bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Data Harmonization Guidelines to Combine Multi‐platform Genomic Data from Admixed Populations and Boost Power in Genome‐Wide Association Studies
Authors: Croock Dayna , Swart Yolandi , Schurz Haiko , Petersen Desiree C. , Möller Marlo , Uren Caitlin
Published: June 2024

Data harmonization involves combining data from multiple independent sources and processing the data to produce one uniform dataset. Merging separate genotypes or whole‐genome sequencing datasets has been proposed as a strategy to increase the statistical power of association tests by increasing the effective sample size. However, data harmonization is not a widely adopted strategy due to the difficulties with merging data (including confounding produced by batch effects and population stratification). Detailed data harmonization protocols are scarce and are often conflicting. Moreover, data harmonization protocols that accommodate samples of admixed ancestry are practically non‐existent. Existing data harmonization procedures must be modified to ensure the heterogeneous ancestry of admixed individuals is incorporated into additional downstream analyses without confounding results. Here, we propose a set of guidelines for merging multi‐platform genetic data from admixed samples that can be adopted by any investigator with elementary bioinformatics experience. We have applied these guidelines to aggregate 1544 tuberculosis (TB) case‐control samples from six separate in‐house datasets and conducted a genome‐wide association study (GWAS) of TB susceptibility. The GWAS performed on the merged dataset had improved power over analyzing the datasets individually and produced summary statistics free from bias introduced by batch effects and population stratification. © 2024 The Author(s). Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Processing separate datasets comprising array genotype data

Alternate Protocol 1: Processing separate datasets comprising array genotype and whole‐genome sequencing data

Alternate Protocol 2: Performing imputation using a local reference panel

Basic Protocol 2: Merging separate datasets

Basic Protocol 3: Ancestry inference using ADMIXTURE and RFMix

Basic Protocol 4: Batch effect correction using pseudo‐case‐control comparisons
Un “boxing” the reality: Knowledge, attitude, and perception of orthodontists, dental practitioners, and orthodontic patients toward mouthguards' wear during contact sports—A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Raghavan Shailaja , Abu Alhaija Elham S. , Nasrawi Yousef , Al‐ Khateeb Susan , Sunna Samer
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Mouthguards (MGs) have the potential to prevent contact sport‐related dental injuries. However, varying perceptions of their effectiveness persist, influencing recommendations by dental professionals.

Aim

To assess the attitudes, knowledge, and perceptions of orthodontists, other dental practitioners (general dentists and other dental specialists), and orthodontic patients involved in contact sports regarding the use of MGs.

Methodology

A cross‐sectional survey was designed to collect information from dental clinicians (orthodontists and other dental practitioners) and their orthodontic patients about using MGs during sports participation. A convenience sampling technique was used to recruit the participants for an online survey. A total of 107 (32 males/75 females) dental clinicians and 147 (75 males/72 females) orthodontic patients (mean age 17.5 ± 5.84 years) participated in the study. Pre‐validated questionnaires, specifically designed for dental clinicians and orthodontic patients, were used. Data were analyzed using SPSS software (version 28.0; SPSS).

Results

Nearly 50% of dental clinicians have recently recommended MGs to their patients in their clinical practice out of which 59% preferred the stock type; 33% of dental clinicians enquired their patients about involvement in contact sports during initial visits. The majority of orthodontic patients acquired knowledge about MGs through the Internet. More than half of orthodontic patients expressed unwillingness to pay for MGs, and 89% of orthodontic patients found using MGs during contact sports uncomfortable.

Conclusion

The findings provide valuable insights into the practices and attitudes of dental clinicians and orthodontic patients regarding MGs, their recommendations, and the comfort levels associated with using them during contact sports.
Age is not just a number: How incorrect ageing impacts close‐kin mark‐recapture estimates of population size
Authors: Petersma Felix T. , Thomas Len , Harris Danielle , Bradley Darcy , Papastamatiou Yannis P.
Published: June 2024

Population size is a key parameter for the conservation of animal species. Close‐kin mark‐recapture (CKMR) relies on the observed frequency and type of kinship among individuals sampled from the population to estimate population size. Knowledge of the age of the individuals, or a surrogate thereof, is essential for inference with acceptable precision. One common approach, particularly in fish studies, is to measure animal length and infer age using an assumed age‐length relationship (a ‘growth curve’). We used simulation to test the effect of misspecifying the length measurement error and the growth curve on population size estimation. Simulated populations represented two fictional shark species, one with a relatively simple life history and the other with a more complex life history based on the grey reef shark (Carcharhinus amblyrhynchos). We estimated sex‐specific adult abundance, which we assumed to be constant in time. We observed small median biases in these estimates ranging from 1.35% to 2.79% when specifying the correct measurement error standard deviation and growth curve. CI coverage was adequate whenever the growth curve was correctly specified. Introducing error via misspecified growth curves resulted in changes in the magnitude of the estimated adult population, where underestimating age negatively biased the abundance estimates. Over‐ and underestimating the standard deviation of length measurement error did not introduce a bias and had negligible effect on the variance in the estimates. Our findings show that assuming an incorrect standard deviation of length measurement error has little effect on estimation, but having an accurate growth curve is crucial for CKMR whenever ageing is based on length measurements. If ageing could be biased, researchers should be cautious when interpreting CKMR results and consider the potential biases arising from inaccurate age inference.
Evolutionary adaptations generally reverse phenotypic plasticity to restore ancestral phenotypes during new environment adaptation in cattle
Authors: Jiang Qiang , Zhu Li , Zeng Hao , Basang Zhuzha , Suolang Quji , Huang Jinming , Cai Yafei
Published: June 2024

Phenotype plasticity and evolution adaptations are the two main ways in which allow populations to deal with environmental changes, but the potential relationship between them remains controversial. Using a reciprocal transplant approach with cattle adapted to the Tibetan Plateau and adjacent lowlands, we aim to investigate the relative contributions of evolutionary processes and phenotypic plasticity in driving both phenotypic and transcriptomic changes under natural conditions. We observed that while numerous genetic transcriptomic changes were evident during the forward adaptation to highland environments, plastic changes predominantly facilitate the transformation of transcriptomes into a preferred state when Tibetan cattle are reintroduced to lowland habitats. Genes with ancestral plasticity are generally reversed by evolutionary adaptations and show a closer expression level to the ancestral stage in evolved Tibetan cattle. A similar trend was also observed at the phenotypes level, with a majority of biochemical and hemorheology phenotypes showing a tendency to revert to their ancestral patterns, suggesting the restoration of ancestral expression levels is a widespread evolutionary trend during adaptation. The findings of our study contribute to the debate regarding the relative contributions of plasticity and genetic changes in mammal environment adaptation. Furthermore, we highlight that the restoration of ancestral phenotypes represents a general pattern in cattle new environment adaptation.
Mechanisms of myocardial reverse remodelling and its clinical significance: A scientific statement of the ESC Working Group on Myocardial Function
Authors: Falcão‐Pires Inês , Ferreira Ana Filipa , Trindade Fábio , Bertrand Luc , Ciccarelli Michele , Visco Valeria , Dawson Dana , Hamdani Nazha , Van Laake Linda W. , Lezoualc'h Frank , Linke Wolfgang A. , Lunde Ida G , Rainer Peter P. , Abdellatif Mahmoud , Van der Velden Jolanda , Cosentino Nicola , Paldino Alessia , Pompilio Giulio , Zacchigna Serena , Heymans Stephane , Thum Thomas , Tocchetti Carlo Gabriele
Published: June 2024

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of morbimortality in Europe and worldwide. CVD imposes a heterogeneous spectrum of cardiac remodelling, depending on the insult nature, that is, pressure or volume overload, ischaemia, arrhythmias, infection, pathogenic gene variant, or cardiotoxicity. Moreover, the progression of CVD‐induced remodelling is influenced by sex, age, genetic background and comorbidities, impacting patients' outcomes and prognosis. Cardiac reverse remodelling (RR) is defined as any normative improvement in cardiac geometry and function, driven by therapeutic interventions and rarely occurring spontaneously. While RR is the outcome desired for most CVD treatments, they often only slow/halt its progression or modify risk factors, calling for novel and more timely RR approaches. Interventions triggering RR depend on the myocardial insult and include drugs (renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system inhibitors, beta‐blockers, diuretics and sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors), devices (cardiac resynchronization therapy, ventricular assist devices), surgeries (valve replacement, coronary artery bypass graft), or physiological responses (deconditioning, postpartum). Subsequently, cardiac RR is inferred from the degree of normalization of left ventricular mass, ejection fraction and end‐diastolic/end‐systolic volumes, whose extent often correlates with patients' prognosis. However, strategies aimed at achieving sustained cardiac improvement, predictive models assessing the extent of RR, or even clinical endpoints that allow for distinguishing complete from incomplete RR or adverse remodelling objectively, remain limited and controversial. This scientific statement aims to define RR, clarify its underlying (patho)physiologic mechanisms and address (non)pharmacological options and promising strategies to promote RR, focusing on the left heart. We highlight the predictors of the extent of RR and review the prognostic significance/impact of incomplete RR/adverse remodelling. Lastly, we present an overview of RR animal models and potential future strategies under pre‐clinical evaluation.
Dual‐Functional NiMg2−xCaxAl‐Hydrotalcite for Integrated CO2 Capture and In Situ Methanation
Authors: Guo Zhuoyu , Yuan Changkun , Zheng Lei , Fu Yu , Gao Yunfei , Zhang Jun , Sun Yuhan
Published: June 2024

Integrated carbon capture and conversion (ICCC) is a promising technology to achieve cost‐effective carbon capture, usage, and storage. The development of efficient dual‐functional materials (DFMs) is crucial for advancing ICCC in industrial applications. Herein, a series of NiMg2−x
Ca
x
Al‐hydrotalcite (x = 0, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2) DFMs are prepared and applied to integrated CO2 capture and methanation. Characterization results illustrate that magnesium stabilizes the porous structure of hydrotalcite, and calcium significantly modulates surface basicity. Codoping of Mg and Ca yields merits of both functions and leads to increased methanation efficiency. By optimizing the catalyst and operating conditions, NiMg0.5Ca1.5Al‐hydrotalcite exhibits an excellent CO2 adsorption capacity of 313 μmol g−1
DFM and methane yield of 225 μmol g−1
DFM with almost full selectivity toward methane at 320 °C. NiMg0.5Ca1.5Al‐hydrotalcite also exhibits good cyclability at 320 °C under ambient pressure. Overall, Mg and Ca codoped hydrotalcite offers a promising approach to construct bifunctional materials for efficient integrated CO2 capture and in situ methanation.
Forecasting interval‐valued returns of crude oil: A novel kernel‐based approach
Authors: Yang Kun , Xu Xueqing , Wei Yunjie , Wang Shouyang
Published: June 2024

This paper proposes a novel kernel‐based generalized random interval multilayer perceptron (KG‐iMLP) method for predicting high‐volatility interval‐valued returns of crude oil. The KG‐iMLP model is constructed by utilizing the
distance based on a kernel function, which outperforms the conventional Euclidean distance. Additionally, the optimal kernel function is estimated using the variance–covariance matrix of the prediction error, contributing to a better understanding of the overall characteristics of interval‐valued data. The introduction of the kernel function renders the algorithms used for estimating machine learning parameters ineffective. Therefore, this paper further proposes a backward
distance of accumulative error propagation algorithm to estimate both the kernel function and model parameters, which provides a feasible approach for utilizing kernel function in interval neural networks. In the empirical analysis of weekly and daily returns of WTI crude oil, the superior predictive performance of the proposed method is demonstrated, enabling stable and accurate predictions for both point values and interval values. The model exhibits consistent outstanding performance across different network structures, showcasing the potential of KG‐iMLP for crude oil price forecasting.
The role of microglial TREM2 in development: A path toward neurodegeneration?
Authors: Matteoli Michela
Published: June 2024

The nervous and the immune systems undergo a continuous cross talk, starting from early development and continuing throughout adulthood and aging. Defects in this cross talk contribute to neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative diseases. Microglia are the resident immune cells in the brain that are primarily involved in this bidirectional communication. Among the microglial genes, trem2 is a key player, controlling the functional state of microglia and being at the forefront of many processes that require interaction between microglia and other brain components, such as neurons and oligodendrocytes. The present review focuses on the early developmental window, describing the early brain processes in which TREM2 is primarily involved, including the modulation of synapse formation and elimination, the control of neuronal bioenergetic states as well as the contribution to myelination processes and neuronal circuit formation. By causing imbalances during these early maturation phases, dysfunctional TREM2 may have a striking impact on the adult brain, making it a more sensitive target for insults occurring during adulthood and aging.
Social support and academic experience among higher education students in Israel during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Simhi Meital , Gilbar Ohad , Schiff Miriam , Pat‐Horenczyk Ruth , Benbenishty Rami
Published: June 2024

This study focused on the implications of the COVID‐19 pandemic on the academic experience of university students and their plans for dropping out. We examined how their health, exposure to COVID, and personal COVID‐related health risk were associated with perceived social support and a positive academic experience versus plans to drop out of academic studies. We questioned 10,635 students from six research universities in Israel in a cross‐sectional online survey. Our findings confirmed that exposure to COVID‐19 was positively associated with perceived social support and plans to drop out of academic studies, but negatively associated with a positive academic experience. The greater the perceived social support, the more positive the academic experience, with fewer plans to drop out academically. The more negative students' perceptions of their general health, the more frequent the plans to drop out of academic studies. Also, perceived social support and a positive academic experience mediated the associations between COVID‐19 exposure and health status, and plans to drop out of academic studies. This study highlights the potentially positive role of social support and positive academic experiences as significant resources and potential protective factors against plans brought on by COVID to drop out of academic studies.
Environmental and psychopathological predictors of clinical high‐risk of psychosis in adolescence
Authors: Fernández Inma , Juncal‐Ruiz Maria , González‐Menéndez Ana María , Paino Mercedes
Published: June 2024

Objectives

Clinical high‐risk of psychosis (CHRp) samples can be heterogeneous, consisting essentially of people with not only psychotic‐like experiences but also nonspecific symptoms that may reflect common mental disorders such as depression, anxiety, or substance abuse pathologies. Few studies have attempted to analyze and understand psychosis risk in relation to both environmental (ER) and psychopathological risk (PsR) factors. This study aimed to determine the clinical risk of psychosis in adolescents.

Methods

A representative sample of 1824 Spanish adolescents from the general population was evaluated using different scales to thoroughly examine the possible interaction of CHRp with various ER and PsR factors. Partial correlations were calculated to assess the relationships between the variables. A series of hierarchical linear regression models were then used to obtain a CHRp predictor model.

Results

The CHRp predictor model indicated that PsR was the most significant determining factor, explaining 22% of the total associated variance of CHRp. However, the ER factor also emerged as a significant predictor of high‐risk psychosis (accounting for 9% of the variance).

Conclusions

A predictive model for CHRp in adolescents was found, in which common psychological problems were presented as more determinant risk factors than ER disruptors. Furthermore, certain transdiagnostic processes, such as psychological inflexibility, may play a central role in the development of mental health problems, including psychosis. Specifying the mechanisms underlying the emergence of CHRp in adolescence is the key to optimizing the focus of preventive therapeutic interventions in these early stages.
A revised condition for harmonic analysis in generalized Orlicz spaces on unbounded domains
Authors: Harjulehto Petteri , Hästö Peter , Słabuszewski Artur
Published: June 2024

Conditions for harmonic analysis in generalized Orlicz spaces have been studied over the past decade. One approach involves the generalized inverse of so‐called weak ‐functions. It featured prominently in the monograph Orlicz Spaces and Generalized Orlicz Spaces
[P. Harjulehto and P. Hästö, Lecture Notes in Mathematics, vol. 2236, Springer, Cham, 2019]. While generally successful, the inverse function formulation of the decay condition (A2) in the monograph contains a flaw, which we explain and correct in this note. We also present some new results related to the conditions, including a more general result for the density of smooth functions.
Genetic variations associated with telomere length predict the risk of recurrence of non‐oropharyngeal head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Sun Peng , Gu Kyle J. , Zheng Guibin , Sikora Andrew G. , Li Chao , Zafereo Mark , Wei Peng , Wu Jia , Shete Sanjay , Liu Jisheng , Li Guojun
Published: June 2024

Genetic factors underlying lymphocyte telomere length (LTL) may provide insights into genomic stability and integrity, with direct links to susceptibility to cancer recurrence. Polymorphisms in telomere‐associated genes are strongly associated with LTL and cancer risk, while few large studies have explored the associations between LTL‐related polymorphisms and recurrence risk of non‐oropharyngeal head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (non‐OPHNSCC). Totally 1403 non‐OPHNSCC patients were recruited and genotyped for 16 LTL‐related polymorphisms identified by genome‐wide association studies. Univariate and multivariate analyzes were performed to evaluate associations between the polymorphisms and non‐OPHNSCC recurrence risk. Patients carrying rs755017 GA/GG, rs2487999 TC/TT, rs2736108 TC/TT, or rs6772228 AT/AA genotypes exhibited shorter DFS than those with the rs755017 AA, rs2487999 CC, rs2736108 CC, or s6772228 TT genotypes, respectively (all log‐rank p < 0.05). Multivariable analysis confirmed an increased risk of recurrence for patients carrying rs755017 GA/GG, rs2487999 TC/TT, rs2736108 TC/TT, or rs6772228 AT/AA genotypes (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR]: 1.66, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.32–2.07; aHR: 1.77, 95% CI: 1.41–2.23; aHR: 1.56, 95% CI: 1.22–1.99; aHR: 1.52, 95% CI: 1.20–1.93, respectively). Further stratified analysis revealed stronger associations between these genotypes and recurrence risk in ever‐smokers and patients undergoing chemoradiotherapy. The similar but particularly pronounced results were observed for the combined risk genotypes of the four significant polymorphisms. This is the first large study on non‐OPHNSCC patients showing that LTL‐related polymorphisms may modify risk of non‐OPHNSCC recurrence individually and jointly, particularly when analyzed in the context of smoking status and personized treatment. Larger studies are needed to validate these results.
The cumulative antitumor effects of regorafenib and radiotherapy in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Kuang Shuwen , Zhang Jiajun , Huang Ning , Zhang Jing , Chen Bo , Wang Liming , Liu Mei
Published: June 2024

Regorafenib is a second‐line standard treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the efficacy of regorafenib is often limited due to drug resistance, individual differences among patients, and irrational drug use. Radiotherapy (RT) is an important method of localized HCC treatment, and combining RT with other therapies may exert a synergetic antitumor effect. Platelet‐derived growth factor receptor‐like (PDGFRL) is a tumor suppressor in various solid tumors. However, the function of PDGFRL in HCC is still unknown. In this study, we explored whether regorafenib and RT exert a synergetic effect on the treatment of HCC. The antitumor effect and mechanisms of the combination of regorafenib and RT were verified in a xenograft mouse model in vivo and in HCC cells in vitro. The combination treatment significantly inhibited cell proliferation and promoted apoptosis both in vitro and in vivo. PDGFRL, a potential target of regorafenib, was increased after cumulative treatment in HCC cells, and PDGFRL suppressed HCC cell proliferation and promoted apoptosis by inhibiting STAT3 pathway activation. Furthermore, the cumulative antitumor effect was dependent on the upregulated expression of PDGFRL and inhibition of STAT3 signaling pathway activation in HCC cells. This study increased the understanding of the molecular mechanism underlying the effect of regorafenib plus RT on HCC and provided a theoretical basis for the clinical practice of HCC.
A prospective, randomized, multicenter, open‐label trial comparing survival in subjects receiving peritoneal dialysis or conventional in‐center hemodialysis
Authors: Fan Li , Yang Xiao , Shen Huaying , Chen Menghua , Zhang Hao , Ni Zhaohui , Lin Hongli , Yang Hongtao , Chen Qinkai , Chen Hongyu , Jiang Gengru , Wang Jianqin , Zhao Jiuyang , Sun Zhuxing , Yin Aiping , Jiang Aili , Li Yun , Peng Hui , Chen Nan , Hao Chuanming , Kong Yaozhong , Rong Rong , Li Jie , Zou Xia , Luo Haotian , Qian Jiaqi , Yu Xueqing
Published: June 2024

Background

Peritoneal dialysis (PD) and conventional in‐center hemodialysis (HD) are treatment options for patients with end‐stage kidney disease (ESKD). However, their impact on all‐cause mortality is unclear.

Methods

We conducted a multicenter, open‐label, randomized, non‐inferiority trial to determine the effect of dialysis modality on mortality in patients with ESKD. Eligible patients were recruited from 30 sites across China and assigned to receive either PD or HD in a ratio of 1:1. The primary outcome was all‐cause mortality. Non‐inferiority was defined as the upper bound of the one‐sided 95% confidence interval (CI) for the hazard ratio (HR) being ≤1.25.

Results

A total of 414 patients with incident ESKD were randomly assigned to PD (n = 213) or HD (n = 201). During a median follow‐up of 1.7 years, 37 patients in the PD group and 31 in the HD group died, giving respective event rates per patient‐year of 0.061 and 0.071. The HR for mortality on PD in comparison with HD was 0.76 (95% CI 0.47–1.24) after adjustment for age, sex, and diabetes status, achieving the limit for non‐inferiority. There were more adverse events (p = 0.003), serious adverse events (p = 0.009), and adverse events leading to hospitalization (p = 0.003) in the PD group than in the HD group; however, there was no significant between‐group difference in adverse events leading to death or discontinuation of treatment.

Conclusions

PD was non‐inferior to conventional in‐center HD in terms of survival in patients with ESKD. Our findings underscore the need for shared decision‐making between physicians and patients regarding the selection of dialysis modality.

Trial registration

Registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT01413074).
Data mining accelerated the design strategy of high‐entropy alloys with the largest hardness based on genetic algorithm optimization
Authors: Jin Xianzhe , Luo Hong , Wang Xuefei , Cheng Hongxu , Fan Chunhui , Li Xiaogang , Yan Xiongbo
Published: June 2024

This article proposed a design strategy that integrated machine learning models based on random forest and genetic algorithm (GA) for the rapid screening of hardness in the AlCoCrCuFeMoNiTi high‐entropy alloys system. Through feature engineering and modeling, valence electron concentration, atomic size difference (δr), Pauling electronegativity difference (Δχ), geometric parameters (Λ), and the Cr content were identified as the five key features in the database. The GA was employed to search for alloys with superior hardness and guided synthesis. After three iterations, the HEA Al18Co21Cr23Fe23Mo15 exhibiting the highest predicted hardness (868.8 HV) was identified. The alloy was predominantly composed of BCC, ordered B2, and σ phases, with an experimental hardness of 899.8 ± 9.9 HV, which as approximately 5.38% greater than the maximum hardness observed in the original dataset. The design strategy can also solve other regression problems and pave the way for optimizing material performance in various engineering applications.
A broadband single‐layer reflectarray antenna with split ring element
Authors: Li Sen , Cai Yang , Ma Hong , Cao Yufan , Bu Lijun , Zhang Xiwei , Wu Tao
Published: June 2024

A broadband single‐layer reflectarray comprising three‐layer concentric split ring elements is proposed. The reflection phase is achieved by changing the flare angle of the inner and outer split rings. The resonance of the element is easily controlled by varying the relative relationships between the homomorphic patches. And the length of the split ring changes in the azimuth direction, which improves the utilization rate of unit space. The middle split ring acts as a parasitic structure with constant size, making the surface current distribution of the element more uniform to improve the element bandwidth. A reflectarray containing 256 elements is designed and tested. The measured results indicate that the peak gain is 25.3 dBi corresponding to the aperture efficiency of 42%. And the 1‐dB gain bandwidth of the reflectarray of 21.7% is achieved.
Effect of reduced graphene oxide on vulcanization of polydimethylsiloxane composites
Authors: Khakbaz Fatemeh , Razzaghi‐Kashani Mehdi
Published: June 2024

This research aims to investigate the effect of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) on the kinetics of addition vulcanization in polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) elastomers. For this purpose, the synthesis of graphene oxide (GO) and silane‐grafted GO followed by chemical reduction of particles was conducted to prepare rGOs with different surface chemistry. Particles were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, x‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and energy‐dispersive x‐ray analysis. Composites of PDMS containing these particles were prepared by solution mixing, and vulcanization of composites was investigated using differential scanning calorimetry. Results showed that the rate and degree of vulcanization reaction increase up to a critical concentration of particles and then decrease afterward. This behavior was attributed to the catalytic effect of chemical groups on the surface of rGOs, whereas the reverse behavior above the critical concentration was correlated to the immobilization of trapped rubber in the network of particles. Grafting graphene oxide by a long alkyl‐chain silane covered these chemical groups, suppressed the catalytic effect, improved the dispersion of particles, and shifted the critical concentration lower. The critical concentration was correlated to the electrical percolation threshold of particles and confirmed by the solvent swelling method. It was also shown that rGO can itself act as the catalyst for the vulcanization of PDMS with no need for platinum. As the dynamic‐mechanical‐thermal analysis showed, the PDMS composites containing 0.75 wt% of particles did not vulcanize properly. However, composites containing fewer particles were vulcanized.

Highlights

Reduced graphene oxide affects additional vulcanization of PDMS.

Below a critical loading, rGO accelerates vulcanization by a catalytic effect.

Above critical loading, rGO decelerates vulcanization by a networking effect.

Surface groups of rGO control catalytic and networking mechanisms.

Silane modification of rGO affects interfacial behavior, thus critical loading.
Tuning of Ultrasmall Gold Nanoparticles Surface Properties Affect Their Biological Fate
Authors: Ferreira Avelino , Fernandez Alarcon Jennifer , Guffanti Federica , Morelli Annalisa , Russo Luca , Violatto Martina B. , Cognet Valentin , Barrientos Africa , Soliman Mahmoud G. , Dobricic Marko , Moya Sergio E. , Bigini Paolo , Monopoli Marco P.
Published: June 2024

Ultrasmall nanoparticles of 10 nm or less in size have been shown to have great potential in the biomedical field due to their high surface area and strong tissue penetration. Their easy functionalization and unique behavior at the nanoscale, such as the reduced corona formation and lower liver retention allow them to be a potential tool for precision targeting. In this study, PEGylated ultrasmall gold nanoparticles (GNPs) with a 4 nm core size are developed. They are functionalized with the cyclic RGD (cRGD) targeting peptide, which provides high binding affinity toward αVβ3 integrin receptor, often overexpressed in solid tumors. Further evidence is presented that cRGD functionalized GNPs partially escape lysosomes while penetrating deeper into the liver parenchyma. These particles provide a potential future strategy for specific αVβ3 integrin targeting.
Pediatric high‐altitude pulmonary edema and acute mountain sickness: Clinical features and risk determinants
Authors: Mi Yu‐Mei , Hu Wei‐Lin , Chao Hua‐Mao , Hua Chun‐Zhen , Chen Zhi‐Min
Published: June 2024

Objective

This investigation aimed to delineate the clinical manifestations associated with high‐altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) and acute mountain sickness (AMS) in pediatric populations and find the risk factors of HAPE.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of clinical data from children under 18 years diagnosed with HAPE and AMS at an average altitude of 3000 m. The clinical data between these two groups were compared.

Results

The study encompassed 74 pediatric patients, 27 with AMS and 47 with HAPE. HAPE presentations included classic HAPE (55.3%), reentry HAPE (27.7%), and high‐altitude resident pulmonary edema (HARPE, 17.0%). Notably, 87.2% of HAPE cases were male, and 68.1% had a high body mass index (BMI). HARPE instances followed viral infections, prominently SARS‐CoV‐2. HAPE cases exhibited higher BMI, respiratory tract infections within 1 week preceding symptom onset, an increase in white blood cell counts (WBCs), lower peripheral arterial oxygen saturation (SpO2), and higher heart rate compared to the AMS group. Multivariate logistic regression pinpointed high BMI as an independent HAPE risk factor (odds ratio = 19.389, 95% confidence interval: 1.069–351.759, p = .045).

Conclusion

HAPE occurs predominantly in males, with high BMI identified as a critical independent risk factor. The study underscores the need for heightened awareness and preventive strategies against HAPE in children at high altitudes.
Low RESET Current Mushroom‐Cell Phase‐Change Memory Using Fiber‐Textured Homostructure GeSbTe on Highly Oriented Seed Layer
Authors: Cohen Guy M. , Majumdar Amlan , Cheng Cheng‐Wei , Ray Asit , Piatek Daniel , Gignac Lynne , Lavoie Christian , Grun Alexander , Cheng Huai‐Yu , Liu Zhi‐Lun , Lung Hsiang‐Lan , Miyazoe Hiroyuki , Bruce Robert L. , BrightSky Matthew
Published: June 2024

Herein, a low RESET current 1T1R mushroom‐cell phase‐change memory (PCM) device that uses fiber‐textured homostructure GeSbTe (GST) grown on highly oriented TiTe2 seed layer is reported. The homostructure device outperformed the industry standard device, that uses doped polycrystalline GST, on most figures of merit. The homostructure devices are also benchmarked against superlattice (SL) PCM devices with 10 periods of 5/5 nm GST/Sb2Te3 grown on the TiTe2 seed layer, and are found to have same low RESET current. It is also observed by transmission electron microscopy that the alternating layers of GST/Sb2Te3 and TiTe2/Sb2Te3 in SL devices are intermixed in the switched region after the devices are cycled with RESET/SET pulses. Additionally, when the SL device is left in the SET state, the intermixed switched region crystallinity is textured and exhibits van der Waals gaps. The SL PCM devices require a precise layered structure that is hard to yield on a full wafer scale. In contrast, fiber‐textured homostructure PCM cells reported here are easily manufacturable, while providing similarly low RESET current and low‐resistance drift, which makes this device suitable for analog artificial intelligence computation.
Multiple tasks control of nonlinear systems under signal temporal logic and its application to mobile robots
Authors: Wu Feifan , Long Lijun
Published: June 2024

This paper addresses the control problem of complex temporal logic tasks for nonlinear systems. A new control barrier function (CBF) called time‐varying extent‐compatible control barrier function (TV‐ECCBF) is proposed, which extends the traditional CBF by considering time‐varying extent or volumes. The main aim of TV‐ECCBF is to tackle the issue of avoiding obstacles in real‐world situations that have irregular or dynamically changing shapes, which cannot be efficiently resolved through traditional CBF methods. To encode complex task specifications, a control framework is presented based on signal temporal logic (STL). Additionally, we introduce robust semantics to discuss the satisfaction of target formulas. Moreover, the control framework generates controllers automatically based on different types of tasks, exhibiting global performance in achieving complex tasks. Finally, two examples of mobile robot systems are presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the TV‐ECCBF and the proposed design framework.
A GSH‐Responsive Prodrug with Simultaneous Triple‐Activation Capacity for Photodynamic/Sonodynamic Combination Therapy with Inhibited Skin Phototoxicity
Authors: Deng Caiting , Zhang Jingjing , Hu Fanchun , Han Shupeng , Zheng Meichen , An Feifei , Wang Fu
Published: June 2024

Herein, a dual‐sensitizer prodrug, named pro‐THPC, has been designed to function as both a photosensitizer and a sonosensitizer prodrug for precise antitumor combination therapy with minimized skin phototoxicity. Pro‐THPC could be activated by glutathione (GSH) to release the dual‐sensitizer, THPC, which simultaneously switches on fluorescence emission and combined capabilities of photodynamic therapy (PDT) and sonodynamic therapy (SDT). Pro‐THPC is further formulated into nanoparticles (NPs) for water dispersity to enable in vivo applications. In vivo fluorescence imaging shows that the pro‐THPC NPs group exhibits a significantly higher tumor‐to‐normal tissue ratio (T/N) (T/N = 5.2 ± 0.55) compared to the “always on” THPC NPs group (T/N = 2.9 ± 0.47) and the pro‐THPC NPs group co‐administrated with GSH synthesis inhibitor (buthionine sulfoximine, BSO) (T/N = 3.2 ± 0.63). In addition, the generation of the designed dual‐sensitizer's reactive oxygen species (ROS) is effectively confined within the tumor tissues due to the relatively strong correlation between ROS generation and fluorescence emission. In vivo studies further demonstrate the remarkable efficacy of the designed pro‐THPC NPs to eradicate tumors through the combination of PDT and SDT while significantly reducing skin phototoxicity.
DL‐Serine Hydrazide Hydrochloride Multiple‐site Synergy Induced Effective and Stable Formamidine‐Rich Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Gong Xiaoli , He Aoxi , Tang Peng , Hao Xia , Wu Lili , Wang Wenwu , Zhang Jingquan
Published: June 2024

The efficiency and stability of solar cells are two key indicators that determine for the commercial feasibility of photovoltaic devices. Formamidine‐cesium perovskite has been extensively investigated since its excellent thermal stability and has great potential in achieving high power conversion efficiency. However, during the aging process, especially under light conditions, formamidine‐rich perovskites are prone to produce iodine, and the escape of iodine is one of the important factors leading to device degradation. Here, DL‐Serine Hydrazide Hydrochloride containing the reducing group is introduced into the precursor solution of formamidine‐cesium perovskite, which achieves multiple‐site passivation. Hydrazine reacts with iodine to reduce it to iodine ions, inhibiting the escape of iodine. In addition, carbonyl groups and uncoordinated lead ions form coordination bonds to reduce defects. In the end, the perovskite solar cell with DL‐Serine Hydrazide Hydrochloride added achieves a champion efficiency of 22.22%, and maintains 85.88% of the initial efficiency after continuous exposure under 1 sun for 7000 s at a relative humidity of ≈40%. Additionally, DL‐Serine Hydrazide Hydrochloride added device shows good stability in air environments with relative humidity of 50%–60%. DL‐Serine Hydrazide Hydrochloride improves the stability of formamidine‐rich perovskite solar cells and provides a low‐cost strategy for commercial development.
Electrostatic Repulsion Facilitated Ion Transport in Covalent−Organic Framework Membranes
Authors: Lyu Bohui , Jiang Jianwen , Jiang Zhongyi
Published: June 2024

Covalent−organic framework (COF) membranes are increasingly used for many potential applications including ion separation, fuel cells, and ion batteries. It is of central importance to fundamentally and quantitatively understand ion transport in COF membranes. In this study, a series of COF membranes is designed with different densities and arrangements of functional groups and subsequently utilize molecular simulation to provide microscopic insights into ion transport in these membranes. The membrane with a single‐sided layer exhibits the highest chloride ion (Cl−) conductivity of 77.2 mS cm−1 at 30 °C. Replacing the single‐sided layer with a double‐sided layer or changing layer arrangement leads to a decrease in Cl− conductivity up to 33% or 53%, respectively. It is revealed that the electrostatic repulsion between ions serves as a driving force to facilitate ion transport and the positions of functional groups determine the direction of electrostatic repulsion. Furthermore, the ordered pores generate concentrated ions and allow rapid ion transport. This study offers bottom‐up inspiration on the design of new COF membranes with moderate density and proper arrangement of functional groups to achieve high ion conductivity.
Dynamics of circular business development: The case of social clothing recycle
Authors: Costanza Francesca
Published: June 2024

Nowadays, scholars and policymakers see circular economy (CE) as a relevant paradigm to pursue sustainability. Despite the mushrooming literature on CE, management studies lack in describing CE implementation features at a firm level and the driving forces for circular conversion. This paper thus seeks to investigate the key dynamics occurring in native circular firms to support hypotheses generation on the development and diffusion of circular business models. For this purpose, two representative case studies in the social clothing sector have been performed with a qualitative and participative approach, making use of system dynamics (SD) tools. Cases' narrative and embedded SD causal structures depict the organization's business, environmental, social and educational features. The model illustrates self‐reinforcing dynamics of circular consumptions and sales, organizational capacity building and consumer conversion to circularity. Composite learning mechanisms and educational initiatives catalyse the commercial business and disclose a role for circular companies in the affirmation of CE as an alternative paradigm to the linear economy. Furthermore, case‐based inductive understanding is discussed through a typological matrix that contains a classification of CE businesses. Overall, the paper attempts to contribute to the management field by describing the development dynamics of CE business models. The case studies, faced with an SD approach, provide insights on implementation mechanisms of CE at a company level and are the basis of new hypotheses generation on circular development and conversion.
Variable selection for semivarying coefficient models via local averaging
Authors: Qi Xinyi , Liu Mengjie , Xie Chuanlong , Peng Heng
Published: June 2024

This study aims to provide novel insights into variable selection in the semivarying coefficient model. We focus on the problem of variable selection and screening for the constant coefficient part. A common approach in the existing literature is to infer the constant coefficients by transforming the problem into a linear model scenario, utilizing a fine estimator of the varying coefficients. In this paper, we propose an approximation method for the varying coefficient functions using local averaging, which is characterized by its simplicity, rough and computational efficiency. Additionally, we introduce an adaptive lasso estimator and a forward regression algorithm specifically designed for semivarying coefficient models. Theoretical and experimental results highlight the effectiveness of the local averaging method in extending variable selection techniques from the linear model to the semivarying coefficient model. Our proposed approaches demonstrate a significant improvement in inference speed compared with baseline methods, with little loss of asymptotic efficiency.
Combatting microbial biofouling network associated with Chembarambakkam Lake water using Acalypha indica derived metabolites
Authors: L Francis A. , Namasivayam S. Karthick Raja
Published: June 2024

This study assessed the anti‐biofouling potential of Acalypha indica ethanolic extract against biofouling communities associated with Chembarambakkam Lake water under in vitro conditions. Water samples from the lake were collected at various seasons, and changes in various physicochemical parameters and microbial status were evaluated. Most significantly, the efficacy of the microflora associated with water‐forming biofouling or biofilm network on its susceptibility to the ethanolic extract of A. indica was investigated. Distinct changes were recorded in all the tested physico‐chemical and microbiological statuses in all the seasons. The efficacy of biofouling or biofilm network formation was found to be statistically high during the winter season. Biofouling or biofilm formation was susceptible to the ethanolic extract of A. indica. A. indica treatment brought about notable changes in the morphology of the biofouling networks. A. indica bioactive compounds such as 9,10‐dideutero octadecanal and cyclononasiloxane, octadecamethyl known for their antimicrobial and in vitro properties, effectively prevented biofilm and biofouling formation.
Multiscale pore‐network reconstruction of a fine‐textured heterogeneous soil
Authors: Pontedeiro Elizabeth M. , van Genuchten Martinus Th. , Godoy William , Ramirez Mateus G. , Vaz Carlos M. P. , Crestana Silvio , Lima Maira C. O. , Couto Paulo , Su Jian
Published: June 2024

Digital samples offer many opportunities to study subsurface fluid flow and contaminant transport processes. The pore size distribution of especially fine‐textured porous media often covers many orders of magnitude in the length scale, which makes accurate microCT scanning and modeling of the underlying processes difficult. When a single‐resolution image is not capable of capturing all relevant details of a sample, one should scan the sample, or selected parts of it, at different resolutions. Combining multiple resolutions into one single sample for subsequent pore‐scale modeling is generally not possible due to limitations in computer memory and speed, thus making it necessary to create a simpler sample containing relevant information from the parent networks. We imaged four samples using different resolutions to capture the multiscale heterogeneity of a fine‐textured soil and combined them into one overall digital sample based on the original pore networks. The parent networks were characterized using their geometrical properties, correlations between these properties, and connectivity functions describing the network topologies. Our approach creates stochastic networks of arbitrary size with the same flow properties as the parent network. The method, implemented using the PoreStudio pore network model, repeatedly integrates information at two subsequent scales, with the resulting digital sample having the same hydraulic properties as the original samples. The procedure leads to more useful three‐dimensional digital models, facilitating basic analyses of underlying pore size distributions. Porosity calculations were compared with direct measurements, while those for the hydraulic conductivity were compared with estimates based on the particle size distribution and nearby field data.
Acceptability and prospects of integrating sweet potato into dietary habits: Insights from Eritrea
Authors: Kidane Tesfai Tsegai , Sibhatu Kibrom T.
Published: June 2024

Popularity of yellow‐fleshed sweet potato is rising due to its versatility, nutritional richness, and environmental advantages, particularly in countries across sub‐Saharan Africa and the Sahel region. Many countries in the region have made efforts to incorporate vitamin A varieties of sweet potato into their farming systems and diets. However, research on the acceptability of sweet potato dishes in these regions is limited. This study aims to fill this gap by providing empirical evidence on acceptability of sweet potato dishes and the comparative preferences of consumers for different value‐added sweet potato‐based meals using sensory analyses of 13 dishes and 55 panelists in Eritrea. We find a significant acceptance level, with a mean score of 4.21 out of 5. Certain products, such as low‐added sugar biscuits (mean score of 4.70 out of 5), low‐added sugar jams (4.56 out of 5), bread (4.59 out of 5), chips (4.56 out of 5), and stew (4.38 out of 5), have emerged as favorites, offering opportunities for agribusiness and household adoption. These findings suggest promising potential for integrating sweet potatoes into diets across these regions. However, the current lack of demand is might be due to inadequate investment in promotions, until a critical mass of adopters is reached.