bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predicting Polyolefin Microstructure: A Parallelized Multidimensional Model for Metallocene‐Catalyzed Copolymerization of Propylene and 1‐Decene
Authors: Herrero Franco , Brandolin Adriana , Sarmoria Claudia , Asteasuain Mariano
Published: December 2024

This work explores the copolymerization of propylene and 1‐decene using homogeneous metallocene catalysts to optimize polyolefin functionalization. A detailed mathematical model is developed with experimental validation employing the method of moments and probability generating functions to predict average molecular properties, the molecular weight distribution, the copolymer composition distribution, and the joint molecular weight distribution‐copolymer composition distribution. To efficiently handle computational resources, the model code is parallelized. This comprehensive model allows for explaining in detail the copolymer's microstructure under various semibatch reactor conditions. Moreover, the model is a powerful tool for selecting reaction conditions to synthesize materials with desired properties.
ShK‐modified UCMSCs Inhibit M1‐Like Macrophage Polarization and Alleviate Osteoarthritis Progression via PI3K/Akt Axis
Authors: Wu Wenshu , An Xueying , Gong Wang , Yang Lin , Liu Na , Liu Bin , Guo Baosheng , Jiang Qing , Li Lan
Published: December 2024

The potassium channel Kv1.3 plays an important role in regulating immune cell functions in many inflammatory diseases whereas rarely in osteoarthritis (OA). Here, it is demonstrated that the Kv1.3 of macrophages is upregulated in response to LPS stimulation, as well as in human OA synovium samples than non‐OA. Administration of Stichodactyla toxin (ShK), a Kv1.3 blocker, significantly inhibited cartilage degeneration and synovial inflammation in animal models of OA in vivo by inhibiting M1 macrophage polarization and reducing the production of inflammatory factors. In this study, a transgenically engineered human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell (UCMSC) delivery system is developed that secreted a peptide ShK, a Kv1.3 potassium blocker, into the knee articular cavity. Collectively, the results identified Kv1.3 as a potential therapeutic target for OA and demonstrated the efficacy of using ShK transgenic engineered UCMSCs as a delivery for the peptide in OA treatment.
Concurrent Amplification of Ferroptosis and Immune System Activation Via Nanomedicine‐Mediated Radiosensitization for Triple‐Negative Breast Cancer Therapy
Authors: Aishajiang Reyida , Liu Zhongshan , Liang Yuan , Du Pengye , Wei Yi , Zhuo Xiqian , Liu Shuyu , Lei Pengpeng , Wang Tiejun , Yu Duo
Published: December 2024

Radiation therapy (RT) is one of the core therapies for current cancer management. However, the emergence of radioresistance has become a major cause of radiotherapy failure and disease progression. Therefore, overcoming radioresistance to achieve highly effective treatment for refractory tumors is significant yet challenging. Here, pH‐responsive DSPE‐PEoz modified hollow Bi2Se3‐RSL3/diABZi (DP‐HBN/RA) nanomedicine is designed as a radiation sensitizer for efficient treatment of triple‐negative breast cancer by simultaneously amplifying ferroptosis and immune system activation. DP‐HBN/RA can efficiently concentrate X‐ray radiation energy inside the tumor, thereby promoting precise ionizing radiation exposure in tumor cells to produce large amounts of reactive oxygen species (ROS), leading to lipid peroxidation‐induced ferroptosis. Meanwhile, ferroptotic cell death is intensified through the inactivation of GPX4 by RSL3 released from DP‐HBN/RA to acidic conditions in the tumor microenvironment. Additionally, DP‐HBN/RA enhances RT efficacy to exacerbate unrepairable DNA damage and release DNA fragments that activate the cGAS‐STING signal pathway, evoking a systematic immune response. Ingeniously, the released diABZi reinforces cGAS‐STING activation to boost the immunology antitumor effect. This work links the induction of ferroptosis and the initiation of systematic immune response to achieve highly effective tumor suppression, which opens up new avenues for future treatments of refractory tumors.
Boron Clusters Escort Doxorubicin Squashing Into Exosomes and Overcome Drug Resistance
Authors: Bao Yi‐Ru , Chen Yi‐Jing , Deng Xue‐Fan , Wang Yi‐Ke , Zhang Yu‐Xin , Xu Li‐Li , Huang Wei‐Hua , Cheng Shi‐Bo , Zhang Hai‐Bo , Xie Min
Published: December 2024

Exosome‐based drug delivery holds significant promise for cancer chemotherapy. However, current methods for loading drugs into exosomes are inefficient and cost‐prohibitive for practical application. In this study, boron clusters are mixed with doxorubicin (DOX) and exosomes, enabling the efficient encapsulation of DOX into exosomes through a superchaotropic effect. Exosomes loaded with DOX and boron clusters (EDB) exhibit superior permeability and the ability to deliver higher concentrations of DOX into DOX‐resistant breast cancer cells. Mechanistic analysis reveals that boron clusters form a supramolecular complex with DOX, which facilitates sustained drug release and effectively inhibits P‐glycoprotein‐mediated DOX efflux. As a result, EDB significantly enhance apoptosis in DOX‐resistant breast cancer cells and suppress tumor growth in cases where DOX alone is ineffective, thereby extending the survival of nude mice. In summary, boron clusters effectively facilitate the incorporation of DOX into exosomes and inhibit DOX efflux, offering a novel strategy to overcome DOX resistance.
Advanced Bionic 3D Interfacial Solar Steam Generator With One‐way Water Supply for Highly Efficient Desalination and Oil‐Fouling Prevention
Authors: Bu Yiming , Li Xin , Lei Weiwei , Yang Hongjun , Xu Weilin , Han Qi , Li Jingliang
Published: December 2024

Interfacial solar steam generation (ISSG) employed for seawater desalination and wastewater purification shows great promise to alleviate global freshwater scarcity. However, simultaneous optimization of water transfer direction in a cost‐effective and reliable ISSG to balance thermal localization, salt accumulation, and resistance to oilfouling represents a rare feat. Herein, inspired by seabird beaks for unidirectional water transfer, eco‐friendly and cost‐effective plant extracts, sodium alginate, and tannic acid, are selected for crafting an innovative Sodium Alginate‐Tannic Acid Hemispheric Evaporator (STHE). The STHE aligned with centripetally tapered channels ensures one‐directional water flow and effectively inhibits downward heat transfer, thereby boosting energy efficiency. Additionally, the integration of one‐way water supply in tapered channels with interfacial evaporation of STHE, mimicking plant transpiration, collaboratively facilitates upward water transfer for a reliable solar‐driven water evaporation rate of ≈2.26 kg m−2 h−1 under one sun irradiation. Even in a brine of 15.0 wt % solution, no salt crystals are observed on the surface of STHE. Hemispheric structure and superhydrophilicity are conducive to oil repellence. This work provides pivotal inspiration for constructing next‐generation solar generators of high‐efficiency, salt‐tolerance, and anti‐oil‐fouling.
The Current Advances in Design Strategy (Indirect Strategy and Direct Strategy) for Type‐I Photosensitizers
Authors: Ma Ning , Wang Junjie , Tang Hui , Wu Shiyu , Liu Xiaochun , Chen Kangyao , Zhang Yahui , Yu Xiaoqi
Published: December 2024

Type‐I photosensitizers (PSs) are among the most potential candidates for photodynamic therapy (PDT), as their low dependence on oxygen endow them with many advantages for treating hypoxic tumor. However, most of the reported type‐I PSs have a contingency of molecular design, because electron transfer (ET) reaction is more difficult to achieve than energy transfer (EET) process. Therefore, it is urgent to understand molecular design mechanisms for type‐I PSs. In this review, the two ways to achieve the type‐I PSs, i.e., inhibiting EET process (type‐II) or enhancing ET process (type‐I), are detailly explained. In response, the current design strategies of type‐I PSs are summarized from two perspectives: indirect strategy (inhibiting EET process: reducing the energy of the lowest triplet excited state (T1) to lower than the energy required for the excitation energy transfer to produce singlet oxygen) and direct strategy (enhancing ET process: promoting the ET efficiency of PSs to generate superoxide radicals). The construction of direct strategy can be realized by forming an electron‐rich microenvironment, providing an electron‐deficient intermediate transmitter, and introducing an enhanced electron transfer capacity primitive.
Reducing prejudice with counter‐stereotypical AI
Authors: Hermann Erik , De Freitas Julian , Puntoni Stefano
Published: December 2024

Based on a review of relevant literature, we propose that the proliferation of AI with human‐like and social features presents an unprecedented opportunity to address the underlying cognitive and affective drivers of prejudice. An approach informed by the psychology of intergroup contact and prejudice reduction is necessary because current AI systems often reinforce or avoid prejudices. Against this backdrop, we outline unique opportunities for prejudice reduction through ‘synthetic’ intergroup contact, wherein consumers interact with AI products and services that counter stereotypes and serve as a ‘proxy’ members of the outgroup (i.e., counter‐stereotypical AI). In contrast to human‐human contact, humanizing and socializing AI can reduce prejudice through more repeated, direct, unavoidable, private, non‐judgmental, collaborative, and need‐satisfying contact. We illustrate the potential of synthetic intergroup contact with counter‐stereotypical AI using examples of gender stereotypes and hate speech and discuss practical considerations for implementing counter‐stereotypical AI without inadvertently perpetuating or reinforcing prejudice.
Solid Solution Derived Cu Clusters on Partially Reduced CuCeO2 with Abundant Oxygen Vacancies Enable Efficient Reverse Water Gas Reaction
Authors: Xu Jianhong , Liu Zihao , Zhang Ruoyu , Ge Qingfeng , Zhu Xinli
Published: December 2024

The reverse water gas shift (RWGS) reaction provides a convenient approach to convert CO2 to CO, which facilitates to achieve the goals of carbon peaking and carbon neutrality. Herein, the Cu/CeO2 catalyst prepared by a co‐precipitation method using a mixture of Na2CO3 and NaOH at pH of 10 (sample Cu/CeO2‐10) achieved an intrinsic reaction rate of 428.4 mmol ⋅ gcat−1 ⋅ h−1 with 100 % CO selectivity at 400 °C and CO2/H2 ratio of 1 : 4, which is much higher than Cu/CeO2 prepared by impregnation and other methods. Various characterizations showed the highest fraction of CuCeO2 solid solution in the calcined Cu/CeO2‐10, and formed highly dispersed Cu clusters (~2.5 nm) on partially reduced CuCeO2 solid solution with abundant of oxygen vacancies upon reduction. The Cu and oxygen vacancies facilitates the activation of H2 and CO2, respectively, resulting in lowered H2 and CO2 reaction orders. As a result, the synergy between the two components enhanced the overall RWGS activity with lowered activation energy. Moreover, the optimal catalyst is very stable in 24 h stability test without detectable agglomeration of Cu clusters.
What We Know and Do Not Know About Camouflaging, Impression Management, and Mental Health and Wellbeing in Autistic People
Authors: Khudiakova Valeria , Alexandrovsky Mishel , Ai Wei , Lai Meng‐Chuan
Published: December 2024

Camouflaging is an impression management strategy employed by some autistic people, widely seen as a response to the pervasive stigma surrounding autism in society. Autistic narratives and lived experiences consistently link camouflaging to anxiety, depression, suicide risks, and autistic burnout. Quantitative research is yet to determine the nature of these relationships, with a significant portion of recent studies providing inconsistent evidence. While camouflaging can be a compelled survival strategy in social environments, it might also contribute to positive outcomes such as securing employment and forming positive social relationships, implicating a complex interrelationship with mental health and wellbeing. We advocate for using a transactional impression management framework to understand camouflaging and wellbeing and address the inconsistencies in research. Through examining the transactions among a person's individual and cognitive characteristics, behavior modification strategies, and the particular social contexts they find themselves in, this framework guides new empirical research directions to delineate the relationships between camouflaging, impression management, mental health, and wellbeing. There is a need to develop multiple measures of camouflaging that delineate the motivations, ability, effortfulness, and perceived effectiveness of camouflaging and examine how a person's social behaviors are perceived in different social environments. Research should also focus on intersectionality, sociocultural influences, and diverse autistic voices to study context‐sensitive camouflaging experiences across the autistic population.
Should Mining Enterprise Adopt Digital Transformation for Environmental Performance? A Supply Chain Power Structure Perspective
Authors: Wang Liukai , Xu Ying , Wang Jason X. , Shi Yangyan
Published: December 2024

This research explores how digital transformation (DT) affects environmental performance (EP) in mining companies, considering supply chain power dynamics involving suppliers and retailers. We construct theoretical models to depict the game process of the DT strategy of a mining company under different supply chain power structures. We then validate our theoretical model through a sample of 1155 A‐shared listed mining companies with complete financial data in China. Regression models with fixed effects are applied to estimate the potential parameters. The empirical findings are consistent with theoretical results, showing that DT improves the EP for mining companies. The EP is weaker when DT is treated at higher supplier and retailer concentrations. This study can guide policy frameworks at COP28, promoting sustainable mining practices aligned with global climate goals.
Recent Advancements in Metal‐Organic Frameworks‐Derived Metal Phosphides as Anode for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Yang Junjie , Li Jun , Xu Chenxuan , Wen Binbin , Si Linjun , Shen Weifeng , Feng Zhenqiu , Mai Wanxin , Lin Xiaoming , Wu Yongbo , Yang Huachao
Published: December 2024

Transition metal phosphides (TMPs) are considered as a promising anode material for LIBs due to their potential high theoretical capacity, suitable lithiation potential and low polarization, but low conductivity and severe volume expansion limit the performance of TMPs. Since metal‐organic framework (MOFs)‐derived materials can inherit the advantages of MOFs, MOFs‐derived metal phosphides have been widely used as anodes for LIBs and exhibit outstanding electrochemical performance. The MOFs derivatization strategy can be used to achieve the adjustment and optimization of the components and structure of metal phosphide composites, such as constructing rich heterojunction structure or designing stable carbon skeleton structure. These modifications effectively improve the electronic structure and structural stability of metal‐phosphide composites, thus solving the current problems of TMPs. In conclusion, this paper systematically summarizes the basic strategies for the modification and preparation of TMPs applied to the field of energy conversion and energy storage from the phosphorus source used in the preparation of TMPs, and finally compares the preparation methods, modification and lithium storage properties of monometallic/bimetallic phosphides derived from MOFs, and looks ahead to the characteristics and possible future development of the metal phosphides obtained by derivatization of MOFs as precursor.
Fuzzy Based Energy Efficient Routing for IoT: Traffic Delay Optimization
Authors: Reetha P. Roy Sudha  , Pandeeswari N. 
Published: December 2024

Energy conservation and optimized traffic delay are crucial challenges in Internet of Things (IoT) systems, particularly in wireless sensor networks (WSNs). This study presents a novel approach to address these issues through a fuzzy‐based routing protocol. Traditional methods often struggle to effectively enhance routing protocols with optimized packet size control. Researchers have proposed a combination of machine learning and evolutionary techniques to overcome this limitation and enhance energy efficiency in WSNs. The new approach called MOSPFNN (Multi‐Objective Spider Prey‐localized Fuzzy Neural Network) leverages fuzzy logic control (FLC) to select optimal paths for traffic‐aware multipath routing. Additionally, a new meta‐heuristic algorithm of SP optimizer is employed to develop an energy‐efficient spatial routing protocol with superior convergence and minimal local optima. The proposed protocol incorporates optimal FNN for congestion monitoring and traffic‐aware routing. Simulation results validate that new protocol outperforms existing methods in terms of average end‐to‐end delay and packet delivery ratio (PDR). Using MOSPFNN, traffic with different priority levels can achieve a successful PDR rate of over 92% and network lifetime of above 2% than previous network within a reasonable timeframe. This research contributes to advancing energy‐efficient and traffic delay‐aware routing protocols in IoT systems.
Oligodendroglia Are Primed for Antigen Presentation in Response to Chronic Stress‐Induced Microglial‐Derived Inflammation
Authors: Madeira Miguel M. , Hage Zachary , Kokkosis Alexandros G. , Nnah Kimberly , Guzman Ryan , Schappell Laurel E. , Koliatsis Dimitris , Resutov Emran , Nadkarni Neil A. , Rahme Gilbert J. , Tsirka Stella E.
Published: December 2024

Chronic stress is a major contributor to the development of major depressive disorder, one of the leading causes of disability worldwide. Using a model of repeated social defeat stress in mice, we and others have reported that neuroinflammation plays a dynamic role in the development of behavioral deficits consistent with social avoidance and impaired reward responses. Animals susceptible to the model also exhibit hypomyelination in the medial prefrontal cortex, indicative of changes in the differentiation pathway of cells of the oligodendroglial lineage (OLN). We computationally confirmed the presence of immune oligodendrocytes, a population of OLN cells, which express immune markers and myelination deficits. In the current study, we report that microglia are necessary to induce expression of antigen presentation markers (and other immune markers) on oligodendroglia. We further associate the appearance of these markers with changes in the OLN and confirm that microglial changes precede OLN changes. Using co‐cultures of microglia and OLN, we show that under inflammatory conditions the processes of phagocytosis and expression of MHCII are linked, suggesting potential priming for antigen presentation by OLN cells. Our findings provide insights into the nature of these OLN cells with immune capabilities, their obligatory interaction with microglia, and identify them as a potential cellular contributor to the pathological manifestations of psychosocial stress.
Interoceptive Brain Processing Influences Moral Decision Making
Authors: Cui Shengbin , Nakano Tamami
Published: December 2024

Not harming others is widely regarded as a fundamental tenet of human morality. Harm aversion based on the consequences of an action is called utilitarianism while focusing on the action itself is associated with deontology. This study investigated how interoceptive processing affects the neural processing of utilitarian and deontological moral decision‐making. The study utilized the heartbeat‐evoked potential (HEP), an averaged electrophysiological component from electroencephalogram (EEG) to gauge cardiac interoceptive processing. Twenty‐seven participants were asked to make utilitarian and deontological decisions for personal and impersonal moral dilemmas (18 for each) with direct and indirect harm actions, respectively, while their EEG and electrocardiogram were being recorded. We found no difference in HEPs between personal and impersonal moral dilemmas. In contrast, differential HEPs were observed between utilitarian and deontological moral decision‐making, regardless of type of dilemmas. Significant differences were observed over centro‐posterior electrodes between 110 and 172 milliseconds after R‐peaks during the Scenario Phase, and over right fronto‐temporal electrodes between 314 and 404 milliseconds after R‐peaks in the Decision Phase. We confirmed that these differences in HEP amplitude between deontological and utilitarian decisions did not stem from cardiac artifacts. These findings reveal that the brain utilizes interoceptive information to make subsequent moral decisions.
A Roadmap for Implanting Electrode Arrays to Evoke Tactile Sensations Through Intracortical Stimulation
Authors: Downey John E. , Schone Hunter R. , Foldes Stephen T. , Greenspon Charles , Liu Fang , Verbaarschot Ceci , Biro Daniel , Satzer David , Moon Chan Hong , Coffman Brian A. , Youssofzadeh Vahab , Fields Daryl , Hobbs Taylor G. , Okorokova Elizaveta , Tyler‐Kabara Elizabeth C. , Warnke Peter C. , Gonzalez‐Martinez Jorge , Hatsopoulos Nicholas G. , Bensmaia Sliman J. , Boninger Michael L. , Gaunt Robert A. , Collinger Jennifer L.
Published: December 2024

Intracortical microstimulation (ICMS) is a method for restoring sensation to people with paralysis as part of a bidirectional brain–computer interface (BCI) to restore upper limb function. Evoking tactile sensations of the hand through ICMS requires precise targeting of implanted electrodes. Here we describe the presurgical imaging procedures used to generate functional maps of the hand area of the somatosensory cortex and subsequent planning that guided the implantation of intracortical microelectrode arrays. In five participants with cervical spinal cord injury, across two study locations, this procedure successfully enabled ICMS‐evoked sensations localized to at least the first four digits of the hand. The imaging and planning procedures developed through this clinical trial provide a roadmap for other BCI studies to ensure the successful placement of stimulation electrodes.
A Trilobed Radial Forearm Free Flap: A Novel Approach to Oral Cavity Reconstruction
Authors: Zuo Liang , Jiang Zheng , Liu Jun , Tian Hao , Gao ShuiChao , Huang WeiLun
Published: December 2024

Background

To evaluate the effectiveness of trilobed forearm flaps in repairing postoperative defects in T2 stage oral cancer patients, while minimizing the impact on the donor site.

Methods

16 male patients with oral cancer were treated at two tertiary medical centers. Patients' demographic characteristics, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) score, and University of Washington Quality of Life Questionnaire (UW‐QoL) were recorded.

Results

Postoperatively, all flaps survived with primary closure of donor site. One patient experienced neck wound edema, which healed after re‐drainage. The quality‐of‐life evaluation shows a UW‐QoL score indicating an excellent quality of life, with the mean score of 78.86 ± 4.26 and a mean DASH score of 23.29 ± 9.89, indicating good function preservation of the donor site.

Conclusion

The trilobed forearm flap technique significantly improves the repair range for oral cancer defects while maintaining donor site integrity and is recommended for wider application.
Dual‐Polymer Carboxymethyl Cellulose and Poly(Ethylene Oxide)‐Based Gels for the Prevention of Postsurgical Adhesions
Authors: DSouza Anisha A. , Amiji Mansoor M.
Published: December 2024

Postsurgical adhesions are a common complication associated with surgical procedures; they not only impact the patient's well‐being but also impose a financial burden due to medical expenses required for reoperative surgeries or adhesiolysis. Adhesions can range from a filmy, fibrinous, or fibrous vascular band to a cohesive attachment, and they can form in diverse anatomical locations such as the peritoneum, pericardium, endometrium, tendons, synovium, and epidural and pleural spaces. Numerous strategies have been explored to minimize the occurrence of postsurgical adhesions. These strategies include surgical approaches, adhesiolysis, antiadhesive agents, and mechanical barriers which have demonstrated the most promise in terms of efficacy and breadth of indications. In this review, we discuss the use of physical/mechanical barriers for adhesion prevention and outline the most commonly used, commercially available barriers. We then focus on a synthetic, dual‐polymer gel composed of carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) and poly(ethylene oxide) [PEO], which, unlike the more commonly used single‐polymer hydrogels, has demonstrated higher efficacy across a greater range of indications and surgical procedures. We review the formulation, mechanical properties, and mechanisms of action of the CMC + PEO dual‐polymer gel and summarize findings from clinical studies that have assessed the efficacy of CMC + PEO gels in multiple surgical settings in clinics across the world. In conclusion, the CMC + PEO dual‐polymer gel represents an approach to preventing postsurgical adhesions that has been commonly used over the last 20 years and could therefore serve as a foundation for research into improving postsurgical outcomes as well as a drug delivery device to expand the use of gels in surgical settings.
Electrically Conductive Injectable Silk/PEDOT: PSS Hydrogel for Enhanced Neural Network Formation
Authors: Borah Rajiv , O'Sullivan Julia , Suku Meenakshi , Spurling Dahnan , Diez Clarke Daniel , Nicolosi Valeria , Caldwell Maeve A. , Monaghan Michael G.
Published: December 2024

With no effective treatments for functional recovery after injury, spinal cord injury (SCI) remains one of the unresolved healthcare challenges. Human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) transplantation is a versatile patient‐specific regenerative approach for functional recovery after SCI. Injectable electroconductive hydrogel (ECH) can further enhance the cell transplantation efficacy through a minimally invasive manner as well as recapitulate the native bioelectrical microenvironment of neural tissue. Given these considerations, we report a novel ECH prepared through self‐assembly facilitated in situ gelation of natural silk fibroin (SF) derived from mulberry Bombyx mori silk and electrically conductive PEDOT:PSS. PEDOT:PSS was pre‐stabilized to prevent the potential delamination of its hydrophilic PSS chain under aqueous environment using 3% (v/v) (3‐glycidyloxypropyl)trimethoxysilane (GoPS) and 3% (w/v) poly(ethylene glycol)diglycidyl ether (PeGDE). The resultant ECH formulations are easily injectable with standard hand force with flow point below 100 Pa and good shear‐thinning properties. The ECH formulations with unmodified and GoPS‐modified PEDOT:PSS, that is, SF/PEDOT and SF/PEDOTGoP maintain comparable elastic modulus to spinal cord (~10–60 kPa) under physiological condition, indicating their flexibility. The GoPS‐modified ECHs also display improved structural recoverability (~70%–90%) as compared to the unmodified versions of the ECHs (~30%–80%), as indicated by the three interval time thixotropy (3ITT) test. Additionally, these ECHs possess electrical conductivity in the range of ~0.2–1.2 S/m comparable to spinal cord (1–10 S/m), indicating their ability to mimic native bioelectrical environment. Approximately 80% or more cell survival was observed when hiPSC‐derived cortical neurons and astrocytes were encapsulated within these ECHs. These ECHs support the maturation of cortical neurons when embedded for 7 days, fostering the development of a complex, interconnected network of long axonal processes and promoting synaptogenesis. These results underline the potential of silk ECHs in cell transplantation therapy for spinal cord regeneration.
The Puck Stops Here: Head and Neck Ice Hockey Lacerations in Adults
Authors: Bacon Beatrice , Mendel Rhys , Keenehan Katelin , Varavenkataraman Gaayathri , Viola Francesca , Carr Michele
Published: December 2024

Objective

The goal of this study was to describe lacerations of the head and neck sustained among ice hockey players in the US.

Methods

Data on adult (20–65 years) ice hockey injuries were collected from the 2003–2022 National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS) database. Injuries of the head, neck, face, mouth, and ears were included, while those sustained as a spectator, coach, or on a non‐ice surface were excluded. Frequencies and means were calculated. A one‐way ANOVA and chi‐squared tests were performed, with p < 0.05 indicating statistical significance.

Results

Five hundred ninety‐three patients were included; 578 (97.5%) male, 15 (2.5%) female. Mean age was 31.3 (95% CI 30.5–32.2) years. Lacerations occurred on the face (N = 422, 71.2%), mouth (N = 124, 20.9%), head (N = 23, 3.9%), ear (N = 22, 3.7%), and neck (N = 2, 0.3%). One patient (0.17%) was admitted due to closed head injury; there were no deaths. Pucks were the primary cause of lacerations (N = 210, 35.4%), followed by sticks (N = 135, 22.8%), collisions (N = 56, 9.4%), and falls (N = 51, 8.6%). 3.4% (N = 20) of patients experienced a laceration caused by a skate blade, most often on the face (N = 17/20, 85.0%).

Conclusion

Hockey pucks are the primary cause of lacerations in the head, face, and mouth, with neck lacerations being rare in this cohort. Full face protective gear would reduce the number of adult ice hockey head and neck lacerations.

Level of Evidence

IV Laryngoscope, 2024
Intraepithelial ILC1‐Like NK Cells Increase Lymphocyte Infiltration into the Tumor Microenvironment via the CXCL10 Axis
Authors: Maddineni Sainiteesh , Sharma Krishna , Mohammad Imran A. , Shin June H. , Sunwoo John B.
Published: December 2024

Intraepithelial type 1 innate lymphoid cells (ieILC1s) are tissue‐resident lymphocytes in the microenvironment of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Here, we evaluate how these cells influence T‐cell trafficking to tumors. We generated cytotoxic ieILC1‐like cells from natural killer (NK) cells in vitro. Using an in vivo tumor model, we show that intratumoral ieILC1‐like NK cells induce greater T cell trafficking into the tumor. Co‐culture of ieILC1‐like NK cells with the tumor cells resulted in elevated CXCL10 in the supernatant. Flow cytometry demonstrated that ieILC1‐like NK cells produce robust amounts of IFNy, a known CXCL10 inducer, while CXCL10 was produced by tumor cells. These results indicate ieILC1‐like NK cells induce tumor production of CXCL10, a proinflammatory chemokine that promotes T cell infiltration into the TME. The role of ieILC1‐like NK cells in modulating clinical responses to immune checkpoint blockade warrants investigation.
The design‐manufacturing‐evaluation integration of a bionic stealth metastructure inspired by the weevils back shell structure
Authors: Huang Yixing , Zhao Pengzhen , Sun Yingjian , Liao Haitao , Dong Huaiyu , Gao Shuailong , Li Qun , Zhao Tian , Li Ying
Published: December 2024

With the advancement of technology, the demand for high‐performance stealth materials with complex structures has increased significantly. This study explores the integration of design, manufacturing, and evaluation of stealth structures using fused deposition modeling (FDM) combined with advanced absorbing materials. Focusing on nylon‐based filaments optimized for broadband absorption, the research is inspired by the microstructure of the weaver ant's back shell to create a thin‐layer, wideband absorbing structure with wide‐angle response, employing the trust region algorithm. This integration of high dielectric loss materials, bionic design, and FDM technology enhances manufacturing efficiency and reduces the structure's thickness. The resulting structure achieves broadband absorption from 3.56 to 40 GHz, excellent angular adaptability, and mechanical robustness. Compared to gradient cell structures, it reduces thickness by 33% and extends the absorption frequency range by 5%. This approach offers a lightweight, high‐performance solution for next‐generation stealth applications.

Highlights

Biomimetic inspired design‐manufacturing‐evaluation integration.

Trust domain algorithm optimization.

Improve absorption by combining the macro structure and micro materials.

Additive manufacturing cross‐enabled functional material design.
Partial Anion Exchange Triggered Helical Conformation in Chiral Polyelectrolyte: Demonstration of “Sergeants and Soldiers Like Effect”
Authors: Tilottama Baisakhi , Nrusingha Dehury , Vijayakrishna Kari
Published: December 2024

Synthetic helical polymers have gained tremendous attention due to their superior efficiency in mimicking the complex self‐assembly “helix” of biological systems. Prolinate‐based chiral polyelectrolytes bearing chloride counter anion (poly‐(L‐)‐Pro‐Cl) is circular dichroism (CD) silent and exist as random coils. For instance, the same chiral polymer with methoxide counter anion (poly‐(L‐)‐Pro‐OMe) shows CD response with preferred‐handed helical sense. Here we have used partial anion exchange of chloride anion with methoxide as a simple and effective technique to bring the induced CD, eventually helical sense to poly‐(L‐)‐Pro‐Cl. Even with 1 mol% of methoxide exchange, the obtained chiral random copolymer poly‐(L‐)‐Pro‐Cl0.99‐co‐poly‐(L‐)‐Pro‐OMe0.01 showed induced CD. The random copolymer poly‐(L‐)‐Pro‐Cl0.50‐co‐poly‐(L‐)‐Pro‐OMe0.50 with 50 mol% of the methoxide anion exchanged, showed induced CD identical to that of poly‐(L‐)‐Pro–OMe. In partial anion exchange‐induced random copolymers, methoxide‐containing polymer units act as sergeants and chloride‐containing units act as soldiers. Through the “sergeants‐ and soldiers‐like effect,” partial anion exchange reactions trigger the helical sense into the polymer chains. CD analysis provided strong support for the study. Here, the study provides a novel approach to the helical amplification phenomenon, which corresponds to the “sergeants‐ and soldiers‐like effect.”
Ultra‐High in‐Plane Thermal Conductivity of Epoxy Composites Reinforced by Three‐Dimensional Carbon Fiber/Graphene Hybrid Felt
Authors: Shi Shanshan , Li Xiao‐feng , Jiang Tao , Cao Shuai , Gui Xiaofan , Wang Ying , Li Yifan , Yu Wei , Lin Donghai , Xie Huaqing , Xiao Yonghou , Li Wenge , Sun Kai , Yu Jinhong , Wu Xinfeng
Published: December 2024

The heat dissipation problem brought about by high heat density components is a key bottleneck restricting the development of the new electronics industry. At present, traditional low thermal conductivity (TC) polymer composites can no longer meet the heat dissipation demand. The requirements for their thermal performance are also increasing. In this work, the epoxy resin/carbon fiber /graphene hybrid felt (Epoxy/CF/G) composites with high in‐plane TC were constructed through the synergistic interaction of one‐dimensional carbon fiber (CF) and two‐dimensional graphene (G). The synergistic effect of CF and G on thermal conductivity is explored. Graphene can bridge adjacent carbon fibers (CFs) to reduce phonon scattering and build multistage heat transfer paths, facilitating the thermal properties. The thermal conductivity value (K) of the prepared composites reaches 24.09 W/mK at a packing load of 35.25 wt%, which is superior to that of Epoxy/CF composites (12.73 W/mK). The heat transport mechanism is analyzed using infrared thermography. The heat dissipation effect is verified by light emitting diodes, further understanding the internal heat flow conduction process. This synergistic effect strategy provides a promising approach for further constructing thermal conduction networks with industrial application value.
Machine Learning‐Driven Discovery of Thermoset Shape Memory Polymers With High Glass Transition Temperature Using Variational Autoencoders
Authors: Teimouri Amir , Li Guoqiang
Published: December 2024

The discovery of high‐performance shape memory polymers (SMPs) with enhanced glass transition temperatures (Tg) is of paramount importance in fields such as geothermal energy, oil and gas, aerospace, and other high‐temperature applications, where materials are required to exhibit shape memory effect at extremely high‐temperature conditions. Here, we employ a novel machine learning framework that integrates transfer learning with variational autoencoders (VAE) to efficiently explore the chemical design space of SMPs and identify new candidates with high Tg values. We systematically investigate the effect of different latent space dimensions on the VAE model performance. Several machine learning models are then trained to predict Tg. We find that the SVM model demonstrates the highest predictive accuracy, with R2 values exceeding 0.87 and a mean absolute percentage error as low as 6.43% on the test set. Through systematic molar ratio adjustments and VAE‐based fingerprinting, we discover novel SMP candidates with Tg values between 190°C and 200°C, suitable for high‐temperature applications. These findings underscore the effectiveness of combining VAEs and SVM for SMP discovery, offering a scalable and efficient method for identifying polymers with tailored thermal properties.
The role of amphipathic and cationic helical peptides in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Pintado‐Grima Carlos , Ventura Salvador
Published: December 2024

Peptides are attracting a growing interest for therapeutic applications in biomedicine. In Parkinson's disease (PD), different human endogenous peptides have been associated with beneficial effects, including protein aggregation inhibition, reduced inflammation, or the protection of dopaminergic neurons. Such effects seem to be connected to the spatial arrangement of peptide side chains, and many of these human molecules share common conformational traits, displaying a distinctive amphipathic and cationic helical structure, which is believed to be crucial for their activities. This review delves into the relationship between these structural properties and the current evidence connecting biogenic peptides to the amelioration of PD symptoms. We discuss their implications in the disease, the different mechanisms of action, their state of validation, and their therapeutic potential.
Elevating Configurations of Data and Emotion: Dynamics of Coproduction, Collaboration and Competition
Authors: Lanouette Kathryn
Published: December 2024

Creating, visualizing, and critiquing data are integral knowledge‐building practices within science, as well as many other fields. Yet data is often treated as neutral and value‐free, perpetuating narratives of science as a dispassionate discipline where data are merely extracted, repackaged, and distributed anew. As researchers and educators seek to imagine, design and support more humanistic accounts of young people's data practices, attuning to emotion will be a key area for further study. Recent scholarship in science education has elevated emotion as inseparable from disciplinary knowledge‐building practices, yet studies of emotion emergent within young people's data practices remain less understood. As part of the special issue Centering Affect and Emotion Toward Justice and Dignity in Science Education, this article explores how emotion and data are co‐produced as children construct and critique data visualizations together, collectively transforming notes, tallies and sketches into class‐level aggregated data displays within a fifth grade ecology curriculum. Analyzing interviews, classroom video recordings, and newly constructed data visualizations, I reveal how feeling, sensemaking and practice are entangled as children and their classmates build a paper data map and a dot plot graph, shaped by personal, cultural and sociopolitical dimensions. I show how these emergent emotional configurations shift activity from collaborative to competitive, in turn changing attention to the data itself (properties, histories, visualizations), the underlying organisms being studied and the ecological system‐level interactions. I argue that as science and data science education push forward a zeal for data, it will be important to attune to the emotional and relational dimensions that undergird children's emergent data practices.
Nano‐informatics Approach to Unravel the Intrinsic Interaction of Catharanthus roseus Fabricated Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles with Vindoline to Combat Diabetes
Authors: Goyal Richa , Kumar Manoj , Mallick M. Anwar , Nitin Mukesh , Agrawal Ritu , Yadav Amit Kumar , Solanki Pratima
Published: December 2024

An important aspect of the treatment of chronic cases of diabetes is the enhancement of insulin secretion with a decrease in intestinal glucose absorption. In this study, the prepared alcoholic Catharanthus roseus flower extract‐fabricated zinc oxide nanoparticles (FZNPs) were characterized by UV–vis spectrometer, dynamic light scattering (DLS), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) instruments and antihyperglycemic properties were tested at the molecular level by the in silico method. The synthesis of FZNPs is possible, and the characterization report showed that they have maximum optical properties at 361 nm, a small grain size (15.68 nm), and negative zeta potential (hydrophilic nature). The nanoparticles have a hexagonal structure and are surrounded by several functional groups. The in silico result supports that zinc oxide and related structures, as well as Zn (II) diisophthalate and vindoline, have good ADMET properties. The Zn(II) diisophthalate lead interaction tested with alpha‐glucosidase and has a binding affinity of ‐6.3 kcal/mol, whereas vindoline and KATP binding affinity ‐7.4 kcal/mol. The synthesized FZNPs have the ability to inhibit alpha‐glucosidase targets and block the KATP ion channel of beta cells. The FZNPs have the ability to reduce intestinal glucose absorption as well as promote insulin secretion, so they can effectively manage the hyperglycaemic condition of patients.
Intelligent Microneedles Patch with Wireless Self‐Sensing and Anti‐Infective Actions
Authors: Bai Yutong , Liu Ziting , Niu Tianmu , Yi Yaozhen , Dou Haixu , Song Lingjie , Ren Luquan , Zhao Jie
Published: December 2024

Traditional microneedle (MN) technology offers unique advantages in treating wound infections; however, its single‐function design lacks the capability for real‐time monitoring of wound conditions, often resulting in uncontrolled drug release. Herein, an anti‐infective and intelligent MN patch (SP‐CSMN) integrating three functional modules is developed, including temperature monitoring, Bluetooth wireless communication, and responsive drug release. The patch employed chitosan (CS) as a porous substrate, filled with temperature‐sensitive poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) to encapsulate and release the antibiotic rifampicin. With the integrated sensing chip, SP‐CSMN enabled continuous temperature monitoring and real‐time feedback via smartphone Bluetooth communication. When the wound temperature exceeds 36.5 °C for 6 h, the system can automatically identify the infection occurrence and activate the heating module to trigger PNIPAM contraction, triggering rifampicin release. This self‐sensing and intelligent release cycles can repeat throughout its life‐cycle. The SP‐CSMN demonstrated precisely temperature‐induced drug release and enhanced antibacterial activities against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Escherichia coli (E. coli) in vitro. Furthermore, it sensitively monitored wound temperature changes in infected mice and significantly accelerated wound healing via controlled drug delivery. This advanced MN system offers a promising solution for efficient management of bacterial wound infections.
Tumor infiltration of inactive CD8 + T cells was associated with poor prognosis in Gastric Cancer
Authors: Katayama Naoki , Ohuchida Kenoki , Son Kiwa , Tsutsumi Chikanori , Mochida Yuki , Noguchi Shoko , Iwamoto Chika , Torata Nobuhiro , Horioka Kohei , Shindo Koji , Mizuuchi Yusuke , Ikenaga Naoki , Nakata Kohei , Oda Yoshinao , Nakamura Masafumi
Published: December 2024

Background

Gastric cancer (GC) shows limited response to immune checkpoint inhibitors due to its complex tumor immune microenvironment (TIME). This study explores the functions of various immune cells in the complex TIME in GC.

Methods

We assessed CD8 + T-cell infiltration of GC tissues by immunohistochemistry, and performed single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) of tumor and normal tissues from 34 patients with GC.

Results

We categorized 157 GC patients into LOW, MID, and HIGH groups based on their CD8 + T-cell infiltration. Overall survival was notably lower for the HIGH and LOW groups compared with the MID group. Our scRNA-seq data analysis showed that CD8 + T-cell activity markers in the HIGH group were expressed at lower levels than in normal tissue, but the T-cell-attracting chemokine CCL5 was expressed at a higher level. Notably, CD8 + T-cells in the HIGH group displayed lower PD1 expression and higher CTLA4 expression. TCR repertoire analysis using only Epstein–Barr virus-negative cases showed that CD8 + T-cell receptor clonality was lower in the HIGH group than in the MID group. Furthermore, in the HIGH group, the antigen-presenting capacity of type 1 conventional dendritic cells was lower, the immunosuppressive capacity of myeloid-derived suppressor cells was higher, and the expression of CTLA4 in regulatory T-cells was higher.

Conclusion

The present data suggest that the infiltration of inactive CD8 + T-cells with low clonality is induced by chemotaxis in the HIGH group, possibly leading to a poor prognosis for patients with GC.
Assessing generalizability in deep reinforcement learning based assembly: a comprehensive review
Authors: Kolb Lena , Panzer Marcel , Gronau Norbert
Published: December 2024

The increasing complexity of production environments and fluctuations in short-term demand requires adaptive and robust processes. To cope with the inherent challenges, deep reinforcement learning algorithms were widely deployed in assembly processes in recent years, due to their generalization capabilities, which ensure enhanced usability and flexibility for diverse assembly applications. Despite a growing number of scientific papers investigating deep learning based assembly and associated generalization capabilities, a comprehensive review and assessment of potential generalization capabilities has yet to be conducted. This paper aims to provide researchers and practitioners with an evaluation of key influences which contribute to a successful generalization of deep reinforcement learning within assembly processes, thereby facilitating further implementations. Our findings reveal that current research primarily focuses on examining generalization in insertion and sequence planning assembly tasks. Furthermore, we identified many context-specific approaches to enhance generalization, as well as remaining research challenges and gaps. The results comprise four overarching factors, containing several specific approaches that increase generalizability in assembly processes. However, future research must focus on verifying the context independence of these factors.
A thematic review of 45 years of The Journal of Technology Transfer
Authors: Abid Nabila , Cunningham James A. , Perea-Vicente José-Luis
Published: December 2024

The purpose of this paper is to examine the thematic evolution of The Journal of Technology Transfer over 45 years. Over this period, there have been significant changes to the practice and organization of technology transfer. There also has been a significant growth in scholarship attention from different disciplinary areas on different aspects of technology transfer from macro, meso, and micro perspectives. We take a bibliometric approach to undertake an analysis to identify key phases and themes. We identified five distinct phases, namely foundational, technology transfer and university industry collaboration, technology transfer and entrepreneurial dynamics, academic entrepreneurship and sustainable technology transfer. Furthermore, based on this analysis, we reflect on key drivers that will influence and shape future research avenues.