bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Isolation and identification of active components from Grifola frondosa and its anti‐EV71 virus effect
Authors: Xiong Wenyu , Jiang Xiaoqin , He Junqiang , Zhong Yue , Ge Xiaodong , Liu Bin , Zeng Feng
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

It is reported that anti‐enterovirus 71 (EV71) drugs have some side effects on human health. Notably, fungi plays a crucial role in promoting human health and anti‐virus. Grifola frondosa is a type of large medicinal and edible fungi, rich in active substances. The present study aimed to investigate the anti‐EV71 effect of G. frondosa and the potential active substances.

RESULTS

In the present study, the water extract of G. frondosa was subjected to ethanol precipitation to obtain the water‐extracted supernatant of G. frondosa (GFWS) and water‐extracted precipitation of G. frondosa. Their inhibitory effects on EV71 virus were studied based on a cell model. The results showed that GFWS had stronger security and anti‐EV71 effects. In addition, the chemical constituents of GFWS were identified by ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry, which were selected for further separation and purification. Three compounds, N‐butylaniline, succinic acid and l‐tryptophan, were isolated from GFWS by NMR spectroscopy. It is noteworthy that N‐butylaniline and l‐tryptophan were isolated and identified from the G. frondosa fruiting bodies for the first time. Our study found that l‐tryptophan has anti‐EV71 virus activity, which reduced EV71‐induced apoptosis and significantly inhibited the replication process after virus adsorption. Furthermore, it could also bind to capsid protein VP1 to prevent the virus from attaching to the cells.

CONCLUSION

l‐tryptophan was an inhibitor of the EV71 virus, which could be used in infant nutrition and possibly provide a new drug to treat hand, foot and mouth disease. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Quorum sensing effect of chiral d‐glutamine on the modulation of the intestinal microbiota of mice by Lactiplantibacillus plantarum A3
Authors: Zhang Ao , Yu Yixing , Ji Youwei , Tong Xin , Tu Xubin , Liang Yu , Lian Liwei , Pan Daodong , Wu Zhen
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Amino acids (AAs) are the building blocks of proteins, but they also serve as biological compounds in biochemical processes, and d‐AA isomers are increasingly being recognized as important signaling molecules. As the main organic substrate used by cells in the intestinal tract, the role of the chiral specificity of glutamine is still largely ignored.

RESULTS

In a previous study, we found that d‐glutamine affected the quorum sensing of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum A3, promoted the release of signaling molecule AI‐2 and up‐regulated the expression of the LuxS gene. The results showed that when d‐glutamine and L. plantarum A3 were simultaneously applied to a mouse model, the diversity and abundance of intestinal flora in both male and female mice were increased. Interestingly, the simultaneous effect of d‐glutamine and L. plantarum A3 on the bacterial diversity and abundance of male mice was significantly higher than that of female mice. In addition, the combination of d‐glutamine and L. plantarum A3 can improve the host microecology by enhancing the population of Firmicutes such as Lactobacillus and Lachnospiraceae, reducing the population of Fusobacterium and Bacteroides and affecting metabolic pathways such as AA metabolism and transporter transport.

CONCLUSION

d‐Glutamine, as a signaling molecule, can better stimulate the endogenous d‐glutamine synthesis in mice and be utilized by L. plantarum A3. Furthermore, sex differences in the changes of intestinal microflora are also found in this research. This research sheds some light on the adoption of d‐AAs combined with lactic acid bacteria in intestinal tract health treatment. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Postoperative infectious complications worsen oncologic outcomes following pancreaticoduodenectomy for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Khachfe Hussein H. , Hammad Abdulrahman Y. , AlMasri Samer , Nassour Ibrahim , ElAsmar Rudy , Liu Hao , de Silva Annissa , Kraftician Jasmine , Lee Kenneth K. , Zureikat Amer H. , Paniccia Alessandro
Published: February 2024

Background

Pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) remains the only curative option for patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Infectious complications (IC) can negatively impact patient outcomes and delay adjuvant therapy in most patients. This study aims to determine IC effect on overall survival (OS) following PD for PDAC.

Study Design

Patients who underwent PD for PDAC between 2010 and 2020 were identified from a single institutional database. Patients were categorized into two groups based on whether they experienced IC or not. The relationship between postoperative IC and OS was investigated using Kaplan−Meier and Cox‐regression multivariate analysis.

Results

Among 655 patients who underwent PD for PDAC, 197 (30%) experienced a postoperative IC. Superficial wound infection was the most common type of infectious complication (n = 125, 63.4%). Patients with IC had significantly more minor complications (Clavien‐Dindo [CD] < 3; [59.4% vs. 40.2%, p < 0.001]), major complications (CD ≥ 3; [37.6% vs. 18.8%, p < 0.001]), prolonged LOS (47.2% vs 20.3%, p < 0.001), biochemical leak (6.1% vs. 2.8%, p = 0.046), postoperative bleeding (4.1% vs. 1.3%, p = 0.026) and reoperation (9.6% vs. 2.2%, p < 0.001). Time to adjuvant chemotherapy was delayed in patients with IC versus those without (10 vs. 8 weeks, p < 0.001). Median OS for patients who experienced no complication, noninfectious complication, and infectious complication was 33.3 months, 29.06 months, and 27.58 months respectively (p = 0.023). On multivariate analysis, postoperative IC were an independent predictor of worse OS (HR 1.32, p = 0.049).

Conclusions

IC following PD for PDAC independently predict worse oncologic outcomes. Thus, efforts to prevent and manage IC should be a priority in the care of patients undergoing PD for PDAC.
Keloid treatment assessment measures: A literature review
Authors: Gutierrez Alejandra , Carmichael Anna , Feldman Steven R. , Chandy Rithi John
Published: February 2024

Keloids are an exaggerated response to cutaneous trauma that has both a physical and psychological burden for patients. Keloids have high recurrence rates and are monitored years after treatment. There is currently no widely accepted assessment measure specifically for keloids. The purpose of this review was to compare available assessment measures for keloids. Eleven assessment measures were assessed based on validity, reliability, limitations, parameters, technological influence and feasibility. Only two assessment measures (Detroit Keloid Scale and the Keloid Area and Severity Index) were specific for keloids, easy to use, had no cost and were suitable for longitudinal use. These measures, in conjunction with quality of life measures such as the Dermatology Life Quality Index, could be used to provide a detailed and longitudinal assessment of keloid treatment.
Behavioral response of polar bears to aircraft activity on the northern coast of Alaska
Authors: Quigley Gwendolyn , Brinkman Todd J. , Wilson Ryan , Christ Aaron
Published: February 2024

The rapid loss of arctic sea ice is forcing a larger proportion of the Southern Beaufort Sea polar bear (Ursus maritimus) population to spend more time on land, increasing chances of negative interactions between people and bears. In the United States, the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) protects polar bears from incidental disturbance from human activities. For the remote and roadless areas of northern Alaska, USA, effective management of small aircraft activity is necessary to limit disturbance, but effects of overflights on polar bear behavior are largely unknown. During 2021 and 2022, we intentionally exposed polar bears (n = 115) to systematic aircraft activity (helicopter, fixed‐wing) until we observed a disruption of behavior that qualified as a level B take response (e.g., abrupt change in activity or movement) under the MMPA. We used a Bayesian logistic regression to determine what factors influence and can be used to predict when a polar bear will exhibit a level B take response and estimate the probability of an aircraft eliciting a level B take response at different altitudes above the polar bear. Aircraft type, flight altitude, landscape (barrier islands vs. mainland), and bear behavior (active vs. inactive) upon initial aircraft encounter were all important predictors of take. Probability of take rapidly increased with a decrease in flight altitude starting at 450 m for helicopter and 300 m for fixed‐wing aircraft. Active (e.g., standing, walking) polar bears on barrier‐island landscapes were more likely to experience take than inactive (e.g., bedded) bears on mainland landscapes. Our findings can help with assessments and management plans by quantifying disturbance to polar bears from current and future human activity that involves aircraft use.
Particulated juvenile cartilage allograft for the treatment of osteochondral lesions of the talus is associated with a high complication rate and a high failure rate at short‐term follow‐up: A systematic review
Authors: Butler James J. , Rizla Muhammad Raziq Mohammed , Egol Alexander J. , Campbell Hilary , Schoof Lauren , Dahmen Jari , Azam Mohammad T. , Kerkhoffs Gino M. M. J. , Kennedy John G.
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this systematic review was to evaluate the clinical and radiological outcomes together with the complication rates and failure rates at short‐term follow‐up following particulated juvenile cartilage allograft (PJCA) for the management of osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLT).

Methods

During October 2023, the PubMed, Embase and Cochrane library databases were systematically reviewed to identify clinical studies examining outcomes following PJCA for the management of OLTs. Data regarding study characteristics, patient demographics, lesion characteristics, subjective clinical outcomes, radiological outcomes, complications and failures were extracted and analysed.

Results

Twelve studies were included. In total, 241 patients underwent PJCA for the treatment of OLT at a weighted mean follow‐up of 29.0 ± 24.9 months. The weighted mean lesion size was 138.3 ± 59.6 mm2. Prior surgical intervention was recorded in seven studies, the most common of which was microfracture (65.9%). The weighted mean American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society score improved from a preoperative score of 58.5 ± 3.2 to a postoperative score of 83.9 ± 5.3. The weighted mean postoperative magnetic resonance observation of cartilage repair tissue (MOCART) score was 48.2 ± 3.3. The complication rate was 25.2%, the most common of which was allograft hypertrophy (13.2%). Thirty failures (12.4%) were observed at a weighted mean time of 9.8 ± 9.6 months following the index procedure.

Conclusion

This systematic review demonstrated a moderate improvement in subjective clinical outcomes following PJCA for the treatment of OLT at short term follow‐up. However, postoperative MOCART scores were reported as poor. In addition, a high complication rate (25.2%) and a high failure rate (12.4%) at short‐term follow‐up was observed, calling into question the efficacy of PJCA for the treatment of large OLTs. In light of the available evidence, PJCA for the treatment of large OLTs cannot be currently recommended.

Level of Evidence

Level IV.
Alteration of serum bile acids in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Lee Ikjae , Nandakumar Renu , Haeusler Rebecca A.
Published: February 2024

Hydrophilic endogenous bile acids ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), tauroursodeoxycholic acid (TUDCA), and glucourosodeoxycholic acid (GUDCA) have suggested neuroprotective effects. We performed a case–control study to examine the association between ALS diagnosis and serum levels of bile acids. Sporadic and familial ALS patients, age‐ and sex‐matched healthy controls, and presymptomatic gene carriers who donated blood samples were included. Non‐fasted serum samples stored at −80°C were used for the analysis. Serum bile acid levels were measured by liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry (LC–MS). Concentrations of 15 bile acids were obtained, 5 non‐conjugated and 10 conjugated, and compared between ALS versus control groups (presymptomatic gene carriers + healthy controls) using the Wilcoxon‐Rank‐Sum test. In total, 80 participants were included: 31 ALS (17 sporadic and 14 familial ALS); 49 controls (22 gene carriers, 27 healthy controls). The mean age was 50 years old and 50% were male. In the ALS group, 45% had familial disease with a pathogenic variant in C9orf72 (29%), TARDBP (10%), FUS (3%), and CHCHD10 (3%) genes. In the control group, 43% carried pathogenic variants: C9orf72 (27%), SOD1 (10%), and FUS (6%). The serum levels of UDCA, TUDCA, and GUDCA trended higher in the ALS group compared to controls (median 27 vs. 7 nM, 4 vs. 3 nM, 110 vs. 47 nM, p‐values 0.04, 0.06, 0.04, respectively). No significant group differences were found in other bile acids serum levels. In conclusion, the serum level of UDCA, TUDCA, GUDCA trended higher in ALS patients compared to controls, and no evidence of deficiencies was found.
Soft Mesocrystal Enabled Multi‐Degree Light Modulation
Authors: Chen Quanming , Wang Xinyue , Xu Chunting , Chu Hongchen , Yu Hongguan , Ouyang Cheng , Lai Yun , Zheng Zhigang , Liang Xiao , Lu Yanqing , Hu Wei
Published: February 2024

Mesocrystals introduce high‐level orders, such as chirality, topology, and hierarchy to the crystallography, and thus bring collective and emergent properties beyond traditional crystals. Orthogonally modulating the multiple degrees of light is highly pursued to fully explore the intrinsic multidimensional and large‐scale parallel processing capability of photon informatics. Unfortunately, it is unachievable with traditional light–matter interaction systems. Here, the multi‐degree light modulation is realized based on the hierarchical architecture of a soft mesocrystal. High‐quality monodomains of both blue phase I and blue phase II are formed via regulating the assembly of liquid crystals by photoalignment anchoring and electricity. The mapping relationship between optical freedoms (the spin, wavelength, and geometric phase of light) and hierarchical structures (the chirality of helix, lattice constant, and the azimuthal orientation of cubic lattices) is established. Omnidirectional spatial phase modulation with spin and full color selectivity is demonstrated. Based on the multi‐degree light modulation, 3D and wavelength‐selective orbital angular momentum generation as well as multichannel color holographic display are presented. This work extends the fundamental understanding of blue phase mesocrystals and provides a promising strategy for large‐scale parallel and multi‐degree light modulation that may be utilized in vital fields, such as supercomputing, optical communications, and virtual/augmented realities.
Avastin‐Loaded 3D‐Printed Alginate Scaffold as an Effective Antiadhesive Barrier to Prevent Postsurgical Adhesion Bands Formation
Authors: Vakilian Saeid , Al‐Hashmi Sulaiman , Al‐kindi Juhaina , Al‐Fahdi Fahad , Al‐Wahaibi Nasar , Shalaby Asem , Al‐Riyami Hamad , Al‐Harrasi Ahmed , Jamshidi‐adegani Fatemeh
Published: February 2024

Postoperative adhesion can cause complications, such as pain and organ blockage, in the abdominal regions. To address this issue, surgical techniques and antiadhesive treatments are applied. Given the significant role of vascularization in adhesion band formation, Avastin (Ava) that targets vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) can be applied to prevent peritoneal adhesion bands. Moreover, Alginate (Alg), a natural polysaccharide, is a promising physical barrier to prevent adhesion bands. Incorporating Ava into Alg hydrogel in a form of 3D‐printed scaffold (Alg/Ava) has potential to suppress inflammation and angiogenesis, leading to reduce peritoneal adhesion bands. Following physical, morphological, and biocompatibility evaluations, the efficacy of Alg and Ava alone and their combination in Alg/Ava on the formation of postsurgical adhesions is evaluated. Upon confirming physical stability and sustained release of Ava, the Alg/Ava scaffold effectively diminishes both the extent and strength of adhesion bands. Histopathological examination shows that the reduction in fibrosis and inflammation is responsible for preventing adhesion bands by the Alg/Ava scaffold. Additionally, the cytokine assessment reveals that this is due to the inhibition in the secretion of VEGF and Interleukin 6 suppressing vascularization and inflammatory pathways. This study suggests that a 3D‐printed Alg/Ava scaffold has great potential to prevent the postsurgical adhesion bands.
The semiotics of emojis in advertising: An integrated quantitative and qualitative examination of emotional versus functional ad dynamics
Authors: Madadi Rozbeh , Torres Ivonne M. , Zúñiga Miguel Ángel
Published: February 2024

In today's marketplace, consumers encounter a multitude of advertisements incorporating emojis. This research undertook two complementary studies to assess how individuals appraise emotional versus functional advertisements containing emojis, examining outcomes like processing fluency, claim believability, attitude toward the ad, and purchase intention. Study 1 employed a factorial design, resulting in four experimental conditions: emotional ads without emojis, functional ads without emojis, emotional ads with emojis, and functional ads with emojis. Study 2 delved deeper, offering a qualitative exploration of consumer perceptions and sentiments concerning emojis in advertising contexts. Grounded in the Emotion as social information theory, results indicated that within the sports drink advertising domain, emotional advertising without emojis led to enhanced ad and brand attitudes, purchase intentions, claim believability, and information processing when contrasted with conditions incorporating emojis.
On the Swelling of Polymer Network Strands
Authors: Lang Michael , Scholz Reinhard
Published: February 2024

Large scale computer simulations are employed to analyze the conformations of network strands in polymer networks at preparation conditions (characterized by a polymer volume fraction of ϕ0) and when swollen to equilibrium (characterized by a polymer volume fraction ϕ < ϕ0). Network strands in end‐linked model networks are weakly stretched and partially swollen at preparation conditions as compared to linear polymers in the same solvent at ϕ0. Equilibrium swelling causes non‐ideal chain conformations characterized by an effective scaling exponent approaching 7/10 on intermediate length scales for increasing overlap of the chains. The chain size in a network consists of a fluctuating and a time average “elastic” contribution. The elastic contribution swells essentially affinely ∝(ϕ0/ϕ)2/3, whereas the swelling of the fluctuating part lies between the expected swelling of the entanglement constraints and the swelling of non‐cross‐linked chains in a comparable semi‐dilute solution. The total swelling of chain size results from the changes of both fluctuating and non‐fluctuating contributions.
Association between Subjective Cognitive Complaints and Incident Functional Impairment in Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Weintraub Daniel , Marras Connie , Amara Amy , Anderson Karen E. , Chahine Lana M. , Eberly Shirley , Hosamath Abhishek , Kinel Daniel , Mantri Sneha , Mathur Soania , Oakes David , Purks Jennifer L. , Standaert David G. , Shoulson Ira , Arbatti Lakshmi
Published: February 2024

Background

Early identification of subjective cognitive complaints (SCC) in Parkinson's disease (PD) may improve patient care if it predicts cognition‐related functional impairment (CFI).

Objectives

The aim was to determine the cross‐sectional and longitudinal association between SCC and CFI in PD.

Methods

Data were obtained from Fox Insight, an online longitudinal study that collects PD patient‐reported outcomes. Participants completed a PD Patient Report of Problems that asked participants for their five most bothersome disease problems. SCCs were placed into eight categories through human‐in‐the‐loop curation and classification. CFI had a Penn Parkinson's Daily Activities Questionnaire (PDAQ‐15) score ≤49. Cox proportional hazards models and Kaplan–Meier survival analyses determined if baseline SCC was associated with incident CFI.

Results

The PD‐PROP cohort (N = 21,160) was 55.8% male, mean age was 65.9 years, and PD duration was 4.8 years. At baseline, 31.9% (N = 6750) of participants reported one or more SCCs among their five most bothersome problems, including memory (13.2%), language/word finding (12.5%), and concentration/attention (9.6%). CFI occurred in 34.7% (N = 7332) of participants. At baseline, SCC was associated with CFI (P‐value <0.001). SCC at baseline was associated with incident CFI (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.58 [95% confidence interval: 1.45, 1.72], P‐value <0.001), as did cognitive impairment not otherwise specified (HR = 2.31), executive abilities (HR = 1.97), memory (HR = 1.85), and cognitive slowing (HR = 1.77) (P‐values <0.001). Kaplan–Meier curves showed that by year 3 an estimated 45% of participants with any SCC at baseline developed new‐onset CFI.

Conclusions

Self‐reported bothersome cognitive complaints are associated with new‐onset CFI in PD. Remote electronic assessment can facilitate widespread use of patient self‐report at population scale. © 2024 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
A novel heterozygous mutation in PTHLH causing autosomal dominant brachydactyly type E complicated with short stature
Authors: Sun Jian , Yang Nian , Xu Zhengquan , Cheng Hongbo , Zhang Xiangxin
Published: February 2024

Background

Brachydactyly type E (BDE) is a general term characterized by variable shortening of metacarpals and metatarsals, with phalanges affected frequently. It can occur as an isolated form or part of syndromes and manifest a high degree of phenotypic variability. In this study, we have identified the clinical characteristics and pathogenic causes of a four‐generation pedigree with 10 members affected by BDE and short stature.

Methods

After the informed consent was signed, clinical data and peripheral blood samples were collected from available family members. Karyotype analysis, array‐CGH, next‐generation sequencing, and Sanger sequencing were employed to identity the pathogenic candidate gene.

Results

No translocation or microdeletion/duplication was found in karyotype analysis and array‐CGH; hence, a novel heterozygous mutation, c.146dupA. p.S50Vfs*22, was detected by next‐generation sequencing in PTHLH gene, leading to a premature stop codon. Subsequently, the mutation was confirmed by Sanger sequencing and co‐segregation analysis.

Conclusion

In this study, we described a novel heterozygous mutation (c.146dupA. p.S50Vfs*22) of gene PTHLH in a Chinese family. The mutation could induce a premature stop codon leading to a truncation of the protein. Our study broadened the mutation spectrum of PTHLH in BDE.
Final value problem governed by a class of time‐space fractional pseudo‐parabolic equations with weak nonlinearities
Authors: Dinh Ke Tran , Bao Ngoc Tran , Huy Tuan Nguyen
Published: February 2024

We study the final value problem involving a class of semilinear fractional pseudo‐parabolic equations, where the nonlinearity probably takes values in fractional Sobolev spaces. By establishing some estimates for resolvent operators and employing the embedding related to Hilbert scales and fractional Sobolev spaces, we are able to obtain the existence and uniqueness result to the mentioned problem. In addition, the behavior of solutions at initial time is analyzed with respect to the final data. It will be shown that various cases of the nonlinearity functions meet our setting, including functions with gradient term.
High common‐mode rejection balanced bandpass filter using novel coupling scheme and source‐loaded coupling technique
Authors: Cao Sainan , Liu Wang , Guan Xuehui , Ren Baoping , Xu Shaohong
Published: February 2024

A balanced bandpass filter (BPF) with a novel coupling scheme and source‐loaded coupling (SLC) technique is proposed. The J‐inverter is directly connected to the source or load, and the single‐band cell (SBC) is fed by the J‐inverter. Meanwhile, the J‐inverter is also coupled to a resonator. Equivalent differential‐mode (DM) and common‐mode (CM) circuits are presented, and their ideal frequency responses under DM and CM are also provided. Furthermore, the SBC equals paralleled short‐ and open‐circuited stubs in DM and equals two paralleled open stubs in CM. To validate the design concept, a four‐pole balanced BPF working at 2.66 GHz with fractional bandwidth (FBW) of 13.8% is designed and fabricated. Three transmission zeros (TZs) are generated, and the upper stopband suppression level reaches 34 dB. Meanwhile, a high CM rejection level attains 54 dB within the DM passband.
A low‐profile wideband microstrip patch antenna using double half‐mode resonances
Authors: Jin Long , Zhang Ruohan , Lin Yangmiao , Zhang Xuyang , Tang Huaiyuan , Li Min
Published: February 2024

This paper presents a miniaturized broadband microstrip patch antenna with a simple geometry. The radiation patch of this antenna comprises two rectangular patches with slightly different sizes, one side of each patch is grounded by metal via‐holes. Two rectangular patches are connected by a microstrip line and fed by a single port. Two rectangular patches produce two closely resonant frequencies achieving broadband performance. This antenna operates on the resonant method of short‐circuiting on one side. Metal via‐holes act as a short‐circuit wall allowing each patch to operate in TM0.5,0 mode. The size of a 1/4 wavelength resonant patch is only half of a conventional microstrip antenna, the overall size of this antenna is almost as same as a conventional rectangular microstrip antenna, making it compact in size. The wideband is achieved by combining two radiating patches, resulting in stable radiation and flat gain. Measurement results show that the antenna has an impedance bandwidth of 4.355.10 GHz (15.8%) using a common dielectric substrate without air layer thickness additionally. The maximum measured realized gain is 4.61 dB. This antenna has advantages of wide bandwidth, low profile, flat gain and ease of manufacturing.
A tunable resonator enabled by a soft impedance surface
Authors: McCulloch Mark A.
Published: February 2024

We present a design for a cylindrical cavity resonator with a resonant frequency ( mode) that can be tuned by increasing the separation between the cavity's main body and a discrete lid. This is made possible by incorporating a soft impedance surface into the lid. Tuning between 5 and 6 GHz is achieved by increasing the lid‐to‐cavity separation from 0 to 1.5 mm. We will also discuss the field distribution within the cavity, and use it to explain how the cavity works, and limitations on the performance.
A dielectric‐loaded broadband single‐ and dual‐polarized slot antenna with low profile and low cross‐polarization
Authors: Zhang Shu‐Qing , Li Hongji , Lin Ye‐Cong , Wong Sai‐Wai
Published: February 2024

A dielectric‐loaded slot antenna with the characteristic of broadband, low profile, and low cross‐polarization is presented. The antenna incorporating a low permittivity () and multiple high permittivity () rectangle dielectric is fed by two rectangle slot, which generates three slot modes and achieves measured 10 dB impedance bandwidth of 88 from 1.57 to 4.04 GHz covering the long term evolution (1.71–2.69 GHz) and sub‐6G (3.3–3.6 GHz). Furthermore, the presented slot antenna with a footprint of 0.81 × 0.56 and a low profile of 0.09 ( is the wavelength in the air region at the center frequency) appears the performance of measured peak gain of 9 dB without using any dielectric resonator mode. On the basis of the single‐polarized design, the dual‐polarized design with a profile of 0.09 is investigated and fabricated. According to the measured results, the dual‐polarized prototype achieves a 10‐dB impedance of 60 from 1.6 to 3 GHz.
Front‐to‐back ratio improvement of a compact base‐station antenna for 5G NR applications
Authors: Li RongLin , Huang Yuanyun , Du Jiaying , Cui Yuehui
Published: February 2024

The front‐to‐back ratio (FBR) of a compact dual‐polarized antenna is improved for 5G new radio (NR) base‐station applications. A rim made of partially reflective surfaces is introduced to improve the FBR. A meta‐surface and a parasitic element are employed to lower the antenna height. The dual‐polarized base‐station antenna with improved FBR features a compact size of , where is the wavelength in free space at the lowest operating frequency. The FBR achieved over the 5G NR n28/n82/n83 bands (0.69–0.96 GHz) for return loss >15 dB is higher than 26 dB. The antenna gain is higher than 7 dBi and the isolation is higher than 30 dB.
Self‐isolated quadruplexing SIW antenna with extremely low frequency ratio for C‐band applications
Authors: V. JayaPrakash , DS Chandu
Published: February 2024

In this letter, an substrate integrated waveguide ‐based self‐quadplexing antenna based on a modified Jerusalem cross‐shaped slot is presented. By introducing different lengths of the slots of Jerusalem cross, the antenna operates at four different closely spaced resonant frequencies 4.08, 4.37, 4.61, and 4.97 GHz. The proposed quadplexer antenna achieved a minimum port isolation of 20 dB between any two ports with an extremely low frequency ratio of 1.2. The quadplexer antenna has unidirectional radiation pattern and independent frequency tunability characteristics with a gain of 6.88, 6.51, 7.03, and 7.12 dBi, at corresponding resonant frequencies and a compact size of 0.142, where 0 is the free space wavelength at the lowest resonant frequency. The proposed antenna is suitable for C‐band multiplexing applications.
Semi‐analytical solution for ultimate bearing capacity of smooth and rough circular foundations on rock considering three‐dimensional strength
Authors: Chen Haohua , Zhu Hehua , Zhang Lianyang
Published: February 2024

This paper proposes a semi‐analytical solution for the ultimate bearing capacity qu of both smooth and rough circular shallow foundations on rock mass. Specifically, a three‐dimensional (3D) Hoek–Brown (HB) is adopted, in conjunction with equilibrium equations under axisymmetric conditions, to derive the governing equations. The method of characteristics is utilized to solve the stress and failure characteristics mesh to determine the qu. The proposed solution is verified by using it to analyze test foundations. Comparison with an HB criterion‐based solution is performed to highlight the importance of 3D strength. Furthermore, parametric studies are performed to investigate the effects of rock mass properties (intact rock constant , geological strength index GSI, intact rock unconfined compressive strength σc) and foundation diameter (B) on the qu, failure surface size, and vertical stress distribution on the foundation base. The results indicate that ignoring the 3D strength and the rock mass weight would lead to underestimation of qu. Besides, the ultimate bearing capacity factor (ratio of qu to σc) increases with , GSI and B but decreases with . The failure surface size is significantly affected by , GSI, B, and rock mass unit weight. The stress distribution on the foundation base has higher variance (higher possibility of stress concentration) at smaller , GSI, and larger B, rock mass unit weight.
Therapeutic efficacy of 180‐W GreenLight laser photoselective vaporization of the prostate for storage symptoms concomitant with benign prostatic obstruction and a search for outcome predictors
Authors: Hsieh Yi‐Chia , Wang Chang‐Te , Kao Yao‐Lin , Cheng Yu‐Sheng , Wu Kuan‐Yu , Ho Yi‐Hui , Chuang Ming‐Syun , Huang Yuan‐Chi , Ou Yin‐Chien
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Benign prostatic obstruction (BPO) is the most common cause of lower urinary tract symptoms among men. GreenLight photoselective vaporization of the prostate (GL‐PVP) using a 180‐W Xcelerated performance system (XPS) laser is a well‐established method for treating BPO‐induced voiding symptoms. However, its therapeutic effects on storage symptoms remain unclear. This study aimed to analyze the storage outcomes in patients who underwent 180‐W XPS GL‐PVP for BPO and to identify outcome predictors.

Materials and Methods

Patients who underwent 180‐W XPS GL‐PVP for BPO between May 2018 and May 2021 were retrospectively reviewed. Data on clinical characteristics, prostate volume, preoperative and postoperative International Prostate Symptom Scores (IPSS), and preoperative urodynamic parameters were collected. A favorable storage outcome was defined as ≥50% reduction in the IPSS storage subscore.

Results

Ninety‐nine male patients were included, with a mean age of 69.4 ± 9.6 years and a baseline prostatic volume of 75.9 ± 33.1 mL. The IPSS total, storage, and voiding subscores significantly decreased after GL‐PVP (all p < 0.001). Seventy‐two patients achieved favorable storage outcome at 6 months. Multivariate analysis revealed that detrusor underactivity was predictive of unfavorable storage outcomes (p = 0.022), while IPSS voiding‐to‐storage subscore ratio >1.25 and the presence of detrusor overactivity were predictive of favorable storage outcomes (p = 0.008 and 0.033, respectively).

Conclusion

180‐W XPS GL‐PVP provided excellent outcomes in both voiding and storage lower urinary tract symptoms concomitant with BPO. Preoperative IPSS and multichannel urodynamic parameters including detrusor overactivity and underactivity are valuable predictors of postoperative storage outcomes.
High prevalence of muscle weakness and probable sarcopenia in patients with inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Ergenc Ilkay , Ismail Basa Chasan , Uzum Alper , Sahin Sevval , Kani Haluk Tarık , Aslan Rahmi , Tufan Aslı , Kasımay Özgür , Atuğ Özlen , Alahdab Yeşim Özen
Published: February 2024

Background

This study aimed to determine the prevalence of probable sarcopenia and sarcopenia in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) by using the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People (EWGSOP2) diagnostic criteria.

Methods

Sarcopenia was assessed by using the sequential four‐step algorithm. (1) Find: Sarcopenia risk by simple clinical symptom index (strength, assistance walking, rise from a chair, climb stairs, and falls [SARC‐F questionnaire]). (2) Assess: Probable sarcopenia by low muscle strength on handgrip. (3) Confirm: Confirmed sarcopenia by low appendicular skeletal muscle mass on bioimpedance analysis. (4) Severity: Severe sarcopenia by low 4‐m gait speed test.

Results

A total of 129 adult patients with IBD younger than 65 years and 50 age‐ and sex‐matched healthy control (HC) participants were included to the study. Handgrip strength, gait speed, and SARC‐F scores were significantly lower in patients with IBD than in the HCs (P = 0.032, <0.0001, and <0.0001, respectively). Based on the EWGSOP2 definition, 17.8% of patients with IBD had probable sarcopenia, and six patients had confirmed sarcopenia. According to the ethnicity‐based population thresholds, 34.9% of patients with IBD had probable sarcopenia, and two patients had confirmed sarcopenia. Corticosteroid use within the past year was identified as an independent risk factor for low muscle strength (P = 0.012; odds ratio, 4.133), along with advanced age and disease activity.

Conclusion

One‐third of the patients younger than 65 years with IBD had probable sarcopenia, defined as low muscle strength, whereas the incidence of confirmed sarcopenia remained relatively low.
On the implementation of a material point‐based arc‐length method
Authors: Gavin Nathan D. , Pretti Giuliano , Coombs William M. , Brigham John C. , Augarde Charles E.
Published: February 2024

The material point method is a versatile technique which can be used to solve various types of solid mechanics problems, especially those involving large deformations. However, the capability of the material point method to track a load‐displacement response can deteriorate once a limit point, such as snap‐through or snap‐back, in the response is encountered. One way of overcoming this is to use path following techniques, such as an arc‐length method. This technique is well established in finite element analysis but not within any material point method formulation. This paper provides for the first time an arc‐length controlled implicit, quasi‐static material point method. The modifications to the standard arc‐length scheme to allow for the stable execution of an arc‐length solver within the material point method are detailed. The capability of the material point‐based arc‐length method is demonstrated through a number of problems, which include linear elastic, non‐linear elastic, linear elastic‐perfectly plastic and linear elastic‐plastic softening material behaviour under large deformations. The techniques presented in this paper are essential for arc‐length techniques to be applied effectively to the material point method and the combination of these techniques makes the method suitable for new problems that cannot be solved with existing implicit material point approaches.
Application of eye‐tracking in nursing research: A scoping review
Authors: Hu Huiling , Li Huijun , Wang Binlin , Zhang Mingming , Wu Bilin , Wu Xue
Published: February 2024

Aims

To map the themes and methods of nursing researches involving eye‐tracking as a measurement, and offer suggestion for future nursing research using eye‐tracking.

Design

We conducted a scoping review following the methodology outlined in the JBI Manual for Evidence Synthesis on scoping reviews.

Methods

Eligibility criteria were established based on Population (involving nursing or nursing students), Concept (utilizing eye‐tracking as a research method), and Context (in any setting). Articles were retrieved from the PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, CINAHL, APA PsycInfo, and Scopus databases, spanning from database inception to November 17, 2023. The included studies were analysed using descriptive statistics and content analysis.

Results

After duplicates were removed, 815 citations were identified from searches of electronic databases and other resources, and 66 met the inclusion criteria finally. Thirty‐eight studies were conducted in a simulated environment. Five application domains were identified, and most of the studies (N = 50) were observational. The domains found in our review did not cover all topics of nursing research in the same depth. Additionally, 39 studies did not solely explicate eye‐tracking data but instead integrated behavioural measures, scales/questionnaires, or other physiological data.

Conclusions

Eye‐tracking emerges as a significant research tool in uncovering visual behaviour, particularly in nursing research focused on nursing education. This study not only summarized the application and interpretation of eye‐tracking data but also recognized its potential in advancing clinical nursing research and practice. To effectively harness the capabilities of eye‐tracking in elucidating cognitive processes, future research should aim for a clearer grasp of the theoretical underpinnings of the addressed research problems and methodological choices. It is crucial to emphasize the standardization of eye‐tracking method reporting and ensuring data quality. No Patient or Public Contribution.
Effect of Sarcopenia on Swallowing in Patients With Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Colback Angela A. , Arkfeld Daniel V. , Evangelista Lisa M. , Paydar Alireza , Raslan Osama , Abouyared Marianne , Cates Daniel J.
Published: February 2024

Objective

Sarcopenia, characterized by decreased skeletal muscle mass, is associated with poorer oncologic outcomes in head and neck cancer (HNC) patients. The effect of sarcopenia on swallowing following HNC treatment is unknown. This study aims to investigate the association of sarcopenia and swallowing dysfunction in patients treated for HNC.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Academic medical center.

Methods

Pretreatment sarcopenia was assessed using the skeletal muscle index calculated from cross‐sectional imaging at the third cervical vertebra. Feeding tube dependence, patient‐reported dysphagia, and swallowing safety were assessed before and after treatment with the Functional Oral Intake Scale, Eating Assessment Tool‐10, and Penetration Aspiration Scale, respectively. The association between sarcopenia and swallowing dysfunction was evaluated.

Results

A total of 112 patients were included, 84 males (75%) and 28 females (25%). A total of 69 (61.6%) had sarcopenia prior to initiating HNC therapy. Sarcopenia was significantly associated with an elevated risk of patient‐reported dysphagia (odds ratio [OR] = 2.71 [95% confidence interval, CI, 1.12‐6.79]; P < .05). Multivariate logistic regression demonstrated that sarcopenia (OR = 15.18 [95% CI, 1.50‐453.53]; P < .05) is an independent predictor for aspiration following treatment for HNC.

Conclusion

Patients with pretreatment sarcopenia had higher rates of dysphagia before treatment and were more likely to develop aspiration after completion of HNC therapy. Sarcopenia is readily measured using cross‐sectional imaging and may be useful for identifying patients at risk of swallowing dysfunction and those most likely to benefit from prehabilitation efforts.
Synthesis of compounds based on the active domain of cabotegravir and their application in inhibiting tumor cells activity
Authors: Yang Ruyue , Yue Wenhui , Hu Dong , Wang Guidan , Mao Longfei , Huang Jiahe , Wang Huili , Liang Gaofeng
Published: February 2024

Structural modification based on existing drugs, which ensures the safety of marketed drugs, is an essential approach in developing new drugs. In this study, we modified the structure of cabotegravir by introducing the front alkyne on the core structure through chemical reaction, resulting in the synthesis of 9 compounds resembling 1,2,3‐triazoles. The potential of these new cabotegravir derivatives as tumor suppressors in gastrointestinal tumors was investigated. Based on the MTT experiment, most compounds showed a reduction in the viability of KYSE30 and HCT116 cells. Notably, derivatives 5b and 5h exhibited the most significant inhibitory effects. To further explore the effects of derivatives 5b and 5h on gastrointestinal tumors, KYSE30 cells were chosen as a representative cell line. Both derivatives can effectively curtail the migration and invasion capabilities of KYSE30 cells and induce apoptosis in a dose‐dependent manner. We further demonstrated these derivatives induce cell apoptosis in KYSE30 cells by inhibiting the expression of Stat3 protein and Smad2/3 protein. Based on the above results, we suggest they show promise in developing drugs for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma.
Research on low‐velocity impact resistance of carbon fiber composite laminates
Authors: Hou Xin , Aymerich Francecso , Feng Dianshi
Published: February 2024

This research conducts a comprehensive experimental and numerical analysis of carbon fiber composite laminates under low‐velocity impact conditions. Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar (SHPB) was employed to conduct impact testing on laminates with two layup sequences ( and ) under impacts ranging from 2 to 6 J. For assessing damage in laminates, a comprehensive progressive damage model and a simplified model were developed. The primary distinction between these models lies in the fact that the former incorporates the strengthening effect of compression on the delamination behavior, while the latter does not. Both models produce a good agreement with experimental results in terms of force–time, force–displacement curves, and absorbed energies. However, notable differences were noted in the predicted internal damage; the simplified model was underpredicted in terms of damage size and distribution compared to the comprehensive progressive damage model.

Highlights

Impact tests were conducted on and composites.

In order to simulate damage caused by impacts in laminates, an energy‐based damage model was created, and cohesive elements were utilized to model interlaminar delamination.

The strengthening effect of compression was explored.

Distinct damage criteria were established for two cases.

Damage detection of composites by x‐rays.
Progress in polyacrylate‐based electrically conductive adhesives: Featured properties, preparation, applications, and perspectives
Authors: Zhang Fan , Tang Nanlin , Jiang Qingsong , Qi Kailiang , Zhu Xiang , Luo Zilin , Kong Xiangyun , Zang Dongmian , Liu Hesheng , Fang Baizeng
Published: February 2024

Polyacrylate‐based electrically conductive adhesives (PA‐based ECAs) have attracted much attention due to their wide applications in precise instruments and consumer electronics. To obtain high‐performance and environmentally friendly PA‐based ECAs, their main properties and corresponding mechanisms to performance, chemical constitutions and structure–function relationships should be well understood, and the applications of recent PA‐based ECAs should be comprehensively summarized. This review focuses on the progress of PA‐based ECAs in the past two decades and discusses the featured properties, preparation of PA, the selection of conductive fillers and the adhibition of the ECAs. The aim of the review is to find the challenges of high‐performance ECAs and offer some measures and foresee their future development.

Highlights

Preparation methods of polyacrylate (PA)‐based composites are presented.

Properties of PA‐based electrically conductive adhesives (ECAs) are outlined.

Selection of conductive fillers and the adhibition of ECAs are discussed.

Representative applications of PA‐based ECAs are exhibited.

Present main challenges and future solutions are highlighted.
Utilizing multicriteria decision‐making approach for material selection in hybrid polymer nanocomposites for energy‐harvesting applications
Authors: Kulkarni Nikhil Dilip , Saha Abir , Kumari Poonam
Published: February 2024

Flexible and cost‐effective poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF)‐based composites having excellent piezo performance are quite interesting for developing actuators, sensors, and nanogenerators. In this work, a hybrid PVDF‐based nanocomposite consisting of a fixed quantity of titanium dioxide (TiO2) and varying quantities of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) for increased mechanical and piezoelectric performance is reported for the first time. Compared to pure PVDF, there is a significant enhancement in mechanical properties for hybrid nanocomposites. The highest piezoelectric voltage as well as current values of 10.2 V and 0.78 μA are recorded for a hybrid nanocomposite containing 1 wt% of rGO for continuous finger‐tapping operation. A multicriteria decision‐making (MCDM)‐based material selection and optimization technique called TODIM is applied, and a sensitivity study is carried out to select the best material for mechanical energy harvesting applications. A hybrid nanocomposite based on PVDF‐TiO2 with 1% rGO loading is the most suitable material according to the TODIM (an acronym in Portuguese for Interactive Multicriteria Decision Making) approach.

Highlights

PVDF‐TiO2‐rGO nanocomposites are fabricated by solvent casting.

TODIM optimization technique is applied for the best material selection among samples.

Material ranking consistency shows the reliability of the TODIM method.

Conductive rGO increases interfacial polarization, resulting in enhanced ε values.

An increment of 88% and 104% in tensile strength and elastic modulus, respectively.