bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Liquid crystal random lasers
Authors: Qu Guangyin , Zhang Xiaojuan , Li Siqi , Lu Liang , Gao Jiangang , Yu Benli , Wu Si , Zhang Qijin , Hu Zhijia
Published: November 2022

The enthusiasm for research on liquid crystal random lasers (LCRLs) is driven by their unusual optical properties and promising potential for broad applications in manufacturing, communications, medicine and entertainment.
High-throughput analysis of tetragonal transition metal Xenes
Authors: Yorulmaz Uğur , Šabani Denis , Yagmurcukardes Mehmet , Sevik Cem , Milošević Milorad V.
Published: November 2022

The structural, mechanical, electronic, and vibrational properties of tetragonal single-layer transition metal Xenes (t-TMXs) are reported using high-throughput first-principles techniques.
Adsorption and keto–enol-tautomerisation of butanal on Pd(111)
Authors: Wulfes Jessica , Baumann Ann-Katrin , Melchert Tobias , Schröder Carsten , Schauermann Swetlana
Published: November 2022

Stabilization of normally unstable enol form of carbonyl compounds on surfaces is realized via intermolecular interactions.
Membrane-intercalating conjugated oligoelectrolytes
Authors: Zhou Cheng , Chia Geraldine W. N. , Yong Ken-Tye
Published: November 2022

Membrane-intercalating conjugated oligoelectrolytes are emerging as versatile tools to modify or functionalize lipid bilayers. Through modular chemical design, this new molecular platform has applications in a range of biological fields.
Gougunao tea polysaccharides ameliorate high-fat diet-induced hyperlipidemia and modulate gut microbiota
Authors: Deng Qihuan , Wang Wenjun , Zhang Lieyuan , Chen Lingli , Zhang Qingfeng , Zhang Ying , He Sichen , Li Jingen
Published: November 2022

GTP40 improved the abnormal parameters related to lipid metabolism in the serum and liver, decreased oxidative and inflammatory stress, and played a regulatory role in shaping the gut microbiota of hyperlipidemia mice fed with a high-fat diet.
Effect of capillary fluid flow on single cancer cell cycle dynamics, motility, volume and morphology
Authors: Taïeb Hubert M. , Herment Guillaume , Robinson Tom , Cipitria Amaia
Published: November 2022

Using microfluidics, we isolate cancer cells under fluid flow mimicking sinusoidal capillaries. With deep-learning and FUCCItrack, we analyze 2D/3D time-lapse multi-channel images to study cell cycle dynamics, motility, volume, and morphology.
Carbohydrate-based N-heterocyclic carbene-metal complexes: a new avenue for sustainable catalysts in organic transformations
Authors: P. Krishnaraj , Reddy Sabbasani Rajasekhara
Published: November 2022

N-Heterocyclic carbenes (NHCs) and their metal complexes have been employed as catalysts in organic transformations owing to their high efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and extraordinary performance.
Synthesis of a high-fastness cationic silica/fluorine-free acrylate water repellent and its application in fabrics
Authors: An Xiaonan , Zhou Panfei , Jiang Yang , Miao Dagang , Xiao Guowei , Xu Changhai , Du Jinmei
Published: November 2022

Synthesis of a high-fastness cationic silica/fluorine-free acrylate water repellent and its application in fabrics.
Improving photothermal effects of an organic photothermal agent using a chitosan hydrogel
Authors: Lim Jin Heng , Kai Dan , Lee Chi-Lik Ken
Published: November 2022

Aggregation of organic photothermal agents enhances their photothermal effect.
Retraction: A solid ultrasonic coupling membrane for superficial vascular ultrasonography
Authors: Sun Di , Liu Jie , Xue Lijuan , Li Li , Xie Daoyin , Li Shilin , Li Shengmei , Wang Xinlian , Yin Dongtao , Ren Zhaoqi , Bai Ru , Guo Wei , Liu Ying , Chen Chunying
Published: November 2022

Retraction of ‘A solid ultrasonic coupling membrane for superficial vascular ultrasonography’ by Di Sun et al., Nanoscale, 2022, 14, 3545–3553, https://doi.org/10.1039/D1NR05353A.
Parameter estimation of three-parameter Weibull probability model based on outlier detection
Authors: Zhang Hang , Gao Zhefeng , Du Chenran , Bi Shansong , Fang Yanyan , Yun Fengling , Fang Sheng , Yu Zhanglong , Cui Yi , Shen Xueling
Published: November 2022

An estimation of the three parameter Weibull model parameters excludes the outliers and gives an accurate description of Li-ion battery capacity distribution, outperforming the maximum likelihood estimated Weibull model and the normal distribution.
Turn-on fluorescent capsule for selective fluoride detection and water purification
Authors: Lin Yannan , Du Kang , Gau Michael R. , Dmochowski Ivan J.
Published: November 2022

It has been a long-standing challenge to develop organic molecular capsules for selective anion binding in water.
Rheology and dynamics of a solvent segregation driven gel (SeedGel)
Authors: Xi Yuyin , Murphy Ryan P. , Zhang Qingteng , Zemborain Aurora , Narayanan Suresh , Chae Junsu , Choi Siyoung Q. , Fluerasu Andrei , Wiegart Lutz , Liu Yun
Published: November 2022

A good correlation among structures, dynamics and rheology is established for SeedGel, which realizes bicontinuous structures that promises applications in a broad range of research fields.
Realization of a piezoelectric quantum spin Hall phase with a large band gap in MBiH (M = Ga and In) monolayers
Authors: Wang Y. H. , Lei S. Y. , Xu F. , Chen J. , Wan N. , Huang Q. A. , Sun L. T.
Published: November 2022

Proposing a new family of piezoelectric quantum spin Hall insulators (PQSHIs), which has the biggest topological band gap so far and large in-plane piezoelectrical coefficients.
Poly(2-methoxyethyl acrylate) coated bioprosthetic heart valves by copolymerization with enhanced anticoagulant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-calcification properties
Authors: Liang Xuyue , Lei Yang , Ding Kailei , Huang Xueyu , Zheng Cheng , Wang Yunbing
Published: November 2022

With the emergence of transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), commercial glutaraldehyde (Glut) cross-linked bioprosthetic heart valves (BHVs) fabricated from the xenogeneic pericardium have become the most popular choice for treating heart valve diseases.
The application of natural product-delivering micro/nano systems in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Zhou Yixuan , Feng Xingxing , Xu Hongbo , Guo Jing , Yang Conglian , Kong Li , Zhang Zhiping
Published: November 2022

Micro/nano system based-therapy for intestinal inflammation treatments by delivering natural products.
Psychosocial Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Children With Cochlear Implants and Their Parents/Family Members
Authors: Cesur Sıdıka , Topcu Merve Torun , Kalcıoğlu Mahmut Tayyar
Published: November 2022

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to describe hearing health care and education experiences of children with cochlear implants (CIs) during the COVID-19 pandemic and the potential psychosocial effects of the pandemic on these children and their parents/family members.

Method:

The study used a cross-sectional survey design. The study sample comprised two groups, namely, parents/family members of children with CIs (study group,
n
= 70,
M
age
= 44.6 ± 12.4 years) and parents/family members of children with normal hearing (control group,
n
= 58,
M
age
= 43.8 ± 11.5 years). Parents/family members completed the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), the Coronavirus Anxiety Scale (CAS), and the Family Perspective Profile form, as well as the Demographic Information form.

Results:

The PSS scores of the study group were higher than those of the control group (
p
= .001). However, there was no statistically significant difference between groups in the CAS scores (
p
= .896). According to the Family Perspective Profile form, almost half of the parents/family members of children with CIs reported that their children experienced difficulties in education and hearing health care services during the pandemic and showed some changes in their attitudes and behaviors.

Conclusions:

During the pandemic, the stress levels of parents/family members of children with CIs were higher than parents/family members of children with normal hearing. In addition to the challenges posed by the pandemic, the difficulties that parents/family members of children with CIs experience in meeting their children's additional needs related to accessing education and hearing health care services may have contributed to increased stress levels.
A Tutorial for Speech-Language Pathologists: Physical Activity and Social Engagement to Prevent or Slow Cognitive Decline in Older Adults
Authors: Everly Janet , Plummer Jamie , Lohman Matthew , Neils-Strunjas Jean
Published: November 2022

Purpose:

This tutorial provides an overview of two behavioral approaches, physical activity and social engagement, to prevent or slow cognitive decline in older adults and to increase awareness in the field of speech-language pathology of the important role that speech-language pathologists (SLPs) play in an interprofessional team working with this population.

Method:

A review of exercise science, neuroscience, and social science literature was used to synthesize evidence and to outline the impact of physical activity and social engagement on cognition. The following topics were explored: How do exercise and social engagement support cognition? What are modifiable risk factors of dementia? What is the impact of inactivity and isolation on cognition? What is the potential role of the SLP on an interprofessional team focusing on preventive measures for cognitive decline? What is the impact of physical exercise and social engagement on nursing home residents?

Results:

Research increasingly points to the critical importance of physical activity and social engagement to prevent cognitive decline in normal aging and to slow cognitive decline associated with mild cognitive impairment and dementia. Research suggests that physical activity maintains or improves memory, attention, executive function, visuospatial function, speed of processing, and general cognitive function. Social engagement has been found to maintain and improve general cognitive function.

Conclusions:

Behavioral interventions are an effective strategy to prevent or slow cognitive decline in the older adult population. SLPs have a role to play on an interprofessional team that works to prevent cognitive decline. By considering factors that play a role in the prevention of cognitive decline, such as physical activity and social engagement, the quality of life and overall health of older adults can be improved. Areas of improvement include memory, attention, executive function, visuospatial function, speed of processing, and general cognitive function.
The Effects of Symbol Format and Psycholinguistic Features on Receptive Syntax Outcomes of Children Without Disability
Authors: Brock Kris L. , Zolkoske Jamie , Cummings Alycia , Ogiela Diane A.
Published: November 2022

Purpose:

The graphic symbol is the foundation of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) for many preliterate individuals; however, research has focused primarily on static graphic symbol sequences despite mainstream commercial technologies such as animation. The goal of this study was to compare static and animated symbol sequences across receptive communication outcome measures and psycholinguistic features (e.g., word frequency).

Method:

A counterbalanced, 2 × 2 × 2 mixed design was used to investigate the effects of symbol format (animated and static), first condition (animated or static), and first experimental task (identification or labeling) on identification accuracy and labeling accuracy of graphic symbol sequences (five symbols) in 24 children with typical development ages 7 and 8 years old. Additionally, three 2 × 2 repeated-measures analyses of variance were conducted using symbol format (animated and static) and (a) word frequency (low, high), (b) imageability (low, high), and (c) concreteness (low, high).

Results:

In addition to superior identification and labeling accuracy of animated sequences, a significant interaction between symbol format and the first condition was observed for both experimental tasks. When the animation format was the first condition, then the children's performance improved in the subsequent static condition. Finally, word frequency, imageability, and concreteness ratings for all verbs and prepositions had significant effects on labeling accuracy of verbs and prepositions. Significant interactions between symbol format and psycholinguistic features were also found. For example, highly imageable, animated verbs were labeled with greater accuracy when compared with all other variables.

Conclusions:

Animation technology appears to alleviate some of the burden associated with word- and sentence-level outcomes in children with typical development. Moreover, animation appears to reduce the effects of psycholinguistic features such as word frequency and imageability by increasing the transparency of the symbol. Given the increase in research in this area, speech-language pathologists may consider adopting animated graphic symbols on a case-by-case basis as a tool to augment the learning of word classes in which movement is integral to comprehension.
Estimating the spectral abscissa for switched linear systems via square coordinate transformations
Authors: Lin Meili , Han Junfeng , Xu Yong
Published: November 2022

Switched linear systems are important in providing a convenient method to represent many practical systems. This paper investigates the performance analysis of switched linear systems under arbitrary switching. Computational algorithms based on square coordinate transformations are presented to obtain the least μ1 measure. Theoretical results showed that sequences of the least μ1 matrix set measure obtained by two different algorithms are convergent and the limit gives an upper bound estimation of the spectral abscissa. A numerical example is presented to show the effectiveness of the proposed method.
A hybrid scheme for optimal performance of photovoltaic system converters with multilayer structure
Authors: Zand Mohammad , Nasab Morteza Azimi , Hanif Hamid Reza , Ghahri Muhammad Reza , Padmanaban Sanjeevikumar , Khan Baseem
Published: November 2022

The interface of photovoltaic (PV) systems to the grid requires an efficient control strategy to operate, control, and improve power quality. The output voltage of the solar array, which may be accompanied by significant voltage variations, must be controlled and converted to a higher voltage for grid connection applications of photovoltaic system by a DC‐DC converter that commands more attention. Recently, due to the increasing use of renewable sources, multilayer structure with different structures and designs to provide power and stability has been researched because the output voltage of solar arrays is usually low, so it is increasing to DC‐to‐DC converters, needed with optimal interest and efficiency. In this paper, a method to improve the performance of DC–DC converter used in PV system by using a combined design of forward and fly‐back is presented. Due to the fact that isolated converters, flyback, and forward converters have a simple structure and are easy to control, but this converter is affected by high stress voltage. Therefore, this converter cannot be used for high power applications. To solve this problem, it has been improved in the proposed converter with the overlay and triple induction technique, which is a very good improvement on the voltage gain parameters in the short duty cycle. The voltage drop across the semiconductor switch is reduced. The investigations performed that the proposed DC/DC converter in Simulink MATLAB has been simulated. The results show that the suggested converter has an ideal efficiency of roughly 82.86% and provided higher voltage gain, decreased voltage stress, and reduced voltage jumps caused by disconnection.
Genetic parentage reconstruction as a practical tool applied to aquaculture and restoration programs for the European flat oyster,Ostrea edulis
Authors: Alves Monteiro Homère J. , Saurel Camille , Jacobsen Maj-Britt , Hemmer-Hansen Jakob , Bekkevold Dorte
Published: November 2022

Preserving and maximizing genetic diversity in conservation programs, including for restocking, are of high importance. The threatened European flat oyster (Ostrea edulis) is currently the subject of several applied conservation and restocking programs, but concerns have been raised over potential negative side effects of these programs, for example due to our limited knowledge about the genetic effects in natural populations of releasing offspring of hatchery origin. Here, we developed an effective, easily applicable and highly reliable method to assess the genetic diversity and parental contributions in flat oyster hatchery production based on analyses of 17 microsatellite loci. We analysed four broodstocks and their hatchery-reared spat (totaln = 354) and compared diversity to that in wild samples of adults and spat from the broodstock source in the Limfjorden (totaln = 138). Based on four hatchery tank experiments with fully resolved parentage assignments, we found that five swarming events (larval releases) were characterized by a single maternal and multiple paternal contributions, and that the number of contributing parents varied greatly both among individual tanks, and between swarming events within tank. On average, the effective number of breeders was only one third of the actual broodstock size. Although the broodstock exhibited high genetic variation, the high reproductive skew resulted in produced offspring representing only a relatively small subset of this variation. The work demonstrates potential impact of hatchery reared offspring on decreasing genetic diversity in wild populations, but also that genetic monitoring can be integrated in conservation programs to minimize negative effects on restoration and supplementary restocking programs that utilize hatchery reared spats to support natural populations.
Extending Mononobe-Okabe theory to account for arbitrary backfill topography and variable density of surcharge
Authors: El Yamouni Bouraida , Khamlichi Abdellatif
Published: November 2022

Coulomb proposed a formula for the static earth pressure acting on a rigid gravity retaining wall supporting a soil. Many researchers have generalized this theory and several analytical studies were achieved regarding the evaluation of seismic action. Following the work of Mononobe and Okabe, investigations have considered cohesive backfill, and with some restrictions the topography of the backfill and the pattern of surcharge acting on its surface. In this work an extension of the Mononobe-Okabe theory was proposed to deal with the most general case of backfill having an arbitrary shape and also vertical surcharge acting with variable density at the ground level. Equilibrium of Coulomb wedge was applied to express the active earth pressure coefficient related to a given orientation of the failure plane. Then, numerical optimization was performed to fix the critical angle providing its maximum value. Parametric studies were conducted after that. It was found that both the upward and downward vertical seismic acceleration should be considered. The obtained results indicate that the backfill surface shape and surcharge density have a significant effect on seismic action. The maximum relative variation of the pressure coefficient with regards to the reference case is however limited to 20%.
Les organoïdes dérivés de tumeurs (ou tumoroïdes), des outils de choix pour la médecine de précision en oncologie
Authors: Perréard Marion , Florent Romane , Thorel Lucie , Vincent Audrey , Weiswald Louis-Bastien , Poulain Laurent
Published: November 2022

Il est désormais possible d’établir des tumoroïdes à partir de presque tout type de tumeur, notamment en vue de la mise en place de tests fonctionnels prédictifs et/ou de l’identification de signatures moléculaires prédictives. Bien que l’optimisation des conditions de culture ou la complexification du micro-environnement des tumoroïdes soit encore nécessaire, de nombreuses applications sont déjà envisageables dans le domaine de la prédiction de la réponse aux traitements et de l’orientation de la décision thérapeutique. Par l’introduction de leur utilisation en clinique, l’oncologie de précision pourrait bien entrer dans une nouvelle ère dans le courant de la décennie à venir.
Hormonothérapies de transition chez les personnes transgenres
Authors: Johnson Nicolaï , Chabbert-Buffet Nathalie
Published: November 2022

Aujourd’hui encore, la prise en charge médicale des personnes transgenres pâtit d’une insuffisance d’offre de soins et de formation des soignants. La mise en œuvre d’une hormonothérapie est souvent souhaitée par les personnes transgenres et il est nécessaire qu’un médecin sache l’instaurer et la suivre tout au long de la transition. Nous abordons dans cette revue le traitement hormonal féminisant (THF) chez les femmes transgenres adultes, et le traitement hormonal masculinisant (THM) chez les hommes transgenres adultes.
Préservation de la fertilité chez les personnes transgenres
Authors: Puy Vincent , Magnan Fanny , Lousqui Johanna , Boumerdassi Yasmine , Bennani Smires Badria , Mendes Nicolas , Eustache Florence
Published: November 2022

La majorité des personnes transgenres envisage de fonder une famille, mais leur fertilité peut être altérée par l’affirmation du genre. L’hormonothérapie peut affecter durablement la production de gamètes, notamment chez les femmes trans. La chirurgie de réassignation sexuelle entraîne une stérilité définitive. En France, des réseaux de professionnels de santé se sont organisés. Ils recommandent l’accès à la préservation de la fertilité dans le cadre de la transidentité. Cependant, le recueil de gamètes reste souvent difficile en raison de l’incongruence hormonale pour les femmes trans, ou du caractère invasif de la procédure pour les hommes trans. De futures études permettront de statuer sur l’utilisation des gamètes autoconservés.
Digitale Gesundheitsinterventionen entwickeln, evaluieren und
implementieren (Teil I) – Diskussionspapier der Arbeitsgruppe Digital
Health des Deutschen Netzwerk Versorgungsforschung (DNVF)
Authors: Kernebeck Sven , Scheibe Madlen , Sinha Monika , Fischer Florian , Knapp Andreas , Timpel Patrick , Harst Lorenz , Reininghaus Ulrich , Vollmar Horst Christian
Published: November 2022

Digitale Interventionen (DI) zu gesundheitsbezogenen Themen gewinnen zunehmend an
Bedeutung. Oftmals sind sie komplexe Interventionen, die in einem komplexen
Versorgungskontext evaluiert und implementiert werden. Aufgrund der Merkmale
digitaler Interventionen ist die Versorgungsforschung vor methodische
Herausforderungen gestellt. Daher hat die Arbeitsgruppe Digital Health des
Deutschen Netzwerks Versorgungsforschung (DNVF) ein Diskussionspapier erstellt.
Darin wird diskutiert, welche Herausforderungen mit der Entwicklung und
Evaluation von DI einhergehen. Es werden Lösungsansätze und
zukünftige Forschungsbedarfe aufgezeigt.
Das Symptomenlexikon und die „Wissenschaftliche
Homöopathie“
Authors: Kohl Michael
Published: November 2022

Es wird der lange Weg geschildert, den es benötigte, bis ein
Symptomenlexikon (SL) erstellt werden konnte. Daran anschließend wird
erläutert, weshalb das SL ideal dazu geeignet ist, die Simileregel auf
rationelle Weise anzuwenden, um charakteristische Krankheitsbeschwerden mit
sicheren Arzneiwirkungen zur Deckung zu bringen. Das Ergebnis ist eine deutliche
Steigerung der Verschreibungssicherheit. Im 2. Teil wird dargelegt, weshalb die
zweckmäßige Anwendung des SL eine eigene Methodik und daraus
abgeleitet eine „Wissenschaftliche Homöopathie“
benötigt. Des Weiteren werden ihre Besonderheiten und Unterschiede zu
anderen Homöopathieströmungen kurz dargestellt, um sich auf
diese Weise einen ersten Überblick verschaffen zu können.
Verborgene Schätze – Zeichenkombinationen aus zwei
Schmerzempfindungen im Symptomenlexikon
Authors: Heußlein Hansjörg
Published: November 2022

Charakteristische Zeichenkombinationen erlauben die Unterscheidung der Wirkungen
der homöopathischen Arzneien und deren Verschreibung nach dem
Ähnlichkeitsgesetz. Neben den oft angewendeten Zeichenkombinationen aus
Schmerzempfindung und Modalität, Organ oder begleitender Beschwerde ist
die Verschreibung nach Zeichenkombinationen aus 2 Schmerzempfindungen im
Symptomenlexikon ausgesprochen wertvoll. An 2 einfachen Beispielfällen
wird die Anwendung dieser Zeichenkombinationen demonstriert.
Chronische Obstipation nach Milztrauma und mehrfachen
abdominalchirurgischen Eingriffen
Authors: Schuricht Ulrich
Published: November 2022

Anhand eines Falles wird die Arzneimittelfindung mithilfe des Symptomenlexikons
(SL) von Uwe Plate nach der von Michael Kohl entwickelten Methode dargestellt.
Schwerpunkt ist die Bewertung der Patientensymptome hinsichtlich ihrer Bedeutung
bei der Arzneimittelwahl und ihre Übersetzung in die Begrifflichkeiten
des SL. Anhand des Behandlungsverlaufs wird ferner eine Dosierungsform von
flüssigen Q-Potenzen bei einer chronischen Erkrankung mit
täglich auftretenden Symptomen präsentiert – unter
Berücksichtigung von Problemen wie Überdosierung und
Unterdosierung.
Kurz und gut: zwei Akutfälle (mit dem SL 5)
Authors: Knippel Helga
Published: November 2022

Es werden 2 Kasuistiken zu Akutfällen vorgestellt. Geschildert werden ein
Fall einer Herpes-simplex-Erkrankung, ausgelöst durch eine für
die Patientin angstbesetzte Situation, und ein Fall einer akuten Impfreaktion
nach einer Covid-19-Impfung mit dem Impfstoff von Johnson und Johnson. Die
Arzneimittelfindung erfolgte mit dem Symptomenlexikon SL 5. Der Vorteil des
direkten Symptomenabgleichs mit den Originalprüfungen wird gezeigt.
Management of Relapsed and Refractory Multiple Myeloma: Recent advances
Authors: Rathnam Krishnakumar , Saju S. V. , Honey Susan Raju
Published: November 2022

Multiple myeloma (MM) accounts for ∼10% of total hematologic malignancies worldwide. In India, the incidence of MM has increased two-fold with marked heterogeneity. Significant improvements in terms of clinical outcomes have been observed in the management of MM in recent years. However, most patients develop a disease relapse with the first or subsequent treatments. A combination of immunomodulatory drugs (thalidomide and lenalidomide) and proteasome inhibitors (PIs; bortezomib) has been the mainstay for the therapeutic management of relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM). This review highlights the management of RRMM with newer agents such as belantamab, carfilzomib, daratumumab, elotuzumab, ixazomib, mafadotin, selinexor, panobinostat, and venetoclax, with more focus on PIs. As a single agent and in combination with other drugs including dexamethasone and carfilzomib has been studied extensively and approved by the United States, European Union, and India. Clinical trials of these newer agents, either alone or in combination, for the treatment of RRMM in Western countries indicate survival, improved outcomes, and overall well-being. However, evidence in Indian patients is evolving from ongoing studies on carfilzomib and daratumumab, which will ascertain their efficacy and safety. Currently, several guidelines recommend carfilzomib-based, daratumumab-based, and panobinostat-based regimens in RRMM patients. Currently, with more accessible generic versions of these drugs, more Indian patients may attain survival benefits and improved quality of life.
Approach to Acute Respiratory Illness in Children with Hematological Malignancy: A Prospective Study Evaluating Utility of CT Scan
Authors: Aggarwal Priyanka , Raipa Tapish , Kumar Ishan , Verma Ashish , Shukla Ram Chandra , Gupta Vineeta
Published: November 2022

Introduction Various pulmonary complications can occur in children with hematological malignancies including both infection and malignant disease infiltration of pulmonary parenchyma.

Objectives To assess the role of CT scan in determining the etiology of acute pulmonary complications in children with hematological malignancies.

Materials and Methods All children < 17 years with newly diagnosed hematological malignancy with respiratory symptoms (Group A) along with children who developed fever with persistent respiratory symptoms as well as worsening chest radiographs during treatment (Group B) and underwent CECT thorax, from February 2019 to July 2020 were enrolled. The final diagnosis was made on the basis of clinical history, laboratory as well as radiological investigations and treatment response.

Results Thirty-seven children with mean age of 7.5 ± 3.5 years and male to female ratio of 1.3:1 who underwent CECT thorax were included in our study. For newly diagnosed cases, i.e., Group A (n = 8), the most common cause of respiratory symptoms as identified on CECT thorax was pulmonary tumoral infiltration (n = 5) followed by tuberculosis (n = 3). However, in Group B (n = 29) the cause of persistent respiratory symptoms was identified as infection (n = 17) followed by leukemic infiltration (n = 12). Thus, chest CT could accurately identify pulmonary tuberculosis, fungal pneumonia, bacterial infection, and pulmonary tumoral infiltrates.

Conclusion CT scan can be used as an adjunctive tool for prompt diagnosis and management of pulmonary complications in children with persistent respiratory symptoms as they are often non-specific.
Does Mental Distress Predict Cardiac Surgical Outcome?
Authors: Buschmann Katja , Wiltink Jörg , Ghazy Ahmed , Bremerich Dorothee , Emrich Anna Lena , Beutel Manfred E. , Treede Hendrik
Published: November 2022

Background Mental distress is suspected to influence the morbidity of cardiac patients. Evaluating mental distress in cardiac patients is rare and the impact on surgical outcome is still not certified.

Methods In 94 cardiac surgical patients, mental distress was assessed by the Patient Health Questionnaire-4 (PHQ-4). We defined length of stay in hospital and on intensive care unit as well as time of mechanical ventilation as outcomes on surgery. Age, physical activity, diabetes, overweight, PHQ-4, and an inflammation marker were tested for their predictive value on outcomes.

Results Reportedly prevalence of generalized anxiety was 16.0% and depression rate was 13.8%. Length of stay in hospital was 13 ± 8 days, time of mechanical ventilation was 10 (0–1,207) hours, and length of stay on intensive care unit was 3 ± 6 days. Length of stay in hospital was significantly predicted by age (p = 0.048), low physical activity (p = 0.029), and high C-reactive protein (CRP; p = 0.031). Furthermore, CRP was the only significant predictor of time of mechanical ventilation and length of stay on intensive care unit.

Conclusion Outcome was not predicted by mental distress. However, inflammation marker CRP was predictive for outcome, potentially caused by higher cardiovascular risk profile. Additionally, depression was referred to be associated with inflammation. Probably, the small sample and the timing of assessment were responsible for the missing relation between mental distress and outcome. We presume a relation with low physical activity and depression. Nevertheless, further randomized studies are needed to pay more attention on patients' distress to intervene preoperatively to improve postoperative outcome.
Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Management of Hypertension in the Elderly
Authors: Glazier James J.
Published: November 2022

There is a high prevalence of systemic arterial hypertension in the elderly; 70% of adults >65 years have this disease. A key mechanism in the development of hypertension in the elderly is increased arterial stiffness. This accounts for the increase in systolic blood pressure and pulse pressure and fall in diastolic blood pressure (isolated systolic hypertension) that are commonly seen in the elderly, compared with younger persons. The diagnosis of hypertension is made on the basis of in-office blood pressure measurements together with ambulatory and home blood pressure recordings. Lifestyle changes are the cornerstone of management of hypertension.

Comprehensive guidelines regarding blood pressure threshold at which to start pharmacotherapy as well as target blood pressure levels have been issued by both European and American professional bodies. In recent years, there has been considerable interest in intensive lowering of blood pressure in older patients with hypertension. Several large, randomized controlled trials have suggested that a strategy of aiming for a target systolic blood pressure of <120 mm Hg (intensive treatment) rather than a target of <140 mm Hg (standard treatment) results in significant reduction in the incidence of adverse cardiovascular events and total mortality. A systolic blood pressure treatment of <130 mm Hg should be considered favorably in non-institutionalized, ambulatory, free living older patients. In contrast, in the older patient with a high burden of comorbidities and limited life expectancy, an individualized team-based approach, based on clinical judgment and patient preference should be adopted. An increasing body of evidence for older adults with hypertension suggests that intensive blood pressure lowering may prevent or at least partially prevent cognitive decline.
Diagnosis and Management of Aortic Valvular Disease in the Elderly
Authors: Gorton Andrew J. , Keshavamurthy Suresh , Saha Sibu P.
Published: November 2022

Aortic valvular disease, including aortic stenosis and aortic regurgitation, is increasingly common with age. Due to the aging population, more elderly patients are presenting with aortic valve pathology and expectations for prompt diagnosis and efficacious treatment. The current paradigm for aortic valve disease is based on surgical or interventional therapy. In this review, we discuss the approach to diagnosing aortic valvular disease and the different options for treatment based on the most recent evidence.
Modeling compressed turbulent plasma with rapid viscosity variations
Authors: Thévenin Sébastien , Valade Nicolas , Gréa Benoît-Joseph , Kluth Gilles , Soulard Olivier
Published: November 2022

We propose two-equation models in order to capture the dynamics of a turbulent plasma undergoing compression and experiencing large viscosity variations. The models account for possible relaminarization phases and rapid viscosity changes through closures dependent on the turbulent Reynolds and on the viscosity Froude numbers. These closures are determined from a data-driven approach using eddy-damped quasi-normal Markovian simulations. The best model is able to mimic the various self-similar regimes identified in Viciconte et al. [Phys. Rev. E 97, 023201 (1998)] and to recover the rapid transition limits identified by G. N. Coleman and N. N. Mansour [Phys. Fluids A 3, 2255 (1991)].
Carbon nanofibers embedded with tiny CoNi bimetals as the functional interlayer for high-performance lithium–sulfur batteries
Authors: Liang Ziwei , Zhao Weiming , Shen Jiadong , Xu Xijun , Liu Jun
Published: November 2022

Free-standing carbon nanofibers have been recognized as an effective interlayer to improve sulfur cathode electronic conductivity and inhibit shuttling of polysulfides. However, carbon materials show a limited effect on improving electrochemical performance of lithium–sulfur batteries (LSBs) due to their nonpolar and weak physical limitations for the dissolvable polysulfides. It has been reported that introducing chemical bonds between polar compounds and polysulfides helps to suppress the shuttle effect of polysulfides via combining physical confinement with chemical adsorption. Herein, free-standing N-doped carbon nanofibers embedded with bimetallic CoNi (CoNi@N-CNFs) are constructed as an interlayer for LSBs. Apart from improving electronic conductivity of the sulfur cathode, the CoNi@N-CNF interlayer also displays excellent adsorption ability to the dissolvable polysulfides and promotes conversion reactions between sulfur species. Under the synergistic effect of the carbon framework and CoNi bimetals, the CoNi@N-CNF interlayer achieves decent electrochemical performance with a high initial discharge capacity of 1563 mAh g−1 at 0.2C and 0.53% capacity decay per cycle during 100 cycles.
Mitigation of swirling flow with a vortex rope by passive installations—Theory, simulations, and experiments
Authors: Urban Ondřej , Kurková Michaela , Pochylý František
Published: November 2022

This work is focused on reduction of swirling in cases from hydraulic machinery and, thus, mitigation of instabilities associated with swirling flow. We study this problem analytically using the torque integral equation, numerically using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations, and experimentally using a swirl generator that generates swirling flow approximating that in a draft tube of a hydro turbine operating at a part load, featuring an unsteady spiral vortex—the vortex rope. The analytical description elucidates the effect of different installations on the circumferential velocity. Unconventional conical perforated installations targeting at increasing the dissipation were proposed and tested. The rather unsatisfactory results led to proposing fins placed unconventionally away from the wall, closer to the diffuser axis, which were subsequently shown to be able to reliably suppress the unsteady vortex rope. Their effect is documented by an analysis of CFD results including the proper orthogonal decomposition as well as experimental observations and measurements.
Experimental and numerical research on film cooling characteristics on the compound angle hole
Authors: Li Lin , Liu Cunliang , Xu Zhipeng , Zhu Hui Ren , Zhang Fan
Published: November 2022

Experimental research was conducted for studying the effect of blowing ratio (M) as well as cross-flow Reynolds number (Rec) on distribution characteristics in film cooling effectiveness (η) and heat transfer coefficient (h) on compound angle hole configuration with applying transient liquid crystal technology. At the same time, the distribution characteristics of discharge coefficient (Cd) were measured by the flow resistance experiment. Furthermore, the net heat flux reduction (NHFR) is applied for assessing the film cooling performance. Numerical simulation was carried out to present the flow features for analyzing the film cooling mechanism. Results demonstrate that the increasing Rec presents a great influence on the measured Cd at the small M. The flow loss caused by the cross-flow presents the slight influence on the measured Cd at the large M. In addition, the measured Cd shows upward tendency with the increase in M and is almost no change until M increases to a certain extent. At small M, the measured η at the hole downstream area is higher and descends with the increase in Rec. At the large M, jets at the hole outlet almost separated from the surface. Thus, the measured η at the hole downstream area is lower and rises with the increase in Rec. The increase in M makes the measured h at the hole downstream area descend. The increase in Rec makes the measured h of the hole downstream area rise. The NHFR shows the decreasing tendency with the increasing M. Under the condition of M = 0.5, values of the laterally averaged NHFR are between 0 and 0.4, which represents the positive effect on film cooling function. At the condition of M = 2.0, values of laterally averaged NHFR are less than 0, involving negative effects. Under the condition of M = 1.0, most of the laterally averaged NHFR presents the positive values, and only a small part of the laterally averaged NHFR is the negative values. Due to the rising η and the descending h, the NHFR decreases in the increase in Rec under the condition of M = 0.5 and M = 2.0. The increase in Rec presents the slight influence on the NHFR under the condition of M = 1.0.
Characteristics of electron evolution during initial low-pressure discharge stage upon microwave circuits
Authors: Feng Guobao , Li Yun , Li Xiaojun , Zhang Heng , Liu Lu
Published: November 2022

High-power microwave-induced low-pressure discharges seriously threaten the reliability of space payload systems. Under extremely low-pressure conditions, the evolution of ionized and secondary electrons at the initial stage of discharge is crucial to figure out the discharge process. Therefore, this paper investigates the development of multiple electrons in the discharge process under a highly low-pressure environment using numerical simulation. A three-dimensional simulation model based on the Monte Carlo algorithm is established by considering various electron-gas collisions and secondary electron emissions from different material surfaces. The evolution characteristics of various electrons' populations, energy, and distribution patterns during the discharge process are analyzed. In addition, the influence of the critical conditions at different air pressures on the electron evolution during the discharge process and the intrinsic causes are also investigated. This study is significant in revealing the transition characteristics between multipactor and low-pressure discharge and exploring their inherent mechanisms.
Stochastic asymptotical regularization for linear inverse problems
Authors: Zhang Ye , Chen Chuchu
Published: November 2022

We introduce stochastic asymptotical regularization (SAR) methods for the uncertainty quantification of the stable approximate solution of ill-posed linear-operator equations, which are deterministic models for numerous inverse problems in science and engineering. We demonstrate that SAR can quantify the uncertainty in error estimates for inverse problems. We prove the regularizing properties of SAR with regard to mean-square convergence. We also show that SAR is an order-optimal regularization method for linear ill-posed problems provided that the terminating time of SAR is chosen according to the smoothness of the solution. This result is proven for both a priori and a posteriori stopping rules under general range-type source conditions. Furthermore, some converse results of SAR are verified. Two iterative schemes are developed for the numerical realization of SAR, and the convergence analyses of these two numerical schemes are also provided. A toy example and a real-world problem of biosensor tomography are studied to show the accuracy and the advantages of SAR: compared with the conventional deterministic regularization approaches for deterministic inverse problems, SAR can provide the uncertainty quantification of the quantity of interest, which can in turn be used to reveal and explicate the hidden information about real-world problems, usually obscured by the incomplete mathematical modeling and the ascendence of complex-structured noise.
Elastic Electron scattering by thermal mixture of glycine conformers in gas phase
Authors: Ribas Mylena H , Tennyson Jonathan , Fujimoto Milton M
Published: November 2022

A theoretical study of electron scattering by a thermal mixture of glycine molecules in the energy range from 1 to 10 eV is performed using the UK-RMol codes which are based on the R-Matrix method. The six lowest relative Gibbs free energies glycine conformers considered, Ip, IIp, IIn, IIIp, IIIn and IVn, are significantly populated in thermal mixtures. All these conformers present similar resonance structures in the eigenphase sums: a lower-energy resonance state near 1.8 eV and another at higher-energy above 7 eV. For the six conformers the lowest resonance lies between 1.75 eV and 2.21 eV. The very large dipole moments of 6.32 D and 5.67 D for IIp and IIn, respectively, makes the magnitude of their cross sections significantly larger than other conformers, which increases the average cross sections in thermal mixtures compared with the cross sections of the lowest energy Ip conformer. Three conformer population sets are used to calculate the averaged differential and integral cross sections: two theoretical sets based on the relative Gibbs free energies and another set that aims to mimic experiment based on the observed populations. The averaged cross sections are similar for all population sets, but differ from the Ip conformer cross section. This suggests that, for large and flexible molecules, the computed average cross sections should be used when comparing with experimental data.
Formation of wide negative streamers in air and helium: the role of fast electrons
Authors: Babaeva N Yu , Naidis G V , Tereshonok D V , Tarasenko V F , Beloplotov D V , Sorokin D A
Published: November 2022

Available experimental data show that the use of voltage pulses with subnanosecond rise times and amplitudes that essentially exceed the breakdown voltage leads to the formation of wide spherical or conical streamers. In this paper, the structure and dynamics of atmospheric pressure wide negative streamers in air and helium by applying high overvoltages with a short rise time to a sharp needle electrode are investigated experimentally and computationally. In the simulations, the two-dimensional fluid and kinetic electron Monte Carlo simulation models are used. All the streamers were simulated with the conventional photoionization term S
ph that was never turned off. By including an additional source S
MC, responsible for the generation of fast electrons, wide and diffuse streamers are obtained. We compare the shapes, width and velocities of conventional streamers in air and helium with those for streamers driven by fast electrons. We show that a conventional streamer in air has a cylindrical form. The conventional streamer in helium is wider than that in air and has a shape of an expanding cone. While accounting for fast electrons, different streamer shapes were obtained. In air, the gap was closed by a spherical streamer. In helium, the shape of a streamer resembles that of a pumpkin. We also demonstrate that near the flat anode, velocities of conventional streamers in air and helium were as high as 5 × 109 cm s−1 and reached values greater than 1010 cm s−1 when fast electrons were taken into account. By the application of high (by a factor of four or greater) overvoltages to a sharp needle electrode, the formation of a discharge with several parallel streamers was observed. In this regime, the trajectories of fast electrons originated not only from the cathode, but also from the region of a streamer front where the electric field is high. As a result, the so-called diffuse discharge was formed with high intensity plasma channels surrounded by an aureole of smaller electron density.