bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Incidentally found Bilaterally Occult Femoral Hernia during Transabdominal Preperitoneal Inguinal Hernia Repair: A Case Report
Authors: Rajyaguru Ajay , Depani Raj Bhupendra , Singh Sachin , Chaudhary Hiral
Published: June 2023

Hernia is defined as an area of anatomical weakness or an abnormal protrusion of a viscous or a part of a viscous through an opening, covering it. Inguinal hernia is the most common hernia because of the presence of natural weakness like the deep ring and cord structures. The minimally invasive procedures for inguinal hernia repair include Intraperitoneal Onlay Mesh (IPOM) repair, Transabdominal Preperitoneal Repair (TAPP), and Total Extraperitoneal (TEP) repair. Laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair has the advantage of inspecting the entire myopectineal orifice, as it allows for the identification of bilateral or recurrent hernias. The principle behind laparoscopic repair includes strengthening of myopectineal orifice in all the above approaches. TAPP repair is mainly indicated for large indirect hernias or irreducible hernia. TEP repair is technically challenging to perform and has the advantage of avoiding interbowel adhesions as the peritoneum is not opened. IPOM repair is not routinely performed but has advantages in cases where there is an increased risk of spermatic cord injury seen in patients with a history of lower abdominal irradiation or a history of multiple recurrent hernia surgery. Occult contralateral inguinal hernia and the occult femoral hernia can be easily diagnosed and repaired with no extra incisions while performing TAPP repair. These hernias, if left untreated may present as recurrent hernias or as non resolution of symptoms posthernia surgery. A rare case of bilateral occult femoral hernia found during laparoscopic TAPP repair of an inguinal hernia was reported. The entire myopectineal orifice was repaired using the same mesh with no extra risk or cost.
A Novel In-built Design to Retain Detachable Cheek Plumpers in Complete Dentures: A Case Report
Authors: Roshini Rachapudi Venkata , Vaishali K
Published: June 2023

Aesthetics is of prime importance to people irrespective of age. Aging and loss of teeth have a significant influence on external facial aesthetics, resulting in sunken cheeks and undesirable facial appearance. Cheek plumper is a prosthesis used to support sunken cheeks, thus enhancing the aesthetics of a person. Hereby, the authors present a case of a 65-year-old male patient, who reported with the complaint of missing upper and lower teeth. Intraoral examination revealed completely edentulous maxillary and mandibular arches. Extraoral examination revealed sunken cheeks. The patient was concerned about his appearance and wanted treatment for it. The treatment plan was to fabricate a complete denture with detachable cheek plumpers. This novel technique offers a simple and effective way to re-establish the lost facial aesthetics. The technique was simple, easy to fabricate and had good patient satisfaction, compared to the other techniques and methods. Follow-up after 24 hours, three months and six months was scheduled and the patient was satisfied with the prosthesis.
Proportion of Co-morbidities in Patients with and without Bullous Pemphigoid: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Sumitra Sathyavath , Chandran Reena , George Anuja Elizabeth
Published: June 2023

Introduction: Bullous Pemphigoid (BP) is the most common subepidermal immunobullous disorder. It has been found to be associated with various co-morbidities. Only a few studies have been done previously, to find out the association between BP and these co-morbidities. A better understanding of the various comorbidities in BP patients, enables to implement better treatment strategies, which will be more efficacious and less toxic. Aim: To compare the proportion of co-morbidities in patients with and without BP and to study the triggering factors associated with BP. Materials and Methods: This was a hospital based crosssectional study conducted in the Department of Dermatology and Venereology at Government Medical College and Hospital, Trivandrum, Kerala, India. The duration of the study was one year and six months, from January 2020 to June 2021. A total of 80 patients were included in the present study, out of which 40 patients with BP were included in case group and 40 patients without BP in control group. Clinical data such as age, gender, habits, co-morbidities and factors triggering BP were recorded. Categorical and quantitative variables were expressed as frequency (percentage) and mean±SD respectively. Chi-square test and Fisher’s-exact test were used to find association between categorical variables and (p-value<0.05) was considered as statistically significant. Results: The mean age of the study participants was 60.8±10.5 years. A total of 23 (57.5%) patients and 20 (50%) normal subjects had a history of co-morbid illness. Diabetes, hypertension, neurological disorders, Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) and Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) were the co-morbidities reported by the patients. Diabetes was the most commonly observed co-morbidity among the patients. A statistically significant difference was noted between the case and control group in terms of diabetes (p-value=0.039) and neurological disorders (p-value=0.011). A total of 34 (85%) patients had atleast one factor which triggered the onset of the disease, and the most common triggering factor was drug intake in 22 (55%) patients. Conclusion: The most commonly observed co-morbidity among patients with BP in the present study was diabetes. A prompt surveillance and adequate control of glycaemic status is needed in these patients in order to avoid further worsening of diabetes with corticosteroid therapy. Avoidance of various exogenous triggers such as disease worsening drugs, stress, excessive sun exposure etc., will help in achieving better control of the disease.
Management Capacity of University Administrators as a Predictor of Quality Assurance in Federal Universities in North East Geo-Political Zone, Nigeria
Authors: Mohammed Amina
Published: June 2023

Quality in education has become the major concern of the world. For this reason; universities all over the globe has been making efforts to achieve the best quality in their programmes. However, it is a known fact that no university can succeed in the achievement of its quality assurance without dedicated university administrators. University administrators proper planning, organizing, directing, coordinating and controlling of university resources is paramount for internal quality assurance to be realized. The objective of the study is to determine university administrators Planning, Organizing, Directing, Coordinating and Controlling capacity as it predicts the level of internal quality assurance in Federal Universities in North East Geo-Political Zone of Nigeria. Based on this a research question and a hypothesis (tested at 0.05 level of significance) emerged. The population of the study comprise of 3,417 Academic Staff from the six federal universities in the zone. Six hundred and eighty three (683) staff was sampled for the study. Mean and standard deviation was used to answer the research question while multiple regressions and one way ANOVA statistics was used to test hypotheses. The result reveals that planning; organizing, directing, coordinating and controlling management capacity explained 99.1% of the variance in internal quality assurance and is therefore significant predictors of internal quality assurance in federal universities in north East Geo-Political Zone, Nigeria. The study therefore recommends that; University administrator should emphasise on proper planning and implementation of university activities, share duties and responsibilities appropriately to staff, supervise and monitor the activities of the universities in the right manner, harmonise all work activities of academic staff and constantly check on the work carried out by academic staff to identify areas of deviation and equally take proactive measures in correcting them for internal quality assurance to be realized.
Development of Citizens Education Learning Model Based on Rejecting Local Wisdom to Improve Student Social Behavior
Authors: Rusmin Lisnawati , Talib Syamsul Bachri , Saman Abdul
Published: June 2023

This study aims to produce valid, practical and effective Civics learning models based on Tolaki local wisdom that can be implemented in students in the Citizenship Education course. The development of learning tools used the 4-D model and was tested on PGSD students in the Faculty of Teaching and Education, Halu Oleo University. The research design used the One-Group Pretest-Posttest Design. Collecting data using observation, test and questionnaire. Data analysis techniques using quantitative/qualitative descriptive analysis. Learning the Civics learning model based on Tolaki local wisdom begins with the validity of learning tools in the form of Model Books, Teaching Handbooks, Learning Plans (RPS), Student Activity Sheet Lecture Units and prosocial behavior evaluation instruments. Furthermore, trials were carried out on students in learning Citizenship Education courses. The results of the study show that the learning tools developed are declared valid, practical and effective. The implementation of the learning stages seen in student learning activities shows an increase and very good enthusiasm in carrying out learning. Students can follow the learning process by using learning tools that are developed with high curiosity. The effectiveness of Tolaki's local wisdom-based Civics learning development model has succeeded in increasing students' prosocial behavior. The results showed that the learning tools using the Civics learning model based on Tolaki local wisdom were declared valid, practical and effective for increasing students' prosocial behavior and getting good and positive responses.
Effect of Different Sources of Organic Manures on Plant Growth and Flowering Parameters of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) var. Kashi Aman under Bundelkhand Region
Authors: Mukesh Nitin , Tiwari Jay Narayan , Sahil Anand , Yadav Sanjeev , Yadav Shubham
Published: June 2023

The present investigation entitled “Effect of different sources of organic manures on plant growth and flowering parameters of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) var. Kashi Aman under Bundelkhand region” was carried out at Organic Research farm at Karguan ji, Department of Horticulture, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Bundelkhand University, Jhansi (Uttar Pradesh) during Rabi season of 2021- 2022. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design with 8 treatments and 3 replications. The detail of treatments were as T0 (Control), T1 (FYM100%), T2 (Poultry manure 100%), T3 (Vermicompost 100%), T4 (FYM 50% + Poultry manure 50%), T5 (Poultry manure 50% + Vermicompost 50%), T6 (Vermicpost 50% + F YM 50%), T7 (FYM 33% + Poultry 33% + Vermicompost 33%). The data were collected from five random ly selected plant of each treatment and subjected to statistical analysis. The results reflected that among 8 treatments under study, treatment T7 (FYM 33% +  Poultry 33% + Vermicompost 33%) was best in all characters and recorded maximum in term of plant height (18.607 cm at 30 DAT), (46.333 cm at 60 DAT), (75.913 cm at 90 DAT) number of branches (5.467 at 30 DAT), (12.933 at 60 DAT), (16.533 at 90 DAT) stem diameter (3.167 cm at 30 DAT), (7.233 cm at 60 DAT), (12.140 cm at 90 DAT) plant spread (2.467 cm N-S & 22.023 cm E-W at 30 DAT), (42.633cm N-S & 41.200 cm E-W at 60 DAT),( 63.467 N-S & 62.300cm E-W at 90 DAT) and better plant growth of tomato promote the number of flower per clusters with the application of treatment T7 (FYM 33%+ Poultry 33%+Vermicompost 33%) which were significantly highest in terms of number of flower per cluster (18.517), days of first flowering (30.243) and days of 50% flowering (38.340), whereas similar trend was closely followed by the treatment T6 (Vermicpost 50%+FYM 50%) for these traits, while the constantly lower performance in similar growth and flowering traits at all growth stages was recorded with treatment T0 (Control). These findings are reliable for increasing organic and chemical free tomato production under Bundelkhand region.
The Role of Green Marketing Dimensions in Achieving Sustainable Development - An Applied Study in the Etihad Company for Food Industries Ltd. in Iraq
Authors: Majeed Sahar Abdul Hussein , Kadhim Anfal Sameer , Khawam Noor Riad
Published: June 2023

The current research aims to demonstrate the role of green marketing dimensions represented by (green distribution, green promotion, and green products) in achieving sustainable development with its dimensions represented by (environmental, social, economic, and technical dimensions). The Etihad Company for Food Industries Limited adopts green marketing and its role in achieving sustainable development for the importance of preserving the economic and technical environment and natural resources., The research community was represented by the employees of the company amounting to (2000) employees, and an intentional sample of (100) was taken, represented by (senior management and middle management) in the Etihad Food Industries Company. The results were analyzed by adopting the statistical program (SSPS V.25). The company adopts green marketing in its production processes, but not at the required level, due to the obsolescence of the production processes, machines, and equipment that are used in the work.
Study on the Ku band Solid-State Power Amplifier(SSPA) through the 40 W-grade High Power MMIC Development and the Combination of High Power Modules
Authors: Na Kyoungil , Park Jaewoong , Lee Youngwan , Kim Hyeok , Kang Hyunchul , Kim SoSu
Published: June 2023

In this paper, to substitute the existing TWTA(Travailing Wave Tube Amplifier) component in small radar system, we developed the Ku band SSPA(Solid-State Power Amplifier) based on the fabrication of power MMIC (Monolithic Microwave Integrated Circuit) chips. For the development of the 500 W SSPA, the 40 W-grade power MMIC was designed by ADS(Advanced Design System) at Keysight company with UMS GH015 library, and was processed by UMS foundry service. And 70 W main power modules were achieved the 2-way T-junction combiner method by using the 40 W-grade power MMICs. Finally, the 500 W SSPA was fabricated by the wave guide type power divider between the drive power amplifier and power modules, and power combiner with same type between power modules and output port. The electrical properties of this SSPA had 504 W output power, -58.11 dBc spurious, 1.74 °/us phase variation, and -143 dBm/Hz noise level.
X-band RADAR Reflected Signal Measurement of Gallium-based Liquid Metal
Authors: Kim Minhyeok , Kang Sehyeok , Doo Seok-Joo , Kim Daeyoung
Published: June 2023

RADAR(Radio Detection and Ranging) is an important system for surveillance and reconnaissance by detecting a reflected signal which obtains the range from the radar to the target, and the velocity of the target. The magnitude of the reflected signal varies due to the radar cross section of the target, characteristic of the transmission and reception antenna, distance between the radar and the target, and power and wavelength of the transmitted signal. Thus, the RCS is the important characteristic of the target to determine if the target can be observed by the RADAR system. It is based on the material and shape of the target. We have measured the reflection signal of a simple square-shaped (20 × 20 cm) target made of a new material, a gallium-based liquid metal alloy and compared that of well-known metals including copper, aluminum. The magnitude of reflected signal of the aluminum target was the largest and it was 2.4 times larger than that of the liquid metal target. We also investigated the effect of the shape by measuring reflectance of the F-22 3D model(~1/95 ratio) target covered with/without copper, aluminium, and liquid metal. The largest magnitude of the reflected signal measured from side-view with the copper-covered F-22 model was 2.6 times greater than that of liquid metal. The reflectance study of the liquid metal would be helpful for liquid metal-based frequency selective surface or metamaterials.
Prediction on the Performance of Polymer-Based Mechanical Low-Pass Filters for High-G Accelerometers
Authors: Song Sehwan , Jang Junyong , Lee Youlim , Jo Hanseong , Yoon Sang-Hee
Published: June 2023

A polymer-based mechanical low-pass filter(m-LPF) for high-g accelerometers makes it possible to remove high-frequency transient noises from acceleration signals, thus ensuring repeatable and reliable measurement on high-g acceleration. We establish a prediction model for performance of m-LPF by combining a fundamental vibration model with the fractional derivative standard linear solid(FD SLS) model describing the storage modulus and loss modulus of polymers. Here, the FD SLS model is modified to consider the effect of m-LPF shape factor (i.e., thickness) on storage modulus and loss modulus. The prediction accuracy is verified by comparing the displacement transmissibility(or cut-off frequency) estimated using our model with that measured from 3 kinds of polymers(polysulfide rubber(PSR), silicone rubber(SR), and polydimethylsiloxane(PDMS)). Our findings will contribute a significant growth of m-LPF for high-g accelerometers.
Palpitations in a Young Woman With Breast Cancer
Authors: Zhang Nan , Liu Tong , Geng Xuhong
Published: June 2023

This case report describes a woman in her 20s who had a 1-day history of palpitations and dyspnea. Her medical history was significant for breast cancer.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Access and Racial Disparities in Food Insecurity
Authors: Samuel Laura J. , Crews Deidra C. , Swenor Bonnielin K. , Zhu Jiafeng , Stuart Elizabeth A. , Szanton Sarah L. , Kim Boeun , Dwivedi Pallavi , Li Qiwei , Reed Nicholas S. , Thorpe Roland J.
Published: June 2023

Importance

Racially minoritized people experience disproportionately high rates of food insecurity. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) reduces food insecurity.

Objective

To evaluate SNAP access with regard to racial disparities in food insecurity.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cross-sectional study used data from the 2018 Survey of Income and Program Participation (SIPP). On the basis of random sampling strategies, 44 870 households were eligible for the SIPP, and 26 215 (58.4%) participated. Sampling weights accounted for survey design and nonresponse. Data were analyzed from February 25 to December 12, 2022.

Exposures

This study examined disparities based on household racial composition (entirely Asian, entirely Black, entirely White, and multiple races or multirace based on SIPP categories).

Main Outcomes and Measures

Food insecurity during the prior year was measured using the validated 6-item US Department of Agriculture Food Security Survey Module. SNAP participation during the prior year was classified based on whether anyone in the household received SNAP benefits. Modified Poisson regression tested hypothesized disparities in food insecurity.

Results

A total of 4974 households that were eligible for SNAP (income ≤130% of the poverty threshold) were included in this study. A total of 218 households (5%) were entirely Asian, 1014 (22%) were entirely Black, 3313 (65%) were entirely White, and 429 (8%) were multiracial or of other racial groups. Adjusting for household characteristics, households that were entirely Black (prevalence rate [PR], 1.18; 95% CI, 1.04-1.33) or multiracial (PR, 1.25; 95% CI, 1.06-1.46) were more likely to be food insecure than entirely White households, but associations differed depending on SNAP participation. Among households that did not participate in SNAP, those that were entirely Black (PR, 1.52; 97.5% CI, 1.20-1.93) or multiracial (PR, 1.42; 97.5% CI, 1.04-1.94) were more likely to be food insecure than White households; however, among SNAP participants, Black households were less likely than White households to be food insecure (PR, 0.84; 97.5% CI, 0.71-0.99).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cross-sectional study, racial disparities in food insecurity were found among low-income households that do not participate in SNAP but not among those that do, suggesting that access to SNAP should be improved. These results also highlight the need to examine the structural and systemic racism in food systems and in access to food assistance that may contribute to disparities.
Racial and Ethnic Differences in Encounters Related to Suicidal Behavior Among Children and Adolescents With Medicaid Coverage During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Ali Mir M. , West Kristina D. , Dubenitz Joel , End of Horn Pamela , Paschane David , Lieff Sarah A.
Published: June 2023

This cohort study evaluates rates of encounters for suicidal behavior by race and ethnicity among children with Medicaid coverage during vs before the COVID-10 pandemic.
Quantitative Analysis on Molecular Characteristics Evolution of Gastric Cancer Progression and Prognosis
Authors: Hu Yeting , Lv Xiaoqin , Wei Wenwu , Li Xiang , Zhang Kaixuan , Zhu Linlin , Gan Tao , Zeng Hongjuan , Yang Jinlin , Rao Nini
Published: June 2023

The dynamic changes of key biological characteristics from gastric low‐grade intraepithelial neoplasia (LGIN) to high‐grade intraepithelial neoplasia (HGIN) to early gastric cancer (EGC) are still unclear, which greatly affect the accurate diagnosis and treatment of EGC and prognosis evaluation of gastric cancer (GC). In this study, bioinformatics methods/tools are applied to quantitatively analyze molecular characteristics evolution of GC progression, and a prognosis model is constructed. This study finds that some dysregulated differentially expressed mRNAs (DEmRNAs) in the LGIN stage may continue to promote the occurrence and development of EGC. Among the LGIN, HGIN, and EGC stages, there are differences and relevance in the transcription expression patterns of DEmRNAs, and the activation related to immune cells is very different. The biological functions continuously changed during the progression from LGIN to HGIN to EGC. The COX model constructed based on the three EGC‐related DEmRNAs has GC prognostic risk prediction ability. The evolution of biological characteristics during the development of EGC mined by the authors provides new insight into understanding the molecular mechanism of EGC occurrence and development. The three‐gene prognostic risk model provides a new method for assisting GC clinical treatment decisions.
Arc Erosion Properties of WCu Material Reinforced with Ti3SiC2under Different Applied Voltages
Authors: Zhou Zijue , Tian Dong , Wei Yijun , Liu Daofu , Hu Yunhu , Zhu Qiyong , Wen Guilin , Lu Xiaoyong , Ying Chao , Liu Zhuhan , Huang Xiaochen
Published: June 2023

Introducing reinforcements is a crucial way to modify WCu electric contacts. Herein, the arc erosion performances of WCu/Ti3SiC2under various direct current voltages are investigated. The eroded microstructures are observed by a 3D laser scanning confocal microscopy and a thermal field emission scanning electron microscope. Compositions of the eroded surfaces are analyzed by a Raman spectroscopy. With the elevated voltages, values of breakdown current, arc duration, arc energy, and arc discharge distance increase, while the breakdown strength decreases. Meanwhile, the eroded regions gradually change from circular shape to irregularly curved corrugations under the elevated voltages. Copper and Ti3SiC2can disperse arc during arc discharge, and the liquid and gas generated by the two phases can make differences in protecting WCu/Ti3SiC2.
Microstructural Modification by Redesigning the Chemical Composition of Ni 620 Filler Metal
Authors: Bobzin Kirsten , Heinemann Hendrik , Erck Marvin
Published: June 2023

Ni 620 is a widely used brazing alloy, especially in cases where high‐temperature strength and corrosion resistance are required. The formation of undesirable intermetallic phases in the brazing joint due to the addition of boron and silicon as melting point depressants affects the mechanical properties of the joint. Reducing the formation of intermetallic phases during brazing is an important issue in the application of Ni 620. In this study, two approaches, inoculation with Nb and variation of the B and Si content in Ni 620, are pursued to selectively influence the microstructure of the brazed joint. Therefore, the solidus and liquidus temperatures of the new brazing alloys are investigated by means of differential scanning calorimetry measurements. Also, the microstructure of brazed joints is analyzed and evaluated by scanning electron microscope/electron‐dispersive spectroscopy as well as the hardness properties using nanoindentaion. It is observed that the addition of Nb, as well as the variation of the B and Si content, leads to a change in the brittle phase band. Especially brittle borides can be reduced in this way. The results contribute to produce brazing joints with more adapted properties, despite low brazing temperatures and short holding times.
Implantable, Bioresorbable Radio Frequency Resonant Circuits for Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Lee Geumbee , Does Mark D. , Avila Raudel , Kang Juyeon , Harkins Kevin D. , Wu Yunyun , Banks William E. , Park Minsu , Lu Di , Yan Xinqiang , Kim Jong Uk , Won Sang Min , Evans Adam G. , Joseph Jeremy T. , Kalmar Christopher L. , Pollins Alonda C. , Karagoz Huseyin , Thayer Wesley P. , Huang Yonggang , Rogers John A.
Published: June 2023

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is widely used in clinical care and medical research. The signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) in the measurement affects parameters that determine the diagnostic value of the image, such as the spatial resolution, contrast, and scan time. Surgically implanted radiofrequency coils can increase SNR of subsequent MRI studies of adjacent tissues. The resulting benefits in SNR are, however, balanced by significant risks associated with surgically removing these coils or with leaving them in place permanently. As an alternative, here the authors report classes of implantable inductor–capacitor circuits made entirely of bioresorbable organic and inorganic materials. Engineering choices for the designs of an inductor and a capacitor provide the ability to select the resonant frequency of the devices to meet MRI specifications (e.g., 200 MHz at 4.7 T MRI). Such devices enhance the SNR and improve the associated imaging capabilities. These simple, small bioelectronic systems function over clinically relevant time frames (up to 1 month) at physiological conditions and then disappear completely by natural mechanisms of bioresorption, thereby eliminating the need for surgical extraction. Imaging demonstrations in a nerve phantom and a human cadaver suggest that this technology has broad potential for post‐surgical monitoring/evaluation of recovery processes.
Data‐driven safe gain‐scheduling control
Authors: Modares Amir , Sadati Nasser , Modares Hamidreza
Published: June 2023

Data‐based safe gain‐scheduling controllers are presented for discrete‐time linear parameter‐varying systems (LPV) with polytopic models. First,
‐contractivity conditions are provided under which the safety and stability of the LPV systems are unified through Minkowski functions of the safe sets. Then, a data‐based representation of the closed‐loop LPV system is provided, which requires less restrictive data richness conditions than identifying the system dynamics. This sample‐efficient closed‐loop data‐based representation is leveraged to design data‐driven gain‐scheduling controllers that guarantee
‐contractivity and, thus, invariance of the safe sets. It is also shown that the problem of designing a data‐driven gain‐scheduling controller for a polyhedral (ellipsoidal) safe set amounts to a linear program (a semi‐definite program). The motivation behind direct learning of a safe controller is that identifying an LPV system requires satisfying the persistence of the excitation (PE) condition. It is shown in this paper, however, that directly learning a safe controller and bypassing the system identification can be achieved without satisfying the PE condition. This data‐richness reduction is of vital importance, especially for LPV systems that are open‐loop unstable, and collecting rich samples to satisfy the PE condition can jeopardize their safety. A simulation example is provided to show the effectiveness of the presented approach.
Multivariate reference and tolerance regions based on conditional transformation models: Application to glycemic markers
Authors: Lado‐Baleato Óscar , Cadarso‐Suárez Carmen , Kneib Thomas , Gude Francisco
Published: June 2023

The reference interval is the most widely used medical decision‐making, constituting a central tool in determining whether an individual is healthy or not. When the results of several continuous diagnostic tests are available for the same patient, their clinical interpretation is more reliable if a multivariate reference region (MVR) is available rather than multiple univariate reference intervals. MVRs, defined as regions containing 95% of the results of healthy subjects, extend the concept of the reference interval to the multivariate setting. However, they are rarely used in clinical practice owing to difficulties associated with their interpretability and the restrictions inherent to the assumption of a Gaussian distribution. Further statistical research is thus needed to make MVRs more applicable and easier for physicians to interpret. Since the joint distribution of diagnostic test results may well change with patient characteristics independent of disease status, MVRs adjusted for covariates are desirable. The present work introduces a novel formulation for MVRs based on multivariate conditional transformation models (MCTMs). Additionally, we take into account the estimation uncertainty of such MVRs by means of tolerance regions. These conditional MVRs imply no parametric restriction on the response, and potentially nonlinear continuous covariate effects can be estimated. MCTMs allow the estimation of the effects of covariates on the joint distribution of multivariate response variables and on these variables' marginal distributions, via the use of most likely transformation estimation. Our contributions proved reliable when tested with simulated data and for a real data application with two glycemic markers.
Urea Electrooxidation in Alkaline Environment: Fundamentals and Applications
Authors: Wang Hongdan , Zheng Xingqun , Fang Ling , Lu Shun
Published: June 2023

Invited for this issue's Front Cover is the group of Dr. Shun Lu of Chongqing Institute of Green and Intelligent Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences (China). The cover picture shows the electrochemical urea oxidation reaction has been a key reaction among urea‐assisted hydrogen production, direct urea fuel cell, urea‐containing wastewater urea removal and urea sensors. Read the full text of the Concept at 10.1002/celc.202300138.
Kultivierung von Mikroorganismen
Authors: Geuer Lena , Liese Gesine , Roth Melanie , Liese Andreas , Perret Sophie , Schlindwein Axel , Ulber Roland
Published: June 2023

Für das Begreifen von (natur‐)wissenschaftlichen Zusammenhängen sind Experimente unabdingbar. Um Lehrkräfte bei den didaktischen, methodischen und strukturellen Herausforderungen des Experimentierens im Schulalltag zu unterstützen, wurden Konzepte zu Experimenten aus den Experimentierkisten an der Rheinland‐Pfälzischen Technischen Universität in Kaiserslautern und TU Hamburg entwickelt. Thematisch werden biotechnologische Ansätze mit Alltagsbezug für den forschungsorientierten MINT‐Unterricht fokussiert. Dabei wird das Wachstum und dessen Bedingungen von Mikroorganismen näher beleuchtet und an Experimenten mit Hefe und Mikroalgen aufgezeigt. Die Relevanz dieser Thematik liegt in der naturwissenschaftlichen Bedeutung von mikrobiellen Prozessen vor allem im medizinischen und biotechnologischen Bereich. Das Kernkonzept zur Experimentierkiste ist dabei ein wesentlicher Bestandteil zur Implementierung solch forschungsorientierter Themen mit Experimenten in den naturwissenschaftlichen Unterricht. Zum Themenbereich Hefe gibt es eine Mitmach‐Experimentierwebsite www.kniffelix.de für Einzelinteressierte und Schulklassen von der 3.–13. Klasse, welche die Lernerfahrung vertieft und erweitert.
Assembly of Tailored Porous Nanofibers from Mesoporous MCM‐41 Nanoparticles via Electrospinning
Authors: Timm Jana , Furtmair Michael , Marschall Roland
Published: June 2023

For the first time the assembly of isolated and purified MCM‐41 nanoparticles into nanofibers was realized by electrospinning. Electrospinning was conducted with a dispersion of these nanoparticles and polyvinylpyrrolidone in ethanol. The nanofibers were characterized by electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, elemental analysis, gas physisorption and infrared spectroscopy in diffuse reflectance. The variation of the spinning parameters was investigated in detail towards the influence on the nanofiber diameter. The change of the applied voltage and the flow rate show strong impacts on the nanofiber diameter. Therefore, the nanofiber diameter can be tailored by choosing suitable electrospinning parameters. The fiber mats with thin nanofibers were then additionally functionalized with sulfonic acid groups in a proof of principal study. The nanofiber morphology was maintained both after functionalization with thiol group and subsequent oxidation to sulfonic acid groups.
Poly(glycerol‐co‐glyceric acid) Functionalized Nanodiamonds by Nitroxyl Radical‐Catalyzed Oxidation of Primary Alcohols in Poly(glycerol) as Scaffolds for Further Conjugation
Authors: Nishikawa Masahiro , Yagasaki Hideo , He Shougang , Komatsu Naoki
Published: June 2023

Poly(glycerol) (PG) functionalization is versatile to make various nanoparticles dispersible in aqueous media. In addition, the abundant hydroxy groups in PG give scaffolds for further modification to introduce suitable functional groups. For example, carboxylic group (−COOH) has been introduced through the reaction of hydroxy (−OH) group in PG with succinic anhydride. However, ester linkage in the succinate moiety in the PG layer is subjected to hydrolysis. In this work, we develop an alternative way for a novel −COOH containing PG functionalized detonation nanodiamonds (DND‐PG‐COOH) via oxidation of primary −OH group of PG chain by nitroxyl radical catalysts well‐known as TEMPO or its analogues. The content of −COOH is found to be precisely controlled by the amount of oxidant.
Seismic mitigation performance of shape memory alloy flexible circumferential joint in shield tunnel
Authors: Ma Yongtao , Miao Yu , Long Xiaohong
Published: June 2023

The circumferential joint of a shield tunnel is prone to damage under strong earthquakes, affecting the safety of the tunnel. This paper adopts an innovative shape memory alloy (SMA) flexible circumferential joint for longitudinal seismic mitigation of the tunnel. The SMA joint is composed of SMA ring springs and ordinary bolts. The SMA joint design is performed for a shield tunnel, and a simplified model of the SMA joint is proposed. Based on the generalised response displacement method, the longitudinal seismic mitigation analysis of the tunnel is conducted, the arrangement of SMA joints is discussed, and the seismic mitigation performance is evaluated. Results show that the SMA joint design method can efficiently complete the joint design, and the SMA joint model can accurately reflect the joint performance. SMA joints can reduce the stiffness of tunnel joints and have a good energy dissipation effect, which is suitable for shield tunnel seismic mitigation. An appropriate SMA joint arrangement can concentrate the tunnel joint deformation and effectively reduce the opening width between the tunnel segment rings. It can also dissipate energy and reduce the internal force of the tunnel joint, thus enhancing the seismic safety of the tunnel.
A participant selection based vehicle platoon asynchronous federated learning framework
Authors: Ren Yilong , Liang Yuhao , Feng Xiaoyuan , Zhao Yanan , Zhao Jiejie , Yu Haiyang
Published: June 2023

In the vehicular network, federated learning is an emerging paradigm to train deep learning models safely. However, the non‐identically independent distributed data collected by intelligent connected vehicles, expensive training overhead, and the existence of malicious participants significantly affect the efficiency of training and constrain the development of federated learning in the vehicular network. To address the above issues, this paper proposes a participant selection‐based asynchronous federated learning framework for an intelligent connected vehicle platoon. We proposed a platoon‐based asynchronous federated learning framework that effectively improves training efficiency through data share and asynchronous optimization. Also, We designed a signaling game‐based participant selection strategy that accurately identifies the potentially malicious participants by analyzing the Perfect Bayesian Equilibrium. The comparison experiment result shows the training model using our proposed scheme converges faster than the baseline scheme and gains approximately 10% higher accuracy.
Teacher experience and students' mental well‐being
Authors: Shin Yoosik
Published: June 2023

Introduction

The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship between homeroom teachers' experience and students' mental well‐being, in addition to examining the underlying mechanisms that can explain the relationship.

Methods

Secondary data from the Gyeonggi Education Panel Study was used. The analysis included 3002 fourth graders and 3090 first‐year middle school students in Gyeonggi province in South Korea, and the quasi‐random assignment of students into classrooms in South Korea was used. The level of students' mental well‐being was used as an outcome, and homeroom teachers' experience was used as an independent variable. Students' perception of their homeroom teachers' teaching skills and teachers' self‐perceived capacity for understanding students' behaviors were used for mechanism analyses.

Results

Students assigned to homeroom teachers with less than 5 years of experience had lower mental well‐being than those assigned to more experienced homeroom teachers. Mechanism analyses revealed that teachers who had more than 5 years of experience were more confident about understanding their students than those who had less than 5 years of experience.

Conclusions

Homeroom teachers' experience is highly associated with students' mental well‐being. To promote students' mental well‐being, deeper understanding of the relationship between teachers' experience and students' mental well‐being is necessary.
Genotoxic effect of iron oxide (Fe2O3) nanoparticles on Triticum aestivum (wheat)
Authors: Tasar Neslihan
Published: June 2023

Industrial activities and unconscious consumption of natural resources cause environmental pollution with the rapid increase in the world population. As a result of the widespread use of iron oxide nanoparticles (Fe2O3 NP) with nano‐industrial activities, it is predicted that this NP will accumulate in the air, water, and soil. In the present study, the purpose was to find out the genotoxic effects on root meristem cells of the Triticum aestivum L. plant, which is an indicator organism exposed to 20–40 nm Fe2O3 NPs at different concentrations (100, 200, and 400 ppm). The amount of Fe2O3 NP accumulated in T. aestivum used in the study was determined with x‐ray diffraction (XRD) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), SEM element map, and EDS characteristic spectrum. All concentrations of Fe2O3 NP caused significant decreases in the mitotic index. Fe2O3 NPs significantly increased the frequency of mitotic abnormalities in T. aestivum root tip cells at all treatment times and all concentrations when compared to the control. Fe2O3 NPs were formed by various mitotic abnormalities such as loss of genetic material, deconstructed prophase, adhesion, chromosome groupings in metaphase, deconstructed metaphase, C‐Metaphase, chromosomal loss, chromosomal fracture, polyploidy, deconstructed anaphase, lagging chromosome, fragment, polar deviation, bridging, propagation, asynchronous division, star anaphase, multipolarity, and deconstructed telophase. All these results show that Fe2O3 NPs are genotoxic and clastogenic and may also cause DNA damage. Briefly, these data show that Fe2O3 NPs taken by organisms may pose a danger to the organism and the upper consumer. These findings also show that the production and use of Fe2O3 NPs, which affect organisms, must be controlled, and ultimately, be safely disposed of to reduce their bioaccumulation.

Research Highlights

In the present study, the purpose was to find out the genotoxic effects on root meristem cells of the Triticum aestivum L. (bread wheat) plant, which is an indicator organism exposed to 20–40 nm Fe2O3 NPs at different concentrations (100, 200, and 400 ppm).

The amount of Fe2O3 NP accumulated in T. aestivum used in the study was determined with x‐ray diffraction (XRD) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), SEM element map, and EDS characteristic spectrum.

The mitotic index was calculated to reveal the genotoxic effect.

“Loss of genetic material, deconstructed prophase, adhesion, chromosome groupings in metaphase, deconstructed metaphase, C‐Metaphase, chromosomal loss, chromosomal fracture, polyploidy, deconstructed anaphase, lagging chromosome, fragment, polar deviation, bridging, propagation, asynchronous division, star Chromosomal abnormalities such as anaphase, multipolarity, and deconstructed telophase” were visualized.

Fe2O3 NPs are genotoxic and clastogenic and may also cause DNA damage.
The regulatory functions of oxylipins in fungi: A review
Authors: Liu Huiqian , Zhang Xizi , Chen Wei , Wang Chengtao
Published: June 2023

Quorum sensing (QS) is a communication mechanism between microorganisms originally found in bacteria. In recent years, an important QS mechanism has been discovered in the field of fungi, namely, the lipoxygenase compound oxylipin of arachidonic acid acts as a QS molecule in life cycle control, particularly in the sexual and asexual development of fungi. However, the role of oxylipins in mediating eukaryotic communication has not been previously described. In this paper, we review the regulatory role of oxylipins and the underlying mechanisms and discuss the potential for application in major fungi. The role of oxylipin as a fungal quorum‐sensing molecule is the main focus of the review. Besides, the quorum regulation of fungal morphological transformation, biofilm formation, virulence factors, secondary metabolism, infection, symbiosis, and other physiological behaviors are discussed. Moreover, future prospectives and applications are elaborated as well.
Patient partnerships, equality and the ‘long tail’ of the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Prashar Jai
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Patient partnerships are vitally important in improving healthcare delivery, however they are underutilised for this purpose.

Methods

Here, I discuss how the COVID‐19 pandemic has presented challenges for health equity but has also presented unique opportunities for enhancing the role of the service user in driving evidence generation, tackling inequality and service design.

Results

The COVID‐19 pandemic has highlighted and exacerbated inequality in healthcare. Existing legislation and literature on patient involvement and inequality is largely limited in scope. However, co‐production of evidence with service users and carers, as well as incorporating advocacy and involving these groups in service design, all have significant potential to achieve meaningful integration of their views and preferences in healthcare.

Conclusion

There is significant scope to move beyond ‘lip service’ in patient involvement within healthcare. The COVID‐19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of, as well as the potential for, substantive participation of patients and the public in healthcare design and delivery.
Research on curing kinetics of multiaxial warp‐knitted composites
Authors: Chen Jiawei , Gao Xiaoping , Zhao Ke , Wu Wei
Published: June 2023

In this paper, the differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) was used to test the crosslinking reaction system between epoxy resin and curing agent, and the curing kinetic model of the resin system was established by means of phenomenal model. The optimal curing process was obtained based on DSC curve. The quadriaxial warp‐knitted composite specimens were prepared by vacuum‐assisted resin infusion (VARI). The effects of curing process on mechanism properties and failure mechanism of the composite specimens were studied experimentally. Results show that the cross‐linking reaction between epoxy resin and curing agent agrees with the autocatalytic reaction model and the curing kinetics model could be used to characterize the curing process of the matrix. The optimum curing process could be used to improve the interface properties between the matrix and the fiber, and the crack progress will be inhibited as the specimen bearing the external force, and the mechanical properties of the specimen is also improved significantly. Result could provide a theoretical basis for the study of curing kinetics of epoxy resin, the exploration of curing process of composite materials and improve the strength of composits.
Have the results of the TOTAL‐trials changed the attitude and practice of maternal‐fetal medicine specialists?
Authors: Vergote Simen , Russo Francesca Maria , Basurto David , Deprest Jan , Crombag Neeltje
Published: June 2023

Objective

To explore the views and practices of maternal‐fetal medicine specialists on offering fetoscopic endoluminal tracheal occlusion (FETO) for left‐ and right‐sided congenital diaphragmatic hernia (LCDH, RCDH) in the post Tracheal Occlusion To Accelerate Lung growth (TOTAL)‐trial era.

Method

Cross‐sectional knowledge, attitude and practice survey was conducted among 105 attendees of the 19th World Congress of Fetal Medicine.

Results

On average, respondents were knowledgeable about CDH, involved in research, and provided antenatal treatment options. Four out of five (82%) agreed that neonatal survival in LCDH can be reliably predicted in the prenatal period. Few respondents considered the exact risks and benefits of FETO for severe LCDH as being unclear (16%), yet half were uncertain about this for moderate LCDH (57%) and severe RCDH (45%). Most respondents offer FETO for severe LCDH (97%) and RCDH (79%), but only 59% offer it for moderate LCDH. However, half of respondents (58%) stated that not offering FETO for moderate LCDH would be a psychological burden for parents.

Conclusion

Respondents consider the risk‐benefit ratio of FETO for severe LCDH clear and consistently offer FETO, but not for moderate LDCH and severe RCDH. However, not offering the option of FETO to parents was considered a psychological burden.
Parkinson's disease‐linked V15A mutation facilitates α‐synuclein aggregation by reducing membrane affinity
Authors: Buratti Fiamma A. , Fernández Claudio Oscar , Zweckstetter Markus
Published: June 2023

Parkinson's disease can manifest either as a sporadic form, which is common, or as an inherited autosomal dominant trait resulting from missense mutations. Recently, the novel α‐synuclein variant V15A was identified in two Caucasian and two Japanese families with Parkinson's disease. Using a combination of NMR spectroscopy, membrane binding assays and aggregation assays we show that the V15A mutation does not strongly perturb the conformational ensemble of monomeric α‐synuclein in solution, but weakens its affinity for membranes. Attenuated membrane binding raises the concentration of the aggregation‐prone disordered α‐synuclein in solution, allowing only the V15A variant but not wild‐type α‐synuclein to form amyloid fibrils in the presence of liposomes. These findings, together with earlier research on other missense mutations of α‐synuclein, suggest that maintaining a balance between membrane‐bound and free aggregation‐competent α‐synuclein is critical in α‐synucleinopathies.