bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gallai‐like characterization of strong cocomparability graphs
Authors: Huang Jing
Published: May 2024

Strong cocomparability graphs are the reflexive graphs whose adjacency matrix can be rearranged by a simultaneous row and column permutation to avoid the submatrix with rows . Strong cocomparability graphs form a subclass of cocomparability graphs (i.e., the complements of comparability graphs) and can be recognized in polynomial time. In his seminal paper, Gallai characterized cocomparability graphs in terms of a forbidden structure called asteroids. Gallai proved that cocomparability graphs are precisely those reflexive graphs which do not contain asteroids. In this paper, we give a characterization of strong cocomparability graphs which is analogous to Gallai's characterization for cocomparability graphs. We prove that strong cocomparability graphs are precisely those reflexive graphs which do not contain weak edge‐asteroids (a weaker version of asteroids). Our characterization also leads to a polynomial time recognition algorithm for strong cocomparability graphs.
ePortfolios: Enhancing confidence in student radiographers' communication of radiographic anatomy and pathology. A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Dolic Magdalena , Peng Yaxuan , Dhingra Keshav , Lee Kristal , McInerney John
Published: May 2024

Introduction

In 2020, the Medical Radiation Practice Board of Australia made several revisions to its professional capabilities. To address this, medical radiation practitioners, including diagnostic radiographers, are required to escalate urgent findings in all radiographic settings. However, the confidence of radiographers in articulating descriptions of radiographic findings varies despite this requirement. This cross‐sectional study explores how the implementation of eportfolio affects student self‐perceived confidence in identifying and describing radiographic findings in both an academic and a clinical setting.

Methods

A Qualtrics survey was distributed to second‐year radiography students who had used eportfolios. The survey comprised of four questions using a Likert‐scale and one open‐ended question. Quantitative data were analysed using the Wilcoxon signed‐rank test and qualitative data was thematically assessed.

Results

Overall, 55 of 65 radiographic students (85%) completed the survey. Confidence (strongly agree and agree) decreased from 89% to 74% between academic and clinical environments when identifying abnormalities, and 89% to 73% when describing findings. This finding highlights the challenges students face when in the clinical environment. Wilcoxon signed rank test analysed a statistically significant relation between the two environments (P < 0.05). However, the relationship between identifying and describing skills was not statistically significant (P > 0.05). Following a review of the qualitative data, three recurring themes were identified among responses.

Conclusion

ePortfolios assist in improving confidence in identification and description of radiographic abnormalities, particularly in an academic setting. The clinical environment presents unique challenges which may limit student clinical performance; however, this requires further investigation.
Talus‐derived reference coordinate system for 3D calcaneal assessment: A novel approach to improve morphological measurements
Authors: Wakker Alexander M. , Verhofstad Michael H. J. , Visser Jacob J. , Van Vledder Mark G. , Van Walsum Theo
Published: May 2024

In 3D‐analysis of the calcaneus, a consistent coordinate system aligned with the original anatomical directions is crucial for pre‐ and postoperative analysis. This importance stems from the calcaneus's key role in weight‐bearing and biomechanical alignment. However, defining a reliable coordinate system based solely on fractured or surgically reconstructed calcanei presents significant challenges. Given its anatomical prominence and consistent orientation, the talus offers a potential solution to this challenge. Our work explores the feasibility of talus‐derived coordinate systems for 3D‐modeling of the calcaneus across its various conditions. Four methods were tested on nonfractured, fractured and surgically reconstructed calcanei, utilizing Principal Component Analysis, anatomical landmarks, bounding box, and an atlas‐based approach. The methods were compared with a self‐defined calcaneus reference coordinate system. Additionally, the impact of deviation of the coordinate system on morphological measurements was investigated. Among methods for constructing nonfractured calcanei coordinate systems, the atlas‐based method displayed the lowest Root Mean Square value in comparison with the reference coordinate system. For morphological measures like Böhler's Angle and the Critical angle of Gissane, the atlas talus‐based system closely aligned with ground truth, yielding differences of 0.6° and 1.2°, respectively, compared to larger deviations seen in other talus‐based coordinate systems. In conclusion, all tested methods were feasible for creating a talus derived coordinate system. A talus derived coordinate system showed potential, offering benefits for morphological measurements and clinical scenarios involving fractured and surgically reconstructed calcanei. Further research is recommended to assess the impact of these coordinate systems on surgical planning and outcomes.
4670‐PPI OLEDoS pixel circuit design for wide data voltage range in a 5 V 0.13 μm CMOS process
Authors: Shin Hyeon‐Jun , Kim Yong‐Duck , Choi Byong‐Deok
Published: May 2024

OLEDoS displays hold great promise for AR/VR applications, but the ultra‐high pixel density required for microdisplays, exceeding several thousand PPI, presents significant challenges for pixel circuit design. Above all, the maximum OLED current of each OLEDoS sub‐pixel is extremely low, on the order of several nanoamperes or less, resulting in a data voltage range narrower than a few hundred millivolts. Consequently, for example, when expressing 10‐bit grayscale, designing data driver circuits to divide the data voltage range into 1024 levels becomes exceedingly challenging. Furthermore, circuit techniques that compensate for variations in transistor characteristics are nearly inapplicable due to the ultra‐small pixel area. This paper proposes a pixel circuit design method to expand the data voltage range for a 4670‐PPI OLEDoS display while considering current uniformity. The effectiveness of the proposed pixel circuit was verified through measurements on 40 × 120 pixel arrays fabricated in a 5 V 0.13 μm CMOS process.
Point‐of‐Care Ultrasound Psychomotor Learning Curves
Authors: Breunig Mike , Chelf Cynthia , Kashiwagi Deanne
Published: May 2024

Objectives

Use of point‐of‐care ultrasound (POCUS) in clinical medicine and inclusion in medical training is increasing. Some professional societies recommend that 25–50 POCUS examinations be completed for each application learned; however, the amount of practice required is not well studied. As such, a better understanding of the learning curves of POCUS psychomotor skills is needed. This systematic review characterizes the learning curves for POCUS psychomotor skill acquisition.

Methods

With the assistance of a research librarian, the available literature through August 28, 2023, was identified. The titles and abstracts, and then the full text were reviewed by two reviewers to screen for inclusion. All studies included after full‐text review then underwent data extraction and analysis.

Results

The search identified 893 unique studies. Forty‐five studies underwent full‐text review, with 17 meeting full inclusion criteria. Substantial heterogeneity was noted in study design, duration of education, number and type of learners, and methods for statistical analysis. Clear and validated definitions for learning endpoints, such as plateau points or competency, are lacking. Learning curves and endpoints differ for different applications of POCUS.

Conclusion

The results are overall supportive of the recommendations to complete 25–50 examinations per application of POCUS learned. However, specific applications require more practice than others. Certain applications, such as cardiac and the Focused Assessment with Sonography in Trauma (FAST) exams, are closer to 50; while others, such as soft tissue, airway, and eye require no more than 25.
Central cone design demonstrates greater micromotion compared to keel design in cementless tibial baseplates: A biomechanical analysis
Authors: Luo T. David , Sogbein Olawale A. , MacDonald Brett M. , Masse Jarrett A. , Willing Ryan T. , Lanting Brent A.
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to compare micromotion of two new cementless tibial baseplates to a cementless design with well‐published clinical success.

Methods

Three cementless tibial baseplate designs (fixed‐bearing [FB] with keel and cruciform pegs, rotating‐platform with porous central cone and pegs, FB with cruciform keel and scalloped pegs) were evaluated on sawbone models. Loading was applied to the baseplate at a rate of 1 Hz for 10,000 cycles, which represents 6–8 weeks of stair descent. This time frame also represents the approximate time length for the induction of biologic fixation of cementless implants. Compressive and shear micromotion at the sawbone–implant interface were measured.

Results

At the end of the loading protocol, the central cone rotating‐platform design exhibited greater micromotion at the anterior (p < 0.001), posterior (p < 0.001) and medial locations (p = 0.049) compared to the other two implants. The central cone design also exhibited greater translational micromotion in the sagittal plane at the medial (p = 0.001) and lateral locations (p = 0.034) and in the coronal plane anteriorly (p = 0.007).

Conclusion

The cementless central cone rotating‐platform baseplate demonstrated greater vertical and translational micromotion compared to the two FB baseplates with a keel underloading. This may indicate lower initial mechanical stability in implants without a keel, which possibly affects osseointegration. The implication of this is yet unknown and requires further long‐term clinical follow‐up to correlate these laboratory findings.

Level of Evidence

V (biomechanical study).
Higher diagnostic value of next‐generation sequencing versus culture in periprosthetic joint infection: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Su Shilong , Wang Ruideng , Zhou Rubing , Bai Jinwu , Chen Zhengyang , Zhou Fang
Published: May 2024

Background

The next‐generation sequencing (NGS) has developed rapidly in the past decade and is becoming a promising diagnostic tool for periprosthetic infection (PJI). However, its diagnostic value for PJI is still uncertain. The purpose of this systematic review and meta‐analysis was to evaluate the diagnostic value of NGS compared to culture.

Methods

In this systematic review and meta‐analysis, electronic databases including PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Web of Science and clinicaltrials.gov were searched for studies from inception to 12 November 2023. Diagnostic parameters, such as sensitivity, specificity, diagnostic odds ratio and area under the summary receiver‐operating characteristic (SROC) curve (AUC), were calculated for the included studies. A systematic review and meta‐analysis was performed.

Results

A total of 22 studies with 2461 patients were included in our study. The pooled sensitivity, specificity and diagnostic odds ratio of NGS were 87% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 83–90), 94% (95% CI: 91–96) and 111 (95% CI: 70–177), respectively. On the other hand, the pooled sensitivity, specificity and diagnostic odds ratio of culture were 63% (95% CI: 58–67), 98% (95% CI: 96–99) and 93 (95% CI: 40–212), respectively. The SROC curve for NGS and culture showed that the AUCs are 0.96 (95% CI: 0.94–0.98) and 0.82 (95% CI: 0.79–0.86), respectively.

Conclusion

This systematic review and meta‐analysis found NGS had higher sensitivity and diagnostic accuracy but slightly lower specificity than culture. Based on the pooled results, we suggested NGS may have the potential to be a new tool for the diagnosis of PJI.

Level of Evidence

Level IV.
Kinematics of 90° change of direction in young football players: Insights for ACL injury prevention from the CUTtheACL study on 6008 trials
Authors: Della Villa Francesco , Di Paolo Stefano , Crepaldi Matteo , Santin Piefrancesco , Menditto Ilaria , Pirli Capitani Luca , Boldrini Lorenzo , Ciampone Luca , Vassura Gabriele , Bortolami Antonio , Bosi Andrea Nicolò , Grassi Alberto , Zaffagnini Stefano
Published: May 2024

Purpose

To investigate the 90° change of direction (COD) task in an extensive cohort of competitive healthy football players within the CUTtheACL study and to provide normative values and differences between males and females for full‐body kinematics based on two‐dimensional (2D) video analysis and scoring system.

Methods

One‐thousand‐and‐two competitive football (soccer) players (age 16.3 ± 2.8 years, 264 females) were prospectively enroled. Each player performed three preplanned 90° COD tasks per limb. The 2D evaluation was performed through objective measures (collected through three high‐speed cameras) of frontal and sagittal plane joint kinematics at the cut initial foot contact (IC) and maximum knee flexion angle. A previously published scoring system was adopted to measure the movement quality of the COD task. The scoring system included five criteria (limb stability [LS], pelvis stability [PS], trunk stability [TS], shock absorption [SA], movement strategy [MS]) ranked from 0/2 (nonadequate) to 2/2 (adequate) with a maximum score of 10/10. Normative data were provided for all the variables; statistical differences between male and female players were investigated (p < 0.05).

Results

A total of 6008 valid attempts were included. Frontal plane knee projection angle (FPKPA) at initial contact was 24.4 ± 9.8° (95th percentile: FPKPA > 40°). The total score was ≤4/10 in 71.2% of the trials, the lowest subscores were LS and PS. Female players showed different movement patterns with lower hip and trunk flexion both at IC and maximum knee flexion angle (p < 0.01, ES = 0.41–0.64). Female players also showed worse scores than males in SA, MS and total score (p < 0.01).

Conclusion

Female players seem more prone to stiffer lower limb strategy and greater pelvis–trunk frontal plane instability than males. Clinicians could adopt normative data and sex‐specific differences in players' movement techniques to improve ACL injury risk mitigation protocols.

Level of Evidence

Level IV.
Picosecond alexandrite laser treatment of nevus of Ota in children
Authors: Zhao Wenwen , Yang Ying , Shi Hualing , Guo Lifang , Ding Hui , Zhen Huiying , Lin Tong , Ge Yiping
Published: May 2024

Background

The picosecond alexandrite laser has been safely and effectively used to treat the nevus of Ota in adults. However, limited data are available for children.

Objective

To investigate the efficacy, safety, and correlative influencing factors of a 755nm picosecond alexandrite laser in the treatment of nevus of Ota in children.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed Chinese children with nevus of Ota who received a 755nm picosecond alexandrite laser treatment in a tertiary dermatological hospital.

Result

A total of 305 pediatric patients received an average of two treatments achieving an average of 79% pigment clearance. After the first treatment, 22 patients achieved complete clearance (95%–100%), and 72 patients achieved excellent response (75%–94%), with an average initial efficacy of 63% lesion clearance. Treatment at an early age achieved better initial efficacy (0‐ to 12‐month group >1‐ to 6‐year group, 6‐ to 12‐year group). And 0‐ to 12‐month group achieved better final efficacy. More treatment sessions also increased the final efficacy. Both initial efficacy and final efficacy were better when treating a darker lesion. The incidence of complications was 12.1%, with 10.8% being post‐inflammatory hyperpigmentation and 1.3% being hypopigmentation. The rate of recurrence was 6.6%.

Limitation

Retrospective study.

Conclusion

A 755nm picosecond alexandrite laser is safe and effective in treating nevus of Ota in children. Younger to initiate treatment, darker lesions, and more treatments are positively associated with better pigmentation clearance.
A BETTER LEADERSHIP COMPASS
Authors: Crossan Mary , Crossan Corey , Furlong Bill
Published: May 2024

Mary Crossan is a Distinguished University Professor and Professor of Strategic Leadership at the Ivey Business School, Western University. Corey Crossan is a research and teaching fellow at The University of Oxford with The Oxford Character Project. Bill Furlong is an executive in residence at the Ivey Business School, and a co‐founder with Mary Crossan of Leader Character Associates Inc. In this article, “the story we tell is about a paradigm shift to elevate character alongside competence in our work and our lives as a foundation for transformation.” Their Figure 1, the Leader Character Framework, depicts judgment in the middle, while radiating out are the terms (with brief explanations), transcendence, drive, collaboration, humanity, humility, integrity, temperance, justice, accountability, and courage. These terms are further delineated in the extensive Virtues and Vices Index Table 1. They also present a variety of character‐related questions, which in their words include: Are we operating at the highest level of understanding how character influences our well‐being and sustained excellence? Do we believe we can change? Does our lifestyle enable us to change our character? Do your peers enable or undermine your character? Do the cultural norms of your organization and society enable or undermine your character?
AWARENESS: A TOOL FOR BURNOUT IMMUNITY
Authors: Wiens Kandi
Published: May 2024

The author is a senior fellow at the University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education, a well‐known researcher and speaker on burnout, emotional intelligence, and resilience; and developer of the Burnout Quiz. The article discusses burnout in the context of awareness and self‐awareness, based on her research. She contends that “leaders who display social awareness—the ability to accurately understand the impact of our emotions, thoughts, and behaviors on others, and to understand and share the feelings of others—are better at decision‐making, coaching and engaging their teams, and communication and collaboration.” However, “when leaders are burned out, it’s never just an individual problem. Entire teams and even organizations can suffer when leaders lose motivation and energy, struggle with their ability to influence people, make poorer (and often slower) decisions, and spread an attitude of cynicism throughout organizations.” She discusses what she terms “core burnout immunity awareness skills.” These are, in her words, Awareness of what triggers your workplace stress; Awareness of what increases your sensitivity to stress; Awareness of your tipping point between good stress and bad stress; and Awareness of your burnout risk level.
Dramatically Accelerating II−I Crystal Phase Transition of Polybutene‑1 by In Situ Incorporation of H‐Shape Long‐Chain‐Branching Structures
Authors: Yu Huiping , Dong Jin‐Yong
Published: May 2024

This communication reports an effective strategy helping address the long‐troubling melt processing issue of isotactic polybutene‐1 (i‐PB) caused by its extremely slow II‐I crystal phase transition. The solution lies in a facile synthesis of i‐PB containing H‐shape long‐chain‐branching structures (LCB‐i‐PB) by applying a so‐called ω‐alkenylmethyldichlorosilane copolymerization‐hydrolysis (ACH) chemistry to butene‐1 polymerization with Ziegler–Natta or metallocene catalysts. It is evident that the H‐shape LCB structures effectively enhance chain entanglements of i‐PB and induce an over‐the‐board acceleration of the overall melt crystallization process including nucleation, form II crystallization, and form II‐form I phase transition. As i‐PB usually requires up to a week to reach equilibrium of the II‐I phase transition, it is found that with LCB‐i‐PB such a transition is almost finished within as short as 24 h to even higher degrees.
Influence of learned landmark correspondences on lung CT registration
Authors: Bhat Ishaan , Kuijf Hugo J. , Viergever Max A. , Pluim Josien P. W.
Published: May 2024

Background

Disease or injury may cause a change in the biomechanical properties of the lungs, which can alter lung function. Image registration can be used to measure lung ventilation and quantify volume change, which can be a useful diagnostic aid. However, lung registration is a challenging problem because of the variation in deformation along the lungs, sliding motion of the lungs along the ribs, and change in density.

Purpose

Landmark correspondences have been used to make deformable image registration robust to large displacements.

Methods

To tackle the challenging task of intra‐patient lung computed tomography (CT) registration, we extend the landmark correspondence prediction model deep convolutional neural network‐Match by introducing a soft mask loss term to encourage landmark correspondences in specific regions and avoid the use of a mask during inference. To produce realistic deformations to train the landmark correspondence model, we use data‐driven synthetic transformations. We study the influence of these learned landmark correspondences on lung CT registration by integrating them into intensity‐based registration as a distance‐based penalty.

Results

Our results on the public thoracic CT dataset COPDgene show that using learned landmark correspondences as a soft constraint can reduce median registration error from approximately 5.46 to 4.08 mm compared to standard intensity‐based registration, in the absence of lung masks.

Conclusions

We show that using landmark correspondences results in minor improvements in local alignment, while significantly improving global alignment.
Contextual Factors‐Enriched Standard Care on mechanical neck pain (ContextualizAR trial): Protocol for a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Andreu Mauro Federico , Soliño Santiago , Villalba Federico , Policastro Pablo Oscar , Laurens María Lourdes , D’Aversa Gonzalo , Mastandrea Martín , Rodriguez Federico , Ramirez Alexis , Cook Chad , Rossettini Giacomo
Published: May 2024

Background

Understanding the influence of contextual factors (CFs) on interventions for mechanical neck pain (MNP) is essential for evidence‐based practice in physical therapy. However, the specific effects and synergies of combining different CFs remain unclear.

Objective

The primary purpose of this study will be to determine if a CFs‐Enriched Standard Care (SC) approach is an effective treatment for MNP in terms of reducing pain and improving function.

Methods

This will be an assessor‐blinded, 2‐group (1:1) randomised clinical trial (RCT) aiming to enrol 94 participants with neck pain persisting for more than 4 weeks. Both groups will undergo 4 weeks of SC twice weekly, following established clinical practice guidelines. In the intervention group, CFs will be enhanced, encompassing the physical, psychological, and social elements inherent in the clinical encounter, based on existing evidence. The primary outcomes will encompass changes in pain and disability after 4 weeks of treatment, with a follow‐up reassessment at week 12 post‐treatment. Secondary outcomes will include changes in Active Range of Motion, Global Rating of Change, and Satisfaction with treatment. The change between groups after treatment and at the 12‐week follow‐up will be reported for all outcomes, considering the difference from scores recorded at baseline.

Results

We hypothesise that a 4‐week CFs‐Enriched SC approach will be superior to SC alone in terms of patient‐reported disability and pain, with measurements conducted using the Northwick Park Neck Pain Questionnaire and the Numeric Pain Rating Scale, respectively.

Conclusion

This RCT rigorously assesses the effect of purposeful manipulation of CFs during MNP treatment. By elucidating the role of these factors, our findings have the potential to significantly refine clinical practice in managing MNP, thereby enhancing patient care, and advancing the fields of physical therapy and rehabilitation.
Iterative algorithm to the generalized coupled Sylvester‐transpose matrix equations with application in robust and minimum norm observer design of linear systems
Authors: Qi Rui , Song Caiqin
Published: May 2024

This article consider a class of generalized coupled Sylvester‐transpose matrix equations which play an important role in control and systems theory. Based on the Jacobi iterative algorithm, the full‐row rank accelerated Jacobi gradient based iterative (RRAJGI) algorithm and the full‐column rank accelerated Jacobi gradient based iterative (CRAJGI) algorithm are proposed. By using the Frobenius norm of matrix and the trace function of matrix, the convergence of the algorithms are proved. The results show that the new algorithms are convergent for arbitrary initial matrices under the convergence number satisfies appropriate conditions. Numerical examples show that RRAJGI algorithm and CRAJGI algorithm have the advantages of faster convergence speed and higher convergence accuracy than other existing algorithms. Finally, an application example for robust and minimum norm observer design of linear systems is given.
Building blocks of good governance: Fostering an ethical work climate in public sector organizations
Authors: Al‐Fayez Diana , Hijal‐Moghrabi Imane , Yoon Youngseok , Sabharwal Meghna
Published: May 2024

Promoting an ethical work environment in public‐sector organizations is crucial for good governance, particularly in developing countries that face internal and external pressures to modernize their public service and combat corruption. This study examined the mechanisms by which an ethical environment in public‐sector organizations is enhanced by investigating the role that employee public service motivation (PSM) as well as ethical leadership plays in the workplace. Utilizing first‐hand data collected in 2022 through a survey of public employees working at the Jordanian ministries and public sector agencies, the study showed that public employees in Jordan enjoy a high level of PSM, which was positively correlated with an ethical work environment. This relationship was, however, improved when mediated by ethical leadership, indicating the importance of ethical leadership as an organizational intervention to promote a more ethical workplace. The implications, contributions, and limitations of the study were further discussed.
Interpenetrating polymer networks of polyurethane and polytriazole: Effect of the composition and number average molecular weight of glycidyl azide polymer on the mechanical properties and morphology
Authors: Zhou Yanqiu , Zhang Qingyuan , Peng Rufang , Jin Bo
Published: May 2024

On account of some special advantages of interpenetrating polymer networks (IPNs), the preparation of IPNs with excellent properties may be a promising way to strengthen the polyurethanes (PUs) and toughen the glycidyl azide polymer (GAP) based polytriazoles (PTAs). This work provides the effect of composition and number average molecular weight (Mn) of GAP on the mechanical properties and morphology of full‐IPNs. A series of IPNs based on the crosslinked Ace‐terminated GAP (Ace‐GAP) as polytriazole phase and crosslinked hydroxy‐terminated liquid fluorinated polymer (HTLF‐1500) as polyurethane phase (namely, GAP‐HTLF‐X full‐IPNs) were successfully fabricated via in situ polymerization without any catalysts at 80°C by azide–alkynyl click chemistry and hydroxyl‐isocyanate urethane reaction. These IPNs were characterized using attenuated total reflectance/Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR/FTIR), uniaxial tensile testing, swelling measurement, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The tensile strength of GAP‐HTLF full‐IPNs gradually increased by increasing the weight ratio of Ace‐GAP, but the breaking elongation dramatically decreased compared with elongation at break of HTLF polyurethane. In addition, a small Mn of GAP is beneficial in enhancing the tensile strength, elongation at break and toughness of the IPNs. However, a small Mn of GAP corresponds to increased difficulty of preparing GAP‐HTLF full‐IPNs. GAP1k‐HTLF full‐IPN was not successfully prepared. When the Mn of GAP was 2000 g/mol, the GAP2k‐HTLF‐80 full‐IPN exhibited prominent mechanical performance with a tensile strength of 83.1 MPa, elongation at break of 28.5% and fracture energy of 99.1 kJ/m3. Swelling measurement showed that when the weight ratio of GAP with larger Mn (5, 3, and 2 k) increased to more than 70%, the molecular interpenetration existed in the IPNs, demonstrating the presence of additional physical crosslinks and entanglement for full‐IPNs. SEM studies revealed that highly formed interpenetration and few microphase separations can be observed on the fracture surface of the IPNs with optimal mechanical properties. Combined with the results of mechanical properties, swelling measurement, and SEM studies, the degree of molecular interpenetration and microphase separation were beneficial to improve the mechanical properties of elastomers. This work can provide a certain guiding significance for the preparation of IPN with excellent properties.
Development of PVA/sodium alginate incorporated with histidine capped silver nanoparticles for food packaging application
Authors: Suganthi Sanjeevamuthu , Vignesh Shanmugam , Al‐Ansari Mysoon M. , Al‐Humaid Latifah A. , Oh Tae Hwan , Raj Vairamuthu
Published: May 2024

Packaging is a growing field of interest, and the use of nanotechnology is accelerating its expansion. The study reports the fabrication of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) blended sodium alginate (SA) and incorporated with different ratios of histidine‐capped silver (H‐AgNPs) nanoparticle films. Fabrication of PVA/SA/H‐AgNPs films was confirmed with the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) band denoted AgNPs presence between 400 and 420 nm measured by UV–Vis absorption spectroscopy. The characteristics of the polymeric biocomposite films were significantly altered by different ratios of AgNPs. The interaction of PVA/SA and PVA/SA with AgNPs was analyzed by using FT‐IR analysis. The degree of crystallinity was increased upon increasing the concentration of H‐AgNPs as confirmed by XRD measurements. The homogeneity of dispersion and surface morphology of samples were studied by FESEM. The addition of H‐AgNPs in the polymeric film increased the surface roughness of the polymeric film confirmed by AFM analysis. The contact angle of the PVA/SA blend matrix was observed to be 46.97°, and with the incorporation of AgNPs ranging from 3%, 5%, and 7% to the blend matrix, the contact angle of the nanocomposite films in increasing hydrophobic order was 60.53°, 83.57°, and 96.20°, respectively. The incorporation of AgNPs also demonstrates that the PVA/SA blend matrix has desirable thermal stability. The improved qualities were due to H bonding between PVA, SA, and H‐AgNPs, in which molecules contact strongly with one another. Furthermore, the PVA/SA/H‐AgNPs showed significant antibacterial activity against both Gram‐positive (G+) strains (Staphylococcus aureus) and Gram‐negative (G−) strains (Escherichia coli) bacterial infections. The findings of this research indicate that the PVA/SA/H‐AgNPs fabricated composite films considerable for applications in food packaging.
Experimental investigation of PCL‐based composite material fabricated using solvent‐cast 3D printing process
Authors: Gogoi Debashish , Kongnyui Tanyu Donarld , Kumar Manjesh , Singh Jasvinder
Published: May 2024

Bone tissue engineering relies on scaffolds with enhanced mechanical properties, achievable through 3D printing techniques. Our study focuses on enhancing mechanical properties using a solvent‐cast 3D printing method. For this, poly‐ε‐caprolactone (PCL) reinforced with polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB), and synthetic fluorapatite (FHAp) nanopowders were utilized, immersed in a solution of dichloromethane (DCM) and dimethylformamide (DMF). Sol–gel method was used to synthesized FHAp, and the XRD pattern confirmed crystalline FHAp presence, with notable peaks at 2θ values of 31.937°, 33.128°, 32.268°, and 25.864°. Moreover, composites exhibited nonchemical PCL‐PHB/FHAp interactions, with PHB and FHAp crystallographic planes evident. Surface roughness, assessed via RMS values, showed progressive increases with higher PHB and FHAp content. Tensile strength peaked at 19% wt/v of PHB, with varied effects of FHAp. Compressive strength reached its apex at 30% wt/v of FHAp, with higher PHB content consistently enhancing strength. Flexural strength notably increased with PHB, peaking at 19% wt/v, and further with FHAp. Young's modulus rose with both PHB and FHAp content. Hardness increased with PHB and FHAp, notably peaking at 30% wt/v of FHAp. Cell viability improved with PHB, showing varied responses to FHAp. Hemocompatibility evaluations indicated low hemolysis percentages, especially in balanced PHB/FHAp compositions. These findings highlight the crucial role of composite compositions in tailoring mechanical and biological properties for optimal bone scaffold design, promising advancements in tissue regeneration technologies.
Fabrication of poly(xylitol‐citrate‐sebacate) and strontium‐doped mesoporous bioactive glass scaffold for tissue engineering application
Authors: Deepa K. , Shalini A. , Jaisankar V. , Dixit Saurav , Devanesan Sandhanasamy , Selvankumar T. , Song Kwang Soup , Lo Huang‐Mu
Published: May 2024

In this study, strontium‐doped mesoporous bioactive glass nanoparticles (Sr‐MBGNs) were incorporated into a poly(xylitol‐citrate‐sebacate) (PXCS) matrix using solution mixing techniques. The resulting composites, including PXCS, PXCS/1.5% Sr‐MBGNs, PXCS/3% Sr‐MBGNs, and PXCS/5% Sr‐MBGNs, were characterized for biomedical applications using FTIR, DSC, and x‐ray diffraction analyses. High‐resolution scanning electron microscopy (HRSEM) and a universal testing machine were employed to investigate the structure, morphology, and mechanical properties of the polymer and its nanocomposites. Our findings indicate that the introduction of polymer and its nanocomposites minimally affects the glass transition and crystallinity. The observed decrease in glass transition temperature with increasing Sr‐MBGNs content suggests a plasticizing effect. These results are consistent with previous studies. Additionally, in vitro studies were conducted to evaluate antibacterial properties, VERO cell line proliferation, degradation, and swelling percentage of the scaffolds. Metal ions release behavior was assessed using inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (ICP‐AES) Furthermore, the drug loading and release of curcumin from PXCS/5% Sr‐MBGNs and PXCS/Sr‐MBGNs nanocomposite scaffolds were investigated at varying pH levels (pH: 5.5, 6.8, and 7.4). Both PXCS/5% Sr‐MBGNs and PXCS/5% Sr‐MBGNs scaffolds demonstrated enhanced biological properties, highlighting their potential for use in bone regeneration approaches.
NRASQ61R mutation drives elevated angiopoietin‐2 expression in human endothelial cells and a genetic mouse model
Authors: Pastura Patricia , McDaniel C. Griffin , Alharbi Sara , Fox Dermot , Coleman Bethany , Malik Punam , Adams Denise M. , Le Cras Timothy D.
Published: May 2024

Background

Angiopoietin‐2 (Ang‐2) is increased in the blood of patients with kaposiform lymphangiomatosis (KLA) and kaposiform hemangioendothelioma (KHE). While the genetic causes of KHE are not clear, a somatic activating NRASQ61R mutation has been found in the lesions of KLA patients.

Procedure

Our study tested the hypothesis that the NRASQ61R mutation drives elevated Ang‐2 expression in endothelial cells. Ang‐2 was measured in human endothelial progenitor cells (EPC) expressing NRASQ61R and a genetic mouse model with endothelial targeted NRASQ61R. To determine the signaling pathways driving Ang‐2, NRASQ61R EPC were treated with signaling pathway inhibitors.

Results

Ang‐2 levels were increased in EPC expressing NRASQ61R compared to NRASWT by Western blot analysis of cell lysates and ELISA of the cell culture media. Ang‐2 levels were elevated in the blood of NRASQ61R mutant mice. NRASQ61R mutant mice also had reduced platelet counts and splenomegaly with hypervascular lesions, like some KLA patients. mTOR inhibitor rapamycin attenuated Ang‐2 expression by NRASQ61R EPC. However, MEK1/2 inhibitor trametinib was more effective blocking increases in Ang‐2.

Conclusions

Our studies show that the NRASQ61R mutation in endothelial cells induces Ang‐2 expression in vitro and in vivo. In cultured human endothelial cells, NRASQ61R drives elevated Ang‐2 through MAP kinase and mTOR‐dependent signaling pathways.
Improving the fracture toughness, electrical conductivity and electro‐thermal performance of hybrid glass/carbon fiber reinforced epoxy composites with surface‐sulfonated polypropylene fabrics
Authors: Chen Xueshang , Chen Ting , Huang Meiting , Du Xusheng
Published: May 2024

Hybrid glass/carbon fiber (GCF) reinforced polymer composites are one of advanced composites with reduced cost, desired mechanical properties and special electrification performance. In the work, surface‐modified polypropylene (PP) non‐woven fabric was used as the interleaf for toughening these composites. The effects of the surface‐sulfonated PP fabric (PP/S) interleaves on various mechanical properties of the GCF reinforced epoxy (GCF/EP) composites were investigated firstly, including the mode II interlaminar fracture toughness and flexural strength. Comparing to the blank control sample, the GIIC of the hybrid composites interleaved with the sulfonated PP fabric was increased evidently, as well as its flexural strength. These demonstrate the great interleaving effect of PP/S fabric on the GCF/EP laminated composites. Moreover, the heterogeneous electrically conductive behavior and electro‐thermal effect of GCF/EP interleaved with and without PP/S were studied. Interestingly, comparing to the control sample, the conductivity of the interleaved GCF/EP composites increased in both two in‐plane direction. Due to the hybrid character of the plain woven GCF fabric, both the temperature increase rate and the equilibrium temperature of the GCF/EP composites were much larger than that of pure carbon fabric reinforced composites under the same electrification condition.

Highlights

Polypropylene fabric grafted with sulfonate group (PP/S) was fabricated.

The tensile property of fabric almost unchanged after the sulfonation reaction.

PP/S was more effective in toughening glass/carbon fiber/epoxy composite (GCF).

PP/S increased the conductivity in in‐plane directions of the hybrid composites.

GCF/EP displayed superior electro heating effect to CF/EP.
Improved interfacial adhesion of carbon fiber‐reinforced polydicyclopentadiene layered composite material by modification of norbornene derivatives
Authors: Wang Xian , Zhang Zehan , Gao Feng , He Xuelian
Published: May 2024

Surface chemical grafting modifications of carbon fibers (CFs) using 5‐(triethoxysilyl)norbornene (TOS), norbornene carboxylic acid tert‐butyl ester (NB‐TBE), and 5‐norbornene‐2,3‐dicarboxylic anhydride (NA) improved interfacial interactions between CFs and poly(dicyclopentadiene) (PDCPD) resin. The ring‐opening metathesis polymerization (ROMP) of DCPD, catalyzed by Grubbs catalyst II, enabled the fabrication of PDCPD/CF layered composite materials with resin and fibers tightly adhered. The optimal composite exhibited remarkable mechanical properties, with a tensile strength of 654.6 MPa and flexural strength of 510.7 MPa. Excellent thermal stability with a maximum weight loss rate in temperatures above 450°C and good chemical resistance with a weight change of about 1% in both acidic and alkaline media highlight the promising potential of these materials for use in harsh environments. The simple yet efficient approach of TOS, NB‐TBE, and NA‐enhanced layered CF shows great promise as advanced composite materials for industrial applications.

Highlights

Norbornene derivatives such as TOS, NB‐TBE, and NA are suitable modifiers for CF.

ROMP of DCPD and norbornene group onto CFs, fabrication of PDCPD/CF composite materials.

The composite exhibited remarkable interfacial adhesion and mechanical properties.
Clinical and anthropometric evolution of individuals with cystic fibrosis during COVID‐19 pandemic: A 24‐month cohort study
Authors: de Oliveira Taynara Júlia , Altoé Izabela Dondoni , Arpini Luana da Silva Baptista , Liberato Fernanda Mayrink Gonçalves , Melotti Roberta de Cássia Nunes Cruz , Wittmer Veronica Lourenço , Duarte Halina , Barbalho‐Moulim Marcela Cangussu , Paro Flavia Marini
Published: May 2024

Objectives

To analyze the evolution of clinical and anthropometric characteristics of children and adolescents with cystic fibrosis (CF) over 24 months, including the period of the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Methods

A longitudinal study with data collection from May 2018 to November 2020 in physical and electronic records from a pediatric reference center, including individuals with CF aged up to 18 years.

Results

The sample encompassed 72 individuals. Weight (p < 0.01), height (p < 0.01), and body mass index (BMI) (p = 0.043) were higher in 2020 than in 2018. There were no significant changes in BMI‐Z (p = 0.977) and in percentiles of weight (p = 0.540), height (p = 0.458), and BMI percentile (p = 0.454) between both periods. Pancreatic insufficiency was observed in 91.7% of patients in 2020, and there were twice as many confirmed cases of diabetes compared to 2018. There was a 9.7% increase in individuals colonized by the oxacillin‐sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (OSSA) (p = 0.039) and an 11.1% reduction in non‐colonized individuals (p = 0.008).

Conclusion

Although there was an increase in weight, height, and BMI from 2018 to 2020, there were no significant changes in BMI‐Z and in percentiles of weight, height, and BMI percentile, suggesting that the anthropometric aspects of nutritional status did not change in this period of 2 years. Moreover, there was an increase in the prevalence of individuals colonized by OSSA and a reduction in the prevalence of individuals non‐colonized with any bacteria.
Personalized lung care: Bronchopulmonary dysplasia risk prediction tool tailored for neonates born in resource‐limited settings
Authors: de Medeiros Cavalcante Meneghetti Flávia Maria , Aragon Davi Casale , Calixto Cristina , Ferreira Cristina Helena Faleiros , Vieira Elaine Fukumoto , Gonçalves‐Ferri Walusa Assad
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Predicting bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) to assess the risk‐benefit of therapy is necessary considering the side effects of medications. We developed and validated an instrument for predicting BPD and compared it with an instrument currently used for neonates born in a Brazilian hospital.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study of patients born between 2016 and 2020 with a gestational age (GA) between 23 and 30 weeks. Predictive equations were elaborated using methods of component variable selection collected on the 14th day of life; 70% of the sample was randomly selected for the construction of risk prediction equations and the remaining 30% for their validation, application, and comparison with the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) instrument. The sensitivity, specificity, and predictive values of the equations were calculated.

Results

The equation that used variables with p < 5% in Fisher's exact test presented the best results: specificity of 98% and positive predictive value of 93% and could be used for BPD prediction of all small‐for‐gestational‐age (SGA) infants. The NICHD calculator applied to our population had a specificity of 93% and a positive predictive value of 75% and could not be applied to extremely SGA infants.

Conclusion

Our tool can predict the risk of BPD on the 14th day of life, has higher specificity and positive predictive value to our population than the NICHD instrument, and can be suitable for SGA infants. The results must be confirmed by applying it to other populations to validate our tool.
Population pharmacokinetics of adebrelimab – Support of alternative flat dose regimen in extensive‐stage small‐cell lung cancer
Authors: Chen Peng , Zhang Yanyan , Wang Yike , Ma Ke , Shi Wei , Djebli Nassim , Shen Kai
Published: May 2024

Adebrelimab, a novel anti‐PD‐L1 antibody, has been approved by the National Medical Products Administration of China as an intravenous infusion for use in combination with carboplatin and etoposide as first‐line treatment for extensive‐stage small‐cell lung cancer in 2023. A two‐compartment model with empirical time‐varying CL for adebrelimab was established based on data from 263 patients receiving body weight‐based doses from two clinical studies. Significant covariate effects of baseline body weight, albumin levels, tumor size, neutrophil counts, and presence of anti‐drug antibodies were identified on CL of debrelimab, none of which were clinically significant or warranted dose adjustment. The degree of decrease in CL was higher in patients who responded to treatment with adebrelimab than in non‐responders. Adebrelimab exposures (AUC, Ctrough, or Cmax) were not identified as a statistically significant factor related to efficacy or safety endpoint in the exposure–response analysis. Distribution of simulated exposure metrics from the flat dose regimen (1200 mg q3w) was similar to the marketed weight‐based dosing regimen (20 mg/kg q3w), supporting the alternative flat dose regimen in the clinic.
Sequential Markov chain Monte Carlo for Lagrangian data assimilation with applications to unknown data locations
Authors: Ruzayqat Hamza , Beskos Alexandros , Crisan Dan , Jasra Ajay , Kantas Nikolas
Published: May 2024

We consider a class of high‐dimensional spatial filtering problems, where the spatial locations of observations are unknown and driven by the partially observed hidden signal. This problem is exceptionally challenging, as not only is it high‐dimensional, but the model for the signal yields longer‐range time dependences through the observation locations. Motivated by this model, we revisit a lesser‐known and provably convergent computational methodology from Berzuini et al. (1997, Journal of the American Statistical Association, 92, 1403–1412); Centanniand Minozzo (2006, Journal of the American Statistical Association, 101, 1582–1597); Martin et al. (2013, Annals of the Institute of Statistical Mathematics, 65, 413–437) that uses sequential Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) chains. We extend this methodology for data filtering problems with unknown observation locations. We benchmark our algorithms on linear Gaussian state‐space models against competing ensemble methods and demonstrate a significant improvement in both execution speed and accuracy. Finally, we implement a realistic case study on a high‐dimensional rotating shallow‐water model (of about – dimensions) with real and synthetic data. The data are provided by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and contain observations from ocean drifters in a domain of the Atlantic Ocean restricted to the longitude and latitude intervals , , respectively.