bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Highly Thermally Conductive Aramid Nanofiber Composite Films with Synchronous Visible/Infrared Camouflages and Information Encryption
Authors: Han Yixin , Ruan Kunpeng , He Xiaoyu , Tang Yusheng , Guo Hua , Guo Yongqiang , Qiu Hua , Gu Junwei
Published: February 2024

The development of highly thermally conductive composites that combine visible light/infrared camouflage and information encryption has been endowed with great significance in facilitating the application of 5G communication technology in military fields. This work uses aramid nanofibers (ANF) as the matrix, hetero‐structured silver nanowires@boron nitride nanosheets (AgNWs@BNNS) prepared by in situ growth as fillers, which are combined to fabricate sandwich structured thermally conductive and electrically insulating (BNNS/ANF)‐(AgNWs@BNNS)‐(BNNS/ANF) (denoted as BAB) composite films by “filtration self‐assembly, air spraying, and hot‐pressing” method. When the mass ratio of AgNWs@BNNS to BNNS is 1 : 1 and the total mass fraction is 50 wt %, BAB composite film has the maximum in‐plane thermal conductivity coefficient (λ∥ of 10.36 W/(m ⋅ K)), excellent electrical insulation (breakdown strength and volume resistivity of 41.5 kV/mm and 1.21×1015 Ω ⋅ cm, respectively) and mechanical properties (tensile strength of 170.9 MPa). 50 wt % BAB composite film could efficiently reduce the equilibrium temperature of the central processing unit (CPU) working at full power, resulting in 7.0 °C lower than that of the CPU solely integrated with ANF directly. In addition, BAB composite film boasts adaptive visible light/infrared dual camouflage properties on cement roads and jungle environments, as well as the function of fast encryption of QR code information within 24 seconds.
Advancing multiproduct resin reuse for development and clinical manufacturing of an antibody‐based therapeutic
Authors: Li Hong , Rose Patricia , Rowicki Patricia , Cutler Collette , McPhee Jeffrey T. , Frey Claudia , Lemieux Linda , Pelette Gerald , Ang Joo Kok , Liu Ren , Richardson Douglas D.
Published: February 2024

Chromatography resins used for purifying biopharmaceuticals are generally dedicated to a single product. For clinical manufacturing, this can result in resin being used only for a fraction of its potential lifetime. Extending the use of resins to multiple products can significantly reduce resin waste and cost. It can also improve manufacturing flexibility in case of raw material shortage during times such as the COVID‐19 pandemic. The work presented herein describes an overarching multiproduct resin reuse (MRR) strategy, which includes a risk assessment, strategic planning, small‐scale feasibility runs, and the successful execution of the MRR strategy to support Good manufacturing practice (GMP) clinical manufacturing of an antibody‐based therapeutic. Specifically, an anion exchange (AEX) and cation exchange (CEX) MRR strategy is described. Clearance of carryover biological product is demonstrated by first cleaning the AEX and CEX manufacturing columns with sodium hydroxide to ensure inactivation and degradation of the carryover protein and followed by a blank buffer elution that is tested using various analytical methodologies to ensure reduction of the carryover protein to an acceptable level. To our knowledge, this is the first time an MRR approach has been successfully implemented and submitted to health authorities to support biologic GMP clinical manufacture.
PIEZO1 is essential for the survival and proliferation of acute myeloid leukemia cells
Authors: Lebon Delphine , Collet Louison , Djordjevic Stefan , Gomila Cathy , Ouled‐Haddou Hakim , Platon Jessica , Demont Yohann , Marolleau Jean‐Pierre , Caulier Alexis , Garçon Loïc
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Leukemogenesis is a complex process that interconnects tumoral cells with their microenvironment, but the effect of mechanosensing in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) blasts is poorly known. PIEZO1 perceives and transmits the constraints of the environment to human cells by acting as a non‐selective calcium channel, but very little is known about its role in leukemogenesis.

Results

For the first time, we show that PIEZO1 is preferentially expressed in healthy hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells in human hematopoiesis, and globally overexpressed in AML cells. In AML subtypes, PIEZO1 expression associates with favorable outcomes as better overall (OS) and disease‐free survival (DFS). If PIEZO1 is expressed and functional in THP1 leukemic myeloid cell line, its chemical activation doesn’t impact the proliferation, differentiation, nor survival of cells. However, the downregulation of PIEZO1 expression dramatically reduces the proliferation and the survival of THP1 cells. We show that PIEZO1 knock‐down blocks the cell cycle in G0/G1 phases of AML cells, impairs the DNA damage response pathways, and critically increases cell death by triggering extrinsic apoptosis pathways.

Conclusions

Altogether, our results reveal a new role for PIEZO1 mechanosensing in the survival and proliferation of leukemic blasts, which could pave the way for new therapeutic strategies to target AML cells.
Mitochondrial dynamics as a novel treatment strategy for triple‐negative breast cancer
Authors: Wang Yuechen , Harada‐Shoji Narumi , Kitamura Narufumi , Yamazaki Yuto , Ebata Akiko , Amari Masakazu , Watanabe Mika , Miyashita Minoru , Tada Hiroshi , Abe Takaaki , Suzuki Takashi , Gonda Kohsuke , Ishida Takanori
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC), recognized as the most heterogeneous type of breast cancer (BC), exhibits a worse prognosis than other subtypes. Mitochondria dynamics play a vital role as mediators in tumorigenesis by adjusting to the cell microenvironments. However, the relationship between mitochondrial dynamics and metabophenotype exhibits discrepancies and divergence across various research and BC models. Therefore, this study aims to explore the role of mitochondrial dynamics in TNBC drug resistance and tumorigenesis.

Methods

The Wst‐8 test was conducted to assess doxorubicin sensitivity in HCC38, MDA‐MB‐231 (TNBC), and MCF‐7 (luminal). Confocal microscopy and FACS were used to quantify the mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔφM), mitophagy, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Agilent Seahorse XF Analyzer was utilized to measure metabolic characteristics. Dynamin‐related protein‐1 (DRP1), Parkin, and p62 immunohistochemistry staining were performed using samples from 107 primary patients with BC before and after neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC).

Results

MDA‐MB‐231, a TNBC cell line with reduced sensitivity to doxorubicin, reduced ΔφM, and enhanced mitophagy to maintain ROS production through oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS)‐based metabolism. HCC38, a doxorubicin‐sensitive cell line, exhibited no alterations in ΔφM or mitophagy. However, it demonstrated an increase in ROS production and glycolysis. Clinicopathological studies revealed that pretreatment (before NAC) expression of DRP1 was significant in TNBC, as was pretreatment expression of Parkin in the hormone receptor‐negative group. Furthermore, low p62 levels seem to be a risk factor for recurrence‐free survival.

Conclusion

Our findings indicated that the interplay between mitophagy, linked to a worse clinical prognosis, and OXPHOS metabolism promoted chemotherapy resistance in TNBC. Mitochondrial fission is prevalent in TNBC. These findings suggest that targeting the unique mitochondrial metabolism and dynamics in TNBC may offer a novel therapeutic strategy for patients with TNBC.
Isolation of New Diterpenoids from the Halophyte, Vitex rotundifolia, and their Antioxidant and Anti‐inflammatory Activities
Authors: Hwan Oh Jung , Kong Chang‐Suk , Lee Jihee , Kim Eun‐Hee , Seo Youngwan
Published: February 2024

In this study, three diterpenoids (1‐3), including one known compound (1), were isolated from the fruits of Vitex rotundifolia and their structures were determined via spectroscopic analysis. In lipopolysaccharide‐stimulated RAW264.7 cells, these compounds dose‐dependently decreased the intracellular reactive oxygen species levels and nitric oxide production compared to those in the control cells. At 25 μM/mL, these compounds also diminished the protein expression of the pro‐inflammatory cytokines, inducible nitric oxide synthase, cyclooxygenase‐2, and interleukin‐6, with compound 3 exhibiting the most potent inhibitory effect.
A Comprehensive Review of the Diverse Spectrum Activity of 1,2,3‐Triazole‐linked Isatin Hybrids
Authors: Rohila Yajat , Sebastian Sharol , Ansari Azaj , Kumar Deepak , Mishra D. K. , Gupta Manoj K.
Published: February 2024

Heterocyclic compounds containing 1,2,3‐triazole and isatin as core structures have emerged as promising drug candidates due to their diverse biological activities such as anti‐cancer, antifungal, antimicrobial, antitumor, anti‐epileptic, antiviral, and more. The presence of 1,2,3‐triazoles and isatin heterocycles in these hybrids, both individually known for their medicinal significance, has increasingly piqued the interest of drug discovery researchers, as they seek to delve deeper into their extensive pharmacological potential for enhancing therapeutic efficacy. Moreover, these hybrid compounds are synthetically accessible using readily available materials. Therefore, there is a pressing need to provide a comprehensive overview of the existing knowledge in this field, offering valuable insights to readers and paving the way for the discovery of novel 1,2,3‐triazole‐linked isatin hybrids with therapeutic potential.
Treatment of hypoglycemia due to a rare pathogenic variant in AKT2 with waxy maize heat‐modified starch
Authors: Parker Madeline , Yau Daphne
Published: February 2024

Key Clinical Message

The gain‐of‐function AKT2 c.49G>A variant causes hypoketotic hypoglycemia with variable associated features. Due to lack of effective medications, treatment is primarily supportive. This report suggests waxy maize heat is a viable treatment option.

The serine–threonine kinase AKT2 is a critical mediator of insulin's anabolic effects, particularly cellular glucose uptake. The gain‐of‐function c.49G>A, p.(Glu17Lys) AKT2 variant results in hypoketotic hypoglycemia with suppressed insulin and free fatty acid levels due to constitutive activation of the insulin signaling cascade. Although biochemical similarities exist among the eight individuals identified to date, the associated phenotype varies considerably. Treatment of these patients remains challenging, consisting primarily of frequent feeds with uncooked cornstarch. We describe a female with hemihypertrophy, developmental delay, and dysmorphic features who presented to our center with hypoglycemic seizures at age 6 months. Critical sample revealed hypoketotic hypoglycemia, undetectable insulin, and suppressed free fatty acids. Molecular testing confirmed a pathogenic c.49G>A, p.(Glu17Lys) AKT2 mutation. Glycemic control was initially difficult to establish, with recurrent hypoglycemia despite high glucose infusion rates. Following in‐hospital administration of waxy maize heat‐modified starch at age 4‐years, she remained euglycemic overnight, despite a previous report showing no benefit compared to uncooked cornstarch in an infant with the same mutation. Our report suggests waxy maize heat‐modified starch is a viable treatment option for patients with activating c.49G>A AKT2 mutations and provides further evidence of a broad phenotypic spectrum.
Choledochal cyst as an incidental finding during acute cholecystitis: A case report
Authors: Wern Ryan Isaac Sia Zu , Venna Pravallika , Sarkar Akash , Abdul‐Haque Marwa , Bhattessa Saachi
Published: February 2024

Key Clinical Message

This case demonstrates an atypical presentation of choledochal cysts (CDCs) and elaborates on the diagnostic challenges encountered when presented with CDCs in adulthood, as it principally presents in children.

A choledochal cyst is a rare congenital anomaly characterized by cystic dilations in the extrahepatic and intrahepatic biliary trees. These cysts are classified according to their location and characteristics. This case study aims to demonstrate how nonspecific clinical features can pose a diagnostic dilemma when presented in adults. Additionally, the case report provides an overview of diagnostic methods and treatment options. In this case, we discuss a 50‐year‐old female who presented with a 2‐ to 3‐day history of severe colicky pain in the right upper quadrant of her abdomen without any other symptoms or abnormal laboratory tests. In addition to ultrasonography evidence of CBD dilation and cholelithiasis, MRCP results confirmed the diagnosis. She underwent surgical intervention involving cyst excision, a Roux‐en‐Y hepatojejunostomy, and a cholecystectomy. The postoperative period was without significant complications. The case presented here illustrates the potential outcomes for individuals who present with choledochal cysts during adulthood. Often, these cases present with vague symptoms or as the underlying cause of a more severe condition. This case contributes to the existing knowledge of choledochal cysts by providing insight into the clinical presentation, diagnostic methods, and treatment options.
Focal central neurological disorder in patients with autoimmune thyroid disease without encephalopathy
Authors: Sharifi Parisa , Paybast Sepideh , Naser Moghadasi Abdorreza
Published: February 2024

Key Clinical Message

The report underscores the necessity for a comprehensive evaluation in patients with suggestive laboratory findings or AITD history. Prompt diagnosis and appropriate management are imperative in averting long‐term complications.
The bending technique of a scoring balloon Aperta NSE leading to successful crossing into stents
Authors: Funayama Naohiro , Kayanuma Keigo , Sunaga Daisuke , Furugen Makoto
Published: February 2024

A new scoring balloon Aperta NSE has 3 longitudinal nylon elements mounted on the non‐compliant balloon surface. Although a high‐pressure balloon is usually used as a post‐dilation balloon in an implanted stent, it is difficult to pass into the stents because a balloon gets caught in stents in some cases. Aperta NSE has some grooves at elements; therefore, this balloon is bendable and shaped in an arc. The bent scoring balloon could eliminate interference between the balloon and the stents or lesions. Moreover, the point where the tip of the balloon contacts could change. As a result, it helps to improve crossability of this balloon. The bending technique of a scoring balloon Aperta NSE could lead to successful crossing into stents or complex lesions.
Effects of Solvent and Monomer on the Kinetics of Radical Generation in Atom Transfer Radical Polymerization
Authors: Fantin Marco , Tognella Enrico , Antonello Andrea , Lorandi Francesca , Calore Elia , Macior Angelika , Durante Christian , Isse Abdirisak A.
Published: February 2024

Unlike classical radical polymerization, the kinetics of atom transfer radical polymerization show significant solvent dependence, possibly arising from solvent effects on the activation step. A kinetic study on the activation of the initiator ethyl α‐bromoisobutyrate by [CuITPMA]+ (TPMA=tris(2‐pyridylmethyl)amine), an initiator/catalyst combination frequently used in ATRP, was carried out in DMSO, DMF, MeCN, anisole, ethyl acetate, and their 50 vol % mixtures with styrene (STY) and methyl methacrylate (MMA). kact values varying about 3 orders of magnitude from 3.14×105 mol−1 dm3 s−1 in DMSO to 9.41×102 mol−1 dm3 s−1 in ethyl acetate were found. These values showed excellent correlation with the solvent polarity/polarizability parameter π*. The effect of MMA or STY depended on polarity compatibility between the monomer and the solvent: After monomer addition, kact decreased considerably in polar solvents, whereas it was almost unaffected in nonpolar solvents.
Oxidation of Alcohols in Continuous Flow with a Solid Phase Hypervalent Iodine Catalyst
Authors: Bensberg Kathrin , Savvidis Athanasios , Ballaschk Frederic , Gómez‐Suárez Adrián , Kirsch Stefan F.
Published: February 2024

One of the most useful transformations in the synthetic chemist arsenal is the oxidation of alcohols to their corresponding carbonyl congeners. Despite its seemingly straightforward nature, this transformative reaction predominantly relies on the use of metals or hazardous reagents, making these processes highly unsustainable. To address this challenge, we have developed a sustainable metal‐free method for the oxidation of alcohols in continuous flow. Using a solid phase hypervalent iodine catalyst and nBu4HSO5 as a phase transfer catalyst and co‐oxidant, primary and secondary alcohols were selectively oxidized to the corresponding carbonyl motifs. This operationally simple continuous‐flow set‐up is highly robust (15 cycles run without significant catalyst leaching or loss of reaction efficiency), uses green solvents, such as acetonitrile or acetic acid, and is readily scalable.
Parameters Influencing the Photochemical Cyclodehydrochlorination (CDHC) Reaction
Authors: Jolly Anthony , Fecteau Charles‐Émile , Johnson Paul Andrew , Morin Jean‐François
Published: February 2024

The photochemical cyclodehydrochlorination (CDHC) reaction has recently been used to prepare a wide variety of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and graphene nanoribbons (GNRs). However, the parameters affecting the efficiency of this reaction have been scarcely studied. In this work, we investigated how the reaction conditions influence the outcome of the reaction. The effect of functional groups on the different phenyl rings of the o‐terphenyl scaffold was also studied. The reaction kinetics follow the same trend as Hammett's constant when electron‐donating and electron‐withdrawing groups are present on the ring bearing the chlorine. The CDHC reaction can be successfully performed using less energetic 365 nm light in the presence of a triplet sensitizer. Computational results provide insight on the reaction mechanism, notably by identifying its three intermediate structures as well as its limiting step.
Furfural to Cyclopentanone – a Search for Putative Oligomeric By‐products
Authors: Baldenhofer Rick , Lange Jean‐Paul , Kersten Sascha R. A. , Ruiz M. Pilar
Published: February 2024

We report here on the reductive rearrangement of biomass‐derived furfural to cyclopentanone, a promising non‐fossil feedstock for fuels and chemicals. An underreported aspect of this reaction is the inevitable formation of heavy byproducts. To mitigate its formation, process condition such as, solvent, catalyst, temperature, acidity, and feed concentration were varied to unravel the chemistry and improve the reaction performance. Water medium was confirmed to play a crucial role, as organic solvents were unable to deliver cyclopentanone or heavy by products. Copper‐based catalyst showed the highest selectivity for ring‐rearrangement, reaching 50 mol % under the conditions investigated. The main factor influencing the yields of cyclopentanone (CPO), and promote oligomer formation, are the feed concentration and the pH, as high feed concentrations and high acidity facilitate the self‐polymerization of furfuryl alcohol (FALC). This was confirmed by dedicated experiments using FALC and the hydroxypentenone intermediate as feed. The concentration challenge could be mitigated by slowly dosing the feed, which increased the desired product yields by 4–12 mol %. Nevertheless, most oligomers appeared to fall in the range of common liquid fuels and could be converted to diesel by hydrodeoxygenation.
Image‐guided metabolomics and transcriptomics reveal tumour heterogeneity in luminal A and B human breast cancer beyond glucose tracer uptake
Authors: Yang Qianlu , Deng Sisi , Preibsch Heike , Schade Tim‐Colin , Koch André , Berezhnoy Georgy , Zizmare Laimdota , Fischer Anna , Gückel Brigitte , Staebler Annette , Hartkopf Andreas D. , Pichler Bernd J. , la Fougère Christian , Hahn Markus , Bonzheim Irina , Nikolaou Konstantin , Trautwein Christoph
Published: February 2024

Background

Breast cancer is a metabolically heterogeneous disease, and although the concept of heterogeneous cancer metabolism is known, its precise role in human breast cancer is yet to be fully elucidated.

Methods

We investigated in an explorative approach a cohort of 42 primary mamma carcinoma patients with positron emission tomography/magnetic resonance imaging (PET/MR) prior to surgery, followed by histopathology and molecular diagnosis. From a subset of patients, which showed high metabolic heterogeneity based on tracer uptake and pathology classification, tumour centre and periphery specimen tissue samples were further investigated by a targeted breast cancer gene expression panel and quantitative metabolomics by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. All data were analysed in a combinatory approach.

Results

[18F]FDG (2‐deoxy‐2‐[fluorine‐18]fluoro‐d‐glucose) tracer uptake confirmed dominance of glucose metabolism in the breast tumour centre, with lower levels in the periphery. Additionally, we observed differences in lipid and proliferation related genes between luminal A and B subtypes in the centre and periphery. Tumour periphery showed elevated acetate levels and enrichment in lipid metabolic pathways genes especially in luminal B. Furthermore, serine was increased in the periphery and higher expression of thymidylate synthase (TYMS) indicated one‐carbon metabolism increased in tumour periphery. The overall metabolic activity based on [18F]FDG uptake of luminal B subtype was higher than that of luminal A and the difference between the periphery and centre increased with tumour grade.

Conclusion

Our analysis indicates variations in metabolism among different breast cancer subtypes and sampling locations which details the heterogeneity of the breast tumours. Correlation analysis of [18F]FDG tracer uptake, transcriptome and tumour metabolites like acetate and serine facilitate the search for new candidates for metabolic tracers and permit distinguishing luminal A and B. This knowledge may help to differentiate subtypes preclinically or to provide patients guide for neoadjuvant therapy and optimised surgical protocols based on individual tumour metabolism.
Could hybridization increase the establishment success of the biological control agent Aphalara itadori (Hemiptera: Aphalaridae) against invasive knotweeds?
Authors: Yoshimoto Andrew , Szűcs Marianna
Published: February 2024

Intraspecific hybridization between distinct populations could increase the fitness and adaptive potential of biological control agents that often have low genetic diversity and can be inbred due to long‐term laboratory rearing often at small population sizes. Hybridization can also alter host preference and performance when the parental insect populations are adapted to different host plants. We investigated the effects of hybridization between two populations (Northern and Southern) of the psyllid, Aphalara itadori, that have different fitness on three invasive knotweed species (Japanese, giant, and Bohemian). Fecundity, host choice, and developmental success of second‐generation reciprocal hybrids and the parental psyllid populations were compared on the three knotweed species in multiple‐choice tests. Hybridization did not increase fecundity. All three knotweed species were accepted for oviposition without preference by the Southern and the two hybrid psyllid populations. The northern psyllid population laid the most eggs on Bohemian knotweeds but those were maladaptive choices since almost all eggs failed to develop. The developmental success of the parental psyllid populations was highest on the knotweed species they were originally collected from, on Japanese knotweed of the Southern psyllids and giant knotweed of the Northern psyllids. Hybrids had intermediate or higher survival on given knotweed hosts compared to their parents. These results can inform release tactics of A. itadori in different regions especially where there appear to be climatic and/or host mismatches such as in Michigan. In southern Michigan, based on climate the Northern psyllid population should be released. However, the most common knotweed species in the region are Bohemian and Japanese knotweeds that do not support the development of the Northern psyllids. In this case, hybrids that may carry cold adaptations of the Northern psyllids but have better developmental success on the prevailing knotweed species may be considered for release to increase establishment success.
Decatungstate‐Catalyzed Carbon‐Carbon Bond Formation Between Furfural and Electron‐Deficient Olefins
Authors: Nielsen Emil Krogh , El‐Chami Kassem , de Lichtenberg Clara Mondrup , Madsen Robert
Published: February 2024

Furfural is produced on a large commercial scale from lignocellulose and can be used for the preparation of several industrial chemicals with four to five carbon atoms. Further functionalization of furfural by C−H activation, however, is less widely developed. In the present work, tetrabutylammonium decatungstate is investigated as an inexpensive photocatalyst for activating the aldehyde C−H bond and mediate a coupling between furfural and electron‐deficient olefins. The results show that furfural can be successfully added to benzylidene malononitriles, acrylates, itaconic anhydride, maleic anhydride, 2‐vinylpyridine and phenyl vinyl sulfone to generate the corresponding furanyl ketones in moderate‐to‐good yields. The electronic properties of the electron‐deficient olefins are instrumental for achieving a favorable reaction with furfural. The findings show how photocatalysis can be used to form new carbon‐carbon bonds from a platform molecule, which in this way can be converted into a number of more advanced structures.
An efficient method for detecting membrane protein oligomerization and complex using 05SAR‐PAGE
Authors: Huang Liqun , Tong Qiong , Chen Lang , Zhao Weijing , Zhang Zeting , Chai Zhaofei , Yang Jun , Li Conggang , Liu Maili , Jiang Ling
Published: February 2024

Oligomerization is an important feature of proteins, which gives a defined quaternary structure to complete the biological functions. Although frequently observed in membrane proteins, characterizing the oligomerization state remains complicated and time‐consuming. In this study, 0.05% (w/v) sarkosyl‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (05SAR‐PAGE) was used to identify the oligomer states of the membrane proteins CpxA, EnvZ, and Ma‐Mscl with high sensitivity. Furthermore, two‐dimensional electrophoresis (05SAR/sodium dodecyl sulfate–PAGE) combined with western blotting and liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry was successfully applied to study the complex of CpxA/OmpA in cell lysate. The results indicated that 05SAR‐PAGE is an efficient, economical, and practical gel method that can be widely used for the identification of membrane protein oligomerization and the analysis of weak protein interactions.
Spatial transferability of the physically based model TRIGRS using parameter ensembles
Authors: de Vugt Lotte , Zieher Thomas , Schneider‐Muntau Barbara , Moreno Mateo , Steger Stefan , Rutzinger Martin
Published: February 2024

The development of better, more reliable and more efficient susceptibility assessments for shallow landslides is becoming increasingly important. Physically based models are well‐suited for this, due to their high predictive capability. However, their demands for large, high‐resolution and detailed input datasets make them very time‐consuming and costly methods. This study investigates if a spatially transferable model calibration can be created with the use of parameter ensembles and with this alleviate the time‐consuming calibration process of these methods. To investigate this, the study compares the calibration of the model TRIGRS in two different study areas. The first study area was taken from a previous study where the dynamic physically based model TRIGRS was calibrated for the Laternser valley in Vorarlberg, Austria. The calibrated parameter ensemble and its performance from this previous study are compared with a calibrated parameter ensemble of the model TRIGRS for the Passeier valley in South Tyrol, Italy. The comparison showed very similar model performance and large similarities in the calibrated geotechnical parameter values of the best model runs in both study areas. There is a subset of calibrated geotechnical parameter values that can be used successfully in both study areas and potentially other study areas with similar lithological characteristics. For the hydraulic parameters, the study did not find a transferable parameter subset. These parameters seem to be more sensitive to different soil types. Additionally, the results of the study also showed the importance of the inclusion of detailed information on the timing of landslide initiation in the calibration of the model.
Toward a predictable cask theory of species extinction assessment in the Anthropocene
Authors: Chen Youhua , Dai Qiang , Zhou Jin , Tang Danni , Li De‐Zhu , Wei Fuwen , Zhan Xiangjiang
Published: February 2024

Predicting species extinction is challenging in the context of climate change. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species assesses species extinction risk by accounting for population size and global range of taxa, but this approach neglects the importance of genetic variability. Here, we propose a life strategy index (LSI) for predicting the extinction risks of species under climate change. The LSI is composed of three fundamental and independent components: namely, evolutionary potential, ecological potential, and colonization potential. The LSI constitutes a so‐called “cask” theory of species extinction, which predicts that extinction likelihood is determined by the relative deficiency of any of the three components. The indicative variables used to construct the proposed LSI make the index applicable to assessments of (and predictions for) the extinction risk of different taxa in the face of climate change, which can inform management and conservation of imperiled species in a more scientific and precise manner.
High‐order gas kinetic flux solver for viscous compressible flow simulations
Authors: Jiang Lan , Wu Jie , Yang Liming , Dong Hao
Published: February 2024

Although the gas kinetic schemes (GKS) have emerged as one of the powerful tools for simulating compressible flows, they exhibit several shortcomings. Since the local solution of continuous Boltzmann equation with the Maxwellian distribution function is used to calculate the numerical fluxes at the cell interface, the flux expression in GKS is usually more complicated. In this paper, a high‐order simplified gas kinetic flux solver (GKFS) is presented for simulating two‐dimensional compressible flows. Circular function‐based GKFS (C‐GKFS), which simplifies the Maxwellian distribution function into the circular function, combined with an improved weighted essentially non‐oscillatory (WENO‐Z) scheme is applied to capture more details of the flow fields with fewer grids. As a result, a simple high‐order accurate C‐GKFS is obtained, which improves the computing efficiency and reduce its complexity to facilitate the practical application of engineering. A series of benchmark‐test problems are simulated and good agreement can be obtained compared with the references, which demonstrate that the high‐order C‐GKFS can achieve the desired accuracy.
Intraoperative hybrid technique for excision of temporal bone paraganglioma: A case report
Authors: Noy Roee , Livneh Ido , Zohar Yaniv , Abergel Eitan , Vaisbuch Yona
Published: February 2024

Background

Temporal bone paragangliomas are vascularized neoplasms. Although preoperative angioembolization serves as a valuable approach to reduce intraoperative blood loss, it comes with an elevated risk of cranial neuropathies, offers no assurance of complete hemostasis, and precludes real‐time adjustments during surgery.

Methods

A 74‐year‐old patient presented with recurrent episodes of ear bleeding. On examination, a vascular lesion obstructed her external auditory canal. It had the clinical and radiological characteristics of a paraganglioma. Angiography revealed that it had three feeding vessels.

Results

The patient was successfully scheduled for hybrid, intraoperative angiography and temporary balloon occlusion of the feeding vessels supplying the lesion instead of preoperative angioembolization.

Conclusions

Utilizing hybrid intraoperative angiography with temporary balloon occlusion during the surgical removal of temporal bone paragangliomas represents an innovative technique that reduces the risk of permanent cranial neuropathies while providing the capacity for real‐time adjustments and improved hemostasis.
Chronic aryl hydrocarbon receptor activity impairs muscle mitochondrial function with tobacco smoking
Authors: Fitzgerald Liam F. , Lackey Jacob , Moussa Ahmad , Shah Sohan V. , Castellanos Ana Maria , Khan Shawn , Schonk Martin , Thome Trace , Salyers Zachary R. , Jakkidi Nishka , Kim Kyoungrae , Yang Qingping , Hepple Russell T. , Ryan Terence E.
Published: February 2024

Background

Accumulating evidence has demonstrated that chronic tobacco smoking directly contributes to skeletal muscle dysfunction independent of its pathological impact to the cardiorespiratory systems. The mechanisms underlying tobacco smoke toxicity in skeletal muscle are not fully resolved. In this study, the role of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR), a transcription factor known to be activated with tobacco smoke, was investigated.

Methods

AHR related gene (mRNA) expression was quantified in skeletal muscle from adult controls and patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), as well as mice with and without cigarette smoke exposure. Utilizing both skeletal muscle‐specific AHR knockout mice exposed to chronic repeated (5 days per week for 16 weeks) cigarette smoke and skeletal muscle‐specific expression of a constitutively active mutant AHR in healthy mice, a battery of assessments interrogating muscle size, contractile function, mitochondrial energetics, and RNA sequencing were employed.

Results

Skeletal muscle from COPD patients (N = 79, age = 67.0 ± 8.4 years) had higher levels of AHR (P = 0.0451) and CYP1B1 (P < 0.0001) compared to healthy adult controls (N = 16, age = 66.5 ± 6.5 years). Mice exposed to cigarette smoke displayed higher expression of Ahr (P = 0.008), Cyp1b1 (P < 0.0001), and Cyp1a1 (P < 0.0001) in skeletal muscle compared to air controls. Cigarette smoke exposure was found to impair skeletal muscle mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation by ~50% in littermate controls (Treatment effect, P < 0.001), which was attenuated by deletion of the AHR in muscle in male (P = 0.001), but not female, mice (P = 0.37), indicating there are sex‐dependent pathological effects of smoking‐induced AHR activation in skeletal muscle. Viral mediated expression of a constitutively active mutant AHR in the muscle of healthy mice recapitulated the effects of cigarette smoking by decreasing muscle mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation by ~40% (P = 0.003).

Conclusions

These findings provide evidence linking chronic AHR activation secondary to cigarette smoke exposure to skeletal muscle bioenergetic deficits in male, but not female, mice. AHR activation is a likely contributor to the decline in muscle oxidative capacity observed in smokers and AHR antagonism may provide a therapeutic avenue aimed to improve muscle function in COPD.
Modulation of gut‐microbiota through probiotics and dietary interventions to improve host health
Authors: Dasriya Vaishali Lekchand , Samtiya Mrinal , Ranveer Soniya , Dhillon Harmeet Singh , Devi Nishu , Sharma Vikas , Nikam Pranali , Puniya Monica , Chaudhary Priya , Chaudhary Vishu , Behare Pradip V , Dhewa Tejpal , Vemuri Ravichandra , Raposo António , Puniya Dharun Vijay , Khedkar Gulab D. , Vishweswaraiah Raghu Hrikyathahalli , Vij Shilpa , Alarifi Sehad N , Han Heesup , Puniya Anil Kumar
Published: February 2024

Dietary patterns play an important role in regards to the modulation and control of the gut microbiome composition and function. The interaction between diet and microbiota plays an important role in order to maintain intestinal homeostasis, which ultimately affect the host's health. Diet directly impacts the microbes that inhabit the gastrointestinal tract (GIT), which then contributes to the production of secondary metabolites, such as short‐chain fatty acids, neurotransmitters, and antimicrobial peptides. Dietary consumption with genetically modified probiotics can be the best vaccine delivery vector and protect cells from various illnesses. A holistic approach to disease prevention, treatment, and management takes these intrinsically linked diet‐microbes, microbe–microbe interactions, and microbe–host interactions into account. Dietary components, such as fiber can modulate beneficial gut microbiota, and they have resulting ameliorative effects against metabolic disorders. Medical interventions, such as antibiotic drugs can conversely have detrimental effects on gut microbiota by disputing the balance between Bacteroides and firmicute, which contribute to continuing disease states. We summarize the known effects of various dietary components, such as fibers, carbohydrates, fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, proteins, phenolic acids, and antibiotics on the composition of the gut microbiota in this article in addition to the beneficial effect of genetically modified probiotics and consequentially their role in regards to shaping human health. © 2024 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Design of Multifunctional Color Routers with Kerker Switching Using Generative Adversarial Networks
Authors: Yan Jiahao , Zhu Dayu , Bao Yanjun , Chen Qin , Li Baojun , Cai Wenshan
Published: February 2024

To achieve optoelectronic devices with high resolution and efficiency, there is a pressing need for optical structural units that possess an ultrasmall footprint yet exhibit strong controllability in both the frequency and spatial domains. For dielectric nanoparticles, the overlap of electric and magnetic dipole moments can scatter light completely forward or backward, which is called Kerker theory. This effect can expand to any multipoles and any directions, re‐named as generalized Kerker effect, and realize controllable light manipulation at full space and full spectrum using well‐designed dielectric structures. However, the complex situations of multipole couplings make it difficult to achieve structural design. Here, generative artificial intelligence (AI) is utilized to facilitate multi‐objective‐oriented structural design, wherein the study leverages the concept of “combined spectra” that consider both spectra and direction ratios as labels. The proposed generative adversarial network (GAN) is named as DDGAN (double‐discriminator GAN) that discriminates both images and spectral labels. Using trained networks, the simultaneous design for scattering color and directivities, RGB color routers, as well as narrowband light routers is achieved. Notably, all generated structures possess a footprint <600 × 600 nm indicating their potential applications in optoelectronic devices with ultrahigh resolution.
All‐Dielectric High‐Q Dynamically Tunable Transmissive Metasurfaces
Authors: Sokhoyan Ruzan , Hail Claudio U. , Foley Morgan , Grajower Meir Y. , Atwater Harry A.
Published: February 2024

Active metasurfaces, which are arrays of actively tunable resonant elements, can dynamically control the wavefront of the scattered light at a subwavelength scale. To date, most active metasurfaces that enable dynamic wavefront shaping operate in reflection. On the other hand, active metasurfaces operating in transmission are of considerable interest as they can readily be integrated with chip‐scale light sources, yielding ultra‐compact wavefront shaping devices. Here, designs for all‐dielectric low‐loss active metasurfaces which can dynamically manipulate the transmitted light wavefront in the near‐infrared wavelength range are reported. The active metasurfaces feature an array of amorphous silicon (a‐Si) pillars on a silica (SiO2) substate, which support resonances with quality factors (Q‐factors) as high as 9800. The high‐Q resonance dips observed in transmission can be transformed into transmission resonance peaks by positioning a‐Si pillar resonators at a prescribed distance from a crystalline Si substrate. The design of metasurface geometry with realistic interconnect architectures that enable thermo‐optic dynamic beam switching with switching times as low as 7.3 µs is reported. Beam switching is observed for refractive index differences between neighboring metasurface elements as low as 0.0026. It is shown that the metasurface structures with realistic interconnect architectures can be used for dynamic beam steering.
Identification of carbonation‐induced corrosion of steel in concrete by electrochemical testing
Authors: Permeh Samanbar , Lau Kingsley
Published: February 2024

Carbonation‐induced corrosion of steel in concrete can allow for premature degradation of structures. Corrosion probes in health monitoring systems can assess concrete carbonation and steel corrosion rates. The electrochemical noise (EN) technique has advantages for corrosion sensing. Instrumented concrete columns were fitted with a carbonation chamber for accelerated testing. EN was assessed through statistical evaluation of noise time signatures, noise resistance, and spectral analysis. The mean noise potential for the electrodes showed electronegative potential and correspondingly high rms noise current, indicative of corrosion activation in carbonated concrete. The estimated corrosion rates obtained from the noise impedance were comparable to those resolved from the polarization resistance and noise resistance. The shot noise analysis indicated isolated spontaneous noise events associated with the activation of local steel anodes. The outcomes of the testing indicate that the placement of low‐cost sensors and passive EN measurements can be used to monitor the onset of carbonation‐induced corrosion of steel in concrete and provide estimates on corrosion rates.
Synthetic self‐adjuvanted multivalent Mucin 1 (MUC1) glycopeptide vaccines with improved in vivo antitumor efficacy
Authors: Zhou Yang , Li Xinru , Guo Yajing , Wu Ye , Yin Lixin , Tu Luyun , Hong Sheng , Cai Hui , Ding Feiqing
Published: February 2024

The tumor‐associated glycoprotein Mucin 1 (MUC1) is aberrantly glycosylated on cancer cells and is considered a promising target for antitumor vaccines. The weak immunogenicity and low sequence homology of mouse mucins and human MUC1 are the main obstacles for the development of vaccines. Herein, a self‐adjuvanted strategy combining toll‐like receptor  2 lipopeptide ligands and T‐cell epitopes and the multivalent effect were used to amplify the immune response and evade the unpredictable immunogenicity, generating two self‐adjuvanted three‐component MUC1 vaccines (mono‐ and trivalent MUC1 vaccines). To simulate the aberrantly glycosylated MUC1 glycoprotein, the MUC1 tandem repeat peptide was bounded with Tn antigens at T9, S15, and T16, and served as B‐cell epitopes. Results showed that both vaccines elicited a robust antibody response in wild‐type mice compared with a weaker response in MUC1 transgenic mice. The trivalent vaccine did not elevate the antibody response level compared with the monovalent vaccine; however, a more delayed tumor growth and prolonged survival time was realized in wild‐type and transgenic mouse models treated with the trivalent vaccine. These results indicate that the self‐adjuvanted three‐component MUC1 vaccines, especially the trivalent vaccine, can trigger robust antitumor effects regardless of sequence homology, and, therefore, show promise for clinical translation.
Impulsive fractional partial differential system and its correct equivalent integral equation
Authors: Zhang Xianmin , Liu Zuohua , Peng Zuming , He Yali , Yang Shixian
Published: February 2024

It is found that there are two piecewise functions to satisfy the conditions in the impulsive fractional partial differential system (IFrPDS), which deduce that the three different equivalent integral equations of the IFrPDS given in the cited papers are inappropriate. Next, by applying two limit properties of the IFrPDS and the properties of piecewise function, the new formula of equivalent integral equation of the IFrPDS is discovered that is the integral equation with an arbitrary continuously differentiable function of
on
to reveal the non‐uniqueness of the IFrPDE's solution. Finally, an example is provided to expound the computation of the equivalent integral equation of the IFrPDS.
Finite time blow‐up to the Cauchy problem in a higher dimensional two species chemotaxis system
Authors: Ha Tae Gab , Kim Seyun
Published: February 2024

In this paper, we study a blow‐up radial solution to the fully parabolic chemotaxis system with the higher dimensional two species Cauchy problem. In addition, we show that the set of positive radial functions in
has a dense subset composed of positive radial initial data causing blow‐up in finite time with respect to topology
for
.
Perceived social support among percutaneous coronary intervention patients over a long‐term follow‐up period
Authors: Kähkönen Outi , Paukkonen Leila , Vähänikkilä Hannu , Oikarinen Anne
Published: February 2024

Aim

To investigate perceived social support and the associated factors as well as the sources of social support among post‐percutaneous intervention patients over a long‐term follow‐up period.

Design

An explanatory and descriptive survey with a six‐year follow‐up (STROBE Statement: Supplementary file 1).

Methods

Baseline data (n = 416) were collected from Finnish patients in 2013, with follow‐up data collected from the same study group in 2019 (n = 154). The research employed the Social Support of Patients with Coronary Heart Disease self‐reported questionnaire. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and multivariate methods.

Results

In the acute phase, higher informational support was associated with lower LDL cholesterol and female gender and higher emotional support with working status. In long‐term follow‐up period, physical activity, younger age, normal cholesterol levels and previous percutaneous coronary intervention predicted higher informational support, regular participation in follow‐up sessions and relationship status predicted higher emotional support, and previous coronary artery bypass grafting, smoking, alcohol consumption, normal cholesterol and regular follow‐ups predicted higher functional support.

Patient or Public Contribution

No Patient or Public Contribution.