bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrochemical Detection of Free Chlorine in Ballast Water Management System
Authors: Park Pil Ju , Jang Won Jin , Lee Dong Jun , Park Tae Jung , Kim Soo Young
Published: December 2024

Ballast water, which is seawater taken onboard ships to ensure stable and maneuverable sailing, can pose a significant threat to marine ecosystems and human health when discharged owing to the presence of undesirable organisms. To mitigate this risk, ballast water treatment methods such as electrochlorination are employed, where oxidants such as hypochlorite are generated to effectively eliminate marine microorganisms. The effectiveness of an electrochlorination‐based ballast water management system (BWMS) depends on the maintenance of optimal concentrations of total residual chlorine (TRC). However, excessive levels of free chlorine (Cl) can result in corrosion and environmental damage, rendering the accurate monitoring of TRC levels crucial for the safe discharge of ballast water. This review focuses on recent advancements in electrochemical sensors for free Cl measurement in BWMS. The process of free Cl generation, techniques for electrochemical detection, and factors influencing sensor performance are elucidated. In addition, materials and strategies for improving the performance of the sensors are described. Finally, perspectives on the current issues and future challenges that must be overcome to effectively utilize electrochemical detection in BWMS are discussed, thereby offering new directions for advancing this technology.
Analysis of Shannon Entropy and Quantum States of a Confined Hydrogen Atom Screened by the Hellmann Potential
Authors: Kumar Kirtee , Prasad Vinod
Published: December 2024

This study investigates the impact of spatial confinement and the Hellmann potential on the Shannon entropy of a hydrogenic atom. A hydrogenic atom screened by the Hellmann potential and confined within an impenetrable spherical potential is analyzed. The Schrödinger equation is solved numerically using the finite difference method to determine energy eigenvalues and wavefunctions. These wavefunctions are examined in both position and momentum spaces to calculate the Shannon entropy in position space , the Shannon entropy in momentum space , and the total Shannon entropy . How the confinement radius and the screening parameter affect these entropies is investigated, and the results are compared to those of unconstrained systems. The findings are contrasted with previously reported results and discussed in relation to the Beckner–Bialynicki–Birula–Mycielski (BBM) inequality, offering insights into the behavior of quantum states under confinement. Significant variations in Shannon entropy and energy levels are observed with changes in confinement and screening parameters, providing a deeper understanding of quantum mechanics in confined systems. The study reveals a critical screening parameter at which the behavior of entropy transitions, shedding light on the interplay between spatial confinement, screening effects, and quantum uncertainties.
Synergistic Anticancer Strategy Targeting ECM Stiffness: Integration of Matrix Softening and Mechanical Signal Transduction Blockade in Primary Liver Cancers
Authors: Shen Zefeng , Tao Liye , Wang Yali , Zhu Yiwei , Pan Haoyu , Li Yijun , Jiang Shi , Zheng Junhao , Cai Jingwei , Liu Yang , Lin Kainan , Li Shihao , Tong Yifan , Shangguan Liqing , Xu Junjie , Liang Xiao
Published: December 2024

The development of primary liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma [HCC] and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma [ICC]) is linked to its physical microenvironment, particularly extracellular matrix (ECM) stiffness. Potential anticancer strategies targeting ECM stiffness include prevention/reversal of the stiffening process and disruption of the response of cancer cells to mechanical signals from ECM. However, each strategy has limitations. Therefore, the authors propose integrating them to maximize their strengths. Compared with HCC, ICC has a stiffer ECM and a worse prognosis. Therefore, ICC is selected to investigate mechanisms underlying the influence of ECM stiffness on cancer progression and application of the integrated anticancer strategy targeting ECM stiffness. In summary, immunofluorescence results for 181 primary liver cancer tissue chips (ICC, n = 91; HCC, n = 90) and analysis of TCGA mRNA‐sequencing demonstrate that ECM stiffness can affect phenotypes of primary liver cancers. The YAP1/ABHD11‐AS1/STAU2/ZYX/p‐YAP1 pathway is a useful entry point for exploration of specific mechanisms of mechanical signal conduction from the ECM in ICC cells and their impact on cancer progression. Moreover, a synergistic anticancer strategy targeting ECM stiffness (ICCM@NPs + siABHD11‐AS1@BAPN) is constructed by integrating ECM softening and blocking intracellular mechanical signal transduction in ICC and can provide insights for the treatment of cancers characterized by stiff ECM.
Deep Learning‐Enabled STEM Imaging for Precise Single‐Molecule Identification in Zeolite Structures
Authors: Yang Yaotian , Xiong Hao , Wu Zirong , Luo Zhiyao , Chen Xiao , Wang Xiaonan , Wei Fei
Published: December 2024

Observing chemical reactions in complex structures such as zeolites involves a major challenge in precisely capturing single‐molecule behavior at ultra‐high spatial resolutions. To address this, a sophisticated deep learning framework tailored has been developed for integrated Differential Phase Contrast Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy (iDPC‐STEM) imaging under low‐dose conditions. The framework utilizes a denoising super‐resolution model (Denoising Inference Variational Autoencoder Super‐Resolution (DIVAESR)) to effectively mitigate shot noise and thereby obtain substantially clearer atomic‐resolved iDPC‐STEM images. It supports advanced single‐molecule detection and analysis, such as conformation matching and elemental clustering, by incorporating object detection and Density Functional Theory (DFT) configurational matching for precise molecular analysis. the model's performance is demonstrated with a significant improvement in standard image quality evaluation metrics including Peak Signal‐to‐Noise Ratio (PSNR) and Structural Similarity Index Measure (SSIM). The test conducted using synthetic datasets shows its robustness and extended applicability to real iDPC‐STEM images, highlighting its potential in elucidating dynamic behaviors of single molecules in real space. This study lays a critical groundwork for the advancement of deep learning applications within electron microscopy, particularly in unraveling chemical dynamics through precise material characterization and analysis.
Spring Effect Endowing P‐doped Li3VO4 With Long‐standing Catalytic Activity for Tuning Cycling Stability of MgH2
Authors: Hu Wenqiang , Zang Jiahe , Wang Qisen , Xiao Siyuan , Zhang Jichao , Fang Fang , Ma Zhongliang , Sun Dalin , Song Yun
Published: December 2024

Magnesium hydride (MgH2) is a promising hydrogen storage material for its high hydrogen capacity of 7.6 wt.%. However, the further application is severely hampered by the sluggish reaction kinetics and stable thermodynamics. Introducing catalysts is an effective method to improve the reaction rate, but the catalytic activity tends to decrease with an increasing number of reaction cycles, due to the highly reductive Mg and H species. Herein, the spring effect has been observed in the P doped Li3VO4, in which both V─P and V─V bonds undergo compression and elongation during hydrogen absorption and desorption, respectively. Such a unique self‐regulation spring effect not only improves the reaction kinetics of MgH2, but also maintains the high activity of P doped Li3VO4, thereby ensuring the hydrogen capacity of MgH2 even after 100 loops. This spring effect of chemical bonding, stretched‐recovered‐stretched with the motion between the highly reductive Mg and H species, will provide insight into catalyst design for hydrogen‐related industries.
Triglyceride‐glucose index trajectories predict adverse cardiovascular outcomes in elderly heart failure patients with Diabetes: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Liu Hong , Wang Jian , Luo Zhi , Jia Ding , Feng Shixing , Yang Zhufang , Wang Zeyu
Published: December 2024

Objective

Evaluating the change trajectories of triglyceride‐glucose (TyG) index calculated after multiple tests in elderly heart failure (HF) patients may have clinical implications for predicting long‐term adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs).

Methods

This retrospective study included 1184 elderly HF (LVEF ≥50%) patients with diabetes admitted to our center between January 2015 and January 2020. Based on the multiple TyG levels detected during the exposure period with annual measurements, three distinct TyG trajectories were determined using latent mixture modeling: low‐stable group (TyG index <8.26, n = 367), medium‐stable group (TyG index 8.26–9.06, n = 613), and high‐increasing group (TyG index >9.06, n = 204). The primary endpoint was the composite outcome of MACEs.

Results

There were significant increases in the prevalence of several cardiovascular risk factors and conditions, such as male gender, BMI, current smoker, hyperlipidemia, atrial fibrillation, old myocardial infarction, fasting glucose, triglycerides, and uric acid levels, from the Low‐Stable Group to the High‐Increasing Group (all P < 0.05). During a median follow‐up of 29 months (range, 18–46 months), 181 MACEs occurred. Kaplan–Meier analyses curve showed a significantly increased risk of MACEs in the medium‐stable and high‐increasing groups compared to the low‐stable group (HR = 2.528, 95%CI: 1.665–3.838; HR = 2.706, 95%CI: 1.722–4.255, respectively). Furthermore, the rates of heart failure‐related hospitalizations, nonfatal myocardial infarctions and non‐fatal stroke were significantly increased in the medium‐stable and high‐increasing groups. Multivariable Cox regression analyses revealed that age (HR = 1.728), current smoker (HR = 1.385), old myocardial infarction (HR = 1.593), chronic renal disease (HR = 1.682), HbA1c (HR = 1.816), NT‐proBNP (HR = 2.471), TyG trajectory (HR = 2.112) and SGLT2 inhibitors (HR = 0.841) were independently associated with the occurrence of MACEs during follow‐up (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

The TyG trajectory is strongly associated with the risk of MACEs during follow‐up in elderly patients with T2DM, suggesting that TyG trajectories may further optimize risk stratification model of cardiovascular events.
Biological brain age and resilience in cognitively unimpaired 70‐year‐old individuals
Authors: Marseglia Anna , Dartora Caroline , Samuelsson Jessica , Poulakis Konstantinos , Mohanty Rosaleena , Shams Sara , Lindberg Olof , Rydén Lina , Sterner Therese Rydberg , Skoog Johan , Zettergren Anna , Kern Silke , Skoog Ingmar , Westman Eric
Published: December 2024

INTRODUCTION

This study investigated the associations of brain age gap (BAG)—a biological marker of brain resilience—with life exposures, neuroimaging measures, biological processes, and cognitive function.

METHODS

We derived BAG by subtracting predicted brain age from chronological age in 739 septuagenarians without dementia or neurological disorders. Robust linear regression models assessed BAG associations with life exposures, plasma inflammatory and metabolic biomarkers, magnetic resonance imaging, and cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers of neurodegeneration and vascular brain injury, and cognitive performance.

RESULTS

Greater BAG (older‐looking brains) was associated with physical inactivity, diabetes, and stroke, while prediabetes was related to lower BAG, that is, younger‐looking brains. Physical activity mitigated the link between obesity and BAG. Greater BAG was associated with greater small vessel disease burden, white‐matter alterations, inflammation, high glucose, poorer vascular‐related cognitive domains. Sex‐specific associations were identified.

DISCUSSION

Vascular‐related lifestyles and health shape brain appearance. Inflammation and insulin‐related processes may be keys to understanding vascular cognitive disorders.

Highlights

BAG, reflecting deviations from CA, can indicate resilience.

Diabetes, stroke, and low physical activity link to “older” brains (greater BAG).

Physical activity yielded to “younger” brains in septuagenarians with obesity.

High cerebrovascular burden, inflammation, and glucose associate with “older” brains.

Sex differences were detected in all BAG‐associated factors.
Fluorination from Surface to Bulk Stabilizing High Nickel Cathode Materials with Outstanding Electrochemical Performance
Authors: Yang Jieyu , Mao Guihong , Yao Tengyu , Shen Laifa , Yu Yan
Published: December 2024

High nickel layered oxides provide high energy densities as cathodes for next‐generation batteries. However, critical issues such as capacity fading and voltage decay, which derive from labile surface reactivity and phase transition, especially under high‐rate high‐voltage conditions, prevent their commercialization. Here we propose a fluorination strategy to simultaneously introduce F atoms into oxygen layer and create a F aggregated interface. Substitution F for O stabilizes the layered ionic framework as the F ions can anchor the internal transition metal ions through strong TM−F bonding interaction, alleviating anisotropic lattice strain accumulation and release during the cycle, and promoting the Li+ dynamics diffusion. Meanwhile, the fluorinated interface induces the formation of a thin and stable CEI, ameliorating the detrimental issues like oxygen vacancy formation, the HF attacks and metal dissolution. The resultant fluorinated cathode delivers a high reversible capacity of 192.9 mAh g−1 at 10 C within the voltage range of 2.7–4.5 V. This fluorination strategy approach provides design concepts for the advanced cathodes that can meet the demands of high‐rate and high‐voltage applications in next‐generation batteries.
Ball‐Milled BN Nanodisks Loaded With LDH Nanosheets: Facilely Assembled Nanostructure Aiming for Suppression on Heat and Toxicant Emissions
Authors: Huang Yajun , Xu Weifeng , Miao Yanli , Wang Junling , Lu Yawei , Wang Zhirong
Published: December 2024

The practical usage of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) has been significantly hindered by its well‐known tendency to pose a high fire hazard due to the release of substantial heat and toxic volatiles. Here, a binary nanostructure of B‐LDH‐C based on boron nitride (BN) nanosheets and layered double hydroxide (LDH) was fabricated as a flame‐retarded filler for TPU. Specifically, the addition of 3.0 wt% B‐LDH‐C, results in significant reductions of 44.7% in peak heat release rate, 14.6% in total heat release, and 56.5% in peak smoke production rate. In addition, the peak CO yield is reduced by 38.4%. These results indicate reduced fire toxicity. Moreover, the TG‐IR test points out the marked hindrances in combustible (hydrocarbons, esters, etc) and toxic gases (aromatic compounds, HCN). The results collectively demonstrate the high effectiveness of B‐LDH‐C in improving the fire safety of TPU, which is pertaining to the dual roles of B‐LDH‐C. The research could inspire the facile fabrication of binary structures, enhancing their potential in polymer‐matrix composites and other applications.
MD and DFT Calculations to Analyze Raman and SERS Spectra of Paraquat—From Computer Aided Spectra Interpretation to Pesticide Identification
Authors: Hermsen Andrea , Hertel Florian , Wilbert Dominik , Mayer Christian , Jaeger Martin
Published: December 2024

The use of pesticides is an important practice in today's agricultural and nutritional supply chain worldwide. Their potentially harmful effects require rapid and reliable monitoring. As an emerging technology, surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) is paving its way through established methodologies. The Raman enhancing effect is based on the interaction of the analyte and nanoparticles prepared from noble metals. To better support and exploit analytical applications, the interaction between gold nanoparticles and the pesticide paraquat were studied. To this purpose, molecular dynamic calculations were performed with paraquat on single‐crystal structures of gold at a distance of 3.4 Å and an intramolecular dihedral angle of 18.8° between the two paraquat ring systems. The molecular dynamic calculations showed that the two noble metal surface models exhibited only slight differences in their effects on paraquat. Experimental SERS spectra with gold nanoparticles were recorded and compared to the experimental Raman spectrum. The observed differences were further investigated using density functional theory calculations and reducing the gold cell to a gold cluster of 20 atoms. A co‐planar orientation of paraquat to the gold cluster surface was thereby deduced. Based on an optimized paraquat geometry including a dihedral angle of 36.77° at a distance of 3.85 Å to the gold cluster, an excellent agreement between computed and experimental spectra was obtained. A head‐on geometry was discarded due to spectral mismatch. This computational approach may help to analyze SERS spectra and make SERS further suitable for pesticide analysis.
Unfoldings of Environmental Racism: Are They Reaching Rhodolith Beds and Related Sociobiodiversities?
Authors: Horta Paulo , Koerich Gabrielle , Sissini Marina , Rodrigues Moreira Bruna , Rörig Leonardo Rubi , Bonomi‐Barufi José , Oliveira Carlos Yure B.
Published: December 2024

Environmental racism may be among the explanations for why we are facing the worst socioenvironmental crisis in the history of humanity, led by a state of climate emergency that could result in an ecocidal genocide of planetary dimensions. Unfoldings of environmental racism even reach towards nature when it is considered subject of rights. Among the marine ecosystems less considered in these discussions are rhodolith beds—reef habitats of red coralline algae, also called maerl beds. When dealing with the feasibility of oil exploration in the Amazon mouth region, an area dominated by extensive rhodolith beds, the Brazilian Association of Petroleum Geologists broadcast live a geologist quoted as saying (transcript follows) ‘… what there is (at the mouth of the Amazon) are coralline algae called rhodoliths, which are common, anywhere in Brazil, and are things, errrrr (with hand gestures and facial expression with negative or pejorative sense), ugly like that, they're not nice at all, (…) and even the rhodolith reefs are dead reefs, dead’. As a result, now, the region is facing the real possibility of extensive oil exploitation. This opinion of a limited aesthetical perspective of which nature is important demands urgent public recognition. Policies that foster rhodolith bed conservation needs, explaining their wealth of valuable contributions to society, must be introduced in formal education, dialoguing with children, young people and adults. Multilateral United Nation forums, during the Ocean Decade, can provide ways to speed up this process, combating different forms of environmental racism and speciesism, buying some time and creating opportunities to establish rhodolith bed conservation as a natural world heritage.
Does bladder outflow obstruction obfuscate the traditional clinical factors that are used to assess the risk of prostate cancer at rapid‐access diagnostic clinics?
Authors: Cahill Thomas Philip , Withey Samuel Joseph , Hazell Steve , Cahill Declan , Kinsella Netty
Published: December 2024

Objectives

To understand whether bladder outflow obstruction influences the association between traditional clinical predictive factors, particularly prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) density and clinically significant prostate cancer (csPCa). This will help facilitate effective and evidence‐based triaging of patients in rapid‐access clinics.

Materials and Methods

We retrospectively analysed prospectively collected data from 307 suspected prostate cancer patients who underwent diagnostic biopsy from 2019 to 2023 at a single, high‐volume, specialist cancer centre. Uroflowmetry testing generated two cohorts: patients with bladder outflow obstruction and non‐obstructed patients. The cohort characteristics between the groups were compared and logistic regression analyses were performed to assess associations between clinical predictive factors (age, PSA density, ethnicity, family history, digital rectal examination, urinary symptom severity and magnetic resonance imaging using the PI‐RADS scoring system) and clinically significant prostate cancer (csPCa) on biopsy (defined as International Society of Urological Pathology grade of greater than or equal to two).

Results

The obstructed group (n = 80) had significantly larger prostates and worse symptom severity (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference between the other predictive factors or csPCa compared to the non‐obstructed (n = 227) cohort. Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed age, PSA density, an abnormal digital rectal examination and scoring PI‐RADS 4–5 on magnetic resonance imaging were all significantly associated with csPCa in the non‐obstructed cohort (p < 0.05). Contrastingly, only symptom severity and scoring PI‐RADS 5 were significantly associated with csPCa for the obstructed patients (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

In the presence of bladder outflow obstruction, traditional predictive variables such as age, PSA density, digital rectal examination and scoring PI‐RADS 4 are not associated with csPCa. This study suggests that using these predictive variables to triage patients in rapid‐access clinics with a patient who has bladder outflow obstruction could lead to the overuse of invasive biopsy.
Luminescent ZnSe/ZnO Heterostructures for Photocatalytic Degradation of Azophloxine Dye and Bioimaging Applications
Authors: Natarajan Radhika , I Sharmila Lydia , Sengan Megarajan , Campos Cristian H. , J. Princy Merlin
Published: December 2024

Herein, we demonstrate a simple hydrothermal route to synthesizing ZnSe/ZnO type II heterostructure using L‐cysteine as a capping agent. The use of nanomaterials in bioimaging and photocatalysis towards the degradation of Azophloxine dye is of potential interest. The synthesized ZnSe/ZnO nanomaterials were characterized by UV–Vis absorption spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, IR spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. It exhibits a strong sharp emission at 465 nm in fluorescence spectroscopy. The synthesized nanomaterials were used as an excellent fluorescence probe for imaging live‐cell bacteria such as E. coli and S. aureus compared with the commercial staining dye PI (propidium iodide). The synthesized ZnSe/ZnO possess more photo‐stability and showed excellent photocatalytic activity for the degradation of azophloxine dye under sunlight.
Comprehensive analysis of the value of angiogenesis and stemness‐related genes in the prognosis and immunotherapy of ovarian cancer
Authors: Zhou Linsen , Min Yu , Cao Qiqi , Tan Xun , Cui Yongfen , Wang Jiawei
Published: December 2024

Tumor angiogenesis and the presence of cancer stem cells (CSCs) are critical characteristics of tumors. Previous research has demonstrated that cancer stem cells promote tumor angiogenesis, while increased vascularity, in turn, fosters the growth of cancer stem cells. This creates a detrimental cycle that contributes to tumor progression. However, studies investigating the angiogenesis and stemness characteristics in ovarian cancer (OV) are limited. In this study, we employed cluster analysis and LASSO methods to assess the significance of angiogenesis‐ and stemness‐related genes in the efficacy of OV immunotherapy. Through multivariate Cox regression analysis and Friends analysis, we identified TNFSF11 as the most significant prognostic gene associated with angiogenesis and stemness. Additionally, molecular docking results confirmed that TNFSF11 exhibits a high affinity for sorafenib and sunitinib. In summary, for the first time, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of the roles of angiogenesis and stemness‐related genes in the prognosis and immunotherapy of OV patients, revealing TNFSF11 as a novel therapeutic target.
Vibrational relaxation and energy distribution in adenosine monophosphate
Authors: Ree Jongbaik , Ko Kyoung Chul , Shin Hyung Kyu
Published: December 2024

Vibrational relaxation in a hydrogen‐bonded adenosine monophosphate has been studied in classical dynamics procedures. The initial excitation stored in the phosphate OH vibration is shown to mainly redistribute in the ribose moiety through efficient energy pumping by the phosphoester bond. The efficiency is due to the phosphoester bond couples with neighboring bonds and transports the initial excitation to the ribose in a series of small steps. In the ribose unit, energy travels the carbon–carbon pathway and distributes mainly in the C–O–H side chains. Energy distribution in the phosphate unit is minor, but the extent is significantly higher than the amount distributed in the adenine moiety, which shares only about 10% of the initial excitation due to the inefficient energy pumping of the ribose‐to‐adenine bond. The numerical procedures are repeated to prevent the leakage of zero‐point energies by modifying the kinetic energy for each bond.
Corporate “Greening” and Innovation: A Reinterpretation Based on Historical Immortals
Authors: Chen Yang , Jiang Shang , Lim King Yoong , Morris Diego
Published: December 2024

We distinguish and explore how two distinct types of green externalities—the Porter hypothesis (PH) effect and the greenwashing effect—would interact with corruption‐induced rent‐seeking effect to shape corporate innovation, based on negative binomial models fitted on 22,589 observations. Having first established a positive contemporaneous association between greenwashing and innovation, we invoke path dependence by instrumenting corporate greenwashing with geographical proximity measures derived from the cultural origins of 321 historical “nature‐integrated” immortals. Likewise, we use historical cronyism networks to instrument corporate rent seeking. We identify a novel positive greenwashing externality, alongside the conventional PH effect and the rent‐seeking effect. This suggests that perceived “greenwashing” may actually reflect corporate green championing behaviors in China, significantly influenced by local sociocultural factors. However, the interaction between the two green externalities and the rent‐seeking effect is negative, indicating that high rent‐seeking intensity may dampen the positive induced innovation effects.
Automated One‐Pot Library Synthesis with Aldehydes as Radical Precursors
Authors: Ruiz Adrián Luguera , Pijper Brenda , Linares Maria Lourdes , Cañellas Santiago , Protti Stefano , Fagnoni Maurizio , Alcázar Jesús
Published: December 2024

The increased demand for the synthesis of Csp3 enriched motifs and the urgency of discovering new drugs requires the development of more efficient technologies and synthetic tools to accelerate drug discovery processes. Herein, we report a fully automated strategy for the addition of Csp3 enriched building blocks onto olefins via Giese addition to forge Csp3−Csp3 bonds. The developed fully automated protocol allowed the in‐situ conversion of aldehydes (non‐redox‐active species) to electroactive imidazolidines and their use as precursors of C‐centered radicals under photoredox catalyzed conditions for the synthesis of building blocks and bioactive compound libraries by synthesizing sp3‐enriched compounds.
Semimechanistic Population PK/PD Modeling of Axatilimab in Healthy Participants and Patients With Solid Tumors or Chronic Graft‐Versus‐Host Disease
Authors: Yang Yan‐ou , Sokolov Victor , Volkova Alina , Liu Xing , Leon Cristina , Kosinsky Yuri , Barker Breann , Zhang Xuecheng , Ordentlich Peter , Sheng Jennifer , Chen Xuejun
Published: December 2024

Axatilimab, a high‐affinity humanized immunoglobulin G4 monoclonal antibody against colony‐stimulating factor 1 receptor (CSF‐1R), is approved for the treatment of chronic graft‐versus‐host disease (cGVHD), and under investigation for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and solid tumors. The population pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmacodynamics (PD) of axatilimab were characterized in healthy participants and patients with solid tumors or cGVHD using data from four clinical studies with 325 participants, including 278 patients with cGVHD. The model structure reflected the mechanism of action of axatilimab: blocking CSF‐1R signaling with axatilimab reduces the circulating levels of cells in the mononuclear phagocytic cell lineage (including nonclassical monocytic cells (NCMCs) and Kupffer cells), resulting in increases in circulating enzymes owing to reduced clearance by Kupffer cells. The structural model consisted of a two‐compartment axatilimab PK model and turnover PD models for CSF‐1, NCMCs, aspartate transaminase (AST), and creatine phosphokinase (CPK). Axatilimab PK and CSF‐1 equations also included saturable clearance components to reflect the competitive binding of axatilimab and CSF‐1 to CSF‐1R. Covariate search was conducted with the conditional sampling use for the stepwise approach based on correlation tests (COSSAC) approach. Covariate effects on model parameters, steady‐state axatilimab exposure, and NCMC concentrations were assessed. The final population PK/PD model was mathematically described with 6 ordinary differential equations and 39 model parameters. Among the 11 statistically significant covariates, one (body weight) and two (participant population type and baseline CPK) covariates affected axatilimab steady‐state exposure and steady‐state NCMC levels by > 20%, respectively. These results informed the axatilimab dosing strategy in patients with cGVHD.
Spatial differences in predicted Phalaris arundinacea (reed canarygrass) occurrence in floodplain forest understories
Authors: Delaney John T. , Van Appledorn M. , De Jager N. R. , Bouska K. L. , Rohweder J. J.
Published: December 2024

Reed canarygrass (Phalaris arundinacea L.) is one of the most common invaders of floodplains and wetlands in North America. In the Upper Mississippi River floodplain, invasion by reed canarygrass in forest understories can inhibit forest regeneration when gaps form in the overstory. Understanding the distribution of reed canarygrass in forest understories is essential for effective management and control. We used an ensemble of species distribution models including Bayesian additive regression trees, boosted trees, and random forest algorithms to predict habitat suitability for reed canarygrass in forest understories across the Upper Mississippi River floodplain (~41,000 ha). Data from forest inventory study plots with reed canarygrass presence and absence were combined with 10 hypothesized environmental predictors of reed canarygrass invasion. We applied three approaches to better understand and incorporate the influence of spatial autocorrelation among our predictor variables, including random cross‐validation, spatial cross‐validation, and spatial cross‐validation with Euclidean distance fields. Flood frequency, distance to contiguous floodplain, distance to forest edge, and distance to invaded wet meadow were among the most important environmental predictors across the three algorithms. Generally, the mean probability of reed canarygrass presence decreased with increasing flood depth, distance to contiguous floodplain, distance to invaded wet meadow, forest cover, and forest height, while relationships with other predictors were more variable. The ensemble of the three models (i.e., the average prediction) was used to map and summarize potential reed canary grass habitat suitability across the landscape. The maps generated quantified the habitat suitability for reed canarygrass and areas of agreement among the models in forest understories across the floodplain. This information can be used to better understand the extent of invasion, prioritize restoration efforts, and develop further research.
The Efficiency of Brain‐Derived Neurotrophic Factor Secretion by mRNA‐Electroporated Regulatory T Cells Is Highly Impacted by Their Activation Status
Authors: Van den Bos Jasper , Janssens Ibo , Vermeulen Morgane , Dams Amber , De Reu Hans , Peeters Stefanie , Faghel Carole , Ouaamari Yousra El , Wens Inez , Cools Nathalie
Published: December 2024

Genetic engineering of regulatory T cells (Tregs) presents a promising avenue for advancing immunotherapeutic strategies, particularly in autoimmune diseases and transplantation. This study explores the modification of Tregs via mRNA electroporation, investigating the influence of T‐cell activation status on transfection efficiency, phenotype, and functionality. For this CD45RA+ Tregs were isolated, expanded, and modified to overexpress brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Kinetics of BDNF expression and secretion were explored. Treg activation state was assessed by checking the expression of activation markers CD69, CD71, and CD137. Our findings show that only activated Tregs secrete BDNF post‐genetic engineering, even though both activated and resting Tregs express BDNF intracellularly. Notably, the mTOR pathway and CD137 are implicated in the regulation of protein secretion in activated Tregs, indicating a complex interplay of signalling pathways. This study contributes to understanding the mechanisms governing protein expression and secretion in engineered Tregs, offering insights for optimizing cell‐based therapies and advancing immune regulation strategies.
Comparative Analysis of Nutritional, Physicochemical, Microbiological, and Sensorial Characteristics of Dairy Yogurts Containing Probiotic Bacteria and Sandalwood Essential Oil Versus Plant‐Based Yogurts Made From Lupine Milk
Authors: Çebi Kadir , Yangılar Filiz
Published: December 2024

Nowadays, individuals with cow's milk allergy have shown greater interest in plant‐based (PB) milk alternatives. This study addresses this issue by producing cow's milk yogurt, lupin‐based yogurt, and a hybrid of cow's and PB milk yogurt. In addition, a safe food formulation was developed by incorporating probiotic bacteria and sandalwood oil into these yogurt types. Statistical analysis revealed that the type of milk significantly influenced the physicochemical properties of the yogurts (p < 0.05). The highest mean syneresis (6.78 mL/25 g) was observed in the cow's milk yogurt (C2), whereas the combination of dairy and lupin‐based yogurt (CL2) exhibited the greatest water‐holding capacity (WHC) (3933 cP). The total phenolic content (TPC) across all yogurt samples ranged from 6.67 to 19.58 mg GAE/g, with the lupin‐based yogurts showing the highest values. Specifically, the lupin‐based yogurt (L4) displayed the highest antioxidant activity of 34.14%, compared to 9.49% in dairy yogurt (C1). Throughout the storage period, Lactobacillus acidophilus counts remained above 8.45 log cfu/mL in dairy yogurt and 7.78 log cfu/g in lupin‐based yogurt. The firmness, cohesiveness, and viscosity index values of lupin‐based yogurts were higher than those of the other yogurt types. Organoleptic analysis indicated that PB yogurts were similarly well‐received as dairy products.
Anonymous Authentication Scheme Based on Physically Unclonable Function and Biometrics for Smart Cities
Authors: Nyangaresi Vincent Omollo , AlRababah Ahmad A. , Yenurkar Ganesh Keshaorao , Chinthaginjala Ravikumar , Yasir Muhammad
Published: December 2024

Smart cities amalgamate technologies such as Internet of Things, big data analytics, and cloud computing to collect and analyze large volumes of data from varied sources which facilitate intelligent surveillance, enhanced energy management systems, and environmental monitoring. The ultimate goal of these smart cities is to offer city residents with better services, opportunities, and quality of life. However, the vulnerabilities in the underlying smart city technologies, interconnection of heterogeneous devices, and transfer of data over the open public channels expose these networks to a myriad of security and privacy threats. Therefore, many security solutions have been presented in the literature. However, the majority of these techniques still have numerous performance, privacy, and security challenges that need to be addressed. To this end, we present an anonymous authentication scheme for the smart cities based on physically unclonable function and user biometrics. Its formal security analysis using the Real‐Or‐Random (ROR) model demonstrates the robustness of the negotiated session key against active and passive attacks. In addition, the informal security analysis shows that it supports salient functional and security features such as mutual authentication, key agreement, perfect key secrecy, anonymity, and untraceability. It is also shown to withstand typical smart city threats such as side‐channeling, offline guessing, session key disclosure, eavesdropping, session hijacking, privileged insider, and impersonation attacks. Moreover, comparative performance shows that it incurs the lowest energy and computation costs at relatively low communication overheads.
Adoption of Heat Insulation Materials for Lithium‐Ion Battery Fire Blanket Coating and Earlier Fire Alarming
Authors: Zhen H. S. , Yang B. F. , Tang Q. W. , Wei Z. L.
Published: December 2024

This article presents a comprehensive study of the insulation materials used for lithium‐ion battery fire blanket coatings. First, a novel testing method is introduced to quantify the impact of insulating agents on the softness and wraparound capabilities of the blanket. Second, to guarantee the explosion resistance as well as other functions of the blanket, insulation materials are introduced, and the insulation effectiveness of various insulating agents is assessed using a 1200°C flame, with findings indicating that a 10% addition of 20 nm silica aerogel yields the best insulation effect. Further analysis of the influence of insulating agents on the release of pyrolysis particles and smoke reveals that both concentrations are elevated compared to the bare silicon dioxide cloth, thereby enabling fire detectors to trigger alarms at the earliest possible stage. Finally, low‐temperature tests are conducted to verify the enhanced insulation properties of the coating in non‐fire scenarios. The outcomes confirm that a 10% addition of 20 nm silica aerogel provides the best insulation. The research results demonstrate that this innovative coating exhibits outstanding insulation performance across a broad temperature range and offers significant fire detection and protection functionalities.
Single Stage Reconstruction of Composite Rhinectomy Defects Using Osteocutaneous Radial Forearm Free Flap
Authors: Karadaghy Omar A. , Feng Allen L.
Published: December 2024

Background

Composite rhinectomy defects pose significant challenges due to the nose's complex structure and role in facial esthetics and function. Traditional nasal reconstructions often require multiple stages to restore mucosal lining, structural support, and external skin.

Methods

This case series examines the use of a single‐stage osteocutaneous radial forearm free flap (OCRFFF) for composite rhinectomy reconstruction. Three patients who underwent composite rhinectomy due to malignancy were treated using OCRFFF, which allows for simultaneous reconstruction of composite nasal defects by incorporating skin, bone, and fascial tissue.

Results

All three cases achieved successful postoperative outcomes, demonstrating both cosmetic and functional success without significant long‐term complications. The single‐stage approach streamlined the reconstructive process, reducing patient recovery time and the need for additional surgeries.

Conclusions

OCRFFF is an effective, transformative technique for single‐stage nasal reconstruction for composite rhinectomy defects, providing reliable functional and esthetic outcomes, and contributing to advancements in complex nasal defect management.
Association of prehospital hypertension and bradycardia with stroke: A single center observational study
Authors: Ohno Hirofumi , Takahashi Jin , Goto Daisuke , Omae Nana , Yasuda Aritaka , Funakoshi Hiraku
Published: December 2024

Objective

We investigated the relationship between prehospital systolic blood pressure (SBP) and pulse rate (PR) with stroke in patients with impaired consciousness.

Methods

We included adult patients with impaired consciousness admitted to the emergency department, categorizing them into nine groups based on SBP (≤99, 100–139, and ≥140 mmHg) and PR (≤59, 60–99, and ≥100/min). We analyzed the association between these groups and stroke and compared with the reference group (SBP 100–139 mmHg and PR 60–99/min) using logistic regression models.

Results

837 patients were eligible (132 [16%] patients had a stroke). Groups with SBP ≥140 mmHg had a significantly higher risk of stroke regardless of PR (the adjusted odds ratio and 95% confidence interval in the group with PR ≤ 59/min, PR 60–99/min, and PR ≥ 100/min were 4.64 [1.63–13.20], 5.61 [3.24–9.70], and 2.84 [1.45–5.58], respectively). Similarly, among patients with severely impaired consciousness (≥Japan Coma scale III‐100), those with SBP ≥ 140 mmHg were at a significantly higher risk of stroke; within these groups, the group with SBP ≥ 140 mmHg and PR ≤ 59/min had the highest risk of stroke (the odds ratio and 95% confidence interval in the group with PR ≤ 59/min, PR 60–99/min and PR ≥ 100/min were 11.00 [1.70–72.90], 9.29 [3.34–26.00], and 4.83 [1.62–14.40], respectively).

Conclusions

Prehospital hypertension in patients with impaired consciousness was associated with a significantly higher risk of stroke. In patients with severely impaired consciousness, prehospital hypertension with bradycardia was significantly associated with the highest risk of stroke.
Neuroanatomical and functional correlates in borderline personality disorder: A narrative review
Authors: Perrotta Giulio
Published: December 2024

Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a dysfunctional, stable, and pervasive alteration in personality functioning with the inability to adapt to the environment, mental rigidity, and ego‐syntonic. High suicidality in BPD patients underlines the significance of research into its pathology. While extensive research on the psychological and behavioral manifestations of BPD can be found in literature, the neuropsychological aspects of the disorder are still partially unknown, although the roles of certain brain structures in the manifestation of the pathology, such as the amygdala, hippocampus, insula, medial prefrontal and cingulate cortices, nucleus accumbens, and temporo‐occipital areas, have already been clarified. This review aims to synthesize current knowledge of the neuroanatomical and functional correlates of BPD, providing insights that may inform future research and therapeutic strategies.
Prospects for conserving freshwater fish biodiversity in the Anthropocene: A view from Southern China
Authors: Dudgeon David
Published: December 2024

Globally, population declines of freshwater animals have been consistently greater than counterparts in other realms, making fresh waters hot spots of endangerment—particularly for larger species. Furthermore, biotas have become increasingly homogenized as invasions by non‐native species proceed. These trends are particularly evident in Anthropocene China, where humans have profoundly altered freshwater ecosystems, with serious consequences for fishes and other aquatic vertebrates. Here, I examine the prospects for ‘bending the curve’ or reversing the trend of freshwater fish biodiversity loss in China, focusing on examples from the Yangtze and further south. Much of China's rich fish biodiversity is threatened, but a lack of contemporary surveys means that the conservation status of many species is uncertain, and ~40% of fishes are data deficient. Although nutrient pollution of major rivers has abated recently, poor water quality remains a concern, and the widespread proliferation of emerging contaminants and microplastics can be expected to have unpredictable (but detrimental) effects on the biota. Warmer temperatures will exacerbate the toxicity of micropollutants, and facilitate the spread of non‐native species that have been supplanting native fishes. Extensive dam construction has fragmented major rivers, and has blocked fish migrations, preventing access to spawning sites and leading to population extirpations. Dams limit the ability of fishes to adjust their ranges to compensate for global warming, with increased drought severity and frequency under climate change representing an existential threat. Overexploitation will be reduced by the recent introduction of a 10‐year fishing ban in the Yangtze basin, but dams, flow regulation, emerging contaminants and continuing habitat degradation will stymie any population recovery or significant recovery of biodiversity as a result of the ban. Furthermore, captive breeding and release programmes have failed to restore populations of threatened fishes because poor management of breeding stock has allowed inbreeding or hybridization leading to genetic pollution of wild populations. Other anthropogenic activities, such as large‐scale mining of river sand on the Yangtze flood plain—exacerbated by the sediment‐trapping effects of upstream dams—are persistent obstacles to reversing the trend of fish biodiversity loss in China.
Systematic review of phase aberration correction algorithms for transcranial focused ultrasound
Authors: Wang Mingyu , Xu Zhouyang , Cheng Bingbing
Published: December 2024

Transcranial focused ultrasound (tFUS) is an emerging modality with strong potential for non‐invasively treating brain disorders. However, the inhomogeneity and complex structure of the skull induce substantial phase aberrations and pressure attenuation; these can distort and shift the acoustic focus, thus hindering the efficiency of tFUS therapy. To achieve effective treatments, phased array transducers combined with aberration correction algorithms are commonly implemented. The present report aims to provide a comprehensive review of the current methods used for tFUS phase aberration correction. We first searched the PubMed and Web of Science databases for studies on phase aberration correction algorithms, identifying 54 articles for review. Relevant information, including the principles of algorithms and refocusing performances, were then extracted from the selected articles. The phase correction algorithms involved two main steps: acoustic field estimation and transmitted pulse adjustment. Our review identified key benchmarks for evaluating the effectiveness of these algorithms, each of which was used in at least three studies. These benchmarks included pressure and intensity, positioning error, focal region size, peak sidelobe ratio, and computational efficiency. Algorithm performances varied under different benchmarks, thus highlighting the importance of application‐specific algorithm selection for achieving optimal tFUS therapy outcomes. The present review provides a thorough overview and comparison of various phase correction algorithms, and may offer valuable guidance to tFUS researchers when selecting appropriate phase correction algorithms for specific applications.