bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intermittent Fasting and Vitamin E Supplementation Attenuates Hypothyroidism‐Associated Ophthalmopathy
Authors: Kumar Nirdesh , Das Ashmita , Kumari Nidhi , Singh Geeta , Jain Urvashi , Singh Amrita , Bodakhe Surendra H.
Published: February 2024

Visualization is a complex‐integrated procedure of the eyes and brain that allows to see this colorful world. Hypothyroidism‐associated ophthalmopathy (HAO), often known as dry eyes, swelling around the eyes, blurred vision, glaucoma, and cataracts, are some eye‐related issues caused by hypothyroidism. Yet there is no permanent cure for hypothyroidism; taking medicine throughout life is the only solution to keep its harmful effects under control. This study used intermittent fasting (IF) and vitamin E (Vit.E) supplementation to prevent hypothyroidism‐associated ophthalmopathy. This study hypothesized that intermittent fasting‐like diet regimens and vitamin supplementation should reduce the propagation of HAO by its antioxidant potential. In the present study, experimental animals are divided into five groups: normal, hypothyroidism control, dual, Vit. E, and IF. Hypothyroidism is generated in the experimental groups by taking propylthiouracil (PTU) for 24 days while also taking IF and Vit. E supplements. The hypothyroid‐induced experimental animals demonstrated an increase in IOP and lipid peroxidation while thyroid hormone levels depicted a massive decline which is a clear denotation of the effects of the thyroid on eyes and lifestyle. Ancient Ayurveda inspires these proposed therapies and has successfully reduced all the damage to the thyroid gland and the eye.
Design of a hybrid continuous mode broadband high efficiency power amplifier based on reconfigurable devices
Authors: Zhao Shiwei , Zhang Zuqiang , Zhou Longfei , Li Linsong , Zhao Fei
Published: February 2024

This letter presents a design method of resistance reactance hybrid continuous power amplifier based on reconfigurable devices and CG2H40010F. The power amplifier combines resistive‐reactive inverse F‐class power amplifier (RRIFPA), resistive‐reactive J‐class power amplifier (RRJPA), and resistive‐reactive F class power amplifier (RRFPA). We utilize the principle of low‐pass filters to control the impedance of multi‐frequency harmonics, and use the reconfigurable device SMP1345‐079LF to expand the bandwidth of the power amplifier. This article designs and produces a 1–4 GHz broadband power amplifier. The simulation and measurement results show that within the entire frequency range of 1–4 GHz, the Drain efficiency is between 53.6 and 72.1, the output power is between 40.1 and 42.6 dBm, the gain is between 10.1 and 12.6 dB, and the relative bandwidth is up to 120.
Improving quantitative MRI using self‐supervised deep learning with model reinforcement: Demonstration for rapid T1 mapping
Authors: Bian Wanyu , Jang Albert , Liu Fang
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This paper proposes a novel self‐supervised learning framework that uses model reinforcement, REference‐free LAtent map eXtraction with MOdel REinforcement (RELAX‐MORE), for accelerated quantitative MRI (qMRI) reconstruction. The proposed method uses an optimization algorithm to unroll an iterative model‐based qMRI reconstruction into a deep learning framework, enabling accelerated MR parameter maps that are highly accurate and robust.

Methods

Unlike conventional deep learning methods which require large amounts of training data, RELAX‐MORE is a subject‐specific method that can be trained on single‐subject data through self‐supervised learning, making it accessible and practically applicable to many qMRI studies. Using quantitative mapping as an example, the proposed method was applied to the brain, knee and phantom data.

Results

The proposed method generates high‐quality MR parameter maps that correct for image artifacts, removes noise, and recovers image features in regions of imperfect image conditions. Compared with other state‐of‐the‐art conventional and deep learning methods, RELAX‐MORE significantly improves efficiency, accuracy, robustness, and generalizability for rapid MR parameter mapping.

Conclusion

This work demonstrates the feasibility of a new self‐supervised learning method for rapid MR parameter mapping, that is readily adaptable to the clinical translation of qMRI.
3D analytical modeling of moving‐loading induced pile‐group behavior in stratified cross‐anisotropic poroelastic water‐saturated soils based on two stage theory
Authors: Yang Shuai , Jia Mincai
Published: February 2024

The aim of this paper is to propose a two‐stage theory‐based analytical method for the dynamic performance of pile groups in layered poroelastic saturated cross‐anisotropic soils induced by moving loadings. Among them, the free‐field vibrational analysis of saturated soils is performed by the analytical element‐layer approach (ALEA) and Fourier transformation. Based on the free‐field response, the boundary element (BE) solution for the soil resistance at the soil‐pile interface is derived utilizing the two‐stage theory. Simultaneously, the finite element (FE) solutions for the pile shaft resistance and deformation of pile groups are derived based on the Timoshenko beam theory. Finally, the FE‐BE coupled dynamic equation for deformations and internal loadings of the soil‐pile system is obtained. Thereafter, the reliability of the proposed method is validated by comparing with existing solutions and FE data from ABAQUS. Based on the derived solutions, a comprehensive parametric study is performed to examine the effects of loading amplitude, force speed, soft soil‐layer stiffness, soil anisotropy, and pile length on the dynamic responses of pile groups.
Current advances in molecularly imprinted polymers and their release mechanisms in drug delivery systems
Authors: Lawai Vannessa , Ngaini Zainab , Farooq Saba , Wahi Rafeah , Bhawani Showkat Ahmad
Published: February 2024

Molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) has gained wide interest among researchers due to its unique molecular recognition of the template that is suitable as a drug carrier. Therefore, the preparation and formulation of the MIP are significant to suit the needs of the intended use. Due to its significance in drug delivery, this review aims to highlight various methods in the preparation of MIP, the composition for both controlled and stimuli‐responsive drug delivery systems, and the release mechanism of the drugs. In drug delivery systems, MIP should have a sustained release performance as well as flexibility in surface modification for targeted delivery via a range of stimuli‐responses, including  external stimuli (magnetic, light) and internal stimuli (pH, temperature, redox, biological). The properties of sustained release and targeted delivery of the MIP can improve the drug's therapeutic efficacy as well as the breakthrough for the tumor targeting application.
Ring‐opening (co)polymerization of cardanol glycidyl ether
Authors: Mongkhoun Emma , Charmi Gholamreza , Grier‐‐Boisgontier Justine , Niang Fato , Gomes Margot , Quienne Baptiste , Radjou Rettina , Guégan Philippe , Caillol Sylvain , Pietrasik Joanna , Illy Nicolas
Published: February 2024

The anionic ring‐opening copolymerization of commercially available bio‐based cardanol glycidyl ether (CGE) was investigated without any prior purification. As a first step, anionic‐ring‐opening homopolymerization was attempted through active chain‐end and monomer‐activated mechanisms. Both strategies were unsuccessful. Conversely, in a second step, the anionic alternating ring‐opening copolymerization (AAROP) of CGE with the renewable N‐acetyl homocysteine thiolactone (NHTL) was successfully carried out in the presence of a strong base. Anisole, a solvent classified as sustainable and rarely used in anionic ring‐opening polymerization, proved to be a suitable for the AAROP. This polymerization is an unusual example of synthesis of linear polyesters with cardanol‐based monomers. The copolymers were carefully characterized by 1H, 13C, COSY, HSQC, 1H‐15N NMR and MALDI‐ToF, demonstrating an alternating structure. Then, CGE was copolymerized with NHTL and another additional epoxide. The cardanol‐derived monomers enable the preparation of functionalizable poly(ester‐alt‐thioether) bearing multiple allyl and alkene groups. The AAROP method in anisole offers new opportunity for green anionic polymerization through the use of sustainable chemicals, witnessed by the valorization of cardanol‐derived compounds and expands the scope of synthesized renewable polyesters.
Novel premature termination codon in the FOXP3 gene as the cause of familial hydrops fetalis in males
Authors: Goodhue Brighton , Smith MaryLou , Bennett Kelly , Grace Matthew
Published: February 2024

A 19‐year‐old, G1P0, pregnant person was referred at 20w2d gestation for evaluation due to non‐immune hydrops fetalis (NIHF), which was confirmed at the time of evaluation. Amniocentesis was performed at 20 w4d, and FISH, karyotype, chromosomal microarray, and exome sequencing (ES) were ordered. Trio ES identified a novel hemizygous c.142 C > T (p.Arg48*; maternally inherited) variant in the FOXP3 gene, resulting in a premature termination codon and establishing the diagnosis of immune dysregulation, polyendocrinopathy, enteropathy, X‐linked (IPEX) syndrome. Intrauterine fetal demise (IUFD) was diagnosed at 21w3d. CVS was performed at 12w1d in a subsequent pregnancy (male fetus) and the known familial variant was identified. NIHF was identified at 18w1d. Ultrasound at 19w2d revealed IUFD. This is the first report of this variant in a diagnosis of IPEX syndrome, presenting with NIHF and male fetal demise. Genotype–phenotype correlations are not available in many cases of IPEX syndrome, as the same genotype can be present with variable severity in different individuals. Given the near identical presentations in this family, we anticipate a more severe phenotype with this variant. We propose a novel variant resulting in an early premature termination codon as an explanation for the severe presentation of IPEX syndrome in two successive fetuses in this family.
The role of confined placental mosaicism in fetal growth restriction: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Eggenhuizen Geerke M. , Go Attie T. J. I. , Sauter Zoë , Hoffer Mariëtte J. V. , Haak Monique C. , Geeven Geert , Diderich Karin E. M. , Joosten Marieke , van den Born Myrthe , Srebniak Malgorzata I. , Van Opstal Diane
Published: February 2024

Objective

To evaluate which cytogenetic characteristics of confined placental mosaicism (CPM) detected in the first trimester chorionic villi and/or placentas in terms of chromosome aberration, cell lineage involved and trisomy origin will lead to fetal growth restriction and low birthweight.

Methods

Cohort study using routinely collected perinatal data and cytogenetic data of non‐invasive prenatal testing, the first trimester chorionic villi sampling and postnatal placentas.

Results

215 CPM cases were found. Fetal growth restriction (FGR) and low birthweight below the 10th percentile (BW < p10) were seen in 34.0% and 23.1%, respectively. Excluding cases of trisomy 16, 29.1% showed FGR and 17.9% had a BW < p10. The highest rate of FGR and BW < p10 was found in CPM type 3, but differences with type 1 and 2 were not significant. FGR and BW < p10 were significantly more often observed in cases with meiotic trisomies.

Conclusion

There is an association between CPM and FGR and BW < p10. This association is not restricted to trisomy 16, neither to CPM type 3, nor to CPM involving a meiotic trisomy. Pregnancies with all CPM types and origins should be considered to be at increased risk of FGR and low BW < p10. A close prenatal fetal monitoring is indicated in all cases of CPM.
Scalable all‐perovskite double‐ and triple‐junction solar modules: Modeling for configuration optimization
Authors: Takeda Yasuhiko , Yamanaka Ken‐ichi , Kato Naohiko
Published: February 2024

We modeled the photovoltaic conversion of all‐perovskite (PVK) double‐ and triple‐junction solar modules to clarify the configurations suitable for the monolithically series‐interconnected structure, which offers high scalability by fully exploiting the advantages of the thin‐film modules over wafer‐based crystalline‐silicon modules. We first formulated the photovoltaic processes of single cells and modules by reference to previously reported data, next optimized the module structure parameters including the bandgaps of PVKs, cell widths, and transparent‐electrode thicknesses, and then evaluated the annually averaged conversion efficiencies (ηannual) defined by the ratio of the annual energy yield to the annual insolation in outdoor environments using a meteorological database. The double‐junction four‐terminal (2J‐4T) module overcomes the shortcomings involved in the two‐terminal module consisting of series‐connected top and bottom cells, providing higher ηannual and more options of the top‐cell bandgap; the latter allows us to select a more durable PVK composition. However, the dual output (four terminals) is practically a serious drawback. The double‐junction voltage‐matched (2J‐VM) configuration eliminates this drawback, that is, realizes the single output (two terminals) with taking over the advantages of 2J‐4T, and hence, 2J‐VM would be the most promising candidate. However, when the VM configuration is applied to the triple‐junction modules, the ohmic loss and optical loss in the transparent electrodes used for the three submodules are more detrimental. To mitigate this shortcoming, we proposed a new configuration of the triple‐junction series/parallel‐connecting voltage‐matched (3J‐SPVM) module. This uses only two substrates with securing high ηannual and other advantages of the VM configuration, which contributes to cost reduction. Consequently, 3J‐SPVM is potentially the most promising configuration for widespread use.
A dyadic analysis of financial toxicity and health‐related quality of life among bone marrow transplant patients and their caregivers
Authors: Edward Jean S. , Rayens Mary Kay , McLouth Laurie E. , Eisele Lori P. , Scales Joan , Williams Lovoria B. , Hildebrandt Gerhard
Published: February 2024

Objective

Relatively few dyad‐based studies have evaluated the shared psychosocial and financial toxicity (FT) experiences of hematologic patients and their caregivers, especially those undergoing bone marrow transplantations (BMTs). This study evaluated the association of FT with health‐related quality of life (QOL) among BMT patient‐caregiver dyads.

Methods

Survey and electronic health record data were collected between April 2021 and January 2022 from BMT patients and their caregivers pre‐ (T1) and post‐intervention (T2). Thirty‐four patient‐caregiver dyads completed surveys; all dyads included a patient experiencing elevated T1 FT. The effect of the total FT score (i.e., the combination of psychological response, coping behaviors, and material conditions domain scores) on physical health, mental health, anxiety, depression and distress scores was evaluated using Actor‐Partner Interdependence Modeling (APIM).

Results

Patients and caregivers who reported lower total FT scores had better physical and mental health, and lower anxiety, depressive symptoms, distress (APIM actor effects). None of the partner effects were significant in the APIM models. Other model findings indicated that compared with caregivers, patients had lower reported physical health; mental health scores were higher, on average, for all participants at the T2 compared with T1; and members of dyads whose caregiver took time off work reported better physical health and lower depressive symptoms and distress than those whose caregiver did not.

Conclusions

Our study addresses a significant gap in dyad‐based cancer FT studies; the findings underscore the need for additional research to help develop tailored dyad‐level FT interventions for improving health‐related QOL among BMT patients.
Mass spectrometry‐based proteomic applications in dental implants research
Authors: Halstenbach Tim , Topitsch Annika , Schilling Oliver , Iglhaut Gerhard , Nelson Katja , Fretwurst Tobias
Published: February 2024

Dental implants have been established as successful treatment options for missing teeth with steadily increasing demands. Today, the primary areas of research in dental implantology revolve around osseointegration, soft and hard tissue grafting as well as peri‐implantitis diagnostics, prevention, and treatment. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current literature on the application of MS‐based proteomics in dental implant research, highlights how explorative proteomics provided insights into the biology of peri‐implant soft and hard tissues and how proteomics facilitated the stratification between healthy and diseased implants, enabling the identification of potential new diagnostic markers. Additionally, this review illuminates technical aspects, and provides recommendations for future study designs based on the current evidence.
Integrated plasma proteomics and N‐glycoproteomics reveals alterations in the N‐glycosylation in Chinese hepatocellular carcinoma patients
Authors: Zeng Jiaming , Rong Weiqi , Meng Bo , Zheng Linlin , Peng Tao , Zhai Rui , Jiang You , Xiao Ting , Fang Xiang , Zhang Yong , Zhao Yang , Dai Xinhua
Published: February 2024

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a life‐threatening disease that presents diagnostic challenges due to the absence of reliable biomarkers. Recently, plasma proteomics and glycoproteomics have emerged as powerful tools for identifying potential diagnostic biomarkers for various diseases. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive proteomic and glycoproteomic analysis of plasma samples from 11 HCC patients and 11 healthy control (HC) individuals. We identified 20 differentially expressed (DE) proteins and 32 DE intact glycosylated peptides (IGPs) that can effectively differentiate between HCC patients and HC samples. Our findings demonstrate that IGP profiles had better predictive power than protein profiles for screening HCC. Pathways associated with DE proteins and IGPs were identified. It was reported that the protein expression level of galectin 3 binding protein (LGALS3BP) and its N‐linked glycosylation at the N398 and N551 sites might serve as valuable candidates for HCC diagnosis. These results highlight the importance of N‐glycoproteomics in advancing our understanding of HCC and suggest possible candidates for the future diagnosis of this disease.
In vitro and in planta investigation of succinate dehydrogenase inhibitor resistance conferred by target‐site amino acid substitutions in Puccinia horiana, chrysanthemum white rust
Authors: Matsuzaki Yuichi , Harada Toshiyuki , Iwahashi Fukumatsu
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Resistance to succinate dehydrogenase inhibitor (SDHI) fungicides has been reported in some rust fungi within Pucciniales. However, measuring the resistance factors conferred by a specific substitution at the target site is difficult for most species because of the difficulty in performing in vitro experiments and the complexity of the binuclear state in these obligate parasites. We focused on Puccinia horiana because it easily forms homozygous basidiospores that are sensitive to SDHIs during in vitro germination, whereas the uredospores of other rust fungi are less sensitive.

RESULTS

We identified two substitutions, SdhC‐I88F and SdhD‐C125Y, that drive SDHI resistance in Pu. horiana. Using basidiospore germination inhibition tests, we measured the resistance factors for six SDHI fungicides in Pu. horiana isolates harboring SdhC‐I88F substitutions, wherein orthologous substitutions were most frequently observed in SDHI‐resistant Pucciniales, such as soybean rust (Phakopsora pachyrhizi). The resistance factors were high for penthiopyrad and benzovindiflupyr (>150), moderate for oxycarboxin and inpyrfluxam (10–30), and low for mepronil and fluxapyroxad (3–10). The most potent SDHI against SdhC‐I88F‐harboring isolates was inpyrfluxam, with a half‐maximal effective concentration (EC50) of 0.0082 mg L−1 owing to its high intrinsic activity. SdhD‐C125Y played a minor, but significant role in increasing the resistance factors (one‐ to tenfold increases), depending on the individual SDHIs.

CONCLUSION

This study is the first to use basidiospore germination inhibitory tests to quantify the resistance factors for SDHI‐resistant Pucciniales. Owing to its homozygous binucleate nature and the high availability of basidiospores, Pu. horiana is useful for investigating SDHI resistance in Pucciniales. © 2024 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Acetylcholine esterase of Drosophila melanogaster: a laboratory model to explore insecticide susceptibility gene drives
Authors: Hernandes Natalia , Qi Xiaomeng Mollyann , Bhide Soumitra , Brown Courtney , Camm Benjamin J. , Baxter Simon W. , Robin Charles
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

One of the proposed applications of gene drives has been to revert pesticide resistant mutations back to the ancestral susceptible state. Insecticides that have become ineffective because of the rise of resistance could have reinvigorated utility and be used to suppress pest populations again, perhaps at lower application doses.

RESULTS

We have created a laboratory model for susceptibility gene drives that replaces field‐selected resistant variants of the acetylcholine esterase (Ace) locus of Drosophila melanogaster with ancestral susceptible variants. We constructed a CRISPR/Cas9 homing drive and found that homing occurred in many genetic backgrounds with varying efficiencies. While the drive itself could not be homozygous, it converted resistant alleles into susceptible ones and produced recessive lethal alleles that could suppress populations. Our studies provided evidence for two distinct classes of gene drive resistance (GDR): rather than being mediated by the conventional non‐homologous end‐joining (NHEJ) pathway, one seemed to involve short homologous repair and the other was defined by genetic background. Additionally, we used simulations to explore a distinct application of susceptibility drives; the use of chemicals to prevent the spread of synthetic gene drives into protected areas.

CONCLUSIONS

Insecticide susceptibility gene drives could be useful tools to control pest insects however problems with particularities of target loci and GDR will need to be overcome for them to be effective. Furthermore, realistic patterns of pest dispersal and high insecticide exposure rates would be required if susceptibility were to be useful as a ‘safety‐switch’ to prevent the unwanted spread of gene drives. © 2024 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Bruceine D inhibits the growth of Spodoptera litura by inducing cell apoptosis in the midgut via an oxidative burst
Authors: Mao Genlin , Lu Wei , Xu Yuhui , Liu Huan , Xu Hanhong , Zeng Jiwu
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Spodoptera litura is one of the most harmful lepidoptera pests in China, and is difficult to control due to its strong resistance to the current frequently used insecticide species. The requirement to develop pesticides with novel toxicology mechanisms to control S. litura is urgent. The quassinoid of bruceine D display outstanding systemic properties and strong insecticidal activity against S. litura, which possess notable application potential for integrative management of S. litura, but the mechanism of toxicity remains unclear.

RESULTS

In this study, we found that bruceine D exerts potent growth inhibitory activity against S. litura, disrupting the ecdysone and juvenile hormone titers, and causing long‐term adverse effects. Association analysis between transcriptomics and metabolomics suggested that bruceine D affected the digestion and absorption capacity of S. litura larvae by inducing a strong oxidative stress response and cell apoptosis in the intestine. Further analysis demonstrated that bruceine D can inhibit the activities of digestive and antioxidant enzymes and induce malondialdehyde (MDA) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) overaccumulation in the midgut. Moreover, the protein level of Bax, cleavage caspase 3, and cytochrome c expressed in cytoplasm (cyto) were up‐regulated by bruceine D, while Bcl‐2 and cytochrome c expressed in mitochondria (mito) were down‐regulated. In addition, there was a noticeable increase in caspase‐3 protease activity. Histopathological observations revealed that bruceine D damages the structure of midgut epithelial cells and activates lysosomes, which subsequently disrupts the midgut tissue.

CONCLUSION

Overall, our findings suggested that bruceine D induced excessive ROS accumulation in midgut epithelial cells. The resulting cell apoptosis disrupted midgut tissue, leading ultimately to reduced nutrient digestion and absorption in the midgut and the inhibition of larval growth. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Younger age at initiation of subcutaneous treprostinil is associated with better response in pediatric Group 1 pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Kochanski Justin J. , Feinstein Jeffrey A. , Ogawa Michelle , Ritter Victor , Hopper Rachel K. , Adamson Gregory T.
Published: February 2024

Children with severe Group 1 pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) have an unpredictable response to subcutaneous treprostinil (TRE) therapy, which may be influenced by age, disease severity, or other unknown variables at time of initiation. In this retrospective single‐center cohort study, we hypothesized that younger age at TRE initiation, early hemodynamic response (a decrease in pulmonary vascular resistance by ≥30% at follow‐up catheterization), and less severe baseline hemodynamics (Rp:Rs < 1.1) would each be associated with better clinical outcomes. In 40 pediatric patients with Group I PAH aged 17 days−18 years treated with subcutaneous TRE, younger age (cut‐off of 6‐years of age, AUC 0.824) at TRE initiation was associated with superior 5‐year freedom from adverse events (94% vs. 39%, p = 0.002), better WHO functional class (I or II: 88% vs. 39% p = 0.003), and better echocardiographic indices of right ventricular function at most recent follow‐up. Neither early hemodynamic response nor less severe baseline hemodynamics were associated with better outcomes. Patients who did not have a significant early hemodynamic response to TRE by first follow‐up catheterization were unlikely to show subsequent improvement in PVRi (1/8, 13%). These findings may help clinicians counsel families and guide clinical decision making regarding the timing of advanced therapies.
Pulmonary artery wave intensity analysis in pulmonary hypertension associated with heart failure and reduced left ventricular ejection fraction
Authors: Yim Ivan H. W. , Parker Kim H. , Drury Nigel E. , Lim Hoong Sern
Published: February 2024

Wave intensity analysis (WIA) uses simultaneous changes in pressure and flow velocity to determine wave energy, type, and timing of traveling waves in the circulation. In this study, we characterized wave propagation in the pulmonary artery in patients with pulmonary hypertension associated with left‐sided heart disease (PHLHD) and the effects of dobutamine. During right heart catheterization, pressure and velocity data were acquired using a dual‐tipped pressure and Doppler flow sensor wire (Combowire; Phillips Volcano), and processed offline using customized Matlab software (MathWorks). Patients with low cardiac output underwent dobutamine challenge. Twenty patients with PHLHD (all heart failure with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction) were studied. Right ventricular systole produced a forward compression wave (FCW), followed by a forward decompression wave (FDW) during diastole. Wave reflection manifesting as backward compression wave (BCW) following the FCW was observed in 14 patients. Compared to patients without BCW, patients with BCW had higher mean pulmonary artery pressure (28.7 ±  6.12 vs. 38.6 ± 6.5 mmHg, p = 0.005), and lower pulmonary arterial capacitance (PAC: 2.88 ± 1.75 vs. 1.73 ± 1.16, p = 0.002). Pulmonary vascular resistance was comparable. Mean pulmonary artery pressure of 34.5 mmHg (area under the curve [AUC]: 0.881) and PAC of 2.29 mL/mmHg (AUC: 0.833) predicted BCW. The magnitude of the FCW increased with dobutamine (n = 11) and correlated with pulmonary artery wedge pressure. Wave reflection in PHLHD is more likely at higher pulmonary artery pressures and lower PAC and the magnitude of reflected waves correlated with pulmonary artery wedge pressure. Dobutamine increased FCW but did not affect wave reflection.
Relative economic value of global ensemble prediction system of NCMRWF, India, for extreme weather events
Authors: Shanker Gauri , Sarkar Abhijit , Mamgain Ashu , Bhatla R. , Prasad V. S.
Published: February 2024

An ensemble prediction system quantifies the uncertainty in the forecast by a numerical weather prediction model and helps in decision‐making. The global ensemble prediction system (NEPS‐G) of NCMRWF, India, has 1 control and 22 perturbed ensemble members. In the present study, the relative economic value of NEPS‐G forecast has been investigated based on a simple decision‐analytic model. Temperature at 850 hPa (T850), maximum surface temperature (Tmax) and precipitation (rf) over the Indian domain have been studied. Ensemble mean forecast offers a larger value to the users than the control forecast. For rare extreme events, the area under the curve (T‐AUC) of a relative operating characteristic (ROC) obtained using the trapezoidal approximation for 22‐member NEPS‐G (NEPS‐22) is significantly smaller than the area under the curve (Z‐AUC) of the full ROC obtained using binormal model and Z‐transformation. As a result, the discrimination ability and relative economic value of NEPS‐G are underestimated. A method (SUB‐EM) which subdivides the lowest probability category into several subcategories and uses ensemble mean forecast as the secondary decision variable to enhance T‐AUC and improve relative economic value of NEPS‐G has been investigated. Tmax > 45°C and rf > 65 mm·day−1 have been considered as extreme events. The impact of increasing the number of perturbed ensemble members from 22 to 33 (NEPS‐33) by running additional 11 perturbed members from 0000 UTC initial condition has also been investigated and compared with the results obtained using SUB‐EM. SUB‐EM offers larger economic value to the users with small cost–loss ratio (α) without engaging any extra computational resources. An experiment is also carried out to study the impact of using different ensemble summary statistics as a secondary decision variable. Ensemble Maximum provides maximum value and benefits the largest range of users.
A new estimation approach based on phi‐divergence measures for one‐shot device accelerated life testing
Authors: Castilla Elena
Published: February 2024

One‐shot device testing data are used only once and they get destroyed when tested. As these products usually have large mean times to failure under normal operating conditions, accelerated life tests are commonly used to infer their lifetime distribution. While much work has been done to determine the maximum likelihood estimates (MLEs) of model parameters for one‐shot device accelerated life testing, the efficiency of these methods may not be guaranteed for small to moderate sample sizes. In this paper, we develop new estimators and confidence intervals based on phi‐divergences, we show that they outperform the conventional MLE under different lifetime distributions and present an example to illustrate all the inferential methods developed here.
Absolute stabilization of switched Lurie systems with dwell time via dynamic output feedback
Authors: Zhao Wenxiu , Sun Yuangong
Published: February 2024

In this article, we study the absolute stabilization of switched Lurie system via dynamic output feedback, where the nonlinearity is unknown and is restricted in a sector. In most works, the nonlinearity is assumed to be known exactly or is restricted in a bounded sector. Here, we consider the most general case with unbounded sector. With the help of switched time‐varying Lyapunov–Lurie function, a dynamic output feedback controller with time‐varying control gain is presented. On this basis, sufficient conditions for absolute stabilization are derived in the framework of mode‐dependent minimum dwell time and mode‐dependent range dwell time. It turns out that this time‐varying control strategy can solve the absolute stabilization of switched Lurie systems that all subsystems are not stabilizable. Moreover, the stability criteria in terms of linear matrix inequality we derived can be easily checked via Matlab toolbox. Finally, the effectiveness of presented methods is verified by several numerical examples.
Short‐term effects of Storm Daniel on Salmo farioides (Karaman, 1938) in a high‐gradient stream
Authors: Vardakas Leonidas , Koutsikos Nicholas , Dimitriou Elias , Vavalidis Theocharis , Kouraklis Petros , Kalogianni Eleni
Published: February 2024

Climate change is expected to increase the magnitude, frequency, and intensity of extreme natural phenomena such as droughts and floods. These events can have devastating impacts on aquatic biota, thus there is a dire need to assess species' natural dynamics and to incorporate them into species' conservation actions and flood management decisions. In September 2023, an extreme meteorological event (Storm Daniel) occurred over the eastern Mediterranean, causing unprecedented high flooding events in many streams and rivers of central Greece. Almost 2 months after the event, we investigated the effects of the storm on Salmo farioides in a high‐altitude stream (Kraniotiko stream, Acheloos river basin) by comparing pre‐flood (June and August 2023) with post‐flood (October 2023) data on fish population abundances and size structure. Our results provide direct evidence that the population of S. farioides was almost wipedout from the investigated stream, as post‐flood fish densities were 9.3% of the pre‐flood data (August) densities. Small‐sized individuals (6–10 cm) were extirpated, indicating a 99% decrease during the post‐flood period, totally reversing the increasing trend observed from June to August (pre‐flood period). In conclusion, the profound and rapid decline observed in the population of S. farioides following the extreme flooding event highlights the urgent need for proactive conservation measures and adaptive management strategies to safeguard vulnerable aquatic species in the face of escalating climate‐related challenges.
A New Theranostic Platform Against Gram‐Positive Bacteria Based on Near‐Infrared‐Emissive Aggregation‐Induced Emission Nanoparticles
Authors: Yu Feiyan , Zhong Yan , Zhang Bing , Zhou Yu , He Mubin , Yang Yang , Wang Qianqian , Yang Xi , Ren Xiuyun , Qian Jun , Zhang Hong , Tian Mei
Published: February 2024

Infections induced by Gram‐positive bacteria pose a great threat to public health. Antibiotic therapy, as the first chosen strategy against Gram‐positive bacteria, is inevitably associated with antibiotic resistance selection. Novel therapeutic strategies for the discrimination and inactivation of Gram‐positive bacteria are thus needed. Here, a specific type of aggregation‐induced emission luminogen (AIEgen) with near‐infrared fluorescence emission as a novel antibiotic‐free therapeutic strategy against Gram‐positive bacteria is proposed. With the combination of a positively charged group into a highly twisted architecture, self‐assembled AIEgens (AIE nanoparticles (NPs)) at a relatively low concentration (5 µm) exhibited specific binding and photothermal effect against living Gram‐positive bacteria both in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, toxicity assays demonstrated excellent biocompatibility of AIE NPs at this concentration. All these properties make the AIE NPs as a novel generation of theranostic platform for combating Gram‐positive bacteria and highlight their promising potential for in vivo tracing of such bacteria.
Photodynamic Therapy Derived Personalized Whole Cell Tumor Vaccine Prevents Postsurgery Tumor Recurrence and Metastasis
Authors: Yang Chunyu , Jiang Yitong , Zhang Kaixin , Zhu Xianqi , Li Jianlin , Yu Haiwang , Chen Jiawei , Gu Xinggui , Gan Zhihua , Yu Qingsong
Published: February 2024

In order to avoid the time‐consuming and laborious identification of tumor‐specific antigens (TSAs) during the traditional vaccine fabrication process, a versatile photodynamic therapy (PDT)‐based method is developed to construct a whole‐tumor antigen tumor vaccine (TV) from surgically resected tumor tissues for personalized immunotherapy. Mucoadhesive nanoparticles containing small‐molecular photosensitizer are fabricated and directly co‐incubated with suspended tumor cells obtained after cytoreduction surgery. After irradiation with a 405 nm laser, potent immunogenic cell death of cancer cells could be induced. Along with the release of TSAs, the as‐prepared TV could activate safe and robust tumor‐specific immune responses, leading to efficient suppression of postsurgery tumor recurrence and metastasis. The as‐prepared TV cannot only be applied alone through various administration routes but also synergize with immunoadjuvant, chemotherapeutics, and immune checkpoint blockers to exert more potent immune responses. This work provides an alternative way to promote the clinical translation of PDT, which is generally restricted by the limited penetration of light. Moreover, the versatile strategy of vaccine fabrication also facilitates the clinical application of personalized whole‐cell tumor vaccines.
Enhancing Neuronal Cell Uptake of Therapeutic Nucleic Acids with Tetrahedral DNA Nanostructures
Authors: Martins Ana S. G. , Reis Sara D. , Benson Erik , Domingues Marco M. , Cortinhas João , Vidal Silva Joana A. , Santos Sofia D. , Santos Nuno C. , Pêgo Ana P. , Moreno Pedro M. D.
Published: February 2024

The successful translation of therapeutic nucleic acids (NAs) for the treatment of neurological disorders depends on their safe and efficient delivery to neural cells, in particular neurons. DNA nanostructures can be a promising NAs delivery vehicle. Nonetheless, the potential of DNA nanostructures for neuronal cell delivery of therapeutic NAs is unexplored. Here, tetrahedral DNA nanostructures (TDN) as siRNA delivery scaffolds to neuronal cells, exploring the influence of functionalization with two different reported neuronal targeting ligands: C4‐3 RNA aptamer and Tet1 peptide are investigated. Nanostructures are characterized in vitro, as well as in silico using molecular dynamic simulations to better understand the overall TDN structural stability. Enhancement of neuronal cell uptake of TDN functionalized with the C4‐3 Aptamer (TDN‐Apt), not only in neuronal cell lines but also in primary neuronal cell cultures is demonstrated. Additionally, TDN and TDN‐Apt nanostructures carrying siRNA are shown to promote silencing in a process aided by chloroquine‐induced endosomal disruption. This work presents a thorough workflow for the structural and functional characterization of the proposed TDN as a nano‐scaffold for neuronal delivery of therapeutic NAs and for targeting ligands evaluation, contributing to the future development of new neuronal drug delivery systems based on DNA nanostructures.
Comprehensive Overview of Controlled Fabrication of Multifunctional Fluorescent Carbon Quantum Dots and Exploring Applications
Authors: Yang Lijuan , An Yibo , Xu Dazhuang , Dai Fan , Shao Shillong , Lu Zhixiang , Liu Gang
Published: February 2024

In recent years, carbon dots (CDs) have garnered increasing attention due to their simple preparation methods, versatile performances, and wide‐ranging applications. CDs can manifest various optical, physical, and chemical properties including quantum yield (QY), emission wavelength (Em), solid‐state fluorescence (SSF), room‐temperature phosphorescence (RTP), material‐specific responsivity, pH sensitivity, anti‐oxidation and oxidation, and biocompatibility. These properties can be effectively regulated through precise control of the CD preparation process, rendering them suitable for diverse applications. However, the lack of consideration given to the precise control of each feature of CDs during the preparation process poses a challenge in obtaining the requisite features for various applications. This paper is to analyze existing research and present novel concepts and ideas for creating CDs with different distinct features and applications. The synthesis methods of CDs are discussed in the first section, followed by a comprehensive overview of the important properties of CDs and the modification strategy. Subsequently, the application of CDs and their requisite properties are reviewed. Finally, the paper outlines the current challenges in controlling CDs properties and their applications, discusses potential solutions, and offers suggestions for future research.
Hematite Hollow‐Sphere‐Array Photoanodes for Efficient Photoelectrochemical Water Splitting
Authors: Yang Rongge , Xiao Shuang , Zhang Jingnan , Tang Songtao , Xu Ruimei , Tong Yexiang
Published: February 2024

Constructing 3D nanophotonic structures is regarded as an effective method to realize efficient solar‐to‐hydrogen conversion. These photonic structures can enhance the absorbance of photoelectrodes by the light trapping effect, promote the charge separation by designable charge transport pathway and provide a high specific surface area for catalytic reaction. However, most 3D structures reported so far mainly focused on the influence of light absorption and lacked a systematic investigation of the overall water splitting process. Herein, hematite hollow‐sphere‐array photoanodes are fabricated through a facile hydrothermal method with polystyrene templates. Validating by simulations and experiments, the hollow sphere array is proved to enhance the efficiency of light harvesting, charge separation and surface reaction at the same time. With an additional annealing treatment in oxygen, a photocurrent density of 2.26 mA cm−2 at 1.23 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode can be obtained, which is 3.70 times larger than that with a planar structure in otherwise the same system. This work gains an insight into the photoelectrochemical water splitting process, which is valuable for the further design of advancing solar driven water splitting devices.
Forked Vein Structure W/WO3−x with Dual Active Sites in W and Oxygen Vacancies to Enhance Methylene Self‐Coupling for Efficient Conversion of Methane to Ethylene
Authors: Li Huimin , Sun Zhe , Lei Chengkun , Kang Wenxiang , Ma Lin , Shen Qianqian , Jia Husheng , Xue Jinbo , Zhu Yongfa
Published: February 2024

The directional conversion of methane to ethylene is challenging due to the dissociation of the C─H bond and the self‐coupling of methyl intermediates. Herein, a novel W/WO3−x catalyst with the fork vein structure consisting of an alternating arrangement of WO3−x and W is developed. Impressively, the catalyst achieves an unprecedented C2H4 yield of 1822.73 µmol g−1 h−1, with a selectivity of 82.49%. The enhanced catalytic activity is ascribed to the multifunctional synergistic effect induced by oxygen vacancies and W sites in W/WO3−x. Oxygen vacancies provide abundant coordination of unsaturation sites, which promotes the adsorption and activation of CH4, thus reducing the dissociation energy barrier of the C─H bond. The CH2 coupling barrier on the metal W surface is significantly lower compared to WO3, so CH2 can migrate to the W site for coupling. Importantly, the W/WO3−x with high periodicity provides multiple ordered local microelectric fields, and CH2 intermediates with dipole moments undergo orientation polarization and displacement polarization driven by the electric field, thus enabling CH2 migration. This work opens a new avenue for the structural design and modulation of photocatalysts, and provides new perspectives on the migration of methylene between multiple active sites.
GeV4S8: a Novel Bimetallic Sulfide for Robust and Fast Potassium Storage
Authors: Chen Wen , Hu Keyan , Zheng Hongshun , Pan Youtan , Lv Zhuoran , Tu Xueyang , Zheng Chong , He Tianwei , Huang Fuqiang , Dong Wujie
Published: February 2024

Potassium‐ion batteries (PIBs) have attracted much attention due to their low production cost and abundant resources. Germanium is a promising alloying‐type anode with a high theoretical capacity for PIBs, yet suffering significant volume expansion and sluggish potassium‐ion transport kinetics. Herein, a rational strategy is formulated to disperse Ge atoms into transition metal V−S sulfide frameworks to form a loosely packed and metallic GeV4S8 medium. The theoretical prediction shows that GeV4S8 is conducive to the adsorption and diffusion of K+. The V−S frameworks provide fast ion/electron diffusion channels and also help to buffer the volume expansion during K+ insertion. In situ and ex situ characterizations manifest that KGe alloy clusters are constrained and dispersed by potassiated VS2 topological structure during discharging, and revert to the original GeV4S8 after charging. Consequently, as a novel anode for PIBs, GeV4S8 provides a high specific capacity of ≈400 mAh g−1 at 0.5 C, maintaining 160 mAh g−1 even at 12.5 C and ≈80% capacity after 1000 cycles at 5 C, superior to most of the state‐of‐the‐art anode materials. The proposed strategy of combining alloy and intercalation dual‐functional units is expected to open up a new way for high‐capacity and high‐rate anode for PIBs.
Regulation of Hot Electrons Transport Achieved through Controlled Electron‐Phonon Coupling in Metallic Heterostructures
Authors: Wang Yingjie , Li Keming , Jiang Lan , Gao Guoquan , Li Jiafang , Zhu Tong
Published: February 2024

The electron‐phonon (e‐ph) interactions are pivotal in shaping the electrical and thermal properties, and in particular, determining the carrier dynamics and transport behaviors in optoelectronic devices. By employing pump‐probe spectroscopy and ultrafast microscopy, the consequential role of e‐ph coupling strength in the spatiotemporal evolution of hot electrons is elucidated. Thermal transport across the metallic interface is controlled to regulate effective e‐ph coupling factor Geff in Au and Au/Cr heterostructure, and their impact on nonequilibrium transport of hot electrons is examined. Via the modulation of buried Cr thickness, a strong correlation between Geff and the diffusive behavior of hot electrons is found. By enhancing Geff through the regulation of thermal transport across interface, there is a significant reduction in e‐ph thermalization time, the maximum diffusion length of hot electrons, and lattice heated area which are extracted from the spatiotemporal evolution profiles. Therefore, the increased Geff significantly weakens the diffusion of hot electrons and promotes heat relaxation of electron subsystems in both time and space. These insights propose a robust framework for spatiotemporal investigations of G impact on hot electron diffusion, underscoring its significance in the rational design of advanced optoelectronic devices with high efficiency.
On the suitability of checked coverage and genetic parameter tuning in test suite reduction
Authors: Koitz‐Hristov Roxane , Sterner Thomas , Stracke Lukas , Wotawa Franz
Published: February 2024

As software projects evolve and grow in size and complexity, so do their test suites. Test suite reduction (TSR) aims at reducing the size of a test suite by removing redundant and obsolete test cases based on a coverage metric while preserving its fault detection capabilities. The contributions of this paper are twofold: (1) We examine a lesser‐known coverage criterion, that is, checked coverage. Checked coverage not only investigates if a part of the code was executed but also if it was checked by a test oracle. In an empirical evaluation, we performed TSR based on different reduction algorithms, coverage metrics, and open‐source Java projects with our own TSR tool to determine the most effective and efficient combination of metric and method. (2) Given the results of the first evaluation, we further investigate the potential of parameter optimization in regard to a genetic reduction algorithm. In particular, we focus on finding a general setting for the parameters crossover rate and mutation rate such that test suites can be reduced in a reasonable time while maintaining a high fault detection power.