bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prospective Randomized Trial of Low- Versus High-Dose Radiation Therapy in Adults With Supratentorial Low-Grade Glioma: Initial Report of a North Central Cancer Treatment Group/Radiation Therapy Oncology Group/Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group Study
Authors: Shaw E. , Arusell R. , Scheithauer B. , O’Fallon J. , O’Neill B. , Dinapoli R. , Nelson D. , Earle J. , Jones C. , Cascino T. , Nichols D. , Ivnik R. , Hellman R. , Curran W. , Abrams R.
Published: July 2002

PURPOSE: To compare survival and toxicity in adult patients treated with low-dose (50.4 Gy/28 fractions) versus high-dose (64.8 Gy/36 fractions) localized radiation therapy (RT) for supratentorial low-grade astrocytoma, oligodendroglioma, and mixed oligoastrocytoma.

PATIENTS AND METHODS: From 1986 to 1994, 203 eligible/analyzable patients were randomized: 101 to low-dose RT, 102 to high-dose RT. Almost half were younger than 40 years, and 95% had grade 2 tumors. Histologic subtype was astrocytoma (or mixed oligo-astrocytoma with astrocytoma dominant) in 32% of patients and oligodendroglioma (or oligoastrocytoma with oligodendroglioma dominant) in 68%. Tumor diameter was less than 5 cm in 35% of patients, and 41% of tumors showed some degree of contrast enhancement. Extent of resection was gross total in 14% of patients, subtotal in 35%, and biopsy only in 51%.

RESULTS: At the time of the present analysis, 83 patients (41%) are dead, and median follow-up is 6.43 years in the 120 who are still alive. Survival at 2 and 5 years is nonsignificantly better with low-dose RT; survival at 2 and 5 years was 94% and 72%, respectively, with low-dose RT and 85% and 64%, respectively, with high-dose RT (log rank P = .48). Multivariate analysis identified histologic subtype, tumor size, and age as the most significant prognostic factors. Survival is significantly better in patients who are younger than 40 years and in patients who have oligodendroglioma or oligo-dominant histology. Grade 3 to 5 radiation neurotoxicity (necrosis) was observed in seven patients, with one fatality in each treatment arm. The 2-year actuarial incidence of grade 3 to 5 radiation necrosis was 2.5% with low-dose RT and 5% with high-dose RT.

CONCLUSION: This phase III prospective randomized trial of low- versus high-dose radiation therapy for adults with supratentorial low-grade astrocytoma, oligodendroglioma, and oligoastrocytoma found somewhat lower survival and slightly higher incidence of radiation necrosis in the high-dose RT arm. The most important prognostic factors for survival are histologic subtype, tumor size, and age. The study design of the ongoing intergroup trial in this population will be discussed.
An efficient component of the redundancy calibration program to ensure equipment stability by assaying HDR Ir‐192 sources at the time of replacement
Authors: Vijande Javier , Carmona Vicente , Lliso Françoise , Ballester Facundo , Perez‐Calatayud Jose
Published: September 2024

Background

Brachytherapy (BT) treatments involving temporary high‐dose rate (HDR) sources are extensively employed in clinical practice. Ensuring the consistency of all measurement equipment at the hospital level is crucial, requiring a robust redundancy and consistency program. This enables the institution to verify the stability of the dosimetry system over time.

Purpose

To describe, justify, and analyze a component of the redundancy program of the calibration protocols followed by the Radiotherapy Department of the Hospital Universitari i Politècnic La Fe (València, Spain) during the last 10 years for the case of HDR BT as an additional component to ensure long term stability of the measurement equipment.

Methods

At the time the HDR BT source is replaced, its Air Kerma Strength (SK) is measured. By comparing this value with the one obtained at the time of installation (corrected by decay), a clear determination of the stability of the measurement equipment can be performed.

Results

Difference between SK,vendor and SK,hosp as a function of the measurement date is reported for a 10 years’ period. All measurements are well within the ±3% tolerance level recommended in current international guidelines. Percentage differences of SK,hosp values at the time of replacement compared to SK,hosp ones at the time when the source was installed are within the ±0.5% range, reflecting oscillations around a null deviation.

Conclusions

The method proposed allows any hospital to ensure a redundancy component of the long‐term stability of all equipment involved in BT measurements in a very simple and time efficient manner. Additionally, it enables the hospital to maintain a detailed log of historical differences, facilitating the identification and correction of potential systematic deviations over time.
Look Down Not Up! Solving the Building Industry's Wasteful Conundrum with Digital and Earthen Construction
Authors: Cisar Sasha
Published: September 2024

Is earth a bono fide alternative to concrete? Sasha Cisar believes in some cases it is. A trained architect who leads sustainability research at radicant, Switzerland's first digital sustainability bank, he shows us some recently constructed examples. The synthesis of digital technologies with these types of materiality and integrated construction techniques, and their full adoption in the building industry, could reap huge rewards and contribute to climate action.
Knowledge Production in Digital Design and Fabrication
Authors: Rust Romana , Ariza Inés
Published: September 2024

Romana Rust and Inés Ariza illustrate how digital fabrication projects developed by Gramazio Kohler Research at ETH Zurich are using innovative software pipelines and producing more collaborative software and digitally driven techniques to illicit much more dynamic and sustainably effective interfaces between machines and humans for the construction industry. Rust is a computational architect and Head of Research and Innovation at vyzn AG, and Ariza is an architect and researcher within the NCCR Digital Fabrication consortium at Gramazio Kohler Research, and R&D Project Lead at MESH AG.
A New Generation of Activated Carbon Adsorbent Microstructures
Authors: Grigor Ethan , Carver Joseph , Bulan Edric , Scott Stuart , Chew YM John , Perera Semali
Published: September 2024

This work presents the successful manufacture and characterization of bespoke carbon adsorbent microstructures such as tessellated (TES) or serpentine spiral grooved (SSG) by using 3D direct light printing. This is the first time stereolithographic printing has been used to exert precise control over specific micromixer designs to quantify the impact of channel structure on the removal of n‐butane. Activated microstructures achieved nitrogen Brunauer Emmett Teller (BET) surface areas up to 1600 m2 g−1 while maintaining uniform channel geometries. When tested with 1000 ppm n‐butane at 1 L min−1, the microstructures exceeded the equilibrium loading of commercial carbon‐packed beds by over 40%. Dynamic adsorption breakthrough testing using a constant Reynolds number (Re 80) shows that complex micromixer designs surpassed simpler geometries, with the SSG geometry achieving a 41% longer breakthrough time. Shorter mass transfer zones were observed in all the complex geometries, suggesting superior kinetics and carbon structure utilization as a result of the micromixer‐based etched grooves and interlinked channels. Furthermore, pressure drop testing demonstrates that all microstructures had half the pressure drop of commercial carbon‐packed beds. This study shows the power of leveraging 3D printing to produce optimized microstructures, providing a glimpse into the future of high‐performance gas separation.
Translucent Si Solar Cells Patterned with Pulsed Ultraviolet Laser Beam
Authors: Chowdhury Ashif H. , Yoon Heayoung P.
Published: September 2024

We report an application of a pulsed ultraviolet (UV) laser (λ = 355 nm) in producing translucent Si solar cells. This process efficiently generates a densely packed microhole array on a fully fabricated Si P‐N junction solar cell in just a few minutes. Herein, prototype cells with a nominal microhole diameter of 23 μm with a spacing between 60 and 300 μm are fabricated. High‐resolution electron‐beam microscopy reveals that the UV laser beam introduces amorphized silicon oxide (SiOx) in proximity to the patterned microholes via localized heating in air. Quantitative photovoltaic (PV) analysis shows a decline in the open‐circuit voltage (Voc) and the fill factor (FF) of the cells with the increase in the microhole density, likely due to the P‐N junction damage during the laser beam irradiation. Despite the reduction in Voc and FF, the solar cells retain a short‐circuit current density (Jsc) above 90% without post‐processing. The inherent microhole geometry associated with the laser beam profile allows multiple light scattering within the confined microhole structure, enhancing the translucency of the cells. While further development is required for optimization, these findings support the potential use of UV laser beams for fast and scalable production of translucent solar cells.
Pathways to personalized medicine—Embracing heterogeneity for progress in clinical therapeutics research in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Arnold Steven E. , Hyman Bradley T. , Betensky Rebecca A. , Dodge Hiroko H.
Published: September 2024

Biological and clinical heterogeneity is a major challenge in research for developing new treatments for Alzheimer's disease (AD). AD may be defined by its amyloid beta and tau pathologies, but we recognize that mixed pathologies are common, and that diverse genetics, central nervous system (CNS) and systemic pathophysiological processes, and environmental/experiential factors contribute to AD's diverse clinical and neuropathological features. All these factors are rational targets for therapeutic development; indeed, there are hundreds of candidate pharmacological, dietary, neurostimulation, and lifestyle interventions that show benefits in homogeneous laboratory models. Conventional clinical trial designs accommodate heterogeneity poorly, and this may be one reason that progress in translating candidate interventions has been so difficult. We review the challenges of AD's heterogeneity for the clinical trials enterprise. We then discuss how advances in repeatable biomarkers and digital phenotyping enable novel “single‐case” and adaptive trial designs to accelerate therapeutics development, moving us closer to personalized research and medicine for AD.

Highlights

Alzheimer's disease is diverse in its clinical features, course, risks, and biology.

Typical randomized controlled trials are exclusive and necessarily large to attain arm comparability with broad outcomes.

Repeated blood biomarkers and digital tracking can improve outcome measure precision and sensitivity.

This enables the use of novel “single‐case” and adaptive trial designs for inclusivity, rigor, and efficiency.
Calcined Nickel Oxide Nanostructures at Different Temperatures Onto Graphite for Efficient Electro‐Oxidation of Ethylene Glycol in Basic Electrolyte
Authors: Zouli Nasser , Hameed R. M. Abdel , Abutaleb Ahmed , Maafa Ibrahim M. , Yousef Ayman
Published: September 2024

Fabricating a highly active and stable nanocatalyst material displays a great concern when constructing a commercially viable ethylene glycol (EG) fuel cell. Herein, nickel oxide nanostructures were grown onto graphite (NO/T) using coprecipitation and calcination protocol at different temperatures. Techniques for XRD, TEM, SEM, and EDX investigations were used to look into the produced crystal planes, shape, and elemental mapping of synthesized nickel oxide nanoparticles. Different NO/T nanocatalyst electroactivities were examined in order to oxidize EG molecules in basic electrolyte. The surface area values of calcined nanostructures at 200°C and 300°C were much higher than those measured at NO/T‐400 by 7.62 and 3.71 folds to explain their outstanding performance. Some kinetic information for varied NO/T nanocatalysts was derived including the electron transfer coefficient, rate constant, and surface coverage values. Electron transfer rate constants of 0.1946, 0.3734, 0.0113, and 0.0303 s−1 were calculated at NO/T‐200, NO/T‐300, NO/T‐400, and NO/T‐500, respectively. Increased oxidation current densities could be achieved when NO/T nanomaterials were subjected to lowered calcination temperatures. NO/T‐200 and NO/T‐300 nanocatalysts also displayed decreased Eonset for alcohol oxidation process by 20 and 41 mV in relation to that at NO/T‐400. Moreover, chronoamperometric experiments revealed the prevalence of the stable behavior during EG oxidation at these nanostructures, especially for calcined ones at 200°C and 300°C. Much reduced poisoning rates were measured at NO/T‐200 (0.171 s−1) and NO/T‐300 (0.067 s−1) when contrasted to that at NO/T‐500 (0.727 s−1). Increasing the alcohol and supporting electrolyte concentrations was beneficial in improving the charge transfer characteristics of NO/T nanocatalysts as demonstrated by EIS measurements. This study supports the promising activity of NiO nanoparticles onto graphite as anode materials for direct alcohol fuel cells.
A comprehensive insight into metal oxide nanoparticle synthesis, associated regulations, and application in the agri‐food sector
Authors: Wroblewski Charles , Barbhuiya Rahul Islam , Kaur Guneet , Nair Gopu Raveendran , Elsayed Abdallah , Singh Ashutosh
Published: September 2024

To achieve global sustainability goals, it is necessary to ensure food safety and security by adopting sustainable agricultural practices. However, the current agri‐food sector is not only in its most vulnerable state, but it is also becoming a threat to the environment due to the combination of industrial and human activities that are detrimental. These activities, including the use of highly toxic agrochemicals, have deteriorated the quality of arable soil, thereby impacting food security. One area of research emerging in recent years as a promising avenue to combat concerns around agricultural soil quality and productivity is that of the application of metal and metal oxide nanoparticles (MONPs). In this review, we comprehensively examine the synthesis processes, application, environmental impact, and regulations associated with MONPs in the agri‐food sector. In agriculture, these nanoparticles have been demonstrated to enhance crop yields by acting as delivery systems for nutrients, preventing soil degradation, and reducing the need for pesticides and fertilizers. In relation to ensuring food quality and security, these nanoparticles are used as additives to enhance nutritional content, improve texture, and extend shelf life. Alternatively, the antimicrobial properties of metal and metal oxide nanoparticles can be used to modify packaging materials and make them more effective at preserving food, reducing food waste by inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria, and reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses. Overall, using nanoparticles in the agriculture and food industry offers exciting opportunities to promote sustainability, reduce environmental pollution, and improve food quality and safety.
Single Source Precursor Path to 2D Materials: A Case Study of Solution‐Processed Molybdenum‐Rich MoSe2‐x Ultrathin Nanosheets
Authors: Mishra Shashank , Jeanneau Erwann , Gahlot Sweta , Raydan Nidal , Burel Laurence , Cornier Thibault , Bonhomme Anne , Bargiela Pascal
Published: September 2024

Two‐dimensional Molybdenum diselenide is a versatile and promising material used for a wide range of applications and its synthesis in high quality and yield is currently the subject of intense research. Low temperature solution phase synthesis of nanomaterials using designed molecular precursors enjoys tremendous advantages over traditional high‐temperature solid‐state synthesis. However, molecular precursor chemistry of molybdenum selenide nanomaterials is almost non‐existent. We report here synthesis and structural characterization of new molybdenum molecular precursors with selenoether and selenourea ligands, which due to their easy synthesis, desired Mo/Se composition and moderate processing properties, are highly promising as single source precursors for the scale‐up production of 2D molybdenum diselenide materials. This is demonstrated by the solution‐phase decomposition of the Mo‐selenourea precursor which produced Mo‐rich MoSe2‐x ultrathin nanosheets (NSs) in good yield. These NSs were characterized by Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP‐OES), Powder X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT‐IR), Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) studies.
A High‐Performance and Fast‐Charging Rechargeable Iron‐Ion Battery Using V2O5 Porous Microspheres Cathode
Authors: Yadav Jitendra Kumar , Rani Bharti , Saini Priyanka , Dixit Ambesh
Published: September 2024

Owing to iron's natural abundance, low cost, and affordability, nonaqueous rechargeable iron‐ion (Fe‐ion) batteries have the potential for alternative rechargeable energy‐storage devices. However, developing cathodes with adequate superior Fe2+ storage during charge–discharge is a major challenge. Herein, V2O5 porous microspheres (V2O5–PMS) are synthesized as efficient cathodes due to their unique characteristics, including high surface area and large interlayer spacing, which provide high electrochemical performance and fast charge kinetics. The nonaqueous Fe‐ion battery is fabricated under ambient conditions using mild steel as an anode and a V2O5–PMS cathode. The cyclic voltammetry measurements suggests a high diffusion coefficient of Fe2+ ions in the redox process during charge–discharge. The V2O5–PMS‐based cathode shows ≈205 mAh g−1 gravimetric capacity at 33 and ≈70 mAh g−1 at 1 A g−1 (≈15 C). It exhibits capacity retention of ≈70% in 600 cycles at a very high current rate of 3 A g−1. The impedance spectroscopy measurements are carried out between the cell's cycling to understand the electrode–electrolyte interface resistance over cycling. The four CR‐2032 coin cells are assembled in series to glow a white and red light‐emitting diode to demonstrate its potential as an alternative energy‐storage system.
Eco‐Friendly Polyethylene Oxide/Aluminum Oxyhydroxide Nanocomposites for Flexible Energy Storage Devices
Authors: Krishnan Meera , Ramesan Manammel Thankappan
Published: September 2024

This study assesses the mechanical, thermal, and dielectric properties, as well as the conductivity and water contact angle, of eco‐friendly polyethylene oxide (PEO) and aluminium oxyhydroxide (AlOOH) films prepared using water as a green solvent for fabricating flexible nanodielectric devices. X‐ray diffraction and Fourier transform infrared analysis confirm the presence of AlOOH in the nanocomposites. Field emission scanning electron microscopy analysis reveals the surface morphology of nanocomposites, showing a more uniform distribution of AlOOH nanoparticles at 5 and 7 wt% loading. The influence of nanofiller content on the thermal properties of films is evaluated by differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis. Increasing AlOOH content significantly enhances both the glass transition temperature and the thermal stability of PEO/AlOOH nanocomposites. The films exhibit improved mechanical properties, with a tensile strength of 31.11 MPa and Young's modulus of 339 MPa at 5 wt% AlOOH. Electrical conductivity, dielectric parameters, and complex impedance are measured for all films. The PEO with 7 wt% AlOOH shows optimal electrical conductivity and dielectric constant. These findings suggest that altering AlOOH concentrations enables fine‐tuning of the thermal, mechanical, and electrical properties of nanocomposite films. This versatility offers great potential for developing advanced flexible organoelectronic devices and nanodielectric materials.
Dynamic model of the UC San Diego NHERI six‐degree‐of‐freedom large high‐performance outdoor shake table
Authors: Lai Chin‐Ta , Conte Joel P.
Published: September 2024

The UC San Diego large high‐performance outdoor shake table (LHPOST), which was commissioned on October 1, 2004 as a shared‐use experimental facility of the National Science Foundation (NSF) Network for Earthquake Engineering Simulation (NEES) program, was upgraded from its original one degree‐of‐freedom (LHPOST) to a six‐degree‐of‐freedom configuration (LHPOST6) between October 2019 and April 2022. A mechanics‐based numerical model of the LHPOST6 able to capture the dynamics of the upgraded 6‐DOF shake table system under bare table condition is presented in this paper. The model includes: (i) a rigid body kinematic model that relates the platen motion to the motions of the components attached to the platen, (ii) a hydraulic dynamic model that calculates the hydraulic actuator forces based on all fourth‐stage servovalve spool positions, (iii) a hold‐down strut model that determines the pull‐down forces produced by the three hold‐down struts, (iv) Bouc‐Wen models utilized to represent the dissipative forces in the shake table system, and (v) a rigid body dynamic model borrowed from robotic analysis governing the translational and rotational motions of the platen subjected to the forces from the various components attached to the platen. Extensive validation against experimental data shows excellent agreement for tri‐axial and six‐axial earthquake shake table tests. This validated model can be coupled with finite element models of test specimens to study the interaction between the shake table system and the specimens, and it offers potential for enhancing motion tracking performance through off‐line controller tuning or advanced control algorithm development.
Tumor deposits should not be placed in the M category of TNM: A comparative survival analysis using SEER data
Authors: Oguz Erdogan Ayse Selcen , Simmer Femke , Nagtegaal Iris D.
Published: September 2024

Tumor deposits (TD) are tumor nodules in the lymphatic drainage area of colorectal cancer patients, and they are currently classified in the N category in the TNM classification. However, due to the associated poor prognosis, some small cohort studies suggest that TD belong in the M category. A retrospective study using The Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results program (SEER) data was performed in Stages III and IV colon carcinoma (CC) patients to evaluate the prognostic impact of TD. In multivariate analysis, TD have significantly negative effect on survival in both stages (Stage III HR = 1.4 [95% CI 1.4–1.5] and Stage IV HR = 1.3 [95% CI 1.2–1.3]). In Stage III, 5‐year overall survival (OS) for patients with TD 49%, whereas it was 64% for patients without TD (p < .001). Additionally, in Stage IV patients without TD, the 5‐year OS rates are superior at 21% compared to patients with TD, who show 5‐year OS rate of 10% (p < .001). Stage III patients with TD (5‐year OS 49%) have a significantly better prognosis compared to Stage IV patients (5‐year OS 17%, p < .001). Therefore, despite the previous suggestions, this large scale study (n = 52,332) on outcomes in CC does not support the classification of TD in Stage IV.
Implementation of Hepatic Artery Infusion Pump Therapy: Real‐World Single‐Center Experience
Authors: Connor Chick Robert , Ruff Samantha M. , Monasterio Julia , Neilson Taylor , Tsai Susan , Ejaz Aslam , Tsung Allan , Kim Alex C.
Published: September 2024

Background and Objectives

Hepatic artery infusion pump (HAIP) therapy is an available option at highly specialized centers to treat unresectable liver tumors (e.g., colorectal liver metastases [CRLM]). This study describes the safety and outcomes of HAIP program implementation at an academic‐based cancer center.

Methods

Patients who underwent HAIP placement (2021–2023) were included. Categorical and continuous variables were compared using Chi‐square and Kruska–Wallis tests, respectively. Survival and variables associated with survival were calculated using the Kaplan–Meier method and Cox proportional hazards model, respectively.

Results

Of the 26 HAIP procedures for unresectable CRLM, four were done as adjuvant therapy. Median duration of HAIP therapy was 9.2 months and four patients subsequently underwent hepatectomy. Complication rate was 37.5%, with biliary complication rate of 23.1%. Median overall survival (OS) from date of diagnosis was 55.2 months. Concurrent primary tumor resection was associated with inferior OS (p = 0.030). Multivariable regression did not identify independent predictors of OS. Progression‐free survival from time of HAIP placement was 7.8 months.

Conclusions

HAIP placement was technically successful in most patients with an acceptable complication rate. Survival outcomes were comparable with those described in the literature for HAIP therapy in combination with systemic therapy. The significant difference in outcomes for those with concurrent colectomy warrants further investigation.
Metals at the Helm: Revolutionizing Protein Assembly and Applications
Authors: Duan Maoping , Lv Chenyan , Zang Jiachen , Leng Xiaojing , Zhao Guanghua , Zhang Tuo
Published: September 2024

Protein assembly is an essential process in biological systems, where proteins self‐assemble into complex structures with diverse functions. Inspired by the exquisite control over protein assembly in nature, scientists have been exploring ways to design and assemble protein structures with precise control over their topologies and functions. One promising approach for achieving this goal is through metal coordination, which utilizes metal‐binding motifs to mediate protein‐protein interactions and assemble protein complexes with controlled stoichiometry and geometry. Metal coordination provides a modular and tunable approach for protein assembly and de novo structure design, where the metal ion acts as a molecular glue that holds the protein subunits together in a specific orientation. Metal‐coordinated protein assemblies have shown great potential for developing functional metalloproteinase, novel biomaterials and integrated drug delivery systems. In this review, an overview of the recent advances in protein assemblies benefited from metal coordination is provided, focusing on various protein arrangements in different dimensions including protein oligomers, protein nanocage and higher‐order protein architectures. Moreover, the key metal‐binding motifs and strategies used to assemble protein structures with precise control over their properties are highlighted. The potential applications of metal‐mediated protein assemblies in biotechnology and biomedicine are also discussed.
Efficient online estimation and remaining useful life prediction based on the inverse Gaussian process
Authors: Xu Ancha , Wang Jingyang , Tang Yincai , Chen Piao
Published: September 2024

Fast and reliable remaining useful life (RUL) prediction plays a critical role in prognostic and health management of industrial assets. Due to advances in data‐collecting techniques, RUL prediction based on the degradation data has attracted considerable attention during the past decade. In the literature, the majority of studies have focused on RUL prediction using the Wiener process as the underlying degradation model. On the other hand, when the degradation path is monotone, the inverse Gaussian (IG) process has been shown as a popular alternative to the Wiener process. Despite the importance of IG process in degradation modeling, however, there remains a paucity of studies on the RUL prediction based on the IG process. Therefore, the principal objective of this study is to provide a systematic analysis of the RUL prediction based on the IG process. We first propose a series of novel online estimation algorithms so that the model parameters can be efficiently updated whenever a new collection of degradation measurements is available. The distribution of RUL is then derived, which could also be recursively updated. In view of the possible heterogeneities among different systems, we further extend the proposed online algorithms to the IG random‐effect model. Numerical studies and asymptotic analysis show that both the parameters and the RUL can be efficiently and credibly estimated by the proposed algorithms. At last, two real degradation datasets are used for illustration.
Low‐velocity impact behavior of composite laminates based on bio‐inspired stacking sequence
Authors: Zhou Tian , Yang Hongyuan , Peng Chaoyi , Ren Yiru
Published: September 2024

This work aims to study the effects of bionic spiral stacking sequence, impact energy and impactor shape on the impact resistance of laminates. The finite element model is established based on the stress failure criterion, progressive damage evolution, and the triangle traction‐separation law. The reliability of the finite element model is validated through rigorous comparison with experimental data. The study investigates the influence of laminate layup sequence, impact energy, and impactor shape on the impact resistance of laminates. The results show that during low‐speed impacts, laminate damage is primarily characterized by fiber breakage, matrix cracking, and delamination. Matrix cracking and delamination become more pronounced as the impact energy increases. The design of linear spiral ply and power function spiral ply has a positive effect on the impact resistance of laminates. The impact resistance of laminates is sensitive to the sharpness of the impactor and the level of impact energy. Higher impact energy and sharper impactor shapes lead to increased energy absorption in the laminate, resulting in more pronounced damage failure.

Highlights

The impact resistance of bionic spiral composite laminates is studied.

Three biologically inspired stacking sequences were designed.

A numerical simulation method is proposed and verified.

The low‐velocity impact characteristics of bionic laminates are revealed.
Trends in the appropriateness of oral antibiotic prescriptions dispensed in the United States from 2010 to 2018
Authors: Garg Mahek , Venugopalan Veena , Vouri Scott M. , Diaby Vakaramoko , Iovine Nicole M. , Wilson Debbie L. , Park Haesuk
Published: September 2024

Background

One of the goals established by the United States National Action Plan to Combat Antibiotic‐Resistant Bacteria is to reduce inappropriate outpatient antibiotic prescriptions by 50% by 2020. Recent data on the achievement of this goal is lacking. The objective of our study was to examine recent trends in the appropriateness of oral antibiotic prescriptions dispensed to a commercially insured population in outpatient settings in the United States to quantify the relative trend in inappropriate antibiotic prescribing from 2010 to 2018.

Methods

Our cross‐sectional analysis examined oral antibiotic prescriptions dispensed in outpatient settings using the IBM MarketScan Commercial Data from January 2010 to December 2018. Trends in the annual proportion of antibiotic prescriptions classified as appropriate, potentially appropriate, inappropriate, or without any medical visit during a 7 days look‐back period were estimated using multivariable generalized linear models with Poisson distribution adjusting for beneficiaries' demographic and infectious conditions.

Results

Approximately 170 million oral antibiotic prescriptions were dispensed to 86 million beneficiaries during 2010 to 2018. The mean age of the study population was 34.5 (±19.1) years, with 58.4% females and 24.6% children. We observed a 12.9% (95% Confidence Interval [CI] = 12.6%–13.2%; p < 0.01) decline in rates of antibiotic use, from 832 to 727 prescriptions per 1000 beneficiaries, from 2010 to 2018. The proportion of prescriptions classified as appropriate increased by 36.7% (95% CI = 36.4%–36.9%; p < 0.01); potentially appropriate prescriptions increased by 9.3% (95% CI = 9.1%–9.4%; p < 0.01); whereas inappropriate prescriptions and those without a medical visit declined by 11.3% (95% CI = 11.2%–11.4%; p < 0.01) and 14.0% (95% CI = 13.9%–14.2%; p < 0.01), respectively. Similar declining trends were observed in use and proportion of inappropriate prescriptions for broad‐spectrum antibiotics. In 2018, amoxicillin and azithromycin were the most common appropriate and inappropriate prescription fills, respectively.

Conclusion

Although antibiotic use and inappropriate prescribing declined steadily from 2010 to 2018 in the United States, this study demonstrates that we have not achieved the national goal of reducing inappropriate antibiotic prescribing by 50%.
Real‐world effectiveness of monoclonal antibody inhibitors of PCSK9 in patients with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Siemens Rebecca , Pryjma Mark , Buchkowsky Susan , Barry Arden R.
Published: September 2024

Background

Heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH) is a genetic condition that is associated with a high risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) due to elevated lipid levels. Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) monoclonal antibody inhibitors have been shown to reduce low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C) substantially. This study aimed to assess the real‐world effectiveness of PCSK9 inhibitor therapy among patients with HeFH.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study of patients with probable or definite HeFH on a PCSK9 inhibitor at a specialized lipid clinic between 2015 and 2022. The primary objective was the proportion of patients who attained a ≥50% reduction in LDL‐C after 12 months of treatment.

Results

In total, 141 patients were screened and 95 were included. Mean age was 63 years, 51% were female, and mean baseline LDL‐C level was 4.0 mmol/L (155 mg/dL). A majority of patients (60%) had statin intolerance, and 73% were on ezetimibe. The most common PCSK9 inhibitor was evolocumab (94%). Overall, 74% of patients achieved a ≥50% reduction in LDL‐C after 12 months of therapy. Mean LDL‐C concentration decreased to 1.7 mmol/L (66 mg/dL) (approximately 59% reduction from baseline) after 12 months of follow‐up but increased to 1.9 mmol/L (73 mg/dL) after ≥24 months of follow‐up. Similar trends were observed in non‐high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol and apolipoprotein B. Lipoprotein(a) was significantly reduced by 45% over 12 months. Twelve percent of patients permanently discontinued therapy. Barriers to PCSK9i use were mostly related to cost.

Conclusions

In a real‐world cohort of HeFH patients, most of which were intolerant to statins, a high majority were able to achieve a ≥50% reduction in LDL‐C after 12 months of PCSK9 inhibitor therapy (mean reduction of approximately 59%), which is similar to clinical trial data of patients with ASCVD. A significant reduction in non‐high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, apolipoprotein B, and lipoprotein(a) were also observed.
The structure of pathological personality traits and temperament in a Persian community sample
Authors: Lawson Katherine M. , Hemmati Azad , Rezaei Farzin , Rahmani Khaled , Komasi Saeid , Hopwood Christopher J.
Published: September 2024

The present study examined the extent to which the currently established factor structure of the Personality Inventory for DSM‐5 (PID‐5; Krueger et al., 2013) generalizes to a large Persian community sample, as well as relations between the resulting PID‐5 factors and two temperament measures. Cross‐sectional data came from 946 adults (65% female) from western Iran. With the use of exploratory structural equation modeling (ESEM) with target rotation, we found factor loadings that showed fairly similar patterns to those found in two previous meta‐analytic PID‐5 studies with predominantly North American and European samples (Watters & Bagby, 2018; Somma et al., 2019). Despite slight differences in each of the target rotations, there were moderate congruence coefficients (~0.85) between loadings for the five PID‐5 domains, with the weakest evidence supporting the Disinhibition factor. The resulting PID‐5 factors showed meaningful associations with temperament domains assessed via the Temperament and Character Inventory (TCI; Cloninger, 1994) and Temperament Evaluation of Memphis, Pisa, Paris and San Diego‐Autoquestionnaire (TEMPS‐A; Akiskal et al., 2005). Overall, our findings suggest that the documented structure of personality pathology assessed by the PID‐5 generalizes somewhat to this sample of Persian participants, and pathological personality traits show important overlap with temperament, although these constructs are meaningfully distinct.
Gardenia jasminoides Ellis. Polysaccharides Alleviated Cholestatic Liver Injury by Increasing the Production of Butyric Acid and FXR Activation
Authors: Wang Tianming , Tian Tian , Zhu Zhenyun , Fang Su , Zhang Lincong , Peng Xiaotian , Shi Rong , Li Yuanyuan , Wu Jiasheng , Ma Yueming
Published: September 2024

Gardenia jasminoides Ellis. polysaccharide (GPS) can protect against cholestatic liver injury (CLI) by regulating nuclear farnesoid X receptor (FXR).However, the mechanism via which GPS mediates the FXR pathway remains unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the mechanism. Firstly, an alpha‐naphthylisothiocyanate‐induced cholestatic mouse model was administered with GPS to evaluate its hepatoprotective effects. The metabolic pathways influenced by GPS in cholestatic mice were detected by serum metabolomics. The effect of GPS on bile acid (BA) homeostasis, FXR expression, and liver inflammation were investigated. Second, the intestinal bacteria metabolites affected by GPS in vivo and in vitro were determined. The activation of FXR by sodium butyrate (NaB) was measured. Finally, the effects of NaB on cholestatic mice were demonstrated. The main pathways influenced by GPS involved BA biosynthesis. GPS upregulated hepatic FXR expression, improved BA homeostasis, reduced F4/80+ and Ly6G+ positive areas in the liver, and inhibited liver inflammation in cholestatic mice. Butyric acid was the most notable intestinal bacterial metabolite following GPS intervention. NaB activated the transcriptional activity of FXR in vitro, upregulated hepatic FXR and its downstream efflux transporter expression, and ameliorated disordered BA homeostasis in CLI mice. NaB inhibited the toll‐like receptor 4/nuclear factor (TLR4/NF‐κB) pathway and reduced inflammation and CLI in mice. An FXR antagonist suppressed the effects. In conclusion, GPS increased butyric acid production, which can activate hepatic FXR, reverse BA homeostasis disorder, and inhibit the TLR4/NF‐κB inflammatory pathway, exerting protective effects against CLI.
The Reactivity of Ptn+ Clusters With N2O Facilitated by Dual Lewis‐Acid Sites
Authors: Cui Chaonan , Jia Yuhan , Lin Shiquan , Geng Lijun , Luo Zhixun
Published: September 2024

The size dependence of metal cluster reactions frequently reveals valuable information on the mechanism of nanometal catalysis. Here, the reactivity of the Ptn+ (n = 1−40) clusters with N2O is studied and a significant dependence on the size of these clusters is noticed. Interestingly, the small Ptn+ clusters like Pt3+ and Pt4+ are inclined to form N2O complexes; some larger clusters, such as Pt19+, Pt21+, and Pt23+, appear to be unreactive; however, the others such as Pt3,9,15+ and Pt18+ are capable of decomposing N2O. While Pt9+ rapidly reacts with N2O to form a stable quasitetrahedron Pt9O+ product, Pt18+ experiences a series of N2O decompositions to produce Pt18O1‐7+. Utilizing high‐precision theoretical calculations, it is shown how the atomic structures and active sites of Ptn+ clusters play a vital role in determining their reactivity. Cooperative dual Lewis‐acid sites (CDLAS) can be achieved on specific metal clusters like Pt18+, rendering accelerated N2O decomposition via both N‐ and O‐bonding on the neighboring Pt atoms. The influence of CDLAS on the size‐dependent reaction of Pt clusters with N2O is illustrated, offering insights into cluster catalysis in reactions that include the donation of electron pairs.
Massive Electro‐Microfluidic Particle Assembly Patterns in Droplet Array for Information Encoding
Authors: Feng Haoqiang , Shen Shitao , Jin Mingliang , Xiao Mengjie , Liu Mengjun , Zhang Qilin , Jiang Hongwei , Yi Zichuan , Wu WenShuai , Zhou Guofu , Shui Lingling
Published: September 2024

The assembly of colloidal particles into micro‐patterns is essential in optics, informatics, and microelectronics. However, it is still a challenge to achieve quick, reversible, and precise assembly patterns within micro‐scale spaces like droplets. Hereby, a method is presented that utilizes in‐plane dielectrophoresis to precisely manipulate particle assemblies within microscale droplets. The electro–microfluidic particle assembly platform, equipped with ingenious electrode designs, enables the formation of diverse micro‐patterns within a droplet array. The tunability, similarity, stability, and reversibility of this platform are demonstrated. The ability to assemble letters, numbers, and Morse code patterns within the droplet array underscores its potential for information encoding. Furthermore, using an example with four addressing electrodes beneath a droplet, 16 distinct pieces of information through electrical stimuli is successfully encoded. This unique capability facilitates the construction of a dynamic electronic token, indicating promising applications in anti‐counterfeiting technologies.
Evaluation of Pharmacokinetics, Immunogenicity, and Immunotoxicity of DNA Tetrahedral and DNA Polymeric Nanostructures
Authors: Guo Yanfei , Huang Yan , Liu Mingxing , Liu Jinjian , Liu Jianfeng , Yang Dayong
Published: September 2024

Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) nanostructures have been extensively explored in biomedical applications and have emerged as a promising platform for drug delivery, bioanalysis, and therapeutics. Their in vivo behaviors have received much attention, a prerequisite for clinical applications. Herein, the pharmacokinetics, immunogenicity, and immunotoxicity of two representative DNA nanostructures: DNA tetrahedron (TDN) and DNA nanoparticle (DNP) are studied. The pharmacokinetics of DNA nanostructures are monitored in a mouse model via tracking of 32P radiolabeled, and the half‐lives of TDN and DNP are 9.88 and 19.80 min, respectively. TDN and DNP preferentially accumulate in the liver and kidney in one half‐life and are metabolized through liver, kidney, and excreta after 24 h. Meanwhile, TDN and DNP elicit a weak pro‐inflammatory immune response with low immunogenicity and are non‐immunotoxic, as shown by immunotoxicity evaluation, histopathology, and serum biochemical index analysis. This research shows that the DNA nanostructures of TDN and DNP are safe for biological systems, indicating that TDN and DNP can be developed as promising therapeutic platforms in biomedicine.
Using assessment to help students interrogate AI‐assisted composition
Authors: Dale Daniel
Published: September 2024

ChatGPT and generative AI (GenAI) are disrupting students’ traditional writing process. Although this development may seem novel, new technologies and writing practices have always affected the classroom, as research in composition shows. Turning to this existing scholarship, I show how composition studies provide a useful framework for thinking about integrating GenAI assignments into all courses. Using an assignment from spring 2023, as an example, I show how assessments that encourage students to compare their embodied composing practices with AI‐assisted composing practices help them see the advantages and disadvantages of both. In the end, students are more aware of how effective composing can involve a variety of synergistic physical and digital tools. Finally, I broaden this specific assignment to show how it can be used as a framework for other assignments across the disciplines.
Rational decision‐making in practice
Authors: Belshaw Zoe
Published: September 2024

Reviewed by Zoe Belshaw, a small animal internal medicine diplomate and evidence‐based veterinary medicine consultant.
Digital twins in healthcare: Applications, technologies, simulations, and future trends
Authors: Abd Elaziz Mohamed , Al‐qaness Mohammed A. A. , Dahou Abdelghani , Al‐Betar Mohammed Azmi , Mohamed Mona Mostafa , El‐Shinawi Mohamed , Ali Amjad , Ewees Ahmed A.
Published: September 2024

The healthcare industry has witnessed significant interest in applying DTs (DTs), due to technological advancements. DTs are virtual replicas of physical entities that adapt to real‐time data, enabling predictions of their physical counterparts. DT technology enhances understanding of disease occurrence, enabling more accurate diagnoses and treatments. Integrating emerging technologies like big data, cloud computing, Virtual Reality (VR), and internet‐of‐things (IoT) provides a solid foundation for DT implementation in healthcare. However, defining DTs within the healthcare context still has become increasingly challenging. Therefore, exploring the potential of DTs in healthcare contributes to research, emphasizing their transformative impact on personalized medicine and precision healthcare. In this study, we present diverse healthcare applications of DTs, including healthcare 4.0, cardiac analysis, monitoring and management, data privacy, socio‐ethical, and surgical. Moreover, this paper discusses the software and simulations of DTs that can be used in these applications of healthcare, as well as, the future trends of DTs in healthcare.

This article is categorized under:

Application Areas > Health Care

Technologies > Computational Intelligence
Rivers in History: Systems, Agents, and Places
Authors: Benson Etienne
Published: September 2024

Several influential river histories published in the past several decades have used systems-theoretic ideas and language to break down boundaries between nature and culture, between environment and technology, and between the humanities and the natural sciences. These works have served as models not only for historical research on rivers but for research on landscapes and environments in general. At the same time, a number of recent river histories have eschewed talk of systems, instead approaching rivers as historical agents and geographical places. Through a selective survey of recent works in the history of science and environmental history, this chapter offers a critical assessment of the use of systems theory and systems language to understand the entangled natural-cultural histories of landscape features and the Earth as a whole.
Overpartitions in terms of 2-adic valuation
Authors: Merca Mircea
Published: September 2024

In this paper, we consider the 2-adic valuation of integers and provide an alternative representation for the generating function of the number of overpartitions of an integer. As a consequence of this result, we obtain a new formula and a new combinatorial interpretation for the number of overpartitions of an integer. This formula implies a certain type of partitions with restrictions for which we provide two Ramanujan-type congruences and present as open problems two infinite families of linear inequalities. Connections between overpartitions and the game of m-Modular Nim with two heaps are presented in this context.
On mean-variance optimal reinsurance-investment strategies in dynamic contagion claims models
Authors: Santacroce Marina , Trivellato Barbara
Published: September 2024

We consider the reinsurance-investment problem under the mean variance criterion in a dynamic contagion model that takes into account self and externally excited claim clustering effects. We find explicit time-consistent reinsurance-investment strategies for a generalized proportional contract in which only losses above a certain level are reinsured. This greater flexibility in the contract mitigates the possible drawback of the primary insurer ceding too much at the expense of profitability, while still ensuring that the higher risks are shared with the reinsurance counterparty.