides fast charge transfer pathways for an efficient redox process with excellent stability due to the direct connection with the core graphite electrode. The surface graphenized electrode is characterized using electron microscopy and Raman spectroscopy, and its electrochemical properties are studied using cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. A voltammetric method is developed for valrubicin detection using the surface graphenized electrode, optimized, and the electrochemical reduction mechanism is elucidated. A calibration curve is established with a wide linear range of 0.02–3 μM and a low limit of detection of 26.9 nM. Excellent reproducibility and stability are displayed and the clinical validity is demonstrated by analyzing valrubicin in human serum, achieving a high recovery of ≈90 %. The high performance and excellent sensitivity of the developed electrode show the significant impact of the surface graphenization strategy for further application in electrochemical sensing.