bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Methylazanediyl Bisacetamide Derivative Sensitizes Staphylococcus aureus Persisters to a Combination of Gentamicin And Daptomycin
Authors: Heo Hee Young , Zou Guijin , Baek Seongeun , Kim Jae‐Seok , Mylonakis Eleftherios , Ausubel Frederick M. , Gao Huajian , Kim Wooseong
Published: December 2023

Infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus, notably methicillin‐resistant S. aureus (MRSA), pose treatment challenges due to its ability to tolerate antibiotics and develop antibiotic resistance. The former, a mechanism independent of genetic changes, allows bacteria to withstand antibiotics by altering metabolic processes. Here, a potent methylazanediyl bisacetamide derivative, MB6, is described, which selectively targets MRSA membranes over mammalian membranes without observable resistance development. Although MB6 is effective against growing MRSA cells, its antimicrobial activity against MRSA persisters is limited. Nevertheless, MB6 significantly potentiates the bactericidal activity of gentamicin against MRSA persisters by facilitating gentamicin uptake. In addition, MB6 in combination with daptomycin exhibits enhanced anti‐persister activity through mutual reinforcement of their membrane‐disrupting activities. Crucially, the “triple” combination of MB6, gentamicin, and daptomycin exhibits a marked enhancement in the killing of MRSA persisters compared to individual components or any double combinations. These findings underscore the potential of MB6 to function as a potent and selective membrane‐active antimicrobial adjuvant to enhance the efficacy of existing antibiotics against persister cells. The molecular mechanisms of MB6 elucidated in this study provide valuable insights for designing anti‐persister adjuvants and for developing new antimicrobial combination strategies to overcome the current limitations of antibiotic treatments.
Development of a novel PPTA/cellulose composite insulation paper with low dielectric constant and improved mechanical properties by BTCA crosslinking
Authors: Mo Yang , Hu Gang , Gao Yuanyuan , Zhang Mao , Liao Ruijin
Published: December 2023

This study investigates the effect of 1,2,3,4‐butane tetracarboxylic acid (BTCA) crosslinking treatment on the electrical properties of poly‐p‐phenylene terephthalate (PPTA)/cellulose insulation paper to prepare a novel composite insulation paper with low dielectric constant and good electrical performance. Three‐layer PPTA/cellulose composite paper crosslinked by BTCA under various conditions, composite paper without crosslinking, directly mixed composite paper, and conventional Kraft paper are prepared. The morphology and surface chemical composition of the paper samples are characterized. Dielectric, mechanical, and thermal properties are investigated. Results show that the BTCA concentration of 0.2 mol L−1 with a 180°C curing temperature is the relatively superior crosslinking condition to prepare a novel composite with low dielectric constant and good comprehensive performance. The dielectric constant and loss of the novel composite paper decrease to 3.21 and 0.392 at 50 Hz. The tensile strength of the BTCA crosslinked three‐layer PPTA/cellulose composite paper (thickness: 130 μm) has reached 10.01 kN m−1, increased by 41.6% than the directly mixed composite paper. The novel BTCA crosslinked composite paper also shows improved thermal stability. The BTCA crosslinking proves to be a promising method to improve the dielectric properties and electrical performance of the PPTA/cellulose composite paper.
Paradigmatic conformity blinds us from opportunity: a rejoinder
Authors: Janiszewski Chris , Laran Juliano
Published: December 2023

There is value in blending behaviorism and cognitivism when investigating consumer behavior. Traditionally, the blend has consisted of a serving of cognitivism with a dash of behaviorism. Behaviorism might inform the focus (e.g., predictive learning) or assumptions about the process (e.g., Bayesian updating), but cognitivism comprises the theoretical foundation. We propose there is value in an alternative blend—a serving of behaviorism with a dash of cognitivism. Cognitivism might inform the selection of stimulus cues (e.g., predictive learning) or assumptions about the process (e.g., association strengths), but behaviorism informs the manipulations of causal factors (e.g., stimulus properties, reward schedules, and learning history). Embracing alternative approaches to blending behaviorism and cognitivism creates opportunities for novel insights into consumer behavior.
Bestimmung und Validierung von Materialparametern für die nichtlineare Modellierung von Beton
Authors: Birkner Dennis , Freybe Nele , Marx Steffen
Published: December 2023

In diesem Beitrag wird gezeigt, dass mit den in der weit verbreiteten Software ANSYS Mechanical standardmäßig implementierten Materialmodellen das Tragverhalten von Beton‐ und Stahlbetonbalken zutreffend simuliert werden kann. Die notwendigen Materialparameter lassen sich mithilfe von Laborversuchen ermitteln. An Betonzylindern sind dies Versuche zur Bestimmung der Druck‐ und Spaltzugfestigkeit sowie des Elastizitätsmoduls. Die Bruchenergie wird an gekerbten Balken ermittelt. Dieser Versuch wird anschließend mit dem Drucker‐Prager‐Modell in Kombination mit Rankine‐Fließflächen und exponentieller Entfestigung nachgebildet. Bei Verwendung der experimentell ermittelten Materialparameter stimmt das berechnete Last‐Verformungs‐Verhalten gut mit den Messkurven überein. Eine Vergleichsrechnung mit normativ vorgeschlagenen Parametern überschätzt die Bruchenergie und somit die Traglast der Prüfkörper. Anschließend wird das numerische Modell anhand von Stahlbetonbalkenversuchen validiert. Das Modell mit den experimentell ermittelten Materialparamatern kann das Tragverhalten der Prüfkörper gut abbilden, jedoch wird auch deutlich, dass eine geeignete Modellierung des Verbundverhaltens wichtig ist. In diesem Fall wird das Tragverhalten der Balken mit Federelementen zwischen Beton‐ und Bewehrungsknoten am besten beschrieben. Ferner wird gezeigt, dass die Verwendung von reduziert bzw. voll integrierten Elementen einen großen Einfluss auf das simulierte Entfestigungsverhalten von Beton haben kann.
Design of experiment‐oriented development and validation of novel bioanalytical reverse phase high performance liquid chromatography method of palbociclib in rat plasma and tissues, and its application in pharmacokinetic studies
Authors: Rajana Naveen , Pooja Yeruva Sri , Bhavana Valamla , Chary Padakanti Sandeep , Dukka Komalatha , Deshmukh Rajeshwari , Mehra Neelesh Kumar
Published: December 2023

The current research involved the development and validation of an easy, cost‐effective, and sensitive bioanalytical reverse‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography method for the assessment of palbociclib (PAL) in rat plasma and kidney, liver, spleen and heart. A response surface methodology‐based Box–Behnken design was used to optimize critical chromatographic conditions such as buffer pH, organic phase concentration and flow rate to attain good sensitivity, tailing factor and retention time. The conditions were: pH of buffer, 4.5; organic phase concentration, 40%; Shimpac column with 1.0 ml/min flow rate. The responses were: tailing factor, 1.29 ± 0.03, sensitivity, 366,593 ± 8,592; and retention time, 4.5 ± 0.05 min. The samples were extracted by a protein precipitation method, and absolute recoveries were in the range of 88.99–95.08%. The linearity of the developed method was validated over the range 100–2,000 ng/ml (r2 ≥ 0.994) in all tested matrices. The developed bioanalytical method showed greater accuracy (0.98 and 4.01%) and precision (<4.88%). The method was optimized for the sensitive analysis of the PAL in rat plasma, and the kidney, liver, spleen and heart were effectively applied to pharmacokinetic studies.
An empirical analysis of corporate sustainability bonds
Authors: Mathew Sudha , Sivaprasad Sheeja
Published: December 2023

This study examines the performance of worldwide corporate sustainability bonds issued from 2014 to 2020. Unlike traditional bonds, the proceeds of sustainability bonds are utilised for financing projects to bring about environmental and socio‐economic benefits. We analyse the short‐term market reaction to announcements of sustainability and traditional bond issuance and document that the stock market reaction to an announcement of sustainability bonds is stronger than that for traditional bonds. We also find that multiple issuers of sustainability bonds achieve a more favourable market reaction than single issuers. Finally, we examine if environmental, social and governance (ESG) scores can positively and significantly impact the corporate performance of firms through the lens of sustainability bond issuances. We find that ESG scores are the primary performance drivers for firms, and the effect is more pronounced for firms that issue sustainability bonds. Overall, the results suggest that issuers of sustainability bonds show their commitment towards environmental and societal goals and thus benefit from favourable stock market reactions.
Collaboration among circular start‐ups and incumbents in the circular economy context
Authors: Tuladhar Alisha , Iatridis Konstantinos , Dimov Dimo
Published: December 2023

Circular economy (CE) has emerged as a sustainable alternative to the current “take, make, waste” linear approach. Although prior studies have highlighted the salience of collaborative efforts between start‐ups and incumbents, little is known about the mechanisms behind collaboration in a CE context. This study enhances our understanding of the topic by drawing on six cases of circular start‐ups (CSUs) operating in the United Kingdom's business‐to‐business market and investigating the mechanisms by which start‐ups collaborate with incumbents. Using the Context, Intervention, Mechanism, Outcome framework, the paper's findings demonstrate that CE does not necessitate high‐risk and expensive changes and show that CSUs can collaborate with incumbents in low‐risk ways by outsourcing and developing service contracts.
Cardiac lipoma in a young lady
Authors: Alizadehasl Azin , Mohseni Mina , Bahramnejad Alia , Roudini Kamran , Mohseni‐Salehi Maryam , Favaedi Maryam , Hakimian Hoda , Dousti Amir
Published: December 2023

Key Clinical Message

To confirm the diagnosis of cardiac lipomas, it is crucial to use multimodality imaging and also histopathology examination if the patient underwent surgery. But surgery is not needed in many cases unless there are life‐threatening situations.

Cardiac lipoma is a rare condition which is believed as a benign tumor; here, we want to present a case of young adult lady who came to our hospital complaining of chest pain and diagnosed cardiac mass by echocardiography that underwent cardiac MRI which showed cardiac lipoma and managed conservatively by serial echocardiography.
Tau and Alzheimer's disease: Past, present and future
Authors: Iqbal Khalid
Published: December 2023

My journey with tau started when in 1974 for the first time I isolated neurofibrillary tangles of paired helical filaments (PHFs) from autopsied Alzheimer's disease (AD) brains and discovered that they were made up of a ~50–70 KDa protein on SDS‐polyacrylamide gels. Subsequently my team discovered that this PHF protein and the microtubule‐associated factor called tau were one and the same protein. However, we found that tau in neurofibrillary tangles/PHFs in AD brain was abnormally hyperphosphorylated, and unlike normal tau, which promoted the assembly of tubulin into microtubules, the AD‐hyperphosphorylated tau inhibited microtubule assembly. These discoveries of tau pathology in AD opened a new and a major area of research on tau and on the molecular pathology of this major cause of dementia in middle‐ and old‐age individuals. Tau pathology, which without fail is made up of the aggregated hyperphosphorylated state of the protein, is also the hallmark lesion of a family of around 20 related neurodegenerative diseases, called tauopathies. Currently, tau pathology is a major drug target for the treatment of AD and related tauopathies. Both active and passive tau immunization human clinical trials at various stages are underway. Initial results range from negative to partially promising. Future studies will reveal whether tau therapy alone or in combination with drugs targeting Aβ and/or neurodegeneration will be required to achieve the most effective treatment for AD and related disorders.
NRG‐GY012: Randomized phase 2 study comparing olaparib, cediranib, and the combination of cediranib/olaparib in women with recurrent, persistent, or metastatic endometrial cancer
Authors: Rimel Bobbie J. , Enserro Danielle , Bender David P. , Jackson Camille Gunderson , Tan Annie , Alluri Nitya , Borowsky Mark , Moroney John , Hendrickson Andrea Wahner , Backes Floor , Swisher Elizabeth , Powell Matthew , MacKay Helen
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This paper reports the efficacy of the poly (ADP‐ribose) polymerase inhibitor olaparib alone and in combination with the antiangiogenesis agent cediranib compared with cediranib alone in patients with advanced endometrial cancer.

Methods

This was open‐label, randomized, phase 2 trial (NCT03660826). Eligible patients had recurrent endometrial cancer, received at least one (<3) prior lines of chemotherapy, and were Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status 0 to 2. Patients were randomly assigned (1:1:1), stratified by histology (serous vs. other) to receive cediranib alone (reference arm), olaparib, or olaparib and cediranib for 28‐day cycles until progression or unacceptable toxicity. The primary end point was progression‐free survival in the intention‐to‐treat population. Homologous repair deficiency was explored using the BROCA‐GO sequencing panel.

Results

A total of 120 patients were enrolled and all were included in the intention‐to‐treat analysis. Median age was 66 (range, 41–86) years and 47 (39.2%) had serous histology. Median progression‐free survival for cediranib was 3.8 months compared with 2.0 months for olaparib (hazard ratio, 1.45 [95% CI, 0.91‐2.3] p = .935) and 5.5 months for olaparib/cediranib (hazard ratio, 0.7 [95% CI, 0.43–1.14] p = .064). Four patients receiving the combination had a durable response lasting more than 20 months. The most common grade 3/4 toxicities were hypertension in the cediranib (36%) and olaparib/cediranib (33%) arms, fatigue (20.5% olaparib/cediranib), and diarrhea (17.9% cediranib). The BROCA‐GO panel results were not associated with response.

Conclusion

The combination of cediranib and olaparib demonstrated modest clinical efficacy; however, the primary end point of the study was not met. The combination was safe without unexpected toxicity.
Computational simulation of JAK/STAT signaling in somatic versus germline stem cells
Authors: Li Willis X.
Published: December 2023

Background

The Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) signaling pathway regulates a variety of cellular processes. A major activation event in this pathway involves the phosphorylation of a tyrosine of STAT, converting unphosphorylated STAT (uSTAT) to phosphorylated STAT (pSTAT), an active transcription factor. In a noncanonical role, uSTAT contributes to the maintenance of heterochromatin stability. As such, an increase in pSTAT concurrently reduces uSTAT, resulting in heterochromatin loss, as observed in Drosophila somatic tissues. Paradoxically, an opposing phenomenon occurs in Drosophila male germline stem cells (GSCs), where the JAK/STAT pathway remains persistently active due to a continuous supply of ligands. Here, computational simulations were employed to dissect JAK/STAT pathway activation under different cellular contexts, mimicking somatic and germline cells. In these simulations, ordinary differential equations were leveraged to replicate the chemical reactions governing JAK/STAT signaling under different conditions.

Results

The outcomes indicate that transient ligand stimulation, typical in somatic tissues, led to a momentary reduction in uSTAT levels. Conversely, sustained ligand stimulation, a characteristic feature of the GSC niche, resulted in elevated uSTAT levels at equilibrium.

Conclusion

The simulation suggests that the duration of ligand exposure could explain the observed opposite effects of JAK/STAT activation on heterochromatin in somatic versus GSCs.
Effect of paced heart rate on quality of life and natriuretic peptides for stage B or C heart failure with preserved ejection fraction: A secondary analysis of the myPACE trial
Authors: de la Espriella Rafael , Wahlberg Kramer J. , Infeld Margaret , Palau Patricia , Núñez Eduardo , Sanchis Juan , Meyer Markus , Núñez Julio
Published: December 2023

Aim

Emerging evidence suggests a beneficial effect of higher heart rates in some patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). This study aimed to evaluate the impact of higher backup pacing rates in HFpEF patients with preexisting pacemaker systems that limit pacemaker‐mediated dyssynchrony across left ventricular (LV) volumes and LV ejection fraction (LVEF).

Methods and results

This is a post‐hoc analysis of the myPACE clinical trial that evaluated the effects of personalized accelerated pacing setting (myPACE) versus standard of care on changes in Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire (MLHFQ) score, N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP), pacemaker‐detected activity levels, and atrial fibrillation (AF) burden in patients with HFpEF with preexisting pacemakers. Between‐treatment comparisons were performed using linear regression models adjusting for the baseline value of the exposure (ANCOVA design). This study included 93 patients with pre‐trial transthoracic echocardiograms available (usual care n = 49; myPACE n = 44). NT‐proBNP levels and MLHFQ scores improved in a higher magnitude in the myPACE group at lower indexed LV end‐diastolic volumes (iLVEDV) (NT‐proBNP–iLVEDV interaction p = 0.006; MLHFQ–iLVEDV interaction p = 0.068). In addition, personalized accelerated pacing led to improved changes in activity levels and NT‐proBNP, especially at higher LVEF (activity levels–LVEF interaction p = 0.009; NT‐proBNP–LVEF interaction p = 0.058). No evidence of heterogeneity was found across LV volumes or LVEF for pacemaker‐detected AF burden.

Conclusions

In the post‐hoc analysis of the myPACE trial, we observed that the benefits of a personalized accelerated backup pacing on MLHFQ score, NT‐proBNP, and pacemaker‐detected activity levels appear to be more pronounced in patients with smaller iLVEDV and higher LVEF.
Fixation of air nitrogen to ammonia and nitrate using cathodic plasma and anodic plasma in the air plasma electrolysis method
Authors: Saksono Nelson , Suryawinata Patresia , Zakaria Zainal , Farawan Bening
Published: December 2023

The fixation of nitrogen (N2) from the air into ammonia (NH3) and nitrate (NO3−) is usually conducted using the Haber–Bosch process, which requires the raw material of hydrocarbons for hydrogen (H2), which has a large amount of energy but produces high CO2 emissions. An environmentally friendly and energy‐saving alternative is the air plasma electrolysis method, which can be used to synthesize NH3 and NO3− under ambient conditions. In this study, this method was used to inject air into the plasma zone in a K2SO4 electrolyte solution to produce N2 fixation compounds. The results showed that the use of cathodic plasma promoted the formation of NH3 but suppressed NO3− production. The optimal air injection rate was achieved at 0.6 L.min−1 and an electrical power of 452 W, with a total fixed N2 of 51.66 mmol. The highest formation of NO3− in cathodic plasma was obtained in 35 min, with a value of 29.92 mmol, and 2.57 mmol NH3 was achieved at 60 min. The high concentration of H2 gas, which is a by‐product of this process, can contribute to increasing the use of Haber–Bosch green technology in the production of NH3.
Self‐supported bimetallic array superstructures for high‐performance coupling electrosynthesis of formate and adipate
Authors: Liu Li , He Yingchun , Li Qing , Cao Changsheng , Huang Minghong , Ma Dong‐Dong , Wu Xin‐Tao , Zhu Qi‐Long
Published: December 2023

The coupling electrosynthesis involving CO2 upgrade conversion is of great significance for the sustainable development of the environment and energy but is challenging. Herein, we exquisitely constructed the self‐supported bimetallic array superstructures from the Cu(OH)2 array architecture precursor, which can enable high‐performance coupling electrosynthesis of formate and adipate at the anode and the cathode, respectively. Concretely, the faradaic efficiencies (FEs) of CO2‐to‐formate and cyclohexanone‐to‐adipate conversion simultaneously exceed 90% at both electrodes with excellent stabilities. Such high‐performance coupling electrosynthesis is highly correlated with the porous nanosheet array superstructure of CuBi alloy as the cathode and the nanosheet‐on‐nanowire array superstructure of CuNi hydroxide as the anode. Moreover, compared to the conventional electrolysis process, the cell voltage is substantially reduced while maintaining the electrocatalytic performance for coupling electrosynthesis in the two‐electrode electrolyzer with the maximal FEformate and FEadipate up to 94.2% and 93.1%, respectively. The experimental results further demonstrate that the bimetal composition modulates the local electronic structures, promoting the reactions toward the target products. Prospectively, our work proposes an instructive strategy for constructing adaptive self‐supported superstructures to achieve efficient coupling electrosynthesis.
Radicals and Carbohydrates: A Grand Alliance
Authors: Quiclet‐Sire Béatrice , Zard Samir Z.
Published: December 2023

This review describes applications of radical reactions developed in the authors’ laboratory for the modification of carbohydrates. It focuses on tin‐free variation on the Barton‐McCombie deoxygenation; on reductive de‐iodination; on intermolecular radical additions of xanthates; on allylations and vinylations of xanthates and iodides, with emphasis on allylations using allylic alcohols activated as fluoropyridyl ethers; and, finally, on the synthesis of mercaptosugars.
Attitudes toward COVID‐19 restrictions and COVID‐19‐related stress and fear among college students across three waves
Authors: James Drexler , Henshaw Erin , Lourie Andrea , Kennedy Susan , Glatley Blake
Published: December 2023

Background and Aims

The COVID‐19 pandemic has significantly impacted the mental health of college students, leading to increased psychological distress. This study explored potenital predictors to better understand the factors that influence and mitigate student COVID‐19 stress in the evolving landscape of residential colleges. Specifically, we investigated the roles of COVID‐19 fear, loneliness, and attitudes toward COVID‐19 restrictions.

Methods

Employing a longitudinal online survey design, we collected data over the fall 2020 semester from 122 first‐year college students enrolled in a small mid‐west liberal arts college. Participants completed the same survey three times: Wave 1 in August, Wave 2 in October, and Wave 3 in November.

Results

Fear of COVID‐19 (Time 1) was a significant predictor of increased COVID‐19 related stress at both Time 2 and Time 3. Interestingly, loneliness (Time 1) moderated the effect of fear of COVID‐19 (Time 1) on attitudes toward COVID‐19 restrictions at Time 2. Moreover, students' negative attitudes toward COVID‐19 restrictions and feelings of loneliness increased over the course of the semester.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that college students’ wellbeing in the context of COVID‐19 stress is influenced by a complex interplay of perceptions of COVID‐19 (stress, fear, attitudes) and feelings of social isolation (loneliness). Further research in this area is crucial to provide targeted support and interventions to promote students’ mental health.
Using large language models to write theses and dissertations
Authors: O'Leary Daniel E.
Published: December 2023

There has been substantial discussion aimed at investigating the extent to which academic researchers can or should “use” large language models, such as ChatGPT and Bard, in their research papers. However, there seems to have been limited attention given to the extent to which students can use these tools for the development of theses, proposals and dissertations. This paper pushes the arguments from focusing on academic researchers, journal papers, and technical meetings to considering those theses and dissertations, raising several questions and concerns. Ultimately, university policies need to address these issues, but if publisher and editor responses and alternative business uses are a signal of that direction, consensus may be difficult to achieve.
Participation of the TBP‐associated factors (TAFs) in cell differentiation
Authors: Luna‐Arias Juan Pedro , Castro‐Muñozledo Federico
Published: December 2023

The understanding of the mechanisms that regulate gene expression to establish differentiation programs and determine cell lineages, is one of the major challenges in Developmental Biology. Besides the participation of tissue‐specific transcription factors and epigenetic processes, the role of general transcription factors has been ignored. Only in recent years, there have been scarce studies that address this issue. Here, we review the studies on the biological activity of some TATA‐box binding protein (TBP)‐associated factors (TAFs) during the proliferation of stem/progenitor cells and their involvement in cell differentiation. Particularly, the accumulated evidence suggests that TAF4, TAF4b, TAF7L, TAF8, TAF9, and TAF10, among others, participate in nervous system development, adipogenesis, myogenesis, and epidermal differentiation; while TAF1, TAF7, TAF15 may be involved in the regulation of stem cell proliferative abilities and cell cycle progression. On the other hand, evidence suggests that TBP variants such as TBPL1 and TBPL2 might be regulating some developmental processes such as germ cell maturation and differentiation, myogenesis, or ventral specification during development. Our analysis shows that it is necessary to study in greater depth the biological function of these factors and its participation in the assembly of specific transcription complexes that contribute to the differential gene expression that gives rise to the great diversity of cell types existing in an organism. The understanding of TAFs' regulation might lead to the development of new therapies for patients which suffer from mutations, alterations, and dysregulation of these essential elements of the transcriptional machinery.
Three‐dimensional body composition parameters using automatic volumetric segmentation allow accurate prediction of colorectal cancer outcomes
Authors: Bimurzayeva Aiya , Kim Min Jung , Ahn Jong‐Sung , Ku Ga Yoon , Moon Dokyoon , Choi Jinsun , Kim Hyo Jun , Lim Han‐Ki , Shin Rumi , Park Ji Won , Ryoo Seung‐Bum , Park Kyu Joo , Chung Han‐Jae , Kim Jong‐Min , Park Sang Joon , Jeong Seung‐Yong
Published: December 2023

Background

Parameters obtained from two‐dimensional (2D) cross‐sectional images have been used to determine body composition. However, data from three‐dimensional (3D) volumetric body images reflect real body composition more accurately and may be better predictors of patient outcomes in cancer. This study aimed to assess the 3D parameters and determine the best predictive factors for patient prognosis.

Methods

Patients who underwent surgery for colorectal cancer (CRC) between 2010 and 2016 were included in this study. Preoperative computed tomography images were analysed using an automatic segmentation program. Body composition parameters for muscle, muscle adiposity, subcutaneous fat (SF) and abdominal visceral fat (AVF) were assessed using 2D images at the third lumbar (L3) level and 3D images of the abdominal waist (L1–L5). The cut‐off points for each parameter were determined using X‐tile software. A Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to identify the association between the parameters and the treatment outcomes, and the relative influence of each parameter was compared using a gradient boosting model.

Results

Overall, 499 patients were included in the study. At a median follow‐up of 59 months, higher 3D parameters of the abdominal muscles and SF from the abdominal waist were found to be associated with longer overall survival (OS) and disease‐free survival (all P < 0.001). Although the 3D parameters of AVF were not related to survival outcomes, patients with a high AVF volume and mass experienced higher rate of postoperative complications than those with low AVF volume (27.4% vs. 18.7%, P = 0.021, for mass; 27.1% vs. 19.0%, P = 0.028, for volume). Low muscle mass and volume (hazard ratio [HR] 1.959, P = 0.016; HR 2.093, P = 0.036, respectively) and low SF mass and volume (HR 1.968, P = 0.008; HR 2.561, P = 0.003, respectively), both in the abdominal waist, were identified as independent prognostic factors for worse OS. Along with muscle mass and volume, SF mass and volume in the abdominal waist were negatively correlated with mortality (all P < 0.001). Both AVF mass and volume in the abdominal waist were positively correlated with postoperative complications (P < 0.05); 3D muscle volume and SF at the abdominal waist were the most influential factors for OS.

Conclusions

3D volumetric parameters generated using an automatic segmentation program showed higher correlations with the short‐ and long‐term outcomes of patients with CRC than conventional 2D parameters.
Uptake of extracellular vesicles into immune cells is enhanced by the protein corona
Authors: Dietz Laura , Oberländer Jennifer , Mateos‐Maroto Ana , Schunke Jenny , Fichter Michael , Krämer‐Albers Eva‐Maria , Landfester Katharina , Mailänder Volker
Published: December 2023

The influence of a protein corona on the uptake of nanoparticles in cells has been demonstrated in various publications over the last years. Extracellular vesicles (EVs), can be seen as natural nanoparticles. However, EVs are produced under different cell culture conditions and little is known about the protein corona forming on EVs and its influence on their uptake by target cells. Here, we use a proteomic approach in order to analyze the protein composition of the EVs themselves and the protein composition of a human blood plasma protein corona around EVs. Moreover, we analyze the influence of the protein corona on EV uptake into human monocytes and compare it with the influence on the uptake of engineered liposomes. We show that the presence of a protein corona increases the uptake of EVs in human monocytes. While for liposomes this seems to be triggered by the presence of immunoglobulins in the protein corona, for EVs blocking the Fc receptors on monocytes did not show an influence of uptake. Therefore, other mechanisms of docking to the cell membrane and uptake are most like involved, demonstrating a clear difference between EVs and liposomes as technically produced nanocarriers.
Nucleic acid‐based electrochemical biosensor for detection of influenza B by gold nanoparticles
Authors: Yahyavi Isar , Edalat Fahime , Pirbonyeh Neda , Letafati Arash , Sattarahmady Naghmeh , Heli Hossein , Moattari Afagh
Published: December 2023

The influenza virus is a pervasive pathogen that exhibits increased prevalence during colder seasons, resulting in a significant annual occurrence of infections. Notably, pharmaceutical interventions effective against influenza A strains often exhibit limited efficacy against influenza B variants. Against this backdrop, the need for innovative approaches to accurately and swiftly differentiate and detect influenza B becomes evident. Biosensors play a pivotal role in this detection process, offering rapid, specific, and sensitive identification of the virus, facilitating timely intervention and containment efforts. Oligonucleotide sequences targeting the conserved B/Victoria/2/87 influenza virus NP region were designed. Nasopharyngeal swabs were collected from patients suspected of influenza virus infection, and viral RNA was extracted. RNA quality was assessed through one‐step PCR. cDNA synthesis was performed using random hexamers, and real‐time PCR quantified the influenza genome. Gold nanoparticles were immobilized on a surface to immobilize the specific DNA probe, and electrochemical hybridization was electrochemically followed. The biosensor exhibited high selectivity and effective distinction of complementary sequences from mismatches and influenza virus cDNA genome. The biosensor successfully detected the influenza B virus genome in real samples. Non‐influenza samples yielded no significant hybridization signals. The comparison between the results obtained from the biosensor and real‐time PCR revealed full agreement of these methods. The biosensor utilized electrochemical detection of hybridization and proved effective in detecting the influenza B virus genome with high specificity, sensitivity, and selectivity. Comparative analysis with real‐time PCR underscored the accuracy and potential applicability of the biosensor in rapid and specific virus detection. This innovative approach holds promise for future diagnostic and epidemiological applications in detecting influenza B virus and other pathogens.
Assessing the Usefulness of Ultrasonography for the Diagnosis and Evaluation of Intra‐Orbital Lesions in Pediatric Patients
Authors: Hosokawa Takahiro , Kuntaro Deguchi , Takei Haruka , Arakawa Yuki , Kambe Tomoka , Kurihara Jun , Mochizuki Naoto , Sato Yumiko , Tanami Yutaka , Oguma Eiji
Published: December 2023

Objectives

To assess the usefulness of ultrasonography in the diagnosis and evaluation of extraocular intra‐orbital lesions in pediatric patients.

Methods

Twenty‐three pediatric patients with intra‐orbital lesions who underwent both ultrasound and computed tomography/magnetic resonance imaging (CT/MRI) were included. The following parameters were evaluated using ultrasound: 1) lesion detection rate (presence or absence of lesions), 2) lesion characteristics, 3) lesion location (extraconal or intraconal), and 4) the lesion longest linear dimensions, and these were compared using Fisher's exact test and Mann–Whitney U test.

Results

Two lesions could not be detected using ultrasound; in the other 21 cases, the lesion characteristics diagnosed by ultrasound were correct. Diagnostic accuracy of detection and characteristics assessment using ultrasound were 91.3% and 91.3%, respectively. The lesion location was not significantly different between the two groups (intraconal/extraconal in those detected using ultrasound versus those in the absence on ultrasound = 7/14 versus 0/2, P > .999); however, in two cases that were not detected on ultrasound, the lesions were located at extraconal. Lesions that were small in longest linear dimensions on CT/MRI were not detected using ultrasound (the longest linear dimensions in lesions detected using ultrasound versus that in the absence of ultrasound: 29.5 ± 8.2 [range, 13–46] versus 10 and 11 mm, P = .043).

Conclusions

Ultrasonography proved to be useful for visualizing and evaluating intra‐orbital lesions except for lesions that were relatively small in size. Therefore, although ultrasound could not detect lesions located behind bone and bone invasion, it could be used for diagnosing and selecting treatment strategies for intra‐orbital lesions.
Bipartite consensus of linear multi‐agent systems with intermittent event‐triggered protocols
Authors: Zhao Meilin , Liu Kaien , Wang Zhichao
Published: December 2023

In this paper, bipartite consensus of linear multi‐agent systems with structually balanced signed network is investigated. In particularly, control protocols for consensus are considered to work under an intermittent framework due to some unavoidable factors. Meanwhile, the event‐triggered mechanism is introduced in order to reduce the update frequency of control input. Based on distributed intermittent event‐triggered control, some sufficient conditions are proposed to ensure leaderless and leader‐following bipartite consensus. Moreover, minimum event‐triggered intervals are set to be positive in advance to exclude Zeno behavior. Finally, two numerical examples are provided to verify the effectiveness of theoretical results.
Analysis of friction‐related acoustic emission in bolted joint structures
Authors: Sun Jiaying , Yang Huiyi , Li Dongwu , Xu Chao
Published: December 2023

A bolted joint may be in a state of continuous fretting friction and wear under random oscillatory loading, which makes the bolted joint prone to loosening. Therefore, it is essential to find a way to monitor the contact state of a bolted joint on time and handle it adeptly. Acoustic emission (AE) signals will be generated during the reciprocating friction of the bolted joint interface. Exploring the relationship between the frictional slip features and the acoustic emission characteristics under different bolt preloads can lay the foundation for using the acoustic emission techniques to monitor the pretightening state of bolted joints. This paper experimentally investigates the acoustic emission signals of a bolted joint structure during friction under different preloads, three repeated tests are implemented. The relationship between friction behavior and acoustic emission characteristics under different preloads is studied. The evolution of classical acoustic emission parameters and kinematic parameters with bolt preload levels is also analyzed. The 3‐D topography of the specimens after parametric tests is analyzed. The results show that the characteristics of both burst‐type and continuous‐type acoustic emission can reflect different friction behavior under different bolt preloads. The evolution curves of acoustic emission parameters changed under the interaction of both frictional kinematic parameters and bolt preload levels. For the 3‐D surface topography, the reciprocating friction shears the peaks and fills the surface valleys, and the topography of the scratched surface areas is redistributed.
On the use of double‐double design philosophy in the redesign of composite fuselage barrel frame components
Authors: Garofano Antonio , Sellitto Andrea , Di Caprio Francesco , Riccio Aniello
Published: December 2023

The use of optimization procedures can provide a valuable contribution in optimizing the laminate design of composite components for mass minimization and mechanical performance maximization. Design for weight and strength requirements of composite structures can be efficiently provided with the newly developed double‐double laminates concept, which allows to overcome the conventional 0, 90, and ±45° ply orientations and symmetry requirements in laminates. In the double‐double designed components, composite laminates are made up stacking thin sub‐laminates with four [±Φ, ±Ψ] oriented plies without symmetry requirements. In the present paper, the lay‐up and thickness profile of the composite frames in a fuselage section have been redesigned according to the double‐double design concept taking into account the operating loads. The starting quad configuration has been replaced by an optimized double‐double configuration with suitable lay‐up and thickness profile for each of the frames, while achieving a reduction in the total components mass.

Highlights

Double‐double laminates offer a novel approach to composite laminate design.

Double‐doubles aim to simplify design with composites as with metals.

Laminate optimization performed varying plies orientations and number.

Double‐double design of components optimized with respect to the acting loads.

In aviation double‐doubles allow lightening of composite laminate components.
Preliminary study of a new macro‐micro robot system for dental implant surgery: Design, development and control
Authors: Wang Yan , Wang Wei , Cai Yueri , Zhao Qiming , Wang Yuyang
Published: December 2023

Background

This study aims to develop a new dental implant robotic system (DIRS) to relieve the burden and enhance the quality of dental implant surgery.

Methods

The implanting actuator and system controller are two parts. The implanting actuator is designed on the basis of the RCM mechanism, with its kinematics modelled. Besides, a multi‐DOF admittance control strategy and a hybrid position‐admittance control strategy were designed, endowing the actuator with environmental compliance.

Results

In force sensing, about 97% of mixed force/torque are eliminated. Then, 30 groups of implantation are done, of which 15 groups are simple implantation, while another 15 groups are force‐based implantation. The results show that the average contact force/torque can be reduced by 73.03% and 62.66%, and the peak contact force/torque can be reduced by 68.26% and 50.46%.

Conclusions

The results of preliminary experiments validate the effectiveness of DIRS, which has great potential to assist dentists with higher efficiency, better quality, and lower burden.
Targeting epidermal growth factor receptor signalling pathway: A promising therapeutic option for COVID‐19
Authors: Razzaq Aroona , Disoma Cyrollah , Zhou Yuzheng , Tao Siyi , Chen Zongpeng , Liu Sixu , Zheng Rong , Zhang Yongxing , Liao Yujie , Chen Xuan , Liu Sijie , Dong Zijun , Xu Liangtao , Deng Xu , Li Shanni , Xia Zanxian
Published: December 2023

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) is continuously producing new variants, necessitating effective therapeutics. Patients are not only confronted by the immediate symptoms of infection but also by the long‐term health issues linked to long COVID‐19. Activation of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signalling during SARS‐CoV‐2 infection promotes virus propagation, mucus hyperproduction, and pulmonary fibrosis, and suppresses the host's antiviral response. Over the long term, EGFR activation in COVID‐19, particularly in COVID‐19‐induced pulmonary fibrosis, may be linked to the development of lung cancer. In this review, we have summarised the significance of EGFR signalling in the context of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. We also discussed the targeting of EGFR signalling as a promising strategy for COVID‐19 treatment and highlighted erlotinib as a superior option among EGFR inhibitors. Erlotinib effectively blocks EGFR and AAK1, thereby preventing SARS‐CoV‐2 replication, reducing mucus hyperproduction, TNF‐α expression, and enhancing the host's antiviral response. Nevertheless, to evaluate the antiviral efficacy of erlotinib, relevant clinical trials involving an appropriate patient population should be designed.
Robustness analysis of uncertain time‐varying systems with unknown initial conditions
Authors: Farhood Mazen
Published: December 2023

This paper focuses on the robustness analysis of discrete‐time, linear time‐varying (LTV) systems subject to various uncertainties, such as static and dynamic, time‐invariant and time‐varying, linear perturbations, and unknown initial conditions. The proposed approach is based on integral quadratic constraint theory and allows for a potentially more accurate characterization of the set in which the initial state resides by imposing separate constraints on the initial values of the state variables as opposed to simply requiring the initial state to lie in some ellipsoid. The adopted problem formulation facilitates the analysis of uncertain LTV systems subject to disturbance inputs that are bounded pointwise in time, and the developed results enable determining useful pointwise bounds on the performance outputs given such inputs. The main analysis result is given for eventually periodic nominal systems, which include linear time‐invariant, finite horizon, and periodic systems as special cases. The analysis conditions are expressed as linear matrix inequalities. Two additional results stemming from the main analysis theorem are provided that can be used to determine overapproximated ellipsoidal reachable sets. Finally, the utility of the proposed approach is demonstrated in an illustrative example.
Exploring the complexities of CSR and firm performances: Unveiling the relationship between social responsibility, ethical conduct, and consumer perceptions
Authors: Shahzad Muhammad Faisal , Yuan Jingbo , Husnain Mudassir , Ma Guicheng
Published: December 2023

This study investigates the relationship between corporate social responsibility (CSR) and brand perception. It specifically examines how negative attitudes toward CSR activities and emotional contagion influence brand perception. The research focuses on young consumers as the sample population. The findings underscore the significance of CSR in shaping consumer attitudes and emotions toward brands. The results indicate that negative attitudes toward a company's CSR initiatives can exacerbate negative brand perception. Therefore, the study emphasizes the importance of companies demonstrating their dedication to sustainability and environmental stewardship to appeal to environmentally conscious customers. However, the research also acknowledges certain limitations include the geographical sampling size and sampling techniques, which should be taken into consideration.
Sculpting the future of meat: Biomaterial approaches and structural engineering for large‐scale cell‐based production
Authors: Jin Ang , Bennie Rachel Z. , Ogilvie Olivia J. , Trlin Hamish J. F. , Kong Ng Say , Yu Hanry , Dobson Renwick C. J. , Domigan Laura J.
Published: December 2023

Novel foods are an increasing reality (and necessity) for our global food system and need to be protein‐rich for good nutrition. Cell‐based meats use the edible biomass of in vitro cultured animal cells harvested from the muscle tissue of live animals, removing the need to raise and slaughter animals. It is a viable alternative that is environmentally friendly, lowers resource consumption, and reduces health risks associated with traditional livestock farming. The cell‐based meat industry has boomed over the last 5 years with dozens of start‐ups being founded and millions of dollars in capital raised. While cell‐based meat faces technical, socio‐political, and regulatory challenges, it is a nascent technology with key technical challenges such as cell line stability, non‐animal‐derived culture media development, and bioprocessing for commercial‐scale uses. Here, we review the current field of cell‐based meat production at a lab scale and assess the feasibility and scalability of commercial production and the challenges that these production methods face. Moreover, we discuss the advancements in technologies for large‐scale manufacturing of cell‐based meat covering aspects including optimized culture media formulations, edible scaffold designs, and bioreactors for high‐density cell culture to reduce production costs.
Carbon, Oxygen Co‐doped MoP as a High‐Efficiency Catalyst Towards Hydrodechlorination Reaction
Authors: Wang Xinyu , Zhang Lu , Yuan Guojun , Bai Jianliang , Zhu Yaqing , Ren Lili
Published: December 2023

The harms caused by organic chlorides to the human body and the environment make the problem of how to degrade organic chlorides particularly urgent. Phosphides have gradually attracted attention in HDC due to their high catalytic performance. In view of the important role of O in catalytic process, the preparation of C, O co‐doped MoP was achieved by the synergistic modification of EDTA and glucose. Compared with unmodified MoP, the doping of carbon and oxygen in MoP−C−O ensure that more active sites are exposed on the surface. At the same time, the high dispersion of MoP on the carbon matrix increases the specific surface area of MoP−C−O, which is more conducive to the adsorption of reactants on the surface, thereby effectively improving the catalytic activity of the modified MoP−C−O. In the case of changing the molar ratio of MoP and surface modifier, the best activity of MoP−C−O (50 %) reaches 57.80 %, which is 2.3 times higher than that of MoP catalyst.