bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of SARS‐CoV‐2 on multiple gestation pregnancy
Authors: Mahajan Niraj N. , Ansari Munira , Gaikwad Chaitanya , Jadhav Priyanka , Tirkey Deepika , Pophalkar Madhura P. , Bhurke Aishwarya V. , Modi Deepak N. , Mahale Smita D. , Gajbhiye Rahul K.
Published: December 2020

Objective

To assess clinical presentations, pregnancy complications, and maternal and neonatal outcomes among women with multiple gestation pregnancy (MGP) and confirmed SARS‐CoV‐2 (COVID‐19) infection and to compare the data with a pre‐pandemic period.

Methods

A retrospective study at a dedicated COVID‐19 Hospital in Mumbai, India. Data were obtained from the PregCovid Registry of pregnant and postpartum women with PCR‐confirmed SARS‐CoV‐2 infection from April to September, 2020. Data were also compared with a cohort of women with MGP attending the hospital pre‐pandemic (n = 63).

Results

Data from 879 women (singleton pregnancy, n = 859; MGP, n = 20) with COVID‐19 were assessed. The twinning rate was 34.2 per 1000 births. As compared with singleton pregnancies, a higher proportion of women with MGP and Covid‐19 delivered preterm (P = 0.001). Spontaneous abortions were also higher in the MGP group than in the singleton group (P = 0.055). The incidence of pre‐eclampsia/eclampsia was higher in the COVID‐19 MGP group than in both the COVID‐19 singleton (41.6% vs. 7.9%) and pre‐pandemic MGP (50.0% vs. 12.7%) groups.

Conclusion

There was a higher risk of pre‐eclampsia among women with MGP and COVID‐19. Women with MGP and COVID‐19 infection should receive special attention with a multidisciplinary approach to both maternal and neonatal care during the pandemic.
Biocompatibility and biodegradability evaluation of magnesium‐based intramedullary bone implants in avian model
Authors: M. S. Abhishek , Jaiswal Satish , Dubey Anshu , Lahiri Debrupa , Das Arup Kumar
Published: December 2020

At present days osteosynthesis modalities for avian fracture management are inadequate. External coaptation is the most practiced method however, specialized clinics have started introducing intramedullary pinning, external skeletal fixation with tie‐in‐fixation for fracture immobilization. Magnesium (Mg) based biomaterials are trustable developments in the field of orthopedics compared to their permanent stainless steel counterparts concerning long term adverse reaction. Mg implants are becoming promising for their use as intramedullary accessories because they are bioresorbable with high strength‐weight ratio and the similarities in density and elastic modulus to the natural bones. However, their severe biodegradation trait restricts frequent use as load‐bearing orthopedic implants. In this study, the biocompatibility and biodegradability of Mg based intramedullary cylindrical spacers (2.4 mm diameter × 8 mm height) reinforced with 0, 5, 15 wt% of hydroxyapatite (HA, Ca10(PO4)6(OH)2) were evaluated in 18 Uttara‐fowl birds. Clinical, radiological (from immediate postoperative days till 24th week), biochemical (first three postoperative weeks) and histopathological study of test bone were carried out to evaluate implant degradation and osteocompatibility. Biodegradation of Mg‐3Zn/0HA and Mg‐3Zn/15HA initiated a bit earlier at second week of implantation, while that of Mg‐3Zn/5HA at 3‐fourth week, and found biocompatible and biodegradable with no observable clinical and histopathological changes.
Electrochemical synthesis of three‐dimensional flower‐like Ni/Co–BTC bimetallic organic framework as heterogeneous catalyst for solvent‐free and green synthesis of substituted chromeno[4,3–b]quinolones
Authors: Sayahi Mohammad Hosein , Ghomi Matineh , Hamad Samir M. , Ganjali Mohammad Reza , Aghazadeh Mustafa , Mahdavi Mohammad , Bahadorikhalili Saeed
Published: December 2020

In this research, a new flower‐like Ni0.77/Co0.23– benzene–1,3,5–tricarboxylate (BTC) bimetallic organic framework (Ni/Co–BTC BMOF) is synthesized via the cathodic electrosynthesis (CE) method, based on nickel and cobalt metals and BTC linker. The synthesized BMOF is characterized by several methods, including Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), powder X‐ray diffraction (PXRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE‐SEM), and energy dispersive X‐ray analysis (EDX). The catalytic activity of the resulting Ni/Co is evaluated in a one‐pot four‐component reaction of dimedone, aromatic aldehyde, 4–hydroxycoumarin, and ammonium acetate for the synthesis of chromeno[4,3–b]quinolone derivatives under solvent‐free condition. The Ni/Co–BTC BMOF catalyst showed very good activity in the tested reaction, and a wide scope of starting materials gave the desired products in high isolated yields in the presence of the Ni/Co–BTC BMOF catalyst. The recovery of Ni/Co BMOF was achieved by a centrifuge, and it was reused at least six times without any significant decrease in catalytic activity.
Interpretation of the HLA epitopes—Continuous dilution method for detection of high‐titer IgG HLA antibody
Authors: Xiao Yanli , Liu Wei , Kang Zhongyu , Li Daihong
Published: December 2020

Background

The presence or absence of human leukocyte antigen (HLA) antibodies, especially the strength of donor‐specific HLA antibodies (DSAs), has important roles in clinical evaluation and diagnostic decision‐making for solid‐organ transplantation. Dilution patterns help to give a new sight of HLA epitopes. “Epitope matching” is likely to lower the risk of developing DSA and increase the likelihood of matching a compatible donor.

Methods

We collected data evaluating HLA antibodies with a titration study using mean fluorescence intensity.

Results

Diluting the serum of recipients can reduce potential inhibitory effects, accurately evaluate the intensity of donor‐specific HLA antibodies, and guide surgeons to take or not take intervention measures. Dilution patterns also help to give a new sight of HLA epitopes.

Conclusion

We believe that from the viewpoint of HLA antibodies, the dilution model can provide new tools and insights for the study of HLA epitopes.
Validation of Vancomycin Dosing Guidance During Transition of Care
Authors: Ng Tat Ming , Heng Shi Thong , Oon Jolene , Chan Monica , Tam Vincent H.
Published: December 2020

Vancomycin is an antibiotic commonly used to treat serious gram‐positive infections. Patients requiring prolonged therapy in Singapore routinely receive intermittent vancomycin infusion in the hospital and are switched to continuous infusion for outpatient parenteral antibiotic therapy. During this transition of care, there may be a risk of not achieving therapeutic targets. We evaluated the performance of a model‐based dosing algorithm in achieving a therapeutic target within 7 days of care transition. A published population pharmacokinetic model was used as the foundation to guide vancomycin dosing when discharging inpatients on intermittent infusion to outpatient care on continuous infusion. Selected demographic variables (age, weight, and creatinine clearance) were used to devise initial dosing. Patients with guided dosing were compared with historic controls (dosing by clinicians alone). The primary outcome of the study was to achieve vancomycin steady‐state concentration of 20‐25 mg/L. Compared with historic controls, the proportion of patients attaining a therapeutic target by day 7 was significantly improved (6 of 19 [31.6%] vs 12 of 17 [70.6%], P = .04). Our model‐based approach could guide customized dosing to facilitate switching patients from intermittent to continuous infusion during transition of care. Further validation in a larger patient cohort is warranted.
Clinical characteristics and management of acute cholecystitis after cardiovascular surgery
Authors: Yasukawa Koya , Shimizu Akira , Kubota Koji , Notake Tsuyoshi , Sugenoya Shinsuke , Hosoda Kiyotaka , Hayashi Hikaru , Kobayashi Ryoichiro , Soejima Yuji
Published: December 2020

Background

Acute cholecystitis (AC) is a severe complication after cardiovascular surgery (CS). The purpose of this study was to delineate the clinical picture of AC after CS to propose an optimal treatment strategy.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the records of 88 patients who underwent cholecystectomy for grade II or III AC between 2008 and 2019 (AC after CS: Group CS, n = 37; AC without CS: Group non‐CS, n = 51).

Results

The proportion of grade III AC in Group CS was significantly higher than that in Group non‐CS (73% vs 41%, P = .005). Furthermore, the incidences of acalculous (81% vs 39%) and gangrenous (86% vs 59%) AC were significantly higher in Group CS (P < .05 for both). In Group CS, 11 patients had had percutaneous drainage preceding surgery, for whom cholecystectomy within 3 days was eventually necessary because their general condition was exacerbated. The incidence of a positive culture from the gallbladder bile and blood samples of Group CS were significantly higher (P < .05 for both); multidrug‐resistant bacteria were detected at an especially high rate. However, the morbidity rate was comparable, and zero mortality was achieved in both groups.

Conclusions

Timely surgical intervention without hesitation is recommended for AC after CS.
Molecular and immunological paradigms of hepatocellular carcinoma: Special reference to therapeutic approaches
Authors: Kabashima Ayano , Shimada Shu , Shimokawa Masahiro , Akiyama Yoshimitsu , Tanabe Minoru , Tanaka Shinji
Published: December 2020

The development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a multistep process with a complex interaction of various genetic backgrounds and the tumor microenvironment. In addition to the development of rational approaches to epidemiologic research, early detection, and diagnosis, considerable progress has been made in systemic treatment with molecular‐targeted agents for patients with advanced HCC. Moreover, encouraging reports of recent clinical trials of combination therapy with immune‐checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has raised high hopes. Each HCC is the result of a unique combination of somatic alterations, including genetic, epigenetic, transcriptomic, and metabolic events, leading to conclusive tumoral heterogeneity. Recent advances in comprehensive genetic analysis have accelerated molecular classification and defined subtypes with specific characteristics, including immune‐associated molecular profiles reflecting the immune reactivity in the tumor. In considering the development of therapeutic strategies in combination with immunotherapy, proper interpretation of molecular pathological characterization could lead to effective therapeutic deployment and enable individualization of the management of HCC. Here, we review distinctive molecular alterations in the subtype classification of HCC, current therapies, and representative clinical trials with alternative immune‐combination approaches from a molecular pathological point.
Application of chemometric methods for the determination of fading and age determination of blue ballpoint inks
Authors: Łydżba‐Kopczyńska Barbara , Czaja Tomasz , Cieśla Rafał , Rusek Grzegorz
Published: December 2020

This study presents preliminary results for applicability of micro‐Raman and VIS–NIR reflectance spectroscopy in age determination of blue ballpoints inks containing phthalocyanine and crystal violet. Based on chemometric methods, 74 different random blue pens were classified to various types of inks. Then handwritten samples stored in different light conditions were subjected to the analysis. The first set of samples was stored for 7 years at room temperature in an envelope without direct exposure to the light, whereas the second set of samples was aged by exposing them to natural light cycle for 85 days. The L, a, b values were determined on the basis of recorded Raman and VIS–NIR spectra and then used for chemometric calculation. Based on those values, partial least squares models were built, allowing to obtain correlations between ∆E and Raman and reflectance spectra. Relative standard errors of prediction RSEP(%) for obtained models were calculated in the range 1.97–5.13 and 1.20–2.27 for Raman and VIS–NIR spectra, respectively. The proposed nondestructive method allows to estimate the age of daylight exposed samples.
Determination of Optimal Separation Times for Dual‐Pulse SWEEPS Laser‐Assisted Irrigation in Different Endodontic Access Cavities
Authors: Lukač Matjaž , Olivi Giovanni , Constantin Mihnea , Lukač Nejc , Jezeršek Matija
Published: December 2020

Background and Objectives

The purpose of this ex vivo study is to investigate whether it is possible to pre‐determine and set the optimal separation times for the SWEEPS Er:YAG laser pulses pair during laser‐assisted irrigation of endodontic root canals based on known lateral dimensions of the endodontic access cavities of different types of teeth.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

As the optimal SWEEPS laser pulse pair separation for enhanced shockwave generation depends on the life‐cycle of a single‐pulse bubble, measurements of the oscillation time T
B of the Er:YAG laser‐generated bubble were made in 23 different endodontic access cavities of different types of teeth progressively widened in three different steps, into larger cavities, for a total of 69 cavities of different shapes and sizes. Different fiber‐tip geometries (flat and radial), laser pulse energies (10 mJ and 20 mJ) and depth of fiber‐tip insertion (2 mm and 4 mm) were also investigated. The obtained data were then analyzed using the reported relationship between the bubble oscillation time and the diameter of a cylindrically shaped cavity.

Results

A good fit to the relation analogue for ideal cylindrical cavities was found by taking the characteristic diameter of the access cavity to be represented by the cavity diameter either in the mesiodistal (D
min) or buccolingual (D
max) direction, or alternatively by the average of the two diameters (D
ave). The best fit was obtained for D
min (R
2 = 0.73) followed in order by D
ave (R
2 = 0.71) and D
max (R
2 = 0.63).

Conclusion

In spite of the endodontic cavities being non‐cylindrical and of varied shape and size, the bubble oscillation time T
B and the corresponding optimal SWEEPS separation time can be well predicted using a single characteristic dimension of the access cavity. This finding enables a simple and practical method for determining optimal conditions for shock wave generation and enhanced photodynamic streaming in differently shaped and sized root canals, leading to improved treatment efficacy and safety of root canal irrigation. Lasers Surg. Med. 2020. © 2020 The Authors. Lasers in Surgery and Medicine published by Wiley Periodicals LLC
Vascularity and Thickness Changes in Immature Hypertrophic Scars Treated With a Pulsed Dye Laser
Authors: Deng Huan , Tan Teresa , Luo Gaoxing , Tan Jianglin , Li‐Tsang Cecilia W.P.
Published: December 2020

Background and Objectives

Growth of capillaries is an essential process after a dermal injury. An immature scar with robust growth of capillaries tends to be hypertrophic. Pulsed dye laser (PDL) causes damage to microvascular structures and is increasingly used for early erythematous scars to limit scar growth. To have a better understanding of the impact of PDL on scar vascularity and to optimize the clinical use of PDL for managing hypertrophic scars, this study aimed to explore changes in scar erythema, blood perfusion, and thickness of immature hypertrophic scars in Asian patients who received PDL treatments at an early stage.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

This was a 3‐month, assessor‐blinded, clinical study. There were two groups of patients, the PDL group and the control group, who had hypertrophic scars less than 1‐year post‐injury. Patients in the PDL group received three PDL sessions at 4‐week intervals. A total of three assessments were performed, at baseline, 1 and 3 months, consisting of the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale (POSAS) and objective measurements of scar erythema, blood perfusion, and scar thickness.

Results

A total of 45 patients were enrolled, 22 in the PDL group and 23 in the control group. After the 3‐month treatment, parameters of scar vascularity (P = 0.003), pigmentation (P = 0.026), color (P < 0.001), thickness (P < 0.05), and overall scores (P < 0.01) on the POSAS significantly decreased in the PDL group. Moreover, objective measurements of scar erythema and blood perfusion showed significant improvements in the PDL group (P = 0.009 and P = 0.022, respectively) but not in the control group (P = 0.296 and P = 0.115, respectively). A stable scar thickness was maintained in the PDL group from baseline to 3 months (0.21 cm vs. 0.22 cm, P > 0.05), whereas scar thickness significantly increased in the control group (0.22 cm vs. 0.32 cm, P < 0.01).

Conclusion

Use of PDL at an early stage controls vascularity of immature hypertrophic scar by improving its poor blood perfusion that further limits scar thickness growth and promotes scar maturation. Lasers Surg. Med. 00:00–00, 2020. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC
The corrosion of mild and stainless steel in alkaline anaerobic conditions representing the Belgian “supercontainer” concept and the Swiss L/ILW repository
Authors: Senior Nicholas A. , Martino Taylor , Gaggiano Roberto , Diomidis Nikitas
Published: December 2020

Deep geological repositories for radioactive waste contain metallic materials, either used to construct disposal canisters or as low‐/intermediate‐level waste (L/ILW). The safety relevance of corrosion is linked to canister lifetime in the former case and gas generation in the latter. More specifically, the Belgian “supercontainer” concept envisages mild steel for the used fuel disposal canister, and in the case of the Swiss L/ILW repository, mild steels are the largest metallic waste component due to the decommissioning of civilian power‐generating facilities. For these circumstances, the corrosion environment is dominated by the chemistry of cement, which is used as buffer or backfill material. The corrosion behaviour of mild steel in anoxic environments was studied through the analysis of the hydrogen end‐product. Hydrogen analysis was conducted by periodically purging the cell head‐space and analysing the gas using a solid‐state hydrogen sensor. While this method is limited to providing only uniform corrosion rates averaged over periods of time, ranging from weeks to months, it provides excellent resolution and sensitivity. The test cell environments were matched against the anticipated Belgian high‐level waste and Swiss L/ILW repository environments, and also against experiments that have been conducted by other researchers for comparative purposes. Samples were exposed to synthetic cement pore waters, representing fresh and degraded cement. In young cement waters, the formation of initial corrosion products resulted in steel wire corrosion rates of the order of µm/year, which, at 80°C rapidly declined to ∼10 nm/year. In contrast, SA516 grade 70 steel plate corroded much more slowly under similar conditions. In aged cement waters, initial corrosion rates were higher but declined faster towards a longer‐term rate of ∼10 nm/year. 316L stainless steel, embedded in cementitious material, corroded at a rate of <1 nm/year at 50°C.
CHEMICAL REACTION MONITORING BY AMBIENT MASS SPECTROMETRY
Authors: Sun Jianghui , Yin Yiyan , Li Weixiang , Jin Ouyang , Na Na
Published: December 2020

Chemical reactions conducted in different media (liquid phase, gas phase, or surface) drive developments of versatile techniques for the detection of intermediates and prediction of reasonable reaction pathways. Without sample pretreatment, ambient mass spectrometry (AMS) has been applied to obtain structural information of reactive molecules that differ in polarity and molecular weight. Commercial ion sources (e.g., electrospray ionization, atmospheric pressure chemical ionization, and direct analysis in real‐time) have been reported to monitor substrates and products by offline reaction examination. While the interception or characterization of reactive intermediates with short lifetime are still limited by the offline modes. Notably, online ionization technologies, with high tolerance to salt, buffer, and pH, can achieve direct sampling and ionization of on‐going reactions conducted in different media (e.g., liquid phase, gas phase, or surface). Therefore, short‐lived intermediates could be captured at unprecedented timescales, and the reaction dynamics could be studied for mechanism examinations without sample pretreatments. In this review, via various AMS methods, chemical reaction monitoring and mechanism elucidation for different classifications of reactions have been reviewed. The developments and advances of common ionization methods for offline reaction monitoring will also be highlighted.
WR‐1.5 (500–750 GHz) waveguide bandpass filter fabricated using high precision computer numerically controlled machining
Authors: Wang Daxin , Lancaster Michael J. , Wang Yi , Shum Keeson M. , Zhang Qingfeng
Published: December 2020

In this paper, a WR‐1.5 band (500–750 GHz) 3rd order waveguide bandpass filter has been designed and fabricated using high precision computer numerically controlled metal micromachining. The filter has been measured with a 7.29% (48.7 GHz) bandwidth at the center frequency of 667.5 GHz. The minimum passband insertion loss is measured to be 0.87 dB and the measured return loss is better than 10 dB across the whole passband. A yield percentage is analysed and estimated based on the fabrication tolerance.
Patente:Teilen und profitieren
Authors: Kramer Thomas , Manthey Christian , Joachim Björn
Published: December 2020

Ein Anbieter textiler Verstärkungsmaterialien und ein Reifenhersteller haben im Februar den Patentpool Cokoon gestartet. Damit haben sie einen neuen Ansatz zur Kooperation entwickelt, ohne dass es zu Konflikten mit den Schutzrechten kam. Solche Pools gab es bisher vor allem in der Informationstechnik.
Ausnahme Labor
Authors: Zbikowski Frauke
Published: December 2020

Die Hochschulen haben die Umstellung auf digitale Lehrformate in der Covid‐19‐Pandemie bewältigt, außer bei Laborpraktika.
Comparison of in vivo and in situ detection of hippocampal metabolites in mouse brain using 1H‐MRS
Authors: Hsu Chao‐Hsiung , Lin Stephen , Ho Ai‐Chen , Johnson T. Derek , Wang Paul C. , Scafidi Joseph , Tu Tsang‐Wei
Published: December 2020

The study of cerebral metabolites relies heavily on detection methods and sample preparation. Animal experiments in vivo require anesthetic agents that can alter brain metabolism, whereas ex vivo experiments demand appropriate fixation methods to preserve the tissue from rapid postmortem degradation. In this study, the metabolic profiles of mouse hippocampi using proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H‐MRS) were compared in vivo and in situ with or without focused beam microwave irradiation (FBMI) fixation. Ten major brain metabolites, including lactate (Lac), N‐acetylaspartate (NAA), total choline (tCho), myo‐inositol (mIns), glutamine (Gln), glutamate (Glu), aminobutyric acid (GABA), glutathione (GSH), total creatine (tCr) and taurine (Tau), were analyzed using LCModel. After FBMI fixation, the concentrations of Lac, tCho and mIns were comparable with those obtained in vivo under isoflurane, whereas other metabolites were significantly lower. Except for a decrease in NAA and an increase in Tau, all the other metabolites remained stable over 41 hours in FBMI‐fixed brains. Without FBMI, the concentrations of mIns (before 2 hours), tCho and GABA were close to those measured in vivo. However, higher Lac (P < .01) and lower NAA, Gln, Glu, GSH, tCr and Tau were observed (P < .01). NAA, Gln, Glu, GSH, tCr and Tau exhibited good temporal stability for at least 20 hours in the unfixed brain, whereas a linear increase of tCho, mIns and GABA was observed. Possible mechanisms of postmortem degradation are discussed. Our results indicate that a proper fixation method is required for in situ detection depending on the targeted metabolites of specific interests in the brain.
The crystallinity of poly(butylene terephthalate) in mass‐scale extrusion products as seen by differential scanning calorimetry
Authors: Danek Maciej , Lutomski Mateusz , Maniukiewicz Waldemar , Kozanecki Marcin
Published: December 2020

The crystallinity affects the most of the properties of the products made of semi‐crystalline engineering polymers, such as poly (butylene terephthalate) (PBT) optical fiber loose buffer tubes. Precise control of crystallinity of PBT can be crucial for the quality of an optical fiber cable. Proper determination of crystallinity index from differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) measurements can be challenging for PBT as various processes occur between devitrification and melting that influence the initial crystallinity. Discrepancy between industrial and laboratory conditions leads to difficulties in transfer of laboratory‐scale procedures to technological processes. In this article, simple and time effective, small‐scale laboratory procedure based on Melt Flow Indexer was proposed for the preparation of samples with varying crystallinity indices to simulate industrial products of PBT extrusion, namely loose buffer tubes for optical fibers. Moreover, the conventional “linear” DSC method of characterization of PBT crystallinity index was revised with wide‐angle X‐ray scattering as the reference. Analysis showed the complexity of the thermal processes occurring in PBT melt‐extruded samples between Tg and Tm that strongly influenced the value of crystallinity index of PBT measured by DSC. These processes were identified and new semi‐empirical method of their extraction from the thermograms was proposed. Cold melting of the crystalline phase was found to have dominant contribution in the “pre‐melting” region that is between approx. 130°C and the onset of the fundamental melting peak, with only minor interrupting low‐intensity exothermic event. The contribution of this “pre‐melting” endotherm was more significant for the samples cooled at lower rates.
A relative study of the effect of static and dynamic vulcanization upon shape memory nature of thermally actuated peroxide crosslinked polyolefinic blends
Authors: Chatterjee Tuhin , Bhattacharya Asit Baran , Pal Sanjay , Naskar Kinsuk
Published: December 2020

Thermally actuated peroxide crosslinked shape memory polyolefinic blends of EOC and EPDM has been developed. Effect of static and dynamic vulcanization process on the shape memory character has been pursued in detail. Shape memory properties study at 60°C reveals that statically vulcanized blend and dynamically vulcanized blend are superior in terms of shape fixity character and shape recovery behavior, respectively. Breakage of lower percentage of crystalline structure gives higher percentage of shape fixity for the statically vulcanized blend. In a parallel way, statically vulcanized blend shows better stress–strain properties also. On the other hand, higher degree of crosslinked network structure results higher shape recovery percentage for the dynamically vulcanized blend. Similar to shape recovery characteristics, dynamically vulcanized blend shows better thermal stability and higher percentage of gel content.
Adaptive actuator failure compensation for a class of nonlinear systems with full state constraints
Authors: Ouyang Hupo , Lin Yan
Published: December 2020

In this article, an adaptive compensation scheme is proposed for controlling a class of Brunovsky form systems with unknown parameters and possible actuator failures such that the full state constraints can be achieved. Compared with the previous research, the main advantage of the scheme is that by selecting a set of parameters related to the barrier Lyapunov functions, virtual control signals can be constrained within required boundaries. As a result, the full state constraints and tracking performance constraints can be achieved simultaneously even in the presence of actuator failures. It is shown that with this scheme, all the closed‐loop signals are bounded and the tracking error converges to a residue set that can be made arbitrarily small
A simplified approach for establishing estimable functions in fixed effectage‐period‐cohortmultiple classification models
Authors: O'Brien Robert M.
Published: December 2020

Estimable functions play an important role in learning about certain aspects of the impact of ages, periods, and cohorts in age‐period‐cohort multiple classification (APCMC) models. The advantage of these estimates is that they are unbiased estimates of, for example, the deviations of age, period, and cohort effects from their linear trends, or changes in the linear trends of cohort effects within cohorts, or the residuals of fixed effect APCMC models. If the fixed effect APCMC model contains the relevant variables (is well specified), these estimable functions are unbiased estimates of functions of the parameters that generated the dependent variable data, even though the parameters that generated that data are not identified. I provide a simplified approach to establishing which functions are estimable in fixed effect APCMC models that provides an intuitive understanding of estimable functions by showing clearly and simply why they are estimable. This approach involves the partitioning of the age, period, and cohort effects into linear components and deviations from the linear components; the use of the “line of solutions”; and of the “extended null vector.”
Performance of Copper‐Graphite‐Polytetrafluoroethylene Composites Fabricated by Spark Plasma Sintering and Hydrothermal Impregnation
Authors: Jiang Dafa , Jiang Zhongcheng , Zhang Jun , Lin Ping , Peng Baolin , Zhang Haifeng , Liao Jiapeng , Li Wang , Zou Jianpeng
Published: December 2020

Copper‐graphite composites prepared by spark plasma sintering (SPS) were used as raw material to synthesize copper‐graphite‐polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) composites via the hydrothermal impregnation of a PTFE emulsion. The microstructure, hydrophobic performance, friction property and interface behavior were systematically studied using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), a surface science comprehensive tester and a friction tester combined with various characterization methods, such as X‐ray diffraction (XRD), a laser particle size analyzer and metallographic microscopy. The results revealed that the copper‐coated graphite was consistent with the diffraction patterns of copper and graphite, and the coated‐copper had uniformly covered the graphite surface with good interface combination. The interface combination worsened with a decrease of the mass fraction of copper in the composites. Moreover, the water contact angle of the copper‐graphite‐PTFE composite of 50 wt. % Cu after PTFE impregnation reached 160°, and was hence superhydrophobic, while the copper‐graphite‐PTFE composite of 45 wt. % Cu exhibited the optimal performance with a friction coefficient, wear rate and resistivity of 0.112, 3.25×10−3 mm3/(N m), and 12×10−7 Ω m, respectively. PTFE impregnation improved the hydrophobicity and friction‐and‐wear properties of the copper‐graphite composites, and the resulting conductivity could meet the requirements of practical applications. Our results indicated that the content of copper played a crucial part in determining the comprehensive property of copper‐graphite‐PTFE composites.
Nitric‐Acid‐Catalyzed Aerobic Conversion of Benzyl Ethers to Benzaldehydes at Room Temperature
Authors: Shen Zhenpeng , Zhao Zhe , Ren Yun‐Lai , Liu Wenbo , Tian Xinzhe , Zheng Xin , Zhao Bo
Published: December 2020

A practical and mild method was developed for aerobic conversion of benzyl ethers to benzaldehydes with inexpensive HNO3 as the catalyst at room temperature. Various benzyl ethers were transformed to the desired products in low to high yields, and the overoxidation to benzoic acids hardly ever occurred.
Plasmonic Assemblies for Real‐Time Single‐Molecule Biosensing
Authors: Armstrong Rachel E. , Horáček Matěj , Zijlstra Peter
Published: December 2020

Their tunable optical properties and versatile surface functionalization have sparked applications of plasmonic assemblies in the fields of biosensing, nonlinear optics, and photonics. Particularly, in the field of biosensing, rapid advances have occurred in the use of plasmonic assemblies for real‐time single‐molecule sensing. Compared to individual particles, the use of assemblies as sensors provides stronger signals, more control over the optical properties, and access to a broader range of timescales. In the past years, they have been used to directly reveal single‐molecule interactions, mechanical properties, and conformational dynamics. This review summarizes the development of real‐time single‐molecule sensors built around plasmonic assemblies. First, a brief overview of their optical properties is given, and then recent applications are described. The current challenges in the field and suggestions to overcome those challenges are discussed in detail. Their stability, specificity, and sensitivity as sensors provide a complementary approach to other single‐molecule techniques like force spectroscopy and single‐molecule fluorescence. In future applications, the impact in real‐time sensing on ultralong timescales (hours) and ultrashort timescales (sub‐millisecond), time windows that are difficult to access using other techniques, is particularly foreseen.
Fabrication of NanoCOF/Polyoxometallate Composites for Photocatalytic NADH Regeneration via Cascade Electron Relay
Authors: Li He , Liu Jiali , Wang Maodi , Ren Xiaomin , Li Chunzhi , Ren Yiqi , Yang Qihua
Published: December 2020

Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) as novel visible‐light responsive photocatalysts confront the problem of low photocatalytic activity due to the difficulty in separation of photogenerated charge carriers. Herein, the fabrication of nanoCOF/polyoxometallate (POM) composites to enhance the charge separation efficiency via cascade electron relay is reported. It is found that the photogenerated electrons in the π orbitals of nanoCOF quickly transfer to POM (electron mediator and electron storage tank) to form heteropolyblue (HPB), which is verified by electron paramagnetic resonance and ultraviolet (UV)–vis characterizations. In photocatalytic NADH regeneration, nanoCOF/POM composites afford NADH yield of 97% with turnover frequency of 72.0 mmolgCOF−1 h−1, which is the highest ever reported for COFs and is more than 360‐fold that of COF counterpart. The high photocatalytic activity of nanoCOF/POM composites is mainly attributed to the high concentration of charge carriers and long lifetime of photogenerated charges on the basis of transient absorption spectroscopy, which are achieved by the cascade relay of photogenerated electrons. The primary results suggest that the integration of COFs with electron mediators is an efficient approach to increase the photocatalytic activity via promoted charge separation efficiency.
Effects of coral sand powder and corrosion inhibitors on reinforcement corrosion in coral aggregate seawater concrete in a marine environment
Authors: Wang Nan , Yu Hongfa , Bi Wanli , Zhu Haiwei , Gong Wei , Diao Yitong
Published: December 2020

This paper investigates the effects of coral sand powder (CSP) and corrosion inhibitors (SBT®‐ZX(V), SBT®‐RMA(II)) on reinforcement corrosion in coral aggregate seawater concrete (CASC) in a marine environment. A reasonable time‐variation model for reinforcement corrosion in CASC is proposed and verified. Based on the time‐variation model and chloride diffusion model, the cracking time and service life of CASC are predicted. The results show that the replacement of cementitious materials by 5% CSP can improve the corrosion resistance of steel bar in CASC. Both SBT®‐ZX(V) and SBT®‐RMA(II) can reduce the corrosion rate of steel bar in CASC, and this effect of SBT®‐RMA(II) is more effective than that of SBT®‐ZX(V). Among all CASC, CASC containing 5% CSP and SBT®‐RMA(II) possesses the best corrosion resistance. The results also reveal that the corrosion current density of steel bar in CASC increases firstly and then decreases over time. The ascending segment of the fitting curves for reinforcement corrosion in CASC conforms to the logarithmic‐type time‐variation model, and the descending segment of the fitting curves for reinforcement corrosion in CASC conforms to the exponential‐type time‐variation model. The cracking time and service life of CASC containing 5% CSP and SBT®‐RMA(II) will reach more than 10 years when the thickness of protective layer is 30 mm.
Differential equations in data analysis
Authors: Dattner Itai
Published: December 2020

Differential equations have proven to be a powerful mathematical tool in science and engineering, leading to better understanding, prediction, and control of dynamic processes. In this paper, we review the role played by differential equations in data analysis. More specifically, we consider the intersection between differential equations and data analysis in the light of modern statistical learning methodologies.

This article is categorized under:

Data: Types and Structure > Time Series, Stochastic Processes, and Functional Data

Statistical and Graphical Methods of Data Analysis > Nonparametric Methods

Statistical Models > Nonlinear Models
Sociocultural Conversations: Examining the Influence of Difficult Dialogues on Leadership Development
Authors: Buckley Jessica Belue , Oliner Natalie
Published: December 2020

In this chapter, the authors review the factors that contribute to sociocultural conversations, their outcomes, and potential new directions for research and practice. They also provide ways to incorporate sociocultural conversations in practice.
Correction to: NASA Formal Methods
Authors: Lee Ritchie , Jha Susmit , Mavridou Anastasia , Giannakopoulou Dimitra
Published: December 2020

The original versions of this book and Chapter 14 were revised. The following was corrected:

Dimitra Giannakopoulou, the General Chair of the NFM 2020 conference, was inadvertently forgotten and, therefore, added as a volume editor.

Chapter 14 was retrospectively made available open access under a CC BY 4.0 license at link.springer.com.
Two Years After: A Scoping Review of GDPR Effects on Serious Games Research Ethics Reporting
Authors: Jost Patrick , Lampert Marisa
Published: December 2020

On May 25th, 2018, the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) came into force. Recognised as a comprehensive regulation for improving privacy and data protection, a substantial impact on data processing disciplines such as Serious Games (SG) research was expected.

By conducting a scoping review, this paper explores the effects of GDPR on reporting of ethics approval, informed consent, ethics guidelines and data protection in SG studies. Five scientific databases were searched for research between 2016 and 2020 addressing Serious Games, Exergames and Applied Games. A total of 2146 full-text studies split into equal collections before and after GDPR were included. Lexicometric and keyword-in-context analysis were conducted and comparatively evaluated regarding ethics reporting and trends.

Results unexpectedly show that GDPR so far hardly left a mark. While a slight increase of 12% in general ethics reporting can be observed, less than 6% of the studies after GDPR coming-into-force report on data protection. Ethics procedures remained consistent with most researchers reporting the approval from their home university committee and stating the Declaration of Helsinki as followed guidelines. Overall, the verifiable impact of GDPR was found negligibly small, with only 0.5% of studies referring to the regulation in the two years after introduction. Conclusively, further research is suggested to focus on integrating ethics and data protection guided on GDPR from an early conceptual stage to the reporting of the findings.
Treatment of post-prostatectomy urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction: there is insufficient utilisation of care in German cancer survivors
Authors: Baunacke Martin , Schmidt Maria-Luisa , Groeben Christer , Borkowetz Angelika , Thomas Christian , Koch Rainer , Hoffmann Falk , Chun Felix K. H. , Weissbach Lothar , Huber Johannes
Published: December 2020

Purpose

Treatment of post-prostatectomy urinary incontinence (UI) and erectile dysfunction (ED) increases quality of life (QoL). Aim of our study was to evaluate the utilisation of care among patients with post-prostatectomy UI and ED in Germany.

Methods

The HAROW study documented treatment of patients with localised prostate cancer (≤ T2c) in Germany. 1260 patients underwent radical prostatectomy (RP). Patients answered validated questionnaires after a median follow-up of 6.3 years. Response rate was 76.8%.

Results

Median age at RP was 65 (IQR 60–69) years. 14% (134/936) used more than one pad per day for UI. 25% (26/104, 30 missing) of UI patients underwent surgery to improve continence. Of patients without surgery, 41% (31/75) reported a moderate-to-severe issue concerning their incontinence with worse mental health and QoL. 81% (755/936) patients were unable to have an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse. Of all ED patients, 40% (319/793) used ED treatment regularly or tried it at least once. 49% (243/499) of patients with interest in sex never tried ED treatment. In multivariate analysis, patients not using ED treatments were older (≥ 70 years OR 4.1), and more often had preoperative ED (OR 2.3) and less interest in sex (OR 2.2). Nevertheless, 30% (73/240) of these patients had moderate-to-severe issues with their ED reporting worse mental health and QoL.

Conclusion

Almost half of the patients without post-prostatectomy UI and ED treatment reported moderate-to-severe issues with a significant decrease in QoL. This indicates an insufficient utilisation of care in Germany.
Altered nutrition behavior during COVID-19 pandemic lockdown in young adults
Authors: Huber Bruno C. , Steffen Julius , Schlichtiger Jenny , Brunner Stefan
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The COVID-19 pandemic and the implemented lockdown strongly impact on everyone’s daily life. Stressful situations are known to alter eating habits and increase the risk for obesity. In our study, we aimed to investigate the effect of the lockdown measures on nutrition behavior among young adults.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, we enrolled 1964 voluntary participants from Bavarian universities. All participants were asked to complete an online questionnaire, semi-quantitatively evaluating the amount and type of food before and during pandemic lockdown. Study subjects were inquired to give information about acquisition and food procurement. The primary outcome was the change in food amount, secondary outcomes included alterations of food composition and procurement.

Results

Our study cohort (mean age 23.3 ± 4.0 years, 28.5% male) had a mean body mass index of 22.1 ± 4.5 kg/m2. The overall food amount increased in 31.2% of participants (n = 610) during lockdown and decreased in 16.8% (n = 328). A multinominal regression model revealed that an increased food intake was less likely in male participants (OR, 0.7 [CI 0.6–0.9]) and more likely with increasing BMI (OR, 1.4 [CI 1.3–2.0]), increased sports activity (OR, 1.3 [CI 1.2–1.8]), augmented mental stress (OR 1.4 [1.1–1.7]), and an alteration of alcohol consumption (reduced alcohol amount, OR, 1.4 [CI 1.1–1.7], increased alcohol, OR, 1.9 [CI 1.4–2.5]). Increase in food intake was mainly triggered by consumption of bread (increased in 46.8%, n = 284) and confectionary (increased in 64.4%, n = 389).

Conclusion

The COVID-19 pandemic lockdown significantly affected eating habits in young adults. Further investigation to evaluate long-term effects on weight change and comorbidities are warranted.
Platelet-derived calpain cleaves the endothelial protease-activated receptor 1 to induce vascular inflammation in diabetes
Authors: Kyselova Anastasia , Elgheznawy Amro , Wittig Ilka , Heidler Juliana , Mann Alexander W. , Ruf Wolfram , Fleming Ingrid , Randriamboavonjy Voahanginirina
Published: December 2020

Diabetes mellitus is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Platelets from diabetic patients are hyperreactive and release microparticles that carry activated cysteine proteases or calpains. Whether platelet-derived calpains contribute to the development of vascular complications in diabetes is unknown. Here we report that platelet-derived calpain1 (CAPN1) cleaves the protease-activated receptor 1 (PAR-1) on the surface of endothelial cells, which then initiates a signaling cascade that includes the activation of the tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α converting enzyme (TACE). The latter elicits the shedding of the endothelial protein C receptor and the generation of TNF-α, which in turn, induces intracellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)-1 expression to promote monocyte adhesion. All of the effects of CAPN1 were mimicked by platelet-derived microparticles from diabetic patients or from wild-type mice but not from CAPN1−/− mice, and were not observed in PAR-1-deficient endothelial cells. Importantly, aortae from diabetic mice expressed less PAR-1 but more ICAM-1 than non-diabetic mice, effects that were prevented by treating diabetic mice with a calpain inhibitor as well as by the platelet specific deletion of CAPN1. Thus, platelet-derived CAPN1 contributes to the initiation of the sterile vascular inflammation associated with diabetes via the cleavage of PAR-1 and the release of TNF-α from the endothelial cell surface.
A hypoenergetic diet with decreased protein intake does not reduce lean body mass in trained females
Authors: Pearson Alice G. , Alexander Lee , Witard Oliver C. , Coughlin Thomas E. , Tipton Kevin D. , Walshe Ian H.
Published: December 2020

Purpose

Increasing protein intake during energy restriction (ER) attenuates lean body mass (LBM) loss in trained males. However, whether this relationship exists in trained females is unknown. This study examined the impact of higher compared to lower protein intakes (35% versus 15% of energy intake) on body composition in trained females during 2 weeks of severe ER.

Methods

Eighteen well-trained females completed a 1-week energy balanced diet (HD100), followed by a 2-week hypoenergetic (40% ER) diet (HD60). During HD60, participants consumed either a high protein (HP; 35% protein, 15% fat) or lower protein (CON; 15% protein, 35% fat) diet. Body composition, peak power, leg strength, sprint time, and anaerobic endurance were assessed at baseline, pre-HD60, and post-HD60.

Results

Absolute protein intake was reduced during HD60 in the CON group (from 1.6 to 0.9 g·d·kgBM−1) and maintained in the HP group (~ 1.7 g·d·kgBM−1). CON and HP groups decreased body mass equally during HD60 (− 1.0 ± 1.1 kg; p = 0.026 and − 1.1 ± 0.7 kg; p = 0.002, respectively) and maintained LBM. There were no interactions between time point and dietary condition on exercise performance.

Conclusion

The preservation of LBM during HD60, irrespective of whether absolute protein intake is maintained or reduced, contrasts with findings in trained males. In trained females, the relationship between absolute protein intake and LBM change during ER warrants further investigation. Future recommendations for protein intake during ER should be expressed relative to body mass, not total energy intake, in trained females.