bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optical Design of Silica Aerogels for On‐Demand Thermal Management
Authors: Wang Jing , Yuan Dengsen , Hu Peiying , Wang Yongjiang , Wang Jin , Li Qingwen
Published: May 2023

Silica aerogels, a type of porous material featuring extra low density and thermal conductivity, have drawn increasing interest from both academia and industry owing to their excellent thermal insulation performance. However, thermal insulation is always the single consideration when silica aerogels are used for thermal management. In this study, the on‐demand thermal management (ODTM) of silica aerogel with either passive thermal insulation, passive heating, or passive cooling in different environments is revealed. The ODTM behavior of silica aerogels can be simply fulfilled through their optical property variations such as solar light transparency and infrared emissivity, which are controllable via the microstructures of the building blocks and surface composition design. Robust solar heating of 25 °C higher than the ambient in the daytime and sub‐ambient cooling of 7 °C at night is achieved with the traditional transparent silica aerogel. Interestingly, sub‐ambient cooling of 5 °C in the daytime and a warmer state on cold nights is achieved by modifying its solar transmittance and infrared emissivity. This study guides a comprehensive understanding of the thermal management behavior of silica aerogels and leads to ODTM applications of silica aerogels by tailoring their optical and thermal conductivity properties.
Hybrid Bacteriorhodopsin/Zinc Oxide Synaptic Photoconductors for Bio‐compatible Neuromorphic Devices
Authors: Liu Wenqing , Wang Hailu , Liu Fangwu , Li Yuanyuan , Jia Chaoxian , Li Tangxin , Xu Hangyu , Kang Mengyang , Wei Wenrui , Miao Jinshui , Zhang Tao , Hu Weida
Published: May 2023

Neuromorphic hardware based on artificial synaptic devices has great potential to break the bottleneck of von Neumann architecture, which makes it possible to emulate the working mode of the human brain with low power consumption and high operation efficiency. However, current synaptic devices can barely detect photons and are bio‐incompatible for future all‐in‐one visual perception technology. Here, synaptic photoconductors based on an organic–inorganic hybrid structure, and composed of photosensitive bacteriorhodopsin protein layer and zinc oxide film are reported. The synaptic photoconductors demonstrate tunable synaptic plasticity with the modulation of the light illumination time and power intensity. The working mechanism of the photogating effect induced by the proton pump process of bR protein molecules is further investigated in detail. Assisting with these properties, the imaging memorization and preprocessing function are successfully emulated by the synaptic photoconductors. The prototype photosynaptic devices provide a unique opportunity to realize artificial synapses, enabling neuromorphic hardware.
Conjugating 4β‐NH‐(5‐Aminoindazole)‐podophyllotoxin and Galectin‐1‐Targeted Aptamer for Synergistic Chemo‐Immunotherapy of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Cong Ying , Zhang Shu‐Yue , Tang Paula Yun‐Zhi , Li Hong‐Mei , Liu Xue , Zhao Wei , Tang Ya‐Jie
Published: May 2023

By conjugating a chemotherapeutic candidate drug 4β‐NH‐(5‐aminoindazole)‐podophyllotoxin (βIZP) and an immunosuppressive protein galectin‐1 targeted aptamer AP74, a chemo‐immunotherapy molecule (AP74‐βIZP) is developed against liver cancer. AP74‐βIZP can target galectin‐1 and enrich the tumor microenvironment to improve the tumor inhibition ratio by 6.3%, higher than that of βIZP in a HepG2 xenograft model. In safety evaluation, βIZP cannot be released from AP74‐βIZP in normal tissues with low glutathione level. Therefore, the degrees of organs injury and myelosuppression after the treatment with AP74‐βIZP are lower than those with βIZP. After 21 d treatment at a drug dose of 5 mg kg−1, AP74‐βIZP does not cause weight loss in mice, while the weight is significantly reduced by 24% and 14% from oxaliplatin and βIZP, respectively. In immune synergy, AP74‐IZP enhances CD4/CD8 cell infiltration to promote the expression of cell factor (i.e., IL‐2, TNF‐α, and IFN‐γ), which further improves the antitumor activity. The tumor inhibition ratio of AP74‐βIZP is 70.2%, which is higher than that of AP74 (35.2%) and βIZP (48.8%). Because of the dual effects of chemotherapy and immunotherapy, AP74‐βIZP exhibits superior activity and lower toxicity. The approach developed in this work could be applicable to other chemotherapy drugs.
3D‐Printed Phase‐Change Artificial Muscles with Autonomous Vibration Control
Authors: Mohammadi Moslem , Kouzani Abbas Z. , Bodaghi Mahdi , Xiang Yong , Zolfagharian Ali
Published: May 2023

Currently, additive manufacturing is utilized to fabricate many different actuators suited for soft robots. However, an effective controller paradigm is essential to benefit from the advantages of soft robots in terms of power consumption, production costs, weight, and safety while operating near living systems. In this work, an artificial muscle is additively manufactured with soft silicone elastomer material capable of demonstrating several levels of stiffness. The 3D‐printed muscle is equipped with carbon fibers to receive a stimulus signal and develop a programmable joint that can present different stiffnesses. A nonlinear controller is developed to autonomously control the variable stiffness joint based on a reinforcement learning algorithm. The controller exhibits a slight increase in settling time; however, it demonstrates a decrease in fluctuation amplitude by 33% and a substantial reduction in power consumption by 41% in comparison to the optimized proportional integral derivative controller. At the same time, it is adaptable to and reliable in new conditions. The variable stiffness muscle is also used as a controllable mechanism to suppress the low frequency vibration. The study shows that the muscle can successfully attenuate the vibration autonomously when it is increased.
Unraveling the Mechanism of Plasma‐Induced Curing of Particle‐Free Complex Inks for Manufacturing of High‐Performance Flexible Copper Films and Patterns
Authors: Zhang Jie , Liang Cheng , Rui Pengcheng , Wu Xinzhou , Ge Qingtao , Hou Xiaoya , Sun Qingqing , Wang Yong , Li Wanli
Published: May 2023

Although cost‐effective copper inks show great potential in printed flexible electronics, the poor stability and high sintering temperatures have hindered their practical application seriously. Herein, the mechanism of plasma‐induced curing of particle‐free complex copper inks is investigated systematically to realize the low‐temperature fabrication of high‐performance copper films and patterns for advanced flexible electronics. The relationships among the ink formulations, plasma characteristics, microstructures, and the properties of the printed copper patterns are identified; the mechanisms of plasma‐induced curing of copper complex inks are summarized. The fabricated copper films exhibit high conductivity (4.1 µΩ cm), excellent flexibility (bending at a radius of 2 mm), and environmental stability because of the dense microstructures and robust interface adhesion, comparable to that of electroless‐plated films. Moreover, intricate copper antenna patterns on flexible substrates can be obtained rapidly using direct writing and gravure printing methods. These results provide a feasible low‐temperature route to fabricate high‐performance copper films and patterns, promoting the practical application of low‐cost copper inks in printed flexible electronics.
Transformation of Cs3Bi2Br9 to Cs2AgBiBr6 Lead‐Free Perovskite Microcrystals Through Cation Exchange
Authors: Clinckemalie Lotte , Saha Rafikul Ali , Valli Donato , Fron Eduard , Roeffaers Maarten B. J. , Hofkens Johan , Pradhan Bapi , Debroye Elke
Published: May 2023

All‐inorganic lead‐free Cs2AgBiBr6 double perovskites have gained significant attention due to their potential as stable and nontoxic photoactive semiconductors. Currently, it remains challenging to synthesize homogeneous microcrystals (MCs) exhibiting excellent properties, which are necessary for large‐area device integration. This work proposes a two‐step synthesis approach involving the introduction of a foreign silver cation to transform the 0D layered Cs3Bi2Br9 to 3D Cs2AgBiBr6 perovskite structure. This work has studied the cation exchange (CE) transformation mechanism by isolating intermediates to be able to follow the evolution of the crystal lattice as well as the structural and optical properties over time. Moreover, complete CE results in phase‐pure, highly crystalline Cs2AgBiBr6 MCs exhibiting excellent photonic properties, superior to their counterparts synthesized by anti‐solvent precipitation. These findings highlight the potential of CE‐induced transformation as a means of synthesizing novel, stable perovskites.
Visible‐Light‐Driven Copper‐Catalyzed Synthesis of Sulfonamides from Aryl‐N2BF4 through One‐pot Tricomponent Reaction
Authors: Giang Luu Truong , Kim Hee‐Kwon
Published: May 2023

A method for preparing sulfonamides using visible light is described. In this approach, an aryl diazo tetrafluoroborate salt, 1,4‐diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane bis(sulfur dioxide) (DABSO), and amino benzoate as substrates, CuBr2 as a catalyst, and 3‐methyl‐3‐pentanol as an additive were employed for a one‐pot multicomponent reaction to provide sulfonamides under mild reaction conditions. A variety of aryl diazo tetrafluoroborate salts and O‐benzoyl hydroxylamines were tolerated in this process to provide products with yields up to 96%.

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Smart Roller: Soft Sensor Array for Automated Fiber Placement
Authors: Yin Xiulun , Chen Ziqiang , Bakhshi Nima , Tong Oliver , Xiong Xiaoxiao , Chen Yizhong , Li Ying , Gao Jian , Sarwar Mirza Saquib , Poursartip Anoush , Madden John DW
Published: May 2023

Rollers and wheels are widely used in industry and transportation, but there is seldom direct information about contact forces. A smart roller is introduced which provides real‐time pressure measurements from a soft, elastomer‐coated cylinder. The roller is designed for automated fiber placement (AFP) machines, which are widely used in the aerospace industry to manufacture complex composite parts. For optimum process performance, real‐time feedback is highly desirable for detecting flaws during manufacturing. The sensor replaces the elastomer outer layer of a standard roller with 4 by 13 tactile pixels (taxels) of soft capacitive sensors, which provide more than 1 pF of change in capacitance per taxel over a pressure range of 1 MPa. Sensors are made of silicone and mounted on a flexible printed circuit board on which a microcontroller with Bluetooth‐Low‐Energy collects and transmits capacitance data. The sensor dielectric layer is composed of pillars that increase layer compliance and sensitivity while also providing the stiffness of typical industrial rollers. The ability of the roller to measure real‐time local compaction pressure at typical manufacturing speeds enables the monitoring of spatially‐resolved pressure‐time curves, which can be used to predict and control adhesion.
Structurally Dimensional Engineering in Perovskite Photovoltaics
Authors: Liu Yulin , Yuan Songyang , Zheng Huiqun , Wu Min , Zhang Shiting , Lan Jing , Li Wenzhe , Fan Jiandong
Published: May 2023

The low‐dimensional (LD) perovskites are proven to be capable of blocking moisture erosion and thereby improving the photovoltaic device stability. In this review, the low‐dimensional (LD) perovskite materials are carefully summarized that are induced by A‐position organic substituents, starting from the crystal microstructure and electronic structure of LD (2D, 1D, and 0D) perovskite materials with regulating dimensions, combined with first principles calculation (DFT). By further studying the thermodynamics and dynamics of crystallization nucleation and growth of LD–3D perovskite thin films in the heterojunction region, LD–3D heterojunction perovskite thin films and solar cells with controllable dimensions can be in situ prepared. Various LD–3D perovskite structure photovoltaic devices are systematically summarized, which shows flexible regulation of the energy band structure and carrier transport characteristics, locks the water oxygen corrosion channel with close‐fitting conjugated structure, and improves the long‐term stability of the LD–3D perovskite solar cells. This review is expected to provide some guidance for the perovskite development and multipurpose use through in depth understanding of the structurally dimensional engineering in perovskite photovoltaics.
Sepsis‐induced disseminated intravascular coagulation: an international estrangement of disease concept
Authors: Ushio Noritaka , Wada Takeshi , Ono Yuichiro , Yamakawa Kazuma
Published: May 2023

Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) is an acquired syndrome characterized by widespread intravascular activation of coagulation, which can be caused by infectious and noninfectious insults, such as trauma, postcardiac arrest syndrome, and malignant diseases. At present, diagnosis and treatment of DIC clearly differ between Japan and Western countries; in Japan, DIC has long been considered a therapeutic target, and much evidence on DIC has been published. However, there has recently been no international consensus on whether DIC should be a therapeutic target with anticoagulant therapy. This review describes the coagulofibrinolytic system abnormalities associated with sepsis and discusses related management strategies. It also explores the reasons why DIC is perceived differently in different regions. There is a major discrepancy between diagnostic and treatment options in Japan, which are based on holistic assessments of trials, as well as the results of post hoc subgroup analyses and observational studies, and those in Western countries, which are based mainly on the results of sepsis mega trials, especially randomized controlled trials. The differences might also be due to various patient factors in each region, especially racial characteristics in thrombolytic mechanisms, and differences in interpretation of evidence for candidate drugs. Hence, Japanese researchers need to distribute their high‐quality clinical research data not only to Japan but also to the rest of the world.
Reliability evaluation of a new method developed for DSC curing kinetic model of epoxy resin
Authors: Jia Hongli , Zhu Yingdan , Yan Chun , Chen Mingda , Chen Gang , Liu Dong
Published: May 2023

The curing kinetic model of epoxy resin is crucial for understanding reaction mechanism and accurately describing curing behavior of fiber reinforced polymer composites. In the investigations related to kinetic models of epoxy, much attention is payed to the curing characterizations of modified or mixed materials for the desired field of application in the case that the initial curing degree for calculating kinetic parameters is generally constant. In this paper, a new method by specifying the initial curing degree for kinetic parameters is developed to improve the accuracy of fitting models based on the resin systems and methods for activation energy. The curing kinetics of resin systems including Epoxy 4330, Epoxy 5212, and diglycidyl ether pentaerythritol vanillin diacetal‐bisphenol‐A epoxy resin‐4,4′‐diaminodiphenyl sulfone (DEPVD‐E51‐DDS) are examined utilizing differential scanning calorimetric technique at five different heating rates. Additionally, Kissinger, Starink, and Friedman methods, and piecewise models are adopted to fit the experimental data. The predictions from fitting models using different initial curing degrees are subsequently compared with experimental data. It is concluded that the utilization of initial curing degree promotes the accuracy of fitting models.
Structural modification of UHMWPE fiber through hybridization and CNT reinforcement for ballistic applications
Authors: Mahfuz Hassan , Carlsson Leif A. , Masory Oren , Langston Tye , Correia Vitor Prado , Irons Tristan
Published: May 2023

In the construction of an armor for ballistic protection, fibers are used in the form of a laminated composite bonded to the back of the frontal ceramic layer. The composite layer dissipates energy transmitted through the ceramic layer and controls the spall. To absorb energy locally and to spread it out fast, fibers in the composite layer must have high toughness and tensile wave speed as quantified by a primary performance index called normalizing velocity. The goal of this investigation is to increase the normalizing velocity of ultra‐high molecular weight (UHMWPE) fiber that is widely used in ballistic protection. The structure of UHMWPE is modified by hybridizing with nylon and reinforcing with carbon nanotubes. Fibers are extruded by melt‐spinning. The concentration of nylon and nanotubes is 18 and 2 wt%, respectively. After extrusion, fibers are strain‐hardened by cyclic loading to align UHMWPE molecules and nanotubes along the fiber axis. Tensile properties are determined to calculate normalizing velocity. Normalizing velocities up to 1270 m/s were obtained for the modified fiber which outperforms Spectra‐2000 and Dyneema‐SK75 by 44%–57%. Materials chemistry and structure of the fiber are investigated through differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), Raman Spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscope (SEM). It was observed that micro‐droplet formation by the nylon phase during hybridization promotes interface sliding of UHMWPE ligaments and elevates the fracture strain. Raman and SEM examination demonstrates that embedded nanotubes get aligned along the fiber axis due to strain hardening and co‐continuously deform with UHMWPE sharing the load.
Model‐free prescribed performance fast nonsingular terminal sliding mode control with practical finite‐time stability of uncertain robot manipulators
Authors: Song Tangzhong , Fang Lijin , Wang Huaizhen , Zhang Yue , Qian Yian
Published: May 2023

This paper addresses the problem of robust and high precision trajectory tracking control of uncertain robot manipulators with prescribed performance. Time delay estimation (TDE) technique is employed to estimate system model, then a new self‐adjusting strategy (SAS) is designed to adjust TDE gain online. Prescribed performance control (PPC) method is used to guarantee transient response speed and steady‐state accuracy. Moreover, the transform function of PPC employed in this paper has unlimited domain, which greatly improves the robustness and stability of system. An improved fixed‐time dynamical system is firstly deduced and analyzed, then a new fast nonsingular terminal sliding mode surface is designed to accelerate convergence rate of tracking errors. Finally, the whole system is strictly proven to be practical finite‐time stable, which means that tracking errors can converge to a small neighborhood of zero within a uniformly bounded convergence time. Main advantages of the proposed approach include model‐free, robust, singularity‐free, faster transient response and higher steady‐state tracking precision. Experimental results carried out on the Rethink Sawyer Robot also verified the effectiveness of the proposed scheme.
Ultra wide‐field infrared astronomy in Antarctica
Authors: Travouillon Tony , Smith Roger M. , Fucik Jason , Figer Don F. , Kasliwal Mansi , Moore Anna M. , Guillot Tristan
Published: May 2023

The science enabled by the deep and high‐cadence survey that will be performed by the Vera Rubin Observatory has led to an increase of survey and follow‐up capabilities around the world. The infrared, has however, not match this growth due to the challenges caused by the atmospheric and the cost of large detector arrays. In this paper, we present solutions to resolve these challenges and a path toward an Antarctic observatory capable matching the volumetric speed of the Vera Rubin Observatory survey in the infrared k‐band. We will detail the current state of infrared survey telescopes, demonstrate the benefits of Antarctic high‐plateau for such observations, and show some of the development made in detector technologies to make large detector arrays a reality for such application.
A literature‐engaged Delphi approach for water quality management in building water systems
Authors: Rasheduzzaman Md , Singh Rajveer , Haas Charles N. , Olson Mira S. , Gurian Patrick L.
Published: May 2023

We used the Delphi method to identify areas of consensus and disagreement in managing building water systems. One hundred and six experts were invited, 25 of whom completed both rounds. More than 95% of experts agreed that current plumbing codes are not adequate and return loop temperature should be monitored. A notably low percentage of experts agreed on the required level of chloramine (i.e., 32%) and flushing frequency (22%), despite these being common control strategies. Consensus was not achieved for temperature and disinfectant residuals, but a plurality of respondents indicated that a temperature of 55°C was appropriate and that low but detectable levels of disinfectant residuals are appropriate. After Round 2, a majority of the experts agreed that the knowledge syntheses provided were helpful and unbiased. Findings from this study will help stakeholders by providing helpful insights on plumbing code, design factors, operational factors, and water quality monitoring practices.
3D Printing Enables Customizable Batteries
Authors: Shi Huifa , Cao Jiakai , Sun Zhenhua , Ghazi Zahid Ali , Zhu Xiaoyang , Han Sa , Ren Danyang , Lu Guixia , Lan Hongbo , Li Feng
Published: May 2023

3D printing, as a new technology, brings great freedom in the design and manufacturing of batteries. It offers unique advantages by the production of more advanced batteries with specific properties, such as good internal structural controllability, high shape conformability, and enhanced power capability and energy density. In this review, we provide an overview of 3D printing technologies in the field of customizable batteries. First, we introduce fundamental concepts of customizable batteries and the distinct advantages of 3D printing. Then, five representative 3D printing techniques are discussed along with their operating mechanisms, requirements for printing materials, manufacturing accuracy, and technical features. In addition, from the perspective of the three basic levels (pore structure, component architecture and interface, as well as battery appearance and mechanical deformability) of customizable batteries, a detailed overview is provided to gain an in‐depth understanding. The state‐of‐the‐art developments and current major challenges are summarized and discussed. Finally, potential research area is proposed to utilize 3D printed customizable batteries for practical applications.
High prevalence of vaccine‐preventable anal human papillomavirus infections is associated with HIV infection among gay, bisexual, and men who have sex with men in Nairobi, Kenya
Authors: Oo Myo Minn , Moore Samantha , Gibbons Suzanne , Adhiambo Wendy , Muthoga Peter , Siele Naomi , Akolo Maureen , Gebrebrhan Henok , Sivro Aida , Ball Blake T. , Lorway Robert R. , Severini Alberto , Kimani Joshua , McKinnon Lyle R.
Published: May 2023

Background

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is associated with anal cancers and is more prevalent in gay, bisexual, and men who have sex with men (gbMSM), partly due to their vulnerability to HIV infection. Baseline HPV genotype distributions and risk factors can inform the design of next‐generation HPV vaccines to prevent anal cancer.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted among gbMSM receiving care at a HIV/STI clinic in Nairobi, Kenya. Anal swabs were genotyped using a Luminex microsphere array. Multiple logistic regression methods were used to identify risk factors for four HPV outcomes (any HPV, any HR‐HPV, and 4‐ and 9‐valent vaccine‐preventable HPVs).

Results

Among 115 gbMSM, 51 (44.3%) were HIV‐infected. Overall HPV prevalence was 51.3%; 84.3% among gbMSM living with HIV and 24.6% among gbMSM without HIV (p < 0.001). One‐third (32.2%) had HR‐HPV and the most prevalent vaccine‐preventable HR‐HPV genotypes were 16, 35, 45, and 58. HPV‐18 was uncommon (n = 2). The 9‐valent Gardasil vaccine would have prevented 61.0% of HPV types observed in this population. In multivariate analyses, HIV status was the only significant risk factor for any HPV (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]:23.0, 95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 7.3–86.0, p < 0.001) and for HR‐HPV (aOR: 8.9, 95% CI: 2.8–36.0, p < 0.001). Similar findings were obtained for vaccine‐preventable HPVs. Being married to a woman significantly increased the odds of having HR‐HPV infections (aOR: 8.1, 95% CI: 1.6–52.0, p = 0.016).

Conclusions

GbMSM living with HIV in Kenya are at higher risk of anal HPV infections including genotypes that are preventable with available vaccines. Our findings support the need for a targeted HPV vaccination campaign in this population.
Effect of Ionic Strength on the Thermal Stability of DNA Origami Nanostructures
Authors: Hanke Marcel , Tomm Emilia , Grundmeier Guido , Keller Adrian
Published: May 2023

The stability of DNA origami nanostructures in aqueous media is closely tied to the presence of cations that screen electrostatic inter‐helix repulsion. Here, the thermal melting behavior of different DNA origami nanostructures is investigated in dependence on Mg2+ concentration and compared to calculated ensemble melting temperatures of the staple strands used in DNA origami folding. Strong deviations of the measured DNA origami melting temperatures from the calculated ones are observed, in particular at high ionic strength where the melting temperature saturates and becomes independent of ionic strength. The degree of deviation between the measured and calculated melting temperatures further depends on the superstructure and in particular the mechanical properties of the DNA origami nanostructures. This indicates that thermal stability of a given DNA origami design at high ionic strength is governed predominantly not by electrostatic inter‐helix repulsion but mostly by mechanical strain.
Frustrated Lewis Pairs Catalyse the Solvent‐Assisted Synthesis of Azoles from ortho‐Substituted Anilines, CO2 and H2
Authors: Paparakis Alexandros , Hulla Martin
Published: May 2023

Synthesizing azoles from ortho‐substituted anilines, CO2 and H2 has proved difficult due to the low nucleophilicity of anilines, which hinders their N‐formylation, i. e., the first step of the reaction. This study demonstrates that R3SnX Lewis acids (LA), N‐methylmorpholine (NMM) or DBU and polyethyleneimine (PEI) or N‐formylmorpholine efficiently catalyse the synthesis of benzimidazole and other azoles from ortho‐substituted anilines, CO2 and H2 by reductive coupling of CO2 to nucleophilic amine‐based solvents, PEI or morpholine, followed by in‐situ transfer of the formyl group to the appropriate ortho‐substituted aniline. Under these reaction conditions, spontaneous cyclization of the N‐formylated intermediate yields the corresponding azole in up to 98 % yield.
Heart failure outcomes in low‐risk patients with atrial fibrillation: a case–control study of 680 523 Swedish individuals
Authors: Basic Carmen , Hansson Per‐Olof , Sandström Tatiana Zverkova , Johansson Birgitta , Fu Michael , Mandalenakis Zacharias
Published: May 2023

Aims

Knowledge of long‐term outcomes in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) remains limited. We sought to evaluate the risk of new‐onset heart failure (HF) in patients with AF and a low cardiovascular risk profile.

Methods and results

Data from the Swedish National Patient Register were used to identify all patients with a first‐time diagnosis of AF without underlying cardiovascular disease at baseline between 1987 and 2018. Each patient was compared with two controls without AF from the National Total Population Register. In total, 227 811 patients and 452 712 controls were included. During a mean follow‐up of 9.1 (standard deviation 7.0) years, the hazard ratio (HR) for new‐onset HF was 3.55 [95% confidence interval (CI) 3.51–3.60] in patients compared with controls. Women with AF (18–34 years) had HR for HF onset 24.6 (95% CI 7.59–80.0) and men HR 9.86 (95% CI 6.81–14.27). The highest risk was within 1 year in patients 18–34 years, HR 103.9 (95% CI 46.3–233.1). The incidence rate within 1 year increased from 6.2 (95% CI 4.5–8.6) per 1000 person‐years in young patients (18–34 years) to 142.8 (95% CI 139.4–146.3) per 1000 person‐years among older patients (>80 years).

Conclusions

Patients studied had a three‐fold higher risk of developing HF compared with controls. Young patients, particularly women, carry up to 100‐fold increased risk to develop HF within 1 year after AF. Further studies in patients with AF and low cardiovascular risk profile are needed to prevent serious complications such as HF.
Development of a highly sensitive imaged cIEF immunoassay for studying AAV capsid protein charge heterogeneity
Authors: Ramírez Francisco , Wu Jiaqi , Haitjema Charles , Heger Chris
Published: May 2023

Post‐translational modifications (PTMs) of adeno‐associated virus (AAV) capsid proteins tune and regulate the AAV infective life cycle, which can impact the safety and efficacy of AAV gene therapy products. Many of these PTMs induce changes in protein charge heterogeneity, including deamidation, oxidation, glycation, and glycosylation. To characterize the charge heterogeneity of a protein, imaged capillary isoelectric focusing (icIEF) has become the gold standard method. We have previously reported an icIEF method with native fluorescence detection for denatured AAV capsid protein charge heterogeneity analysis. Although well suited for final products, the method does not have sufficient sensitivity for upstream, low‐concentration AAV samples, and lacks the specificity for capsid protein detection in complex samples like cell culture supernatants and cell lysates. In contrast, the combination of icIEF, protein capture, and immunodetection affords significantly higher sensitivity and specificity, addressing the challenges of the icIEF method. By leveraging different primary antibodies, the icIEF immunoassay provides additional selectivity and affords a detailed characterization of individual AAV capsid proteins. In this study, we describe an icIEF immunoassay method for AAV analysis that is 90 times more sensitive than native fluorescence icIEF. This icIEF immunoassay provides AAV stability monitoring, where changes in individual capsid protein charge heterogeneity can be observed in response to heat stress. When applied to different AAV serotypes, this method also provides serotype identity with reproducible quantification of VP protein peak areas and apparent isoelectric point (pI). Overall, the described icIEF immunoassay is a sensitive, reproducible, quantitative, specific, and selective tool that can be used across the AAV biomanufacturing process, especially in upstream process development where complex sample types are often encountered.
Sediment transport and the freshwater modification of tidal hydraulics approaching a fjordic sill: The Falls of Lora, Loch Etive, western Scotland, UK
Authors: Armstrong Christian , Howe John A. , Inall Mark , Dale Andrew , Allen Christopher , Benjamins Steven , Wilson Ben , Lepper Paul
Published: May 2023

The Falls of Lora (FoL), Loch Etive, illustrates a highly energetic tidal site across a shallow (mean depth = 8 m) fjordic sill. The FoL hydrodynamics have been investigated using an acoustic Doppler current profiler (ADCP), a numerical flow model, water‐level data and meteorological data. Additionally, four bathymetric timeseries datasets (from February 2014, September 2020, November 2021 and June 2022) provided alternative indication of flow variability by monitoring the geometry of submarine sediment bedforms. A correlation of 0.22 (−0.2 < 97.5% confidence interval < 0.2) was found between catchment‐integrated precipitation and residual water height (with effects of tide and atmospheric pressure removed). Residual water height varied by 0.77 m. Artificially increasing the water height by up to 0.6 m at the model's up‐fjord open boundary to emulate the effects of precipitation increased (decreased) peak depth‐averaged flow speed of the ebb (flood) jet by 0.44 m/s (0.34 m/s) whilst modifying residual flow fields around the FoL. The freshwater‐modified residual flow correlated with the westward displacement of a flow transverse sediment ridge observed in two bathymetric surveys conducted after periods of relatively high precipitation. Additionally, in one of the surveys associated with increased precipitation, wavelength stretching in the sediment dunes was observed uniquely at the western approach to the FoL, dominated by the freshwater‐enhanced ebb flow. Increasing the water levels of the up‐fjord boundary from 0.1 to 0.6 m resulted in an increased mean bedload transport of 2.28 × 10−5 m3/s (370% increase) for these dunes dominated by the ebb current. Whereas Loch Etive has an anomalously high freshwater influence on sill flow compared with other Scottish fjords, it is predicted that freshwater inputs are a significant influence on sill hydrodynamics and nearby sediment transport pathways in other fjordic systems.
Decadal coastal evolution spanning the 2010 Maule earthquake at Isla Santa Maria, Chile: Framing Darwin's accounts of uplift over a seismic cycle
Authors: Aedo Diego , Cisternas Marco , Melnick Daniel , Esparza César , Winckler Patricio , Saldaña Bladimir
Published: May 2023

Charles Darwin and Robert FitzRoy documented coseismic coastal uplift associated with the great 1835 Chile earthquake (M > 8.5) at Isla Santa María. In 2010, another similar earthquake (Mw 8.8) uplifted the island, ending the seismic cycle. The 2‐m uplift in 2010 caused major geomorphic and sedimentologic changes to the island's sandy beaches. Understanding the processes governing these changes requires pre‐ and post‐earthquake measurements to differentiate the effects of abrupt coseismic uplift from seasonal, annual, and decadal‐scale signals. Here, we combine spatial analysis of aerial imagery, field geophysics, wind and wave models to quantify geomorphic changes between 1941 and 2021 along the main beach. During the late interseismic phase (1941–2010), a ridge‐runnel system was formed and then buried by a frontal dune. Because of uplift in 2010, the shoreline prograded ~20 m, the uplifted berm was abandoned, and a new seaward berm was built. In the following decade, the abandoned berm was eroded by widening of the backshore as the shoreline and dune advanced seaward. Over the surveyed eight decades, the shoreline prograded continuously, increasing from <1 m/year to up to 3–5 m/year after the earthquake. We infer that these changes were caused by a sedimentary disequilibrium driven by variations in relative sea level, moving formerly passive sands from eroding cliffs and marine depths into the coastal sedimentary system, thus promoting long and cross‐shore sediment transport and, utterly, accretion. Our results have implications for studying beach evolution along tectonically‐active coasts associated with drastic changes in relative sea level.
New insights into chemical compositions and health‐promoting effects of black beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.)
Authors: Meenu Maninder , Chen Pengyu , Mradula Mradula , Chang Sam K. C. , Xu Baojun
Published: May 2023

Black beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) are most widely consumed in China, India, and America due to their unique taste and potent health benefits attributed to their higher content of phytochemicals. Researchers have extensively explored the phenolic profile and biological properties of black beans. This paper first attempt to review nutritional composition, phytochemical profile, and health‐promoting properties of black beans. Black beans are reported to exhibit potent antioxidant, antidiabetic, anticancer, anti‐cardiovascular diseases, and anti‐inflammatory properties due to the present of high level of various phytochemicals. Impacts of various processing technologies have also been extensively explored by researchers. However, the synergistic effects of black beans in combination with other food materials as final food products need to be studied in the future. This review paper will be helpful for researchers in food processing area for the development of novel black beans‐based functional food products.
HIF prolyl hydroxylase 2/3 deletion disrupts astrocytic integrity and exacerbates neuroinflammation
Authors: Rosiewicz Kamil Sebastian , Muinjonov Bakhrom , Kunz Séverine , Radbruch Helena , Chen Jessy , Jüttner René , Kerkering Janis , Ucar Julia , Crowley Tadhg , Wielockx Ben , Paul Friedemann , Alisch Marlen , Siffrin Volker
Published: May 2023

Astrocytes constitute the parenchymal border of the blood–brain barrier (BBB), modulate the exchange of soluble and cellular elements, and are essential for neuronal metabolic support. Thus, astrocytes critically influence neuronal network integrity. In hypoxia, astrocytes upregulate a transcriptional program that has been shown to boost neuroprotection in several models of neurological diseases. We investigated transgenic mice with astrocyte‐specific activation of the hypoxia‐response program by deleting the oxygen sensors, HIF prolyl‐hydroxylase domains 2 and 3 (Phd2/3). We induced astrocytic Phd2/3 deletion after onset of clinical signs in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) that led to an exacerbation of the disease mediated by massive immune cell infiltration. We found that Phd2/3‐ko astrocytes, though expressing a neuroprotective signature, exhibited a gradual loss of gap‐junctional Connexin‐43 (Cx43), which was induced by vascular endothelial growth factor‐alpha (Vegf‐a) expression. These results provide mechanistic insights into astrocyte biology, their critical role in hypoxic states, and in chronic inflammatory CNS diseases.
Advancing the sustainability agenda through strategic human resource management: Insights and suggestions for future research
Authors: Ren Shuang , Cooke Fang Lee , Stahl Günter K. , Fan Di , Timming Andrew R.
Published: May 2023

How can human resource management (HRM), as both a scholarly discourse and a corporate strategic function, advance the sustainability agenda? We endeavor to answer this question by drawing together insights gleamed from the emerging sustainable HRM literature. First, we synthesize various conceptualizations and theoretical perspectives on the topic, including frames of reference from strategic HRM, institutional theory and institutional logics, stakeholder theory, and sustainable careers/life cycle theory. Second, we unpack and contextualize the sustainable HRM literature through the lens of international HRM. Third, we consolidate the extant literature and present an agenda for future research, calling for further exploration of topics that are likely to hit the next high wave of generating new strategic HRM insights and sustainable HRM knowledge.
Correlation between clinical and brain computed tomography findings of stroke patients: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Vincent Mboizi , Sereke Senai Goitom , Nassanga Rita , Robert Mukisa , Ameda Faith
Published: May 2023

Background and Aims

In developing countries, the burden of stroke is growing and causing significant morbidity and disability with high mortality rates. Neuroimaging plays a crucial role in differentiating ischemic stroke from an intracerebral hemorrhage, as well as entities other than stroke. This study sought to determine the correlation between the clinical and brain CT scan findings of stroke patients attending three hospitals in Kampala, Uganda.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional study of clinically suspected stroke patients who were sent for brain CT scan at three selected hospitals in Kampala, Uganda. All brain CT scans of patients with suspected stroke were evaluated and the Alberta stroke program early CT score (ASPECTS) was used for middle cerebral artery (MCA) strokes. Univariate analysis was used to describe the clinico‐demographic and brain CT features of stroke and summarized them as percentages. Bivariate and multivariate analysis were used to determine the adjusted odds ratios as a measure of association with a 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results

Of the 270 study participants, 141 (52.2%) were male. 162 (60%) had CT findings of stroke, and 90 (33.3%) had normal brain CT findings. Eighteen (6.7%) had other CT findings like tumor, dural hemorrhage, epidermoid cyst, and others. Ischemic stroke, hemorrhagic stroke, and subarachnoid hemorrhage accounted for 124 (45.9%), 34 (12.6%), and 4 (1.5%) respectively. Limb weakness (55.2%), headache (41.1%), and loss of consciousness (39.3%) were associated with stroke findings on CT. Among the acute ischemic strokes, 30 (73.2%) had a worse (0–7) ASPECT score. Those aged ≥65 years were associated with a worse ASPECTS [AOR: 22.01, (95% CI: 1.58–306.09) p = 0.021].

Conclusion

More than a third of patients with a clinical diagnosis of stroke had either no CT features of stroke or had other findings. The most commonly affected vascular territory was left MCA. Old age was strongly associated with having the worst ASPECTS score.
Can placebo or nocebo pills improve or impair cognition performance?
Authors: Blokland Arjan
Published: May 2023

Objective

Although the placebo effect is well known to affect many behaviors, the effects on cognitive performance are less well investigated.

Methods

In this study, the effects of a placebo and a nocebo manipulation on cognitive performance was investigated in healthy young participants in an unblinded between‐subjects study. In addition, the participants were asked about their subjective experience in the placebo and nocebo condition.

Results

The data suggested that the placebo condition induced the feeling of being more attentive and more motivated and the nocebo condition induced a feeling of being less attentive and alert and that they performed less well than normal. However, no placebo or nocebo effects were found on the actual performance on word learning, working memory, Tower of London task, or spatial pattern separation.

Conclusions

These findings further support the notion that placebo or nocebo effects are not likely to occur in young healthy volunteers. However, other studies suggest that placebo effects can be found in implicit memory tasks and in participants with memory problems. Further placebo/nocebo studies are indicated using different experimental designs and different populations in order to better understand the placebo effect on cognitive performance.
Development and application of a sports health cloud management platform model based on internet of things technology
Authors: Han Wei , Zhang Xinyu
Published: May 2023

The real‐time sports and physical sign data display of various intelligent sports equipment and software can provide help for professional athletes to formulate sports strategies. However, for those who do not have any special knowledge, visual data cannot help them to make correct sports plans. Based on the above problems, this paper designed and implemented a cloud computing platform that can collect the user's movement and physical sign information, so as to provide personalized sports prescription service for them. In the performance test of the platform, the experimental results showed that the 50% line response time value and 90% line response time value were the maximum when the number of test threads reaches 1000 and 900, and the maximum value was 2896 and 3136 ms respectively; when the number of test threads was 200, the minimum value was 86 and 132 ms. Therefore, it is very necessary to develop and apply the sports health CMP based on the Internet of Things (IoT) technology.
Consumer responses to nutrition labels in China
Authors: Zhu Chen , Lopez Rigoberto A. , Zhen Chen , Zhao Qiran
Published: May 2023

As a cost‐effective way to promote healthy eating habits and prevent obesity, nutrition labeling has drawn great public interest around the world. China implemented its first mandatory nutrition labeling regulation under the National Food Safety Standard for Nutrition Labeling of Pre‐packaged Foods (GB28050‐2011) in 2013. Focusing on the Chinese carbonated soft drinks market and using a mixed logit model based on 132,849 purchase records from over 40,000 households, this study investigates consumers' responses to nutrition labels. Empirical results show that nutrition labeling induces Chinese consumers to select relatively healthier products and could be a prominent policy tool for sugar reduction.
Synthesis, antioxidant, and anticholinesterase activities of novel N‐arylsulfonyl hydrazones bearing sulfonate ester scaffold
Authors: Başaran Eyüp
Published: May 2023

In this research, two new series of N‐arylsulfonyl hydrazone compounds (14–25) possessing a sulfonate moiety were synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis and various spectroscopic techniques including fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR), 1H‐, and 13C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). These compounds synthesized as target molecules (14–25) were tested for their in vitro acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) inhibition activities and antioxidant potential. The antioxidant capacities of the tested molecules were determined by four different assays. The IC50 values of the screened molecules were determined in the range of 60.14 ± 0.25–84.81 ± 1.09 μM against AChE and in the range of 70.11 ± 0.67–93.60 ± 0.47 μM against BChE. In the AChE assay, 4‐hydroxybenzaldehyde‐based compound 25 (60.14 ± 0.25 μM) showed the highest activity in comparison to rivastigmine (501 ± 3.08 μM). This compound (71.42 ± 0.19 μM) is also one of the compounds with the highest activity against BChE. In the BChE assay, 2‐hydroxybenzaldehyde‐based compound 19 (70.11 ± 0.67 μM) indicated the highest activity in comparison to rivastigmine (19.95 ± 0.20 μM). In antioxidant activity studies, the tested molecules showed lower activities than the standard compounds (butylated hydroxytoluene and α‐tocopherol). Consequently, some novel compounds can be used as potential inhibitor candidates in future studies.