bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thiol‐Ene Photo Crosslinked PUA‐PUMA‐Based Flexible Gel Polymer Electrolyte for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Uyumaz Fatmanur , Nurgaziyeva Elmira , Kalybekkyzy Sandugash , Kahraman Memet Vezir
Published: April 2024

Crosslinked polymer films, formed via sol–gel and UV photocrosslinking, serve as gel polymer electrolytes (GPEs) in lithium‐ion batteries. Combining polyurethane acrylate (PUA), polyurethane methacrylate (PUMA), pentaerythritol tetrakis (3‐mercaptopropionate) (PETMP), and 3‐mercaptopropyl trimetoxysilane (MPTMS) yields flexible membranes, enhancing stability and liquid electrolyte compatibility. The resulting GPE displays higher ionic conductivity (1.46 × 10−3 S cm−1) than Celgrad2500, with PUA‐PUMA's hydrophilicity and PETMP's SH groups preventing leakage. GPPF1, the developed GPE, offers improved ionic conductivity, a stable electrochemical window up to 3.8 V, and heightened safety for versatile energy storage systems.
Quality differentiation and channel structure on online platforms
Authors: Zhang Huilian , Nie Jiajia , Luo Huajiang
Published: April 2024

We examine how quality differentiation affects a manufacturer's channel strategy when selling through an offline retailer and a platform. The manufacturer can choose to distribute high‐ or low‐quality products online/offline via agency or reselling channels. We demonstrate that agency selling (reselling) is optimal when the commission rate is low (otherwise). Moreover, the manufacturer chooses to sell high‐quality (low‐quality) goods online if the cost difference between the two quality levels is low (high). Interestingly, as the quality difference increases, the manufacturer is more likely to offer high‐quality goods online. The platform and the retailer cannot benefit from the manufacturer's decisions simultaneously.
CBHOs, telehealth platform partner to increase care access, reduce no‐shows
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: April 2024

Breaking down barriers to care and providing comprehensive support to individuals in need, four community behavioral health organizations (CBHOs) have aligned with a patient engagement and telehealth platform for mental and behavioral health. The aim is to ‘revolutionize’ access to mental health care, reduce no‐show rates and enhance mental health services within their communities.
Are biomarkers of carbohydrate, lipid linked to MH disorders?
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: April 2024

Individuals with high levels of glucose and triglycerides and a low level of high‐density lipoprotein were associated with a higher future risk of depression, anxiety and stress‐related disorders, according to new research published April 2 in JAMA Network Open.
Medical device to treat anxiety cleared by the FDA
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: April 2024

Neurovalens, a global leader in non‐invasive neuro‐technology, has received medical device clearance from the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) to treat anxiety with its Modius Stress device, a company news release stated. Based in Belfast, Ireland, Neurovalens is a health‐tech company that specializes in combining neuroscience and technology to tackle a range of global health challenges.
Global properties of SARS‐CoV‐2 and IAV coinfection model with distributed‐time delays and humoral immunity
Authors: Elaiw Ahmed M. , Alsulami Raghad S. , Hobiny Aatef D.
Published: April 2024

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) and influenza A virus (IAV) are two respiratory viruses and are similar concerning seasonal occurrence, transmission routes, clinical manifestations, and related immune responses. Recent studies showed that a substantial number of patients infected by SARS‐CoV‐2 were also coinfected with IAV. In this paper, we study the global properties of SARS‐CoV‐2 and IAV coinfection model in vivo. The role of humoral (antibody) immunity in controlling the coinfection is modeled. The model tracks uninfected epithelial cells, latent SARS‐CoV‐2‐infected epithelial cells, latent IAV‐infected epithelial cells, active SARS‐CoV‐2‐infected epithelial cells, active IAV‐infected epithelial cells, free SARS‐CoV‐2 particles, free IAV particles, SARS‐CoV‐2‐specific antibodies and IAV‐specific antibodies. The model includes six distributed‐time delays, two delays for the formation of latent SARS‐CoV‐2‐infected and latent IAV‐infected cells; two delays for the reactivation of latent SARS‐CoV‐2‐infected cells and latent IAV‐infected cells; and two delays for the maturation of new released SARS‐CoV‐2 and IAV virions. The regeneration and death of the uninfected epithelial cells are considered. We first examine the basic qualitative properties of the model, then we calculate all equilibria and prove their global stability. The global stability of equilibria is established using the Lyapunov method. The theoretical findings are demonstrated via numerical simulations. The importance of considering humoral immunity in the coinfection dynamics model is discussed. It is found that without modeling the humoral immunity, the case of IAV and SARS‐CoV‐2 coexistence will not occur. We discuss the effect of time delays on the dynamics of SARS‐CoV‐2 and IAV coinfection. It is noted that increasing the time delay length has similar impact as antiviral therapies.
The modified fractional‐order quasi‐reversibility method for a class of direct and inverse problems governed by time‐fractional heat equations with involution perturbation
Authors: Benabbes Fares , Boussetila Nadjib , Lakhdari Abdelghani
Published: April 2024

This study aims to explore two classes of ill‐posed problems governed by a nonclassical fractional heat equation with an involution perturbation. To achieve a stable solution, we introduce a modified pseudo‐parabolic regularization method that involves a correction term through a mixed fractional derivation operator, resulting in a sequence of well‐posed problems that depend on a regularization parameter
. We rigorously demonstrate that the resulting approximate problems are well‐posed and present convergence results for this regularization approach.
On the Korteweg‐de Vries approximation for a Boussinesq equation posed on the infinite necklace graph
Authors: Düll Wolf‐Patrick , Schneider Guido , Taraca Raphael
Published: April 2024

Motivated by the question how to describe long‐wave dynamics on periodic networks, we consider a Boussinesq equation posed on the infinite periodic necklace graph. For the description of long‐wave traveling waves, we derive the KdV equation and establish the validity of this formal approximation by providing estimates for the error. The proof is based on suitable energy estimates. As a consequence of the approximation result, the soliton dynamics present in the KdV equation can approximately be seen for the original system, too. There are no serious obstacles to transfer the analysis to other dispersive systems or to other periodic quantum graphs for which the KdV equation can be derived. However, a general KdV validity theory on quantum graphs would be extremely abstract and of minor use.
A new block method with variable stepsize implementation for solving third‐order differential systems
Authors: Rufai Mufutau Ajani , Carpentieri Bruno , Ramos Higinio
Published: April 2024

This article presents an efficient one‐step hybrid block method (OHBM) to solve third‐order initial value problems (IVPs). The proposed method is derived using interpolation and collocation techniques of the assumed exact solution and its derivatives. The theoretical properties of the OHBM are analyzed. An embedding‐like technique is utilized and executed in an adaptive mode to improve the performance of the proposed method. The OHBM's efficiency and accuracy are tested by solving practical application problems in applied sciences and engineering. The numerical solutions demonstrate that the proposed OHBM is highly efficient and provides very accurate approximations.
A scalar–tensor impedance metasurface for frequency‐multiplexed multifunctional orbital angular momentum beams generation
Authors: Huang Huifen , Ma Yingjing
Published: April 2024

A scalar‐tensor composite holographic impedance meta surface (HIMS) for frequency‐multiplexed is proposed. The scalar and tensor parts operate at low frequency and high frequency, respectively, the coupling between them can be over come, and then more multifunction orbital angular momentum (OAM) beams with good performance can be obtained. As an example, a scalar‐tensor HIMS is designed for three OAM beams: (1) Beam‐I at fL = 11.2 GHz, which is generated by scalar part. (2) At fH = 18.2 GHz, Beam‐II and Beam‐III, which are generated by tensor part. The proposed scalar‐tensor HIMS has the following advantages: (i) More flexible multifunction design due to the decoupling of scalar and tensor parts. (ii) High aperture efficiency (14.93% at 11.2 GHz, much higher than conventional scalar HIMS, 23.3% at 18.2 GHz). The HIMS can be used in future high‐capacity secure communication, imaging, and so on.
Enhanced visible‐light‐driven photocatalytic application for water purification and hydrogen evolution by large‐sized nanofilm‐constructed hierarchical porous g‐C3N4/SiO2
Authors: Zhang Zhiyu , Long Fei , Guo Yanhong , Liang Yunxiao , Wang Jing , Ren Yong
Published: April 2024

The large‐sized nanofilm‐constructed hierarchical porous SiO2 (LNCHPS) is successfully prepared by the dual templating approach and subsequently used as the support for g‐C3N4. A series of characterization techniques are conducted to evaluate the structure and property of the as‐prepared materials. The LNCHPS possesses two sets of explicated successive pass‐through macropores (0.5–1.0 µm) with large specific surface area. In addition, the macropore wall is constructed by uniform mesoporous nanofilms with the thickness ranging from 35 to 50 nm. Then, the photocatalytic property is investigated by degradations towards Rhodamine B (RhB) under simulated sunlight, in which experiments have been performed through controlling the g‐C3N4 loading contents, solution pH values, and photocatalyst dosages. The apparent rate constant of g‐C3N4/LNCHPS could reach 0.03 min−1 under optimum conditions, showing 6.0 times that of the bulk g‐C3N4. In addition, g‐C3N4/LNCHPS also exhibits significantly enhanced performance in H2 evolution (39.9 µmol h−1) compared to that of the bulk g‐C3N4. High light absorption and utilization, enhanced adsorption capability and quick electron hole separation can render this fine structure excellent photocatalytic performance. Our work enables a facile route for large‐scale preparation of g‐C3N4/LNCHPS for addressing the wastewater treatment and hydrogen energy production simultaneously.
Elective Neck Dissection in cT1‐4 N0M0 Head and Neck Basaloid Carcinoma
Authors: Patel Aman M. , Haleem Afash , Choudhry Hassaam S. , Brody Robert M. , Brant Jason A. , Carey Ryan M.
Published: April 2024

Objective

To investigate the survival benefit of elective neck dissection (END) over neck observation in surgically resected cT1‐4 N0M0 head and neck basaloid carcinoma (HNBC).

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

The 2006 to 2017 hospital‐based National Cancer Database.

Methods

Patients with surgically resected cT1‐4 N0M0 HNBC were selected. Linear, binary logistic, Kaplan‐Meier, and Cox proportional hazards regression models were implemented.

Results

Of 857 patients satisfying inclusion criteria, the majority were male (77.0%) and white (88.1%) with disease of the oral cavity (21.5%) or oropharynx (42.9%) classified as high grade (76.9%) and cT1‐2 (72.9%). 389 (45.4%) patients underwent END. END utilization between 2006 and 2017 increased for cT1‐2 disease (33.3% vs 56.9%, R2 = .699) but remained relatively constant for cT3‐4 disease (66.7% vs 57.9%, R2 = .062). One‐hundred and fifteen (29.6%) ENDs detected occult nodal metastases (ONMs). The 5‐year overall survival (OS) of patients undergoing neck observation and END was 65.6% and 66.8%, respectively (P = .652). END was not associated with improved OS in survival analyses stratified by patient demographics, clinicopathologic features, and adjuvant therapy. Compared with surgery alone, adjuvant radiotherapy (adjusted hazard ratio: 0.74, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.57‐0.97, P = .031) was associated with improved OS. END (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.96, 95% CI: 0.71‐1.28, P = .770) and ONM (HR: 1.12, 95% CI: 0.78‐1.61, P = .551) were not associated with OS.

Conclusion

END is performed in nearly half of patients with HNBC but is not associated with improved OS, even after stratifying survival analyses by patient demographics, clinicopathologic features, and adjuvant therapy. The rate of ONM approaching 30%, however, justifies inclusion of END in the surgical management of HNBC.
Resources Utilized by Otolaryngology Fellowship Directors When Determining Reputations of Residency Programs
Authors: Ni Garrett , Shah Arnav , Polacco Marc , McLean Caitlin
Published: April 2024

Objective

Residency program reputation is consistently reported as an important factor by fellowship directors when considering applicants. This study sets out to determine resources fellowship directors rely on when determining residency program reputation.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Setting

Using an anonymous online survey of all 2022 Otolaryngology (OHNS) fellowship program directors.

Methods

The 13‐question survey sought to assess fellowship director's perspectives and resource utilization when determining residency program reputation.

Results

Representing all OHNS fellowship program directors and co‐directors (N = 287), 103 responded to our survey, response rate 35.9%. Most participants reported that residency reputation was important for fellowship candidacy. On a Likert scale of 1 to 5, 1 being most important and 5 being not important, personal knowledge of the residency program (2.03 out of 5) and program faculty/mentor reputation (2.09 out of 5) were the most important factors cited. 63% were unfamiliar with the survey methodology of Doximity Residency Navigator (DRN), while 53% contributed to DRN by filling out surveys. Nearly all fellowship directors (N = 100, 97%) reported their rank list was not influenced by DRN. Most fellowship directors reported that US News and World Report (USNWR) and DRN were neither consistent nor inconsistent with their perceptions of residency reputations (38% and 56%, respectively), suggesting ambivalence toward these resources.

Conclusion

Residency reputation is important for fellowship directors when evaluating fellowship candidates. Directors do not rely on USNWR, National Institute of Health (NIH) ranking, or DRN when gauging residency reputation, but rather personal knowledge of the applicant's residency program or reputation of the otolaryngology faculty.
Postoperative Upper Airway Volume Measurements Among Children With Craniofacial Abnormalities
Authors: Ben‐Dov Tom , Pan Lydia , Gordon Alex J. , Taufique Zahrah , Kassem Firas , Rickert Scott
Published: April 2024

Objective

To measure postoperative airway volumes among patients with craniofacial abnormalities and compare them to normative values.

Study Design

Retrospective, comparative study.

Setting

Academic Medical Center.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of imaging of children with craniofacial abnormalities treated at NYU Langone Health from January 2013 to February 2021. Upper airway volumes postcraniofacial surgery were measured using 3D processing software (Dolphin 3D, version 11.95). These values were compared with published normative values.

Results

Twenty‐one subjects were identified and compared to normative values. The postoperative oropharyngeal volumes were on average 43.7% smaller than the normative values (P < .001), and the total upper airway volumes were 31.6% smaller (P = .003). No significant differences were observed in the nasopharyngeal or hypopharyngeal volumes of the study cohort compared to the normative data. Among children ages 12 to 17 years (n = 13), the mean oropharyngeal volumes were 47.6% smaller than normal (P < .001), and the mean total upper airway volumes were 34.6% smaller than normal (P < .001). Among children ages 7 to 11 years (n = 8), the mean oropharyngeal volumes were 35.1% smaller than normal (P = .049), but no difference in mean total upper airway volume was observed.

Conclusion

In children with craniofacial anomalies, postoperative airway volumes remain lower than normative values. However, even a slight increase in airway volume can yield a substantial increase in flow rate. 3D airway evaluations are a valuable tool for surgical planning and analysis and can help with optimizing airway dynamics.
Otitis Media With Effusion After the COVID‐19 Pandemic: Return to the Past and New Lessons
Authors: Aldè Mirko , Marchisio Paola , Folino Francesco , Ambrosetti Umberto , Berardino Federica Di , Barozzi Stefania , Zanetti Diego , Pignataro Lorenzo , Cantarella Giovanna
Published: April 2024

Objective

To assess the prevalence of otitis media with effusion (OME) among children who attended a tertiary level audiologic center 2 and 3 years after the COVID‐19 lockdown, and to determine the impact of temporary interruption of day care center attendance on chronic OME.

Study Design

Retrospective study.

Setting

Tertiary level referral audiologic center.

Methods

We assessed the prevalence of OME among children aged 6 months to 12 years in 3 different periods (May‐June 2022, January‐February 2023, and May‐June 2023) and compared the results with those of the corresponding periods before the COVID‐19 lockdown. We also compared the disease resolution rates between a subgroup of children with chronic OME who interrupted day care center attendance for a 2‐month period (Subgroup A) and a similar subgroup who continued attending day care centers (Subgroup B).

Results

The prevalence of OME was 38.5% (138/358) in May‐June 2022, 51.9% (193/372) in January‐February 2023, and 40.9% (149/364) in May‐June 2023. No significant prevalence differences were observed between the periods May‐June 2019, May‐June 2022, and May‐June 2023 (P = .78), and between the periods January‐February 2020 and January‐February 2023 (P = .93). At the May‐June 2023 assessment, the children belonging to Subgroup A presented a greater rate of disease resolution (85.7%, 18/21) than the children belonging to Subgroup B (32%, 8/25, P < .001).

Conclusion

This study suggests that the prevalence of OME has returned to prelockdown levels, and that interrupting day care center attendance for a 2‐month period could be effective in resolving most cases of chronic OME.
Medicare Restriction of Telehealth Speech Services Negatively Impacts Patient Care
Authors: Young VyVy N. , Ma Yue , Rosen Clark A. , Schneider Sarah L.
Published: April 2024

Objective

Ample literature shows voice and swallowing therapy, in‐person or virtual, to be essential for Otolaryngology and Speech‐Language Pathology care. In March 2023, Medicare announced discontinuing teletherapy reimbursement in hospital‐based outpatient departments, effective May 2023. This decision was subsequently reversed; however, the uncertain interval period provided the opportunity to study the impact of eliminating teletherapy.

Study Design

Prospective cohort.

Setting

Tertiary laryngology center.

Methods

Affected Medicare patients were contacted via mailed letter, phone, and secure patient portal and offered to change appointments to in‐person, teletherapy with cash self‐payment ($165‐282/session) or cancellation. Demographics and responses were collected. Statistical analyses conducted using Student's t test.

Results

Fifty‐three patients (28 female; mean age 66.8 ± 14.2 years) were impacted. 64% (n = 34) changed to in‐person appointment, 28% (n = 15) canceled, 8% (n = 4) did not respond. No patients opted to self‐pay. 67% of patients that canceled telehealth care cited distance from in‐person care location. The mean distance for canceled versus rescheduled patients was 92.3 ± 93.0 versus 32.8 ± 57.4 miles, P = .034. Mean age, gender, and number of sessions were not different between groups. Mean time to third next available therapy appointment was 96 ± 46 versus 46 ± 12 days before and after rule change, P = .007. Upon Medicare's reversal, this trend rebounded to nearly baseline (mean 77 ± 12 days, P = .12).

Conclusion

Medicare's discontinuation of reimbursement for teletherapy services caused nearly 30% of patients to cancel voice and swallowing therapy, primarily due to distance. These cancellations led to decreased access to care for Medicare patients with voice/swallowing diagnoses, which affect function, quality of life, and potentially even mortality risk.
The effect of quercetin on adipogenesis, lipolysis, and apoptosis in 3T3‐L1 adipocytes: The role of SIRT1 pathways
Authors: Maleki Mohammad Hasan , Abdizadeh Javazm Sara , Dastghaib Sanaz , Panji Anahita , Hojjati Far Mohammad , Mahmoodi Hajar , Siri Morvarid , Shafiee Sayed Mohammad
Published: April 2024

Background

Lipotoxicity, caused by adipocyte triglyceride over‐accumulation, contributes to obesity‐related comorbidities such as hypertension, type 2 diabetes, coronary heart disease, respiratory dysfunction, and osteoarthritis. This study focuses on determining how sirtuin‐1 (SIRT‐1) mediates quercetin's (QCT) effect on 3T3‐L1 adipocytes. Key aspects of this study include preventing adipogenesis, inducing lipolysis, and stimulating adipocyte apoptosis.

Methods

3T3‐L1 adipocytes underwent treatment with varying QCT doses, lipopolysaccharide (LPS), and the SIRT‐1 inhibitor EX‐527, followed by 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyl‐2H‐tetrazolium bromide [MTT] assay for cell viability assessment. Furthermore, quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction measured mRNA expression levels of adipogenesis markers (fatty acid synthase [FASN] and peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor gamma [PPARγ]), lipolysis markers (adipose triglyceride lipase [ATGL] and hormone‐sensitive lipase [HSL]), and apoptosis markers (B‐cell lymphoma2 [Bcl‐2], Bcl‐2 Associated ‐X‐protein [BAX] and Caspase‐3).

Results

The data showed that LPS + QCT significantly reduced cell viability in a dose‐ and time‐dependent manner, unaffected by LPS + QCT + EX‐527. Treatment with LPS + QCT did not affect FASN and PPARγ expression but significantly increased ATGL and HSL mRNA expression compared with LPS alone. Interestingly, EX‐527 reversed the effects of LPS + QCT on lipogenesis and lipolysis markers completely. QCT enhanced apoptosis in a SIRT‐1 independent pattern.

Conclusion

The data suggest that QCT suppresses adipogenesis while increasing lipolysis via SIRT‐1. However, QCT's effects on apoptosis appear to be independent of SIRT‐1. These findings provide further evidence for QCT's effects on adipocytes, particularly its interaction with SIRT‐1.
Factors Associated With Inadequate Health Literacy: An Academic Otolaryngology Clinic Population Study
Authors: Hearn Madison , Sciscent Bao Y. , King Tonya S. , Goyal Neerav
Published: April 2024

Objective

To characterize the prevalence of inadequate health literacy among otolaryngology patients and assess the association of individual patient factors with inadequate health literacy.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Setting

Tertiary academic medical center otolaryngology clinic.

Methods

Adult patients presenting to the clinic were recruited from March to June 2022. Participants completed a validated health literacy questionnaire in the waiting room. Data on age, sex, race, insurance, county of residence, and language were extracted from the electronic medical record, linked to the survey responses, and deidentified for analysis. Logistic regression analyses assessed the association between inadequate health literacy and patient factors.

Results

Of 374 participants, the mean age was 54.8 years (SD = 17.8) and most were white (79%) and native English speakers (95%). The median health literacy score was 14.5 (Q1‐Q3: 12.0‐15.0) and 43 participants (12%) had inadequate health literacy. Bivariate analysis showed the odds of inadequate health literacy were 2.5 times greater for those with public insurance (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.24‐5.20, P = .011), 3.5 times greater for males (95% CI: 1.75‐6.92, P < .001), and significantly different among race groups (P = .003). When all factors were evaluated simultaneously with multivariable regression, only sex (P < .001) and race (P = .005) remained significant predictors of inadequate health literacy. There were no significant associations between health literacy and age or rurality.

Conclusion

Inadequate health literacy was associated with sex and race, but not with age or rurality. 12% of patients had inadequate health literacy, which may perpetuate disparities in care and necessitate interventions to improve care delivery in otolaryngology.
Submental Island Flaps for Lateral Reconstruction: Technical Refinements for Optimal Outcomes and Resource Efficiency
Authors: Oh Melissa S. , Vettikattu Nikhil T. , Baddour Harry Michael , Gross Jennifer H. , Boyce Brian J. , Patel Mihir R. , Schmitt Nicole C. , Arturo Solares Clementino , Vuncannon Jackson R. , Kaka Azeem S.
Published: April 2024

Objective

To describe our modifications to the submental island flap (SMIF) in a case series that demonstrates improved reproducibility, shortened length of stay (LOS), and reduced utilization of hospital resources.

Study Design

This retrospective case series with chart review included adult patients who underwent resection of malignant or benign tumors resulting in lateral facial, parotid, or temporal bone defects, which were reconstructed with SMIF.

Setting

A tertiary‐care academic referral center.

Methods

Retrospective case series included all adult patients who underwent SMIF reconstruction between March 2020 and August 2021. Patient demographic and clinical data were collected. Primary outcomes were measures of hospital utilization including duration of surgery, LOS, and postoperative outcomes.

Results

Twenty‐eight patients were included with a mean age of 71.7 years. Eighty percent were male. All patients underwent parotidectomy, and the mean operative time was 347 minutes. The median LOS was 2.5 days (range 0‐16 days). Seventy‐five percent of the flaps drained into the internal jugular vein, and 25% drained into the external jugular vein. No patients required reoperation or readmission. All flaps survived.

Conclusion

SMIFs are a safe and effective option for reconstruction of lateral facial, parotid, and temporal bone defects. Compared to free flap reconstruction, SMIFs offer reduced length of surgery, decreased use of health care resources, and lower rate of reoperation. As health care resource allocation is increasingly important, the SMIF offers an excellent alternative to free flap reconstruction of lateral defects.
Enhancing intersectoral collaboration: Lessons from the coordinated donor support to the South African COVID‐19 vaccination programme
Authors: Hartnack Andrew
Published: April 2024

Despite the increasing importance of intersectoral collaborations to address crisis situations, relatively little is known about how they are organised, managed and governed. Moreover, within the field of public administration, there is still much to learn about how governments can use intersectoral collaboration to effectively address crises. This paper examines the case of the Coordinated Donor Support initiative in South Africa's COVID‐19 vaccination programme to illustrate the value of multisectoral partnerships, especially for developing countries. This partnership involved donors and philanthropic organisations, non‐governmental and civil society organisations, and private sector organisations, yet it sought to partner with the government, rather than take over the government's role. The paper also explores the complexities, contradictions and threats to such partnerships, and what is required to optimise them. It argues that several measures need to be put in place in the pre‐crisis phase to ensure that such multisectoral collaborations can quickly be mobilised when crises occur. It also shows that partnerships which are forged in times of crisis can assist countries to address their ongoing developmental challenges.
Non‐monetary sanctions as tax enforcement tools: Evaluating California's top 500 program
Authors: Angaretis Chad , Galle Brian , Organ Paul R. , Prohofsky Allen
Published: April 2024

Many U.S. states and countries around the world use non‐monetary sanctions, including public disclosure, license suspension, and withholding of other government‐provided benefits or privileges, to encourage tax compliance. Little is known about the effectiveness of these programs. Using administrative tax microdata from California's “Top 500” program, we study whether notices warning of the imminent publication of a taxpayer's personal information and potential license suspension affect payment and other compliance outcomes. Exploiting variation over time in the cutoff balance for program eligibility, we find evidence of strong positive compliance responses to the program. We also develop estimates of the long‐run revenue and social‐welfare effects of the program. Together, these results suggest that non‐monetary sanctions can be efficient tax enforcement tools, at least among the relatively high‐income population we study.
Good engraftment after reduced intensity targeted busulfan‐based conditioning and matched related donor hematopoietic cell transplantation in hemoglobinopathies
Authors: Klink Maximilian , Felber Matthias , Zeilhofer Ulrike , Hauri‐Hohl Mathias , Schmugge Markus , Drozdov Daniel , Güngör Tayfun
Published: April 2024

Background

Hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) is an established curative therapy for transfusion‐dependent thalassemia (TDT) and sickle cell disease (SCD). The latest American Society of Hematology guidelines recommend myeloablative preparative regimen in patients under 18 years of age.

Procedure

The objective was to demonstrate safety and efficacy of a reduced intensity conditioning (RIC) regimen including high‐dose fludarabine, anti‐thymocyte globulin, and targeted busulfan as a single alkylator to sub‐myeloablative exposures.

Results

Between 2012 and 2021, 11 patients with SCD and five patients with TDT and matched related donor (MRD) HCT were included. The median age at transplantation was 8.3 years (range: 3.7–18.8 years). The median administered busulfan AUC was 67.4 mg/L×h (range: 60.7–80 mg/L×h). Overall survival was 93.8% and event‐free survival 87.5% with one engrafted SCD patient with pre‐existing moyamoya disease succumbing after drainage of a subdural hematoma. One SCD patient developed a secondary graft failure and was treated with a second HCT. Myeloid chimerism was full in all other patients with a median follow‐up time of 4.1 years (range: 2.0–11.1 years), whereas T‐cell donor chimerism was frequently mixed.

Conclusion

This RIC conditioning followed by MRD HCT is sufficiently myeloablative to cure pediatric patients with hemoglobinopathies without the need for additional total body irradiation or thiotepa.
Three‐point bending, interlaminar shear, and impact strength in bioinspired helicoidal basalt fiber/epoxy composites: A comparative experimental analysis
Authors: Rai Shreya , Rawat Prashant
Published: April 2024

This study investigates the mechanical characteristics of basalt fiber/epoxy polymer composites (BPC) inspired by nature's higher‐order designs especially helicoidal structures found in fish scales. The present work includes the experimental analysis of 20‐layered bioinspired BPC composites in single helicoidal ([90/80/70/60/50/40/30/20/10/0]s), and double helicoidal ([130/40/120/30/110/20/100/10/90/0]s) layups. The hand layup technique, followed by the vacuum bagging method, is used to fabricate composite laminates. The layup design significantly influenced the mechanical properties of both helicoidal structures with different stacking sequences, including load capacity, deformation, energy absorption, and fracture modes. Interestingly, failure mechanisms demonstrated both bending and twisting (attributed to specific ply orientation, resulting in a twisting effect) occurring majorly under flexural loading, leading to improved energy absorption. The flexural strength of single helicoidal laminate was observed to be 28.8% higher than double helicoidal laminate design. On the other hand, the double helicoidal laminate showed 46.8% and 19.4% higher interlaminar shear strength (ILSS) and impact resistance properties, respectively, compared to the single helicoidal laminate design. Therefore, this comparative experimental analysis of both stacking structures provides insights into potential changes in conventional stacking sequences and enhances understanding of mechanical responses in bioinspired composites.

Highlights

Mechanical characterization of bioinspired helicoidal laminates is done.

The flexural strength of single helicoidal laminates is 28.8% higher than double helicoidal laminates.

Double helicoidal laminates showed better interlaminar shear strength and energy absorption.
Fetal cardiac screening: 1st trimester and beyond
Authors: Freud Lindsay R. , Simpson Lynn L.
Published: April 2024

Congenital heart defects (CHD) are the most common birth defect and a leading cause of infant morbidity and mortality. CHD often occurs in low‐risk pregnant patients, which underscores the importance of routine fetal cardiac screening at the time of the 2nd trimester ultrasound. Prenatal diagnosis of CHD is important for counseling and decision‐making, focused diagnostic testing, and optimal perinatal and delivery management. As a result, prenatal diagnosis has led to improved neonatal and infant outcomes. Updated fetal cardiac screening guidelines, coupled with technological advancements and educational efforts, have resulted in increased prenatal detection of CHD in both low‐ and high‐risk populations. However, room for improvement remains. In recent years, fetal cardiac screening for specific high‐risk populations has started in the 1st trimester, which is a trend that is likely to expand over time. This review discusses fetal cardiac screening throughout pregnancy.
The process‐structure–property relationship of 3D printed G‐Polymer using fused filament fabrication technique
Authors: Parnian Pooyan , Russo Pietro , Squillace Antonino , D'Amore Alberto
Published: April 2024

The ever‐increasing demand for additive manufacturing (AM) is driven by the technology's rapid prototyping and flexible manufacturing benefits. Among the various AM techniques, fused filament fabrication (FFF) is one of the most commonly used techniques, in which thermoplastic polymer filaments are deposited layer by layer to create the final part. This technique has been used extensively in various sectors. However, new materials have yet to be developed for use in FFF. This research aims to introduce a new biodegradable highly amorphous polyvinyl alcohol (HAVOH), commercially known as G‐Polymer (GP), into the scope of FFF, to propose a process window for the fabrication of parts with enhanced mechanical properties and to discover the process‐structure–property relationship for this material. This study investigates the effect of five key parameters in GP FFF, including raster angle, number of contours, nozzle temperature, build platform temperature, and print speed. The results of the chemical, thermal, and thermo‐mechanical analysis of the filaments before and after hot extrusion of the 3D printer nozzle showed a significant increase in the mechanical properties of the hot‐extruded filaments. In addition, the mechanical characterization of 3D printed parts showed that increasing the number of contours can improve the mechanical properties of parts, while the raster angle can have a complex effect. The mechanical properties of the parts are also improved by reducing the temperature of the nozzle and the build platform. Printing speed, as an essential parameter in AM, was related to the previously mentioned parameters, and the results showed that increasing the printing speed could improve the UTS and Young's modulus of the 3D printed part.

Highlights

A novel biodegradable polymer (HAVOH) was introduced into the scope of FFF.

The hot extruded G‐Polymer filament from the nozzle showed improved mechanical properties.

180°C nozzle and room temperature platform resulted in improved mechanical properties.

3D printed parts with +45°/−45° raster angle show improved mechanical properties

110 mm/s print speed results in higher mechanical strength than 70 mm/s print speed.
The personal impact of living with a myeloproliferative neoplasm
Authors: Eppingbroek A. A. M. , Lechner L. , Bakker E. C. , Nijkamp M. D. , de Witte M. A. , Bolman C. A. W.
Published: April 2024

Objective

The aim of this study is to gain insight into the physical, psychological and social impact of having a myeloproliferative neoplasm (MPN), a rare type of cancer with an often chronic course.

Methods

An online survey was conducted among 455 Dutch MPN patients (62.7% female, age M 63) to explore the impact of the disease by measuring the MPN symptom burden (MPN‐SAF TSS) and quality of life (QoL) (EORTC QLQ‐C30) and its subscales within a hierarchical QoL model. We examined differences in MPN symptom burden and QoL in relation to sociodemographic and disease‐related factors. Hierarchical regression analysis was used to explain variances in QoL.

Results

Most patients (97%) experienced MPN‐related health complaints, with a significantly higher MPN symptom burden in women (M 31.50) compared to men (M 24.10). Regarding to fatigue and cognitive functioning MPN patients suffered more compared to a reference group of other cancers. MPN subtype or type of treatment did not show significant differences in MPN symptom burden or QoL. However, experiencing side effects, complications or comorbidities significantly negatively affected MPN symptom burden and QoL. 48.8% of patients reported that MPN affected their ability to work. The explained variance in overall QoL was 58%, most importantly by disease progression, comorbidities, MPN symptom burden and role, emotional and social functioning.

Conclusion

This study revealed that having an MPN has a negative impact on several domains of QoL. Symptom assessment and support should be included in the healthcare management of MPN patients.
Investigation of Exciton Dynamics to Confirm Coupling Effects Using a Comparison between Ensemble and Single Laterally‐Coupled GaAs Quantum Dot Molecules
Authors: Kim Heedae , Cha Se‐yeoun , Song Jindong , Kim Jongsu
Published: April 2024

Herein, time‐integrated and time‐resolved photoluminescence (PL) measurement experiments are performed on coupled GaAs quantum dot (QD) molecules with larger laser spot size and a single‐coupled QD molecule to investigate the dynamics of exciton states. A linearly polarized laser along the coupled direction of a laterally‐coupled GaAs QD molecule [10] is used to determine the coupling effects of the different exciton states. For the ensemble of coupled QD molecules, the exciton PL peak shifts to lower energy (≈70 meV) and shows a linear increase in the PL intensity, demonstrating the properties of exciton states as a function of the laser excitation power. In addition, a power‐dependent redshift is observed in the single‐coupled GaAs QD molecule as a function of the excitation power; however, the two distinguished exciton states become resolved and show different power factors when the laser excitation power is linearly increased. This result clearly indicates the presence of energy transfer between the two different exciton states, X1 and X2. Furthermore, when the polarized laser excitation power is increased, a coupled biexciton consisting of two different localized exciton states (X1 and X2) is clearly observed, and a power‐dependent spectral redshift is detected in the exciton and biexciton states. At a high excitation power (15 I0), the decay times of the two different localized exciton states clearly show different lifetimes; and the decay time difference due to the size difference can be ignored at a low excitation power. Theoretically, the decay times of the two different exciton states, wherein the size deviation can be ignored, should be the same. Based on the results of the time‐integrated and time‐resolved PL measurements and the comparison between the ensemble and single exciton PL peaks, it is concluded that the coupling process in laterally‐coupled GaAs QD molecules is strongly supported against long‐range separation.
Controlled Synthesis and Catalytic Performance of Ag3PO4 Polyhedra Photocatalysts
Authors: Yan Xiuhua , Ma Bolin , Fang Juan , Tang Lanqin , Xu Wei
Published: April 2024

Ag3PO4 is an effective green photocatalyst that exhibits higher visible light photocatalytic performance for the degradation of various organic pollutants. The photocatalytic performance of Ag3PO4 is affected by the exposed high‐energy crystal facets. Herein, Ag3PO4 with different morphologies and specific surfaces is synthesized via a direct precipitation method in the presence of triethanolamine (TEA). The Ag(TEA)n complex, which served as an intermediate medium, plays a critical role during the morphological transformation. When the molar ratio of Ag+ to TEA is set as 1:12, 18‐facet polyhedral morphology of Ag3PO4 crystals is obtained. The spherical and dodecahedral samples are also obtained by adjusting the molar ratio of Ag+ to TEA as 1:1 and 1:14. The photocatalytic activity of the samples for the degradation of methylene blue (MB) is tested under visible light irradiation. It is demonstrated when the molar ratio of Ag+/TEA is 1:12, Ag3PO4 polyhedra with 18‐facet are fabricated. X‐ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy results indicate that the 18‐facet polyhedron, with six {100} facets and twelve {110} facets, enjoys the most exposed high‐energy crystal facets. Photocatalytic experiments show that the 18‐facet polyhedron has the best performance, and the degradation of MB by Ag3PO4 polyhedron with 18‐facet morphology reaches 90% within 70 min.
Chromolaena Odorata Leaves Derived Carbon Dot‐Based Fluorescence/Second‐Order Scattering Ratiometric Sensor for Fe3+ and Vitamin C
Authors: Amrutha Edassery Gopalan , Manivannan Sellaperumal
Published: April 2024

Herein, a ratiometric fluorescence and second‐order scattering sensor with plant leaf‐derived carbon dots (CDs) for Fe3+ and vitamin C is reported. The CDs are prepared from Chromolaena odorata leaves through a one‐pot hydrothermal method. The synthesized CDs have a quantum yield of 22.6%. The spherical dots have an average size of 3 nm and the chemical composition is found as nitrogen (7%) being the highest heteroatom present along with carbon and oxygen atoms in it. The ratio between fluorescence intensity at 445 nm and second‐order scattering constitutes the sensor output. A linear relationship is found between the output and analyte concentration in the range 0–70 and 0–10 μM with limit of detection 0.12 and 1.2 μM for Fe3+ and vitamin C, respectively. Static mechanism along with inner filter effect has been identified as the underlying quenching mechanism for Fe3+ activity. The strong chelation of Fe3+ by vitamin C further enhances the fluorescence. The change in the second‐order scattering intensity is explained by the formation and disruption of CDs/Fe3+ complex. The sensor also shows satisfactory performance with borewell water (Fe3+) and commercial tablet (vitamin C) with recovery rate ranging between 98.6% and 103.5%.
Investigation of Interlayer Dielectric in BaTiO3/III‐Nitride Transistors
Authors: Lee Hyunsoo , McGlone Joe F. , Ifatur Rahman Sheikh , Chae Christopher , Joishi Chandan , Hwang Jinwoo , Rajan Siddharth
Published: April 2024

In this study, the impact of varying the thickness of the Al2O3interlayer dielectric on the electrical characteristics of BaTiO3/III‐nitride transistors is investigated. In the findings, it is revealed that a minimum thickness of 8 nm for the Al2O3layer is crucial to maintain high device performance and protect against sputtering‐induced damage during BaTiO3deposition. The fabricated BaTiO3/Al2O3/AlGaN/GaN high electron mobility transistors exhibit exceptional electrical properties, including a maximum current density of 700 mA mm−1, an on‐resistance of 5 Ω mm, anION/IOFFratio of 107, a subthreshold slope of 119 mV dec−1, and significantly reduced gate leakage current. The devices with the optimal 8 nm Al2O3thickness demonstrates excellent agreement between theoretical and experimental values for effective mobility, achieving a value of 1188 cm2 V−1·s at a 2D electron gas density of 1013 cm−2. Furthermore, in the study, it is confirmed that increasing the Al2O3thickness also improves the quality of interface charge density, as evidenced by the results obtained from capacitance–voltage measurements. In these findings, the critical role of controlling the Al2O3thickness in optimizing the electrical characteristics and overall performance of BaTiO3/III‐nitride transistors are highlighted.
Mathematical programming tools for randomization purposes in small two‐arm clinical trials: A case study with real data
Authors: Vazquez Alan R. , Wong Weng‐Kee
Published: April 2024

Modern randomization methods in clinical trials are invariably adaptive, meaning that the assignment of the next subject to a treatment group uses the accumulated information in the trial. Some of the recent adaptive randomization methods use mathematical programming to construct attractive clinical trials that balance the group features, such as their sizes and covariate distributions of their subjects. We review some of these methods and compare their performance with common covariate‐adaptive randomization methods for small clinical trials. We introduce an energy distance measure that compares the discrepancy between the two groups using the joint distribution of the subjects' covariates. This metric is more appealing than evaluating the discrepancy between the groups using their marginal covariate distributions. Using numerical experiments, we demonstrate the advantages of the mathematical programming methods under the new measure. In the supplementary material, we provide R codes to reproduce our study results and facilitate comparisons of different randomization procedures.
Modulation of immune responses in the central nervous system by Zika virus, West Nile virus, and dengue virus
Authors: Wu Shuhui , Zhang Ting , Qiang Weidong , Yang Yang
Published: April 2024

Arthropod‐borne viruses (arboviruses) pose significant threats to global public health by causing a spectrum of diseases ranging from mild febrile illnesses to severe neurological complications. Understanding the intricate interplay between arboviruses and the immune system within the central nervous system is crucial for developing effective strategies to combat these infections and mitigate their neurological sequelae. This review comprehensively explores the mechanisms by which arboviruses such as Zika virus, West Nile virus, and Dengue virus manipulate immune responses within the CNS, leading to diverse clinical manifestations.
Transference for loose Hamilton cycles in random 3‐uniform hypergraphs
Authors: Petrova Kalina , Trujić Miloš
Published: April 2024

A loose Hamilton cycle in a hypergraph is a cyclic sequence of edges covering all vertices in which only every two consecutive edges intersect and do so in exactly one vertex. With Dirac's theorem in mind, it is natural to ask what minimum ‐degree condition guarantees the existence of a loose Hamilton cycle in a ‐uniform hypergraph. For and each , the necessary and sufficient such condition is known precisely. We show that these results adhere to a ‘transference principle’ to their sparse random analogues. The proof combines several ideas from the graph setting and relies on the absorbing method. In particular, we employ a novel approach of Kwan and Ferber for finding absorbers in subgraphs of sparse hypergraphs via a contraction procedure. In the case of , our findings are asymptotically optimal.