bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis of long straight‐chain alkane substituted ferrocene with ultra‐robust oil solubility as multifunctional organometallic additive
Authors: Zhang Yingying , Niu Qingxia , Xu Yao , Chen Jian , Zhai Congcong , Azhar Umair , Lu Yi , Li Hui , Zong Chuanyong
Published: April 2024

Tailoring of organometallics structure toward desirable properties continues to be both fascinating and challenging in the field of materials science. Herein, a novel ferrocene derivative with long straight‐chain alkane mono‐substituent is synthesized and used as multifunctional organometallic additive in the base oil. This ferrocene‐based organometallic compound (MFc) is synthesized via the Friedel‐Crafts acylation of ferrocene with myristyl chloride, followed by reduction with sodium borohydride. The chemical structure, crystallizability, surface morphology, and the thermal properties of the as‐synthesized compound are systematically characterized. As the iron‐containing standard substance, the MFc was preferable dissolve in lubricating oil with the iron element content as high as 2*105 ppm. Resultantly, the MFc/oil solutions exhibited excellent stability even after high‐speed centrifugal treatment, long‐term storage up to 3 months, and ultra‐low temperature treatment at −40°C for 24 h. Moreover, the MFc as a functional lubricant additive could reduce the average wear scar diameter, wear volume, and coefficient of friction with 40%, 73%, and 18%, respectively, as compared to the corresponding pure base oil. This synthetic strategy provides a novel perspective for the design of functional organometallics, and the as‐synthesized novel ferrocene derivative may find a wide range of advanced potential applications in analytical chemistry, tribology, and interfacial science.
Synthesis of MD‐1‐2 co‐sensitizers for 10.35% efficient acid–base pairing with N3 in DSSCs
Authors: Hossan Aisha
Published: April 2024

This work presents a comprehensive investigation of novel organic dyes MD‐1‐2 as active acid and base co‐sensitizers in dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs), using well‐known Ru(II)‐based N3 dyes. These co‐sensitizers contain a triphenylamine ring as a donor scaffold linked with an electron‐withdrawing cyanopyridyl and cyano benzoic acid acceptor for MD‐1‐2. In this study, we demonstrated the significant impact of base dyes with pyridine anchoring units on the photovoltaic parameters of N3‐sensitized devices. This methodology takes advantage of the ability of carboxyl and pyridyl moieties to interact with the Brønsted acid and Lewis acid sites on TiO2 surfaces, respectively. By reducing competition between dyes for surface binding, dye packing density on the TiO2 is enhanced while electron recombination is minimized, leading to higher photovoltage. Furthermore, the influence of varying sensitizer/co‐sensitizer ratios was comprehensively studied. Outcomes showed devices made using co‐sensitizer MD‐1‐2 with sensitizer N3 at all relative concentrations surpassed those with only N3. Importantly, the co‐sensitized devices that were made utilizing 0.3 mM acid–base MD‐1 and N3 sensitizer had the greatest solar energy capacity. It had a power conversion efficiency of 10.35%, a short‐circuit current density of 20.01 mA·cm−2, and an open‐circuit voltage of 752 mV. The results provide fresh insight into optimizing devices to create DSSCs with improved efficiency by choosing acceptable co‐sensitizers at suitable concentrations.
How astrocytic chloride modulates brain states
Authors: Untiet Verena , Verkhratsky Alexei
Published: April 2024

The way the central nervous system (CNS) responds to diverse stimuli is contingent upon the specific brain state of the individual, including sleep and wakefulness. Despite the wealth of readout parameters and data delineating the brain states, the primary mechanisms are yet to be identified. Here we highlight the role of astrocytes, with a specific emphasis on chloride (Cl−) homeostasis as a modulator of brain states. Neuronal activity is regulated by the concentration of ions that determine excitability. Astrocytes, as the CNS homeostatic cells, are recognised for their proficiency in maintaining dynamic homeostasis of ions, known as ionostasis. Nevertheless, the contribution of astrocyte‐driven ionostasis to the genesis of brain states or their response to sleep‐inducing pharmacological agents has been overlooked. Our objective is to underscore the significance of astrocytic Cl− homeostasis, elucidating how it may underlie the modulation of brain states. We endeavour to contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the interplay between astrocytes and brain states.
Comminution of Metal–Polymer Composites for Recycling
Authors: Boekhoff Sandra , Zetzener Harald , Kwade Arno
Published: April 2024

To increase the recycling rate of components used in electric vehicles, metal–polymer composites are to be separated. As a basis, samples of polymers are ground in a hammer mill to analyze the influence of various pretreatments. The resulting particle size distributions are related to the mechanical properties of the polymers. The results can be used for a comminution of a metal–polymer composite from an electric vehicle's battery housing and show that lower temperatures perform the best for individual materials and composites. The complexity of the components and the type of joining also influence the comminution success of composite components, as a separation of the materials is easier with low complexity and force closure.
An integrated design for improving spectral efficiency of FSO communication system in 6G applications
Authors: Sathish Kuppani , Mahalingam Hemalatha , Padmaja Kadiri , Makala Ramesh , Krishnaiah N. Rama
Published: April 2024

In the case of future access networks, such as 6G‐based applications, the free‐space optical communication (FSO) technology is an efficient solution. FSO in 6G is extremely popular because of its unique properties, which include ease of installation, high bandwidth, high security, license‐free long range, and interference resistance. However, environmental disturbances have a negative impact on the FSO system's functioning. Because of these atmospheric turbulences, the optical information gets restricted, which in turn reduces the link reliability, power density, and distance. This paper proposes a hybrid FSO strategy for improving system efficiency to address these problems. Signal creation is fundamental to every successful communication system. The FSO system consists of three components: the transmitter, the channel medium, and the receiver. The transmitter section includes a continuous wave laser, a Mach–Zehnder modulator, a nonreturn to zero transpose Walsh code generator, and a nonreturn to zero pulse generator. Wavelength division multiplexing‐optical code division multiple access‐spectrum slicing (WDM‐OCDMA‐SS) is used to facilitate efficient data transfer after signals have been generated by alternate mark inversion (AMI). In order to boost a weak signal, fused Raman erbium amplifiers (Fuse‐RE) are used. Q factor and log bit error rate (BER) are used to assess the performance of the suggested approach. The proposed model has obtained a log BER of −15.3291 for clear air and a Q factor of 8.2922, whereas the performances are implemented using Python. The proposed approach achieves better performance when compared to the existing methodologies.
Corrosion behavior and surface structure analysis of pure aluminum immersed in fluoride‐sulfate solutions simulating polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell‐produced water
Authors: Alam Md. Ashraful , Jahan Aklima , Suzuki Eiichi , Yashiro Hitoshi
Published: April 2024

Bipolar plates are the key component in polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs), which ensure the low cost of the fuel cell stack and furnish some of the important applications such as distributing the reactant gases, conducting the electrons, and removing the waste heat in PEMFCs. Thus, metallic bipolar plates (BPs), such as aluminum (Al), have attracted immense consideration and afford better performance in different machine‐driven applications and mass manufacturing opportunities. In order to increase the corrosion resistance of Al BPs, several methods are used and conducted by scientists. The corrosion behavior and surface structure analysis of pure Al were studied through the immersion process in fluoride‐sulfate solutions, assuming its use as BPs in PEMFC‐produced water. The open cell voltage, interfacial contact resistance, and polarization tests and the fuel cell operations were performed to evaluate cell voltage, current density, corrosion resistance, and the effect of fluoride and sulfate ions on the BPs in PEMFC. The hydrophobicity character of the surface of Al BPs was observed by the measurement of the wettability test. The atomic force microscopy images were taken to study the surface roughness, which was correlated with the corrosion rates of Al BPs. In addition, the amount of corrosion was calculated after 24–120 h of immersion in fluoride‐sulfate solutions. The scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy data were analyzed to investigate the surface structure, morphology, and elemental analyses. Thus, the results found in this study revealed that Al‐based materials can be suitable for BPs in PEMFCs. Furthermore, it is noticed that the amount of corrosion was influenced by the presence of even a very small amount of fluoride ions present in the PEMFC environment, while it was suppressed efficiently by sulfate ions.
The level of knowledge of medical and dental students regarding prophylaxis for infective endocarditis
Authors: Karaçam Kübra , Erdem Rahime Zeynep
Published: April 2024

Objectives

Infective endocarditis is a rarely seen disease, but has a high mortality rate. Therefore, it is extremely important that the guidelines are followed correctly. The main aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the level of knowledge and attitude of infective endocarditis of fourth‐ and fifth‐year dentistry students in clinical residency and fifth‐ and sixth‐year medical students.

Methods

A 42‐item questionnaire evaluating the type and dosage of antibiotics administered as infective endocarditis prophylaxis in medical conditions and dentistry procedures was delivered online to the study participants. The data obtained were examined using descriptive statistics and analyzed with the chi‐square test.

Results

The questionnaire was completed by a total of 332 participants. The statistical analyses showed a good level of knowledge in 55% of the dentistry faculty students and in 43.5% of the medical faculty students.

Conclusions

When considering that dental and medical faculty students are not expected to receive additional training on antimicrobial management after graduation, the findings of this study have raised significant attitude for the improvement of our education system in this field.
Injection network drivers of HIV prevention service utilization among people who inject drugs: results of a community‐based sociometric network cohort in New Delhi, India
Authors: Prata Menezes Neia S. , Mehta Shruti H. , Wesolowski Amy , Clipman Steven J. , Srikrishnan Aylur K. , Kumar Muniratnam S. , Zook Katie J. C. , Lucas Gregory M. , Latkin Carl , Solomon Sunil S.
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Injection drug networks may influence their network members’ health‐seeking behaviours. Using data from a sociometric injecting partner network of people who inject drugs (PWID) in New Delhi, India, we assessed the role of injecting partner (alter) behaviours on individual engagement in HIV prevention services.

Methods

We enumerated injecting partner linkages among 2512 PWID using coupon referrals and biometric data from November 2017 to March 2020. Participants completed interviewer‐administered questionnaires and provided information on injection behaviours, injecting partners, HIV/hepatitis C (HCV) testing and service engagement. Multilevel multiple‐membership models (MMMM) evaluated individual PWID HIV testing, medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD) and syringe service engagement as a function of alter attributes, accounting for membership across multiple ego‐networks. Logistic regression models assessed parallel associations among socially proximal injecting peers, defined as PWID ≤3 path length from ego.

Results

Median age was 26 years; 99% were male. PWID had median 2 injecting partners and 8 socially proximal peers; 14% reported HIV testing, 33% accessed MOUD and 13% used syringe services 6 months prior. In MMMM analyses, PWID with ≥1 versus 0 injecting partners who received HIV testing were significantly more likely to report HIV testing (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 2.27, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.68–3.16), MOUD (aOR: 1.99, 95% CI: 1.60–2.53) and syringe service use (aOR: 1.66, 95% CI: 1.21–2.39). We observed similar findings for individual MOUD and syringe service use. Having ≥1 versus 0 HIV‐positive partners was associated with decreased HIV testing and MOUD but increased syringe service use (aOR: 1.54, 95% CI: 1.09–2.17). PWID with ≥1 versus 0 socially proximal peers who used non‐sterile injection equipment reported increased HIV testing (aOR: 1.39, 95% CI: 1.01–1.92), MOUD (aOR: 1.40, 95% CI: 1.10–1.77) and syringe service use (aOR: 1.82, 95% CI: 1.23–2.68).

Conclusions

We found differential associative relationships between individual HIV prevention service engagement and the health or risk behaviours of direct and indirect alters. Characterizing network exposure beyond direct injecting partnerships provided important context on possible mechanisms of behavioural influence. Findings could be leveraged to design peer‐based interventions that promote network diffusion of health‐seeking behaviours.
Treatment Outcomes of Cesarean Scar Pregnancy Under a Novel Classification System
Authors: Yung Kar Kei , Lee Loreta Lai Loi , Choy Kwong Wai , Cheung Eva Chun Wai , Chan Symphorosa Shing Chee , Cheung Rachel Yau Kar
Published: April 2024

Objectives

To determine whether the new classification system published by Jordans et al for cesarean scar pregnancy (CSP) can guide management and treatment outcomes.

Methods

A retrospective study of women diagnosed with CSP from October 2010 to December 2022 in a single tertiary center was performed. Sonographic records of these women were classified into three types according to the classification published by Jordans et al. Treatment outcomes were compared across each type of CSP.

Results

The study included a total of 84 women, where 60 (71.4%), 17 (20.2%), and 7 (8.3%) of them were categorized into Type 1, 2, and 3 CSP, respectively. A total of 47 (55.9%) women were managed with methotrexate, 22 (26.2%) underwent surgical management of the CSP without removal of the Cesarean section (CS) niche, and 11 (13.1%) underwent surgery to remove the CSP and the CS niche. Overall treatment success rates for medical management and surgical management were 70 and 97%, respectively. Four women were managed expectantly and continued their pregnancies, among which three carried beyond 34 weeks and had good neonatal outcomes.

Conclusions

The classification as published by Jordans et al is easily replicable and readily implemented clinically. Our findings show that a higher proportion of Type 1 and Type 2 CSP were treated successfully by a less invasive medical approach with a high success rate, whereas most Type 3 CSP required surgical resection to successfully remove the CSP and the CS niche. Prospective studies are required to confirm these findings and further validate the clinical utility of this nomenclature system.
Long‐term culture system for deep‐sea mussels Gigantidas childressi
Authors: Hiebenthal Claas , Gehlert Finn‐Ole , Schmidt Mark , Reusch Thorsten B. H. , Melzner Frank
Published: April 2024

The simulation of deep‐sea conditions in laboratories is technically challenging but necessary for experiments that aim at a deeper understanding of physiological mechanisms or host‐symbiont interactions of deep‐sea organisms. In a proof‐of‐concept study, we designed a recirculating system for long‐term culture (>2 yr) of deep‐sea mussels Gigantidas childressi (previously Bathymodiolus childressi). Mussels were automatically (and safely) supplied with a maximum stable level of ~60 μmol L−1 methane in seawater using a novel methane–air mixing system. Experimental animals also received daily doses of live microalgae. Condition indices of cultured G. childressi remained high over the years, and low shell growth rates could be detected, too, which is indicative of positive energy budgets. Using stable isotope data, we demonstrate that G. childressi in our culture system gained energy, both, from the digestion of methane‐oxidizing endosymbionts and from digesting particulate food (microalgae). Limitations of the system, as well as opportunities for future experimental approaches involving deep‐sea mussels, are discussed.
Fabrication of Crescent Shaped Microparticles for Particle Templated Droplet Formation
Authors: Yang Yimin , Vagin Sergei I. , Rieger Bernhard , Destgeer Ghulam
Published: April 2024

Crescent‐shaped hydrogel microparticles are shown to template uniform volume aqueous droplets upon simple mixing with aqueous and oil media for various bioassays. This emerging “lab on a particle” technique requires hydrogel particles with tunable material properties and dimensions. The crescent shape of the particles is attained by aqueous two‐phase separation of polymers followed by photopolymerization of the curable precursor. In this work, the phase separation of poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA, Mw 700) and dextran (Mw 40 000) for tunable manufacturing of crescent‐shaped particles is investigated. The particles’ morphology is precisely tuned by following a phase diagram, varying the UV intensity, and adjusting the flow rates of various streams. The fabricated particles with variable dimensions encapsulate uniform aqueous droplets upon mixing with an oil phase. The particles are fluorescently labeled with red and blue emitting dyes at variable concentrations to produce six color‐coded particles. The blue fluorescent dye shows a moderate response to the pH change. The fluorescently labeled particles are able to tolerate an extremely acidic solution (pH 1) but disintegrate within an extremely basic solution (pH 14). The particle‐templated droplets are able to effectively retain the disintegrating particle and the fluorescent signal at pH 14.
Targeting the Cdc2‐like kinase 2 for overcoming platinum resistance in ovarian cancer
Authors: Jiang Yinan , Huang Shuting , Zhang Lan , Zhou Yun , Zhang Wei , Wan Ting , Gu Haifeng , Ouyang Yi , Zheng Xiaojing , Liu Pingping , Pan Baoyue , Xiang Huiling , Ju Mingxiu , Luo Rongzhen , Jia Weihua , Huang Shenjiao , Li Jundong , Zheng Min
Published: April 2024

Platinum resistance represents a major barrier to the survival of patients with ovarian cancer (OC). Cdc2‐like kinase 2 (CLK2) is a major protein kinase associated with oncogenic phenotype and development in some solid tumors. However, the exact role and underlying mechanism of CLK2 in the progression of OC is currently unknown. Using microarray gene expression profiling and immunostaining on OC tissues, we found that CLK2 was upregulated in OC tissues and was associated with a short platinum‐free interval in patients. Functional assays showed that CLK2 protected OC cells from platinum‐induced apoptosis and allowed tumor xenografts to be more resistant to platinum. Mechanistically, CLK2 phosphorylated breast cancer gene 1 (BRCA1) at serine 1423 (Ser1423) to enhance DNA damage repair, resulting in platinum resistance in OC cells. Meanwhile, in OC cells treated with platinum, p38 stabilized CLK2 protein through phosphorylating at threonine 343 of CLK2. Consequently, the combination of CLK2 and poly ADP‐ribose polymerase inhibitors achieved synergistic lethal effect to overcome platinum resistance in patient‐derived xenografts, especially those with wild‐type BRCA1. These findings provide evidence for a potential strategy to overcome platinum resistance in OC patients by targeting CLK2.
Silver‐doped rutile TiO2 nanotubes synthesis. First insights into selective photo‐oxidation of benzyl alcohol derivatives under visible light
Authors: Delaunay Oriane , Denicourt‐Nowicki Audrey , Roucoux Alain
Published: April 2024

The synergistic effect between rutile TiO2 nanotubes and silver nanoparticles on the surface was studied. For that purpose, rutile TiO2 nanotubes were elaborated by a hydrothermal method, doped with silver by a wetness impregnation approach and fully characterized. The as synthesized material showed an improved photocatalytic activity, compared with bare rutile nanotubes, which was correlated to the changes in the optical, structural, and textural properties associated with the variation of silver amount. The photocatalytic activity of the as‐prepared catalysts was evaluated into the oxidation of different benzyl alcohol derivatives under visible light.
Measurement of metabolite levels and treatment‐induced changes in hepatic metastases of gastro‐esophageal cancer using 7‐T phosphorus magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging
Authors: van den Wildenberg Lieke , Runderkamp Bobby A. , Seelen Leonard W. F. , van Laarhoven Hanneke W. M. , Gosselink Mark W. J. M. , van der Kemp Wybe J. M. , Haj Mohammad Nadia , Klomp Dennis W. J. , Prompers Jeanine J.
Published: April 2024

Methods for early treatment response evaluation to systemic therapy of liver metastases are lacking. Tumor tissue often exhibits an increased ratio of phosphomonoesters to phosphodiesters (PME/PDE), which can be noninvasively measured by phosphorus magnetic resonance spectroscopy (31P MRS), and may be a marker for early therapy response assessment in liver metastases. However, with commonly used 31P surface coils for liver 31P MRS, the liver is not fully covered, and metastases may be missed. The objective of this study was to demonstrate the feasibility of 31P MRS imaging (31P MRSI) with full liver coverage to assess 31P metabolite levels and chemotherapy‐induced changes in liver metastases of gastro‐esophageal cancer, using a 31P whole‐body birdcage transmit coil in combination with a 31P body receive array at 7 T. 3D 31P MRSI data were acquired in two patients with hepatic metastases of esophageal cancer, before the start of chemotherapy and after 2 (and 9 in patient 2) weeks of chemotherapy. 3D 31P MRSI acquisitions were performed using an integrated 31P whole‐body transmit coil in combination with a 16‐channel body receive array at 7 T, with a field of view covering the full abdomen and a nominal voxel size of 20‐mm isotropic. From the 31P MRSI data, 12 31P metabolite signals were quantified. Prior to chemotherapy initiation, both PMEs, that is, phosphocholine (PC) and phosphoethanolamine (PE), were significantly higher in all metastases compared with the levels previously determined in the liver of healthy volunteers. After 2 weeks of chemotherapy, PC and PE levels remained high or even increased further, resulting in increased PME/PDE ratios compared with healthy liver tissue, in correspondence with the clinical assessment of progressive disease after 2 months of chemotherapy. The suggested approach may present a viable tool for early therapy (non)response assessment of tumor metabolism in patients with liver metastases.
Failure analysis of glass fiber and basalt fiber reinforced polymer composites under an extreme environment with high‐temperature, high‐pressure and H2S/CO2 exposure
Authors: Sun Haoming , Xiang Dong , Liu Zhuxi , Liu Libing , Harkin‐Jones Eileen , Wang Menghan , Tan Wei , Luo Pingya , Zhang Jie , Wang Bin , Liu Yifeng , Wu Yuanpeng
Published: April 2024

Fiber‐reinforced polymers composites (FRPs) are widely used in the industrial field, but their failure mechanism in extreme environments is usually unclear. In this work, the effect of high‐temperature, high‐pressure and H2S/CO2 extreme environment, similar to oil and gas field conditions, on raw fibers and unidirectional FRPs was investigated. The results showed that the glass fibers (GFs) suffered extensive degradation with the presence of metal sulfides in the precipitate, whereas basalt fibers (BFs) showed localized degradation. The flexural modulus of glass fiber reinforced polymer composite (GFRP) after degradation decreased by 28.8% compared to 25.6% for the basalt fiber reinforced polymer composite (BFRP). The interlaminar shear strength and flexural strength of the BFRP decreased by 20.3% and 24.7% respectively. In contrast, the GFRP had a reduction of 55.2% in flexural strength after degradation. Finite element method (FEM) analysis showed that the GFRP exhibited severe cohesive interface damage, while the primary failure mode of BFRP remained essentially unchanged with a combination of fiber damage and cohesive interface damage. This study confirms the superior degradation resistance of BF/BFRP over GF/GFRP in the simulated environment and highlights its promising application potential in oil and gas field service.

Highlights

Filament winding was used to fabricate the GFRP and BFRP.

Revealed distinct surface morphology changes in GFs and BFs under simulated oil and gas field conditions.

Superior degradation resistance of BFRP over GFRP was found in the extreme environment.

Demonstrated superior chemical stability and mechanical properties of BFRP over GFRP.

Used FEM to investigate the failure modes of FRPs before and after exposure.
Polyglutamine disease proteins: Commonalities and differences in interaction profiles and pathological effects
Authors: Bonsor Megan , Ammar Orchid , Schnoegl Sigrid , Wanker Erich E. , Silva Ramos Eduardo
Published: April 2024

Currently, nine polyglutamine (polyQ) expansion diseases are known. They include spinocerebellar ataxias (SCA1, 2, 3, 6, 7, 17), spinal and bulbar muscular atrophy (SBMA), dentatorubral‐pallidoluysian atrophy (DRPLA), and Huntington's disease (HD). At the root of these neurodegenerative diseases are trinucleotide repeat mutations in coding regions of different genes, which lead to the production of proteins with elongated polyQ tracts. While the causative proteins differ in structure and molecular mass, the expanded polyQ domains drive pathogenesis in all these diseases. PolyQ tracts mediate the association of proteins leading to the formation of protein complexes involved in gene expression regulation, RNA processing, membrane trafficking, and signal transduction. In this review, we discuss commonalities and differences among the nine polyQ proteins focusing on their structure and function as well as the pathological features of the respective diseases. We present insights from AlphaFold‐predicted structural models and discuss the biological roles of polyQ‐containing proteins. Lastly, we explore reported protein–protein interaction networks to highlight shared protein interactions and their potential relevance in disease development.
Navigating the digital frontier during the COVID‐19 pandemic and EVALI epidemic: The impact of social media on public health
Authors: Ngoma Chimwemwe , Matatiyo Apatsa , Oke Gabriel Ilerioluwa , Adebisi Yusuff Adebayo , Shomuyiwa Deborah Oluwaseun
Published: April 2024

This commentary explores how social media influenced public health narratives and responses during two recent health crises, the COVID‐19 global pandemic and the e‐cigarette or vaping product use–associated lung injury (EVALI) epidemic. In the context of COVID‐19 pandemic, social media played a dual role, acting as both a catalyst for information dissemination and a breeding ground for misinformation. This situation highlighted the challenges public health institutions face in navigating online narratives and maintaining public trust during crises. Conversely, the EVALI epidemic shed light on how social media narratives can impact public perception and policy decisions. Initially, attributed to nicotine vaping, subsequent investigations revealed that contaminated cannabis oils containing vitamin E acetate were the actual cause, leading to shifts in public discourse and regulatory considerations. This case underscores the importance of accurate information dissemination to prevent misinterpretations that could negatively impact public health interventions. The commentary also highlights the evolving nature of online narratives and the need for public health agencies to adapt their strategies continually. Fact‐checking programs, public health campaigns, and collaborations with technology companies emerged as critical strategies to combat misinformation and promote evidence‐based practices. However, addressing the root causes of misinformation, such as addressing distrust in institutions, remains an ongoing challenge requiring multifaceted approaches. Looking ahead, controlling online narratives during health crises will continue to present challenges as social media platforms evolve and new challenges emerge. Finding a balance between information sharing and privacy protection while fostering digital literacy skills among the public will be paramount. Collaborative efforts among public health agencies, technology companies, and communities will be essential in navigating and managing online narratives effectively. This commentary underscores the interplay between social media and public health, highlighting the need for strategic interventions, accurate information dissemination, and ongoing adaptation to address emerging challenges in the digital age.
Functional predictability of universal gene circuits in diverse microbial hosts
Authors: Qin Chenrui , Xu Tong , Zhao Xuejin , Zong Yeqing , Zhang Haoqian M. , Lou Chunbo , Ouyang Qi , Qian Long
Published: April 2024

Although the principles of synthetic biology were initially established in model bacteria, microbial producers, extremophiles and gut microbes have now emerged as valuable prokaryotic chassis for biological engineering. Extending the host range in which designed circuits can function reliably and predictably presents a major challenge for the concept of synthetic biology to materialize. In this work, we systematically characterized the cross‐species universality of two transcriptional regulatory modules—the T7 RNA polymerase activator module and the repressors module—in three non‐model microbes. We found striking linear relationships in circuit activities among different organisms for both modules. Parametrized model fitting revealed host non‐specific parameters defining the universality of both modules. Lastly, a genetic NOT gate and a band‐pass filter circuit were constructed from these modules and tested in non‐model organisms. Combined models employing host non‐specific parameters were successful in quantitatively predicting circuit behaviors, underscoring the potential of universal biological parts and predictive modeling in synthetic bioengineering.
Distributed bounded finite‐time cooperative control algorithm for multiple nonlinear manipulators
Authors: Cong Yongzheng , Du Haibo , Li Xueling , Jin Xiaozheng
Published: April 2024

For the position synchronization control problem of multiple nonlinear manipulator systems, a bounded distributed cooperative controller is designed in this paper. Based on a fixed‐time position observer, a distributed finite‐time synchronization controller is designed by using the saturated control technique and homogenous system theory. Compared with the existing results, the proposed distributed cooperative control algorithm not only guarantees finite‐time convergence but also satisfies the input saturation. Finally, some numerical simulation results are presented to verify the feasibility of the theory results with six‐degree‐of‐freedom robots.
Consensus of linear multi‐agent systems under switching topology by sampled‐data output feedback control
Authors: Zhang Ying , Su Youfeng
Published: April 2024

This paper studies both synchronous and asynchronous consensus problems for linear multi‐agent systems under switching topology. A novel distributed continuous‐discrete observer is established by solely using the relative sampled output messages, which needs neither to store messages from neighboring agents nor estimate the information of itself and all neighbors. Based on the estimation provided by the distributed observer, a distributed output feedback control with digital form is synthesized, which allows each agent to update the value of its controller at the synchronous/asynchronous sampling instants. It is of interest to see that, for the class of chain‐integrator multi‐agent systems, the proposed control approach allows the sampling periods to be chosen freely and thus would be more practical in some situations from the perspective of energy saving. The theoretical results are illustrated by formation flying of spacecraft and synchronization of multiple double‐integrators.
Adaptive finite‐time recoil control of deepwater drilling riser systems with nonlinear forces and saturation input using switched event‐triggered scheme
Authors: Cheng Tingting , Zhang Dawei , Zhu Shuqian
Published: April 2024

This article investigates the finite‐time recoil control problem of deepwater drilling riser systems with nonlinear friction force, tension force and saturation input. For the friction force, a new approximation model based on radial basis function neural networks is presented, which not only can ensure a better approximation effect than the sine‐function type and exponential‐polynomial‐function type computational models, but also can be easily used for control design. Different from the existing linear optimal control methods, a neural‐network‐based adaptive backstepping control method is proposed to deal with the nonlinear friction and tension forces, which can achieve better recoil control responses. An auxiliary system combining with the change of coordinates is employed to compensate the saturation input effect. To prolong the average release interval of control input while preserving satisfied control performance, a new switched event‐triggered control (ETC) scheme is developed, in which the triggering conditions are switched between the fixed and relative thresholds based on the strength of control signal. With the event‐triggered controller, the practical finite‐time stability condition of recoil control system is derived and the Zeno behavior is avoided. Numerical results are given to show the advantages of the proposed methods in handling the model nonlinearities, finite‐time stability and ETC performance of riser‐tension systems.
Collaborative interference avoidance technology in GEO‐LEO co‐existing satellite system
Authors: He Mengmin , Cui Gaofeng , Wu Mengjing , Wang Weidong
Published: April 2024

Recently, the Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite and Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO) satellites share the same frequency to enhance spectrum efficiency in response to the scarcity of spectral resources. However, overlapping coverage areas emerge when LEO‐GEO and LEO‐LEO beams cover the same ground area in the GEO‐LEO co‐existing satellite system. Thus, the GEO‐LEO inter‐system interference and the LEO intra‐system interference are generated, which leads to more severe and complex interference. To solve the co‐channel interference problem without sacrificing the performance of the LEO system, a collaborative interference avoidance technology is proposed for the GEO‐LEO co‐existing satellite system. Firstly, the LEO satellite and user regrouping strategy (SURS) is employed to effectively avoid severe co‐channel interference by changing service satellites. Then, based on regrouping satellite and user pairs, a proximal policy optimization (PPO)‐based deep reinforcement learning (DRL) method is adopted to realize further continuous beam pointing optimization (BPO) of the LEO user antenna and reduce the co‐channel interference. Finally, simulation results verify that the proposed scheme can achieve the goal of interference mitigation and continuous service.
Dealing with soft variables and data scarcity: lessons learnt from quantification in a participatory system dynamics modelling process
Authors: Pluchinotta Irene , Zhou Ke , Zimmermann Nici
Published: April 2024

System dynamics (SD) models are commonly used for structuring complex problems to support decision‐making. They are used to investigate areas in which limited knowledge is available, describing nonlinear relationships and including intangible elements. Although this explorative nature is one of the key advantages, it also represents a challenge for quantifying the intangible, i.e. more qualitative aspects of an SD model, especially when it is not possible to apply conventional analytical methods due to data scarcity. Procedures to obtain and analyse information using participatory approaches are limited. First, this article outlines existing quantification methods and related open questions when dealing with soft variables and data scarcity. Secondly, it summarises the quantification process developed during a participatory SD process, describing how we dealt with data scarcity and soft variables. Lastly, we suggest a quantification framework in relation to data availability and level of stakeholder engagement. © 2024 The Authors. System Dynamics Review published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of System Dynamics Society.
PCG: A joint framework of graph collaborative filtering for bug triaging
Authors: Dai Jie , Li Qingshan , Xie Shenglong , Li Daizhen , Chu Hua
Published: April 2024

Bug triaging is a vital process in software maintenance, involving assigning bug reports to developers in the issue tracking system. Current studies predominantly treat automatic bug triaging as a classification task, categorizing bug reports using developers as labels. However, this approach deviates from the essence of triaging, which is establishing bug–developer correlations. These correlations should be explicitly leveraged, offering a more comprehensive and promising paradigm. Our bug triaging model utilizes graph collaborative filtering (GCF), a method known for handling correlations. However, GCF encounters two challenges in bug triaging: data sparsity in bug fixing records and semantic deficiency in exploiting input data. To address them, we propose PCG, an innovative framework that integrates prototype augmentation and contrastive learning with GCF. With bug triaging modeled as predicting links on the bipartite graph of bug–developer correlations, we introduce prototype clustering‐based augmentation to mitigate data sparsity and devise a semantic contrastive learning task to overcome semantic deficiency. Extensive experiments against competitive baselines validate the superiority of PCG. This work may open new avenues for investigating correlations in bug triaging and related scenarios.
The effect of tax‐based price increases on cigarette and fermented liquor consumption: Evidence from tax reform laws in the Philippines
Authors: Lacaza Rutcher M. , Estrada Miguel Antonio G.
Published: April 2024

We evaluate the effect of the recent spate of tax reform laws on cigarette and fermented liquor consumption in the Philippines using an error correction model that utilizes regularly available national data. Since 2012, the Philippine government passed three reform measures that substantially increases cigarette and alcohol excise taxes to address the problems of smoking and noncommunicable diseases, and raises revenue for the country's national health insurance program. This paper offers a potential alternative, considering the estimation challenges stemming from the scarcity of data from individual‐ and household‐based surveys in developing countries like the Philippines. The volume of removals is used to measure consumption while the consumer price index is used to measure price changes. Quarterly national data from 2000 to 2021 yields an elasticity estimate for cigarette demand that is consistent with earlier studies that used individual‐ and household‐level data. Estimates for fermented liquors, meanwhile, offer a basis for policymaking and future studies. Overall, findings highlight the potential of using the error correction model and cointegration techniques to estimate elasticity for countries with limited data, and bolsters the argument on the effectiveness of taxes in influencing health behavior.
Linc-NSC affects cell differentiation, apoptosis and proliferation in mouse neural stem cells and embryonic stem cells in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Guo Lili , Zou Dan , Qiu Wenqiao , Fei Fan , Chen Lihua , Chen Wenjin , Xiong Huan , Li Xinda , Wang Yangyang , Gao Mingjun , Zhu Jianwei , Zhang Jin , He Yunsen , Gao Mou , Xu Ruxiang
Published: April 2024

Background

Stem cell therapy is a promising therapeutic strategy. In a previous study, we evaluated tumorigenicity by the stereotactic transplantation of neural stem cells (NSCs) and embryonic stem cells (ESCs) from experimental mice. Twenty-eight days later, there was no evidence of tumor formation or long-term engraftment in the NSCs transplantation group. In contrast, the transplantation of ESCs caused tumor formation; this was due to their high proliferative capacity. Based on transcriptome sequencing, we found that a long intergenic non-coding RNA (named linc-NSC) with unknown structure and function was expressed at 1100-fold higher levels in NSCs than in ESCs. This finding suggested that linc-NSC is negatively correlated with stem cell pluripotency and tumor development, but positively correlated with neurogenesis. In the present study, we investigated the specific role of linc-NSC in NSCs/ESCs in tumor formation and neurogenesis.

Methods

Whole transcriptome profiling by RNA sequencing and bioinformatics was used to predict lncRNAs that are widely associated with enhanced tumorigenicity. The expression of linc-NSC was assessed by quantitative real-time PCR. We also performed a number of in vitro methods, including cell proliferation assays, differentiation assays, immunofluorescence assays, flow cytometry, along with in vivo survival and immunofluorescence assays to investigate the impacts of linc-NSC on tumor formation and neurogenesis in NSCs and ESCs.

Results

Following the knockdown of linc-NSC in NSCs, NSCs cultured in vitro and those transplanted into the cortex of mice showed stronger survival ability (P < 0.0001), enhanced proliferation(P < 0.001), and reduced apoptosis (P < 0.05); the opposite results were observed when linc-NSC was overexpressed in ESCs. Furthermore, the overexpression of linc-NSC in ECSs induced enhanced apoptosis (P < 0.001) and differentiation (P < 0.01), inhibited tumorigenesis (P < 0.05) in vivo, and led to a reduction in tumor weight (P < 0.0001).

Conclusions

Our analyses demonstrated that linc-NSC, a promising gene-edited target, may promote the differentiation of mouse NSCs and inhibit tumorigenesis in mouse ESCs. The knockdown of linc-NSC inhibited the apoptosis in NSCs both in vitro and in vivo, and prevented tumor formation, revealing a new dimension into the effect of lncRNA on low survival NSCs and providing a prospective gene manipulation target prior to transplantation. In parallel, the overexpression of linc-NSC induced apoptosis in ESCs both in vitro and in vivo and attenuated the tumorigenicity of ESCs in vivo, but did not completely prevent tumor formation.
Optimal fissioning strategies of social insects with respect to colony dynamics and nest founding probability
Authors: Hovestadt T. , Kohl P. , Mitesser O.
Published: April 2024

Social insects demonstrate two fundamentally different modes of reproduction, independent colony foundation (ICF) by single fertilized queens or dependent colony foundation (DCF) by fissioning of existing colonies into two or several new colonies (swarms). In some species, both reproductive modes occur in parallel. The benefits and disadvantages of DCF vs. ICF have been widely discussed and been subject to empirical studies, but a formal theoretical treatment of the topic is still incomplete. Taking honey bees as example, we provide a resource allocation model of colony dynamics to analyze the ecological conditions under which DCF may be favored over ICF. Using mathematical and numerical methods, we show that it critically depends on the survivorship function linking swarm size to the probability of swarm establishment whether ICF or DCF results in a higher output of surviving new colonies. Because building larger swarms requires larger inter-swarm time intervals, DCF can only be a better strategy if this disadvantage is over-compensated for by a strong size-dependent swarm survivorship and survival of single queens is very low. Colony growth rate has no effect on this decision and the impact of maximum possible colony size is negligible. Further, there is a discontinuity in the optimal swarm size, so that either a swarm size of 1 (ICF) is the best strategy, or emitting swarms of considerable size (DCF). Consequently, a direct evolutionary transition from ICF to DCF appears unlikely and may have been triggered by selective pressures promoting movement of complete nests or distributing single colonies over several nests (polydomy).
Is Stent Retraction to ReLieve Arterial Cerebral VaSospasm Caused by SAH (Stent-ReLACSS) Using PRELAX the Long-awaited Solution for Treatment of Posthemorrhagic Cerebral Vasospasm?
Authors: Khanafer A. , von Gottberg P. , Albiña-Palmarola P. , Liebig T. , Forsting M. , Ganslandt O. , Henkes H.
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Recent observational studies have indicated the efficacy of stent retriever devices for the treatment of posthemorrhagic cerebral vasospasm (CVS), both by deployment and on-site withdrawal into the microcatheter (stent angioplasty, SA) and deployment followed by retraction through the target vessel similar to thrombectomy (StentRetraction to reLieve Arterial Cerebral vaSospasm caused by SAH, Stent-ReLACSS). This article reports the findings with each application of pRESET and pRELAX in the treatment of CVS.

Methods

We retrospectively enrolled 25 patients with severe CVS following aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage. For the SA group, a stent retriever or a pRELAX was temporarily deployed into a narrow vessel segment and retrieved into the microcatheter after 3 min. For the Stent-ReLACSS group, a pRELAX was temporarily deployed into a narrow vessel and pulled back unfolded into the internal carotid artery. If intra-arterial vasodilators were administered, they were given exclusively after mechanical vasospasmolysis to maximize the effectiveness of the stent treatment.

Results

In this study fifteen patients and 49 vessels were treated with SA. All were technically successful without periprocedural complications; however, 8/15 patients (53.3%) required additional treatment of the CVS. A total of 10 patients and 23 vessel segments were treated with Stent-ReLACSS. All maneuvers were technically successful without periprocedural complications and all vessels showed significant angiographic improvement. No recurrent CVS requiring further endovascular treatment occurred in-hospital, and neither territorial ischemia in the treated vessels nor vascular injury were observed in follow-up angiography.

Conclusion

Based on the presented data it appears that Stent-ReLACSS with pRELAX does not pose any additional risks when used to treat CVS and might be superior to SA, especially concerning mid-term and long-term efficacy. The mechanism of action may be an effect on the endothelium rather than mechanical vasodilation. As many patients with CVS are diagnosed too late, prophylactic treatment of high-risk patients (e.g., poor grade, young, female) is potentially viable.