bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identifying causal mechanisms of unexpected policy change: Accumulated punctuation in the field of lobbying transparency in Germany
Authors: Schiffers Maximilian , Plümer Sandra
Published: February 2024

Recent trends toward mechanistic approaches offer a new perspective in understanding policy change and stability. This paper analyzes causal mechanisms leading to unexpected policy change by using punctuated equilibrium theory. As empirical illustration, the paper presents a case study on the introduction of the German mandatory lobbying register in 2021 after a 16‐year‐long debate. Methodologically, the paper employs process tracing and qualitative content analysis to examine policy documents. We identify a combination of three mechanisms: end of a de‐thematization of the policy issue, growing dominance of the issue network favoring stricter transparency regulations, and issue validation through the accumulation of scandals. Thus, policy change results from the descend of policy actors defending the status quo while those advocating for change ascend to an influential position, and actively exploit focusing events as fertile ground for reform. The paper contributes to a refined theoretical understanding of the causal mechanisms of policy change.
Brief cognitive behavioural therapy for eating disorders symptomatology among a mixed sample of adolescents and young adults in primary care: A non‐randomised feasibility and pilot study
Authors: Hart Melissa , Hirneth Stephen , Mendelson Jane , Jenkins Laura , Pursey Kirrilly , Waller Glenn
Published: February 2024

Objective

Brief and accessible therapies for people with an eating disorder is an important health target. Ten‐session cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT‐T) is a brief treatment evaluated in people with a non‐underweight eating disorder. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and preliminary effectiveness of CBT‐T for young people in primary care.

Method

This cohort pilot study used group (adolescents vs. young adults) by time (over four time points) Generalised Linear Mixed Model analysis. Participants included 13–25‐year‐olds attending an early intervention mental health service, receiving 10 sessions of CBT‐T. Feasibility was assessed using recruitment, retention and satisfaction. Eating and other pathology measures were administered at baseline, weeks four and 10, and 12‐week follow‐up.

Results

Of the 63 commencing treatment, 38 completed 10 CBT‐T sessions (60%). Most (94%) reported high treatment satisfaction. Significant reductions in eating pathology, depression and stress were found. Age group did not yield differences in CBT‐T outcome, with large to very large effect sizes across outcome variables. Anxiety was associated with attrition.

Conclusion

This study provides preliminary support for the use of CBT‐T in primary care, across adolescence and early adulthood. Findings require replication in other clinical settings and comparison to other clinical approaches and control populations.
Electricity price forecast in wholesale markets using conformal prediction: Case study in Mexico
Authors: De la Torre Jorge , Rodriguez Leticia R. , Monteagudo Francisco E. L. , Arredondo Leonel R. , Enriquez José B.
Published: February 2024

In recent years, machine and deep learning models have attracted significant attention for electricity price forecast in global wholesale electricity markets. Yet, a predominant focus on point forecast in most parts of literature limits the practical application of these models due to the absence of uncertainty quantification. In this study, we first perform an analysis of the electricity price trends in the Mexican wholesale electricity market to determine the influence of key variables. Using independent component analysis and wavelet coherence analysis, we were able to identify primary determinants influencing locational marginal electricity prices. Subsequently, we applied four different models covering the most important algorithms proposed in the literature for electricity price forecast. Our findings revealed that the most accurate forecasting results were achieved using a deep learning‐based method with a decision tree‐based model trailing closely. Finally, we incorporate conformal prediction for uncertainty quantification by calculating the prediction intervals with a target coverage level of 95%. The conformal prediction intervals provide a more comprehensive view of the possible future scenarios, enhancing economic efficiency, risk management, and decision‐making processes. This is particularly important because of the dynamic nature of electricity markets, where prices are strongly influenced by multiple factors.
Backstepping sliding mode control of stabilized platform for fully rotary steerable drilling system based on nonlinear disturbance observer
Authors: Li Shuoyu , Wang Yuelong , Wang Degui , Chen Jia , Yang Yi
Published: February 2024

To handle the disturbances and uncertainties issue in the control of the stabilized platform toolface angle, a composite control approach based on a backstepping sliding mode control (BSMC) method with a nonlinear disturbance observer (NDO) is proposed. First, a nonlinear mathematical model of the stabilized platform is established, and the NDO is employed to observe and compensate for the external disturbance. Then, the BSMC control approach based on the nonlinear mathematical model is designed to improve the robustness of the stabilized platform control system. The asymptotic stability of the designed controller and NDO convergence are mathematically verified using the Lyapunov theory. Furthermore, to address the dead zone torque caused by mechanical friction on the stabilized platform, which could lead to instability in the toolface angle, a novel dead zone torque estimation algorithm is presented. Finally, in comparison with other advanced control methods, simulation results show the superiority and robustness of the proposed scheme under complex disturbances from the downhole environment. And drilling simulation experiment results are provided to validate the robustness and adaptivity of the proposed method.
Support vector machine based fault detection in inverter‐fed electric vehicle
Authors: Mestha Soumya Rani , Prabhu Nagesh
Published: February 2024

Inverters play a prominent role in the power train system of electric vehicles (EVs). Devices in EV connected power system are threatened by faults due to the continuous working and varying speed range of motors in EVs. Hence, in the EV connected application, the detection of fault is essential since it secures the system from severe damage and dangerous operating conditions. This paper deals with fault detection in inverter‐fed EV using a dual‐tree complex wavelet transform (DTCWT) based squeeze net (SN) and optimized support vector machine (SVM). Due to the simple structure and high power density, most EV models on the market are equipped with induction motors. In the proposed work, the voltage, current, and speed signals are measured at different faulty conditions, and then the features are extracted through the DTCWT‐based SN. Extracted data are processed and classified through the sucker‐vulture optimization algorithm (SVOA) based SVM. In the proposed SVOA, the exploration phase of remora optimization algorithm is used for the exploitation phase of African vulture optimization algorithm (AVOA). Thus, the convergence speed of AVOA is improved. The proposed method is implemented in MATLAB/SIMULINK, and the results are used for different scenarios. The accuracy and F1‐score for the proposed methodology are attained as 99.92441% and 99.92441%. From the obtained results, it is clear that the proposed DTCWT‐based SN effectively detects the faults in the inverter.
Exploring hydrogen storage capabilities of boron nitride nanoring through density functional theory
Authors: Ahmed Qazi Muhammad , Sultan Adil , Abrar Ayesha , Arshad Farrah , Shahzad Nasir , Ayub Khurshid , Jadoon Tabish , Ullah Faizan
Published: February 2024

This study presents Density Functional Theory (DFT) investigation into the hydrogen storage capabilities of B6N6 nanoring. Utilizing the ωB97XD functional and def2TZVP basis set, this research explores the geometric, energetic, and electronic properties of the B6N6 nanoring, highlighting its potential as an efficient material for hydrogen storage. In‐depth analyses of the HOMO‐LUMO electronic density, Natural Bond Orbital (NBO) charge, Non‐Covalent Interactions (NCI), and Density of States (DOS) are conducted to understand the electronic structure changes during hydrogen adsorption. Furthermore, the desorption temperatures of hydrogen from the B6N6 nanoring, as calculated through the Van't Hoff equation, fall within a range considerably higher than the critical point of hydrogen. This finding indicates the practical feasibility of the B6N6 nanoring in hydrogen storage applications. Notably, the hydrogen storage capacity, measured in terms of gravimetric density, shows a significant increase with the addition of hydrogen molecules, reaching a maximum of 9.77% for 8H2 adsorbed on B6N6. Overall, this study underscores the B6N6 nanoring as a promising candidate for addressing the current challenges in hydrogen storage, particularly in terms of capacity, stability, and operational temperature.
Gum tragacanth, a novel edible coating, maintains biochemical quality, antioxidant capacity, and storage life in bell pepper fruits
Authors: Zare‐Bavani Mohammad Reza , Rahmati‐Joneidabad Mostafa , Jooyandeh Hossein
Published: February 2024

Bell pepper fruits (Capsicum annuum L.) are prone to both physiological and pathological deterioration following harvest, primarily due to their high metabolic activity and water content. The storage of bell peppers presents several challenges, including weight loss, softening, alterations in fruit metabolites and color, increased decay, and a decline in marketability. The application of edible coatings (ECs) is one of the environmentally friendly technologies that improves many post‐harvest quantitative and qualitative characteristics of products. This research investigated the impact of different levels of gum tragacanth (GT) coating (0, 0.25, 0.5, 1, and 2%) on the physiological and biochemical traits of stored bell pepper fruits (BPFs) (8 ± 1°C, 90–95% RH) for 28 days. The results showed the positive effect of coating treatments with higher concentrations of GT, up to 1%. Increasing the concentration of GT to 2% decreased the marketability and quality characteristics of fruits compared to 1% GT. After storage, the physiological weight loss of the fruits treated with 1% GT (10.46%) was lower than that of the uncoated fruits (18.92%). Furthermore, the coated fruits (1% GT) had more firmness, total phenol content, ascorbic acid, and titratable acidity content than uncoated fruits during storage. At the end of storage, the coated BPFs with 1% GT showed higher SOD (97.02 U g−1), CAT (24.38 U g−1) and POD (0.11 U g−1) activities and antioxidant capacity (81.74%) as compared to other treatments. Total soluble solids, total carbohydrates, total carotenoids, pH, malondialdehyde, and electrolyte leakage content increased in coated fruit during storage but were significantly lower than in uncoated fruits. Moreover, the samples coated with GT (1%) maintained good marketability (about 75%), while the marketability of the control (about 40%) was unacceptable. The study shows that GT (1%) coating can be a promising novel treatment option for increasing the storage quality of BPFs.
Post‐surgical readmission risk factors in otolaryngology/head and neck surgery
Authors: Kwon Jane , Farquhar Douglas , Tasoulas Jason , Hackman Trevor G.
Published: February 2024

Background

Otolaryngology patients are a high‐readmission‐risk group due to the complexity of surgeries, significant alterations to speech and swallowing functions, and high postoperative complications risk.

Methods

A retrospective review was performed on patients who underwent otolaryngologic surgery at a single‐academic‐institution between March 2019 and February 2020.

Results

Among 365 discharges, 21 patients had unplanned readmissions within 30 days. On univariable analysis, acute myocardial infarction, number of total comorbidities, prior chemotherapy/radiation, active smoking, airway surgery, and enteral feeding, and on multivariable analysis, prior chemotherapy/radiation and active smoking were identified as significant readmission risk factors. Readmission risk increased from 2.43% to 7.48% and 41.67% with the addition of each risk factor.

Conclusion

Nearly 75% of the readmissions were due to potentially preventable reasons. By identifying and proactively intervening on “at risk” patients during the perioperative timeframe, complications and readmission can be reduced, thereby improving the overall quality of care delivered.
Antibody targeting of surface P‐selectin glycoprotein ligand 1 leads to lymphoma apoptosis and tumorigenesis inhibition
Authors: Pereira João L. , Ferreira Francisca , dos Santos Nuno R.
Published: February 2024

Lymphomas are a heterogeneous group of diseases that originate from T, B or natural killer cells. Lymphoma treatment is based on chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and monoclonal antibody (mAb) or other immunotherapies. The P‐selectin glycoprotein ligand 1 (PSGL‐1) is expressed at the surface of hematological malignant cells and has been shown to have a pro‐oncogenic role in multiple myeloma and lymphoma. Here, we investigated the expression and therapeutic potential of PSGL‐1 in T and B cell lymphomas. By flow cytometry analysis, we found that PSGL‐1 was expressed in both T and B cell‐derived lymphoma cell lines but generally at higher levels in T cell lymphoma cell lines. For most T and B cell‐derived lymphoma cell lines, in vitro targeting with the PL1 mAb, which recognizes the PSGL‐1 N‐terminal extracellular region and blocks functional interactions with selectins, resulted in reduced cell viability. The PL1 mAb pro‐apoptotic activity was shown to be dose‐dependent, to be linked to increased ERK kinase phosphorylation, and to be dependent on the MAP kinase signaling pathway. Importantly, anti‐PSGL‐1 treatment of mice xenografted with the HUT‐78 cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma cell line resulted in decreased tumor growth, had no effect on in vivo proliferation, but increased the levels of apoptosis in tumors. Anti‐PSGL‐1 treatment of mice xenografted with a Burkitt lymphoma cell line that was resistant to anti‐PSGL‐1 treatment in vitro, had no impact on tumorigenesis. These findings show that PSGL‐1 antibody targeting triggers lymphoma cell apoptosis and substantiates PSGL‐1 as a potential target for lymphoma therapy.
HMGB1 regulates Th17 cell differentiation and function in patients with psoriasis
Authors: Zhu Xiaofeng , Dou Yue , Lin Yawen , Chu Gaoping , Wang Jing , Ma Lei
Published: February 2024

Background

Psoriasis is an immune‐mediated chronic inflammatory skin disease, in which T helper 17 (Th17) cells and its effective cytokine interleukin (IL)‐17A play a pivotal pathogenic role. High mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) is an important proinflammatory cytokine, which has been confirmed to be highly expressed in the peripheral circulation and epidermis tissues of psoriasis patients. The regulatory effect of HMGB1 on IL‐17A expression and function has been reported in some inflammatory and autoimmune diseases by the HMGB1‐Toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4)‐interleukin (IL)‐23‐IL‐17A pathway. While, in the pathological environment of psoriasis, whether HMGB1 can exert the regulatory effect on IL‐17A is not clear.

Objective

We aimed to evaluate the role of HMGB1‐TLR4‐IL‐23‐IL‐17A pathway in the pathogenesis of psoriasis and explore the possible regulatory mechanism of HMGB1 on Th17 cell differentiation.

Methods

Serum levels of HMGB1, TLR4, IL‐23, and IL‐17A were quantified in 50 patients with moderate‐to‐severe plaque psoriasis and 30 healthy controls. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells  were acquired from 10 severe psoriasis patients and administrated by different concentrations of recombinant‐HMGB1 (rHMGB1) to detect the Th17 cell percentage, mRNA and protein levels of TLR4, IL‐23, IL‐17A and retinoid‐related orphan receptor γt (RORγt).

Results

The serum levels of HMGB1, TLR4, IL‐23, and IL‐17A in psoriasis patients were significantly higher than healthy controls, especially in severe patients, and positively correlated with the severity index. There were also positive correlations between every two detected indicators of HMGB1, TLR4, IL‐23, and IL‐17A. In vitro study, rHMGB1 can promote the elevated expression of Th17 cell percentage as well as TLR4, IL‐23, IL‐17A, and RORγt in a dose‐dependent manner.

Conclusion

HMGB1 can contribute to the pathogenesis of psoriasis by regulating Th17 cell differentiation through HMGB1‐TLR4‐IL‐23‐RORγt pathway, then promotes IL‐17A production and aggravates inflammation process. Targeting HMGB1 may be a possible potential candidate for the immunotherapy of psoriasis.
Impaired hemodynamics of the patella in patients with patellofemoral pain: A case–control study
Authors: Ophey Martin J. , Westerweel Anne , van Oort Maxime , van den Berg Robert , Kerkhoffs Gino M. M. J. , Tak Igor J. R.
Published: February 2024

Purpose

According to the homeostasis model, patellofemoral pain (PFP) arises as a consequence of disturbed homeostasis of anterior structures of the knee due to vascular insufficiency. Near‐infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) allows to measure changes of concentrations (µmol/cm2) of (de)‐oxygenated hemoglobine (HHb and O2Hb). The aim was to study differences in patellar hemodynamics between patients and healthy controls.

Methods

Hemodynamics of patients (n = 30 [female = 20, age = 21.5, BMI = 22.9]) and controls (n = 30 (female = 18, age = 21.4, BMI = 22.4]) were evaluated for two activities (‘Prolonged Sitting’ and ‘Stair Descent’). Blinding for health status was implemented.

Results

During ‘Prolonged Sitting’, PFP patients exhibited smaller decreases in mean changes for HHb (PFP [M = −1.5 to −1.9], healthy controls [M = −2.0 to −2.3]) and O2Hb (PFP [M = −2.0 to −3.2], healthy controls [M = −3.4 to −4.1]). However, these differences were statistically non‐significant (p = 0.14–0.82 and p = 0.056–0.18, respectively). Conversely, for ‘Stair Descent’, PFP patients showed statistically significant smaller decreases in mean changes for HHb (PFP [M = −1.9, SD = 1.8], healthy controls [M = −2.5, SD = 1.7], p = 0.043) and O2Hb (PFP [M = −3.2, SD = 3.2], healthy controls [M = −4.9, SD = 2.7], p = 0.004).

Conclusions

The differences suggest potential impairment in patellar hemodynamics in PFP patients, providing support for the homeostasis model. Evidence‐based treatment strategies targeting patellar hemodynamics should be further refined and subjected to evaluation in clinical trials.

Level of Evidence

Level III.
MRI Diagnosis of Coronary Artery Lesions in Children With Kawasaki Disease and Their Correlation With Inflammatory Factors
Authors: Liang Juan , Ma Yurong , Han Na , Ai Kai , Zhang Hui , Zhang Jing
Published: February 2024

Background

Ultrasonography (US), as a routine examination for evaluating coronary artery lesions (CAL) in children with Kawasaki disease (KD), has strong subjectivity and limitations. Non‐contrast enhanced coronary magnetic resonance angiography (NCE‐CMRA) is sensitive and reliable in displaying the segments of coronary arteries (CA).

Purpose

To evaluate the CA using NCE‐CMRA, to compare NCE‐CMRA with US, and to assess the correlation between KD‐related inflammatory factors and the occurrence of CAL.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

61 children with KD who had undergone NCE‐CMRA. Ultimately, 52 cases were included (32 males and 20 females), with an average of 5.9 ± 0.3 years old.

Field Strength/Sequence

3‐T, 3D balanced turbo field echo sequence.

Assessment

NCE‐CMRA and US coronary visualization rates were compared in 41 children who were imaged with both techniques. Inflammatory factors were compared between CAL and normal coronary artery (NCA) subgroups. In the CAL group, correlations of these inflammatory factors with CAL parameters were investigated.

Statistical Tests

Comparison between groups was performed by the two independent samples t‐test; the comparison of enumeration data between groups was performed by chi‐square test. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was performed to determine the sensitivity of inflammatory factors for detecting CAL. The correlation between CAL and inflammatory indexes was analyzed by multiple linear regression. A P value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

NCE‐CMRA visualized significantly more segments than US (76% vs. 46%). There were significant differences in PLT, CRP, ESR, and D‐dimer between the CAL and NCA groups. ROC curve analysis showed that the sensitivities of these four indicators in diagnosing CAL were 39%, 44%, 72%, and 61%, respectively, at cut‐off points of 562.5 × 109/L, 48.93 mg/L, 45.5 mm/h, and 0.5 mg/L, respectively.

Data Conclusion

The combination of NCE‐CMRA and inflammatory factors is helpful for the early diagnosis and disease severity of CAL in children with KD.

Level of Evidence

3

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2
Effects of low‐frequency magnetic field on solubility, structural and functional properties of soy 11S globulin
Authors: Kang Zhuang‐Li , Yao Peng‐Lei , Xie Jing‐jie , Li Yan‐ping , Ma Han‐Jun
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Soy 11S globulin has high thermal stability, limiting its application in the production of low‐temperature gel foods. In this study, the low‐frequency magnetic field (LF‐MF, 5 mT) treatment (time, 30, 60, 90, and 120 min) was used to improve the solubility, conformation, physicochemical properties, surface characteristics, and gel properties of soy 11S globulin.

RESULTS

Compared with the native soy 11S globulin, the sulfhydryl content, emulsifying capacity, gel strength, water‐holding capacity, and absolute zeta potential values significantly increased (P < 0.05) after LF‐MF treatment. The LF‐MF treatment induced the unfolding of the protein structure and the fracture of disulfide bonds. The variations in solubility, foaming properties, viscosity, surface hydrophobicity, and rheological properties were closely related to the conformational changes of soy 11S globulin, with the optimum LF‐MF modification time being 90 min.

CONCLUSION

LF‐MF treatment is an effective method to improve various functional properties of native soy 11S globulin, and this study provides a reference for the development of plant‐based proteins in the food industry. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Skin cancers and their precursors in Finnish liver transplantation recipients: A follow‐up study
Authors: Mäkilä Tuomas , Keinonen Anne , Mäkisalo Heikki , Koskenmies Sari
Published: February 2024

Background

The incidence of skin cancers in transplant recipients is known to have increased compared to the general population. Risk factors include age at the time of transplantation, duration and dose of immunosuppressive medication. Research data on the incidence of skin cancer precursors in transplant recipients is limited.

Objectives

We aimed to investigate the incidence of skin cancers and their precursors and the factors influencing their development in Finnish liver transplant recipients.

Methods

We recruited 140 volunteers who were over 18 years old at the time of the study and had been transplanted at least 5 years before. Patients were examined by a dermatologist between 2012 and 2016 and, if necessary, followed up based on cutaneous findings. All patients in the study were followed up until May 2021 or until the death of the patient, based on medical records.

Results

The study found an increased incidence of nonmelanoma skin cancers (NMSCs), especially of squamous cell carcinoma, in liver transplantation (LT) recipients compared to the general Finnish population (squamous cell carcinoma SIR 21.2, basal cell carcinoma SIR 7.6). Precursors of squamous cell carcinoma were found in 43 patients (30.7%) after transplantation. The study found no statistically significant difference between the drugs used for immunosuppression.

Conclusions

Our data showed an increased risk of NMSCs in LT recipients. After LT, patients are at significant risk of SCC and its precursors may be found even in almost third of patients in 17.5 years follow‐up. Given this information, it is considered important to monitor LTRs with adequate frequency to treat precursors as early as possible before the development of SCC.
Oral Sucrose in Infants Undergoing Flexible Nasolaryngoscopy: A Blinded Randomized Pilot Study
Authors: Wolter Nikolaus E. , Tepsich Meghan E. , Daien Ellie S. , Levinsky Justin T. , Vanderpost Mary‐Elizabeth , Propst Evan J. , Siu Jennifer M.
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Flexible nasolaryngoscopy (FNL) is a common, uncomfortable procedure performed to assess the upper airway in infants. Oral sucrose is used during various painful procedures in infants but has not been used during FNL. Our objective was to understand the impact of oral sucrose on discomfort in infants undergoing FNL.

Methods

Infants (<12‐months‐old) undergoing FNL in the otolaryngology clinic were randomized to treatment (0.5 mL 24% oral sucrose) or standard management (no sucrose). Sucrose was administered <2 min prior to FNL performed by a single endoscopist. Outcome measures included: EVENDOL pain scale and cry duration and visit duration. Infant discomfort was measured by a second observer who was blinded to treatment group.

Results

Forty‐seven infants were included, 23 were treated with sucrose and 24 with standard management. The median (IQR) age was 3.0 (2–5.7) months. There were no significant differences in age, weight, or sex across groups. The median (IQR) duration of FNL was 35.2 (26.5–58.4) and 36.4 (28.9–51.8) seconds for treatment and standard management groups, respectively. Mean (SD) EVENDOL scores were significantly lower in the sucrose group [4.9 (2.0)] than standard group (6.7 [2.1]) (p = 0.003). Mean cry duration after FNL was significantly shorter in the sucrose group (29.9 [20.4] seconds) than the standard group (52.7.0 [40.6] seconds) (p = 0.02). Median (IQR) visit duration did not differ across groups (1.1 [0.9–1.3] vs. 1.1 [0.7–1.4] h [p = 0.15]).

Conclusion

Oral sucrose given before FNL reduced EVENDOL scores and cry duration after FNL and did not prolong clinic visits in this randomized pilot study.

Level of Evidence

2 Laryngoscope, 134:3826–3831, 2024
Energy behavior for Sobolev solutions to viscoelastic damped wave models with time‐dependent oscillating coefficient
Authors: Lu Xiaojun
Published: February 2024

In this work, we study the asymptotic behavior of the structurally damped wave equations arising from the viscoelastic mechanics. We are particularly interested in the complicated interaction of the time‐dependent oscillating coefficients on the Dirichlet Laplacian operator and the structurally damped terms. On the one hand, by the application of WKB analysis, we explore the asymptotic energy estimates of the wave equations influenced by four types of oscillating mechanisms. On the other hand, in order to prove the optimality of the energy estimates for the critical cases, typical coefficients and initial Cauchy data will be constructed to show the lower bound of the energy growth rate by the application of instability arguments.
The Metivier inequality and ultradifferentiable hypoellipticity
Authors: Cordaro Paulo D. , Fürdös Stefan
Published: February 2024

In 1980, Métivier characterized the analytic (and Gevrey) hypoellipticity of ‐solvable partial linear differential operators by a priori estimates. In this note, we extend this characterization to ultradifferentiable hypoellipticity with respect to Denjoy–Carleman classes given by suitable weight sequences. We also discuss the case when the solutions can be taken as hyperfunctions and present some applications.
Will virtual influencers overcome the uncanny valley? The moderating role of social cues
Authors: Gutuleac Rada , Baima Gabriele , Rizzo Cristian , Bresciani Stefano
Published: February 2024

Companies are increasingly collaborating with virtual influencers (VIs) as endorsers for their social media campaigns, yet they often lack awareness of the risks and opportunities involved. VIs are AI‐generated, and visually presented as an interactive, real‐time animated entity in a digital environment. Grounding on the uncanny valley theory, this study investigates how the anthropomorphism of VIs influences consumer behavior. Through two experimental studies, we investigate the effect of a VI's level of anthropomorphism on consumer intentions, revealing the mediating role of uncanniness. Specifically, we find that highly anthropomorphized VIs may elicit a greater sense of uncanniness among consumers. Interestingly, the second study unveils that, in the presence of social cues, the influence of anthropomorphism on uncanniness is attenuated. From a theoretical perspective, these findings contribute to the existing literature on the uncanny valley theory and reveal the role of social cues in mitigating consumers' sense of uncanniness. Alongside this, it offers practical insights for practitioners navigating the complexities of managing VIs in digital marketing endeavors.
Effects of Structurally Different Tertiary Amines on the Properties of Quaternized Anionic Exchange Membranes Potentially Applicable for Water Electrolysis
Authors: Roggi Andrea , Agonigi Gabriele , Resta Claudio , Filpi Antonio , Martinelli Elisa , Guazzelli Elisa
Published: February 2024

In this work, two structurally different monoamines (trimethylamine [TMA] and N‐methylpiperidine [N‐MPip]) are used for the amination of a g‐VBC‐15 graft copolymer, obtained by the functionalization of a mechanically robust, commercially available styrene–butadiene block copolymer (SB) with vinylbenzyl chloride (VBC) via solution free‐radical polymerization. Results demonstrate that g‐VBC‐15‐based membranes quaternized with TMA have superior electrochemical performance than N‐MPip counterparts; while, the mechanical properties are good and only slightly inferior to those of N‐MPip. Therefore, TMA is the selected monoamine to be alternatively mixed with two polyamines (tetramethyl‐1,3‐propanediamine [TMPDA] and N,N,N’,N’’,N’’‐pentamethyldiethylenetriamine [PMDETA]) into different proportions, in order to modulate the average functionality of the amination mixture in terms of number of amine functional groups available for the quaternization reaction of the membranes. g‐VBC‐15‐based membranes derived therefrom are extensively characterized to assess their thermal, mechanical, and ex situ electrochemical properties. Results indicate that membranes quaternized with a TMA/PMDETA mixture (90:10 in mole) display the highest conductivity among all the investigated membranes aminated with polyamine‐based mixtures. Moreover, they have comparable mechanical and electrochemical properties to those quaternized with TMA, while exhibiting a reduced water uptake.
Robust sliding mode control for robot manipulators with analysis on trade‐off between reaching time and L∞ gain
Authors: Ryung Kang Oe , Kim Jung Hoon
Published: February 2024

This paper provides a new sliding mode control (SMC) approach, by which both the nominal and robust stability associated with a trajectory tracking problem for an uncertain robot manipulator are achieved. More precisely, the new control law consists of linear and nonlinear functions of tracking errors, in which the former is for the nominal stability and the latter is to ensure the robust stability of the resulting closed‐loop systems. The nonlinear function can be interpreted as an extended version of conventional SMC approach, and the reaching phase corresponding to a pregiven sliding surface is shown to be completed in a finite time; the tracking errors arrive at the sliding surface in a finite time and do not deviate from it after the arrival. In the sliding phase, the tracking errors are also ensured to converge to the origin. Finally, some simulation results are given to demonstrate both the theoretical validity and practical effectiveness of the proposed control approach.
Classification of quasi‐product production models with minimal isoquants
Authors: Neacşu Crina Daniela , Bin Turki Nasser , Vîlcu Gabriel‐Eduard
Published: February 2024

The study of the minimality of (hyper)surfaces is a fundamental problem in mathematics with major applications in both fundamental and applied sciences. Recently, the minimality of production models in microeconomics has been investigated by several authors who obtained important classification results for quasi‐sum and quasi‐product production functions with two and three inputs. In the present work, we deal with the minimality of isoquants of production functions with arbitrary number of inputs, this being a key concept used in making the best decision for optimizing the production costs. In the main result of the article, we give the complete classification of quasi‐product production functions whose isoquants are minimal, showing that there are exactly nine production models with such a property. Among them, we can identify a particular classic model already widely used in economic analysis (viz., a Cobb–Douglas model with unit output elasticities with respect to some production factors) and various production models completely unknown until now and which will open new opportunities for applied research in the field of mathematical economics.
Methyl α‐D‐galactopyranosyl‐(1→3)‐β‐D‐galactopyranoside and methyl β‐D‐galactopyranosyl‐(1→3)‐β‐D‐galactopyranoside: Glycosidic linkage conformation determined from MA'AT analysis
Authors: Meredith Reagan , Zhu Yuping , Yoon Mi‐Kyung , Tetrault Timothy , Lin Jieye , Zhang Wenhui , McGurn Margaret , Cook Evan , Popp Reed , Shit Pradip , Carmichael Ian , Serianni Anthony S.
Published: February 2024

MA'AT analysis has been applied to two biologically‐important O‐glycosidic linkages in two disaccharides, α‐D‐Galp‐(1→3)‐β‐D‐GalpOMe (3) and β‐D‐Galp‐(1→3)‐β‐D‐GalpOMe (4). Using density functional theory (DFT) to obtain parameterized equations relating a group of trans‐O‐glycosidic NMR spin‐couplings to either phi (ϕ') or psi (ψ'), and experimental 3JCOCH, 2JCOC, and 3JCOCC spin‐couplings measured in aqueous solution in 13C‐labeled isotopomers, probability distributions of ϕ' and ψ' in each linkage were determined and compared to those determined by aqueous 1‐μs molecular dynamics (MD) simulation. Good agreement was found between the MA'AT and single‐state MD conformational models of these linkages for the most part, with modest (approximately <15°) differences in the mean values of ϕ' and ψ', although the envelope of allowed angles (encoded in circular standard deviations or CSDs) is consistently larger for ϕ' determined from MA'AT analysis than from MD for both linkages. The MA'AT model of the α‐Galp‐(1→3)‐β‐Galp linkage agrees well with those determined previously using conventional NMR methods (3JCOCH values and/or 1H‐1H NOEs), but some discrepancy was observed for the β‐Galp‐(1→3)‐β‐Galp linkage, which may arise from errors in the conventions used to describe the linkage torsion angles. Statistical analyses of X‐ray crystal structures show ranges of ϕ' and ψ' for both linkages that include the mean angles determined from MA'AT analyses, although both angles adopt a wide range of values in the crystalline state, with ϕ' in β‐Galp‐(1→3)‐β‐Galp linkages showing greater‐than‐expected conformational variability.
Enhancing targeted cancer therapy through multiple drug delivery by silk peptide nanoparticles
Authors: He Zi‐Hao , Qi Li‐Jin , He Xiao‐Yan , Han Di , Liao Xin‐Ru , Cheng Si‐Xue
Published: February 2024

Targeted therapy drugs exert an essential role in precision therapy in cancer treatments. However, their therapeutic efficiency is greatly limited by the poor water solubility and low bioavailability. Herein, by using an epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) targeted drug, erlotinib (ERL), as a representative of targeted therapy drugs, we demonstrate silk peptide (SP) extracted from silkworm cocoons can be used as a drug carrier to co‐load curcumin (CUR) and ERL to achieve dramatically improved antitumor therapeutic efficiency. The dual‐drug loaded nanoparticles (CUR/ERL@SP) with a mean size within 150 nm show significantly enhanced cell internalization, and thus induce more effective inhibition of cancer cell growth. As compared with free drugs, CUR/ERL@SP can more efficiently downregulate the expression of EGFR and other proteins promoting tumor invasion, immunosuppression and cell fusion in EGFR mutant PC‐9 lung cancer cells. The evaluation by using the circulating malignant cells (CMCs) from a lung cancer patient further confirms that CUR/ERL@SP can more effectively inhibit EGFR expression. This study provides a convenient strategy to enhance the therapeutic efficacy of targeted therapy drugs and a facile ex vivo method for evaluating treatment outcomes in personalized therapy.
A multiscale preconditioner for crack evolution in porous microstructures: Accelerating phase‐field methods
Authors: Li Kangan , Mehmani Yashar
Published: February 2024

Phase‐field methods are attractive for simulating the mechanical failure of geometrically complex porous microstructures described by 2D/3D x‐ray CT images in subsurface (e.g., CO storage) and manufacturing (e.g., Li‐ion battery) applications. They capture the nucleation, growth, and branching of fractures without prior knowledge of the propagation path or having to remesh the domain. Their drawback lies in the high computational cost for the typical domain sizes encountered in practice. We present a multiscale preconditioner that significantly accelerates the convergence of Krylov solvers in computing solutions of linear(ized) systems arising from the sequential discretization of the momentum and crack‐evolution equations in phase‐field methods. The preconditioner is an algebraic reformulation of a recent pore‐level multiscale method (PLMM) by the authors and consists of a global preconditioner and a local smoother . Together, and attenuate low‐ and high‐frequency errors simultaneously. The proposed , used in the momentum equation only, is a simplification of a recent variant proposed by the authors that is much cheaper and easier to deploy in existing solvers. The smoother , used in both the momentum and crack‐evolution equations, is built such that it is compatible with and more robust and efficient than black‐box smoothers like ILU(). We test and systematically for static‐ and evolving‐crack problems on complex 2D/3D porous microstructures, and show that they outperform existing algebraic multigrid solvers. We also probe different strategies for updating as cracks evolve and show the associated cost can be minimized if is updated adaptively and infrequently. Both and are scalable on parallel machines and can be implemented non‐intrusively in existing codes.
Click SP/AP Area Ratio Vesrus Tone Burst SP Amplitude to Diagnose Ménière's Disease Using Electrocochleography
Authors: Bawazeer Naif , Gagnon Carolanne , Maheu Maxime , Saliba Issam
Published: February 2024

Objectives

To evaluate the sensitivity and the specificity of summating potential (SP)/action potential (AP) area under the curve (AUC) ratio by a transtympanic electrode and a click stimulus (TT‐CS), SP/AP AUC ratio by an extratympanic electrode and a click stimulus (ET‐CS) and SP amplitude value by a transtympanic electrode and tone burst stimulus (TT‐TBS) in regard of Ménière's disease (MD) diagnosis. This is the first study that compares SP amplitude value performed by a TT‐TBS and the SP/AP AUC ratio performed by a TT‐CS.

Study Design

Retrospective comparative study.

Settings

Ninety‐five patients met the inclusion criteria for electrocochleography (ECochG) testing in a tertiary care center.

Methods

The sensitivity and specificity of our different ECochG protocols were calculated in regard of the diagnosis of MD.

Results

The patients' mean age was 54 years old (female predominance). The sensitivity and the specificity of SP/AP area ratio by a TT‐CS were 88.5% and 70.0%, respectively. On the other hand, the sensitivity and specificity for the SP amplitude value by a TT‐TBS were 60.0% and 55.6%, respectively. SP/AP area ratio by TT‐CS was statistically better than SP amplitude value by TT‐TBS to detect MD disease (P = .016). However, no difference was identified between SP/AP area ratio by ET‐CS and SP amplitude value by a TT‐TBS (P = .573).

Conclusion

SP/AP area ratio by click stimulation has higher sensitivity and specificity to detect MD compared to SP amplitude value by tone burst stimulation. ECochG would be extremely useful in the diagnosis of MD if we use the SP/AP area ratio (sensitivity: 88.5%); therefore, it changes the bad reputation of ECochG sensitivity using SP/AP amplitude ratio (sensitivity: 51.7%) for the diagnosis of MD.
Racial Disparities in Surgical Management For Early‐Stage Laryngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma and Recurrent Dysplasia
Authors: Cyberski Thomas F. , Wang Alexander Z. , Baird Brandon J.
Published: February 2024

Objective

The aim of this study is to evaluate the association between race and the treatment of laryngeal dysplasia and early‐stage laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC).

Study design

Retrospective Cohort Study.

Setting

Large multispecialty academic medical center.

Methods

Patients were treated for laryngeal dysplasia or LSCC between September 2019 and September 2022. A retrospective chart review was conducted to collect demographic and clinical information. Two‐sample t tests, chi‐square tests, and linear regression models were used to compare characteristics (α = 0.05). Analyses were performed in STATA 17.

Results

Sixty‐five patients were identified that underwent potassium titanyl phosphate (KTP) transoral laser microsurgery for management of early‐stage LSCC (n = 29) or dysplasia (n = 36). The cohort consisted of 23 Black and 42 White patients. No significant difference was found in age, alcohol or tobacco use, rate of adjuvant radiotherapy, stage of disease, nor insurance status between the 2 groups. White patients underwent more procedures to address initial disease and subsequent recurrent dysplasia on average than Black patients (2.52 vs 1.52, P = .02). This remained true after adjusting for demographic and clinical characteristics and insurance status in a linear regression model. While Black patients were more likely to be lost to follow‐up than White patients (30.4% vs 9.5%, P = .03), the average number of procedures between the groups still differed significantly (2.63 vs 1.56, P = .04) when controlling for those lost to follow‐up.

Conclusion

The findings presented here highlight potential inequities that exist for racial minorities at early stages of treatment and in addressing premalignant conditions, which may contribute to the known downstream disparities in laryngeal cancer outcomes.
Impact of ambient and vacuum pressure on the physico mechanical properties of flexible polyurethane foam reinforced withCaCO3
Authors: Singh Vratika , Gopalasamudram Mahesh N. , Maitra Jaya
Published: February 2024

This study investigates the effects of variable pressure conditions (550 and 1013 mbar) on the physico‐mechanical and structural properties of flexible polyurethane foam, incorporating different compositions of calcium carbonate (CaCO3) filler. The objective is to achieve sustained mechanical and structural properties of flexible polyurethane foam while reducing costs through variable pressure foaming technology. With CaCO3filler concentrations ranging from 20 to 100 parts per hundred (pphp) of polyol, it was found that foam produced at low pressure (550 mbar) demonstrated improved resilience and durability, particularly with CaCO3compositions up to 100 pphp. Conversely, foam produced at standard atmospheric pressure (1013 mbar) using compositions up to 100 pphp did not exhibit significant enhancements in physico‐mechanical properties. The study employs various characterization techniques, including mechanical testing, scanning electron microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, thermal gravimetric analysis, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopic analysis, to assess the flexible polyurethane foam. It provides a detailed examination of the effects of variable pressure on cellular structure, cell size, filler distributions, mechanical properties, and thermal stability of flexible polyurethane foam using CaCO3filler.
Overview of the challenges and current solutions in organic and hybrid coatings for historical monuments and architecture
Authors: Sims Cory B , Furgal Joseph C
Published: February 2024

Mankind has erected monoliths and stone structures for millennia to ensure stories and culture are passed on to future generations. In the modern era, monuments and architecture are designed with the intention of lasting several decades to hundreds of years and may utilize an arrangement of natural and synthetic materials. Choice of substrate helps ensure the longevity of these structures, but coatings are utilized to provide additional characteristics and subsequent protection to the finished product. Protective coatings come in a variety of base materials and are utilized to address specific degradation concerns. Advances in this field focus on protection of the surface while preventing any unintended damage to the substrate. This mini review summarizes the advances in protective coatings useful for historical monuments and architecture up to January 2024. © 2024 The Authors. Polymer International published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Industrial Chemistry.
Predictors of improvement in community adolescents with chronic neck pain: A secondary analysis using different improvement criteria
Authors: Andias Rosa , Rodrigues Mário , Silva Anabela G.
Published: February 2024

Background

Interventions based on pain neuroscience education and exercise have emerged as effective in the management of chronic neck pain in adolescents. No studies have explored factors that might be associated with recovery in adolescents with neck pain.

Objective

To explore predictors of improvement after an intervention based on exercise and pain neuroscience education.

Design

Secondary analysis of a randomized trial.

Setting

Community.

Participants

127 community adolescents with neck pain.

Interventions

Blended‐learning intervention based on exercise and pain neuroscience education.

Main Outcome Measures

A set of variables including sociodemographic data, pain characteristics, physical activity, disability, sleep, catastrophizing, fear of movement, self‐efficacy, symptoms of central sensitization, knowledge of pain neuroscience, pressure pain thresholds, and neck muscles endurance were used to predict a clinical response at 1 week after intervention and at 6‐month follow‐up.

Results

Different predictors of improvement and non‐improvement to intervention were found, but common predictors were not found for all the improvement criteria explored and time points.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that using different criteria to characterize adolescents with neck pain as improved and non‐improved after pain neuroscience education and exercise have an effect on the variables associated with a response to the intervention.