bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How to integrate CD19 specific chimeric antigen receptor T cells with other CD19 targeting agents in diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma?
Authors: de Ramon Ortiz Carmen , Wang Sisi , Stathis Anastasios , Bertoni Francesco , Zenz Thorsten , Novak Urban , Simonetta Federico
Published: November 2023

About one third of patients with diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) have a relapsing/refractory (R/R) disease after first line chemo‐immunotherapy, with particularly poor outcomes observed in patients with primary refractory disease and early relapse. CD19 specific chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy is a game changer that results in durable and complete response rates in almost half of the patients with R/R DLBCL. Other emerging CD19‐targeting therapies include monoclonal antibodies, bispecific antibodies and targeting antibody‐drug conjugates, which also show encouraging results. However, the timing and sequencing of different anti‐CD19‐targeting agents and how they might interfere with subsequent CAR T cell treatment is still unclear. In this review, we summarize the results of the pivotal clinical trials as well as evidence from real‐world series of the use of different CD19‐targeting approved agents. We discuss the effect of various therapies on CD19 expression and its implications for treatment sequencing.
Enrollment of dengue patients in a prospective cohort study in Umphang District, Thailand, during the COVID‐19 pandemic: Implications for research and policy
Authors: Shepard Donald S. , Agarwal‐Harding Priya , Jiamton Sukhum , Undurraga Eduardo A. , Kongsin Sukhontha
Published: November 2023

Background and Aims

Dengue is endemic in Thailand and imposes a high burden on the health system and society. We conducted a prospective cohort study in Umphang District, Tak Province, Thailand, to investigate the share of dengue cases with long symptoms and their duration. Here we present the results of the enrollment process during the COVID‐19 pandemic with implications and challenges for research and policy.

Methods

In a prospective cohort study conducted in Umphang District, Thailand, we examined the prevalence of persistent symptoms in dengue cases. Clinically diagnosed cases were offered free laboratory testing, We enrolled ambulatory dengue patients regardless of age who were confirmed through a highly sensitive laboratory strategy (positive NS1 and/or IgM), agreed to follow‐up visits, and gave informed consent. We used multivariate logistic regressions to assess the probability of clinical dengue being laboratory confirmed. To determine the factors associated with study enrollment, we analyzed the relationship of patient characteristics and month of screening to the likelihood of participation. To identify underrepresented groups, we compared the enrolled cohort to external data sources.

Results

The 150 clinical cases ranged from 1 to 85 years old. Most clinical cases (78%) were confirmed by a positive laboratory test, but only 19% of those confirmed enrolled in the cohort study. Women, who were half as likely to enroll as men, were underrepresented in the cohort.

Conclusions

The Thai physicians' clinical diagnoses at this rural district hospital had good agreement with laboratory diagnoses. By identifying underrepresented groups and disparities, future studies can ensure the creation of statistically representative cohorts to maximize their scientific value. This involves recruiting and retaining underrepresented groups in health research, such as women in this study. Promising strategies for meaningful inclusion include multi‐site enrollment, offering in‐home or virtual services, and providing in‐kind benefits like childcare for underrepresented groups.
Putting the power of behavior analysis in the hands of nonbehavioral professionals: Toward a blueprint for dissemination†
Authors: Lerman Dorothea C.
Published: November 2023

Behavior analysts have much to offer nonbehavioral professionals who work with the communities that we serve. Successful dissemination of behavior‐analytic technologies to these professionals could potentially improve their practice. Although the literature contains some exemplary examples of successful dissemination, our discipline would benefit from a blueprint for conducting this important work. In this article, I share our experiences disseminating behavioral technologies to educators, law enforcement officers, and health care providers who engage with neurodiverse individuals. These experiences form the basis of a recommended blueprint for dissemination, which awaits empirical support. After describing this tentative blueprint, I provide suggestions for future research on how best to disseminate our technologies to nonbehavioral professionals, the ideal content of those dissemination activities, and the conditions under which professionals may be more likely to embed our technologies into their best practices.
Predictors of disease severity in SARS‐CoV‐2 omicron variant XBB sublineages and variants of interest
Authors: Ngiam Jinghao Nicholas , Ng Oon Tek , Toh Matthias Paul Han Sim , Gao Qi , Soong Ai Jia , Teo Joel Han Wen , Low Shannon , Vasoo Shawn , Li Jia Hui , Thoon Koh Cheng , Oh Helen , Pada Surinder Kaur M S , Ooi Say Tat , Soh Jade , Wong Hei Man , Tambyah Paul Anantharajah
Published: November 2023

The Omicron variant has been reported to present with milder disease compared with Delta, although this may be due to immunity from vaccination and prior exposure. Predictors of severity with recent strains have not been well characterized. We retrospectively examined consecutive cases of moderate‐to‐severe COVID‐19 (defined as requiring supplemental oxygenation, intensive care or mortality) admitted to seven tertiary hospitals across Singapore in April 2023. Whole genome sequencing was performed on each isolate to determine the sublineage, while baseline clinical, laboratory data and outcomes were tabulated. We reviewed 182 patients with moderate‐to‐severe illness and 466 controls hospitalized at the same time. Advanced age and presence of chronic kidney disease predicted adverse outcome. Previously reported markers such as radiographic evidence of pneumonia, elevated C‐reactive protein and serum creatinine levels at presentation also correlated with adverse outcomes. There were no observable differences in outcomes with any specific Omicron XBB sublineage. We did not find any specific Omicron XBB sublineage that was associated with worse outcomes. Larger multinational studies would be important to track the clinical evolution of the virus in its current endemic state.
Assessment of the spatiotemporal evolution and driving forces of meteorological drought in the North China Plain
Authors: Yang Cuiping , Liu Changhong , Wang Yongqiang , Gu Yuhui , Ma Xiaoyi
Published: November 2023

With the changing trend of global temperature increase, the occurrence of drought events can no longer be ignored. An investigation of the spatiotemporal evolution characteristics of meteorological droughts and their responses to climatic variables can elucidate the mechanisms of the water cycle evolution in changing environments. In the present study, the standardized precipitation evapotranspiration index was used to characterize meteorological drought in the North China Plain (NCP) from 1970 to 2020. The spatiotemporal patterns of meteorological drought were analysed, and the contributions of climatic factors on annual and seasonal time scale drought evolution were determined. The results revealed that meteorological drought showed a decreasing trend (−0.07/10a) in the NCP from 1970 to 2020 and the most severe meteorological drought occurred in winter, with 56.56% of the region experiencing an increased drought trend in this season. Significant trends were identified for mean temperature (Tmean), temperature difference, and wind speed in the drought trend evolution. Precipitation (P) and Tmean were the primary controlling factors of the drought evolution. The strongest effect on drought change were exerted by P in spring (contribution [Con]: 1.57%), summer (Con: 1.79%) and autumn (Con: 2.43%), and the negative contribution of Tmean in winter (Con: −3.64%) was greater than the positive contribution of P (Con: 2.69%). The contribution of climatic variables to drought were increased by regional altitude difference. The results reveal a novel explanatory mechanism of climate change's effects on drought.
Sucralose regulates postprandial blood glucose in mice through intestinal sweet taste receptors Tas1r2/Tas1r3
Authors: Shi Qing , Xu Lei , Cai Lei , Deng Shaoping , Qi Xiangyang
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

Non‐nutritive sweeteners (such as sucralose) bind to sweet receptors Tas1r2/Tas1r3 on intestinal endocrine L cells after diets to upregulate blood glucose. However, the mechanism by which sucralose regulates postprandial blood glucose (PBG) has not been clarified to date. We hypothesized that the gut sweet taste receptor was one of the targets for sucralose to regulate PBG. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of sucralose on PBG based on the gut sweet taste receptor signaling pathway and to explore the mechanism. Therefore, we examined PBG, genes, and proteins associated with the gut sweet receptor pathway in sucralose‐exposed mice.

RESULTS

The results showed that after 12 weeks of sucralose exposure the PBG of mice increased significantly, and the expression of intestinal sweet taste receptors increased correspondingly. Within the concentration range of this experiment, a significant increase of PBG was observed in mice fed on sucralose with a concentration equal to or higher than 0.33 g L−1.

CONCLUSION

Long‐term consumption of sucralose may increase body weight and the risk of elevated PBG, resulting in overexpression of sweetness receptors and glucose transporters. The mechanism of these effects might be the result of non‐nutritive sweeteners binding to sweetness receptors Tas1r2/Tas1r3 in gut endocrine cells and upregulating Slc5a1 and Slc2a2. But we cannot rule out that the rise in PBG is the result of a combination of sweet receptors and gut microbes. Therefore, the effect of gut microbes on PBG needs to be studied further. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Antibiotics or Tonsillectomy for Adult Recurrent Tonsillitis: Analyzing the Lesser of Two Evils
Authors: Jacob Tommy , Leshno Moshe , Carmel‐Neidermann Narin Nard , Kampel Liyona , Warshavsky Anton , Mansour Joubran , Assadi Nidal , Muhanna Nidal , Horowitz Gilad
Published: November 2023

Objective

To determine the best timing for surgical intervention for adults with recurrent tonsillitis (RT).

Methods

A Markov model was constructed using variables and ranges based upon a literature review. A 1‐way sensitivity analysis was performed to evaluate the number of yearly bouts at which each algorithm (antibiotics or tonsillectomy) would be favored. A Monte‐Carlo probabilistic sensitivity analysis was calculated for gains and cost. Model outcomes were measured with quality‐adjusted life‐years (QALYs) and incremental cost‐effectiveness ratios (ICER) for tonsillectomy versus repeat antibiotic treatment.

Results

Patients expected to sustain a single annual tonsillitis event will have a negative QALY of 0.02 if treated with surgery and those with 2 annual events will have a QALY gain from undergoing tonsillectomy of 0.01, 3 events = 0.03, 4 events = 0.05, 5 events = 0.07, 6 events = 0.09, 7 events = 0.1, and 8 events = 0.11. These gains became meaningful only after 2 years of recurrent bouts. The average cost of tonsillectomy was 3,238 USD, and the overall average cost of RT was 7,069 USD (an incremental cost of 3,831 USD). The ICER of tonsillectomy over antibiotic treatment for 1 QALY gain was 44,741 USD.

Conclusion

Adult patients who sustain more than 3 annual bouts of tonsillitis over a period of at least 2 years will gain QALY after tonsillectomy. These gains increase proportionally to the number of yearly events and perennial episodes. The incremental costs of tonsillectomy fail to meet the NICE guidelines but are within other acceptable reference ranges.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 134:2153–2161, 2024
Analysis of Surgical Outcomes in Endoscopic‐Assisted Lateral Neck Dissection
Authors: Huang Dongmei , Zhao Jingzhu , Gu Pengfei , Zhang Jinming , Li Yigong , Zheng Xiangqian
Published: November 2023

Background

Currently, endoscopic‐assisted lateral neck dissection (EALND) is performed to reduce postoperative scarring of the anterior neck. This study aimed to compare surgical outcomes between EALND and conventional open lateral neck dissection (COLND) for papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) with lateral lymph node metastases (LNM).

Methods

The study reviewed 103 PTC patients who were classified on the basis of surgical type and statistically compared using propensity score matching analysis.

Results

The mean operation time is longer, and the cost of surgery is higher in the EALND group than COLND group (all p < 0.05). The numbers of retrieved and positive level II LNs, the rate of level II LNs detection between two groups do not differ significantly (all p > 0.05). The incidence of postoperative neck numbness is lower, and patients are more satisfied with postoperative neck scarring in the EALND group than COLND group (all p < 0.05). The common complications of two groups are transient recurrent laryngeal nerve injury and transient hypoparathyroidism.

Conclusions

EALND is safe and feasible compared with COLND. The incision is more aesthetically satisfactory, which makes EALND a surgical approach for PTC patients with lateral LNM.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 134:2221–2227, 2024
BUS‐BRA: A breast ultrasound dataset for assessing computer‐aided diagnosis systems
Authors: Gómez‐Flores Wilfrido , Gregorio‐Calas Maria Julia , Coelho de Albuquerque Pereira Wagner
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Computer‐aided diagnosis (CAD) systems on breast ultrasound (BUS) aim to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of breast screening, helping specialists to detect and classify breast lesions. CAD system development requires a set of annotated images, including lesion segmentation, biopsy results to specify benign and malignant cases, and BI‐RADS categories to indicate the likelihood of malignancy. Besides, standardized partitions of training, validation, and test sets promote reproducibility and fair comparisons between different approaches. Thus, we present a publicly available BUS dataset whose novelty is the substantial increment of cases with the above‐mentioned annotations and the inclusion of standardized partitions to objectively assess and compare CAD systems.

Acquisition and Validation Methods

The BUS dataset comprises 1875 anonymized images from 1064 female patients acquired via four ultrasound scanners during systematic studies at the National Institute of Cancer (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil). The dataset includes biopsy‐proven tumors divided into 722 benign and 342 malignant cases. Besides, a senior ultrasonographer performed a BI‐RADS assessment in categories 2 to 5. Additionally, the ultrasonographer manually outlined the breast lesions to obtain ground truth segmentations. Furthermore, 5‐ and 10‐fold cross‐validation partitions are provided to standardize the training and test sets to evaluate and reproduce CAD systems. Finally, to validate the utility of the BUS dataset, an evaluation framework is implemented to assess the performance of deep neural networks for segmenting and classifying breast lesions.

Data Format and Usage Notes

The BUS dataset is publicly available for academic and research purposes through an open‐access repository under the name BUS‐BRA: A Breast Ultrasound Dataset for Assessing CAD Systems. BUS images and reference segmentations are saved in Portable Network Graphic (PNG) format files, and the dataset information is stored in separate Comma‐Separated Value (CSV) files.

Potential Applications

The BUS‐BRA dataset can be used to develop and assess artificial intelligence‐based lesion detection and segmentation methods, and the classification of BUS images into pathological classes and BI‐RADS categories. Other potential applications include developing image processing methods like despeckle filtering and contrast enhancement methods to improve image quality and feature engineering for image description.
Implementation of pure shift 1H NMR in metabolic phenotyping for structural information recovery of biofluid metabolites with complex spin systems
Authors: Serrano‐Contreras Jose Ivan , Lindon John C. , Frost Gary , Holmes Elaine , Nicholson Jeremy K. , Garcia‐Perez Isabel
Published: November 2023

NMR spectroscopy is a mainstay of metabolic profiling approaches to investigation of physiological and pathological processes. The one‐dimensional proton pulse sequences typically used in phenotyping large numbers of samples generate spectra that are rich in information but where metabolite identification is often compromised by peak overlap. Recently developed pure shift (PS) NMR spectroscopy, where all J‐coupling multiplicities are removed from the spectra, has the potential to simplify the complex proton NMR spectra that arise from biosamples and hence to aid metabolite identification. Here we have evaluated two complementary approaches to spectral simplification: the HOBS (band‐selective with real‐time acquisition) and the PSYCHE (broadband with pseudo‐2D interferogram acquisition) pulse sequences. We compare their relative sensitivities and robustness for deconvolving both urine and serum matrices. Both methods improve resolution of resonances ranging from doublets, triplets and quartets to more complex signals such as doublets of doublets and multiplets in highly overcrowded spectral regions. HOBS is the more sensitive method and takes less time to acquire in comparison with PSYCHE, but can introduce unavoidable artefacts from metabolites with strong couplings, whereas PSYCHE is more adaptable to these types of spin system, although at the expense of sensitivity. Both methods are robust and easy to implement. We also demonstrate that strong coupling artefacts contain latent connectivity information that can be used to enhance metabolite identification. Metabolite identification is a bottleneck in metabolic profiling studies. In the case of NMR, PS experiments can be included in metabolite identification workflows, providing additional capability for biomarker discovery.
Individualized chemotherapy and efficacy analysis of hepatoblastoma in children
Authors: Hu Huimin , Zhang Weiling , Zhang Yi , Gao Yanan , Zhi Tian , Li Fan , Li Jing , Gu Huali , Liao Ru , Wu Runhui , Huang Dongsheng
Published: November 2023

Purpose

We aimed to assess the clinical utility of the mini patient‐derived xenograft (MiniPDX) model in screening individualized chemotherapy regimens for pediatric hepatoblastoma.

Materials and methods

We included 31 children with hepatoblastoma who had unsatisfactory decreases in alpha‐fetoprotein levels during neoadjuvant chemotherapy or poor clinical control of recurrence with or without metastasis. We established a MiniPDX model using surgically resected tumor tissue specimens. The sensitivities of five chemotherapeutic regimens were tested to determine the one with the lowest tumor proliferation rate, which was then set as the experimental group. We compared the clinical characteristics and efficacy with those of conventional chemotherapy regimens.

Results

The median follow‐up period for the experimental group was 27 months, with a complete remission (CR) rate of 80.64%. Among stage IV cases, there was a significant between‐group difference in CR rate (experimental [73.68%] vs. control [37.5%]) and 3‐year event‐free survival rate (79.3% vs. 26.7%). The most effective individualized chemotherapy regimens were ifosfamide + pirarubicin + etoposide + carboplatin (54.84%), followed by pirubicin + cyclophosphamide + cisplatin (16.13%), ifosfamide + carboplatin + etoposide (12.90%), cisplatin + 5‐fluorouracil + vincristine + adriamycin (12.90%), and vincristine + irinotecan + cyclophosphamide + cisplatin (3.23%).

Conclusion

Using the MiniPDX model to screen individualized chemotherapy regimens for pediatric hepatoblastoma can significantly improve the CR rate.
The impact of radiation therapy variables on pediatric high‐grade glioma outcomes: A National Cancer Database analysis
Authors: Williamson Christopher , Williamson Shayla , Jiang Renjian , Sudmeier Lisa , Esiashvili Natia , Eaton Bree R.
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this analysis is to report patterns of care for pediatric patients with high‐grade glioma (pHGG) and evaluate the impact of radiotherapy (RT) variables on outcomes using the National Cancer Database (NCDB).

Methods

Eligibility criteria included age < 22 years, histologically diagnosed WHO grade III‐IV gliomas treated with ≥50 Gy and < 76 Gy RT between 2004 and 2013, and RT initiation within 90 days of diagnosis. RT variables including RT dose, RT timing, and RT modality were analyzed along with baseline demographic, tumor, and treatment variables to assess the impact on overall survival.

Results

A total of 498 pHGG patients were included. The median age was 15 years (range, 0‐21), common diagnoses were astrocytoma (55%) and glioblastoma (30%), 73.5% underwent surgical resection and 90.2% received chemotherapy. The median RT dose was 59.4 Gy (SD 2.9 Gy) starting at a median of 4.4 weeks from diagnosis (SD 2.5 weeks). Fourteen patients were treated with proton therapy. Median follow‐up was 19.6 months with 1‐ and 3‐year overall survival of 78.4% and 40.4%, respectively. On multivariable analysis, female gender, older age, and RT delay of ≥6 weeks were significantly associated with a lower rate of death; glioblastoma histology, no surgical resection/biopsy only, and earlier RT initiation < 6 weeks from diagnosis were associated with a higher rate of death. There was no relationship between RT dose or proton versus photon therapy and overall survival.

Conclusions

Outcomes for pHGG are poor. There was no benefit to early RT timing when RT is initiated within 90 days of diagnosis or higher RT dose in this dataset.
Buckling analysis of composite plates surface bonded with graphene‐reinforced piezoelectric actuators
Authors: Jin Qilin , Leng Longlong , Yang Shengqi
Published: November 2023

Graphene is a highly conductive and exceptional material that has shown potential for significantly improving the piezoelectric and mechanical properties of piezoelectric matrix. This paper examines the stability of composite plates surface bonded with graphene‐reinforced composite piezoelectric (GRCP) actuators. However, the significant differences in material characteristics at the interfaces will pose some challenges in analyzing the buckling behavior of piezoelectric composite plates by means of existing higher‐order shear deformation theories. To address this issue, a refined plate theory is developed for the buckling analysis of piezoelectric composite plates. The developed theory includes a new interlaminar shear stress field that precisely describes the distribution of interlaminar shear stresses, which differs from earlier higher‐order theories. It should be emphasized that the finite element formulation can be simplified by removing the second‐order derivatives of in‐plane displacement parameters from interlaminar shear stresses. In terms of the developed theory, a four‐node C0 quadrilateral plate element is introduced to examine the buckling behavior of piezoelectric composite plates. Furthermore, the modified interlaminar shear stress field is absorbed into the strain energy, significantly improving the ability to predict the critical loads of composite plates with GRCP actuators. The refined plate model is evaluated through the utilization of three‐dimensional (3D) elasticity solutions and results obtained from other associated theories. Numerical results demonstrate that the refined plate model is capable of producing favorable results, and a comprehensive examination is conducted to analyze the effects of significant parameters on the buckling behaviors of piezoelectric composite plates. This study sets a solid foundation for future research and development on the application of graphene‐reinforced composite piezoelectric actuators in composite structures.

Highlights

Buckling analysis of composite plates with GRCP actuators is conducted.

A refined plate theory with modified interlaminar shear stresses is developed.

The ability to predict critical loads can be significantly improved.

The finite element formulation can be simplified based on the proposed model.

Comprehensive parametric studies on buckling behavior are caried out.
Mapping oft the optimal mechanical responses in commercial‐grade HTPB‐based binders
Authors: Cardoso Renata Fraga , Kawachi Elizabete Yoshie , Dias Villar Luciene
Published: November 2023

Alternative binders for composite solid propellants (CSP) have always been a concern. One of the closest alternative to the broadly used military‐grade hydroxyl‐terminated polybutadiene (HTPB) would be its commercial‐grade. Factorial design of experiments (DoE) was applied to optimize the mechanical properties of the binder. Commercial‐grade HTPB was used, in addition to 1,4‐butanediol (BDO) as chain extender, and either isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI) or 4,4’‐methylenedicyclohexyl diisocyanate (H12MDI) as curing agents. The effect of simultaneously varying two factors: [NCO]/[OH] molar ratio, and BDO:HTPB mass fraction on the mechanical properties of the binder was evaluated. DoE gave the optimal conditions at 0.68 molar ratio, and 0.71 % BDO:HTPB mass fraction for IPDI; and at 0.66 and 0.57 %, respectively, for H12MDI. Higher strength was observed for binders formulated with H12MDI. At the optimal conditions, CSP formulated with commercial HTPB showed higher strength than CSP formulated with military HTPB. Moreover, with H12MDI higher elongation was observed (28±4 %) when compared to IPDI (19±1%). Thus, the former is a promising diisocyanate for tailoring CSP formulations with commercial‐grade HTPB.
Young's Modulus Characterization of Nano‐Level Silicon Nanomembrane
Authors: Zhu Xiaodong , Li Jiajun , Yang Huibing , Zhu Fengbo , Guo Zhaoyi , Huang Kun , Hang Pengjie , Chen Tao , Yu Xuegong , Yang Deren
Published: November 2023

Silicon nanomembrane (SiNM) has drawn great attention for the application in nanoelectrical devices as it shows excellent flexibility and is compatible with the integrated circuit process. The mechanical property measurement of the SiNM with nanoscale thickness is critical. A suspended SiNM (40 nm thick) for mechanical measurements is fabricated by transferring a chemically etched ultrathin monocrystalline silicon film from silicon on insulator wafer to a substrate with a multi‐hole array. And then, the atomic force probe is utilized to load force on the free‐standing SiNM to obtain a force deflection curve, and then the Young's modulus of such floating SiNM can be directly calculated based on the large deflection plane model. It shows that the Young's modulus of such SiNM is basically consistent with that of the bulk silicon. However, the SiNMs’ floating area significantly affects the results, i.e., the Young's modulus varies with the ratio of the suspended area diameter (i.e., hole diameter) to the film thickness. The Young's modulus is independent of hole diameter when the ratio is greater than 425. According to this relationship, the variation of Young's modulus can be predicted for arbitrary thick SiNMs and any transferable nanofilms.
Capturing the science behind the craft: a reporting framework to improve quality and confidence in nonsimulated models
Authors: Turner Benjamin L. , Goodman Michael
Published: November 2023

Qualitative nonsimulated models (causal loop diagrams, stock‐flow diagrams, or hybrids of both) have been used since within a decade after the inception of system dynamics (SD). In this article, we assert that the well‐known weaknesses of nonsimulated models need to be balanced against the contexts, purposes, and strengths that nonsimulated models provide. We propose a framework consisting of a set of best practices for model reporting and documentation that would improve the quality, consistency, and transparency of nonsimulated models. Several high‐quality examples are described and referenced in the framework to illustrate support of each criterion. The framework's purpose is help improve the transparency around the creation and evaluation of nonsimulated models, thereby enhancing their confidence and legitimate use in SD practice. Ultimately, high‐quality nonsimulated models can offer broader access to the powerful body of SD knowledge to audiences likely never to have access to formal SD simulation models. © 2023 System Dynamics Society.
A Combined Theoretical and Experimental Investigation of 3D Ternary Perovskite‐Like Silver Iodobismuthate
Authors: Nair Shruthi , Kashid Vikas , Punde Ashvini , Shah Shruti , Waghmare Ashish , Hase Yogesh , Shinde Pratibha , Bade Bharat , Doiphode Vidya , Ladhane Somnath , Rahane Swati , Rondiya Sachin , Pathan Habib , Prasad Mohit , Jadkar Sandesh
Published: November 2023

Lead‐free ternary bismuth halide perovskites A3Bi2X9 have gained much attention as a solution for toxic and unstable lead halide perovskites due to their facile solution processability, high optical absorption coefficient, and high stability. However, their photovoltaic performance remains poor due to their wide bandgap (∼2 eV), and poor charge transport properties stem from their low‐dimensional crystal structure. To promote the 3D structure and reduce the bandgap of ternary Bi‐halide perovskites, we replace the alkali elements at the A‐site with the transition element Ag+ to obtain a new class of perovskite‐like materials named rudorffites AgaBibIa+3b. We investigated the photophysical properties of AgBiI4 by a combined theoretical and experimental approach. Our DFT‐PBE‐SOC predicted band gap for cubic defect spinel AgBiI4 is 2.01 eV, while that obtained for spin‐coated AgBiI4 film is 1.67 eV. Furthermore, the strong p‐p band edge transition leads to high optical absorption in this material. Finally, a photodetector device fabricated using AgBiI4 shows excellent photoresponsivity (183 μA/W) and detectivity (20.93×108 Jones) with a fast rise/decay time of 0.27 s/0.29 s. This newly explored semiconductor class can be a promising and stable choice for advanced optoelectronic devices.
Microwave‐Assisted Soft Method for Synthesis of Poly (Acrylic Acid)/Organo‐clay Composites: Application As Superabsorbent For Phenol and Cr (VI)
Authors: Djamaa Zoulikha , Chebout Redouane , Bachari Khaldoun , Lerari Djahida
Published: November 2023

A series of superabsorbent composites (PAA/HDTMA‐MMT) based on poly (acrylic acid) (PAA) and different content of organo‐modified natural clay HDTMA‐MMT (1,3 and 5 wt.%) were synthesized via in‐situ radical polymerization using microwave method. This eco‐friendly route was chosen to avoid the use of toxic solvents and reduce polymerization time. In addition, it can be considered an efficient approach for industrial‐scale polymer synthesis. The microstructure of the obtained hydrogels was evidenced by Fourier transformation infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Thermal stability was examined according to nano‐filler content on the matrix. The composite (PAA/HDTMA‐MMT) at 3 wt % exhibits an important swelling capacity value (833.33 g g−1). The efficiency of the synthesized hydrogel composites for phenol and Cr (VI) uptakes from aqueous solutions was studied in batch experiments. The main reason for their selection is their remarkable industrial use, despite their high toxicity and persistence in the environment. In order to underline the mechanism of the phenol and Cr (VI) adsorptions on the (PAA/HDTMA‐MMT), respectively, the zeta potential of the hydrogel was evaluated. Maximum adsorption capacity values of 170.7 mg g−1 and 197.3 mg g−1 were screened for phenol and Cr(VI), respectively. The adsorption process concurs with pseudo‐second‐order kinetics and with the Langmuir isotherm equation. A very high adsorption capacity (qmax=225.2 mg g−1) and a correlation coefficient of 0.998 calculated from isotherm equations show the high efficiency of the adsorbent and thus expected to be a good adsorbent candidate for wastewater treatment. The thermodynamic studies evidenced the exothermic character of the adsorption reactions of the studied pollutants.
Thermoelectric Generator Through Dual‐Direction Thermal Regulation by Thermal Diodes for Waste Heat Harvesting
Authors: Li Tian , Jiang Weitao , Tong Yufeng , Jiang Wei , Yin Lei , Chen Bangdao , Shi Yongsheng , Zhang Lei , Liu Hongzhong
Published: November 2023

Thermal energy harvesting provides an opportunity for multi‐node systems to achieve self‐power autonomy. Thermoelectric generators (TEGs), either by thermocouple arrangement with higher‐aspect‐ratios or thermoelectric films overlay, are limited by the small temperature difference and its short‐duration (less than dozens of minutes), hindering the harvesting efficiency. Here, by introducing thermal diodes with dual‐direction thermal regulation ability to optimize the heat flux path, the proposed TEGs exhibit enhanced power‐supply capability with unprecedented long‐duration (more than hours). In contrast with conventional TEGs with fixed‐leg dimensions enabled single output, these compact‐TEGs can supply up to fourteen output‐channels for selection, the produced power ranges from 1.11 to 921.99 µW, open circuit voltage ranges from 8.07 to 51.32 mV, when the natural temperature difference is 53.84 °C. Compared to the most recent TEGs, the proposed TEGs in this study indicate higher power (more than hundreds times) and much longer output duration (2.4–120 times) in a compact manner.
Title High Solar‐Thermal Conversion Aerogel for Efficient Atmospheric Water Harvesting
Authors: Wang Xiangbing , Ma Guofu , Cui Shuzhen , Sun Kanjun , Li Wenbin , Peng Hui
Published: November 2023

The shortage of freshwater is a global problem, however, the gel that can be used for atmospheric water harvesting (AWH) in recent years studying, suffer from salt leakage, agglomeration, and slow water evaporation efficiency. Herein, a solar‐driven atmospheric water harvesting (SAWH) aerogel is prepared by UV polymerization and freeze‐drying technique, using poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAm), hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC), ethanolamine‐decorate LiCl (E‐LiCl) and polyaniline (PANI) as raw materials. The PNIPAm and HPC formed aerogel networks makes the E‐LiCl stably and efficiently loaded, improving the water adsorption‐desorption kinetics, and PANI achieves rapid water vapor evaporation. The aerogel has low density ≈0.12–0.15 g cm−3, but can sustain a weight of 1000 times of its own weight. The synergist of elements and structure gives the aerogel has 0.46–2.95 g g−1 water uptake capability at 30–90% relative humidity, and evaporation rate reaches 1.98 kg m−2 h−1 under 1 sun illumination. In outdoor experiments, 88% of the water is harvesting under natural light irradiation, and an average water harvesting rate of 0.80 gwater gsorbent−1 day−1. Therefore, the aerogel can be used in arid and semi‐arid areas to collect water for plants and animals.
Protein Engineering and High‐Throughput Screening by Yeast Surface Display: Survey of Current Methods
Authors: Lopez-Morales Joanan , Vanella Rosario , Appelt Elizabeth A. , Whillock Sarah , Paulk Alexandra M. , Shusta Eric V. , Hackel Benjamin J. , Liu Chang C. , Nash Michael A.
Published: November 2023

Yeast surface display (YSD) is a powerful tool in biotechnology that links genotype to phenotype. In this review, the latest advancements in protein engineering and high‐throughput screening based on YSD are covered. The focus is on innovative methods for overcoming challenges in YSD in the context of biotherapeutic drug discovery and diagnostics. Topics ranging from titrating avidity in YSD using transcriptional control to the development of serological diagnostic assays relying on serum biopanning and mitigation of unspecific binding are covered. Screening techniques against nontraditional cellular antigens, such as cell lysates, membrane proteins, and extracellular matrices are summarized and techniques are further delved into for expansion of the chemical repertoire, considering protein–small molecule hybrids and noncanonical amino acid incorporation. Additionally, in vivo gene diversification and continuous evolution in yeast is discussed. Collectively, these techniques enhance the diversity and functionality of engineered proteins isolated via YSD, broadening the scope of applications that can be addressed. The review concludes with future perspectives and potential impact of these advancements on protein engineering. The goal is to provide a focused summary of recent progress in the field.
Extraction, Characterization, Antioxidant and Hypoglycemic of Pectic Polysaccharides from Cantaloupe (Cucumis melo L.) Peels
Authors: Sun Hui , Chen Ruizhan , Meng Fanlei , Bai Helong , Tian Li , Lu Juan , Bai Chunlong , Li Dongxue , Wu Wenjing , Wang Yongtang , Gong Mingze
Published: November 2023

In this study, microwave extraction (ME) of pectic polysaccharides (M‐CPPs) from cantaloupe peels (CPs) is optimized using response surface methodology (RSM) with a Box–Behnken design (BBD). The optimum ME parameters are liquid–solid ratio 26.04 mL g−1, microwave power 543.04 W, irradiation time 6.38 min, and pH 1.5. Compared heat reflux extraction polysaccharides (H‐CPPs), the yield, the contents of neutral sugars (TSC), uronic acids (UAC), total flavonoids (TFC), total phenolics (TPC), sulfate groups (SGC) of M‐CPPs increased by 156.06%, 15.33%, 7.27%, 1019.05%, 1.75%, and 57.89%, but the molecular weight (Mw) and degree of esterification (DE) reduced by 29.08% and 24.81%, respectively. M‐CPPs exhibit superior antioxidant and hypoglycemic activities than H‐CPPs, which may be attributed to its higher UAC, TFC and SGC, lower Mw, and DE. There is almost no change in the monosaccharide types of isolated polysaccharides, only a change in molar ratio. Results proved that ME is an efficient technique for the extraction and modification of pectic polysaccharides (CPPs) from CPs with high yield, strong antioxidant, and hypoglycemic activities for applications in medical and food industries.
Investigation of photocatalytic performance of single layer superhydrophilic film: TEOS/PF‐127
Authors: Ramakrishnan Swathi , Jayaraj Shanthi , Ragupathy Chandralekha Nanjan
Published: November 2023

Multifunctional antireflective coatings (ARC) have great importance in various applications such as optical devices, flat panel displays, solar cell devices, and so on. Here in this work, highly transparent superhydrophilic film was developed on a cleaned glass substrate by depositing porous TEOS/PF‐127 using the spin coating technique. The coating shows a maximum transparency of 95% in the visible region (400–800 nm). The morphology and porous nature of the prepared sample was analyzed using FESEM and BET analysis respectively. The prepared film exhibited a water contact angle of 9° ensures its superhydrophilic nature. It is also noteworthy that TEOS/PF‐127 coating possesses photocatalytic activity by showing good photo degradation against MB (Methylene Blue) dye under UV‐B (280–315 nm, 50 W) and halogen (340–850 nm, 50 W) light irradiation. The present work provides a simple cost‐effective method to enhance the optical transparency of the glass substrate along with good self‐cleaning properties via photocatalytic activity.
Mapping the extraordinary measure disease outbreak (EMDO): An analysis of health regulations in Indonesia 2000–2023
Authors: Fahadayna Adhi Cahya , Hair Abdul
Published: November 2023

This research focused on the Indonesian Government's global pandemic policy mapping from 2000 to 2023 (n = 979). Indonesia has been affected by diseases such as H1N1, H5N1, SARS‐Cov‐1, and the current SARS‐CoV‐2 (COVID‐19). This research will focus on these outbreaks to see the readiness of Indonesian government policy mapping to emergencies. This research will measure Indonesian health policy mapping based on its capability to adapt to local contexts, construct a care delivery value chain, leverage shared delivery infrastructure, and improve health delivery and economic development. This study implemented feasibility analysis with a method scoring system for all the pillars above. Findings indicate that most health policies developed by the Indonesian Government are oriented toward responding to current conditions, not preparing for future health challenges. This research also provides patterns regarding the development of health policymaking to deal with emergency conditions.
Phase space renormalization and finite BMS charges in six dimensions
Authors: Capone Federico , Mitra Prahar , Poole Aaron , Tomova Bilyana
Published: November 2023

Abstract

We perform a complete and systematic analysis of the solution space of six-dimensional Einstein gravity. We show that a particular subclass of solutions — those that are analytic near $$ \mathcal{I} $$
I
+ — admit a non-trivial action of the generalised Bondi-Metzner-van der Burg-Sachs (GBMS) group which contains infinite-dimensional supertranslations and superrotations. The latter consists of all smooth volume-preserving Diff×Weyl transformations of the celestial S4. Using the covariant phase space formalism and a new technique which we develop in this paper (phase space renormalization), we are able to renormalize the symplectic potential using counterterms which are local and covariant. The Hamiltonian charges corresponding to GBMS diffeomorphisms are non-integrable. We show that the integrable part of these charges faithfully represent the GBMS algebra and in doing so, settle a long-standing open question regarding the existence of infinite-dimensional asymptotic symmetries in higher even dimensional non-linear gravity. Finally, we show that the semi-classical Ward identities for supertranslations and superrotations are precisely the leading and subleading soft-graviton theorems respectively.
Surface Houghton groups
Authors: Aramayona Javier , Bux Kai-Uwe , Kim Heejoung , Leininger Christopher J.
Published: November 2023

For every $$n\ge 2$$

n
≥
2

, the surface Houghton group$${\mathcal {B}}_n$$

B
n

is defined as the asymptotically rigid mapping class group of a surface with exactly n ends, all of them non-planar. The groups $${\mathcal {B}}_n$$

B
n

are analogous to, and in fact contain, the braided Houghton groups. These groups also arise naturally in topology: every monodromy homeomorphism of a fibered component of a depth-1 foliation of closed 3-manifold is conjugate into some $${\mathcal {B}}_n$$

B
n

. As countable mapping class groups of infinite type surfaces, the groups $$\mathcal {B}_n$$

B
n

lie somewhere between classical mapping class groups and big mapping class groups. We initiate the study of surface Houghton groups proving, among other things, that $$\mathcal {B}_n$$

B
n

is of type $$\text {F}_{n-1}$$

F

n
-
1

, but not of type $$\text {FP}_{n}$$

FP
n

, analogous to the braided Houghton groups.
Reporting of adverse events of treatment interventions in multiple myeloma: an overview of systematic reviews
Authors: Mainou Maria , Bougioukas Konstantinos I. , Malandris Konstantinos , Liakos Aris , Klonizakis Philippos , Avgerinos Ioannis , Haidich Anna-Betinna , Tsapas Apostolos
Published: November 2023

The present study is an overview of systematic reviews focusing on adverse events of antimyeloma treatments. It provides a systematic description of adverse events as they are reported in the systematic reviews as well as a critical appraisal of included reviews. We conducted a comprehensive literature search in the most widely used electronic databases looking for systematic reviews that had an adverse event of an antimyeloma treatment intervention as primary outcome. Two independent reviewers conducted selection of included studies and data extraction on predesigned online forms and assessed study quality using AMSTAR 2. Overall corrected covered area (CCA) was calculated to examine the overlap of primary studies across systematic reviews. After screening eligible studies, 23 systematic reviews were included in this overview. Seven reviews with overall CCA of 14.7% examined cardiovascular adverse events of different drugs, including immunomodulatory drugs and proteasome inhibitors (mainly carfilzomib). Nine focused on infections, presenting with overall CCA of 5.8%, each one focused on a different drug or drug class. Three studied thromboembolism in patients treated either with lenalidomide, any immunomodulatory drug, or with daratumumab and had an overall CCA equal to 1.5%. Four more reviews focused on bortezomib-associated neurotoxicity, carfilzomib-associated renal toxicity, or second primary malignancies as an adverse event of lenalidomide or anti-CD38 monoclonal antibody treatment. The quality of included studies as judged by AMSTAR 2 was mostly critically low. Absence of a priori registered protocol and formal assessment of risk of bias of included primary studies were the most common shortcomings. Reporting of antimyeloma drug-associated toxicity is supported by multiple systematic reviews; nevertheless, methodological quality of existing reviews is mostly low.
Functional lung imaging of 2-year-old children after congenital diaphragmatic hernia repair using dynamic mode decomposition MRI
Authors: Ilicak Efe , Thater Greta , Ozdemir Safa , Zapp Jascha , Schad Lothar R. , Schoenberg Stefan O. , Zöllner Frank G. , Weis Meike
Published: November 2023

Objectives

To investigate the feasibility of non-contrast-enhanced functional lung imaging in 2-year-old children after congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) repair.

Methods

Fifteen patients after CDH repair were examined using non-contrast-enhanced dynamic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). For imaging two protocols were used during free-breathing: Protocol A with high temporal resolution and Protocol B with high spatial resolution. The dynamic images were then analysed through a recently developed post-processing method called dynamic mode decomposition (DMD) to obtain ventilation and perfusion maps. The ventilation ratios (VRatio) and perfusion ratios (QRatio) of ipsilateral to contralateral lung were compared to evaluate functional differences. Lastly, DMD MRI-based perfusion results were compared with perfusion parameters obtained using dynamic contrast-enhanced (DCE) MRI to assess agreement between methods.

Results

Both imaging protocols successfully generated pulmonary ventilation (V) and perfusion (Q) maps in all patients. Overall, the VRatio and QRatio values were 0.84 ± 0.19 and 0.70 ± 0.24 for Protocol A, and 0.88 ± 0.18 and 0.72 ± 0.23 for Protocol B, indicating reduced ventilation ($$p<0.05$$

p
<
0.05

) and perfusion ($$p<0.01$$

p
<
0.01

) on the ipsilateral side. Moreover, there is a very strong positive correlation ($$r>0.89,p<0.01$$

r
>
0.89
,
p
<
0.01

) and close agreement between DMD MRI-based perfusion values and DCE MRI-based perfusion parameters.

Conclusions

DMD MRI can obtain pulmonary functional information in 2-year-old CDH patients. The results obtained with DMD MRI correlate with DCE MRI, without the need for ionising radiation or exposure to contrast agents. While further studies with larger cohorts are warranted, DMD MRI is a promising option for functional lung imaging in CDH patients.

Clinical relevance statement

We demonstrate that pulmonary ventilation and perfusion information can be obtained in 2-year-old patients after CDH repair, without the need for ionising radiation or contrast agents by utilising non-contrast-enhanced MRI acquisitions together with dynamic mode decomposition analysis.

Key Points

• Non-contrast-enhanced functional MR imaging is a promising option for functional lung imaging in 2-year-old children after congenital diaphragmatic hernia.

• DMD MRI can generate pulmonary ventilation and perfusion maps from free-breathing dynamic acquisitions without the need for ionising radiation or contrast agents.

• Lung perfusion parameters obtained with DMD MRI correlate with perfusion parameters obtained using dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI.