bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expanding the synthetic biology repertoire of a fast‐growing cyanobacterium Synechococcus elongatus PCC 11801
Authors: Madhu Swati , Sengupta Annesha , Sarnaik Aditya P. , Wangikar Pramod P.
Published: May 2024

Synechococcus elongatus PCC 11801 is a fast‐growing cyanobacterium, exhibiting high tolerance to environmental stresses. We have earlier characterized its genome and analysed its transcriptome and proteome. However, to deploy it as a potential cell factory, it is necessary to expand its synthetic biology toolbox, including promoter elements and ribosome binding sites (RBSs). Here, based on the global transcriptome analysis, 48 native promoters of the genes with high transcript count were characterized using a fluorescent reporter system. The promoters PcpcB, PpsbA1, and P11770 exhibited consistently high fluorescence under all the cultivation conditions. Similarly, from the genome data and proteome analysis, 534 operons were identified. Fifteen intergenic regions exhibiting higher protein expression from the downstream gene were systematically characterized for identifying RBSs, using an operon construct comprising fluorescent protein genes eyfp and mTurq under PcpcB (PcpcB:eyfp:RBS:mTurq:TrrnB). Overall, the work presents promoter and RBS sequence libraries, with varying strengths, to expedite bioengineering of PCC 11801.
Boosting green innovation on corporate performance: Managerial environmental concern's moderating role
Authors: Le Thanh Tiep , Govindan Kannan
Published: May 2024

This study intensively examines the circumstances in which multifaceted green innovations (GI) play a role in driving business performance for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in an upsurging economy. Accordingly, the role of managerial environmental concern (MEC) is explored in the link between GI dimensions and corporate performance. This study adopts a quantitative approach and conducts a partial‐least square structural equation model (PLS‐SEM) for analysis using the primary survey‐based information. There were 424 valid samples collected. The findings indicate that GI dimensions (management, process, product, and technology) significantly and positively affect corporate performance. In these connections, MEC plays a moderating role. The originality of this study lies in its revolutionary strategy for enhancing SME sustainability in emerging economies. Thus, it contributes values not only to the theoretical ground but also to business practitioners, academics, and policymakers oriented towards sustainable development.
The nature and extent of youth sextortion: Legal implications and directions for future research
Authors: Patchin Justin W. , Hinduja Sameer
Published: May 2024

Sextortion, the threatened dissemination of explicit, intimate, or embarrassing images of a sexual nature without consent, is an understudied problem. Despite a recent increase in reported incidents among adolescents in the United States, little is known about the nature and extent of sextortion among this population. The current research explores sextortion behaviors among a national sample of 4972 middle and high school students (mean age = 14.5) for the purpose of illuminating how many youth are targeted, and understanding various characteristics of the incident (including who was involved, what offenders wanted, what offenders did, and who targets told). About 5% of youth reported that they were victims of sextortion, primarily by people they knew. Many of those targeted did not disclose the incident to adults. Implications for future research and the law are discussed.
Efficacy and safety of first‐line regimens for advanced HER2‐positive breast cancer: A Bayesian network meta‐analysis
Authors: Li Lixi , Wu Yun , Lan Bo , Ma Fei
Published: May 2024

Background

The current standard of care for advanced human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)‐positive breast cancer is pertuzumab plus trastuzumab and docetaxel as first‐line therapy. However, with the development of newer treatment regimens, there is a lack of evidence regarding which is the optimal treatment strategy. The aim of this network meta‐analysis was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of first‐line regimens for advanced HER2‐positive breast cancer by indirect comparisons.

Methods

A systematic review and Bayesian network meta‐analysis were conducted. The PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library databases were searched for relevant articles published through to December 2023. The hazard ratio (HR) and 95% credible interval (CrI) were used to compare progression‐free survival (PFS) between treatments, and the odds ratio and 95% CrI were used to compare the objective response rate (ORR) and safety.

Results

Twenty randomized clinical trials that included 15 regimens and 7094 patients were analyzed. Compared with the traditional trastuzumab and docetaxel regimen, PFS was longer on the pyrotinib and trastuzumab plus docetaxel regimen (HR: 0.41, 95% CrI: 0.22–0.75) and the pertuzumab and trastuzumab plus docetaxel regimen (HR: 0.65, 95% CrI: 0.43–0.98). Consistent with the results for PFS, the ORR was better on the pyrotinib and trastuzumab plus docetaxel regimen and the pertuzumab and trastuzumab plus docetaxel regimen than on the traditional trastuzumab and docetaxel regimen. The surface under the cumulative ranking curve indicated that the pyrotinib and trastuzumab plus docetaxel regimen was most likely to rank first in achieving the best PFS and ORR. Comparable results were found for grade ≥3 AE rates of ≥10%.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that the pyrotinib and trastuzumab plus docetaxel regimen is most likely to be the optimal first‐line therapy for patients with HER2‐positive breast cancer.
Improving stroke prognosis by TLR4 KO to enhance N2 neutrophil infiltration and reduce M1 macrophage polarization
Authors: Lin Fuhong , Li Guoli , Lu Jun , Han Huihui , Zhang Ran , Zhu Haoran , Zhao Weili
Published: May 2024

Cerebral ischemic stroke remains a leading cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide. Toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4) has been implicated in neuroinflammatory responses poststroke, particularly in the infiltration of immune cells and polarization of macrophages. This study aimed to elucidate the impact of TLR4 deficiency on neutrophil infiltration and subsequent macrophage polarization after middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO), exploring its role in stroke prognosis. The objective was to investigate how TLR4 deficiency influences neutrophil behavior poststroke, its role in macrophage polarization, and its impact on stroke prognosis using murine models. Wild‐type and TLR4‐deficient adult male mice underwent MCAO induction, followed by various analyses, including flow cytometry to assess immune cell populations, bone marrow transplantation experiments to evaluate TLR4‐deficient neutrophil behaviors, and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay and Western blot analysis for cytokine and protein expression profiling. Neurobehavioral tests and infarct volume analysis were performed to assess the functional and anatomical prognosis poststroke. TLR4‐deficient mice exhibited reduced infarct volumes, increased neutrophil infiltration, and reduced M1‐type macrophage polarization post‐MCAO compared to wild‐type mice. Moreover, the depletion of neutrophils reversed the neuroprotective effects observed in TLR4‐deficient mice, suggesting the involvement of neutrophils in mediating TLR4's protective role. Additionally, N1‐type neutrophils were found to promote M1 macrophage polarization via neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin (NGAL) secretion, a process blocked by TLR4 deficiency. The study underscores the protective role of TLR4 deficiency in ischemic stroke, delineating its association with increased N2‐type neutrophil infiltration, diminished M1 macrophage polarization, and reduced neuroinflammatory responses. Understanding the interplay between TLR4, neutrophils, and macrophages sheds light on potential therapeutic targets for stroke management, highlighting TLR4 as a promising avenue for intervention in stroke‐associated neuroinflammation and tissue damage.
A case report of chyle leakage after axillary node clearance in a patient with breast cancer
Authors: Wang XiaoRou , Li YiJia , Miao YuXi , Tong CaiLing , Long WenJie
Published: May 2024

Key Clinical Message

Chyle leakage is a rare postoperative complication of breast cancer, and conservative treatments should be prioritized, with careful monitoring of drainage volume and timely surgical intervention when conservative treatments are ineffective.

Chyle leaks following surgery for breast cancer are seldom encountered. Management varies with no consensus in the literature. This paper reports a case of a chylous leak after axillary dissection in a patient with breast cancer eventually cured with conservative treatment and discusses management options varied with both conservative and surgical options available to clinicians.
Mass Transfer Modeling of CsCl During Crystallization of Molten LiCl‐KCl‐CsCl Salt Mixture
Authors: Divakaran Sujish , Balasubramanian Muralidharan , Joseph Kitheri , Durairaj Ponraju
Published: May 2024

Metallic alloy fuels from fast reactors will be reprocessed by a non‐aqueous electrochemical technique known as electrorefining. Electrorefining of spent metal fuel results in the accumulation of heat‐generating fission products, especially 137Cs in the eutectic salt. These fission products need to be removed from the salt so as to reduce the decay heat load and contamination. The melt crystallization technique is a simple separation process being pursued for the separation of fission products. This is a single‐step process that utilizes the difference in solubility of fission products in the solid and liquid phase. This process is also less energy intensive. Crystallization involves the purification of a substance from a liquid mixture by solidification of the desired component. Since separation is based on selective solidification, which involves phase change, it is essential to evaluate the transient solidification pattern, liquid fraction distribution, solute distribution, and separation time and efficiency. Numerical modeling of the separation of CsCl from a LiCl‐KCl eutectic mixture has been carried out using Ansys Fluent (19.2). The effect of crystallizer geometry and cooling rates on the separation of CsCl has been numerically simulated.
Oxygen‐Doped Porous Carbon Nanotubes Encapsulated Bismuth Oxide to Enhance the Performance of Lithium‐Sulfur Battery
Authors: Zeng Xingyan , Tang Yakun , Liu Lang , Zhang Yue , Gao Yang , Qian Mao
Published: May 2024

Lithium‐sulfur batteries (LSBs) are greatly promising next‐generation energy storage systems due to their high theoretical specific capacities and energy density. However, the dissolution of lithium polysulfides (LIPs) causees low capacity and short lifespan, impeding the practical application of LSBs. To address this challenge, the composites of oxygen‐doped porous carbon nanotubes (CNTs) wrapped in Bi2O3 were synthesized by the calcinating method (CNTs@Bi2O3). The CNTs@Bi2O3 composites as absorbent immobilize LIPs via the physical limitations of porous CNTs and the chemical adsorption of Bi2O3 and carbon‐oxygen polar bond. After loading sulfur, the CNTs@Bi2O3/S composites with the encapsulated structure can provide a large space to withstand the significant volume expansion during the electrochemical reaction process, ensuring the stability of the electrode structure. Thus, the batteries with CNTs@Bi2O3/S exhibit a high capacity (1232 mA h g−1 at 0.1 C) and good cycle stability (639.1 mA h g−1 after 150 cycles at 0.5 C). This work presents an innovative design suitable for the encapsulated structure of Bi2O3, serving as a valuable reference for the development of Bi2O3 in LSBs.
Recovering Nickel‐Based Materials from Spent NiMH Batteries for Electrochemical Applications
Authors: Batsukh Ikhbayar , Adiya Munkhbaatar , Lkhagvajav Sarantuya , Galsan Sevjidsuren , Gansukh Mungunshagai , Batmunkh Munkhbayar
Published: May 2024

In this work, we explored the recovering possibilities of nickel‐based products from the cathode materials of spent nickel‐metal hydride (NiMH) batteries collected from car repair centers in Mongolia. Specifically, nickel‐based by‐products such as metallic nickel, Ni microparticles, nickel oxide, nickel chloride, and betta‐phase (β) nickel hydroxide powders are successfully produced. X‐ray diffraction patterns suggested that all samples show high crystallinity and phase purity. Ni microparticles were recovered using a chemical reduction method from a leachate solution prepared by dissolving the cathode of the spent NiMH battery in hydrochloric acid. Notably, β‐Ni(OH)₂ displayed two redox peaks in KOH electrolyte solution, suggesting that it has excellent electrochemical potential and can be reused for the fabrication of new NiMH batteries. To validate the electrochemical performances, we examined the catalytic activity of nickel microparticles as a catalyst for the degradation of Congo red (CR) dye and oxygen evolution reaction (OER). The reduction reaction rate of CR dye in the presence of a nickel catalyst was 2.17×10−3 s−1, significantly higher than the control experiment without a nickel catalyst. These results provide possible solutions for developing sustainable battery systems by recovering different nickel‐based products from spent NiMH batteries.
Vascular endothelial cell morphology and alignment regulate VEGF‐induced endothelial nitric oxide synthase activation
Authors: Bhattacharyya Aparna , Barbee Kenneth A.
Published: May 2024

Nitric oxide (NO) production by endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) inhibits platelet and leukocyte adhesion while promoting vasorelaxation in smooth muscle cells. Dysfunctional regulation of eNOS is a hallmark of various vascular pathologies, notably atherosclerosis, often associated with areas of low shear stress on endothelial cells (ECs). While the link between EC morphology and local hemodynamics is acknowledged, the specific impact of EC morphology on eNOS regulation remains unclear. Morphological differences between elongated, aligned ECs and polygonal, randomly oriented ECs correspond to variations in focal adhesion and cytoskeletal organization, suggesting differing levels of cytoskeletal prestress. However, the functional outcomes of cytoskeletal prestress, particularly in the absence of shear stress, are not extensively studied in ECs. Some evidence suggests that elongated ECs exhibit decreased immunogenicity and enhanced NO production. This study aims to elucidate the signaling pathways governing VEGF‐stimulated eNOS regulation in the aligned EC phenotype characterized by elongated and aligned cells within a monolayer. Using anisotropic topographic cues, bovine aortic endothelial cells (BAECs) were elongated and aligned, followed by VEGF treatment in the presence or absence of cytoskeletal tension inhibitors. Phosphorylation of eNOS ser1179, AKT ser437 and FAK Tyr397 in response to VEGF challenge were significantly heightened in aligned ECs compared to unaligned ECs. Moreover this response proved to be robustly tied to cytoskeletal tension as evinced by the abrogation of responses in the presence of the myosin II ATPase inhibitor, blebbistatin. Notably, this work demonstrates for the first time the reliance on FAK phosphorylation in VEGF‐mediated eNOS activation and the comparatively greater contribution of the cytoskeletal machinery in propagating VEGF‐eNOS signaling in aligned and elongated ECs. This research underscores the importance of utilizing appropriate vascular models in drug development and sheds light on potential mechanisms underlying vascular function and pathology that can help inform vascular graft design.
Influence of cachexia on immunotherapy efficacy and prognosis for malignant tumors of the digestive system
Authors: Tao Zhirui , Chen Zhiqin , Gao Yong , Quan Ming
Published: May 2024

Background

The presence of cancer cachexia is a significant adverse prognostic indicator in patients with malignant tumors. Cancer cachexia is a multifactorial syndrome characterized by a constant loss of skeletal muscles with or without a loss of weight, leading to immune dysfunction. We performed a retrospective study to investigate the influence of cachexia on the immunotherapy efficacy and prognosis for malignant tumors of the digestive system.

Methods

The present study adopts a cross‐sectional design. The prognosis data of patients with advanced cancer of the digestive system who received immunotherapy from September 2021 to December 2022 were analyzed. Cachexia was calculated using the change of the area of the psoas major muscle (PMMA) or the weight. We measured the change at the beginning of immunotherapy and at least 2 cycles afterward. The participants were categorized into the cachexia group and control group based on the evaluation criteria. Kaplan–Meier and Log‐rank methods were used for survival analysis. Cox proportional hazard model as a method to assess the contribution of different clinical factors to overall survival (OS) and progression‐free survival (PFS).

Results

A total number of 98 patients, including esophageal carcinoma (4, 4%), gastric (36, 37%), colorectal (51, 52%), and other cancer types (7, 7%), were enrolled. Fifty‐four patients were diagnosed with non‐cancer cachexia, and the cancer cachexia group included 44 patients. The median PFS in the cachexia group was shorter than that in the control group (130 days vs. 212 days). Their difference was not significant (p = .321). The survival rate of the patients without cachexia was longer than of those with cachexia (p = .027). The level of albumin and the number of metastatic organs were related to PFS (p = .020, p = .029). The albumin level was significantly associated with the OS of patients (p = .003).

Conclusions

The presence of cachexia was significantly associated with poor OS in patients with malignant tumors of the digestive system who received immunotherapy, not with PFS or the response to immunotherapy.
Improved Preservation of Mouse Intestinal Tissue Using a Formalin/Acetic Acid Fixative and Quantitative Histological Analysis Using QuPath
Authors: Kandelouei Tahmineh , Zhang Wei , Houghton Madeline , Knudsen Beatrice , Edgar Bruce A.
Published: May 2024

The architecture and morphology of the intestinal tissue from mice or other small animals are difficult to preserve for histological and molecular analysis due to the fragile nature of this tissue. The intestinal mucosa consists of villi and crypts lined with epithelial cells. In between the epithelial folds extends the lamina propria, a loose connective tissue that contains blood and lymph vessels, fibroblasts, and immune cells. Underneath the mucosa are two layers of contractile smooth muscle and nerves. The tissue experiences significant changes during fixation, which can impair the reliability of histologic analysis. Poor‐quality histologic sections are not suitable for quantitative image‐based tissue analysis. This article offers a new fixative composed of neutral buffered formalin (NBF) and acetic acid, called FA. This fixative significantly improved the histology of mouse intestinal tissue compared to traditional NBF and enabled precise, reproducible histologic molecular analyses using QuPath software. Algorithmic training of QuPath allows for automated segmentation of intestinal compartments, which can be further interrogated for cellular composition and disease‐related changes. © 2024 The Authors. Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol: Improved preservation of mouse intestinal tissue using a formalin/acetic acid fixative

Support Protocol: Quantitative tissue analysis using QuPath
Study on multi‐cycle gas‐water displacing mechanism in underground gas storage of low‐permeability reservoir based onPNM
Authors: Song Rui , Wang Shuaida , Pei Guihong , Liu Jianjun
Published: May 2024

A deep understanding of the pore‐scale multi‐cycle two‐phase seepage mechanism of gas‐water systems in low‐permeability reservoirs is crucial for enhancing oil and gas recovery and optimizing the operating conditions of underground gas storage. A pore network model was reconstructed using micro‐CT images of low‐permeability core samples from the Dagang Oilfield, China. The mathematical models of gas‐water flow in the pore‐scale models were established based on Poiseuille's law and the quasi‐static displacement theory, considering the gas compressibility and slip effects. The porosity, pore size, absolute permeability, and relative permeability (Kr) of oil‐water and gas‐water were calculated using pore network simulations and validated against experimental benchmark data of the same samples. The effects of multi‐cycle displacement, rock wettability, and average pore pressure on the gas‐water two‐phase flow were simulated and analyzed. The results showed that the relative permeability of gas (Krg) at the same water saturation level significantly increased when the gas compressibility and slip effects were considered. With an increase in the number of gas‐water displacement cycles,Krgat the same water saturation level showed a decreasing trend, indicating a reduction in the gas seepage capability.Krgdecreased with increasing water contact angle. With an increase in the average pore pressure,Krgdecreased and gradually increased when the average pressure exceeded 25 MPa.
Convenient folding‐hot‐pressing fabrication and enhanced piezoelectric properties of high β‐phase‐content poly(vinylidene fluoride) films
Authors: Shen Jie , Zeng Yicheng , Li Qiangzhi , Zhou Jing , Chen Wen
Published: May 2024

Poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) is the most attractive piezoelectric polymer for application in flexible sensors. To attain excellent piezoelectric properties, a substantial amount of spontaneous polar β‐phase content is highly desired. Nevertheless, the current reported manufacturing methods to increase β‐phase contents are inconvenient and complex, hindering progress in PVDF's application. This work proposes a folding‐hot‐pressing method to fabricate high β‐phase‐content PVDF films. Structural characterization indicates that the films have α and β phases and the folding‐hot‐pressing process transforms the α phase into the β phase. Due to the 97.5% β‐phase content and aligned structure, a piezoelectric constant of 20 pC/N is achieved in the three‐times folded film. Furthermore, the process method enhances the tensile strength (126.2 MPa) of the films, with a low Young's modulus (0.87 GPa) remaining, making the films applicable for flexible piezoelectric sensors. Additionally, sensors based on the achieved films were assembled and applied for human physiological activity monitoring. This work offers a scalable new melt‐processing strategy for developing high‐performance PVDF‐based piezoelectric composite films for wearable electronic devices.
Harnessing IL‐10 induced anti‐inflammatory response in maturing macrophages in presence of electrospun dexamethasone‐loaded PLLA scaffold
Authors: Iraji Asiabadi Arash , Esmaeil Nafiseh , Zargar Kharazi Anousheh , Dabiri Arezou , Varshosaz Jaleh
Published: May 2024

The ultimate goal of tissue engineering is to repair and regenerate damaged tissue or organ. Achieving this goal requires blood vessel networks to supply oxygen and nutrients to new forming tissues. Macrophages are part of the immune system whose behavior plays a significant role in angiogenesis and blood vessel formation. On the other hand, macrophages are versatile cells that change their behavior in response to environmental stimuli. Given that implantation of a biomaterial is followed by inflammation; therefore, we reasoned that this inflammatory condition in tissue spaces modulates the final phenotype of macrophages. Also, we hypothesized that anti‐inflammatory glucocorticoid dexamethasone improves modulating macrophages behavior. To check these concepts, we investigated the macrophages that had matured in an inflammatory media. Furthermore, we examined macrophages' behavior after maturation on a dexamethasone‐containing scaffold and analyzed how the behavioral change of maturing macrophages stimulates other macrophages in the same environment. In this study, the expression of pro‐inflammatory markers TNFa and NFκB1 along with pro‐healing markers IL‐10 and CD163 were investigated to study the behavior of macrophages. Our results showed that macrophages that were matured in the inflammatory media in vitro increase expression of IL‐10, which in turn decreased the expression of pro‐inflammatory markers TNFa and NFκB in maturing macrophages. Also, macrophages that were matured on dexamethasone‐containing scaffolds decreased the expression of IL‐10, TNFa, and NFκB and increase the expression of CD163 compared to the control group. Moreover, the modulation of anti‐inflammatory response in maturing macrophages on dexamethasone‐containing scaffold resulted in increased expression of TNFa and CD163 by other macrophages in the same media. The results obtained in this study, proposing strategies to improve healing through controlling the behavior of maturing macrophages and present a promising perspective for inflammation control using tissue engineering scaffolds.
Physics‐informed neural network assisted automated design of power amplifier by user defined specifications
Authors: Bhargava Gaurav , Kumari Hemant , Vadalà Valeria , Majumdar Shubhankar , Crupi Giovanni
Published: May 2024

This article presents a model that can automatically produce a power amplifier's (PA) design parameters, that is, transmission lines (TLs) dimension, from a dataset of user‐specified design goals like gain, efficiency, linearity, and scattering (S‐) parameters. Based on the applied boundary conditions, a synthetic dataset is generated with the best range of design parameters (W and L). This dataset is utilized for training the physics‐informed neural network (PINN) model with user‐specified design goals as input and design parameters as target to produce the optimum value of W and L as the resultant output. Furthermore, utilizing the obtained dimensions, design, simulation, fabrication, and measurement of a PA are performed to validate our proposed model. The results of large signal measurements of PA are drain efficiency (DE) of 26.9%, power added efficiency (PAE) of 24.7%, output power (Pout) of 30.98 dBm at an input power of 19 dBm, and gain of 12.41 dB at an operating frequency of 1.625 GHz. It has been observed that the design parameters produced by the model have a significant agreement with the validated output. Also, the statistical error analysis is done by calculating the error metrics between the validated output and the actual output of the PA design.
Joint probabilistic behaviour of climate extremes over the Godavari River basin, India
Authors: Kumar Sachidanand , Das Prabal , Mandal Nehar , Chanda Kironmala , Pasupuleti Srinivas
Published: May 2024

Climate change has an adverse effect on the global hydrological cycle and hence climatic extremes are becoming more persistent. Therefore, the present study analyses the characteristics of the compound extremes in India using the Godavari River basin as a test bed. The study examines the individual return period (IRP) and pairwise joint return period (JRP) of several climate extreme indices such as consecutive dry days (CDD), consecutive wet days (CWD), percentage rainfall of very dry days (R5Tot) and very hot days (TX95) considering historical and future period of two scenarios, SSP245 and SSP585, from the CMIP6 consortium. Both SSPs indicates an upward trend in the indices for CWD and TX95, whilst showcasing a declining trend for CDD and R5Tot at 5% significance level. Under SSP585, the values of JRPs , , and ranges from 3 to 5 years, 14–55 years, 35–274 years and 104 to >1000 during epoch‐1 (2023–2060). During epoch‐2 (2061–2100), the JRPs values are generally higher. Regions displaying lower JRPs values suggest a higher likelihood of simultaneous occurrences of extremes such as floods and droughts, as well as very dry days and warm days within the same year. Under SSP585, the maximum (minimum) value of change rate (CR) of JRP for and during epoch‐1 is more than 900% (−80%) and 1000% (−90%), whereas during epoch‐2, the corresponding CR values are greater than 700% (−80%) and 1000% (−90%). The future possibility of co‐occurrence of ‘CDD and CWD’ and ‘R5Tot and TX95’, both exceeding their 10‐ and 25‐year IRP, in a single year, is highly likely for the regions with low CR values and unlikely for the regions with high CR values. The study would help in understanding the spatial and temporal variability of compound climate extremes over the Godavari River basin.
Next‐generation Sequencing of MicroRNA in Acquired Middle Ear Cholesteatoma
Authors: Han Sung Jun , Kim Sung Kyun , Hong Seok Min
Published: May 2024

Objectives/Hypothesis

The pathophysiology of cholesteatoma is not precisely understood, and research on the associated microRNAs (miRNAs) is also deficient. We demonstrated the expression of miRNA in normal skin and middle ear cholesteatoma by next‐generation sequencing (NGS) technology. The profiles of miRNA and relevant molecular interaction pathways were investigated.

Study Design

Case–control experimental study.

Methods

Middle ear cholesteatoma and post‐auricular skin tissue specimens were collected from 13 adult patients. Total RNA was extracted, and miRNA expression profiles were analyzed by NGS technology. Functional gene classification to predict target genes and relevant biological pathways was performed using DIANA‐microT‐CDS and the Kyoto Encyclopedia Gene and Genome database (KEGG) pathways.

Results

The expression of 2588 miRNAs from middle ear cholesteatoma and skin tissue samples was analyzed. The expression of 76 upregulated and 128 downregulated miRNAs was identified in the cholesteatoma samples compared to normal skin (FC ≥2 and p < 0.05). Ninety‐nine differentially expressed miRNAs (FC ≥4 and p < 0.05) were used to explore the biological pathways involved in the etiopathogenesis of cholesteatoma. The most predicted pathway in cholesteatoma in the upregulated miRNA group was the ErbB signaling pathway and it was extracellular matrix (ECM)–receptor interaction in the downregulated miRNA group.

Conclusions

This was the first study investigating small miRNAs in human acquired cholesteatoma using NGS technique. We were able to identify new miRNAs and pathways related to cholesteatoma. The results of this study are expected to be helpful in revealing new pathophysiologies of cholesteatoma.

Level of Evidence

N/A Laryngoscope, 134:4374–4382, 2024
First‐order periodic coupled systems with generalized impulse conditions
Authors: Minhós Feliz , Perestrelo Sara
Published: May 2024

We present some existence and localization results for periodic solutions of impulsive first‐order coupled nonlinear systems of two equations, without requiring periodicity for the nonlinearities. The arguments are based on Schauder's fixed point theorem together with the upper and lower solution methods, where the upper and lower solutions are not necessarily well ordered. In addition, results on equi‐regulated functions are required for the impulsive analysis. An application to a Wilson‐Cowan system of two strongly coupled neurons illustrates one of the main results.
Improved motion correction in brain MRI using 3D radial trajectory and projection moment analysis
Authors: Li Bowen , She Huajun
Published: May 2024

Purpose

To develop a generalized rigid body motion correction method in 3D radial brain MRI to deal with continuous motion pattern through projection moment analysis.

Methods

An assumption was made that the multichannel coil moves with the head, which was achieved by using a flexible head coil. A two‐step motion correction scheme was proposed to directly extract the motion parameters from the acquired k‐space data using the analysis of center‐of‐mass with high noise robustness, which were used for retrospective motion correction. A recursive least‐squares model was introduced to recursively estimate the motion parameters for every single spoke, which used the smoothness of motion and resulted in high temporal resolution and low computational cost. Five volunteers were scanned at 3 T using a 3D radial multidimensional golden‐means trajectory with instructed motion patterns. The performance was tested through both simulation and in vivo experiments. Quantitative image quality metrics were calculated for comparison.

Results

The proposed method showed good accuracy and precision in both translation and rotation estimation. A better result was achieved using the proposed two‐step correction compared to traditional one‐step correction without significantly increasing computation time. Retrospective correction showed substantial improvements in image quality among all scans, even for stationary scans.

Conclusions

The proposed method provides an easy, robust, and time‐efficient tool for motion correction in brain MRI, which may benefit clinical diagnosis of uncooperative patients as well as scientific MRI researches.
Free‐breathing high‐resolution respiratory‐gated radial stack‐of‐stars magnetic resonance imaging of the upper abdomen at 7 T
Authors: Maatman Ivo T. , Schulz Jenni , Ypma Sjoerd , Block Kai Tobias , Schmitter Sebastian , Hermans John J. , Smit Ewoud J. , Maas Marnix C. , Scheenen Tom W. J.
Published: May 2024

Ultrahigh field magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (≥ 7 T) has the potential to provide superior spatial resolution and unique image contrast. Apart from radiofrequency transmit inhomogeneities in the body at this field strength, imaging of the upper abdomen faces additional challenges associated with motion‐induced ghosting artifacts. To address these challenges, the goal of this work was to develop a technique for high‐resolution free‐breathing upper abdominal MRI at 7 T with a large field of view. Free‐breathing 3D gradient‐recalled echo (GRE) water‐excited radial stack‐of‐stars data were acquired in seven healthy volunteers (five males/two females, body mass index: 19.6–24.8 kg/m2) at 7 T using an eight‐channel transceive array coil. Two volunteers were also examined at 3 T. In each volunteer, the liver and kidney regions were scanned in two separate acquisitions. To homogenize signal excitation, the time‐interleaved acquisition of modes (TIAMO) method was used with personalized pairs of B1 shims, based on a 23‐s Cartesian fast low angle shot (FLASH) acquisition. Utilizing free‐induction decay navigator signals, respiratory‐gated images were reconstructed at a spatial resolution of 0.8 × 0.8 × 1.0 mm3. Two experienced radiologists rated the image quality and the impact of B1 inhomogeneity and motion‐related artifacts on multipoint scales. The images of all volunteers showcased effective water excitation and were accurately corrected for respiratory motion. The impact of B1 inhomogeneity on image quality was minimal, underscoring the efficacy of the multitransmit TIAMO shim. The high spatial resolution allowed excellent depiction of small structures such as the adrenal glands, the proximal ureter, the diaphragm, and small blood vessels, although some streaking artifacts persisted in liver image data. In direct comparisons with 3 T performed for two volunteers, 7‐T acquisitions demonstrated increases in signal‐to‐noise ratio of 77% and 58%. Overall, this work demonstrates the feasibility of free‐breathing MRI in the upper abdomen at submillimeter spatial resolution at a magnetic field strength of 7 T.
Prevention of treatment abandonment remains an important challenge to increase survival of Wilms tumor in sub‐Saharan Africa: A report from Wilms Africa—CANCaRe Africa
Authors: Atwiine Barnabas , Mdoka Cecilia , Branchard Mushabe , Chagaluka George , Fufa Diriba , Ayalew Mulugeta , Khofi Harriet , Amankwah Emmanuel , Chokwenda Nester , Birhane Feven , Mezgebu Esubalew , Eklu Bernice , Jator Brian , Kudowa Evaristar , Mbah Glenn , Wassie Mulugeta , Dondo Vongai , Paintsil Vivian , Pritchard‐Jones Kathy , Renner Lorna Awo , Sung Lillian , Kouya Francine , Molyneux Elizabeth , Chitsike Inam , Israels Trijn
Published: May 2024

Background

The Wilms Africa studies implemented an adapted Wilm's tumor (WT) treatment protocol in sub‐Saharan Africa in two phases. Phase I began with four sites and provided out‐of‐pocket costs. Phase II expanded the number of sites, but lost funding provision. Objective is to describe the outcomes of Phase II and compare with Phase I.

Methods

Wilms Africa Phase I (n = 4 sites; 2014–2018) and Phase II (n = 8 sites; 2021–2022) used adapted treatment protocols. Funding for families’ out‐of‐pocket costs was provided during Phase I but not Phase II. Eligibility criteria were age less than 16 years and newly diagnosed unilateral WT. We documented patients’ outcome at the end of planned first‐line treatment categorized as treatment abandonment, death during treatment, and disease‐related events (death before treatment, persistent disease, relapse, or progressive disease). Sensitivity analysis compared outcomes in the same four sites.

Results

We included 431 patients in Phase I (n = 201) and Phase II (n = 230). The proportion alive without evidence of disease decreased from 69% in Phase I to 54% in Phase II at all sites (p = .002) and 58% at the original four sites (p = .04). Treatment abandonment increased overall from 12% to 26% (p < .001), and was 20% (p = .04) at the original four sites. Disease‐related events (5% vs. 6% vs. 6%) and deaths during treatment (14% vs. 14% vs. 17%) were similar.

Conclusion

Provision of out‐of‐pocket costs was important to improve patient outcomes at the end of planned first‐line treatment in WT. Prevention of treatment abandonment remains an important challenge.
Investigation of the energy absorption behavior and damage mechanisms of aramid/carbon/jute fiber hybrid epoxy composites
Authors: Özsoy Mehmet İskender
Published: May 2024

Today, various fiber reinforcements are used in automotive, aerospace and defense industries. Many of these fibers are synthetic structures, which can cause problems such as environmental pollution and high manufacturing costs. Researchers have turned to the use of more environmental‐friendly and cost‐effective natural materials to minimize these problems. In this study energy absorption properties of the fiber laminate‐hybrid epoxy composites were investigated with dynamic loadings. Fiber type and hybridization effects were investigated under drop weight impact tests with 10, 20, 30 and 50 Joule impact energies. Besides, mechanical characteristics were examined via quasi‐static bending tests. In this context, double and triple fiber reinforced natural/synthetic and synthetic/synthetic hybrid composites were manufactured as sandwich type. Furthermore, it is also aimed an evaluation of using natural fibers in ballistic activities with this study. Fiber materials consist of woven type carbon, aramid and jute fibers. Hybrid composites were manufactured with the aim of providing mechanical optimization between the fibers and enabling the fiber layers to absorb more impact energy. In addition, performance evaluation was made by comparing natural/synthetic reinforced hybrid composites with full synthetic hybrid composites. The results show that significant improvements were achieved in bending and impact resistance of the composites by using jute fibers to the inner layers.

Highlights

Drop weight impact tests were carried out to determine the energy absorption behavior of the hybrid composites.

Fiber type is effective in the mechanical behavior of the composite materials.

Natural hybrid composites show well enough mechanical properties as well as low cost.
Impact on mechanical and thermal characteristics of epoxy nanocomposites by waste derived carbon nanotubes, carbon black, and hybrid CNT/FCB reinforcing materials
Authors: Dwivedi Parul , Rathore Ashwani Kumar , Srivastava Deepak , Vijayakumar R. P.
Published: May 2024

In this present investigation, epoxy nanocomposites were formulated with multiwalled carbon nanotubes derived from plastic (p‐MWCNTs), carbon black from tires (t‐CB), and a combination of p‐MWCNTs and functionalized carbon black (FCB). A comparative analysis was conducted between the properties of the original composites and epoxy nanocomposites containing a mixture of carbon nanotube (CNT) and FCB. Morphology, carbon content, and oxide content of CB and FCB were assessed using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and energy‐dispersive x‐ray spectroscopy (EDS or EDX). The dispersion of CNT and the CNT/FCB blend in water was observed using ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy (UV–VIS). Furthermore, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and x‐ray diffraction analyses were performed on CNT, CB, and FCB to comprehend the presence of functional groups and structural changes with chemical treatment. The nanocomposites were created by employing diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A (DGBEA) epoxy resin through a simple sonication and casting method. The tensile strength of CNT/FCB epoxy composites showed a significant increase, rising from 66.26 MPa to 158.48 MPa, marking a 139.17% improvement over pure epoxy. This improvement is likely due to the bonding interaction between the epoxy, FCB, and CNTs which resulted a uniform dispersion of fillers onto epoxy matrix. Conversely, the impact strength initially increased from 112.84 J/m (pure epoxy) to 144.05 J/m (FCB), but then decreased to 115.7 J/m for CNT/FCB composites. FCB demonstrated a 27.65% increase in impact strength compared to pure epoxy. Moreover, the thermal stability of the samples exhibited improvement from neat epoxy to CNT/FCB‐based nanocomposites.

Highlights

Oxygen content of CB increased from 25.17% to 54.60%.

CNT/FCB epoxy composites exhibited a 139.17% increase in tensile strength.

FCB epoxy composites shows 27.65% increase in impact strength.

Thermal stability of CNT/FCB composites increased by 1.89%.

Crosslinking via covalent bonding occurred between FCB and epoxy.
Prognostic impact of MALs and potential immunotherapy targets in uveal melanoma
Authors: Yang Jing , Fu Zhou , Xiang Qin
Published: May 2024

Uveal melanoma (UM) is the most common primary ocular malignancy in adults, and the 5‐year disease‐related mortality rate is 30%. MAL proteolipid family (MALs), including T‐cell differentiation protein (MAL), T‐cell differentiation protein 2 (MAL2), and T‐cell differentiation protein like (MALL), were involved in the progression and prognosis of many different cancers. However, the role of MALs in UM was not reported. UM samples were extracted from The Cancer Genome Atlas. R software (R3.6.3) was used to comprehensively analyze the roles of the MALs (signiﬁcance threshold: p < 0.05). MALs mRNA expression was changed in UM tissues. In terms of tumor stage, MAL2 was highly expressed in T4 (p = 0.021). The ROC curves indicated that MAL2 and MALL were prognostic biomarkers for 1‐ and 3‐year survival in UM patients, and MAL2 also could predict 5‐year survival for UM patients. Then, the univariable and multivariable analysis showed that MAL2 and MALL were independent prognostic biomarkers. Next, we assessed the immune microenvironment of MALs in UM. MAL had no correlation with B7‐H3, but MAL2 and MALL had a positive correlation with B7‐H3. Our results revealed that the MAL proteolipid family may be prognostic biomarkers for UM patients and that B7‐H3 may be a novel immunotherapy target for UM.
Preparation and characterization of long‐chain branched PA6 by UV‐irradiation of included methacrylate monomers after extrusion
Authors: Guo Chao , He Guang‐Jian , Huang Wei‐Tao , Yin Xiao‐Chun , Cao Xian‐Wu , Qin Sen
Published: May 2024

To improve melt strength and toughness of polyamide 6 (PA6), an on‐line UV radiation method is introduced into reaction extrusion to induce free radical reaction for efficient preparation of long‐chain branched PA6 materials. Trimethylolpropane triacrylate and glycidyl methacrylate are adopted as chain extenders to synergistically introduce long‐chain branches onto PA6 macromolecules. Gel permeation chromatography results show the increase of molecular weight of PA6, implying the successful graft of chain extenders onto molecular chains. Based on rheological measurement results, modified PA6 exhibits better melt strength than pure PA6 owing to a larger storage modulus. The elongation at break and impact strength of modified PA6 at T1G1 are about 5.3 and 2.2 times those of pure PA6, respectively, without sacrificing tensile strength. According to Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy results, we propose reaction mechanisms between trimethylolpropane triacrylate/glycidyl methacrylate and PA6 under on‐line UV radiation. This study offers a practical approach for the efficient preparation of long‐chain branched PA6, thereby broadening the potential applications of the material.

Highlights

An on‐line UV radiation method is introduced into reaction extrusion.

The melt strength and toughness of polyamide 6 are realized simultaneously at low cost.

The synergistic effect mechanism of trimethylolpropane triacrylate and glycidyl methacrylate is proposed.

Provides a feasible way to efficiently prepare long‐chain branched polyamide 6.
The dynamic of photovoltaic resources on its performance predictability, based on two new approaches
Authors: Soler‐Castillo Yhosvany , Sahni Manoj , Leon‐Castro Ernesto
Published: May 2024

The manuscript is a digest, which puts forward findings from previous research papers, combined with new proposals. Approaches comprise two full models' derivation for photovoltaic (PV) systems energy conversion predictability. It brings in several models for key physical observables formulated as functions of the operating conditions. The proposals encompass mean spectral reflectance, coefficient for reflections and spatial geometry, incident angular losses factor, angular losses, and fill factor along with its coefficient of temperature. Applying the superposition principle, these models are integrated into two full approaches for performance predictability. The underlying physics description is mathematically consistent with experimental measurements of the physical observables involved, reported in other studies. To the authors' knowledge, these full models have been reported previously nowhere. Simulation results from the more inaccurate of two full models show good agreement of these findings with the experimental evidence, reported of its performance. The resulting key performance indicators (KPIs), after simulating a grid‐connected PV system located in Cuba, yield 1.61%, 13.10%, −1.61%, 2.02%, and 0.81 of MAE, MAPE, MBE, RMSE, and R2, respectively, which they confirm the model's good behavior. Approaches formulations, as functions of solar irradiance and module temperature, its derivations, applications, and model's simulation results are considered the main manuscript novelties.