bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the service learning program in the transition country context from the students' philanthropic behaviour vantage point: Case of Croatia
Authors: Najev Čačija Ljiljana , Lovrinčević Marina , Pivčević Smiljana
Published: March 2024

Service learning is gaining growing attention in the academic community worldwide largely due to the benefits related to distinctive service learning outcomes. Among the many valuable student‐level outcomes, intention for future civic engagement through philanthropic behaviour is one of the most commonly investigated. This study provides an in‐depth analysis of students' participation in service‐learning programs and their future philanthropic behaviour in the form of volunteerism. A qualitative content analysis is conducted on the sample of students participating in an university's institutionalized service learning program of a transition country to explore its outcomes in this distinctive context. The findings identify four essential elements in assessing service learning participation, including three previously recognized ones and one emerging from the distinctive transition economy context. The findings are of particular importance for shaping the future civic engagement of students through philanthropic activities.
Tremor Assessment in Robot‐Assisted Microlaryngeal Surgery Using Computer Vision‐Based Tool Tracking
Authors: Cho Sue M. , Joo Henry H. , Golla Pranathi , Sahu Manish , Shankar Ahjeetha , Trakimas Danielle R. , Creighton Francis , Akst Lee , Taylor Russell H. , Galaiya Deepa
Published: March 2024

Objective

Use microscopic video‐based tracking of laryngeal surgical instruments to investigate the effect of robot assistance on instrument tremor.

Study Design

Experimental trial.

Setting

Tertiary Academic Medical Center.

Methods

In this randomized cross‐over trial, 36 videos were recorded from 6 surgeons performing left and right cordectomies on cadaveric pig larynges. These recordings captured 3 distinct conditions: without robotic assistance, with robot‐assisted scissors, and with robot‐assisted graspers. To assess tool tremor, we employed computer vision‐based algorithms for tracking surgical tools. Absolute tremor bandpower and normalized path length were utilized as quantitative measures. Wilcoxon rank sum exact tests were employed for statistical analyses and comparisons between trials. Additionally, surveys were administered to assess the perceived ease of use of the robotic system.

Results

Absolute tremor bandpower showed a significant decrease when using robot‐assisted instruments compared to freehand instruments (P = .012). Normalized path length significantly decreased with robot‐assisted compared to freehand trials (P = .001). For the scissors, robot‐assisted trials resulted in a significant decrease in absolute tremor bandpower (P = .002) and normalized path length (P < .001). For the graspers, there was no significant difference in absolute tremor bandpower (P = .4), but there was a significantly lower normalized path length in the robot‐assisted trials (P = .03).

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that computer‐vision‐based approaches can be used to assess tool motion in simulated microlaryngeal procedures. The results suggest that robot assistance is capable of reducing instrument tremor.
Learning from Industry Veterans
Authors: Pizzi Nick
Published: March 2024

Veteran leaders of the drinking water industry have contributed to AWWA's vast store of knowledge. The AWWA Training Services Group, staffed by many of these veterans, brings that experience and knowledge together to provide value to water operators via webinars, distance learning, and on‐site courses.
Leaky Lights Make Leaky Pipes
Authors: Voigtsberger Mark
Published: March 2024

Damage to water pipes from streetlights leaking voltage doesn’t get the attention that other electrical hazards do. Utilities have tools at their disposal and would be wise to take advantage of them.
Otolaryngology Care Disparities in American Indian Populations
Authors: Wang Alan W. , Patel Evan A. , Patel Nina , Poulson Trevor A. , Jagasia Ashok A.
Published: March 2024

Our objectives were to quantify geographical disparities in otolaryngology care access with respect to American Indian (AI) populations and to identify gaps in care. Although increased incidence and mortality rates of ear, nose, and throat (ENT) conditions in AI populations are well documented, few studies address factors contributing to these differential outcomes. We conducted a cross‐sectional study of US states with AI areas that either met the population threshold for the American Community Survey annual estimate or annual supplemental estimate. A 2‐tailed t test was used to compare the geographic distribution of ENT providers practicing within AI areas against non‐AI areas, showing a statistically significant difference (P < .001) in the concentration of providers (0.409 vs 2.233 providers per 100,000 patients). To our knowledge, this is the first study to explore geographic barriers contributing to AI disparities within otolaryngology.
Effectiveness of multi‐walled carbon nanotube on the improvement of tensile, flexural, and low‐velocity impact properties of hybrid Kevlar/carbon fiber reinforced epoxy‐based composites
Authors: Sulaiman Bahjat Hardan , Abdo Atban R. , Erkliğ Ahmet , Bozkurt Ömer Yavuz , Bulut Mehmet
Published: March 2024

In this study, the effects of hybridizing carbon fibers with Kevlar fibers and incorporating multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) particles on low‐velocity impact, tensile, and flexural performance were evaluated experimentally. A manual lay‐up procedure followed by vacuum bag molding was used to construct hybrid composites (carbon and Kevlar) with and without MWCNTs, as well as hybrid composites with varying MWCNT weight ratios of carbon and Kevlar fiber reinforcements. When 0.1 wt% of MWCNT was added to the epoxy to enhance absorbed energy and peak load, the maximum improvements observed were 31% and 28%, respectively. The addition of MWCNTs by 0.5 wt% to the epoxy enhanced the flexural strength and flexural modulus by 66% and 41%, and by 5% with 0.1 wt% and 12.3% with 0.5 wt% MWCNT for tensile strength and tensile modulus, respectively. These improvements were observed in both tensile strength and tensile modulus. As for (C5K10C5), the maximum improvements in absorbed energy and peak load were observed to be 11.2% and 31%, respectively, corresponding to a 0.1 wt% MWCNT addition, whereas the maximum improvement in flexural strength and flexural modulus was 12.28% and 44%, respectively, with a 0.1 wt% MWCNT. These improvements in mechanical properties are primarily attributed to the enhanced stress transfer properties from fibers and nanoparticles to the matrix. This enhancement is a result of the strong interfacial interactions between epoxy and MWCNT nanoparticles.

Highlights

MWCNT inclusion effects on mechanical properties of carbon/Kevlar hybrid composites.

MWCNT inclusion effects on low‐velocity impact properties of Carbon/Kevlar hybrid composites.

The effects of Kevlar and carbon stacking sequence with MWCNT incorporation were investigated.
Superior mechanical and ballistic performance of carbon nanotube‐reinforced phenolic/aramid fabric composites via a two‐roll pressing process
Authors: Li Zhaojing , Wang Mengjie , Liu Yanchen , Cai Lijuan , Fan Jiayi , Ou Yunfu , Zhu Lingzhuang , Li He , Mao Dongsheng
Published: March 2024

In this study, aramid fiber (AF)/phenolic resin prepreg was fabricated by impregnating low content carbon nanotube (CNT)‐reinforced phenolic resin with aramid fabric through a two‐roll pressing process. Both non‐functionalized and carboxylic‐functionalized CNTs (CNTs and CNTs‐COOH) were used for comparison study. For each of the formulations, composite laminate was made by a hot‐pressing process with a number of the prepregs stacked together. Mechanical properties and ballistic performance of the laminates and material failure mechanisms were evaluated and analyzed. Both non‐functionalized and CNTs‐COOH can effectively improve the mechanical and ballistic performance of the laminates. With CNTs‐COOH reinforcement, better results were achieved. As compared with the laminate without CNT reinforcement, 1.0 wt% CNTs‐COOH‐reinforced laminate showed 19.41%, 22.29%, and 45.83% improvement in tensile, flexural, and adhesion shear strength, respectively. The ballistic test results showed that the V50 and the specific energy absorption (SEA) were increased by 5.77% and 13.44%, respectively. The correlation between mechanical and ballistic performance of the composites was analyzed and conducted.
SiO2@Al2O3 binary filler: A chance for enhancing the heat transport in rubber composites for tire applications
Authors: Mirizzi Lorenzo , Amighini Alerhush Andreia , Nisticò Roberto , Malandrino Mery , Diré Sandra , Callone Emanuela , Fredi Giulia , Dorigato Andrea , Giannini Luca , Guerra Silvia , Mostoni Silvia , Di Credico Barbara , Scotti Roberto , D'Arienzo Massimiliano
Published: March 2024

The present study reports on the development of a new binary filler system for rubber composites, SiO2@Al2O3, where Al2O3 sheets are grown onto SiO2 nanoparticles aggregates by a sustainable water‐based soft‐chemistry approach. The aim is to synergistically integrate the intrinsic thermal conductivity properties of Al2O3 with the peculiar reinforcement ability of SiO2 in an easy one‐pot solution, which has been exploited to prepare polybutadiene (PB) model composites by a simple solvent casting technique. More in detail, the binary filler was used as‐prepared or suitably surface functionalized with 3‐(Trimethoxysilyl)propylmethacrylate (TMSPM). The filler compatibilization and interplay with the polymeric matrix have been inspected by solid state NMR in conjunction with scanning electron microscopy. These investigations highlighted that the presence of alumina in the binary filler does not undermine the capability of silica in generating polymer chains stiffening and indicated a significant effect of the silanization in providing better filler networking and interaction with the PB host ensuring, in principle, an enhanced thermal transport. Accordingly, thermal conductivity measurements revealed that SiO2@Al2O3 introduction in PB induces a remarkable upgrade of the heat transfer, which becomes much more relevant upon surface modification with TMSPM. These results appear encouraging, paving the possibility of applying SiO2@Al2O3 model system to more complex case studies, where both improved thermal conductivity and enhanced reinforcement are required, such as tires tread formulations.

Highlights

A new SiO2@Al2O3 binary filler system was proposed following a soft‐chemistry approach.

The binary filler was functionalized to enhance its compatibilization.

Fillers were dispersed in polybutadiene by a simple solvent casting technique.

Thermal conductivity measurements revealed a remarkable upgrade of the heat transfer ability.
Clinical experience of next generation sequencing based expanded carrier screening in high‐risk couples from a tertiary healthcare center in Pakistan
Authors: Akbar Fizza , Kirmani Salman , Qazi Muhammad Farrukh , Ali Najia Minhas , Ali Zohra Hasan , Afroze Bushra
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Carrier screening for genetic conditions has long been a part of preconception and prenatal care. While the use of expanded carrier screening (ECS) is widely common in HICs (high income countries), the clinical actionability of ECS in LMICs (low middle income countries) with high consanguineous unions is not well‐understood.

Method

Retrospective chart review of couples who presented to the Prenatal Genetics Clinic at Aga Khan University Hospital, between the period of June 2018 and November 2022. All the statistical analyses were performed using the statistical software STATA version 17.0.

Results

Of the 202 individuals tested, 166 (82%) were identified to be carriers of at least one gene associated with a monogenic condition. Out of the 302 genes tested, individuals were found to be carriers of conditions associated with 87 genes. Clinical actionability of ECS was established in a total of 45 (45%) high risk couples undergoing screening using ECS.

Conclusion

We report the first clinical experience of using next generation sequencing based ECS in 101 high‐risk couples seeking consultation in the Genetics Clinic, at a tertiary healthcare center in Pakistan, showing that over 80% high‐risk individuals are carriers of at least one condition and 45% of couples receive an actionable result to making autonomous informed reproductive decisions in future pregnancies.
A capture‐based method of prenatal cell‐free DNA screening for autosomal recessive non‐syndromic hearing loss
Authors: Mu Qian , Bai Ling , Xu Bing , Du Huawen , Jiang Zhaoyun , Huang Shasha , Gao Bo , Wu Qixi , Zhao Hanqing , Dai Pu , Jiang Yi
Published: March 2024

Objective

This study aimed to develop and validate a prenatal cell‐free DNA (cfDNA) screening method that uses capture‐based enrichment to genotype fetal autosomal recessive disorders. This method was applied in pregnancies at high risk of autosomal recessive non‐syndromic hearing loss (ARNSHL) to assess its accuracy and effectiveness.

Methods

This assay measured the allele counts in both white blood cell DNA and cfDNA from the blood samples of pregnant women using a capture‐based next‐generation sequencing method. It then applied a binomial model to infer the fetal genotypes with the maximum likelihood. Ninety‐four pregnant couples that were carriers of variants of ARNSHL in GJB2 or SLC26A4 were enrolled. The fetal genotypes deduced using this screening method were compared with the results of genetic diagnosis using amniocentesis.

Results

Of the 94 couples, 65 carried more than one variant, resulting in 170 single‐nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) loci to be inferred in the fetuses. Of the 170 fetal SNP genotypes, 150 (88.2%) had high confidence calls and 139 (92.7%) of these matched the genotypes obtained by amniocentesis result. Out of the remaining 20 (11.8%) cases with low‐confidence calls, only 14 (70.0%) were concordant with genetic diagnosis using amniocentesis. The concordance rate was 100% for sites where the maternal genotype was wild‐type homozygous. The discordance was site‐biased, with each locus showing a consistent direction of discordance. Genetic diagnosis identified a total of 19 wild‐type homozygotes, 46 heterozygotes, 19 compound heterozygotes, and 10 pathogenic homozygotes. This screening method correctly genotyped 81.9% (77/94) of fetuses and demonstrated a sensitivity of 89.7% and a specificity of 89.2% for correctly identifying ARNSHL.

Conclusion

This capture‐based method of prenatal screening by cfDNA demonstrated strong potential for fetal genotyping of autosomal recessive disorders.
Bibliometric analysis of neonatal sepsis from 2002 to 2022
Authors: Liu Chang , Chen Feifan , Shi Yuan
Published: March 2024

This study aimed to visualize the knowledge structure and research trends in neonatal sepsis research through bibliometric methods. Articles and reviews regarding neonatal sepsis from 2002 to 2022 were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection database. CiteSpace software was used to visualize the knowledge network of countries/regions, institutions, authors, journals, keywords, and references in this field. Altogether, 2314 publications were identified. During the study period, the number of publications increased yearly. The USA is the leading country in neonatal sepsis research. Duke University was the most prolific institution, with Pediatric Infectious Disease Journal and BASU S being the most prolific journal and author in the field, respectively. Pathogen, diagnosis, and management were the main topics of research, and future studies may concentrate on novel diagnostic biomarkers and judicious use of antibiotics. In summary, the results of our bibliometric analysis revealed views on the current situation and trends of neonatal sepsis research for the first time. This study may provide guidance for promoting research on neonatal sepsis.
Time‐lagged effects of student misbehavior on teacher counterproductive work behaviors: The role of negative affect and regulatory focus
Authors: Ghasemi Farshad
Published: March 2024

Student misbehavior is a significant occupational stressor for educators, with numerous emotional consequences threatening their mental well‐being. However, research to date has failed to study the behavioral consequences of student misbehavior among teachers, as such stressors may lead to counterproductive workplace behaviors (CWB) that could decline teachers' performance and school functioning. The current study builds on the stressor–emotion model and frustration‐aggression theory to fill this major gap in the literature. The proposed research model examines the association between student misbehavior and teacher CWB through two indirect pathways. It was hypothesized that job‐related negative affect would mediate the relationship between student misbehavior and CWB, and regulatory prevention focus would moderate the path from student misbehavior to CWB. Data collected from a sample of 330 teachers at two time points revealed that student misbehavior was directly associated with CWB and was indirectly associated with CWB through job‐related negative affect. Additionally, the regulatory prevention focus moderated the relationship between student misbehavior and CWB. The findings of the study help clarify the processes underlying the stressor‐behavior link, as well as the boundary conditions of these processes, which could provide a framework for schools to guide policies and practices regarding supporting educators in their interpretation and response to classroom misbehavior.
Proteomic characterization of extracellular vesicles in programmed cell death
Authors: Xue Vivian Weiwen , Wong Sze Chuen Cesar , Zhao Huafu , Cho William Chi Shing
Published: March 2024

Programmed cell death (PCD) is a fundamental biological process that plays a critical role in cell development, differentiation, and homeostasis. The secretion and uptake of extracellular vesicles (EVs) is one of the important regulatory mechanisms for PCD. EVs are natural membrane structures secreted by cells that contain a variety of proteins, lipids, nucleic acids, and other bioactive molecules. Due to their important roles in intercellular communication and disease progression, there is great interest in studying EVs and their cargo. Different protein components are sorted and packaged in EVs, allowing EVs to perform their functions. The study of EV proteomics helps us understand the role of PCD in the development of diseases. Meanwhile, proteomics is a powerful tool for studying the composition and function of EVs, which assists in the identification, quantification, and profiling of protein components of EVs, and provides insight into the molecular mechanisms involved in PCD and related diseases. In this review, we summarize the characteristics of EV proteomics in different types of PCD, compare different proteomic profiling strategies for EVs, and discuss the impact of EV proteomics on cell function and regulation during PCD, to understand its role in the pathogenesis of related diseases.
What are the mechanisms underlying the delivery of survivorship care information in Australia? A realist review
Authors: Myers Larry , Johnston Elizabeth A. , Zajdlewicz Leah , Viljoen Bianca , Kelly Sarah , Perry Nicole , Stiller Anna , Crawford‐Williams Fiona , Chan Raymond J. , Emery Jon D. , Bergin Rebecca J. , Aitken Joanne F. , Goodwin Belinda C.
Published: March 2024

Objective

Quality survivorship information is an essential component of cancer care. However, survivors often report not receiving this information and healthcare professionals report limited practical guidance on how to effectively deliver survivorship information. Therefore, this study used realist review methods to identify mechanisms reported within the published literature for communicating survivorship information and to understand the contextual factors that make these mechanisms effective.

Methods

Full‐text papers published in CINAHL, PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and Academic Search Ultimate were included. Studies included in this review were conducted in Australia between January 2006 and December 2023, and reported on how information regarding survivorship care was communicated to adult cancer survivors living in the community. This review utilized realist methodologies: text extracts were converted to if‐then statements used to generate context‐mechanism‐outcome theories.

Results

Fifty‐one studies were included and six theories for mechanisms that underpin the effective delivery of survivorship information were formed. These include: (1) tailoring information based on the survivors' background, (2) enhancing communication among providers, (3) employing dedicated survivorship staff, (4) providing survivorship training, (5) reducing the burden on survivors to navigate their care, and (6) using multiple modalities to provide information.

Conclusions

Findings can inform practical guidance for how survivorship care information is best delivered in practice. Clinicians can apply this guidance to improve their individual interactions with cancer survivors, as can policymakers to develop healthcare systems and procedures that support effective communication of cancer survivorship information.
Preclinical metabolism and the disposition of vornorexant/TS‐142, a novel dual orexin 1/2 receptor antagonist for the treatment of insomnia
Authors: Konno Yoshihiro , Kamigaso Shunsuke , Toki Hidetoh , Terasaka Shuichi , Hikichi Hirohiko , Endo Hiromi , Yamaguchi Jun‐Ichi , Mizuno‐Yasuhira Akiko
Published: March 2024

We investigated the metabolism and disposition of vornorexant, a novel dual orexin receptor antagonist, in rats and dogs, and clarified in vitro metabolite profiles in humans. Furthermore, we investigated the pharmacokinetics of active metabolites in rats and dogs and their CNS distribution in rats to elucidate its contribution to drug efficacy. [14C]vornorexant was rapidly and mostly absorbed after the oral administration in rats and dogs. The drug‐derived radioactivity, including metabolites, was distributed to major organs such as the liver, kidneys in rats, and was almost eliminated within 24 h post‐dose in both species. Metabolite profiling revealed that main clearance mechanism of vornorexant was metabolism via multiple pathways by oxidation. The major circulating components were the cleaved metabolites (M10, M12) in rats, and the unchanged form in dogs, followed by M1, and then M3. Incubation with human hepatocytes resulted in formation of metabolites, including M1, M3, M10, and M12. The metabolic pathways were similar in all tested species. Resulting from the PK and CNS distribution of active metabolites (M1 and M3) with weaker pharmacological activity, the concentration of the unchanged form was higher than that of active metabolites in rat CSF and dog plasma, suggesting that the unchanged form mainly contributed to the drug efficacy. These findings demonstrate that vornorexant is absorbed immediately after administration, and vornorexant and its metabolites are rapidly and completely eliminated in rats and dogs. Thus, vornorexant may have favorable pharmacokinetic profiles as a hypnotic drug to provide rapid onset of action and minimal next‐day residual effects in humans.
Bombyx mori voltage‐dependent anion‐selective channel induces programmed cell death to defend against Bombyx mori nucleopolyhedrovirus infection
Authors: Lv Jun‐li , Lai Wen‐qing , Gong Yu‐quan , Zheng Kai‐yi , Zhang Xiao‐ying , Lu Zhan‐peng , Li Mu‐wang , Wang Xue‐yang , Dai Li‐shang
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

Voltage‐dependent anion‐selective channels (VDACs) serve as pore proteins within the mitochondrial membrane, aiding in the regulation of cell life and cell death. Although the occurrence of cell death is crucial for defense against virus infection, the function played by VDAC in Bombyx mori, in response to the influence of Bombyx mori nucleopolyhedrovirus (BmNPV), remains unclear.

RESULTS

BmVDAC was found to be relatively highly expressed both during embryonic development, and in the Malpighian tubule and midgut. Additionally, the expression levels of BmVDAC were found to be different among silkworm strains with varying levels of resistance to BmNPV, strongly suggesting a connection between BmVDAC and virus infection. To gain further insight into the function of BmVDAC in BmNPV, we employed RNA interference (RNAi) to silence and overexpress it by pIZT/V5‐His‐mCherry. The results revealed that BmVDAC is instrumental in developing the resistance of host cells to BmNPV infection in BmN cell‐line cells, which was further validated as likely to be associated with initiating programmed cell death (PCD). Furthermore, we evaluated the function of BmVDAC in another insect, Spodoptera exigua. Knockdown of the BmVDAC homolog in S. exigua, SeVDAC, made the larvae more sensitive to BmNPV.

CONCLUSION

We have substantiated the pivotal role of BmVDAC in conferring resistance against BmNPV infection, primarily associated with the initiation of PCD. The findings of this study shine new light on the molecular mechanisms governing the silkworm's response to BmNPV infection, thereby supporting innovative approaches for pest biocontrol. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Focusing on what matters to the patient when prescribing
Authors: Ogden Joy
Published: March 2024

As Head of Effective Prescribing and Therapeutics for the Scottish Government, Dr Alpana Mair is responsible for advising ministers on the safe, sustainable and effective use of medicines. Here, she talks to Joy Ogden about her work tackling polypharmacy and ensuring the focus is on what matters to the patient when prescribing.
Prevention, diagnosis and treatment of actinic keratosis
Authors: Nair Chitra
Published: March 2024

Actinic keratoses are common in the UK, especially in lighter skinned individuals and those with high lifetime UV exposure. As they are considered premalignant and can progress to squamous cell carcinoma, early identification and treatment are important. This article provides a guide to the prevention, recognition and management of actinic keratosis.
Utilizing Island Growth in Superlattice Buffers for the Realization of Thick GaN‐on‐Si(111) PIN‐Structures for Power Electronics
Authors: Michler Sondre , Thapa Sarad , Besendörfer Sven , Albrecht Martin , Weingärtner Roland , Meissner Elke
Published: March 2024

In this study, the effect of implementing island growth in an AlN/Al0.1Ga0.9N superlattice on the structural properties of vertical GaN‐on‐Si(111) PIN‐structures is investigated. It is demonstrated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) that islands are formed on‐top of V‐pits present in the AlN nucleation layer and that the island coalescence height can be controlled by the growth temperature. Defect selective etching analyses confirm a noteworthy reduction in the threading dislocation density (TDD), which diminishes from 1.2 × 109 cm−2 ± 7.5 × 107 cm−2 to 8.5 × 108 cm−2 ± 7.3 ×107 cm−2 as the island coalescence height increases from ≈160 nm to ≈450 nm, achieved by increasing the growth temperature. Cross‐sectional transmission electron microscopy (TEM) shows that island growth is particularly favorable for the reduction of a‐type dislocations. As a consequence of the significant reduction of a‐type dislocations in the buffer, stress relaxation during the GaN film growth is reduced, which is supported by in situ wafer curvature measurements and high‐resolution X‐ray diffraction (XRD). Owing to the optimized island growth conditions, thick and crack‐free GaN layers on Si(111) substrates are obtained with an absolute wafer bow of <50 μm.
Topologically Protected Synthesizing of Fock States in a Circuit Quantum Electrodynamics Architecture
Authors: Xin Wei , Yu Xiang‐min , Zhou Kun , Li Shaoxiong , Yu Yang
Published: March 2024

The preparation of Fock states is important for quantum information storage and processing. Herein, a two‐step protocol with topological protection for multi‐photon Fock states synthesizing in a circuit quantum electrodynamics (QED) architecture is presented. Due to photon number‐dependent vacuum Rabi splitting, the dynamics of the Jaynes–Cummings ladder in the resonant regime can be equivalent to a spin‐1/2 chain while a multi‐frequency microwave pulse is applied. Based on the topologically assisted quantum state transfer (QST)technique, multi‐photon Fock states can be conditionally generated. This method significantly reduces the complexity of experimental manipulation compared with previous multi‐step methods and is more robust as a result of topological protection. Furthermore, the protocol indicates that the circuit QED architecture could potentially provide a platform to explore the exotic phase in condensed matter.
Salidroside directly activates HSC70, revealing a new role for HSC70 in BDNF signalling and neurogenesis after cerebral ischemia
Authors: Lai Wenfang , Luo Rui , Tang Yuheng , Yu Zhengshuang , Zhou Binbin , Yang Zelin , Brown John , Hong Guizhu
Published: March 2024

Salidroside, a principal bioactive component of Rhodiola crenulata, is neuroprotective across a wide time window in stroke models. We investigated whether salidroside induced neurogenesis after cerebral ischemia and aimed to identify its primary molecular targets. Rats, subjected to transient 2 h of middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO), received intraperitoneal vehicle or salidroside ± intracerebroventricular HSC70 inhibitor VER155008 or TrkB inhibitor ANA‐12 for up to 7 days. MRI, behavioural tests, immunofluorescent staining and western blotting measured effects of salidroside. Reverse virtual docking and enzymatic assays assessed interaction of salidroside with purified recombinant HSC70. Salidroside dose‐dependently decreased cerebral infarct volumes and neurological deficits, with maximal effects by 50 mg/kg/day. This dose also improved performance in beam balance and Morris water maze tests. Salidroside significantly increased BrdU+/nestin+, BrdU+/DCX+, BrdU+/NeuN+, BrdU−/NeuN+ and BDNF+ cells in the peri‐infarct cortex, with less effect in striatum and no significant effect in the subventricular zone. Salidroside was predicted to bind with HSC70. Salidroside dose‐dependently increased HSC70 ATPase and HSC70‐dependent luciferase activities, but it did not activate HSP70. HSC70 immunoreactivity concentrated in the peri‐infarct cortex and was unchanged by salidroside. However, VER155008 prevented salidroside‐dependent increases of neurogenesis, BrdU−/NeuN+ cells and BDNF+ cells in peri‐infarct cortex. Salidroside also increased BDNF protein and p‐TrkB/TrkB ratio in ischemic brain, changes prevented by VER155008 and ANA‐12, respectively. Additionally, ANA‐12 blocked salidroside‐dependent neurogenesis and increased BrdU−/NeuN+ cells in the peri‐infarct cortex. Salidroside directly activates HSC70, thereby stimulating neurogenesis and neuroprotection via BDNF/TrkB signalling after MCAO. Salidroside and similar activators of HSC70 might provide clinical therapies for ischemic stroke.
Erucin, a natural isothiocyanate, exerts pro‐angiogenic properties in cultured endothelial cells and reverts angiogenic impairment induced by high glucose
Authors: Genah Shirley , Ciccone Valerio , Filippelli Arianna , Simonis Vittoria , Martelli Alma , Piragine Eugenia , Pagnotta Eleonora , Pecchioni Nicola , Calderone Vincenzo , Morbidelli Lucia
Published: March 2024

Insufficient vessel maintenance adversely impacts patients in terms of tissue reperfusion following stroke or myocardial infarction, as well as during wound healing. Angiogenesis impairment is a feature typical of metabolic disorders acting at the cardiovascular level, such as diabetes. Therapeutic angiogenesis regulation offers promising clinical implications, and natural compounds as pro‐angiogenic nutraceuticals hold valuable applications in regenerative medicine. By using cultured endothelial cells from human umbilical veins (HUVEC) we studied functional and molecular responses following exposure to erucin, a natural isothiocyanate derived from Brassicaceae plants and extracted from the seeds of rocket. Erucin (at nanomolar concentrations) promotes cell migration and tube formation, similar to vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), through mobilizing paxillin at endothelial edges. At the molecular level, erucin induces signaling pathways typical of angiogenesis activation, namely Ras, PI3K/AKT, and ERK1/2, leading to VEGF expression and triggering its autocrine production, as pharmacological inhibition of soluble VEGF and VEGFR2 dampens endothelial functions. Furthermore, erucin, alone and together with VEGF, preserves endothelial angiogenic functions under pathological conditions, such as those induced in HUVEC by high glucose (HG) exposure. Erucin emerges as a compelling candidate for therapeutic revascularization applications, showcasing promising prospects for natural compounds in regenerative medicine, particularly in addressing angiogenesis‐related disorders.
Weight distribution of random linear codes and Krawtchouk polynomials
Authors: Samorodnitsky Alex
Published: March 2024

For and pick uniformly at random vectors in and let be the orthogonal complement of their span. Given with , let be the random variable that counts the number of words in of Hamming weight (where is assumed to be an even integer). Linial and Mosheiff [Random Struct. Algorithms. 62 (2023), 68Ű‐130] determined the asymptotics of the moments of of all orders . In this paper we extend their estimates up to moments of linear order. Our key observation is that the behavior of the suitably normalized moment of is essentially determined by the norm of the Krawtchouk polynomial .
Predicting the multivariate zero‐inflated counts: A novel model averaging method under Pearson loss
Authors: Liu Yin , Gao Ziwen
Published: March 2024

Excessive zeros in multivariate count data are often observed in scenarios of biomedicine and public health. To provide a better analysis on this type of data, we first develop a marginalized multivariate zero‐inflated Poisson (MZIP) regression model to directly interpret the overall exposure effects on marginal means. Then, we define a multiple Pearson residual for our newly developed MZIP regression model by simultaneously taking heterogeneity and correlation into consideration. Furthermore, a new model averaging prediction method is introduced based on the multiple Pearson residual, and the asymptotical optimality of this model averaging prediction is proved. Simulations and two empirical applications in medicine are used to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Syringotropic Mycosis Fungoides
Authors: Demoulins Edmond , Berthin Clémence
Published: March 2024

Brief description of a syringotropic mycosis fungoides.
MicroRNA Expression Profiling of Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinomas and Precursor Lesions
Authors: Hossain Akbor , Tom Lisa N. , Melati-Rad Ala , Yamada Miko , Hammerlindl Sabrina , Jagirdar Kasturee , Prow Tarl W. , Soyer H. Peter , Stark Mitchell S.
Published: March 2024

Background

Actinic keratoses (AK) are pre-malignant skin lesions caused by chronic sun exposure. Progression from an AK to intraepidermal carcinoma (IEC) and a cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is well known but the rate of transformation to an invasive SCC is highly variable. Since no definitive biomarkers are available, treatment decisions are made ad hoc.

Objectives

To fully characterise our AK to SCC progression series, we performed microRNA (miRNA) microarray expression profiling of normal and photodamaged skin, as well as AKs, IEC, and invasive SCCs.

Methods

The study recruited 27 patients who donated fresh biopsies of normal skin, photodamaged skin, AK, IEC, and SCC (n = 67 specimens). All miRbase (v.21) miRNAs were profiled to identify miRNAs related to SCC progression. miRNAs were validated using qRT-PCR and in vitro phenotypic assays.

Results

There were 234 robustly expressed miRNAs across the tissue collection, which resulted in 20 miRNA that were differentially expressed ((cor)p ≤ 0.05 and ≥ 10 fold) between normal skin and SCC. Hierarchical clustering all samples illustrated that AKs, IEC, and SCCs were largely indistinguishable, which confirms the premalignant status of an AK. A panel of miRNAs showed significant dysregulation between normal and photodamaged skin and AK. Importantly, we found miR-34a-5p and miR-31-5p had significant differential expression between AKs and IEC and IEC and SCC respectively. Phenotypic assays determined that the miR-31 duplex had opposing effects on SCC cell lines which suggests that dysregulation of this duplex may be related to the dynamic control of progression of transformed keratinocytes.

Conclusions

This study confirmed the continuum of AK with IEC and SCC highlighting that miRNA expression plays a role in keratinocyte transformation. Development of our putative miRNA biomarker candidates is warranted to aid in clinical management of patients experiencing high AK load to determine the most appropriate treatment.
Lichen Sclerosus of the Eyelid Involving the Eyelash Margin
Authors: Ho Tiffany , Ortiz Urda Susana , Berry Ryan S.
Published: March 2024

Lichen sclerosus is a debilitating and chronic disease that typically affects the anogenital area, although it can also be found on extragenital locations such as the shoulders, neck, trunk, breasts, and arms. Facial involvement is rare, but there have been a few reported cases of extragenital lichen sclerosus affecting the infraorbital area. To our knowledge, there are 7 documented cases of extragenital lichen sclerosus affecting the eyelid in medical literature. This is a novel case and documented report of a patient with extragenital lichen sclerosus located on the eyelid with eyelash margin involvement.
Novel Thiazolidine‐2,4‐Dione Derivatives as Potential VEGFR‐2 Inhibitors: Synthesis, Biological Testing, and in Silico Studies
Authors: Eissa Ibrahim , Elkady Hazem , Taghour Mohammed S. , Elwan Alaa , Dahab Mohammed A. , Hagras Mohamed , Elkaeed Eslam B. , Alsfouk Bshra A. , Ibrahim Ibrahim M. , Husein Dalal Z. , Hafez Elsayed E. , Mansour Hanem M. , Metwaly Ahmed , Mahdy Hazem A.
Published: March 2024

In this work novel 2,4‐dioxothiazolidine‐derived compounds targeting VEGFR‐2 were designed and synthesized. Such compounds were evaluated for their anti‐proliferative and VEGFR‐2 inhibitory abilities. Compound 17 specifically demonstrated the strongest anti‐proliferative activity against the HCT‐116 cell line, with an IC50 value of 10.09 μM. Additionally, compounds 15, 18, and 19 revealed good anti‐proliferative effects with IC50 values of 12.46, 16.87, and 12.35 μM, respectively. Compound 17 demonstrated potent anti‐VEGFR‐2 efficacy, with an IC50 value of 0.068 μM, which was comparable to sorafenib (IC50 value of 0.058 μM). Compound 17 induced apoptosis in HCT‐116 cancer cells and caused G0‐G1 phase cell cycle arrest. Furthermore, it upregulated BAX levels (5.1‐fold) and downregulated Bcl‐2 levels (4.2‐fold), indicating its pro‐apoptotic effects. Compound 17 also increased caspase‐8 and caspase‐9 levels by 3.3‐fold and 4.7‐fold, respectively, compared to the control. The computational studies provided insights into the kinetic, structural properties, and binding mode of the VEGFR‐2‐17 complex. The DFT calculations elucidated compound 17′s structural and electronic properties, while computational ADMET and toxicity tests suggested acceptable degrees of drug‐likeness potential for the synthesized compounds. Our findings suggest that compound 17 holds promise as a potent apoptotic VEGFR‐2 inhibitor and may guide future efforts in developing new anticancer drugs.
NIR Light‐Fuse Drug‐Free Photothermal Armor‐Piercing Microcapsule for Femoral Vein Thrombosis Therapy
Authors: Yang Ning , Qian Zhicheng , Yuan Renqiang , Li Weikun , Tan Xin , Liu Zonghao , Zhang Qianli , Ge Liqin , Liu Ling
Published: March 2024

Acute thrombosis and its complications are leading global causes of disability and death. Existing thrombolytic drugs, such as alteplase and urokinase (UK), carry a significant bleeding risk during clinical treatments. Thus, the development of a novel thrombolysis strategy is of utmost urgency. Based on the previous work, the hollow structure of microcapsules (MC) is fabricated. Subsequently, armor‐piercing MC, known as Fucoidan/S‐Nitrosoglutathione/Melanin@MC (FGM@MC) is obtained, using a layer‐by‐layer (LBL) self‐assembly method. Utilizing near‐infrared (NIR) light as a trigger, the FGM@MC demonstrated photothermal thrombolysis at the site of thrombus due to its stable and outstanding photothermal properties. Simultaneously, photothermal stimulation leads to the release of a significant amount of nitric oxide from the FGM@MC, resulting in cavitation effects for mechanical thrombolysis. In vivo experiments confirmed the stable release of nitric oxide under NIR light irradiation. Treatment of femoral vein thrombosis in rats revealed that the thrombolytic effectiveness of FGM@MC+NIR (53.71%) is comparable to that of UK (59.70%). Notably, FGM@MC does not interfere with the coagulation function of rats and exhibits a favorable safety profile. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that the drug‐free armor‐piercing microcapsule has significant potential in the treatment of thrombosis, offering a safe and effective alternative to traditional thrombolytic therapies.
Enabling Rapid and Stable Sodium Storage via a P2‐Type Layered Cathode with High‐Voltage Zero‐Phase Transition Behavior
Authors: Zou Li , Zhong Jiang , Wei Qiliang , Lin Yong , Zhou Yijie , Fu Yanqing , Yu Ruizhi , Gao Ping , Shu Hongbo , Liu Li , Yang Weiyou , Yang Xiukang , Wang Xianyou
Published: March 2024

Currently, a major target in the development of Na‐ion batteries is the concurrent attainment of high‐rate capacity and long cycling stability. Herein, an advanced Na‐ion battery with high‐rate capability and long cycle stability based on Li/Ti co‐doped P2‐type Na0.67Mn0.67Ni0.33O2, a host material with high‐voltage zero‐phase transition behavior and fast Na+ migration/conductivity during dynamic de‐embedding process, is constructed. Experimental results and theoretical calculations reveal that the two‐element doping strategy promotes a mutually reinforcing effect, which greatly facilitates the transfer capability of Na+. The cation Ti4+ doping is a dominant high voltage, significantly elevating the operation voltage to 4.4 V. Meanwhile, doping Li+ shows the function in charge transfer, improving the rate performance and prolonging cycling lifespan. Consequently, the designed P2‐Na0.75Mn0.54Ni0.27Li0.14Ti0.05O2 cathode material exhibits discharge capacities of 129, 104, and 85 mAh g−1 under high voltage of 4.4 V at 1, 10, and 20 C, respectively. More importantly, the full‐cell delivers a high initial capacity of 198 mAh g−1 at 0.1 C (17.3 mA g−1) and a capacity retention of 73% at 5 C (865 mA g−1) after 1000 cycles, which is seldom witnessed in previous reports, emphasizing their potential applications in advanced energy storage.
What is the Limit Size of 2D Conjugated Extension on Central Units of Small Molecular Acceptors in Organic Solar Cells?
Authors: Bi Xingqi , Cao Xiangjian , He Tengfei , Liang Huazhe , Yao Zhaoyang , Yang Jinyi , Guo Yaxiao , Long Guankui , Kan Bin , Li Chenxi , Wan Xiangjian , Chen Yongsheng
Published: March 2024

2D conjugated extension on central units of small molecular acceptors (SMAs) has gained great successes in reaching the state‐of‐the‐art organic photovoltaics. Whereas the limit size of 2D central planes and their dominant role in constructing 3D intermolecular packing networks are still elusive. Thus, by exploring a series of SMAs with gradually enlarged central planes, it is demonstrated that, at both single molecular and aggerated levels, there is an unexpected blue‐shift for their film absorption but preferable reorganization energies, exciton lifetimes and binding energies with central planes enlarging, especially when comparing to their Y6 counterpart. More importantly, the significance of well‐balanced molecular packing modes involving both central and end units is first disclosed through a systematic single crystal analysis, indicating that when the ratio of central planes area/end terminals area is no more than 3 likely provides a preferred 3D intermolecular packing network of SMAs. By exploring the limit size of 2D central planes, This work indicates that the structural profiles of ideal SMAs may require suitable central unit size together with proper heteroatom replacement instead of directly overextending 2D central planes to the maximum. These results will likely provide some guidelines for future better molecular design.
Smart molecules in ophthalmology: Hydrogels as responsive systems for ophthalmic applications
Authors: Kulbay Merve , Wu Kevin Y. , Truong Doanh , Tran Simon D.
Published: March 2024

This comprehensive review delves into a unique intersection of hydrogels as smart molecules and their transformative applications in ophthalmology. Beginning with the foundational definition, properties, and classification of hydrogels, the review explores their synthesis and responsive capabilities. Specific applications examined encompass topical drug delivery, contact lenses, intravitreal drug delivery, ocular adhesives, vitreous substitutes, and cell‐based therapy. A methodical analysis, including an overview of relevant ocular structures and a comparative evaluation of hydrogel‐based solutions against traditional treatments, is conducted. Additionally, potential constraints, translation challenges, knowledge gaps, and research areas are identified. Our methodical approach, guided by an extensive literature review from 2017 to 2023, illuminates the unprecedented opportunities offered by hydrogels, along with pinpointing areas for further inquiry to facilitate their transition into clinical practice.
Second‐Order Topological Insulator in Ferromagnetic Monolayer and Antiferromagnetic Bilayer CrSBr
Authors: Guo Zhenzhou , Jiang Haoqian , Jin Lei , Zhang Xiaoming , Liu Guodong , Liu Ying , Wang Xiaotian
Published: March 2024

Second‐order topological insulators (SOTIs) in 2D materials have attracted significant research interest. Recent theoretical predictions suggest that SOTIs can be achievable in 2D magnetic systems, especially within ferromagnetic (FM) materials. Yet, the quest for suitable 2D antiferromagnetic (AFM) materials capable of hosting magnetic SOTIs remains a challenge. Herein, utilizing first‐principles calculations and theoretical analysis, 2D CrSBr is proposed, including monolayer and bilayer forms, as a promising candidate for a magnetic high‐order topological insulator. The monolayer exhibits a FM ground state and features quantized fractional corner charge in its spin‐up channel in the absence of spin–orbital coupling (SOC), yielding fully spin‐polarized corner states. Intriguingly, the bilayer form adopts an AFM ground state while retaining the SOTI properties, with quantized corner charge in both spin channels. Remarkably, the SOTI properties in both monolayer and bilayer structures remain robust against the influence of SOC and symmetry‐breaking perturbations. The work not only identifies a tangible material for realizing 2D magnetic SOTIs, encompassing both FM and AFM phases, but also offers a path to explore the distinctive characteristics of SOTIs merged with magnetism.