bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distributed damping reshaping control with constraints on dual stabilities for grid‐connected inverter in high penetration grid
Authors: Qi Lei , Zhao Wei , Sun Xiaofeng , Li Xin
Published: November 2023

The penetration level is limited by the occurrence of harmonic resonance under weakening grid. Under conventional current control, the penetrations with different power scheduling are assessed by the impedance Bode diagrams. To further suppress the current harmonics and improve the penetration with minimum cost, this paper proposes a distributed damping reshaping method by introducing the grid current feedback loop into the modulated wave of the inverter. The additional feedback loop is obtained by moving forward the feedback point of real damping link in hardware loop. Its equivalent control block has actual physical meaning, which helps to design damping coefficient. Further, instead of relying on the experience of engineer to select the damping coefficient, considering the effect of different values of damping on the inverter's performance, a damping design principle with the dual constraints on GCI's self‐stability and the global stability of the system is proposed. In detail, the range of the possible values of damping can be obtained by setting the desired system phase margin and the desired GCI's pole‐zero locations. In this range, the damping parameter, which remains the maximum ability of harmonic suppression for penetration improvement, can be determined by setting the desired damping ratio of the poles near the imaginary axis. Finally, simulations and experimental results were conducted to verify the correctness of the theoretical analysis.
CRLH‐TL‐loaded metamaterial antenna with frequency band and polarization reconfigurability
Authors: Ghosh Kalyanbrata , Chandra Avinash , Kumar Rajkishor , Shah Arpan , Chakraborty Ujjal
Published: November 2023

In this communication, an asymmetric co‐planar waveguide (ACPW)–fed composite right–left‐handed transmission line (CRLH‐TL)–based frequency band and polarization reconfigurable antenna (RA) is presented. The reconfigurability is achieved by using a PIN diode. When the diode is in OFF state, meander line works as part of ground. Hence, the antenna is like a circular patch antenna working at 5.15 GHz. In the ON state, the antenna works as a CRLH‐TL‐based antenna with an additional lower band resonating at 2.45 GHz. The antenna also has circular polarization (CP) property. The lower 2.4 GHz band is covering for IEEE 802.11 b/g/n/ax/be applications, whereas the higher band is covering the WiFi bands of IEEE 802.11a/h/n/ac/ax/be applications with CP radiation (upper band). This antenna is effective in a scattering environment such as in urban areas and indoor communication.
Noradrenergic control of neurobehavior in human binge‐eating disorder and obesity (NOBEAD): A smartphone‐supported behavioral emotion regulation intervention study protocol integrating molecular brain imaging
Authors: Hesse Swen , Rullmann Michael , Zientek Franziska , Schewe Danielle , Becker Georg‐Alexander , Patt Marianne , Meyer Philipp M. , Juarascio Adrienne S. , Frank Guido K. W. , Sabri Osama , Hilbert Anja
Published: November 2023

Objective

The neurobehavioral underpinnings of binge‐eating disorder (BED), co‐occurring with obesity (OB), are largely unknown. This research project conceptualizes BED as a disorder with dysfunctional emotion regulation (ER) linked with changes in central noradrenaline (NA) transmission and NA‐modulated neuronal networks.

Methods

We expect abnormalities in NA activity in both BED and OB, but most pronounced in BED. We expect these abnormalities to be modifiable through state‐of‐the‐art ER intervention, specifically in BED. To assess the role of NA transmission, we will quantify changes in NA transporter (NAT) availability using the highly NAT‐specific [11C]methylreboxetin (MRB) and positron emission tomography‐magnetic resonance imaging (PET‐MRI) that allows measuring molecular and neuronal changes before and after an ER intervention. Individual 12‐session smartphone‐supported acceptance‐based behavioral therapy will be conducted to improve ER. Thirty individuals with OB and BED (OB + BED), 30 individuals with OB without BED (OB ‐ BED), and 20 individuals with normal weight will undergo assessments of NAT availability and neuronal network activity under rest and stimulated conditions, clinical interviews, self‐report questionnaires on eating behavior, ER, mental and physical health, and quality of life, and neuropsychological tests on executive function. Afterwards, in an experimental randomized‐controlled design, individuals with OB + BED and OB ‐ BED will be allocated to smartphone‐supported ER intervention versus a waitlist and re‐assessed after 10 weeks.

Discussion

By obtaining biological and behavioral markers, the proposed study will disentangle the involvement of NAT and the central NA system in the modulation of emotion‐supporting neuronal networks that influence eating behavior. Neurobehavioral mechanisms of change during an ER intervention will be determined.

Trial Registration

German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS): DRKS00029367.

Public Significance

This study investigates the central noradrenaline system by using hybrid brain imaging in conjunction with emotion regulation as a putative core biological mechanism in individuals with obesity with or without binge‐eating disorder that is targeted by emotion regulation intervention. The results will provide a molecular signature beyond functional imaging biomarkers as a predictive biomarker toward precision medicine for tailoring treatments for individuals with binge‐eating disorders and obesity.
Clinical presentation, shock severity and mortality in patients with de novo versus acute‐on‐chronic heart failure‐related cardiogenic shock
Authors: Sundermeyer Jonas , Kellner Caroline , Beer Benedikt N. , Besch Lisa , Dettling Angela , Bertoldi Letizia Fausta , Blankenberg Stefan , Dauw Jeroen , Dindane Zouhir , Eckner Dennis , Eitel Ingo , Graf Tobias , Horn Patrick , Jozwiak‐Nozdrzykowska Joanna , Kirchhof Paulus , Kluge Stefan , Linke Axel , Landmesser Ulf , Luedike Peter , Lüsebrink Enzo , Majunke Nicolas , Mangner Norman , Maniuc Octavian , Möbius Winkler Sven , Nordbeck Peter , Orban Martin , Pappalardo Federico , Pauschinger Matthias , Pazdernik Michal , Proudfoot Alastair , Kelham Matthew , Rassaf Tienush , Reichenspurner Hermann , Scherer Clemens , Schulze Paul Christian , Schwinger Robert H.G. , Skurk Carsten , Sramko Marek , Tavazzi Guido , Thiele Holger , Villanova Luca , Morici Nuccia , Winzer Ephraim B. , Westermann Dirk , Gustafsson Finn , Schrage Benedikt
Published: November 2023

Aims

Heart failure‐related cardiogenic shock (HF‐CS) accounts for a significant proportion of CS cases. Whether patients with de novo HF and those with acute‐on‐chronic HF in CS differ in clinical characteristics and outcome remains unclear. The aim of this study was to evaluate differences in clinical presentation and mortality between patients with de novo and acute‐on‐chronic HF‐CS.

Methods and results

In this international observational study, patients with HF‐CS from 16 tertiary care centres in five countries were enrolled between 2010 and 2021. To investigate differences in clinical presentation and 30‐day mortality, adjusted logistic/Cox regression models were fitted. Patients (n = 1030) with HF‐CS were analysed, of whom 486 (47.2%) presented with de novo HF‐CS and 544 (52.8%) with acute‐on‐chronic HF‐CS. Traditional markers of CS severity (e.g. blood pressure, heart rate and lactate) as well as use of treatments were comparable between groups. However, patients with acute‐on‐chronic HF‐CS were more likely to have a higher CS severity and also a higher mortality risk, after adjusting for relevant confounders (de novo HF 45.5%, acute‐on‐chronic HF 55.9%, adjusted hazard ratio 1.38, 95% confidence interval 1.10–1.72, p = 0.005).

Conclusion

In this large HF‐CS cohort, acute‐on‐chronic HF‐CS was associated with more severe CS and higher mortality risk compared to de novo HF‐CS, although traditional markers of CS severity and use of treatments were comparable. These findings highlight the vast heterogeneity of patients with HF‐CS, emphasize that HF chronicity is a relevant disease modifier in CS, and indicate that future clinical trials should account for this.
Macrophage heterogeneity in atherosclerosis: A matter of context
Authors: Wieland Elias B , Kempen Laura JAP , Donners Marjo MPC , Biessen Erik AL , Goossens Pieter
Published: November 2023

During atherogenesis, plaque macrophages take up and process deposited lipids, trigger inflammation, and form necrotic cores. The traditional inflammatory/anti‐inflammatory paradigm has proven insufficient in explaining their complex disease‐driving mechanisms. Instead, we now appreciate that macrophages exhibit remarkable heterogeneity and functional specialization in various pathological contexts, including atherosclerosis. Technical advances for studying individual cells, especially single‐cell RNA sequencing, indeed allowed to identify novel macrophage subsets in both murine and human atherosclerosis, highlighting the existence of diverse macrophage activation states throughout pathogenesis. In addition, recent studies highlighted the role of the local microenvironment in shaping the macrophages’ phenotype and function. However, this remains largely undescribed in the context of atherosclerosis. In this review we explore the origins of macrophages and their functional specialization, shedding light on the diverse sources of macrophage accumulation in the atherosclerotic plaque. Next, we discuss the phenotypic diversity observed in both murine and human atherosclerosis, elucidating their distinct functions and spatial distribution within plaques. Finally, we highlight the importance of the local microenvironment in both phenotypic and functional specialization of macrophages in atherosclerosis and elaborate on the need for spatial multiomics approaches to provide a better understanding of the different macrophage subsets’ roles in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis.
Health‐Aware Battery‐Fast‐Charging Strategy Using Thermal‐Aging Cell Model and Whale Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Bose Bibaswan , Teja Saladi Sairam , Garg Akhil , Gao Liang , Li Wei , Singh Surinder , Babu B. Chitti
Published: November 2023

In this article, developing an optimized health‐aware battery‐fast‐charging strategy is proposed using multistep constant‐current constant‐voltage (MSCCCV)‐charging technique. First, the thermal‐aging cell model (TACM) is formulated utilizing a 1D radial heat‐conduction phenomenon. The utilization of this model facilitates the generation of a simulated cell model, thereby mitigating the necessity for conducting multiple experimental assays. A cycle life predictor based on multi‐input elastic net regression is then developed, which forecast cell's cycle life based on inputs from TACM. The accuracy of the projected life is 87% which is validated using APR18650M1B cell cycling dataset. This is then utilized to devise an adaptive MSCCCV‐charging strategy with four‐step constant‐current (CC), which is optimized using whale optimization algorithm, have C‐rate of 5.2C, 4.4C, 5.2C, and 4.52C. An alternate cell (LGEBM26R) is used to validate the reproducibility of the proposed charging method. The second cell charging is optimized using the aforesaid steps and four‐step CC, thus obtained have C‐rate of 1.3C, 1.95C, 2.23C, and 1.24C. Compared to 1C‐CCCV charging, the algorithm increases LGEBM26R cell cycle life by 17.23% and APR18650M1B cell cycle life by 28%. The MSCCCV technique's superiority is demonstrated through a comparison with benchmark techniques considering charging time and cycle life as performance parameters.
Effectiveness and safety of mono‐ and add‐on perampanel in pediatric patients with epilepsy: Experience from a single‐center retrospective study
Authors: Li Yue , Guo Hong‐Li , Hu Ya‐Hui , Wang Jie , Zhang Yuan‐Yuan , Huang Jian , Xu Jing , Chen Jing , Lu Xiao‐Peng , Chen Feng
Published: November 2023

Objective

To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of perampanel (PER) monotherapy (MT) or add‐on therapy (AT) in Chinese children with epilepsy, as well as to evaluate the data from routine therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) of PER for these pediatric patients.

Methods

This retrospective and observational study was carried out on children with epilepsy (n = 340) from 2020 to 2022 at the Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University. Outcome measures were the responder rate (50% or greater seizure reduction), long‐term efficacy, and tolerability (number and types of adverse events) in MT and AT groups. Concentrations of plasma PER obtained from these patients, if available, were analyzed too.

Results

A total of 279 patients achieved at least 3 months of therapy, and 58.1% responded to PER therapy. 53 of the responders were seizure‐free (32.7%). The retention rate dropped from 88.0% at 3 months to 40.6% at 12 months after treatment. Patients with MT achieved better seizure control than those with AT (P < 0.001). Intriguingly, PER exerted a very weak effect on patients who took more than 2 ASMs or were diagnosed with drug‐resistant epilepsy. There were no significant differences in tolerability between the two groups. In addition, 179 patients were routinely monitored for PER, and the trough concentrations (C0) for these patients ranged from 30.0 to 992.0 ng/mL. However, no significant difference in C0 was observed between responders and nonresponders (333 ng/mL vs 325.5 ng/mL, P = 0.264).

Significance

This study provides effectiveness and safety data on Chinese children with epilepsy treated with PER either as MT or as AT. The efficacy of patients receiving MT was much better than cases administered with more than 2 ASMs or diagnosed with drug‐resistant epilepsy. In addition, no association was found between the plasma PER concentration and efficacy or safety.

Plain Language Summary

The study reports the effects of perampanel on seizures and adverse effects in Chinese patients with epilepsy younger than 18 years. Seizures decreased in 58.1% of patients (responders); in a third of these responders, seizures stopped. After treatment was started, 88% of patients were still on perampanel at 3 months and 40.6% at 12 months. People who were treated with perampanel only were more likely to respond than those who received perampanel and other antiseizure treatments, although perampanel was tolerated equally well in these groups. Plasma perampanel concentration did not predict seizure response or adverse effects.
Cloud‐fog assisted human tracing and disaster evacuation framework
Authors: Kaur Mandeep , Kaur Pankaj Deep , Sood Sandeep Kumar
Published: November 2023

Many kinds of natural hazards and man‐made calamities have occurred in recent years, each of which has left a huge number of victims and has been challenging to deal with. The solution is an effective evacuation planning system, which is gaining the interest of governments, academic institutions, and industries all across the world. This study focuses on quick and organized evacuation from densely populated areas during disasters to decrease damage successfully. This research proposes a fog‐cloud‐assisted effective disaster evacuation framework. The data accumulation layer uses IoT, mobile networks, and GPS technologies to collect environmental and location‐based data to track the inhabitants. The fog layer is utilized for (i) disaster event detection and (ii) human tracing and crowd density analysis. A cloud layer makes it easier for an evacuation algorithm to produce an evacuation map that will point evacuees to the exit while computing a quick and safe path utilizing environmental and inhabitant information gathered from the fog. The findings reveal that the performance of Model A surpasses the split delivery vehicle routing problem model with the minimum demand of vehicles and with improvement of 38.1% average. Also, A* takes less time (18.3 s) than other state‐of‐the‐art techniques to find the best optimal route for evacuation. Implementation and performance analysis demonstrate the efficiency and effectiveness of the proposed framework.
States Advance Climate Risk Disclosure and ESG‐Related Legislation During 2023
Authors: South David W.
Published: November 2023

In my August 2023 column, I outlined the climate risk disclosure and related environmental, social, and governance (ESG) requirements proposed by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).1 It closed with an outlook for 2023. What I did not envision was the degree to which states would take action regarding greenhouse gas (GHG) disclosures to facilitate compliance with their state GHG targets. This column summarizes these actions, with emphasis on the most recent legislation passed by California, together with ESG‐related legislation to define the fiduciary responsibilities of state pension funds.
Insight into the Causal Relationship between Gut Microbiota and Back Pain: A Two Sample Bidirectional Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Hui Jingni , Chen Yujing , Li Chun'e , Gou Yifan , Liu Ye , Zhou Ruixue , Kang Meijuan , Liu Chen , Wang Bingyi , Shi Panxing , Cheng Shiqiang , Yang Xuena , Pan Chuyu , Jia Yumeng , Cheng Bolun , Liu Huan , Wen Yan , Zhang Feng
Published: November 2023

Observational studies have shown that alterations in gut microbiota composition are associated with low back pain. However, it remains unclear whether the association is causal. To reveal the causal association between gut microbiota and low back pain, a two‐sample bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis is performed. The inverse variance weighted regression (IVW) is performed as the principal MR analysis. MR‐Egger and Weighted Median is further conducted as complementary analysis to validate the robustness of the results. Finally, a reverse MR analysis is performed to evaluate the possibility of reverse causation. The inverse variance weighted (IVW) method suggests thatPeptostreptococcaceae(odds ratio [OR] 1.056, 95% confidence interval [CI] [1.015–1.098],PIVW= 0.010), andLactobacillaceae(OR 1.070, 95% CI [1.026–1.115],PIVW= 0.003) are positively associated with back pain. TheRuminococcaceae(OR 0.923, 95% CI [0.849–0.997],PIVW= 0.033),Butyricicoccus(OR 0.920, 95% CI [0.868 ‐ 0.972],PIVW= 0.002), andLachnospiraceae(OR 0.948, 95% CI [0.903–0.994],PIVW= 0.022) are negatively associated with back pain. In this study, underlying causal relationships are identified among gut microbiota and low back pain. Notably, further research is needed on the biological mechanisms by which gut microbiota influences low back pain.
A case of an advanced renal collecting duct carcinoma in which initial therapeutic effect was achieved with pembrolizumab plus axitinib
Authors: Atagi Yuichiro , Daizumoto Kei , Mohri Shinsuke , Somiya Kai , Seto Daisuke , Nakanishi Shigeo , Yanagihara Yutaka , Ninomiya Iku , Okamoto Kenjiro , Yamashi Sadamu
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Renal collecting duct carcinoma is often found in advanced cancers and has a poor prognosis. Here, we present the case of symptomatic metastatic collecting duct carcinoma in which we observed an initial therapeutic effect of immune checkpoint inhibitors plus tyrosine kinase inhibitors.

Case presentation

The patient was a 69‐year‐old male who was referred to our hospital for examination of a right chest tumor and related pain. Contrast‐enhanced computed tomography and tumor biopsy were performed, leading to a diagnosis of collecting duct carcinoma. A combination of pembrolizumab plus axitinib was initiated as first‐line therapy; right chest pain decreased, and tumor shrinkage was observed. Seven months after treatment initiation, tumor progression was noted. Cabozantinib was initiated as second‐line therapy; however, was discontinued due to patient fatigue. The patient died 15 months after the initiation of treatment.

Conclusion

For symptomatic metastatic collecting duct carcinoma, pembrolizumab plus axitinib may have initial therapeutic effects.
Cine magnetic resonance imaging predicts thrombus adhesion in metastatic renal cell carcinoma with an inferior vena cava tumor thrombus: A case of pathological complete response with pembrolizumab plus lenvatinib
Authors: Hara Takuto , Furukawa Junya , Tsutiya Takahiro , Kodama Takayuki , Uehara Keiichiro , Terakawa Tomoaki , Harada Kenichi , Teishima Jun , Nakano Yuzo , Fujisawa Masato
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Renal cell carcinoma with an inferior vena cava tumor thrombus is a challenging disease that requires a multimodal treatment approach. Pembrolizumab plus lenvatinib has displayed promising efficacy in metastatic renal cell carcinoma.

Case presentation

A 61‐year‐old man was diagnosed with metastatic renal cell carcinoma and a tumor thrombus adhering to the inferior vena cava wall by cine magnetic resonance imaging. After 6 months of pembrolizumab and lenvatinib therapy, tumor shrinkage was detected, excluding the advanced portion of the inferior vena cava thrombus, and nephrectomy and thrombectomy were performed. Adhesion of the tumor thrombus to the inferior vena cava wall was observed during surgery. Resection produced a remarkable pathological complete response with no viable cells in the resected specimens, including the thrombus site.

Conclusion

This case highlights the potential of pembrolizumab plus lenvatinib for treating advanced renal cell carcinoma with an inferior vena cava thrombus and the utility of cine magnetic resonance imaging for evaluating thrombus adhesion to the inferior vena cava.
Enhancing the dung beetle iDNA tool for mammalian biodiversity monitoring and ecological studies
Authors: Nimalrathna Thilina S. , Fan Huan , Quan Rui‐Chang , Nakamura Akihiro
Published: November 2023

Many species of dung beetles (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Scarabaeinae) are coprophages and possess trophic connections with mammalian dung. Recent studies have shown that the use of genetic information from dung beetle guts (invertebrate‐derived DNA or iDNA) allows for the detection of mammals in a given habitat without intensively surveying the area. However, these studies used live or freshly killed beetles instead of preserved specimens. Here, we assessed the feasibility of extracting and sequencing iDNA from dung beetles that were collected using conventional baited pitfall traps with a mixture of propylene glycol and ethanol. We extracted iDNA from the guts of 18 dung beetles, comprising three species and three functional groups, collected from a seasonal tropical forest in Xishuangbanna, China. Eight mammalian species were detected, including rare species not previously recorded at the same location. Among the three functional groups, paracoprids (tunnelers) yielded the highest number of mammal species. Our study shows that iDNA can be successfully sequenced from preserved specimens, provided they are stored under appropriate conditions. The proposed technique offers a viable alternative to traditional cafeteria experiments for understanding dung beetle‐mammal interactions and can serve as a valuable complementary approach to current mammal survey techniques.
THE DEVELOPMENT OF CHILDREN'S PREFERENCE FOR THEIR OWN COUNTRY
Authors: Tajfel H. , Jahoda G. , Nemeth C. , Campbell J.D. , Johnson N.
Published: November 2023

Des groupes d'enfants, de 6 à 12 ans, sont testés dans six villes européennes (Oxford, Glasgow, Leyde, Louvain, Naples et Vienne) pour voir s'ils montrent une préférence pour leur propre nationalité. L'étude utilise une méthode nouvelle et simple qui garantit sans ambiguïté la comparabilité des données pour tous les âges et pour tous les pays. Les résultats montrent que (1) à l'exception du groupe de Glasgow, tous les enfants manifestent une préférence marquée pour leur nationalité; (2) à l'exception du groupe de Louvain, cette préférence est plus forte avec l'âge. Lorsqu'on compare les données obtenues à Naples avec celles des autres villes, on constate qu'un stéréotype physique national se développe chez les enfants à mesure qu'ils grandissent. Les implications théoriques des résultats et des exceptions que représentent les groupes de Glasgow et de Louvain sont commentées.
Using anti‐PD‐L1 antibody conjugated gold nanoshelled poly (Lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) nanocapsules loaded with doxorubicin: A theranostic agent for ultrasound imaging and photothermal/chemo combination therapy of triple negative breast cancer
Authors: Jiang Hui , Zhou Yingying , Zheng Dongdong , Cheng Yexiazi , Xiang Dacheng , Jiang Lixin , Du Jing
Published: November 2023

Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) has the worst prognosis of all breast cancers, and it is difficult to progress through traditional chemotherapy. Therefore, the treatment of TNBC urgently requires agents with effective diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities. In this study, we obtained programmed death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1) antibody conjugated gold nanoshelled poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanocapsules (NCs) encapsulating doxorubicin (DOX) (DOX@PLGA@Au‐PD‐L1 NCs). PLGA NCs encapsulating DOX were prepared by a modified single‐emulsion oil‐in‐water (O/W) solvent evaporation method, and gold nanoshells were formed on the surface by gold seed growth method, which were coupled with PD‐L1 antibodies by carbodiimide method. The fabricated DOX@PLGA@Au‐PD‐L1 NCs exhibited promising contrast enhancement in vitro ultrasound imaging. Furthermore, DOX encapsulated in NCs displayed good pH‐responsive and photo‐triggered drug release properties. After irradiating 200 μg/mL NCs solution with a laser for 10 min, the solution temperature increased by nearly 23°C, indicating that the NCs had good photothermal conversion ability. The targeting experiments confirmed that the NCs had specific target binding ability to TNBC cells overexpressing PD‐L1 molecules. Cell experiments exhibited that the agent significantly reduced the survival rate of TNBC cells through photochemotherapy combination therapy. As a multifunctional diagnostic agent, DOX@PLGA@Au‐PD‐L1 NCs could be used for ultrasound targeted contrast imaging and photochemotherapy combination therapy of TNBC cells, providing a promising idea for early diagnosis and treatment of TNBC.
Physical association of low density lipoprotein particles and extracellular vesicles unveiled by single particle analysis
Authors: Lozano‐Andrés Estefanía , Enciso‐Martinez Agustin , Gijsbers Abril , Ridolfi Andrea , Van Niel Guillaume , Libregts Sten F. W. M. , Pinheiro Cláudio , van Herwijnen Martijn J. C. , Hendrix An , Brucale Marco , Valle Francesco , Peters Peter J. , Otto Cees , Arkesteijn Ger J. A. , Wauben Marca H. M.
Published: November 2023

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) in blood plasma are recognized as potential biomarkers for disease. Although blood plasma is easily obtainable, analysis of EVs at the single particle level is still challenging due to the biological complexity of this body fluid. Besides EVs, plasma contains different types of lipoproteins particles (LPPs), that outnumber EVs by orders of magnitude and which partially overlap in biophysical properties such as size, density and molecular makeup. Consequently, during EV isolation LPPs are often co‐isolated. Furthermore, physical EV‐LPP complexes have been observed in purified EV preparations. Since co‐isolation or association of LPPs can impact EV‐based analysis and biomarker profiling, we investigated the presence and formation of EV‐LPP complexes in biological samples by using label‐free atomic force microscopy, cryo‐electron tomography and synchronous Rayleigh and Raman scattering analysis of optically trapped particles and fluorescence‐based high sensitivity single particle flow cytometry. Furthermore, we evaluated the impact on flow cytometric analysis in the presence of LPPs using in vitro spike‐in experiments of purified tumour cell line‐derived EVs in different classes of purified human LPPs. Based on orthogonal single‐particle analysis techniques we demonstrate that EV‐LPP complexes can form under physiological conditions. Furthermore, we show that in fluorescence‐based flow cytometric EV analysis staining of LPPs, as well as EV‐LPP associations, can influence quantitative and qualitative EV analysis. Lastly, we demonstrate that the colloidal matrix of the biofluid in which EVs reside impacts their buoyant density, size and/or refractive index (RI), which may have consequences for down‐stream EV analysis and EV biomarker profiling.
Facile synthesis of 14C‐nitrofurazone from 14C‐urea
Authors: Singh Anuradha , Smith David J.
Published: November 2023

The veterinary drug nitrofurazone (5‐nitro‐2‐furaldehyde semicarbazone) exhibits excellent antimicrobial properties but its application in food‐producing animals is prohibited. The illegal use of nitrofurazone is regularly monitored by food regulatory agencies. Currently, semicarbazide (SEM) is used as a marker of nitrofurazone exposure. However, the use of SEM as a marker of nitrofurazone is under scrutiny after evidence of a high incidence of false positive tests. To overcome the current dilemma, it is necessary to identify a nitrofurazone‐specific marker analyte which requires conducting nitrofurazone metabolism studies in food‐producing animals. The use of carbon‐14 labeled nitrofurazone would facilitate metabolism studies and structural elucidation of nitrofurazone metabolites of possible utility as a marker compound. In the present work, a synthetic method is described to procure radiolabeled nitrofurazone that incorporates 14C‐ carbon at the semicarbazide moiety. The method incorporates 14C‐carbon via employing readily available and more economically affordable [14C]‐urea compared with [14C]‐semicarbazide. To the best of our knowledge, there is no report on the synthesis of 5‐nitro‐2‐furaldehyde [14C]‐semicarbazone from 14C‐urea. The developed method involves monoamination of [14C]‐urea followed by a condensation reaction with 5‐nitro‐2‐furaldehyde to produce 5‐nitro‐2‐furaldehyde [14C]‐semicarbazone in 85% yield with greater than 98% radiochemical purity.
Ultrasonic treatment as a modern technique to facilitate the extraction of phenolic compounds from organic sunflower seed cakes
Authors: Ali Mostafa , Khalil Mahmoud , Badawy Waleed Z. , Hellwig Michael
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

Three different organic sunflower seed cakes, produced from seeds differing in the content of their hulls, were extracted by two different extraction methods – conventional extraction (CE) and ultrasound‐assisted extraction (UAE). The total phenolic compound (TPC) content of the extracts was evaluated using Folin–Ciocâlteu reagent (FCR) and high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The antioxidant capacity of extracts was evaluated with the Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC) and 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assays.

RESULTS

The results showed that both extracts displayed high TPC content and antioxidant capacity. The UAE method showed significantly higher TPC content and antioxidant capacity values than CE. Individual phenolic compounds such as chlorogenic acid (CGA) isomers (3‐, 4‐ and 5‐O‐caffeoylquinic acids), di‐CGA isomers, and feruloylquinic and coumaroylquinic acids were identified according to their exact masses by HPLC coupled to time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry.

CONCLUSION

The results revealed that the UAE method could be used effectively to facilitate the extraction of phenolic compounds from sunflower seed cake. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Humidity‐Induced Reversible Crystallization of Laser‐Printing Perovskite Quantum Dots in Glass
Authors: Xiao Han , Lin Jidong , Chen Ronghua , Pang Tao , Huang Ping , Yu Yunlong , Zhuang Bin , Ye Qingying , Zhang Ruidan , Chen Daqin
Published: November 2023

The complex and high‐precision patterning of perovskite quantum dots (PeQDs) is of vital importance for exploring their new functionalities and device applications. In this work, a strategy based on the combination femtosecond (fs) laser‐irradiation and humidity‐control is reported to construct patterns of cyan CsPb(Cl/Br)3 PeQDs in a transparent glass medium. Benefiting from their ionic crystal feature and low formation energy, CsPb(Cl/Br)3 PeQDs can be locally crystallized and decomposed via fs laser irradiation without further heat‐treatment. More notably, it is found that a water molecule is able to affect the growth of CsPb(Cl/Br)3 PeQDs in glass. By modulation of relative humidity in air, the selectively decomposed perovskite structure is spontaneously regenerated, and the highly emissive CsPb(Cl/Br)3 PeQDs can be in situ manufactured in the confined glass region. This allows for reversible luminescence from the same patterns of laser printing‐erasing‐recovering, and the process can be repeated for multiple cycles without destruction of optical performance and robustness. The results provide a flexible method to develop new encryption/decryption technology for information security and anti‐counterfeiting.
Will You Be a Victim of the Law—or Lethargy?
Authors: Wich Scott
Published: November 2023

The one name that has immediately caught the attention of employers interested in maintaining union‐free status in the past year or so has been Jennifer Abruzzo, the current General Counsel for the NLRB. In this role, it is her responsibility to enforce the existing labor law. However, the power of the position also allows for initiatives to bring cases upon which the NLRB can change existing law. Depending on the political party in power and the majority control of the labor board, such changes in the law can be pro‐employer or pro‐union. In recent years, the law has developed in favor of the latter.
Clinical Characteristics and Outcomes in Young‐Onset Multiple System Atrophy
Authors: Badihian Negin , Savica Rodolfo , Adler Charles H. , Wszolek Zbigniew K. , Jackson Lauren M. , Benarroch Eduardo E. , Sandroni Paola , Low Phillip A. , Singer Wolfgang , Coon Elizabeth A.
Published: November 2023

Background

Young‐onset multiple system atrophy (YOMSA) is defined as the onset of multiple system atrophy (MSA) before the age of 40 years old. YOMSA is rare and there is much uncertainty of the phenotype and natural history in patients with YOMSA.

Objective

The objective is to evaluate the characteristics and disease course of patients with YOMSA.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed medical records of patients with MSA who were evaluated at all Mayo Clinic sites from 1998 to 2021. We identified patients with YOMSA and evaluated clinical characteristics, autonomic function testing results, and disease course.

Results

Of 1496 patients with a diagnosis of clinically probable or clinically established MSA, 20 patients had YOMSA. The median age of onset was 39.1 (interquartile range [IQR] = 37.1, 40.1) years; 13 patients (65%) were male. MSA‐parkinsonism was the most common subtype (65%). The median duration of symptom onset to YOMSA diagnosis was 4.9 (IQR = 3.7, 9) years. At the time of medical record review, 17 patients were deceased with a median survival of 8.3 (IQR = 7, 10.9) years. Univariate analysis showed that initial onset of autonomic failure predicted unfavorable survival (hazard ratio = 2.89, P = 0.04) compared to those who presented with motor impairment only at onset. At the time of YOMSA diagnosis, composite autonomic severity score was available in 19 patients with a median of 5 (IQR = 4, 6.5).

Conclusions

YOMSA resembles MSA in most aspects including phenotype and prognosis, although the diagnosis is usually delayed. The presence of autonomic failure at symptom onset may be a poor predictor for survival.
Understanding the role of demand and supply integration in achieving retail supply chain agility: An information technology capability perspective
Authors: Bai Bingfeng
Published: November 2023

With the popularity of e‐commerce business, the evolution of information technology (IT) has played an important role in the evolution of global retail industry over the past two decades. Although the existing supply chain theories have discussed the effects of demand management on supply chain; however, there is a lack of in‐depth theoretical discussions among demand and supply integration (DSI) and supply chain agility from an IT capability view. The purpose of this study is to explore the role of DSI in achieving retail supply chain agility. Based on the information processing theory, this study takes JD.com and Alibaba, China's largest retailers, as business cases to conduct empirical investigations. We offer semi‐structured interviews with senior executives from IT, operations, and marketing department, and depict the coding process of survey data through a multi‐disciplinary literature review, grounded theory, and case study method. For retail firms, this study opens the black box of the antecedent research of supply chain agility by information processing theory, and puts forward some practical inspirations about retail IT capability under the COVID‐19 epidemic era.
Top management team stability and corporate default risk: The moderating effects of industry competition and strategic deviance
Authors: Liao Jia , Zhan Yun , Yuan Yu
Published: November 2023

This study takes Chinese A‐share listed firms from 2007 to 2020 as samples to examine the impact of top management team (TMT) stability on corporate default risk. The research findings reveal that TMT stability significantly mitigates corporate default risk. Furthermore, industry competition significantly strengthens the inhibitory effect of TMT stability on corporate default risk, while strategic deviance notably weakens this inhibitory effect. Heterogeneity analysis results indicate that the inhibitory effect of TMT stability on default risk is more pronounced for non‐state‐owned enterprises, firms situated in regions with higher levels of social trust, and during periods of elevated economic policy uncertainty.
On stable solutions of a weighted elliptic equation involving the fractional Laplacian
Authors: Quynh Nguyen Thi , Tuan Duong Anh
Published: November 2023

In this paper, we study the following fractional Choquard equation with weight

where
and
is a positive weight function satisfying
at infinity, for some
. We establish, in this paper, a Liouville type theorem saying that if

then the above equation has no nontrivial stable solution. Our result, in particular, extends the result in [Le, Phuong. Bull. Aust. Math. Soc. 102 (2020), no. 3, 471–478.] from the Laplace operator to the fractional Laplacian.
Recent advances in TiO2 nanotube layers – A mini review of the latest developments in nanotube preparation and applications in photocatalysis and microwave sensing
Authors: Sopha Hanna , Alijani Mahnaz , Sepúlveda Marcela , Macak Jan M.
Published: November 2023

Self‐organized anodic TiO2 nanotube (TNT) layers prepared by anodization of Ti substrates have attracted great interest within the last 20 years, due to their unique properties and low‐cost synthesis. This mini review article aims to shortly summarize the most recent developments in the TNT layer synthesis and applications. It presents the synthesis of high aspect ratio (HAR) TNT layers in a short time by accelerating the TNT layer growth rates in lactic acid containing electrolytes. Furthermore, the etching of TNT layers towards TNT bundles of homogeneous size and single tube powders is discussed, as well as the possibility to grow TNT layers on non‐planar Ti substrates, which cannot be directly connected to the potentiostat (e.g., Ti spheres or 3D Ti meshes). As a relatively new application, the employment of TNT layers in microwave resonator sensors is introduced. Last, but not least, approaches of upscaling the TNT layer size from the laboratory scale towards significantly larger scale are outlined and reviewed.
Optimizing two‐variable gamma accelerated degradation tests with a semi‐analytical approach
Authors: Tung Hung‐Ping
Published: November 2023

In this paper, we provide a semi‐analytical approach to determine the optimal designs for two‐variable gamma accelerated degradation tests under three criteria: ‐optimality, ‐optimality, and ‐optimality. We first use general equivalence theorem to prove that the optimal approximate designs only allocate test units at the four vertices of a rectangular design region, and the corresponding optimal proportion of total number of measurements at each stress level is derived. Next, we apply the concept of prescribed accuracy level and total experimental cost to further determine optimal integer designs. More specifically, a numerical approach is used to resolve the number of test units and number of measurements at each stress level. Finally, an example is presented to illustrate the proposed procedure and compare the efficiency of optimal designs under three optimal criteria.
Numerical methods for rectangular multiparameter eigenvalue problems, with applications to finding optimal ARMA and LTI models
Authors: Hochstenbach Michiel E. , Košir Tomaž , Plestenjak Bor
Published: November 2023

Standard multiparameter eigenvalue problems (MEPs) are systems of linear ‐parameter square matrix pencils. Recently, a new form of multiparameter eigenvalue problems has emerged: a rectangular MEP (RMEP) with only one multivariate rectangular matrix pencil, where we are looking for combinations of the parameters for which the rank of the pencil is not full. Applications include finding the optimal least squares autoregressive moving average (ARMA) model and the optimal least squares realization of autonomous linear time‐invariant (LTI) dynamical system. For linear and polynomial RMEPs, we give the number of solutions and show how these problems can be solved numerically by a transformation into a standard MEP. For the transformation we provide new linearizations for quadratic multivariate matrix polynomials with a specific structure of monomials and consider mixed systems of rectangular and square multivariate matrix polynomials. This numerical approach seems computationally considerably more attractive than the block Macaulay method, the only other currently available numerical method for polynomial RMEPs.
Bio‐inspired metal ion coordination cross‐linking synergistic strategy to enhance the interfacial properties of carbon fiber composites
Authors: Quan Guipeng , Wu Yunhuan , Zhang Yuxin , Xiao Linghan , Liu Yujing
Published: November 2023

The application of carbon fiber (CF) in carbon fiber composites has faced limitations due to its surface chemical inertness. To overcome this challenge, this study draws inspiration from metal ion‐enhancing exquisite hierarchical and multiphase structures observed in biological materials. The research proposes a novel approach to enhance the interfacial bonding of CF/Epoxy (E‐51) composites by utilizing tannic acid (TA), carboxylated cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs), Fe3+ ions, and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). This approach aims to create hydrogen bonding and metal synergistic networks on the surface of CFs through metal ion (Mn+) coordination cross‐linking synergistic (MCCS) interactions. Implementing MCCS strategy resulted in significant improvements in the mechanical properties of the hybrid reinforcements compared to untreated CF composites. The flexural strength, flexural modulus, interlaminar shear strength, and interfacial shear strength experienced respective increase of 50.9%, 72.8% 59.4%, and 61.9%. Moreover, the damping properties of the composites exhibited significant improvements. These positive outcomes can be attributed to the formation of chelation and dense hydrogen bonding networks between TA, Fe3+, CNC, and PVA. Furthermore, CNC and PVA formed cross‐linked nanolayers that effectively deflected cracks and facilitated high energy consumption at the interface. This proposed approach provides a sustainable, environmentally friendly, and efficient method for surface modification in the preparation of high‐performance fiber composites.

Highlights

Metal ion (Mn+) coordination cross‐linking synergistic strategy is proposed.

Tannins/Fe3+/CNCs/PVA form multiphase nanolayers.

Metal ion coordination cross‐linking enhances delicate multiphase structures.

The prepared carbon fiber composites exhibit excellent properties.

The as‐prepared carbon fiber composite has promising applications.
Plastically deformable polyethylene with excellent transparency and stress whitening resistance properties fabricated by constructing massive chain entanglement
Authors: Wu Buyong , Xia Bingqi , Du Wenhao , Zhou Yingguo
Published: November 2023

Stress whitening is one of the most prominent macroscopic defects for polyethylene (PE), which greatly affects the appearance and quality of its commodity. In order to eliminate the stress whitening defects of PE, ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) was blended with PE to fabricated PE/UHMWPE, and the enhanced intermolecular entanglement and stretchability was achieved, which greatly suppressed and impeded the occurrence of heterogeneous plastic deformation and fibrillar bundle structure during applying tensile stress, resulting in the sharply deceased of the nanoscale cavities defects for the sample. And thus, the elimination of stress whitening defects and high‐light transmittance in the visible region with excellent optical transparency performance were successfully achieved for PE/UHMWPE. Moreover, introduction of UHMWPE chains significantly improved the orientation degree and formed a dense oriented crystalline network with fine lamellae for the sample, which highly enhanced the mechanical strength of PE/UHMWPE after applying stress. This work provided a new strategy for developing stress whitening eliminating polyolefin materials with high performance, which was of great significance for sustainable development and environmental friendliness.
Computational prediction of the properties of bis(ethynylthienyl)dialcoxynaphthalene‐based conjugated polymers for organic solar cell applications
Authors: Camarada María B. , Angel Felipe A. , Jessop Ignacio A.
Published: November 2023

A series of homo‐ (P0) and copolymers (P1‐P5) based on the electron‐donor building‐block 2,2′‐(2,3‐bis(2‐ethylhexyloxy)naphthalene‐1,4‐diyl)bis(ethyne‐2,1‐diyl)dithiophene (1,4‐NET) including ethynyl linkers aiming to promote coplanarity were designed, and their properties predicted using theoretical methodologies to evaluate their potential in organic solar cell applications. The geometries, FMO levels, energy bandgaps, and absorption spectra of trimer models were determined using time‐dependent density functional theory, while their photovoltaic and charge‐transport properties were estimated by the Scharber's model and semiclassical Marcus theory, respectively. Compared to high‐performance conjugated polymers (CPs), such as PTB7‐Th or PM6, and similar systems based on the 1D‐BDT unit, the HOMO and LUMO levels of P0‐P5 tend to be higher. In addition, the new CPs have complementary absorptions with narrow‐bandgap acceptors, such as ITIC and Y6, and adequate matches between their HOMO and LUMO levels. Although the simulated photovoltaic and charge‐transport properties could be overestimated, the best candidate to be synthesized and tested in organic solar cells is P5 due to its suitable and well‐balanced properties, demonstrating the positive effect of incorporating ethynyl bridges to improve the optoelectronic properties of CPs.