bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of NLRP3 Inflammasome in Chronic Pain and Alzheimer's Disease—A Review
Authors: Moradi Fatemeh , Mokhtari Tahmineh
Published: January 2025

The coexistence of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and chronic pain (CP) in the elderly population has been extensively documented, and a growing body of evidence supports the potential interconnections between these two conditions. This comprehensive review explores the mechanisms by which CP may contribute to the development and progression of AD, with a particular focus on neuroinflammatory pathways and the role of microglia, as well as the activation of the NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome. The review proposes that prolonged pain processing in critical brain regions can dysregulate the activity of the NLRP3 inflammasome within microglia, leading to the overproduction of pro‐inflammatory cytokines and excessive oxidative stress in these regions. This aberrant microglial response also results in localized neuroinflammation in brain areas crucial for cognitive function. Additionally, CP as a persistent physiological and psychological stressor may be associated with hypothalamic‐pituitary‐adrenal (HPA) axis dysfunction, systemic inflammation, disruption of the blood–brain barrier (BBB), and neuroinflammation. These pathophysiological changes can cause morphological and functional impairments in brain regions responsible for cognition, memory, and neurotransmitter production, potentially contributing to the development and progression of CP‐associated AD. Resultant neuroinflammation can further promote amyloid‐beta (Aβ) plaque deposition, a hallmark of AD pathology. Potential therapeutic interventions targeting these neuroinflammatory pathways, particularly through the regulation of microglial NLRP3 activation, hold promise for improving outcomes in individuals with comorbid CP and AD. However, further research is required to fully elucidate the complex interplay between these conditions and develop effective treatment strategies.
Development of Synthetic Antimicrobial Peptides Based on Genomic Analysis of Streptococcus salivarius
Authors: Grover Vishakha , Jain Ashish , Bhardwaj Amit , Mehta Manjula , Arora Suraj , Algarni Youssef A. , Bavabeedu Shashit Shetty , Das Gotam , Ali Ahmed Babiker Mohamed , Ahmed Naseer , Heboyan Artak
Published: January 2025

Background

In the oral environment, the production of bacteriocins or antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) plays a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance by impeding the proliferation of closely related microorganisms. This study aims to conduct in silico genome screening of Streptococcus salivarius to identify potential antimicrobial compounds existing as hypothetical peptides, with the goal of developing novel synthetic antimicrobial peptides.

Methods

Draft genomes of various oral Streptococcus salivarius strains were obtained from the NCBI database and subjected to analysis using bioinformatic tools, viz. Expert Protein‐Analysis System (Expasy), UniProt Knowledgebase (UniProtKB), European Molecular Biology Open Software Suite (EMBOSS), Pepwheel, and PEP‐FOLD Peptide Structure Prediction Server. The antimicrobial potential of peptides was assessed through the Antimicrobial Peptide Database (AMP) and Bactibase. Two short peptides, viz. synthetic antimicrobial peptides (SAMPs), were designed based on current knowledge of hydrophobic and cationic residues, synthesized, and their efficacy against biofilm formation was evaluated with standard microbiological methods.

Results

The synthesized short peptides reduced the growth and effectively inhibited biofilm formation by specific oral microbial strains, demonstrating their potential as antimicrobial peptides. Furthermore, the alignment of bacteriocin biosynthetic clusters among streptococcus strains revealed variations in putative bacteriocin amino acid sequences across different strains of the same organism.

Conclusion

Streptococcus salivarius emerges as a promising bioresource for the development of novel antimicrobial agents, particularly for combating biofilm‐associated oral infections.
Single‐Cell Transcriptomic Analysis Reveals Biomechanical Loading‐Induced Imbalance in Bone and Fat, Leading to Ossification in Lumbar Intervertebral Disc Nucleus Pulposus Degeneration
Authors: Zhang Ping , Wang Yuan , Bai Jianqi , Zhang Jingru , Zhang Shimin , Guo Xiaofei , Zhan Jiawen , Zhu Liguo
Published: January 2025

In this study, we explored the impact of different biomechanical loadings on lumbar spine motion segments, particularly concerning intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD). We aimed to uncover the cellular milieu and mechanisms driving ossification in the nucleus pulposus (NP) during IVDD, a process whose underlying mechanisms have remained elusive. The study involved the examination of fresh NP tissue from the L3‐S1 segment of five individuals, either with IVDD or healthy. The analysis consisted of histopathological evaluation and single‐cell RNA sequencing. To further validate the impact of biomechanical loading on IVDD, particularly on the CITED4 + METRN + NP chondrocytes and the bone‐fat balance mechanism, a retrospective analysis was conducted using paraffin‐embedded NP samples from patients. A distinct subset of CITED4 + METRN+ chondrocytes in the degenerated NP that were influenced by biomechanical loading was identified. These cells were evaluated for their potential as diagnostic biomarkers. Pseudotemporal analysis indicated that inflammation and repair processes were integral to NP ossification. Notably, the L4/5 and L5/S1 segments with severe IVDD showed pronounced ossification and heightened lipogenic metabolism. Cell communication analysis sheds light on the roles of bone‐fat balance proteins and various ossification genes. Additionally, immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence confirmed that biomechanical loading intensified IVDD by fostering osteogenic differentiation, mediated by macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF)‐regulated bone‐fat balance. This research reveals the microenvironmental factors of IVDD NP ossification under biomechanical loading, highlighting the role of bone‐fat imbalance. These insights significantly enhance the understanding of IVDD pathogenesis and pave the way for innovative therapeutic approaches.
Extended Treatment Duration of Artemether‐Lumefantrine in Ugandan Children with HIV on Efavirenz‐Based Antiretroviral Therapy: A Randomized Controlled Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Trial
Authors: Whalen Meghan E. , Kajubi Richard , Goodwin Justin , Orukan Francis , Colt McKenzie , Huang Liusheng , Richards Kacey , Hoffmann Thomas J. , Aweeka Francesca T. , Parikh Sunil , Mwebaza Norah
Published: January 2025

Malaria and HIV co‐infection are prevalent in sub‐Saharan Africa causing significant drug interactions with co‐treatment. We previously reported a 30%‐70% reduction in exposure to the standard 3‐day (6‐dose) artemether‐lumefantrine (AL) treatment for malaria when given with efavirenz‐based HIV therapy, impacting malaria reinfection risk. We conducted a prospective, randomized study comparing the 3‐day regimen to an extended 5‐day (10‐dose) regimen with pharmacokinetic sampling for artemether, dihydroartemisinin, lumefantrine, and desbutyl‐lumefantrine (DBL) over 42 days. The primary outcome was comparative pharmacokinetics between regimens compared among children with HIV and among children without HIV receiving a 3‐day regimen as controls (median age 5.3 years [range 1.4‐13.9]; median weight 17.3 kg [range 8.7‐39.1]). Children with HIV (n = 57; median age 10.8 years [range 3.4‐17.1]; median weight 26.6 kg [range 14.6‐54.5]) contributed 76 malaria episodes, with 71 included in the analysis. Another 97 children without HIV (median age 5.3 years [range 1.4‐13.9]; median weight 17.3 kg [range 8.7‐39.1]) contributed 114 episodes of malaria, with 109 included in the analysis. In the setting of efavirenz, artemether, dihydroartemisinin, lumefantrine, and DBL cumulative exposure was 2.09, 2.31, 1.90, and 1.65 fold higher with 5‐day versus 3‐day AL (all P < .001), and comparable to 3‐day AL in children without HIV. The extended regimen in children with HIV did not result in a statistically significant reduction in recurrence risk at 28 or 42 days. Extending the duration of AL to 5 days compensated for a clinically significant reduction in all components of AL in the context of EFV‐based antiretroviral therapy in young children.
Strategy for enhancing Cistanche deserticola drying efficiency and quality based on novel freeze–infrared hybrid drying: moisture transition points control
Authors: Liu Wenchao , Li Caiyun , Wei Xinyu , Ren Guangyue , Zhang Ledao , Duan Xu , Li Linlin , Cao Weiwei , Chen Junliang
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND

Fresh Cistanche deserticola, a valuable medicinal and dietary ingredient with exceptional functional properties, exhibits a high moisture content and is susceptible to deterioration due to its high moisture content. Therefore, it is imperative to identify an appropriate dehydration method. This study primarily focuses on enhancing the efficiency and quality of dried C. deserticola, through a hybrid drying process that combines freeze‐drying (FD) and infrared drying (IRD). The samples were first dehydrated by FD and then transferred to IRD until the end of drying, with different moisture transition points (based on FD durations of 5.5, 6.0, 6.5, and 7.0 h, and the corresponding groups are marked as FD5.5h‐IR, FD6.0h‐IR, FD6.5h‐IR, and FD7.0h‐IR).

RESULTS

The FD6.5h‐IR method proved to be 32.08% more energy efficient than the sole FD method. The microscopic examination revealed that the surfaces of samples treated using the FD6.5h‐IR and FD7h‐IR techniques were smoother and clearer with smaller and more uniform pores, similar to the microstructure of the solely FD sample. Furthermore, the FD6.5h‐IR treatment has been demonstrated to be highly effective in maintaining the retention of active ingredients in products.

CONCLUSION

Given the disadvantage of FD7h‐IR treatment in terms of energy consumption, FD6.5h was identified as the best moisture transition point. This investigation offers a theoretical basis for enhancing quality control and refining the process during the FD–IRD processing of newly harvested C. deserticola slices. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.
Cellular uptake and transport mechanism of lycopene‐loaded nanomicelles formed by amphiphilic peptide self‐assembly in the intestinal epithelium
Authors: Su Lijun , Yu Zhipeng , Zhao Wenzhu
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to elucidate the transport mechanism of lycopene‐loaded nanomicelles to improve intestinal absorption of lycopene. The interactive mechanism between lycopene and nanomicelles was investigated through isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC). The cytotoxicity, cellular uptake, endocytosis, and intracellular transport pathways of lycopene‐loaded nanomicelles were investigated using the Caco‐2 cell model.

RESULTS

The ITC results demonstrated that nanomicelles/lycopene binding was an entropy‐driven spontaneous exothermic reaction, and hydrophobic interactions were the main driving force. Lycopene‐loaded nanomicelles were not cytotoxic, and uptake of lycopene by Caco‐2 cells increased 2.20‐fold after nanoencapsulation. The results of intracellular transport of lycopene‐loaded nanomicelles indicated that the endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, and lysosomes play key roles in this process. The intracellular transport results showed that the endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, and lysosomes were important organelles for intracellular transport of lycopene‐loaded nanomicelles.

CONCLUSION

Nanomicelles effectively enhance the cellular uptake of lycopene and are promising carriers for its delivery. This study contributes to the understanding of the transport mechanism of nanomicelles through intestinal epithelial cells. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.
Angular Momentum Superposition Beams‐Based Interferometer
Authors: Lu Huali , Wang Peng , Gao Ming , Ma Zhenyu , Hao Hui , Guo Dongmei , Wang Xin , Zhao Hua , Li Hongpu , Li Ming
Published: January 2025

Orbital‐angular‐momentum (OAM) beams‐based interferometer has been found various applications in high‐precision metrology. However, most of its applications reported to date are limited to 1D ones, and the simultaneous measurements for multidimensional displacement have rarely been explored. Here an angular momentum superposition beams‐based interferometer is first proposed and demonstrated, in which the phases‐changes induced by rotational and linear displacements, are independently carried by an angular momentum superposition (SOAMS) beam containing different spin and orbital angular momenta, and thus can be simultaneously detected. In accordance with the proposed interferometry, a new phase‐demodulation method is experimentally demonstrated, which is operated in the domain of the OAM complex spectrum and thus enables accurate yet high efficient extraction of the phase‐change information from the captured OAM interferograms. As typical results, rotational and linear displacements are simultaneously and accurately measured with accuracies of 2.89° and 16.04 nm, respectively. The proposed interferometry and the corresponding phase demodulation method may open a new way to realize the OAM beams‐based multidimensional metrology.
Enhancement of Light Extraction Efficiency in AlGaN‐Based Deep Ultraviolet Light‐Emitting Diodes Using Cooperative Scattering Structures on the n‐AlGaN Layer
Authors: Chen Zhenyu , Zhang Shuang , Zhao Yongming , Wu Zhenzi , Chen Maohua , Zeng Yuhui , Gao Zhiwei , Wei Yufan , Li Zhencheng , Liang Zhengang , Peng Yang , Chen Changqing , Wu Feng , Dai Jiangnan
Published: January 2025

The efficiency of AlGaN based deep ultraviolet light‐emitting diode (DUV LEDs) are mainly hindered by the light extraction issue. In this work, an innovative cooperative scattering structure is introduced that combines a nanopore configuration with an aluminum (Al) nanoparticle array on the n‐AlGaN layer of the DUV LEDs. The integration of these two scattering arrays can enhance light extraction by mitigating total internal reflection at the device interface. The nanopores are formed on the n‐AlGaN surface by electrochemical etching and optimized by varying the etching voltage, while the Al particles are formed by thermal annealing. With the help of the cooperative scattering structure, the light output power (LOP) of the optimized DUV LEDs is significantly increased by 77.6% and a notable 2.2 times is achieved in its light extraction efficiency (LEE) enhancement factor. Moreover, Finite‐Difference Time‐Domain (FDTD) simulations have validated that the cooperative scattering structure considerably enhances the LEE for both Transverse Electric (TE) and Transverse Magnetic (TM) modes, respectively. This work paves the way to fabricate high efficiency DUV LEDs via novel scattering structure designs.
An Ultra‐Broadband Modified Moiré Varifocal Metalens with High Alignment Tolerance for Terahertz Wave
Authors: Sun Changlin , Zeng Zhiqiang , Wang Weijun , Du Lianghui , Chen Xiaoyin , Leng Jin , Li Jiang , Liu Qiao , Wen Zhongquan , Qi Pengfei , Liu Weiwei , Zhu Li‐Guo
Published: January 2025

The Moiré metalens (MML) offers a wide zoom range and easy adjustability, making it an excellent candidate for integrated optical systems. However, the focusing performance of traditional MML rapidly deteriorates under slight perturbations or imprecise settings, and their intrinsic low focusing efficiency further limits their practical applications. To address these challenges, a modified MML is developed with a novel phase distribution. This modified MML exhibits significantly enhanced performances, achieving over 40% focusing efficiency across a ≈17× zoom range, an axial displacement tolerance of 40λ, a lateral misalignment tolerance of 10 units (meta‐element size), and an ultra‐wide operating bandwidth covering ≈40% of the central frequency. In a proof‐of‐concept experiment using a frequency‐tunable terahertz (THz) free‐electron laser, the experimental results aligned well with numerical simulations, demonstrating the exceptional performances of the modified MML in the THz band. Furthermore, its design can extend beyond the THz range, offering a promising approach for the varifocal lens design across the entire electromagnetic spectrum.
Non‐Ablative Fractional 1940‐nm Diode Laser for Skin Resurfacing and Treatment of Benign Pigmented Lesions
Authors: Waibel Jill S. , Schallen Konika Patel
Published: January 2025

Background

The non‐ablative 1940‐nm laser induces controlled thermal damage at superficial depths without ablating the epidermis.

Objective

We evaluated a new 1940‐nm fractional diode laser for improving pigmentation and skin texture.

Materials and Methods

Participants with mild to severe benign pigmented lesions received up to three laser treatments. Blinded evaluation of randomized pretreatment versus 1‐month posttreatment photos was conducted by three independent dermatologists to identify the correct posttreatment image and assess pigmentation on a 5‐point scale (0 = 0% improvement, 4 = 75%–100% improvement) and skin texture improvement.

Results

Fifty‐four subjects (50 females; Fitzpatrick skin types I–IV) with pigmented lesions on the face or body underwent a total of 172 treatments. Blinded evaluation of 45 photography sets resulted in a 91% success rate of correct identification of posttreatment photos with a mean pigmentation improvement score of 2.0 (p < 0.05) and improvement in skin texture for 62% of treated areas. Mild to moderate edema (70%) and erythema (88%) were observed immediately posttreatment. Trace melasma recurrence in three subjects and one case of mild rash resolved during the study.

Conclusion

Non‐ablative fractional 1940‐nm diode laser skin resurfacing is safe and effective at improving overall skin quality and treating pigmentation after 2–3 treatments. Long‐term follow‐up of clinical outcome is warranted.
HGF/c‐Met Promotes Breast Cancer Tamoxifen Resistance Through the EZH2/HOTAIR‐miR‐141/200a Feedback Signaling Pathway
Authors: Lai Xiaofeng , Zhang Yuan , Li Mengyang , Yu Shentong , Wang Shuiliang , Zhang Shenghang , Niu Huimin , Chen Li , Lan Xiaopeng , Zhang Jian , Chen Suning
Published: January 2025

Tamoxifen is one of the most frequently used endocrine medications for the treatment of estrogen receptor‐positive (ER + ) breast cancer (BC). Unfortunately, tamoxifen resistance (TR) brings more challenges to the clinical treatment, and the mechanisms of TR have not yet been fully clarified. HGF/c‐Met is closely associated with cancer metastasis, but whether it is involved in TR remains unclear. In our study, we found that the activation of HGF/c‐Met was crucial for TR maintenance. Synergistic interaction with HOTAIR and EZH2 accelerated HGF expression by repressing miR‐141/200a. Additionally, HGF/c‐Met activated NF‐κB, forming a positive feedback loop of EZH2/HOTAIR‐miR‐141/200a‐HGF/c‐Met‐NF‐κB. Our findings indicated that HGF/c‐Met functioned as an important biomarker for TR, and HGF/c‐Met inhibition provided a novel approach to TR treatment.
A Radial Basis Function‐Hermite Finite Difference Method for the Two‐Dimensional Distributed‐Order Time‐Fractional Cable Equation
Authors: Haghi Majid , Ilati Mohammad
Published: January 2025

In this article, our main objective is to propose a high‐order local meshless method for numerical solution of two‐dimensional distributed‐order time‐fractional cable equation on both regular and irregular domains. First, the distribution‐order integral is approximated by the Gauss‐Legendre quadrature formula, and then a second‐order weighted and shifted Grünwald difference (WSGD) scheme is applied to approximate the time Riemann‐Liouville derivatives. The stability and convergence analysis of the time‐discrete outline are investigated by the energy approach. The spatial dimension of the model is discretized by the fourth‐order local radial basis function‐Hermite finite difference (RBF‐HFD) method. Some numerical experiments are performed on regular and irregular computational domains to verify the ability, efficiency, and accuracy of the proposed numerical procedure. The numerical simulations clearly demonstrate the high accuracy of the provided numerical process in comparison to existing procedures. Finally, it can be concluded that the presented technique is a suitable alternative to the existing numerical techniques for the distributed‐order time‐fractional cable equation.
A Thermo‐Mechanical Localizing Gradient Damage Model With Modified Mazars Strain
Authors: Huang HanWei , Yu Hao , Xu WenLong , Wang Quan , Wu HengAn
Published: January 2025

This work establishes a thermo‐mechanical coupling model for thermally induced cracks in quasi‐brittle materials within the framework of localizing gradient damage theory. The constitutive relation considering the thermal expansion effect, and the heat conduction equation integrating the volumetric strain and damage evolution, are formulated based on the Clausius–Duhem inequality to ensure thermodynamic consistency. In particular, to accommodate the tension‐compression strength asymmetry across different quasi‐brittle materials, a modified Mazars strain is proposed as the driving force for the micro equivalent strain, where the first invariant of strain tensor and an adjustable ratio of compressive strength to tensile strength () are introduced. The numerical implementation employs the generalized‐α method for time domain discretization and the staggered scheme for decoupling. Numerical simulations demonstrate a nice feasibility of the modified Mazars strain in capturing both tensile and mixed‐mode failures, and the proposed model proves capable of characterizing complex crack behaviors under thermal loading in both quasi‐static and dynamic scenarios. The quenching test simulations of ceramic plates highlight the bidirectional coupling effects on crack patterns. Unidirectional coupling models that ignore the influence of volumetric strain and damage evolution on the temperature field would underestimate the temperature gradient, resulting in larger crack spacing and fewer cracks. In the thermal shock tests of cylindrical specimens, the transition in crack patterns from spiral shear bands to an annular damage zone with increasing compression‐tension strength ratio () is precisely captured, demonstrating the generality of the proposed model for various quasi‐brittle materials with tension‐compression strength asymmetry.
Enhancing Thermal and Mechanical Properties of Soft PVC Composites With Phosphorylated Boron Nitride
Authors: Li Yawen , Ma Guoyang , Xu Shaohong , Ahmad Zaheer , Ali Muhammad , Ahmed Saad , Ahmed Naveed
Published: January 2025

In the present study, hexagonal boron nitride (h‐BN) nanosheets were first functionalized with hydroxyl groups (h‐BN‐OH), and then phosphonic acid groups were grafted onto the h‐BN surface (BNP) using aminotris(methylenephosphonic acid) (ATMP) through a condensation reaction. The BNP was then incorporated into a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) matrix to prepare PVC/BNP composites. Thermogravimetric analysis showed an increase in thermal stability, with BNP/PVC composites exhibiting greater resistance to degradation at elevated temperatures. The addition of BNP improved the dispersion and interfacial adhesion within the PVC matrix, as confirmed by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Furthermore, the PVC/BNP composites exhibited a 22.5% increase in tensile strength (21.2 MPa) and an 82% improvement in elongation at break (464%) compared to pristine PVC composites, which showed a tensile strength of 17.3 MPa and an elongation at break of 255%. Moreover, the addition of BNP notably improved the thermal conductivity from 0.18 to 1.50 W/m K as the BNP content increased from BNP‐0 to BNP‐4. These improvements in thermal stability and mechanical strength, as well as excellent migration resistance, make BNP/PVC composites highly promising for advanced applications.
Long‐term mental health crisis among municipal public employees caused by the Fukushima nuclear accident and subsequent disasters: Questionnaire survey 10 years postdisaster
Authors: Setou Noriko , Takebayashi Yui , Kobayashi Tomoyuki , Nihonmatsu Naoto , Matsui Yutaka , Maeda Masaharu
Published: January 2025

Aim

After the Fukushima nuclear accident in 2011, several municipal offices were forced to evacuate, and municipal public employees (MPEs) had to perform many administrative tasks related to the disaster. Typhoons and the COVID‐19 pandemic also affected the area afterwards. We conducted a survey for MPEs to investigate the mental health impacts and related factors.

Methods

This survey was conducted in the 10th year after the accident. Participants were MPEs working in the severely affected areas. We used a self‐administered questionnaire that included participants’ psychological distress (K6), experience during/after the disaster, job‐related stress, current problems, and the impacts of subsequent disasters. Based on K6 total scores, we analyzed factors related to mental health and the current problems among high‐risk MPEs.

Results

Of all the 775 participants, the number of high‐risk MPEs was 101 (13.0%) and many of those had comorbid suicide risk. Factors related to high‐score K6 were some individual‐related stress factors, including male and younger people, and some job‐related stress factors, including unaccustomed work and uncertainty about the future. The mental health status of MPEs in areas severely affected by the disaster has remained very serious more than 10 years later.

Conclusion

The problems and processes caused by the nuclear disaster, such as long‐term evacuation, were very specific compared to those of natural disasters. Compared to affected residents, MPEs could be more severely affected by the disasters over the long term. We consider it important to develop a mental health care system to prepare for future disasters.
Effects of expansion rate and sintering time on the morphology and mechanical properties of double‐expanded polytetrafluoroethylene tubes
Authors: Chen Edward , Li Zhutong , Turng Lih‐Sheng
Published: January 2025

A novel manufacturing technique for expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) has been previously developed. Through modifications to the processing conditions by adding one additional expansion step at lower temperatures, one can produce highly compliant double‐expanded PTFE (dePTFE) with enhanced mechanical properties. The superior mechanical properties of dePTFE stem from the unique presence of wavy fibrils, which can be tuned to meet the specific requirements of various applications. This study investigated two main processing parameters: the expansion rate during the first expansion step (50, 75, and 112.5 mm/min) and the sintering time between the two expansion steps (67.5, 90, and 135 min). The mechanical properties in both the longitudinal and circumferential directions were measured, and the microstructure of dePTFE was analyzed through scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and image processing. The dePTFE exhibited smaller pore structure and higher leakage (water entry) pressures when produced with a higher expansion rate. By increasing the sintering time, the circumferential strength of dePTFE could be improved by 50% per time interval increase. Higher sintering temperatures also increased material stiffness in the circumferential direction. The compliant properties of dePTFE were not compromised with changes in the microstructure, still attaining 30%–50% increased elastic strain, while maintaining its characteristic “toe region” in the modulus.

Highlights

Relation between processing, morphology, and properties of dePTFE was studied.

Wavy fibrils increased flexibility without reducing the strength of dePTFE.

Expansion rate and sintering time are the two key processing parameters.

Higher expansion yielded better mechanical strength and smaller pore sizes.

Higher sintering temp increased material stiffness in the circ. direction.
“You [God] Gotta Go Through It With Me”: Black Women Navigating Spirituality During the Breast Cancer Journey
Authors: Owoyemi Praise , Denyse Tammie , Pageot Yrvane K. , Martin Kimberly J. , DeLuz K. Denise , Kim Jacqueline H. J. , Stanton Annette L.
Published: January 2025

Background

Black women generally report high levels of spirituality. Less is known about Black women's spiritual coping with a cancer diagnosis. Persisting health disparities between Black breast cancer survivors and other racial groups necessitate examining whether spirituality can be a contextual and personal resource for Black women with breast cancer.

Aims

This qualitative study's goals were to: (1) characterize positive and negative dimensions of spirituality in a sample of Black women diagnosed with breast cancer; and (2) examine whether and how women used spirituality during their cancer experience.

Methods

Three Gatherings (i.e., culturally curated focus groups) were conducted as part of Project SOAR (Speaking Our African American Realities), a community‐academic partnership. In these all‐Black women Gatherings, participants (N = 37) discussed their breast cancer experience, including how spirituality played a role.

Results

Through reflexive thematic analysis, six themes were identified: (1) faith is central to my identity even through challenging times; (2) meaningful, ineffective, or non‐existent support from my spiritual community; (3) grappling with spiritual discontent during breast cancer; (4) God is omnipotent; (5) spiritual anchors helped me persevere through the breast cancer journey; (6) breast cancer reflections enhanced my spiritual gratitude and growth.

Conclusions

Participants' experiences highlight the complexities of spirituality when confronting breast cancer. Many Black women reflected on the centrality of spirituality to their lives and cited spirituality as a resource and effective coping process during their cancer experience. Findings have important implications for understanding how spirituality can be incorporated to support Black women with breast cancer.
Unicentric Castleman's Disease of Paraspinal Origin Requiring Differentiation From Schwannoma: Case Report
Authors: Fujimoto Hazuki , Okamura Kayoko , Tauchi Shunsuke , Tsukamoto Rei , Kida Nanami , Ikeda Miho , Hatakeyama Yukihisa , Ohnishi Hisashi
Published: January 2025

Unicentric Castleman's disease (UCD) typically presents as an asymptomatic tumour in the anterior or middle mediastinum. Occurrence in the paravertebral region is comparatively rare and it requires differentiation from neurogenic tumours by imaging. In our patient, preoperative imaging findings were atypical of schwannoma. Contrast‐enhanced MRI of the thoracic region showed a muscle‐like mass in contact with the pleura on T1‐weighted images. T2‐weighted images showed high signal, especially at the margins. Diffusion‐weighted images showed diffusion restriction around the limbus, and contrast‐enhanced T1‐weighted images displayed strong enhancement of the mass. Diagnosis could not be made preoperatively, although UCD was suspected. Thoracoscopic tumour resection was performed for definitive diagnosis and treatment and postoperative diagnosis was hyaline‐vascular‐type UCD. Diagnosis of neurogenic tumours can be difficult by imaging alone. When imaging findings are atypical, a definitive diagnosis is required, with consideration of the possibility of UCD.
A Case of Cavitary Lung Metastasis From Prostate Cancer
Authors: Ohnaka Shinnosuke , Aoyama Mayumi , Arai Rino , Hattori Saya , Kubo Yusuke , Suzuki Shugo , Yoshimura Toshihiro , Ebihara Akinori , Morikawa Toshiaki , Shigemitsu Hidenobu , Kuwahira Ichiro
Published: January 2025

A 79‐year‐old man was found to have multiple nodules in the lung fields on chest computed tomography. Metastatic lung cancer was suspected; however, the primary site remained elusive. After 1 year of follow‐up, both the nodules had enlarged. After 2 years, one of the nodules continued to enlarge; however, the other nodule cavitated and decreased in size. Concomitantly, the previously observed fluorodeoxyglucose uptake in the cavitated nodules disappeared. A comprehensive search for the primary cancer included a thoracoscopic lung biopsy which revealed that these nodules were metastatic lung lesions from prostate cancer. Pathological examination revealed necrosis within these metastatic lesions. To date, only three case reports of cavitary lung metastases from prostate cancer have been published; however, no explanation has been provided for the pathological mechanism of cavitation. To our knowledge, this is the first case to provide a potential explanation for cavitation in metastatic lung lesions from prostate cancer.
Bayesian Spatial Relative Survival Model to Estimate the Loss in Life Expectancy and Crude Probability of Death for Cancer Patients
Authors: Leontyeva Yuliya , Huang Yuxin , Cramb Susanna , Cameron Jessica , Baade Peter , Mengersen Kerrie , Thompson Helen
Published: January 2025

To date, there have not been any population‐based cancer studies quantifying geographical patterns of the loss in life expectancy (LLE) and crude probability of death due to cancer (). These absolute measures of survival are complementary to the more typically used relative measures of excess mortality and relative survival, and, together, they provide a fuller understanding of geographical disparities in survival outcomes for cancer patients. We propose using a spatially flexible parametric relative survival model in the Bayesian framework, which allows for the inclusion of spatial effects in hazard‐level model components. The relative survival framework is the preferred approach to analyze cancer survival data because it does not require information on the cause of death, and the Bayesian spatial modeling approach allows complex and robust small‐area estimation. The calculation of spatial estimates for LLE and are demonstrated using publicly available simulated datasets. The associated computer program scripts are available to support the understanding and implementation of our methodology in other spatial cancer modelling applications.
A Simple Sensitivity Analysis Method for Unmeasured Confounders via Linear Programming With Estimating Equation Constraints
Authors: Tang Chengyao , Zhou Yi , Huang Ao , Hattori Satoshi
Published: January 2025

In estimating the average treatment effect in observational studies, the influence of confounders should be appropriately addressed. To this end, the propensity score is widely used. If the propensity scores are known for all the subjects, bias due to confounders can be adjusted by using the inverse probability weighting (IPW) by the propensity score. Since the propensity score is unknown in general, it is usually estimated by the parametric logistic regression model with unknown parameters estimated by solving the score equation under the strongly ignorable treatment assignment (SITA) assumption. Violation of the SITA assumption and/or misspecification of the propensity score model can cause serious bias in estimating the average treatment effect (ATE). To relax the SITA assumption, the IPW estimator based on the outcome‐dependent propensity score has been successfully introduced. However, it still depends on the correctly specified parametric model and its identification. In this paper, we propose a simple sensitivity analysis method for unmeasured confounders. In the standard practice, the estimating equation is used to estimate the unknown parameters in the parametric propensity score model. Our idea is to make inferences on the (ATE) by removing restrictive parametric model assumptions while still utilizing the estimating equation. Using estimating equations as constraints, which the true propensity scores asymptotically satisfy, we construct the worst‐case bounds for the ATE with linear programming. Differently from the existing sensitivity analysis methods, we construct the worst‐case bounds with minimal assumptions. We illustrate our proposal by simulation studies and a real‐world example.
Between‐ and Within‐Cluster Spearman Rank Correlations
Authors: Tu Shengxin , Li Chun , Shepherd Bryan E.
Published: January 2025

Clustered data are common in practice. Clustering arises when subjects are measured repeatedly, or subjects are nested in groups (e.g., households, schools). It is often of interest to evaluate the correlation between two variables with clustered data. There are three commonly used Pearson correlation coefficients (total, between‐, and within‐cluster), which together provide an enriched perspective of the correlation. However, these Pearson correlation coefficients are sensitive to extreme values and skewed distributions. They also vary with data transformation, which is arbitrary and often difficult to choose, and they are not applicable to ordered categorical data. Current nonparametric correlation measures for clustered data are only for the total correlation. Here we define population parameters for the between‐ and within‐cluster Spearman rank correlations. The definitions are natural extensions of the Pearson between‐ and within‐cluster correlations to the rank scale. We show that the total Spearman rank correlation approximates a linear combination of the between‐ and within‐cluster Spearman rank correlations, where the weights are functions of rank intraclass correlations of the two random variables. We also discuss the equivalence between the within‐cluster Spearman rank correlation and the covariate‐adjusted partial Spearman rank correlation. Furthermore, we describe estimation and inference for the three Spearman rank correlations, conduct simulations to evaluate the performance of our estimators, and illustrate their use with data from a longitudinal biomarker study and a clustered randomized trial.
Non‐Parametric Estimation for Semi‐Competing Risks Data With Event Misascertainment
Authors: Wu Ruiqian , Zhang Ying , Bakoyannis Giorgos
Published: January 2025

The semi‐competing risks data model is a special type of disease‐state model that focuses on studying the association between an intermediate event and a terminal event and proves to be a useful tool in modeling disease progression. The study of the semi‐competing risk data model not only allows us to evaluate whether a disease episode is related to death but also provides a toolkit to predict death, given that the episode occurred at a certain time. However, the computation of the semi‐competing risk models is a numerically challenging task. The Gamma‐Frailty conditional Markov model has been shown to be an efficient computation model for studying semi‐competing risks data. Building on recent advances in studying semi‐competing risks data, this work proposes a non‐parametric pseudo‐likelihood method equipped with an EM‐like algorithm to study semi‐competing risks data with event misascertainment under the restricted Gamma‐Frailty conditional Markov model. A thorough simulation study is conducted to demonstrate the inference validity of the proposed method and its numerical stability. The proposed method is applied to a large HIV cohort study, EA‐IeDEA, that has a severe death under‐reporting issue to assess the degree of adverse impact of the interruption of ART care on HIV mortality.
Insights on Fabrication Strategies and Energy Storage Mechanisms of Transition Metal Dichalcogenides Cathodes for Aqueous Zn‐Based Batteries
Authors: Li Shengwei , Das Pratteek , Wang Xiao , Li Chenyang , Wu Zhong‐Shuai , Cheng Hui‐Ming
Published: January 2025

Aqueous zinc‐based batteries (AZBs) are gaining widespread attention owing to their intrinsic safety, relatively low electrode potential, and high theoretical capacity. Transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) have convenient 2D ion diffusion channels, so they have been identified as promising host materials for AZBs, but face several key challenges such as the narrow interlayer spacing and the lack of in‐deep understanding energy storage mechanisms. This review presents a comprehensive summary and discussion of the intrinsic structure, charge storage mechanisms, and key fabrication strategies of TMD‐based cathodes for AZBs. Firstly, the structural features including phase types and electrical properties of TMDs are underscored. Then, the charge storage mechanisms and activation principles in TMDs are elaborated along with the discussions about their influence on electrochemical performance. Afterward, specific attention is focused on the fabrication strategies of high‐performance TMD cathodes, including interlayer expansion, defect creation, phase transition, and heteroatom doping. Finally, the key challenges are considered and potential effective strategies are proposed to design high‐performance aqueous Zn‐TMDs batteries.
Modulating Electronic Density of Single‐Atom Ni Center by Heteroatoms for Efficient CO2 Electroreduction
Authors: Chen Yang , Pan Xiaoli , Li Lin , Chen Meixin , Cao Hongchen , Zhao Yang , Wang Xiaodong , Lin Jian
Published: January 2025

Single‐atom catalysts (SACs) with unique geometric and electronic configurations have triggered great interest in many important reactions. However, controllably modulating the electronic structure of metal centers to enhance catalytic performance remains a challenge. Here, the electronic structure of Ni centers over Ni1‐NC SACs by introducing electron‐rich phosphorus or electron‐deficient boron for electrochemical CO2 reduction (CO2RR) is systematically tailored. It is found that the Ni1‐PNC with Ni1‐N3P site exhibits superior performance with a current density of 14.6 mA cm−2 and a Faradaic efficiency of 90.6% at −0.8 V versus RHE for CO production, far exceeding Ni1‐NC and Ni1‐BNC SACs. Detailed characterizations and theoretical calculations reveal a linear relationship between the valence state of Ni species and the CO2RR performance. The incorporation of P species facilitates the electronic localization around the Ni1 center, significantly promoting the adsorption of CO2 and the formation of key *COOH intermediate to enhance CO2RR. This work provides a feasible approach to quantitatively manipulate the electronic structure of single‐atom metal sites and to rationally design highly efficient catalysts for boosted performance.
Nanomaterials‐Induced Pyroptosis: Advancing Novel Therapeutic Pathways in Nanomedicine
Authors: Yu Siqi , Zhang Yumo , Zhou Zhuoran , Li Jiulong , Meng Huan
Published: January 2025

Pyroptosis, a form of programmed cell death characterized by cell lysis and inflammation, has significant implications for disease treatment. Nanomaterials (NMs), with their unique physicochemical properties, can precisely modulate pyroptosis, offering novel and intelligent therapeutic strategies for cancer, infectious diseases, and chronic inflammatory conditions with targeted activation and reduced systemic toxicity. This review explores the mechanisms by which NMs regulate pyroptosis, comparing molecular and NM inducers, and examines the role of intrinsic properties such as size, shape, surface charge, and chemical composition in these processes. It also discusses the balance between the beneficial and adverse effects of NM‐induced pyroptosis, highlighting targeted delivery systems, surface modifications, and controlled activation as strategies to enhance therapeutic efficacy and intelligence while minimizing toxicity. Notably, mRNA‐based nanomedicine can be precisely and intelligently designed to activate pyroptosis, achieving desired therapeutic outcomes tailored to the evolving microenvironment of diseases. By understanding these interactions, the therapeutic potential of NMs can be harnessed to develop innovative treatments and manage pyroptosis‐associated diseases safely, effectively, and intelligently. This review also highlights their transformative potential in clinical applications.
Cosim‐Gres: Towards Similarity Queries Optimization Inside RDBMS
Authors: Eleutério Igor Alberte R. , de Oliveira Willian D. , Teixeira Larissa R. , Vespa Thiago G. , Silva William Z. , Traina Agma Juci M. , Traina Caetano
Published: January 2025

Introduction

This paper presents CoSIM‐Gres, a new module implemented over Postgres capable of performing exact similarity searches to answer both Range and ‐ queries, using any of three access methods: Sequential Access, the Slim‐tree Metric Access Method (MAM), or the Gist R‐tree. To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first system currently capable of performing both types of queries with the possibility of choosing different access methods while maintaining full integration of the similarity‐related syntax with the other SQL statements.

Contribution

Our main contribution is an in‐depth comparison of cases when each access method is better for processing similarity queries. It is an essential first step that any attempt to optimize similarity queries within DBMS must consider.

Methods

Experiments were performed to compare Slim‐tree with Sequential Access and Gist R‐tree available in Postgres Cube extension, analyzing the impact of varying dimensionality and distance functions on the execution time.

Results

They show that the Slim‐tree is up to 18.0 times faster than Sequential Access, whereas the Gist R‐tree may be up to 5.8 times faster than the Slim‐tree, although the Gist R‐tree in Postgres is restricted to index only dimensional data, with at most 100 dimensions, and is applicable only for ‐ queries. The experiments also revealed that the growth of data dimensionality negatively impacts both the MAM and Gist R‐tree performance when compared to the Sequential Access. Also, more complex distance functions reduce the advantage of MAM over Sequential Access. This makes choosing the best option to execute a query a decision that should be carefully evaluated before the query execution.
An Event Frequency‐Inverse Session Frequency Based Weighting Mechanism for Data Embedding Methodologies
Authors: Tasgetiren Nail , Safak Ilgin , Aktas Mehmet S.
Published: January 2025

Context

With the rapid increase in data complexity and volume, analyzing and understanding large‐scale datasets has become a critical challenge, especially in domains like e‐commerce. This paper addresses this challenge by introducing a novel business process that utilizes an event frequency‐inverse session frequency (EF‐ISF) based weighting mechanism for embedding user navigational behavior in e‐commerce websites.

Objective

The primary research problem tackled in this study is the detection of patterns and distributions within user behavior data, which is often complicated by dynamic page content and session sparsity. We aim to enhance the interpretability and accuracy of user behavior analysis by integrating EF‐ISF with various embedding techniques, including Word2Vec, Node2Vec, DeepWalk, Struc2Vec, and LSTM Autoencoder.

Methodology

Our approach is particularly effective in datasets where page refreshes lead to event repetitions, where sequential events with temporal dependencies are prevalent, and where event distributions across sessions are sparse. By applying this methodology across multiple e‐commerce datasets, we observe consistent performance in clustering quality, successfully detecting underlying patterns and groups within the data.

Results

A prototype implementation demonstrates the practical utility of the proposed method, with evaluation metrics confirming that EF‐ISF weighting not only enhances the embeddings but also facilitates a more nuanced and significant segmentation of users' browsing behaviors.

Conclusion

These findings provide a valuable contribution to the field of e‐commerce data analytics, offering businesses a refined approach to optimizing user experience and engagement through a deeper understanding of user behavior patterns. This methodology can significantly improve the quality of insights derived from user behavior data, ultimately leading to better decision‐making and enhanced user satisfaction.