bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Therapeutic Potential of Propolis Extract in Managing Hyperinflammation and Long COVID‐19: A Bioinformatics Study
Authors: Anshori Isa , Marcius Donny , Syaifie Putri Hawa , Siregar Khalish Arsy Al Khairy , Syakuran Luqman Abdan , Jauhar Muhammad Miftah , Arda Adzani Gaisani , Shalannanda Wervyan , Mardliyati Etik
Published: November 2024

Hyperinflammation is a significant factor in long COVID, impacting over 65 million post‐COVID‐19 individuals globally. Herbal remedies, including propolis, show promise in reducing severity and pro‐inflammatory cytokines. However, the natural pharmacological role of propolis in COVID‐19 management remains underexplored. Employing network pharmacology and in silico techniques, we assessed propolis extract's potential in countering SARS‐CoV‐2‐induced inflammation. We identified 80 flavonoids via LC–MS/MS QTOF and employed 11 anti‐inflammatory drugs as references for inflammation target fishing. Utilizing in silico techniques encompassing target fishing, molecular docking, and dynamics, we examined propolis' effects. We identified 1105 gene targets connected to inflammation through multiple validated target predictors. By integrating SARS‐CoV‐2 DEGs from GSE147507 with these targets, we identify 25 inflammation‐COVID‐19‐associated propolis targets, including STAT1, NOS2, CFB, EIF2K2, NPY5R, and BTK. Enrichment analyses highlighted primary pharmacological pathways related to Epstein‐Barr virus infection and COVID‐19. Molecular docking validated isokaempferide, iristectorigenin B, 3′‐methoxypuerarin, cosmosiin, and baicalein‐7‐O‐β‐d‐glucopyranoside, which exhibited strong binding affinity and stability with relevant genes. Moreover, our findings indicate that propolis ligands could potentially suppress reactivation of Epstein‐Barr Virus infections in post‐COVID‐19 cases. However, this study has a limitation in that the concentration of each propolis compound has not been quantified. Therefore, further exploration of propolis compounds quantification and experimental validation are needed to support these findings.
Characterization of Color Appearance of Self‐Luminous Highlights Under HDR Scenes, Part I: Brightness for Neutral Stimuli
Authors: Wang Hongbing , Wei Minchen
Published: November 2024

Color appearance characterization of stimuli is important in color science, with great efforts made to develop uniform color spaces (UCSs) and color appearance models (CAMs). These UCSs and CAMs, however, were mainly developed for stimuli with luminance below the diffuse white in a standard dynamic range (SDR) scene. This study was carefully designed to investigate the color appearance of self‐luminous highlight stimuli, in terms of relative brightness, in a high dynamic range (HDR) scene, and to see whether a new model for characterizing the brightness of highlights is needed. The observer viewed a dark stimulus (Stimulus 0) and a self‐luminous highlight (Stimulus 2) simultaneously under a certain diffuse white luminance level, which was an HDR scene, and adjusted the luminance of the other self‐luminous highlight (Stimulus 1) so that its brightness appeared in the middle of Stimuli 0 and 2. The luminance of Stimulus 2 was designed to as high as 49 000 cd/m2, the luminance contrast between Stimulus 2 and Stimulus 0 was as high as 72 045:1, and the diffuse white luminance level was designed to between 10 and 11 000 cd/m2. The results suggested that the UCSs and CAMs adopting a power function to characterize the non‐linear relationship between the relative luminance and perceived lightness (e.g., IPT, CIECAM02, and CIELAB) had much better performance to characterize the relative relationship of the lightness among the stimuli. Significant variations, however, were found among these UCSs and CAMs in characterizing the absolute magnitude of lightness and chroma, which merits further investigations.
Political network embeddedness and ecological innovation: Do absorptive capacity and dynamic capability have any influence?
Authors: Zhao Shuliang , Wang Ziye , Arkorful Vincent Ekow
Published: November 2024

Ecological innovation is an important conduit to realizing economic and environmental benefits. As such, improving enterprise ecological innovation performance has recently gained prominence. In this vein, the interaction between internal and external driving factors is key to influencing ecological innovation performance. Although existing studies underscore network embedding as one of the important external driving factors, research is lacking on the influence of the interaction mechanism between political network embedding and internal driving factors on enterprise ecological innovation performance. Therefore, by engaging social network theory and social capital theory, this paper proposes a moderated‐mediation model, with absorptive capacity as the mediator and dynamic capability as the moderator for an empirical investigation. Analyzing 302 items of survey data, the current study discusses the influence mechanism of political network embeddedness on enterprise ecological innovation performance. Regression results confirmed no significant correlation between political network embeddedness depth and enterprise ecological innovation performance. However, political network embeddedness breadth and absorptive capacity positively affected enterprise ecological innovation performance. Absorptive capacity partially mediated the relationship between political network embeddedness breadth and enterprise ecological innovation performance. Dynamic capability also moderated the relationship between absorptive capacity and enterprise ecological innovation performance. The study results expanded the internal mechanism of the relationship between political network embeddedness and enterprise ecological innovation performance, corroborating the imperativeness of external political network resources and internal capital such as absorptive capacity and dynamic capability to improve enterprise ecological innovation performance.
Dual CD47 and PD‐L1 blockade elicits anti‐tumor immunity by intratumoral CD8+ T cells
Authors: Christo Susan N , McDonald Keely M , Burn Thomas N , Kurd Nadia , Stanfield Jessica , Kaneda Megan M , Seelige Ruth , Dillon Christopher P , Fisher Timothy S , Baaten Bas , Mackay Laura K
Published: November 2024

Objectives

Bispecific antibodies targeting CD47 and PD‐L1 (CD47 × PD‐L1 BisAb) demonstrate efficacy against a range of solid cancers. While dual blockade negates anti‐CD47‐mediated toxicity, the effect of combined innate and adaptive immune activation on protective tumor‐resident CD8+ T cells has yet to be fully elucidated.

Methods

CD8+ T cell populations were tracked upon CD47 × PD‐L1 BisAb treatment in an orthotopic model of murine breast cancer where anti‐tumor immunity is mediated by CD8+ T cells. Immune responses were also compared with anti‐PD‐L1 monotherapy to assess the advantage of dual checkpoint targeting.

Results

We found that CD47 × PD‐L1 BisAb treatment augmented CD8+ T cell responses in tumors, which resulted in enhanced tumor control. Compared with anti‐PD‐L1 treatment, dual CD47 and PD‐L1 blockade promoted greater numbers of antigen‐specific tumor‐resident CD8+ T cells that exhibited increased cytokine production.

Conclusions

Engagement of innate and adaptive immune checkpoint molecules via CD47 × PD‐L1 BisAb treatment resulted in robust CD8+ T cell responses, including the induction of tumor‐resident CD8+ T cells that exhibited functionally superior anti‐tumor immunity. These results demonstrate that innate immune activation potentiates anti‐tumor adaptive responses, highlighting the use of dual checkpoint blockade as an optimal strategy for promoting CD8+ T cell‐mediated protection.
Anatomy of modern sedimentary volcanoes produced by gas‐charged groundwater liquefaction, Lake Powell, Hite, Utah: Implications for the recognition and interpretation of ancient sedimentary volcanoes
Authors: Wizevich Michael C. , Simpson Edward L. , Underwood Abigail , Sherrod Laura , Livingston Kelsey , Bogner Emily , Malenda Margariete
Published: November 2024

Numerous sedimentary volcanoes, recently exposed on the Colorado River delta surface at Lake Powell near Hite, Utah, were generated by sediment slurries propelled by gas, mainly microbially generated methane (CH4). Two sedimentary volcanoes were excavated, one in 2016 and the other in 2019, in order to characterise the internal structures. Comparison of the internal structures of these features with those of previously documented seismic‐generated sedimentary volcanoes helps in differentiating the various modes of mobilised sediment generation. Sedimentary volcanoes are commonly employed as tools in palaeoseismic reconstruction, thus it is important to establish criteria to differentiate non‐seismic‐generated sedimentary volcanoes and accompanying sediment deformation from those features generated by earthquakes. Trenches through the volcanoes and immediate subsurface areas reveal a complex cone stratigraphy of centimetre‐scale graded sand‐silt laminations and clastic dikes that cross‐cut the cone and sub‐cone (delta) sediment. Some cone strata have ripple cross laminations, a scoured base and are disrupted by soft‐sediment deformation. In the 2016 volcano, the lowest 0.5 m of the dikes exposed in the trench are filled with organic‐rich mud, but these conduits are empty nearer to the surface as a result of sediment settling after eruption cessation. The 2019 sedimentary volcano differs from the other by: (1) more cross laminations in the cone, (2) collapse structures surrounding the crater, (3) a relatively simple plumbing system assisted by desiccation‐generated fissures and (4) a massive sediment infill of the vent. Both complex internal cone stratigraphy and the two distinct cross‐cutting dike‐conduit systems, unequivocally generated by recurrent gas and water discharge, add to the database of features for non‐seismic‐generated sedimentary volcanoes. This array of sedimentary structures from a non‐seismic‐generated sedimentary volcano demonstrates that certain features, including numerous internal laminations composing the cone and complex generations of dike systems are not unique to seismic‐generated sand volcanoes.
Urban climatological research informing environmental policy and planning in Fukuoka, Japan: What makes an epistemic community successful locally?
Authors: Mabon Leslie , Machoň Miloslav
Published: November 2024

Interest in knowledge politics driving urban environmental policy is growing. The aim of this paper is to assess the conditions that enable an epistemic community of experts to influence policy in a specific locality. We evaluate an epistemic community of urban climatology researchers in Fukuoka, Japan, who have successfully engaged with local policy despite documented knowledge circulation failures for urban climatology elsewhere. The research is based on a process tracing‐derived methodology, analysing archival and documentary sources. Its results show the epistemic community has conducted observational and modelling‐based research in Fukuoka over decades, networking with peers across Japan and globally and making recommendations for policy interventions locally through government expert committees and collaborative projects. These findings reflect the importance of professionalisation and modes of persuasion – especially visuals, such as maps showing heat islands – in explaining how epistemic communities come to be effective. We argue, however, that institutions constitute epistemic communities as well as individuals. The conclusions display, however, that even if an epistemic community is effective in influencing policy, this will not necessarily translate into practical interventions in the built environment. Understanding how epistemic communities define and measure their own ‘success’ is thus an area for future research.
Phytochemical Profiling, Acute Toxicity, and Hepatoprotective Effects of Anchusa Limbata in Thioacetamide‐Induced Liver Cirrhosis in Rats
Authors: Abdul‐Aziz Ahmed Khaled , Jabbar Ahmed A. J. , Raouf Mohammed M. Hussein M. , M. Al‐Qaaneh Ayman , Rizgar Hassan Rawaz , Ismael Salih Musher , Mothana Ramzi A. , Abdulaziz Al‐Hamoud Gadah , Ameen Abdulla Mahmood , Hasson Sidgi , Abdul‐samad Ismail Parween
Published: November 2024

Evaluation of Anchusa species of the family Boraginaceae during previous investigations determined numerous therapeutic potentials against inflammatory‐related diseases. The present study evaluates the phytochemical, acute toxicity, and hepatoprotective effects of methanolic extracts of Anchusa limbata (MEAL) against thioacetamide (TAA)‐induced liver injury in rats. The phytochemical profiling of MEAL followed a Folin–Ciocalteu and 10% AlCl3 procedure using a spectrophotometer. Thirty rats were divided into 5 groups: Normal (A) and TAA control rats (B) treated orally with daily 10% tween 20; reference rats (C) received daily oral dose of 50 mg/kg silymarin; (D and E) rats received daily doses of 250 and 500 mg/kg MEAL, respectively. In addition, group B‐E received 3 injections of 200 mg/kg TAA weekly for 60 days. The phytochemical profiling showed increased polyphenolic (129.2 mg gallic acid equivalent/g) and flavonoid (105.3 mg quercetin equivalent/g extract) contents in MEAL. The TAA intraperitoneal injection caused significant hepatic dysfunctionality (lowered total protein, 54.7 g/L; albumin levels, 7.8 g/L), hepatotoxicity, and necrotized cell proliferation. TAA hepatotoxicity resulted in an increased expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), TGF‐β1 tissue expression, liver enzymatic leakage, and oxidative stress biomarkers, while it reduced pro‐apoptotic Bcl‐2–associated X protein (Bax) proteins and inflammatory mediators (TNF‐α and IL‐6) and increased IL‐10. Conversely, MEAL treatment ameliorated the TAA‐induced hepatotoxicity and restored liver functions. The present hepatoprotectives of MEAL could be attributed to its increased polyphenolic and flavonoid contents, which require further isolation and identification of molecules underlying such therapeutic actions.
Ibrutinib With Bendamustine and Rituximab for Treatment of Patients With Relapsed/Refractory Aggressive B‐Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Kedmi Meirav , Ribakovsy Elena , Benjamini Ohad , Schiby Ginette , Barshack Iris , Raskin Stephen , Eshet Yael , Mehr Ramit , Horowitz Netanel , Gurion Ronit , Goldschmidt Neta , Perry Chava , Levi Itai , Aviv Ariel , Herzog‐Tzarfati Katrin , Nagler Arnon , Avigdor Abraham
Published: November 2024

Therapy for relapsed or refractory (R/R) aggressive B‐cell non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (aB‐NHL) post autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) or in elderly patients can be challenging. In this single‐center, single‐arm, phase II clinical study, we investigated the efficacy of ibrutinib (560 mg once daily) in combination with bendamustine and rituximab (IBR) given for six 28‐day cycles in their standard dose, to patients with R/R aB‐NHL who were either transplant ineligible in first or second relapse or post‐ASCT for second relapse. The primary endpoint was overall response rate (ORR). Fifty‐six patients (54% male, median age 69.7 years) were included. ORR was 49.1% among 55 patients treated with ≥ 1 cycle of IBR and 69.4% among 36 patients treated with ≥ 3 cycles. Patients with relapsed disease had significantly higher ORR compared to those with refractory disease (72.3% vs. 37.8%, p = 0.024). Median overall survival (OS) was 11.6 months (95% CI, 7.1–22.3) and median progression‐free survival was 5.3 months (95% CI, 2.5–7.4). Patients with complete and partial responses had significantly longer median OS compared to those with stable and progressive disease (28.1 vs. 5.2 months, p < 0.0001). Adverse events included thrombocytopenia (19.6%), anemia (16.1%), neutropenia (7.1%), fatigue (35.7%), diarrhea (28.6%) and nausea (28.6%). At the first efficacy evaluation 8 patients were referred to transplantation, and 3 more were referred during follow‐up. These data indicate that the IBR regimen is a safe and effective treatment option that can also be used for bridging to transplantation in patients with R/R aB‐NHL.Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02747732
Distribution and Caching of English Speech Corpus Based on 5G
Authors: Huang Chenlu
Published: November 2024

With the rapid development of 5G technology, more and more applications are emerging, such as online video platforms, live streaming applications, online education, and remote conferences. The key of these applications is the data distribution and caching. This paper mainly focuses on the English speech corpus distribution and caching in online education. In order to avoid the potential congestion and delay in the cloud server, this paper deploys the content delivery network at edge‐cloud server instead. When the requested English speech corpus is stored in the edge server, it is sent to the user directly; otherwise, the edge server request the file from cloud server. Compared with cloud content delivery network (CCDN), the proposed scheme can significantly reduce the congestion and delay during English speech corpus distribution in online education.
Momentary Fluctuations in Impulsivity Predicts Suicidal Ideation Among Those With Problematic Alcohol Use
Authors: Ammerman Brooke A. , Knorr Anne C. , McClure Kenneth , O'Brien Connor , Xu Irene
Published: November 2024

Background

Problematic alcohol use is a recognized risk factor for suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Individuals who misuse alcohol and those experiencing suicidal ideation (SI) often exhibit elevated impulsivity, suggesting that impulsivity may be an underlying mechanism. Impulsivity fluctuates considerably within individuals over short periods, particularly among those engaged in episodic heavy drinking, college students, and those with SI. While impulsivity is associated with suicidal thinking at a trait level, its relationship with SI on a momentary level remains relatively unexplored. This study aimed to (a) replicate cross‐sectional findings linking impulsivity and SI in those with problematic alcohol use, and (b) extend these findings to examine the momentary associations between impulsivity and SI within this population.

Method

Two independent undergraduate samples were utilized: the first cross‐sectional (n = 653) and the second employing ecological momentary assessment (n = 56). All participants screened for problematic alcohol or substance use.

Results

Our results show a unique association between the impulsivity facet of negative urgency and SI. Results also demonstrate an interactive effect of negative affect and “spur of the moment decisions” in predicting concurrent SI, as well as an interaction between negative affect and “saying things without thinking” in prospectively predicting SI.

Conclusions

Findings highlight the saliency of negative urgency, both at the trait and state level in the prediction of SI. Although in need of replication, results indicate that specific aspects of momentary impulsivity may be uniquely linked with SI, and that this relationship may be context dependent.
Accelerated Characteristic Mode Calculation for PEC Objects Using ACA‐QR‐SVD Algorithm
Authors: Zhang Pengfei , Huang Shaode , Zhang Jiejun , Zhou Jianhua , Hong Tao
Published: November 2024

Characteristic mode (CM) analysis serves as a powerful tool for evaluating the radiation and scattering characteristics of objects. CM formulations within the method of moments (MoM) framework are widely favored due to their ability to offer clear physical insights, handle complex shapes, and facilitate straightforward implementation. However, MoM‐based CM formulations become inefficient when applied to electrically large objects due to the dense matrices involved. This article introduces a novel approach using a fast low‐rank decomposition‐based implicitly restarted Arnoldi method (IRAM) to accelerate CM computations. The adaptive cross approximation (ACA) and QR‐SVD algorithms are employed to efficiently compute the low‐rank decomposition of matrices. The ACA‐QR‐SVD algorithm offers advantages in matrix filling, LU factorization, and matrix–vector multiplication processes, thereby enhancing efficiency. Numerical simulations on two representative objects demonstrate that the proposed algorithm notably improves computational speed and reduces memory requirements while maintaining high computational accuracy.
Impact of the Indo‐Pacific Warm Pool Warming on Indian Summer Monsoon Rainfall Pattern
Authors: Yadav Ramesh Kumar
Published: November 2024

The Indo‐Pacific warm pool (IPWP), enclosed by a 28°C isotherm, is vital in controlling atmospheric circulations affecting monsoonal flow. The warming trend of sea surface temperatures (SSTs) over the IPWP has expanded the IPWP region. This study examines the impact of the IPWP warming on the Indian summer monsoon rainfall (ISMR) patterns using ERA5 reanalysis and India Meteorological Department rainfall records based on station data from 1959 to 2021. Analyses based on correlation, regression and composite anomalies show the complex relationship between recent decades of IPWP expansion/warming and monsoon circulation. However, the effects of regional IPWP SST warming changes on the ISMR pattern remain unexplored. Here, we explore the changes in the monsoonal circulation owing to the warming and expansion of IPWP, by comparing two equal periods (1959–1989 and 1990–2021). The responses of monsoons to IPWP warming in these two periods revealed some interesting facts, but the complexity remained. Further, we examined the composite impacts of IPWP SST warming in three categories, that is, very cool, usual and extremely warm, on the dynamics of monsoon circulations. The very cool IPWP is associated with the dry monsoon, while the extremely warm IPWP produces copious rainfall over southern India and dryness over eastern north India. The study confirms the non‐linear relationship between IPWP warming and ISMR, which has been investigated in detail.
Handgrip strength and health outcomes in hospitalized children or children with chronic disease: A systematic review
Authors: Verbrugghe Liesbet , Larue Alice , Delcourt Hanne , Vandenplas Yvan , Huysentruyt Koen
Published: November 2024

Handgrip strength (HGS) is a simple measurement of maximum voluntary muscle strength and is widely used as a single indicator of overall muscle strength. This systematic review summarized the evidence about the relation between HGS and health outcomes in hospitalized children or chronically ill children. The primary outcome was the number of hospital days in a 2‐month period for outpatients and the length of hospital stay for inpatients. After a systematic search in PubMed, Embase, Lilacs, and the Cochrane Library, 9282 unique papers were screened, 24 included. Studies assessed HGS in children with cystic fibrosis, neuromuscular disease, chronic kidney disease, type 1 diabetes mellitus, asthma, cardiac disease, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, intestinal failure, surgical patients, and a mixed hospitalized population. One study reported that children experienced a decline in HGS during hospitalization which was associated with prolonged hospital stay. Another reported no relation with the number of hospital days in 5 years. No studies reported on the association between HGS and infectious complications or antibiotic use. We did find a positive correlation between HGS and quality of life, different nutritional parameters and inflammatory biochemical markers. We concluded that the relation between HGS and hospital stay in children is poorly studied. HGS showed promise as a functional biomarker for children with chronic health conditions when inflammation is involved, but more attention should be paid to the methodological aspects of assessing HGS.
Oncoplastic Surgery: Where Are We Now?
Authors: Clark Patricia , DiPasquale Ashley , Cocco Daniela , Brown Andrew , Brown Ashley
Published: November 2024

In the 1970s, we learned breast conservation therapy (BCT) was not inferior to mastectomy. Early BCT methods could result in deformities that were unacceptable to patients and to their surgeons. By the 1990s, surgeons began to apply the principles of plastic surgery to improve outcomes. The term oncoplastic surgery was first described in the 1990s by Werner Audretsch. We offer a review of principles, techniques, current controversies, and challenges in broadening the utilization of OPS.
Analysis of Risk Factors, Treatment Patterns, and Survival Outcomes After Emergency Presentation With Colorectal Cancer: A Prospective Multicenter Cohort Study in Nigeria
Authors: Aderibigbe Adeniyi S. , Dare Anna J. , Kalvin Hannah L. , Olasehinde Olalekan , Wuraola Funmilola , Adisa Adewale , Omisore Adeleye Dorcas , Komolafe Akinwumi O. , Omoyiola Oluwatosin Zainab , Okereke Chukwuma Eze , Katung Aba , Egberoungbe Adedeji , Ariyibi Olufemi , Olatoke Samuel Adegboyega , Adeyeye Ademola Adetoyese , Agodirin Sulaiman Olayide , Bojuwoye Matthew Olumuyiwa , Fayenuwo James Oluwaleke , Ademakinwa Oluwabusayomi Roseline , Osinowo Dapo , Lawal Abdul‐Razak , Abdulkareem Fatimah B. , Goldman Debra , Knapp Gregory , Murthy Shilpa , Kahn Rivka , Gonen Mithat , Kingham T. Peter , Alatise Olusegun I. ,   For the African Research Group in Oncology Colorectal Cancer Working Group
Published: November 2024

Background and Objectives

Prospective data on presentation and outcomes of colorectal cancer (CRC) in Nigeria are limited; however, emergency presentation with advanced disease is thought common.

Methods

Consecutive CRC patients presenting at six sites over 6 years were included. Risk factors for emergency presentation were evaluated using logistic regression methods. Overall survival (OS) was compared between emergent and elective patients using Kaplan‐Meier methods and the log‐rank test.

Results

Of 535 patients, 30.7% presented emergently. Median age was 56 years, 55% were men, and 5.0% reported a cancer family history. Emergency patients had more proximal cancers (42.1% vs. 24.0%), Stage IV disease (61.6% vs. 40.2%; p < 0.001), lower household income (₦35 000/month vs. ₦50 000/month), lower education levels (p = 0.008) and accessed care with nonmotorized transport (50.6% vs. 37.2%; p = 0.005). Median OS was shorter in the emergency group (6.4 vs. 17.4 months; p < 0.001). Across clinical stages, emergency presentation was associated with worse OS (Stage IV median OS 4.8 vs. 9.4 months; p = 0.002). Surgery improved survival in both groups, although emergency patients had higher 30‐day postoperative mortality (23.2% vs. 9.1%; p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Emergent Nigerian CRC patients have worse OS than elective patients. Cancer control efforts should focus on faster cancer detection, early presentation, diagnosis, and treatment.
Classifications of Postradiation Nasopharyngeal Necrosis for Guiding Transnasal Endoscopic Nasopharyngeal Skull Base Surgery
Authors: Zhang Benjian , Cheng Shenghao , Yuan Xiaotian , Zhang Caixia , Wang Yaxuan , Xie Zhihai , Zhang Junyi , Fan Ruohao , Wang Fengjun , Gao Kelei , Xie Shumin , Xie Shaobing , Tang Qingping , Feng Xueping , Zhang Hua , Jiang Weihong
Published: November 2024

Objective

Postradiation nasopharyngeal necrosis (PRNN) is a severe postradiation complication of nasopharyngeal carcinoma. PRNN not only severely impacts the quality of life but also endangers the lives of patients. Definite grades of PRNN and their corresponding standard surgical procedures are lacking. we aimed to establish the classifications of PRNN for transnasal endoscopic skull base surgery (TESS).

Methods

We enrolled 82 postirradiation NPC patients with PRNN, 75 of whom received TESS. PRNN was categorized into four grades: I, necrosis of the nasopharyngeal mucosa and submucosal muscularis; II, necrosis extending to the pharyngobasilar fascia; III, necrotic area breaking through the pharyngobasilar fascia and involving the internal carotid artery (ICA); IV, necrosis encompassing the ICA or invading the posterior cranial nerves. Overall survival (OS) analysis based on the PRNN grades was assessed. Headache was assessed using a numeric rating scale.

Results

The classifications of PRNN were as follows: Grade I, 18.3% (n = 15); Grade II, 30.5% (n = 25); Grade III, 24.4% (n = 20); Grade IV, 26.8% (n = 22). After surgery, headache was alleviated in most PRNN patients to varying degrees. By the last follow‐up visit, 24 patients had died, including 6 of 7 in the unoperated group and 18 out of 75 in the operated group.

Conclusion

The classifications of PRNN grade provide an effective guideline for the TESS treatment of PRNN.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 2024
A Predictive Model for Oral Intake Independence in Dysphagia Treatment
Authors: Suda Satoshi , Kono Takeyuki , Okubo Keisuke , Inagi Kanae , Okada Takashi , Ozawa Hiroyuki
Published: November 2024

Objective

One concern for patients suffering from dysphagia is whether their swallowing improves enough to allow oral intake. Predicting oral intake independence would be practical for deciding the treatment strategy, such as swallowing improvement surgeries, at an early stage. This study describes the prognostic factors and predictive method for achieving oral intake independence at discharge from acute care hospitals.

Methods

A total of 128 patients managed by the dysphagia treatment team were retrospectively examined. They were divided into two groups: the independent oral intake group and the restricted oral intake group. The patients' age, sex, causes of dysphagia, calf circumference (CC), body mass index (BMI), Hyodo score obtained through flexible endoscopic evaluation, Food Intake Level Scale (FILS) score, and Dysphasia Severity Scale (DSS) score at the initial consultation were determined.

Results

The independent group had 32 patients, whereas the restricted group had 96 patients. The independent group had higher CC, BMI, and number of dysphagia cases caused by stroke. This group also had lower Hyodo scores and higher DSS scores. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that the Hyodo score and CC were independent prognostic factors for oral intake independence. Moreover, the prediction model developed using both factors showed relatively high accuracy (sensitivity: 42.9%, specificity: 94.0%, predictive accuracy: 81.3%).

Conclusion

A lower Hyodo score and higher CC at the initial consultation may be positive prognostic factors for achieving oral intake independence. The predictive model exhibited high accuracy, indicating it may help in determining alternative treatment strategies for serious dysphagia patients.

Level of Evidence

Level 3 Laryngoscope, 2024
Switchable Narrowband Diffuse Thermal Emission With an In3SbTe2‐Based Planar Structure
Authors: Giteau Maxime , Conrads Lukas , Mathwieser Andreas , Schmitt Robert , Wuttig Matthias , Taubner Thomas , Papadakis Georgia T.
Published: November 2024

Tailoring of thermal radiation is critical for applications like daytime radiative cooling, thermophotovoltaic energy conversion, and gas sensing. Phase‐change materials (PCMs) offer an additional degree of freedom, enabling reconfigurable thermal emission by actively triggering phase transitions. In particular, In3SbTe2 (IST) features a unique non‐volatile phase transition in the infrared between an amorphous dielectric state and a crystalline metallic state. Although efficient and easily manufacturable alternatives to conventional infrared light sources will be highly desirable, achieving narrowband and diffuse emission using a simple, lithography‐free structure incorporating PCMs for dynamic functionalities has remained elusive. Here, a planar reconfigurable narrowband thermal emitter using an IST layer on top of a Salisbury screen is demonstrated. The design achieves high emissivity around the ambient thermal wavelength in the amorphous phase and low emissivity in the crystalline phase, featuring angle‐ and polarization‐independent behavior. Multiple patterns are optically written into the IST layer, demonstrating centimeter‐scale programmability as well as a resolution of 20 µm. This work paves the way toward reconfigurable and easily manufacturable devices, showing potential for applications in labeling and anticounterfeiting.
Ultrahigh‐Power Germanium Photodetector Enabling Amplifier‐Free Wireless Communication
Authors: Li Zuhang , Shi Yang , Zou Mingjie , Yu Yu , Zhang Xinliang
Published: November 2024

Photodetector (PD), an indispensable component in radio‐over‐fiber (RoF) systems, functions as an interface between the optical fiber backbone and the wireless radio branches. The power‐handling capability is paramount to determine both coverage and linearity of the RoF link, and it is predominantly constrained by the space‐charge effect that limits output photocurrent. Consequently, electronic power amplifiers are required to ensure reliable wireless coverage for end‐users, albeit at the expense of degraded signal linearity, increased energy consumption, and bulky system. On the other hand, the increasing demand in co‐integration with silicon microelectronics indicates that CMOS‐compatible germanium‐silicon (Ge─Si) PDs hold significant promise. Herein, an ultrahigh‐power Ge─Si PD is designed and implemented with an unprecedented high saturation photocurrent of 471.4 mA and a responsivity of 1.12 A W−1. The remarkable high‐power performance is achieved through enhancing optical power absorption and promoting photo‐generated carrier transit comprehensively. For a proof‐of‐concept demonstration, amplifier‐free wireless communication is achieved and driven by the proposed PD, enabling a range‐capacity product of 20 m·Gb s−1, a third‐order output intermodulation power of 32.3 dBm at 5 GHz, along with a real‐time video stream transmission. This work exhibits a promising solution for on‐chip ultrahigh‐power photodetection, and represents a significant advancement toward high‐quality fiber‐wireless access network.
A Detailed Review of Numerical Modeling of Flow Accelerated Corrosion: Challenges and Opportunities for the Future
Authors: Meri Yazan , Siddiqui Osman , Toor Ihsan ulhaq , Shams Afaque
Published: November 2024

Flow‐accelerated corrosion (FAC) is a complex phenomenon that poses a significant threat to the integrity of piping and fittings in power plants, affecting infrastructure protection and power production reliability. The presence of corrosive substances in the fluid and elevated flow velocity and temperature leads to increased material loss in piping and equipment. Understanding the intricate relationship among the contributing factors such as flow dynamics, environmental factors, and corrosion reactions is essential for developing effective prediction and mitigation strategies. This review discusses the recent advancements in the numerical modeling of FAC using computational fluid dynamics (CFD). The numerical models presented show abilities to predict FAC profiles across multiple power plant components, and a review was conducted on the evaluation of these predictions with experimental measurements. Notably, increased turbulence in the flow significantly contributed to prediction errors, emphasizing the need for advanced turbulence models in numerical simulations of FAC. Addressing these challenges is crucial for maintaining sustainable infrastructure and reducing industrial risks through enhanced predictive maintenance strategies.
Phenolics‐Rich Extract from Agarwood Leaf‐Tea Alleviate Dextran Sulfate Sodium (DSS)‐Induced Ulcerative Colitis Via Modulating Intestinal Barrier Function, Liver Inflammation, and Gut Microbiota
Authors: Fan Ruyan , Wei Wensong , Wei Youjing , Lin Xue , Zhou Shaobo , Wang Lu
Published: November 2024

Scope

At present, the incidence rate of ulcerative colitis (UC) continues to increase, causing a global burden. In addition, therapeutic drugs have great side effects. According to modern pharmacology, agarwood leaves have anti‐inflammatory, antibacterial, hypoglycemic, and lipid‐lowering effects. Therefore, this experiment on DSS induced colitis treatment of polyphenolic substances in agarwood leaves is feasible and in line with the current hot topic of using natural substances instead of drugs for treatment.

Methods and results

ALP supplementation promotes the expression of tight junction proteins occludin and Zonula occludens protein 1 (ZO‐1) on colonic tissues, repairs the intestinal barrier, and relieves further colonic tissue damage. Besides, ALP effectively inhibits the activation of nuclear factor kappa‐B (NF‐кB) signaling pathway and reduces the release of proinflammatory cytokines. Moreover, ALP reverses the alteration of gut microbiota in the colitic mice by increasing the abundances of Parabacteroides, Chlamydia, and Lachnospiraceae, and decreasing the abundances of Bacteroides and Phocaeicola. Furthermore, the correlation analysis suggested that ALP can attenuate DSS‐induced UC, which is probably related to the alterations in the gut microbiota.

Conclusion

ALP can ameliorate DSS‐induced UC by modulating gut microbiota, intestinal barrier function, and inflammatory responses.
Tea Polyphenols Reduced Obesity by Modulating Gut Microbiota‐SCFAs‐Barrier and Inflammation in High‐Fat Diet‐Induced Mice
Authors: Tian Baoming , Huang Pinjiao , Pan Yizhu , Gu Hong , Yang Kai , Wei Zhengxun , Zhang Xiangchun
Published: November 2024

Scope

Obesity by high‐fat diets (HFDs) is a chronic metabolic disorder that poses a significant threat to human health. Tea polyphenols (TPs) can prevent obesity caused by HFD by modulating gut microbiota.

Methods and results

To explore the function of TP in mitigating the effects of obesity and inflammation, mice are fed HFDs either with or without TP. TP supplementation effectively attenuates HFD‐induced weight gain, liver and adipose tissue accumulation, while also improving liver fat content as well as colon and ileum tissue morphology. TP supplementation leads to a downregulation of lipid accumulation genes and an upregulation of lipid‐decomposition genes. Moreover, TP increases Blautia and Faecalibaculum while reducing the Colidextribacter and short‐chain fatty acids in HFD‐induced mice, significantly activates G protein‐coupled receptors, inhibits histone deacetylases, enhances intestinal tight junction expression levels, reduces intestinal permeability, and thereby preserves intestinal barrier integrity. Additionally, TP markedly suppresses the expression of inflammatory cytokines and inhibits the activation of TLR4 signaling pathways.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that TP holds great promise for improving both obesity management and alleviating intestinal inflammation, and provides a clue for understanding the antiobesity effects of TP.
On Constrained Minimum Weight Edge Covers With Applications to Emergency Planning
Authors: Dimant Shai , Krumke Sven O.
Published: November 2024

In this paper we present a new covering problem, called Min Cost ‐Single Location Cover, where we are given a fixed positive integer , a finite ground set , an integral positive demand  for each element , a collection  of subsets of , an integral positive cost  and an integral positive capacity value  for each subset . The task is to choose sets from , with multiple choices being allowed, such that each element  is covered at least times. However, if a given subset is chosen to cover an element, it must already cover the entire demand of the element. Moreover, each subset  may only cover up to of its elements, where again multiple choices are allowed. Our problem is motivated by a healthcare application for placing emergency doctors into facilities such that all emergencies occurring in a shift can be handled in a satisfactory manner. We show that Min Cost ‐Single Location Cover can be solved in polynomial time for , but is strongly NP‐complete for . To handle the case where equals two, we introduce a new constrained ‐edge cover problem in an edge‐colored graph, called Minimum Weight ‐Edge Cover with Colors. We analyze the complexity of this problem for general graphs as well as for the special instances resulting from an instance of ‐Single Location Cover.
Dynamic topology optimization considering the influence of the non‐uniform temperature field
Authors: Zhang Li‐hao , Li Jinze , Zhao Rui , Yu Kaiping
Published: November 2024

With the wide application of thermoelastic structures in industries such as the aerospace field, the problem of topology optimization of thermoelastic structures has become a very common and important research topic. It is well known that the thermal environment has a non‐negligible influence on the dynamic performance of structures. However, few people consider the influence of the thermal environment on structural stiffness in thermoelastic dynamic topology optimization. In practical engineering applications, the influence of the environment on the structure performance should be considered to obtain the optimal structure. In this paper, we focus on the problem of dynamic topology optimization considering the effect of non‐uniform temperature fields on structural stiffness. The influence of non‐uniform temperature fields adds on structural stiffness to the topology optimization of thermoelastic dynamic for the first time, thereby comprehensively addressing its effects on structural stiffness in the context of dynamic topology optimization under harmonic vibration and transient load. The proposed method begins by computing the distribution of the non‐uniform temperature field within the structure. Subsequently, thermal stresses in the structure are determined through the application of thermoelastic theory. The geometric stiffness matrix of the structure is then calculated using finite element theory. The dynamic topology optimization model, employing a variable density approach, is established in conjunction with the dynamic compliance design objective. Sensitivity analysis is conducted through the adjoint method, and the design variables are updated utilizing the method of moving asymptotes. Numerical examples are presented to validate the efficacy of the proposed method and obtain the influence of different factors on the optimization results. The results show that the dynamic compliance of the optimized structure increases with increasing heat flux. For the optimization under harmonic vibration, the optimization results obtained by different external excitation frequencies are significantly different. For transient optimization, the study discovers that the optimization present transient effect.
Three‐dimensional printing of boron nitride platelets/polylactic acid composites: Achieving enhanced through plane thermal conductivity and decent mechanical properties
Authors: Li Shuo , Fang Bowen , Wang Yan , Zou Fangxin , Zhao Jian , Zhang Hong , Guo Jing , Wang Zhiguo , Xu Jiazhuang
Published: November 2024

Thermally conductive polymer composites (TPMCs) hold immense potential, particularly in modern microelectronics thermal management. However, their practical enhancement in thermal performance, in particular the thermal conductivity (TC) in the through plane (κ⊥), often lags behind theoretical predictions attributable to thermal resistance at the interface and the pivotal dependence of anisotropic filler orientation on thermal conductivity. To harness the full capabilities of TPMCs and overcome thermal management challenges, we developed an innovative strategy focused on achieving optimal filler orientation. Employing 3D printing (FDM) technology, we constructed highly vertically oriented hexagonal boron nitride/Polylactic acid composites by layer‐by‐layer deposition, thereby maximizing the inherent high κ⊥ of hBN. This innovative composite with highly vertically oriented hBN exhibits significantly enhanced κ⊥ up to 3.04 Wm−1 K−1, which is 1348% and 420% enhanced compared to the polylactic acid (PLA) and paralleled counterparts. Scanning electron microscopy and x‐ray diffraction show orientation of hBN in PLA matrix, due to the shearing and squeezing effects of FDM when melting and depositing. Additionally, the tensile strength exhibited by polymer composites is commendable, with all values exceeding 22 MPa. Along with extraordinary thermal management performances and mechanical strength, and the customizability using FDM technology, paves the way for TPMCs to revolutionize thermal management applications.

Highlights

Constructed the vertically oriented hexagonal boron nitride within the matrix.

Dramatically boosted through‐plane TC in the composite.

FDM enables the customization of diverse and intricate shapes.

Implemented a simple strategy for optimizing composite properties.

Achieving balance between thermal conductivity and mechanical properties.
Improving the anti‐impact performance of ultra‐high molecular weight polyethylene fabric intercalated with carbon nanotubes and shear thickening fluid
Authors: Lu Chunrui , Ji Weichang , Lu Xue , Xu Chuang , Zhang Jingjing , Wang Xiaodong , Ba Shuhong
Published: November 2024

Ultra‐high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) is commonly used with many layers to realize protection and this can greatly benefit from advancements in fabric mechanical properties. This research introduces an innovative approach to crafting a composite felt, leveraging UHMWPE fabric, carbon nanotubes (CNTs), shear thickening fluid (STF), and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) binder through a spray technique. The method results in a fabric with exceptional tensile strength and anti‐impact characteristics. Observations during the fabrication process reveal profound surface morphology alterations, showcasing an intricate layering of PVA binder, CNTs, and STF that seamlessly encapsulates each component of the STF/CNTs/UHMWPE system. The tensile strength and anti‐impact properties including punch residual velocity and energy absorbed are 564.0 ± 12.4 MPa, 1.537 ± 0.032 m/s and 22.952 ± 1.158 J in 12 ms, increased by 143.3%, 24.3% and 193.3%, respectively, compared to neat UHMWPE. This substantial performance uplift is attributed to multiple factors: the reinforcing friction between fibers/yarns fostered by the PVA binder and the full or partial embedding of CNTs, the additional reinforcing strength imparted by the CNTs matrix, and the dynamic viscosity enhancement of STF under impact forces.

Highlights

Anti‐impact felt was prepared by spraying PVA, CNTs, and STF onto UHMWPE.

The tensile strength of anti‐impact felt was improved by 143.3%.

The energy absorbed and impact depth was raised by 193.3%.

The enhanced friction between fibers is caused by PVA and CNTs.

The strength of CNTs and increased viscosity of STF under impact are notable.
Evaluation and enhancement of radial tensile strength of composite rotors for energy storage
Authors: Erulan Gopi , Swaminathan Gowthaman
Published: November 2024

This study focused on the measurement and improvement of the radial tensile strength of composite rotors for flywheel energy storage. Filament wound carbon/epoxy composite rotors were fabricated and the radial tensile strength was measured using uniaxial tensile testing of coupons extracted from a thick rotor and diametric tensile testing of C‐rings. Compared to the uniaxial tensile test, the C‐ring test resulted in a reasonably accurate measurement of the radial tensile strength due to the absence of the effect of the curved fibers. Numerical analyses of C‐ring tests were also performed. The results matched well with the experiments and confirmed the failure of C‐rings purely because of the radial stress. The incorporation of multi‐walled carbon nanotubes in the composite rotor resulted in cohesive failure of fiber and matrix and increased the radial tensile strength by a maximum of 50%. The findings provided unique insights for accurate measurement and improvement of the radial tensile strength of composite rotors.

Highlights

Composite rotors were filament wound and radial tensile strength was measured.

Radial tensile strength of C‐ring was accurate than that of tensile coupon.

FEA of the C‐ring test validated the experimental radial tensile strength.

Incorporation of MWCNT increased the radial tensile strength by 50%.

Fractography showed cohesive failure indicating strong reinforcement by MWCNT.