bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Basis of Cognitive and Behavioral Dysfunction in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Bampton Alexander , McHutchison Caroline , Talbot Kevin , Benatar Michael , Thompson Alexander G. , Turner Martin R.
Published: November 2024

Objective

To summarize and evaluate evidence pertaining to the clinical, genetic, histopathological, and neuroimaging correlates of cognitive and behavioral dysfunction in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

Methodology

We comprehensively reviewed the literature on cognitive and behavioral manifestations of ALS, narrating findings from both cross‐sectional and longitudinal studies. We discussed knowledge gaps in the evidence base and key limitations affecting studies to date, before formulating a framework for future research paradigms aimed at investigating clinicopathological correlates of neuropsychological dysfunction in ALS.

Results

Studies have demonstrated clinical associations with cognitive dysfunction in ALS e.g., bulbar‐onset of symptoms, pathological associations (extramotor TDP‐43 deposition), and imaging associations (frontotemporal involvement). The most common behavioral deficit, apathy, is highly associated with verbal fluency, but longitudinal studies assessing behavioral dysfunction in ALS are comparatively lacking.

Conclusion

Longitudinal studies have been helpful in identifying several potential correlates of cognitive and behavioral dysfunction but have frequently been confounded by selection bias and inappropriate testing platforms. This review provides a framework for more robust assessment of clinicopathological associations of neuropsychological abnormalities in ALS in the future, advocating for greater utilization of pre‐symptomatic C9orf72 repeat expansion‐carrying cohorts.
Levels and Predictors of Suicide Literacy and Suicide Stigma in Spanish‐Speaking Individuals
Authors: Pierantonelli Maitena , Mira Adriana , Zamora Ángel , Desdentado Lorena , Diego‐Pedro Rebeca , González‐Hernández Edgar , Bretón‐López Juana , García‐Palacios Azucena , Baños Rosa M.
Published: November 2024

Background

One of the obstacles to seeking help for suicide is its social stigma. The literature suggests that suicide knowledge could impact this stigma. The present study aims to examine levels and predictors of suicide stigma and suicide literacy among Spanish‐speaking individuals from Spain and Latin America.

Method

A total of 678 adults completed an online survey conducted from December 2021 to May 2022. The survey assessed sociodemographic and clinical variables, including the Literacy of Suicide Scale (LOSS‐SF) and Stigma of Suicide Scale (SOSS‐SF).

Results

Results showed the presence of stigmatization and a moderate level of suicide literacy. Latin Americans presented significantly more stigmatizing attitudes and lower levels of suicide literacy than Spaniards. Older age and stronger religious/spiritual beliefs were correlated with lower suicide literacy. Suicide stigma was regressed on lower suicide literacy, gender (men), stronger religious/spiritual beliefs, and lacking knowledge about how to find help. Furthermore, the region was significantly associated with the suicide glorification subscale, reporting Latin Americans' greater glorification.

Conclusions

By examining these factors, we aim to foster a deeper understanding of the attitudes and beliefs toward suicide. This understanding is crucial, as it may inform the development of effective interventions and prevention strategies that are culturally sensitive and tailored to diverse populations.
The effect of digitalization on sustainability reporting: The role of sustainability competence, green knowledge integration, and stakeholder pressure
Authors: Appiah‐Kubi Elias , Dura Codruța Cornelia , Niță Dorina , Drigă Imola , Preda Ana , Baltador Lia Alexandra
Published: November 2024

The study was designed to provide an answer to the research question regarding the effect of digitalization on sustainability reporting and to reveal the mechanisms underlying this relationship. The methodology included data collection from 371 small‐ and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) originating from Ghana, by using a structured questionnaire. Further on, we employed the structural equation modeling (SEM) technique to analyze the relationships among our research variables. The findings showed that the effect of digitalization on SMEs' sustainability reporting is insignificant negative while sustainability competence fully mediated the relationship. The nexus between digitalization and sustainability competence was positively moderated by green knowledge integration. Similarly, stakeholder pressure was found to positively moderate the relationship between sustainability competence and sustainability reporting. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to approach digitalization's impact on sustainability disclosure in the Ghanaian SMEs' sector, resulting in manifold valuable policy and managerial practice implications.
Trends in the dynamic evolution of blockchain and circular economy: A literature review and bibliometric analysis
Authors: Lin Woon Leong , Yang Ying , Leow Nelvin XeChung , Lim Wai Mun , Khee Pek Chuen , Yip Nick
Published: November 2024

The intersection of blockchain technology and circular economy (CE) practices holds significant potential for enhancing sustainability, transparency, and efficiency. This study conducts a comprehensive bibliometric analysis to explore the current research landscape in this domain. Key findings indicate a rapid growth in publications, highlighting a burgeoning interest in leveraging blockchain for CE initiatives. The analysis identifies critical approaches such as enhancing supply chain transparency, improving resource management, and facilitating product lifecycle tracking. However, the integration of blockchain into CE practices presents challenges, including technical complexities, scalability issues, and regulatory hurdles. Addressing these challenges requires interdisciplinary and cross‐sectoral collaboration, as well as continuous research and innovation. Future research should focus on the integration of emerging technologies with blockchain, longitudinal studies on long‐term impacts, socio‐economic implications, and the development of regulatory frameworks. This study contributes to the existing body of knowledge by providing unique insights and outlining potential research directions at the intersection of blockchain and CE.
The Combined Inhibition of SREBP and mTORC1 Signaling Synergistically Inhibits B‐Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Zhu Zhenhan , Jiang Wenxia , Zhou Jiehao , Maldeney Alexander Robert , Liang Jingru , Yang Jing , Luo Wei
Published: November 2024

Background

The sterol regulatory element‐binding protein (SREBP) pathway is essential for maintaining sterol homeostasis during B cell activation and germinal center B cell proliferation. However, its potential as a therapeutic target to treat B‐cell lymphoma remains unclear.

Methods

We examined SREBP protein expression in human B‐cell lymphoma samples using immunohistochemistry. Additionally, we conducted in vitro studies using SREBP signaling inhibitors in combination with rapamycin to assess their effects on cell proliferation and lipid metabolism in B‐cell lymphoma cells.

Results

Our analysis revealed high levels of SREBP2 protein expression in human B‐cell lymphoma samples. Inhibiting SREBP signaling or its downstream target HMG‐CoA reductase (HMGCR) with Fatostatin or Simvastatin effectively suppressed B‐cell lymphoma cell proliferation. However, B‐cell lymphoma cells responded to statin treatment by activating the mTORC1‐pS6 pathway, suggesting a compensatory mechanism to overcome statin‐induced cell cycle arrest. Combining low‐dose statin treatment with the mTOR inhibitor rapamycin produced a synergistic effect, significantly inhibiting B‐cell lymphoma proliferation, cell cycle progression, and lipid raft formation.

Conclusions

These results highlight the potential of a combined therapeutic approach targeting both SREBP and mTORC1 as a novel strategy for treating B‐cell lymphoma.
Multidimensional Healthcare Access Barriers to Prostate‐Specific Antigen Testing: A Nation‐Wide Panel Study in the United States From 2006 to 2020
Authors: Iyer Hari S. , Kensler Kevin H. , Roscoe Charlotte , Opara Chidinma , He Mingchao , Kovac Evan , Garraway Isla P. , Dien‐Trinh Quoc , Rebbeck Timothy R.
Published: November 2024

Background

Rising metastatic prostate cancer incidence has renewed debate regarding benefits of prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) screening. Identifying barriers to accessing screening for individuals at high risk of lethal prostate cancer may slow this rise. We examined associations of access barriers with receipt of PSA testing, stratified by sociodemographic factors.

Methods

We pooled data from male respondents to Behavior Risk Factor Surveillance Systems (BRFSS) surveys from 2006 to 2020. Questions related to affordability (insurance, cost of visits) and accommodation (regular primary care provider (PCP), physician recommending a PSA test) were considered as individual‐level barriers. For availability, we linked provider density from the 2012 Area Health Resource File and estimated driving times to closest health facility within Micropolitan and Metropolitan Statistical Area (MMSA) using Google Earth Engine. These measures were used to compute a spatial accessibility index. We fit survey‐weighted, covariate‐adjusted logistic regression models to estimate associations of barriers with receipt of PSA within the past 2 years and examined effect modification by sociodemographic factors.

Results

There were 185,643 participants, of whom 73% were White, 11% were Black, 4% were Asian, and 11% were Hispanic. Physician recommendation was the strongest predictor of having a PSA test (aOR: 14.5, 95% CI: 13.6, 15.6). Not having a regular PCP (aOR: 0.29, 95% CI: 0.27, 0.31), insurance (aOR: 0.64, 95% CI: 0.58, 0.71), and prohibitive cost of care (aOR: 0.82, 95% CI: 0.75, 0.90) were associated with lower PSA testing. Access barriers were stronger predictors of PSA testing for Asian and White participants compared to other groups (Phet < 0.004 for insurance and regular PCP) and for those with college education compared to those without (Phet < 0.05 for insurance, perceived unaffordability).

Discussion

Physician recommendation was the strongest predictor of receipt of PSA testing, regardless of sociodemographic grouping. Future studies should consider access barriers jointly and across sociodemographic strata.
Consequences of parental neglect of academic performance Brazilian child
Authors: Pasian Mara Silvia , Bazon Marina Rezende , Benitez Priscila , Lacharité Carl
Published: November 2024

The negative effects of child neglect on the development of children are serious and have far‐reaching negative consequences for children, especially in Brazil, with great social inequality. The research investigated the consequences of neglect for children in their early years of schooling. The academic performance was evaluated in three groups: children with formal notification of neglect, children with suspected unreported neglect and children who did not suffer any form of abuse. Information was collected from different sources: parents/caregivers, teachers and the children themselves. The groups comprised children in their early school years, aged between six and eight. The results showed that neglected children had borderline or clinical levels of school skills and below‐average school performance. The reference group had, for the most part, normal scores and average or above‐average school performance. Considering that school is a protective factor, children with learning difficulties and neglected children need support that favours child development.
A short report of a Scottish audit of disability and child protection medical examinations
Authors: Govenden Stephanie , Taylor Julie , Devaney John , McTier Alex
Published: November 2024

A Scottish national child protection audit has shown that practitioners can have differing understanding of the term ‘disability’ and are variable in their own recording of disabilities. It was apparent from the audit that disability was more likely to be recorded for older children than those under five. The audit found that an abuse allegation is less likely to be substantiated for disabled children by a Child Protection Medical Examination. For disabled children in our sample, there was a ‘substantiation of abuse rate’ of 33%, which was less than the 56% rate for non‐disabled children. The differences in rates encourage us to consider what is an appropriate response when disabled children may have experienced harm and abuse. The audit highlights the vulnerability of disabled children to abuse and indicates the need to equip practitioners with the skills, competencies and confidence to engage with and support this vulnerable group.
Love and Assault: Parents’ Views on Corporal Punishment in School
Authors: Bhana Deevia
Published: November 2024

Corporal punishment remains prevalent in schools globally, and even after its prohibition in South Africa, the focus of this study, it continues. In some historically disadvantaged school environments, it persists with the approval of parents. Mothers and grandmothers, who are pivotal in supporting children's education and well‐being, are central to this dynamic as parents. However, in impoverished rural settings, parents are often unfairly blamed for endorsing corporal punishment without considering the sociocultural context they inhabit. Drawing from a qualitative study conducted in an impoverished rural community where women bear the burden of caring for children, this paper challenges the prevailing one‐sided narrative of parental support for corporal punishment. Instead, it argues for a nuanced understanding of corporal punishment that is contextual. Parents' endorsement of corporal punishment is contingent; it is accepted when framed as ‘disciplinary action infused with love’ but rejected when labelled as ‘assault’. An understanding of corporal punishment as an assemblage is critical if accounts of disciplinary practices within local school settings are to move beyond simplified accounts of parents' universal support for corporal punishment.
Minor Lignans with Inhibitory Activity against LPS‐Induced NO Production from Schisandra Chinensis
Authors: Sun Ping , Zhuang Xin‐Cheng , Ao Rui , Zhang Hua
Published: November 2024

Phytochemical investigation into the fruits of Schisandra chinensis led to the isolation of seven new minor lignans, schisanchignans A–G (1–7), including one benzofuran type (1), three aryltetralin type (2–4) and three tetrahydrofuran type (5–7). Their structures were established by comprehensive spectroscopic analyses, and the absolute configurations were determined by electronic circular dichroism technique including quantum chemical calculation method. Of note, this is the first report of nor‐benzofuran and aryltetralin types of lignans from S. chinensis. Compounds 1, 3 and 4 exhibited mild inhibitory activity against the lipopolysaccharide‐induced production of nitric oxide in murine RAW264.7 cells.
Microbial Dynamics and Quality Monitoring in Biopharmaceutical Production
Authors: Pashang Rosha , Gilbride Kimberley A. , Wenk Jannis
Published: November 2024

Prokaryotic cells are pivotal in meeting the global demand for biopharmaceuticals. However, challenges such as the absence of advanced technology for real‐time monitoring, standardized testing methodologies, and quality risk assessment of microbial activity have led to increased production costs, delays, and shortages of biopharmaceutical products. A thorough understanding of how biomolecule production interacts with microbial population structure and function is vital for improving continuous manufacturing and process automation. In this review, we discuss the current microbiological techniques that meet good manufacturing practice requirements in industrial settings, explore the advantages of monitoring and measuring biomass growth efficiency and turnover rates beyond regulatory criteria for product release, and provide a critical assessment of the current state of knowledge on bioassays and engineering tools for biomolecule yield measurement and monitoring. Furthermore, we identify areas for future development, potential applications, and the need for interdisciplinary innovation to drive future research, including advancing bioassays for biopharmaceutical wastewater risk.
Cross‐Coupling of Mo‐ and V‐Nitrogenases Permits Protein‐Mediated Protection from Oxygen Deactivation
Authors: Ratcliff Daniel , Danielle Sedoh G. C. , Milton Ross D.
Published: November 2024

Nitrogenases catalyze dinitrogen (N2) fixation to ammonia (NH3). While these enzymes are highly sensitive to deactivation by molecular oxygen (O2) they can be produced by obligate aerobes for diazotrophy, necessitating a mechanism by which nitrogenase can be protected from deactivation. In the bacterium Azotobacter vinelandii, one mode of such protection involves an O2‐responsive ferredoxin‐type protein (“Shethna protein II”, or “FeSII”) which is thought to bind with Mo‐dependent nitrogenase's two component proteins (NifH and NifDK) to form a catalytically stalled yet O2‐tolerant tripartite protein complex. This protection mechanism has been reported for Mo‐nitrogenase, however, in vitro assays with V‐nitrogenase suggest that this mechanism is not universal to the three known nitrogenase isoforms. Here we report that the reductase of the V‐nitrogenase (VnfH) can engage in this FeSII‐mediated protection mechanism when cross‐coupled with Mo‐nitrogenase NifDK. Interestingly, the cross‐coupling of the Mo‐nitrogenase reductase NifH with the V‐nitrogenase VnfDGK protein does not yield such protection.
Insulinoma with suspected mutant somatostatin receptor expression according to histological examination
Authors: Onish Shunichiro , Takada‐Watanabe Aki , Osamura Robert Y. , Shiomi Takayuki , Kusano Hiroyuki , Maezawa Yoshiro , Murai Hiroyuki , Miyabayashi Makoto , Koike Sakutaro , Yoshida Tomohiko , Takemoto Minoru
Published: November 2024

Key Clinical Message

This case highlights the possibility of an insulinoma expressing an aberrant form of SSTRs resulting in a discrepancy between the preoperative octreotide assessment and postoperative SSTR expression.

Insulinoma is a pancreatic disease that causes hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia. The first‐line treatment is surgery; however, somatostatin derivatives are administered in cases where surgery is not a viable option and to prevent preoperative hypoglycemia. Here, we report a case in which preoperative examination indicated a potential tumor with low somatostatin receptor 2 (SSTR2) and SSTR5 expression, whereas postoperative pathological examination indicated strong SSTR expression. We report the case of a 69‐year‐old Japanese female who experienced hypoglycemia‐like symptoms for a decade such as sweating, fatigue, hunger, and confusion with an increase in episode frequency per year. Dynamic computed tomography revealed a 13‐mm diameter nodule and aberrant blood flow in the pancreatic tail. Subsequently, the patient was diagnosed with pancreatic insulinoma. A preoperative octreotide test did not relieve hypoglycemia, and no uptake of 111indium‐pentetreotide was observed, suggesting an insulinoma with low SSTR expression. However, postoperative histological studies suggested that the intracellular domain of SSTRs were highly expressed, while the extracellular domain may be mutated. We present a rare case of insulinoma expressing an aberrant form of SSTRs resulting in a discrepancy between the preoperative octreotide assessment and postoperative SSTR expression.
In‐Silico Optimization of a Bi‐Enzymatic Reactor for Mannitol Production Using Pareto‐Optimal Fronts
Authors: Gijiu Cristiana Luminita , Maria Gheorghe , Renea Laura
Published: November 2024

For multi‐enzymatic cases, the determination of the batch reactor (BR) optimal operating policy often translates into a difficult multi‐objective problem. Exemplification is made here for the enzymatic reduction of D‐fructose to mannitol by using the mannitol dehydrogenase (MDH) enzyme and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) cofactor, with in situ regeneration of NADH at the expense of formate degradation by using the FDH enzyme. This paper presents an original rule to in silico generate the problem solution, by using the Pareto optimal‐front approach with accounting for pairs of competing economic goals and constraints. The optimal BR is then compared to an optimal fed‐BR (FBR), or a series of equal BRs (SeqBR). As proved, the Pareto‐optimal front alternative is an advantageous option, compared to the classical nonlinear programming technique, being simple to apply, by considering pairs of opposite objective functions. In the present case study, the Pareto‐optimal BR operating mode predicts an M‐productivity 1.5x better than those of an optimized FBR, with comparable enzymes consumption. The MDH consumption of this Pareto‐optimal BR is 10x smaller than an optimal SeqBR, and 130x smaller vs. heuristic (sub)optimal BR.
Three‐Way Data Reduction Based on Essential Information
Authors: Vitale Raffaele , Azizi Azar , Ghaffari Mahdiyeh , Omidikia Nematollah , Ruckebusch Cyril
Published: November 2024

In this article, the idea of essential information‐based compression is extended to trilinear datasets. This basically boils down to identifying and labelling the essential rows (ERs), columns (ECs) and tubes (ETs) of such three‐dimensional datasets that allow by themselves to reconstruct in a linear way the entire space of the original measurements. ERs, ECs and ETs can be determined by exploiting convex geometry computational approaches such as convex hull or convex polytope estimations and can be used to generate a reduced version of the data at hand. These compressed data and their uncompressed counterpart share the same multilinear properties and their factorisation (carried out by means of, for example, parallel factor analysis–alternating least squares [PARAFAC‐ALS]) yield, in principle, indistinguishable results. More in detail, an algorithm for the assessment and extraction of the essential information encoded in trilinear data structures is here proposed. Its performance was evaluated in both real‐world and simulated scenarios which permitted to highlight the benefits that this novel data reduction strategy can bring in domains like multiway fluorescence spectroscopy and imaging.
Fault Detection Strategy of Partial Least Squares Based on Temporal Neighborhood Difference
Authors: Feng Liwei , Guo Shaofeng , Wu Yifei , Xing Yu , Li Yuan
Published: November 2024

Aiming at the difficulty of detecting time‐lag faults in dynamic processes, a fault detection strategy based on time neighborhood difference (TND) is proposed, and it is introduced into the partial least squares (PLS) method to suggest the PLS‐TND fault detection method. The TND method takes the mean to the multibatch training set to obtain a baseline training set, and it constructs the mean squared Euclidean distance (MSED) statistic by calculating the average distance between the sample's first k‐moments neighborhood samples and samples at the same moment in the baseline training set. The TND method can help the PLS method to effectively detect time‐lag faults and significantly improve the fault detection capability of PLS by measuring the overall positional difference between the temporal neighborhood sample set of the sample and its temporal neighborhood sample set in the baseline training set. The PLS‐TND method is compared with some classical fault detection methods through a numerical simulation process and a Continuous Stirred Tank Reactor (CSTR) system design fault detection experiment. The PLS‐TND method gives the best performance of fault detection.
Neo‐Glycolipid Oximes as Intestinal Permeation Enhancers for Peptide Hormone PYY3‐36
Authors: Kalomoiri Panagiota , Mortensen Janni S. , Christensen Niels Johan , Sørensen Kasper K. , Nielsen Hanne Mørck , Jensen Knud J. , Thygesen Mikkel B.
Published: November 2024

Herein, we describe the design and synthesis of 16 neo‐glycolipids that are potential permeation enhancers for oral drug delivery of peptide therapeutics. These amphiphilic neo‐glycolipids are composed of fatty acids and various carbohydrates (d‐glucose, lactose, cellobiose, maltose) via an oxime linker. The ability of the synthesized neo‐glycolipids to enhance permeation of fluorescein‐labelled dextran (4 kDa) or 3H‐mannitol across intestinal epithelium was investigated in vitro using monolayers of human epithelial Caco‐2 cells. Their effects were compared with (pre‐)clinically known enhancers as reference compounds; sodium salts of octanoic, decanoic, and dodecanoic acid, and sodium salcaprozate (SNAC). Most neo‐glycolipids increased the permeation of the model compounds, proving that neo‐glycolipids, which possess vastly different properties from the reference compounds, e. g., in terms of clogD and polar surface area, are effective permeation enhancers. The neo‐glycolipid based on decanoic acid and glucose was more potent than related compounds based on disaccharides. Significant differences in solubility and cellular compatibility were found for neo‐glyolipids based on different carbohydrates. Finally, neo‐glycolipids were evaluated as permeation enhancers for the peptide hormone PYY3‐36. Glucose‐ and maltose‐derived neo‐glycolipids based on decanoic and dodecanoic acid showed promising enhancements in PYY3‐36 permeation in vitro while maintaining good cellular compatibility, relevant for oral delivery of obesity treatments.
Recent Advances in NIR‐Switchable Multi‐Redox Systems Based on Organic Molecules
Authors: Harimoto Takashi , Ishigaki Yusuke
Published: November 2024

Electrochromic systems capable of switching absorption in the near‐infrared (NIR) region (750–2500 nm) are attractive from the viewpoint of applications for material and life science, and thus several examples have been reported to date. In general, the development of organic‐based systems is needed to reduce the environmental impact and improve biocompatibility. Although extending the switchable spectral range is crucial for the application of organic electrochromic molecules, the switching of NIR absorption based on redox interconversion is still a challenging issue regarding reversibility and durability during interconversion. To overcome this potential instability, the introduction of heteroatoms into the molecular backbone and/or π‐extension could be useful strategies in terms of effective delocalization of charge and spin in the corresponding redox states. In this review, we focus on redox‐active well‐defined small molecules that enable ON/OFF switching of NIR absorption based on precise control of the redox states, and present recent studies on their intrinsic electrochemical and spectroscopic properties and/or structural characterization of their charged states.
Membrane‐free Electrolysis Production of Hydrogen Peroxide on Low‐cost Metal‐free Electrocatalysts for Dye Degradation
Authors: Ni Hao , Yang Tao , Peng Xueqing , Zhang Hengqiang , Kong Aiguo
Published: November 2024

The efficient production of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) solution was achieved by combining cathodic two‐electron oxygen reduction (2e− ORR) and anodic two‐electron water oxidation (2e− WOR) in two half‐reaction cells. h‐BN loaded on carbon fibers (h‐BN@C) is prepared and employed as an anode material to catalyze 2e− WOR, while sulfonated commercial BP‐2000 carbons (BP‐2000‐SO3H) were prepared as the cathode materials for 2e− ORR. In a 2 M KHCO3 solution, an overall Faradaic efficiency of 97 % and a total H2O2 production rate of 1872 mmol g−1 h−1 over metal‐free electrodes were accomplished in a membrane‐free flow cell. The dilute H2O2 solution could be directly used to degrade Rhodamine B, methyl blue and methylene orange dyes in water. This work proved low‐cost production of dilute H2O2 solution in simple membrane‐free flow cells with single electrolyte and on‐site utilization for efficient dye degradation.
Artificial intelligence and machine learning at various stages and scales of process systems engineering
Authors: Srinivasan Karthik , Puliyanda Anjana , Thosar Devavrat , Bhakte Abhijit , Singh Kuldeep , Addo Prince , Srinivasan Rajagopalan , Prasad Vinay
Published: November 2024

We review the utility and application of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) at various process scales in this work, from molecules and reactions to materials to processes, plants, and supply chains; furthermore, we highlight whether the application is at the design or operational stage of the process. In particular, we focus on the distinct representational frameworks employed at the various scales and the physics (equivariance, additivity, injectivity, connectivity, hierarchy, and heterogeneity) they capture. We also review AI techniques and frameworks important in process systems, including hybrid AI modelling, human‐AI collaborations, and generative AI techniques. In hybrid AI models, we emphasize the importance of hyperparameter tuning, especially in the case of physics‐informed regularization. We highlight the importance of studying human‐AI interactions, especially in the context of automation, and distinguish the features of human‐complements‐AI systems from those of AI‐complements‐human systems. Of particular importance in the AI‐complements‐human framework are model explanations, including rule‐based explanation, explanation‐by‐example, explanation‐by‐simplification, visualization, and feature relevance. Generative AI methods are becoming increasingly relevant in process systems engineering, especially in contexts that do not belong to ‘big data’, primarily due to the lack of high quality labelled data. We highlight the use of generative AI methods including generative adversarial networks, graph neural networks, and large language models/transformers along with non‐traditional process data (images, audio, and text).
Commercial prices and their influence on urology practices: Prostate cancer care among men with Medicare
Authors: Srivastava Arnav , Liu Xiu , Maganty Avinash , Kaufman Samuel R. , Shay Addison , Oerline Mary , Dall Christopher , Faraj Kassem S. , Ryan Andrew M. , Hollenbeck Brent K. , Shahinian Vahakn B.
Published: November 2024

Background

For men with prostate cancer, there is substantial variation in the use of conservative management, such as active surveillance. Commercial prices, which vary across urology practices, may afford incentives that foster physician behaviors associated with utilization. Such behaviors may “spillover” to the Medicare population and affect quality. This study evaluated the effects of practice‐level commercial prices on health care utilization and quality in men with prostate cancer insured by traditional Medicare.

Methods

From a 20% Medicare sample, the authors identified men with newly diagnosed prostate cancer between 2014–2019 (n = 44,653). Using commercial payments from the MarketScan database, they developed a practice‐level commercial price index (ratio of commercial prices to Medicare prices). They examined the association of the price index with price standardized spending, overtreatment (treatment among those with >50% noncancer mortality within 10 years), and underuse of diagnostic testing in active surveillance (at least one prostate‐specific antigen test and one confirmatory test—MRI, prostate biopsy, genomic test—within 12 months of diagnosis).

Results

Practice‐level commercial price indices varied from 1.34 (134% of Medicare prices), for practices in the bottom decile, to 3.00, for practices in the top decile. Increasing price index was associated with lower odds of overtreatment (odds ratio, 0.86; 95% confidence interval, 0.76–0.97; p = .01), but not price standardized spending or underuse of diagnostic testing in active surveillance.

Conclusions

Commercial prices vary markedly across urology practices. Among newly diagnosed men with traditional Medicare, those managed by practices with higher commercial price indices had lower odds of overtreatment, suggesting improved prostate cancer care quality.
Therapeutic Effect of Targeted Deployment Filling Coils in the Treatment of Intracranial Aneurysms
Authors: Ren Xiaoyu , Gao Bin , Lu Wangsheng , Yang Guangming , Wang Yunjie , Yin Yin
Published: November 2024

Endovascular coil embolization is the primary therapeutic modality for intracranial aneurysms. Substantial reports have been found regarding the coil packing density and inflow jet. However, the hemodynamic effect of increasing the rate of tamponade in the inflow jet area within the aneurysm remains unclear. In this study, individualized geometries of six intracranial aneurysms were recruited: all six aneurysms were located in the internal carotid artery. Two groups were created by changing the position and orientation of the microcatheter for the release of the third segment of the filling coil. The finite element method was used to simulate coil deployment. Computational fluid dynamics was used to characterize hemodynamics in post‐deployment aneurysms. The parameters evaluated included velocity reduction, wall shear stress (WSS), low WSS (LWSS), relative residence time (RRT), flow kinetic energy in the neck region of the aneurysms, and residual flow volume (RFV) in the aneurysms. At the peak time (t = 0.17 s), the targeted deployment group has similar proportion of LWSS area to conventional deployment groups: targeted 78.13% ± 34.59% versus normal 74.20% ± 36.94% (mean ± SD, p = 0.583). The targeted deployment group has a higher RRT area (targeted 16.84% ± 5.58% vs. normal 6.42% ± 5.67% [mean ± SD, p = 0.009]), smaller flow kinetic energy (targeted 9.43 ± 4.33 vs. normal 16.23 ± 5.92 [mean ± SD, p = 0.047]), and a larger RFV in the aneurysms (targeted 35.97 ± 24.35 mm3 vs. normal 25.80 ± 18.94 mm3 [mean ± SD, p = 0.44]). Inflow jets play an important role in the treatment of aneurysms, and deploying filling coils in accordance with inflow jets may result in a better hemodynamic environment.
Modeling Fibrin Accumulation on Flow‐Diverting Devices for Intracranial Aneurysms
Authors: Cebral Juan R. , Mut Fernando , Löhner Rainald , Marsh Laurel , Chitsaz Alireza , Bilgin Cem , Bayraktar Esref , Kallmes David , Kadirvel Ramanathan
Published: November 2024

The mechanisms leading to aneurysm occlusion after treatment with flow‐diverting devices are not fully understood. Flow modification induces thrombus formation within the aneurysm cavity, but fibrin can simultaneously accumulate and cover the device scaffold, leading to further flow modification. However, the interplay and relative importance of these processes are not clearly understood. A computational model of fibrin accumulation and flow modification after flow diversion treatment of cerebral aneurysms has been developed under the guidance of in vitro experiments and observations. The model is based on the loose coupling of flow and transport‐reaction equations that are solved separately by independent codes. Interaction or reactive terms account for thrombin production from prothrombin stimulated by thrombogenic metallic wires and inhibition by antithrombin as well as fibrin production from fibrinogen stimulated by thrombin and flow shear stress, and fibrin adhesion to device wires and already attached fibrin. The computational model was demonstrated and tested on idealized vessel and aneurysm geometries. The model was able to reproduce the salient features of fibrin accumulation after the deployment of flow‐diverting devices in idealized in vitro models of cerebral aneurysms. Namely, fibrin production in regions of high shear stress, initial accumulation at the inflow zone, and progressive occlusion of the device and corresponding flow attenuation. The computational model linking flow dynamics to fibrin production, transport, and adhesion can be used to investigate and better understand the effects that lead to fibrin accumulation and the resulting aneurysm inflow reduction and intra‐aneurysmal flow modulation.
Electrophoretic Deposition of Carbon‐Ionomer Layers on Proton Conducting Membranes
Authors: Bredol Michael , Radev Ivan , Primavera Giulia , Lange Thomas , Caidi Adib , Peinecke Volker
Published: November 2024

Synthetic and natural carbons are widely used as carrier for electrodes in electrochemical applications. They need to have a controlled morphology in order to facilitate mass and charge transport, so the process of film formation is of uttermost importance. Here we show, how carbons (after proper preconditioning) can be codeposited with an ionomer by electrophoretic deposition, a method that does allow full control of deposition conditions during the process. In view of potential applications, we focus on the direct deposition on proton‐conducting membranes. Ionomers and membranes applied are based on established per‐fluorinated polyethylene with SO3H‐terminated side chains (PFSA). Conditions for reproducible deposition are reported in terms of optimal charge on the carbon particles, field strength in the deposition cell and necessary deposition times for a given film thickness. Additionally, a horizontal cell arrangement is suggested to avoid gravitational effects.
Sustainable Hydrogen Production by Glycerol and Monosaccharides Catalytic Acceptorless Dehydrogenation (AD) in Homogeneous Phase
Authors: Kostera Sylwia , Gonsalvi Luca
Published: November 2024

In the quest for sustainable hydrogen production, the use of biomass‐derived feedstock is gaining importance. Acceptorless Dehydrogenation (AD) in the presence of efficient and selective catalysts has been explored worldwide as a suitable method to produce hydrogen from hydrogen‐rich simple organic molecules. Among these, glycerol and sugars have the advantage of being inexpensive, abundant, and obtainable from fatty acid basic hydrolysis (biodiesel industry) and from biomass by biochemical and thermochemical processing, respectively. Although heterogeneous catalysts are more widely used for hydrogen production from biomass‐based feedstock, the harsh reaction conditions often limit their applicability due to the deactivation of active sites caused by the coking of carbonaceous materials. Moreover, heterogeneous catalysts are more difficult to fine‐tune than homogeneous counterparts, and the latter also allow for high process selectivities under milder conditions. The present Concept article summarizes the main features of the most active homogeneous catalysts reported for glycerol and monosaccharides AD. In order to directly compare hydrogen production efficiencies, the choice of literature works was limited to reports where hydrogen was clearly quantified by yields and turnover numbers (TONs). The types of transition metals and ligands are discussed, together with a perspective view on future challenges of homogeneous AD reactions for practical applications.
Selective Modification of the Product Profile of Biocatalytic Hydrolyzed PET via Product‐Specific Medium Engineering
Authors: Heinks Tobias , Hofmann Katrin , Last Simon , Gamm Igor , Blach Luise , Wei Ren , Bornscheuer Uwe T. , Hamel Christof , von Langermann Jan
Published: November 2024

Over the past years, enzymatic depolymerization of PET, one of the most widely used plastics worldwide, has become very efficient leading to the end products terephthalic acid (TPA) and ethylene glycol (EG) used for PET re‐synthesis. Potent alternatives to these monomers are the intermediates BHET and MHET, the mono‐ and di‐esters of TPA and EG which avoid total hydrolysis and can serve as single starting materials for direct re‐polymerization. This study therefore aimed to selectively prepare those intermediates through reaction medium engineering during the biocatalytic hydrolysis of PET. After a comparative pre‐screening of 12 PET‐hydrolyzing enzymes, two of them (LCCICCG, IsPETasewt) were chosen for detailed investigations. Depending on the reaction conditions, MHET and BHET are predominantly obtainable: (i) MHET was produced in a better ratio and high concentrations at the beginning of the reaction when IsPETasewt and 10 % EG was used; (ii) BHET was produced as predominant product when LCCICCG and 25 % EG was used. TPA itself was nearly the single product at pH 9.0 after 24 h due to the self‐hydrolysis of MHET and BHET under basic conditions. Using medium engineering in biocatalytic PET‐hydrolysis, the product profile can be adjusted so that TPA, MHET or BHET is predominantly produced.
Single‐cell analysis of osmoregulation reveals heterogeneity of aquaporin 4 functionality in human astrocytes
Authors: Steenberghen Hugo , Beuckeleer Sarah De , Hellings Niels , Somers Veerle , Breedam Elise Van , Ponsaerts Peter , Nuydens Rony , Maurin Hervé , Larsen Peter H. , De Vos Winnok H.
Published: November 2024

The water channel aquaporin 4 (AQP4) contributes to water flow and waste removal across the blood–brain barrier and its levels, organization and localization are perturbed in various neurological diseases, including Alzheimer's Disease. This renders AQP4 a potentially valuable therapeutic target. However, most functional assays aimed at identifying modulators of AQP4 function are performed with primary rodent cells and do not consider inter‐cellular variations in AQP4 abundance and presentation. To address this, we have established and applied a robust live cell microscopy assay that captures the contribution of AQP4 in the osmotically driven (de‐)quenching of the vital dye Calcein‐AM with single‐cell resolution. Using human astrocytoma cells, we found that performing measurements on cellular regions instead of whole fields of view yielded a more sensitive readout of the osmotic response, which correlated with AQP4 abundance. Stable co‐expression of the two major AQP4 isoforms, but not of the individual isoforms, provoked a faster adaptation to osmotic changes, while siRNA‐mediated knockdown of AQP4 had the opposite effect. Post‐hoc correlation with the canonical membrane marker CD44 revealed that the speed of the osmotic response scaled with AQP4 membrane enrichment. Coating the substrate with laminin promoted AQP4 membrane enrichment, while cell confinement with fixed‐size micropatterns further increased the speed of osmoregulation, underscoring the influence of extracellular factors. The osmotic response of primary fetal astrocytes and human iPSC‐derived astrocyte models was comparable to AQP4‐deficient astrocytoma cells, in line with their low AQP4 levels and indicative of their immature state. In conclusion, a correlative single‐cell approach based on the quantification of Calcein‐AM quenching capacity, AQP4 abundance and AQP4 membrane enrichment, allows resolving osmoregulation in a more sensitive manner and reveals heterogeneity between and within human astrocyte (–like) cultures, which could prove crucial for future screens aimed at identifying AQP4 modulators.
A Review on Intelligent Reflecting Surfaces: Challenges and Opportunities Towards Secured Communications
Authors: S Sivasankar , S Markkandan
Published: November 2024

This review examines the advanced development and implementation of intelligent reflecting surfaces (IRSs) in smart radio environments (SREs) to enhance secure communications. IRS technology, including intelligent walls and software‐controlled metasurfaces, is designed to manipulate electromagnetic waves, thereby significantly improving wireless communication. The study highlights the importance of dynamic, nearly passive IRS, which combine multiple elements to create surfaces capable of diverse wave manipulations. Cutting‐edge techniques such as nonorthogonal multiple access (NOMA) and machine learning are employed to optimize IRS functions, enhancing secrecy rates and resilience against eavesdropping. Despite their ease of reconfiguration and affordability, IRSs are vulnerable to several security threats, a concern that has not been extensively explored in current research. This review aims to fill this gap by offering a comprehensive analysis of the security challenges associated with IRS‐enabled wireless networks. The effectiveness of IRS is compared to traditional wireless relays, with special attention to the simultaneous transmitting and reflecting intelligent reflecting surface (STAR‐IRS) model that provides 360° coverage. Key findings suggest that IRS can greatly enhance secure communications, improving wireless network performance, reliability, and adaptability. This paper underscores the pivotal role of IRS technology in the future of wireless networks, presenting new opportunities for secure and efficient communication systems.
MLLT3 knockdown suppresses proliferation and cell mobility in human lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Shi Wenbo , Zhang Tongyangzi , Zhang Li , Li Wanzhen , Chen Zhiwei , Xu Xianghuai
Published: November 2024

Lung cancer is emerging as one of the most frequently encountered malignancies around the world that carries high morbidity and mortality. Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) has become the most common subtype of lung cancer. MLLT3 or named AF9 was first characterized in acute myeloid leukemia and can downregulate the expression of several critical genes. The aim of this study was to explore the function of MLLT3 in the progression of LUAD and related molecular mechanisms. Immunohistochemistry was employed to assess MLLT3 expression in LUAD tissues, while quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) and Western blot were utilized to detect MLLT3 expression levels in lung adenocarcinoma cell lines. These results revealed a significant overexpression of MLLT3 in LUAD cell lines and tissues. We further uncovered an association between MLLT3 expression profiles in LUAD tissues and metastasis, as well as TNM stage. Survival analysis showed that elevated MLLT3 correlated with a poorer survival rate. We also found that MLLT3 knockdown repressed LUAD cells invasion, migration, and proliferation in vitro, while inducing cell cycle arrest and apoptosis of LUAD cells. Moreover, knocking down MLLT3 inhibited tumor growth in vivo. Specific markers of apoptosis, cell cycle, epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT), and MLLT3‐induced signaling were examined by Western blot. We demonstrated that MLLT3 knockdown inhibited the activity of the EGFR‐MAPK/ERK signaling pathway, and MLLT3 might be a novel diagnostic biomarker and therapeutic target in lung adenocarcinomas.
Predicting the Global Potential Suitable Areas of Sweet Osmanthus (Osmanthus fragrans) Under Current and Future Climate Scenarios
Authors: Yue Yuanzheng , Huang Yingyu , Liu Wei , Yang Xiulian , Wang Lianggui
Published: November 2024

Osmanthus fragrans is a valuable landscaping tree that is appreciated worldwide. However, the optimal environmental conditions for O. fragrans cultivation have yet to be studied in detail, which hinders the preservation of wild resources of this plant and its commercial exploitation. The maximum entropy model was applied to assess the significance of environment variables influencing O. fragrans distribution. Combining data from 629 global distribution points for O. fragrans, predictions were made on the potential effects of climate change on the geographical distribution of suitable habitats for this species in the present and the future. The results indicated that O. fragrans preferred a warm and humid growing environment. Under the current climatic conditions, the potential habitats for O. fragrans were mostly located in the eastern coastal areas of the continents at medium and low latitudes. The main environmental variables that affected its distribution were the precipitation during the warmest quarter, the temperature seasonality, and the mean temperature of the warmest quarter. The analysis indicated that the continuation of current trends in climate change will result in the further reduction of suitable habitats for O. fragrans growth, and the global centroid will shift to the southeast. These findings provided insight into the impact of climate change on O. fragrans habitats, as well as provide guidance for the conservation of wild resources of this species and the breeding of more climate change‐resistant varieties for the future.