bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early changes in estimated glomerular filtration rate post‐initiation of empagliflozin in EMPEROR‐Preserved
Authors: Rastogi Tripti , Ferreira João Pedro , Butler Javed , Kraus Bettina Johanna , Mattheus Michaela , Brueckmann Martina , Filippatos Gerasimos , Wanner Christoph , Pocock Stuart J. , Packer Milton , Anker Stefan D. , Zannad Faiez
Published: January 2024

Aims

Renal function (estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR]) changes early after the introduction of empagliflozin have not been described in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). The aim of this study was to describe early eGFR changes, assess its determinants and its clinical impact on cardiovascular and renal outcomes in patients with HFpEF enrolled in EMPEROR‐Preserved.

Methods and results

Estimated glomerular filtration rate changes (absolute and relative) from randomization to week 4 were calculated and landmark analyses performed. Initial eGFR change was available in 5836 patients (97.5% of the population). Empagliflozin induced a mean eGFR change of −3.2 ml/min/1.73 m2 versus placebo from baseline to week 4. After week 4, in the empagliflozin group, the risk of the primary outcome (composite of heart failure hospitalization or cardiovascular death), cardiovascular, all‐cause mortality and sustained ≥50% eGFR decrease or end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) did not differ by eGFR change levels. In contrast, in the placebo group, patients included in the tertile with most profound eGFR decrease (i.e. ≥5.1% from baseline) had a higher risk of the primary outcome (hazard ratio [HR] 1.46, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.17–1.82), cardiovascular mortality (HR 1.38, 95% CI 1.01–1.89) and sustained ≥50% eGFR decrease or ESRD (HR 2.20, 95% CI 1.20–4.04) versus tertile with eGFR increase.

Conclusion

An initial relatively small eGFR decrease may be expected after empagliflozin initiation. Such small eGFR decrease was not associated with adverse cardiovascular outcomes with empagliflozin. In contrast, eGFR decrease was associated with poor cardiovascular outcomes with placebo.
Neuromodulation interventions in the management of heart failure
Authors: Abdin Amr , Lauder Lucas , Fudim Marat , Abraham William T. , Anker Stefan D. , Böhm Michael , Mahfoud Felix
Published: January 2024

Despite remarkable improvements in the management of heart failure (HF), HF remains one of the most rapidly growing cardiovascular condition resulting in a substantial burden on healthcare systems worldwide. In clinical practice, however, a relevant proportion of patients are treated with suboptimal combinations and doses lower than those recommended in the current guidelines. Against this background, it remains important to identify new targets and investigate additional therapeutic options to alleviate symptoms and potentially improve prognosis in HF. Therefore, non‐pharmacological interventions targeting autonomic imbalance in HF have been evaluated. This paper aims to review the physiology, available clinical data, and potential therapeutic role of device‐based neuromodulation in HF.
Synthesis, Structural and Redox Properties of Vanadyl β‐Cyanoporphyrin and its Utilization as Efficient Catalyst for Epoxidation of Olefins and Oxidative Bromination of Phenols
Authors: Kumari Soni , Prakash Ved , S Siddharth , Maurya Mannar R. , Sankar Muniappan
Published: January 2024

2‐Cyano‐5,10,15,20‐tetraphenylporphyrin [H2TPPCN] (1) having cyano group at one of β‐pyrrolic positions using nucleophilic substitution reaction of tetrabutylammonium cyanide (TBACN) on free‐base 2‐nitro‐5,10,15,20‐tetraphenylporphyrin, and its oxidovanadium(IV) complex [VIVOTPPCN] (2) were synthesized in good yields. Both the porphyrins 1 and 2 have been characterized by UV‐Vis spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, and cyclic voltammetric techniques. Single crystal X‐Ray crystallography revealed quasi‐planar geometry for 1. Compounds 1 and 2 exhibited a red shift (λmax=7–9 nm) in the Soret band relative to [MTPP], where M=2H, VIVO owing to the electron‐withdrawing effect of the cyano group at the β‐position. The first oxidation (ΔE1/2=110–140 mV) and reduction potentials (ΔE1/2=220–260 mV) of 1 and 2 are anodically shifted relative to [MTPP] where M=2H, VIVO. Porphyrin 2 has been utilized as a catalyst for two reactions: epoxidation of olefins and bromination of phenols. The bromination of phenol using KBr/H2O2/HClO4 in water resulted in 100 % conversion with a TOF value as high as 19.6 s−1 in 0.5 h. Using H2O2/NaHCO3 in a CH3CN/H2O solvent mixture at 60 °C, epoxidation was carried out, and the highest conversion rate with a turnover frequency of 1.9 s−1 was achieved in the case of cyclohexene. Catalyst 2 was recovered successfully at the end of the reaction up to 5 cycles and had good thermal stability, indicating its industrial viability and applicability. Moreover, these cyano‐functionalized porphyrins could be further utilized for the generation of molecular self‐assemblies, post‐functionalization of porphyrin core and various applications. The current findings in this work present insights for a facile approach for the synthesis of β‐cyano functionalized porphyrin 1 and further shed light on the utility of its vanadyl complex 2 as an efficient catalyst for olefin epoxidation and phenol bromination reactions.
Genistein relieves liver damage and improves lipid dysregulation through endoplasmic reticulum suppression in nonalcoholic steatohepatitis rats
Authors: Zhong Huijia , Liu Huanhuan , Jiang Zhuoqin , Huang Wenjun
Published: January 2024

In this study, we investigated the potential of genistein, the most abundant isoflavone in soybeans, to mitigate endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in high‐fat high‐sucrose induced nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) rats. Forty male SD rats are divided into four groups: the Control group, high‐fat high‐sucrose diet group (HFSD), HFSD + low‐dose genistein group (LG), and HFSD + high‐dose genistein group (HG). The Control group is fed with a D12450B diet, whereas the latter three groups are fed with a D12492 diet with 10% sucrose in drinking water. 12 weeks later, serum and liver lipid levels, serum alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate transaminase (AST) levels, and protein expression of GRP78, PKR‐like ER kinase (PERK), p‐PERK, eukaryotic initiation factor (eIF2α), p‐eIF2α and C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP) were characterized. Genistein significantly improved lipid profiles, alleviated AST and ALT levels, and reduced key typical NASH features, including macrovascular steatosis, lobular inflammation, and balloon degeneration of hepatocytes. Furthermore, our results demonstrated that genistein suppressed the activation of PERK‐eIF2α‐CHOP signal pathway induced by HFSD. Our present study indicates that genistein is capable of relieving liver damage, improving lipid dysregulation and modulating ER stress by suppressing the activation of the PERK‐eIF2α‐CHOP signal pathway in NASH rats.

Practical Applications: Genistein is capable to relieve liver damage and improve lipid dysregulation through the modulation of PERK–eIF2α–CHOP in NASH rats.
The Multifaceted Chemistry of [2.2]Paracyclophane‐Based Thioethers with Palladium(II) Complexes
Authors: Deschamps Damien , Gazzeh Houda , Bonciani Alice , Richards Christopher J. , Gaumont Annie‐Claude , Perrio Stéphane
Published: January 2024

The reactions of planar chiral ([2.2]paracyclophan‐4‐yl)methyl thioethers ([2.2]PCP‐CH2‐SR) with various palladium(II) sources (PdL2) were studied. Unexpectedly, with most of the sulfur substrates investigated (SR=Ph, 2‐pyridyl, Me, n‐dodecyl), and independently of the PdL2 salt employed (L=TFA, OAc, OPiv, Cl, Br), loss of the SR sulfanyl unit, along with incorporation of one palladium L ligand to the lateral benzylic position of the [2.2]PCP core, has been observed. In contrast, the precursor featuring a t‐butylsulfanyl group (R=t‐Bu) exhibited a distinct reactivity. An ortho C(sp2)−H activation took place, and allowed the formation of a [2.2]paracyclophane‐based SC‐palladacycle, in an efficient and highly diastereoselective manner (83 % yield, single diastereoisomer).
Direct Synthesis of 3‐Arylphthalides Promoted by Eaton's reagent
Authors: Eddebbarh Enzo , Moutardier Léa , Thibonnet Jérôme , Camiade Emilie , Petrignet Julien
Published: January 2024

A rapid method has been developed for the synthesis of 3‐arylphthalides from readily available starting materials. We describe herein a direct approach based on a simple Friedel‐Crafts condensation between an aromatic ester and an aldehyde promoted by a mixture of phosphorus pentoxide and methanesulfonic acid (Eaton's reagent) under metal and solvent‐free conditions. Due to their similarity to cytosporone E (a natural antibacterial phthalide), some of the synthesized compounds were tested as antibacterial agents against methicillin‐resistant strain of Staphylococcus aureus.
Energy efficiency considerations in software‐defined wireless body area networks
Authors: Masood Fahad , Khan Wajid Ullah , Alshehri Mohammed S. , Alsumayt Albandari , Ahmad Jawad
Published: January 2024

Wireless body area networks (WBAN) provide remote services for patient monitoring which allows healthcare practitioners to diagnose, monitor, and prescribe them without their physical presence. To address the shortcomings of WBAN, software‐defined networking (SDN) is regarded as an effective approach in this prototype. However, integrating SDN into WBAN presents several challenges in terms of safe data exchange, architectural framework, and resource efficiency. Because energy expenses account for a considerable portion of network expenditures, energy efficiency has to turn out to be a crucial design criterion for modern networking methods. However, creating energy‐efficient systems is difficult because they must balance energy efficiency with network performance. In this article, the energy efficiency features are discussed that can widely be used in the software‐defined wireless body area network (SDWBAN). A comprehensive survey has been carried out for various modern energy efficiency models based on routing algorithms, optimization models, secure data delivery, and traffic management. A comparative assessment of all the models has also been carried out for various parameters. Furthermore, we explore important concerns and future work in SDWBAN energy efficiency.
Feasibility of utilizing recycled drainage water in agriculture using an analytical network process (ANP) and geographic information system (GIS)
Authors: Zolfaghary Parvin , ZakeriNia Mahdi , Kazemi Hossein
Published: January 2024

Utilizing unconventional water for sustainable agriculture is a multi‐criteria process. Decision‐making in such problems is based on finding the value of various criteria using advanced methods, for example the analytic network process (ANP). ANP is usually preferred in cases where the criteria are not independent and have intra‐/intergroup relationships. Considering techno‐economic and environmental criteria, the ANP structure was used in this study to investigate the feasibility of utilizing Chapaghli drainage water in western Golestan Province, Iran, for cultivating tolerant and semi‐tolerant crops, including canola, barley, cotton and wheat, using GIS software. Irrigation water availability, techno‐economic distance and land suitability for cultivation were selected as techno‐economic criteria, while irrigation water quality, soil, plant sensitivity and aquifer vulnerability were selected as environmental criteria. The results show that canola is the best crop for cultivation with Chapaghli drainage water. This study provides a reliable decision‐making infrastructure related to the recycling of drainage water for various cultivars in an area where environmental hazards are minimized.
Enhancing osseointegration of titanium implants through MC3T3‐E1 protein‐gelatin polyelectrolyte multilayers
Authors: He Xuhong , Guo Chaiqiong , Wang Yuhui , Ma Shilong , Liu Xuanyu , Wei Yan , Xu Haofeng , Liang Ziwei , Hu Yinchun , Zhao Liqin , Lian Xiaojie , Huang Di
Published: January 2024

Titanium and its alloys have found extensive use in the biomedical field, however, implant loosening due to weak osseointegration remains a concern. Improved surface morphology and chemical composition can enhance the osseointegration of the implant. Bioactive molecules have been utilized to modify the surface of the titanium‐based material to achieve rapid and efficient osseointegration between the implant and bone tissues. In this study, the bioactive substance MC3T3‐E1 protein‐gelatin polyelectrolyte multilayers were constructed on the surface of the titanium implants by means of layer‐by‐layer self‐assembly to enhance the strength of the bond between the bone tissue and the implant. The findings of the study indicate that the layer‐by‐layer self‐assembly technique can enhance surface roughness and hydrophilicity to a considerable extent. Compared to pure titanium, the hydrophilicity of TiOH LBL was significantly increased with a water contact angle of 75.0 2.4°. The modified titanium implant exhibits superior biocompatibility and wound healing ability upon co‐culture with cells. MC3T3‐E1 cells were co‐cultured with TiOH LBL for 1, 3, and 5 days and their viability was higher than 85%. In addition, the wound healing results demonstrate that TiOH LBL exhibited the highest migratory ability (243 ± 10 μm). Furthermore, after 7 days of osteogenic induction, the modified titanium implant significantly promotes osteoblast differentiation.
Protective effects of naringin on colistin‐induced damage in rat testicular tissue: Modulating the levels of Nrf‐2/HO‐1, AKT‐2/FOXO1A, Bax/Bcl2/Caspase‐3, and Beclin‐1/LC3A/LC3B signaling pathways
Authors: Kankılıç Nazım Abdülkadir , Şimşek Hasan , Akaras Nurhan , Gür Cihan , İleritürk Mustafa , Küçükler Sefa , Akarsu Serkan A. , Kandemir Fatih M.
Published: January 2024

Antimicrobial agent resistance has become a growing health issue across the world. Colistin (COL) is one of the drugs used in the treatment of multidrug‐resistant bacteria resulting in toxic effects. Naringin (NRG), a natural flavonoid, has come to the fore as its antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, and antiapoptotic activities. The aim of the present study was to determine whether NRG has protective effects on COL‐induced toxicity in testicular tissue. Thirty‐five male Spraque rats were randomly divided into five groups (n = 7 per group): Control, COL, NRG, COL + NRG 50, COL + NRG 100. COL (15 mg/kg b.w., i.p., once per/day), and NRG (50 or 100 mg/kg, oral, b.w./once per/day) were administered for 7 days. The parameters of oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, and autophagic damage were evaluated by using biochemical, molecular, western blot, and histological methods in testicular issues. NRG treatment reversed the increased malondialdehyde level and reduced antioxidants (superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione) levels due to COL administration (p < 0.001), and oxidative stress damage was mitigated. Nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor‐2 pathway, one of the antioxidant defence systems, was stimulated by NRG (p < 0.001). NRG treatment reduced the levels of markers for the pathways of apoptotic (p < 0.001) and autophagic (p < 0.001) damages induced by COL. Sperm viability and the live/dead ratio were reduced by COL but enhanced by NRG treatment. Testicular tissue integrity was damaged by COL but showed a tendency to improve by NRG. In conclusion, COL exhibited toxic effect on testicular tissue by elevating the levels of oxidative stress, apoptosis, autophagy, inflammation, and tissue damage. NRG demonstrated a protective effect by alleviating toxic damage.
The anticipated regret of a lost opportunity: When adding a second‐period incentive reduces the appeal of a one‐period promotion
Authors: Li Yuanyuan (Jamie) , Janiszewski Chris , Liu Yuanyuan
Published: January 2024

Economic theory assumes that an improvement in the financial benefit of a promotional offer should increase the appeal of the offer (e.g., $25 incentive >$20 incentive). Four studies show that this assumption does not always hold. A two‐period promotion (e.g., $20 off a purchase today plus $5 off a purchase made next month) is valued less than a one‐period promotion (e.g., $20 off a purchase today), with an identical first‐period incentive, when the second‐period incentive has a limited benefit relative to the first‐period incentive. Second‐period incentives negatively impact the perceived value of a two‐period promotion when consumers anticipate a low likelihood of redeeming the second‐period incentive. The negative impact of the second‐period incentive can be remedied by making the second‐period incentive financially larger or by reducing the perceived restrictiveness of redeeming the second‐period incentive.
Open‐set recognition of LPI radar signals based on a slightly convolutional neural network and support vector data description
Authors: Liu Zhilin , He Tianzhang , Wu Tong , Wang Jindong , Xia Bin , Jiang Liangjian
Published: January 2024

LPI radar signal recognition based on convolutional neural networks usually assumes that the signal to be recognized belongs to a closed set of known signal classes. In an open electromagnetic signal environment, this type of closed‐set recognition method will experience a drastic drop in performance due to the encounter with unknown types of signals. We propose an SCNN‐SVDD model based on a combination of a lightweight convolutional neural network and a support vector data description algorithm to achieve open‐set recognition of LPI radar signals under unknown signal conditions. In this approach, Choi‐William's time‐frequency distribution is used to obtain two‐dimensional time‐frequency images of the signal to be identified, and convolutional neural networks are used to achieve high‐precision classification of known signals and extract the corresponding feature vectors. Then, the feature vectors are used as input to the SVDD algorithm and a hypersphere is constructed to detect whether the signal to be identified belongs to a known class. Experimental results show that the proposed method can detect unknown signals while maintaining high recognition accuracy for known signals.
Covalent conjugation of Inca peanut albumin and polyphenols with different phenolic hydroxyl numbers through laccase catalysis to improve functional properties
Authors: Wu Yongqing , Li Yanxin , Liu Honglang , Li Pan , Du Bing , Xie Xin‐an , Li Lu
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND

Enzymatic crosslinking is a method that can be used to modify Inca peanut albumin (IPA) using polyphenols, and provides desirable functionalities; however, the effect of polyphenol structures on conjugate properties is unclear. In this study, we selected four polyphenols with different numbers of phenolic hydroxyl groups [para‐hydroxybenzoic acid (HBA), protocatechuic acid (PCA), gallic acid (GA), and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG)] for covalent modification of IPA by enzymatic crosslinking, and explored the structure–function changes of the IPA–polyphenol conjugates.

RESULTS

Sodium dodecyl sulfate‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE) and matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (MALDI‐TOF‐MS) analysis showed that laccase successfully promoted covalent crosslinking of IPA with polyphenols, with the order of degree of conjugation as EGCG > GA > PCA > HBA, the IPA–EGCG conjugate showed the highest polyphenol binding equivalents (98.35 g kg−1 protein), and a significant reduction in the content of free amino, sulfhydryl, and tyrosine group. The oxidation of polyphenols by laccase forms quinone or semiquinone radicals that are covalently crosslinked to the reactive groups of IPA, leading to significant changes in the secondary and tertiary structures of IPA, with spherical structures transforming into dense lamellar structures. The 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging ability and emulsification stability of IPA–EGCG conjugates improved by almost 6‐fold and 2.7‐fold, respectively, compared with those of unmodified IPA.

CONCLUSION

These data suggest that the higher the number of polyphenol hydroxyl groups, the higher the degree of IPA–polyphenol conjugation; additionally, enzymatic crosslinking can significantly improve the functional properties of IPA. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Solvent Doping Organic Single Crystal Enables High‐Performance Optoelectronic Devices
Authors: Tao Jingwei , Liu Dan , Wang Deliang , Sun Wenbo , Li Tong , Dong Huanli , Lu Lehui
Published: January 2024

Organic doping has become an effective method to improve the performance of organic optoelectronic devices. However, the understanding of organic doping mechanism is limited by the difficulty in obtaining highly ordered molecular packing structure. Herein, a new donor‐acceptor type triphenylamine‐acetylene‐based isoindigo derivative, (E)‐6,6′‐bis((4‐(diphenylamino)phenyl)ethynyl)‐[3,3′‐biindolinylidene]‐2,2′‐dione (BDPEBD), is successfully designed and synthesized. The tetrahydrofuran solvent doped BDPEBD single crystal with a mass fraction of 4.33% is easily obtained through a solvent evaporation method. Tetrahydrofuran, as a dopant in its single crystal, effectively reduces the dihedral angle of BDPEBD molecules by forming strong intermolecular hydrogen bonds with BDPEBD molecules, which enhances the π–π intermolecular interaction between BDPEBD molecules, thereby resulting in excellent optoelectronic properties of its single crystal. Its phototransistors show the highest mobility of 0.3 cm2 V−1 s−1, wide spectral response from 254 to 790 nm, UV sensitivity, and a response time of 40 ms, the highest photoresponsivity exceeds 7.44 × 106 A W−1.
Breast cancer malignancy is governed by regulation of the macroH2A2/TM4SF1 axis, the AKT/NF‐κB pathway, and elevated MMP13 expression
Authors: Jin Yunho , Eum Da‐Young , Lee Chaeyoung , Park Soon Yong , Shim Jae Woong , Choi Yoo Jin , Choi Si Ho , Kim Joong‐Gook , Heo Kyu , Park Seong‐Joon
Published: January 2024

The histone variant, macroH2A (mH2A) influences gene expression through epigenetic regulation. Tumor suppressive function of mH2A isoforms has been reported in various cancer types, but few studies have investigated the functional role of mH2A2 in breast cancer pathophysiology. This study aimed to determine the significance of mH2A2 in breast cancer development and progression by exploring its downstream regulatory mechanisms. Knockdown of mH2A2 facilitated the migration and invasion of breast cancer cells, whereas its overexpression exhibited the opposite effect. In vivo experiments revealed that augmenting mH2A2 expression reduced tumor growth and lung metastasis. Microarray analysis showed that TM4SF1 emerged as a likely target linked to mH2A2 owing to its significant suppression in breast cancer cell lines where mH2A2 was overexpressed among the genes that exhibited over twofold upregulation upon mH2A2 knockdown. Suppressing TM4SF1 reduced the migration, invasion, tumor growth, and metastasis of breast cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. TM4SF1 depletion reversed the increased aggressiveness triggered by mH2A2 knockdown, suggesting a close interplay between mH2A2 and TM4SF1. Our findings also highlight the role of the mH2A2/TM4SF1 axis in activating the AKT/NF‐κB pathway. Consequently, activated NF‐κB signaling leads to increased expression and secretion of MMP13, a potent promoter of metastasis. In summary, we propose that the orchestrated regulation of the mH2A2/TM4SF1 axis in conjunction with the AKT/NF‐κB pathway and the subsequent elevation in MMP13 expression constitute pivotal factors governing the malignancy of breast cancer.
RapidBrachyTG43: A Geant4‐based TG‐43 parameter and dose calculation module for brachytherapy dosimetry
Authors: Kalinowski Jonathan , Enger Shirin A.
Published: January 2024

Background

The AAPM TG‐43U1 formalism remains the clinical standard for dosimetry of low‐ and high‐energy ‐emitting brachytherapy sources. TG‐43U1 and related reports provide consensus datasets of TG‐43 parameters derived from various published measured data and Monte Carlo simulations. These data are used to perform standardized and fast dose calculations for brachytherapy treatment planning.

Purpose

Monte Carlo TG‐43 dosimetry parameters are commonly derived to characterize novel brachytherapy sources. RapidBrachyTG43 is a module of RapidBrachyMCTPS, a Monte Carlo‐based treatment planning system, designed to automate this process, requiring minimal user input to prepare Geant4‐based Monte Carlo simulations for a source. RapidBrachyTG43 may also perform a TG‐43 dose to water‐in‐water calculation for a plan, substantially accelerating the same calculation performed using RapidBrachyMCTPS's Monte Carlo dose calculation engine.

Methods

TG‐43 parameters , , , and were calculated using three commercial source models, one each of I, Ir, and Co, and were benchmarked to published data. TG‐43 dose to water was calculated for a clinical breast brachytherapy plan and was compared to a Monte Carlo dose calculation with all patient tissues, air, and catheters set to water.

Results

TG‐43 parameters for the three simulated sources agreed with benchmark datasets within tolerances specified by the High Energy Brachytherapy Dosimetry working group. A gamma index comparison between the TG‐43 and Monte Carlo dose‐to‐water calculations with a dose difference and difference to agreement criterion of 1%/1 mm yielded a 98.9% pass rate, with all relevant dose volume histogram metrics for the plan agreeing within 1%. Performing a TG‐43‐based dose calculation provided an acceleration of dose‐to‐water calculation by a factor of 165.

Conclusions

Determination of TG‐43 parameter data for novel brachytherapy sources may now be facilitated by RapidBrachyMCTPS. These parameter datasets and existing consensus or published datasets may also be used to determine the TG‐43 dose for a plan in RapidBrachyMCTPS.
Modeling dynamic cracks initiation and propagation with the local to global approach
Authors: Ma Zhaoyang , Guo Yuchao , Liu Wei , Zhang Xiaofei , Guo Xingming
Published: January 2024

The recently proposed local to global (L2G) method shows an excellent ability of modeling complex arbitrary cracking problem with high efficiency and robustness. Here, we extend the L2G to model dynamic cracks initiation and propagation, in which additional nodes are dynamically introduced to capture displacement discontinuities induced by cracks' propagation, but displacements/accelerations of additional nodes are obtained by solving local nonlinear problems of cracked elements associated with a crack. This unique operation removes the divergence risks caused by adding nodes, and improves the numerical efficiency by decreasing iteration times of the global problem. Crack branching problem is also taken into consideration in current work. Numerical examples for dynamic cracks propagation are provided to demonstrate the effectiveness and robustness of the proposed method.
Contact framework for total Lagrangian smoothed particle hydrodynamics using an adaptive hybrid kernel scheme
Authors: Wiragunarsa I Made , Zuhal Lavi Rizki , Dirgantara Tatacipta , Putra Ichsan Setya
Published: January 2024

Total Lagrangian SPH (TLSPH) offers many advantages that can overcome instability and computational time issues. However, it is not naturally applicable to problems with contact. Many problems in solid dynamics and structural analysis require contact definition. In order to use the total Lagrangian formulation, further development for the contact algorithm is required. This research proposes an algorithm to implement inter‐particle contact in TLSPH using an adaptive hybrid‐kernel scheme for the first time. A combination of the updated and total Lagrangian formulations at the contact surface is introduced, in which the kernel type change automatically when particles from a different body are detected. In kernel change from the updated to the total Lagrangian formulation, the gradient correction cannot be performed using a common correction method because different frames of reference are used. Therefore, a hybrid‐kernel correction technique is proposed to maintain the zeroth‐ and first‐order completeness. Then, the contact force is obtained from the inter‐particle force using the conservation of momentum. The proposed method does not require a user‐defined parameter that makes the application straightforward. Based on the test, the proposed method agrees well with the data available in published literature and the finite element method. Compared with the contact method in classical SPH, the proposed TLSPH shows a significant stability improvement.
Worldwide prevalence and associated factors of nursing staff turnover: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Wu Feixia , Lao Yuewen , Feng Ying , Zhu Jiaqing , Zhang Yating , Li Liuyan
Published: January 2024

Aims

To systematically assess the worldwide prevalence of nurse turnover and discuss its influencing factors.

Design

Systematic review and meta‐analysis.

Methods

PubMed, the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, CINAHL, China Knowledge Resource Integrated Database, Wanfang Database were searched from their commencement date to 25 March 2021. Two authors independently reviewed the studies. Stata 15.0 software package was used for statistical analysis, with estimates of data on the prevalence of nurse turnover using a random‐effects model. This review was performed according to the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) manual for evidence synthesis and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis (PRISMA) Statement. PROSPERO Registration Number:CRD42020208873.

Results

A total of 15 studies covering 852,317 nurses were included in the analyses. The pooled prevalence of nurse turnover was 18% (95% CI: 11% to 26%, I2 = 99.86%, p < 0.0001). Geographic regions (Asia), published years (2001 to 2010) and respondents (new nurses) were significantly associated with the prevalence of nurse turnover. Additionally, several risk factors for turnover were identified in the literature, involving demographic factors (young, single, have short working hours, lower level of education and male nurses), organizational factors (small‐scale hospitals, low salary levels, larger workload, developed region and absence of labour union), satisfaction (dissatisfaction with organization, profession, job and competence).
Effect of planned pauses versus continuous energy restriction on weight loss and attrition: a systematic review
Authors: Wren Gina M. , Koutoukidis Dimitrios A. , Scragg Jadine , Tsompanaki Elena , Hobson Alice , Jebb Susan A.
Published: January 2024

Objective

The objective of this study was to investigate whether pausing a weight loss program for a defined period of time could enhance weight loss and reduce attrition.

Methods

Five databases and two trial registries were searched from inception to July 2023. Randomized‐controlled trials of adults with overweight and/or obesity were included if they compared planned‐pause interventions with continuous energy restriction (CER), usual care, or a minimal intervention. To be included, the weight loss intervention must have incorporated a pause of at least 1 week. Pooled mean differences for weight change and risk ratios for attrition were calculated using random‐effects meta‐analyses.

Results

Nine intervention arms (N = 796 participants, 77% female) were included. Pooled results did not detect a significant difference in weight change between planned pauses and CER interventions at the end of the active intervention at a median 26 weeks (planned pauses vs. CER mean: −7.09 vs. −7.0 kg; mean difference: −0.09 kg; 95% CI: −1.10 to 0.93) or at final follow‐up at a median 52 weeks (planned pauses vs. CER mean: −6.91 vs. −6.19 kg; mean difference: −0.72 kg; 95% CI: −2.92 to 1.48). There was no difference in attrition between planned pauses and CER interventions at the end of the active intervention (risk ratio: 1.20, 95% CI: 0.82 to 1.75) or at final follow‐up (risk ratio: 1.04, 95% CI: 0.89 to 1.22).

Conclusions

Planned pauses were consistently found to be no more or less effective than CER for weight loss or attrition.
Embrace Digital Tools to Enhance Water Utility Operations
Authors: Corriveau Amymarie R. , Wagner Travis B. , Srinivasan Varun
Published: January 2024

The digital revolution continues to extend benefits to water utilities through powerful and expansive data management, fostering collaboration across operations, maximizing utility assets, and improving customer service.
The effect of lemborexant on insomnia in patients with psychiatric disorders: Detailed evaluation using the Athens Insomnia Scale
Authors: Murayama Tomonori , Ito Yuji , Narita Kenji , Ishida Tetsuro , Hinotsu Shiro , Fujita Masahiko
Published: January 2024

Aim

Chronic insomnia disorder is common and associated with reduced quality of life. Benzodiazepine hypnotics are commonly prescribed for insomnia, but have potential side effects such as concentration impairment, somnolence, and dependence. Lemborexant (LEM) is an orexin receptor antagonist considered to have fewer side effects than benzodiazepine hypnotics. This study evaluated the effect of LEM on sleep in detail and examined whether benzodiazepine hypnotics can be gradually tapered by adding LEM.

Methods

We retrospectively examined the effectiveness of LEM in 28 outpatients with insomnia. Insomnia symptoms were assessed using the Athens Insomnia Scale (AIS) before and after LEM administration. We also attempted to taper benzodiazepine hypnotics and assessed benzodiazepine dose using diazepam equivalents for some patients taking benzodiazepine hypnotics. Wilcoxon's signed‐rank test was used for statistical analysis.

Results

The mean AIS score was significantly improved after LEM treatment (8.7 ± 5.2 vs. 3.8 ± 3.3; P < 0.01). Among the AIS subitems, significant improvement was observed for six items: sleep induction, awakenings during the night, sleep quality, well‐being, functioning capacity, and sleepiness during the day. The mean benzodiazepine dose was significantly lower after LEM treatment (4.6 ± 5.0 mg vs. 2.1 ± 3.3 mg; P < 0.01).

Conclusions

This study indicated the potential of LEM for improving insomnia and reducing benzodiazepine dose.
Ion chemistry and ionic thin film deposition from HMDS‐photochemistry induced by VUV‐radiation from an atmospheric plasma
Authors: Winzer Tristan , Benedikt Jan
Published: January 2024

Injection of precursor molecules into a plasma often results in particle generation or deposition in the source, compromising film quality and plasma operation. We present here a study of ion chemistry and ionic film deposition from hexamethyldisilane (HMDS) using a novel device utilizing vacuum ultraviolet (VUV)‐radiation from a remote atmospheric plasma. Infrared spectroscopy showed that ‐like films were obtained at the lowest admixture, where impurities are more important and VUV‐photons reach the substrate, while only slightly oxidized films were deposited at high admixtures. Photoionization mainly forms the monomer ion due to collisional stabilization and possibly slow polymerization reactions as found by ion mass spectrometry. The more detailed photochemistry of HMDS‐related ions is discussed based on mass spectra for different admixtures.
Building an inclusive botany: The “radicle” dream
Authors: Mabry Makenzie E. , Caomhanach Nuala , Abrahams R. Shawn , Gaynor Michelle L. , Pham Kasey Khanh , Williams Tanisha M. , Murphy Kathleen S. , Smocovitis Vassiliki Betty , Soltis Douglas E. , Soltis Pamela S.
Published: January 2024

Societal Impact Statement

It is important to recognize how our current understanding of plants has been shaped by diverse cultural contexts, as this underscores the importance of valuing and incorporating contributions from all knowledge systems in scientific pursuits. This approach emphasizes the ongoing bias, including within scientific practices, and the necessity of discussing problematic histories within spaces of learning. It is crucial to acknowledge and address biases, even within scientific endeavors. Doing so fosters a more inclusive and equitable scientific community. This article, while not comprehensive, serves as a starting point for conversation and an introduction to current work on these topics.

In response to a global dialog about systemic racism, ongoing inequalities, appeals to decolonize science, and the many recent calls for diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion, we draw on the narratives of plants to revisit the history of botany. Our goal is to uncover how exclusionary practices have functioned in the past and persist today. We also explore the numerous opportunities and challenges that arise in the era of information as we strive to establish a more inclusive field of botany. This approach recognizes and honors the contributions of historically marginalized groups, such as Black and Indigenous communities. We hope that this article can serve as a catalyst for raising awareness, fostering contemplation, and driving action toward a more equitable and just scientific community.
Neural respiratory drive assessment and its correlation with inspiratory muscle strength in patients undergoing open‐heart surgery: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Pongpanit Karan , Laosiripisan Jitanan , Songsorn Preeyaphorn , Charususin Noppawan , Yuenyongchaiwat Kornanong
Published: January 2024

Background and Purpose

Pulmonary dysfunction and inspiratory muscle weakness are frequently observed after cardiac surgery. Understanding the load on and capacity of respiratory muscles can provide valuable insights into the overall respiratory mechanics and neural regulation of breathing. This study aimed to assess the extent of neural respiratory drive (NRD) and determine whether admission‐to‐discharge differences in NRD were associated with inspiratory muscle strength changes among patients undergoing open‐heart surgery.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study was conducted on 45 patients scheduled for coronary artery bypass graft or heart valve surgery. NRD was measured using a surface parasternal intercostal electromyogram during resting breathing (sEMGpara tidal) and maximal inspiratory effort (sEMGpara max). Maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP) was used to determine inspiratory muscle strength. Evaluations were performed on the day of admission and discharge.

Results

There was a significant increase in sEMGpara tidal (6.9 ± 3.6 μV, p < 0.001), sEMGpara %max (13.7 ± 11.2%, p = 0.008), and neural respiratory drive index (NRDI, the product of EMGpara %max and respiratory rate) (337.7 ± 286.8%.breaths/min, p < 0.001), while sEMGpara max (−43.6 ± 20.4 μV, p < 0.01) and MIP (−24.4 ± 10.7, p < 0.001) significantly decreased during the discharge period. Differences in sEMGpara tidal (r = −0.369, p = 0.045), sEMGpara %max (r = −0.646, p = 0.001), and NRDI (r = −0.639, p = 0.001) were significantly associated with a reduction in MIP.

Discussion

The findings indicate that NRD increases after open‐heart surgery, which corresponds to a decrease in inspiratory muscle strength.
Recent Progress in III‐Nitride Tunnel Junction Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Zhou Qianxi , Song Jiahao , Sun Ke , Sun Yuechang , Liu Sheng , Zhou Shengjun
Published: January 2024

The emergence of III‐nitride semiconductors has established a solid foundation for the development of high‐efficiency optoelectronic devices, particularly for light‐emitting diodes (LEDs). However, the efficiency improvement for LEDs is typically restricted by hole injection and optical loss. The incorporation of tunnel junction (TJ) into structure of LEDs has arisen as a promising solution to overcome these challenges while providing additional features, such as electrical contacts, current confinement, and novel controllability in band engineering. Herein, recent progress in the development of III‐nitride TJ LEDs is reviewed. It is started with an explanation of the working principles of TJ and several approaches for enhancing the tunneling probability of TJ are discussed. Subsequently, the most popular techniques for TJ fabrication are summarized and critical issues involved in these processes are discussed. Moreover, applications of TJ in UV LEDs, cascaded LEDs, and micro‐LEDs are highlighted. Finally, an outlook on potential prospects of TJ for the development of high‐performance LEDs is presented.
Comparative study of GQ and QG indices as potentially favorable molecular descriptors
Authors: Kumar Virendra , Das Shibsankar
Published: January 2024

In chemical graph theory, several degree‐based topological indices are introduced and put forward in the development of quantitative structure‐property relationships (QSPR)/quantitative structure‐activity relationships (QSAR) studies. However, only a few of them are considered employable in the prediction of physical and chemical properties and biological activities of molecular compounds. Here, we focus our attention on some foremost characteristics of newly defined Geometric–Quadratic and Quadratic–Geometric indices such as prediction power, degeneracy and structure sensitivity. Based on these attributes, we discuss their comparison with other well‐established degree‐based topological indices with the help of statistical analysis and computational techniques on the data sets of octane, nonane and decane isomers. Some of the graphical approaches, statistical outcomes and computational tests exhibit the dominating nature of the and indices over other topological indices.
Thermoelectric properties of two‐dimensional ternary transition metal nitrides HfNF
Authors: Zhang Zi‐Meng , Chang Wen‐Li , Sun Zi‐Qi , He Xin‐Huan , Zhang Ji‐Long , Wei Xiao‐Ping , Tao Xiaoma
Published: January 2024

The exceptional electron transfer properties and low thermal conductivity of two‐dimensional layered materials render them a promising choice for thermoelectric applications. In this study, we explore the stability, electronic properties, and thermoelectric characteristics of materials composed of two‐dimensionally layered transition metal nitride HfNF. Our research findings show that the structure of HfNF is stable and exhibits the properties of a direct bandgap semiconductor. Furthermore, we employ the Boltzmann transport theory and Slack model to investigate the thermoelectric properties of HfNF within the temperature range of 300 to 900 K. The HfNF materials exhibit relatively large thermoelectric dominance values ( values), with the ‐type HfNF demonstrating a maximum value of 1.46. Furthermore, utilizing the quasi‐harmonic Debye model, thermodynamic properties such as heat capacity, coefficient of thermal expansion, and bulk modulus within the 6 GPa and 600 K range are estimated. Based on these calculations, it is predicted that two‐dimensional HfNF materials will serve as promising new materials for thermoelectric applications spanning from 300 to 900 K.
Evaluation of the electronic density at critical points of hydrogen bonds: PM7 a good alternative to ab‐initio methods
Authors: Soriano‐Agueda Luis
Published: January 2024

Hydrogen bonds are of vital importance in the formation and functioning of organic molecules; their characterization with theoretical tools is a task of interest to the scientific community. Commonly, the electron density at the bond critical point is used to characterize bonds. Generally this task is carried out with ab‐initio methods. In this study, the PM7 semi‐empirical approach is used to evaluate the quality of the electron density at the hydrogen bond critical points (HBCPs). The research takes into account dimers, nucleobases and alpha‐helices bonded by hydrogen bonds: , , , , , and . The results are compared with second‐order Møller–Plesset and density functional theory. The findings demonstrate that PM7 is a reliable alternative for explaining the electron density trends at the HBCPs.
NeoHunter: Flexible software for systematically detecting neoantigens from sequencing data
Authors: Ma Tianxing , Zhao Zetong , Li Haochen , Wei Lei , Zhang Xuegong
Published: January 2024

Complicated molecular alterations in tumors generate various mutant peptides. Some of these mutant peptides can be presented to the cell surface and then elicit immune responses, and such mutant peptides are called neoantigens. Accurate detection of neoantigens could help to design personalized cancer vaccines. Although some computational frameworks for neoantigen detection have been proposed, most of them can only detect SNV‐ and indel‐derived neoantigens. In addition, current frameworks adopt oversimplified neoantigen prioritization strategies. These factors hinder the comprehensive and effective detection of neoantigens. We developed NeoHunter, flexible software to systematically detect and prioritize neoantigens from sequencing data in different formats. NeoHunter can detect not only SNV‐ and indel‐derived neoantigens but also gene fusion‐ and aberrant splicing‐derived neoantigens. NeoHunter supports both direct and indirect immunogenicity evaluation strategies to prioritize candidate neoantigens. These strategies utilize binding characteristics, existing biological big data, and T‐cell receptor specificity to ensure accurate detection and prioritization. We applied NeoHunter to the TESLA dataset, cohorts of melanoma and non‐small cell lung cancer patients. NeoHunter achieved high performance across the TESLA cancer patients and detected 79% (27 out of 34) of validated neoantigens in total. SNV‐ and indel‐derived neoantigens accounted for 90% of the top 100 candidate neoantigens while neoantigens from aberrant splicing accounted for 9%. Gene fusion‐derived neoantigens were detected in one patient. NeoHunter is a powerful tool to ‘catch all’ neoantigens and is available for free academic use on Github (XuegongLab/NeoHunter).
A comprehensive review of Langya virus and framework for future zoonotic disease control
Authors: Thien Dang Huu , Tran Hoang Bao , Uyen Nguyen Ngoc Phuong , Thao Huynh Lai Phuong , Tam Huynh Thi My , Quan Nguyen Khoi , Huy Nguyen Tien
Published: January 2024

First reported in August 2022, the Langya virus (LayV) has emerged as a potential global health threat in the post‐COVID‐19 era. Preliminary reports show that 35 patients near Shandong and Henan, China experienced a febrile acute LayV infection. We conducted this review following the PRISMA protocol to synthesise current knowledge on LayV's characteristics in terms of molecular, clinical, and public health perspectives. This virus belongs to the Paramyxoviridae family and carries a non‐segmented, single‐stranded negative‐sense RNA genome. Shrews may be the natural reservoir of the virus. Clinical symptoms range from mild flu‐like symptoms to severe manifestations involving pneumonia, haematological disorders, and organ dysfunction. Diagnostic methods include PCR and ELISA assays. Despite the absence of established treatments, antiviral drugs such as ribavirin and chloroquine may be useful in some cases. In light of prevention, a comprehensive approach that emphasises multidisciplinary collaboration is crucial for early surveillance and response. Urgent global efforts are needed for vaccine development and preparedness against this potential pandemic threat. As the viral dynamics remain uncertain, a proactive approach is vital to mitigate the impact of not only LayV but also future threats on a large scale in long term.
Formation containment control of multi‐agent systems with actuator and sensor faults
Authors: Li Yunhan , Wang Chunyan , Liu Junhui , Wang Jianan , Zuo Zongyu
Published: January 2024

This article investigates the fault‐tolerant formation containment control of multi‐agent systems with actuator and sensor faults. First, adaptive descriptor observers are proposed for the followers to estimate system states, actuator faults, and sensor faults simultaneously. Then, distributed fault‐tolerant formation containment controllers are designed based on the estimated values and sufficient conditions for the formation containment control are identified using Lyapunov method in the time domain. Finally, the effectiveness and advantages of the proposed method are demonstrated through numerical simulations.