bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of measurement protocols and repetitions on handgrip strength weakness and asymmetry in patients with cancer
Authors: Chen Xiaoyan , Xie Lingling , Xia Xin , Luo Xiaozhen , Chen Jing , Zhang Jing , Li QinLan , Zhang Xuemei , Jiang Jiaojiao , Yang Ming
Published: November 2023

Background

The use of handgrip strength (HGS) in clinical cancer research is surging. The association between HGS and outcomes in patients with cancer varied across studies, which might be due to the different measurement protocols for HGS. We aimed to answer three questions: (1) Did the use of various protocols for HGS, along with different numbers of repetitions, lead to significant differences in maximum HGS values? (2) If yes, were these differences clinically significant? (3) Did the differences in HGS protocols and repetitions affect the identification of HGS weakness or HGS asymmetry?

Methods

We continuously recruited adult patients with solid tumours. Two protocols were used to measure HGS: Method A, following the American Society of Hand Therapists guidelines, and Method B, following the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey guidelines. To analyse HGS, we used the maximal value obtained from either two or three repetitions of the dominant hand or four or six repetitions of both hands.

Results

We included 497 patients (326 men and 171 women, median age: 58 years). The maximal HGS values, measured with Method B, were significantly higher than those measured by Method A in both men and women, despite repetitions (all P < 0.05). The maximum HGS values were significantly different across the repetition groups, regardless of measurement protocols and sex (all P < 0.01). The protocol‐induced differences in maximal HGS values might be clinically meaningful in over 60% of men and 40% of women despite repetitions. The repetition‐induced difference was only clinically significant in 4.3–17.8% of men and 4.1–14.6% of women. To identify HGS weakness, using Method A (six repetitions) as the ‘gold’ standard, the other protocols demonstrated an overall accuracy of 0.923–0.997 in men and 0.965–1 in women. To identify HGS asymmetry, using Method A (six repetitions) as the ‘gold’ standard, Method B (six repetitions) demonstrated a diagnostic accuracy of 0.972 in men and 0.971 in women. Method A (four repetitions) showed a diagnostic accuracy of 0.837 in men and 0.825 in women, while Method B (four repetitions) showed a diagnostic accuracy of 0.825 in men and 0.807 in women.

Conclusions

Both measurement protocols and repetitions significantly affect the maximal HGS values. The identification of HGS weakness is not significantly affected by either protocols or repetitions, while the identification of HGS asymmetry may be affected by different repetitions but not protocols.
Glycerol‐1,2‐carbonate: A mild reagent for the N‐glycerylation of pyrazolecarboxylates
Authors: Zagorskytė Inesa , Bieliauskas Aurimas , Pukalskienė Milda , Rollin Patrick , Arbačiauskienė Eglė , Šačkus Algirdas
Published: November 2023

In this study, glycerol‐1,2‐carbonate was employed as a convenient reagent for the synthesis of more complex pyrazole‐containing heterocyclic systems. 3‐O‐Tosylated glycerol‐1,2‐carbonate (TGC) was used for alkylation of NH‐pyrazolecarboxylates. The obtained N‐glycerylated pyrazoles were further treated with diverse nucleophiles for 2‐oxo‐1,3‐dioxolane ring cleavage. The synthesized 1‐(2,3‐dihydroxypropyl)‐1H‐pyrazole‐5‐carboxylates were subsequently hydrolyzed and treated with p‐toluenesulfonic acid, yielding a series of 6‐(hydroxymethyl)‐6,7‐dihydro‐4H‐pyrazolo[5,1‐c][1,4]ox‐azin‐4‐ones.
First ultrastructural description of an apomictic opsiblastic egg in freshwater Gastrotricha
Authors: Araujo Thiago Q. , King‐Trudeau Simon , VanDyke Joanna , Hochberg Rick
Published: November 2023

Freshwater gastrotrichs have a biphasic lifecycle that reputedly involves the production of three types of eggs: apomictic and fast hatching (tachyblastic ova), apomictic and delayed hatching (opsiblastic ova), and plaque‐bearing eggs (potentially derived from mixis). While some details of oogenesis and eggshell structure are known for tachyblastic ova, there are few details on other egg types. Here, we provide the first ultrastructural description of the oviposited opsiblastic eggs of the freshwater gastrotrich, Lepidodermella squamata. Scanning electron microscopy revealed the eggshell surface to be ornamented with long flattened pillar‐like structures centered on polygonal plates that are pitted along their periphery. Transmission electron microscopy showed the pits to lead to a vast labyrinth of tubular spaces and larger cavities throughout the thick apical layer of the shell. The basal layer of the shell is amorphous and connected to a network of fine fibers that traverse an extra‐oocyte space and forms a protective sheet around the uncleaved oocyte. The uncleaved oocyte has a dense layer of peripheral ooplasm surrounding a core of organelles including mitochondria, membrane‐bound secretion granules, endoplasmic reticulum, and a single nucleus in a granular, ribosome‐rich cytoplasm. Secretion granules are the most abundant organelles and presumably contain lipid‐rich yolk that will be used as energy for delayed cleavage, thus functioning in temporal dispersal. These data are compared to the fine structure of invertebrate resting eggs across the phylogenetic spectrum to determine the novelty of opsiblastic egg structure in L. squamata.
Influences on Career Decisions: Collaborative systemic exploration of career influences with young Australian undergraduates
Authors: Abkhezr Peyman , Gaderer Caroline
Published: November 2023

The shifting labor market conditions paired with an increased responsibility to self‐negotiate career development have exacerbated employment uncertainties for many young undergraduate students. To support their career development, qualitative career assessment instruments facilitating reflexivity could play a role. This research focused on “Influences on Career Decisions” (ICD) and aimed to explore its use with young Australian undergraduate students and its potential in facilitating reflective careers and employment conversations. Six participants attended career interviews that utilized ICD. Findings revealed ICD's role in the facilitation of a collaborative and systemic career exploration process. Implications for career practice and research are outlined.
In vivo comprehensive metabolite profiling of esculetin and esculin derived from chicory in hyperuricemia rats using ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole‐orbitrap high‐resolution mass spectrometry
Authors: Lv Zheng , Wang Boyang , Wang Bianli , Zhang Huimin
Published: November 2023

Chicory, renowned for its multifaceted benefits, houses two vital coumarins, esculetin and esculin, both instrumental in reducing uric acid. This study emphasizes the metabolic pathways of esculetin and esculin under both standard and hyperuricemia conditions. Hyperuricemia was induced in Sprague–Dawley rats using oxonic acid potassium salt (300 mg·kg−1) and a 10% fructose water regimen over 21 days. Leveraging the ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography‐Q Exactive hybrid quadrupole‐orbitrap high resolution mass spectrometry, we analyzed the fragmentation behaviors of esculetin and esculin in rat bio‐samples. Post oral‐intake of esculetin or esculin, a notable dip in serum uric acid levels was observed in hyperuricemia rats. The investigation unveiled 24 esculetin metabolites and 14 for esculin. The metabolic pathways of both compounds were hydrolysis, hydroxylation, hydrogenation, dehydroxylation, glucuronidation, sulfation, and methylation. Interestingly, certain metabolites presented variations between standard and hyperuricemia rats, indicating that elevated levels of uric acid may affect enzyme activity linked to these metabolic reactions. This is the first systematic study on comparison of metabolic profiles of esculetin and esculin in both normal and hyperuricemia states, which was helpful to enrich our understanding of the complicated structure–activity relationships between esculin and esculetin and shed light to their action mechanism.
Circularly‐Polarized Laser Equivalent to Two Phase‐Shifted Linearly‐Polarized Sources
Authors: Tsai Jui‐Tse , Hsieh Chi‐Ti , Cheng Chao‐Chieh , Shih Min‐Hsiung , Chang Shu‐Wei
Published: November 2023

Compact circularly‐polarized (CP) light sources are important for chirality‐based applications at the chip level. The CP light is conventionally generated by passing the linearly‐polarized (LP) one through quarter wave plates which are too thick for packed integrations. In this work, the in‐plane submicron phase shifter substitutes the quarter‐wave plate in the creation of CP light. After the lasing field of a holed microdisk is coupled into the nearby waveguide and phase shifter, it is guided into two grating couplers that output orthogonally LP waves vertically. The two LP waves are phase‐shifted by and combine into the coherent CP radiation in the far‐field zone. Experimentally, the fabricated devices exhibit a degree of circular polarization as high as 74%. This device scheme is simple and effective in that it relies on no extrinsic materials, large‐area auxiliary structures, or specialized operation conditions critical for CP radiation. The compatibility issues for integrated photonic systems are of less concern in such schemes.
Enhanced Dural Repair Using Biodegradable Sealants Based on Photocurable Hyaluronic Acid
Authors: Lee Hyeseon , Lee Sijoon , Seong Keum‐Yong , Kang Subin , Seo Min‐Soo , Shin Su Ryon , Nam Kyoung Hyup , Yang Seung Yun
Published: November 2023

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage is a common complication of intradural surgery or incidental durotomy in neurosurgery. Dural suturing is a common method for durotomy repair, but this technique requires a long operation time and includes the risk of CSF leakage by incomplete sealing. Glue‐type sealants are effective for watertight dural closure. However, unresolved shortcomings include insufficient sealing performance, poor biocompatibility, and excessive swelling. Here, a dural sealant using light‐activated hyaluronic acid (HA) with multi‐networks (HA photosealant) that provides fast sealing performance and high biocompatibility is reported. The HA photosealants form a watertight hydrogel barrier with multilength networks under low‐energy visible light exposure (405 nm, <1 J cm−2) for 5 s and allow firm tissue adhesion on the wet dural surface. In a rabbit model of craniectomy and durotomy, HA photosealants exhibit the faster sealing performance of dural tears and enhance dural repair with accelerated bone formation compared to commercial surgical glues, with no degenerative changes, such as inflammation or necrosis, in histopathological evaluation. This biocompatible HA photosealant can be applied in a variety of clinical settings that require fast wound closure as a promising potential.
Effect of Star Topology Versus Linear Polymers on Antifungal Activity and Mammalian Cell Toxicity
Authors: Schaefer Sebastian , Melodia Daniele , Corrigan Nathaniel , Lenardon Megan Denise , Boyer Cyrille
Published: November 2023

The global increase in invasive fungal infections and the emergence of drug‐resistant strains demand the urgent development of novel antifungal drugs. In this context, synthetic polymers with diverse compositions, mimicking natural antimicrobial peptides, have shown promising potential for combating fungal infections. This study investigates how altering polymer end‐groups and topology from linear to branched star‐like structures affects their efficacy against Candida spp., including clinical isolates. Additionally, the polymers’ biocompatibility is accessed with murine embryonic fibroblasts and red blood cells in vitro. Notably, a low‐molecular weight star polymer outperforms both its linear polymeric counterparts and amphotericin B (AmpB) in terms of an improved therapeutic index and reduced haemolytic activity, despite a higher minimum inhibitory concentration against Candida albicans (C. albicans) SC5314 (16–32 µg mL−1 vs 1 µg mL−1 for AmpB). These findings demonstrate the potential of synthetic polymers with diverse topologies as promising candidates for antifungal applications.
A “Limited Aggregation Model” to Predict the Size of Acrylamide‐Based Microgels Synthesized with Ionic Surfactants
Authors: Brézault Antoine , Schmitt Véronique , Ravaine Valérie , Perrin Patrick , Sanson Nicolas
Published: November 2023

The size of acrylamide‐based microgels can be decreased by addition of ionic surfactants during the classical dispersion polymerization. Nevertheless, the mechanism of such syntheses is not well understood yet. Here, a “Limited Aggregation Model” is proposed by analogy with the limited coalescence mechanism occurring for Pickering emulsion stabilization. In such a model, nuclei aggregate until a constant, high enough surfactant surface coverage is reached, which ensures colloidal stability. Consequently, the total surface of the growing particles, linked to the inverse of their size, is linearly dependent on the surfactant concentration. This law is verified if the surfactant/polymer particle interaction is high enough to guarantee a “total adsorption” of the surfactants onto the particles. This simple model fits very well with all the data extracted from the literature, including very different synthesis conditions. Finally, it not only permits to predict the microgels size, but it is also an interesting tool to investigate the role of each synthesis parameter like initiator, solvent or polymer. For instance, it shows that the surfactant role is not linked to its charge, proving that a phenomenon complementary to the electrostatic repulsion, related to the surfactant tail, ensures the colloidal stability of the growing collapsed microgels.
Investigations into the characterization, degradation, and applications of biodegradable polymers by mass spectrometry
Authors: Rizzarelli Paola , Leanza Melania , Rapisarda Marco
Published: November 2023

Biodegradable polymers have been getting more and more attention because of their contribution to the plastic pollution environmental issues and to move towards a circular economy. Nevertheless, biodegradable materials still exhibit various disadvantages restraining a widespread use in the market. Therefore, additional research efforts are required to improve their performance. Mass spectrometry (MS) affords a relevant contribution to optimize biodegradable polymer synthesis, to confirm macromolecular structures, to examine along the time the progress of degradation processes and highlight advantages and drawbacks in the extensive applications. This review aims to provide an overview of the MS investigations carried out to support the synthesis of biodegradable polymers, with helpful information on undesirable products or polymerization mechanism, to understand deterioration pathways by the structure of degradation products and to follow drug release and pharmacokinetic. Additionally, it summarizes MS studies addressed on environmental and health issues related to the extensive use of plastic materials, that is, potential migration of additives or microplastics identification and quantification. The paper is focused on the most significant studies relating to synthetic and microbial biodegradable polymers published in the last 15 years, not including agro‐polymers such as proteins and polysaccharides.
The Genetic Drivers of Juvenile, Young, and Early‐Onset Parkinson's Disease in India
Authors: Andrews Shan V. , Kukkle Prashanth L. , Menon Ramesh , Geetha Thenral S. , Goyal Vinay , Kandadai Rukmini Mridula , Kumar Hrishikesh , Borgohain Rupam , Mukherjee Adreesh , Wadia Pettarusp M. , Yadav Ravi , Desai Soaham , Kumar Niraj , Joshi Deepika , Murugan Sakthivel , Biswas Atanu , Pal Pramod K. , Oliver Merina , Nair Sandhya , Kayalvizhi Anbu , Samson Praveena L. , Deshmukh Manjari , Bassi Akshi , Sandeep Charugulla , Mandloi Nitin , Davis Oliver B. , Roberts Melissa A. , Leto Dara E. , Henry Anastasia G. , Di Paolo Gilbert , Muthane Uday , Das Shymal K. , Peterson Andrew S. , Sandmann Thomas , Gupta Ravi , Ramprasad Vedam L. ,   Parkinson Research Alliance of India (PRAI)
Published: November 2023

Background

Recent studies have advanced our understanding of the genetic drivers of Parkinson's disease (PD). Rare variants in more than 20 genes are considered causal for PD, and the latest PD genome‐wide association study (GWAS) identified 90 independent risk loci. However, there remains a gap in our understanding of PD genetics outside of the European populations in which the vast majority of these studies were focused.

Objective

The aim was to identify genetic risk factors for PD in a South Asian population.

Methods

A total of 674 PD subjects predominantly with age of onset (AoO) ≤50 years (encompassing juvenile, young, or early‐onset PD) were recruited from 10 specialty movement disorder centers across India over a 2‐year period; 1376 control subjects were selected from the reference population GenomeAsia, Phase 2. We performed various case‐only and case–control genetic analyses for PD diagnosis and AoO.

Results

A genome‐wide significant signal for PD diagnosis was identified in the SNCA region, strongly colocalizing with SNCA region signal from European PD GWAS. PD cases with pathogenic mutations in PD genes exhibited, on average, lower PD polygenic risk scores than PD cases lacking any PD gene mutations. Gene burden studies of rare, predicted deleterious variants identified BSN, encoding the presynaptic protein Bassoon that has been previously associated with neurodegenerative disease.

Conclusions

This study constitutes the largest genetic investigation of PD in a South Asian population to date. Future work should seek to expand sample numbers in this population to enable improved statistical power to detect PD genes in this understudied group. © 2023 Denali Therapeutics and The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Proteomic characteristics of lung adenocarcinoma tumors that are small but highly invasive
Authors: Qiu Zhenbin , Yang Xiongwen , Xia Jin , Zhang Chao , Tang Wenfang , Chu Xiangpeng , Fu Rui , Yang Xuening , Zhang Xuchao , Wu Yilong , Zhong Wenzhao
Published: November 2023

Background

Understanding the molecular mechanism of early lymph node metastasis among lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is essential for developing novel therapeutic agents. Proteomic studies helped generate molecular landscape for LUAD. However, the molecular basis of early lymph node metastases remains unknown in patients with LUAD.

Methods

Surgically resected LUAD tissues and paired normal tissues were selected from 25 patients with stage pT1bN2M0 (group of metastases [GM]) and 27 patients with stage T2b‐3N0M0 (group of large primary focus, GL) who had not undergone any anti‐tumor treatment. 4D‐Label‐free proteomics sequencing was performed among these tissues. The clinicopathological information was retrieved from the electronic medical record system in Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital.

Results

Compared with GL tumor tissue, 89 upregulated and 155 downregulated proteins were identified in GM tumor tissue. Upregulated proteins of GM were enriched in the ECM‐receptor interaction and PI3K‐AKT pathway under Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analysis. And then, the median disease‐free survival (DFS) of GM phenotype patients was used as the cut‐off value, and GM was divided into two groups with significantly different survival outcomes (DFS good vs. DFS Poor: DFS: p < 0.0001; overall survival: p = 0.0017). All members of the Microchromosome maintenance protein family were highly expressed in the DFS‐poor group, especially MCM2. Proteome‐based stratification of LUAD revealed three subtypes (S‐2, S‐2, and S‐3) related to different clinical and molecular features. S‐3 had higher catabolism‐related pathways enriched, such as amino sugar and nucleotide sugar metabolism and fructose and mannose metabolism, which has the worst prognosis (S1 vs. S2 vs. S3, RFS: p = 0.042).

Conclusions

Proteomics analyses revealed that the activation of the extracellular matrix and intracellular signal transduction might be the driving mechanisms for early lymph node metastasis. Higher expressed cell proliferation related pathways of early lymph node metastatic LUAD may accelerate the recurrence after curative surgery. Three proteomic subgroups of LUAD with distinct molecular and clinical characteristics were identified, the one of which characterized by enrichment of catabolism‐related pathways displayed the worst survival data.
The 2‐ruled hypersurfaces in Minkowski 4‐space and their constructions via octonions
Authors: Ndiaye Ameth , Özdemir Zehra
Published: November 2023

In this paper, we define three types of 2‐ruled hypersurfaces in the Minkowski 4‐space
. We obtain Gaussian and mean curvatures of the 2‐ruled hypersurfaces of type‐1 and type‐2 and some characterizations about its minimality. We also deal with the first Laplace–Beltrami operators of these types of 2‐ruled hypersurfaces in
. Moreover, the importance of this paper is the definition of these surfaces by using the octonions in
. Thus, this is a new idea and makes the paper original. We give an example of 2‐ruled hypersurface constructed by octonion, and we visualize the projections of the images with MAPLE program. Furthermore, the optical fiber can be defined as a one‐dimensional object embedded in the four‐dimensional Minkowski space
. Thus, as a discussion, we investigate the geometric evolution of a linearly polarized light wave along an optical fiber by means of the 2‐ruled hypersurfaces in a four‐dimensional Minkowski space.
‘Why can't we speak up for ourselves…?’ Water Futures and Ethnographic Provocations
Authors: Poelina Anne (Wagaba) , Toussaint Sandy , Muecke Stephen
Published: November 2023

Via a three‐person dialogue, we engage with an inquiry posed for this special issue: ‘What questions are ethnographers asking about water in Australia?’ Canvassing such an inquiry led us to being both provoked and provocateurs, in part by following Luci Pangrazio's (2016) discussion about the value of provocation in the social sciences. Turning from provocation as heuristic tool, we then focus on the iconic Mardoowarra, Fitzroy River in Western Australia's northern Kimberley, and Aboriginal people's deep and enduring cultural, environmental and emotional interconnections and responsibilities with such a major water source. Contemplated also is the contemporary importance of inquiring into water‐based questions relating to Australian Indigenous people that might be reconceptualized to become questions about ethnographers and ethnography in the 21st century.
Does an effective bankruptcy reform impact the selling cost behavior of firms? Evidence from India
Authors: Srivastava Aaraadhya
Published: November 2023

This study examined whether strengthening of creditors' rights impacts the selling cost behavior of firms or not? To investigate this question, the author exploited implementation of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) in 2016 in India as an exogenous policy shock. The author found that selling cost of firms in India in the pre‐implementation period were not “sticky”. Further, implementation of the IBC produced no impact on the selling cost behavior of Indian firms in the post‐implementation period. Nonetheless, legislation of the IBC was found to have lowered financial resources that firms devoted to their selling activities. In addition, firms that faced a higher risk of bankruptcy because of more leverage in the pre‐IBC period demonstrated greater response to promulgation of the IBC. Thus, it can be inferred that an effective bankruptcy reform has little impact on the selling cost behavior of firms but incentivizes them to devote lesser financial resources to their selling activities in order to lower their bankruptcy risk.
Electro‐chemo‐mechanical modeling of structural battery electrode materials
Authors: Rollin David , Larsson Fredrik , Runesson Kenneth , Jänicke Ralf
Published: November 2023

In this paper, a linear electro‐chemo‐mechanical model for a structural Lithium ion battery electrode material is presented. The considered material is composed of particles (storing Lithium) embedded in a porous polymer matrix. The pores are filled with a liquid electrolyte. In this three phase material different processes are taken into account: ion diffusion and migration inside the electrolyte, Lithium diffusion inside the particles, electric current inside the binder matrix and particles as well as deformation in these two phases. After presenting the mathematical model, we perform a numerical study of a simple system to investigate the model behavior.
Decreased HER2 expression in endometrial cancer following anti‐HER2 therapy
Authors: Chui M Herman , Brown David N , Da Cruz Paula Arnaud , da Silva Edaise M , Momeni‐Boroujeni Amir , Reis‐Filho Jorge S , Zhang Yanming , Makker Vicky , Ellenson Lora Hedrick , Weigelt Britta
Published: November 2023

Trastuzumab has demonstrated clinical efficacy in the treatment of HER2‐positive serous endometrial cancer (EC), which led to its incorporation into standard‐of‐care management of this aggressive disease. Acquired resistance remains an important challenge, however, and its underlying mechanisms in EC are unknown. To define the molecular changes that occur in response to anti‐HER2 therapy in EC, targeted next‐generation sequencing (NGS), HER2 immunohistochemistry (IHC), and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) were performed on pre‐ and post‐treatment tumour samples from 14 patients with EC treated with trastuzumab or trastuzumab emtansine. Recurrent tumours after anti‐HER2 therapy acquired additional genetic alterations compared with matched pre‐treatment ECs and frequently showed decreased HER2 protein expression by IHC (7/14, 50%). Complete/near‐complete absence of HER2 protein expression (score 0/1+) observed post‐treatment (4/14, 29%) was associated with retained HER2 gene amplification (n = 3) or copy number neutral status (n = 1). Whole‐exome sequencing performed on primary and recurrent tumours from the latter case, which exhibited genetic heterogeneity of HER2 amplification in the primary tumour, revealed selection of an early HER2‐non‐amplified clone following therapy. Our findings demonstrate that loss of target expression, by selection of HER2‐non‐amplified clones or, more commonly, by downregulation of expression, may constitute a mechanism of resistance to anti‐HER2 therapy in HER2‐positive EC. © 2023 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Characterization and modeling of creep behavior of glued laminated bamboo
Authors: Liu Yanyan , Wang Wendao , Xu Shuai , Zhang Kun
Published: November 2023

The benefits of using glued laminated bamboo (GLB) as a structural material are numerous, such as its low weight, high specific strength, and low carbon footprint. However, as a viscoelastic material, GLB materials exhibit creep, which is a significant characteristic that needs to be considered. To ensure the safety and serviceability of structures that utilize GLB, it is essential to accurately estimate the long‐term performance of GLB composites under external forces. This paper reports on an experimental investigation into the creep characteristics of GLB under tensile and compressive loads. The experiments were conducted at various load levels for a period of 500 h under a controlled environmental condition. The Burgers model and the five‐parameter model were used to characterize creep behavior and predict the long‐term deformation by extrapolating beyond the experimental period. The long‐term deformation of the GLB may be overestimated by the Burgers model due to its constant creep rate for the viscous component. In contrast, the five‐parameter model introduces a modification factor that results in a nonlinear viscous component, allowing a more accurate fit and a reasonable deformation estimate.

Highlights

Creep characteristics of GLB were studied under tensile and compressive loads.

Burgers and five‐parameter models were used to describe the creep behavior.

Extrapolation of Burgers model overestimates the creep deformation of GLB.

Five‐parameter model provides reasonable deformation estimate for GLB.
Risk of ischemic stroke associated with direct oral anticoagulants discontinuation on patients with non‐valvular atrial fibrillation
Authors: Álvaro Thomsen T. , Mesa Guadalupe J. , Huerta C. , de Burgos A. , Cea Soriano L.
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Although direct oral anticoagulants' (DOACs) prescriptions have experienced immense growth in the last decade, the proportion of discontinuers is still common yielding an increased risk of ischemic stroke (IS) onset.

Aims

We aimed to estimate the association between DOACs discontinuation and risk of IS among patients with non‐valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF).

Methods

We used data from a cohort of new DOACs users, followed patients from the first DOAC prescription date up to IS (index date) and conducted a nested case–control analysis using conditional logistic regression. Adjusted odds ratios, 95% confidence intervals were calculated for discontinuation of DOACs (current use compared with past use). The latter, subdivided among those stopping treatment 3 to 2 months and 6 and 3 months prior to index date. The effect of naïve current users against IS onset compared with non‐naïve current users was also evaluated.

Results

DOACs discontinuation showed an OR of IS of 1.47 (95% CI: 1.02–2.12); estimates were 2.51 (95% CI: 1.84–3.42) for whom discontinued treatment within months 3 and 2 and 1.43 (95% CI: 0.96–2.13) for those between months 6 and 3 prior to index date. Analyzing DOACs individually, risk of IS associated with past users compared with current users: 1.98 (95% CI: 1.25–3.12) for apixaban, 1.38 (95% CI: 0.40–4.72) for edoxaban, 1.98 (95% CI: 1.24–2.65) for dabigatran and 1.87 (95% CI: 1.26–2.76) for rivaroxaban. Similar results were found when stratified by naïve and non‐naïve users.

Conclusions

DOACs' discontinuation is associated with higher risk of IS, especially in the second and third months following interruption.
Recent advances in photocatalytic hydrogen peroxide production
Authors: Yan Jinyu , Li Yuan , Li Yunxiang , Ouyang Shuxin , Zhang Tierui
Published: November 2023

Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), an environmental‐friendly oxidant and renewable liquid fuel, has received wide attention in various research and industrial fields. Current industrial production of H2O2 relies on the anthraquinone method, which is hardly viewed as a sustainable and green process. Photocatalysis, harnessing solar energy as the driving force for redox reactions, provides a green and promising approach for H2O2 production. However, due to the poor ability of light absorption, fast recombination of carriers, and poor intrinsic activity of active sites of pristine photocatalysts, photocatalytic H2O2 production cannot provide great yield. Thus, great efforts have been dedicated to design efficient photocatalysts for photosynthesis of H2O2 in the past decades. In this review, we summarize significant progress in the development of advanced photocatalytic materials for light‐driven H2O2 production. Starting with a brief introduction on basic principles and advantages of photosynthesis of H2O2, the representative materials are classified and discussed in detail; finally, a brief outlook on addressing future challenges and opportunities of photocatalytic H2O2 production is proposed. This review aims to confirm current challenges and research developments in the photosynthesis of H2O2 and provide inspiration for the development of high‐efficiency photocatalysts for photocatalytic H2O2 production in the future.
Killing a fly with a sledgehammer: Atezolizumab exposure in real‐world lung cancer patients
Authors: Marolleau Sophie , Mogenet Alice , Boeri Clara , Hamimed Mourad , Ciccolini Joseph , Greillier Laurent
Published: November 2023

Atezolizumab is an anti‐PDL1 approved for treating lung cancer. A threshold of 6 μg/mL in plasma has been associated with target engagement. The extent to which patients could be overexposed with the standard 1200 mg q3w dosing remains unknown. Here, we monitored atezolizumab peak and trough levels in 27 real‐world patients with lung cancer as part of routine therapeutic drug monitoring. Individual pharmacokinetic (PK) parameters were calculated using a population approach and optimal dosing‐intervals were simulated with respect to the target trough levels. No patient had plasma levels below 6 μg/mL. The results showed that the mean trough level after the first treatment was 78.3 ± 17 μg/mL, that is, 13 times above the target concentration. The overall response rate was 55.5%. Low‐grade immune‐related adverse events was observed in 37% of patients. No relationship was found between exposure metrics of atezolizumab (i.e., minimum plasma concentration, maximum plasma concentration, and area under the curve) and pharmacodynamic end points (i.e., efficacy and toxicity). Further simulations suggest that the dosing interval could be extended from 21 days to 49 up to 136 days (mean: 85.7 days, i.e., q12w), while ensuring plasma levels still above the 6 μg/mL target threshold. This observational, real‐world study suggests that the standard 1200 mg q3w fixed‐dose regimen of atezolizumab results in significant overexposure in all the patients. This was not associated with increased side effects. As plasma levels largely exceed pharmacologically active concentrations, interindividual variability in PK parameters did not impact efficacy. Our data suggest that dosing intervals could be markedly extended with respect to the target threshold associated with efficacy.
Generalized Mie Theory for Full‐Wave Numerical Calculations of Scattering Near‐Field Optical Microscopy with Arbitrary Geometries
Authors: Datz Dániel , Németh Gergely , Rátkai László , Pekker Áron , Kamarás Katalin
Published: November 2023

Scattering‐type scanning near‐field optical microscopy (s‐SNOM) is becoming a premier method for the nanoscale optical investigation of materials well beyond the diffraction limit. A number of popular numerical methods exist to predict the near‐field contrast for axisymmetric configurations of scatterers on a surface in the quasi‐electrostatic approximation. Here, a fully electrodynamic approach is given for the calculation of near‐field contrast of several scatterers in arbitrary configuration, based on the generalized Mie scattering method. Examples for the potential of this new approach are given by showing the coupling of hyperbolic phonon polaritons in hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) layers and showing enhanced scattering in core–shell systems. In general, this method enables the numerical calculation of the near‐field contrast in a variety of strongly resonant scatterers and is able to accurately recreate spatial near‐field maps.
High‐Performance Telecom‐Wavelength Biphoton Source from a Hot Atomic Vapor Cell
Authors: Jeong Hansol , Kim Heewoo , Moon Han Seb
Published: November 2023

Telecom‐band quantum light sources are critical to the development of long‐distance quantum communication technologies. A high‐performance telecom‐wavelength biphoton source from a hot 87Rb atomic vapor cell is reported. Time‐correlated biphotons are generated from the cascade‐type 5S1/2–5P3/2–4D5/2 transition of 87Rb via a spontaneous four‐wave mixing process. The maximum value of biphoton cross‐correlation to be 44(3) is achieved, under the condition of a high optical depth of 112(3), including two‐photon absorption, with a spectral width of approximately 300 MHz. The coincidence count rate of biphoton is estimated to be of the order of 38 000 cps mW−1. It is believed that the telecom‐wavelength biphoton source from an atomic vapor cell can be applied in long‐distance quantum networks and practical quantum repeaters based on atom–photon interactions.
Generation of Quantum Optical Frequency Combs in Topological Resonators
Authors: Jiang Zhen , Chen Yanghe , Jiang Chun , He Guangqiang
Published: November 2023

Recent advances in manipulating topological phases in quantum systems have promised integrated quantum devices with conspicuous functionalities, such as robustness against fabrication defects. At the same time, the introduction of quantum frequency combs enables extreme expansion of quantum resources. Here, it theoretically propose the generation of high‐dimensional entangled quantum frequency combs via four‐wave mixing processes in the valley‐Hall topological resonators. Specifically, it demonstrates two irregular photonic crystal resonators supporting the whispering‐gallery resonator modes that lead to coherent quantum frequency combs at telecommunication wavelengths. By using the Schmidt decomposition, It shows that the quantum frequency combs are frequency entangled, and it also concludes that the effective dimensions of quantum frequency combs in these two resonators are at least seven and six, respectively. Moreover, these quantum frequency combs inherit the topological protection of valley kink states, showing robustness against defects in the resonators. The topological quantum frequency combs have shown intriguing potentiality in the generation and control of topologically protected high‐dimensional quantum states in integrated photonic crystal platforms.
Refugees' gendered experiences of education in Europe since 2015: A scoping review
Authors: Hunt Lucy , Aleghfeli Yousef Khalifa , McIntyre Joanna , Stone Chris
Published: November 2023

This scoping review aims to explore the role of gender in refugees' educational access, experiences, and outcomes in Europe since 2015. Gender can act as a significant barrier to education, and gender stereotypes and bias can affect learning opportunities and outcomes. As a response, a scoping review was conducted to explore the role of gender in refugees' educational access, experiences, and outcomes in Europe since 2015. This review follows a systematic process of reviewing and synthesising texts compiled in the Hub for Education for Refugees in Europe (HERE) Knowledge Base to fill the gaps in knowledge about gender‐related post‐migration experiences of refugees and displaced individuals who have arrived in Europe. The review includes studies that focus on educational services for refugees in Europe and uses a meta‐ethnographic synthesis approach to data analysis and synthesis. Using a socio‐ecological framework, it was found that at the individual level, access and progression were shaped by previous educational attainment, health issues, survival tactics and future aspirations; at the micro‐level, by relationships with family, educators and peers; at the meso‐level, by public perceptions of refugee learners and home‐school interactions; and at the macro‐level, by administrative barriers, the asylum system, socio‐economic factors and the tailored opportunities and community support available. The majority of the studies referred to the experiences of women and girls.
Finite‐time prescribed performance adaptive fuzzy output feedback control for stochastic nonlinear systems with dead‐zone input
Authors: Lei Xinyu , Tao Fazhan , Wang Nan , Fu Zhumu , Ma Haoxiang
Published: November 2023

In this paper, the issue of finite‐time prescribed performance control (PPC) is addressed for stochastic nonlinear systems with the effect of dead‐zone. Fuzzy logic systems are utilized for identifying unknown nonlinear characteristics. A model consisting of linear and disturbance‐like terms is constructed to approximate the nonlinearity of dead‐zone. Meanwhile, a state observer is employed to estimate unmeasured states. To improve the convergence rate, a finite‐time performance function is introduced, which transforms the tracking error of original system to error of converted system, thus prescribing the transient and steady‐state performance of the system. Eventually, based on backstepping technique, a finite‐time PPC strategy is proposed, which ensures the boundedness of all signals in closed‐loop system. Simultaneously, the tracking error converges to a prescribed region in finite‐time. Finally, two simulation examples are provided to verify the effectiveness of presented control strategy.
Chiral Pearlescent Cellulose Nanocrystals Films with Broad‐Range Tunable Optical Properties for Anti‐Counterfeiting Applications
Authors: Wang Zhaolu , Chu Jiao , Shi Lei , Xing Tingyang , Gao Xiaoqing , Xu Yan
Published: November 2023

Pearlescent materials are of technological importance in a diverse array of industries from cosmetics to premium paints; however, chiral pearlescent materials remain unexplored. Here, chiral pearlescent films with on‐demand iridescence and metallic appearance are simply organized by leveraging vertical pressure to direct the self‐assembly of cellulose nanocrystals. The films are formed with a bilayer planar anchored left‐handed chiral nematic architecture, in which the bottom layer is featured with a vertical gradient pitch, and the top layer is featured with a uniform pitch. Simultaneous reflection of the rainbow colors and an on‐demand color of left‐handed polarized light with angle‐dependent wavelength and polarization state accounts for the unique optical phenomenon based on experimental observation and theoretical analysis. Such chiroptical property can be readily tuned with architectural design, enabling reproducible optical appearance with high fidelity. Bringing the pearlescence, iridescence, and specular reflection together endows cellulose nanocrystal films with rich and tunable chiroptical properties that can be used for anti‐counterfeiting applications. The current work marks the beginning of chiral pearlescent materials from renewable resources, while the pressure‐directed self‐assembly provides a step toward scalable production.
Signal Amplification by Spatial Concentration for Immunoassay on Cellulose Media
Authors: Kim Hyeokjung , Noh Hyeran
Published: November 2023

Immunoassay is one of the most common bioanalytical techniques from lab‐based to point‐of‐care settings. Over time, various approaches have been developed to amplify signals for greater sensitivity. However, the need for effective, versatile, and simple signal amplification methods persists yet. This paper presents a novel signal amplification method for immunoassay that utilizes spatial concentration of a cellulose‐based plate possessing sensor transducers, specifically gold nanoparticles. By modifying the dimensions of the plate, the density of nanoparticles increased, resulting in intensified color signals. The coating material, polydopamine, which is utilized to protect the gold nanoparticles. Chemical changes in nanocomposites are characterized using scanning electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. The application of this method to colorimetric quantification demonstrated great consistency across various concentrations of nanoparticles, with better reliability at lower concentration ranges. A model immunoassay is designed to evaluate the analytical performance. As a result, this method successfully corrected a false‐negative result with a lowered Kd of 0.509 pmol per zone. This method shows strong signal enhancement capability that can correct false‐negative signals in the immunoassays, with potential benefits including versatility, simplicity, low cost, and the ability to operate multiple plates simultaneously.
AIB3IIC2IIIQ6VIXVII: A Thioborate Halide Family for Developing Wide Bandgap Infrared Nonlinear Materials by Coupling Planar [BS3] and Polycations
Authors: Zhou Jiazheng , Hou Ketian , Chu Yu , Yang Zhihua , Li Junjie , Pan Shilie
Published: November 2023

Developing high‐performance infrared (IR) nonlinear optical (NLO) materials is urgent but challenging due to the competition between NLO coefficient and bandgap in one compound. Herein, by coupling NLO‐active [BS3] planar units and halide‐centered polycations, six new metal thioborate halides ABa3B2S6X (A = Rb, Cs; X = Cl, Br, I) composed of zero‐dimensional [XBamRbn/Csn] polycations and [BS3] units, belonging to a new family, are rationally designed and fabricated. The compounds show an interesting structural transition from Pbcn (ABa3B2S6Cl) to Cmc21 (ABa3B2S6Br and ABa3B2S6I) driven by the clamping effect of polycationic frameworks. ABa3B2S6Br and ABa3B2S6I are the first series metal thioborate halide IR NLO materials, and the introduction of [BS3] unit effectively widens the bandgap of planar unit‐constructed chalcogenides. ABa3B2S6Br and ABa3B2S6I, exhibiting wide bandgaps (3.55–3.60 eV), high laser‐induced damage thresholds (≈ 6 × AgGaS2), and strong SHG effects (0.5–0.6 × AgGaS2) with phase‐matching behaviors, are the promising IR NLO candidates for high‐power laser applications. The results enrich the chemical and structural diversity of boron chemistry and give some insights into the design of new IR NLO materials with planar units.
Fluorinated Carbon Nanohorns as Cathode Materials for Ultra‐High Power Li/CFx Batteries
Authors: Peng Cong , Zhang Shixue , Kong Lingchen , Xu Hang , Li Yu , Feng Wei
Published: November 2023

Fluorinated carbon (CFx) has ultrahigh theoretical energy density among cathode materials for lithium primary batteries. CFx, as an active material in the cathode, plays a decisive role in performance. However, the performance of commercialized fluorinated graphite (FG) does not meet this continuously increasing performance demand. One effective way to increase the overall performance is to manipulate carbon‐fluorine (C─F) bonds. In this study, carbon nanohorns are first used as a carbon source and are fluorinated at relatively low temperatures to obtain a new type of CFx with semi‐ionic C─F bonds. Carbon nanohorns with a high degree of fluorination achieved a specific capacity comparable to that of commercial FG. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations revealed that curvature structure regulated its C─F bond configuration, thermodynamic parameters, and ion diffusion pathway. The dominant semi‐ionic C─F bonds guarantee good conductivity, which improves rate performance. Fluorinated carbon nanohorns delivered a power density of 92.5 kW kg−1 at 50 C and an energy density of 707.6 Wh kg−1. This result demonstrates the effectiveness of tailored C─F bonds and that the carbon nanohorns shorten the Li+ diffusion path. This excellent performance indicates the importance of designing the carbon source and paves new possibilities for future research.
Micro “Hyper‐Channels” on Laser‐Refined Cellulose Structures
Authors: Zhang Lishen , Reddy Daniel O. , Salomons Timothy T. , Oleschuk Richard D.
Published: November 2023

Controlled liquid transportation is widely applied in both academia and industry. However, liquid transport applications are limited by parameters such as driving forces, precision, and velocity. Herein, a simple laser‐refining technology is presented to produce micro “hyper‐channels”. A cellulose substrate is rendered hydrophobic through silanization and refined with a laser to produce both hierarchical nanostructures and a wettability contrast simultaneously. Such a method enables faster (“hyper”‐channel) aqueous liquid transportation (≈25X, 50 mm s−1) compared to conventional methods. Complex patterns can be readily produced at different scales with spatial resolution as low as 50 µm. This technique also controls the refining depth on the thin paper substrate. Shallow channels can be fabricated on thin paper substrates that enable fluidic channel‐crossover without liquid mixing. With certain parameters, the technique creates “portals” through the substrate, allowing trans‐dimensional liquid transportation between two layers of a single sheet of substrate. The fluid throughput can be increased, while also permitting fluidic channel crossover without liquid mixing. By introducing multiple portals, the controlled fluid can transfer trans‐dimensionally several times, enabling further fluidic complexity. The real‐life utility of the method is demonstrated by creating a trans‐dimensional microfluidic device for colorimetric detection.