bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Contrast‐Enhanced Ultrasound‐Based Nomogram
Authors: Guo Huan‐Ling , Lu Xiao‐Zhou , Hu Hang‐Tong , Ruan Si‐Min , Zheng Xin , Xie Xiao‐Yan , Lu Ming‐De , Kuang Ming , Shen Shun‐Li , Chen Li‐Da , Wang Wei
Published: November 2021

Purposes

To evaluate the postsurgical prognostic implication of contrast‐enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) for combined hepatocellular‐cholangiocarcinoma (CHC). To build a CEUS‐based early recurrence prediction classifier for CHC, in comparison with tumor–node–metastasis (TNM) staging.

Methods

The CEUS features and clinicopathological findings of each case were analyzed, and the Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System categories were assigned. The recurrence‐free survival associated factors were evaluated by Cox proportional hazard model. Incorporating the independent factors, nomograms were built to estimate the possibilities of 3‐month, 6‐month, and 1‐year recurrence and whose prognostic value was determined by time‐dependent receiver operating characteristics, calibration curves, and hazard layering efficiency validation, comparing with TNM staging system.

Results

In the multivariable analysis, the levels of carbohydrate antigen 19‐9, prothrombin time and total bilirubin, and tumor shape, the Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System category were independent factors for recurrence‐free survival. The LR‐M category showed longer recurrence‐free survival than did the LR‐4/5 category. The 3‐month, 6‐month, and 1‐year area under the curves of the CEUS‐clinical nomogram, clinical nomogram, and TNM staging system were 0.518, 0.552, and 0.843 versus 0.354, 0.240, and 0.624 (P = .048, .049, and .471) vs. 0.562, 0.545, and 0.843 (P = .630, .564, and .007), respectively. The calibration curves of the CEUS‐clinical model at different prediction time pionts were all close to the ideal line. The CEUS‐clinical model effectively stratified patients into groups of high and low risk of recurrence in both training and validation set, while the TNM staging system only works on the training set.

Conclusions

Our CEUS‐clinical nomogram is a reliable early recurrence prediction tool for hepatocellular‐cholangiocarcinoma and helps postoperative risk stratification.
Machine Learning Assisted Doppler Features for Enhancing Thyroid Cancer Diagnosis
Authors: Zhu Yi‐Cheng , Du Hongbo , Jiang Quan , Zhang Tao , Huang Xu‐Juan , Zhang Yuan , Shi Xiu‐Rong , Shan Jun , AlZoubi Alaa
Published: November 2021

Background

This pilot study aims at exploiting machine learning techniques to extract color Doppler ultrasound (CDUS) features and to build an artificial neural network (ANN) model based on these CDUS features for improving the diagnostic performance of thyroid cancer classification.

Methods

A total of 674 patients with 712 thyroid nodules (TNs) (512 from internal dataset and 200 from external dataset) were randomly selected in this retrospective study. We used ANN to build a model (TDUS‐Net) for classifying malignant and benign TNs using both the automatically extracted quantitative CDUS features (whole ratio, intranodular ratio, peripheral ratio, and number of vessels) and gray‐scale ultrasound (US) features defined by the American College of Radiology (ACR) Thyroid Imaging Reporting and Data System (TI‐RADS). Then, we compared the diagnostic performance of the model, the performance of another ANN model based on the gray‐scale US features alone (TUS‐Net), and that of radiologists.

Results

The TDUS‐Net (0.898, 95% CI: 0.868–0.922) achieved a higher area under the curve (AUC) than that of TUS‐Net (0.881, 95% CI: 0.850–0.908) in the internal tests. Compared with radiologists, TDUS‐Net (AUC: 0.925, 95% CI: 0.880–0.958) performed better than radiologists (AUC: 0.810, 95% CI: 0.749–0.862) in the external tests.

Conclusions

Applying a machine learning model by combining both gray‐scale US features and CDUS features can achieve comparable or even higher performance than radiologists in classifying TNs.
Worker and manager judgments about factors that facilitate knowledge‐sharing: Insights from a Brazilian automotive assembly line
Authors: Muniz Jorge , Wintersberger Daniel , Hong Jacky L. F.
Published: November 2021

The paper explores and ranks the key factors that support tacit knowledge sharing in automotive assembly lines. Existing studies on knowledge sharing tend to overwhelmingly focus on knowledge‐intensive, white‐collar work, and despite the acknowledgment of the importance of blue‐collar workers' tacit knowledge, both the knowledge management and operations management literature have devoted limited attention to manufacturing environments, and, in particular, those working on assembly lines. This study draws on qualitative and quantitative data from workers and plant managers of an automotive assembly line located in the Brazilian automotive Modular Consortium (MC), a unique production concept which produces vehicles in high volume and high variety. MC works with six multinational suppliers, which interact directly on the assembly line, sharing physical space, responsibilities, and quality control. The qualitative element of the study included interviews, informal conversations, and on‐site observations. Transcriptions were interpreted using content analysis. The quantitative element entailed a comparison of worker and management survey responses on the relative importance they ascribe to the different factors contributing to knowledge sharing, by ranking them using Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP). The findings compare and contrast the perspectives of managers and workers on knowledge sharing with reference to factors related to people and processes. Implications for managerial action based on knowledge, HRM, and work management are discussed.
Biocrust‐induced extracellular polymeric substances are responsible for dune stabilization in the Negev
Authors: Kidron Giora J. , Drahorad Sylvie L.
Published: November 2021

There is no consensus over the factors responsible for dune stabilization in arid regions, with some scholars maintaining that dust (i.e., silt and clay) plays a major role in dune stabilization. Aiming to explore the principal driving factor responsible for dune stabilization in the Negev, we compared various biocrusts having different biomass and compressive strength, and performed surface degradation and illuviation experiments with dust in the presence or absence of biocrusts in order to assess the crust role in impeding wind erosion and dust illuviation. We show that dust cannot be regarded as the primary driving factor for crust strength and subsequently for dune stabilization in the Negev, as suggested in some publications. This function is however fulfilled by extracellular polymeric substances (EPS, mostly polysaccharides), which are excreted by the biocrust (mainly cyanobacteria), and serve as a cementing agent for the establishing crust and therefore for the dust. Exhibiting high water absorption and strong adhering properties, EPS is responsible for granting strength to the crust, impeding wind erosion and dust illuviation, thus providing the necessary cementing agent, which facilitates dune stabilization in the Negev. Global warming which may result in frequent droughts and high input of dust may not contribute to dune stabilization as suggested by some scholars, but rather will negatively affect dune stabilization, as it may result in EPS degradation and subsequently in dune mobilization.
An equity‐based narrative review of barriers to timely postoperative radiation therapy for patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Noyes Elizabeth A. , Burks Ciersten A. , Larson Andrew R. , Deschler Daniel G.
Published: November 2021

Objectives

The majority of patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) do not commence postoperative radiation treatment (PORT) within the recommended 6 weeks. We explore how delayed PORT affects survival outcomes, what factors are associated with delayed PORT initiation, and what interventions exist to reduce delays in PORT initiation.

Methods

We conducted a PubMed search to identify articles discussing timely PORT for HNSCC. We performed a narrative review to assess survival outcomes of delayed PORT as well as social determinants of health (SDOH) and clinical factors associated with delayed PORT, using the PROGRESS‐Plus health equity framework to guide our analysis. We reviewed interventions designed to reduce delays in PORT.

Results

Delayed PORT is associated with reduced overall survival. Delays in PORT disproportionately burden patients of racial/ethnic minority backgrounds, Medicaid or no insurance, low socioeconomic status, limited access to care, more comorbidities, presentation at advanced stages, and those who experience postoperative complications. Delays in PORT initiation tend to occur during transitions in head and neck cancer care. Delays in PORT may be reduced by interventions that identify patients who are most likely to experience delayed PORT, support patients according to their specific needs and barriers to care, and streamline care and referral processes.

Conclusions

Both SDOH and clinical factors are associated with delays in timely PORT. Structural change is needed to reduce health disparities and promote equitable access to care for all. When planning care, providers must consider not only biological factors but also SDOH to maximize care outcomes.
Assessment of tissue‐specific changes in structure and function induced by in vivo skin/skull optical clearing techniques
Authors: Zhang Chao , Feng Wei
Published: November 2021

Background Objectives

Newly developed in vivo skin and skull optical clearing techniques can greatly improve the optical imaging performance, showing great advantages and clinical prospects. However, there is a poor understanding of in vivo optical clearing‐induced changes in the skin and skull.

Materials and Methods

Here, we employed in vivo skin/skull optical clearing techniques to improve the optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging quality. And we also used polarization‐sensitive OCT to monitor the dynamic changes in the polarization characteristics of the skin and skull during in vivo optical clearing processes. Two‐photon imaging was used to evaluate changes in tissue barrier function and structure. Additionally, Raman spectra were employed for assessing the changes of each component in the skin and skull before and after optical clearing treatment.

Results

The results indicated that the polarization states of the skin and skull were altered with the usages of optical clearing agents. And the barrier permeability and collagen fiber distribution of them became disordered. Furthermore, the Raman spectra of tissue demonstrated that the applications of in vivo tissue optical clearing methods could lead to the reduction of proteins, lipids, and inorganic salts in these two organs. Interestingly, after recovery treatment, the structure and function of the skin and skull could almost recover to the initial states.

Conclusion

In vivo tissue optical clearing can lead to changes in the structure and function of tissue, which was reversible to some extent. This study plays an important role in revealing the underlying mechanisms of tissue optical clearing techniques; moreover, it is conducive to the development and optimization of a novel in vivo tissue optical clearing approaches in future.
Nanoporous Block Copolymer Membranes with Enhanced Solvent Resistance Via UV‐Mediated Cross‐Linking Strategies
Authors: Frieß Florian V. , Hu Qiwei , Mayer Jannik , Gemmer Lea , Presser Volker , Balzer Bizan N. , Gallei Markus
Published: November 2021

In this work, a block copolymer (BCP) consisting of poly((butyl methacrylate‐co‐benzophenone methacrylate‐co‐methyl methacrylate)‐block‐(2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate)) (P(BMA‐co‐BPMA‐co‐MMA)‐b‐P(HEMA)) is prepared by a two‐step atom‐transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) procedure. BCP membranes are fabricated applying the self‐assembly and nonsolvent induced phase separation (SNIPS) process from a ternary solvent mixture of tetrahydrofuran (THF), 1,4‐dioxane, and dimethylformamide (DMF). The presence of a porous top layer of the integral asymmetric membrane featuring pores of about 30 nm is confirmed via scanning electron microscopy (SEM). UV‐mediated cross‐linking protocols for the nanoporous membrane are adjusted to maintain the open and isoporous top layer. The swelling capability of the noncross‐linked and cross‐linked BCP membranes is investigated in water, water/ethanol mixture (1:1), and pure ethanol using atomic force microscopy, proving a stabilizing effect of the UV cross‐linking on the porous structures. Finally, the influence of the herein described cross‐linking protocols on water‐flux measurements for the obtained membranes is explored. As a result, an increased swelling resistance for all tested solvents is found, leading to an increased water flux compared to the pristine membrane. The herein established UV‐mediated cross‐linking protocol is expected to pave the way to a new generation of porous and stabilized membranes within the fields of separation technologies.
Analysis of two immiscible Newtonian and micropolar fluid flow through an inclined porous channel
Authors: Yadav Pramod Kumar , Verma Amit Kumar
Published: November 2021

In this work, the flow behaviour of two immiscible fluids is analysed through an inclined channel which is made of two rigid plates. The flow model consists of two porous regions of different permeability. Newtonian and micropolar fluids are allowed to flow in the region‐I and region‐II, respectively. The flow of Newtonian and micropolar fluid in respective porous region is governed by the Brinkman's equation. An exact solution of the proposed mathematical model is obtained by using well‐known and appropriate boundary conditions. The expressions for linear velocity, microrotational velocity, flow rate and stresses are evaluated. The effect of various emerging non‐dimensional parameters like viscosity ratio, couple stress parameter, gravitational parameter, Reynolds number, and so on, on linear velocity, microrotational velocity, flow rate and stresses is presented graphically. The results are validated with the help of the previous established results.
Some Serrin type blow‐up criteria for the three‐dimensional viscous compressible flows with large external potential force
Authors: Suen Anthony
Published: November 2021

We provide a Serrin type blow‐up criterion for the 3‐D viscous compressible flows with large external potential force. For the Cauchy problem of the 3‐D compressible Navier–Stokes system with potential force term, it can be proved that the strong solution exists globally if the velocity satisfies the Serrin's condition and the sup‐norm of the density is bounded. Furthermore, in the case of isothermal flows with no vacuum, the Serrin's condition on the velocity can be removed from the claimed criterion.
Asymptotic properties of solutions to discrete Volterra type equations
Authors: Migda Janusz , Nockowska‐Rosiak Magdalena , Migda Malgorzata
Published: November 2021

We study higher order nonlinear discrete Volterra equations of the form

We discuss the problem of the existence of solutions with prescribed asymptotic behavior. In the proof of the main theorem we use the iterated remainder operator and the Schauder's type fixed point theorem. This approach allows us to control the degree of approximation. Our results are also new for the special cases of the above equation such as linear Volterra equation, ordinary difference equation and discrete Emden–Fowler type equation.
Temperature dependence, accuracy, and repeatability of T1 and T2 relaxation times for the ISMRM/NIST system phantom measured using MR fingerprinting
Authors: Statton Ben K. , Smith Joely , Finnegan Mary E. , Koerzdoerfer Gregor , Quest Rebecca A. , Grech‐Sollars Matthew
Published: November 2021

Purpose

Before MR fingerprinting (MRF) can be adopted clinically, the derived quantitative values must be proven accurate and repeatable over a range of T1 and T2 values and temperatures. Correct assessment of accuracy and precision as well as comparison between measurements can only be performed when temperature is either controlled or corrected for. The purpose of this study was to investigate the temperature dependence of T1 and T2 MRF values and evaluate the accuracy and repeatability of temperature‐corrected relaxation values derived from a B1‐corrected MRF–fast imaging with steady‐state precession implementation using 2 different dictionary sizes.

Methods

The International Society of MR in Medicine/National Institute of Standards and Technology phantom was scanned using an MRF sequence of 2 different lengths, a variable flip angle T1, and a multi‐echo spin echo T2 at 14 temperatures ranging from 15°C to 28°C and investigated with a linear regression model. Temperature‐corrected accuracy was evaluated by correlating T1 and T2 times from each MRF dictionary with reference values. Repeatability was assessed using the coefficient of variation, with measurements taken over 30 separate sessions.

Results

There was a statistically significant fit of the model for MRF‐derived T1 and T2 and temperature (p < 0.05) for all the spheres with a T1 > 500 ms. Both MRF methods showed a strong linear correlation with reference values for T1 (R2 = 0.996) and T2 (R2 = 0.982). MRF repeatability for T1 values was ≤1.4% and for T2 values was ≤3.4%.

Conclusion

MRF demonstrated relaxation times with a temperature dependence similar to that of conventional mapping methods. Temperature‐corrected T1 and T2 values from both dictionaries showed adequate accuracy and excellent repeatability in this phantom study.
Encoding capability prediction of acquisition schedules in CEST MR fingerprinting for pH quantification
Authors: Liu Jie , Liu Hui , Liu Qi , Xu Jian , Liu Xin , Zheng Hairong , Wu Yin
Published: November 2021

Purpose

To identify a reliable metric for predicting the encoding capability of CEST MR fingerprinting acquisition schedules for pH quantification, which may facilitate CEST MR fingerprinting protocol optimization.

Methods

Numerical simulations and Cr phantom MRI experiments were conducted at 3 Tesla under representative CEST MR fingerprinting sampling scenarios, including the pseudorandomization of imaging parameters (e.g., saturation power B1, saturation frequency offset, saturation time, and relaxation time), and variation of the maximum saturation power B1max, B1 number, and sampling pattern. The CEST effect at 2 ppm was measured using asymmetry analysis and matched to a predefined dictionary to determine the pH. The pH quantification error was assessed using RMSE. Three metrics, namely the Cramer‐Rao bound, dot product, and Euclidean distance, were calculated for each sampling scenario, and their relationships with the pH RMSE were investigated to examine their effectiveness for predicting the encoding capability of sampling schedules for pH quantification.

Results

Both simulation and phantom studies revealed that the Cramer‐Rao bound metric consistently exhibited superior performance for predicting the pH quantification error. Although dot product exhibited good encoding capability prediction in most sampling scenarios, it failed in the scenario with varied B1 numbers. In contrast, Euclidean distance exhibited the worst performance among the 3 metrics in all scenarios.

Conclusion

Superior over dot product and Euclidean distance, the Cramer‐Rao bound metric may reliably predicting the encoding capability of CEST MR fingerprinting sampling strategies and may be useful for guiding CEST MRI protocol optimization.
Assessment of vertebral fractures and edema of the thoracolumbar spine based on water‐fat and susceptibility‐weighted images derived from a single ultra‐short echo time scan
Authors: Kronthaler Sophia , Boehm Christof , Feuerriegel Georg , Börnert Peter , Katscher Ulrich , Weiss Kilian , Makowski Marcus R. , Schwaiger Benedikt J. , Gersing Alexandra S. , Karampinos Dimitrios C.
Published: November 2021

Purpose

To develop a methodology to simultaneously perform single echo Dixon water‐fat imaging and susceptibility‐weighted imaging (SWI) based on a single echo time (TE) ultra‐short echo time (UTE) (sUTE) scan to assess vertebral fractures and degenerative bone changes in the thoracolumbar spine.

Methods

A methodology was developed to solve the smoothness‐constrained inverse water‐fat problem to separate water and fat while removing unwanted low‐frequency phase terms. Additionally, the corrected UTE phase was used for SWI. UTE imaging (TE: 0.14 ms, 3T MRI) was performed in the lumbar spine of nine patients with vertebral fractures and bone marrow edema (BME). All images were reviewed by two radiologists. Water‐ and fat‐separated images were analyzed in comparison with short‐tau inversion recovery (STIR) and with respect to BME visibility. The visibility of fracture lines and cortical outlining of the UTE magnitude images were analyzed in comparison with computed tomography.

Results

Unwanted phase components, dominated by the B1 phase, were removed from the UTE phase images. The rating of the diagnostic quality of BME visualization showed a high preference for the sUTE‐Dixon water‐ and fat‐separated images in comparison with STIR. The UTE magnitude images enabled better visualizing fracture lines compared with STIR and slightly better visibility of cortical outlining. With increasing SWI weighting osseous structures and fatty tissues were enhanced.

Conclusion

The proposed sUTE‐Dixon‐SWI methodology allows the removal of unwanted low‐frequency phases and enables water‐fat separation and SWI processing from a single complex UTE image. The methodology can be used for the simultaneous assessment of vertebral fractures and BME of the thoracolumbar spine.
A novel Himachal’s Bagar (Sabai) grass fiber used as a brake friction material in brake polymer composite and compared to standard brake friction material
Authors: Kumar Naresh , Grewal J. S. , Kumar Sushil , Ali Sarafat , Kumar Nitin
Published: November 2021

Organic fibers are utilized these days in many applications because of their great mechanical properties. Organic fibers have replaced the synthetic fibers in various places. Previous research articles have told the potential of natural fiber reinforcement as a brake friction material, but there are very few research articles of comparative study of standard brake friction materials and natural fibers. So in this research paper, a unique Sabai grass fiber was used as a brake friction material to develop new samples of brake pads and compare with standard Kevlar‐based composites. The brake pads were formed by utilizing the different percentages of Kevlar fiber (standard material) (5%–10%) and Sabai grass fibers (5%–20%) in the hydraulic brake producing machine. The fundamental point of this investigation is to track down the substitute of asbestos and Kevlar in brake material. The outcomes of physico‐mechanical properties revealed that percentage of porosity, percentage of water retention, percentage of compressibility increments as augmentation the level of Sabai grass fiber and Kevlar fiber in the polymer composite while Ash, hardness and density diminishes with increment level of Sabai grass fiber and Kevlar fiber in the composite. The Sabai grass based composites with 5 wt% have shown improved outcomes for (μ) coefficient of friction, % fade and for wear among all organic fiber composites while the results in terms of wear and recovery were seen to increment with increment level of Sabai grass fiber. In relative examination it has been determined that Kevlar based Brake pad specimen showed minimal better outcomes in % fade, (μ) coefficient of friction and wear than that of Sabai grass fiber composites. The mechanical properties of sabai grass fiber and Kevlar‐based composites have shown nearby results. The wear rate and thermal stability were verified most elevated for 20% Sabai grass composites and 10% Kevlar mixture.
Comparative metabolomics analysis revealed biomarkers and distinct flavonoid biosynthesis regulation in Chrysanthemum mongolicum and C. rhombifolium
Authors: Duan Xiaxia , Zhang Wenjie , Li Jingjing , Xu Hongyuan , Hu Jing , Zhao Liang , Ma Yueping
Published: November 2021

Introduction

Chrysanthemums are traditional flowers that originated in China and have high ornamental, economic and medicinal value. They are widely used as herbal remedies and consumed as food or beverages in folk medicine. However, little is known about their metabolic composition.

Objectives

The aims of this work were to determine the metabolic composition of and natural variation among different species of Chrysanthemum and to explore new potential resources for drug discovery and sustainable utilisation of wild Chrysanthemum.

Methods

The metabolomes of Chrysanthemum mongolicum (Ling) Tzvel. and Chrysanthemum rhombifolium H. Ohashi & Yonek. were compared using a widely targeted metabolomics approach based on liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS).

Results

In total, 477 metabolites were identified, of which 72 showed significant differences in expression between C. mongolicum and C. rhombifolium, mainly in flavonoids, organic acids and nucleotides. The flavone and flavonol biosynthesis pathway showed significant enrichment among the differentially expressed metabolites. The contents of genkwanin, trigonelline, diosmin, narcissoside, 3,4‐dihydroxyphenylacetic acid, linarin, N′,N′‐p‐coumarin, C‐hexosyl‐tricetin O‐pentoside, chrysoeriol, acacetin and kaempferol‐3‐O‐gentiobioside were significantly different between the two species and represent potential biomarkers.

Conclusion

The types of flavonoid‐related metabolites in the flavonoid biosynthesis pathway differed between C. mongolicum and C. rhombifolium. The mechanisms underlying the unique adaptations of these two species to their environments may involve variations in the composition and abundance of flavonoids, organic acids, and nucleotides. These methods are promising to identify functional compounds in Chrysanthemum species and can provide potential resources for drug discovery and the sustainable utilisation of Chrysanthemum plants.
Polysilicon contact structures for silicon solar cells using atomic layer deposited oxides and nitrides as ultra‐thin dielectric interlayers
Authors: Reichel Christian , Feldmann Frank , Richter Armin , Benick Jan , Hermle Martin , Glunz Stefan W.
Published: November 2021

Polysilicon contact structures with ultra‐thin atomic layer deposited (ALD) oxide and nitride interlayers based on SiOx, SiNx, AlOx, AlNx, and TiOx either as part of an interlayer stack when applied on top of a conventional thermally‐grown SiOx or as a single interlayer were investigated. ALD SiOx single interlayers provided a very good passivation quality with high implied open‐circuit voltage and low‐specific contact resistivity when an optimal thickness and annealing temperature was applied. Also, ALD SiNx single interlayers showed a promising passivation quality, while AlOx and AlNx interlayers only allowed for a moderate and TiOx interlayers exhibited a very poor passivation quality. ALD SiOx interlayers on planar and textured silicon solar cells with poly‐Si(p) hole‐selective contacts and poly‐Si(n) electron‐selective contacts enabled a conversion efficiency of almost 21% as a proof‐of‐concept. These results are comparable with silicon solar cells with conventional thermally‐grown SiOx, showing that ALD SiOx interlayers are an alternative to conventional thermally‐grown SiOx in polysilicon contacts structures.
African‐centered coping, resilience, and psychological distress in Black prostate cancer patients
Authors: Martin Chloé M. , Schofield Elizabeth , Napolitano Stephanie , Avildsen Isabelle K. , Emanu Jessica C. , Tutino Rebecca , Roth Andrew J. , Nelson Christian J.
Published: November 2021

Objective

Blacks have the highest incidence and mortality rates for prostate cancer (PCa) in the U.S. Black PCa patients (PCaP) also report high psychological distress. Identifying culturally specific coping strategies that lower distress among Black PCaP could help improve psychological interventions for this group. African‐centered coping (strategies unique to the structure of Black personality and the African‐centered worldview) have been identified. We hypothesized that these coping strategies and resilience would be associated with lower psychological distress (anxiety and depression) in Black PCaP.

Methods

Black PCaP (N = 95) completed a survey assessing African‐centered coping strategies, resilience, anxiety, and depression. Multiple regression was employed to examine African‐centered coping strategies and resilience as predictors of psychological distress.

Results

Participants were aged M = 67 ± 9 years and 52% had late‐stage PCa. Twenty percent met criteria for clinically significant anxiety, and 17% for depression. African‐centered coping strategies were not associated with lower anxiety or depression, while resilience was associated with decreased anxiety (r = −0.45, p < 0.001) and depression (r = −0.54, p < 0.001). Mediation analyses did not support an indirect association among African‐centered coping strategies, resilience, and anxiety and depression.

Conclusions

Contrary to hypotheses, African‐centered coping strategies were not associated with psychological distress. However, as predicted, greater resilience was associated with lower anxiety and depression. These findings support the relevancy of resilience in Blacks' psychological adjustment to PCa. It might be worthwhile to explore African‐centered coping strategies that help Black PCaP cope with distress.
Inspired by surimono: Integrating photography and poetry to bring plants into focus
Authors: Coe Robert , Lee Nicholas M. , Osbourn Anne
Published: November 2021

Societal Impact Statement

Plants are our sources of oxygen, food, medicines, clothing, building materials and fuels. They are part of our history, our trade and our imaginations. Here, we investigate the potential for integration of photographs and poetry to bring plants to life and let them tell their stories, inspired by the ancient Japanese woodprint artform, surimono. The resulting ‘photo surimono’ open up new opportunities to engage with the natural world at the juxtaposition of the written and the visual, to combat the cognitive bias of plant blindness and to introduce more connected ways of thinking about plants, people and sustainability into educational programmes.
GaInP/AlInP(001) Interfaces from Density Functional Theory
Authors: Meier Lukas , Schmidt Wolf Gero
Published: November 2021

The band alignment and the electronic states at the GaInP/AInP(001) interface are explored with (hybrid) density functional theory. Thereby, CuPt‐type ordered crystals are focused. For the most stable interface, valence and conduction band offsets of 0.04 and −0.58 eV, respectively, are predicted. No interface states occur within the fundamental gap. Generally, the results support the validity of natural band offsets and demonstrate a minor influence of strain and local bonding scenarios on the band alignment.
Outlier robust identification of dual‐rate Hammerstein models in the presence of unmodeled dynamics
Authors: Filipovic Vojislav Z.
Published: November 2021

The article considers the outlier‐robust recursive least squares algorithm for identification of SISO (single‐input single‐output) dual‐rate Hammerstein model. The output sampling period is an integer multiple of the input sampling period. By using polynomial transformation technique we get a model which is suitable for parameter estimation for dual‐rate measurement data. After that deterministic dual‐rate Hammerstein model is extended with stochastic disturbance (which includes outliers) and unmodeled dynamics. Synthesis of identification algorithm is based on Newton–Raphson method which requires that loss function should be twice differentiable. Huber loss function, relevant for outliers treatment, has just first derivative. In order to overcome problem pseudo‐Huber loss function is introduced. This function behaves similarly to Huber loss function and has derivatives of arbitrary orders. Given recursive algorithm is based on synergy of Huber and pseudo‐Huber loss functions. Then we consider the robustness of algorithm. The main contributions of the article are: (i) determination of dual‐rate Hammerstein model which includes stochastic disturbance with outliers and unmodeled dynamics; (ii) derivation of robust recursive algorithm; (iii) determination of robustness for parameter estimate.
Robust output feedback model predictive control of time‐delayed systems using interval observers
Authors: Reis de Souza Alex , Efimov Denis , Raïssi Tarek
Published: November 2021

This work addresses the problem of robust output feedback model predictive control (MPC) of constrained, discrete‐time, time‐delayed linear systems subject to (bounded) additive disturbances. The proposed predictive controller incorporates an interval observer, that exploits the available measurement to update the set‐membership of the system states, and an interval predictor, used in the prediction step of the MPC. The proposed algorithm is similar to conventional MPC for linear systems, offering guarantees on recursive feasibility and robust constraint satisfaction, with low computational complexity. Furthermore, the delay is explicitly taken into account in the design, and the obtained scheme easily encompasses delays on the state, on the measurement or the control input.
Preparation and Characterization of SiC Fibers from PCS by Electrospinning, Curing and Calcination Process**
Authors: Hu Shao‐Hwa , Yuan Jiao‐Jiao , Wu Li‐Chun , Dai Hang , Ai Ya‐Zhao , Deng Ying‐Feng
Published: November 2021

Silicon carbide (SiC) possesses unique properties and is widely applied in household and military uses. This study explored the manufacturing process of SiC fibers. In the experiment, polycarbosilane (PCS) was dissolved in a mixed solvent of C8H10 and dimethylformamide (DMF) to form a solution, and electrospinning was employed to synthesize PCS fibers. PCS fibers underwent a curing process and a 2 h calcination at 1200 °C in N2 atmosphere to convert PCS fibers into β‐SiC fibers. The solute recruitment, solvent mixing ratio, and voltage in the experiment were defined as process parameters through which to examine the influence each parameter had on electrospinning. The PCS fibers were discovered to exhibit the most even size under the following condition: PCS recruitment of 1.0 g/mL, DMF constituting 30 % of the solvent volume, voltage of 25 kV, spraying speed of 1.0 mL/h, and spinning distance of 15 cm. Under microscopy, the diameter of each PCS fiber was determined to be 1.0 μm, and the diameter of each β‐SiC fiber was 0.8 μm.
Glucose‐Induced Disintegrated Hydrogel for the Glucose‐Responsive Delivery of Insulin
Authors: Lu Yangyang , Yu Haojie , Wang Li , Shen Di , Liu Jian
Published: November 2021

Stimulus‐sensitive drug delivery materials are of vital significance to modern therapeutic technology. In particular, glucose‐responsive hydrogels capable of biomimetic release of hypoglycemic drugs according to glucose concentrations are one of the current research hotspots. In this paper, an injectable, glucose‐induced disintegrated natural‐polysaccharide‐based hydrogel with good self‐healing ability and biocompatibility is reported. The glucose‐responsiveness of the hydrogel stems from the reversible phenylborate ester bonds. The glucose‐triggered disintegration and insulin release are demonstrated in the hydrogel in a physiological environment. The two polymers produced by the disintegration of the hydrogel have good biocompatibility and biodegradability. Therefore, the hydrogel is considered to result in the development of smart insulin delivery systems.
Hydroisomerization with a Hierarchical SAPO‐11 Supported Ni Catalyst: Effect of DTAB Content[]**
Authors: Chen Zhiping , Liu Li , Shi Faxiang , Zhou Wenwu , Yang Zhiyuan , Zhou Anning
Published: November 2021

In order to explore the effect of the amount of mesoporous template on the physicochemical properties and hydroisomerization of the hierarchical SAPO‐11, a series of hierarchical SAPO‐11 were synthesized by adding different amounts of dodecyl trimethyl ammonium bromide(DTAB) as mesopore structure directing agent. The synthesized hierarchical SAPO‐11 were characterized by XRD, N2 adsorption‐desorption, SEM, TEM, NH3‐TPD and Py‐FTIR. The results showed that the addition amount of DTAB had a significant effect on the crystallinity, the specific surface area, the pore volume and acid sites of the synthesized hierarchical SAPO‐11. The hydroisomerization of the hierarchical SAPO‐11 was evaluated with 1‐octene as a probe after loading propriate amount of Ni. The results showed that with the increase in the DTAB content, the selectivity of mono‐branched isomers increases rapidly at first and then tends to be flat. The selectivity of the di‐branched isomers increased first and then decreased, this shows that choosing an appropriate amount of DTAB is very important to improve the hydroisomerization selectivity of the hierarchical Ni/SAPO‐11 catalyst.
Aromatization of Commercial Full Range Naphtha Over Modified Hierarchical ZSM‐5 Catalyst
Authors: Ummer Aniz Chennampilly , Akhtar Muhammad Naseem , Alnaimi Essa , Ding Lianhui , Alasiri Hassan Saeed
Published: November 2021

Aromatization of commercial full range naphtha has been studied in a fixed bed reactor using the synthesized hierarchical zeolite catalysts. Desilication was carried out on H‐ZSM‐5 support with Silica to Alumina (SiO2/Al2O3) molar ratio 30 to generate additional meso‐porosity and active metal Gallium was incorporated by wetness impregnation method. Various concentrations of sodium hydroxide solutions and two different initial calcination temperature were used during the modification to understand the effect of these parameters on the catalysts. All the catalysts were characterized using nitrogen adsorption, X‐ray diffraction, temperature programmed ammonia desorption, elemental and surface imaging techniques. Catalytic evaluation is done in a fixed bed reactor operated at a temperature of 550 °C, atmospheric pressure and liquid hourly space velocity of 6.0 h−1. Product streams from the fixed bed reactor are analyzed using both online and offline gas chromatographs using ASTM D7833 and D6729 respectively to report product selectivity and mass balance. It is observed that the additional meso porosity and the retention of crystallite phase lead to 62.4 % enhancement in aromatic selectivity and 52.2 % decrease in off‐gas generation for the developed catalyst compared to its non‐desilicated analogue during the aromatization process of full range real naphtha.
Thiosemicarbazide‐Linked Covalent Organic Framework: Preparation, Properties and Applications
Authors: Wang Heping , He Tengteng , Quan Dandan , Wang Tong , Li Cong , Shen Yehua
Published: November 2021

With the unique advantages in structure and property, covalent organic frameworks have been widely employed for separation and enrichment. In this work, the thiosemicarbazide‐linked covalent organic framework (TpTc) was prepared by using 1,3,5‐triformylphloroglucinol and non‐rigid thiosemicarbazide as building blocks for the first time. The as‐prepared TpTc COF was fully characterized, presenting an agaric‐like structure, large specific surface area (63.5 m2 g−1), uniform pore size distribution (1.36 nm), inherent porosity and ordered crystallinity. The potential of TpTc as adsorbent for metal ions capture was investigated by static batch adsorption experiment using the one‐factor procedure. The maximum adsorption capacities of 73.50, 56.53 and 94.13 mg g−1 were obtained for Cu (II), Pb (II) and Cd (II) at natural pH, respectively. The anchoring of three metal ions onto TpTc is a multi‐layer sorption involving chemical adsorption, and obeys the Freundlich and pseudo‐second‐order model. According to XPS analysis, the adsorption mechanism may be attributed to the coordination and electrostatic interaction between metal ions and N, O and S atoms on TpTc COF. This work not only provides a candidate for the application of COFs in metal ions capture, but also a reference for exploring functional design of COFs.
An Update on Pharmacological Relevance and Chemical Synthesis of Natural Products and Derivatives with Anti SARS‐CoV‐2 Activity
Authors: Shagufta  , Ahmad Irshad
Published: November 2021

Natural products recognized traditionally as a vital source of active constituents in pharmacotherapy. The COVID‐19 infection caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) is highly transmissible, pathogenic, and considered an ongoing global health emergency. The emergence of COVID‐19 globally and the lack of adequate treatment brought attention towards herbal medicines, and scientists across the globe instigated the search for novel drugs from medicinal plants and natural products to tackle this deadly virus. The natural products rich in scaffold diversity and structural complexity are an excellent source for antiviral drug discovery. Recently the investigation of several natural products and their synthetic derivatives resulted in the identification of promising anti SARS‐CoV‐2 agents. This review article will highlight the pharmacological relevance and chemical synthesis of the recently discovered natural product and their synthetic analogs as SARS‐CoV‐2 inhibitors. The summarized information will pave the path for the natural product‐based drug discovery of safe and potent antiviral agents, particularly against SARS‐CoV‐2.
Ulnar neuropathy: A postoperative complication following placement of a humeral transcondylar screw in a dog
Authors: Condon Anna , Keeley Ben , Beaumont Georgina Lauren
Published: November 2021

A 4‐year‐old neutered male English springer spaniel was examined because of postoperative allodynia and non‐weight bearing right thoracic limb lameness following bilateral humeral transcondylar screw placement to manage humeral intracondylar fissure. Clinical examination demonstrated signs attributable to ulnar neuropathy. Ulnar nerve block resulted in temporary resolution of clinical signs and confirmed the diagnosis. Multi‐modal analgesia resulted in the resolution of clinical signs with all medication withdrawn by 3 months postoperatively. No recurrence was reported at a 6‐month follow‐up. To our knowledge, this is the first documented report of ulnar neuropathy following humeral transcondylar screw placement in a dog.
Urinary bladder duplication in coronal plane in a dog
Authors: Gomes Diana , Puig Jordi , Vizcaíno Núria , Domínguez Elisabet , Feo Luis
Published: November 2021

An 8‐year‐old female intact Yorkshire terrier was presented with a 1‐year recurrent urinary tract infection. Abdominal ultrasound, computed tomography, positive contrast retrograde urethrography and cystoscopy were performed, revealing a tubular structure continuous with the ventral wall of the bladder connected with the urethra by an ostium ventral to the internal urethral orifice. Excision of the tubular structure was performed. Histopathological results were consistent with urinary bladder tissue. One year after surgery no clinical signs were reported. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first report of urinary bladder duplication in the coronal plane with a single urethra in a dog.
Capture Rate Declines of Northern Myotis in the Canadian Maritimes
Authors: Balzer Evan W. , Grottoli Adam D. , Phinney Lori J. , Burns Lynne E. , Vanderwolf Karen J. , Broders Hugh G.
Published: November 2021

The disease white‐nose syndrome (WNS) has caused widespread decline of North American bat species. Species like little brown myotis (Myotis lucifugus) have received more attention than others, such as northern myotis (Myotis septentrionalis). We were concerned that management decisions based on the demographic condition of little brown myotis may be inappropriate for northern myotis due to the potential for variation in species‐specific responses to WNS. We therefore compiled capture data from Canada's Maritime provinces collected between 2003 and 2019 to identify if disparate population trends exist between the 2 species. We identified a decline in northern myotis capture‐per‐unit‐effort (CPUE) after the detection of WNS (hereafter, post‐WNS), in each study region and a divergence from the historic CPUE ratio between the 2 species. Whereas 380 northern myotis were captured pre‐WNS, only 4 were captured post‐WNS. The pre‐WNS ratio of northern myotis to little brown myotis CPUE in New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Nova Scotia declined from 0.541, 0.273, and 0.291 to 0.046, 0, and 0 respectively, post‐WNS. Our results indicate that northern myotis populations in the Maritimes have experienced a serious decline. Standardized and systematic capture surveys should be conducted at summer roosting areas and swarming sites in combination with counts in hibernacula to clarify the current distribution, population size, and resource selection patterns of northern myotis. © 2021 The Wildlife Society.
Root patterns and energy spectra of quantum integrable systems without U(1) symmetry: the antiperiodic XXZ spin chain
Authors: Le Xiong , Qiao Yi , Cao Junpeng , Yang Wen-Li , Shi Kangjie , Wang Yupeng
Published: November 2021

Abstract

Finding out root patterns of quantum integrable models is an important step to study their physical properties in the thermodynamic limit. Especially for models without U(1) symmetry, their spectra are usually given by inhomogeneous T − Q relations and the Bethe root patterns are still unclear. In this paper with the antiperiodic XXZ spin chain as an example, an analytic method to derive both the Bethe root patterns and the transfer-matrix root patterns in the thermodynamic limit is proposed. Based on them the ground state energy and elementary excitations in the gapped regime are derived. The present method provides an universal procedure to compute physical properties of quantum integrable models in the thermodynamic limit.