bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Computational study of fenestration and parallel grafts used in TEVAR of aortic arch aneurysms
Authors: Lu Kai , Qin Wang , Sun Xiaofan , Si Yi , Ding Guanghong , Fu Weiguo , Wang Shengzhang
Published: November 2022

To explore the differences between fenestration technique and parallel grafts technique of thoracic endovascular aortic repair, and evaluate the risk of complications after interventional treatment of aortic arch aneurysms. A three‐dimensional aortic model was established from the follow‐up imaging data of patient who reconstructed the superior arch vessel by the chimney technique, which was called the chimney model. Based on the chimney model, the geometric of the reconstructed vessel was modified by virtual surgery, and the normal model, fenestration model and periscope model were established. The blood flow waveforms measured by 2D phase contrast magnetic resonance imaging were processed as the boundary conditions of the ascending aorta inlet and the superior arch vessels outlets of the normal model. The pressure waveform of descending aorta was obtained using three‐element Windkessel model, and specific pressure boundary conditions were imposed at reconstructed branches for the postoperative models. Through computational fluid dynamics simulations, the hemodynamic parameters of each model were obtained. The reconstructed vessel flow rate of the periscope model and the fenestration model are 33% and 50% of that of the normal model, respectively. The pressure difference between the inner and outer walls of the fenestration stent and periscope stent is 3.15 times and 7.56 times that of the chimney stent. The velocity in the fenestration stent and periscope stent is uneven. The high relative residence time is concentrated in the region around the branch stents, which is prone to thrombosis. The “gutter” part of the chimney model may become larger due to the effect of the stent‐graft DF, increasing the risk of endoleak. For patients with incomplete circle of Willis, the periscope technique to reconstruct the supra‐arch vessels may affect blood perfusion. It is recommended to use balloon‐expandable stent for fenestration stent and periscope stent, and self‐expanding stent for chimney stent. For patients with aortic arch aneurysms, the fenestration technique may be superior to the parallel grafts technique.
Human leukocyte antigen‐B27 typing by flow cytometry: Comparison of three CE‐IVD methods
Authors: Waeckel Louis , Kennel Anne , Berger Anne‐Emmanuelle , Lambert Claude
Published: November 2022

Background

The human leukocyte antigen B27 (HLA‐B27), associated with chronic inflammatory diseases is thus widely performed for diagnostic purposes. Genotyping by molecular biology is the current gold standard for HLA‐B27 typing, but cheaper and faster flow cytometry methods have been developed.

Methods

In this report, we compare analytical performances of three CE‐IVD flow cytometry kits: IOTest™ and DuraClone B27™ from Beckman Coulter and BD HLA‐B27™ from BD Biosciences on a Navios™ cytometer as compared to molecular biology.

Results

Routine analyses could conclude for HLA‐B27 in197 patients (23.2%) and was not conclusive for 66 patients (7%, 8%). The experience revealed the needs to complete IOTest™ with a lineage marker (like CD3‐APC) and a standardization procedure in detection of fluorescence. Comparative analysis considering 23/44 non‐conclusive samples as negative, pointed out a 100% sensitivity and specificity of IOTest™ in determining genetically proved HLA‐B27. Specificity of the BD HLA‐B27TM kit was 94% (two false positives) sticking to the manufacturer instructions but raised to 100% and 94% sensitivity with a cutoff at 8.5 (225 on FACSdiva's scale).

Discussion

The DuraClone B27™ specificity was poor using the manufacturer cutoff but raised to 100% with a 8.0 cutoff instead of 15.

Conclusion

The three flow cytometry kits displayed satisfying performances but need adjustments. The DuraClone B27™ kit seems to be the best while the IOTest™ kit is not conclusive in 8% of cases. In most cases the use of molecular biology can be spared, but genotyping remains essential for patients whose HLA‐B27 status cannot be determined with confidence by flow cytometry.
Contrasted impacts of weather conditions in species sensitive to both survival and fecundity: A montane bird case study
Authors: Canonne Coline , Bernard‐Laurent Ariane , Souchay Guillaume , Perrot Charlotte , Besnard Aurélien
Published: November 2022

There is growing evidence that the Earth's climate is undergoing profound changes that are affecting biodiversity worldwide. This gives rise to the pressing need to develop robust predictions on how species will respond in order to inform conservation strategies and allow managers to adapt mitigation measures accordingly. While predictions have begun to emerge on how species at the extremes of the so‐called slow‐fast continuum might respond to climate change, empirical studies for species for which all demographic traits contribute relatively equally to population dynamics are lacking. Yet, climate change is expected to strongly affect them throughout their entire lifecycle. We built a 21‐year integrated population model to characterize the population dynamics of the rock partridge (Alectoris graeca) in France, and tested the influence of nine weather covariates on demographic parameters. As predicted, both annual survival and breeding success were affected by weather covariates. Thick snow cover during winter was associated with low survival and small brood size the following breeding season. Brood size was higher with intermediate winter temperatures and snowmelt timing, positively correlated to breeding period temperature, but negatively correlated to temperature during the coldest fortnight and precipitation during the breeding period. Survival was positively correlated to winter temperature, but negatively to breeding period precipitation. Large‐scale indices indicated that cold and wet winters were associated with small brood size the following breeding season but with high survival. Expected changes of weather conditions due to climate change are likely to impact demographic traits of the rock partridge both positively and negatively depending on the traits and on the affected weather variables. Future population dynamics will thus depend on the magnitude of these different impacts. Our study illustrates the difficulty to make strong predictions about how species with a population dynamic influenced by both survival and fecundity will respond to climate change.
A facile synthesis of bio‐inspired hierarchical microstructure TiO2: Characterization and photocatalytic activity
Authors: Turkten Nazli , Karatas Betul , Karatas Yunus , Cinar Zekiye , Bekbolet Miray
Published: November 2022

Hierarchical photocatalysts have attracted notable concern due to their excellent features such as lower density, higher specific surface area, higher light‐harvesting efficiency, and good surface permeability. Generally, such particular properties are achieved via the use of templates, preferentially focusing on natural biological materials. In this respect, rice husk (RH), an environmental waste containing elements C, N, S, and Si was used as a biotemplate to prepare TiO2 hierarchical microstructure photocatalyst (TiO2‐HMP) along with TiO2 nanoparticle photocatalyst (TiO2‐NP) by a facile sol–gel method. RH and the prepared TiO2 photocatalysts were characterized by using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), X‐ray powder diffraction (XRD), environmental scanning electron microscope‐energy dispersive X‐ray analysis (ESEM‐EDAX), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), UV–visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (UV‐DRS), photoluminescence (PL), and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) methods. The combination of RH and TiO2 via biotemplate strategy not only altered the band gap (Ebg = 2.74 eV) also slightly increased the surface area (~10%). The photocatalytic activities of TiO2‐NP and TiO2‐HMP specimens were determined by degradation of 4‐nitrophenol (4‐NPh) under UV‐A light irradiation. TiO2‐HMP exhibited enhanced photocatalytic activity (≥10%) compared to TiO2‐NP most probably due to RH originated in‐situ self‐codoping by the presence of multidopant ions (C, N, S, and Si ions) as verified by EDAX elemental weight distribution profiles. These results demonstrated a beneficial use of an environmental waste in photocatalytic applications.
Remediation of a clay soil contaminated with phenanthrene by using mixture of bentonite and cement
Authors: Estabragh A. R. , Amini Mohadeseh , Javadi A. A. , Noguera C. Lull
Published: November 2022

This paper investigates the remediation of a clay soil contaminated with phenanthrene, through a series of experimental tests. Mixtures of bentonite‐cement (with bentonite to cement ratios of 1:1 and 3:1) at 20% and 30% were used as agents. Unconfined Compressive Strength (UCS) tests were performed on samples with different percentages of agents and curing times. Leaching tests were also conducted on contaminated samples at different curing times by using spectrophotometer apparatus. The results indicated that using the mixtures of bentonite‐cement as an agent for natural and contaminated soil leads to an increase in the strength of the soils. The results of leaching tests showed that, for a given percentage of bentonite‐cement mixture with different bentonite to cement ratios, the concentration of phenanthrene decreased with increasing the curing time. The bentonite‐cement ratio of 1:1 was found to be more effective than the 3:1 ratio in reducing the concentration of phenanthrene. Sensitivity analysis showed that the percentage of bentonite and curing time are more effective in the reduction of phenanthrene than the percentage of cement.
Piezo1 channel‐mediated Ca2+ signaling inhibits lipopolysaccharide‐induced activation of the NF‐κB inflammatory signaling pathway and generation of TNF‐α and IL‐6 in microglial cells
Authors: Malko Philippa , Jia Xiaoling , Wood Ian , Jiang Lin‐Hua
Published: November 2022

Microglial cells are crucial in maintaining central nervous system (CNS) homeostasis and mediating CNS disease pathogenesis. Increasing evidence supports that alterations in the mechanical properties of CNS microenvironments influence glial cell phenotypes, but the mechanisms regulating microglial cell function remain elusive. Here, we examined the mechanosensitive Piezo1 channel in microglial cells, particularly, how Piezo1 channel activation regulates pro‐inflammatory activation and production of pro‐inflammatory cytokines, using BV2 and primary microglial cells. Piezo1 expression in microglial cells was detected both at mRNA and protein levels. Application of Piezo1 channel activator Yoda1 induced Ca2+ flux to increase intracellular Ca2+ concentration that was reduced by treatment with ruthenium red, a Piezo1 inhibitor, or Piezo1‐specific siRNA, supporting that Piezo1 functions as a cell surface Ca2+‐permeable channel. Priming with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced microglial cell activation and production of TNF‐α and IL‐6, which were inhibited by treatment with Yoda1. Furthermore, LPS priming induced the activation of ERK, p38 MAPKs, and NF‐κB. LPS‐induced activation of NF‐κB, but not ERK and p38, was inhibited by treatment with Yoda1. Yoda1‐induced inhibition was blunted by siRNA‐mediated depletion of Piezo1 expression and, furthermore, treatment with BAPTA‐AM to prevent intracellular Ca2+ increase. Collectively, our results support that Piezo1 channel activation downregulates the pro‐inflammatory function of microglial cells, especially production of TNF‐α and IL‐6, by initiating intracellular Ca2+ signaling to inhibit the NF‐κB inflammatory signaling pathway. These findings reveal Piezo1 channel activation as a previously unrecognized mechanism regulating microglial cell function, raising an interesting perspective on targeting this molecular mechanism to alleviate neuroinflammation and associated CNS pathologies.
Experimental study of different dehydration methods in the process of preparing frozen brain sections
Authors: Zhou Hong‐Su , Li Jing , Guan Yi‐Huan , He Hua , Huang Fu Li‐Ren
Published: November 2022

This study aimed to provide a recommendable protocol for the preparation of brain cryosections of rats to reduce and avoid ice crystals. We have designed five different dewatering solutions (Scheme 1: dehydrate with 15%, 20%, and 30% sucrose–phosphate‐buffered saline solution; Scheme 2: 20% sucrose and 30% sucrose; Scheme 3: 30% sucrose; Scheme 4: 10%, 20%, and 30% sucrose; and Scheme 5: the tissue was dehydrated with 15% and 30% sucrose polyacetate I until it sank to the bottom, followed by placement in 30% sucrose polyacetate II) to minimize the formation of ice crystals. Cryosections from different protocols were stained with Nissl staining and compared with each other by density between cells and the distance of intertissue spaces. The time required for the dehydration process from Scheme 1 to Scheme 5 was 24, 23, 24, 24, and 33 h, respectively. Density between cells gradually decreased from Scheme 1 to Scheme 5, and the distance of intertissue spaces was differentiated and irregular in different schemes according to the images of Nissl staining. We recommend the dewatering method of Scheme 4 (the brain tissues were dehydrated in 10%, 20% and 30% sucrose solution in turn until the tissue samples were completely immersed in the solution and then immersed in the next concentration solution for dehydration).
Circulating microbiota and metabolites: Insights into cardiovascular diseases
Authors: Khan Ikram , Khan Imran , Usman Muhammad , Xiao Wei Zhang , Ping Xie , Khan Sarmir , Khan Feroz , Jianye Zhou , Zhiqiang Li , Lizhe An
Published: November 2022

Background

In almost every country, cardiovascular diseases are the major cause of death, which are responsible for 17.7 million deaths worldwide, or 54% of all deaths. However, the latest evidence has shown that non‐communicable diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular events are significantly influenced by the blood microbiota and circulating metabolites.

Methods

We searched online databases for the most recent related papers through the comprehensive international databases of the Institute of PubMed/ MEDLINE, ISI/WOS, and Scopus up to August 2022, using MESH terms and the related keywords in the English language. Considering the titles and abstracts, unrelated studies were excluded. The full texts of the remained studies were evaluated by authors, independently. Then, the studies' findings were assessed and reported.

Results

The study demonstrated that the bacterial profiles of patients with cardiovascular diseases and healthy individuals are significantly different. The diseased patients showed a significantly high abundance of phylum Proteobacteria, an important Proteobacterial component known as lipopolysaccharides that has been linked to the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease, while phylum Firmicutes were found in healthy individuals. It suggests that Proteobacteria has a direct role in the onset of cardiovascular disease.

Conclusion

We focused on the blood bacterial composition and circulating microbial metabolites in their relationship with the etiology and onset of cardiovascular disease. However, the various genera and species in the results reported were not always identical. Therefore, the microbial community structure of blood was more complicated and thus required a more in‐depth exploration.
An MRI‐Based Radiomics Nomogram to Assess Recurrence Risk in Sinonasal Malignant Tumors
Authors: Wang Tongyu , Hao Jingwei , Gao Aixin , Zhang Peng , Wang Hexiang , Nie Pei , Jiang Yan , Bi Shucheng , Liu Shunli , Hao Dapeng
Published: November 2022

Background

Sinonasal malignant tumors (SNMTs) have a high recurrence risk, which is responsible for the poor prognosis of patients. Assessing recurrence risk in SNMT patients is a current problem.

Purpose

To establish an MRI‐based radiomics nomogram for assessing relapse risk in patients with SNMT.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

A total of 143 patients with 68.5% females (development/validation set, 98/45 patients).

Field Strength/Sequence

A 1.5‐T and 3‐T, fat‐suppressed fast spin echo (FSE) T2‐weighted imaging (FS‐T2WI), FSE T1‐weighted imaging (T1WI), and FSE contrast‐enhanced T1WI (T1WI + C).

Assessment

Three MRI sequences were used to manually delineate the region of interest. Three radiomics signatures (T1WI and FS‐T2WI sequences, T1WI + C sequence, and three sequences combined) were built through dimensional reduction of high‐dimensional features. The clinical model was built based on clinical and MRI features. The Ki‐67‐based and tumor‐node‐metastasis (TNM) model were established for comparison. The radiomics nomogram was built by combining the clinical model and best radiomics signature. The relapse‐free survival analysis was used among 143 patients.

Statistical Tests

The intraclass/interclass correlation coefficients, univariate/multivariate Cox regression analysis, least absolute shrinkage and selection operator Cox regression algorithm, concordance index (C index), area under the curve (AUC), integrated Brier score (IBS), DeLong test, Kaplan–Meier curve, log‐rank test, optimal cutoff values. A P value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

The T1 + C‐based radiomics signature had best prognostic ability than the other two signatures (T1WI and FS‐T2WI sequences, and three sequences combined). The radiomics nomogram had better prognostic ability and less error than the clinical model, Ki‐67‐based model, and TNM model (C index, 0.732; AUC, 0.765; IBS, 0.185 in the validation set). The cutoff values were 0.2 and 0.7 and then the cumulative risk rates were calculated.

Data Conclusion

A radiomics nomogram for assessing relapse risk in patients with SNMT may provide better prognostic ability than the clinical model, Ki‐67‐based model, and TNM model.

Evidence Level

3.

Technical Efficacy

Stage 5.
Synthesis and Application of Low Molecular Weight PEI‐Based Copolymers for siRNA Delivery with Smart Polymer Blends
Authors: Jin Yao , Adams Friederike , Möller Judith , Isert Lorenz , Zimmermann Christoph M. , Keul David , Merkel Olivia M.
Published: November 2022

Polyethylenimine (PEI) is a commonly used cationic polymer for small‐interfering RNA (siRNA) delivery due to its high transfection efficiency at low commercial cost. However, high molecular weight PEI is cytotoxic and thus, its practical application is limited. In this study, different formulations of low molecular weight PEI (LMW‐PEI) based copolymers polyethylenimine‐g‐polycaprolactone (PEI–PCL) (800 Da–40 kDa) and PEI–PCL–PEI (5–5–5 kDa) blended with or without polyethylene glycol‐b‐polycaprolactone (PEG–PCL) (5 kDa‐4 kDa) are investigated to prepare nanoparticles via nanoprecipitation using a solvent displacement method with sizes ≈100 nm. PEG–PCL can stabilize the nanoparticles, improve their biocompatibility, and extend their circulation time in vivo. The nanoparticles composed of PEI–PCL–PEI and PEG–PCL show higher siRNA encapsulation efficiency than PEI–PCL/PEG–PCL based nanoparticles at low N/P ratios, higher cellular uptake, and a gene silencing efficiency of ≈40% as a result of the higher molecular weight PEI blocks. These results suggest that the PEI–PCL–PEI/PEG–PCL nanoparticle system could be a promising vehicle for siRNA delivery at minimal synthetic effort.
Multi‐Scale Characterization Techniques for Polymer‐Based Solid‐State Lithium Batteries
Authors: Zhang Xue , Zhou Qian , Lv Zhaolin , Zhai Fangfang , Li Zulei , Li Suli , Zhang Botao , Cui Guanglei
Published: November 2022

The interface compatibility and ionic conductivity of polymer electrolytes play crucial roles in electrochemical behaviors of polymer‐based solid‐state batteries. Advanced characterization techniques are essential to explore interface compatibility and ion transport mechanisms. In this review, the recent application of multi‐scale characterization techniques in polymer‐based solid‐state lithium batteries (PSSLBs) is summarized, in terms of microscopy techniques, X‐ray techniques, spectroscopy techniques, and neutron techniques. These characterization technologies span the atomic scale, micro scale, mesoscale, and macroscopic scale. In particular, the in situ characterization with high time resolution is highlighted in each of the techniques, in order to promote the exploration of dynamic interface evolution in operating batteries. It is hoped that this review will contribute to the development of multi‐scale in situ characterization techniques, thus promoting the improvement of energy density for PSSLBs.
Regularity of transition densities and ergodicity for affine jump‐diffusions
Authors: Friesen Martin , Jin Peng , Kremer Jonas , Rüdiger Barbara
Published: November 2022

This paper studies the transition density and exponential ergodicity for affine processes on the canonical state space . Under a Hörmander‐type condition for diffusion components as well as a boundary nonattainment condition, we derive the existence and regularity of the transition densities and then prove the strong Feller property of the associated semigroup. Moreover, we also show that, under an additional subcriticality condition on the drift, the corresponding affine process is exponentially ergodic in the total variation distance.
Somatic SNCA Copy Number Variants in Multiple System Atrophy are Related to Pathology and Inclusions
Authors: Garcia‐Segura Monica Emili , Perez‐Rodriguez Diego , Chambers Darren , Jaunmuktane Zane , Proukakis Christos
Published: November 2022

Background

Somatic α‐synuclein (SNCA) copy number variants (CNVs, specifically gains) occur in multiple system atrophy (MSA) and Parkinson's disease brains.

Objective

The aim was to compare somatic SNCA CNVs in MSA subtypes (striatonigral degeneration [SND] and olivopontocerebellar atrophy [OPCA]) and correlate with inclusions.

Methods

We combined fluorescent in situ hybridization with immunofluorescence for α‐synuclein and in some cases oligodendrocyte marker tubulin polymerization promoting protein (TPPP).

Results

We analyzed one to three brain regions from 24 MSA cases (13 SND, 11 OPCA). In a region preferentially affected in one subtype (putamen in SND, cerebellum in OPCA), mosaicism was higher in that subtype, and cells with CNVs were 4.2 times more likely to have inclusions. In the substantia nigra, nonpigmented cells with CNVs and TPPP were about six times more likely to have inclusions.

Conclusions

The correlation between SNCA CNVs and pathology (at a regional level) and inclusions (at a single‐cell level) suggests a role for somatic SNCA CNVs in MSA pathogenesis. © 2022 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
White‐matter correlates of anxiety: The contribution of the corpus‐callosum to the study of anxiety and stress‐related disorders
Authors: Saar‐Ashkenazy Rotem , Guez Jonathan , Jacob Yael , Veksler Ronel , Cohen Jonathan E. , Shelef Ilan , Friedman Alon , Benifla Mony
Published: November 2022

Objectives

Traumatic stress has been associated with increased risk for brain alterations and development of anxiety disorders. Studies conducted in posttraumatic patients have shown white‐mater volume and diffusion alterations in the corpus‐callosum. Decreased cognitive performance has been demonstrated in acute stress disorder and posttraumatic patients. However, whether cognitive alterations result from stress related neuropathology or reflect a predisposition is not known. In the current study, we examined in healthy controls, whether individual differences in anxiety are associated with those cognitive and brain alterations reported in stress related pathologies.

Methods

Twenty healthy volunteers were evaluated for anxiety using the state‐trait inventory (STAI), and were tested for memory performance. Brain imaging was employed to extract volumetric and diffusion characteristics of the corpus‐callosum.

Results

Significant correlations were found between trait anxiety and all three diffusion parameters (fractional‐anisotropy, mean and radial‐diffusivity). Associative‐memory performance and corpus‐callosum volume were also significantly correlated.

Conclusion

We suggest that cognitive and brain alterations, as tested in the current work and reported in stress related pathologies, are present early and possibly persist throughout life. Our findings support the hypothesis that individual differences in trait anxiety predispose individuals towards negative cognitive outcomes and brain alterations, and potentially to stress related disorders.
Nutritional Risk Screening 2002 predicts surgical outcomes in 1532 patients undergoing total joint arthroplasty: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Shang Jingjing , Zhao Gongyin , Gong Jinhong , Su Dan , Wang Yuji , Wang Liangliang
Published: November 2022

Background

Limited information exists about the predictive effect of Nutritional Risk Screening (NRS) 2002 on orthopedic surgery. The aim of the present study is to explore the role of NRS 2002 in postoperative complications and resource utilization in patients with total joint arthroplasty (TJA).

Methods

We retrospectively collected the demographics and surgical results of nearly 2000 TJA patients admitted from 2016 to 2020 and assessed the differences in short‐ and long‐term complications and resource utilization parameters. Multivariate linear, logistic regression, and subgroup analysis were subsequently used to control for potential confounders. Survival analysis was performed to further verify the cumulative incidence of postoperative complications.

Results

We identified 1532 patients receiving TJA, 8.7% of which were at nutrition risk (NRS 2002 score ≥3 out of 7). Preoperative nutrition risk was associated with an increased risk of systemic complications, incisional complications, surgical site infection (SSI), incisional SSI, periprosthetic joint infection, dislocation, and periprosthetic fracture after TJA (odds ratio [OR], 3.62–31.99; all P < 0.05). Preoperative nutrition risk was further associated with an increased risk of cardiac complications, respiratory complications, urinary complications, and arthroplasty‐related reoperation (OR, 3.16–12.29; all P < 0.01). Moreover, preoperative nutrition risk was associated with increased costs and length of stay, and increased risk of unplanned intensive care unit admission, arthroplasty‐related readmission, infection‐related readmission, and SSI‐related readmission.

Conclusions

NRS 2002 is associated with an elevated risk of postoperative complications and increased resource utilization, following TJA. Thus, routine screening is recommended to identify nutrition risk statuses of patients undergoing elective TJA.
Formation of zinc phthalocyanine on polymethyl methacrylate chain: Its nanographene‐based composite, thermal, electrical and optical behaviors
Authors: Zebari Osama Ismail Haji , Demirelli Kadir , Tuncer Hülya
Published: November 2022

Poly[4‐((4‐vinylbenzyl)oxy) phthalonitrile‐co‐methyl methacrylate] [P(VBOPN10.7%‐co‐MMA)] was prepared by atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) method at 110°C. Green colored single chain polymer molecule via intramolecular formation of zinc phthalocyanine (SCP‐ZnPc) on polymer chain was synthesized using VBOPN as a precursor copolymer under conditions of dilute cyclohexanol and at 140–150°C. The successful formation of zinc phthalocyanine on a single chain molecule was confirmed using Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR) and UV/Vis spectroscopy techniques. Nanogaphene‐based SCP‐ZnPc composite was prepared to employ 6 weight (wt)% of total weight and were investigated its thermal, electrical, dielectric and optical properties. The dielectric and DC electrical conductivity of SCP‐ZnPc/NG 6 wt% nanocomposite were found to increase depending upon temperature. And the conduction obeyed the Arrhenius relationship with the activation energy, Ea values for I. and II. regions were 0.345 eV and 0.275 eV, respectively. The optical constants (refractive index, real value of optical dielectric constant) and the optical band gap of SCP‐ZnPc/NG 6 wt% were estimated. The direct band gap and refractive index of SCP‐ZnPc/NG 6 wt% were estimated, and its direct band gap was estimated as 2.7 eV.
Investigation on the enhancement of electromagnetic shielding with efficient use of short carbon fiber inMWCNT‐epoxy nanocomposites
Authors: Parameswarreddy Gandluri , Yadam Yugandhara Rao , Arunachalam Kavitha , Sarathi Ramanujam , Suematsu Hisayuki
Published: November 2022

The electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding effectiveness of the epoxy polymer composite reinforced with carbon fiber mat (CFM), short carbon fiber (SCF), and multi‐walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) is studied in the X‐band (8–12 GHz). Single‐layer unidirectional CFM of 30 wt% epoxy composite with 0° and 90° orientations resulted in EMI shielding of 5 dB and 29.6 dB, respectively. To avoid the influence of CFM orientation on the EMI shielding, SCF of distinct weight percentages (1 and 5 wt%) with fixed weight percentage (1 wt%) of MWCNT are reinforced into epoxy matrix. The EMI shielding provided by 2 mm thick epoxy composite reinforced with 5 wt% SCF along with 1 wt% MWCNT (CNT‐SCF5) is 35.4 dB. The microstructural study revealed uniform dispersion and better adhesion of MWCNT and SCF in the epoxy matrix. The dielectric properties of the fabricated samples indicated an increase in permittivity, electrical tanδ, and conductivity with the grading of SCF and MWCNT. The mechanical properties such as tensile strength and strain of the CNT‐SCF5 showed an increment in ultimate tensile strength and Young's modulus. The homogeneous CNT‐SCF5 epoxy composite with enhanced EMI shielding ability and mechanical properties could be utilized as an efficient EMI shielding material.
Near‐infrared spectroscopy in child and adolescent neurodevelopmental disorders
Authors: Yamamuro Kazuhiko
Published: November 2022

Near‐infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) is a noninvasive optical technique that uses the near‐infrared spectrum for functional neuroimaging by measuring oxygenation and hemodynamic changes in the cerebral cortex. The advantages of NIRS include its portability and ease of application, which allows for testing with the subject in natural positions, such as sitting or standing. Since 1994, NIRS has been increasingly used to conduct functional activation studies on different psychiatric disorders, most prominently schizophrenia, depression, bipolar disorder, and neurodevelopmental disorders. However, limited information on its use among child and adolescent patients is available. We herein review recent findings obtained using NIRS measurements of the brain during cognitive tasks in neurodevelopmental disorders, such as autism spectrum disorder, attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder, obsessive–compulsive disorder, and Tourette's disorder. This will facilitate evaluations of the causation and treatment of prefrontal cortex dysfunctions.
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) among older adults
Authors: Pitisuttithum Panyavee , Treeprasertsuk Sombat
Published: November 2022

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is now the leading cause of liver disease, and its prevalence is expected to increase in the future due to the increasing prevalence of obesity and an increasing aging population. With increases in longevity, NAFLD has emerged as a growing public health concern worldwide. NAFLD is a multisystem disease that has a strong association with metabolic risk factors. The presence of NAFLD increases the risks of liver‐ and cardiovascular‐related mortality. Many studies have found age to be an additional risk factor for advanced fibrosis, which is associated with adverse outcomes. The identification of high‐risk older persons using noninvasive methods is a key step in community management. Limitations in the diagnostic performance of current assessment methods have been encountered. This review provides an update on the new terminology that has changed from NAFLD to metabolic‐associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), and the epidemiology, clinical characteristics, noninvasive assessment, and prognosis of older persons with NAFLD.
Evaluation index system for the implementation of extended producer responsibility system: Chinese beverage paper‐based composite packaging manufacturers
Authors: Chen Jian , Mu Xianzhong , Tu Chuang , Hu Guangwen
Published: November 2022

Paper‐based composite packages, which have been widely used for beverage in modern daily life, are featured of nutrition preservation and convenience. However, it is also causing environmental problems in urban areas because of the low recycling rate. The introduction of extended producer responsibility (EPR) is helpful to improving the recycling rate of beverage paper‐based composite packaging by extending the producer's environmental‐protecting responsibility for the product from its production to its end‐of‐life treatment. To find out the optimal strategy of applying the EPR system for beverage paper‐based composite packaging, this paper is conducted based on the basic framework of the EPR system, combined with the specific requirements of the EPR System Implementation Plan promulgated by China and the Implementation Plan of the EPR System for Beverage Paper‐Based Composite Packaging. An evaluation index system for beverage paper‐based composite packaging manufacturers is constructed to perform the EPR system, including three management‐level indicators, 10 standard‐level indicators and 42 programme‐level indicators. A comprehensive evaluation method is introduced to help the producers to fulfill the extended producer responsibility. Results suggest that beverage paper‐based composite packaging producers should first fulfill the responsibility in information disclosure, ecological design and use of recycled materials.
Risk profile and mode of transmission of Mpox: A rapid review and individual patient data meta‐analysis of case studies
Authors: Núñez‐Cortés Rodrigo , Calatayud Joaquín , López‐Gil José Francisco , Koyanagi Ai , Casaña José , López‐Bueno Rubén
Published: November 2022

Since May 2022, an outbreak of Mpox in non‐endemic countries has become a potential public health threat. The objective of this rapid review was to examine the risk profile and modes of transmission of Mpox. PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus were searched from inception through July 30 to collect case reports/series on patients with Mpox infection. For meta‐analysis, data on the total number of participants and deaths by binary categories of exposure (age, sex, country, other co‐infections or existing conditions, and mode of contagion) were used. A total of 62 studies (4659 cases) were included. Most cases came from Africa (84.3%), followed by Europe (13.9%). In 63.6% of the cases, the mode of contagion was human contact, while 22.8% of the cases were by animal contact, and 13.5% were unknown or not reported. The mortality rate was 6.5% throughout these studies. The risk of mortality was higher in the younger age group (risk difference: 0.19; 95% CI: 0.02–0.36), in cases with other co‐infections or current chronic conditions (risk difference: 0.03; 95% CI: 0.01–0.05) and in the category of low‐ and middle‐income countries (risk difference: 0.06; 95% CI: 0.05–0.08). There were no significant differences with respect to sex or mode of contagion. These results help to understand the major infection pathways and mortality risk profiles of Mpox and underscores the importance of preventing outbreaks in specific settings, especially in settings densely populated by children, such as day care centres and schools.
Unscented Kalman filter with stable embedding for simple, accurate, and computationally efficient state estimation of systems on manifolds in Euclidean space
Authors: Park Jae‐Hyeon , Chang Dong Eui
Published: November 2022

This article proposes a simple, accurate, and computationally efficient method to apply the ordinary unscented Kalman filter (UKF) developed in Euclidean space to systems whose dynamics evolve on manifolds. We use the mathematical theory called stable embedding to make a variant of UKF that keeps state estimates in close proximity to the manifold while exhibiting excellent estimation performance. We confirm the performance of our devised filter by applying it to the satellite system model and comparing the performance with other UKFs devised specifically for systems on manifolds. Our devised filter has a low estimation error, keeps the state estimates in close proximity to the manifold as expected, and consumes a minor amount of computation time. Also our devised filter is simple and easy to use because our filter directly employs the off‐the‐shelf standard UKF devised in Euclidean space without any particular manifold‐structure‐preserving discretization method or coordinate transformation.
Cross‐cultural implications of linguistic future time reference and institutional uncertainty on social entrepreneurship
Authors: Hechavarría Diana M. , Brieger Steven A. , Levasseur Ludvig , Terjesen Siri A.
Published: November 2022

Research Summary

Using a sample of 205,792 individuals in 70 countries with 39 languages, this paper presents novel empirical evidence for how a language's future time reference, defined as the requirement that speakers mark time in the future, affects a speaker's likelihood of engaging in social entrepreneurship. FTR subtly shapes a speaker's temporal orientation, such that speaking a futured language (i.e., strong FTR) favors a short‐term orientation which positively affects the likelihood of being a social entrepreneur. Furthermore, institutional uncertainty arising from weakly entrenched institutions moderates this relationship. Individuals who speak futured languages in contexts characterized by regulatory institutional uncertainty (weak rule of law, weak property rights, and strong corruption) are more likely to engage in social entrepreneurship. Theoretical and practical implications and future research directions are discussed.

Managerial Summary

This paper examines the influence of language and regulatory institutions on an individual's decision to engage in social entrepreneurship. We show that entrepreneurial strategies towards social value creation are more likely to be pursued in countries where language is characterized as futured (i.e., using sentences with “will/shall + infinitive”) with the linguistic feature of future time reference (FTR). Moreover, the positive impact FTR has on the strategic decision to become a social entrepreneur intensifies when there is regulatory institutional uncertainty. That is, the probability an individual is a social entrepreneur increases when there is weak rule of law, weak property rights, and strong corruption within a country. In sum, our study highlights the important interplay between language, an overlooked cognitive institution, and regulatory institutions in shaping entrepreneurial behaviors and social outcomes.
One‐Step Formation of Targeted Liposomes in a Versatile Microfluidic Mixing Device
Authors: Shan Han , Sun Xin , Liu Xin , Sun Qi , He Yao , Chen Ziyan , Lin Qibo , Jiang Zixi , Chen Xiang , Chen Zeyu , Zhao Shuang
Published: November 2022

Targeted liposomes, as a promising carrier, have received tremendous attention in COVID‐19 vaccines, molecular imaging, and cancer treatment, due to their enhanced cellular uptake and payload accumulation at target sites. However, the conventional methods for preparing targeted liposomes still suffer from limitations, including complex operation, time‐consuming, and poor reproducibility. Herein, a facile and scalable strategy is developed for one‐step construction of targeted liposomes using a versatile microfluidic mixing device (MMD). The engineered MMD provides an advanced synthesis platform for multifunctional liposome with high production rate and controllability. To validate the method, a programmed death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1)‐targeting aptamer modified indocyanine green (ICG)‐liposome (Apt‐ICG@Lip) is successfully constructed via the MMD. ICG and the PD‐L1‐targeting aptamer are used as model drug and targeting moiety, respectively. The Apt‐ICG@Lip has high encapsulation efficiency (89.9 ± 1.4%) and small mean diameter (129.16 ± 5.48 nm). In vivo studies (PD‐L1‐expressing tumor models) show that Apt‐ICG@Lip can realize PD‐L1 targeted photoacoustic imaging, fluorescence imaging, and photothermal therapy. To verify the versatility of this approach, various targeted liposomes with different functions are further prepared and investigated. These experimental results demonstrate that this method is concise, efficient, and scalable to prepare multifunctional targeted liposomal nanoplatforms for molecular imaging and disease theranostics.
Natural Carrier‐Free Binary Small Molecule Self‐Assembled Hydrogel Synergize Antibacterial Effects and Promote Wound Healing by Inhibiting Virulence Factors and Alleviating the Inflammatory Response
Authors: Wang Zhijia , Lu Jihui , Yuan Zhihua , Pi Wenmin , Huang Xuemei , Lin Xiaoyu , Zhang Yaozhi , Lei Haimin , Wang Penglong
Published: November 2022

Methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)‐infected skin wounds have caused a variety of diseases and seriously endanger global public health. Therefore, multidimensional strategies are urgently to find antibacterial dressings to combat bacterial infections. Antibacterial hydrogels are considered potential wound dressing, while their clinical translation is limited due to the unpredictable risks and high costs of carrier excipients. it is found that the natural star antibacterial and anti‐inflammatory phytochemicals baicalin (BA) and sanguinarine (SAN) can directly self‐assemble through non‐covalent bonds such as electrostatic attraction, π–π stacking, and hydrogen bonding to form carrier‐free binary small molecule hydrogel. In addition, BA‐SAN gel exhibited a synergistic inhibitory effect on MRSA. And its plasticity and injectability allowed it to be applied as a wound dressing. Due to the matched physicochemical properties and synergistic therapeutic effects, BA‐SAN gel can inhibit bacterial virulence factors, alleviate wound inflammation, promote wound healing, and has good biocompatibility. The current study not only provided an antibacterial hydrogel with clinical value but also opened up new prospects that carrier‐free hydrogels can be designed and originated from clinically used small‐molecule phytochemicals.
Advanced Covalent Organic Framework‐Based Membranes for Recovery of Ionic Resources
Authors: Wu Chao , Xia Lei , Xia Shengji , Van der Bruggen Bart , Zhao Yan
Published: November 2022

Membrane technology has shown a viable potential in conversion of liquid‐waste or high‐salt streams to fresh waters and resources. However, the non‐adjustability pore size of traditional membranes limits the application of ion capture due to their low selectivity for target ions. Recently, covalent organic frameworks (COFs) have become a promising candidate for construction of advanced ion separation membranes for ion resource recovery due to their low density, large surface area, tunable channel structure, and tailored functionality. This tutorial review aims to analyze and summarize the progress in understanding ion capture mechanisms, preparation processes, and applications of COF‐based membranes. First, the design principles for target ion selectivity are illustrated in terms of theoretical simulation of ions transport in COFs, and key properties for ion selectivity of COFs and COF‐based membranes. Next, the fabrication methods of diverse COF‐based membranes are classified into pure COF membranes, COF continuous membranes, and COF mixed matrix membranes. Finally, current applications of COF‐based membranes are highlighted: desalination, extraction, removal of toxic metal ions, radionuclides and lithium, and acid recovery. This review presents promising approaches for design, preparation, and application of COF‐based membranes in ion selectivity for recovery of ionic resources.
Development of a sensitive and selective bioanalytical method of chebulinic acid by liquid chromatography‐electrospray tandem mass spectrometry and its pharmacokinetic application
Authors: Verma Sarvesh Kumar , Biswas Arpon , Saxena Shivani , Kumar Mukesh , Mishra Anjali , Choudhury Abhijit Deb , Mishra Tripti , Rais Nisha , Narender Tadigoppula , Bhatta Rabi Sankar
Published: November 2022

Chebulinic acid (CA), a polyphenolic compound extracted from the fruits of Terminalia chebula, has been recently reported as a novel neuraminidase inhibitor against the influenza A virus and also for various biological activities that require pharmacokinetic estimation. We report a proposed fragmentation pathway for the formation and selection of sodium and ammonium adducts using molecular thermodynamics. The chebulinic acid ammonium adduct was reproducible and stable compared to the earlier reported sodium adduct to quantify chebulinic acid by liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry. Chebulinic acid was extracted from plasma by protein precipitation followed by single‐step liquid‐liquid extraction by removing interfering metal adducts such as sodium. chebulinic acid resolution was achieved from the C18 column with mobile phase acetonitrile: methanol mixture and ammonium acetate buffer at a flow rate of 0.5 ml/min. The linear calibration curve (r2 ≥ 0.995) range was 3.52–1800 ng/ml. Finally, we report the oral pharmacokinetic profile of chebulinic acid in male Swiss albino mice plasma using the developed method.
Time‐dependent elongation and cracking behavior of fiber reinforced concrete tension chords
Authors: Watts Murray J. , Amin Ali , Gilbert Raymond Ian
Published: November 2022

The long‐term (LT) tension stiffening effect in fiber reinforced concrete (FRC) tension chords is investigated in this paper. Six tension tie specimens with varying fiber types (either no fibers, polypropylene, or steel fibers) and reinforcement ratios were subjected to a sustained tensile in‐service load for 560 days. The LT specimens were fitted with gauges to monitor their elongation over the test period. In addition, 12 specimens were subjected to instantaneous loading to capture the entire load‐deformation response of the tension ties, up to and beyond the yielding of the reinforcement. A complete suite of material characterization tests were conducted in conjunction with the tension tie testing. The results from this investigation indicate that the inclusion of the fiber types and dosages adopted in this program improve the short‐term performance with respect to stiffness, tension stiffening, and cracking. Steel fibers improved the LT behavior, while the polypropylene fibers used in this study led to mixed results. Models previously developed by the authors have been shown to describe the behavior with good accuracy.
Microfluidic single‐cell multiomics analysis
Authors: Xu Xing , Zhang Qiannan , Li Mingyin , Lin Shiyan , Liang Shanshan , Cai Linfeng , Zhu Huanghuang , Su Rui , Yang Chaoyong
Published: November 2022

Cellular heterogeneity is essential to biological processes, such as embryonic development, cell differentiation, and the progression of disease. Recent years have seen the development of a variety of single‐cell multiomics technologies that systemically codetect the genome, epigenome, transcriptome, and proteome for single‐cell heterogeneity evaluation comprehensively. Microfluidics has emerged as a significant tool for single‐cell multiomics techniques, enabling the analysis of the complex regulatory network associated with genome coding, epigenome regulation, and transcriptome/proteome expression in a single cell with increased detection sensitivity, accuracy, throughput, and integration. A review of state‐of‐the‐art microfluidic single‐cell multiomics analysis is presented here. Various microfluidics for isolating single cells are introduced first, highlighting their advantages, disadvantages, and applications in single‐cell sequencing. Then, a comprehensive overview of microfluidic single‐cell multiomics techniques is provided. In addition, a brief introduction of single‐cell multiomics analysis in biological applications and clinical settings will be presented. Finally, we will conclude by discussing the future challenges and prospects of this field.