bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatial coherency analysis of seismic ground motions from a rock site dense array implemented during the Kefalonia 2014 aftershock sequence
Authors: Svay A. , Perron V. , Imtiaz A. , Zentner I. , Cottereau R. , Clouteau1 D. , Bard P.‐Y. , Hollender F. , Lopez‐Caballero F.
Published: October 2023

The objective of studies presented in this paper is to analyse the spatial incoherency of seismic ground motions using signals from a velocimeter dense array located on a rock site, recording the aftershock sequence of the two M6 Kefalonia earthquakes that occurred in January/February 2014 (Kefalonia island, Greece). The analyses are carried out with both horizontal and vertical components of velocigrams for small separation distances of stations (<100 m). The coherencies of seismic ground motions identified from strong motion windows are compared with those identified from coda parts of signals. It is realized that there is no significant difference between the coherencies estimated from those two parts of signals. The influence of earthquake event number on the result of coherencies and the dispersions of coherencies estimated from different earthquake events are presented. Finally, coherencies estimated from the dense array are compared with several coherency models proposed and widely used in the literature. The possibility of modifying some parameters of those existing coherency models to fit with in situ coherencies are discussed and presented. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Psychosocial development measures modification for adolescents with intellectual and developmental disabilities
Authors: Maxey Myles , Beckert Troy E. , Meter Diana , Landon Trenton
Published: October 2023

Background

Although diagnosis and identification of IDD is improving, adolescents with IDD receive limited attention in research, particularly concerning their psychosocial development. Measures developed and normed with typically developing populations may not be appropriate for IDD populations and may result in biased assessment. Aim: This study aimed to develop and validate modified psychosocial development assessments for adolescents with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), addressing the absence of such assessments.

Method

It involved two phases: modifying existing instruments and validating the revised versions. Four stakeholder groups participated: adolescents with IDD, parents, and scholars in adolescent developmental and disabilities. Validation included two groups: neurotypical adolescents completing both measures and IDD adolescents completing modified measures.

Results

Confirmatory factor analyses identified the need to adjust or eliminate scales for better understanding by individuals with IDD. The modified instruments provided suitable measures for assessing psychosocial development in adolescents with IDD.

Discussion

All the scales allowed for accommodation toward comprehension for those with IDD except for identity formation. Further work is needed to understand the challenges associated with assessing identity formation in adolescents with IDD. The active involvement of and participation from adolescents with IDD and their parents in this research was paramount to understanding their comprehension and needs.

Conclusion

This study highlights the importance of tailored assessments for accurate measurement of IDD individuals' development, benefiting the assessment of all adolescents.
Electrosprayed B‐complex vitamins/zein microparticles for drug sustained release and antioxidant applications
Authors: Coelho Sílvia Castro , Giron Audrey , Rocha Fernando , Estevinho Berta Nogueiro
Published: October 2023

B‐complex vitamins are important compounds for the human body, namely for brain and cell function and preventing infections and diseases. However, the instability associated with these vitamins is a critical problem. Their encapsulation into delivery systems that are able to protect them against undesirable conditions can be one solution for this problem. The present study focuses on the encapsulation of B‐complex vitamins at different concentrations (1, 5 and 10% w/w) by an electrohydrodynamic technique. The synergistic effect of the B‐vitamins in enhancing the antioxidant activity of microstructures is investigated. Zein, a prolamine protein found in corn, was the chosen wall material. The matrices were analyzed in terms of surface morphology, encapsulation efficiency, antioxidant activity and release of the B‐vitamins from the zein microstructures. Spherical microbeads were produced with sizes between 0.32 and 0.38 μm, and with high efficiency of encapsulation. Vitamin release profiles were obtained and the results suggested similar release profiles (in the range 10–40 h) for vitamins B3, B6, B3 plus B6, and B3, B6 plus B9. The Weibull model was used to adjust the experimental release profiles. Regarding the assessed antioxidant activity, it was possible to visualize an activity enhancement of the vitamins B3, B9 and B6 plus B9. Overall, the proposed encapsulation microsystems are a suitable alternative for the encapsulation of sensitive bioactive ingredients, such as vitamins, against external conditions, maintaining the indispensable stability essential for food, nutraceutical and pharmaceutical products. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Field‐scale evaluation of struvite phosphorus and nitrogen leaching relative to monoammonium phosphate
Authors: Leon Patricia , Nakayama Yuhei , Margenot Andrew J.
Published: October 2023

Struvite (MgNH4PO4·6H2O) is a wastewater‐derived phosphorus (P) fertilizer with potential to reduce P as well as nitrogen (N) losses due to its low water solubility. To test hypothesized lower P and N losses from struvite relative to monoammonium phosphate (MAP), field experiments with a randomized‐complete block design were conducted in central (Urbana) Illinois on an Endoaquoll‐Argiudoll complex and in southern (Ewing) Illinois on a Fragiudalf‐Hapludalf complex. Fertilizer was broadcast applied in the fall prior to spring planting of soybean (Glycine max L.) at a maintenance rate of 29.5 kg P ha−1 (Urbana) and 22.0 kg P ha−1 (Ewing). In the spring, soil extractable N and Mehlich 3‐P at 0‐ to 15‐cm and 15‐ to 35‐cm depths were determined, and leached N and P were estimated using fall‐installed ion‐exchangeable resin (IER) lysimeters. At Urbana, soil extractable nitrate‐N was higher under MAP than struvite at 0‐ to 15‐cm depth. At Ewing, soil Mehlich 3‐P under struvite was lower than MAP at both depths. At Urbana, leached P was 10‐fold lower, and leached N was twofold lower under struvite than MAP. Soybean yields were similar between MAP and struvite at Urbana (4.1–4.3 Mg ha−1) and Ewing (3.2–3.5 Mg ha−1), but at Ewing yields were 23% higher under struvite compared to the P‐unfertilized control. Off‐season yield‐scaled P and N losses under struvite were lower than MAP by 51% at Urbana and by 10% at Ewing. Our results support the hypothesized potential of struvite to reduce nutrient losses while meeting crop P needs. Additionally, we identify disproportionally greater reductions in N leaching and yield‐scaled N losses by substituting struvite for MAP in fall applications, indicating that struvite can offer greater relative benefits for N loss reduction than P loss reduction.
A decomposition method on solving the linear arboricity conjecture
Authors: Chen Guantao , Hao Yanli , Yu Guoning
Published: October 2023

A linear forest is a disjoint union of path graphs. The linear arboricity of a graph , denoted by , is the least number of linear forests into which the graph can be partitioned. Clearly, for any graph of maximum degree . For the upper bound, the long‐standing Linear Arboricity Conjecture (LAC) due to Akiyama, Exoo, and Harary from 1981 asserts that . A graph is a pseudoforest if each of its components contains at most one cycle. In this paper, we prove that the union of any two pseudoforests of maximum degree up to 3 can be decomposed into three linear forests. Combining it with a recent result of Wdowinski on the minimum number of pseudoforests into which a graph can be decomposed, we prove that the LAC holds for the following simple graph classes: ‐degenerate graphs with maximum degree , all graphs on nonnegative Euler characteristic surfaces provided the maximum degree , and graphs on negative Euler characteristic surfaces provided the maximum degree , as well as graphs with no ‐minor satisfying some conditions on maximum degrees.
Outcomes of endoscopic papillectomy of ampullary carcinoma and factors affecting additional surgery
Authors: Takada Yoshihisa , Ishikawa Takuya , Yamao Kentaro , Mizutani Yasuyuki , Iida Tadashi , Uetsuki Kota , Gibo Noriaki , Ohno Eizaburo , Kawashima Hiroki
Published: October 2023

Background/Purpose

Data on the prognosis of endoscopic papillectomy (EP) for ampullary carcinoma (AC) is limited; therefore, we aimed to identify the factors associated with endoscopically controlled AC.

Methods

Between January 2003 and October 2022, 75 patients underwent EP for ampullary tumors and were diagnosed with AC based on the pathological features of the resected tissue. The factors associated with additional surgery after EP were also evaluated.

Results

A total of 67 patients had ACs ranging from carcinoma in situ to tumors limited to the mucosa (M group), and eight patients had ACs ranging from those limited to the sphincter of Oddi to those invading the duodenal muscularis propria (OD group). The 3‐year endoscopic tumor control (condition not requiring additional surgery) rates in the M and OD groups were 90.8% and 84.6% (p = .033), respectively. In the M group, the presence of tumor components in the resection margins was the only significant factor associated with additional surgeries (p = .010) in the univariate analysis. The 3‐year endoscopic tumor control rates were 100% for negative and uncertain resection margins and 76.6% for positive margins (p = .009).

Conclusions

If the AC is confined to the mucosa and the resection margins are negative or uncertain, the tumor can be well‐controlled endoscopically.
Identification of T cell responses to the nonstructural glycoproteins in survivors of Crimean‐Congo hemorrhagic fever in South Africa
Authors: Maotoana Makgotso Golda , Burt Felicity Jane , Goedhals Dominique
Published: October 2023

Crimean‐Congo hemorrhagic fever orthonairovirus (CCHFV) is listed as a priority pathogen by the World Health Organization due to the severity of disease, propensity for spread to nonendemic regions, and absence of a vaccine or specific treatment. The immune correlates of protection are not clearly defined and hence the importance of investigating host immune responses in survivors. We have previously shown that survivors generate memory T cell responses that are long‐lived and this study aimed to further define specific viral proteins targeted by the T cell response. The NSM, GP38, highly variable mucin‐like domain, and N‐terminus of GC regions in CCHFV are considered immunogenic regions and were investigated using peptide libraries representing regions of interest. An interferon gamma ELISpot assay was used to identify responses in peripheral blood mononuclear cells isolated from 12 survivors of laboratory confirmed CCHFV infections. IFN‐γ responses were detected from eight survivors, against nine peptides, including four peptides located in the NSM region and five peptides located in the GP38 protein. No response was detected against peptides representing the mucin‐like domain. In conclusion, the results suggest the presence of a long‐lasting T cell memory response upon stimulation with viral epitopes in survivors of infection.
Bandwidth enhancement of compact and wideband square microstrip patch antenna for WLAN/WiMAX applications in C‐band
Authors: Verma Ramesh Kumar
Published: October 2023

This paper presents a compact and wideband square microstrip patch antenna using low cost and easy available FR‐4 substrate of ground size 30 mm × 30 mm (0.51 × 0.51 at lowest resonant frequency 5.07 GHz). The radiating patch of antenna is designed by embedding three T‐shape notches of same dimension formed by two rectangular notches of size 6 mm × 5 mm and 3 mm × 2 mm. The radiating patch is optimized by parametric variation of notches and feed line. The wideband fractional bandwidth (S11 < −10 dB) of 47.2% (2810 MHz) is achieved from 4.55 to 7.36 GHz with good return loss of −47.27 dB at 5.07 GHz for an optimized dimension of notches and feed line. However, the measured fractional bandwidth of 43.9% (2340 MHz) is achieved from 4.16 to 6.50 GHz with return loss of −37.34 dB at 5.14 GHz. A stable simulated gain of 4.69 to 5.93 dBi and measured gain of 4.4 to 5.9 dBi is observed in complete resonating band. The antenna is excited by line feed of 50 Ω and simulated by IE3D simulation tool. The entire resonating band 4.55–7.36 GHz is suitable for different applications in C‐band (4–8 GHz).
Predictors and benefits of multiagent chemotherapy for pancreatic adenocarcinoma: Timing matters
Authors: Valdera Franklin A. , O'Shea Anne E. , Smolinsky Todd R. , Carpenter Elizabeth L. , Adams Alexandra A. , McCarthy Patrick M. , Tiwari Ankur , Chick Robert C. , Kemp‐Bohan Phillip M. , Van Decar Spencer , Thomas Katryna K. , Bader Julia O. , Peoples George E. , Clifton Guy T. , Stojadinovic Alex , Nelson Daniel W. , Vreeland Timothy J.
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Adjuvant (A) multiagent chemotherapy (MC) is the standard of care for patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Tolerating MC following a morbid operation may be difficult, thus neoadjuvant (NA) treatment is preferable. This study examined how the timing of chemotherapy was related to the regimen given and ultimately the overall survival (OS).

Methods

The National Cancer Database was queried from 2006 to 2017 for nonmetastatic PDAC patients who underwent surgical resection and received MC or single‐agent chemotherapy (SC) pre‐ or postresection. Predictors of receiving MC were determined using multivariable logistic regression. Five‐year OS was evaluated using the Kaplan–Meier and Cox proportional hazards model.

Results

A total of 12,440 patients (NA SC, n = 663; NA MC, n = 2313; A SC, n = 6152; A MC, n = 3312) were included. MC utilization increased from 2006–2010 to 2011–2017 (33.1%–49.7%; odds ratio [OR]: 0.59; p < 0.001). Younger age, fewer comorbidities, higher clinical stage, and larger tumor size were all associated with receipt of MC (all p < 0.001), but NA treatment was the greatest predictor (OR 5.18; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 4.63–5.80; p < 0.001). MC was associated with increased median 5‐year OS (26.0 vs. 23.9 months; hazard ratio [HR]: 0.92; 95% CI: 0.88–0.96) and NA MC was associated with the highest survival (28.2 months) compared to NA SC (23.3 months), A SC (24.0 months), and A MC (24.6 months; p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Use and timing of MC contribute to OS in PDAC with an improved 5‐year OS compared to SC. The greatest predictor of receiving MC was being given as NA therapy and the greatest survival benefit was the NA MC subgroup. Randomized studies evaluating the timing of effective MC in PDAC are needed.
Low‐Dose Cisplatin‐Based Radiation Therapy for Refractory Recurrent Respiratory Papillomatosis
Authors: Takatsuki Eri , Kono Takeyuki , Tomisato Shuta , Ozawa Hiroyuki
Published: October 2023

Recurrent respiratory papilloma (RRP) often presents multiple lesions in the respiratory tract and sometimes becomes fatal because of severe airway obstruction. We report the case of a 69‐year‐old woman who had juvenile‐onset RRP in the trachea that was refractory to surgical treatment, and complete remission was achieved by low‐dose cisplatin combined with de‐escalated radiotherapy without any side effects. This case report is the first to illustrate the data on low‐dose cisplatin for refractory benign RRP, and our experience reinforces the opinion that low‐dose cisplatin combined with de‐escalated radiotherapy can be an effective and safe treatment alternative for uncontrollable and lethal RRP. Laryngoscope, 134:2335–2337, 2024
Chirality‐Switching and Reconfigurable Spin‐Selective Wavefront by Origami Deformation Metasurface
Authors: Zheng Yilin , Wang Shaojie , Duan Kun , Yang Weixu , Chen Ke , Zhao Junming , Jiang Tian , Feng Yijun
Published: October 2023

Origami metasurfaces have emerged as a versatile platform for dynamically manipulating electromagnetic waves due to their numerous advantages, including cost‐effectiveness, lightweight nature, and diverse structural transformations. They are particularly well‐suited for reconfigurable chiroptical responses that can find utility in various applications. However, current research has primarily focused on modulating spectral properties like optical chirality and resonant frequencies, which may limit their practical applications. Herein, an origami metasurface enabled by a simple yet highly effective deformation method is proposed to achieve simultaneous tunable chirality and wavefront manipulation, which expands the modulation freedom of mechanical deformation in chiral metasurfaces. The planar metasurface with spin‐insensitive transmittance is bulked into 3D metasurfaces to break the mirror symmetry, thereby triggering pronounced chiral responses. Additionally, through the implementation of propagation phase design, two types of meta‐atoms with distinct phase responses are interleaved to create a chiral anomalous reflector that spin‐selectively modulates the reflection beam. The experimental results agree well with the simulation results and theoretical predictions, verifying the high quality of the proposed design that may offer untapped potential for applications such as reconfigurable photonics devices.
Conventional drilling versus ultrasound and laser osteotomy in mandibular third molar surgery: A comparative study
Authors: Blagova Bistra , Krastev Dimo , Malinova Lina
Published: October 2023

Background

There are few research works with in‐depth studies and direct simultaneous comparisons of the effects on tissue reactions and patients' recovery following in vivo conventional drilling, ultrasound‐ and laser‐assisted osteotomy in humans.

Objective

The current study aims to compare bone cutting duration, pain, swelling, and trismus in patients following surgical mandible third molar extraction by bone removal using three different osteotomes—a conventional rotary device, an ultrasonic unit, and an Er:YAG laser.

Methods

A prospective, randomized three‐group comparative clinical trial was performed. As an experimental setting for the study, аn open mandible third molar surgery was chosen because osteotomy is included in its protocol. Patients were divided into three groups according to the used device for bone removal. Bone cutting time intraoperatively, facial swelling, trismus, and pain on the first, second, and third postoperative days were assessed. The statistical analyses were performed using the SPSS v. 17.0—Kolmogorov–Smirnov test, one‐way ANOVA, Student's t‐test, Mann–Whitney test, and χ2 test. Statistical results were considered significant at p < 0.05 (confidence interval of difference, 95% CI).

Results

Eighty patients (34 males and 46 females with an average age of 25.18 years) were included in the study. The average time for bone removal by the conventional low‐speed device (4.95 min), by the ultrasonic unit (5.13 min), and by the Er:YAG laser (9.00 min) differed significantly (p = 0.001). The mean postoperative facial swelling showed a marked difference between the groups (p < 0.05), in favor of the laser and piezo groups. The osteotome proved to influence pain intensity not only immediately after surgery (p = 0.002), but also during the followed‐up period (p = 0.001), again in favor of the two above‐mentioned groups. No association was found between trismus and the osteotome used by the followed‐up patients (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

Bone‐cutting mechanism and the biological influence of the laser beam and ultrasound on living tissues proved to be favorable factors for patients' pain levels and tissue swelling postoperatively independent of the longer osteotomy duration compared to conventional drilling.
Solution Self‐Assembly of Branched Macromolecules Obtained via Iterative OPE Synthesis and the Passerini Three‐Component Reaction
Authors: Wegelin Sandra , Meier Michael A. R.
Published: October 2023

In the last decade, isocyanide‐based multicomponent reactions, like the Passerini three‐component reaction (P‐3CR), have gained significant interest in the synthesis of sequence‐defined macromolecules due to their high efficiency and straightforward one‐pot procedures. The P‐3CR results in unique product structures that are particularly interesting for the synthesis of uniform, branched macromolecules, as they enable the direct introduction of a new branching point into the molecule. In this work, the synthesis of uniform first‐generation dendrons is performed via the P‐3CR using a divergent approach, utilizing three uniform and poorly soluble oligo(phenylene ethynylene)s (OPEs) of varying lengths as a focal moiety. Self‐assembly of the dendrons in cyclohexane solution is confirmed by fluorescence spectroscopy and diffusion‐ordered NMR (DOSY NMR) spectroscopy, highlighting the utility of DOSY NMR spectroscopy for the investigation of solution self‐assembly. Diffusion coefficients for the dendrons and their aggregates are determined and compared for different lengths of the OPE focal moiety. The successful synthesis of the dendrons in good yields and the selective branching introduced on the OPEs by the P‐3CR emphasize the high efficiency and synthetic advantages of multicomponent reactions for the preparation of uniform, branched macromolecules.
Improving magnetic resonance spectroscopy in the brainstem periaqueductal gray using spectral registration
Authors: Sirucek Laura , Zoelch Niklaus , Schweinhardt Petra
Published: October 2023

Purpose

Functional understanding of the periaqueductal gray (PAG), a clinically relevant brainstem region, can be advanced using 1H‐MRS. However, the PAG's small size and high levels of physiological noise are methodologically challenging. This study aimed to (1) improve 1H‐MRS quality in the PAG using spectral registration for frequency and phase error correction; (2) investigate whether spectral registration is particularly useful in cases of greater head motion; and (3) examine metabolite quantification using literature‐based or individual‐based water relaxation times.

Methods

Spectra were acquired in 33 healthy volunteers (50.1 years, SD = 17.19, 18 females) on a 3 T Philipps MR system using a point‐resolved spectroscopy (PRESS) sequence optimized with very selective saturation pulses (OVERPRESS) and voxel‐based flip angle calibration (effective volume of interest size: 8.8 × 10.2 × 12.2 mm3). Spectra were fitted using LCModel and SNR, NAA peak linewidths and Cramér‐Rao lower bounds (CRLBs) were measured after spectral registration and after minimal frequency alignment.

Results

Spectral registration improved SNR by 5% (p = 0.026, median value post‐correction: 18.0) and spectral linewidth by 23% (p < 0.001, 4.3 Hz), and reduced the metabolites' CRLBs by 1% to 15% (p < 0.026). Correlational analyses revealed smaller SNR improvements with greater head motion (p = 0.010) recorded using a markerless motion tracking system. Higher metabolite concentrations were detected using individual‐based compared to literature‐based water relaxation times (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

This study demonstrates high‐quality 1H‐MRS acquisition in the PAG using spectral registration. This shows promise for future 1H‐MRS studies in the PAG and possibly other clinically relevant brain regions with similar methodological challenges.
Impact of consumer foresight on efficient overselling
Authors: Yu Man , Lim Wei Shi
Published: October 2023

Overselling is commonly adopted in the travel and hospitality sectors where a good or service is sold in excess of actual supply. We examine the impact of consumer foresight on efficient overselling when there are two dimensions of uncertainty, namely, early consumers are uncertain about their service valuations and the seller is uncertain about late demand arrival. We show that when consumers are naïve and have no foresight to anticipate future events, the seller resorts to the use of partial refunds and involuntary cancellation when the mandatory compensation for seller‐initiated cancellation is low, resulting in efficiency loss. When consumers are sophisticated and have perfect foresight on future events, efficiency is achieved when the seller sells the entire capacity in advance and relies solely on voluntary cancellation to re‐sell units when late demand warrants it. Refund complements overselling both by improving allocation efficiency in involuntary cancellation and by mitigating the cost of overselling when consumers have limited foresight. Unlike the social planner, the seller may suffer from consumer foresight. Our findings pinpoint the mandatory compensation in involuntary cancellation as a strategic tool for the social planner to tilt the seller's preference in the seller‐initiated cancellation policy to achieve efficient overselling.
Alteration of skeletal muscle energy metabolism assessed by 31P MRS in clinical routine: Part 2. Clinical application
Authors: Naëgel Antoine , Ratiney Hélène , Karkouri Jabrane , Kennouche Djahid , Royer Nicolas , Slade Jill M. , Morel Jérôme , Croisille Pierre , Viallon Magalie
Published: October 2023

In this second part of a two‐part paper, we intend to demonstrate the impact of the previously proposed advanced quality control pipeline. To understand its benefit and challenge the proposed methodology in a real scenario, we chose to compare the outcome when applying it to the analysis of two patient populations with significant but highly different types of fatigue: COVID‐19 and multiple sclerosis (MS). 31P‐MRS was performed on a 3 T clinical MRI, in 19 COVID‐19 patients, 38 MS patients, and 40 matched healthy controls. Dynamic acquisitions using an MR‐compatible ergometer ran over a rest (40 s), exercise (2 min), and a recovery phase (6 min). Long and short TR acquisitions were also made at rest for T1 correction. The advanced data quality control pipeline presented in Part 1 is applied to the selected patient cohorts to investigate its impact on clinical outcomes. We first used power and sample size analysis to estimate objectively the impact of adding the quality control score (QCS). Then, comparisons between patients and healthy control groups using the validated QCS were performed using unpaired t tests or Mann–Whitney tests (p < 0.05). The application of the QCS resulted in increased statistical power, changed the values of several outcome measures, and reduced variability (standard deviation). A significant difference was found between the T1PCr and T1Pi values of MS patients and healthy controls. Furthermore, the use of a fixed correction factor led to systematically higher estimated concentrations of PCr and Pi than when using individually corrected factors. We observed significant differences between the two patient populations and healthy controls for resting [PCr]—MS only, [Pi], [ADP], [H2PO4−], and pH—COVID‐19 only, and post‐exercise [PCr], [Pi], and [H2PO4−]—MS only. The dynamic indicators τPCr, τPi, ViPCr, and Vmax were reduced for COVID‐19 and MS patients compared with controls. Our results show that QCS in dynamic 31P‐MRS studies results in smaller data variability and therefore impacts study sample size and power. Although QCS resulted in discarded data and therefore reduced the acceptable data and subject numbers, this rigorous and unbiased approach allowed for proper assessment of muscle metabolites and metabolism in patient populations. The outcomes include an increased metabolite T1, which directly affects the T1 correction factor applied to the amplitudes of the metabolite, and a prolonged τPCr, indicating reduced muscle oxidative capacity for patients with MS and COVID‐19.
Two‐grid finite element method on grade meshes for time‐fractional nonlinear Schrödinger equation
Authors: Hu Hanzhang , Chen Yanping , Zhou Jianwei
Published: October 2023

A two‐grid finite element method with nonuniform L1 scheme is developed for solving the time‐fractional nonlinear Schrödinger equation. The finite element solution in the ‐norm and ‐norm are proved bounded without any time‐step size conditions (dependent on spatial‐step size). Then, the optimal order error estimations of the two‐grid solution in the ‐norm are proved without any time‐step size conditions. Finally, the theoretical results are verified by numerical experiments.
Surgeon Information‐Sharing, Parent Verbal Engagement, and Parent Knowledge of Pediatric Adenotonsillectomy
Authors: Claus Lauren E. , Amos Janine M. , Links Anne R. , Beach Mary Catherine , Boss Emily F.
Published: October 2023

Objective

We characterize clinician information‐sharing and parent verbal engagement during pediatric adenotonsillectomy consultations and evaluate whether these behaviors relate to disease‐specific knowledge for parents of children with obstructive sleep‐disordered breathing (OSDB).

Study Design

Mixed‐methods sequential explanatory analysis.

Setting

Outpatient otolaryngology clinics.

Methods

We analyzed audio‐recorded communication during outpatient encounters for children undergoing initial evaluation for adenotonsillectomy. We identified discrete triadic instances of clinician discussion of individual risks and benefits, parent verbal responses coded as passive (“Right”) or active (“Would that repeat the recovery time?”), and corresponding parent answer (correct or incorrect) on a postconsult knowledge questionnaire. Primary outcomes included parent knowledge and decisional conflict. We qualitatively analyzed substantive questions asked by parents during the encounter.

Results

In 30 consults, clinicians (n = 8) provided 156 instances of discussion (101 risk, 55 benefit), to which parents provided 34% active responses. Clinician discussion of risks and benefits was associated with greater parent knowledge (odds ratio [OR] = 3.70, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.25‐6.09; P < .001), however parent active engagement was not associated with greater parent knowledge (OR = 1.04, 95% CI: 0.42‐2.58, P = .93). Parents demonstrated greater knowledge of benefits than risks (χ2 = 23.16, V = 1.13; P < .001). Parents who responded actively (OR = 0.26, 95% CI: 0.09‐0.72; P = .010) or had greater knowledge (OR = 0.41, 95% CI: 0.21‐0.81; P = .010) had less decisional conflict.

Conclusion

Clinician information‐sharing was associated with greater parent knowledge about OSDB treatment. Greater parent engagement and knowledge were independently associated with less decisional conflict. These findings may inform clinicians' approaches to counseling and engaging parents in decisions for surgery.
MEH‐PPV/SBS composite films: Localization and luminescence properties of conductive polymers with microphase separation
Authors: Yuan Zhongming , Yamamoto Hiroko , Kanehashi Shinji , Shimomura Takeshi
Published: October 2023

This study reports the synthesis of a flexible light‐emitting polymer film by casting the solution formed by blending poly[2‐methoxy‐5‐((2‐ethylhexyl)oxy)‐1,4‐phenylenevinylene] (MEH‐PPV) with poly(styrene‐co‐butadiene‐co‐styrene) (SBS). Scanning force microscopy (SFM) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) confirm that MEH‐PPV molecules are selectively positioned in the polystyrene (PS) domain of the fabricated film. As MEH‐PPV molecules are dissolved in the PS phase without aggregation, the photoluminescence (PL) spectrum of the MEH‐PPV/SBS film exhibits a nanometer‐scale bicontinuous luminescent domain with low aggregation quenching. Furthermore, the MEH‐PPV/SBS film exhibits typical elastomeric characteristics (with linear elasticity, a plateau, and densification regions in its stress–strain curves), and its tensile properties are comparable to those of neat SBS films. As MEH‐PPV molecules are almost absent in the polybutadiene (PB) phase (which influences the bulk‐film elastic properties), the concentration of MEH‐PPV shows very little effect on the elastic properties of the composite film.
Non‐linear thermoelastic vibration and optimum frequency prediction of sandwich composite corrugated panels with honeycomb auxetic core
Authors: Kumar Mrityunjay , Rathore Souvik Singh , Kar Vishesh Ranjan , Chandravanshi Madan Lal
Published: October 2023

In this article, the non‐linear free vibration behavior of sandwich composite panels with sinusoidal corrugations is examined. These panels consist of a top and bottom skin made of a graphene‐reinforced composite, with an auxetic honeycomb core having negative Poisson's ratio. The non‐linear kinematic field is based on Kant's higher‐order shear‐deformation theory and the Green‐strain, which incorporates all the higher‐order terms. By implementing the Hamilton principle, the non‐linear governing equations are affirmed and solved further through 2D‐isoparametric finite element approximations via Lagrangian elements in conjunction with Picard's successive iterative scheme. The comparison and validation tests demonstrate the correctness of the present model. The established sandwich model is further employed for various parametric conditions by varying the core‐to‐face sheet thickness, auxetic honeycomb properties, graphene volume fraction, shell configurations, temperature, and support conditions. These numerous results exemplify the non‐linear frequencies at small‐to‐large amplitudes for the sandwich shell structures and are discussed in detail. In addition, a multi‐objective parametric optimization is conducted using the response surface method to investigate the optimal values of the corrugated auxetic honeycomb shell panel's parameters, resulting maximum frequency.

Highlights

Non‐linear vibration of corrugated sandwich shell panel.

Graphene reinforced skins and honeycomb auxetic core.

Kant's higher‐order shear‐deformation theory and Green‐Lagrange non‐linearity.

Hamilton principle and Picard's successive iterative scheme.

Multi‐objective parametric optimization and prediction using response surface methodology.
Long‐term residual properties and durability of glass fiber reinforced polymer composite exposed to alkaline solution and natural weather for a decade
Authors: Ahmad Sawpan Moyeenuddin , Beg Mohammad Dalour Hossain
Published: October 2023

This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of the residual thermal and mechanical properties of pultruded glass fiber reinforced polymer composite bars following a decade of conditioning in an alkaline solution and exposure to natural weather conditions. The study focuses on evaluating the changes in the glass transition temperature (Tg) of the polymer matrix and its impact on the bar's mechanical performance. The results indicate that the Tg retained approximately 94.7% of its initial value, with the decrease attributed to the plasticizing effect of absorbed water. The flexural modulus, flexural strength, and transverse shear strength were found to retain 91.8%, 77.2%, and 97.3% of their original values, respectively. The reductions in strength and stiffness were primarily attributed to a weakening in the bonding between the fibers and the polymer matrix. Fractographic analysis revealed that the failure of the plasticized and softened polymer matrix contributed to the observed reductions in strength. Interestingly, the short beam shear strength remained relatively unchanged, as the diffusion of water into the core of the bars at ambient temperatures had a minimal effect. This slower water diffusion in the core led to insignificant degradation of the short beam shear strength.

Highlights

GFRP bars were exposed to alkaline solution and natural weather for a decade.

The water diffusion was a key factor in determining the residual properties of the GFRP bars.

The absorbed water plasticises the polymer matrix in GFRP bars.

The mechanical property losses in GFRP bars were associated with changes in the matrix property.
Fetal lung volumes measured by MRI predict pulmonary morbidity among infants with giant omphaloceles
Authors: Gallagher Lauren T. , Lyttle Bailey D. , Meyers Mariana L. , Gien Jason , Zaretsky Michael V. , Galan Henry L. , Behrendt Nicholas , Liechty Kenneth W. , Derderian Sarkis Christopher
Published: October 2023

Objective

Giant omphaloceles (GO) have associated pulmonary hypoplasia and respiratory complications. Total lung volumes (TLV) on fetal MRI can prognosticate congenital diaphragmatic hernia outcomes; however, its applicability to GO is unknown. We hypothesize that late gestation TLV and observed‐to‐expected TLV (O/E TLV) on fetal MRI correlate with postnatal pulmonary morbidity in GO.

Method

A single‐institution retrospective review of GO evaluated between 2012 and 2022 was performed. Fetal MRI TLV between 32 and 36 weeks' gestation and O/E TLV throughout gestation were calculated and correlated with postnatal outcomes.

Results

86 fetuses with omphaloceles were evaluated; however, only 26 met strict inclusion criteria. MRIs occurred between 18 and 36 weeks' gestation. Those requiring delivery room intubation had significantly lower late gestation TLV and O/E TLV. O/E TLV predicted tracheostomy placement and survival. Neither TLV nor O/E TLV predicted the length of hospitalization or supplemental oxygen after discharge. Three fetuses had a TLV less than 35 mL: one died of respiratory failure, and the other two required tracheostomy.

Conclusions

Fetal MRI TLV measured between 32 and 36 weeks' gestation and O/E TLV predict the need for delivery room intubation and tracheostomy. O/E TLV correlated with survival. These data support fetal MRI as a prognostic tool to predict GO associated pulmonary morbidity.
Photomodulation of the ASIC1a acidic pocket destabilizes the open state
Authors: Rook Matthew L. , McCullock Tyler W. , Couch Tyler , Lueck John D. , MacLean David M.
Published: October 2023

Acid‐sensing ion channels (ASICs) are important players in detecting extracellular acidification throughout the brain and body. ASICs have large extracellular domains containing two regions replete with acidic residues: the acidic pocket, and the palm domain. In the resting state, the acidic pocket is in an expanded conformation but collapses in low pH conditions as the acidic side chains are neutralized. Thus, extracellular acidification has been hypothesized to collapse the acidic pocket that, in turn, ultimately drives channel activation. However, several observations run counter to this idea. To explore how collapse or mobility of the acidic pocket is linked to channel gating, we employed two distinct tools. First, we incorporated the photocrosslinkable noncanonical amino acids (ncAAs) 4‐azido‐L‐phenylalanine (AzF) or 4‐benzoyl‐L‐phenylalanine (BzF) into several positions in the acidic pocket. At both E315 and Y318, AzF incorporation followed by UV irradiation led to right shifts in pH response curves and accelerations of desensitization and deactivation, consistent with restrictions of acidic pocket mobility destabilizing the open state. Second, we reasoned that because Cl− ions are found in the open and desensitized structures but absent in the resting state structures, Cl− substitution would provide insight into how stability of the pocket is linked to gating. Anion substitution resulted in faster deactivation and desensitization, consistent with the acidic pocket regulating the stability of the open state. Taken together, our data support a model where acidic pocket collapse is not essential for channel activation. Rather, collapse of the acidic pocket influences the stability of the open state of the pore.
Side‐chain dynamics of the α1B‐adrenergic receptor determined by NMR via methyl relaxation
Authors: Baumann Christian , Chiang Wan‐Chin , Valsecchi Renato , Jurt Simon , Deluigi Mattia , Schuster Matthias , Rosengren Karl Johan , Plückthun Andreas , Zerbe Oliver
Published: October 2023

G protein‐coupled receptors (GPCRs) are medically important membrane proteins that sample inactive, intermediate, and active conformational states characterized by relatively slow interconversions (~μs–ms). On a faster timescale (~ps–ns), the conformational landscape of GPCRs is governed by the rapid dynamics of amino acid side chains. Such dynamics are essential for protein functions such as ligand recognition and allostery. Unfortunately, technical challenges have almost entirely precluded the study of side‐chain dynamics for GPCRs. Here, we investigate the rapid side‐chain dynamics of a thermostabilized α1B‐adrenergic receptor (α1B‐AR) as probed by methyl relaxation. We determined order parameters for Ile, Leu, and Val methyl groups in the presence of inverse agonists that bind orthosterically (prazosin, tamsulosin) or allosterically (conopeptide ρ‐TIA). Despite the differences in the ligands, the receptor's overall side‐chain dynamics are very similar, including those of the apo form. However, ρ‐TIA increases the flexibility of Ile1764×56 and possibly of Ile2145×49, adjacent to Pro2155×50 of the highly conserved P5×50I3×40F6×44 motif crucial for receptor activation, suggesting differences in the mechanisms for orthosteric and allosteric receptor inactivation. Overall, increased Ile side‐chain rigidity was found for residues closer to the center of the membrane bilayer, correlating with denser packing and lower protein surface exposure. In contrast to two microbial membrane proteins, in α1B‐AR Leu exhibited higher flexibility than Ile side chains on average, correlating with the presence of Leu in less densely packed areas and with higher protein‐surface exposure than Ile. Our findings demonstrate the feasibility of studying receptor‐wide side‐chain dynamics in GPCRs to gain functional insights.
Quantum Phase Transitions of Interlayer Excitons in van der Waals Heterostructures
Authors: Deng Jia-Pei , Wang Zi-Wu , Cui Yu , Liu Yi-Yan , Ma Xin-Jun , Li Shao-Juan , Li Zhi-Qing
Published: October 2023

Quantum phases of interlayer excitons (IXs) in van der Waals heterostructures (vdWHs) play a critical role in determining the fundamental properties of these structures. However, quantum phase transitions between free state and self‐trapped state of IXs remain poorly understood. Herein, the physical pictures for quantum transitions of IXs stemming from the IX–interface optical phonon coupling are explored. The critical boundaries of the phase transitions among free, light, and heavy self‐trapped states are given and the dependence of boundaries on the structural parameters of vdWHs is discussed, implying the controllability of these IXs states in vdWHs. In order to distinguish different quantum phases further, a strategy that multiphonon Raman scattering mediated by these exciton states is proposed. It is found find that multiphonon overtones appear in Raman spectra for the self‐trapped states and not for free states, which clarifies the long‐standing puzzle that free exciton can induce multiphonon Raman processes. The results lay the significant theoretical foundation for understanding the quantum phases of IX and their modulation in vdWHs.
Research Progress of Desulfurization Refining Slag: A Review
Authors: Qiu Guoxing , Zhang Hongzhao , Gao Peng , Li Rongxiang , Wang Gongliang , Cao Lei
Published: October 2023

The development of refining slag is the core of the ladle furnace (LF) refining processes and is essential for fast and effective desulfurization refining. Desulfurization reactions are mainly determined by slag–steel interactions, which are closely related to the physicochemical properties of slags. This study reviews the research progress of desulfurization refining slag for the LF process. First, the chemical composition of the refining slag is described, and then three theories of desulfurization and the concepts of sulfide capacity and sulfur partition ratio are introduced. Second, the effects of operating parameters and slag components on desulfurization are examined. Furthermore, the microscopic analysis of the desulfurization process is performed. The prediction models of slag properties related to desulfurization are summarized. Finally, a research direction for LF desulfurization refining is proposed. The question of how to ensure the uniformity of desulfurization remains open. The industrialization of the new refining slag developed by replacing CaO with BaO or Li2O and replacing CaF2 with B2O3 should be accelerated to solve the CaF2 slag volatilization problem. One of the most pressing issues that must be addressed is improving the accuracy of the existing slag performance forecast model.
Nano fraction of pesticide induces genotoxicity and oxidative stress‐dependent reticulum stress
Authors: Paz‐Trejo Cynthia , Arenas‐Huertero Francisco , Gómez‐Arroyo Sandra
Published: October 2023

The implementation of nanotechnology in different sectors has generated expectations as a new source of use due to the novel characteristics that it will bring. Particularly, nano pesticides promise to be more sustainable and less harmful to the ecosystem and human health; however, most studies continue to focus on their efficacy in the field, leaving aside the effect on humans. This project aimed to evaluate the genotoxic effect of a nano‐encapsulated pesticide on bronchial epithelial cells (NL‐20) in vitro and elucidate the mechanism through which they induce damage. The nano fraction (NF) of the pesticide Karate Zeon® 5 CS was characterized and isolated, and the uptake into the cell and the changes induced in the cellular ultrastructure were evaluated. In addition, the primary markers of oxidative stress, reticulum stress, and genotoxicity were assessed using the micronucleus test. A 700 nm fraction with a Z potential of −40 mV was obtained, whose main component is polyurea formaldehyde; this allows the capsules to enter the cell through macropinocytosis and clathrin‐mediated endocytosis. Inside, they induce oxidative stress activating a reticulum stress response via the BIP protein and the IRE‐1 sensor, triggering an inflammatory response. Likewise, stress reduces cell proliferation, increasing genotoxic damage through micronuclei; however, this damage is mainly induced by direct contact of the capsules with the nucleus. This pioneering study uses a nanometric encapsulated commercial pesticide to evaluate the molecular mechanism of induced damage. It makes it the first step in analyzing whether these substances represent a contaminant or an emerging solution.
Bayesian‐based calibration for water quality model parameters
Authors: Bai Bing , Dong Fei , Peng Wenqi , Liu Xiaobo
Published: October 2023

To improve the efficiency and accuracy of water quality model parameter calibration and avoid local optima and the phenomenon in which different parameters have the same effect, this paper proposed a novel Bayesian‐based water quality model parameter calibration method. Using Bayesian inference, the parameter calibration problem was converted into a posterior probability function sampling problem, which was sampled using the Markov Chain Monte Carlo algorithm. The convergence speed of the calibration was further improved by setting the optimized initial sampling value. The influences of the initial sampling value, Markov chain length, and proposal distribution form on the calibration effect were evaluated using four specific cases. The results indicate that (1) the mean relative error (MRE) of the parameter calibration results of this method is less than 10%, with the calibration MRE of Dx and Dy being 5.3% and 8.3%, respectively; (2) when the parameter sensitivity is low, the calibration effect of this method is relatively poor, with a calibration MRE of 46% for k; (3) the parameter calibration can be completed more efficiently by setting an optimized initial value for the MCMC, choosing a reasonable Markov chain length and a suitable proposal distribution form.

Practitioner Points

Bayesian‐based water quality model parameter calibration method is proposed and posterior probability distribution was sampled using the MCMC algorithm.

Parameter calibration can be completed more efficiently by setting an optimized initial value for the MCMC. As a result, efficient and accurate parameter calibration of water quality models was achieved.

This method is widely applicable to various models, and the calibration speed depends on the calculation speed of the model.