bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on viscoelastic materials at micro scale pondering supramolecular interaction impacts with DMA tests and fractional derivative modeling
Authors: Xu Yeshou , Xu Zhao‐Dong , Guo Ying‐Qing , Sarwar Waseem , She Wei , Geng Zi‐Fan
Published: January 2023

Viscoelastic materials are commonly utilized in seismic vibration suppression of building structures. Supramolecular modification can extend the effective damping temperature range and improve the damping performance of viscoelastic materials. In present work, the mechanical behaviors of the nitrile rubber viscoelastic material are investigated by dynamic thermomechanical analyzer (DMA) with different strain amplitudes, excitation frequencies and environmental temperatures. The supramolecular interaction and molecular structures modified fractional Kelvin (SMF Kelvin) model taking into account the temperature and frequency impacts is proposed and verified with the DMA test results of the nitrile rubber viscoelastic material. The test results of the viscoelastic damper with different temperatures are employed to further prove the effectiveness of the new proposed SMF Kelvin model.
A first look at whale sharks in Hawaiian waters: Using citizen science to study the world's largest fish, Rhincodon typus
Authors: Marcoux Travis M. , Marcoux Stacia D. , Harvey Maria , Araujo Gonzalo
Published: January 2023

The world's largest fish, the whale shark (Rhincodon typus), is a circum‐tropically distributed and globally endangered species, that is widely studied at predictable aggregation sites. The main Hawaiian Islands are not known to have large aggregations of whale sharks; however, they have been anecdotally reported here with some regularity. To date, little is known about this charismatic species in Hawaiian waters.

This study is the first effort to examine whale shark demographics and movements in a previously unstudied region of the world. Here, citizen science was used to investigate the abundance, seasonality (if any) and occurrence of whale sharks in the waters around the main Hawaiian Islands.

A total of 309 individual whale sharks were identified from sightings between 1991–2020 by their unique spot patterns, most of which (74%) were reported between 2018 and 2020. Estimated whale shark total length ranged from 2–12 m (mean 6.1 m), with both juvenile and mature males and females represented in the dataset.

The best‐fit Lagged Identification Rate (LIR) model for these data suggests that individuals sighted in Hawaiian waters are transient in nature, supporting the empirical data (88% of sharks sighted only once).

Although using citizen science data can have inherent biases, these results present a conservative first assessment of the demographics of whale sharks in Hawaiian waters.

For an Endangered species assessed as Largely Depleted by the IUCN Green Status of Species, highlighting Hawai’i as an important habitat for the whale shark – mainly as a migratory corridor or navigational waypoint – is a crucial step in understanding their ecology in the Pacific in order to develop effective management plans.
Validated HPLC‐UV method for quantification of paxalisib, a pan PI3K and mTOR inhibitor in mouse plasma: Application to a pharmacokinetic study in mice
Authors: Zakkula Ashok , Tripathy Harsha K. , Bestha Rama Murthi , Vinod A. B. , Kiran Vinay , Dittakavi Sreekanth , Mullangi Ramesh
Published: January 2023

Paxalisib is a pan‐PI3K and mTOR inhibitor, currently entering into Phase II clinical trials as a potential drug to treat glioblastoma patients. We report the development and validation of a high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method for the quantitation of paxalisib in mouse plasma as per the US Food and Drug Administration regulatory guidelines. From the mouse plasma, paxalisib and the internal standard (IS; filgotinib) were extracted using ethyl acetate as an extraction solvent. The chromatographic separation of paxalisib and the IS was accomplished on a Symmetry C18 (250 × 4.6 mm, 5.0 μm) column maintained at 40°C using 10 mm ammonium formate and acetonitrile in gradient conditions at a 0.8 ml/min flow‐rate. The injection volume was 20 μl. The elution was monitored using a photo‐diode array detector set at λmax 280 nm. Paxalisib and the IS eluted at 6.5 and 5.9 min, respectively with a total run time of 10 min. The calibration curve was linear over the range of 111–4,989 ng/ml. Inter‐ and intraday precision and accuracy, stability studies, dilution integrity and incurred sample reanalysis were investigated and the results met the acceptance criteria. The validated HPLC method was extended to assess the pharmacokinetic parameters of paxalisib in mice.
Role of NCF2 as a potential prognostic factor and immune infiltration indicator in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Huang Ning , Zhang Jing , Kuang Shuwen , Li Zhuo , Zhao Hong , Wu Jianxiong , Liu Mei , Wang Liming
Published: January 2023

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the major causes of cancer‐related deaths globally. The tumor microenvironment (TME) plays a crucial role in the prognosis and treatment of HCC. Hence, it is important to exploit new biomarkers for survival surveillance and TME estimation of HCC.

Methods

HCC samples data was collected from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and International Cancer Genome Consortium (ICGC) database, and clinical samples were collected from our center. The TME of HCC were explored with ESTIMATE (Estimation of STromal and Immune cells in MAlignant Tumor tissues using Expression data), ssGSEA (single sample Gene Sets Enrichment Analysis) and CIBERSORT algorithm. Differentially expressed genes were analyzed with functional enrichment analysis. Immunohistochemistry was implemented to validate the results.

Results

Based on TCGA database, we found that Neutrophil Cytosolic Factor 2 (NCF2) was significantly associated with the prognosis of HCC patients, involved in immune‐related biological processes of HCC and closely associated with some types of immunocompetent cells. The survival analysis based on NCF2 expression assessed by immunohistochemistry also confirmed that NCF2‐positive group had a shorter relapse free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) than NCF2‐negative group. Multivariate Cox regression revealed NCF2 expression level and lymphovascular space invasion (LVSI) were independent risk factors for HCC patients. Receiver operating characteristic curves showed that the combination of NCF2 and LVSI had higher predictive efficacy on the 1‐year RFS rate and 5‐year OS rate than each of them alone. Besides, the expression level of NCF2 was positively associated with M0 and M2 macrophages infiltration. Furthermore, NCF2 expression was positively correlated with CSF1, IL4, IL10, CD206, CD163, CSF1R and TGFβ1.

Conclusion

We proposed that higher NCF2 expression predicted an adverse prognosis and more M2 macrophages infiltration in HCC patients.
Facing problems in radiotherapy for breast cancer patients in Yogyakarta, Indonesia: A cohort retrospective study
Authors: Suryanegara Fithria Dyah Ayu , Rokhman M. Rifqi , Ekaputra Ericko , de Jong Lisa Aniek , Setiawan Didik , de Bock Geertruida H. , Postma Maarten Jacobus
Published: January 2023

Background

The aim of this study is to explore problems in radiotherapy for breast cancer patients in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, focusing on overall treatment time (OTT) and completion rate.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted based on data from the Insurance Unit at a tertiary hospital in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. The study included all female outpatients with breast cancer who were treated with radiotherapy from January to December 2017 and met the inclusion criteria. The primary outcomes were OTT and completion rate. The secondary outcomes included the number of radiotherapy fractions, radiotherapy doses, number of radiotherapy interruption days, and reasons for radiotherapy interruption. The chi‐squared and Mann–Whitney U tests were used to assess the differences in outcomes between two insurance schemes (JKN‐PBI (Beneficiaries of Health Insurance Contribution Assistance) and JKN‐NON‐PBI (Non‐Beneficiaries of Health Insurance Contribution Assistance)).

Results

The sample included 285 breast cancer patients (mean age: 53 years). The median OTT was 38 days (IQR: 17–48 days), with 123 (43.2%) patients having prolonged OTT. The completion rate was 57.9%. No significant differences in OTT (44.4% vs. 35.7%, p = 0.445) and completion rate (57.2% vs. 61.9%, p = 0.569) were found between the JKN‐NON‐PBI and JKN‐PBI groups, respectively. In all, the data reported 3,022 interrupted days of radiotherapy across a total of 227 patients. The most common reason for radiotherapy interruption was unknown.

Conclusion

There are problems in timely delivery and low completion rate of radiotherapy among breast cancer patients in Indonesia. There are no significant differences in OTT and completion rate between the insurance schemes.
Vaccine‐induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT) after SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccination: Two cases from Germany with unusual presentation
Authors: Edmonds Rhea , Schönborn Linda , Habben Sunke , Paparoupa Maria , Greinacher Andreas , Schuppert Frank
Published: January 2023

Vaccine‐induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT) is a rare clinical condition that has emerged during the mass immunization against SARS‐CoV‐2. Reports indicate that VITT may also be induced by other vaccines, such as the human papillomavirus vaccine, or occur independently of vaccination. Its recognition requires a high index of suspicion, especially in patients presenting with thrombocytopenia and thrombosis several days after vaccination with an adenoviral vector‐based vaccine against SARS‐CoV‐2. Bleeding manifestations do not exclude VITT, as initially assumed. It is of great importance to perform the appropriate diagnostic tests early in the course of the disease, as false‐negative results may occur and many aspects of VITT are not fully understood. These two cases from Germany demonstrate unusual presentations of VITT.
Cooperative Friedel–Crafts Alkylation of Electron‐Deficient Arenes via Catalyst Activation with Hexafluoroisopropanol**
Authors: Singh Sanjay , Mondal Sankalan , Tiwari Vikas , Karmakar Tarak , Hazra Chinmoy Kumar
Published: January 2023

A Friedel‐Crafts alkylation of electron‐deficient arenes with aldehydes through ′′catalyst activation′′ is presented. Through hydrogen bonding interactions, the solvent 1,1,1,3,3,3, ‐hexafluoroisopropanol (HFIP) interacted with the added Brønsted acid catalyst pTSA•H2O, increasing its acidity. This activated catalyst enabled the Friedel–Crafts alkylation of electron‐neutral as well as electron‐deficient arenes. Strongly electron withdrawing arenes including arenes with multiple halogen atoms, NO2, CHO, CO2R, and CN, groups acted as efficient nucleophiles in this reaction. DFT studies reveal multiple roles of solvent HFIP viz; increasing the Brønsted acidity of the catalyst pTSA•H2O, and stabilization of the transition states through a concerted pathway enabling the challenging reaction.
Hall sensor fault diagnosis and compensation in Brushless DC motor drive using artificial intelligence technique
Authors: K.S. Krishna Veni , N. Senthil Kumar , J Gnanavadivel
Published: January 2023

Electronic commutator in Brushless DC motor (BLDC) drives decides the sequence of driving current through the stator windings based on the rotor position sensed by the three Hall position sensors. If any fault occurs in the Hall sensors, it will result in a faulty driving sequence of rotors and the motor will stall. This paper investigates an artificial intelligence‐based Fault Diagnosis and Compensation (FDC) system for correcting up to two position sensor failures in trapezoidal back EMF BLDC motor drives. The proposed fault‐tolerant system is a simple, fast, and efficient method to diagnose and reconstruct the commutation signals using the existing processor‐based commutator arrangements. An Artificial Intelligence algorithm is developed to estimate the correct switching sequence in the absence of up to two Hall sensor signals while the motor is running. This supervised learning network is advantageous as it is added as an additional control algorithm with the existing control algorithm for BLDC motor. The simulation and hardware results showcase the effective performance of the proposed algorithm for different Hall sensor fault conditions.
Hypoxia inducible factor‐1 activator munc‐18‐interacting protein 3 promotes tumour progression in urothelial carcinoma
Authors: Ikeda Junichi , Ohe Chisato , Tanaka Noritaka , Yoshida Takashi , Saito Ryoichi , Atsumi Naho , Kobayashi Takashi , Kinoshita Hidefumi , Tsuta Koji , Sakamoto Takeharu
Published: January 2023

Background

Although the introduction of multiple agents targeting immune and oncogenic signaling pathways has substantially changed the treatment strategies for urothelial carcinoma (UC), these drugs still have some limitations, such as adverse effects and limited responses depending on the molecular subtype of UC. Therefore, the development of novel molecular‐targeted therapies is required. Munc18‐1‐interacting protein 3 (Mint3), which specifically activates hypoxia inducible factor‐1 (HIF‐1) during normoxia in cancer and some stromal cells, might be a good target for UC treatment without severe adverse effects. However, the expression and function of Mint3 in UC remain unclear.

Methods

We prepared bladder cancer (n = 117) and upper tract UC (n = 207) cohorts and analyzed the correlation between Mint3 expression in the tissue microarray and the clinicopathological factors/prognosis. To clarify the function of Mint3 in UC cells, control and Mint3‐depleted UC cells were analyzed for HIF‐1 activity, HIF‐1 target gene expression, cell proliferation, glycolysis, motility and invasion in vitro. Tumorigenicity and angiogenesis in control and Mint3‐depleted UC cells were analyzed in mouse xenograft models. A Mint3 inhibitor, naphthofluorescein and gemcitabine were administrated into UC xenograft‐bearing mice.

Results

Mint3 was expressed at various levels in UC cells; high expression was correlated with a poor prognosis but not with the molecular subtype of UC in two independent UC cohorts. Mint3 depletion did not affect cell proliferation but attenuated HIF‐1 activity, HIF‐1 target gene expression, glycolysis and motility/invasion in both luminal‐ and basal‐molecular‐subtype UC cells in vitro. Mint3 depletion in UC cells also attenuated tumour growth and angiogenesis in xenograft models. In addition, pharmacological inhibition of Mint3 sensitized chemo‐resistant UC xenografts to gemcitabine.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that Mint3 is a potential target for UC therapy with or without chemotherapy, independent of the molecular subtype of UC.
Fine needle aspiration cytology of metastatic SMARCA4‐deficient sinonasal teratocarcinosarcoma: First report in literature
Authors: Gopakumar Akhila , Kakkar Aanchal , Kaur Kavneet , Sikka Kapil , Thakar Alok , Sharma Atul , Jain Deepali
Published: January 2023

Inactivating mutations of SMARCA4 and accompanying loss of BRG1 immunoexpression were recently identified in majority of sinonasal teratocarcinosarcomas (TCS). These rare and aggressive neoplasms have potential for nodal metastasis, presenting opportunities for diagnosis on fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC). However, their cytological features have not been described till date. A 22‐year‐old male was diagnosed to have SMARCA4‐deficient TCS on a nasal mass biopsy, and was started on neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Four months later, FNAC from cervical lymph nodes showed predominantly discohesive tumor cells with moderate to abundant cytoplasm and enlarged vesicular nuclei with prominent nucleoli. Occasional cohesive fragments showed ovoid to spindled tumor cells attached to fibrovascular cores. Few loosely cohesive cells with scant cytoplasm and nuclei having stippled chromatin, and rhabdoid cells were also seen. Frequent mitoses, apoptosis and nuclear streaking were evident. Overt squamous or glandular differentiation was absent. Tumor cells showed loss of BRG1 immunostaining and β‐catenin immunopositivity on a cell block, consistent with metastatic SMARCA4‐deficient TCS. The diversity of cell types in SMARCA4‐deficient TCS can result in a broad spectrum of cytological features that overlap with that of other regional metastatic tumors including neuroendocrine carcinoma, olfactory neuroblastoma and melanoma. Further, all components of TCS as seen in the primary tumor may not be present in nodal metastases. Thus, SMARCA4‐deficient TCS should be considered in the differential diagnosis of metastatic poorly/undifferentiated malignancies in cervical lymph node aspirates, and appropriate ancillary tests viz. BRG1 immunostaining employed for accurate diagnosis.
Synthesis and Catalytic Studies of Thermoresponsive Copper (I) Complex towards Click Reactions
Authors: Gayathri Varnakumar , Stephen K. , Prem Suresh , Ayyadurai Niraikulam , Samanta Debasis
Published: January 2023

Click reaction or copper‐assisted azide–alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC) reaction can conveniently synthesize desired organic molecules or functionalize biological macromolecules. In many cases, trace amounts of residual copper from the reaction mixture are not trivial to remove when the exhaustive purification step is avoided to fulfill the essential criteria of a click reaction. It is often detrimental, particularly for biochemical applications or when it involves biological macromolecules. Herein, we have reported the synthesis of a new type of copper (I) complex as a smart catalyst for click reaction, which can be separated from the reaction mixture very easily by the slight elevation of temperature, thanks to its thermoresponsive behavior. The click reactions using a thermoresponsive catalyst were first studied in an aqueous medium using various organic molecules containing alkyne and azide functional groups. Later, the strategy was extended to biological macromolecules like collagen.
Full‐scale shaking table tests on soil liquefaction‐induced uplift of buried pipelines for buildings
Authors: Ko Yung‐Yen , Tsai Tung‐Ying , Jheng Kun‐Yan
Published: January 2023

The uplift effect induced by soil liquefaction on buried pipelines that are critical to the serviceability of buildings, including potable water, natural gas, and sewage pipelines, was experimentally investigated. A full‐scale physical model of pipelines buried in liquefiable ground comprising distribution mains and service lines that connect distribution mains and buildings was built. Shaking table tests were conducted on this model with actual earthquake records utilized as the input motions. The performance of gravel as pipe ditch backfill for mitigating the liquefaction‐induced uplift was also evaluated. During the tests, accelerometers and piezometers were installed in free‐field (FF) soil and around the pipelines to reveal the pipeline–soil interaction and the soil liquefaction development. Wire potentiometers were also utilized to monitor any uplift or subsidence of the pipelines. Results indicate that the distribution mains for natural gas and sewage experienced an uplift during liquefaction of ground specimen. The excess porewater pressure buildup level around the uplifted pipelines was generally lower than that in FF soil and was even lower on top of the pipeline circumference, which may be attributed to the pipeline–soil interaction. Furthermore, the practicability of an existing simplified model for anti‐uplift stability assessment and its corresponding uplift force estimation were examined based on aforementioned observations. The findings indicate that the uplift effect for large‐diameter pipelines may be underestimated by simply using this simplified model. This research can be used as a reference for the seismic design of buried pipelines, which is beneficial for disaster prevention and mitigation.
Characteristics of sediment particle size distribution in the Pisha sandstone area of the middle Yellow River under the effects of vegetation and complex erosion
Authors: Zhang Pan , Xiao Peiqing , Yao Wenyi , Liu Guobin , Sun Weiying
Published: January 2023

Pisha sandstone is a soft bedrock composed of sandstone, sand shale and mudstone, with very low diagenesis and erosion resistance. The sources of coarse sediment and the processes of sediment production and transportation in Pisha sandstone areas are currently little understood. Understanding these processes will help us to comprehend the characteristics of sediment particle size distribution on slopes and gullies under the effects of vegetation and complex erosion. This will provide a scientific basis for the control of coarse sediments of the Yellow River and ecological restoration of the Pisha sandstone area. In this study, the process of sediment selectivity and transportation in the slope–gully system was analyzed through soil sampling in different seasons in the Erlaohugou small watershed, China. There is a clear selectivity phenomenon in the process of transporting sediment particles from the slope to the gully, and the coarse sediment particles are transported preferentially from the slope to the gully. There is a good response relationship between the distribution characteristics of sediment particles and the multi‐dynamic interaction. The complex erosion type in different seasons has a significant impact on sediment production and transportation, and most particles were transported under hydraulic power.
Microneedle system for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine
Authors: Zhang Yixin , Xu Yanteng , Kong Huimin , Zhang Jiabin , Chan Hon Fai , Wang Jiasi , Shao Dan , Tao Yu , Li Mingqiang
Published: January 2023

Global increasing demand for high life quality and length facilitates the development of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, which apply multidisciplinary theories and techniques to achieve the structural reconstruction and functional recovery of disordered or damaged tissues and organs. However, the clinical performances of adopted drugs, materials, and powerful cells in the laboratory are inescapably limited by the currently available technologies. To tackle the problems, versatile microneedles are developed as the new platform for local delivery of diverse cargos with minimal invasion. The efficient delivery, as well as painless and convenient procedure endow microneedles with good patient compliance in clinic. In this review, we first categorize different microneedle systems and delivery models, and then summarize their applications in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine mainly involving maintenance and rehabilitation of damaged tissues and organs. In the end, we discuss the advantages, challenges, and prospects of microneedles in depth for future clinical translations.
Estimating the value of life expectancy gains in Tanzania using the life satisfaction and model based approaches
Authors: Da Costa Shaun
Published: January 2023

Policymakers in low and lower‐middle income countries often face difficult trade‐offs between saving lives and livelihoods, as exemplified by the COVID‐19 pandemic. Yet, evidence regarding the preferences of the population is often lacking in such settings. In this paper, I estimate the value of an additional year of life expectancy in Tanzania using information on subjective well‐being and population mortality. More specifically, I combine age‐sex specific subnational estimates of remaining life expectancy with data from a representative household survey, which includes information on consumption expenditures and life satisfaction. This information is then carried forward into a life satisfaction regression to estimate the trade‐off between consumption and an additional year of life expectancy. The results imply that a representative individual from the sample would be willing to trade off around 9% of their annual consumption expenditure to obtain an additional year of remaining life expectancy. The estimated values are close to those derived from calibrated models based on different elicitation methods, such as revealed preferences. This suggests that life satisfaction measures could be useful in deriving estimates of the value of longevity changes in environments where traditional methods, such as estimating compensating wage differentials, are difficult to apply.
Real‐world evidence on venetoclax in chronic lymphocytic leukemia: The Italian experience
Authors: Laurenti Luca , Scarfò Lydia , Frustaci Anna Maria , Sanna Alessandro , Iannella Emilia , Caira Morena , Finsinger Paola , Schifano Silvia , Neri Benedetta , Molica Stefano , Mauro Francesca Romana
Published: January 2023

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is the most common form of adult leukemia in the western world. In Italy, venetoclax was approved for use in patients with CLL as monotherapy in 2017 and in combinations in 2019. As a result of this delayed approval, there are relatively few real‐world studies from Italian clinical practice and much of the data are in heavily pretreated patients. We have collected the available studies in Italian routine practice. Three studies confirm the effectiveness and tolerability of this agent in patients with relapsed/refractory CLL and high‐risk disease characteristics, many of whom had received prior B‐cell receptor signaling treatment. Addition of rituximab to venetoclax produced more complete responses in patients with relapsed/refractory CLL, while higher disease burden and progression while receiving a prior Bruton's tyrosine kinase inhibitor were both associated with poorer outcomes in patients treated with venetoclax. Venetoclax was well‐tolerated with low discontinuation rates. No studies of venetoclax plus obinutuzumab for the first‐line treatment of patients with CLL were available due to the short time since approval in Italy. Several cohorts addressed the impact of COVID‐19 on patient management and outcomes, suggesting that treated patients and those in clinical observation had similar rates of COVID‐19‐related hospital admission, intensive care unit admission, and mortality. Overall, the responses and tolerance to venetoclax observed in the Italian real‐world setting confirm the tolerability and effectiveness of venetoclax regimens in high‐risk patients.
The performance of OECD's composite leading indicator
Authors: Ojo Mustapha Olalekan , Aguiar‐Conraria Luís , Soares Maria Joana
Published: January 2023

This paper evaluated the performance of OECD's Composite Leading Indicator using the Continuous Wavelet Transform. We used various wavelet tools ‐ wavelet coherency, wavelet phase and wavelet phase difference ‐ to assess the co‐movement between the Composite Leading Indicator and three macroeconomic variables ‐ Industrial Production Index, unemployment rate, and real GDP Growth ‐ at each frequency and moment. We also explored the lead–lag relationship between each pair of variables across time and frequency. We concluded that OECD's Composite Leading Indicator is a useful leading indicator of the Industrial Production Index and can be suited for forecasting the unemployment rate. However, it exhibited poor performance regarding GDP growth.
AIEgens for microorganism‐related visualization and therapy
Authors: Ye Ziyue , He Wei , Zhang Zicong , Qiu Zijie , Zhao Zheng , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: January 2023

Humans and bacteria have always been closely related. However, pathogenic bacteria and drug‐resistant bacteria pose a certain threat to human life and health. On the other hand, probiotics, such as intestinal flora, also affect our daily life. Understanding the microstructure of microorganisms is important for effective treatment of bacterial infections. Luminogens with aggregation‐induced emission properties are now recognized as potent fluorescent agents for the diagnosis and treatment of microorganisms. In this review, we summarized the most recent developments of AIEgen‐based biomaterials and discussed the advantages of AIE fluorescent probes for imaging. Their applications for rapid imaging of bacteria, differentiation of Gram‐ negative and positive bacteria, and specific imaging of intracellular bacteria and fungi are presented. The monitoring of bacteria‐cell interaction was also introduced. Finally, the design strategy of engineered bacteria‐AIEgen hybrid system and their role in anti‐cancer applications was discussed.
Optimization and numerical simulation of the internal flow field of water–pesticide integrated microsprinklers
Authors: Liu Junping , Hussain Zawar , Wang Xinjian , Li Yangfan
Published: January 2023

A new type of water–pesticide integrated microsprinkler has been developed in this study. Microsprinklers can irrigate crop roots to meet the irrigation index demand under low‐pressure conditions and apply pesticides on the backs of crop leaves to meet the spraying pesticide index demand under medium‐pressure conditions. In this paper, the structure and working principle of the water–pesticide integrated microsprinkler are discussed, and the key structural parameters are the number and diameter of the small round holes and the number and width of bevel grooves. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) numerical simulations were performed to analyse the influence and variation in the key structural parameters on the microsprinkler flow field. The optimized structural parameters of the microsprinkler were determined: The outlet nozzle diameter was 3 mm, with three small round holes of 2 mm diameter and three bevel grooves of 0.8 mm width. The hydraulic performance of the optimized sprinkler and original sprinkler (outlet nozzle diameter was 2.5 mm, with two small round holes of 3 mm diameter and four bevel grooves of 1 mm width) were compared under different working pressure conditions. The results showed that the wetted radius and uniformity coefficient of the optimized sprinkler increased by 23% and 16%, respectively.
The quality of health data before and after the implementation of the electronic health management information system for the fistula program in Tanzania
Authors: Lwoga Edda Tandi , Musheiguza Edwin
Published: January 2023

This study assessed the quality and challenges of health data before and after the implementation of the Hospital Information System (HIS) for the fistula program at the Comprehensive Community‐based Rehabilitation Hospital in Tanzania. This was a mixed methods study. Data were collected at baseline and end‐line (before and after the implementation of the HIS) study using quantitative Data Quality Assessment (DQA) checklists and individual interviews. At the baseline, the DQA checklists were assessed using files registered from 2017 to May 2019. At the end‐line, the DQA checklists used data for a patient registered at the established HIS from June 2019 to December 2020. Interviews with clinical and non‐clinical staff were conducted at both baseline and end‐line studies. The study found that data quality improved after the implementation of the HIS. At baseline, data completeness declined from 85% in 2017 to 44.9% in 2019 while accuracy declined from 44% in 2017 to 31% in 2019. At the end‐line, data completeness and accuracy were >80% and 100% annually respectively. Data preciseness increased from 0% at baseline to 100% at the end‐line. Both data completeness and accuracy had inconsistent tend over months, although preciseness could not be evaluated at baseline as no breakdown of indicators was reported. The major challenges related to data quality included language barrier, incompleteness of data, incorrect data entry, use of both manual and electronic systems, as well as unreliable electricity and network. In general, the HIS had improved rates of data quality in terms of completeness, accuracy, and preciseness of data as compared to the manual system. Policy‐makers and hospital administrators should ensure that the HIS are integrated into national hospital information systems, build staff capacity, ensure reliable sources of electrical power, and regular training on data collection.
Using CBT interpersonal team formulation on mental health inpatient wards
Authors: Berry Katherine , Hartwell Rosalyn
Published: January 2023

Objectives

Team formulation involves a multidisciplinary team coming together to understand the factors leading to the development and maintenance of a patient's problems and the implications of this for future care planning.

Method

This paper presents a case example describing this approach in an acute inpatient setting.

Results

“William” was a 59‐year‐old male with longstanding mental health difficulties. During his admission, he presented as verbally abusive, intrusive, and sexually inappropriate. He was also controlling and intimidating toward other patients. Staff were becoming frustrated and hopeless about managing William on the ward leading them to adopt inconsistent approaches in relating to him. A team formulation was developed to understand William's trauma history and how this impacted on his beliefs about himself and other people as well as his way of relating to others.

Conclusions

The team formulation helped staff to develop consistent care plans in relation to William's presentation on the ward and more empathy in relation to behaviors that they found challenging.
Prospective comprehensive profiling of immune responses to COVID‐19 vaccination in patients on zanubrutinib therapy
Authors: Nguyen Thi H. O. , Lim Chhay , Lasica Masa , Whitechurch Ashley , Tennakoon Surekha , Saunders Natalie R. , Allen Lilith F. , Rowntree Louise C. , Chua Brendon Y. , Kedzierski Lukasz , Tan Hyon‐Xhi , Wheatley Adam K. , Kent Stephen J. , Karapanagiotidis Theo , Nicholson Suellen , Williamson Deborah A. , Slavin Monica A. , Tam Constantine S. , Kedzierska Katherine , Teh Benjamin W.
Published: January 2023

Zanubrutinib‐treated and treatment‐naïve patients with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) or Waldenstrom's macroglobulinaemia were recruited in this prospective study to comprehensively profile humoral and cellular immune responses to COVID‐19 vaccination. Overall, 45 patients (median 72 years old) were recruited; the majority were male (71%), had CLL (76%) and were on zanubrutinib (78%). Seroconversion rates were 65% and 77% following two and three doses, respectively. CD4+ and CD8+ T‐cell response rates increased with third dose. In zanubrutinib‐treated patients, 86% developed either a humoral or cellular response. Patients on zanubrutinib developed substantial immune responses following two COVID‐19 vaccine doses, which further improved following a third dose.
The complex machinery of human cobalamin metabolism
Authors: McCorvie Thomas J. , Ferreira Douglas , Yue Wyatt W. , Froese D. Sean
Published: January 2023

Vitamin B12 (cobalamin, Cbl) is required as a cofactor by two human enzymes, 5‐methyltetrahydrofolate‐homocysteine methyltransferase (MTR) and methylmalonyl‐CoA mutase (MMUT). Within the body, a vast array of transporters, enzymes and chaperones are required for the generation and delivery of these cofactor forms. How they perform these functions is dictated by the structure and interactions of the proteins involved, the molecular bases of which are only now being elucidated. In this review, we highlight recent insights into human Cbl metabolism and address open questions in the field by employing a protein structure and interactome based perspective. We discuss how three very similar proteins—haptocorrin, intrinsic factor and transcobalamin—exploit slight structural differences and unique ligand receptor interactions to effect selective Cbl absorption and internalisation. We describe recent advances in the understanding of how endocytosed Cbl is transported across the lysosomal membrane and the implications of the recently solved ABCD4 structure. We detail how MMACHC and MMADHC cooperate to modify and target cytosolic Cbl to the client enzymes MTR and MMUT using ingenious modifications to an ancient nitroreductase fold, and how MTR and MMUT link with their accessory enzymes to sustainably harness the supernucleophilic potential of Cbl. Finally, we provide an outlook on how future studies may combine structural and interactome based approaches and incorporate knowledge of post‐translational modifications to bring further insights.
Significant neutralizing escapes of Omicron and its sublineages in SARS‐CoV‐2‐infected individuals vaccinated with inactivated vaccines
Authors: Shen Fan , Yang Cui‐Xian , Lu Ying , Zhang Mi , Tian Ren‐Rong , Dong Xing‐Qi , Li An‐Qi , Zheng Yong‐Tang , Pang Wei
Published: January 2023

In China, most SARS‐CoV‐2‐infected individuals had been vaccinated with inactivated vaccines. However, little is known about their immune resistances to the previous variants of concerns (VOCs) and the current Omicron sublineages. Here, we collected convalescent serum samples from SARS‐CoV‐2‐infected individuals during the ancestral, Delta, and Omicron BA.1 waves, and evaluated their cross‐neutralizing antibodies (nAbs) against the previous VOCs and the current Omicron sublineages using VSV‐based pseudoviruses. In the convalescents who had been unvaccinated and vaccinated with two doses of inactivated vaccines, we found infections from either the ancestral or the Delta strain elicited moderate cross‐nAbs to previous VOCs, but very few cross‐nAbs to the Omicron sublineages, including BA.1, BA.2, BA.3, and BA.4/5. The individuals who had been vaccinated with two doses of inactivated vaccines before Omicron BA.1 infection had moderate nAbs to Omicron BA.1, but weak cross‐nAbs to the other Omicron sublineages. While three doses of inactivated vaccines followed Omicron BA.1 infection induced elevated and still weak cross‐nAbs to other Omicron sublineages. Our results indicate that the Omicron sublineages show significant immune escape in the previously SARS‐CoV‐2‐infected individuals and thus highlights the importance of vaccine boosters in this population.
Developmental outcomes in children born to women with possible subclinical rubella exposures during pregnancy
Authors: Hutton Jill
Published: January 2023

This study investigated outcomes of children born to women who seroconverted to rubella immune during pregnancy. In a prior 2012–2013 study of 296 women who were rubella nonimmune, 26 (8.8%) seroconverted to rubella immune during pregnancy. These same women and their now 8–9 years‐old children were queried as to the children's developmental health. After removing exclusions and those lost to follow‐up, the total response rate was 115/204 (56.4%). Three sets of twins in the nonimmune group increased the total to 118. The seroconversion group had more autism (12.5% vs. 3.9%, p = 0.19), ADHD (37.5% vs. 18.6%, p = 0.10), and any developmental disability (43.8% vs. 31.4%, p = 0.39) but none showed a statistical difference between the two groups. Compared to Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring data, the seroconversion group had a greater prevalence of autism (odds ratio [OR] 6.07, p = 0.051, nonsignificant); and to data derived from the National Health Interview Survey, a nonsignificant higher odds of autism (OR 5.57, p = 0.060), higher odds of ADHD (OR 5.65, p = 0.0027) and of any developmental disability (OR 3.59, p = 0.014). The nonimmune group also demonstrated a statistically significant increase for both ADHD and any developmental disability, but not for autism.
A new design of parity preserving reversible Vedic multiplier targeting emerging quantum circuits
Authors: Noorallahzadeh Mojtaba , Mosleh Mohammad , Ahmadpour Seyed‐Sajad , Pal Jayanta , Sen Bibhash
Published: January 2023

Reversible logic is used increasingly to design digital circuits with lower power consumption. The parity preserving (PP) property contributes to detect permanent and transient faults in reversible circuits by comparing the input and output parity. Multiplication is also considered one of the primary operations in both digital and analog circuits due to its wide applications in digital signal processing and computer arithmetic operations. Accordingly, Vedic mathematics, as a set of techniques sutras, has become popular and is extensively used to solve mathematical problems more efficiently and faster. This work proposes three PP reversible blocks, N1, N2, and N3, which are used to develop a novel effective 2‐bit PP reversible Vedic multiplier and 4‐bit ripples carry adders (RCAs). Moreover, 2‐bit Vedic multiplier and RCA are used to develop the 4‐bit PP reversible Vedic multiplier. The proposed designs outperform the most relevant state‐of‐the‐art structures in terms of garbage output (GO), constant input (CI), gate count (GC), and quantum cost (QC). Average savings of 22.37%, 35.44%, 35.44%, and 34.76%, and 17.76%, 26.60%, 24.52%, and 27.27% respectively, are observed for two‐bit and four‐bit PP reversible Vedic multipliers in terms of QC, GO, CI and GC as compared to previous works.
Molecular characteristics of periodontal health: Collagens
Authors: Zachariadou Christina , Hart Thomas , Hooper Deborah , Mariotti Angelo
Published: January 2023

Background

Defining periodontal health has been an ambitious and complex goal. The numerous and varied definitions of what constitutes periodontal health have resulted in a collection of subjective and unreliable clinical findings to diagnose and classify periodontal health and disease. The aim of this study was to fundamentally delineate the molecular characteristics of healthy periodontal tissues in men and women as they age, using the most abundant connective tissue component: Collagens.

Methods

Healthy gingival biopsies were separated into “young” (aged 18–35 years, five men/five women) and “old” (≥60 years, five men/four women) age groups depending on biological sex. RNA was extracted and next‐generation RNA sequencing was performed using Unique Molecular Identifiers. Collagen gene expression was determined and quantified for young and old, male and female individuals.

Results

Twenty‐six human collagens were identified in healthy gingival tissues. In general, age and biological sex affected expression of collagen α‐chain transcripts. Ten of the 26 human gingival collagen genes formed a unique pattern for gingival health. More specifically, the expression of fibrillary (types I and III), fibril‐associated collagens with interrupted triple‐helices (FACIT) and FACIT‐like (types XII, XIV, and XX), network‐forming (types IV and VI), transmembrane (type XVII), and multiplexin (types XV and XVIII) collagens, taken together, exhibited a distinct pattern of characteristics for gingival health that was independent of age or biological sex.

Conclusions

Although specific α‐chains of the collagen transcriptome were affected by age and biological sex, the compilation of various collagen transcripts can be used to define gingival health that is independent of age and biological sex.
Mechanoresponsive Drug Delivery Systems for Vascular Diseases
Authors: Fumadó Navarro Josep , Lomora Mihai
Published: January 2023

Mechanoresponsive drug delivery systems (DDS) have emerged as promising candidates to improve the current effectiveness and lower the side effects typically associated with direct drug administration in the context of vascular diseases. Despite tremendous research efforts to date, designing drug delivery systems able to respond to mechanical stimuli to potentially treat these diseases is still in its infancy. By understanding relevant biological forces emerging in healthy and pathological vascular endothelium, it is believed that better‐informed design strategies can be deduced for the fabrication of simple‐to‐complex macromolecular assemblies capable of sensing mechanical forces. These responsive systems are discussed through insights into essential parameter design (composition, size, shape, and aggregation state) , as well as their functionalization with (macro)molecules that are intrinsically mechanoresponsive (e.g., mechanosensitive ion channels and mechanophores). Mechanical forces, including the pathological shear stress and exogenous stimuli (e.g., ultrasound, magnetic fields), used for the activation of mechanoresponsive DDS are also introduced, followed by in vitro and in vivo experimental models used to investigate and validate such novel therapies. Overall, this review aims to propose a fresh perspective through identified challenges and proposed solutions that could be of benefit for the further development of this exciting field.
Whole‐genome sequencing revealed a novel long‐range deletion mutation spanning GNAS in familial pseudohypoparathyroidism
Authors: Fei Yangfan , Liu Lv , Wu Lixia , Wang Ou , Xing Xiaoping , Li Aiping , Huang Lingyi
Published: January 2023

Background

Pseudohypoparathyroidism (PHP) is a series of diseases related to pathological changes and neurocognitive and endocrine abnormalities, mainly due to the GNAS mutation on chromosome 20q13.2, which weakens receptor‐mediated hormone signal transduction. Considering its complex genetic and epigenetic characteristics, GNAS may produce complex clinical phenotypes in families or sporadic cases. This study presented a case of familial PHP caused by a deletion mutation in the 20q13.2 region.

Methods and Results

The proband and her second daughter had PHP, and the proband's mother had pseudo‐PHP. Whole‐genome sequencing revealed that the proband had an 849.81 kb deletion spanning GNAS near the maternal 20q13.2 chromosome. Multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification methylation analysis indicated that the proband as well as her mother and second daughter had seemingly abnormal GNAS methylation. This is different from the phenotype (feeding difficulty, slow growth, and special facial features) of previously reported cases with the deletion of fragments near the 20q13.2 chromosome.

Conclusions

This report demonstrated the variability of 20q13.2 deletion phenotypes and the clinical importance of using multiple molecular genetic detection methods.
Multiparameter bifurcation in periodic integrodifference equations
Authors: Pötzsche Christian
Published: January 2023

Integrodifference equations appear as popular discrete‐time growth‐dispersal models in theoretical ecology. For such applications, seasonal influences are well‐motivated but lead to a large number of system parameters. This paper provides a flexible and easy to verify sufficient criterion for multiparameter bifurcation of periodic solutions to periodic integrodifference equations. In terms of a “bunch theorem,” a generic condition to identify those directions is given, in which solution branches do bifurcate. Additionally, we show that symmetry properties of integrodifference equations extend to the bifurcating solution branches.
Singular solutions for the fourth‐order parabolic equation with nonstandard growth conditions and absorption
Authors: Li Fengjie , Sun Anqi , Liu Bingchen
Published: January 2023

This paper deals with the fourth‐order parabolic equation
in a bounded domain, subject to homogeneous Navier boundary conditions. Under some conditions on the variable exponents, we give a complete and optimal classification on the singularity of solutions, characterized by the signs of the Nehari energy and the difference between the initial energy and the potential depth.
Discretization of C0$$ {C}_0 $$‐semigroups and discrete semigroups of operators in Banach spaces
Authors: Ponce Rodrigo
Published: January 2023

In this paper, we introduce the notion of a
‐discrete semigroup
generated by a closed linear operator
in a Banach space
. We show that
allows us to write the solution to an abstract discrete difference equation of first order as a discrete variation of parameters formula. Moreover, we study the main properties of
and its relation with the well‐known notion of discrete semigroups. Finally, we characterize uniform exponential stability of a
‐semigroup
in terms of the
‐discrete semigroup
.