bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deconstructive versus reconstructive approach to internal carotid artery blowout in radiated nasopharyngeal carcinoma: A tertiary center experience and systematic review
Authors: Xu Xinni , Gopinathan Anil , Ong Yew Kwang , Thye Thong Mark Kim , Loh Woei Shyang , Loh Kwok Seng
Published: April 2023

The objective of this study was to compare the outcomes of parent artery occlusion (PAO) versus stent‐assisted reconstruction in radiated nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) patients with internal carotid artery (ICA) blowouts. A retrospective review from our institution (2011–2021) and systematic review of Pubmed and Embase (1995–2022) was performed. Twenty‐eight eligible studies were identified. Eighty‐six PAOs and 37 stent‐assisted reconstructions were analyzed, including 11 PAOs and 5 stents from our institution. Stents were associated with significantly higher incidence of overall re‐bleeding (16.2% [95% CI 7.4–31.9] vs. 4.6% [95% CI 1.3–13.5], p = 0.047), delayed stroke (5.4% [95% CI 1.3–19.4] vs. 0%, p = 0.034) and reduced median survival (7.1 [95% CI 3.8–14.0] months vs. 29.0 [95% CI 9.4–63.4] months, p = 0.017) compared to PAO. There were no significant differences in terms of overall stroke, infection, extruded/migrated foreign body, and peri‐procedure death. PAO is preferred over reconstructive treatment in patients with adequate collateral circulation.
Investigation of heat transfer augmentation in a horizontal tube using different rectangular cut ring inserts
Authors: Khudhur Dhamyaa S. , Kassim Muna S. , Jasim Hadeel Abdulhadi
Published: April 2023

Experimental and computational investigations have studied the heat transfer, friction factor, and enhancement of heat transfer in a horizontal tube equipped with rectangular cut ring inserts and different diameter ratios (D/d) and pitch‐to‐tube diameter ratios (p/dt). In the present study, air having a Reynolds no. range of 6700–20,100 was used as a working fluid. Three diameter ratios (D/d) were considered experimentally and numerically as 1.2, 1.25, and 1.3, and the pitch‐to‐tube diameter ratio (p/dt) was (1, 0.625, and 0.5). Air was forced as working fluid through the tube and a uniform heat flux of 2000, 3500, and 5000 W/m2 was applied through the tube's exterior surface. On the basis of the turbulence model k–ɛ with various parameters, three‐dimensional numerical simulations using the ANSYS Fluent software 17.2 were investigated. Under the same working conditions, the results manifested a higher heat transfer rate and friction factor as compared to the plain tube. The results evinced that the Nusselt number for a horizontal tube equipped with rectangular cut ring inserts having various pitch ratios and diameter ratios is discovered to be higher than that for the plain tube. With the increased ring spacing, the overall improvement in heat transfer occurred. And, with a rise in Re, the total enhancement ratio decreased. Consequently, the greatest overall improvement attained was 38% at Reynolds number (Re = 12,860) with the pitch ratio (p/dt = 1). The three diameter ratios (D/d) of 1.3, 1.25, and 1.2 gives in this study the average thermal performance factor in the value of 1.6, 1.5, and 1.4, respectively. Using the Nusselt number and friction factor, the results are correlated as a function of the Reynolds number, diameter ratio, and pitch ratio.
Stock price informativeness and credit default swap trading
Authors: da Silva Paulo Pereira , Vieira Isabel
Published: April 2023

This study develops a difference‐in‐differences analysis to assess whether trading onset of credit default swaps (CDS) on a firm's debt improves price informativeness in the stock market. Price informativeness is measured by the future earnings response coefficient, which captures the amount of information about future earnings conveyed in stock returns. Our sample comprises U.S. firms (firms experiencing CDS trading on their debt and a group of control firms) and covers the period 1997–2015. The results indicate that CDS hinder stock price informativeness, and thus the ability of prices to track long‐term fundamentals, especially before the arrival of negative information about the obligor. The identified impact is stronger when CDS are first traded, becoming less pervasive with the passage of time. Finally, the results indicate that effects were residual during the early stages of CDS market development and peaked during the period 2004–2008. The impact of CDS introduction weakened after new regulation and ISDA protocols entry into force in 2009. This empirical analysis contributes to the literature by improving knowledge on the consequences of CDS trading on economic and financial outcomes. It points out a negative effect on price informativeness in the stock market and indicates that it was smoothed by regulatory measures designed to improve market infrastructure and transparency.
Effective nitric oxide removal from flue gas using UV/H2O2 solution catalyzed by Fe3O4@FeEDTA
Authors: Liu Ziwei , He Feiqiang , Zhou Limin , Li Zhuyao , Zhong Lirong , Ding Jianhua
Published: April 2023

BACKGROUND

How to control NOx emission in flue gas economically and efficiently is the focus in the field of energy and environment in the world. In this work, Fe3O4‐magnetic microspheres were employed as the matrix with loading FeEDTA (where EDTA is ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid) to prepare magnetic denitrification absorbent Fe3O4@FeEDTA. The performance of nitric oxide (NO) removal using Fe3O4@FeEDTA dispersed in H2O2 solution with ultraviolet (UV) was first investigated.

RESULTS

The results showed that Fe3O4@FeEDTA could be used as a good catalytic oxidation denitrification agent. Increasing H2O2 concentration and O2 concentration could promote NO absorption. NO removal efficiency increased as pH value increased from 1.5 to 3.0, then decreased when pH continued to increase. The elevated temperature was conducive to NO removal. CO2 hardly affected the removal of NO, while SO2 with high concentration was not conducive to NO absorption. In addition, the NO removal mechanism was preliminarily analyzed with X‐ray photoelectron spectrometry, electron spin resonance and ion chromatography. The mechanism study indicated that NO removal by Fe3O4@FeEDTA/H2O2 was a catalysis–complexation–oxidation–absorption process, in which •OH was determined to be the main oxidizing species, and NO captured by Fe(II)EDTA was mainly oxidized by •OH to NO3−.

CONCLUSION

The catalytic activity of Fe3O4@FeEDTA could maintain stability during the repeat experiment, realizing the recycling and reuse of Fe3O4@FeEDTA. The UV‐Fe3O4@FeEDTA‐activated H2O2 advanced oxidation technology is suitable for wet denitrification. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Control of new energy‐intensified triple column extractive distillation using feed split technique
Authors: Kong Zong Yang , Wang Qin , Yang Ao , Qin Zhongjian , Heah Joo Yee , Sunarso Jaka
Published: April 2023

BACKGROUND

Here, we investigated the control performance of extractive distillation intensified with ‘feed split’ (FS) technique – a process intensification technique that has not been widely applied to extractive distillation. Today, only a handful of studies have been reported on this topic, with only one focusing on the control performance and reporting the significant trade‐off between the steady‐state and dynamic performances. Nonetheless, the previous control study was based on the complex double column FS configuration. Recently, a new triple column FS configuration was reported (Sep. Purif. Technol. 2022 (297) 121467), but its control performance was not investigated. Hypothetically, the triple column FS configuration is less complex and does not involve any column integration and thus, may demonstrate a better dynamic performance. This study analyzed the control performances of the triple column FS configuration and the conventional configuration for the binary azeotropic separation of tetrahydrofuran and ethanol.

RESULTS

Two types of control structures were examined for both configurations, i.e., the basic temperature control structure and the different feed forward temperature control schemes. The best control structure from each configuration is compared and findings showed that the conventional configuration provides better controllability performance.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggested that the conventional configuration can bring the product qualities closer to their setpoint, while providing a lower transient deviation. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Oral maxillofacial surgery resident, faculty and practitioner role models and dental students' interest in oral maxillofacial surgery careers: Does gender matter?
Authors: Marti Kyriaki C. , Edwards Sean P. , Inglehart Marita R.
Published: April 2023

Purpose

Residency programs in oral maxillofacial surgery (OMS) have the lowest percentage (2020: 18.4%) of female graduates among all dental specialty programs. When considering this underrepresentation of female OMS residents, prior studies have not examined how OMS role models might shape dental students’ interest in OMS careers. The objectives were to assess female versus male students’ OMS‐related career motivation, their experiences/attitudes toward three groups of OMS role models (i.e., OMS residents, faculty, and practitioners), and relationships between role model‐related experiences/attitudes and career motivation.

Methods

363 female and 335 male students from 14 United States and two Canadian dental schools participated in this cross‐sectional study by responding to an online survey.

Results

13.8% of female and 26% of male respondents (p < 0.001) were much/very much interested in OMS careers. More male than female students had shadowed an OMS in an office setting (43.4% vs. 35.1%; p < 0.05). The groups did not differ in their motivation to learn more and earlier about OMS nor in the quantity of OMS‐related experiences prior to and during dental school. However, male students were more satisfied with the quality of these experiences (5‐point scale with 5 = most positive: Means: 3.76 vs. 3.53; p < 0.05), were more comfortable approaching/working with OMS instructors (3.51 vs. 3.19; p < 0.01) and reported to have learned more from residents (3.52 vs. 3.31; p < 0.05) and faculty (3.75 vs. 3.45; p < 0.01) than female students. Female students agreed less that OMS residents, faculty, and practitioners encouraged students to pursue OMS (3.27 vs. 3.44; p < 0.01 / 3.46 vs. 3.63; p < 0.01 / 3.45 vs. 3.61; p < 0.01). Role model‐related experiences and attitudes correlated with an interest in an OMS career.

Conclusions

The two groups do not differ in the quantity of most OMS experiences before and during dental school and their motivation to learn more and earlier about OMS. However, female students’ less positive OMS‐related educational experiences and less positive attitudes toward role models correlate with a lower interest in OMS careers.
Evaluating a dental sleep apnea mini‐residency program using the Kirkpatrick model
Authors: Banasr Abdulaziz , Finkelman Matthew D. , Dragan Irina F. , Ramesh Aruna , Mehta Noshir R. , Correa Leopoldo P.
Published: April 2023

Objective

The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate a Dental Sleep Medicine Mini‐Residency (DSMMR) continuing education (CE) program using the Kirkpatrick model.

Methods

After receiving ethical approval, data from participants in the 2019–2020 DSMMR CE course were included for the Kirkpatrick evaluation. The analysis was stratified and all the Kirkpatrick levels were integrated: level 1 (satisfaction) was assessed via Likert scale and open‐ended questions; level 2 (learning) was evaluated using pretest and posttest knowledge data following Module 1 (M1) and an assessment of multiple‐choice questions (MCQs) developed by participants; level 3 (behavior) was evaluated using Likert scale questions; and level 4 (results) was assessed via the percentage of participants who passed the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine (ABDSM) examination on their first attempt.

Results

A total of 90 participants were included in the study. At least 83.1% of participants agreed/strongly agreed with positively worded statements about satisfaction. Knowledge scores significantly increased from pre‐M1 to post‐M1 (p < 0.001); however, only 15.2% of MCQs were evaluated as well‐formulated. At least 88.6% of participants agreed/strongly agreed with positively worded statements about transfer of knowledge/skills to their practice. 91.1% passed the ABDSM examination on their first attempt.

Conclusion

The evaluation of the 2019–2020 DSMMR using the Kirkpatrick model suggests its overall positive impact as a training program. The Kirkpatrick model provided information that can be used to improve the quality of a program. Future studies should assess other dental CE programs using the Kirkpatrick model or another evaluation model.
Adaptable and conflict colouring multigraphs with no cycles of length three or four
Authors: Aliaj Jurgen , Molloy Michael
Published: April 2023

The adaptable choosability of a multigraph , denoted , is the smallest integer such that any edge labelling, , of and any assignment of lists of size to the vertices of permits a list colouring, , of such that there is no edge where . Here we show that for a multigraph with maximum degree and no cycles of length 3 or 4, . Under natural restrictions we can show that the same bound holds for the conflict choosability of , which is a closely related parameter recently defined by Dvořák, Esperet, Kang and Ozeki.
Serendipita indica chitinase protects rice from the blast and bakanae diseases
Authors: Li Xinrui , Wajjiha Batool , Zhang Penghui , Dang Yuejia , Prasad Ram , Wei Yi , Zhang Shi‐Hong
Published: April 2023

Serendipita indica, a multifunctional and useful endophyte fungus, has been intensively investigated in promoting plant growth and resistance towards biotic and abiotic stress. Multiple chitinases from microorganisms or plants have been identified to have a high antifungal activity as a biological control. However, chitinase of S. indica still needs to be characterized. We functionally characterized a chitinase (SiChi) in S. indica. The result showed that the purified SiChi protein confers high chitinase activity; importantly, SiChi inhibits the conidial germination of Magnaporthe oryzae and Fusarium moniliforme. After the successful colonization of rice roots by S. indica, both the rice blast disease and bakanae disease were significantly reduced. Interestingly, the purified SiChi could promptly induce rice disease resistance towards M. oryzae and F. moniliforme pathogens when sprayed on rice leaves. Like S. indica, SiChi could upregulate rice pathogen‐resistant proteins and defense enzymes. In conclusion, chitinase of S. indica has direct antifungal activity and indirect induced resistance activity, implying an efficient and economic strategy for rice disease control by applying S. indica and SiChi.
Combined femoral and acetabular version and synovitis are associated with dGEMRIC scores in people with femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) syndrome
Authors: Murphy Nicholas J. , Eyles Jillian , Spiers Libby , Davidson Emily J. , Linklater James M. , Kim Young Jo , Hunter David J.
Published: April 2023

This study sought to explore, in people with symptoms, signs and imaging findings of femoroacetabular impingement (FAI syndrome): (1) whether more severe labral damage, synovitis, bone marrow lesions, or subchondral cysts assessed on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were associated with poorer cartilage health, and (2) whether abnormal femoral, acetabular, and/or combined femoral and acetabular versions were associated with poorer cartilage health. This cross‐sectional study used baseline data from the 50 participants with FAI syndrome in the Australian FASHIoN trial (ACTRN12615001177549) with available dGEMRIC scans. Cartilage health was measured using delayed gadolinium‐enhanced MRI of cartilage (dGEMRIC) score sampled at the chondrolabral junction on three midsagittal slices, at one acetabular and one femoral head region of interest on each slice, and MRI features were assessed using the Hip Osteoarthritis MRI Score. Analyses were adjusted for alpha angle and body mass index, which are known to affect dGEMRIC score. Linear regression assessed the relationship with the dGEMRIC score of (i) selected MRI features, and (ii) femoral, acetabular, and combined femoral and acetabular versions. Hips with more severe synovitis had worse dGEMRIC scores (partial η2 = 0.167, p = 0.020), whereas other MRI features were not associated. A lower combined femoral and acetabular version was associated with a better dGEMRIC score (partial η2 = 0.164, p = 0.021), whereas isolated measures of femoral and acetabular version were not associated. In conclusion, worse synovitis was associated with poorer cartilage health, suggesting synovium and cartilage may be linked to the pathogenesis of FAI syndrome. A lower combined femoral and acetabular version appears to be protective of cartilage health at the chondrolabral junction.
A randomized controlled trial evaluating the effect of epithelial removal on free soft tissue autograft healing
Authors: Lacy Julia A. , Palaiologou Archontia A. , Kotsakis Georgios A. , Deas David E. , Diogenes Anibal , Mealey Brian L.
Published: April 2023

Background

The purpose of this study is to determine if there is a difference in dimensional change of a free soft tissue autograft (FSTA) with epithelium compared to without epithelium. The secondary aim is to determine the patient and professional evaluation of color match and graft texture between the two groups.

Methods

Patients with ≤2 mm keratinized tissue indicated for a FSTA were randomly assigned to control group (FSTA with epithelium) or test group (de‐epithelialized FSTA). The vertical and horizontal measurements of the grafts were taken at surgery, and 1, 3, and 6 months postoperatively. Patients were asked to evaluate the color match at each postoperative time point on a 21‐step Numeric Rating Scale (NRS‐21). Professional assessment of color match and graft texture were evaluated on images at the same time points.

Results

Forty‐six patients and 55 grafts were included in the study. For change in graft height, width, and area, there were no significant differences between the treatment groups at any time point. Graft height and area in both groups decreased significantly from baseline to month 1 (p < .001), but no other difference was significant over time. When patients and professionals used the NRS‐21 for evaluation of color match between the graft site and the surrounding soft tissue, there was no significant difference between the treatment groups. Similarly, evaluation of texture match on color images and black‐and‐white images revealed no significant differences between or within groups.

Conclusion

De‐epithelialized FSTA showed no difference in dimensional change or color and texture match compared to FSTA with epithelium.
Comparison of five methods to determine the cation exchange capacity of soil
Authors: Nel Teneille , Bruneel Yaana , Smolders Erik
Published: April 2023

Background

Cation exchange capacity (CEC) is a routinely measured soil fertility indicator. The standard NH4OAc (pH 7) extraction procedure is time‐consuming and overestimates actual CEC values of variable charge soils. Unbuffered extractants have been developed to measure the effective CEC (eCEC), but they differ in the type of index cation and extraction procedures.

Aim

This study was set up to systematically compare CEC values and exchangeable cation concentrations among different procedures and evaluate their practical aspects.

Methods

Five procedures were compared for (e)CEC, that is, silver thiourea (AgTU), cobalt(III) hexamine (Cohex), compulsive exchange (CE, i.e., BaCl2/MgSO4), BaCl2 (sum of cations in single‐extract), and NH4OAc (pH 7). We applied these methods to a set of 25 samples of clay minerals, peat, or samples from soils with contrasting properties.

Results

The CEC values correlated well among methods (R2 = 0.92–0.98). Median ratios of eCEC (AgTU as well as CE) to the corresponding eCEC (Cohex) value were 1.0, showing good agreement between eCEC methods, but NH4OAc exceeded Cohex values (ratios up to 2.5 in acid soil). For BaCl2‐extracteable cations, the ratio ranged from low (<1.0) in acid soils (acid cations not measured) to high (>1.0) in high‐pH soil (dissolution of carbonates). Multiple‐extraction methods (CE and NH4OAc) yielded more variation and increased labor.

Conclusions

The chemical properties of the sample cause method‐specific interactions with chemical components of extractants. We found the Cohex method with ICP‐MS detection to be the most efficient and cost‐effective technique for determination of eCEC and exchangeable cations.
Successful Reimplantation of Extruded Lead after Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulation Surgery
Authors: Grond Sarah E. , Urban Matthew J. , Hutz Michael J. , LoSavio Phillip
Published: April 2023

Infection and extrusion of hardware are known complications of hypoglossal nerve stimulation surgery. We present a unique case of an extruded hardware lead successfully managed with reimplantation without need for explantation and new device placement. The topic will be discussed in context of the body of literature related to extruded medical device management. Laryngoscope, 133:2821–2822, 2023
Triple Semicircular Canal Plugging versus Labyrinthectomy for Meniere Disease: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Li Xiaofei , Lyu Yafeng , Li Yawei , Jian Huirong , Wang Jing , Song Yongdong , Kong Ligang , Fan Zhaomin , Wang Haibo , Zhang Daogong
Published: April 2023

Objectives

The study goals were to compare the long‐term efficacy of semicircular canal plugging (SCP) with labyrinthectomy in the treatment of advanced Meniere's disease (MD).

Study Design

A retrospective study.

Setting

Single tertiary medical center.

Methods

A total of 116 MD patients (TSCP group of 90; labyrinthectomy group of 26) with complete medical documents in Shandong Provincial ENT Hospital, from March 2017 to March 2019 were retrospectively analyzed, including a battery of auditory and vestibular function tests, recovery time from imbalance and function level scores (FLS).

Results

The total control rate of vertigo in the TSCP group was 96.7% (87/90). The rate of hearing loss was 23.3% (21/90). The control rate of vertigo in the labyrinthectomy group was 100% (26/26). All patients lost their auditory function after labyrinthectomy with a 100% hearing loss rate. There was no significant difference in the vertigo control rate between the two groups (P > 0.05). The hearing loss rate in the TSCP group was significantly lower than that in the labyrinthectomy group (P < 0.00). The median time recovered from imbalance was 15 days in TSCP group and 21 days in labyrinthectomy group, which is significantly different (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the FLS between the two groups (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

Compared to labyrinthectomy, TSCP can preserve hearing at a high probability; meanwhile, otolith organ function preservation benefits patients from faster vestibular compensation.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 133:3178–3184, 2023
Universal Active Metasurfaces for Ultimate Wavefront Molding by Manipulating the Reflection Singularities
Authors: Elsawy Mahmoud , Kyrou Christina , Mikheeva Elena , Colom Rémi , Duboz Jean‐Yves , Kamali Khosro Zangeneh , Lanteri Stéphane , Neshev Dragomir , Genevet Patrice
Published: April 2023

Optical metasurfaces are becoming ubiquitous optical components to control light properties. However, most of these devices are passive and cannot be arbitrarily reconfigured according to the change in the surrounding environment. Here the authors propose an innovative design strategy relying on the position of topological singularities to address full phase modulation of light with almost unity efficiency. The active metasurface unit cells consist of asymmetric Gires–Tournois resonators filled with either silicon or hetero‐structured materials to leverage on the thermo‐optical or electro‐optical effects, respectively. In both cases, a full phase modulation associated with 100% reflection amplitude is observed even when dealing with extremely low refractive index change, on the order of 0.01. Improving the deflection efficiencies for each deflection angle is performed by optimizing the refractive index modulation profile in the extended unit cell using an advanced statistical learning optimization methodology. Consequently, active beam steering designs for active thermo‐optical effect with ultimate performance exceeding 90% have been optimized. Furthermore, active wavefront splitting using electro‐optics materials is optimized to reach ultimate modulation performances with nearly 92% efficiency. The realization of highly efficient active beam‐forming operating at high frequencies would open important applications in imaging microscopy, and 3D light detection and ranging (LiDAR).
Manipulating Laser Modes in Diffusive Disordered Systems by Precisely Designing the Boundary of the Local Pump
Authors: Shi Xiaoyu , Song Wanting , Liang Ningning , Guo Dan , Shen Kaiyue , Zhai Tianrui
Published: April 2023

Manipulating laser modes in diffusive random systems is crucial to understanding the optical physics of disordered structures. However, the laser modes in diffusive random lasers are highly extended and correlated, making their manipulation difficult. Herein, this work reveals the critical role of the pump boundary on the governing mode interaction and emission characteristics of diffusive random lasers (RLs). By increasing the ratio between the square root of the pump area and the circumference of the pump region, the strongly correlated nonresonant laser mode with a continuous spectral distribution is transformed into an independent resonant laser mode with a discrete frequency distribution. A critical ratio of 5.76 is demonstrated as the transition point for pump spots with arbitrary shapes. This pump strategy provides a universal guideline for regulating laser modes in diffusive RL systems that can be applied to multifunctional lasers to clarify the behavior of light in disordered structures.
Programmable Aperture Light‐Field Microscopy
Authors: Cai Zewei , Zhang Runnan , Zhou Ning , Chen Qian , Zuo Chao
Published: April 2023

A computational three‐dimensional (3D) microscopy technique, termed programmable aperture light‐field microscopy (PALFM), for motion‐free, high‐resolution volumetric imaging of fluorescent or self‐luminous samples is proposed. The well‐known Fourier slice theorem is extended to incoherent tomographic imaging, which states that a detected image under an ideal aperture corresponds to a central slice in the 3D object spectrum, so the spectrum coverage can be accomplished based on the motion‐free aperture modulation. When further considering frequency extension and coverage, a hybrid aperture modulation scheme is designed consisting of non‐centrosymmetric circular and annular apertures for high‐efficiency, non‐ambiguous depth discrimination. A PALFM system with an easy‐to‐build programmable aperture module attached to an off‐the‐shelf inverted fluorescence microscope is constructed, where annular apertures can manipulate Bessel‐like beams for spectrum modulation. Experimental results on near‐diffraction‐limited imaging of a resolution target across a large depth range and high‐resolution, multi‐color 3D imaging of a mouse kidney section verify the validity and effectiveness of PALFM. High‐speed, long‐term time‐lapse volumetric imaging of HeLa cells in vitro further demonstrates that PALFM is a promising tomographic imaging tool for studying dynamic cellular processes and events without requiring complicated sample rotation or beam scanning.
Wideband microstrip antenna operating in TM01 mode and its array with compact feed network
Authors: Shu Wen‐Juan , Li Jian‐Ying
Published: April 2023

This letter presents a broadband linearly polarized (LP) microstrip antenna operating in TM01 mode and its 2 × 2 array with a compact network. Different from the TM10 mode, the TM01 mode can be used to design arrays without a bending feed network. The impedance bandwidth (IBW) of the proposed antenna is 9.6% (2.19 GHz–2.41 GHz). Subsequently, the characteristic of this antenna operating in TM01 mode is employed to design a 2 × 2 planar array. The measured results show that the array has an IBW of 9.5%, a maximum gain of 11.4 dBi with low cross‐polarization.
Broadband high‐efficiency high‐gain dual‐beam empty substrate integrated waveguide cavity‐backed filtenna
Authors: Liang Mu‐Sheng , Wu Pei‐Fang , Hu Zhi‐Qiang , Wang Bing‐Zhong , Wang Ren
Published: April 2023

A broadband high‐efficiency high‐gain empty substrate integrated waveguide cavity‐backed filtenna with dual beams is proposed. The antenna is vertically stacked by three cavities. Two rectangular slots are etched above the uppermost cavity to realize the radiation function. Since the interior of the cavity is covered with metal, the characteristics of the antenna are independent of the used dielectric substrate. The fractional bandwidth of the proposed filtenna is 21.1%, and the efficiency can reach more than 90% in the operational band. The antenna has good frequency selection properties, and the ratio of the −10 dB impedance bandwidth to the −3 dB impedance bandwidth is 0.88. Good gain flatness is obtained, the maximum gain of the filtenna within the operational band is 8 dBi. The proposed dual‐beam filtenna can realize broadband and filtering simultaneously, with low cost and high efficiency. It can be used in wireless communication systems.
The exchange rate of creatine CEST in mouse brain
Authors: Zhang Ziqin , Wang Kexin , Park Sooyeon , Li Anna , Li Yuguo , Weiss Robert G. , Xu Jiadi
Published: April 2023

Purpose

To estimate the exchange rate of creatine (Cr) CEST and to evaluate the pH sensitivity of guanidinium (Guan) CEST in the mouse brain.

Methods

Polynomial and Lorentzian line‐shape fitting (PLOF) were implemented to extract the amine, amide, and Guan CEST signals from the brain Z‐spectrum at 11.7T. Wild‐type (WT) and knockout mice with the guanidinoacetate N‐methyltransferase deficiency (GAMT−/−) that have low Cr and phosphocreatine (PCr) concentrations in the brain were used to extract the CrCEST signal. To quantify the CrCEST exchange rate, a two‐step Bloch‐McConnell (BM) fitting was used to fit the CrCEST line‐shape, B1‐dependent CrCEST, and the pH response with different B1 values. The pH in the brain cells was altered by hypercapnia to measure the pH sensitivity of GuanCEST.

Results

Comparison between the Z‐spectra of WT and GAMT−/− mice suggest that the CrCEST is between 20% and 25% of the GuanCEST in the Z‐spectrum at 1.95 ppm between B1 = 0.8 and 2 μT. The CrCEST exchange rate was found to be around 240–480 s−1 in the mouse brain, which is significantly lower than that in solutions (∼1000 s−1). The hypercapnia study on the mouse brain revealed that CrCEST at B1 = 2 μT and amineCEST at B1 = 0.8 μT are highly sensitive to pH change in the WT mouse brain.

Conclusions

The in vivo CrCEST exchange rate is slow, and the acquisition parameters for the CrCEST should be adjusted accordingly. CrCEST is the major contribution to the opposite pH‐dependence of GuanCEST signal under different conditions of B1 in the brain.
Concomitant magnetic‐field compensation for 2D spiral‐ring turbo spin‐echo imaging at 0.55T and 1.5T
Authors: Wang Zhixing , Ramasawmy Rajiv , Feng Xue , Campbell‐Washburn Adrienne E. , Mugler John P. , Meyer Craig H.
Published: April 2023

Purpose

To develop 2D turbo spin‐echo (TSE) imaging using annular spiral rings (abbreviated “SPRING‐RIO TSE”) with compensation of concomitant gradient fields and B0 inhomogeneity at both 0.55T and 1.5T for fast T2‐weighted imaging.

Methods

Strategies of gradient waveform modifications were implemented in SPRING‐RIO TSE for compensation of self‐squared concomitant gradient terms at the TE and across echo spacings, along with reconstruction‐based corrections to simultaneously compensate for the residual concomitant gradient and B0 field induced phase accruals along the readout. The signal pathway disturbance caused by time‐varying and spatially dependent concomitant fields was simulated, and echo‐to‐echo phase variations before and after sequence‐based compensation were compared. Images from SPRING‐RIO TSE with no compensation, with compensation, and Cartesian TSE were also compared via phantom and in vivo acquisitions.

Results

Simulation showed how concomitant fields affected the signal evolution with no compensation, and both simulation and phantom studies demonstrated the performance of the proposed sequence modifications, as well as the readout off‐resonance corrections. Volunteer data showed that after full correction, the SPRING‐RIO TSE sequence achieved high image quality with improved SNR efficiency (15%–20% increase), and reduced RF SAR (˜50% reduction), compared to the standard Cartesian TSE, presenting potential benefits, especially in regaining SNR at low‐field (0.55T).

Conclusion

Implementation of SPRING‐RIO TSE with concomitant field compensation was tested at 0.55T and 1.5T. The compensation principles can be extended to correct for other trajectory types that are time‐varying along the echo train and temporally asymmetric in TSE‐based imaging.
Impact of solid food provision within 24 hours of hospital admission on clinical outcomes for adult patients with acute pancreatitis: A literature review
Authors: Meyers Crystal , Rigassio Radler Diane , Zelig Rena S.
Published: April 2023

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is a common gastrointestinal disease necessitating hospitalization, with incidence increasing both in the United States and worldwide. Some recent guidelines for hospitalized patients with AP recommend initiation of oral feeding within 24 h of admission; however, a lack of clarity regarding feeding time and diet orders in clinical practice still exists. This review presents recent randomized clinical trials regarding feeding administration for patients with mild to moderate AP. The results indicate that initiation of a low‐fat solid oral diet within 24 h of admission does not increase the instance of negative outcomes and may also provide positive benefits to patients with AP.
Feeding volume advancement in preterm neonates: A level 4 neonatal intensive care unit quality improvement initiative
Authors: Lagerquist Eliza , al‐Haddad Benjamin J. S. , Irvine Jill , Muskthel Lucy , Rios Angel , Upadhyay Kirtikumar
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Because of provider variability in feeding guideline application, a quality improvement (QI) initiative was begun to better standardize feeding initiation and advancement for preterm infants. Our specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and timely aims included decreasing the time to reach full feeds by 35% and reducing the duration of central lines by 30% over 12 months in infants born between 25 and 30 weeks' gestation or with birth weight between 600 and 1250 g.

Methods

Registered dietitians tracked central line days, parenteral nutrition (PN), enteral nutrition, fortification, guideline adherence, anthropometrics, necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) cases, and central line–associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs). QI progress charts were reviewed monthly.

Results

Mean central line days decreased from 7.3 to 5.8. Days of PN decreased from 6.7 to 5.1. The day of life that enteral feeds were started decreased from 1.1 to 0.5. The number of days between starting enteral feeds and adding fortification decreased from 3.4 to 2.3 days. Full enteral feeds were achieved on average 2 days earlier. Birth weight was regained at around 10.2 days of life before the guideline was implemented and at a mean of 9.6 days after the guideline. There was no increase in cases of CLABSI or diagnoses of NEC.

Conclusion

After implementation of this feeding QI initiative at a level 4 neonatal intensive care unit, central line duration and PN use were decreased and infants reached full enteral feeds earlier without changes in cases of NEC, CLABSI, or time to regain birth weight.
Anderson acceleration for a regularized Bingham model
Authors: Pollock Sara , Rebholz Leo G. , Vargun Duygu
Published: April 2023

This article studies a finite element discretization of the regularized Bingham equations that describe viscoplastic flow. An efficient nonlinear solver for the discrete model is then proposed and analyzed. The solver is based on Anderson acceleration (AA) applied to a Picard iteration, and we show accelerated convergence of the method by applying AA theory (recently developed by the authors) to the iteration, after showing sufficient smoothness properties of the associated fixed point operator. Numerical tests of spatial convergence are provided, as are results of the model for 2D and 3D driven cavity simulations. For each numerical test, the proposed nonlinear solver is also tested and shown to be very effective and robust with respect to the regularization parameter as it goes to zero.
Association of body mass index with the development of metabolic acidosis in patients with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Mathur Vandana , Reaven Nancy L. , Funk Susan E. , Ferguson Thomas W. , Tangri Navdeep
Published: April 2023

Aims

Higher body mass index (BMI) is associated with higher bone mass and bone serves as a buffer during the development of metabolic acidosis. The authors sought to examine the relationship between BMI and metabolic acidosis in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Materials and Methods

The study utilized a large US longitudinal data repository including over 103 million patients from healthcare provider organizations to evaluate the relationship between the exposure variable (BMI) and the prevalence and incidence of metabolic acidosis among patients with estimated glomerular filtration rate <60 ml/min/1.73 m2. Incident metabolic acidosis was identified at the first of two consecutive post‐index serum bicarbonate values, 10–365 days apart, between 12 and <22 mEq/L in patients with normal index serum bicarbonate. Cox proportional hazard models were adjusted for multiple variables including demographics, comorbidities, income, education, and kidney function.

Results

103,766 patients qualified for this study; 6472 (6.2%) had metabolic acidosis at index. An inverse association between BMI category and metabolic acidosis was observed for both baseline (prevalence) and new‐onset (incidence) metabolic acidosis. Compared to BMI category of 18.5 to <25 kg/m2, each category of incrementally higher BMI was associated with a decreasing risk of incident metabolic acidosis; the adjusted hazard ratios (95% confidence interval) were 0.866 (0.824–0.911), 0.770 (0.729–0.813), 0.664 (0.622–0.709), and 0.612 (0.571–0.655) for BMI 25 to <30, 30 to <35, 35 to <40, and 40+ kg/m2, respectively.

Conclusions

Among patients with CKD, an incremental increase in BMI was inversely associated with both the prevalence and incidence of metabolic acidosis. These associations suggest that increased body weight may protect against the development of metabolic acidosis, a risk factor for progressive loss of kidney function.
Retention and weight outcomes after transitioning an intensive behavioral weight management program from an in‐person to a virtual format
Authors: Rothberg Amy E. , Marriott Deanna J. , Miller Nicole M. , Herman William H.
Published: April 2023

Background

Virtual care offers many potential advantages over traditional in‐person care for people with chronic diseases including obesity. Before the COVID‐19 pandemic, virtual care was not broadly implemented because of regulatory, legal, and reimbursement barriers.

Objective

To evaluate the impact of the transition from an entirely in‐person format to a virtual format during the COVID‐19 pandemic on retention and weight reduction in a 2‐year, structured, intensive behavioral weight management program for people with moderate to severe obesity.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study of 1313 program participants stratified according to the phase of the program during which the transition to virtual visits occurred.

Results

Age, sex, and baseline weight were independent predictors of program retention. Transition to virtual visits was associated with greater 2‐year program retention. Retention but not mode of program delivery was associated with reduction in weight at 2‐year.

Conclusions

Transition from in‐person to virtual program delivery improved retention and by doing so, indirectly improved weight loss at 2 years. Telemedicine has the potential to overcome many of the limitations associated with traditional in‐person weight loss interventions.

Clinical Trial Registration

This research was reviewed and approved by the University of Michigan Institutional Review Board and registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02043457). All participants provided written informed consent.
Engineering hydrophobic surface on polyethersulfone membrane with bio‐inspired coating for desalination with direct contact membrane distillation
Authors: Vafaei Kiarash , Ashtiani Farzin Zokaee , Karimi Mohammad , Ghorabi Shima
Published: April 2023

A novel polyethersulfone (PES) membrane was prepared for desalination and treating saline feed solution containing humic acid in membrane distillation. PES has been selected to fabricate specialized membranes for direct contact membrane distillation, and membrane structure and characteristics have been controlled by dope solution composition and exposure time to water vapor during the phase inversion step. Since PES membranes are vulnerable to wetting, surface modification for hydrophobicity has been applied by a novel method inspired by lotus. This method uses a layer‐by‐layer surface modification of polydopamine, silver nanoparticles, and 1‐dodecanethiol to create adhesion, hierarchical roughness, and hydrophobicity. In dopamine polymerization, an oxidant has been added to improve the quality and speed of the process. Membranes were successfully fabricated and modified; the best‐case membrane with 30% triethylene glycol content and 30 s exposure time to water vapor showed outstanding results with 12.57 kg/h.m2 mass flux and 99.7% salt rejection in desalination also showed good results in treating saline feed containing humic acid with 10.02 kg/h.m2 flux and 99.71% rejection. The fabricated hydrophobic membrane's long‐term results showed promising and stable performance for commercial applications.
Constructing Fe2O3 particles uniformly grown on graphene oxide as additives for ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer thermal stability, thermal conductivity and anti‐static performance enhancement
Authors: Hong Xiansheng , Lin Fanyi , Zheng Weijie , Zheng Yuying
Published: April 2023

Ethylene‐vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA) has been widely used for packaging materials for decades. However, EVA was highly restricted due to the poor thermal stability and anti‐static performance. For enhancing thermal stability and anti‐static performances, a large number of additives were added to EVA, which seriously prejudice the processability and mechanical properties of the polymer. To address this problem, N‐doped reduced graphene oxide@Fe2O3 (RGF) was constructed as a heat and electronic conduction actor in EVA matrix in this work. As as‐prepared RGF composites shown, Fe2O3 particles well dispersed on the surface of RGO sheets, forming a point‐plane three‐dimensional structure. Therefore, the thermal conductivity and volume resistivity of the EVA composites reached 0.58 W/mK and 1.7 × 1010 ohm∙cm at 1.0 wt.% of RGF addition, which shows 284% folds increasement and 7 orders of magnitude decrement than neat EVA. Moreover, the storage modulus and thermal stability of EVA composites at 180°C were also improved. In sum, all those enhancements were attributed to the Fe2O3 particles well dispersed on RGO sheets, and amino groups from RGF provided mass of hydrogen bonds with EVA chains which provide more sites and path for heat and electronic conduction. In this work, RGF composites and its synthesis strategy show potential promising in the highly effective thermal and electrical exchange materials.
Synthesis and electrical characterization of poly[(linoleic acid)‐g‐(styrene)‐g‐(ε‐caprolactone)] graft copolymers as gate insulator for OFET devices
Authors: Gurel Murat , Cavus Fatma Kosovalı , Demir Ahmet , Doganci Erdinc , Alli Abdulkadir , Alli Sema
Published: April 2023

This study reports a one‐pot process used to synthesize poly[(linoleic acid)‐g‐(styrene)‐g‐(ε‐caprolactone)] (PLina‐g‐PSt‐g‐PCL) graft copolymers. The process was carried out by combining the atom transfer radical polymerization of styrene with the ring‐opening polymerization of ε‐caprolactone from polymeric linoleic acid having hydroxyl groups and bromine groups in the main chain. The characterization of the products was achieved using proton nuclear magnetic resonance, size‐exclusion chromatography, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and differential scanning calorimetry techniques. Subsequently, an organic field effect transistor (OFET) was fabricated with PLina‐g‐PSt‐g‐PCL graft copolymers as the insulator layer. Poly(3‐hexylthiophene) (P3HT) was used as the active layer and prepatterned OFET substrates were used as the welding/discharge electrodes. To measure capacitance, an ITO/P3HT/PLina‐g‐PSt‐g‐PCL/Al structure was prepared using the same method. To obtain output and transfer current–voltage characteristics, electrical characterizations of OFET devices were conducted in darkness and an atmosphere of air. From a capacitance–frequency plot, the key characteristics of the devices, including the threshold voltage (VTh), field effect mobility, and current on/off ratio (Ion/off), were derived. The fundamental electrical parameters in the fabricated OFET devices based on styrene concentration were thoroughly examined. It was observed that the produced PLina‐g‐PSt‐g‐PCL OFETs display positive device characteristics such as low VTh, exceptional mobility, and Ion/off values. © 2023 The Authors. Polymer International published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Industrial Chemistry.
Elementary teacher self‐efficacy after a year of teaching during COVID‐19
Authors: Pressley Tim , Rangel Rachel
Published: April 2023

This study aimed to explore teacher self‐efficacy after a year of teaching during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Specifically, this study looked to replicate and extend previous research that explored teacher self‐efficacy during COVID‐19. The current study included 316 participants from the United States who completed the Teacher Self‐Efficacy Scale. The results found that teachers who had previously won Teacher of the Year (TOY) awards was a significant predictor of total, instructional, and classroom management self‐efficacy. Additionally, emotional exhaustion and personal accomplishment significantly predicted all four self‐efficacy scales. Finally, administrative support significantly predicted engagement and classroom management self‐efficacy. The current study provides suggestions of variables that influenced teacher self‐efficacy at the end of the 2020–2021 school year, which was impacted by COVID‐19.