bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Machinability performance of different fiber orientations of roll wrapped CFRP pipes
Authors: Yılmaz Merve , Kılınçel Mert , Şirin Şenol
Published: May 2024

Integrating fiber reinforcement plastics (FRP) materials into the industry plays a key role especially for pipes. However, due to the production methods of CFRP pipes, surface finishing processes are inevitable at the end of production. Despite the widespread use of CFRP materials, the predominant focus in the literature has been on their mechanical performance. This study aims to contribute to the limited research on the machinability of CFRP materials. In this context, the turning machining process for CFRP pipes was experimentally investigated in the present study. For this purpose, carbon fiber pipes with an inner diameter of 30 mm and an outer diameter of 60 mm were produced and subjected to computer numerical control (CNC) turning. First, a cylindrical aluminum pipe is used as a mold to manufacture CFRP pipes. Unidirectional (UD) carbon fabrics were wrapped on these aluminum molds. Shrink tape was used to enhance the surface smoothness and required pressure to prevent delaminating of the end product during the process. UD carbon fabrics are wrapped on to the mold at the selected angles (0°, 45°, and 90°) and the CFRP pipe specimens were manufactured using epoxy matrix. Pipes were processed on CNC lathe at 120, 160, 200 rev/min speeds and f 0.4 mm/rev feed rate. The surfaces of the machined specimens were measured with a microscope and a surface roughness device. On the other hand, wear on the tools was observed after the process.

Highlights

CFRP pipes were produced with different fibre orientations, i.e., 0°, 45°, and 90°.

All CFRP pipes are made under equal conditions and cured at 80°.

Turning of CFRP pipes was examined under dry environments.

Performance criteria: surface roughness, temperature, tool wear, and chip formation were explored.

45° fibre angles CFRP pipes showed the best machinability performance.
Estimating catchment‐scale sediment storage in a large River Basin, Colorado River, USA
Authors: Kemper John T. , Knox Richard , Raffae Muhammad , Schulz Evan , Bailey Ryan , Morrison Ryan R. , Wohl Ellen
Published: May 2024

Catchment‐scale sediment storage is conceptualized as increasing in magnitude downstream, although reach‐scale controls may override this trend. We use empirical data from a literature review and two numerical models to quantitatively estimate sediment storage across the Colorado River Basin, USA. We use assumed alluvial thickness with floodplains delineated in the GFPLAIN model from 30 m digital elevation models. We use the SWAT+ model based on model‐estimated (i) groundwater storage and (ii) sediment storage. Existing studies indicate that sediment stored in floodplains and on low terraces is ~0.3–6 m thick. A first‐order approximation of volumetric storage capacity for natural floodplains is ~105 m3 per km. Sediment storage volumes of floodplains are ~108–1011 m3 over river lengths of 101–103 m. For the modeling estimates, we evaluated sediment storage by stream order and by elevation band within the Upper and Lower Colorado River Basins. Comparisons among the outputs cause us to place more confidence in the GFPLAIN and SWAT+ aquifer volume estimates. Each method includes substantial uncertainty and constitutes a first‐order approximation. Results suggest using 21 and 130 billion cubic meters as approximate lower and upper bounds for total sediment storage in the Upper Basin and 314 and 482 billion cubic meters as approximate lower and upper bounds for the Lower Basin. The largest proportion of sediment is stored in the montane and steppe zones in the Upper Basin and in the Sonoran zone in the Lower Basin.
Increasing subsequences of linear size in random permutations and the Robinson–Schensted tableaux of permutons
Authors: Dubach Victor
Published: May 2024

The study of longest increasing subsequences (LIS) in permutations led to that of Young diagrams via Robinson–Schensted's (RS) correspondence. In a celebrated paper, Vershik and Kerov obtained a limit theorem for such diagrams and found that the LIS of a uniform permutation of size behaves as . Independently and much later, Hoppen et al. introduced the theory of permutons as a scaling limit of permutations. In this paper, we extend in some sense the RS correspondence of permutations to the space of permutons. When the “RS‐tableaux” of a permuton are non‐trivial, we show that the RS‐tableaux of random permutations sampled from this permuton exhibit a linear behavior, in the sense that their first rows and columns have lengths of linear order. In particular, the LIS of such permutations behaves as a multiple of . We also prove some large deviation results for these convergences. Finally, by studying asymptotic properties of Fomin's algorithm for permutations, we show that the RS‐tableaux of a permuton satisfy a partial differential equation.
A Synthetic Approach to Synthesize Furan‐2‐Carboxylate Derivatives by Using a Magnetic Sodium Aluminate Catalyst
Authors: Damyard Ahmadreza , Zahedifar Mahboobeh , Akbari Ali
Published: May 2024

A novel and efficient procedure has been developed to synthesize furan‐2‐carboxylate derivatives through a one‐pot condensation of chloroacetate derivatives, 1,3‐diketones, and chloroform in the presence of magnetic sodium aluminate 40 wt. % (Aluminate NP‐40). The synthesized heterogeneous catalyst can be easily recovered from the reaction mixture by applying an external magnetic field. Magnetic aluminate NP catalysts provide a sustainable, environmentally friendly, and cost‐effective method for synthesizing furan‐2‐carboxylate derivatives. Additionally, the catalyst is stable and can be reused multiple times without losing its catalytic properties. High product yields in a short experimental time and easy workup are other advantages of the present method. All synthesized compounds were characterized by NMR spectroscopy.
An Efficient Biocatalytic Preparation of a Key Chiral Intermediate to the Anti‐Epileptic Drug Cenobamate Using an In‐House Recombinant Alcohol Dehydrogenase
Authors: Assaf Camille , Kurmis Karolis , Thomas Wimsey Christopher , Adi Reddy Dwarampudi , Kumar Madhra Mukesh , Bycroft Matthew
Published: May 2024

In this investigation, the preparation of the chiral intermediate, (R)‐1‐(2‐chlorophenyl)‐2‐(2 H‐tetrazol‐2‐yl)ethan‐1‐ol (2 a), a precursor to the anti‐epileptic drug Cenobamate, was demonstrated using a very efficient alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) enzyme from a simple ketone substrate. The enzyme, ADH107604 from Streptomyces coelicolor (ScADH), identified from Dr. Reddy's in‐house collection of biocatalysts, showed excellent activity against the ketone 1‐(2‐chlorophenyl)‐2‐(2 H‐tetrazol‐2‐yl)ethan‐1‐one 1, and the (R)‐alcohol product 2 a was obtained with excellent conversion and enantiomeric excess (ee) >99 %.
Indium Triflate's Transformative Role in Modern Organic Synthesis: A Five‐Year Survey of Functionalization, Cyclization, and Multicomponent Reactions
Authors: Jamshaid Sana
Published: May 2024

Indium triflate (In(OTf)3) has proven to be a powerful and sustainable catalyst in the synthesis of modern organic compounds, enabling a variety of transformations such as functionalization, cyclization, and multicomponent reactions. To provide insight into the most recent methods and applications, this study attempts to provide a comprehensive and up‐to‐date summary of these advances in the application of indium triflate as a catalyst in organic synthesis, focusing on the last five years of literature. The application of indium triflate as opposed to alternative indium(III) catalysts in organic transformations will be the main emphasis of this review, which will cover recent developments through research articles and reviews published between 2019 and 2023. This minireview will make a significant contribution to the existing literature by consolidating recent advancements in the use of indium triflate in modern organic synthesis.
[3+2] Cycloaddition of N‐benzylazomethine Methylide with Various Arylidene‐Azolones
Authors: Tiushina Irina V. , Sokolov Anatolii I. , Smirnov Alexander Yu. , Dubinnyi Maxim A. , Ivanov Dmitrii S. , Korlyukov Alexander A. , Mikhaylov Andrey A. , Baranov Mikhail S.
Published: May 2024

Spirocyclic skeletons are highly attractive for design of biologically active compounds. [3+2] Cycloaddition of N‐benzylazomethine methylide with various arylidene‐azolones achieve to synthesize promising series of substituted spirocyclic structures. Systematic study of the scope and stereochemical outcome of [3+2]‐cycloaddition was performed.
Investigations on the Use of Deep Eutectic Solvents (DESs) as Promoters for the Conjugate Addition of α‐Nitroketones to Electron‐Poor Alkenes
Authors: Gentili Dario , Marcantoni Enrico , Tiecco Matteo , Palmieri Alessandro
Published: May 2024

DESs were profitably investigated as solvents and promoters of the conjugate reaction addition of cyclic and acyclic α‐nitroketones to a variety of electron‐poor alkenes. The best results were obtained conducing the reaction in betaine:1,2‐propanediol (1 : 5 molar ratio) DES at room temperature, and enones were demonstrated to be the most effective Michael acceptors. The same reaction conducted by using different molar ratios of the components in this DES showed the eutectic point to be the most effective in terms of the yields observed.
Improving NiFe Electrocatalysts through Fluorination‐Driven Rearrangements for Neutral Water Electrolysis
Authors: Yu Jidong , Li Jiamin , Gao Rui‐Ting , Yang Yang , Wang Lei
Published: May 2024

Neutral electrolysis to produce hydrogen is prime challenging owing to the sluggish kinetics of water dissociation for the electrochemical reduction of water to molecular hydrogen. An ion‐enriched electrode/electrolyte interface for electrocatalytic reactions can efficiently obtain a stable electrolysis system. Herein, we found that interfacial accumulated fluoride ions and the anchored Pt single atoms/nanoparticles in catalysts can improve hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) activity of NiFe‐based hydroxide catalysts, prolonging the operating stability at high current density in neutral conditions. NiFe hydroxide electrode obtains an outstanding performance of 1000 mA cm−2 at low overpotential of 218 mV with 1000 h operation at 100 mA cm−2. Electrochemical experiments and theoretical calculations have demonstrated that the interfacial fluoride contributes to promote the adsorption of Pt to proton for sustaining a large current density at low potential, while the Pt single atoms/nanoparticles provide H adsorption sites. The synergy effect of F and Pt species promotes the formation of Pt─H and F─H bonds, which accelerate the adsorption and dissociation process of H2O and promote the HER reaction with a long‐term durability in neutral conditions.
Lost in Rotation: How TiO2 and ZnO Nanoparticles Disrupt Coordinated Epithelial Cell Rotation
Authors: Koh Jie Yan Cheryl , Chen Liuying , Gong Lingyan , Tan Shao Jie , Hou Han Wei , Tay Chor Yong
Published: May 2024

Coordinated cell movement is a cardinal feature in tissue organization that highlights the importance of cells working together as a collective unit. Disruptions to this synchronization can have far‐reaching pathological consequences, ranging from developmental disorders to tissue repair impairment. Herein, it is shown that metal oxide nanoparticles (NPs), even at low and non‐toxic doses (1 and 10 µg mL−1), can perturb the coordinated epithelial cell rotation (CECR) in micropatterned human epithelial cell clusters via distinct nanoparticle‐specific mechanisms. Zinc oxide (ZnO) NPs are found to induce significant levels of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) to promote mitogenic activity. Generation of a new localized force field through changes in the cytoskeleton organization and an increase in cell density leads to the arrest of CECR. Conversely, epithelial cell clusters exposed to titanium dioxide (TiO2) NPs maintain their CECR directionality but display suppressed rotational speed in an autophagy‐dependent manner. Thus, these findings reveal that nanoparticles can actively hijack the nano‐adaptive responses of epithelial cells to disrupt the fundamental mechanics of cooperation and communication in a collective setting.
Solvated Electrons Generated on the Surface of Na‐SPHI for Boosting Visible Light Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution with Ultra‐High AQE
Authors: Li Yuxuan , Ge Dachuan , Zhang Hui , Shangguan Li , Mou Zhigang , Xia Feifei , Sun Jianhua , Liu Xiaofeng , Su Yuyu , Lei Weiwei
Published: May 2024

Enhancing the utilization of visible‐light‐active semiconductors with an excellent apparent quantum efficiency (AQE) remains a significant and challenging goal in the realm of photocatalytic water splitting. In this study, a fully condensed sulfur‐doped poly(heptazine imide) metalized with Na (Na‐SPHI) is synthesized by an ionothermal method by using eutectic NaCl/LiCl mixture as the ionic solvent. Comprehensive characterizations of the obtained Na‐SPHI reveal several advantageous features, including heightened light absorption, facilitated exciton dissociation, and expedited charge transfer. More importantly, solvated electron, powerful reducing agents, can be generated on the surface of Na‐SPHI upon irradiation with visible light. Benefiting from above advantage, the Na‐SPHI exhibits an excellent H2 evolution rate of 571.8 µmol·h−1 under visible light illumination and a super‐high AQE of 61.7% at 420 nm. This research emphasizes the significance of the solvated electron on the surface of photocatalyst in overcoming the challenges associated with visible light‐driven photocatalysis, showcasing its potential application in photocatalytic water splitting.
Bioinspired H‐Bonding Connected Gradient Nanostructure Actuators Based on Cellulose Nanofibrils and Graphene
Authors: Yang Zhangqin , Wang Yuting , Lan Lidan , Wang Yuyan , Zhang Xinxing
Published: May 2024

The construction of flexible actuators with ultra‐fast actuation and robust mechanical properties is crucial for soft robotics and smart devices, but still remains a challenge. Inspired by the unique mechanism of pinecones dispersing seeds in nature, a hygroscopic actuator with interlayer network‐bonding connected gradient structure is fabricated. Unlike most conventional bilayer actuator designs, the strategy leverages biobased polyphenols to construct strong interfacial H‐bonding networks between 1D cellulose nanofibers and 2D graphene oxide, endowing the materials with high tensile strength (172 MPa) and excellent toughness (6.64 MJ m−3). Furthermore, the significant difference in hydrophilicity between GO and rGO, along with the dense interlayer H‐bonding, enables ultra‐fast water exchange during water absorption and desorption processes. The resulted actuator exhibits ultra‐fast driving speed (154° s−1), excellent pressure‐resistant and cyclic stability. Taking advantages of these benefits, the actuator can be fabricated into smart devices (such as smart grippers, humidity control switches) with significant potential for practical applications. The presented approach to constructing interlayer H‐bonding in gradient structures is instructive for achieving high performance and functionalization of biomass nanomaterials and the complex of 1D/2D nanomaterials.
High‐Branched Natural Polysaccharide Flaxseed Gum Binder for Silicon‐Based Lithium‐Ion Batteries with High Capacity
Authors: Zhou Wenbo , Zhang Renwei , Yu Shijie , Peng Zexuan , Zuo Caixin , Yang Wenjuan , Li Yafeng , Wei Mingdeng
Published: May 2024

Silicon‐based anodes heavily depend on the binder to preserve the unbroken electrode structure. In the present work, natural flaxseed gum (FG) is used as a binder of silicon nanoparticles (SiNPs) anode for the first time. Owing to a large number of polar groups and a rich branched structure, this material not only anchors tightly to the surface of SiNPs through bonding interactions but also formed a hydrogen bonding network structure among molecules. As a result, the FG binder can endow the silicon electrode with stable interfacial adhesion and outstanding mechanical properties. In addition, FG with a high viscosity facilitates the homogeneous dispersion of the electrode components. When FG is used as a binder, the cycling performance of the Si anode is greatly improved. After one hundred cycles at an applied current density of 1 A g−1, the electrode continues to display remarkable electrochemical properties with a significant cyclic capacity (2213 mA h g−1) and initial Coulombic efficiency (ICE) of 89.7%.
The impact of high school science pedagogies on students' STEM career interest and on their ratings of teacher quality
Authors: Chen Chen , Said Tamer , Sadler Philip M. , Perry Anthony , Sonnert Gerhard
Published: May 2024

This study examines the often‐heard assumption in science teaching that some pedagogies in science classrooms can serve a dual function—improve the student‐perceived teacher quality and improve students' affinity to STEM professions. We asked 7507 freshmen from 40 colleges in the United States, selected in a stratified random procedure, to retrospectively report their experiences of a list of 32 pedagogies during high school biology, chemistry, and physics classes. Our survey also asked students to rate each teachers' quality and to report their Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics career interests at the beginning and end of high school. We found that teachers' chosen pedagogies, on the whole, had a stronger impact on how students rated them than on students' career interests. Interestingly, we also found considerable differences between the disciplines.
The atmospheric ‘cold blob’ over Fennoscandia from October 2023 to January 2024
Authors: Rantanen Mika , Hyvärinen Otto , Vajda Andrea , Karpechko Alexey
Published: May 2024

Between October 2023 and January 2024, a remarkably persistent cold air anomaly prevailed over Fennoscandia on an otherwise record‐warm planet. This article describes the temperature anomalies, atmospheric circulation and seasonal predictions associated with the cold blob. The 4‐month period from October to January was the third coldest in Fennoscandia during the ongoing century. The cold blob was associated with anomalous atmospheric circulation; for example, jet stream wind speeds were exceptionally high south of Fennoscandia. Furthermore, seasonal forecasts failed to capture the cold blob, which may be related to difficulties in simulating El Niño teleconnections by long‐range forecasting systems.
Recovery rates of persistent post‐COVID‐19 olfactory dysfunction using psychophysical assessment: A longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Tervo Jeremy P. , Jacobson Patricia T. , Vilarello Brandon J. , Saak Tiana M. , Caruana Francesco F. , Gallagher Liam W. , Gary Joseph B. , Gudis David A. , Joseph Paule V. , Devanand D.P. , Goldberg Terry E. , Overdevest Jonathan B.
Published: May 2024

Objectives

Persistent olfactory dysfunction (OD) following loss of smell associated with SARS‐CoV‐2 infection is a major feature of long COVID. Perspectives on the prevalence of persistent OD predominantly rely on self‐reported olfactory function. Few studies have tracked longitudinal rates of recovery using psychophysical assessment among patients presenting for evaluation of persistent OD beyond a window of acute recovery. Data anchored in standardized testing methods are needed to counsel patients who fail to acutely regain their sense of smell. This study aims to quantify the degree of persistent OD in post‐COVID‐19 patients who experience subjective and psychophysical OD.

Methods

We grouped participants presenting for OD evaluation into cohorts based on both subjective and psychophysical olfactory status at a baseline assessment and assessed their olfactory abilities with a visual analogue scale and the Sniffin' Sticks extended test at baseline and 1‐year time points. Participants had confirmed a history of COVID‐19 by lab evaluation or clinical diagnosis if lab evaluation was not available.

Results

Baseline olfactory evaluation was completed by 122 participants, 53 of whom completed the 1‐year follow‐up assessment. Among participants presenting with perceived OD, 74.5% had confirmed psychophysical OD at baseline, with 55.1% at 1‐year follow‐up. Participants had reliable trends in self‐rated versus psychophysically tested olfactory function at both time points. The total threshold, discrimination, and identification (TDI) score improved by +3.25 points in the cohort with psychophysical OD (p = 0.0005), with this improvement largely attributable to an increase in median threshold scores (+2.75 points; p = 0.0004).

Conclusions

OD persists in a significant number of patients who fail to acutely recovery their sense of smell after COVID‐19, with many demonstrating lingering deficits at 1‐year. Improvements in threshold, but not discrimination or identification, most significantly mediate improvement of total TDI score at follow‐up.
Thermal entanglement in conformal junctions
Authors: Capizzi Luca , Rotaru Andrei
Published: May 2024

Abstract

We consider a quantum junction described by a 1+1-dimensional boundary conformal field theory (BCFT). Our analysis focuses on correlations emerging at finite temperature, achieved through the computation of entanglement measures. Our approach relies on characterizing correlation functions of twist fields using BCFT techniques. We provide non-perturbative predictions for the crossover between low and high temperatures. An intriguing interplay between bulk and boundary effects, associated with the bulk/boundary scaling dimensions of the fields above, is found. In particular, the entanglement entropy is primarily influenced by bulk thermal fluctuations, exhibiting extensiveness for large system sizes with a prefactor independent of the scattering properties of the defect. In contrast, negativity is governed by fluctuations across the entangling points only, adhering to an area law; its value depends non-trivially on the defect, and it diverges logarithmically as the temperature is decreased. To validate our predictions, we numerically check them for free fermions on the lattice, finding good agreement.
Diffractive deep inelastic scattering at NLO in the dipole picture
Authors: Beuf Guillaume , Lappi Tuomas , Mäntysaari Heikki , Paatelainen Risto , Penttala Jani
Published: May 2024

Abstract

We compute the transverse and longitudinal diffractive structure functions to full next-to-leading order accuracy in the dipole picture of deep inelastic scattering. Our calculation uses the standard light-cone perturbation theory method for the partonic content of the virtual photon, together with the Color Glass Condensate description of the target color field. Our result includes as a subset the $$q\overline{q }g$$ contribution calculated earlier. We show that there is a rapidity divergence that can be factorized into the BK/JIMWLK evolution of the target Wilson lines, and that all other divergences cancel.
Building more mathematico in Renaissance Venice
Authors: Monteleone Cosimo
Published: May 2024

In the mid-fifteenth century, Venice inherited Cardinal Bessarione’s collection of ancient manuscripts, an exceptional legacy that contributed to the renewal of mathematical studies. This essay outlines the spread of mathematics in Venice in the early Renaissance, when scholars actively discussed Euclid and universal proportions. Based on this cultural context, the author briefly analyzes the role of polyhedra and an example of the application of proportions to architecture: the church of San Francesco della Vigna in Venice. This church is an interesting and rare case of ‘declared’ application of proportions to architecture, since we have specific indications in Francesco Zorzi’s memorandum written in 1535.
Comparative outcomes of trans-arterial radioembolization in patients with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis/non-alcoholic fatty liver disease-induced HCC: a retrospective analysis
Authors: Brunson Christopher , Struycken Lucas , Schaub David , Ref Jacob , Goldberg Daniel , Hannallah Jack , Woodhead Gregory , Young Shamar
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Tumorigenesis in NAFLD/NASH-induced HCC is unique and may affect the effectiveness of trans-arterial radioembolization in this population. The purpose of this study was to retrospectively compare the effectiveness of trans-arterial radioembolization for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) between patients with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH)/non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and non-NASH/NAFLD liver disease.

Materials and methods

Consecutive patients with HCC who underwent TARE at a single academic institution were retrospectively reviewed. Outcome measures including overall survival (OS), local progression-free survival (PFS), and hepatic PFS as assessed by modified response evaluation criteria in solid tumors (mRECIST) were recorded. Kaplan–Meier and Cox proportional hazard models were utilized to compare progression-free survival and overall survival.

Results

138 separate HCCs in patients treated with TARE between July 2013 and July 2022 were retrospectively identified. Etiologies of HCC included NASH/NAFLD (30/122, 22%), HCV (52/122, 43%), alcoholic liver disease (25/122, 21%), and combined ALD/HCV (14/122, 11%). NASH/NAFLD patients demonstrated a significantly higher incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (p < 0.0001). There was no significant difference in overall survival (p = 0.928), local progression-free survival (p = 0.339), or hepatic progression-free survival between the cohorts (p = 0.946) by log-rank analysis. When NASH/NAFLD patients were compared to all combined non-NASH/NAFLD patients, there was no significant difference in OS (HR 1.1, 95% C.I. 0.32–3.79, p = 0.886), local PFS (HR 1.2, 95% C.I. 0.58–2.44, p = 0.639), or hepatic PFS (HR 1.3, 95% C.I. 0.52–3.16, p = 0.595) by log-rank analysis.

Conclusion

TARE appears to be an equally effective treatment for NASH/NAFLD-induced HCC when compared to other causes of HCC. Further studies in a larger cohort with additional subgroup analyses are warranted.

Graphical abstract
Changes in the diagnostic trajectory of transthyretin cardiac amyloidosis over six years
Authors: Achten Anouk , van Empel Vanessa P. M. , Weerts Jerremy , Mourmans Sanne , Beckers-Wesche Fabienne , Spanjers Mireille , Gingele Arno , Brunner-La Rocca Hans-Peter , Sanders-van Wijk Sandra , Knackstedt Christian
Published: May 2024

Awareness of transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy (ATTR-CM) has increased over the years due to diagnostic and therapeutic developments. Timely initiation of novel disease-modifying treatments improves both morbidity and mortality, which underlines the necessity for a prompt diagnosis. Nevertheless, early diagnosis of ATTR-CM remains challenging. This is a retrospective observational cohort study of patients diagnosed with ATTR-CM. Between 2016 and 2023, 87 patients were diagnosed with cardiac amyloidosis of which 65 (75%) patients with ATTR-CM and 22 (25%) patients with light chain amyloidosis. This study included 65 ATTR-CM patients (mean age 77 ± 7 years; 86% male) of whom 59 (91%) with wild-type ATTR-CM (ATTRwt) and six (9%) with variant ATTR-CM. We observed a surge in ATTR-CM diagnoses from 3 patients/year (2016–2020) to 16 patients/year (2021–2023), driven by ATTRwt. Nevertheless, the interval between the onset of heart failure symptoms and ATTR-CM diagnosis has not changed significantly (2016–2020 27.3 months [18.6–62.4]; 2021–2023 30.0 months [8.6–57.2]; p = 0.546), driven by time to referral. Red flags for ATTR-CM preceded diagnosis by several years: left ventricular hypertrophy (79%, 5.8 years [3.3–7.0]) and carpal tunnel syndrome (49%, 6.8 years [2.3–12.1]). Despite the presence of typical red flags, symptom-to-diagnosis duration has remained similar driven by time to referral. Improved recognition of red flags for ATTR-CM could reduce the time to diagnosis and improve overall recognition.
Evaluating the clinical efficacy and safety of concurrent chemoradiotherapy with cisplatin and nab-paclitaxel in postoperative early-stage cervical cancer
Authors: Zhao Ning , Li Yunhai , Chen Xue , Ma Jinli , Luo Weiming , Li Yunhai
Published: May 2024

Objective

A preclinical study showed that nab-paclitaxel acted as a radiosensitizer and improved tumor radiotherapy in a supra-additive manner. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) with cisplatin and nab-paclitaxel in postoperative early-stage cervical cancer with an unfavorable prognosis.

Methods

Eligible patients with stage IB1-IIA2 (FIGO 2009) cervical carcinoma were recruited retrospectively between August 2018 to May 2021. Patients in both the cisplatin and nab-paclitaxel groups received postoperative radiotherapy and weekly intravenous cisplatin 40 mg/m2 or nab-paclitaxel 100 mg concurrently. An analysis of overall survival, progression-free survival, and adverse reactions was conducted.

Results

A total of 105 early-stage cervical cancer patients were included into our study. The median follow-up time was 38.7 months. The 3-year overall survival and progression-free survival in both group was similar. The cycles of chemotherapy in the cisplatin group were less than those in the nab-paclitaxel group (4.5 vs. 5.0; p = 0.001). Patients in the cisplatin group had a significantly higher frequency of hematological adverse events than patients in the nab-paclitaxel group (P < 0.05). Patients in the cisplatin group had a significantly higher frequency of grade 3–4 leukopenia (46.1% vs. 18.9%; P = 0.03), grade 1–2 thrombocytopenia (32.7% vs. 9.5%; P = 0.014) than patients in the nab-paclitaxel group. Gastrointestinal reactions, such as vomiting, nausea, and anorexia were significantly reduced in the nab-paclitaxel group compared with those in the cisplatin group. Regarding the effects on alopecia, the incidence rate of the nab-paclitaxel group was higher than that of the cisplatin group (P = 0.001). There were no differences between the groups in terms of other adverse reactions.

Conclusion

The results of this study indicate that nab-paclitaxel-based concurrent radiotherapy is tolerable and effective, and can be considered an alternative to cisplatin chemotherapy.
Vor- und Nachteile einer Lumped-Mass-Modellierung von Förderbändern am Beispiel eines Zwei-Walzensystems
Authors: Schulz Carsten , Vogl Yannick , Geiger Benjamin , Schaeffer Thomas
Published: May 2024

Im Betrieb von Förderbändern auftretende Phänomene sind das Bandwandern in Achsrichtung der Walzen und die Bandverformung in der Bandebene [1, S. 142]. Das Bandwandern ist bisher detailliert untersucht [2–4], während die Bandverformung Gegenstand weniger Veröffentlichungen ist. Deshalb wird in diesem Artikel eine Methode zur Berechnung der sich im dynamischen Betrieb einstellenden Verformung eines elastischen Förderbandes vorgestellt. Dazu wird ein Mehrkörpersimulations-Modell basierend auf der Lumped-Mass-Modellierung verwendet. Als Untersuchungsbeispiel dient ein Zwei-Walzensystem mit flexiblen und zylindrischen Walzen, sowie ein flexibles Förderband. Es zeigt sich, dass mit der Lumped-Mass-Modellierung eine dynamische Bandverformung, die von der gewählten Diskretisierung abhängt, berechnet werden kann. Aufgrund dieser Abhängigkeit ist es notwendig eine Konvergenzanalyse durchzuführen. Zusätzlich ist darauf zu achten, dass die künstliche Anregung aufgrund der Lumped-Mass-Modellierung nicht mit einer Eigenfrequenz des Modells zusammenfällt.
Multimodal emotion classification using machine learning in immersive and non-immersive virtual reality
Authors: Lima Rodrigo , Chirico Alice , Varandas Rui , Gamboa Hugo , Gaggioli Andrea , i Badia Sergi Bermúdez
Published: May 2024

Affective computing has been widely used to detect and recognize emotional states. The main goal of this study was to detect emotional states using machine learning algorithms automatically. The experimental procedure involved eliciting emotional states using film clips in an immersive and non-immersive virtual reality setup. The participants’ physiological signals were recorded and analyzed to train machine learning models to recognize users’ emotional states. Furthermore, two subjective ratings emotional scales were provided to rate each emotional film clip. Results showed no significant differences between presenting the stimuli in the two degrees of immersion. Regarding emotion classification, it emerged that for both physiological signals and subjective ratings, user-dependent models have a better performance when compared to user-independent models. We obtained an average accuracy of 69.29 ± 11.41% and 71.00 ± 7.95% for the subjective ratings and physiological signals, respectively. On the other hand, using user-independent models, the accuracy we obtained was 54.0 ± 17.2% and 24.9 ± 4.0%, respectively. We interpreted these data as the result of high inter-subject variability among participants, suggesting the need for user-dependent classification models. In future works, we intend to develop new classification algorithms and transfer them to real-time implementation. This will make it possible to adapt to a virtual reality environment in real-time, according to the user’s emotional state.
Tinnitus in Children
Authors: Hoare Derek J. , Smith Harriet , Kennedy Veronica , Fackrell Kathryn
Published: May 2024

This perspective reviews the current state of the art and literature on tinnitus in children, prevalence and risk factors, clinical management, and future priorities for healthcare provision and research. Most research in the field to date appears to be prevalence studies, which have reached dramatically different estimates; this reflects the lack of a standard language when asking about the presence of tinnitus, or how bothersome, distressing, or negatively impacting it is for the child. Estimates are also likely affected by a lack of awareness of tinnitus amongst children and parents. Children are less likely to spontaneously report tinnitus than adults, and parents are often unaware their child could even develop tinnitus, considering it a disease of older age for example. It is critical that children are asked and learn about tinnitus. In hearing clinics, clinicians should routinely ask about all children about tinnitus and offer tinnitus care and settings that are child- and family-friendly. As well as asking directly, clinicians should be alert to soft signs of tinnitus such as unexplained listening, speech perception, concentration difficulties, worry or anxiety, or difficulties completing hearing tests or using hearing aids. The recently developed impact of Tinnitus in Children Questionnaire (iTICQ) can then be used to assess problems that are most commonly core to children’s experience of tinnitus. Clinical guidelines for tinnitus in children are few but provide recommendations for additional paediatric questionnaires and alternative assessments and for a range of treatment options. Of note, however, is the lack of clinical trials and, therefore, evidence of the effectiveness of any treatment for tinnitus in children. Significant and concerted work is therefore needed to raise awareness of tinnitus in children, understand the scale of clinical need, and standardise and evaluate clinical management options.
Preferences, risk neutrality and risk-sensitive MDPs
Authors: Alexander James , Sobel Matthew J.
Published: May 2024

A binary preference relation on a real vector space satisfying four (natural) axioms is shown to induce a utility function composed of a linear function to the reals and a weakly monotonic function. The key axiom is decomposition, and the utility function can be taken to be linear if and only if this axiom’s converse is also satisfied. Important consequences follow for risk-sensitive discounted Markov decision processes, decision trees, and the discounted utility model in economics. Since the four axioms imply that preferences correspond to discounting, the four axioms without the converse imply that preferences are consistent with discounting without risk neutrality.
Grape pomace in diets for European sea bass: influence on oxidative status, intestinal microbiota, and fillet quality
Authors: Martínez-Antequera F. P. , Simó-Mirabet P. , de las Heras V. , Román M. , Mancera J. M. , Martos-Sitcha J. A. , Moyano F. J.
Published: May 2024

The use of intensive systems in aquaculture causes an increase in environmental stress agents, reducing water quality and facilitating the appearance of pathologies in individuals. In this context, the selection of ingredients is a key strategy in managing the quality of aquafeed and the cultivation of aquaculture species. Considering this, wine by-products can be a potential functional ingredient due to several particular characteristics, such as their low cost, large volumes produced, and for being a natural source of bioactive compounds with antioxidant activity. The present study developed different experiments focused on evaluating the benefits of feeding juvenile European sea bass during 5 weeks with feeds incorporating 0.4% red wine grape pomace (GP). At the end of the feeding period, potential modifications in metabolism, immunological and oxidative status, and functionality of intestinal microbiota were assessed as well as the potential protective effect against oxidation in fish fillets during 6 days of cold storage (4 °C). In addition, the preservative effect of GP on the feed when stored for a period of 12 weeks at two different temperatures (4 °C and 25 °C) was evaluated. The results demonstrated that the inclusion of GP in feeds for European sea bass prevents oxidation when stored at room temperature. In addition, a general improvement in the physiological and immunological status, as well as fillet quality, was evidenced.
Can information construction promote the digital transformation of enterprises? Evidence from the 'Pilot Zone for the Integration of Informatization and Industrialization’
Authors: Li Dongkun , Han Qianqian , Lu Huizhong
Published: May 2024

The convergence of the digital economy and the physical economy is a global trend, with enterprises undergoing digital transformation not only for more online orders but also for smarter ways to produce. While existing literature has focused on reasons for digital transformation within enterprises, it has often overlooked the impact of external information technology infrastructure on business digital transformation. This study uses data from Chinese A-share listed enterprises from 2003 to 2021 and employs text-mining techniques to create firm-level variables related to digital transformation. The ‘Pilot Zone for the Integration of Informatization and Industrialization’ policy serves as an indicator of information technology development. By utilizing the difference-in-differences method, the study examines the influence of information technology development on corporate digital transformation. The results indicate that information technology development significantly aids corporate digital transformation by reducing operational risks and boosting innovation capabilities. These findings provide valuable micro-level evidence on how information technology infrastructure supports corporate digital transformation, offering fresh insights into the mechanisms driving this process.
Social networking sites as affordable tools for high-potential personal learning networks: the case of teachers as learners in Vietnam
Authors: Le Van H. , McConney Andrew , Maor Dorit
Published: May 2024

While a great deal has been published about the educational value of social networking sites (SNSs) for teachers, less has focused on teachers who are arguably more dependent on these virtual platforms for informal professional learning due to financial constraints and a lack of regular in-service professional development. Situating this study in Vietnam and focusing on teachers teaching English as a foreign language, we examined how these teachers have adapted SNSs, a tool typically used in leisure and social life, into online personal learning networks. The evidence was collected from 393 teachers’ responses to an online survey. The results from descriptive and non-parametric inferential tests revealed three main findings: (1) Teachers engage in a variety of professional learning activities using SNSs with high frequency, regardless of their self-perceived levels of technology competence or teaching experience; (2) Teachers make use of online groups on SNSs for professional topics and their preferences of topics are not likely to be determined by their experience, except for the topics of classroom management techniques and knowledge about learners; (3) The most decisive factors these teachers associated with effective professional learning on SNSs include time availability, reliability of information and materials, personal information privacy and desire to learn. Teachers’ perceptions about these factors are influenced by the frequency of their SNS use and professional work experience. The implications of these findings for teacher professional development in Vietnam, and other countries in similar economic circumstances, are also discussed.
‘Nothing About Us, Without Us’: Research Priorities for Autistic Girls, Women and Gender Diverse People in Australia
Authors: Grove Rachel , Clapham Hayley , Moodie Tess , Gurrin Sarah , Hall Gabrielle
Published: May 2024

Autistic girls, women and gender diverse people have specific needs that are underrepresented in research. Research priorities are often established by funding bodies, researchers, parents, carers and health professionals and may not meet the needs of the diverse Autistic community. This co-produced project aimed to identify what research would benefit the lives of Autistic girls, women and gender diverse people in Australia. We interviewed 47 Autistic girls, women and gender diverse people aged seven and above and obtained feedback from an additional 411 Autistic people through an online survey. Autistic young people identified six key research priorities including (1) better understanding and support at school, (2) understanding our experiences, strengths and challenges, (3) autism specific mental health support, (4) Autistic friendships and relationships, (5) experiences of gender diversity and (6) accommodations to make life easier for us. Eight key research priority areas were identified by Autistic adults including (1) understanding and supporting specific needs in adulthood, (2) experiences of trauma, abuse and sexual violence, (3) supporting mental health and wellbeing, (4) addressing barriers in healthcare, (5) understanding and supporting physical health needs, (6) addressing barriers in education and the workplace, (7) understanding the role of society, embracing neurodiversity and the importance of Autistic identity and (8) co-designing research and supports with Autistic people. We provide a discussion around the importance of focusing on these research priority areas in future autism research in Australia.
Potential improvement in power factor of (Bi0.98Ge0.02)2Te2.7Se0.3 compound due to defect engineering
Authors: Shirodkar Swaraangi , Prabhu A. N. , Putran Suchitra , Rao Ashok , Shanubhogue U. Deepika , Hegde Ganesh Shridhar
Published: May 2024

In recent years, thermoelectricity has gained popularity as a renewable energy source, with applications including Peltier coolers and thermoelectric generators, particularly focusing on materials, like bismuth telluride and its doped derivatives. This study investigates Bi2Te3, (Bi0.98Ge0.02)2Te2.7Se0.3, and (Bi0.98Ge0.02)2Te2.7Se0.3/Bi2Te3 synthesized via solid-state reaction, revealing a rhombohedral structure in the XRD pattern and confirming chemical composition and composite homogeneity through EDS and porosity, density, and selenium integration via FESEM. Electrical resistivity decreases with rising temperature, while the Seebeck coefficient shows a linear increase, indicating n-type semiconductor behaviour. The highest power factor of 108 μW/mK2 is achieved by (Bi0.98Ge0.02)2Te2.7Se0.3, contrasting with the lowest of 20 μW/mK2 observed for the pristine sample at 250 °C. Ge atoms enhance the power factor of (Bi0.98Ge0.02)2Te2.7Se0.3 by 5.4 times compared to the pristine compound, making it ideal for thermoelectric applications through acceptor behaviour and defect engineering.
Addressing equity, diversity and inclusion in academic publishing: key initiatives from JMTE
Authors: Scheiner Thorsten , Brodie Karin , Planas Núria , Darragh Lisa , Halai Anjum , Potari Despina , Santos-Trigo Manuel , Walkoe Janet
Published: May 2024

This paper addresses the pressing issues of equity, diversity and inclusion in academic publishing, with a focus on mathematics education research. It highlights systemic biases and barriers that marginalise under-represented voices in the academic discourse. Through an analysis of the Journal of Mathematics Teacher Education’s (JMTE) publication patterns, it reveals a significant geographical imbalance and a disparity between the Global North and the Global South, prompting critical reflection on whose voices are prioritised. The paper outlines key initiatives undertaken by JMTE, such as forming an Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee, broadening the aims and scope of the journal, developing inclusive reviewing guidelines, and fostering diversity among editors, reviewers and authors. These efforts aim to promote a more equitable, diverse, and inclusive field of mathematics education research by encouraging contributions from under-represented regions and communities and by addressing language barriers and institutional support issues.
“The Sum Is Greater Than the Parts?”—The Role of Student Covitality in Flourishing
Authors: Lau Esther Yuet Ying , Zhang Xingzhou , Sun Rong-wei , Lee John Chi-Kin
Published: May 2024

Existing studies have revealed associations of positive psychological traits with human thriving and flourishing. However, how these traits co-occur—known as covitality—and how it relates to flourishing remain relatively unexplored. This study aimed to investigate how student covitality as a second-order construct of four school experience-grounded positive psychological traits, namely gratitude, optimism, zest and persistence, predicts flourishing among primary school students. Participants were fourth to sixth graders (N = 1,107, 36.2% Grade 4, 32.8% Grade 5, and 31.0% Grade 6; 50.4% female) from 34 primary schools in Hong Kong (7.1% Hong Kong Island, 36.4% Kowloon, and 56.5% New Territories). In this study, structural equation modelling showed that student covitality as a second-order construct predicted flourishing directly (β = .594), and also indirectly through resilience (β = .111) and prosocial behaviour (β = .062). The findings suggest that student covitality as a latent construct better captures the mechanisms that drive student flourishing than the four individual first-order constructs of positive psychological traits. This study sheds light on future efforts in the field of children’s flourishing to consider school-related covitality as a critical variable in research and to develop school-based strategies that promote covitality in practice.