bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamic evaluation of job search assistance
Authors: Kastoryano Stephen , van der Klaauw Bas
Published: August 2021

This paper evaluates a job search assistance program for unemployed teachers where the assignment to the program is dynamic. We discuss the methodology of estimating dynamic treatment effects and identification conditions. In the empirical analysis, we use administrative data from a unique institutional environment in which we observe all variables determining assignment to the job search assistance program. This allows us to compare results from a dynamic discrete‐time evaluation model and a continuous‐time duration model. All approaches show that participation in the job search assistance program reduces exit rates from unemployment, in particular when starting the program early during the spell of unemployment. The discrete‐time approach makes less strict parametric assumptions, but the results are sensitive to the choice of control group and the unit of time.
Hybrid interpenetrating hydrogel network favoring the bidirectional migration of tenocytes for rotator cuff tendon regeneration
Authors: Thankam Finosh G. , Diaz Connor , Chandra Isaiah , Link Josh , Newton Joseph , Dilisio Matthew F. , Agrawal Devendra K.
Published: August 2021

Replenishment of tenocytes to the injury site is an ideal strategy to improve healing response and accelerate the tendon ECM regeneration. The present study focused on the synthesis and characterization of a hybrid hydrogel scaffold system poly(propylene‐fumarate)‐alginate‐polyvinyl alcohol‐acrylic acid (PAPA) using poly(propylene‐fumarate) (PPF), alginate, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and acrylic acid and the in vitro investigation of bidirectional mobility of swine shoulder tenocytes (SST) for its potential application in rotator‐cuff tendon regeneration. IR analysis revealed the presence of alginate, PPF and PVA segments on the surface, SEM and AFM analyses revealed the porous and nano‐topographical features of PAPA, respectively, swelling was 712.6 ± 84.21% with the EWC (%) of 87.59 ± 1.26 having the diffusional exponent and swelling constant 0.551 and 1.8, respectively. PAPA was biodegradable, cytocompatible and supported long‐term survival of SSTs. SEM imaging revealed the adhesion, colonization, and sheet formation of SSTs within the PAPA hydrogel network. The SSTs seeded on the PAPA scaffolds were peculiar for their bidirectional migration as the anterograde movement was completed in 9 days whereas the retrograde infiltration occurred up to the depth of 198 μm. These findings suggest the promising translational potential of PAPA scaffold system in the management of rotator cuff tendon injury.
Novel neutrophil phenotypic signature in pediatric patients with type 1 diabetes and diabetic ketoacidosis
Authors: Nichols Blake E , Hook Jessica S , Weng Kayson , Ahn Chul , Moreland Jessica G
Published: August 2021

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is a chronic inflammatory condition sometimes complicated by acute diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). A subset of patients with T1D develop DKA independent of known risk factors. This study tested the hypothesis that circulating polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN) from children with T1D and DKA would exhibit a primed phenotype and that the signature would be unique in patients predisposed to have DKA. Using a prospective cohort study design, neutrophil phenotype was assessed in 30 patients with T1D seen in endocrinology clinic for routine care, 30 patients with acute DKA, and 36 healthy donors. Circulating PMN from patients with DKA display a primed phenotype with increased basal cell-surface CD11b, l-selectin shedding, and enhanced fMLF-elicited reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Moreover, PMN from T1D patients both with and without DKA lack the capacity to be further primed by incubation with TNF-α, a classic priming stimulus. Primed PMN phenotypic signatures demonstrated are independent of hemoglobin A1c, the premier biological marker for DKA risk, and are consistent with a hyperinflammatory state. A single nucleotide polymorphism in TLR-1 (1805G>T), known to be associated with a hyperinflammatory PMN phenotype, correlated with DKA. This study elucidated a novel phenotypic signature in circulating PMN from children with T1D with and without DKA, and suggests the possibility of a previously unrecognized PMN phenotype with potential clinical implications. Immunophenotype and genotype may be applicable as biomarkers for DKA risk stratification in patients with T1D.
PHA granule formation and degradation by Cupriavidus necator under different nutritional conditions
Authors: Nygaard Daiana , Yashchuk Oxana , Hermida Élida B.
Published: August 2021

Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) are polymers produced by microorganisms with increasing commercialization potential; Cupriavidus necator has been the model microorganism to research PHA production. Despite many contributions concerning the formation and degradation of PHA granules, as well as the morphological changes in cells, these phenomena have not been univocally explained yet. Thus, this study aims to integrate the microscopic and analytical analysis to characterize changes in bacterial cell/PHA granules morphology, PHA content, and yield coefficients under different cultivation strategies of C. necator ATCC 17697. The cell size and morphology, granule size and amount, residual biomass, and PHA concentration along the fermentation and degradation depend greatly on nutritional conditions and cultivation time of C. necator. It was proposed to calculate a yield coefficient for the residual biomass production in the PHA utilization stage, related to the bacteria's ability to survive without a carbon source in the culture medium by utilizing the accumulated PHA previously. Maximum granule length reached 1.07 µm after 72 h of PHA accumulation stage under optimum nutritional conditions. This value is twice the values previously reported for C. necator. It is important since the larger PHA granules facilitate the recovery of PHA and different application development.
Microbial community structure, co‐occurrence network and fermentation characteristics of woody plant silage
Authors: Du Zhumei , Lin Yanli , Sun Lin , Yang Fuyu , Cai Yimin
Published: August 2021

BACKGROUND

Feed shortage is a factor restricting animal production in the tropics, therefore how to use natural woody plant resources as animal feed is an important strategy.

RESULTS

Under the dual stress of an anaerobic and acidic environment, the microbial response during the fermentation of paper mulberry (PM) silage was found to be sensitive. The Gram‐negative bacteria and mould died, and the dominant microbial community rapidly shifted to Gram‐positive bacteria, resulting in a large reduction in microbial diversity and abundance. Exogenous bran additives interfered with the stress effects of the woody silage environment. Wheat bran (WB) accelerated the response of microorganisms to the anaerobic stress, and lactic acid bacteria became the dominant microbial community, thereby enhancing the lactic acid fermentation of silage, affecting the metabolic pathways of microorganisms, and improving the flavour and quality of the silage. Addition of rice bran made Enterobacter and Clostridium species quickly respond to the stress of the silage environment and become the predominant bacterial groups. In particular, anaerobic and spore‐forming Clostridium species showed a strong tolerance to the silage environment, leading to butyric acid fermentation and protein degradation of the silage, and reducing its fermentation quality.

CONCLUSION

The PacBio single‐molecule real‐time (SMRT) sequencing technology accurately revealed the microbial co‐occurrence network and fermentation mechanism of silage. Our results indicate that PM can be used in combination with WB to prepare high‐quality silage for animal production. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Separation and characterization of phenylamides fromPiper kadsurausing preparative supercritical fluid chromatography and ultra‐high‐performance supercritical fluid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Dai Zhuoshun , Jiang Dasen , Dai Yingping , Han Rongrong , Fu Qing , Jin Yu , Liang Xinmiao
Published: August 2021

A preparative supercritical fluid chromatography method for the separation ofPiper kadsuraobtained five phenylamide compounds, which had the same structural skeleton, but changed in the number and position of methoxyl substituents. To improve the separation selectivity of these structural analogues, silica, phenyl, and chiral stationary phases were screened. Only through the combination of Chiral C and phenyl columns could the separation of the five phenylamides be solved. The two‐step strategy using preparative supercritical fluid chromatography presented good orthogonality that ensured the purity of the phenylamides. Then, an ultra‐high‐performance supercritical fluid chromatography hyphened tandem mass spectrometry method was developed, and the fragmentation pattern of phenylamides was summarized. It mainly cleaved in the amide bond to produce the fragment ion, which could help to judge the substituent positions. Twenty‐eight possible molecular weights of hydroxyl and methoxyl substituted phenylamides were calculated and screened. Nine compounds were extracted in three [M + H]+ions atm/z284.13, 314.13, and 344.13, including five purified compounds and the other four positional ortrans‐cisphenylamide isomers in low content. The methods developed in this research were useful in the separation and characterization of phenylamide analogues.
Subglottic Mucosal Flap: Endoscopic Single‐Stage Reconstruction for Anterior Glottic Stenosis
Authors: Lahav Yonatan , Warman Meir , Halperin Doron , Cohen Oded , Shapira‐Galitz Yael , Shoffel‐Havakuk Hagit
Published: August 2021

Objectives/Hypothesis

Anterior glottic stenosis (AGS) results from surgical intervention, carcinoma, papillomatosis, congenital, or idiopathic causes. It may be present as elastic web or fibrotic scar. It impairs vocal function and glottic airway. Reconstructive options include resection and placement of a keel or glottic web‐based mucosal flaps to prevent restenosis. These methods may not be sufficient for reconstructing a thick anterior scar and may require multiple interventions. The aim of the study was to describe the anterior subglottic mucosal flap (ASGMF), a one‐stage, keel‐free technique for AGS repair.

Study Design

A retrospective cohort.

Methods

Patients with AGS were operated using the ASGMF between 2017 and 2020. The stenotic segment was excised, and then an ASGMF was developed. A unilateral oblique incision was performed to allow rotation and advancement of the flap toward the contralateral vocal fold. The flap was sutured to the mucosal edge of the vocal fold to create mucosal continuity and prevent restenosis. Vocal fold length ratio (VFLR), which is between the free part and the total vocal fold length, as well as stroboscopic measures, were calculated before and after surgery.

Results

Twelve patients were enrolled. Etiologies were iatrogenic, dysplasia, papillomatosis, carcinoma, and congenital. Average VFLR improved from 0.33 to 0.87 (P‐value < .0001). Median amplitude and mucosal wave propagation improved from 12.3% and 9.5% to 28.6% and 22.7%, respectively (P‐values = .0278, .0385). Phase symmetry improved from 24.5% to 60.9% (P‐value = .0413). No complications were encountered.

Conclusions

ASGMF for AGS is an effective surgical procedure, allowing for one stage, keel‐free reconstruction of the anterior commissure. ASGMF can significantly elongate the free portion of the vocal folds and improve vibratory function.

Level of Evidence

4Laryngoscope, 132:612–618, 2022
Effect of hybrid aluminum dihydrogen phosphate on the corrosion resistance of PTFE composite ceramic coatings
Authors: Wang Jianyu , Bian Da , Zhao Yongwu , Liu Yaxuan , Liu Yang
Published: August 2021

In this study, the polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) composite ceramic coatings with hybrid aluminum dihydrogen phosphate (AP) are prepared on AISI 304L stainless steel by spraying and heat curing to improve the corrosion resistance of the coatings. AP is hybridized with methyltriethoxysilane (MTES), and the structure of the hybrid AP is characterized by Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Contact angle tests, scratch tests, and electrochemical experiments are used to investigate the corrosion behavior of composite ceramic coatings. In addition, scanning electron microscopy is used to examine the microscopic morphology of the coatings after corrosion to investigate the mechanism of the hybrid AP on the corrosion resistance of the composite ceramic coatings. The findings reveal that MTES successfully hybridizes with AP and implants the –CH3 hydrophobic group in AP, which improves the hydrophobicity of composite coatings. The corrosion potential of hybrid AP coatings all move in a positive direction, and the corrosion current density is lower than that of unhybridized AP coatings. The corrosion current density of the coating is about 2.931e−008 A/cm2 when the MTES content is 5 wt%, which is 20% less than that of the unhybridized AP coating. Results indicate hybrid AP can significantly improve the corrosion resistance of PTFE composite ceramic coatings with the best corrosion resistance occurring when the content of MTES is 5 wt%.
Living with restrictions: The duration of restrictions influences construal levels
Authors: Sarial‐Abi Gülen , Ulqinaku Aulona , Mokarram‐Dorri Sadaf
Published: August 2021

Many people live with restrictions in their daily lives. Overlooked in past research is how individuals who experience restrictions construe information. We propose that individuals with temporary (permanent) restrictions adopt a more concrete (abstract) level of construal. Theoretically, perceptions of loss of control explain the construal level of consumers with temporary (vs. permanent) restrictions. We tested our hypotheses in a series of four quasi‐experiment studies both in the field and online, including samples of individuals with diabetes and celiac disease. The results show that individuals who experience temporary (permanent) restrictions adopt more concrete (abstract) levels of construal, which results in their preference for products that communicate brand (category) attributes and shelves that contain only restriction‐related (mixture of restriction‐ and no restriction‐related) products. These findings extend developments in the literature on restrictions and construal level theory by showing the effects of duration of restrictions on individuals’ mindset and generate actionable implications for marketers and policymakers.
Vertical structure of the bacterial diversity in meromictic Fayetteville Green Lake
Authors: Block Kaleigh R. , O'Brien Joy M. , Edwards William J. , Marnocha Cassandra L.
Published: August 2021

The permanently stratified water columns in euxinic meromictic lakes produce niche environments for phototrophic sulfur oxidizers and diverse sulfur metabolisms. While Green Lake (Fayetteville, New York, NY) is known to host a diverse community of ecologically important sulfur bacteria, analyses of its microbial communities, to date, have been largely based on pigment analysis and smaller datasets from Sanger sequencing techniques. Here, we present the results of next‐generation sequencing of the eubacterial community in the context of the water column geochemistry. We observed abundant purple and green sulfur bacteria, as well as anoxygenic photosynthesis‐capable cyanobacteria within the upper monimolimnion. Amidst the phototrophs, we found other sulfur‐cycling bacteria including sulfur disproportionators and chemotrophic sulfur oxidizers, further detailing our understanding of the sulfur cycle and microbial ecology of euxinic, meromictic lakes.
Variants of ATP1A3 in residue 756 cause a separate phenotype of relapsing encephalopathy with cerebellar ataxia (RECA)—Report of two cases and literature review
Authors: Biela Mateusz , Rydzanicz Malgorzata , Szymanska Krystyna , Pieniawska‐Smiech Karolina , Lewandowicz‐Uszynska Aleksandra , Chruszcz Joanna , Benben Lucyna , Kuzior‐Plawiak Malgorzata , Szyld Pawel , Jakubiak Aleksandra , Szenborn Leszek , Ploski Rafal , Smigiel Robert
Published: August 2021

Background

Variants in ATP1A3 cause well‐known phenotypes—alternating hemiplegia of childhood (AHC), rapid‐onset dystonia‐parkinsonism (RDP), cerebellar ataxia, areflexia, pes cavus, optic atrophy, sensorineural hearing loss (CAPOS), and severe early infantile epileptic encephalopathy. Recently, there has been growing evidence for genotype–phenotype correlations in the ATP1A3 variants, and a separate phenotype associated with variants in residue 756—two acronyms are proposed for the moment—FIPWE (fever‐induced paroxysmal weakness and encephalopathy) and RECA (relapsing encephalopathy with cerebellar ataxia).

Materials and Methods

Herein, we are describing two new pediatric cases with a p.Arg756His change in the ATP1A3 gene. Both patients have had more than one episode of a neurological decompensation triggered by fever with severe hypotonia and followed by ataxia. Thirty‐three cases from literature were analyzed to define and strengthen the genotype‐phenotype correlation of variants located in residue 756 (p.Arg756His, p.Arg756Cys, p.Arg756Leu).

Conclusions

Patients with a ATP1A3 variant in residue 756 are characterized by recurrent paroxysmal episodes of neurological decompensations triggered by fever, with severe hypotonia, ataxia, dysarthria, symptoms from the orofacial area (dysphagia, drooling) as well as with altered consciousness. Recovery is slow and usually not full with the persistent symptoms of cerebellar ataxia, dysarthria, dystonic and choreiform movements.
Are gamma passing rate and dose–volume histogram QA metrics correlated?
Authors: Baran Mateusz , Tabor Zbisɫaw , Tulik Monika , Kabat Damian , Rzecki Krzysztof , Sośnicki Tomasz , Waligórski Michael
Published: August 2021

Purpose

The quality of a measured distribution of dose delivered against its corresponding radiotherapy plan is routinely assessed by gamma index (GI) and dose–volume histogram (DVH) metrics. Any correlation between error detection rates, as based on either of these approaches, while argued, has never been convincingly demonstrated. The dependence of the strength of correlation between the GI passing rate () and DVH quality assurance (QA) metrics on various elements of the therapy plan has not been systematically investigated.

Methods

A formal analysis of the relation between and DVH metrics has been undertaken, leading to a relationship which may partly approximate with respect to the DVH. This relationship was further validated by studying examples of simulated clinical radiotherapy plans and by studying the correlation between and the derived relationship using a simple two‐dimensional representations of the planning target volume (PTV) and organs at risk (OAR), where penumbra regions, distance‐to‐agreement tolerances and dose delivery errors were systematically varied.

Results

It is shown formally that there cannot be any correlation between and other commonly applied DVH‐derived QA measures. However, may be partly approximated given the planned and measured DVH. The derived approximation (the “‐slope indicator”) may be clinically useful in some practical cases of radiotherapy plan QA.

Conclusions

In formal terms, there cannot be any correlation between and any common DVH‐calculated patient‐specific measures, with respect to PTV or OAR. However, as demonstrated analytically and further confirmed in our simulation studies, the approximation derived in this study (the “‐slope indicator”) may in some cases offer a degree of correlation between and the PTV and OAR DVH QA metrics in measured and planned patient‐specific dose distributions—which may be potentially useful in clinical practice.
Combination therapy with botulinum toxin and bulking agent—An efficient, sustainable, and safe method to treat elderly women with mixed urinary incontinence
Authors: Viereck Volker , Gamper Marianne , Walser Claudia , Fesslmeier Debra , Münst Julia , Zivanovic Irena
Published: August 2021

Aims

To evaluate the efficacy, sustainability and safety of combined botulinum toxin and polyacrylamide hydrogel (PAHG) therapy to treat urgency and stress components of therapy‐refractory mixed urinary incontinence (MUI) in an elderly study population.

Methods

Fifty‐five women with therapy‐refractory MUI were treated with botulinum toxin and PAHG in one surgical procedure. Urgency urinary incontinence (UUI) and stress urinary incontinence (SUI) outcomes were separately assessed after 4 and 12 months by objective UUI episodes/24 h and cough test, subjective impact of UUI and SUI on quality of life, and subjective International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire‐Urinary Incontinence Short Form (ICIQ‐UI SF). MUI outcome was calculated by combining UUI and SUI outcomes. Complications were monitored throughout the study.

Results

At 4 months, objective cure rates were 73%, 53%, and 42%, and subjective cure rates were 71%, 52%, and 50% for SUI, UUI, and MUI. At 12 months, objective cure rates were 73%, 56%, 50% and subjective cure rates were 78%, 42%, and 40% for SUI, UUI, and MUI. The ICIQ‐UI SF score decreased by 9.0 and 8.7 points after 4 and 12 months. All complications were transient and included 22% clean intermittent catheterization immediately after surgery, 33% postvoid residual volumes >100 ml at 14 days, and 13% symptomatic urinary tract infection within the first postoperative month.

Conclusions

The combination of botulinum toxin and PAHG is effective, sustainable and safe to treat therapy‐refractory MUI, even in an elderly and frail study population. Patients benefit from the short surgical procedure without the need for general anaesthesia or discontinuation of anticoagulation.
The challenges of providing certainty in the face of wicked problems: Analysing theUKgovernment's handling of theCOVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Lilleker Darren G. , Stoeckle Thomas
Published: August 2021

Positioning Covid‐19 as a wicked problem we analyse the extent that the UK government adhered to the guidelines for dealing with such problems and the extent to which the management of the pandemic exacerbated the crisis. We argue the management of the pandemic saw a continuance of political communication as usual, focusing on emphasising the optimistic rhetoric which underpinned the Brexit narrative and 2019 election campaign which delivered Boris Johnson a majority. The failure to break out of a narrow permanent campaigning mindset which saw the pandemic as a brief interlude during a period when the focus was on delivering Brexit led to public confusion as optimistic claims were proven to be inaccurate and promises unreachable. Johnson's government's attempts to offer certainty despite a situation characterised by volatility, uncertainty, complexity and ambiguity led to numerous U‐turns that seriously damaged their credibility while the politicisation of the response led to poor decision making at key points. We therefore highlight the deficiencies of Johnson's strategy and highlight key lessons for communications professionals who navigate an increasingly volatile and uncertain world beset by wicked problems. In particularly we highlight the importance of depoliticising crises, seeking a diverse range of ideas and expertise, developing an empathic leadership style, starting a public conversation that recognises uncertainty and so develop a framework where wicked problems are a feature of public debate. We argue that failure in all of these areas contributed to the UK's poor comparative performance during the Covid‐19 pandemic.
Interface reaction‐induced separated phase structure in compatible epoxy thermosetting blending for unexpected mechanical properties and multi‐thermosensitive devices
Authors: Yuan Li , Chen Song , Wang Zehao , Gu Aijuan , Liang Guozheng
Published: August 2021

Unlike the traditional reaction‐induced phase separation mechanism in incompatible polymer blending and the rigorous thermodynamic difference‐induced phase separation in compatible polymer blending, a new strategy for inducing separated phase in compatible thermosetting blending systems before cure was developed. Phase‐separated structure in the blending of thermosetting epoxy/glutaric anhydride (GA)/zinc (II) acetylacetonate (ZAA) system (EP1) and epoxy/polyether amine (D230)/butylglycidyl ether (BGE) system (EP2) was constructed by in situ interface reaction between EP1 and EP2. High concentration ZAA gave rise to high viscosity of EP1 that brought large EP2 droplets in EP1/EP2 systems. The phase‐separated structure was easily controlled by the formation of the polymer wall interface between EP1 and EP2. The synergistic effects of the barrier of wall interface and low diffusion behavior of high viscosity of EP1 could lead to the high conversion of epoxy groups in EP1/EP2, low levels of GA/D230 consumptions, and significant phase structure in EP1/EP2, which endowed the resulting EP1/EP2 with excellent mechanical property and good thermal property. The flexural strength, the impact strength and tensile strength of EP1/EP2 with large separated‐phase reached 119 MPa, 28 kJ/m2, and 73 MPa, respectively, which were 34%, 12%, and 16% higher than that of high performance EP1 system. The resulting EP1/EP2 systems also showed good triple‐shape memory effect owing to the phase‐separated structure. It was significant for EP1/EP2 system to be used as multithermosensitive devices for fire early warning and monitoring detector, and high‐security anticounterfeiting application.
Insulin pumps: are services and health equity undermining technological progression?
Authors: Curtis Louise R , Alington K , Partridge Helen L
Published: August 2021

The inspiring story of insulin pump development contains numerous hurdles overcome with leaps in technology. Miniaturisation and increased reliability have led to a discrete device that can deliver insulin in a more physiologic profile than multiple daily injections. Accumulating evidence supports not only glycaemic benefits with lower HbA1c, reduced glucose variability and reduced hypoglycaemia rates but also improved quality of life and an association with reduction in mortality. Understandably, patient groups list access to technologies as a key priority for living well with diabetes. Despite this, uptake of insulin pumps remains below forecast with variation geographically and between socioeconomic groups. Criteria from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence aim to standardise local commissioning; however, a major barrier to initiating pump services is sufficient staff numbers with appropriate training and experience. To aid growth, services could be better supported to access training and given flexibility in deploying their resources. Collaboration between centres with increasing use of the virtual platform for education and clinical support may address the equity of delivery.

There has been proliferation of available devices with differing advantages and limitations; for example compatibility with software and discretion. Sensor augmentation has enabled a degree of automated insulin delivery with predicted hypoglycaemia avoidance; however, accessibility is restricted and some highly motivated people with type 1 diabetes have set up their own semi‐automated insulin delivery systems using open source code. Copyright © 2021 John Wiley & Sons.
Closed‐loop technology: a practical guide
Authors: Hartnell Sara , Fuchs Julia , Boughton Charlotte K , Hovorka Roman
Published: August 2021

Hybrid closed‐loop insulin delivery has been shown to be safe and effective in improving time in target glucose range and reducing the risk of hypoglycaemia for people with type 1 diabetes. Benefits in terms of reduction in diabetes burden have also been demonstrated. After decades of research and development, four hybrid closed‐loop systems are now commercially available in the UK with more expected soon.

We review the hybrid closed‐loop systems currently available – Tandem t:slim with Control‐IQ, CamAPS FX, Medtronic MiniMed 670G and second generation, Medtronic MiniMed 780G – and discuss the components and key features of these technologies.

As hybrid closed‐loop systems become more widely available, education and training of health care professionals and users will be pivotal in ensuring the research benefits are translated into real‐world outcomes. Users need to be supported to make appropriate choices about the different systems available and be guided in realistic expectations regarding outcomes. Attention must be given to the key training and education requirements and how these differ from traditional insulin pump therapy. Training and interpretation in reviewing closed‐loop data are essential for post‐initiation reviews and optimisation.

Developments in diabetes technology are progressing rapidly and other hybrid closed‐loop systems currently in pivotal clinical trials may soon become commercially available. We also consider other important progress in this field including the use of faster‐acting insulin analogues, adjunctive therapies such as SGLT2 inhibitors and dual hormone closed‐loop systems. Copyright © 2021 John Wiley & Sons.
Deep stretch of polyethylene by transverse loading: Finite element simulation to characterize the influence of indenter size and loading speed on the stress development and distribution
Authors: Ebrahimian Azadeh , Ward Patrick , Jar P.‐Y. Ben
Published: August 2021

Deep stretching has been found to decrease the cracking resistance of polyethylene (PE) in an aggressive environment. This idea has been adopted for developing a test method that uses indentation loading to generate a deep stretch of a PE plate so that time for crack generation is shortened. Work presented is to use finite element (FE) modeling to investigate the influence of indenter size and loading speed on the efficacy of the test method. Mechanical testing was carried out using cylindrical indenters of 7 and 13 mm in diameter on a plate that is supported so that only a 15‐mm diameter area can be stretched. Test results were used to calibrate material input data for the FE modeling and to establish the stress development and distribution during the deep stretch process. FE modeling considered three types of material input, one purely based on elastic–plastic deformation and the other two considering creep or damage during the deep stretch. All FE modellings suggest that the 13‐mm indenter is more effective than the 7‐mm indenter in introducing a monotonic total stress increase during the deep stretch, and thus the study concludes that the former should be used to introduce the deep stretch.
Restricted sub‐tree learning to estimate an optimal dynamic treatment regime using observational data
Authors: Speth Kelly , Wang Lu
Published: August 2021

Dynamic treatment regimes (DTRs), consisting of a sequence of tailored treatment decision rules that span multiple stages of care, present a unique opportunity in our drive toward personalized medicine. Given that estimation of optimal DTRs is often exploratory and communication with clinicians is vital, robust and flexible methods that yield interpretable results are needed. Tree‐based methods utilizing a purity measure defined on the full set of covariates have enjoyed much success in meeting this goal. Often, however, it is necessary for clinical, practical, or ethical reasons to restrict certain covariates that should be used when making treatment decisions. Herein we present restricted sub‐tree learning (ReST‐L), a flexible and robust, sub‐tree‐based method to estimate an optimal multi‐stage multi‐treatment DTR that enables restrictions to the set of prespecified candidate tailoring variables. ReST‐L employs a purity measure derived from an augmented inverse probability weighted estimator for the counterfactual mean outcome, using observational data to build multi‐stage decision trees that are restricted in sub‐tree spaces defined by the corresponding prescriptive covariates. We show that ReST‐L is able to correctly estimate the optimal DTR searching over a large number of variables with relatively small sample sizes and improves upon competing estimation methods. We demonstrate the utility of ReST‐L to estimate a two‐stage fluid resuscitation strategy for patients admitted to an intensive care unit with acute emergent sepsis.
Electrochemical Reduction of CO2 Toward C2 Valuables on Cu@Ag Core‐Shell Tandem Catalyst with Tunable Shell Thickness
Authors: Zhang Shuaishuai , Zhao Shulin , Qu Dongxue , Liu Xiaojing , Wu Yuping , Chen Yuhui , Huang Wei
Published: August 2021

Electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) is critical to converting CO2 to high‐value multicarbon chemicals. However, the Cu‐based catalysts as the only option to reduce CO2 into C2+ products suffer from poor selectivity and low activity. Tandem catalysis for CO2 reduction is an efficient strategy to overcome such problems. Here, Cu@Ag core‐shell nanoparticles (NPs) with different silver layer thicknesses are fabricated to realize the tandem catalysis for CO2 conversion by producing CO on Ag shell and further achieving C–C coupling on Cu core. It is found that Cu@Ag‐2 NPs with the proper thickness of Ag shell exhibit the Faradaic efficiency (FE) of total C2 products and ethylene as high as 67.6% and 32.2% at −1.1 V (versus reversible hydrogen electrode, RHE), respectively. Moreover, it exhibits remarkably electrocatalytic stability after 14 h. Based on electrochemical tests and CO adsorption capacity analyses, the origin of the enhanced catalytic performance can be attributed to the synergistic effect between Ag shell and Cu core, which strengthens the bonding strength of CO on Cu/Ag interfaces, expedites the charge transfer, increases the electrochemical surface areas (ECSAs). This report provides a Cu‐based catalyst to realize efficient C2 generation via a rationally designed core‐shell structured catalyst.
Synchrotron X‐Ray Tomography for Rechargeable Battery Research: Fundamentals, Setups and Applications
Authors: Tang Fengcheng , Wu Zhibin , Yang Chao , Osenberg Markus , Hilger André , Dong Kang , Markötter Henning , Manke Ingo , Sun Fu , Chen Libao , Cui Guanglei
Published: August 2021

Understanding the complicated interplay of the continuously evolving electrode materials in their inherent 3D states during the battery operating condition is of great importance for advancing rechargeable battery research. In this regard, the synchrotron X‐ray tomography technique, which enables non‐destructive, multi‐scale, and 3D imaging of a variety of electrode components before/during/after battery operation, becomes an essential tool to deepen this understanding. The past few years have witnessed an increasingly growing interest in applying this technique in battery research. Hence, it is time to not only summarize the already obtained battery‐related knowledge by using this technique, but also to present a fundamental elucidation of this technique to boost future studies in battery research. To this end, this review firstly introduces the fundamental principles and experimental setups of the synchrotron X‐ray tomography technique. After that, a user guide to its application in battery research and examples of its applications in research of various types of batteries are presented. The current review ends with a discussion of the future opportunities of this technique for next‐generation rechargeable batteries research. It is expected that this review can enhance the reader's understanding of the synchrotron X‐ray tomography technique and stimulate new ideas and opportunities in battery research.
Residual‐based damage evaluation of RC columns using feature classification and model optimization
Authors: Shan Jiazeng , Liu Jie , Ouyang Yuting
Published: August 2021

A residual‐based damage evaluation framework with physical feature classification is proposed for categorizing RC columns regarding engineering parameters. To realize a real‐time damage assessment, increasing the damage model's feasibility is of interest. Considering the physical diversities of different RC columns, a damage model with a constant parameter setup may become unreliable in practice. To address this issue, a self‐organizing map (SOM) is utilized to classify RC columns in terms of their engineering parameters. Such classified RC columns are associated with similar physical attributes. For RC columns sorted in the same cluster, a damage model parameter optimization procedure is implemented. One hundred and twenty RC columns are selected from the Pacific Earthquake Engineering Research (PEER) center. In specific, using the selected RC columns, a comparative study has been implemented to show the feasibility of the proposed damage model. The SOM is then trained to classify 100 RC columns associated with a model optimization procedure. Such well‐trained SOM is utilized for pattern recognition, and the optimized damage model is used to evaluate the damage status of 20 columns in the validation data pool. In the end, a parametric study is accomplished to extend the reliability of the proposed damage evaluation framework.
Event‐Triggered High Gain Adaptive Backstepping Control for Switched Uncertain Nonlinear System
Authors: Michino Ryuji , Akaike Kota , Mizumoto Ikuro
Published: August 2021

This paper is concerned with an event‐triggered controller deign based on high gain adaptive backstepping for switched uncertain nonlinear systems. The proposed controller can be applied to switched systems with uncertain control coefficient and does not have a compensation term for the error between the current control signal and last updated control signal. These advantages are obtained due to the proposed event‐triggered controller is designed based on the high gain adaptive feedback strategy. © 2021 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Re‐Evaluation of a Dual‐Feed Linear Polarized 2‐by‐2 Circular Patch Array Antenna for 60‐GHz‐Band Digital Beamforming Applications
Authors: Yoshida Satoshi , Kameda Suguru , Suematsu Noriharu , Nishikawa Kenjiro
Published: August 2021

In this letter, re‐evaluation results of a 60‐GHz‐band digital beamforming antenna using a dual‐feed linear polarized 2 × 2 circular patch array antenna is reported. The extension from our previous report is providing new measurement data under the condition of all intermediate frequency (IF) signal usage by re‐fabrication, although we reported imperfect measurement results using the IF signals only 5 ch out of 8 ch in the previous report due to the fabrication error. A low temperature solder paste was newly used to prevent the warp of the multilayered substrate. © 2021 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Dynamic Assessment of English Learners in the Content Areas: An Exploratory Study in Fifth‐Grade Science
Authors: Grapin Scott E. , Llosa Lorena
Published: August 2021

Dynamic assessment (DA) seeks to understand learners’ abilities that are still developing by embedding mediation (i.e., contingent forms of assistance) into the assessment process. To date, DA studies have been carried out primarily in contexts focused on language learning. However, in content classrooms (e.g., science, math), English learners (ELs) are developing content and English language proficiency simultaneously and may therefore be able to demonstrate their learning more fully with mediation than in independent performance alone. This study applied DA to a novel context—the science classroom—and examined whether embedding mediation (in the form of contingent questions/probes) into two science assessment tasks yielded more complete and accurate information about what fifth‐grade ELs and their peers knew and could do. Findings indicated that mediation supported ELs in clarifying their science ideas that were initially communicated inexplicitly or imprecisely. Mediation also revealed that some non‐ELs’ seemingly accurate initial responses were not underpinned by science understanding. By offering a theoretically grounded approach to assessment that is dually responsive to students’ content and language learning needs, DA could help refute deficit views of ELs in the content areas and create more equitable opportunities for these students to demonstrate their content learning.
Theranostics for MRI‐guided therapy: Recent developments
Authors: Zhang Ziwei , Zhou Feng‐Lei , Davies Gemma‐Louise , Williams Gareth R.
Published: August 2021

Recent advances in bioimaging, biochemistry, and bioinformatics have facilitated the development of personalized and precision medicine. Theranostics, combining imaging modalities and therapeutic agents, have garnered a lot of attention in this context, owing to their potential to monitor and control treatment for individual patients. A promising strategy to achieve this goal involves the development of therapy guided by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). MRI has a high degree of soft tissue contrast, low invasiveness, high depth of penetration and good spatial resolution. MRI‐guided therapy could thus allow precise and time‐resolved assessment of disease conditions and therapeutic progression. This article will give a brief introduction to the principles of MRI, and describe recently developed strategies to produce MRI‐guided therapies. A number of theranostics based on T1, T2, or chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) MRI have been explored to track the route of drug carriers in vivo and image diseased tissue so as to enhance bioavailability, overcome complex delivery barriers, and assess therapeutic responses. In addition, the integration of thermal therapy and MRI imaging offers a strategy to noninvasively identify target areas, plan treatment, and provide real‐time assessment of the efficacy of tumor ablation. We also discuss advances in intelligent nanoparticles combining small molecule drugs, thermal treatment and multimodal imaging, arguing that these multifunctional agents can further improve therapeutic outcomes.
Risk factors for digital dermatitis in free‐stall‐housed, Canadian dairy cattle
Authors: de Jong Ellen , Frankena Klaas , Orsel Karin
Published: August 2021

Background

A comprehensive analysis of the relation between digital dermatitis (DD) and cow and herd characteristics in Canadian dairies is currently lacking.

Methods

A multilevel logistic regression analysis was performed using 12,260 cow records from 62 dairy farms to assess association between 27 cow and herd‐level variables, and presence of DD.

Results

The odds for a cow to have at least 1 DD lesion were higher in first‐parity cows and those in later lactation (≥45 days in milk). Housing cows on a concrete base was associated with higher odds (OR 2.24) for DD when bedding was added once a week or less. Bedding the concrete base more frequently reduced odds for DD. Wood shavings or other bedding types were more positively associated with DD (OR 2.31 and 1.87, respectively) compared to sawdust. Also, the odds of DD were lower on farms with a scraping manure frequency of every 2 h compared to less frequent scraping (OR 0.54).

Conclusion

Nine risk factors for DD were identified and quantified, with stall base, bedding type, and manure scraping frequency associated with lower odds of DD. DD prevalence could be reduced by implementing management practices for first‐parity cows, as they had higher odds of DD.
Interorganisational Collaboration in a Norwegian Prison—Challenges and Opportunities Arising from Interagency Meetings
Authors: Lahtinen Päivikki , Kajamaa Anu , Seppänen Laura , Johnsen Berit , Hean Sarah , Esko Terhi
Published: August 2021

In prison, the provision of care and the surveillance of inmates takes place in multiple locations with several often contradictory demands. Inmates may experience a fragmentation of services because of the separate silos in which criminal justice service and mental health professionals work and the distinct ways of working that develop within these. A greater alignment between services is required. This chapter focuses on interagency meetings in a Norwegian prison. These are groups that aim to develop an holistic perspective of the inmate’s situation and problems, and are seen as an innovative way to overcome the contradiction between ‘treatment’ and ‘punishment’ prison paradigms applied by the different professionals working together in the prison and mental health services. We analysed how the professionals interact at interagency meetings, and how they align their tasks, goals, roles and expertise to support the inmate’s imprisonment and rehabilitation. Our analysis illustrates the multiple ways in which this collective activity is conceptualised by the participants and then provides a model of interorganisational dynamics through which these collaborations may be fostered. By so doing, we have made suggestions about how to enhance interprofessional collaboration between prison and mental health services. The chapter also contributes to research on challenges and opportunities for collaboration in complex organisational settings.
Tracing the Historical Development of a Service Model for Interagency Collaboration: Contradictions as Barriers and Potential Drivers for Change
Authors: Rocha Paulo , Hean Sarah
Published: August 2021

In England and Wales, Liaison and Diversion (L&D) services work to facilitate integrated rehabilitative interventions orchestrated between Criminal Justice and Welfare systems to improve health and social care outcomes. A new L&D national model was introduced in 2014 to unify practice across all L&D sites. This chapter analyses the L&D’s historical activity before, during and after the process of implementation of this national model and provides a timeline whereby potential tensions and their underlying contradictions within and between the L&D and neighbouring services activity systems are identified. A case study of an L&D service in southern England is used by way of illustration and Cultural-Historical Activity Theory (CHAT) articulates the complexity of interactions between the professionals at the street-level. Our findings showed that fragmented information technology (IT) systems, both intra- and interagency, have been particularly problematic in this setting and that the national model was not apt to transform this situation. Fragmentation hinders information sharing and ultimately affects professionals’ capacity to collaborate. We suggest service providers at a local level engage in a dialogue with one another and that they are in a better position to govern local practices instead of having policy enforced unilaterally top-down.
Mentoring in Practice: Rebuilding Dialogue with Mentees’ Stories
Authors: Kloetzer Laure , Wells Jo , Seppänen Laura , Hean Sarah
Published: August 2021

The voluntary and community sector (VCS) is a key player in the support of prisoners and ex-prisoners in the English and Welsh criminal justice system. Organisational learning and innovation is urgently required in this sector to adapt to the current political and economic environment. The chapter describes exploratory efforts to introduce participatory methods drawn from Change Laboratory Methods and Clinics of Activity within a local VCS organisation that would help (re)build dialogue between stakeholders with the aim of promoting organisational learning and innovation. The intervention comprised an ethnographic phase of observing the staff, interviews with 19 key stakeholders, and a final developmental workshop with the staff. The analysis of these data by the researcher (first author) provided insight into the experience of mentors working in the voluntary sector as well as providing a trigger for dialogue in a subsequent workshop that used these data to establish dialogue between staff. These served as dialogical artefacts, introducing micro-dramas in the form of selected user stories. These dialogical artefacts triggered diverse reactions and analyses by the various participants, highlighting different elements than those anticipated by the researcher. We discuss the different readings of our research data by the researcher and staff members, presenting these two contrasting perspectives, and the implications this has for workplace development methods.