bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thermodynamics, maximum power, and the dynamics of preferential river flow structures on continents
Authors: Kleidon A. , Zehe E. , Ehret U. , Scherer U.
Published: June 2012

Abstract. The organization of drainage basins shows some reproducible phenomena, as exemplified by self-similar fractal river network structures and typical scaling laws, and these have been related to energetic optimization principles, such as minimization of stream power, minimum energy expenditure or maximum "access". Here we describe the organization and dynamics of drainage systems using thermodynamics, focusing on the generation, dissipation and transfer of free energy associated with river flow and sediment transport. We argue that the organization of drainage basins reflects the fundamental tendency of natural systems to deplete driving gradients as fast as possible through the maximization of free energy generation, thereby accelerating the dynamics of the system. This effectively results in the maximization of sediment export to deplete topographic gradients as fast as possible and potentially involves large-scale feedbacks to continental uplift. We illustrate this thermodynamic description with a set of three highly simplified models related to water and sediment flow and describe the mechanisms and feedbacks involved in the evolution and dynamics of the associated structures. We close by discussing how this thermodynamic perspective is consistent with previous approaches and the implications that such a thermodynamic description has for the understanding and prediction of sub-grid scale organization of drainage systems and preferential flow structures in general.
Prevalence and Risk Factors for Ocular Surface Disease among Patients Treated over the Long Term for Glaucoma or Ocular Hypertension
Authors: Baudouin Christophe , Renard Jean-Paul , Nordmann Jean-Philippe , Denis Philippe , Lachkar Yves , Sellem Eric , Rouland Jean-François , Jeanbat Viviane , Bouée Stéphane
Published: June 2012

Purpose.

To determine the prevalence of ocular surface diseases and identify risk factors in a population of patients receiving antiglaucomatous eyedrops over the long term.

Methods.

An observational cross-sectional study was designed to investigate ocular surface signs and symptoms using simple clinical tools. An ocular surface disease intensity score was calculated based on 10 questions regarding ocular surface symptoms and signs with a 4-grade scale. Patients were classified into 3 groups (A, B, and C) according to this total score. A multinomial logistic regression was performed in order to identify risk factors for surface disease.

Results.

In an overall population of 516 patients, 49% belonged to group A, 30% to group B, and 21% to group C. The multivariate analysis showed that the following factors were correlated with the severity of ocular surface disease: patient age, number of daily eyedrops, past topical treatment changes for ocular intolerance (found in the history of 40% of the patients), intraocular pressure (found to be significantly higher in patients with more severe ocular surface disease), and glaucoma severity.

Conclusions.

Patients treated for primary open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension often have ocular surface diseases, more often and more severely in older patients receiving more drugs and presenting with more severe glaucoma. These high prevalence values might therefore have consequences on the burden of the disease in terms of adherence to treatment and quality of life.
Full-Thickness Macular Hole Formation Associated with Central Serous Chorioretinopathy
Authors: Amde Wendewessen , Tewari Asheesh
Published: June 2012

Purpose.

To report a case of full-thickness macular hole (FTMH) formation associated with central serous retinopathy (CSC).

Methods.

Case report.

Results.

A 63-year-old woman with history of CSC diagnosed 8 years ago presented with vision loss. Clinical examination and optical coherence tomography found FTMH. Seven months following successful surgical repair of the macular hole, the patient presented with decreased vision, and was found to have CSC with closed macular hole.

Conclusions.

Based on the hydration theory of macular hole formation, CSC and the associated retinal pigment epithelium and choriocapillaris dysfunctions may promote the progression of FTMH.
Investigation of the capability of the Compact Polarimetry mode to Reconstruct Full Polarimetry mode using RADARSAT2 data
Authors: Boularbah S. , Ouarzeddine M. , Belhadj-Aissa A.
Published: June 2012

Recently, there has been growing interest in dual-pol systems that transmit one polarization and receive two polarizations. Souyris et al. proposed a DP mode called compact polarimetry (CP) which is able to reduce the complexity, cost, mass, and data rate of a SAR system while attempting to maintain many capabilities of a fully polarimetric system. This paper provides a comparison of the information content of full quad-pol data and the pseudo quad-pol data derived from compact polarimetric SAR modes. A pseudo-covariance matrix can be reconstructed following Souyris’s approach and is shown to be similar to the full polarimetric (FP) covariance matrix. Both the polarimetric signatures based on the kennaugh matrix and the Freeman and Durden decomposition in the context of this compact polarimetry mode are explored. The Freeman and Durden decomposition is used in our study because of its direct relationship to the reflection symmetry. We illustrate our results by using the polarimetric SAR images of Algiers city in Algeria acquired by the RadarSAT2 in C-band.
Biomedical Device Surface Treatment by Laser‐Driven Hydroxyapatite Penetration‐Synthesis Technique for Gapless PEEK‐to‐Bone Integration
Authors: Um Seung‐Hoon , Lee Jaehong , Chae Minseong , Paternoster Carlo , Copes Francesco , Chevallier Pascale , Lee Dong‐Ho , Hwang Suk‐Won , Kim Yu‐Chan , Han Hyung‐Seop , Lee Kang‐Sik , Mantovani Diego , Jeon Hojeong
Published: June 2024

Polyetheretherketone (PEEK), a bioinert polymer known for its mechanical properties similar to bone, is capable of averting stress shielding. Due to these attributes, it finds applications in diverse fields like orthopedics, encompassing cervical disc replacement for the neck and spine, along with dentistry and plastic surgery. However, due to insufficient bonding with bone, various methods such as hydroxyapatite (HA) coating on the surface are attempted. Nonetheless, the interface between the polymer and ceramic, two different materials, tended to delaminate after transplantation, posing challenges in preventing implant escape or dislodgement. This research delves into the laser‐driven hydroxyapatite penetration‐synthesis technique. Differing from conventional coating methods that bond layers of dissimilar materials like HA and PEEK, this technology focuses on synthesizing and infiltrating ionized HA within the PEEK substrate resulting in an interface‐free HA–PEEK surface. Conversely, HA–PEEK with this technology applied achieves complete, gap‐free direct bone–implant integration.  Our research involved the analysis of various aspects. By means of these, we quantitatively assesed the enhanced bone bonding characteristics of HA‐PEEK surfaces treated with this approach and offered and explanation for the mechanism responsible for direct bone integration.
Imparting Ultrahigh Strength to Polymers via a New Concept Strategy of Construction of up to Duodecuple Hydrogen Bonding among Macromolecular Chains
Authors: Wen Yi Wei , Li Ming , Fan Long Fei , Rong Min Zhi , Zhang Ming Qiu
Published: June 2024

Interconnecting macromolecules via multiple hydrogen bonds (H‐bonds) can simultaneously strengthen and toughen polymers, but material synthesis becomes extremely difficult with increasing number of H‐bonding donors and acceptors; therefore, most reports are limited to triple and quadruple H‐bonds. Herein, this bottleneck is overcome by adopting a quartet‐wise approach of constructing H‐bonds instead of the traditional pairwise method. Thus, large multiple hydrogen bonds can be easily established, and the supramolecular interactions are further reinforced. Especially, when such multiple H‐bond motifs are embedded in polymers, four macromolecular chains—rather than two as usual—are tied, distributing the applied stress over a larger volume and more significantly improving the overall mechanical properties. Proof‐of‐concept studies indicate that the proposed intermolecular multiple H‐bonds (up to duodecuple) are readily introduced in polyurethane. A record‐high tensile strength (105.2 MPa) is achieved alongside outstanding toughness (352.1 MJ m−3), fracture energy (480.7 kJ m−2), and fatigue threshold (2978.4 J m−2). Meantime, the polyurethane has acquired excellent self‐healability and recyclability. This strategy is also applicable to nonpolar polymers, such as polydimethylsiloxane, whose strength (15.3 MPa) and toughness (50.3 MJ m−3) are among the highest reported to date for silicones. This new technique has good expandability and can be used to develop even more and stronger polymers.
Nonlinear Current Injection in Hexagonal Boron Nitride using Linearly Polarized Light in a Deeply Off‐Resonant Regime
Authors: Mao Wenwen , Rubio Angel , Sato Shunsuke A.
Published: June 2024

Light‐induced electron dynamics in monolayer hexagonal boron nitride is theoretically investigated under the influence of two‐color linearly‐polarized laser fields at frequencies ω and 2ω, by solving the time‐dependent Schrödinger equation with a tight‐binding model. In the weak field regime, it is confirm that the injection of ballistic current arises from the breakdown of time‐reversal symmetry. This phenomenon is attributed to quantum interference between two distinct excitation paths: a one‐photon (2ℏω) absorption path and a two‐photon (ℏω) absorption path. In a strong field regime, the analysis reveals that the two‐color laser fields may generate a substantial population imbalance within momentum space, consequently facilitating the injection of ballistic current even in a deeply off‐resonant regime. The findings demonstrate that a pronounced population imbalance exceeding 30% of excited electrons can be realized without relying on the ellipticity of the fields. This highlights the potential of linearly polarized light for efficient photovoltaic effects and valley population control in 2D systems and heterostructures.
PtSe2/InP Mixed‐Dimensional Schottky Junction for High‐Performance Self‐Powered Near‐Infrared Photodetection
Authors: Wang Jiang , Fu Can , Jiang Mengting , Hu Yi , Liu Yuanda , Zhu Meng‐Lei , Yu Jie , Fu Jichao , Lin Ronghui , Wu Di , Mahfoud Zackaria , Jia Sim Ai , Liang Feng‐Xia , Li Li , Teng Jinghua , Luo Lin‐Bao
Published: June 2024

Self‐powered near‐infrared (NIR) photodetectors utilizing low‐dimensional materials are promising owing to their low‐power‐consumption and superior photoresponse performance. The strong light‐matter interaction and other intriguing physical mechanisms (such as high mobility, dangling‐bond‐free surface) in 2D semiconductor materials, combined with the flexible fabrication of device structures, create new opportunities for the optoelectronic devices. Here, a self‐powered NIR Schottky junction photodetector is demonstrated by vertically stacking 2D PtSe2 film atop an InP wafer. The strong built‐in electric field formed at PtSe2/InP interface endows the device with self‐powered operation with an ultralow dark current of 45 pA at room temperature under 0 V bias. The responsivity and detectivity at 940 nm illumination reach up to 0.718 A W−1 and 4.37 × 1012 Jones, respectively. Furthermore, TCAD simulations showed that the significant electric field at the PtSe2/InP interface is pivotal for its superior self‐powered detection performance. Remarkably, the device achieves a high Ilight/Idark ratio exceeding 105 and a fast response time of 4.35/5.66 µs, and sensitivity to NIR light polarization. This study provides a new perspective for the integration of hybrid 2D materials with 3D semiconductors in the next‐generation optoelectronic devices and integrated systems.
Self‐lubricating polyamide 6 and polyamide 6.6 microcapsule‐based composites
Authors: Grünewald Moritz , Herbig David , Heilig Michael , Rudloff Johannes , Bastian Martin , Engelmann Gunnar , Hirsekorn Max , Latnikova Alexandra
Published: June 2024

Polymeric applications with extended service life and low energy loss due to friction are of great interest in conveyor and power transmission technology. Self‐lubricating systems utilizing microcapsules hold significant potential for increasing energy efficiency and extending the operational life of these applications. This study focuses on synthesizing oil‐filled microcapsules through in situ polymerization of polyamide and their incorporation in polyamide 6 and polyamide 6.6. Microcapsules with a core made of thermally stable lubricant Food Lube, and particle diameter D90 of 50 μm were synthesized and isolated as a free‐flowing powder via spray‐drying procedure. The resulting powder demonstrated high thermal stability (loss of 5% at 350°C) due to the high thermal stability of both core and shell materials. A compounding process utilizing a twin‐screw extruder was developed to blend microcapsules into thermoplastic matrices. An injection molding machine forms tension rods. The composites' tribological properties are assessed through ball‐on‐disc tests conducted in both oscillation and rotation. The friction coefficient and wear rate of the composites experience a reduction of 79% and 56% for polyamide 6, as well as 77% and 75% for polyamide 6.6. Mechanical testing of the microcapsule composites reveals a decrease in mechanical properties.
Impacts of setting a numeric minimum disinfectant residual for public water system distribution systems
Authors: Samson Carleigh , Seidel Chad , Masters Sheldon
Published: June 2024

US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires public water systems (PWSs) that disinfect to maintain a detectable disinfectant residual throughout the distribution system (DS) to protect consumers against risks from microbial pathogens. The EPA is tasked with proposing revisions to the Microbial, Disinfectant, and Disinfection Byproduct rules by July 2025. Potential revisions could include a numeric minimum disinfectant residual level in place of the “detectable” requirement. Twenty‐three states have defined a required DS numeric minimum disinfectant residual level. Only three such states, Louisiana, Colorado, and Pennsylvania, have made recent changes and have sufficient data available to assess implications. These states were used as case studies to assess the impact this regulatory change had on disinfectant residual levels and microbial and disinfection byproduct (DBP) occurrence in PWS DSs. Results included increases in disinfectant residual levels, decreases in total coliform positive occurrences and violations, and temporary increases in DBP occurrence and violations.
Advances in serum‐free media for CHO cells: From traditional serum substitutes to microbial‐derived substances
Authors: Zhang Mingcan , Zhao Xinyu , Li Ying , Ye Qinghua , Wu Yuwei , Niu Qinya , Zhang Ying , Fan Guanghan , Chen Tianxiang , Xia Jiarui , Wu Qingping
Published: June 2024

The Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cell is an epithelial‐like cell that produces proteins with post‐translational modifications similar to human glycosylation. It is widely used in the production of recombinant therapeutic proteins and monoclonal antibodies. Culturing CHO cells typically requires the addition of a certain proportion of fetal bovine serum (FBS) to maintain cell proliferation and passaging. However, serum is characterized by its complex composition, batch‐to‐batch variability, high cost, and potential risk of exogenous contaminants such as mycoplasma and viruses, which impact the purity and safety of the synthesized proteins. Therefore, search for serum alternatives and development of serum‐free media for CHO‐based protein biomanufacturing are of great significance. This review systematically summarizes the application advantages of CHO cells and strategies for high‐density expression. It highlights the developmental trends of serum substitutes from human platelet lysates to animal‐free extracts and microbial‐derived substances and elucidates the mechanisms by which these substitutes enhance CHO cell culture performance and recombinant protein production, aiming to provide theoretical guidance for exploring novel serum alternatives and developing serum‐free media for CHO cells.
Nutraceutical Properties of the Hydroalcoholic Extract and Phenolic Compounds from Yucca aloifolia Edible Flowers
Authors: Pacheco‐Hernández Yesenia , Lozoya‐Gloria Edmundo , Velásquez‐Hernández Francisco E. , Ramírez‐García Sergio A. , Varela‐Caselis Jenaro Leocadio , Villa‐Ruano Nemesio
Published: June 2024

The flowers of Yucca aloifolia (“flor de izote”) are considered a millenary food in the Northeastern Highlands of Puebla, Mexico. The present investigation reports on the chemical and biological activities of the hydroalcoholic extract (YAHF) obtained from this edible source. HPLC‐MS profiling revealed twenty bioactive phenolic compounds with chlorogenic acid (16.5 mg g−1 DW), quercetin (9.5 mg g−1 FW), and their glycosides (rutin and quercitrin), as well as caffeic acid (8.4 mg g−1 DW) and ferulic acid (7.9 mg g−1 DW) as major compounds dissolved in YAHF. Six metabolites had potent anti‐lipase (IC50<100 μg mL−1) and anti‐ornithine decarboxylase activity (IC50<100 μg mL−1), whereas thirteen exerted strong anti‐alpha‐glucosidase properties (IC50<100 μg mL−1). The evaluation of YAHF in mice subjected to standard oral glucose tolerance tests and prolonged administration of hypercaloric/atherogenic diet (30 days), unraveled their ability to improve glucose and lipid profiles. YAHF and six phenolic compounds significantly reduced DLD‐1 cell viability (IC50, 117.9 μg mL−1) and avoided polyamine accumulation linked to anti‐ornithine decarboxylase activity. YAHF and its twenty constituents exerted low toxicity in probiotics (>1000 μg mL−1) and 3T3 fibroblasts (>2.5 mg−mL−1), sustaining their safeness for human consumption.
Selective Enrichment of Low‐Abundance DNA Variants Based on Programmable Peptide Nucleic Acid Probes
Authors: Zhang Yi , Weng Zhi , Huang Zixuan , Li Qian , Fan Chunhai , Luo Shihua , Song Ping
Published: June 2024

Comprehensive Summary

Single‐nucleotide variants (SNVs) are crucial in disease development, but their accurate detection is challenging due to their low abundance and interference from wild‐type targets. Although nucleic acid analogs like peptide nucleic acids (PNAs) have been used for SNV detection, they often lack programmable sensitivity and specificity due to poorly calculated thermodynamics and kinetics. Here, we present a computational method for calculating the stacking energy of PNA and DNA hybrids, leveraging nearest neighbor parameters. Validation against experimental data from 16 sequences under varied hybridization conditions yielded good agreement using Bland‐Altman analysis, with all data points falling within the confidence interval. Our findings indicate that PNA‐DNA hybridization is thermodynamically more stable and exhibits kinetics 140‐fold faster than DNA‐DNA hybridization for identical sequences. Utilizing this computational framework, we designed PNA toehold probes, which were screened via simulations and experiments. This combined approach facilitated the identification of highly sensitive and specific PNA toehold probes for single point mutation detection via strand displacement reaction. Our results demonstrate the successful application of PNA toehold probes for detecting point mutations with high sensitivity and specificity, achieving a selective amplification of approximately 200‐fold for variants with a variant allele frequency (VAF) of 0.5% using quantitative polymerase chain reaction.
Incidence Trends of Vulvar Cancer in the United States: A 20‐Year Population‐Based Study
Authors: Mousavi Seyed Ehsan , Ghasemi Hoomaan , Najafi Morvarid , Yekta Zahra , Nejadghaderi Seyed Aria
Published: June 2024

Background

Despite being uncommon, vulvar cancer is a serious health concern with a 5‐year relative survival rate of 71%.

Aims

The objective was to investigate the incidence rates of this disease across different racial, ethnic, and histological subgroups in the United States, as well as the effects of the COVID‐19 pandemic on this cancer.

Methods

We used the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) 22 database. The International Classification of Diseases for Oncology Version 3 topologic code C51 was assigned for vulvar cancer. Average annual percent change (AAPC) and the pairwise comparison with the parallelism and coincidence were reported. Counts and age‐adjusted incidence rates per 100 000 individuals with their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were reported.

Results

The age‐adjusted incidence rate of vulvar cancer was 2.40 (95% CI, 2.38–2.43) over the period 2000–2019, with an AAPC of 0.80 (95% CI, 0.63–0.99). By race/ethnicity, only non‐Hispanic Whites had an increasing trend over 2000–2019 (AAPC: 1.30; 95% CI, 1.07–1.54). The highest age‐adjusted incidence rate of vulvar cancer in the United States was for squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). There was a significant decrease in the age‐standardized incidence rate of vulvar cancer in all races/ethnicities in all age groups (AAPC: −10.15; 95% CI, −15.35 to −4.94) over 2019–2020. Also, the incidence rates and incident numbers of vulvar cancer increased with aging and peaked at the 85+ age group.

Conclusion

There was an increase in the incidence rate of vulvar cancer in all races, with a significantly increased trend in non‐Hispanic White women from 2000 to 2019. SCC displayed the highest incidence rate among vulvar cancer histological types. It is recommended to conduct further research to identify the relevant risk factors of vulvar cancer in the United States.
Urinary cytologic features of primitive neuroectodermal tumor primarily involving the kidney: A case report
Authors: Cheng Kai , Wang Xiaoxia , Bao Wei , Li Rui , Wang Xuan , Rao Qiu
Published: June 2024

Renal primitive neuroectodermal tumor(rPNET) is an extremely rare and distinct entity that can be mistaken for a variety of other round cell tumors. Findings from fine needle aspiration cytology have been reported, but there have been no reports of PNET cytomorphological features in urine cytology specimen. Here, we report a case of PNET characterized by urine cytology. A 24‐year‐old girl presented with hematuria for half a month. Computed tomography showed a large tumor involving the upper pole of the right kidney. Urinary cytology exhibited highly cellular clusters composed of small, round, atypical cells with little cytoplasm and a high nuclear/cytoplasmic ratio. Following a right nephrectomy, the biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of rPNET. Additionally, immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining of the decolorized liquid‐based cytology slide was positive for CD99, further confirming the diagnosis through urine cytology. Our observations suggest that urinary cytology in combination with cytological morphology and immunocytochemistry may be a potentially useful method for the detection of PNET.
Synthesis of Lactones via Electrochemical Sequential Oxidative Process
Authors: Fang Ming , Shang Peinan , Huang Hai , Sun Jianwei , Han Zhengyu
Published: June 2024

Herein, we unveil a novel electrochemical oxidative strategy that facilitates the synthesis of lactones from 2‐arylbenzaldehydes and 2‐arylbenzoic acids. Crucially, our method allows for the convergent synthesis of lactones from the combinations of the respective 2‐arylbenzaldehyde and 2‐arylbenzoic acid as starting material, owing to the oxidative process's compatibility within our electrochemical setup. This approach offers a robust and versatile pathway to construct various dibenzopyranones type lactone compounds through an environmentally considerate and economically advantageous process.
Clinical outcomes in perineural spread of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma via the ophthalmic nerve
Authors: Crawford Lachlan , Bowman James , Gandhi Mitesh , Porceddu Sandro V. , Panizza Benedict
Published: June 2024

Background

There are no large studies reporting oncological or survival outcomes for patients diagnosed with perineural spread (PNS) of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) via the ophthalmic nerve (V1). Where orbital exenteration may be necessary for curative treatment, it is critical to have survival data with which the morbidity associated with surgical treatment can be justified. Furthermore, with the emerging treatment option of immunotherapy, current standard of care outcomes are needed to help guide future trial design and eventually changed management guidelines.

Objective

To determine the oncological and survival outcomes observed in patients with PNS of cSCC via V1.

Materials and methods

Retrospective analysis of prospectively maintained cohort of patients with PNS of cSCC via V1 treated in a tertiary Australian head and neck oncology/skull base referral center. Consecutive sample of 53 patients managed between March 1, 1999 and April 30, 2020. Follow‐up closure date was September 1, 2021. Curative‐intent surgery, curative‐intent radiotherapy, or palliative care was undertaken. Endpoints included five‐year overall, disease‐specific, and disease‐free survival from the date of treatment.

Results

Five‐year Kaplan–Meier overall survival was 61.9% (95% CI 46.2%–74.3%), with disease‐specific survival of 74.6% (95% CI 58.8%–85.3%), and disease‐free survival 62.1% (95% CI 46.5%–74.3%). Survival was superior in patients treated via surgery and adjuvant radiotherapy than in those receiving surgery alone or definitive radiotherapy. Survival was superior among patients with less advanced disease as assessed by the Williams zonal staging system; patients with Zone 1 disease had disease‐specific survival of 94.1% at 5 years with 82.5% disease‐free survival.

Discussion

Five‐year oncological and survival outcomes in this cohort were favorable. Superior survival was observed in patients treated with curative‐intent surgery and adjuvant radiotherapy. Less extensive disease as delineated by the Williams zonal staging system was associated with improved survival.

Conclusion

Surgical resection with adjuvant radiotherapy confers favourable oncological and survival outcome in patients with V1 PNS, particularly with early disease limited to Zone 1.
Role of analytical methods in verifying biodiesel upgrades: Emphasis on nanoparticle and acetone integration for enhanced performance, combustion, and emissions
Authors: Deviren Halis , Çılğın Erdal , Bayındır Hasan
Published: June 2024

This study aims to address critical challenges such as global warming and energy sustainability by targeting the reduction of high NOx emissions in diesel engines. The effects of acetone (AC) and magnesium oxide (MgO) nanoparticles (NPs) as additives in improving the physicochemical properties of biodiesel derived from renewable, nonedible Pistacia terebinthus oil, which is abundant in Turkey and has a high free fatty acid (FFA) content of 5.8%, were investigated. Due to the high FFA content, a two‐step (esterification followed by transesterification [TR]) method was used for biodiesel production. Additionally, a quantitative analysis of biodiesel obtained by both single (TR) and two‐step methods was performed to address a gap in the literature. The addition of AC and MgO NPs to B20 (80% diesel fuel and 20% biodiesel) fuel resulted in reductions in the rate of pressure rise, instantaneous energy release, cylinder pressure, mean gas temperature, and cumulative heat release rate. However, brake‐specific fuel consumption increased, and brake thermal efficiency decreased. Emissions analyses showed a reduction in CO emissions by 6.65% with AC and 2.10% with AC + MgO, and a reduction in NOx emissions by 41.64% with AC and 46.03% with AC + MgO. However, hydrocarbon emissions increased by 26.48%. The study highlights the synergistic benefits of AC and MgO additives in biodiesel, presenting a viable strategy for improving the environmental and performance metrics of biodiesel blends. It provides new insights into alternative fuel formulations.
Cluster analysis of social isolation in gynecologic cancer patients: A cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Zhang Wenjia , Zhan Liuyan , Huang Jie , Zhao Jie , Wei Siqi
Published: June 2024

Objective

To identify the distinct clusters of social isolation among gynecologic cancer patients and analyze the predictive factors associated with each cluster.

Methods

A total of 463 patients diagnosed with gynecologic cancer were recruited from three tertiary hospitals between November 2021 and March 2023. Using a two‐step cluster analysis, participants were categorized into clusters based on social isolation scales. Multinomial logistic regression was then employed to predict factors influencing the identified clusters.

Results

Social isolation in gynecologic cancer patients manifested in four distinct clusters: mild social isolation subgroup (13.8%), moderate social isolation subgroup (32.0%), severe isolation subgroup (33.5%), and high social isolation (20.70%). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that cognitive emotional regulation, social support, negative emotions, endometrial cancer, and disease recurrence or metastasis were significant predictive factors for the identified social isolation clusters (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

The study underscored the heterogeneity in the social isolation characteristics of gynecologic cancer patients. Consequently, healthcare professionals should prioritize the identification of potential high‐risk groups and devise personalized interventions to prevent and mitigate the occurrence of social isolation.
Potential consequences of nitric oxide release: An improved model informing worker safety
Authors: Venugopalan Gautham , Casagrande Rocco , Gunther Noah , Prasad Rashmi , Jackson Shawn
Published: June 2024

Both nitric oxide (NO) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) gasses are toxic to humans but are commonly found in industrial settings such as semiconductor manufacturing sites. Due to the spontaneous oxidation of NO to NO2 under ambient conditions, individuals working with NO may in fact be exposed to both gasses in the case of an accidental release. Unfortunately, most safety materials provided to NO users do not address the potential for associated NO2 toxicity, and, until now, models developed to predict health consequences following a release of NO have not appropriately considered the oxidation kinetics nor the toxicity of both NO and NO2 in their assessments. This paper describes an improved multi‐module model that addresses these limitations and explores whether facilities using NO should consider adopting measures that can mitigate the simultaneous health effects of both gasses. The model predicts the morbidity (intoxication/injury), mortality (death), and treatment outcomes that may arise following an industrial NO release by first calculating the doses of both NO and NO2 received by exposed individuals and then applying newly defined toxicity parameters for NO and NO2 to assign dose‐dependent probabilities for the onset of intoxication and/or death and the ability of appropriate treatment(s) to save lives. Modeling results indicate low risk to worker health in the likeliest release scenarios while identifying less likely situations that carry substantially higher risk. Moreover, these results indicate that risks to worker health can be mitigated with simple measures like maintaining reliable alarms, adequate ventilation, and on‐site supplies of methylene blue, as well as encouraging quick responses by personnel. With appropriate parameterization, the improved modeling framework is generalizable to any chemical release, especially multi‐hazard releases resulting from the conversion of one toxic compound into another under likely environmental conditions. By directly addressing the toxicities of multiple compounds, the improved model presents a more realistic picture of the potential health consequences of a chemical release. This generalizable framework for modeling of multi‐hazard chemical releases can inform preparedness and risk mitigation strategies for NO release events.
Long‐term insulin resistance is associated with frailty, frailty progression, and cardiovascular disease
Authors: Ke Zezhi , Wen Han , Huang Rihua , Xu Xinghao , Yang Kevin , Liu Wenbin , Wang Suisui , Zhang Xu , Guo Ye , Liao Xinxue , Zhuang Xiaodong , Zhao Jie , Pan Litao , Liao Lizhen
Published: June 2024

Background

Insulin resistance and diabetes are associated with an increased risk of frailty, and frailty is associated with cardiovascular disease and premature mortality. We aim to investigate the impact of long‐term insulin resistance trajectories on future frailty and cardiovascular risk among young adults.

Methods

In total, 3168 participants with a 30‐year follow‐up period. The baseline period covered the first 15 years as the exposure period. Insulin resistance was determined using the homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR), and three trajectories (low, moderate, and high) were constructed. The subsequent 15 years constituted the event accrual period. Frailty was assessed using a deficit accumulation mode, and cardiovascular outcomes were obtained from the 15‐year event accrual period.

Results

The mean age of all 3168 participants was 41.0 (37.0–43.0) years, with 1750 (55.2%) being women. Participants in the high level of insulin resistance trajectory had an increased prevalence of frailty (OR: 1.55, 95% CI: 1.05–2.30, P = 0.028). Although no statistically significant associations were observed after full adjustment, single‐factor analysis indicated association between the moderate and high trajectories and frailty progression. Additionally, participants with high level of insulin resistance trajectory were associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, coronary heart disease, and stroke. A notable correlation between HOMA‐IR trajectory and cardiovascular diseases was still discernible within the subgroup where the frailty index ≥0.12 (HR: 2.12, 95% CI: 1.17–3.83, P = 0.013) (P for interaction >0.05).

Conclusions

Long‐term high level of insulin resistance is associated with high prevalence of frailty, and an increased risk of cardiovascular events. Emphasizing the importance of early prevention and intervention for abnormal glucose metabolism in young adults to prevent frailty and cardiovascular disease.
Gill morphology adapted to oxygen‐limited caves in Astyanax mexicanus
Authors: Boggs Tyler E. , Gross Joshua B.
Published: June 2024

Sensing and acquiring dissolved oxygen is crucial for nearly all aquatic life. This may become even more vital as dissolved oxygen concentrations continue to decline in many aquatic environments. While certain phenotypes that enable fish to live in low oxygen have been characterized, adaptations that arise following sudden, drastic reductions in dissolved oxygen are relatively unknown. Here, we assessed the blind Mexican cavefish, Astyanax mexicanus, for alterations to gill morphology that may be adaptive for life in hypoxic caves. The Astyanax system provides the unique opportunity to compare gill morphology between stereotypical “surface” adapted morphotypes and obligate cave‐dwelling conspecifics. While the surface environment is well‐oxygenated, cavefish must cope with significantly reduced oxygen. We began by quantifying traditional morphological gill traits including filament number and length as well as lamellar density and height in surface fish and two distinct cave populations, Pachón and Tinaja. This enabled us to estimate total lamellar height, a proxy for gill surface area. We then used immunohistochemical staining to label 5‐HT‐positive neuroepithelial cells (NECs), which serve as key oxygen sensors in fish. We discovered an increase in gill surface area for both cavefish populations compared to surface, which may enable a higher capacity of oxygen acquisition. Additionally, we found more NECs in Pachón cavefish compared to both surface fish and Tinaja cavefish, suggesting certain selective pressures may be cave‐specific. Collectively, this work provides evidence that cavefish have adapted to low oxygen conditions via alterations to gill morphology and oxygen sensing, and informs evolutionary mechanisms of rapid adaptation to dramatic, chronic hypoxia.
Static study and numerical simulation of the influence of cement distribution in the upper and lower adjacent vertebrae on sandwich vertebrae in osteoporotic patients: Finite element analysis
Authors: Huang Shaolong , Wu Xue , Zhou Chengqiang , Zhang Xu , Tang Zhongjian , Qi Xiangyu , Zhao Shuai
Published: June 2024

Objective

We analyzed the influence of the location of the upper and lower cement on the sandwich vertebrae (SV) by computer finite element analysis.

Materials and Methods

A finite element model of the spinal segment of T11‐L1 was constructed and 6 mL of cement was built into T11 and L1 simultaneously. According to the various distributions of bone cement at T11 and L1, the following four groups were formed: (i) Group B‐B: bilateral bone cement reinforcement in both T11 and L1 vertebral bodies; (ii) Group L‐B: left unilateral reinforcement in T11 and bilateral reinforcement in L1; (iii) Group L‐R: unilateral cement reinforcement in both T11 and L1 (cross); (iv) Group L‐L: unilateral cement reinforcement in both T11 and L1 (ipsilateral side). The maximum von Mises stress (VMS) and maximum displacement of the SV and intervertebral discs were compared and analyzed.

Results

The maximum VMS of T12 was in the order of size: group B‐B < L‐B < L‐R < L‐L. Group B‐B showed the lowest maximum VMS values for T12: 19.13, 18.86, 25.17, 25.01, 19.24, and 20.08 MPa in six directions of load flexion, extension, left and right lateral bending, and left and right rotation, respectively, while group L‐L was the largest VMS in each group, with the maximum VMS in six directions of 21.55, 21.54, 30.17, 28.33, 19.88, and 25.27 MPa, respectively.

Conclusion

Compared with the uneven distribution of bone cement in the upper and lower adjacent vertebrae (ULAV), the uniform distribution of bone cement in the ULAV reduced and uniformed the stress load on the SV and intervertebral disc. Theoretically, it can lead to the lowest incidence of sandwich vertebral fracture and the slowest rate of intervertebral disc degeneration.
Discovery and determination of misuse and chemotypes of Pogostemon cablin by liquid chromatography‐quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry and liquid chromatography with diode‐array detector
Authors: Wei Chieh‐Chun , Tseng Zi‐Rong , Liao Hsiao‐Wei
Published: June 2024

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has garnered significant scientific interest in healthcare but faces increased regulatory scrutiny due to concerns about uncontrolled usage. This study focuses on characterizing Pogostemon cablin (PC) to mitigate potential misuse and identify chemotype differences. Leveraging untargeted metabolomics, we identified 222 distinctive features effectively differentiating PC from Agastache rugosa (AR), reducing misidentification risks. Pogostone and tilianin emerged as potential markers, leading to a high‐performance liquid chromatography‐diode array detection (HPLC‐DAD) method development for PC and AR discrimination. Evaluation of PC chromatograms revealed notable profile and pogostone level differences among samples, suggesting chemotype associations. Untargeted metabolic profiling identified 78 features with significant differences, highlighting 7,3′,4′‐tri‐O‐methyleriodictyol as a potential discriminatory marker between PC chemotypes. The developed HPLC‐DAD method quantified pogostone and 7,3′,4′‐tri‐O‐methyleriodictyol, effectively discriminating PC chemotypes. This platform differentiates PC and AR and distinguishes chemical types within PC, like pogostone‐type and patchoulol‐type. Applied to local TCM stores, it ensures PC authenticity. This approach addresses TCM control concerns, enhancing understanding and application of herbal medicine by providing insights into PC chemical composition and discrimination.
High Hydrophilic and Antibacterial Efficient UV−Curable Silicone−Containing Choline Chloride Quaternary Ammonium Salts Functionalized Materials
Authors: Song Yan , Sun Nana , Jiang Yaohuang , Zhu Hongyu , Yu Yanchun , Lai Guoqiao , Yang Xiongfa
Published: June 2024

Antibacterial materials with high hydrophobicity have drawbacks such as protein adsorption, bacterial contamination, and biofilm formation, which are responsible for some serious adverse health events. Therefore, antibacterial materials with high hydrophilicity are highly desired. In this paper, UV‐curable antibacterial materials are prepared from silicone−containing Choline chloride (ChCl) functionalized hyperbranched quaternary ammonium salts (QAS) and tri−hydroxylethyl acrylate phosphate (TAEP). The materials show high hydrophilic performance because their water contact angle is as low as 19.3°. The materials also exhibit quite high antibacterial efficiency against S. aureus over 95.6%, fairly high transmittance over 90%, and good mechanical performance with tensile strength as high as 6.5 MPa. It reveals that it is a feasible strategy to develop antibacterial materials with low hydrophobicity from silicone‐modified ChCl‐functionalized hyperbranched QAS.
In Vitro Fermentation of Animal and Plant Protein Isolates by the Human Gut Microbiota Under High and Low Carbohydrate Conditions
Authors: Behounek Marissa , Cochran Darcy , Motta‐Romero Hollman A. , Yang Qinnan , Ding Wensheng , Morton Martha , Majumder Kaustav , Powers Robert , Rose Devin J.
Published: June 2024

Scope

There is a lack of research comparing how different protein isolates influence the microbiome, especially when carbohydrate (CHO) availability is varied. The objective is to determine changes in gut microbiota composition and function during fermentation of digested protein isolates under high and low CHO conditions.

Methods and results

Protein isolates from beef, egg white, milk, pea, and soy are subjected to in vitro digestion and fermentation with human fecal microbiota. Under low CHO conditions, the microbiota is primarily proteolytic with decreased concentrations of peptides and increased variance among microbial taxa and production of ammonia and branched chain fatty acids by the microbiota. Milk protein not only results in the highest production of butyrate and p‐hydroxyphenylacetate but also has high concentrations of deleterious fermentation metabolites. Amino acid composition of the protein isolates is significantly correlated with abundances of many microbial taxa and metabolites, but the correlations are stronger in the low CHO medium.

Conclusion

This study shows that low CHO conditions increase proteolytic fermentation and result in increased differences in microbiota response to protein isolates. It also showed that amino acid composition is highly associated with microbiota composition and function especially under low CHO conditions.
Immunobiotic Bacteria Attenuate Hepatic Fibrosis through the Modulation of Gut Microbiota and the Activation of Aryl‐Hydrocarbon Receptors Pathway in Non‐Alcoholic Steatohepatitis Mice
Authors: Kanmani Paulraj , Villena Julio , Lim Soo‐kyoung , Song Eun‐Ji , Nam Young‐Do , Kim Hojun
Published: June 2024

Scope

Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is a leading cause of chronic liver disease worldwide that can progress to liver fibrosis (LF). Probiotics have beneficial roles in reducing intestinal inflammation and gut‐associated diseases, but their effects and mechanisms beyond the gut in attenuating the progression of LF are remained unclear.

Methods and results

In a mouse model of NASH/LF induced by a methionine‐choline deficient (MCD) diet, immunobiotics are administered to investigate their therapeutic effects. Results show that the MCD diet leads to liver inflammation, steatosis, and fibrosis, which are alleviated by immunobiotics. Immunobiotics reduces serum endotoxin and inflammatory markers while increasing regulatory cytokines and liver weight. They also suppress Th17 cells, known for producing inflammatory cytokines. Furthermore, immunobiotics mitigate collagen deposition and fibrogenic signaling in the liver, while restoring gut‐barrier integrity and microbiota composition. Additionally, immunobiotics enhance the activation of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) pathway in both colonic and liver tissues.

Conclusions

Overall, these results demonstrate a novel insight into the mechanisms through which immunobiotic administration improves the gut health which in turn increases the AhR pathway and inhibits HSCs activation and fibrosis progression beyond the gut in the liver tissue of NASH/LF mice.
Written narratives to understand the experience of individuals living with fibromyalgia
Authors: Serrat Mayte , Sora Beatriz , Ureña Patricia , Vall‐Roqué Helena , Edo‐Gual Montserrat , Nieto Rubén
Published: June 2024

Purpose

To explore the experiences of individuals with fibromyalgia (FM) through written narratives (WN) and to preliminarily investigate the potential value of these narratives for healthcare professionals in assessing the overall perceived severity and disability experienced by individuals with FM.

Materials and methods

This cross‐sectional study was conducted with 46 participants with a FM diagnosis. They were asked to complete a WN task that aimed to capture their personal experiences. The degree of severity and disability expressed in their texts was assessed by researchers, and participants were also asked to complete the Revised Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQR), the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HAD), and the Tampa Scale for Kinesophobia.

Results and conclusions

Eight main themes were identified after qualitatively analysing the narratives provided by participants: story of their illness, FM characteristics, other illnesses, impact, coping strategies, social support, pain triggers and treatments. Pain emerges as a profound symptom affecting mental, physical, and social well‐being, with diverse triggers and coping mechanisms. Participants highlighted difficulties in the diagnostic process, used multiple treatment strategies, and expressed a lack of understanding from healthcare professionals and society. There were significant correlations between researchers' assessments of severity and disability of the writings and FIQR and HAD scores. This study emphasises the value of narratives in capturing the multifaceted nature of FM experiences and hints at their potential for clinical understanding and management.