bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fabrication, Functionalities and Applications of Transparent Wood: A Review
Authors: Hu Xin , Yu Rujun , Wang Faming , Liu Zunfeng , Yang Hongyu , Chen Chaoji , Li Yangling , Noor Nuruzzaman , Fei Bin
Published: June 2023

Transparent wood (TW)‐based materials have increasingly become the focus of researchers worldwide owing to their superior physico‐chemical‐optical properties, sustainable nature, as well as the fact that they are highly accommodating frameworks that can act as building blocks to readily explore a vast range of potential functionalities, holding great potential to displace glass and plastics in their various respective applications. The integration of multiple functionalities into TW has been undertaken to fulfill the demands of prospective sophisticated applications through the utilization of functional fillers or coatings. Herein, the up‐to‐date foundational developments and reports concerning emergent TW composites and coatings from a perspective of fabrication‐functionality‐application are comprehensively summarized, with a particular focus on seven specific functionalities; i) solar control; ii) chromically‐responsive, iii) electrically‐conductive, iv) shape‐memory active; v) flame‐retardant; vi) electromagnetic interference shielding; and vii) aesthetics. The potential applications of TW with these functionalities are also discussed. Finally, the current challenge with TW is addressed, as well as the future developments required for eventual real‐world application.
Bioprinted Scaffold Remodels the Neuromodulatory Microenvironment for Enhancing Bone Regeneration
Authors: Guo Shuting , He Chuanglong
Published: June 2023

Herein, a 3D bioprinted scaffold is proposed, containing a calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP) and the β‐adrenergic receptor blocker propranolol (PRN) as a new method to achieve effective repair of bone defects. By leveraging the neuromodulation mechanism of bone regeneration, CGRP and PRN loaded mesoporous silica nanoparticles are added into a hybrid bio‐ink, which initially contains gelatin methacrylate, Poly (ethylene glycol) diacrylate and bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs). Subsequently, the optimized bio‐ink is used for 3D bioprinting to create a composite scaffold with a pre‐designed micro‐nano hierarchical structure. The migration and tube formation of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) can be promoted by the scaffold, which is beneficial to the formation of a new capillary network during the bone repair process. With the release of CGRP from the scaffold, the secretion of neuropeptides by sensory nerves is simulated. Meanwhile, the release of PRN can inhibit the binding process of catecholamine to β‐adrenergic receptor, co‐promoting the osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs with CGRP and silicon ions, which will effectively enhance bone repair of a critical‐sized cranial defect in a rat model. In conclusion, this study provides a promising strategy for bone defect repair by understanding the neuromodulatory mechanisms during bone regeneration.
Targeted Reprogramming of Vitamin B3 Metabolism as a Nanotherapeutic Strategy towards Chemoresistant Cancers
Authors: Guo Daoxia , Ji Xiaoyuan , Xie Hui , Ma Jia , Xu Chunchen , Zhou Yanfeng , Chen Nan , Wang Hui , Fan Chunhai , Song Haiyun
Published: June 2023

Cancer‐associated fibroblasts (CAFs) promote cancer stem cell (CSC)‐mediated chemoresistance and immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. However, direct depletion of CAFs may increase cancer invasiveness and metastasis. As a generalized strategy against chemoresistant cancers, Gemini‐like homotypic targeting nanoparticles (NPs) are designed for two‐pronged CAF transformation and cancer cell elimination. The CAF‐targeted NPs couple vitamin B3 metabolic reprogramming to epigenetic modulation of secreted pro‐stemness and immunosuppressive factors, thereby diminishing CSC and suppressive immune cell populations to enhance cancer cell drug susceptibility and cytotoxic T cell infiltration. In mouse models of breast, liver, pancreatic and colorectal cancers that are resistant to their respective first‐line chemotherapeutics, a single dose of hydrogel co‐delivering the Gemini‐like NPs can rehabilitate chemosensitivity, induce immune activation, and achieve tumor regression. Moreover, it stimulates robust T cell memory for long‐term protection against tumor rechallenge. This study thus represents an innovative approach with broad applicability for overcoming cancer chemoresistance.
Evaluation of missing data imputation methods for human osteometric measurements
Authors: Pang Jinyong , Liu Xiaoming
Published: June 2023

It is not uncommon for biological anthropologists to analyze incomplete bioarcheological or forensic skeleton specimens. As many quantitative multivariate analyses cannot handle incomplete data, missing data imputation or estimation is a common preprocessing practice for such data. Using William W. Howells' Craniometric Data Set and the Goldman Osteometric Data Set, we evaluated the performance of multiple popular statistical methods for imputing missing metric measurements. Results indicated that multiple imputation methods outperformed single imputation methods, such as Bayesian principal component analysis (BPCA). Multiple imputation with Bayesian linear regression implemented in the R package norm2, the Expectation–Maximization (EM) with Bootstrapping algorithm implemented in Amelia, and the Predictive Mean Matching (PMM) method and several of the derivative linear regression models implemented in mice, perform well regarding accuracy, robustness, and speed. Based on the findings of this study, we suggest a practical procedure for choosing appropriate imputation methods.
The importance of understanding Indigenous employment in the Indigenous business sector
Authors: Eva Christian , Bodle Kerry , Foley Dennis , Harris Jessica , Hunter Boyd
Published: June 2023

Indigenous employment has been the subject of numerous policies in Australia, with governments aiming to increase the workforce participation rate amongst Indigenous people in recent years. Indigenous‐owned businesses, formally defined as businesses that are at least 50% Indigenous‐owned, have been demonstrated in previous research to maintain substantially higher levels of proportional Indigenous employment than non‐Indigenous businesses. This suggests that Indigenous‐owned businesses maintain work environments that are more supportive of and conducive to Indigenous employment, meriting the influence of Indigenous‐owned businesses' workplace practices in future Indigenous employment policy design. Using administrative data from two Indigenous business registries (Black Business Finder and Supply Nation), this paper provides an updated empirical analysis of the Indigenous business sector. This paper demonstrates that Indigenous‐owned businesses of all sizes, industries, locations and profit statuses consistently average proportional Indigenous employment rates higher than the Indigenous proportional population. Of all the people employed in Supply Nation‐listed businesses, over 35% are Indigenous. The potential impact of the Indigenous Procurement Policy is illustrated by differentials in the size of businesses and their capacity to employ Indigenous staff. This paper provides analysis of the Indigenous business sector that can inform future policy direction for both Indigenous employment and Indigenous business policies.
GPT‐4 accuracy and completeness against International Consensus Statement on Allergy and Rhinology: Rhinosinusitis
Authors: Yoshiyasu Yuki , Wu Franklin , Dhanda Aatin K. , Gorelik Daniel , Takashima Masayoshi , Ahmed Omar G.
Published: June 2023

Key Points

GPT‐4 is an AI language model that can answer basic questions about rhinologic disease.

Vetting is needed before AI models can be safely integrated into otolarygologic patient care.
Bioresorbable Insertion Aids for Brain Implantable Flexible Probes: A Comparative Study on Silk Fibroin, Alginate, and Disaccharides
Authors: Cerezo-Sanchez Maria , McGlynn Eve , Bartoletti Stefania , Yalagala Bhavani Prasad , Casadei Garofani Beatrice , Capodiferro Arianna , Russell Ewan , Palazzolo Gemma , Walton Finlay , Curia Giulia , Heidari Hadi
Published: June 2023

Miniaturized, flexible, and biocompatible neural probes have the potential to circumvent the brain's foreign body response, but the problem of surgical implantation remains. Herein, a probe intended for implantation in the rat hippocampus is coated in four bioresorbable stiffeners to determine which is most effective in aiding insertion. The stiffeners (sucrose, maltose, silk fibroin, and alginate) are evaluated through mechanical, chemical, and dissolution tests. After coating with silk fibroin, the buckling force of the neural probe increases from 0.31 to 75.99 mN. This goes in accordance with subsequent successful insertion tests. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy results demonstrate the increase inβ‐sheet content of silk fibroin samples after treatment (e.g., water annealing) and show relevant changes due to dehydration of the alginate hydrogel. Both qualitative and quantitative dissolution studies in artificial cerebrospinal fluid illustrate that alginate and silk fibroin outlasts the disaccharide stiffeners. In this work, a variety of multidisciplinary analyses are carried out to find the best bioresorbable stiffener for deep brain implantable devices with the highest buckling force, longest dissolution time, and the most tunable structure. For the first time, an alginate hydrogel is used as a stiffener to aid insertion, expanding its usefulness beyond neural tissue engineering.
Biphasic Textures Reducing Bacterial Surface Colonization in the Human Oral Cavity
Authors: Helbig Ralf , Hannig Christian , Basche Sabine , Ortgies Janis , Hannig Matthias , Sterzenbach Torsten
Published: June 2023

Bacterial colonization occurs on all biological and artificial surfaces in the oral cavity. The formation of multicellular biofilms or settlement of misallocated species can cause caries (diet‐depending acidification), periodontal diseases, peri‐implantitis, or denture‐associated stomatitis. Inhibition or delay of initial adhesion should strongly reduce dental interventions. However, no strategy is found to mildly manage bacterial colonization in this complex physiological environment, that is, without toxic, antibacterial, or antiseptic approaches. It is shown in a previous study that micro‐ and submicrometer surface topographies, which can effectively control initial bacterial adhesion in other application areas, do not have any significant impact within the oral cavity. Herein, a simple approach is presented to reduce initial microbial surface colonization by plain biphasic textures with defined combinations of hydrophobic and hydrophilic phases (SiO2, NH2, CH2, CH3, F3). A significant reduction of microbial adhesion on textures in the nano‐ and microscale (150 nm and 2.4 μm) compared to respective monophasic substrates is observed. This might be a new design principle for dental materials, to inhibit microbial colonization in critical scenarios, at least for shorter time scales (<24 h).
Sublethal doses of glyphosate modulates mitochondria and oxidative stress in honeybees by direct feeding
Authors: Pons Daniel Gabriel , Herrera Cayetano , Torrens‐Mas Margalida , Leza Mar , Sastre‐Serra Jorge
Published: June 2023

Honeybees are essential for the ecosystem maintenance and for plant production in agriculture. Glyphosate is a broad‐spectrum systemic herbicide widely used in crops to control weeds and could affect honeybees' health in sublethal doses. Our aim was to study how sublethal doses of glyphosate affects to oxidative stress and mitochondrial homeostasis in honeybees. We exposed honeybees to glyphosate at 5 and 10 mg·l−1 for 2 and 10 h for the gene expression analysis by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and for 48 and 72 h for the antioxidant enzymes activity and lipid peroxidation determination. We observed a general increase in antioxidant‐ and mitochondrial‐related genes expression in honeybees after 2 h of exposition to glyphosate, as well as a rise in catalase and superoxide dismutase enzymatic activity after 48 h and an increment in lipid peroxidation adducts generation after 72 h. These results suggest a direct effect of glyphosate on honeybees' health, with an insufficient response of the antioxidant system to the generated oxidative stress, resulting in an increase in lipid peroxidation and, therefore, oxidative damage. Altogether, results obtained in this work demonstrate that sublethal treatments of glyphosate could directly affect honeybee individuals under laboratory conditions. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate alternatives to glyphosate to determine if they are less harmful to non‐target organisms.
Optimal prescribed performance tracking control of nonlinear motor driven systems via adaptive dynamic programming
Authors: Zhao Jun , Huang Yingbo , Zang Wanshun
Published: June 2023

Although optimal regulation problem has been well studied, resolving optimal tracking control via adaptive dynamic programming (ADP) has not been completely resolved, particularly for nonlinear uncertain systems. In this paper, an online adaptive learning method is developed to realize the optimal tracking control design for nonlinear motor driven systems (NMDSs), which adopts the concept of ADP, unknown system dynamic estimator (USDE), and prescribed performance function (PPF). To this end, the USDE in a simple form is first proposed to address the NMDSs with bounded disturbances. Then, based on the estimated unknown dynamics, we define an optimal cost function and derive the optimal tracking control. The derived optimal tracking control is divided into two parts, that is, steady‐state control and optimal feedback control. The steady‐state control can be obtained with the tracking commands directly. The optimal feedback control can be obtained via the concept of ADP based on the PPF; this contributes to improving the convergence of critic neural network (CNN) weights and tracking accuracy of NMDSs. Simulations are provided to display the feasibility of the designed control method.
Developmental profiles of young children with autism spectrum disorder and global developmental delay: A study with the GriffithsIIIscales
Authors: Taddei Matilde , Bulgheroni Sara , Toffalini Enrico , Pantaleoni Chiara , Lanfranchi Silvia
Published: June 2023

The purpose of this study was to identify developmental profiles associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and global developmental delay (DD) in pre‐school aged Italian children. Developmental profiles were evaluated by means of a standardized tool widely used for the assessment of psychomotor development in early childhood, the Griffiths III scales, recently adapted and standardized for the Italian population. Specifically, we compared the Griffiths III profiles of children with ASD and DD (ASD + DD) with those of children with DD alone. Moreover, we inspected the psychometric function of single items by comparing children with ASD + DD and children with DD with typically developing (TD) children from the Griffiths III normative sample. In this way, we aimed to isolate the effects of each diagnostic class on psychomotor abilities and on the psychometric function of single items. The ASD + DD and DD groups were found to share the presence of lower age equivalent scores relative to their chronological age in all the developmental domains considered:Foundations of Learning,Language and Communication,Eye and Hand Coordination,Personal–Social‐EmotionalandGross Motor Skills. However, the DD group displayed a homogeneous profile with similar levels of delay in all developmental domains, while children with ASD + DD exhibited relative weaknesses in theLanguage and CommunicationandPersonal–Social‐Emotionalscales. The analysis of the psychometric function drawn for each item has confirmed different profiles in social‐communicative and non‐verbal items between the two diagnostic groups and in relation to TD normative sample. The Griffiths III is a valid psychometric tool for identifying atypical developmental profiles and its use may be recommended during the diagnostic process of ASD and DD, to detect specific strengths and weaknesses and guide person‐centered treatment.
Relationship between quantitative digital behavioral features and clinical profiles in young autistic children
Authors: Coffman Marika , Di Martino J. Matias , Aiello Rachel , Carpenter Kimberly L. H. , Chang Zhuoqing , Compton Scott , Eichner Brian , Espinosa Steve , Flowers Jacqueline , Franz Lauren , Perochon Sam , Krishnappa Babu Pradeep Raj , Sapiro Guillermo , Dawson Geraldine
Published: June 2023

Early behavioral markers for autism include differences in social attention and orienting in response to one's name when called, and differences in body movements and motor abilities. More efficient, scalable, objective, and reliable measures of these behaviors could improve early screening for autism. This study evaluated whether objective and quantitative measures of autism‐related behaviors elicited from an app (SenseToKnow) administered on a smartphone or tablet and measured via computer vision analysis (CVA) are correlated with standardized caregiver‐report and clinician administered measures of autism‐related behaviors and cognitive, language, and motor abilities. This is an essential step in establishing the concurrent validity of a digital phenotyping approach. In a sample of 485 toddlers, 43 of whom were diagnosed with autism, we found that CVA‐based gaze variables related to social attention were associated with the level of autism‐related behaviors. Two language‐related behaviors measured via the app, attention to people during a conversation and responding to one's name being called, were associated with children's language skills. Finally, performance during a bubble popping game was associated with fine motor skills. These findings provide initial support for the concurrent validity of the SenseToKnow app and its potential utility in identifying clinical profiles associated with autism. Future research is needed to determine whether the app can be used as an autism screening tool, can reliably stratify autism‐related behaviors, and measure changes in autism‐related behaviors over time.
Developing and centralising a nurse‐led local anaesthetic transperineal biopsy service during COVID
Authors: Winters David Adam , Mehmi Ashley , Odedra Amar , Wilson Lydia , Ancheta Joey , Buttleman Sally , Allchorne Paula , Rajan Prabhakar , Khan Shahid , Green James S. A.
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Transperineal (TP) biopsy has recently replaced the transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) approach as the ideal method of biopsy in the United Kingdom with growing trends to adopt. To minimise transmission of COVID‐19 during the first wave of the pandemic, the British Association of Urological Surgeons Section of Oncology issued guidelines reducing general anaesthesia (GA) procedures and initiate COVID‐secure ‘green’ site diagnostics. As a result of these guidelines and reduction in clinical diagnostics trust‐wide, we ceased all TRUS diagnostics and implemented a centralised, nurse‐led LA TP biopsy service.

Materials and methods

A waiting list was developed for those awaiting prostate cancer diagnostics across the network. A COVID‐secure ‘green’ site was quickly identified with TP biopsies starting soon after. Quality improvement methodology was utilised and a run chart was used to show if changes were sustainable.

Results

Successful implementation and centralisation of a TP biopsy service occurred with TRUS guided biopsies ceasing across all sites on 12 May 2020. The procedures were carried out by urology advanced nurse practitioners under local anaesthesia with a select few occurring under GA. Centralising the service in a COVID‐secure manner freed up dedicated theatre sessions and personal leading to increased efficiency elsewhere. The service was robust and was maintained upon lifting of COVID restrictions.

Conclusions

A centralised, nurse led LA TP biopsy service in a procedural unit was implemented successfully. The service has remained resilient upon lifting of restrictions and return to business as usual. This led to improved performance across trust by freeing up valuable resources and staff to undertake more duties. The service remains highly valued trust‐wide.
Conformational flexibility of β‐arrestins – How these scaffolding proteins guide and transform the functionality of GPCRs
Authors: Haider Raphael S. , Reichel Mona , Matthees Edda S. F. , Hoffmann Carsten
Published: June 2023

G protein‐coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute the largest family of transmembrane proteins and play a crucial role in regulating diverse cellular functions. They transmit their signaling via binding to intracellular signal transducers and effectors, such as G proteins, GPCR kinases, and β‐arrestins. To influence specific GPCR signaling behaviors, β‐arrestins recruit effectors to form larger signaling complexes. Intriguingly, they facilitate divergent functions for the binding to different receptors. Recent studies relying on advanced structural approaches, novel biosensors and interactome analyses bring us closer to understanding how this specificity is achieved. In this article, we share our hypothesis of how active GPCRs induce specific conformational rearrangements within β‐arrestins to reveal distinct binding interfaces, enabling the recruitment of a subset of effectors to foster specialized signaling complexes. Furthermore, we discuss methods of how to comprehensively assess β‐arrestin conformational states and present the current state of research regarding the functionality of these multifaceted scaffolding proteins.
Disease‐associated gut microbiome and critical metabolomic alterations in patients with colorectal cancer
Authors: Zhang Hongze , Jin Kai , Xiong Kunlong , Jing Wenwen , Pang Zhen , Feng Meng , Cheng Xunjia
Published: June 2023

Background

Gut microbiota plays a significant role in the colorectal cancer (CRC) process. Ectopic colonization of multiple oral bacteria is reportedly associated with CRC pathogenesis and progression, but the details remain unclear.

Methods

We enrolled a cohort of 50 CRC patients and 52 healthy controls from an East China population. Taxonomic and functional analysis of the fecal microbiota were performed using 16S rDNA (50 + 52 samples) and shotgun metagenomic sequencing (8 + 6 samples), respectively, with particular attention paid to gut‐colonized oral bacteria.

Results and Conclusions

The results showed more detected bacterial species but lower species evenness within the samples from CRC patients. To determine the specific bacteria enriched in each group, we analyzed their possible protective, carcinogenic, or opportunistic roles in the CRC process. Among the ectopic oral bacteria, we observed a significant increase in the abundance of Fusobacterium and decreased abundance of Prevotella and Ruminococcus in the CRC group. Main differences in the functional composition of these two groups were related to energy metabolism and biosynthesis, especially the glycolytic pathway. Furthermore, we validated the colonization of Fusobacterium nucleatum subsp. animalis within CRC tissues and studied its impact on the host intestinal epithelium and tumor cells. With high selectivity for cancerous tissues, this subspecies promoted CRC cell proliferation and induced potential DNA damage.
First confirmed case of multisystem inflammatory syndrome in adult in Egypt
Authors: Elgohary Mohamed Abdel‐Salam , Mohamed Mohamed Emam , Hamada Mahmoud Moustafa , Fahim Jackline S. , El‐Masry Thanaa A. , Ibrahim Ahmed Mohamed , Taha Ahmad Gad , Seadawy Mohamed G. , Alexiou Athanasios , Papadakis Marios , Batiha Gaber El‐Saber , El‐Bouseary Maisra M.
Published: June 2023

Key Clinical Message

Our case report demonstrates extremely uncommon data associated with MIS‐A, such as cholestatic jaundice, anemia, and quickly progressing pneumonia. IVIG and pulse steroid medications are the best treatments for improving clinical outcomes.

We report a case of multiple organ dysfunctions due to MIS‐A in an adult with a history of suspected COVID‐19. Our case demonstrates extremely uncommon data associated with MIS‐A, such as cholestatic jaundice, anemia, and quickly progressing pneumonia. IVIG and pulse steroid medications are the best treatments for improving clinical outcomes.
Effects of Central Elements on the Properties of Group 13 Dialdiminate Complexes
Authors: Aoyama Yuto , Sakai Yuki , Ito Shunichiro , Tanaka Kazuo
Published: June 2023

Invited for the cover of this issue is the group of Kazuo Tanaka at Kyoto University. The image depicts the element‐dependent properties of group 13 dialdiminate complexes Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/chem.202300654.
Barriers and shortcomings in access to cardiovascular management and prevention for familial hypercholesterolemia during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Huang Helen , Leung Keith S. K. , Garg Tulika , Mazzoleni Adele , Miteu Goshen D. , Zakariya Farida , Awuah Wireko A. , Yin Elaine T. S. , Haroon Faaraea , Hussain Zarish , Aji Narjiss , Jaiswal Vikash , Tse Gary
Published: June 2023

Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is a hereditary condition caused by mutations in the lipid pathway. The goal in managing FH is to reduce circulating low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol and, therefore, reduce the risk of developing atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). Because FH patients were considered high risk groups due to an increased susceptible for contracting COVID‐19 infection, we hypothesized whether the effects of the pandemic hindered access to cardiovascular care. In this review, we conducted a literature search in databases Pubmed/Medline and ScienceDirect. We included a comprehensive analysis of findings from articles in English related and summarized the effects of the pandemic on cardiovascular care through direct and indirect effects. During the COVID‐19 pandemic, FH patients presented with worse outcomes and prognosis, especially those that have suffered from early ASCVD. This caused avoidance in seeking care due to fear of transmission. The pandemic severely impacted consultations with lipidologists and cardiologists, causing a decline in lipid profile evaluations. Low socioeconomic communities and ethnic minorities were hit the hardest with job displacements and lacked healthcare coverage respectively, leading to treatment nonadherence. Lock‐down restrictions promoted sedentary lifestyles and intake of fatty meals, but it is unclear whether these factors attenuated cardiovascular risk in FH. To prevent early atherogenesis in FH patients, universal screening programs, telemedicine, and lifestyle interventions are important recommendations that could improve outcomes in FH patients. However, the need to research in depth on the disproportionate impact within different subgroups should be the forefront of FH research.
A scoping review: What are the cellular mechanisms that drive the allergic inflammatory response to fungal allergens in the lung epithelium?
Authors: Goode Emma‐Jane , Marczylo Emma
Published: June 2023

Allergic airway disease (AAD) is a collective term for respiratory disorders that can be exacerbated upon exposure to airborne allergens. The contribution of fungal allergens to AAD has become well established over recent years. We conducted a comprehensive review of the literature using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses guidelines to better understand the mechanisms involved in the allergic response to fungi in airway epithelia, identify knowledge gaps and make recommendations for future research. The search resulted in 61 studies for final analysis. Despite heterogeneity in the models and methods used, we identified major pathways involved in fungal allergy. These included the activation of protease‐activated receptor 2, the EGFR pathway, adenosine triphosphate and purinergic receptor‐dependent release of IL33, and oxidative stress, which drove mucin expression and goblet cell metaplasia, Th2 cytokine production, reduced barrier integrity, eosinophil recruitment, and airway hyperresponsiveness. However, there were several knowledge gaps and therefore we recommend future research should focus on the use of more physiologically relevant methods to directly compare key allergenic fungal species, clarify specific mechanisms of fungal allergy, and assess the fungal allergy in disease models. This will inform disease management and future interventions, ultimately reducing the burden of disease.
Epigenetic aging in older breast cancer survivors and noncancer controls: preliminary findings from the Thinking and Living with Cancer Study
Authors: Rentscher Kelly E. , Bethea Traci N. , Zhai Wanting , Small Brent J. , Zhou Xingtao , Ahles Tim A. , Ahn Jaeil , Breen Elizabeth C. , Cohen Harvey Jay , Extermann Martine , Graham Deena M. A. , Jim Heather S. L. , McDonald Brenna C. , Nakamura Zev M. , Patel Sunita K. , Root James C. , Saykin Andrew J. , Van Dyk Kathleen , Mandelblatt Jeanne S. , Carroll Judith E.
Published: June 2023

Background

Cancer and its treatments may accelerate aging in survivors; however, research has not examined epigenetic markers of aging in longer term breast cancer survivors. This study examined whether older breast cancer survivors showed greater epigenetic aging than noncancer controls and whether epigenetic aging related to functional outcomes.

Methods

Nonmetastatic breast cancer survivors (n = 89) enrolled prior to systemic therapy and frequency‐matched controls (n = 101) ages 62 to 84 years provided two blood samples to derive epigenetic aging measures (Horvath, Extrinsic Epigenetic Age [EEA], PhenoAge, GrimAge, Dunedin Pace of Aging) and completed cognitive (Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy‐Cognitive Function) and physical (Medical Outcomes Study Short Form‐12) function assessments at approximately 24 to 36 and 60 months after enrollment. Mixed‐effects models tested survivor‐control differences in epigenetic aging, adjusting for age and comorbidities; models for functional outcomes also adjusted for racial group, site, and cognitive reserve.

Results

Survivors were 1.04 to 2.22 years biologically older than controls on Horvath, EEA, GrimAge, and DunedinPACE measures (p = .001–.04) at approximately 24 to 36 months after enrollment. Survivors exposed to chemotherapy were 1.97 to 2.71 years older (p = .001–.04), and among this group, an older EEA related to worse self‐reported cognition (p = .047) relative to controls. An older epigenetic age related to worse physical function in all women (p < .001–.01). Survivors and controls showed similar epigenetic aging over time, but Black survivors showed accelerated aging over time relative to non‐Hispanic White survivors.

Conclusion

Older breast cancer survivors, particularly those exposed to chemotherapy, showed greater epigenetic aging than controls that may relate to worse outcomes. If replicated, measurement of biological aging could complement geriatric assessments to guide cancer care for older women.
Fluid–structure interaction study for biomechanics and risk factors in Stanford type A aortic dissection
Authors: Wang Xiaochen , Ghayesh Mergen H. , Kotousov Andrei , Zander Anthony C. , Dawson Joseph A. , Psaltis Peter J.
Published: June 2023

Aortic dissection is a life‐threatening condition with a rising prevalence in the elderly population, possibly as a consequence of the increasing population life expectancy. Untreated aortic dissection can lead to myocardial infarction, aortic branch malperfusion or occlusion, rupture, aneurysm formation and death. This study aims to assess the potential of a biomechanical model in predicting the risks of a non‐dilated thoracic aorta with Stanford type A dissection. To achieve this, a fully coupled fluid–structure interaction model was developed under realistic blood flow conditions. This model of the aorta was developed by considering three‐dimensional artery geometry, multiple artery layers, hyperelastic artery wall, in vivo‐based physiological time‐varying blood velocity profiles, and non‐Newtonian blood behaviours. The results demonstrate that in a thoracic aorta with Stanford type A dissection, the wall shear stress (WSS) is significantly low in the ascending aorta and false lumen, leading to potential aortic dilation and thrombus formation. The results also reveal that the WSS is highly related to blood flow patterns. The aortic arch region near the brachiocephalic and left common carotid artery is prone to rupture, showing a good agreement with the clinical reports. The results have been translated into their potential clinical relevance by revealing the role of the stress state, WSS and flow characteristics as the main parameters affecting lesion progression, including rupture and aneurysm. The developed model can be tailored for patient‐specific studies and utilised as a predictive tool to estimate aneurysm growth and initiation of wall rupture inside the human thoracic aorta.
URLM: Utilising reinforcement learning to schedule subflows in MPTCP
Authors: Lin Shengrui , He Binjie , Zhou Zhengyan , Liu Hongyan , Zhang Dong
Published: June 2023

Parallel transmission in multiple access networks using MultiPath TCP (MPTCP) greatly enhances the throughput. However, critical packet disorder is commonly observed due to traffic fluctuation and path diversity. Although several predictive scheduling algorithms have been proposed to solve this problem, they cannot accommodate prediction accuracy and real‐time adaptation simultaneously in a dynamic network environment. The time overhead in modifying scheduling parameters to adapt to network changes leads to performance degradation in throughput and packet disorder. In this study, we propose a scheduling algorithm called Utilising Reinforcement Learning to Schedule Subflows in MPTCP (URLM). We apply reinforcement learning to select an optimal scheduling parameter in real time, which brings significant time benefits for modifying the parameters. The simulation comparison experiments show that URLM reduces the average number of out‐of‐order packets and the time overhead in adapting to network changes while improving global throughput.
Association of perivascular fat attenuation on computed tomography and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction
Authors: Nishihara Takahiro , Miyoshi Toru , Nakashima Mitsutaka , Ichikawa Keishi , Takaya Yoichi , Nakayama Rie , Miki Takashi , Ito Hiroshi
Published: June 2023

Aims

Heart failure with a preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is associated with chronic inflammation. We aimed to investigate the association between pericoronary adipose tissue attenuation (PCATA) on coronary computed tomography angiography as a novel noninvasive marker of pericoronary inflammation and the presence of HFpEF.

Methods and results

This retrospective study included 607 outpatients (median age, 65 years; 50% male) who underwent both echocardiography and coronary computed tomography angiography. Patients with obstructive coronary artery disease were excluded from this study. PCATA was compared between patients with and without HFpEF, which was diagnosed according to the Heart Failure Association (HFA)‐PEFF score. PCATA was assessed at the proximal 40‐mm segments of all three major coronary arteries on coronary computed tomography angiography. Patients with HFpEF had higher PCATA in all coronary arteries compared to the control participants: left anterior descending artery (LAD), −65.2 ± 6.9 Hounsfield units (HU) vs. −68.1 ± 6.7 HU; left circumflex artery (LCX), −62.7 ± 6.8 HU vs. −65.4 ± 6.6 HU; and right coronary artery (RCA), −63.6 ± 8.5 HU vs. −65.5 ± 7.7 HU (P < 0.01). Multivariate logistic regression analysis, including conventional risk factors, revealed that PCATA per standard deviation in the LAD (odds ratio [OR], 1.449; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.152–1.823), LCX (OR, 1.634; 95% CI, 1.283–2.081), and RCA (OR, 1.388; 95% CI, 1.107–1.740) were independently associated with HFpEF. The association between PCATA and HFpEF was mostly consistent across various patient clinical characteristics. The left ventricular mass and left atrial volume index showed a mild correlation with LAD‐PCATA (ρ = 0.13 [P < 0.01] and ρ = 0.24 [P < 0.01]) and LCX‐PCATA (ρ = 0.16 [P < 0.01] and ρ = 0.23 [P < 0.01]).

Conclusions

High PCATA score was significantly associated with the presence of HFpEF. Our results suggest that inflammation in the pericoronary artery adipose tissue is one of the underlying mechanisms of HFpEF.
Single‐Source‐Precursor‐Derived Binary FeNi Phosphide Nanoparticles Encapsulated in N, P Co‐Doped Carbon as Electrocatalyst for Hydrogen Evolution Reaction and Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Chen Yongchao , Jiang Tianshu , Tian Chuanmu , Zhan Ying , Kempf Alexander , Molina-Luna Leopoldo , Hofmann Jan P. , Riedel Ralf , Yu Zhaoju
Published: June 2023

Water‐splitting processes require advanced catalysts for the electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER). A facile and cost‐effective approach using single‐source precursors (SSPs) to prepare active and durable bifunctional electrocatalysts consisting of core–shell structured transition metal phosphide (TMPs) nanoparticles dispersed and immobilized in a highly defective N‐, P‐codoped carbon matrix. The bimetallic FeNi phosphide supported on N‐, P‐codoped carbon is synthesized through pyrolysis at 900 °C under an argon atmosphere (FeNiP@NPC‐900), displaying promising electrocatalytic performance for both HER and OER, with low overpotentials of 191 and 278 mV, respectively. Furthermore, FeNiP@NPC‐900 exhibits remarkable durability in both acidic and alkaline electrolytes. The excellent catalytic and long‐term performance is attributed to several factors, including the novel SSP approach, which prevents the agglomeration of active TMPs particles, the in situ formation of exposed nanopores during the carbonization of the precursor without using surfactants, and the heterostructure between highly defective carbon and TMPs, which positively influences the electronic structure at the interface and facilitates charge transfer. The unique core–shell nanostructure protects the catalytically active phase from corrosion and synergistically promotes the activity performance. Therefore, a new strategy for designing active and stable heterostructured TMPs@carbon‐based electrocatalysts is provided.
Experimental Investigation Into Effects of Thermodynamic Hydrate Inhibitors on Natural Gas Hydrate Synthesis in 1D Reactor
Authors: Yan Peng , Luan Hengjie , Jiang Yujing , Yu Haiyang , Liang Wei , Cheng Xianzhen , Liu Mingkang , Chen Hongbin
Published: June 2023

Thermodynamic hydrate inhibitors (THIs) are often used in marine gas field operations to prevent the formation of natural gas hydrate (NGH), and it is important to study the effect of THIs on hydrate synthesis characteristics. Herein, the effects of water (H2O), sodium chloride (NaCl), and ethylene glycol (EG) on NGH synthesis characteristics under different initial pressure conditions are tested using the self‐developed 1D NGH production simulation test system. The effects of each THI on the maximum synthesis rate and maximum synthesis amount of NGH are investigated using two physical quantities, peak of temperature increment and maximum gas conversion rate. The results show that the 2.65 wt% salt solution has the minimum inhibition effect on the maximum synthesis rate of NGH, and the solution with a 3:1 mixture of H2O and EG has the maximal inhibition effect on the maximum synthesis rate of NGH. When only H2O and EG or H2O and NaCl are present in the reactor, the higher the concentration of EG or NaCl, the more significant is the inhibition effect on the maximum synthesis amount of NGH.
Soft‐Pyrolysis Co–N‐Implanted Polymer to Gain High‐Density Co–Nx Sites on Carbons for Efficient Oxygen Reduction in Zn–Air Batteries
Authors: Wang Yingchu , Chen Yue , Yang Tao , Peng Xueqing , Kong Aiguo
Published: June 2023

A soft‐pyrolysis strategy by heating Co–N‐implanted covalent organic polymer combining on carbon nanotubes at ≤500 °C has been developed to obtain efficient Co–N–C electrocatalysts for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). The prepared Co–N–C is highly active for ORR with a half‐wave potential of 0.91 V versus RHE in 0.1 m KOH electrolyte, superior to most of previously reported Co‐based electrocatalysts. When employing it as cathode electrocatalyst, the homemade Zn–air battery shows a peak power density of 304.2 mW cm−2, comparable to the parallel power density (250 mW cm−2) of Zn–air battery with Pt/C (20 wt%) electrocatalyst at cathode. The soft‐pyrolysis strategy not only helps to generate high density Co–Nx active sites on carbons but also facilitates the optimizing balance between active site densities, graphitization degree, and pore structure of Co–N–C catalysts. Herein, a simple and energy‐effective low‐temperature pyrolysis strategy to obtain high‐performance ORR electrocatalyst is provided.
Performance Optimization of Inorganic Cs2TiBr6 Based Perovskite Solar Cell via Numerical Simulation
Authors: Tahir Sofia , Ashfaq Arslan , Mushtaq Shammas , Haneef Muhammad , Saleh Alqurashi Rania , Ali Shokralla Elsammani , Sabugaa Michael M. , Almufarij Rasmiah S. , Rehman Ubaid ur , Bonilla Ruy Sebastian
Published: June 2023

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are considered highly efficient and hold great potential for next‐generation photovoltaic devices due to their excellent properties. However, there are some challenges that hinder their mass production, such as toxicity in lead‐based PSCs, nonstability, and high manufacturing costs. This study aims to address these challenges by proposing a device modeling approach to optimize the design of highly efficient lead‐free cesium titanium bromide (Cs2TiBr6) perovskite solar cells. Cs2TiBr6‐based perovskite solar cells have low performance due to the lack of suitable electron and hole transport layers. Therefore, this study utilizes numerical simulations in SCAPS‐1D to investigate the effect of different parameters, including the doping density of optimized hole and electron transport layers, the thickness of the absorber layer, the NA/ND of the absorption layer, and the defect concentration. The study models six different device structures with different hole transport layerss. However, an optimized novel structure device Se/CuSbS2/Cs2TiBr6/IZGO/FTO/Glass has been proposed, with a theoretical power conversion efficiency of 29.19%. This device has a VOC of 1.33 V, JSC of 24.28 mA cm−2, and FF of 90.46%. Overall, this study demonstrates the potential of Cs2TiBr6 as a promising material for perovskite solar cells, providing a nontoxic, green renewable energy solution for the future.
Simulative Investigation of Optimal Multiparameterized Cooling Plate Topologies for Different Battery System Configurations
Authors: Epp Alexander , Rai Sunny , van Ginneken Finn , Varchmin Andreas , Köhler Jürgen , Sauer Dirk Uwe
Published: June 2023

To design an effective battery thermal management system, multiple simulations with different levels of modeling, physics, and details are generally needed. However, complex and high‐resolution models are time‐consuming, both in terms of buildup and in computation time. Especially the fast‐moving early‐stage development phases demand all‐in‐one model approaches allowing for quick and efficient concept evaluations. To meet these requirements, herein, a lumped‐mass modeling approach is proposed and a methodology for evaluating various liquid cooling plate topologies is derived. The framework aims to assist the volatile concept phase of battery system development in providing multidimensionally optimized cooling plate topologies. A novel modeling strategy preselects plate parameters using a reduction procedure that couples the transient models’ accuracy with the steady‐state models’ computation time advantages. The results analyze different initial battery geometries, indicating significant deviations in their optimized cooling plate properties. Plate topologies are varied between their main construction design parameters: tube size and tube‐to‐tube distance. In addition to battery's mean temperature, further meaningful parameters like resulting volume flow are evaluated, compared, and discussed for the entire set of battery geometries. Subsequent sensitivity analyses show geometry‐related optimal plate topologies depending on the cooling circuit performance, stressing the necessity for early‐stage cooling plate investigations.
3D Numerical Simulation of Metal Bipolar Plate Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell Considering Wavy Interlaced Flow Field
Authors: Zhang Yong , He Shirong , Gu Meng , Wang Yonggang , Xiong Kehui , Gao Feng , Fang Haoyan
Published: June 2023

A metal bipolar plate fuel cell (FC) composed of gas distribution zones (GDZ) with ordered distribution of “dot matrix” structures, a complex waveform staggered fluid region, and the effect of cooling flow field (FF) is proposed in this investigation. The 3D multiphase model is applied to simulate the two‐phase flow in the FC. First, the cathode catalyst layer (CCL) has a higher electrochemical reaction rate (ERR) when gas diffusion layer (GDL) is anisotropic, and the ERR under channels is much higher than ribs. Increasing the thickness of GDL is not conducive to gas mass transfer, and the maximum current density reduction rate is 2.94%. Increasing the porosity of GDL is beneficial to improve the mass transport efficiency, and the liquid discharge is promoted. Second, the increase of GDL contact angle affects the cathode microporous layer and liquid saturation in CCL, and the current density is the highest when the contact angle is 120°. Finally, the volume‐of‐fluid model is utilized to analyze the drainage process in the GDZ and cathode small‐size FF. It is indicated in the results that water tends to concentrate at the outlet corner of GDZ in liquid form.
Impedance‐matching model‐in‐the‐loop simulation
Authors: Parsi Sai Sharath , Sivaselvan M. V. , Whittaker Andrew S.
Published: June 2023

Impedance matching is a novel approach to executing model‐in‐the‐loop (MIL) simulations. The concept, key features, and sample applications of this approach have been described in a series of publications. This paper advances theory and implementation for impedance‐matching MIL by: (1) developing a feedback linearization technique for implementing MIL for nonlinear virtual systems, (2) systematically characterizing MIL performance‐stability tradeoffs using three design‐oriented criteria—performance: defined as closeness of the controlled‐actuator impedance to the virtual‐boundary impedance; control effort: low controller response at high frequencies to reduce sensitivity to measurement noise and uncertainties in the actuator model; and stability: pursued using passivity of the controlled actuator system, and (3) assessing, through experimentation, the robustness of two ways to estimate feedback reaction force from the test article. These fundamental advancements to MIL are described using a one‐dimensional configuration consisting of a fluid‐filled cylindrical vessel as the physical test article and a uniaxial hydraulic shake table controlled to imitate different seismic isolation systems at the base of the vessel.