bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of ketogenic dietary therapy for drug‐resistant epilepsy in early infancy
Authors: Armeno Marisa , Calligaris Silvana , Gagiulo Daniela , Cresta Araceli , Vaccarezza Maria Magdalena , Diez Cecilia Griselda , Alberti Maria Julia , Viollaz Rocio , Vilavedra Francisco , Caraballo Roberto H.
Published: September 2023

Objective

There is growing evidence that ketogenic dietary therapy (KDT) can be safely and efficiently used in young children, but little evidence exists on its use in newborns. Developmental and epileptic encephalopathies starting in the neonatal period or early infancy usually present a poor prognosis. The aim of this study was to evaluate effectiveness, safety, and survival of infants younger than 3 months of age with drug‐resistant epilepsy in whom KDT was used.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted to evaluate neonates and infants younger than 3 months who started KDT for drug‐resistant developmental and epileptic encephalopathies at three referral centers. Data were collected on demographic features, time of epilepsy onset, epilepsy syndrome, seizure type, seizure frequency at diet onset, etiology, details regarding diet initiation, type of ketogenic formula, breastfeeding, route of administration, blood ketones, growth, length of NICU stay, and survival.

Results

Nineteen infants younger than 12 weeks of life who received KDT with a minimum follow‐up of 1 month were included; 13 had early‐infantile developmental and epileptic encephalopathy, four epilepsy of infancy with migrating focal seizures, and two focal epilepsy. A >50% response was observed in 73.7% at 1 month on the diet; 37% achieved a > 75% seizure reduction, and 10.5% became seizure free. At 3 months, a >50% decrease in seizure frequency was observed in 72.2%; 15.8% had a >75% reduction; 21% became seizure free. Overall survival was 76% at 1 year on diet. Incidence of acute and late adverse effects was low and most adverse effects were asymptomatic and manageable.

Significance

Our experience suggests that KDT is safe and effective in newborns and very young infants; however, further studies on the management of the diet in this vulnerable age group are necessary.
The Effect of Food on Bromfenac, Naproxen Sodium, and Acetaminophen in Postoperative Pain after Orthopedic Surgery
Authors: Forbes James A. , Sandberg Rolf Å. , Bood‐Björklund Lena
Published: September 2023

Study Objectives. To evaluate the effect of a standard meal on bioavailability of bromfenac, and on the relative analgesic efficacy and adverse effect liability of bromfenac 25 mg, naproxen sodium 550 mg, and acetaminophen 325 mg in the treatment of pain after orthopedic surgery.

Design. Randomized, double‐blind, single‐dose, parallel‐group.

Setting. Two wards of the orthopedic surgery department at the Central Hospital, Karlstad, Sweden.

Patients. Three hundred ten patients with steady, moderate, or severe pain within 72 hours after orthopedic surgery.

Interventions. Patients were randomly assigned both to receive a standard meal or remain in a fasted state, and to treatment with a single oral dose of bromfenac 25 mg, naproxen sodium 550 mg, or acetaminophen 325 mg, when they experienced steady, moderate, or severe pain that required an analgesic. Using a self‐rating record, subjects rated their pain and its relief for up to 8 hours after medicating. Blood samples were obtained from all patients using one of two schedules.

Measurements and Main Results. The peak plasma bromfenac concentration for fed patients was only 28% of that of fasted patients. Disregarding food intake, bromfenac 25 mg and naproxen sodium 550 mg were significantly superior to acetaminophen 325 mg for all summary measures of analgesia. Bromfenac and naproxen were superior to acetaminophen by hour 1 and this difference persisted for 8 hours. Food reduced bromfenac's analgesic effect, but not that of naproxen or acetaminophen; treatment by meal interaction was significant for five measures of efficacy. Analgesic response for fed bromfenac recipients, compared with those who were fasted, ranged from 37–71%. The percentage of patients reporting an adverse effect was significantly higher for bromfenac (25%) and naproxen (24%) than for acetaminophen (12%).

Conclusions. Results of analgesic studies not taking patients' food status into consideration might be misleading. Although bromfenac 25 mg and naproxen sodium 550 mg produced significant analgesia compared with acetaminophen 325 mg, bromfenac's efficacy was significantly reduced when patients ate a standard meal. Adverse effects were transient and consistent with the pharmacologic profiles of the drugs.
Potential Angiotensin‐Converting Enzyme Inhibitor—Epoetin Alfa Interaction in Patients Receiving Chronic Hemodialysis
Authors: Schwenk Michael H. , Jumani Abdul Q. , Rosenberg Carl R. , Kulogowski Josephine E. , Charytan Chaim , Spinowitz Bruce S.
Published: September 2023

We compared epoetin alfa (EPO) dose requirements and hematocrit response in 17 patients receiving chronic hemodialysis at baseline and after 3 and 12 months of therapy with angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors (12 enalapril, 5 captopril). No acute processes were present (infection, hemorrhage, inflammation) at time of starting ACE inhibitor therapy. Mean (± SD) intravenous EPO dosages at zero, 3, and 12 months were 6012 ± 2575, 5800 ± 2026, and 5660 ± 2285 U 3 times/week (p=0.56), and mean differences were − 212 U for 0–3 months (95% CI −1310 to 886) and −713 U for 0–12 months (95% CI −2142 to 716). Mean ± SD hematocrits were 30.5 ± 3.9%, 31.6 ± 3.2%, and 34.2 ± 3.1% (p=0.01, zero vs 12 mo), and mean differences were 1.7% for 0–3 months (95% CI −1.41 to 4.81) and 3.85% for zero–12 months (95% CI 0.71–7). Our results indicate that ACE inhibitors do not increase EPO dose requirements or reduce hematocrits in these patients.
Disparities in care and outcomes for adolescent and young adult lymphoma patients
Authors: Rosenthal Allison , Duvall Adam , Kahn Justine , Khan Niloufer
Published: September 2023

Though survival outcomes among adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with lymphoma have improved over the last three decades, socially vulnerable populations including non‐White, low‐income, and publicly insured groups continue to trail behind on survival curves. These disparities, while likely the result of both biological and non‐biological factors, can be largely attributed to inequities in care over the full cancer continuum. Nationally representative studies have demonstrated that from diagnosis through therapy and into long‐term survivorship, socially vulnerable AYAs with lymphoma face barriers to care that impact their short and long‐term survival. Thus, improving outcomes for all AYAs with lymphoma requires dedicated study to understand, and then address the unique challenges faced by non‐White and low‐income lymphoma populations within this age group.
High Rates of Positive Severe Combined Immunodeficiency Screening Among Newborns with Severe Intestinal Failure
Authors: Fullerton Brenna S. , Velazco Cristine S. , Hong Charles R. , Carey Alexandra N. , Jaksic Tom
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) screening by T‐cell receptor excision circles (TREC) has been part of Massachusetts routine newborn screening since 2009. Tetratricopeptide repeat domain 7A gene (TTC7A) mutations responsible for hereditary multiple intestinal atresia with combined immunodeficiency (MIA‐CID) were also recently identified. We reviewed newborn SCID screening among infants with intestinal failure and correlated results with patient characteristics and outcomes.

Methods

Records of infants with severe intestinal failure and available newborn screen results treated at a single center 2009–2016 were reviewed retrospectively. Patients with 1 or more positive SCID screens (<252 TREC copies/μL) were compared with those without positive screens. TREC copies/μL were compared with population norms.

Results

Of 70 included infants, 34% had newborn screens with TREC <252 copies/μL, compared with 0.3% of the general population; TREC levels for the cohort were lower than the general population (p<0.001). Of those with positive screens, 42% had prior or subsequent negative screening, 8% had no further workup, and 50% had flow cytometry showing: severe T‐cell lymphopenia (absolute CD3+ <1500 cells/mcL) in 8, 3 of whom had TTC7A mutation–associated MIA‐CID. Four had CD3+ >1500 cells/mcL. MIA‐CID patients had the lowest serum citrulline in the cohort; 4 of the 8 patients with CD3+ <1500 cells/mcL on flow cytometry had newborn screening notable for severe hypocitrullinemia (<3 μM).

Conclusion

Infants with intestinal failure have lower TREC copies/μL than the general population; one‐third had levels concerning for SCID, and 11% were diagnosed with severe T‐cell lymphopenia. The clinical implications and etiology of this phenomenon remain unknown, but may be related to hypocitrullinemia.
Characterization of Fatty Acid Profiles in Infants With Intestinal Failure–Associated Liver Disease
Authors: Baker Meredith A. , Mitchell Paul D. , O'Loughlin Alison A. , Potemkin Alexis K. , Anez‐Bustillos Lorenzo , Dao Duy T. , Fell Gillian L. , Gura Kathleen M. , Puder Mark
Published: September 2023

Background

The purpose of this study was to characterize fatty acid profiles (FAPs) in parenteral nutrition (PN)‐dependent infants with intestinal failure–associated liver disease (IFALD) receiving soybean oil–based lipid emulsion (SO) doses of ∼3 and ∼1 g/kg/d.

Methods

Prospectively collected data were retrospectively reviewed. Serum FAPs of patients <1 year old who experienced development of IFALD while receiving standard PN with SO were examined before transitioning to a fish oil–based lipid emulsion for IFALD treatment. Time on SO, dose, gestational age, and weight‐ and length‐for‐age z scores were also reviewed.

Results

Among the 49 patients analyzed, there were no differences in demographics or anthropometrics between patients who received standard SO (SO‐S) (n = 14, range of dosage 2.06–3.31 g/kg/d) and reduced SO (SO‐R) (n = 35, range of dosage 0.90–1.34 g/kg/d). Patients received SO for a median of 53 days (interquartile range 39, 73) before FAP measurement. Patients who received SO‐R had significantly higher Mead acid and lower α‐linolenic, eicosapentaenoic, linoleic, stearic, total ω‐3, and total ω‐6 fatty acid levels than patients who received SO‐S (P < .01). Triene:tetraene ratios were higher in patients who received SO‐R (P = .0009), and no patients experienced biochemical essential fatty acid deficiency (EFAD).

Conclusion

PN‐dependent infants with IFALD receiving SO‐R have different FAPs than patients receiving SO‐S. No patients in either group had biochemical EFAD.
Matrix solid‐phase dispersion combined with micro‐fractionation bioactivity evaluation screening polymethoxylated flavones from Citrus peels
Authors: Fang Liqun , Wen Mengyi , Zou Yanfang , Chu Chu , Wu Chunyan , Tong Shengqiang
Published: September 2023

Polymethoxyflavones were a unique class of natural and safe flavonoids containing two or more methoxy groups, which were also the most abundant edible part in Citrus peel. The optimum condition in the process of selective extraction of polymethoxylated flavones from Citrus peel by matrix solid‐phase dispersion (MSPD) was as follows: SBA‐15 as adsorbent, ethyl acetate as eluent, the mass ratio of adsorbent to sample 1:1, and the mixture of sample and adsorbent was ground for 3 min. Twelve antioxidants were successfully screened by micro‐fractionation bioactivity evaluation assay, in which four of them were flavonoid glycosides, seven of them were polymethoxylated flavones, and one was phenylpropanoid. 1‐sinapoly‐β‐D‐glucopyranoside (1) was reported for the first time in Citrus peel. And antioxidant capacity of 1‐sinapoly‐β‐D‐glucopyranoside, 5, 7, 8, 3′, 4′, 5′‐hexamethoxyflavone (6), hexamethoxyflavone (11), and 5, 6, 7, 4′‐tetramethoxyflavone (7) were reported for the first time. Nobiletin (compound 8), 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 3′, 4′‐heptamethoxyflavone (9) and tangeretin (10) were isolated and purified by countercurrent chromatography combined with preparative liquid chromatography. Antioxidant activity evaluation indicated that the three isolated polymethoxylated flavones owned similar antioxidant activity. This study indicated that MSPD combined with micro‐fractionation bioactive evaluation was efficient in screening bioactive compounds for rapid extraction and effective pinpointing bioactive substances in natural products.
Chemical Modification of Silk Proteins via Palladium‐Mediated Suzuki−Miyaura Reactions
Authors: Santen Racine M. , Owens Kayla M. , Echague Keith C. , Murphy Amanda R.
Published: September 2023

Suzuki−Miyaura cross‐coupling reactions are used to modify the tyrosine residues on Bombyx mori silkworm silk proteins using a water‐soluble palladium catalyst. First, model reactions using tyrosine derivatives are screened to determine optimal reaction conditions. For these reactions, a variety of aryl boronic acids, solvents, buffers, and temperature ranges are explored. Qualitative information on the reaction progress is collected via high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), mass spectrometry (MS), and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). Optimized reactions are then applied to silk proteins. It is demonstrated the ability to modify silk fibroin in solution by first iodinating the tyrosine residues on the protein, and then carrying out Suzuki‐Miyaura reactions with a variety of boronic acid derivatives. Modification of silk is confirmed with NMR, ion‐exchange chromatography (IEC), UV‐vis, and infrared spectroscopy (IR).
Prenatal whole‐exome sequencing in fetuses with increased nuchal translucency
Authors: Cao Chunge , Liu Fang , Yang Yan , Zhang Qing , Huang Junfang , Liu Xinhong
Published: September 2023

Background

Increased nuchal translucency (NT) is associated with an increased risk for genetic disorders. The aim of this study was to investigate the value of whole‐exome sequencing (WES) in detecting genetic abnormalities for fetuses with isolated first‐trimester increased NT.

Methods

After the exclusion of aneuploidies and pathogenic copy number variants (CNVs) by quantitative fluorescent polymerase chain reaction (QF‐PCR) and chromosomal microarray analysis (CMA), WES was performed on 63 fetuses with isolated first‐trimester increased NT (≥3.5 mm).

Results

Overall, WES yielded a 4.8% (3/63) diagnostic rate for fetuses with isolated increased NT. Pathogenic variants were identified in 37.5% (3/8) fetuses that developed additional structural anomalies later in gestation, and no pathogenic variants were detected in increased NT that resolved or remained isolated throughout the pregnancy.

Conclusion

This study provides powerful evidence to offer prenatal WES for increased NT only when additional abnormalities are present. Early detailed ultrasound to detect emerging anomalies can help physicians offer prenatal WES to fetuses with a greater likelihood of diagnosis.
Bidirectional Effect of Triphala on Modulating Gut‐Brain Axis to Improve Cognition in the Murine Model of Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Upadhyay Prabhat , Tyagi Anurag , Agrawal Sakshi , Kumar Anil , Gupta Sarika
Published: September 2023

Scope

The emerging role of gut microbiota and their metabolites in the modulation of the gut‐brain axis has received much attention as a new hope for the treatment of hard‐to‐treat chronic neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's disease. The naturally occurring polyphenols can restore the gut‐brain axis by modulating gut microbiota and brain neurotransmitters. The Indian traditional medicine Triphala, a rich source of polyphenols, has been used on humans based on Prakriti or disease conditions for many years.

Methods and results

In this study, the dual mode (morning and evening) action of Triphala is used to provide scientific evidence of its superior preventive and therapeutic efficacy in C57BL/6 and 5xFAD, APP/PS1 transgenic mouse model of Alzheimer's disease. The study observes that Triphala treatment has significantly improved cognitive function, by modulating the APP pathway, reducing inflammation, and restoring the gut‐brain axis by increasing the gut microbiota phyla of Bacteroides, Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, etc., involved in maintaining the gut homeostasis.

Conclusions

The study paves a new path for using dual modes of Triphala alone or in combination to treat incurable AD.
An FDTD method for multiterm modified Lorentz media and comparisons with existing schemes
Authors: Prokopidis Konstantinos P.
Published: September 2023

A finite‐difference time‐domain (FDTD) method for modified Lorentz (mLor) media is proposed based on the order reduction of the governing differential equations. The introduced algorithm is verified in the benchmark problem of wave propagation through a thin slab. Several FDTD methods for the modeling of mLor media are also discussed and a numerical dispersion analysis is conducted. Comparisons in terms of accuracy and numerical simulations prove the validity of the schemes for the study of optics and photonic applications.
Quantitative ultrasound techniques for assessing thermal ablation: Measurement of the backscatter coefficient from ex vivo human liver
Authors: Rohfritsch Adrien , Franceschini Emilie , Dupré Aurélien , Melodelima David
Published: September 2023

Background

Understanding the changes occurring in biological tissue during thermal ablation is at the heart of many current challenges in both therapy and medical imaging research.

Purpose

The objective of this work is to quantitatively interpret the scattering response of human liver samples, before and after thermal ablation. We report acoustic measurements performed involving n = 21 human liver samples. Thermal ablation is achieved at temperatures between 45 and 80°C and quantification of the irreversible changes in acoustic attenuation and Backscattering Coefficient (BSC) is reported, with a particular attention to the latter.

Methods

Both attenuation coefficient and BSCs were measured in the frequency range from 10 to 52 MHz. Scans were performed before heating and after cooling down. Attenuation coefficients were calculated using spectral difference method and BSC estimated using the reference phantom method.

Results

Strong increases of attenuation coefficients and BSCs with heating temperature were observed. Quantitative ultrasonic parameters obtained with the polydisperse structure factor model (poly‐SFM)are compared to histological observations and seen to be close to hepatocyte mean diameter (HMD).

Conclusions

The results presented in this study provide a description of the impact of thermal ablation in human liver tissue on acoustic attenuation and the BSC. For the first time, quantitative agreement between the Effective Scatterer Diameter (ESD) estimated from BSC and HMD was shown, highlighting the important role of cellular network in the scattering response of the medium. This core result is an important step toward the determination of the nature of scattering sources in biological tissues.
Flow augmentation from off-channel storage improves salmonid habitat and survival
Authors: Rossi Gabriel J. , Obedzinski Mariska , Pneh Shelley , Pierce Sarah Nossaman , Boucher William T. , Slaughter Weston M. , Flynn Keane M. , Grantham Theodore E.
Published: September 2023

Objective

In the western United States, juvenile salmon Oncorhynchus spp. and steelhead O. mykiss are especially vulnerable to streamflow depletion in the dry season. Releasing water from off-channel storage into small streams is a novel restoration strategy to offset impacts from anthropogenic flow alteration on salmonid fishes. To date, no studies have evaluated the ecological effects of small-scale flow augmentations. Here, we quantify the effects of one such augmentation project on habitat connectivity, water quality, invertebrate drift, and juvenile salmonid movement and survival.

Methods

Our study took place in a northern California stream and included an unusually wet summer (2019) and a more typical dry summer (2020). We used categorical and time-series analyses in a before–after, control–impact (BACI) design, along with capture–mark–recapture methods to evaluate the ecological impacts of a 13.9-L/s flow augmentation.

Result

We found that differences in ambient streamflows between the two years mediated the physical and ecological effects of the flow augmentation treatment. In the dry year, habitat connectivity and dissolved oxygen markedly increased at sites over 1.5 km downstream from the point of augmentation, whereas during the wet year, the effects on those variables were negligible. In both years, invertebrate drift marginally increased after augmentation. Interpool movement of wild juvenile steelhead and stocked Coho Salmon O. kisutch increased after augmentation during the dry summer but not during the wet summer. Flow augmentation increased the survival probability for salmonids, with a larger effect during the dry summer (24% higher survival for Coho Salmon and 20% higher survival for steelhead) than during the wet summer (no effect was observed for steelhead survival, and Coho Salmon survival increased by 11%).

Conclusion

This study indicates that appropriately designed small-scale flow augmentations can improve conditions for rearing salmonids in small streams, particularly during dry years. More broadly, it provides empirical evidence that efforts to restore summer streamflow in small, salmon-bearing streams can yield significant ecological benefits.
A double‐tuned 1H/31P coil for rabbit heart metabolism detection at 3 T
Authors: Quan Zhiyan , Yang Zhaoxia , Tang Xiaocui , Fu Caixia , Zhou Xiaoyue , Huang Lu , Xia Liming , Zhang Xiaotong
Published: September 2023

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)/magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) employing proton nuclear resonance has emerged as a pivotal modality in clinical diagnostics and fundamental research. Nonetheless, the scope of MRI/MRS extends beyond protons, encompassing nonproton nuclei that offer enhanced metabolic insights. A notable example is phosphorus‐31 (31P) MRS, which provides valuable information on energy metabolites within the skeletal muscle and cardiac tissues of individuals affected by diabetes. This study introduces a novel double‐tuned coil tailored for 1H and 31P frequencies, specifically designed for investigating cardiac metabolism in rabbits. The proposed coil design incorporates a butterfly‐like coil for 31P transmission, a four‐channel array for 31P reception, and an eight‐channel array for 1H reception, all strategically arranged on a body‐conformal elliptic cylinder. To assess the performance of the double‐tuned coil, a comprehensive evaluation encompassing simulations and experimental investigations was conducted. The simulation results demonstrated that the proposed 31P transmit design achieved acceptable homogeneity and exhibited comparable transmit efficiency on par with a band‐pass birdcage coil. In vivo experiments further substantiated the coil's efficacy, revealing that the rabbit with experimentally induced diabetes exhibited a lower phosphocreatine/adenosine triphosphate ratio compared with its normal counterpart. These findings emphasize the potential of the proposed coil design as a promising tool for investigating the therapeutic effects of novel diabetes drugs within the context of animal experimentation. Its capability to provide detailed metabolic information establishes it as an indispensable asset within this realm of research.
Injury and recovery process of intestine caused by okadaic acid and related compounds
Authors: Ito Emiko , Terao Kiyoshi
Published: September 2023

The injuries and repair processes in the intestines of mice induced by dinophysistoxin 3 (DTX 3) were compared morphologically to those induced by okadaic acid (OA) and dinophysistoxin 1 (DTX 1). DTX 3 impaired intestinal villi by the oral route only, whereas OA and DTX 1 caused intestinal injury with both oral and intraperitoneal exposures. The character of the lesions caused by the 3 toxins and the recovery processes were highly similar. Within 5 min of dosing, the basal portion of the covering epithelium became homogeneous and peeled from the lamina propria, while the upper portion containing microvilli remained intact. There were two types of villous injury and recovery: 1) When the injuries were limited to the villi, new cells from the crypts moved upward and differentiated into columnar cells. 2) When injuries progressed into the glands of Lieberkuhn, clusters of crypt cells were exposed to the intestinal lumen, and in the most severe case they were completely separated. Villous fusion was often seen in the recovery process of the type 2 cases. Recovery from the injuries was almost completed within 2 days. When mice were pretreated with fusarenon‐X, a mycotoxin which injures undifferentiated crypt cells preferentially, the injury induced by OA to the intestinal crypts was exacerbated and the recovery was delayed.
Catalytic activity of polypodands and glymes under solid–liquid phase‐transfer catalysis conditions. Amolecular mechanics study
Authors: Varnek A. A. , Maia A. , Landini D. , Gamba A. , Morosi G. , Podda G.
Published: September 2023

A molecular mechanics study of cyclophosphazenic polypodands and of glymes, of their complexes with ion pairs (IPs) M+ I− (M+ = Li+, Na+, K+, Rb+) and IP aggregates (M+ I−)n was carried out to investigate the catalytic activity of these ligands in solid–liquid phase‐transfer reaction. This activity is explained by their ability to bind IP aggregates effectively and to activate the anion by increasing the interionic distance in the single IP.
Photon‐Assisted Landau Zener Transitions in a Tunable Driven Rabi Dimer Coupled to a Micromechanical Resonator
Authors: Melvin Daniel , Zheng Fulu , Sun Kewei , Tan Zhengjie , Zhao Yang
Published: September 2023

Employing the multiple Davydov D2 Ansätze with the time‐dependent variational principle, photon‐assisted Landau–Zener (LZ) transitions and qubit manipulation in a hybrid quantum electrodynamics device have been investigated. Modeled as a Rabi dimer, the device comprises of two interacting transmission‐line resonators, each coupled to a qubit. The qubits, driven by independent harmonic fields, are further modulated by a micromechanical resonator mimicked by a phonon mode. The impacts of two independent driving fields on the qubit dynamics are carefully examined. The energy diagram of the system and the photon number mobilization on the resonators are analyzed to explain the behavior of the LZ transitions and qubit dynamics while taking into account the influence of the single phonon mode. Results show that low phonon frequencies can alter the qubit dynamics, particularly in the absence of the driving fields, and a strong phonon coupling strength can significantly perturb the qubit dynamics, thanks to a high influx of phonon energy. Notably, only the photon frequency affects the oscillation frequency of qubit polarization. This study unveils the imperative roles that photons and phonons play in the Rabi dimer model.
A single‐input single‐output versus multiple‐input multiple‐output feedback controllers for the Korteweg‐de Vries‐Kuramoto‐Sivashinsky equation
Authors: Smaoui N. , Al Jamal R.
Published: September 2023

The dynamics and control of the Korteweg‐de Vries‐Kuramoto‐Sivashinsky (KdVKS) equation subject to periodic boundary conditions are considered. First, the dynamics of the KdVKS equation is analyzed using the Fourier Galerkin reduced‐order method. This reduced‐order method is used to generate a finite‐dimensional approximation of the KdVKS equation. Then, a multiple‐input multiple‐output (MIMO) and a single‐input single‐output (SISO) controllers are designed to stabilize the finite‐dimensional approximation of the linearized KdVKS equation. We show that both the MIMO and SISO controllers which are designed to stabilize the linearized system will locally stabilize the infinite‐dimensional KdVKS equation. The Frechét differentiability of the semigroup generated by the closed‐loop system is crucial to prove the local stability results of the controllers. Furthermore, we show that the condition on the number of output measurements that must equal to the total number of unstable and critically stable eigenvalues of the linearized KdVKS equation is not necessary for the local exponential stability of the KdVKS equation. Finally, numerical simulations based on the two designed controllers are presented and compared to illustrate the developed theory.
A new approach to evaluating loop inconsistency in network meta‐analysis
Authors: Turner Rebecca M. , Band Tim , Morris Tim P. , Fisher David J. , Higgins Julian P. T. , Carpenter James R. , White Ian R.
Published: September 2023

In network meta‐analysis, studies evaluating multiple treatment comparisons are modeled simultaneously, and estimation is informed by a combination of direct and indirect evidence. Network meta‐analysis relies on an assumption of consistency, meaning that direct and indirect evidence should agree for each treatment comparison. Here we propose new local and global tests for inconsistency and demonstrate their application to three example networks. Because inconsistency is a property of a loop of treatments in the network meta‐analysis, we locate the local test in a loop. We define a model with one inconsistency parameter that can be interpreted as loop inconsistency. The model builds on the existing ideas of node‐splitting and side‐splitting in network meta‐analysis. To provide a global test for inconsistency, we extend the model across multiple independent loops with one degree of freedom per loop. We develop a new algorithm for identifying independent loops within a network meta‐analysis. Our proposed models handle treatments symmetrically, locate inconsistency in loops rather than in nodes or treatment comparisons, and are invariant to choice of reference treatment, making the results less dependent on model parameterization. For testing global inconsistency in network meta‐analysis, our global model uses fewer degrees of freedom than the existing design‐by‐treatment interaction approach and has the potential to increase power. To illustrate our methods, we fit the models to three network meta‐analyses varying in size and complexity. Local and global tests for inconsistency are performed and we demonstrate that the global model is invariant to choice of independent loops.
MXene‐Decorated Nanofibrous Membrane with Programmed Antibacterial and Anti‐Inflammatory Effects via Steering NF‐κB Pathway for Infectious Cutaneous Regeneration
Authors: Huang Yixuan , He Shuai , Yu Sheng , Johnson Hannah M. , Chan Yau Kei , Jiao Zheng , Wang Shouteng , Wu Zixiang , Deng Yi
Published: September 2023

Although antibiotic is still the main choice for antibacteria both in hospital and community, phototherapy has become a possibly one of the alternative approaches in the treatment of microbe‐associated infections nowadays because of its considerable potential in effective eradication of pathogenic bacteria. However, overwhelming reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated from phototherapy inevitably provoke an inflammatory response, complicating the healing process. To address this outstanding issue, a MXene‐decorated nanofibrious is devised that not only yield localized heat but also elevate ROS levels under near‐infrared laser exposure ascribed to the synergistic photothermal/photodynamic effect, for potent bacterial inactivation. After being further loaded with aspirin, the nanofibrous membranes exhibit benign cytocompatibility, boosting cell growth and suppressing the (nuclear factor kappa‐B ( NF‐κB) signaling pathways through RNA sequencing analysis, indicating an excellent anti‐inflammatory effect. Interestingly, in vivo investigations also corroborate that the nanofibrous membranes accelerate infectious cutaneous regeneration by efficiently killing pathogenic bacteria, promoting collagen deposition, boosting angiogenesis, and dampening inflammatory reaction via steering NF‐κB pathway. As envisaged, this work furnishes a decorated nanofibrous membrane with programmed antibacterial and anti‐inflammatory effects for remedy of refractory bacteria‐invaded wound regeneration.
Boosting Zinc Storage Performance of Li3VO4 Cathode Material for Aqueous Zinc Ion Batteries via Carbon‐Incorporation: A Study Combining Theory and Experiment
Authors: Cheng Huanhuan , Zhang Yu , Cai Xuanxuan , Liu Chenfan , Wang Zhiwen , Ye Hang , Pan Yanliang , Jia Dianzeng , Lin He
Published: September 2023

In the search for sustainable cathode materials for aqueous zinc ion batteries (AZIBs), vanadium (V)‐based materials have garnered interest, primarily due to their abundance and multiple oxidation states. Among the contenders, Li3VO4 (LiVO) stands out for its affordability, high specific capacity, and elevated ionic conductivity. However, its limited electrical conductivity results in significant resistance polarization, limiting its rate capability, especially under high currents. Through density functional theory (DFT) calculations, this study evaluates the electrochemical implications of carbon (C) incorporation within the LiVO matrix. The findings indicate that C integration significantly ameliorates the conductivity of LiVO. Moreover, C serves as a barrier, mitigating direct interactions between Zn2+ and LiVO, which in turn expedites Zn2+ diffusion. When considering various C materials for this role, glucose is emerged as the optimal candidate. The LiVO/C‐glucose composite (LiVO/C‐G) is observed to undergo dual phase transitions during charge–discharge cycles, resulting in an amorphous vanadium‐oxygen (VO) derivative, paving the way for subsequent electrochemical reactions. Collectively, the insights pave a promising avenue for refining AZIB cathode design and performance.
High‐Areal Capacity, High‐Rate Lithium Metal Anodes Enabled by Nitrogen‐Doped Graphene Mesh
Authors: Liu Yuhang , He Chen , Bi Jingxuan , Li Siyu , Du Hongfang , Du Zhuzhu , Guan Wanqing , Ai Wei
Published: September 2023

Hosts hold great prospects for addressing the dendrite growth and volume expansion of the Li metal anode, but Li dendrites are still observable under the conditions of high deposition capacity and/or high current density. Herein, a nitrogen‐doped graphene mesh (NGM) is developed, which possesses a conductive and lithiophilic scaffold for efficient Li deposition. The abundant nanopores in NGM can not only provide sufficient room for Li deposition, but also speed up Li ion transport to achieve a high‐rate capability. Moreover, the evenly distributed N dopants on the NGM can guide the uniform nucleation of Li so that to inhibit dendrite growth. As a result, the composite NGM@Li anode shows satisfactory electrochemical performances for Li–S batteries, including a high capacity of 600 mAh g−1 after 300 cycles at 1 C and a rate capacity of 438 mAh g−1 at 3 C. This work provides a new avenue for the fabrication of graphene‐based hosts with large areal capacity and high‐rate capability for Li metal batteries.
MXene‐Derived Na+‐Pillared Vanadate Cathodes for Dendrite‐Free Potassium Metal Batteries
Authors: Yang Hongyan , Li Qi , Sun Lanju , Zhai Shengliang , Chen Xiaokang , Tan Yi , Wang Xiao , Liu Chengcheng , Deng Wei‐Qiao , Wu Hao
Published: September 2023

Cation‐intercalated vanadates, which have considerable promise as the cathode for high‐performance potassium metal batteries (PMBs), suffer from structural collapse upon K+ insertion and desertion. Exotic cations in the vanadate cathode may ease the collapse, yet their effect on the intrinsic cation remains speculative. Herein, a stable and dendrite‐free PMB, composed of a Na+ and K+ co‐intercalated vanadate (NKVO) cathode and a liquid NaK alloy anode, is presented. A series of NKVO with tuneable Na/K ratios are facilely prepared using MXene precursors, in which Na+ is testified to be immobilized upon cycling, functioning as a structural pillar. Due to stronger ionic bonding and lower Fermi level of Na+ compared to K+, moderate Na+ intercalation could reduce K+ binding to the solvation sheath and favor K+ diffusion kinetics. As a result, the MXene‐derived Na+‐pillared NKVO exhibits markedly improved specific capacities, rate performance, and cycle stability than the Na+‐free counterpart. Moreover, thermally‐treated carbon paper, which imitates the microscopic structure of Chinese Xuan paper, allows high surface tension liquid NaK alloy to adhere readily, enabling dendrite‐free metal anodes. By clarifying the role of foreign intercalating cations, this study may lead to a more rational design of stable and high‐performance electrode materials.
Visible‐Light‐Driven Selective Hydrogenation of Nitrostyrene over Layered Ternary Sulfide Nanostructures
Authors: Chen Feifan , Feng Haohui , Feng Changsheng , Ge Feiyue , Hu Lijun , Chen Yue , Zhang Han , Cheng Fang , Wu Xue‐Jun
Published: September 2023

Selective hydrogenation of nitrostyrenes is a great challenge due to the competitive activation of the nitro groups (─NO2) and carbon–carbon (C═C) double bonds. Photocatalysis has emerged as an alternative to thermocatalysis for the selective hydrogenation reaction, bypassing the precious metal costs and harsh conditions. Herein, two crystalline phases of layered ternary sulfide Cu2WS4, that is, body‐centered tetragonal I‐Cu2WS4 nanosheets and primitive tetragonal P‐Cu2WS4 nanoflowers, are controlled synthesized by adjusting the capping agents. Remarkably, these nanostructures show visible‐light‐driven photocatalytic performance for selective hydrogenation of 3‐nitrostyrene under mild conditions. In detail, the I‐Cu2WS4 nanosheets show excellent conversion of 3‐nitrostyrene (99.9%) and high selectivity for 3‐vinylaniline (98.7%) with the assistance of Na2S as a hole scavenger. They also can achieve good hydrogenation selectivity to 3‐ethylnitrobenzene (88.5%) with conversion as high as 96.3% by using N2H4 as a proton source. Mechanism studies reveal that the photogenerated electrons and in situ generated protons from water participate in the former hydrogenation pathway, while the latter requires the photogenerated holes and in situ generated reactive oxygen species to activate the N2H4 to form cis‐N2H2 for further reduction. The present work expands the rational synthesis of ternary sulfide nanostructures and their potential application for solar‐energy‐driven organic transformations.
Recent Advances in Bioelectronics for Localized Drug Delivery
Authors: Jiang Xinran , Wu Han , Xiao Ao , Huang Ya , Yu Xinge , Chang Lingqian
Published: September 2023

The last decade has witnessed remarkable advancements in bioelectronics, ushering in a new era of wearable and implantable devices for drug delivery. By utilizing miniaturized system design and/or flexible materials, bioelectronics illustrates ideal integration with target organs and tissues, making them ideal platforms for localized drug delivery. Furthermore, the development of electrically assisted drug delivery systems has enhanced the efficiency and safety of therapeutic administration, particularly for the macromolecules that encounter additional challenges in penetrating biological barriers. In this review, a concise overview of recent progress in bioelectronic devices for in vivo localized drug delivery, with highlights on the latest trends in device design, working principles, and their corresponding functionalities, is provided. The reported systems based on their targeted delivery locations as wearable systems, ingestible systems, and implantable systems are categorized. Each category is introduced in detail by highlighting the special requirements for devices and the corresponding solutions. The remaining challenges in this field and future directions are also discussed.
Maturing Effects in Carbon‐Based Perovskite Solar Cells: Understanding and Consequences on Photovoltaic Performances
Authors: Planes Emilie , Farha Cynthia , De Moor Gilles , Narbey Stéphanie , Perrin Lara , Flandin Lionel
Published: September 2023

Recent investigations have highlighted the potential of posttreatments to enhance the performance of specific perovskite solar cells (PSCs), notably focusing on those incorporating carbon‐based materials (C‐PSC). However, the precise mechanisms underpinning this performance boost remain somewhat elusive. This study aims to delve deeper into the maturation phenomenon observed in C‐PSC, concentrating on two distinct methods of perovskite deposition: drop casting and inkjet printing. Upon subjecting the cells to the maturation process, elevation in power conversion efficiency (PCE) becomes evident. Specifically, drop‐cast cells exhibit a PCE advancement from 10.5% to 14%, while inkjet‐printed cells showcase an improvement from 10% to 14%. In the context of drop‐cast cells, characterized by a relatively thicker and spatially heterogeneous perovskite layer, maturation prompts alterations within the perovskite layer itself. Conversely, in the realm of inkjet solar cells boasting a thinner yet more uniform active layer thickness, maturation exerts distinctive impacts, primarily manifesting at the interfaces. The observed maturation phenomenon exhibits a dependence on the solar cell's architecture and morphology, underscoring the pivotal role of these aspects in determining the ensuing effects. These revelations offer illuminating insights into the intricate dynamics of PSCs and offer valuable guidance for the ongoing refinement of their performance.
Assessing captive spawning strategies for supplementation production of Delta Smelt
Authors: LaCava Melanie E. F. , Donohue Isoline M. , Badger Mary E. , Hung Tien-Chieh , Ellison Luke , Rahman Md Moshiur , Kelvas Kerry , Finger Amanda J. , Carson Evan W.
Published: September 2023

Objective

To support the declining wild population of Delta Smelt, a conservation hatchery has expanded its mission from maintaining a backup population as insurance against extinction to also producing fish for release into the wild. The substantially higher production demands require a balance between producing large numbers of fish while adhering to conservation genetic principles that maximize retention of effective population size (Ne) and thus overall diversity.

Methods

We performed spawning experiments at the hatchery to evaluate the genetic consequences of two spawning strategies: (1) a pooled strategy where we fertilized premixed eggs from three dams with premixed milt from three sires and (2) a partial-factorial strategy where eggs from three dams were mixed and then apportioned among three containers, each container then receiving milt from one sire. We used genetic parentage analysis of larval offspring to determine the reproductive success of spawners in 10 replicate crosses of each strategy.

Result

The contributions of parents to offspring were more even in partial-factorial crosses and consequently resulted in higher Ne (average Ne = 5.50 ± 0.38; expected Ne = 6.0), suggesting its potential for maintaining genetic diversity over time. In contrast, our pooled spawning experiment produced lower and more variable Ne values (average Ne = 3.86 ± 1.30), demonstrating that this more efficient method of production entails high costs in terms of long-term genetic management. Treating our experiments as hypothetical pools of fish for release, we combined the Ne values for pooled or partial-factorial crosses to calculate the effective size of a release population (NeR). Unequal family sizes reduced NeR for our pooled experiment to half of the expected value, whereas the partial-factorial experiment NeR was 88% of the expected value.

Conclusion

We discuss the benefits and risks of each method and how these can be considered when designing a spawning strategy for Delta Smelt supplementation.
Preparation of phosphorus‐nitrogen flame retardant DOPO‐DBAPh and its flame retarded epoxy‐based composites
Authors: Pu Zejun , Zou Liangsong , Wu Fang , Wang Xu , Peng Qiuxia , Zhong Jiachun , Liu Xiaobo , Wang Yulu , Pan Yongke , Jiang Diyong , Ning ZhongPei
Published: September 2023

Novel double DOPO‐grafted phthalonitrile flame retardant (DOPO‐DBAPh) has been successfully synthesized via solution reaction with amino‐substituted phthalonitrile monomer, bisphenol A, paraformaldehyde and 9, 10‐dihydro‐9‐oxa‐10‐phosphaphenanthrene‐10‐oxide (DOPO) as initial materials. The molecular structure of DOPO‐DBAPh was investigated by FT‐IR and 1H‐NMR spectrum. Then, the DOPO‐DBAPh was added into epoxy (EP) to construct DOPO‐DBAPh/EP fire‐retarding composites by casting forming method. The effect of different proportions of DOPO‐DBAPh/EP fire‐retarding composites on the microstructure, thermal, mechanical, flame retardancy and combustion behavior was investigated. It was found that the DOPO‐DBAPh/EP fire‐retarding composites have a high glass transition temperature (Tg = 156∼179°C), and also have excellent thermal stability (T5% = 331.4∼365.4°C) and high flexural strength (96.1∼139.8 MPa). When DOPO‐DBAPh content is 5 wt%, the vertical burning grade and limiting oxygen index (LOI) of DOPO‐DBAPh/EP composites reached V‐0 and 29.6%, respectively. Furthermore, the cone calorimeter testing results showed that the addition of DOPO‐BAPh can obviously inhibit the decomposition rate of cured substance at high temperature and accelerated the formation of dense carbon layer. When DOPO‐BAPh content was 20 wt%, the total heat release rate (THR) and peak heat release rate (PHRR) of the DOPO‐DBAPh/EP fire‐retarding composites were decreased by 38.55% and 35.81% compared with that of cured EP. In a word, this work presents a good way for synthesizing economical and highly efficient flame retardant for use in the preparation of EP‐based fire‐retarding composites with excellent comprehensive performance.

Highlights

Novel phosphorus‐nitrogen flame retardant (DOPO‐DBAPh) is developed.

5 wt% DOPO‐DBAPh significantly improves the fire safety of EP resin.

The DOPO‐DBAPh/EP composites exhibit good thermal and mechanical properties.
Osteogenic and fibroblastic osteosarcoma associated with the alveolar bulla and zygomatic arch in a pet rabbit
Authors: Lennox Angela M. , Pool Roy , Vititoe Kyle P.
Published: September 2023

A 2.5‐year‐old, 2.9 kg, neutered, male domestic rabbit presented for sudden onset of sneezing and wheezing of 2‐day duration. Upon physical examination, there was mild dyspnoea characterised by mild to moderate increased inspiratory effort and audible wheeze, without evidence of ocular or nasal discharge. An aggressive expansile lytic mass lesion of the right caudal maxilla extending into the zygomatic arch was identified on skull radiographs. Computed tomography confirmed a large heterogeneously contrast enhancing soft tissue mass associated with the lytic lesion, likely originating from the right alveolar bulla, extending into the zygomatic arch. Histopathological diagnosis was osteosarcoma with areas of osteogenic and fibroblastic patterns. Diseases of the nasal cavity are common in rabbits; while infectious rhinitis remains the most common diagnosis, increasing number of cases of neoplasms involving the maxilla and nasal cavity should remind clinicians to include it in the differential diagnosis list.
Future of Sex and Gender
Authors: Landesz Tamás , Sargsyan Karine
Published: September 2023

The sex tech industry is set to experience significant changes as it grows in value and attracts more users. The industry is often divided into five main branches: remote sex, robots, immersive entertainment, virtual sex, and augmentation. Virtual reality (VR) technology has the potential to transform sexual experiences, allowing people to explore different identities and experiment with new sensations. Haptic and multisensory experiences will revolutionize virtual sex, and virtual sexology will enhance people's sexual skills. The COVID-19 pandemic has had an impact on sexual lives, with people turning to sexting and sex toys. The article explores the possibility of humans falling in love, marrying, having sex with robots, and merging with machines. VR contact lenses may even enable dream-based sex. However, the article notes that human touch and contact remain crucial in sexual experiences and technology cannot fully replace them. Despite new technological developments the future of sex will continue to be about the pursuit of pleasure, while genuine human relationships will remain essential.