bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Enhancement in tribological performance of plastic oil by solid lubricant additives
Authors: Sikdar Soumya , Rahman Md Hafizur , Ralls Alessandro M. , Menezes Pradeep L. 
Published: April 2023

AbstractIn this study, plastic oil (PO) as a potential lubricant was investigated. The base PO was incorporated with graphene nanoplatelets (GNP) and hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) nano additives in varying concentrations to form nano lubricants. Their viscosity, tribological, acidic/basic nature, thermal degradation and dispersion stability properties were investigated. It was observed that 1.5 wt% GNP and 1.0 wt% hBN added separately to the base PO, provided the lowest coefficient of friction (COF) and wear volume. Based on these lowest COF and wear volume insights, three nano lubricant mixtures were formulated by incorporating both GNP and hBN at different combinations using base PO. Positive synergistic behaviour was observed for COF (49%–60% reduced) and wear volume (90%–97% reduced) for two combination mixtures compared to the base PO. These improvements in the mixture were due to the polishing, mending mechanisms and tribofilm that protected the interacting surfaces.
Mulberry Leaves (Morus Rubra)‐Derived Blue‐Emissive Carbon Dots Fed to Silkworms to Produce Augmented Silk Applicable for the Ratiometric Detection of Dopamine
Authors: John Varsha Lisa , Nayana A. R. , Keerthi T. R. , K. A. Athira Krishnan , Sasidharan B. C. P. , T. P. Vinod 
Published: April 2023

AbstractSilk fibers (SF) reeled from silkworms are constituted by natural proteins, and their characteristic structural features render them applicable as materials for textiles and packaging. Modification of SF with functional materials can facilitate their applications in additional areas. In this work, the preparation of functional SF embedded with carbon dots (CD) is reported through the direct feeding of a CD‐modified diet to silkworms. Fluorescent and mechanically robust SF are obtained from silkworms (Bombyx mori) that are fed on CDs synthesized from the Morus rubra variant of mulberry leaves (MB‐CDs). MB‐CDs are introduced to silkworms from the third instar by spraying them on the silkworm feed, the mulberry leaves. MB‐CDs are synthesized hydrothermally without adding surface passivating agents and are observed to have a quantum yield of 22%. With sizes of ≈4 nm, MB‐CDs exhibited blue fluorescence, and they can be used as efficient fluorophores to detect Dopamine (DA) up to the limit of 4.39 nM. The nanostructures and physical characteristics of SF weren't altered when the SF are infused with MB‐CDs. Also, a novel DA sensing application based on fluorescence with the MB‐CD incorporated SF is demonstrated.
High‐Performance Low‐kPoly(dicyclopentadiene) Nanocomposites as Achieved via Reactive Blending with Norbornene‐Functionalized Larger POSS
Authors: Wang Jian , Lin Xiong , Zhou Dai‐Lin , Fu Si‐Rui , Zhang Qin , Bai Hongwei , Han Di , Fu Qiang 
Published: April 2023

AbstractLow dielectric constant (k) polymers with excellent comprehensive properties are useful materials in the microelectronics industry as matrix resins or encapsulation layers. With the inherent low polarization, high reactivity, good processability, and low cost, poly(dicyclopentadiene) (PDCPD) has received considerable attention as low‐kmaterials. However, its practical application is limited by the relatively high thermal expansion andkvalue. Herein, three norbornene‐functionalized polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes (POSSs) with T8, T10, and T12polyhedral cores are synthesized and employed for enhancing the dielectric and comprehensive properties of PDCPD via reactive blending. The results show that these POSSs have good compatibility with PDCPD matrix and nano‐dispersed POSSs particles could be obtained. As a result, the materials’ properties can be largely enhanced by varying the POSS content and POSS size. Especially, PT12N12‐40 (40 wt% of T12N12) shows the lowestkvalue (2.1) and coefficient of thermal expansion (63.4 ppm°C−1), highest glass transition temperature (202.5 °C), yield strength (78.0 MPa), and elastic modulus (2.36 GPa), along with excellent hydrophobicity. This study highlights a useful strategy to fabricate high‐performance low‐kpolymer nanocomposites by using larger POSS and reactive blending, which provides useful materials for the future microelectronic industry and high frequency communication.
The dynamic impact of electronic word‐of mouth on movie box office sales: Based on innovation diffusion theory
Authors: Yang Yiwen , Liu Chuxuan , Cheng Li‐Chen 
Published: April 2023

AbstractElectronic word of mouth (eWOM) is one of the most influential forms of information and strongly affects customers' willingness to adopt new innovations. Using four metrics of eWOM from YouTube—the numbers of likes, dislikes, views, and comments—this study empirically investigates the dynamic relationships between eWOM and movie box office sales based on innovation diffusion theory. The results show that the innovation diffusion process is applicable in the movie industry. That is, the impacts of the number of views, likes, dislikes, and comments for movie trailers on YouTube on movie box office revenue are first increasing and then gradually decreasing.
Feasibility of clinical studies of chemical exchange saturation transfer magnetic resonance imaging of prostate cancer at 7 T
Authors: Reesink Daan J. , Arteaga de Castro Catalina S. , Van der Velden Tijl , Van Vooren Jeanette , Oost Petri , Jonges Trudy G.N. , Lam Marnix G. E. H. , de Keizer Bart , Willemse Peter‐Paul M. , Meijer Richard P. , Klomp Dennis W. J. 
Published: April 2023

AbstractChemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) has been explored for differentiation between tumour and benign tissue in prostate cancer (PCa) patients. With ultrahigh field strengths such as 7‐T, the increase of spectral resolution and sensitivity could allow for selective detection of amide proton transfer (APT) at 3.5 ppm and a group of compounds that resonate at 2 ppm (i.e., [poly]amines and/or creatine). The potential of 7‐T multipool CEST analysis of the prostate and the detection of PCa was studied in patients with proven localised PCa who were scheduled to undergo robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP). Twelve patients were prospectively included (mean age 68.0 years, mean serum prostate‐specific antigen 7.8ng/mL). A total of 24 lesions larger than 2 mm were analysed. Used were 7‐T T2‐weighted (T2W) imaging and 48 spectral CEST points. Patients received 1.5‐T/3‐T prostate magnetic resonance imaging and galium‐68‐prostate‐specific membrane antigen‐positron emission tomography/computerised tomography to determine the location of the single‐slice CEST. Based on the histopathological results after RARP, three regions of interest were drawn on the T2W images from a known malignant zone and benign zone in the central and peripheral zones. These areas were transposed to the CEST data, from which the APT and 2‐ppm CEST were calculated. The statistical significance of the CEST between the central zone, the peripheral zone, and tumour was calculated using a Kruskal–Wallis test. The z‐spectra showed that APT and even a distinct pool that resonated at 2 ppm were detectable. This study showed a difference trend in the APT levels, but no difference in the 2‐ppm levels when tested between the central zone, the peripheral zone, and tumour (H(2) = 4.8, p = 0.093 and H(2) = 0.86, p = 0.651, respectively). Thus, to conclude, we could most likely detect APT and amines and/or creatine levels noninvasively in prostate using the CEST effect. At group level, CEST showed a higher level of APT in the peripheral versus the central zone; however, no differences of APT and 2‐ppm levels were observed in tumours.
Hand hygiene knowledge and demonstrated technique among Malawian kindergarten children: A quasi‐experimental study
Authors: Mbakaya Balwani Chingatichifwe , Zgambo Maggie , Kalembo Fatch Welcome 
Published: April 2023

AbstractAimTo evaluate hand hygiene knowledge and demonstrated technique before and after implementation of the hand hygiene programme and its sustainability among Malawian kindergarten students.DesignQuasi‐experimental design, utilizing a repeated measure at three points, namely, before intervention (T0), soon after intervention (T1) and follow‐up (T2).MethodsThe hand hygiene programme consisted of integrating hand hygiene protocol into the school health curriculum, setting up proper handwashing facilities, training school teachers, health talks and developing reminders on hand hygiene. Fifty‐three kindergarten children aged 3–6 years were enrolled in the programme. Data were collected at 3 months' intervals (T0, T1, and T2). Parents, teachers, school authorities and children were involved in the implementation and evaluation of the intervention, utilizing a multilevel approach.ResultsThere was a significant difference in knowledge scores across three time points (T0, T1 and T2), Chi‐Square (2, n = 53) = 79.02, p < 0.005 and handwashing technique across the three time points, Chi‐Square (2, n = 53) = 88.04, p < 0.005. There was a large effect size of 0.62 on the effect of handwashing technique scores from T0 to T1.
Characteristics of suicidal emergency room patients before and during the COVID‐19 pandemic in Japan
Authors: Otani Kyohei , Yoshikawa Ryohei , Naitou Atsumi , Fukushima Haruko , Matsuishi Kunitaka 
Published: April 2023

AbstractAimOwing to the stress caused by the behavioral restrictions and lifestyle changes during the COVID‐19 pandemic, suicide rates have increased in Japan, especially among young people. This study aimed to identify the differences in the characteristics of patients hospitalized for suicide attempts in the emergency room, requiring inpatient care before and during the pandemic over 2 years.MethodsThis study was a retrospective analysis. Data were collected from the electronic medical records. A descriptive survey was conducted to examine changes in the pattern of suicide attempts during the COVID‐19 outbreak. Two‐sample independent t‐tests, Chi‐square tests, and Fisher's exact test were used for data analysis.ResultsTwo hundred one patients were included. No significant differences were found in the number of patients hospitalized for suicide attempts, average age, or sex ratio before and during the pandemic periods. Acute drug intoxication and overmedication in patients increased significantly during the pandemic. The self‐inflicted means of injury with high fatality rates were similar during the two periods. The rate of physical complications significantly increased during the pandemic, while the proportion of unemployed individuals significantly decreased.ConclusionsDespite studies predicting an increase in suicides based on past statistics of young people and of women, no significant changes were observed in this survey of the Hanshin‐Awaji region, including Kobe. This may have been owing to the effect of suicide prevention measures and mental health measures implemented by the Japanese government after an increase in suicides and after past natural disasters.
Reinforcement learning‐based optimized backstepping control for strict‐feedback nonlinear systems subject to external disturbances
Authors: Qin Yan , Cao Liang , Lu Qing , Pan Yingnan 
Published: April 2023

AbstractThis article investigates a reinforcement learning‐based optimal backstepping control strategy for strict‐feedback nonlinear systems, which contain output constraints, external disturbances and uncertain unknown dynamics. The simplified reinforcement learning algorithm with the identifier‐critic‐actor architecture is constructed in the control design to build optimal virtual and actual controllers. To compensate for the disturbance, a lemma is adopted to transform external disturbances into an unknown “bounding functions‘’, which satisfy a triangular condition. Moreover, the unknown nonlinear functions, which composed of unknown dynamics and external disturbances, approximated by neural networks. Meanwhile, in order to avoid violating output constraints, a barrier‐type Lyapunov function approach is integrated into the optimal control strategy to satisfy output constraints requirements under the framework of backstepping technique. Furthermore, the presented optimal control strategy guarantees that all signals in the closed‐loop system are semi‐globally uniformly ultimately bounded. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed optimal control approach is performed by a numerical example.
Mode I and mode II fracture behavior in nano‐engineered long fiber reinforced composites
Authors: Le Anh Tuan , Govignon Quentin , Rivallant Samuel , Cutard Thierry 
Published: April 2023

AbstractDelamination still remains one of the common concerns in continuous fibers reinforced polymer composites. In the literature, the incorporation of nanoconstituents into constitutive composites plies has been suggested with the aim of improving interface toughness. In this study, vertically aligned carbon nanotubes forests (VACNTs) are transferred at composites interfaces, and mode I (DCB tests) and mode II (ENF tests) fracture tests carried out on composite samples. Microscopic analysis of reference and nano‐engineered composites help to understand fracture behavior and toughness. While the crack path in ENF samples is observed at interlaminar VACNTs‐resin interfaces, the crack path in DCB samples is intralaminar, located within the unidirectional carbon fiber plies. These microscopic observations give explanation for unstable crack propagation in nano‐engineered ENF samples and the unchanged toughness from the nano‐engineered to the reference zone in DCB samples.
Real‐world treatment patterns and outcomes for patients with advanced melanoma treated with immunotherapy or targeted therapy
Authors: Lee Sejin , Bennett Antonia V. , Zhou Xi , Betof Warner Allison , Trogdon Justin G. , Kent Erin E. , Lund Jennifer L. 
Published: April 2023

AbstractObjectiveTo identify real‐world patterns of first line treatment, treatment sequence and outcomes for older adults diagnosed with advanced melanoma who received immunotherapy or targeted therapy.MethodsThe study population included older adults (ages 65+) diagnosed with unresectable or metastatic melanoma between 2012 and 2017 and who received first line immunotherapy or targeted therapy. Using the linked surveillance, epidemiology, and end results‐medicare data, we described patterns of first line treatment and treatment sequence through 2018. We used descriptive statistics to report patient and provider characteristics by first line treatment receipt and changes in first line therapy use over calendar time. We also described overall survival (OS) and time to treatment failure (TTF) by first line treatment using the Kaplan–Meier method. For patterns of treatment sequence, we reported commonly observed treatment switch patterns by treatment sub‐category and calendar year.ResultsThe analyses included 584 patients (mean age = 76.3 years). A majority (n = 502) received first line immunotherapy. There was a sustained increase in immunotherapy uptake, most notably from 2015 to 2016. The estimated median OS and TTF were longer with first line immunotherapy than with targeted therapy. Individuals treated with CTLA‐4 + PD‐1 inhibitors had the longest median OS (28.4 months). The most common treatment switch pattern was from a first line CTLA‐4 inhibitor to a second line PD‐1 inhibitor.ConclusionsOur findings inform understanding of treatment patterns of currently used immunotherapies and targeted therapies in older adults with advanced melanoma. Immunotherapy use has increased steadily with PD‐1 inhibitors becoming a dominant treatment option since 2015.
Study on kinetics of spent FCC catalyst applied to the living waste plastics
Authors: Shan Tilun , Wang Kongshuo , Bian Huiguang , Wang Chuansheng , Tian Xiaolong 
Published: April 2023

AbstractThe thermochemical method is one of the most potential ways to treat waste plastics. In order to reduce the energy consumption of pyrolysis, this study selected spent fluid catalytic cracking (FCC) catalyst as a catalyst for pyrolysis of waste plastics to explore the pyrolysis process of mixed waste plastics (polypropylene (PP)/polyethylene (PE)/polystyrene (PS)). The kinetic calculations show that there was a positive synergistic effect in the co‐pyrolysis of mixed plastics, which was beneficial to the reduction of activation energy. However, the participation of spent FCC catalysts can further reduce the pyrolysis temperature and activation energy of plastics, and increase the thermal degradation rate. Compared with non‐catalytic pyrolysis, the pyrolysis temperature corresponding to the maximum weight loss rate during catalytic pyrolysis was about 12 K earlier, the maximum degradation rate was about 41% higher, and the average activation energy decreased by about 22 kJ/mol. In order to further improve the catalytic efficiency of spent FCC catalysts, the spent FCC catalysts were modified by ball milling or ultrasonic method and then used for plastic pyrolysis. It was found that the modification effect of ball milling method was better than that of the ultrasonic method. Through thermodynamic analysis, it was found that the endothermic reaction occurred in the process of plastic pyrolysis and could not proceed spontaneously. The formed pyrolysis products reduced the disorder of a microscopic system. Combined with the experimental results of this paper, it can provide theoretical support for the catalytic pyrolysis of spent FCC catalysts for mixed waste plastics.
Responsive microgels and microgel assemblies in biocatalytic applications
Authors: Dubey Nidhi C. , Gaur Divya , Tripathi Bijay P. 
Published: April 2023

AbstractMicrogels are soft particles that offer excellent colloidal stability, large surface area, and fluid‐like transport characteristics, making them ideal for enzyme immobilization and reaction regulation. In recent years, the use of microgels in enzyme processes has rapidly increased and reviewed. Here in this review, we have provided a comprehensive overview of the strategies involved in microgel synthesis, practical aspects of microgel–enzyme conjugate formation, and the effects of microgel on enzyme stabilization and activities. In the end, we have discussed important biocatalytic applications of microgel and enzyme. The aim of this review is to provide a detailed understanding of enzyme–microgel conjugates and their potential applications, which can aid in the design of new microgels, responsive platforms, and biochemical applications.
Respiratory effort during noninvasive positive pressure ventilation and continuous positive airway pressure in severe acute viral bronchiolitis
Authors: Vedrenne‐Cloquet Meryl , Khirani Sonia , Griffon Lucie , Collignon Charlotte , Renolleau Sylvain , Fauroux Brigitte 
Published: April 2023

AbstractObjectivesTo assess if noninvasive positive pressure ventilation (NIPPV) is associated with a greater reduction in respiratory effort as compared to continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) during severe acute bronchiolitis, with both supports set either clinically or physiologically.MethodsTwenty infants (median [IQR] age 1.2 [0.9; 3.2] months) treated <24 h with noninvasive respiratory support (CPAP Clin, set at 7 cmH2O, or NIPPV Clin) for bronchiolitis were included in a prospective single‐center crossover study. Esogastric pressures were measured first with the baseline support, then with the other support. For each support, recordings were performed with the clinical setting and a physiological setting (CPAP Phys and NIPPV Phys), aiming at normalising respiratory effort. Patients were then treated with the optimal support. The primary outcome was the greatest reduction in esophageal pressure–time product (PTPES/min). Other outcomes included improvement of the other components of the respiratory effort.ResultsNIPPV Clin and Phys were associated with a lower PTPES/min (164 [105; 202] and 106 [78; 161] cmH2O s/min, respectively) than CPAP Clin (178 [145; 236] cmH2O s/min; p = 0.01 and 2 × 10−4, respectively). NIPPV Clin and Phys were also associated with a significant reduction of all other markers of respiratory effort as compared to CPAP Clin. PTPES/min with NIPPV (Clin or Phys) was not different from PTPES/min with CPAP Phys. There was no significant difference between physiological and clinical settings.ConclusionNIPPV is associated with a significant reduction in respiratory effort as compared to CPAP set at +7 cmH2O in infants with severe acute bronchiolitis. CPAP Phys performs as well as NIPPV Clin.
Pediatric respiratory admissions and related viral infections during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Moscovich Dana Peer , Averbuch Diana , Kerem Eitan , Cohen‐Cymberknoh Malena , Berkun Yackov , Brooks Rebecca , Reiff Shimon , Meir Maskit Bar , Wolf Dana , Breuer Oded 
Published: April 2023

AbstractIntroductionThe COVID‐19 pandemic has affected the incidence of respiratory viral infections. Our aim was to assess changes in pediatric admissions due to respiratory diseases and associated respiratory viral infections.MethodsAn observational study including all respiratory admissions to the pediatric departments from January 2015 to August 2021. We compared respiratory admission percentage, respiratory viral panel results and clinical characteristics of these admissions between two study periods, January 2015 to February 2020 (pre‐COVID‐19 era) and March 2020 to August 2021 (COVID‐19 era).ResultsA total of 8774 respiratory admissions were included, 7157 pre‐COVID‐19 era and 1617 COVID‐19 era. Relative to all pediatric admissions, there was a 17% decrease in respiratory admission percentage during the COVID‐19 era (p < 0.001) and a 31% and 22% decreased in the admission percentages due to bronchiolitis (p < 0.001) and pneumonia (p < 0.001), respectively. However, admission percentages for asthma, wheezing illness, complicated pneumonia, and stridor remained the same. There was a significant decrease in the detection of a respiratory viral pathogen associated with these respiratory admissions (p < 0.001). This was related to a significant decrease in the detection of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) (37% vs. 27%, p < 0.001) and influenza (5% vs. 0.3%, p < 0.001), but not other respiratory viruses. An alteration in the circulation pattern of most respiratory viruses, was observed.ConclusionsDuring the COVID‐19 pandemic, a decrease in the prevalence of RSV and influenza was associated with a significant decrease in admissions for bronchiolitis and pediatric pneumonia. This may allow us to estimate the significance of preventive measures for RSV and influenza on pediatric respiratory admissions.