bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genome‐wide association studies identify novel loci in rapidly progressive Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Wang Ping , Lynn Audrey , Miskimen Kristy , Song Yeunjoo E. , Wisniewski Thomas , Cohen Mark , Appleby Brian S. , Safar Jiri G. , Haines Jonathan L.
Published: January 2024

INTRODUCTION

Recent data suggest that distinct prion‐like amyloid beta and tau strains are associated with rapidly progressive Alzheimer's disease (rpAD). The role of genetic factors in rpAD is largely unknown.

METHODS

Previously known AD risk loci were examined in rpAD cases. Genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) were performed to identify variants that influence rpAD.

RESULTS

We identified 115 pathology‐confirmed rpAD cases and 193 clinical rpAD cases, 80% and 69% were of non‐Hispanic European ancestry. Compared to the clinical cohort, pathology‐confirmed rpAD had higher frequencies of apolipoprotein E (APOE) ε4 and rare missense variants in AD risk genes. A novel genome‐wide significant locus (P < 5×10−8) was observed for clinical rpAD on chromosome 21 (rs2832546); 102 loci showed suggestive associations with pathology‐confirmed rpAD (P < 1×10−5).

DISCUSSION

rpAD constitutes an extreme subtype of AD with distinct features. GWAS found previously known and novel loci associated with rpAD.

Highlights

Rapidly progressive Alzheimer's disease (rpAD) was defined with different criteria.

Whole genome sequencing identified rare missense variants in rpAD.

Novel variants were identified for clinical rpAD on chromosome 21.
Mechanobiological stimulation in organ‐on‐a‐chip systems reduces hepatic drug metabolic capacity in favor of regenerative specialization
Authors: Scheidecker Benedikt , Poulain Stéphane , Sugimoto Masahiro , Arakawa Hiroshi , Kim Soo H. , Kawanishi Takumi , Kato Yukio , Danoy Mathieu , Nishikawa Masaki , Sakai Yasuyuki
Published: January 2024

Hepatic physiology depends on the liver's complex structural composition which among others, provides high oxygen supply rates, locally differential oxygen tension, endothelial paracrine signaling, as well as residual hemodynamic shear stress to resident hepatocytes. While functional improvements were shown by implementing these factors into hepatic culture systems, direct cause‐effect relationships are often not well characterized—obfuscating their individual contribution in more complex microphysiological systems. By comparing increasingly complex hepatic in vitro culture systems that gradually implement these parameters, we investigate the influence of the cellular microenvironment to overall hepatic functionality in pharmacological applications. Here, hepatocytes were modulated in terms of oxygen tension and supplementation, endothelial coculture, and exposure to fluid shear stress delineated from oxygen influx. Results from transcriptomic and metabolomic evaluation indicate that particularly oxygen supply rates are critical to enhance cellular functionality—with cellular drug metabolism remaining comparable to physiological conditions after prolonged static culture. Endothelial signaling was found to be a major contributor to differential phenotype formation known as metabolic zonation, indicated by WNT pathway activity. Lastly, oxygen‐delineated shear stress was identified to direct cellular fate towards increased hepatic plasticity and regenerative phenotypes at the cost of drug metabolic functionality – in line with regenerative effects observed in vivo. With these results, we provide a systematic evaluation of critical parameters and their impact in hepatic systems. Given their adherence to physiological effects in vivo, this highlights the importance of their implementation in biomimetic devices, such as organ‐on‐a‐chip systems. Considering recent advances in basic liver biology, direct translation of physiological structures into in vitro models is a promising strategy to expand the capabilities of pharmacological models.
Facile microwave‐assisted synthesis of Ce‐doped Bi2O3 for efficient hybrid supercapacitors
Authors: Tao Xin , Wei Mingqi , Yu Lianghao , Zhuang Bocheng , Zhang Linlin , Zhu Ruilin , Zhao Guangzhen , Han Lu , Zhu Yuanyuan , Jin Huile , Zhu Guang
Published: January 2024

Bismuth trioxide (BT) is considered a fascinating anode material for hybrid supercapacitors (HSCs) due to its high theoretical capacity, but the low conductivity limits further applications. With this in mind, Ce‐doped Bi2O3 (Ce‐BT) nanoflower spheres were synthesized by a facile and rapid microwave‐assisted solvothermal method for HSCs anode materials. It is found that the morphology of BT could be controlled by Ce doping from stacked nanosheets to well‐dispersed nanoflowers spheres and producing abundant amorphous regions, thus expediting the ion transport rate. Consequently, when the added Bi to Ce molar ratio is 40:1 (Ce‐BT‐40), it exhibited a specific capacity of 220 mAh g−1 at 0.5 A g−1. Additionally, when fabricating HSCs with as‐prepared Ce‐BT‐40 and CeNiCo‐LDH, an energy density of 59.1 Wh kg−1 is provided at a power density of 652 W kg−1. This work not only reveals the mechanism of the effect of Ce doping on the electrochemical properties of BTs, but also proposes a rapid synthesis method of Ce‐BTs by microwave‐assisted solvent method, which provides new insights for building advanced HSCs with high energy density and low cost.
Blended learning in the engineering field: A systematic literature review
Authors: Sala Roberto , Maffei Antonio , Pirola Fabiana , Enoksson Fredrik , Ljubić Sandi , Skoki Arian , Zammit Joseph P. , Bonello Amberlynn , Podržaj Primož , Žužek Tena , Priarone Paolo C. , Antonelli Dario , Pezzotta Giuditta
Published: January 2024

Blended Learning (BL) is defined as a combination of face‐to‐face and digital activities that, in recent years, has been adopted more and more frequently by Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs). In the engineering field, the adoption of BL allows creating challenging situations for students with industry‐like problems to foster the acquisition of advanced problem‐solving skills. Thus, it can be used to enhance traditional learning by enriching it with new aspects, allowing to update the Intended Learning Outcomes traditionally defined by teachers. Although prior coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) teachers had the time to prepare and programme the transition to BL, during the pandemic they had to abruptly move to the full digital delivery of the content, requiring technological and organizational adaptation, as well as change in the content teaching and assessment methods. Through a systematic literature review, this paper aims to understand how BL has been implemented in the engineering field by HEIs, discussing if and how the learning expectations of teachers (evaluated through Bloom's Taxonomy) change when using different mixes of face‐to‐face and digital activities and when the target audience changes. More specifically, the investigation addresses how content and learning expectations are split and set in face‐to‐face and digital settings. Additionally, the interest is towards understanding how COVID‐19 impacted the adoption of BL, not only during the pandemic but also after.
Streamlining search methods to update evidence and gap maps: A case study using intergenerational interventions
Authors: Rogers Morwenna , Sutton Anthea , Campbell Fiona , Whear Rebecca , Bethel Alison , Coon Jo Thompson
Published: January 2024

Background

Evidence and Gap Maps (EGMs) should be regularly updated. Running update searches to find new studies for EGMs can be a time‐consuming process. Search Summary Tables (SSTs) can help streamline searches by identifying which resources were most lucrative for identifying relevant articles, and which were redundant. The aim of this study was to use an SST to streamline search methods for an EGM of studies about intergenerational activities.

Methods

To produce the EGM, 15 databases were searched. 8638 records were screened and 500 studies were included in the final EGM. Using an SST, we determined which databases and search methods were the most efficient in terms of sensitivity and specificity for finding the included studies. We also investigated whether any database performed particularly well for returning particular study types. For the best performing databases we analysed the search terms used to streamline the strategies.

Results

No single database returned all of the studies included in the EGM. Out of 500 studies PsycINFO returned 40% (n = 202), CINAHL 39% (n = 194), Ageline 25% (n = 174), MEDLINE 23% (n = 117), ERIC 20% (n = 100) and Embase 19% (n = 98). HMIC database and Conference Proceedings Citation Index‐Science via Web of Science returned no studies that were included in the EGM. ProQuest Dissertations & Theses (PQDT) returned the highest number of unique studies (n = 42), followed by ERIC (n = 33) and Ageline (n = 29). Ageline returned the most randomised controlled trials (42%) followed by CINAHL (34%), MEDLINE (29%) and CENTRAL (29%). CINAHL, Ageline, MEDLINE and PsycINFO performed the best for locating systematic reviews. (62%, 46% and 42% respectively). CINAHL, PsycINFO and Ageline performed best for qualitative studies (41%, 40% and 34%). The Journal of Intergenerational Relationships returned more included studies than any other journal (16%). No combinations of search terms were found to be better in terms of balancing specificity and sensitivity than the original search strategies. However, strategies could be reduced considerably in terms of length without losing key, unique studies.

Conclusion

Using SSTs we have developed a method for streamlining update searches for an EGM about intergenerational activities. For future updates we recommend that MEDLINE, PsycINFO, ERIC, Ageline, CINAHL and PQDT are searched. These searches should be supplemented by hand‐searching the Journal of Intergenerational Relationships and carrying out backwards citation chasing on new systematic reviews. Using SSTs to analyse database efficiency could be a useful method to help streamline search updates for other EGMs.
Obesogenic environments as major determinants of a disease: It is time to re‐shape our cities
Authors: Verde Ludovica , Barrea Luigi , Bowman‐Busato Jacqueline , Yumuk Volkan Demirhan , Colao Annamaria , Muscogiuri Giovanna
Published: January 2024

Obesity rates are increasing in almost all high‐ and low‐income countries, and population‐based approaches are necessary to reverse this trend. The current global efforts are focused on identifying the root causes of obesity and developing effective methods for early diagnosis, screening, treatment, and long‐term management, both at an individual and health system level. However, there is a relative lack of effective options for early diagnosis, treatment, and long‐term management, which means that population‐based strategies are also needed. These strategies involve conceptual shifts towards community‐ and environment‐focused approaches. This review aimed to provide evidence on how environmental factors contribute to the risk of obesity and how reshaping cities can help slow down obesity prevalence rates and improve long‐term management.
Poor self‐rated health is associated with faster cognitive decline and greater small vessel disease in older adults with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Ramsingh Nadia , Lin Hung‐Mo , Ouyang Yuxia , Ravona‐Springer Ramit , Livny Abigail , Soleimani Laili , Bendlin Barbara B. , Meir Mery Ben , Heymann Anthony , Sano Mary , Azuri Joseph , Beeri Michal Schnaider
Published: January 2024

Objective

Self‐rated health (SRH) is a predictor for poor health outcomes and cognition. Older adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) have multi‐morbidity and greater cognitive impairment. In the present study we investigated the association of SRH with cognitive decline and brain pathology in older adults with T2D.

Methods

Participants (n = 1122) were from the Israel Diabetes and Cognitive Decline study, and SRH was categorised as low (n = 202), moderate (n = 400) or high (n = 520). Cognition was measured by four cognitive domains: episodic memory, executive functions, language, and attention/working memory. Global cognition was the average of the cognitive domains. Statistical models adjusted for sociodemographic, cardiovascular, and clinical variables. In a randomly selected subsample (n = 230) that had magnetic resonance imaging, we examined relationships between baseline SRH and brain characteristics (white matter hyperintensities [WMHs], hippocampal, and total grey matter [GM] volumes).

Results

Low SRH was associated with a decline in executive functions, which accelerated over time when compared to high SRH (est = −0.0036; p = <0.001). Compared to high SRH, low SRH was associated with a faster decline in global cognition (est = −0.0024; p = 0.009). Low SRH at baseline was associated with higher volumes of WMHs (est = 9.8420; p < 0.0008). SRH was not associated with other cognitive domains, or with hippocampal and total GM.

Conclusions

Low SRH is associated with cognitive decline in T2D older adults and may serve as a risk assessment. WMHs may represent an underlying mechanism.
Type 2 diabetes metabolomics score and risk of progression to type 2 diabetes among women with a history of gestational diabetes mellitus
Authors: Tobias Deirdre K. , Hamaya Rikuta , Clish Clary B. , Liang Liming , Deik Amy , Dennis Courtney , Bullock Kevin , Zhang Cuilin , Hu Frank B. , Manson JoAnn E.
Published: January 2024

Background

Several metabolites are individually related to incident type 2 diabetes (T2D) risk. We prospectively evaluated a novel T2D‐metabolite pattern with a risk of progression to T2D among high‐risk women with a history of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).

Methods

The longitudinal Nurses' Health Study II cohort enroled 116,429 women in 1989 and collected blood samples from 1996 to 1999. We profiled plasma metabolites in 175 incident T2D cases and 175 age‐matched controls, all with a history of GDM before the blood draw. We derived a metabolomics score from 21 metabolites previously associated with incident T2D in the published literature by scoring according to the participants' quintile (1–5 points) of each metabolite. We modelled the T2D metabolomics score categorically in quartiles and continuously per 1 standard deviation (SD) with the risk of incident T2D using conditional logistic regression models adjusting for body mass index at the blood draw, and other established T2D risk factors.

Results

The percentage of women progressing to T2D ranged from 10% in the bottom T2D metabolomics score quartile to 78% in the highest score quartile. Adjusting for established T2D risk factors, women in the highest quartile had more than a 20‐fold greater diabetes risk than women in the lowest quartile (odds ratios [OR] = 23.1 [95% CI = 8.6, 62.1]; p for trend<0.001). The continuous T2D metabolomics score was strongly and positively associated with incident T2D (adjusted OR = 2.7 per SD [95% CI = 1.9, 3.7], p < 0.0001).

Conclusions

A pattern of plasma metabolites among high‐risk women is associated with a markedly elevated risk of progression to T2D later in life.
Researching Attitude–Identity Dynamics to Understand Social Conflict and Change
Authors: Lüders Adrian , Quayle Mike , Maher Paul , Bliuc Ana‐Maria , MacCarron Pádraig
Published: January 2024

Societies undergo constant change, manifested in various ways such as technological developments, economic transitions, reorganization of cultural values and beliefs, or changes in social structures. Individuals play an active role in shaping social and societal change by interactively negotiating its manifestation. However, this shaping of change is seldom harmonious; instead, it is often characterized by dissent and conflict. This special section gathers a collection of articles concerned with the role of attitude–identity dynamics in contexts of contemporary conflict and change. The corpus of research that builds this special section describes mutual impacts of attitudes and identities, explores different actors in social debates and covers a wide range of both established and innovative research methodology. This introduction summarizes and synthesizes the various contributions and offers insights into future research directions.
Effect of PCM and nano‐embedded PCM on the solar pond performance as sensible heat storage: An experimental approach
Authors: Singh Ajay Pratap , Tiwari Sumit , Pal Ghanshyam
Published: January 2024

A solar pond is an environment‐friendly system for storing thermal energy. Solar ponds can balance the energy supply and demand when incorporated with PCM. Solar thermal energy can be stored inside the solar pond and used for solar drying, desalination, and power production. The present study reports the heat change in the solar pond with or without PCM and nanoparticles. From the literature, it was found that handling phase change material is difficult, and added nanomaterials are used to settle with time, which reduces the efficacy of the system. The novelty of present study is to examine the performance of nanoparticle‐embedded paraffin the sensible energy storage in the solar pond. The experiment has been performed, and results have been investigated/compared for four cases, namely, (i) solar pond, (ii) solar pond with heat storage (ie, paraffin wax [PW]), (iii) solar pond with aluminum oxide () mixed PW, and (iv) solar pond with copper oxide (CuO) mixed PW. The results show that with the addition of 1% and 2%, and CuO in PW, the thermal conductivity is increased by 2.94%, 5.92%, 2.99%, and 6.01%, respectively, compared to basic paraffin wax. It can be observed from the results that with the inclusion of CuO in paraffin wax solar pond temperature was high during non‐sunshine hours compared to other solar ponds. The results also show that sensible energy without heat storage material is negligible during non‐sunshine hours compared to heat storage and nanoparticle‐embedded heat storage solar ponds. Incorporating CuO in paraffin wax showed significant potential to store heat energy.
Peer groups, academic achievement and the behaviour of elementary school‐aged children: A strength‐based perspective
Authors: Rytioja Marleene , Lappalainen Kristiina , Savolainen Hannu
Published: January 2024

The purpose of this study was to examine how the members of children's peer groups resemble each other in terms of behavioural and emotional strengths, academic achievement and behaviour at school. The participants were 739 9‐ to 10‐year‐old children (354 boys, 385 girls) from 30 Finnish elementary schools. 431 children (241 girls, 190 boys) were part of peer groups. Less than 5% of participants were other than Finnish origin. The children self‐assessed their behavioural and emotional strengths, and teachers evaluated the children's academic achievement and behaviour at school. Children also filled the sociometric questionnaire and sociograms were drawn to identify peer groups. Standardized beta values of regression analyses were used as indicators of effect sizes. The results showed that when observed as a strength, children's school functioning was positively linked to both academic achievement and behaviour at school. The intraclass correlations (ICC) revealed that members of peer groups resembled each other in terms of behavioural strengths, and behaviour at school, but not in academic achievement. The gender composition of peer groups explained the variance in behaviour at school between peer groups. The results of this study highlight the importance to consider children's peer group also when implementing behavioural interventions.
Development and assessment of educational materials for spinal muscular atrophy carrier screening in the Plain community
Authors: Eichten Carly , Kuhl Ashley , Baker Mei , Kwon Jennifer M. , Seroogy Christine M. , Williams Katie B.
Published: January 2024

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) has been reported in both Amish and Mennonite (Plain) communities, and a higher incidence has been observed in certain Mennonite communities compared to the general population. There are several therapies for SMA, but all are most effective in pre‐symptomatic newborns. To identify couples from the Wisconsin Plain community who are most likely to have a child with SMA, carrier screening is offered via mailed kits with at‐home specimen collection. Our survey data about Plain families' perspectives on genetic testing suggest educational materials are needed for individuals providing informed consent with at‐home specimen collection. We therefore developed a Plain population‐specific educational trifold brochure about SMA carrier screening by incorporating existing medical education strategies and feedback from Plain community members and their health care providers. Along with the brochure, surveys were included in the kits to assess baseline knowledge about SMA carrier screening (“pre‐education”) as well as improvement in knowledge after reviewing the brochure and cultural appropriateness of the brochure (“post‐education”). Fifty‐five testing kits were distributed, and 26 survey pairs (pre‐ and post‐education) were returned and analyzed (response rate 47%). Respondents had high baseline knowledge with an average of 5 of 7 questions (71%) answered correctly on the pre‐education survey. Knowledge improved after reviewing the brochure as the average score increased to 6.5 of 7 questions (93%) answered correctly. Questions about risks of having an affected child after positive or negative carrier screening showed the most improvement from the pre‐education to post‐education surveys. Most respondents indicated the brochure was helpful, was easy to understand, and contained the right amount of information. Overall, incorporating elements of existing medical education strategies with feedback from the target population and stakeholders about appropriate language seems to be an effective method for creating beneficial, culturally responsive educational materials for the Plain population.
A proof of Frankl–Kupavskii's conjecture on edge‐union condition
Authors: Lu Hongliang , Zhang Xuechun
Published: January 2024

A 3‐graph is if for any edges , . Frankl and Kupavskii proposed the following conjecture: For any 3‐graph with vertices, if is , then

In this paper, we confirm Frankl and Kupavskii's conjecture.
The safety and efficacy of radiofrequency ablation in benign pediatric thyroid disease in the US: An initial case series
Authors: Kim Grace S. , Seeley Hilary , Noel Julia , Ahmad Iram , Meister Kara
Published: January 2024

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for benign nonfunctional thyroid nodules or functional lingual thyroid gland in a pediatric population.

Methods

Four pediatric patients (four female; mean age 13.50 ± 4.04, range 8–17 years) with either benign thyroid nodules or mildly obstructive lingual thyroid glands were treated with RFA from 2020 to 2021 were evaluated. The inclusion criteria for RFA therapy were (i) age < 18 years; (ii) benign cytopathological results on ultrasound guided fine needle aspiration; (iii) pressure or pain symptoms caused by the thyroid nodules; (iv) dysphagia or obstruction caused by the lingual thyroid tissue; (v) follow up for >6 months with otolaryngology or endocrinology.

Results

Two patients had benign non‐functioning thyroid nodules and two had mildly obstructive functioning lingual thyroid glands. Mean follow up was 10.75 ± 4.79 months. Each patient underwent one RFA session with no complications. For the patients with thyroid nodules, there was >74% reduction in nodule size at last follow up with improvement in neck swelling and pain. For the patients with lingual thyroid glands, both did not have any other functional thyroid gland identified. Both had visible decrease in size of the gland as visualized transorally with improvement in dysphagia and obstructive symptoms when lying flat.

Conclusion

RFA is a safe and effective option for managing benign thyroid nodules and lingual thyroid glands in a pediatric patient population.

Level of evidence

4.
Intrinsically Colored Polyimide Films Prepared by Embedding Chromophores on the Polymer Backbones
Authors: Yang Yu , Zheng Tianyue , Qin Juan , Yan Jingling , Wang Zhen
Published: January 2024

A versatile strategy of preparing colored polyimide (PI) films is developed by embedding colored monomers on the backbones of colorless substrate polymers. Intrinsically colored PI films of four colors—red, yellow, blue, and purple—are prepared by introducing relative chromophores to the substrate PI that are synthesized from 2,2′‐bis(trifluoromethyl)benzidine (TFMB) and 4,4′‐(hexafluoroisopropylidene) diphthalic anhydride (6FDA)—two widely used monomers for colorless and transparent PI films. In addition, a series of orange and green PI films are prepared by simple mixing of the red, yellow, or blue PIs. The properties of these colored PI films are characterized, exhibiting good mechanical, thermal, and solubility properties, as well as different color and brightness depending on the amounts and types of chromophores. The optical properties of these films are determined by UV–vis spectroscopy and Commission Internationale de I'Eclairage (CIE) Lab. It is demonstrated that the introduction of even small amounts of chromophores can afford spectrally colored films while maintaining the original benign properties of the substrate PIs.
High Electrical and Mechanical Properties Obtained in a Polyimide‐Based Nanocomposite with Sandwich Structure via Multidimensional Design
Authors: Zhao He , Wang Chunyu , Zhang Zhenlong , Yin Jinghua , Chen Minghua , Liu Yuanyuan
Published: January 2024

As an excellent polymer material, polyimide (PI) plays an important role in practical applications. However, traditional filler doping modification is hard to simultaneously improve the dielectric properties and mechanical properties of the film. Here, PI–boron nitride (BN) nanosheets/PI–sodium titanate nanotubes (STNs)/PI–BN composite films with sandwich structure are prepared by in situ polymerization and multilayer coating processes, which significantly enhance the electrical and mechanical properties of dielectric films. With only 0.5 wt% fillers doping, the AC breakdown strength of the composite film can reach 183.7 kV mm−1, which is 16.41% higher than that of pure PI. When the filler doping is 1.5 wt%, the corona aging time of the composite film achieves 311.7% higher than that of pure PI film. In addition, the composite film exhibits outstanding elongation at break (58%) and tensile strength (138.92 MPa) performance. The 2D BN of the outer layer and 1D STNs of the middle layer effectively block the injection of charge carriers while improving the internal polarization response. A mechanism related to microstructure and interface is proposed to explain the improvement of electrical and mechanical properties in detail. This work provides a useful idea for the accurate design of high‐performance dielectric films.
Inhibition of 15‐hydroxyprostaglandin dehydrogenase protects neurons from ferroptosis in ischemic stroke
Authors: Xu Yunfei , Li Kexin , Zhao Yao , Zhou Lin , He Nina , Qiao Haoduo , Xu Qing , Zhang Huali , Liu Ying , Zhao Jie
Published: January 2024

Ischemic stroke is an acute serious cerebrovascular disease with high mortality and disability. Ferroptosis is an important regulated cell death (RCD) in ischemic stroke. 15‐Hydroxyprostaglandin dehydrogenase (15‐PGDH), a degrading enzyme of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), is shown to regulate RCD such as autophagy and apoptosis. The study aimed to determine whether 15‐PGDH regulates ferroptosis and ischemic stroke, and further the exact mechanism. We demonstrated that overexpression of 15‐PGDH in the brain tissues or primary cultured neurons significantly aggravated cerebral injury and neural ferroptosis in ischemic stroke. While inhibition of 15‐PGDH significantly protected against cerebral injury and neural ferroptosis, which benefits arise from the activation of the PGE2/PGE2 receptor 4 (EP4) axis. While the impact of 15‐PGDH was abolished with glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) deficiency. Then, 15‐PGDH inhibitor was found to promote the activation of cAMP‐response element‐binding protein (CREB) and nuclear factor kappa‐B (NF‐κB) via the PGE2/EP4 axis, subsequently transcriptionally upregulate the expression of GPX4. In summary, our study indicates that inhibition of 15‐PGDH promotes the activation PGE2/EP4 axis, subsequently transcriptionally upregulates the expression of GPX4 via CREB and NF‐κB, and then protects neurons from ferroptosis and alleviates the ischemic stroke. Therefore, 15‐PGDH may be a potential therapeutic target for ischemic stroke.
What types of business environment fosters the emergence of more specialized and sophisticated “little giant” enterprises?—An empirical study based on the TOE framework and configuration adaptation theory
Authors: Tang Gennian , Wang Luqian , Zheng Tao , Wu Weie
Published: January 2024

Nurturing specialized and sophisticated enterprises is a vital strategic initiative to mitigate the dependency on crucial technologies and to promote the competitiveness of Chinese manufacturing industry. Basing on a technology, organization, and environment (TOE) framework, combined with geographic concentration, qualitative comparative analysis (QCA), and data envelopment analysis (DEA) methods, this article analyzes the conducive business environment for the growth of specialized and sophisticated “little giant” enterprises (LGEs) from configurational perspective. It takes the quantity and density of LGEs in different regions of China as the consequence event. The findings show that: (1) the spatial distribution of LGEs is highly uneven with a geographic concentration index (CR5) of 0.436 and a Herfindahl–Hirschman Index of 0.0599. (2) The presence of numerous technology‐oriented SMEs and a “favorable” business environment are not necessarily the regions where a larger number of LGEs are fostered. Indeed, the harmonious interplay of TOE is more important for achieving optimal outcomes. The differential configurations contributing to the regional output variations of LGEs can be classified with three patterns: technology‐organization‐environment synergistic promotion type (H1), innovation stimulation through effective financial support type (H2a), and compensatory type for inadequate innovation resources (H2b). While these configurations may lead to similar outcomes, they do not yield the same effectiveness. (3) The DEA reveals a tendency for “over‐optimization” in improving regional business environment under the TOE framework, indicating the presence of “input redundancy” and corresponding “output loss” issues in TOE factors. Local governments must adhere to the “barrel principle” and optimize the business environment that aligns with development of LGEs through the concept of dynamic adaptation. Adopting an organizational mindset of “stringing beads into chains” can help construct regional industrial chains with distinctive features.
Analyzing rational decision‐making's effect: Empirical evidence from Green supply chain
Authors: Wang Shuang , Zhang Xueqing , Peng Jianwen , Tan Yingshuang
Published: January 2024

Under the global environmental degradation and intense competition, firms are increasingly resorting to green supply chains to achieve sustainability, and rational decision‐making by managers is unprecedented desired in management supply chain operations management. This study investigates the effect of rational decision‐making in green supply chains on environment, social welfare, and sustainability. Based on a sample of 856 firms that disclose green supply chain, we established a supply chain game theory model consisting of manufacturers and retailers, where retailers are risk averse, and used regression analysis to test hypotheses. We find that the micro‐level empirical evidence on rational decision‐making in green supply chain does exist—namely, rational decision‐making not only has a beneficial effect on the environment and social welfare, but also can improve the sustainability of the supply chain. The results give valuable insights to supply chain management in rational decision‐making and provide application recommendations for managers by constructing a strategic initiative for sustainable development.
The competitive balance of UEFA and CONMEBOL football leagues: On managing the number of teams in league design
Authors: Triguero‐Ruiz Francisco , Avila‐Cano Antonio
Published: January 2024

This article augments the literature on the analysis of competitive balance, encompassing its measurement, comparisons across leagues and seasons, and ramifications for league management. Central to our examination is the notion of competitive balance, which is intimately tied to the concentration concept. This concept can be depicted as a dual metric—capturing both inequality and the number of competing teams. Historically, its magnitude has been gauged using standardised measures of inequality and concentration. Among these, the Herfindahl–Hirschman index and its subsequent refinements stand out. We employ the distance‐to‐competitive‐balance index, which, contingent upon the metric space chosen, qualifies either as an inequality or concentration measure. Our analysis spans the 2009/2010 to 2018/2019 seasons for both the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) and South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) championships in the pre‐COVID‐19 era. We discern a tangible and significant correlation between the competitive equilibrium of leagues and the performance metrics of national teams. Both the disparities in strengths of teams and the number of participating teams emerged as paramount variables shaping this competitive balance. Further, we delineate the elasticities of competitive balance relative to these determinants. Our insights bear implications for designing football championship structures and delineating sports policies; thus, they are valuable for relevant sports governing bodies and federations. The strategic decision to enlarge team count vis‐à‐vis curtailing discrepancies in team competencies is nuanced, varying across federations and confederations. The Big Five European leagues display heightened sensitivity to inequality factors (with interventions such as financial fair play, salary caps or revenue distribution yielding pronounced effects), whereas for CONMEBOL, elasticity in relation to team count holds greater significance.
Performance analysis of signal processing algorithms for wall clutter mitigation and contrast target detection
Authors: Singh Akhilendra Pratap
Published: January 2024

The presence of clutter in through‐the‐wall images significantly degrades image quality and hampers the performance of algorithms used for data processing in tasks such as target detection, identification, or reconstruction. Real building walls exhibit inherent inhomogeneities, featuring varying frequency and spatial properties that defy the assumption of a smooth surface. Consequently, they produce nonuniform wall surface reflections at each scanning position. Furthermore, these walls often incorporate supply pipes that introduce substantial clutter, which, although stronger than the target responses, remains weaker than the wall surface clutter. Additionally, this clutter often exhibits signatures similar to those of the target. In real‐world scenarios, target reflections can manifest as wide, flat hyperbolas or nearly straight lines, and they may be positioned near the wall. Consequently, distinguishing targets from clutter becomes a complex challenge. Various clutter reduction methods have been proposed in recent years, showing varying degrees of success. However, the effectiveness of these methods in the literature is inconsistent and sometimes contradictory. To address this issue, a comprehensive investigation of well‐established clutter reduction methods was conducted to evaluate their performance under identical conditions. These methods were rigorously assessed using practical radar‐measured data acquired in the presence of actual building wall materials and contrasting targets. Evaluation criteria include the target‐to‐clutter ratio and peak signal‐to‐noise ratio. The results of the experiment revealed that independent component analysis outperformed other clutter reduction methods, demonstrating superior performance in mitigating clutter and enhancing target detection.
Engineering antibacterial shrinkage‐free trinary PLGA‐based GBR membrane for bone regeneration
Authors: Doost Ahad Rabbani , Shokrolahi Fatemeh , Shokrollahi Parvin , Barzin Jalal , Hosseini Samaneh
Published: January 2024

The purpose of this study was preparation of a multilayer electrospun poly (lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) (PLGA)‐based guided bone regeneration (GBR) membrane with controlled shrinkage behavior and alveolar bone regeneration property. First, PLGA copolymer, and zinc‐doped hydroxyapatite (Zn‐HAp) particles were prepared and characterized using fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), proton nuclear magnetic resonance, and X‐ray diffraction analysis. Since the electrospun PLGA scaffolds showed about 80% shrinkage at physiological conditions (phosphate‐buffered saline, 37°C), the effect of factors such as fiber‐alignment, and additives including natural polymers such as gelatin and chitosan, and Zn‐HAp particles; as well as solution preparation method was investigated on the shrinkage ratio. The results showed that it is possible to eliminate the shrinkage of the scaffold in the physiological environment through appropriate design of a tri‐layer PLGA‐CHI/PLGA‐Gel/PLGA‐Gel‐ZnHAp membrane. The designed tri‐layer membrane demonstrated a bubble point smaller than 7 μm, and improved mechanical properties compared with the individual sub‐layer scaffolds. Additionally, it exhibited enhanced antibacterial activity when compared with a similar three‐layer membrane in which HAp was used instead of Zn‐HAp. This observation suggests a synergistic antibacterial effect resulting from the presence of both zinc ions in Zn‐HAp and chitosan . Osteogenic differentiation of adipose‐derived mesenchymal stem cells cultured on the optimal multilayer composite scaffold, was investigated using alkaline phosphatase and Alizarin red staining assays, and the results suggested that the scaffold could support  osteogenic differentiation of the stem cells. The designed membrane was implanted in critical size (1 cm) mandibular defects in dogs, and bone regeneration was monitored by computed tomography. Defects treated with the GBR membrane, and the control group showed 69.31% and 44.63%, newly mineralized tissue, respectively, after 8 weeks post implantation. Based on our results, the engineered 3‐layer scaffold is a promising candidate as a GBR membrane for periodontal applications.
Multifactor optimization for induction welding of carbon fiber reinforced thermoplastic composites based on response surface methodology
Authors: Li Mengjuan , Wen Lihua , Wang Shiyu , Liang Jun , Hou Xiao
Published: January 2024

Induction welding of thermoplastic (CFRP) composites is one of the most promising welding techniques due to its high efficiency, flexibility, and selectivity of the heat area. However, the nonuniformity of the temperature field in the welding area poses a challenge to welding quality. In this paper, a multifactor optimization method devoted to the quality and efficient bonding of carbon fiber‐reinforced polycarbonate (CF/PC) composites was presented. A transient three‐dimensional finite element model was developed and validated to analyze the heating characteristics during the welding process. The mapping relationship between process parameters—equilibrium temperature and relative effective area were established to optimize the weld quality applying the response surface method. The single lap shear experiment was carried out to evaluate the mechanical properties of the welded joints, focusing on micro appearances and welding defects. The results show that the optimal process parameters are a current of 100A and a coil distance from the surface of 3.6 mm. Under the process parameter, the effective welding area is 0.3823 with an error of 4.25%.

Highlights

The transient three‐dimensional finite element (FE) model was established.

The evaluation indicators for welding quality were proposed.

The multifactor optimization method for process parameters was developed.

The mechanical property and welding defects of welded joints is evaluated.
Enhanced thermal conductivity in boron nitride incorporated polyethylene/polymethyl methacrylate composites via double percolation structure
Authors: You Feng , Ke Xue , Tang Gan , Yan Xiaolong , Chen Ruiqi , Jiang Xueliang , Yao Chu
Published: January 2024

Due to the miniaturization, integration and multi‐functional development of contemporary electronic devices, there is a growing need for efficient thermal conductive composite materials. This study focuses on enhancing the dispersion of modified boron nitride (mBN) within a linear low‐density polyethylene (LLDPE) phase by incorporating LLDPE‐graft‐Aminomethylpyridine (LLDPE‐g‐Py) to non‐covalently modify BN. Additionally, polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) and LLDPE polymers were introduced to create modified BN/LLDPE/PMMA (mBN/LLDPE/PMMA) composites with a double percolation structure. The co‐continuous structure of the polymer composites was observed by using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). By selectively locating the BN modified by LLDPE‐g‐Py within the LLDPE phase, the co‐continuous structure of the LLDPE/PMMA blend was upgraded to a double percolation structure. This double percolation structure establishes a dense and optimal heat transfer network within the polymer matrix. The thermal conductivity of the mBN/LLDPE/PMMA composite with BN loading of 40 wt% was significantly increased to 1.12 Wm−1 K−1, which was 350% higher than that of pure LLDPE, 38% higher than that of the BN/LLDPE composite, and 17% higher than that of the BN/LLDPE/PMMA composite. This study offers valuable insights into non‐covalent modification techniques for BN and the design of double percolation structures in thermal conductive polymer composites.

Highlights

The double percolation structure was successfully constructed by simple melt blending method with LLDPE and PMMA as matrix and BN as thermal conductive filler. The double percolation structure can significantly promote the efficiency of heat transfer inside the thermal conductive composites.

A novel non‐covalent modifier LLDPE‐g‐Py was prepared to modify the surface of BN, and the selective localization of modified BN (mBN) in the LLDPE phase was realized.
Factors associated with the onset and survival of subsequent primary breast cancer in female non‐metastatic breast cancer survivors
Authors: Liang Shunshun , Xiang Rongwu , Jia Shubing , Zhou Sihan , Lian Hongmiao , Hu YunChun , Cheng Qian , Zhao Mingyi
Published: January 2024

This study aimed to investigate the risk factors for the onset of subsequent primary breast cancer (SPBC) in women with a previous diagnosis of early‐stage breast cancer (BC) and to construct a prognostic prediction model for patients with SPBC. Using the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results‐17 (SEER‐17) database, we conducted a retrospective cohort analysis on women with initial primary early‐stage BC from 2004 to 2015. Standardized incidence ratio (SIR) was calculated to determine the risk of subsequent primary cancer (SPC). A competing risk model was built to identify the risk factors for the onset of SPBC. And risk factors associated with breast cancer‐specific mortality in SPBC patients were evaluated and presented in the form of nomogram. Compared with the general population, the overall risk of SPC for all sites was significantly elevated in women with early‐stage BC (SIR = 1.21, 95% CI: 1.20–1.23), and breast is the most frequent site. Age, race and ethnicity, year of diagnosis, history of other tumors, histological type, surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, tumor size, positive lymph nodes numbers and ER status were independent risk factors (p < .05) for the onset of SPBC. A new prognosis nomogram demonstrated good discrimination after internal validation with a C‐index of 0.869 (95% CI: 0.859–0.880), and showed favorable consistency and clinical usefulness. The incidence of SPBC and prognosis of patients with SPBC were well estimated based on a large cohort. Our nomogram model had excellent prediction performance and could be a useful tool to predict prognosis.
Developing Effective Antimicrobial Agents: Synthesis and Molecular Docking Study of Ciprofloxacin‐Benzimidazole Hybrids
Authors: Menteşe Emre , Yılmaz Fatih , Menteşe Meltem , Beriş Fatih Şaban , Emirik Mustafa
Published: January 2024

In this study, we designed and synthesized some new ciprofloxacin‐benzimidazole hybrid compounds and evaluated them for their antimicrobial activity against four Gram‐positive (B. subtilis, B. megaterium, E. faecalis and S. aureus) and five Gram‐negative (E. coli, E. cloacae, P. aeruginosa, S. typhimurium and Y. pseudotuberculosis) bacteria. Most of the synthesized compounds were found to show better or equivalent activities when compared with the standard drug ciprofloxacin. Among the tested compounds, compounds 4 v and 4 w showed more or the same activities against most of the bacteria. In the light of the information obtained from this study, the results showed that the synthesized hybrid compounds could be potential antibiotic agents. Antimicrobial activities were also confirmed by molecular docking studies against active site of Staphylococcus aureus DNA gyrase. Based on docking results, the compound 4e‐protein complex having the best score was used to perform 100 ns MD simulations to analyze the dynamic behavior and stability of the complex. Furthermore, the active compounds demonstrated acceptable ranges of ADMET properties such as partition coefficients, cellular permeability, and toxicity values.
Light‐assisted noncompetitive fluorescence immunoassay for photosensitive antibiotic detection
Authors: Jiang Qi , Jiao Dan , Yan Xinrong , Zhang Jiangyan , Cheng Yongqiang
Published: January 2024

The development of simple, sensitive, and efficient methods for antibiotic detection is of great significance for human health and environmental protection. Currently, although the competitive immunoassays are popular for detecting antibiotic molecules, they need to label antibiotic or specific antibody with signaling molecule. The development of noncompetitive immunoassay for antibiotic detection has always faced significant challenges. Herein, we have developed a light‐assisted noncompetitive immunoassay for the detection of antibiotics based on their photosensitive characteristic. Firstly, the antibody coated on the microplate specifically captures the target antibiotic. Afterward, under light irradiation, the captured photosensitive antibiotic produces reactive oxygen species (ROS), which oxidizes the added ROS dye to generate a fluorescent signal. Therefore, a noncompetitive immunoassay for antibiotic detection is achieved by utilizing the unique property of photosensitive antibiotics to generate ROS instead of labeling signaling molecules. By using antibiotics demeclocycline hydrochloride (DMCO) and polymyxin B (PMB) as research models, the proposed noncompetitive fluorescence immunoassay can specifically detect as low as 5 ng/mL DMCO and 70 ng/mL PMB, respectively. The light‐assisted noncompetitive immunoassay strategy opens a new avenue for simple, sensitive, label‐free, and high‐throughput detection of photosensitive antibiotics or photosensitive drugs.