bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A reduced‐dimension dynamic model of a proton‐exchange membrane fuel cell
Authors: Xu Ling , Hu Zunyan , Fang Chuan , Xu Liangfei , Li Jianqiu , Ouyang Minggao
Published: June 2021

The existing models of proton‐exchange membrane fuel cells, such as computational fluid dynamics and lumped‐parameter models, cannot provide a comprehensive description of mass‐transport mechanisms without incurring a high computational load. This paper proposes a reduced‐dimension dynamic model of fuel cells that considers main mass‐transport mechanisms, including two‐phase flow in the gas diffusion layer. Under the quasi‐steady‐state assumption, the distributions of liquid water and gas species in the through‐plane direction are calculated through analytical expressions. Thus, the reduced‐dimension fuel‐cell model can obtain a similar output to a one‐dimensional model without needing to solve partial differential equations. The reduced‐dimension model was validated on steady state and transient experimental data. The computational load of the reduced‐dimension model was only 1/60 that of a one‐dimensional model. To simulate the transient behavior of the fuel‐cell system, the reduced‐dimension fuel‐cell model was integrated with a comprehensive balance‐of‐plant model. The system model could execute long‐time‐scale transient simulations and evaluate the internal states of the fuel cell while minimizing the computing resources. Finally, the contradiction between the power response rate and oxygen starvation under the load‐delay strategy was analyzed with the system model, and the delay duration was optimized. Results verify the potential of the reduced‐dimension model in control‐oriented applications.

Novelty statement

The existing models of proton‐exchange membrane fuel cells, such as computational fluid dynamics and lumped‐parameter models, cannot provide a comprehensive description of mass‐transport mechanisms without incurring a high computational load. This work proposes a reduced‐dimension dynamic model of fuel cells that considers main mass‐transport mechanisms, including two‐phase flow in the gas diffusion layer. Under the quasi‐steady‐state assumption, the distributions of liquid water and gas species in the through‐plane direction are calculated through analytical expressions. Thus, the reduced‐dimension fuel‐cell model can obtain a similar output to a one‐dimensional model without needing to solve partial differential equations. The computational load of the reduced‐dimension model was only 1/60 that of a one‐dimensional model.
Estimating the optimal parameters of solid oxide fuel cell‐based circuit using parasitism‐predation algorithm
Authors: Yousri Dalia , Fathy Ahmed , Babu Thanikanti Sudhakar , Berber Mohamed R.
Published: June 2021

The process of constructing a reliable mathematical model of solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) is a challenge due to its complex nature. This paper proposes a new methodology incorporated a recent meta‐heuristic algorithm named parasitism‐predation algorithm (PPA) to estimate the optimal parameters of SOFC equivalent circuit. Two experiments are conducted in this work; the first one comprises four measured datasets for a commercial enhanced cylindrical SOFC manufactured by Siemen Energy. While the second series consists of five measured datasets for a theoretical dynamic SOFC stack with 96 connected cells. The collected datasets are measured at different operating conditions. An excessive comparative study is presented with other optimizers of comprehensive learning particle swarm optimization (CLPSO), improved PSO with difference mean with perturbation (DMP_PSO), heterogeneous CLPSO (HCLPSO), locally informed PSO (LIPS), modified CSO with tri‐competitive mechanism (MCSO), opposition‐based learning competitive PSO (OBLCPSO), ranking‐based biased learning swarm optimizer (RBLSO), competitive swarm optimizer (CSO), hybrid Jaya with DE (JayaDE), and social learning PSO (SLPSO). Furthermore, statistical analyses of the ranking tests, multiple sign tests, Friedman tests, and ANOVA are performed. The obtained results confirmed the proposed PPA's competence in constructing a reliable model of SOFC as it provides the least mean square error (MSE) between the measured and estimated characteristics of 2.164e−6 in the first series of experiments at 1073 K, in contrast, the most peer (CLPSO) provides 5.57e−6. Similarly, in the second series of experiments, PPA achieves lease MSE of 7.17e−2 at 973 K; meanwhile, the most peer (CLPSO) attains 5.44e−1.
Effect of the shafting nonorthogonal error on the tracking performance of solar dish concentrator system
Authors: Liu Yongxiang , Yan Jian , Peng Youduo , Tian Yong
Published: June 2021

A solar dish concentrator (SDC) system accurately tracks the sun using a dual‐axis tracking device to achieve efficient heat utilization. However, the tracking performance and optical performance of an SDC system are significantly reduced by shafting nonorthogonal errors between the elevation axis and azimuth axis of the double‐axis tracking device and the focal axis of the parabolic dish concentrator occurring during installation. In this paper, a tracking performance model of an SDC system is established based on the rigid body motion theory; the model considers the nonorthogonal errors between the elevation axis, azimuth axis, and focal axis. The radial angle and tangential angle are used to describe the deviation error of each axis from its ideal position. A virtual motion model of the SDC system with the nonorthogonal errors is established in the Solidworks 2014 software to verify the accuracy of the mathematical model. The influences of the nonorthogonal errors (single‐factor error and overall error) on the tracking accuracy and comprehensive tracking performance of the SDC system are analyzed in detail. The results show that the tracking errors (single‐factor error and overall error) of the SDC system increase and the tracking performance decreases as the radial angle error increases. When the radial angle error is the same and the axis vector changes (ie, the size of the tangential angle), the tracking performance of the SDC system improves. The focal axis error has the largest influence on the tracking performance of the system, followed by the azimuth axis error and the elevation axis error. The tracking performance of the SDC system is better when the azimuth axis is biased toward the south and north than toward the east and west and for elevation axis errors in the horizontal plane than the vertical plane. This work can provide a theoretical basis for the installation, debugging, and error control of solar concentrating systems with a double‐axis drive.
Possible actions of inulin as prebiotic polysaccharide: A review
Authors: Teferra Tadesse F.
Published: June 2021

This review summarizes the nature, types, and properties of inulin polysaccharides and their applications as prebiotic dietary fibers. Natural food and commercial plant sources of inulin and extraction methods are presented. The physicochemical and functional properties of inulin are summarized. The prebiotic roles of inulin and their mechanisms of action are detailed. Inulin acts as prebiotic dietary fiber with multiple putative health benefits. It reduces caloric intake and contributes to reduced blood glucose and plasma lipid/cholesterol levels when used as sugar and fat replacers. It also stimulates immune systems and protects the colon mucosa against carcinogenesis and inflammation. Inulin also alters the composition and population of the gut microbiota. It stimulates the growth and activities of health beneficial microorganisms while inhibiting enteropathogenic bacteria. The beneficial microorganisms ferment inulin and produces acids including short‐chain fatty acids that lower the pH in the colon and inhibit pathogens. The health beneficial bacteria also produce other metabolites that positively influence human health. The consumption of inulin is however, associated to symptoms of gastrointestinal discomfort, when consumed at higher levels to meet the daily recommendation of dietary fiber. Potential solutions to the limitations are forwarded as future research ideas and policy inputs.
Sudachi peel extract powder including the polymethoxylated flavone sudachitin improves visceral fat content in individuals at risk for developing diabetes
Authors: Shikishima Yasuhiro , Tsutsumi Rie , Kawakami Ayuka , Miura Hiroyuki , Nii Yoshitaka , Sakaue Hiroshi
Published: June 2021

In vitro and animal studies have indicated that extracts from the peel of the Japanese Citrus sudachi, including sudachitin, ameliorate hyperlipidemia and reduce obesity. Sudachitin, a polymethoxylated flavone, has been reported as having favorable effects on lipid and glucose metabolism but results from clinical trials have been inconsistent. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of consuming capsules of sudachi peel extract powder on visceral fat in Japanese men and women in a randomized controlled trial. This was a 12‐week randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial involving 41 participants aged 30–65 years with BMI 23–30 kg/m2, randomly allocated to receive either sudachi peel extract powder (sudachitin 4.9 mg/day, n = 21) or placebo (n = 20) of identical appearance. The primary outcome measure was visceral fat mass, assessed during intervention. Thirty‐eight of the 41 subjects completed the protocol. Compared with placebo, sudachi peel extract powder significantly reduced the ratio of visceral fat to subcutaneous fat, and moderately reduced waist circumference, a metabolic syndrome marker. Glycemic control and lipid profile were not changed significantly in these subjects. Consumption of capsules of sudachi peel extract powder favorably improves the ratio of visceral fat to subcutaneous fat in individuals at risk for developing diabetes, especially in individuals with large visceral fat area, while not adversely affecting glycemic control.
FAT4 identified as a potential modifier of orofacial cleft laterality
Authors: Curtis Sarah W. , Chang Daniel , Sun Miranda R. , Epstein Michael P. , Murray Jeffrey C. , Feingold Eleanor , Beaty Terri H. , Weinberg Seth M. , Marazita Mary L. , Lipinski Robert J. , Carlson Jenna C. , Leslie Elizabeth J.
Published: June 2021

Orofacial clefts (OFCs) are common (1 in 700 births) congenital malformations that include a cleft lip (CL) and cleft lip and palate (CLP). These OFC subtypes are also heterogeneous themselves, with the CL occurring on the left, right, or both sides of the upper lip. Unilateral CL and CLP have a 2:1 bias towards left‐sided clefts, suggesting a nonrandom process. Here, we performed a study of left‐ and right‐sided clefts within the CL and CLP subtypes to better understand the genetic factors controlling cleft laterality. We conducted genome‐wide modifier analyses by comparing cases that had right unilateral CL (RCL; N = 130), left unilateral CL (LCL; N = 216), right unilateral CLP (RCLP; N = 416), or left unilateral CLP (LCLP; N = 638), and identified a candidate region on 4q28, 400 kb downstream from FAT4, that approached genome‐wide significance for LCL versus RCL (p = 8.4 × 10−8). Consistent with its potential involvement as a genetic modifier of CL, we found that Fat4 exhibits a specific domain of expression in the mesenchyme of the medial nasal processes that form the median upper lip. Overall, these results suggest that the epidemiological similarities in left‐ to right‐sided clefts in CL and CLP are not reflected in the genetic association results.
A 6‐year prospective clinical cohort study on the bidirectional association between frailty and depressive disorder
Authors: Oude Voshaar Richard C. , Dimitriadis Menelaos , vandenBrink Rob H. S. , Aprahamian Ivan , Borges Marcus K. , Marijnissen Radboud M. , Hoogendijk Emiel O. , Rhebergen Didi , Jeuring Hans W.
Published: June 2021

Introduction

Depressive disorder has been conceptualised as a condition of accelerated biological ageing. We operationalised a frailty index (FI) as marker for biological ageing aimed to explore the bidirectional, longitudinal association between frailty and either depressive symptoms or depressive disorder.

Methods

A cohort study with 6‐year follow‐up including 377 older (≥60 years) outpatients with a DSM‐IV‐defined depressive disorder and 132 never‐depressed controls. Site visits at baseline, 2 and 6‐year follow‐up were conducted and included the CIDI 2.0 to assess depressive disorder and relevant covariates. Depressive symptom severity and mortality were assessed every 6 months by mail and telephone. A 41‐item FI was operationalised and validated against the 6‐year morality rate by Cox regression (HRFI = 1.04 [95% CI: 1.02–1.06]).

Results

Cox regression showed that a higher FI was associated with a lower chance of remission among depressed patients (HRFI = 0.98 [95% CI: 0.97–0.99]). Nonetheless, this latter effect disappeared after adjustment for baseline depressive symptom severity. Linear mixed models showed that the FI increased over time in the whole sample (B[SE] = 0.94 (0.12), p < .001) with a differential impact of depressive symptom severity and depressive disorder. Higher baseline depressive symptom severity was associated with an attenuated and depressive disorder with an accelerated increase of the FI over time.

Conclusions

The sum score of depression rating scales is likely confounded by frailty. Depressive disorder, according to DSM‐IV criteria, is associated with accelerated biological ageing. This argues for the development of multidisciplinary geriatric care models incorporating frailty to improve the overall outcome of late‐life depression.
Black Patients With Cirrhosis Have Higher Mortality and Lower Transplant Rates: Results From a Metropolitan Cohort Study
Authors: Mazumder Nikhilesh R. , Simpson Dinee , Atiemo Kofi , Jackson Kathryn , Zhao Lihui , Daud Amna , Kho Abel , Gabra Lauren G. , Caicedo Juan C. , Levitsky Josh , Ladner Daniela P.
Published: June 2021

Background and Aims

Estimates of racial disparity in cirrhosis have been limited by lack of large‐scale, longitudinal data, which track patients from diagnosis to death and/or transplant.

Approach and Results

We analyzed a large, metropolitan, population‐based electronic health record data set from seven large health systems linked to the state death registry and the national transplant database. Multivariate competing risk analyses, adjusted for sex, age, insurance status, Elixhauser score, etiology of cirrhosis, HCC, portal hypertensive complication, and Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease‐Sodium (MELD‐Na), examined the relationship between race, transplant, and cause of death as defined by blinded death certificate review. During the study period, 11,277 patients met inclusion criteria, of whom 2,498 (22.2%) identified as Black. Compared to White patients, Black patients had similar age, sex, MELD‐Na, and proportion of alcohol‐associated liver disease, but higher comorbidity burden, lower rates of private insurance, and lower rates of portal hypertensive complications. Compared to White patients, Black patients had the highest rate all‐cause mortality and non‐liver‐related death and were less likely to be listed or transplanted (P < 0.001 for all). In multivariate competing risk analysis, Black patients had a 26% increased hazard of liver‐related death (subdistribution HR, 1.26; 95% CI, [1.15‐1.38]; P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Black patients with cirrhosis have discordant outcomes. Further research is needed to determine how to address these real disparities in the field of hepatology.
Depression and social anxiety mediate the relationship between parenting styles and risk of eating disorders: A study among Arab adolescents
Authors: Peleg Ora , Tzischinsky Orna , Spivak‐Lavi Zohar
Published: June 2021

In multicultural Israel, the prevalence of eating disorders (EDs), a common chronic disorder among Western adolescents (especially females), has risen for Arab adolescents, who belong to an Eastern collectivist society. The study examines family and psychological factors that may increase the risk of EDs among Muslim Arab adolescents. We expected social anxiety and depressive symptoms to mediate the association between parenting styles and risk of EDs, with possible gender differences in the mediation model. Participants were 613 Muslim adolescents (394 females and 219 males); mean age = 15.4 ± 1.6; range = 12–19. The analyses revealed that the severity of depressive symptoms and especially social anxiety mediate the relationship between authoritarian parenting style and risk of EDs. Females reported higher levels of risk of EDs, social anxiety, depression and authoritative parenting style than males; no differences appeared for authoritarian or permissive parenting styles. The research sheds new light on risk factors for EDs and the likelihood of authoritarian parenting style and social anxiety being involved in the aetiology of EDs among Arab adolescents. The outcomes meaningfully add to understanding of specific psychological processes that may be associated with the risk of EDs in this population.
Surface modification of neurotrophin‐3 loaded PCL/chitosan nanofiber/net by alginate hydrogel microlayer for enhanced biocompatibility in neural tissue engineering
Authors: Habibizadeh Mina , Nadri Samad , Fattahi Ali , Rostamizadeh Kobra , Mohammadi Parvin , Andalib Sina , Hamidi Mehrdad , Forouzideh Narges
Published: June 2021

This study prepared a novel three‐dimensional nanocomposite scaffold by the surface modification of PCL/chitosan nanofiber/net with alginate hydrogel microlayer, hoping to have the privilege of both nanofibers and hydrogels simultaneously. Bead free randomly oriented nanofiber/net (NFN) structure composed of chitosan and polycaprolactone (PCL) was fabricated by electrospinning method. The low surface roughness, good hydrophilicity, and high porosity were obtained from the NFN structure. Then, the PCL/chitosan nanofiber/net was coated with a microlayer of alginate containing neurotrophin‐3 (NT‐3) and conjunctiva mesenchymal stem cells (CJMSCs) as a new stem cell source. According to the cross‐sectional FESEM, the scaffold shows a two‐layer structure with interconnected pores in the range of 20 μm diameter. The finding revealed that the surface modification of nanofiber/net by alginate hydrogel microlayer caused lower inflammatory response and higher proliferation of CJMSCs than the unmodified scaffold. The initial burst release of NT‐3 was 69% in 3 days which followed by a sustained release up to 21 days. The RT‐PCR analysis showed that the expression of Nestin, MAP‐2, and β‐tubulin III genes were increased 6, 5.4, and 8.8‐fold, respectively. The results revealed that the surface‐modified biomimetic scaffold possesses enhanced biocompatibility and could successfully differentiate CJMSCs to the neuron‐like cells.
Reduction for flag‐transitive 2‐(v,k,λ) designs with (r,λ)=2
Authors: Zhao Yanwei , Zhou Shenglin
Published: June 2021

This paper studies flag‐transitive 2‐ designs with . We prove that if is a flag‐transitive nontrivial 2‐ design with , then is of affine or almost simple type. Furthermore, we analyze the flag‐transitive automorphism groups of almost simple type with for , and obtain that, up to isomorphism, there are 11 designs.
Food insecurity and frailty among women with and without HIV in the United States: a cross‐sectional analysis
Authors: Tan Judy Y , Sheira Lila A , Frongillo Edward A , Gustafson Deborah , Sharma Anjali , Merenstein Daniel , Cohen Mardge H , Golub Elizabeth , Edmonds Andrew , Ofotokun Igho , Fischl Margaret , Konkle‐Parker Deborah , Neilands Torsten , Tien Phyllis , Weiser Sheri D
Published: June 2021

Introduction

Frailty is frequently observed among people with HIV, and food insecurity is associated with frailty in the general population. Evidence is scarce on the associations between food insecurity and frailty among women with HIV who may be particularly vulnerable to the impacts of food insecurity. The goal of this study was to assess associations between food insecurity and frailty among women with and without HIV.

Methods

There were 1265 participants from the Women’s Interagency HIV Study who participated in frailty assessments in 2017. Frailty was measured using the Fried Frailty Phenotype, and women were subsequently categorized as robust, pre‐frail or frail. Food insecurity was assessed using the U.S. Household Food Security Survey Module, with women categorized as having high, marginal, low or very low food security. Multinomial logistic regression models were conducted to examine cross‐sectional associations between food insecurity and frailty while adjusting for socio‐demographic, behavioural and HIV status covariates.

Results and discussion

Approximately one‐third (31.9%) of the women had marginal, low or very low food security, and the proportions of women who met the criteria for frailty or pre‐frailty were 55.6% and 12.4% respectively. In the adjusted model, the relative risk ratio (RRR) of frailty for women with very low food security versus women with high food security was 3.37 (95% CI [1.38 to 8.24], p < 0.01); the corresponding RRR of pre‐frailty was 3.63 (95% CI [1.76 to 7.51], p < 0.001). Higher annual household income was associated with lower RRRs of frailty or pre‐frailty (p < 0.01). Similarly, older age was associated with more frequent frailty (RRR=1.06, 95% CI [1.03 to 1.09], p < 0.001). HIV serostatus was not significantly associated with either pre‐frailty (RRR=0.97, 95% CI [0.71 to 1.31]) or frailty (RRR=0.75, 95% CI [0.48 to 1.16]).

Conclusions

Very low food security was associated with more frequent frailty and pre‐frailty among women with and without for HIV. HIV serostatus was not associated with frailty.
Manipulating 3‐windows with Bragg's grating through RAD mechanism: An efficient photonic structure for communication application
Authors: Panda Tusharkant , Patra Krishna Chandra , Barpanda Nalini Kant , Mishra Padmini , Palai Gopinath
Published: June 2021

The present paper focuses on one‐dimensional silicon grating to realise efficient interconnects at three optical communication windows. The mechanism of the present research relies on the diffraction, reflection, absorption and dispersion (RAD) analysis. Further dispersion depends on the polarisation, waveguide and material properties. The reflection loss is analysed through the photonic bandgap analysis where absorption and dispersion are discussed through analytical treatment. Finally, the output result confirms that the proposed silicon‐based grating structure has an efficiency of 98.10%, 99.58% and 99.78% at the signal of first (850 nm), second (1310 nm) and third (1550 nm) communication windows respectively.
Turning lemons into lemonade: The role of proactive personality and information exchange in limiting reciprocal negative affect transference in service encounters
Authors: Liu Xiao‐Yu , De Pater Irene E. , Ilies Remus
Published: June 2021

Drawing upon theory and research on affect transference and proactive personality, we examine the proactive behaviors employees enact to limit the reciprocal transference of negative affect between customers and employees during service encounters. Results of two event‐based, multi‐source field studies in the service industry show that employee proactive personality weakens (a) the positive relationship between customer negative affect before the service encounter and employee negative affect during the service encounter and (b) the negative relationship between employee negative affect during the service encounter and customer ratings of service quality after the service encounter. Employee information exchange with the customer mediates these moderating effects. These findings highlight the potential for employee proactive personality and information exchange with customers in limiting the transfer of negative affect in service encounters and minimizing negative further downstream effects on customers' perceptions of service quality.
The association between supply chain structure and transparency: A large‐scale empirical study
Authors: Gualandris Jury , Longoni Annachiara , Luzzini Davide , Pagell Mark
Published: June 2021

An emerging body of work acknowledges the challenges focal firms face in gathering material information about their extended supply chains and begins to point to the role of supply chain structure in influencing supply chain transparency. Still, large‐scale empirical evidence on this complex association remains elusive, especially at the supply chain level of analysis. We begin to bridge this empirical gap by examining whether supply chain structure systematically associates to supply chain transparency in the context of the collective public environmental, social, and governance (ESG) disclosures made by a focal firm's customers, suppliers, and subsuppliers. To shed light on this underexplored empirical phenomenon, we gather Bloomberg SPLC data and Bloomberg ESG data about 4803 firms and 20,504 contractual ties organized in 187 extended supply chains. We find that supply chain density positively associates with supply chain transparency, whereas supply chain clustering holds a negative association. We also find that supply chain geographical heterogeneity positively associates with supply chain transparency. Our results significantly expand the literature on supply chain transparency and are relevant to supply chain professionals because they emphasize the central role of supply chain structure in enabling or constraining supply chain transparency.
A light‐mediated study of carotenoids in carrots (Daucus carota) using resonance Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Badgujar Pooja Manik , Wang Yu‐Chun , Cheng Chia‐Liang
Published: June 2021

In photosynthetic systems, carotenoids play significant roles, and the prime role is light harvesting, then transferred to the photosynthetic apparatus for photosynthesis. Understanding carotenoids is a significant concern as it has a vital role in photosynthesis, and it also acts as a protective pigment in the biosystem. Carotenoids are widely distributed in almost all photosynthetic biosystems but highly accumulated in carrots, especially in (Daucus carota). Therefore, carrots can be a simpler model to understand the formation of carotenoids and their regulation with the help of exposure to sunlight. Raman spectroscopy is a noninvasive method to study molecular signature; it can be an ideal tool to understand carotenoids pigments in the growing stages of carrots. In this work, using resonance Raman spectroscopy with 532‐nm wavelength laser excitation, we were able to detect predominant carotenoid bands such as β‐carotene, α‐carotene, and lutein, at 1517–1519 cm−1 and 1521–1524 cm−1 with high peak intensities. This work gives a clear description and evidence of how light plays a profound effect on the activation and regulation of carotenoids. We observed β‐carotene in the nonphotosynthetic region of the plant, as a photoprotection of developing life is one of the significant roles of carotenoids, and Raman bands of carotenoids can be considered as the biomarker of photoprotection of developing life.
Why you hide what you know: Neuroscience behind knowledge hiding
Authors: Issac Abraham Cyril , Issac Thomas Gregor , Baral Rupashree , Bednall Timothy Colin , Thomas Tina Susan
Published: June 2021

Knowledge hiding is the deliberate concealment of knowledge when requested. This study underscores three divergent elements of the knowledge hiding process. First, it underlines both the distinct internal and external factors that trigger the knowledge hiding process. Second, it brings out the critical facilitators of knowledge hiding, which do have roots in both the internal and external factors but are inseparable and indistinguishable. Finally, this study brings out a conceptual framework that underscores the vital importance of neuroscience in establishing episodes of knowledge hiding. This final phase of the study categorically establishes the typical need for memory and the frontal lobe integrity in justifying any sequence of events or their combinations as an episode of knowledge hiding.
Impact of a new institutional medical journal on professional identity development and academic cultural change: A qualitative study
Authors: Hayes Victoria , Williams Emma , Fairfield Kathleen M. , Falank Carolyne , McKelvy Dina , Bing‐You Robert
Published: June 2021

We launched a new institutional open access journal, the Journal of Maine Medical Center (JMMC), in 2018. We sought to engender community support and engagement through purposeful design and implementation. An ad hoc group was formed of institutional members with diverse backgrounds. Editorial Board and Editorial Team members were drawn from within the academic community. The journal name, aims and scope, recognizable logo, cover page and images were all strategically selected in order to engender institutional and community support. Institutional funding was solicited to support an open‐access, no‐fee, model. We adopted a philosophy of supporting novice authors with revisions of manuscripts that show merit, as opposed to immediate rejection. We assessed success of community engagement through semi‐structured interviews of authors and reviewers and qualitative analysis of the transcripts. As evidenced by their perceptions, we have made positive steps toward supporting the academic mission of our institution and the scholarly professional identity of our participants. We outline a number of elements that are relevant to the start of a new academic journal and community engagement that we feel would be of interest to others considering a similar undertaking.
Differentiation of Brain Tumor Microvasculature From Normal Vessels Using Optical Coherence Angiography
Authors: Andleeb Farah , Katta Nitesh , Gruslova Aleksandra , Muralidharan Bharadwaj , Estrada Arnold , McElroy Austin B. , Ullah Hafeez , Brenner Andrew J. , Milner Thomas E.
Published: June 2021

Background and Objectives

Despite rapid advances and discoveries in medical imaging, monitoring therapeutic efficacy for malignant gliomas and monitoring tumor vasculature remains problematic. The purpose of this study is to utilize optical coherence angiography for vasculature characterization inside and surrounding brain tumors in a murine xenograft brain tumor model. Features included in our analysis include fractional blood volume, vessel tortuosity, diameter, orientation, and directionality.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

In this study, five tumorous mice models at 4 weeks of age were imaged. Human glioblastoma cells were injected into the brain and allowed to grow for 4 weeks and then imaged using optical coherence tomography.

Results

Results suggest that blood vessels outside the tumor contain a greater fractional blood volume as compared with vessels inside the tumor. Vessels inside the tumor are more tortuous as compared with those outside the tumor. Results indicate that vessels near the tumor margin are directed inward towards the tumor while normal vessels show a more random orientation.

Conclusion

Quantification of vascular microenvironments in brain gliomas can provide functional vascular parameters to aid various diagnostic and therapeutic studies. © 2021 Wiley Periodicals LLC
Long‐Term Controlled Release of Simvastatin from Photoprinted Triple‐Networked Hydrogels Composed of Modified Chitosan and PLA–PEG Micelles
Authors: Cisneros Karla , Chowdhury Naisha , Coleman Emily , Ferdous Tamanna , Su Hengjie , Jennings Jessica A. , Bumgardner Joel D. , Fujiwara Tomoko
Published: June 2021

Local delivery of active agents using injectable or implantable hydrogels for tissue and bone regeneration is a promising therapy, but it remains challenging for controlling dose and duration of release. Simvastatin (SMV), a hydrophobic drug, has shown potential for osteogenic stimulation. Secure loading of hydrophobic drugs by physical interactions is particularly difficult to establish in hydrophilic polymer matrices, and their sustained release over several months for long‐term regeneration has rarely been reported. Additionally, mechanical properties of hydrogels must be improved for a sufficient support while maintaining eventual biodegradability. This study assesses the effect of controlled SMV release from 3D‐printed triple‐network hydrogels for osteogenic stimulation and characterizes their mechanical and biological properties as an implant. SMV is loaded into polymeric micelles of polylactide/poly(ethylene glycol) triblock copolymers (PLA–PEG–PLA) and mixed with N‐methacryloyl chitosan and PEG dimethacrylate to fabricate hydrogels by photo‐cross‐linked 3D printing. The hydrogel properties and drug release profiles have shown significant dependance on the polymer compositions. The SMV release from the triple‐polymer‐network hydrogel has continued for 17 weeks of observation. Cytocompatibility of hydrogels with various formulations is confirmed. The tunable triple‐network hydrogels loaded with SMV provide a potential therapeutic value for bone regeneration.
A Concurrent Enhancement of Both In‐Plane and Through‐Plane Thermal Conductivity of Injection Molded Polycarbonate/Boron Nitride/Alumina Composites by Constructing a Dense Filler Packing Structure
Authors: Bai Yang , Shi You , Zhou Shengtai , Zou Huawei , Liang Mei
Published: June 2021

In this work, a facile strategy is proposed to concurrently enhance both in‐plane and through‐plane thermal conductivity of injection molded polycarbonate (PC)‐based composites by constructing a dense filler packing structure with planar boron nitride (BN) and spherical alumina (Al2O3) particles. The state of orientation of BN platelets is altered with the presence of Al2O3, which is favorable for improving both in‐plane and through‐plane thermal conductivity of subsequent moldings. Rheological analysis showed that the formation of intact thermal conductive pathways is crucial to the overall enhancement of thermal conductivity. Both in‐plane and through‐plane thermal conductivity of PC/BN(20 wt%)/Al2O3(40 wt%) composites reached as high as 1.52 and 1.09 W mK−1, which are 485% and 474% higher than that of pure PC counterparts, respectively. Furthermore, the prepared samples demonstrated excellent electrical insulation and dielectric properties which show potential application in electronic and automotive industries.
PEG‐Induced Controllable Thin−Thickness Gradient and Water Retention: A Simple Way to Programme Deformation of Hydrogel Actuators
Authors: Yang Yang , Wang Ting , Tian Fei , Wang Xionglei , Hu Yan , Xia Xuehuan , Xu Shimei
Published: June 2021

Building the differential growth through the thickness is a promising and challenging approach to design the morphing structures of hydrogel actuators. Besides retaining the size of the hydrogel actuators under environmental stimuli still remains a big challenge. Herein, a facile and universal approach is developed to address both issues by introducing PEG during the polymerization of N‐isopropylacrylamide (NIPAm) via one step method using asymmetric mold. Both composition gradient and pore gradient are obtained in micro level along the thickness direction of the final hydrogel, while thin‐thickness gradient in macro level. The thickness gradient and water retention can be controllably adjusted by changing PEG concentration. The introduction of PEG effectively improves both responsive and non‐shrunken performance by the interaction with PNIPAm. The resultant anisotropic PNIPAm/PEG hydrogel respond quickly and reach maximum deformation (360°) within 10 s at low temperature (40 °C). The various 3D shape and biomimetic movement can be programmed by simply controlling the PEG concentration and mold shape. This strategy can provide new insights into the design intelligent soft materials with 3D morphing for bioinspired and biomedical applications.
Recent advances (2019–2021) of capillary electrophoresis‐mass spectrometry for multilevel proteomics
Authors: Chen Daoyang , McCool Elijah N. , Yang Zhichang , Shen Xiaojing , Lubeckyj Rachele A. , Xu Tian , Wang Qianjie , Sun Liangliang
Published: June 2021

Multilevel proteomics aims to delineate proteins at the peptide (bottom‐up proteomics), proteoform (top‐down proteomics), and protein complex (native proteomics) levels. Capillary electrophoresis‐mass spectrometry (CE‐MS) can achieve highly efficient separation and highly sensitive detection of complex mixtures of peptides, proteoforms, and even protein complexes because of its substantial technical progress. CE‐MS has become a valuable alternative to the routinely used liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry for multilevel proteomics. This review summarizes the most recent (2019–2021) advances of CE‐MS for multilevel proteomics regarding technological progress and biological applications. We also provide brief perspectives on CE‐MS for multilevel proteomics at the end, highlighting some future directions and potential challenges.
Academic directors in board and corporate expropriation: Evidence from China
Authors: Khan Haroon ur Rashid , Khidmat Waqas Bin , Habib Muhammad Danish , Awan Sadia
Published: June 2021

Previous studies have recognized that the presence of academic directors on the board leads to better corporate governance and accounting quality. However, studies have yet to establish the effectiveness of academic directors in mitigating corporate expropriation in emerging markets. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of academic directors on corporate expropriation in Chinese listed firms. It is observed that the presence of the academic director in the board mitigates earnings management and abnormal investments and enhances the dividend payments. Additionally, we find that the critical mass of academic directors curbs the expropriator managerial behavior in Chinese listed firms.
Autosomal dominant variants inFOXJ1causing primary ciliary dyskinesia in two patients with obstructive hydrocephalus
Authors: Shapiro Adam J. , Kaspy Kimberley , Daniels M. Leigh Ann , Stonebraker Jaclyn R. , Nguyen Van‐Hung , Joyal Lyne , Knowles Michael R. , Zariwala Maimoona A.
Published: June 2021

Background

Primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) is a mostly autosomal recessive, genetic disease of abnormal motile cilia function, resulting in bronchiectasis, infertility, organ laterality defects, and chronic otolaryngology disease. Though motile, ependymal cilia influencing cerebrospinal fluid flow in the central nervous system share many aspects of structure and function with motile cilia in the respiratory tract, hydrocephalus is rarely associated with PCD. Recently, pathogenic variants inFOXJ1(Chr 17q25.1) were identified causing PCD associated with hydrocephalus, reduced respiratory cilia number, axonemal microtubule disorganization, and occurring in ade novo, autosomal dominant inheritance pattern.

Method

Two patients with chronic oto‐sino‐pulmonary disease and hydrocephalus underwent candidate testing ofFOXJ1. Coding region and splice junctions were sequenced and analyzed under the auspices of Genetic Disorders of Mucociliary Clearance Consortium.

Results

Upon sequencing of the entire coding region and splice‐junctions, heterozygous, pathogenic variants inFOXJ1were discovered in exon 3 of two patients: an 11‐month‐old female with situs inversus totalis (NM_001454.4: c.945delC (p.Phe315Leufs*18)) and a 51 year‐old male, post‐double lung transplantation (NM_001454.4: c.929_932delACTG (p.Asp310Glyfs*22)).FOXJ1variants were not detected in the available parents and the siblings of these probands.

Conclusion

FOXJ1pathogenic variants cause PCD in ade novo, autosomal dominant inheritance pattern, and are associated with hydrocephalus. Physicians treating patients with hydrocephalus and chronic oto‐sino‐pulmonary disease should be aware of this PCD association and test forFOXJ1variants.
Vitamin C Inhibits the Metabolic Changes Induced by Tet1 Insufficiency Under High Fat Diet Stress
Authors: Yuan Yangmian , Liu Chengyu , Chen Xingrui , Sun Yuyan , Xiong Mingrui , Fan Yu , Petersen Robert B. , Chen Hong , Huang Kun , Zheng Ling
Published: June 2021

Scope

DNA methylation contributes to obesity, but the role of the DNA demethylase ten‐eleven translocation protein 1 (Tet1) in obesity remains unclear. Vitamin C is a cofactor for the Tet family of proteins, but whether vitamin C can be used to treat obesity via Tet1 awaits clarification.

Methods and Results

Tet1+/+ and Tet1+/− mice are fed a high fat diet (HFD). Higher weight gain and more severe hepatic steatosis, accompanied by reduced 5‐hydromethylcytosine (5hmC) levels, are found in the white adipose tissue and liver of Tet1+/− mice. Accumulated lipids are observed in palmitic acid or oleic acid treated primary hepatocytes derived from Tet1+/− mice, which are rescued by Tet1 overexpression or vitamin C treatment. Bisulfite sequencing reveals higher DNA methylation levels on lipolysis related genes in the liver of Tet1+/− mice. Notably, oral intake of vitamin C normalizes DNA methylation levels, promotes lipolysis, and decreases obesity in HFD‐fed Tet1+/− mice.

Conclusions

The results reveal a novel function of Tet1 in obesity and provide a new mechanism for the beneficial role of vitamin C in metabolic diseases through enhanced Tet1 activity.
The effect of early cognitive training and rehabilitation for patients with cognitive dysfunction in stroke
Authors: Xuefang Liu , Guihua Wang , Fengru Miao
Published: June 2021

Objective

This article explores the effects of early cognitive training and rehabilitation for patients with cognitive dysfunction in stroke.

Methods

Stroke patients have cognitive dysfunction, and the incidence of cognitive dysfunction in stroke patients is six to nine times that of patients without stroke. This article selects 118 patients with stroke in our hospital from August 2017 to August 2019, 42 patients with stroke disorders randomly divided into two groups. Both groups of patients received conventional rehabilitation training, and the observation group performed motion observation therapy in virtual reality equipment based on conventional cognitive training. Analysis of time parameters related to rehabilitation training before and after treatment, and evaluation of standard health effects.

Results

After 4 weeks of treatment, the cognitive training time parameters of the two groups were compared. The cognitive reaction time was shorter than that before treatment. After treatment, the scores of cognitive training and rehabilitation effects were significantly lower than those before treatment, and the two scores of the observation group were significantly lower than those of the control group.

Conclusion

Stroke patients receive early cognitive training with the support of computer‐assisted technology to obtain good rehabilitation results.
Recent progress in small‐molecule donors for non‐fullerene all‐small‐molecule organic solar cells
Authors: Zhang Ze , Wang Yaokun , Sun Chenkai , Liu Zitong , Wang Haiqiao , Xue Lingwei , Zhang Zhi‐Guo
Published: June 2021

All‐small‐molecule organic solar cells (all‐SM OSCs), with p‐type small molecule (p‐SM) as donor and n‐type small molecule (n‐SM) as acceptor, have drawn intensive research interests in recent years. All‐SM OSCs show advantages to their polymer counterparts, including well‐defined chemical structure, easy purification, and better repeatability in devices. The highest power conversion efficiency (PCE) of all‐SM OSCs has increased quickly to over 15% nowadays. In this review, we just summarize the progress of non‐fullerene all‐SM OSCs (NF all‐SM OSCs) in recent five years, by dividing small‐molecule donors into four categories based on the molecular segments of oligothiophene, benzo[1,2‐b:4,5‐b’]dithiophene (BDT) trimer, typical BDT‐central unit connected with π‐bridges of thiophene or electron deficient acceptor units. We aim to illustrate the relationship of molecular structures, properties, and device performance of small‐molecule donors with those different molecular segments. Furthermore, the tendency of molecular design for photo‐active materials are also depicted and summarized. Finally, we give our views on the future prospects of NF all‐SM OSCs to design the next‐generation OSCs.
Paradoxical paramagnetic calcifications in the globus pallidus: An ex vivo MR investigation and histological validation study
Authors: Jang Jinhee , Nam Yoonho , Jung Sung Won , Riew Tae‐Ryong , Kim Sang Hyun , Kim In‐Beom
Published: June 2021

MR images based on phase contrast images have gained clinical interest as an in vivo tool for assessing anatomical and histological findings. The globus pallidus is an area of major iron metabolism and storage in the brain tissue. Calcium, another important metal in the body, is frequently deposited in the globus pallidus as well. Recently, we observed dense paramagnetic deposition with paradoxical calcifications in the globus pallidus and putamen. In this work, we explore detailed MR findings on these structures, and the histological source of the related findings using ex vivo CT and MR images. Ex vivo MR was obtained with a maximum 100 μm3 isotropic resolution using a 15.2 T MR system. 3D gradient echo images and quantitative susceptibility mapping were used because of their good sensitivity to metallic deposition, high signal‐to‐noise ratio, and excellent contrast to iron and calcium. We found dense paramagnetic deposition along the perforating arteries in the globus pallidus. This paramagnetic deposition was hyperdense on ex vivo CT scans. Histological studies confirmed this finding, and simultaneous deposition of iron and calcium, although more iron dominant, was observed along the vessel walls of the globus pallidus. This was an exclusive finding for the penetrating arteries of the globus pallidus. Thus, our results suggest that several strong and paradoxical paramagnetic sources at the globus pallidus can be associated with vascular degeneration.
Changes in proportion of bachelor's nurses associated with improvements in patient outcomes
Authors: Lasater Karen B. , Sloane Douglas M. , McHugh Matthew D. , Porat‐Dahlerbruch Joshua , Aiken Linda H.
Published: June 2021

This study uses data from two cross‐sections in time (2006, 2016) to determine whether changes over time in hospital employment of bachelor's of science in nursing (BSN) nurses is associated with changes in patient outcomes. Data sources include nurse survey data, American Hospital Association Annual Survey data, and patient administrative claims data from state agencies in California, Florida, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. The study sample included general surgical patients aged 18–99 years admitted to one of the 519 study hospitals. Multilevel logistic regression and truncated negative binomial models were used to estimate the cross‐sectional and longitudinal effects of the proportion of hospital BSN nurses on patient outcomes (i.e., in‐hospital mortality, 7‐ and 30‐day readmissions, length of stay). Between 2006 and 2016, the average proportion of BSN nurses in hospitals increased from 41% to 56%. Patients in hospitals that increased their proportion of BSN nurses over time had significantly reduced odds of risk‐adjusted mortality (odds ratio [OR]: 0.95, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.92–0.98), 7‐day readmission (OR: 0.96, 95% CI: 0.94–0.99) and 30‐day readmission (OR: 0.98, 95% CI: 0.95–1.00), and shorter lengths of stay (incident rate ratio [IRR]: 0.98, 95% CI: 0.97‐0.99). Longitudinal findings of an association between increased proportions of BSN nurses and improvements in patient outcomes corroborate previous cross‐sectional research, suggesting that a better educated nurse workforce may add value to hospitals and patients.