bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Initial Assessment and Monitoring of Patients with Chronic Hypoparathyroidism: A Systematic Current Practice Survey
Authors: Van Uum Stan , Shrayyef Muhammad , M'Hiri Iman , Dandurand Karel , Ali Dalal S. , Bilezikian John P. , Collins Michael T. , Mannstadt Michael , Rubin Mishaela R. , Siggelkow Heide , Tabacco Gaia , Tay Yu-Kwang Donovan , Vokes Tamara , Winer Karen K. , Yao Liang , Guyatt Gordon , Rejnmark Lars , Khan Aliya A.
Published: September 2022

Chronic hypoparathyroidism (HypoPT) is associated with significant morbidity and impaired quality of life (QoL). The goals of management for chronic HypoPT include improvement in QoL and the prevention of both hypo- and hypercalcemia symptoms and long-term complications. Several groups have provided consensus statements and guidelines on the management of HypoPT; however, due to limited evidence, these recommendations have largely been based on literature reviews, expert opinion, and consensus statements. The objective of this study was to use a systematic approach to describe current practice for the initial assessment and follow-up of patients with chronic HypoPT. We developed a survey asking experts in the field to select the responses that best reflect their current practice. The survey found no differences in responses between nonsurgical and postsurgical patient assessment. For new patients, respondents usually performed an assessment of serum lab profile (calcium [either albumin-adjusted or ionized], magnesium, creatinine, phosphate, 25-hydroxyvitamin D), 24-hour urine (creatinine, calcium), and a renal ultrasound to evaluate for the presence of nephrocalcinosis or nephrolithiasis. For follow-up patients, most respondents perform blood tests and urine tests every 6 months or less frequently. The reported clinical practice patterns for monitoring for complications of chronic HypoPT vary considerably among respondents. Based on the responses in this systematic expert practice survey, we provide practice suggestions for initial assessment and follow-up of patients with chronic HypoPT. In addition, we highlight areas with significant variation in practice and identify important areas for future research. © 2022 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
Resolvin D2 uses multiple Ca2+‐dependent signaling pathways to stimulate mucin secretion in rat and human conjunctival goblet cells
Authors: Botten Nora , Hodges Robin R. , Bair Jeffrey , Utheim Tor P. , Serhan Charles N. , Yang Menglu , Dartt Darlene A.
Published: September 2022

The mucin layer of the tear film is produced by goblet cells in the conjunctiva to protect the ocular surface and maintain homeostasis. The pro‐resolving lipid mediator resolvin D2 (RvD2) biosynthesized from an omega 3 fatty acid actively terminates inflammation and regulates mucin secretion from conjunctival goblet cells. Our objective was to determine which Ca2+‐dependent signaling pathways RvD2 uses to stimulate conjunctival goblet cell function (CGC). We hypothesize that RvD2 activates multiple intracellular Ca2+ signaling pathways to stimulate CGC secretion. Rat and human CGCs were cultured from conjunctival explants. The amount of RvD2 receptor GPR18/DRV2 message and protein were determined. The intracellular concentration of Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) was measured in CGCs using a fluorescent Ca2+ dye and mucin secretion was determined by measuring protein secretion enzymatically with a lectin. Goblet cells were incubated with signaling pathway inhibitors before stimulation with RvD2 and [Ca2+]i or secretion was measured. In rat and human CGCs RvD2 receptor and in rat CGCs IP3 (a molecule that releases Ca2+ from intracellular organelles) receptors 1–3 were detected. In both species of CGC RvD2 increased [Ca2+]i similarly to RvD1. In rat CGCs, the increase in [Ca2+]i and secretion stimulated by RvD2 was significantly blocked by inhibitors to phospholipase (PL‐) C and IP3‐receptor, but not protein kinase C. Increase in [Ca2+]i was blocked by the PLD inhibitor, but not the PLA2 inhibitor. Secretion was blocked by PLA2 inhibitor, but not the PLD inhibitor. An inhibitor of the epidermal growth factor receptor blocked the increase in [Ca2+]i by RvD2 in both species of CGCs. In CGCs RvD2 activates multiple intracellular signaling pathways that are Ca2+‐dependent, along with one Ca2+‐independent and one cAMP/protein kinase A‐dependent pathway. Activation of these pathways stimulate mucin secretion from rat and human CGCs into the tear film contributing to ocular surface homeostasis and health.
Developmental co‐occurrence of psychopathology dimensions in childhood
Authors: Allegrini Andrea G. , van Beijsterveldt Toos , Boomsma Dorret I. , Rimfeld Kaili , Pingault Jean‐Baptiste , Plomin Robert , Bartels Meike , Nivard Michel G.
Published: September 2022

Background

Comorbidity between psychopathologies may be attributed to genetic and environmental differences between people as well as causal processes within individuals, where one pathology increases risk for another. Disentangling between‐person (co)variance from within‐person processes of psychopathology dimensions across childhood may shed light on developmental causes of comorbid mental health problems. Here, we aim to determine whether and to what extent directional relationships between psychopathology dimensions within‐person, and between individuals within families, play a role in comorbidity.

Methods

We conducted random intercepts cross‐lagged panel model (RI‐CLPM) analyses to unravel the longitudinal co‐occurrence of child psychopathology dimensions, jointly estimating between‐person and within‐person processes from childhood to early adolescence (age 7–12). We further developed an extension of the model to estimate sibling effects within‐family (wf‐RI‐CLPM). Analyses were separately conducted in two large population‐based cohorts, TEDS and NTR, including parent‐rated measures of child problem behaviours based on the SDQ and CBCL scales respectively.

Results

We found evidence for strong between‐person effects underlying the positive intercorrelation between problem behaviours across time. Beyond these time‐varying within‐person processes accounted for an increasing amount of trait variance, within‐ and cross‐trait, overtime in both cohorts. Lastly, by accommodating family level data, we found evidence for reciprocal directional influences within sib‐pairs longitudinally.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that within‐person processes partly explain the co‐occurrence of psychopathology dimensions across childhood, and within sib‐pairs. Analyses provided substantive results on developmental processes underlying comorbidity in behavioural problems. Future studies should consider different developmental timeframes to shed more light on the processes contributing to developmental comorbidity.
Diastereomerically pure (S)‐verbenone‐isoxazoline hybrids: Synthesis, molecular structure, Hirshfeld surface analysis, density functional theory, cytotoxic effect, and apoptosis induction
Authors: Fawzi Mourad , Oubella Ali , Bimoussa Abdoullah , Saadi Mohamed , El Ammari Lahcen , Ketatni El Mostafa , Morjani Hamid , Ait itto Moulay Youssef , Auhmani Aziz
Published: September 2022

In this paper, a new diastereomerically pure isoxazolines were efficiently prepared from (S)‐verbenone, the procedure involves a regioselective and a diastereoselective 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition of nitrile oxides on the monoterpene's enone. The structures of the newly obtained cycloadducts were confirmed by analytical and spectral studies (HRMS, 1H NMR, and 13C NMR). The relative stereochemistry of isoxazoline compounds 3a, 3c, and 3d were confirmed by x‐ray single crystal analysis. Hirshfeld surface analysis and two‐dimensional fingerprint plots were performed to analyze the different intermolecular contacts in crystal packing. Further, density functional theory calculations have been used to analyze the electronic and geometric frontier molecular orbital and molecular electrostatic map analyses of the compounds to predict the reactive site. All compounds were evaluated in vitro for their cytotoxic activity against four human cancer cell lines including fibrosarcoma HT‐1080, lung carcinoma A‐549 and breast adenocarcinoma (MCF‐7 and MDA‐MB‐231). Compound 3d was the most potent compound especially against HT‐1080 and A‐549 cancer cells with IC50 values of 21.35 ± 1.51 and 14.92 ± 1.74 μM, respectively. Mechanistically, the compound 3d induced apoptosis by significant caspase activation in HT‐1080 and A‐549 cancer cell lines utilizing flow cytometric analysis and caspase 3/7 activation assay. The examined compound 3d caused S cell cycle arrest in both HT‐1080 and A‐549 cells.
Characterization of free fatty acids photo‐oxidation under UV radiations: A stepwise Raman study
Authors: Assi Ali , Michael‐Jubeli Rime , Baillet‐Guffroy Arlette , Tfayli Ali
Published: September 2022

Lipid peroxidation (LPO) is an oxidative deterioration when oxidants such as reactive oxygen species attack lipids that contain double bonds especially polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). The mechanism of LPO is composed of three steps: initiation, propagation, and termination. It can result from several reaction pathways: (1) auto‐oxidation, (2) enzymatic oxidation, or (3) photo‐oxidation. UV solar exposition is a major concern in skin research, dermatology, and cosmetic science. Skin surface lipids (SSLs) and stratum corneum (SC) lipids are among the first skin components exposed to external insults such as UV radiations. Fatty acids represent a major lipid class in SSLs and SC. The aim of this paper is to study the photo‐oxidation of fatty acids under UV solar radiations using Raman spectroscopy. Vibrational spectroscopies are useful techniques to follow the LPO in its different stages of oxidation: (1) the initiation step by following the CH2/CH3 stretching bands ratio that decreases due to the hydrogen abstraction in alpha position; (2) the propagation step where primary oxidation products are formed such as hydroperoxides, which was evaluated by following the 1165/1640 cm−1 ((δ(OH) and ν(CO))/ν(CO)) ratio that increases during oxidation process; and finally, (3) the termination step that is marked by the formation of aldehydes, alcohols, ketone, trans secondary oxidation products, and others, which was monitored by following the 1730/1640 cm−1 (ν(CO) (ald.)/ν(CO) (acid)) ratio and the trans ν(CC)/cis ν(CC) ratio that increase indicating the formation of secondary oxidation products. To our knowledge, this work is the first to put together different spectral descriptors enabling to follow, step by step, the different modifications of free fatty acids structures during the oxidation process.
Kinetic parameters related to nitrogen uptake in ‘Okinawa’ peach rootstocks are altered by ‘Chimarrita’ scion Nitrogen uptake in ‘Okinawa’ peach rootstock
Authors: de Paula Betania Vahl , Sete Paula Beatriz , Berghetti Álvaro Luís Pasquetti , da Silva Lincon Oliveira Stefanello , Jung João Pedro , Nicoloso Fernando Teixeira , Mayer Newton Alex , Kulmann Matheus Severo , Brunetto Gustavo
Published: September 2022

Background

The kinetic parameters of peach rootstock are a major factor contributing to its nitrogen (N) uptake efficiency, which directly affects the yield and quality parameters. However, the impact of grafting on N kinetic parameters is not sufficiently known as rootstocks are grafted with other scion cultivars before being transplanted to the field. The objective of this study was therefore to evaluate whether the grafting of ‘Okinawa’ rootstock with the scion cultivar ‘Chimarrita’ can alter the kinetic parameters related to N uptake.

Results

The plants were acclimatized in Hoagland solution for 21 days and, sequentially, were tested to assess the depletion of the internal reserves at 15 and 30 days in CaSO4 solution. Morphological and physiological parameters were evaluated, and kinetic parameters were calculated. The depletion period for to reach the minimum concentration (Cmin) of NO3− and NH4+ in the plant was 62 h and 56 h, respectively. The optimal time for internal reserve depletion for ‘Okinawa’ rootstock with and without the ‘Chimarrita’ scion was 30 days.

Conclusion

‘Okinawa’ rootstock grafted with ‘Chimarrita’ scion cultivar was more efficient in NO3− and NH4+ uptake. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Evaluation of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 15.3.1 indicator of land degradation in the European Union
Authors: Schillaci Calogero , Jones Arwyn , Vieira Diana , Munafò Michele , Montanarella Luca
Published: September 2022

Land degradation is the persistent reduction in the capacity of the land to support human and other life on Earth (IPBES, 2018). This process jeopardizes the provision of ecosystem services. The Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 15, ‘Life on Land’, includes efforts to sustainably manage and recover natural ecosystems and restore degraded land and soil. Under the umbrella of SDG 15, the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) has defined an indicator framework to monitor progress toward ‘land degradation neutrality’. We evaluated the performance of SDG 15.3.1, focusing on “…proportion of land that is degraded over the total land area” for the European Union (EU) using the TRENDS.EARTH software. We assessed the impact of alternative datasets at different spatial resolutions and policy‐relevant data sources for land cover (CORINE) and soil organic carbon (SOC) stock (LUCAS). Our hypothesis was that higher spatial resolution sub‐indicators would better identify the total share of degraded land and provide a clearer picture of the extent of degraded land for the target period. Land productivity trajectories were adjusted using the Water Use Efficiency index that revealed the high share of improving land reported by the NDVI trends. Therefore, it is advisable to use always a climate correction to assess land productivity trends. Replacing default datasets with alternative sub‐indicators allowed the detection of 25–40% more degraded areas. Additionally, the integration with a combined proxy of land degradation (soil erosion >10 Mg ha−1 yr−1, and SOC concentration <1%) identified an additional 50% land degradation and revealed that a large extent of the EU needs restoration measures.
Comparing clinical bladder diaries and recalled patient reports for measuring lower urinary tract symptoms in the symptoms of Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction Research Network (LURN)
Authors: Flynn Kathryn E. , Wiseman Jonathan B. , Helmuth Margaret E. , Smith Abigail R. , Bradley Catherine S. , Cameron Anne P. , Henry Lai H. , Kirkali Ziya , Kreder Karl J. , Geynisman‐Tan Julia , Merion Robert M. , Weinfurt Kevin P. ,   LURN Study Group
Published: September 2022

Purpose

Bladder diaries are a key source of information about lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS); however, many patients do not complete them as instructed. Questionnaire‐based patient‐reported outcome measures (PROMs) are another option for reporting LUTS but may have recall bias. We assessed the strength of the associations between PROMs and a 3‐day bladder diary.

Materials and Methods

Symptomatic adults from 6 tertiary care sites completed a 3‐day paper bladder diary and 3‐, 7‐, and 30‐day electronic PROMs. We assessed the linear associations between mapped pairs of diary variables and responses to PROM items using biserial and polyserial correlation coefficients with 95% confidence intervals.

Results

Of 290 enrolled participants, 175 (60%) completed the bladder diary as instructed and at least one corresponding PROM. Linear associations were strongest between the diary and 3‐day recall of daytime frequency (r = 0.75) and nighttime frequency (r = 0.69), followed by voids with urgency sensations (r = 0.62), and an item reporting any incontinence (r = 0.56). Linear associations between bladder diary and specific incontinence variables (e.g., stress, urgency) were low to negligible (ranging from r = 0.16–0.39). Linear associations were consistent across the 3‐, 7‐, and 30‐day recall periods.

Conclusions

Missing and unusable bladder diary data were common, highlighting the patient burden associated with this method of data collection. A questionnaire‐based PROM is a reasonable alternative to a diary for reporting voiding frequency and may offer an easier option for reporting some symptoms.
The cumulative effect of unmet social needs on noncancerous genitourinary conditions and severity of lower urinary tract symptoms
Authors: Anne Zwaschka T. , Sebesta Elisabeth M. , Gleicher Stephanie , Kaufman Melissa R. , Dmochowski Roger R. , Reynolds William Stuart
Published: September 2022

Purpose

There is growing awareness on how social determinants of health may significantly influence health outcomes. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between unmet social needs and the incidence and severity of multiple noncancerous genitourinary conditions.

Materials and Methods

A community‐based sample of United States adults was recruited electronically to complete questionnaires on clinical and demographic information, urinary symptoms, and social needs. Logistic regression was used to assess the effect between the number of unmet social needs and various noncancerous genitourinary conditions and severity of lower urinary tract symptoms. Model was adjusted for age, gender, race, insurance, and type of living community.

Results

A total of 4,224 participants were included for final analysis. The incidence of all genitourinary conditions assessed was associated with an increasing number of unmet social needs. Additionally, having three or more unmet social needs, as compared to no needs, was associated with an increased risk of all conditions and worse symptoms—including a 23.7% increased risk of interstitial cystitis (95% confidence interval [CI] 18.8%–28.7%, p < 0.001), 21.9% risk of urge urinary incontinence (95% CI 16.8%–27.0%, p < 0.001), and 20.6% risk of overactive bladder (95% CI 15.6–25.7, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Unmet social needs are associated with an increased incidence of noncancerous genitourinary conditions as well as worse symptom severity, with multiple unmet social needs displaying a cumulative effect. These findings suggest that there is utility in screening patients for unmet social needs, and that the healthcare system should develop a more integrated approach to manage  patients with urinary conditions.
Psycho‐emotional recovery, the meaning of care in the process of providing palliative care to Iranian people with cancer: A grounded theory study
Authors: Aghaei Mir Hossein , Vanaki Zohreh , Mohammadi Eesa
Published: September 2022

Aim

Despite the significance of palliative care in treating people with cancer, the provision of this type of care in Iran is vague and unorganized. This research intends to explore the meaning of care in the process of providing palliative care to Iranian people with cancer and to develop a theory that would explain the phenomenon.

Design

This is a qualitative study in nature and Corbin and Strauss' Grounded Theory approach was used for data analysis.

Methods

Data was collected through semi structured interviews that were held with 21 participants who have had experiences in receiving and providing palliative care. The study was conducted in April to December 2019 in palliative care centres of Tehran. Sampling first started purposefully and moved to theoretical once concepts began to emerge from the data. Comparative and continuous data analysis was undertaken using Corbin and Strauss' (Basics of qualitative research: Techniques and procedures for developing grounded theory, Sage, 2015) approach.

Results

Main concerns of care providers in providing palliative care was to reduce the affliction and anxiety of patients by understanding the difficult state of patient and psycho‐emotional recovery was identified as the core category, which was performed via three critical strategies: building emotional connection, reinforcing positive mindset and having a core value in care.
Influence of basalt fiber and maleic anhydride on the mechanical and thermal properties of polypropylene
Authors: Poornima Channaveeradevaru , Uthamballi Shivanna Mallik , Sathyanarayana Srinivas
Published: September 2022

Natural mineral fiber basalt has excellent thermal and mechanical characteristics. The current research focuses on evaluating the mechanical and thermal characteristics of polypropylene (PP) composites reinforced with short‐length basalt fibers (BF) fabricated by the melt mixing method. Maleic anhydride (MAH) at 3 wt% was used as a compatibilizer for fabricating the composites. The composite's mechanical, thermal, and morphological properties were investigated. The mechanical properties of the composites were enhanced with an increase in BF loadings from 10 to 40 wt% and beyond that it decreased. The chemical interaction between the fiber and the matrix was evaluated using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Differential scanning calorimetry studies were used to determine the crystallization temperature, melting temperature and percent crystallinity of the composite. According to dynamic mechanical analysis, reinforcing PP with BF improved the damping property. Scanning electron microscopy revealed good interfacial interaction among the fiber and matrix and X‐ray diffraction was used to study the composite crystallinity.
Verification of intrinsic safety on instrumentation loop
Authors: Kuan Teik Hua , Chew Kuew Wai , Chua Kein Huat
Published: September 2022

Intrinsic safety is one of the explosion protection techniques implemented in an industry where a flammable substance is present. It is a technique that reduces the electrical energy level at the hazardous area below the ignition curve so that it is not sufficient to initiate an explosion. In addition to limiting the energy to the field, the energy stored in the circuit and thermal ignition due to hot surfaces in hazardous areas must also be considered. Intrinsically safe is the preferred explosion protection method for instrumentation and control signals as it allows live maintenance, the use of an uncertified simple apparatus, and is applicable to all Zones. All intrinsically safe circuits must carry out a safety assessment and verify their compliance with intrinsic safety before implementation to avoid explosion. The verification process could be complex for mixed circuits and non‐simple intrinsically safe systems; moreover, there has been much confusion for many years until the 4th Edition of the installation standard, IEC 60079‐14, provided a clearer picture. This paper carries out an intrinsic safety verification assessment on a mixed circuit involving surge protection devices according to IEC and NEC standards. It also highlights the common mistake made by system designers when verifying the safety parameters.
Honey bee death from aerosols inadvertently produced from propelled aerial dispersal of a solid ant bait
Authors: Hoffmann Benjamin D. , Quinn Greg
Published: September 2022

Background

Hydrogels are a new bait form, and multiple studies have found minimal potential or actual nontarget impacts associated with their use. However, in 2020, aerial applications of hydrogels containing fipronil unequivocally resulted in honey bee deaths. Here we detail four studies that then were conducted to determine how the bees were exposed to the active constituent and how to modify the aerial treatment protocols to eliminate the risk to bees.

Results

The first trial confirmed the existence of fipronil in aerosol form. The second trial quantified that in specific wind conditions the aerosols were falling to the ground at a maximum distance determined by an approximate 30° angle from the ground to the dispersal point, and that free‐falling hydrogels either do not produce aerosols or, if so, at volumes too negligible to be collected or quantified. The third trial confirmed that even bee hives upwind and several hundreds of metres away from the area being baited can be contaminated by the aerosols. The fourth trial found no bee hive mortality as a result of either free‐falling bait or moving bee hives 500 m beyond the treatment area.

Conclusion

The aerosol issue is likely to occur with every motorized mechanism dispersing hydrogels. It is possible that the same issue happens with solid dry products if they produce a fine dust when propelled during dispersal. Further research into this issue is warranted. © 2022 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Terahertz‐Induced Oscillations in Encapsulated Graphene
Authors: Iñarrea Jesús , Platero Gloria
Published: September 2022

A theoretical study on the rise of photo‐oscillations in the magnetoresistance of hexagonal boron nitride (hBN)‐encapsulated graphene is presented. The previous radiation‐driven electron orbit model devised to study the same oscillations, well‐known as MIRO, in 2D semiconductor systems (GaAs/AlGaAS heterostructure) is used. It is obtained that these graphene platforms under radiation and a static magnetic field are sensitive to terahertz and far‐infrared radiation. The power, temperature, and frequency dependences of the photo‐oscillations are studied. For power dependence, it is predicted that for cleaner graphene and high enough power it is possible to observe zero‐resistance states and a resonance peak.
Towards improved precipitation estimation with the GOES‐16 advanced baseline imager: Algorithm and evaluation
Authors: Upadhyaya Shruti A. , Kirstetter Pierre‐Emmanuel , Kuligowski Robert J. , Searls Maresa
Published: September 2022

The study introduces a new quantitative precipitation estimation (QPE) algorithm from Advanced Baseline Imager (ABI) observations from GOES‐16 across the contiguous USA (CONUS). It is developed and comprehensively evaluated using the Ground Validation Multi‐Radar/Multi‐Sensor (GV‐MRMS) system as a benchmark, and features Random Forest (RF) machine learning‐based QPE. The key innovations of the algorithm include a comprehensive set of satellite predictors derived from five infrared ABI channels, complemented by low‐level environmental conditions from the Rapid Refresh (RAP) numerical weather prediction (NWP) model, and outputs of probability of precipitation type for seamless integration of varying precipitation rates across types. A systematic analysis of the predictors is performed. The analysis reveals that satellite predictors contribute more to high‐intensity precipitation estimates, whereas environmental predictors primarily condition low‐intensity precipitation. Combining both categories of predictors improves scores (correlation coefficient, CC = 0.41) overall, with the greatest improvement in the warm stratiform precipitation type. Introducing precipitation type information through probabilities further improves correlation (0.46). An intercomparison of the RF model with the Self‐Calibrating Multivariate Precipitation Retrieval (SCaMPR) shows that RF has better detection and quantification scores than SCaMPR (Heidke Skill Score, HSS = 0.91 vs. 0.19; CC = 0.44 vs. 0.26). Both retrievals display similar performance patterns across different regions of the CONUS. For example, skill degrades in complex terrain. Precipitation processes in complex terrain and their variability may not be well captured, especially with the degraded ABI resolution in the western CONUS. It is recommended to complement the 11.2 μm legacy channel with at least the 6.2 μm channel for global precipitation retrievals using GEO sensors.
Simultaneously Improving Flame Retardant Performance, Thermal Stability and Conductivity of Copolymers of Polyethylene‐octene by Addition of a Ternary Composite Flame Retardant System
Authors: Zhang Yafeng , Yu Chunming , Feng Xi
Published: September 2022

The development of high efficiency and low‐cost refractories has always been a subject that attract people‘s attention. Although polyethylene‐octene copolymers (POE) has excellent mechanical properties, it is easy to be ignited, which seriously hinders its multi‐field applications. In this paper, a novel ternary composite flame retardant system, ammonium polyphosphate (APP)/expanded graphite (EG)/sepiolite (SEP), was proposed and applied to POE to prepare high flame‐retardant POE composites. The experimental results showed that the addition of SEP could play a good reinforcing role, so as to improve the mechanical properties of POE/APP composites. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) showed that when the ratio of EG and SEP was 1 : 1, the initial thermal decomposition temperature decreased significantly, which was conducive to the early degradation and carbonization of POE/APP composites. The thermal conductivity test showed that the addition of SEP can reduce the thermal conductivity of POE/APP composites. In addition, the flame retardant test results revealed that when the ratio of EG and SEP was 1 : 1, the oxygen index (LOI) increased to 25.3 %, the heat release rate (HRR) decreased to 140 kW/m2, the total heat release (THR) decreased to 70 MJ/m2, and the carbon layer produced by combustion was dense and uniform, which contribute to the great heat insulation. In conclusion, the addition of an appropriate amount of ternary compound flame retardant (EG/SEP/APP) could have an excellent synergistic flame retardant effect on POE/APP composites, and the processing method was simple and efficient, which would benefit to broad application of the prepared POE composites.
In‐situ Synthesis of CsPbBr3 Nanocrystals/Polyvinyl Pyrrolidone Ethanol Sol and High Resolution Fingerprint Identification
Authors: Yuan Shuanglong , Liu Chuanqi , Chen Long , Wen Liangjie , Liu Yanan
Published: September 2022

CsPbBr3 perovskite nanocrystals have potential applications in fingerprint identification due to their excellent optical properties. Unfortunately, the current synthesis methods need harsh conditions as well as large quantities of expensive and toxic organic solvents. Attention has been considerably attracted for the preparation of all inorganic perovskite nanocrystals with ethanol and water as solvents. However, due to the strong polarity of ethanol, the ligands have been dissolved and thus the perovskite nanocrystals have been destroyed. Here, we employed a remarkably simple strategy, using the adsorption of Br− by N+ and the formation of the spatial network structure of polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP) and the polish of perovskite surface defects by trace water, successfully prepared CsPbBr3 nanocrystals in ethanol. The effects of PVP molecular weight and its concentration and the amount of water on the luminescence properties have been studied by XRD, FTIR, ultraviolet‐visible absorption and photoluminescence spectra. The prepared CsPbBr3 nanocrystals sol maintained 70 % of the initial photoluminescence intensity after 110 days of storage. By adding alcohol‐soluble thermoplastic acrylic resin, the fingerprint identification films have been prepared simply and quickly, and the three‐level structure of fingerprint can be clearly emerged. This strategy offered a great application prospect in the field of fast and high‐resolution fingerprint identification.
Effect of CeO2 on Microstructure and Properties of Wear and Corrosion Resistance Martensitic Stainless Steel‐Based Coating on Laser Cladding
Authors: Zhao Fang , Guo Tieming , Zhang Yiwen , Wei Xiaohong , Zhang Ruihua , Nan Xueli , Dong Kang , Hu Derong
Published: September 2022

The effects of CeO2 on the quantity, morphology, and distribution of carbides, the microhardness, friction and wear properties, and corrosion resistance of 0.3C–16Cr martensitic stainless steel‐based cladding layer are investigated. The results show that the addition of CeO2 inhibits the dendrite growth and improves the morphology, size, and distribution of carbides in the cladding layer. The hardness shows a peak with the increase in CeO2 content, the wear rate of the cladding layer with CeO2 decreases, and the wear resistance increases. In addition, CeO2 significantly improves the corrosion resistance of the cladding layer, causing the pitting potential to increase and the blunt current density to decrease. Compared with the original sample, the wear amount and dimensional blunt current density of the sample with 0.3% CeO2 content are reduced by 55.36% and 35.32%, respectively, and the pitting potential is increased by 2.71 times. The comprehensive performance of the cladding layer is the best. This is mainly because CeO2 can increase the latent heat of crystallization during the cooling process of the cladding layer, reduce the constitutional supercooling, inhibit the directional growth of dendrites, improve the uniformity of the microstructure and composition, and thereby improve the wear resistance and corrosion resistance.
Unlocking corporate social responsibility in smaller firms: Compliance, conviction, burden, or opportunity?
Authors: Pillai Ratna Devi , Wang Pengji , Kuah Adrian T. H.
Published: September 2022

There is a recognition that corporate social responsibility (CSR) by smaller firms could have greater social and environmental impacts if these engagements are meaningful. Small firms are players in the global eco‐system as they supply to larger global firms as subcontractors or suppliers. However, do they practice CSR with a conviction or as a compliance measure? Using stakeholder theory, in‐depth interviews were carried out with 31 firms in Singapore. We found that these firms in highly normative sectors practice CSR due to compliance in the interests of stakeholders. But in less‐normative sectors, where regulations and norms are minimal, a majority of firms practice CSR out of conviction. All firms acknowledged that their businesses have a responsibility toward society and our results further revealed the importance of careful stakeholder involvement in these firms.
Effects of paste resins on the foaming properties of PVC plastisols
Authors: Ji Yubi , Yang Zhao , Fu Tenghong , Wu Tao , Jiang Jie , Tan Hong
Published: September 2022

This article studies the foaming properties of PVC plastisols prepared from six different types of PVC paste resins with different degrees of polymerization that were produced through two methods, a seed emulsion method and a micro‐suspension method. The underlying mechanisms that result in differences in the foaming properties are discussed as well. The results indicate that formulation S5 has the best foaming quality using past resins produced with the seed emulsion method, and formulation S6 made the best plastisol samples from paste resins produced through the micro‐suspension method. Seed emulsion‐produced paste resins with low degrees of polymerization are more suitable for preparing high‐quality foam materials. The parameters used to judge the foam quality are the initial decomposition temperature Tf (5%), Tf − Tηmax and Tf (5%) − Tηmax. The greater the value of these three parameters, the better the foaming effect. The degree of polymerization of the paste resin and the particle morphology directly affect the rheological parameters, namely Tηmax, of PVC plastisol, and subsequently affect the magnitude of Tf − Tηmax and Tf (5%) − Tηmax, which in turn affect the quality of the foam.
Regenerative mesenchymal stem cell‐derived extracellular vesicles: A potential alternative to cell‐based therapy in viral infection and disease damage control
Authors: Ipinmoroti Ayodeji O. , Pandit Rachana , Matthews Qiana L.
Published: September 2022

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) released by regenerative cells such as mesenchymal stem cells are effective facilitators of healing, therapy, and repair. Conversely, EVs released from infected and/or diseased cells could be useful as markers in the detection and diagnosis of disease conditions such as cancer at their earliest most detectable, and treatable stage. A very important type of EVs, termed exosomes offer a hypothetical new paradigm in disease detection, diagnosis, and treatment. A broad range of exosome‐based biomedical and therapeutic applications are now being evaluated in recent clinical trials. Exosomes are found in virtually all bodily fluids and cells and are capable of crossing tight junctions and toughly regulated boundaries such as the blood–brain barrier. Exosomes' expedition ends when they are taken up by bystander cells which corroborates the fact that they are conduits for cells releasing them. Exosomes released by diseased cells have been associated with cell‐to‐cell progression of diseases like viral disease, neurodegeneration, and certain cancers. Due to high discrimination in most disease conditions, exosome uptake is usually cell‐specific. Lots of research evidence have revealed that infusion of exosomes derived from regenerative cells such as stem cells could impede the development of certain infections and age‐related diseases by activating self‐repair machinery through RNA, DNA, protein, and lipid transfer between cells in patients. They have also been demonstrated in the restoration of the circulating population of exosomes in tissues and the fluid of recipients. The first human clinical trials of exosome therapies are now underway, establishing the future of regenerative exosome in regenerative medicine.

This article is categorized under:

Cancer > Stem Cells and Development

Immune System Diseases > Stem Cells and Development

Immune System Diseases > Molecular and Cellular Physiology
Incompressible Newtonian Fluid Mechanics
Authors: Deville Michel O.
Published: September 2022

This chapter, presents the basic concepts of fluid mechanics such as velocity, acceleration, material derivative and the governing equations obtained from the conservation laws of mass, momentum, angular momentum and energy. The introduction of the constitutive relation for viscous incompressible Newtonian fluid leads to the Navier–Stokes equations. Boundary and initial conditions are discussed. Special attention is devoted to the meaning and differences between incompressible and compressible fluids. The Boussinesq equations are described. The chapter ends with considerations on the control volume method, a very efficient tool to solve fluid problems.
Exact Solutions of the Navier–Stokes Equations
Authors: Deville Michel O.
Published: September 2022

This chapter covers extensively various exact solutions of the Navier–Stokes equations for steady-state and transient cases. Of particular interest are the pulsating flows in a channel and in a circular pipe as these solutions are relevant for blood flow analysis.
Turbulence
Authors: Deville Michel O.
Published: September 2022

The Reynolds decomposition and statistical averaging of velocity and pressure generate the Reynolds averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) equations. The closure problem is solved by the introduction of a turbulence constitutive equation. Several linear turbulence models are presented in the RANS framework: $$K-\varepsilon , K-\omega $$

K
-
ε
,
K
-
ω

. The solution of the RANS equations for the turbulent channel flow is elaborated giving the celebrated logarithmic profile. Non-linear models are built on the anisotropy tensor and the incorporation of the concept of integrity bases. The chapter ends with the theory of large eddy simulations with a few up-to-date models: dynamic model, approximate deconvolution method.
Relations among Bc → J/ψ, ηc form factors
Authors: Colangelo P. , De Fazio F. , Loparco F. , Losacco N. , Novoa-Brunet M.
Published: September 2022

Abstract

We analyze the form factors parametrizing the Bc→ J/ψ, ηc matrix elements of the operators in a generalized low-energy b → c semileptonic Hamiltonian. We consider an expansion in nonrelativistic QCD, classifying the heavy quark spin symmetry breaking terms and expressing the form factors in terms of universal functions in a selected kinematical range. Using as an input the lattice QCD results for the Bc → J/ψ matrix element of the SM operator, we obtain information on other form factors. The extrapolation to the full kinematical range is also presented.
Matter effects of sterile neutrino in light of renormalization-group equations
Authors: Zeng Shuge , Xu Fanrong
Published: September 2022

Abstract

The renormalization-group equation (RGE) approach to neutrino matter effects is further developed in this work. We derive a complete set of differential equations for effective mixing elements, masses and Jarlskog-like invariants in presence of a light sterile neutrino. The evolutions of mixing elements as well as Jarlskog-like invariants are obtained by numerically solving these differential equations. We calculate terrestrial matter effects in long-baseline (LBL) experiments, taking NOvA, T2K and DUNE as examples. In both three-flavor and four-flavor frameworks, electron-neutrino survival probabilities as well as the day-night asymmetry of solar neutrino are also evaluated as a further examination of the RGE approach.
Interventionelle Behandlungsverfahren der pulmonalen Hypertension im Kindesalter
Authors: Albinni Sulaima , Kitzmüller Erwin , Beichl Matthias , Michel-Behnke Ina
Published: September 2022

Die pulmonale Hypertension (PH) ist eine progressive Gefäßerkrankung und führt über eine Widerstands- und/oder Druckerhöhung im kleinen Kreislauf zu einem fortschreitenden Rechtsherzversagen. Auch wenn mithilfe aktueller medikamentöser Therapien eine deutliche Verbesserung der Lebensqualität und des Überlebens der Betroffenen erreicht werden konnte, bleibt die PH eine zumeist nichtheilbare Erkrankung, die im fortgeschrittenen Stadium eine Lungentransplantation notwendig macht. Interventionelle Verfahren, wie die Anlage eines interatrialen Shunts (z. B. durch atriale Septostomie oder den Atrial Flow Regulator) oder eines Reversed Potts Shunt, verbessern die RV-Funktion und die ventrikuläre Interaktion durch Schaffung einer prä- oder posttrikuspidalen „Eisenmenger-Physiologie“ und stellen eine Überbrückung oder sogar Alternative zur Lungentransplantation dar. Bei Patienten mit segmentaler PH oder chronisch thrombembolischer pulmonaler Hypertension (CTEPH) stellt die Ballonangioplastie eine bereits etablierte Intervention zur Verbesserung der pulmonalen Perfusion und damit rechtsventrikulären (RV-)Funktion dar. Dagegen ist die pulmonalarterielle Denervation ein neuartiges Verfahren, mit dem Ziel, die neurohumorale Dysregulation bei PH positiv zu beeinflussen. Der individuelle Einsatz solcher Interventionen, additiv zu den bereits etablierten medikamentösen Therapien, erweitert die Behandlungsmöglichkeiten und kann die Prognose betroffener Patienten noch weiter verbessern.
Bias in the number of steps in the Euclidean algorithm and a conjecture of Ito on Dedekind sums
Authors: Minelli Paolo , Sourmelidis Athanasios , Technau Marc
Published: September 2022

We investigate the number of steps taken by three variants of the Euclidean algorithm on average over Farey fractions. We show asymptotic formulae for these averages restricted to the interval (0, 1/2), establishing that they behave differently on (0, 1/2) than they do on (1/2, 1). These results are tightly linked with the distribution of lengths of certain continued fraction expansions as well as the distribution of the involved partial quotients. As an application, we prove a conjecture of Ito on the distribution of values of Dedekind sums. The main argument is based on earlier work of Zhabitskaya, Ustinov, Bykovskiĭ and others, ultimately dating back to Lochs and Heilbronn, relating the quantities in question to counting solutions to a certain system of Diophantine inequalities. The above restriction to only half of the Farey fractions introduces additional complications.
On the Six-Vertex Model’s Free Energy
Authors: Duminil-Copin Hugo , Kozlowski Karol Kajetan , Krachun Dmitry , Manolescu Ioan , Tikhonovskaia Tatiana
Published: September 2022

In this paper, we provide new proofs of the existence and the condensation of Bethe roots for the Bethe Ansatz equation associated with the six-vertex model with periodic boundary conditions and an arbitrary density of up arrows (per line) in the regime$$\Delta <1$$Δ<1. As an application, we provide a short, fully rigorous computation of the free energy of the six-vertex model on the torus, as well as an asymptotic expansion of the six-vertex partition functions when the density of up arrows approaches 1/2. This latter result is at the base of a number of recent results, in particular the rigorous proof of continuity/discontinuity of the phase transition of the random-cluster model, the localization/delocalization behaviour of the six-vertex height function when$$a=b=1$$a=b=1and$$c\ge 1$$c≥1, and the rotational invariance of the six-vertex model and the Fortuin–Kasteleyn percolation.
Intratumoral pro-oxidants promote cancer immunotherapy by recruiting and reprogramming neutrophils to eliminate tumors
Authors: Ralph Stephen John , Reynolds Maxwell J.
Published: September 2022

Neutrophils have recently gained recognition for their potential in the fight against cancer. Neutrophil plasticity between the N1 anti-tumor and N2 pro-tumor subtypes is now apparent, as is the ability to polarize these individual subtypes by interventions such as intratumoral injection of various agents including bacterial products or pro-oxidants. Metabolic responses and the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) such as hydrogen peroxide act as potent chemoattractants and activators of N1 neutrophils that facilitates their recruitment and ensuing activation of a toxic respiratory burst in tumors. Greater understanding of the precise mechanism of N1 neutrophil activation, recruitment and regulation is now needed to fully exploit their anti-tumor potential against cancers both locally and at distant sites. This systematic review critically analyzes these new developments in cancer immunotherapy.
Solid Pseudopapillary Neoplasms of the Pancreas Across Races Demonstrate Disparities with Comparably Good Prognosis
Authors: Lin Young‐Jen , Burkhart Richard , Lu Tzu‐Pin , Wolfgang Christopher , Wright Michael , Zheng Lei , Wu Han‐Yu , Chen Ching‐Hsuan , Lee Shin‐Yi , Wu Chien‐Hui , He Jin , Tien Yu‐Wen
Published: September 2022

Background

Solid pseudopapillary neoplasms (SPNs) of the pancreas are rare with low‐grade malignancy and unclarified clinicopathological features. This study aimed to examine their characteristics and re‐evaluate current treatments.

Methods

Databases from three sources were screened for patients with SPNs. We compared the perioperative variables, clinical data, overall survival (OS), and prognostic factors for recurrence among the three corresponding cohorts.

Results

We identified 286 patients diagnosed with SPNs between 1988 and 2020. Patients were mostly women (81%; median age: 38 years), and peak incidence was observed in women of 20–29 years of age. SPNs had a peak incidence in Asian men at 50–59 years of age (p = 0.002) and a delayed peak incidence in Asian women at 30–39 years of age (p < 0.001). Treatment strategies differed significantly across the institutions and included variations in the number of harvested lymph nodes and rates of vascular resection. Lymph node positivity was the only predictor of postoperative recurrence (odds ratio, 2.2; 95% confidence interval, 1.38–2.99; p = 0.007). Higher rates of lymphovascular invasion (p = 0.02), perineural invasion (p < 0.001), and R1 margin involvement (p < 0.001), as seen in one institution, did not result in poorer long‐term survival in terms of the overall (p = 0.43), SPN‐specific (p = 0.69), and recurrence‐free survivals (p = 0.067).

Conclusions

In contrast to previous findings that SPNs are prevalent in young women, a racial predilection for middle‐aged Asian men and a delayed female peak incidence were noted. Parenchyma‐preserving pancreatectomy may be an acceptable treatment. Non‐radical surgery may be appropriate in patients with multiple comorbidities.