bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Speckle tracking tissue motion mitral annulus displacement to assess early changes in the left ventricle and its association with lung function in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Wang Zijing , Hu Yunhua , Ou Huajing , Feng Jia , Dong Shanshan , Ren Shan , Lu Guilin , Li Jun
Published: October 2023

Objective

To evaluate the early changes in left ventricular (LV) in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) by measuring tissue motion mitral annulus displacement (TMAD) and three‐dimensional (3D) parameters using speckle tracking imaging (STI), and to explore its correlation with lung function.

Methods

Forty two COPD patients (GOLD I, GOLD II, GOLD III) and 30 healthy individuals (control group) were included. STI was used to assess the changes in LV structure and systolic function. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were drawn, and correlations among TMAD parameters, LV systolic function, structural, pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP), and lung function were analyzed.

Results

Compared to the control group, COPD patients were able to undergo LV remodeling, with a decrease in the absolute value of global longitudinal strain (GLS) and TMAD, but no significant modification of LVEF. Correlation analysis showed that TMAD was positively related to the absolute value of GLS (r > 0.51, P < 0.01) and predicted forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1%) (r > 0.56, P < 0.01), and negatively to PASP (r < −0.52, P < 0.01). The LV posterior wall thickness (LVPWd), relative wall thickness (RWT), end‐diastolic volume (LVEDV) and PASP negatively correlated with FEV1%.

Conclusion

The LV geometric changes and systolic function impairment in COPD patients were found to correlate with airflow restriction (FEV1%). TMAD aided in detection of early changes in LV systolic function in COPD patients. It negatively correlated with PASP and positively with FEV1%. Moreover, it was more convenient than GLS.
Shear wave elastography‐based deep learning model for prognosis of patients with acutely decompensated cirrhosis
Authors: Huang Xingzhi , Li Yaohui , Yuan Songsong , Wu Xiaoping , Xu Pan , Zhou Aiyun
Published: October 2023

Purpose

This study aimed to develop and validate a deep learning model based on two‐dimensional (2D) shear wave elastography (SWE) for predicting prognosis in patients with acutely decompensated cirrhosis.

Methods

We prospectively enrolled 288 acutely decompensated cirrhosis patients with a minimum 1‐year follow‐up, divided into a training cohort (202 patients, 1010 2D SWE images) and a test cohort (86 patients, 430 2D SWE images). Using transfer learning by Resnet‐50 to analyze 2D SWE images, a SWE‐based deep learning signature (DLswe) was developed for 1‐year mortality prediction. A combined nomogram was established by incorporating deep learning SWE information and laboratory data through a multivariate Cox regression analysis. The performance of the nomogram was evaluated with respect to predictive discrimination, calibration, and clinical usefulness in the training and test cohorts.

Results

The C‐index for DLswe was 0.748 (95% CI 0.666–0.829) and 0.744 (95% CI 0.623–0.864) in the training and test cohorts, respectively. The combined nomogram significantly improved the C‐index, accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of DLswe to 0.823 (95% CI 0.763–0.883), 86%, 75%, and 89% in the training cohort, and 0.808 (95% CI 0.707–0.909), 83%, 74%, and 85% in the test cohort (both p < 0.05). Calibration curves demonstrated good calibration of the combined nomogram. Decision curve analysis indicated that the nomogram was clinically valuable.

Conclusions

The 2D SWE‐based deep learning model holds promise as a noninvasive tool to capture valuable prognostic information, thereby improving outcome prediction in patients with acutely decompensated cirrhosis.
Diagnostic utility of anteroposterior measurements of the median nerve on sagittal ultrasonographic images and their correlation with clinical findings in carpal tunnel syndrome
Authors: Okura Toshiyuki , Tajima Takuya , Fukuda Hajime , Matsuoka Tomomi , Chosa Etsuo
Published: October 2023

Purpose

To investigate the efficacy of sagittal ultrasonography of the median nerve in diagnosing carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS).

Methods

Seventy‐six hands with idiopathic CTS and 80 hands of asymptomatic subjects were included. All patients with CTS underwent ultrasonographic examination, electrodiagnostic testing, and CTS‐6 assessment. In the sagittal ultrasonographic examination, the maximum and minimum median nerve diameters (MNDs) were measured at the proximal and distal ends of the carpal tunnel, respectively. The median nerve stenosis rate (MNSR) was computed as (1 – minimum MND/maximum MND) × 100 (%). The cross‐sectional area (CSA) of the median nerve at the level of the pisiform was measured.

Results

In the sagittal ultrasonographic examination, the mean maximum MNDs were 0.252 cm and 0.202 cm, mean minimum MNDs were 0.145 cm and 0.165 cm, and mean MNSRs were 41.83% and 17.35% in the CTS and control groups, respectively; the mean maximum MND and MNSR were considerably larger in the CTS group. The maximum MND and MNSR were correlated with the electrodiagnostic testing results and CTS‐6 score. The MNSR with a cut‐off value of 34.0% had a higher sensitivity and specificity than the CSA in diagnosing CTS.

Conclusions

Sagittal ultrasonographic examination is useful in diagnosing CTS.
LncRNA–mRNA coexpression analysis reveals distinct pathogenic mechanisms for subtypes of congenital biliary dilatation
Authors: Ai Chengbo , Xie Xiaolong , Lv Yong , Zheng Qianwen , Yang Jiayin , Xiang Bo , Chen Jing
Published: October 2023

Background/Purpose

Congenital biliary dilatation (CBD) is a bile duct malformation often associated with pancreaticobiliary maljunction. Different subtypes of CBD have been noted for clinical differences, but their pathogenic mechanisms are unclear.

Methods

To elucidate the genetic basis of CBD, we performed lncRNA and mRNA sequencing and bioinformatic analysis on 18 cystic and 18 fusiform CBD samples.

Results

We identified differentially expressed mRNAs and lncRNAs between the two types of CBD, and constructed coexpression modules that correlated with clinical characteristics of CBD using weighted gene coexpression network analysis. We found that the brown module was the highest positive correlation with fusiform CBD (R = 0.67, p = 7.9e–6) and contained the most genes. We then built a lncRNA–mRNA coexpression network to identify potential target genes of lncRNAs in CBD, and a protein–protein interaction network to investigate the hub genes from the target genes and the brown module. Finally, we performed enrichment analyses and found differences between cystic and fusiform CBD in hepatobiliary system development, liver and pancreas development involving hub genes ONECUT1 and HNF1B that could be regulated by corresponding lncRNAs.

Conclusion

Our study suggests that lncRNAs may modulate pancreaticobiliary duct development differently in cystic and fusiform CBD, providing new insights for etiology studies and clinical treatment.
Recent advance: Sulfur ylides in organic synthesis
Authors: Kumar Manoj , Sadaf Ifrah , Pamidighantam Jyotsna , Anamika  , Kumar Sonu
Published: October 2023

Sulfur ylides are versatile structures that display various characteristics and participate in a myriad of reactions to produce simple, effective, and sometimes stereoselective reactions toward synthesizing sulfur‐containing compounds. Nonetheless, their fulfillment tremendous developments have been made in this field in the past few decades. In this comprehensive review, luminosity is illuminated on the application of sulfur ylides involved in various domino, cascade annulation reactions, and carbene trapping reagents with chameleonic reactivity. In the past numerous decennary, chemists have used sulfur ylides in solvent‐dependent, rhodium catalyzed, dealkylative intercepted, photochemical reaction, halotrifluoromethylation, benzannulation, amidation various name reactions such as Mizoroki–Heck, Suzuki–Miyaura, and Sommelet–Hauser rearrangements. Moreover, other prime applications include metal catalysis, epoxidation of carbonyl compounds, acylmethylation, cyclomerization, oxidation, and insertion reactions. Additionally, some sulfur ylides are extremely useful structures that play a major role in the synthesis of various medicinally active heterocycles structural motifs. This review article discusses all these reactions, their proposed mechanisms, and their application in the current scenario, at length. This tutorial review concludes by providing a future outlook on the investigation into sulfur ylides and various other compounds synthesized using it have great potential to be used in industries, laboratories, pharmaceutical companies, drug production, clinical use, medicinal chemistry, and agrochemical purposes.
“They test my blood to know how much blood is in my body”: the untapped potential of promoting viral load literacy to support adherence and viral suppression among adolescents living with HIV
Authors: Bernays Sarah , Lariat Joni , Cowan Frances , Senzanje Beula , Willis Nicola , Nenguke Zivai Mupambireyi
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Achieving sustained HIV viral suppression is a key strategy to optimize the health and wellbeing of those living with HIV. Sub‐optimal adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) in adolescents and young people living with HIV (AYPLHIV) in Southern Africa, due to a range of social and contextual factors, including poor mental health, has presented a substantial challenge to meeting targets aimed towards improving treatment outcomes and reducing transmission. With the increasing availability of viral load (VL) testing in Southern Africa, there is an opportunity to better understand the relationship between VL literacy, wellbeing and adherence among adolescents.

Methods

We conducted qualitative interviews with 45 AYPLHIV aged 10–24 years in three districts (urban, peri‐urban and rural) in Zimbabwe between March and August 2021. The sample was purposively selected to represent a range of experiences related to HIV status disclosure, gender, marital status and treatment experience. Separate workshops were conducted with 18 healthcare workers (HCWs) and 20 caregivers to better understand existing support mechanisms to AYPLHIV accessing ART. We used thematic analysis to examine adolescent VL literacy, treatment support networks, experiences of clinic interactions, VL testing procedures and barriers to adherence.

Results

VL literacy was consistently under‐developed among participants. Comprehension of phrases commonly heard during clinic visits, such as TND (target not detected) and “high” and “low” VL, were better understood by older participants. VL testing was predominantly understood as a clinical procedure that enables HCWs to monitor treatment adherence. Absent throughout the interviews were descriptions of how viral suppression improves health and quality of life, likely fosters wellbeing and enhances self‐esteem, enables participation in education and social activities, and eliminates the risk of onward transmission.

Conclusions

It is imperative that we reconsider how routine VL monitoring is communicated to and understood by AYPLHIV. Reframing ART, including VL test results, in terms of the psychosocial benefits that viral suppression can generate is likely to be crucial to motivating AYPLHIV to maintain optimal treatment engagement and develop self‐management approaches as they move into adulthood. Access to accurate information tailored to individual concerns and circumstances can support AYPLHIV to achieve wellbeing.
Neuroimmunology of rabies: New insights into an ancient disease
Authors: Bastos Victor , Pacheco Vinicius , Rodrigues Érika D. L. , Moraes Cássia N. S. , Nóbile Adriel L. , Fonseca Dennyson Leandro M. , Souza Kamilla B. S. , do Vale Fernando Y. N. , Filgueiras Igor S. , Schimke Lena F. , Giil Lasse M. , Moll Guido , Cabral‐Miranda Gustavo , Ochs Hans D. , Vasconcelos Pedro F. da Costa , de Melo Guilherme D. , Bourhy Hervé , Casseb Livia M. N. , Cabral‐Marques Otavio
Published: October 2023

Rabies is an ancient neuroinvasive viral (genus Lyssavirus, family Rhabdoviridae) disease affecting approximately 59,000 people worldwide. The central nervous system (CNS) is targeted, and rabies has a case fatality rate of almost 100% in humans and animals. Rabies is entirely preventable through proper vaccination, and thus, the highest incidence is typically observed in developing countries, mainly in Africa and Asia. However, there are still cases in European countries and the United States. Recently, demographic, increasing income levels, and the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic have caused a massive raising in the animal population, enhancing the need for preventive measures (e.g., vaccination, surveillance, and animal control programs), postexposure prophylaxis, and a better understanding of rabies pathophysiology to identify therapeutic targets, since there is no effective treatment after the onset of clinical manifestations. Here, we review the neuroimmune biology and mechanisms of rabies. Its pathogenesis involves a complex and poorly understood modulation of immune and brain functions associated with metabolic, synaptic, and neuronal impairments, resulting in fatal outcomes without significant histopathological lesions in the CNS. In this context, the neuroimmunological and neurochemical aspects of excitatory/inhibitory signaling (e.g., GABA/glutamate crosstalk) are likely related to the clinical manifestations of rabies infection. Uncovering new links between immunopathological mechanisms and neurochemical imbalance will be essential to identify novel potential therapeutic targets to reduce rabies morbidity and mortality.
Dual‐view integral imaging display with adjustable optimal viewing distance
Authors: Zhao Bai‐Chuan , Zhou Yan , Yang Fan , Chen Liang‐Wei , Fu Yang
Published: October 2023

We propose a dual‐view integral imaging display that provides two three‐dimensional scenes at the same time. An adjustable pinhole array is generated by using a liquid crystal panel. The horizontal pitch of pinhole is adjustable, while the vertical one is unadjustable. The center of each elemental image is deviation from that of the corresponding pinhole. The light rays emitted from two kinds of elemental images are propagated into the left and right viewing directions. The horizontal viewing ranges are unrelated to the horizontal pitch of pinhole and the optimal viewing distance. By changing the horizontal pitch of pinhole, the optimal viewing distance is easily adjusted without loss of viewing angle. We developed an experimental apparatus and verified the proposed hypothesis.
Children with sexual behavior problems: Ties to child maltreatment, family functioning, and help‐seeking
Authors: Campbell Claudia L. , Wamser Rachel A.
Published: October 2023

Although the literature on children's sexual behavior problems (SBPs) has indicated that maltreatment and family dysfunction are linked to SBPs, several facets of these factors have remained unexamined. Prior research has largely focused on SBPs more broadly, though interpersonal SBPs (ISBPs) are likely a distinct, more severe SBP subtype. The aim of the current study was to examine potentially relevant, unexplored factors, including the number of types of and total allegations of maltreatment as well as familial characteristics (i.e., parenting attitudes and behaviors, discipline methods, family functioning, and help‐seeking) in relation to SBPs and ISBPs. The present study included 8‐year‐old children (N = 1,011, 51.1% female, 53.8% Black) and their caregivers from the Longitudinal Studies of Child Abuse and Neglect (LONGSCAN) study. In the model for SBPs, externalizing symptoms, the number of types of maltreatment allegations, maladaptive discipline methods, and help‐seeking were associated with SBPs, whereas child's gender, race/ethnicity, internalizing symptoms, total maltreatment allegations, income, family functioning, and parenting attitudes were unrelated, r2 = .23. When ISBPs were examined, only child's gender and externalizing symptoms were tied to ISBPs, r2 = .09. However, child's race/ethnicity and internalizing symptoms, as well as maltreatment experiences, family factors, and help‐seeking, were not associated with ISBPs. These findings highlight the importance of broader externalizing symptoms for both SBPs and ISBPs as well as the role of multiple types of maltreatment, parenting behavior, and help‐seeking in the context of general SBPs.
Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulation for Obstructive Sleep Apnea in a Patient with Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Scheffler Patrick , Eitan Dana , Drewek Rupali , Gnagi Sharon
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is common amongst patients with cerebral palsy in part due to significant hypotonia. Hypoglossal nerve stimulation (HGNS) is a novel tool used to treat sleep apnea when there is failure with CPAP. To our knowledge, the literature has not discussed HGNS as a treatment option for severe OSA in patients with cerebral palsy.

Methods

Case report and literature review.

Results

A 28‐year‐old male with cerebral palsy, neuromuscular deformity, proximal junction kyphosis, and developmental delay presented with severe obstructive sleep apnea and was intolerant to CPAP and BiPAP. After HGNS implantation, a sleep study revealed improved ventilation and oxygenation at 2.4 V; AHI decreased from baseline of 112 to 12 events per hour with only mild intermittent snoring. The patient's family reported increased utilization compared with previous CPAP use.

Conclusion

HGNS can be a safe and effective treatment modality for OSA in this patient population. Laryngoscope, 134:2478–2479, 2024
High‐Performance NIR Emission in Chromium‐Doped Garnet Phosphors Enabled by Structure and Excitation Regulation
Authors: Li Zhuowei , Zhu Ge , Li Shanshan , Xu Wen , Bian Qingfeng , Cong Yan , He Ming , Luo Xixian , Xin Shuangyu , Dong Bin
Published: October 2023

The burgeoning phosphor‐converted near‐infrared light‐emitting diodes (pc‐NIR LEDs) have important applications in special illumination and spectroscopy analysis. However, the development of efficient NIR‐emitting phosphors with high performance is still a challenge. In this work, a chemical unit co‐substitution strategy is proposed to realize the excitation transition regulation and successfully achieve high‐performance NIR luminescence in Ca3‐yNayMg1‐ySb2‐xAl2+yO12: xCr3+ (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.05, 0 ≤ y ≤ 1) garnet‐type solid solution phosphors. Through the excitation transition modulation from the 4A2 ground state to the 4T1(4P) and 4T1(4F) excitation state, the excitation intensity at the blue light region is largely enhanced by 25.6 times. Moreover, the NIR‐emitting efficiency and thermal stability are improved, with the optimal luminescence internal quantum efficiency of 90.6% and thermal stability of 97%@423 K, without any flux‐assisted sintering or reduction atmosphere protection. The structure regulation induced small Stokes shift, weak electron‐phonon coupling effect, and decreased non‐radiative transition are responsible for the excellent NIR‐emitting performance. Finally, the NIR pc‐LED is fabricated with photoelectric efficiencies of 18.7%@100 mA and NIR output powers of 63 mW@100 mA, presenting potential applications in nondestructive internal defect detection, veins imaging, and night vision surveillance.
Performance variations of global precipitation products in detecting drought episodes in three wet seasons in Ethiopia: Part II—statistical analysis
Authors: Degefu Mekonnen Adnew , Bewket Woldeamlak
Published: October 2023

The need to evaluate global climate data has increased in recent times. In this study, we evaluate the ability of global precipitation products to monitor drought during three wet seasons (Belg/March–May, Kiremt/June–September and Autumn/September–November) and associated rainfall regions in Ethiopia. We employed statistical methods to quantify and evaluate precipitation products based on probability of drought detection (POD), the extent of false alarms (FAR) and the critical success index (CSI) to see the overall performance of the studied precipitation products. The majority of the studied precipitation datasets were relatively better in capturing the Autumn drought in southern Ethiopia, and 18 out of 21 precipitation products captured accurately more than 50% of observed droughts. The CSI scores for this season are also above 0.5 for 14 precipitation products. On the other hand, 15 and 14 precipitation products accurately captured more than 50% of the seasonal drought in Kiremt and Belg rainfall seasons in north‐eastern Ethiopia. In contrast, most precipitation products do not clearly represent the drought conditions of the Kiremt season in north‐western Ethiopia. Only 8 of the 21 precipitation products accurately captured more than 50% of the observed drought in this region, and only 6 precipitation products had a CSI score greater than 0.5. The results can facilitate the selection of precipitation products for drought monitoring purposes, for use in specific wet seasons and regions of Ethiopia.
Novel compound heterozygous mutations in OCA2 gene were identified in a Chinese family with oculocutaneous albinism
Authors: Jiang Beilei , Zhang Hua , Kan Yuling , Gao Xueping , Du Zhaoli , Liu Quan
Published: October 2023

Background

Oculocutaneous albinism (OCA) is a group of rare autosomal recessive disorders characterized by clinical genetic heterogeneity. OCA type II (OMIM: 203200) is the most common subtype among African and African Americans, primarily caused by pathogenic variants in the OCA2 (HGNC ID: 8101) gene. In this study, we presented a Chinese family with OCA and reported two novel variants in the OCA2 gene.

Methods

Whole‐exome sequencing (WES) was performed to identify pathogenic variants in the proband. The candidate variants were subsequently validated using Sanger sequencing and QPCR assay. Additionally, bioinformatics analyses were employed to predict the deleteriousness and conservation of the identified mutations.

Results

In the 16‐year‐old male proband, two novel compound heterozygous OCA2 variants, NM_000275.3: c.1640T>G (NP_000266.2: p.L547R) and an exons 10‐19 deletion variant, were identified. Meanwhile, a reported heterozygous variant c.1441G>A/p.A481T (NM_000275.3, NP_000266.2) in the OCA2 gene was also found in the proband. Sanger sequencing confirmed that the two variants c.1441G>A/p.A481T and c.1640T>G/p.L547R were inherited from his father. Moreover, qPCR assay revealed that the exons 10‐19 deletion was inherited from the mother, his sister also carried this variant. Fortunately, the variant was not detected in the amniotic fluid of the proband's sister. Multiple online bioinformatics tools predicted the variant c.1640T>G to be damaging, leading to the replacement of a highly conserved leucine with an arginine. The gross exon 10‐19 deletion in the OCA2 gene resulted in a truncated, non‐functional protein losing the 3–9 transmembrane α‐helices domains. According to the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics classification, these three variants in the OCA2 gene were evaluated as likely pathogenic.

Conclusion

This study has identified two novel compound variants in the OCA2 gene and a previously reported variant in a Chinese family with OCA. By expanding the mutation spectrum of the OCA2 gene, our findings contribute to a better understanding of the genetic basis of OCA.
Electroporation‐mediated genome editing in vitrified/warmed porcine zygotes obtained in vitro
Authors: Haraguchi Seiki , Dang‐Nguyen Thanh Q. , Kikuchi Kazuhiro , Somfai Tamás
Published: October 2023

Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)‐associated 9 (Cas9) system is the most efficient and widely used technology for genome editing in all sorts of organisms, including livestock animals. Here, we examined the feasibility of CRISPR/Cas9‐derived genome editing (GE) in vitrified porcine zygotes, where the flexible planning of experiments in time and space is expected. OCT4 and CD46 genes were targeted, and the Cas9/sgRNA ribonucleoprotein complexes (RNP) were electroporated into zygotes at 2 h after warming. Vitrification or GE alone did not significantly reduce the developmental rates to the blastocyst stage. However, vitrification followed by GE significantly reduced blastocyst development. Sequencing analysis of the resultant blastocysts revealed efficient GE for both OCT4 (nonvitrified: 91.0%, vitrified: 95.1%) and CD46 (nonvitrified: 94.5%, vitrified: 93.2%), with no significant difference among them. Immunocytochemical analysis showed that GE‐blastocysts lacked detectable proteins. They were smaller in size, and the cell numbers were significantly reduced compared with the control (p < 0.01). Finally, we demonstrated that double GE efficiently occurs (100%) when the OCT4‐RNP and CD46‐RNP are simultaneously introduced into zygotes after vitrification/warming. This is the first demonstration that vitrified porcine zygotes can be used in GE as efficiently as nonvitrified ones.
Managing the internet access
Authors: Bates Regis J. (‘Bud’)
Published: October 2023

Internet access can be a powerful tool as long as it is managed.
Web servers and the rise of the corporate ‘intranet’
Authors: Cline Gregory P.
Published: October 2023

This article is abstracted from a Business Research Group report as part of BRG's Network Integration and Management Research Program.
Proximal policy optimization learning based control of congested freeway traffic
Authors: Mo Shurong , Wu Nailong , Qi Jie , Pan Anqi , Feng Zhiguang , Yan Huaicheng , Wang Yueying
Published: October 2023

In this paper, a delay compensation feedback controller based on reinforcement learning is proposed to adjust the time interval of the adaptive cruise control (ACC) vehicle agents in the traffic congestion by introducing the proximal policy optimization (PPO) scheme. The high‐speed traffic flow is characterized by a two‐by‐two Aw Rasle Zhang nonlinear first‐order partial differential equations (PDEs). Unlike the backstepping delay compensation control,23 the PPO controller proposed in this paper consists of the current traffic flow velocity, the current traffic flow density and the previous one step control input. Since the system dynamics of the traffic flow are difficult to be expressed mathematically, the control gains of the three feedback can be determined via learning from the interaction between the PPO and the digital simulator of the traffic system. The performance of Lyapunov control, backstepping control and PPO control are compared with numerical simulation. The results demonstrate that PPO control is superior to Lyapunov control in terms of the convergence rate and control efforts for the traffic system without delay. As for the traffic system with unstable input delay value, the performance of PPO controller is also equivalent to that of backstepping controller. Besides, PPO is more robust than backstepping controller when the parameter is sensitive to Gaussian noise.
Effects of the injection molding processing settings on the phase morphology and mechanical anisotropy of thermoplastic vulcanizates
Authors: Mentges Noah , Çelik Hakan , Dahlmann Rainer , Hopmann Christian
Published: October 2023

Thermoplastic vulcanizates show significant anisotropic mechanical properties when processed to components via injection molding. This effect is related to a process‐dependent distortion of the incorporated elastomer particles in high‐shear regions during the injection phase. In a plate geometry, the elastomer particles in the shear regions are oriented and deformed in the flow direction. However, the ongoing distortion processes and the influencing factors of the process parameters on the resulting phase morphology and mechanical response are not entirely understood. Therefore, in this study, the effect of the injection molding machine settings for the production of a plate component on the local phase morphology and mechanical anisotropy is investigated. The investigations are conducted on two commercial material grades with different Shore‐A hardness 30 and 90. A significant inverse effect of the injection volume flow rate on the particle distortion and anisotropy is found. Increasing the volume flow rate results in a reduction of the anisotropy. This is counterintuitive from the experience of other materials with process‐dependent anisotropy. Also, a significant influence of the process on the overall stiffness of the compounds is observed.

Highlights

Sturcture–property relation for phase morphology in thermoplastic vulcanizates

Quantitative microstructure analysis in injection molded plates

Macroscopic analysis of anisotropic mechanical response under uniaxial loading

Effect analysis of injection molding parameters on the mechanical anisotropy

Additional effects of process settings on overall stiffness of the material
Proteome‐wide abundance profiling of yeast deletion strains for GET pathway members using sample multiplexing
Authors: Gygi Joel S. , Liu Xinyue. , Levi Benjamin P. , Paulo Joao A.
Published: October 2023

The GET pathway is associated with post‐translational delivery of tail‐anchored (TA) proteins to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) in yeast, as well as other eukaryotes. Moreover, dysfunction of the GET pathway has been associated with various pathological conditions (i.e., neurodegenerative disorders, cardiovascular ailments, and protein misfolding diseases). In this study, we used yeast deletion strains of Get complex members (specifically, Get1, Get2, Get3, Get4, and Get5) coupled with sample multiplexing‐based quantitative mass spectrometry to profile protein abundance on a proteome‐wide scale across the five individual deletion strains. Our dataset consists of over 4500 proteins, which corresponds to >75% of the yeast proteome. The data reveal several dozen proteins that are differentially abundant in one or more deletion strains, some of which are membrane‐associated, yet the abundance of many TA proteins remained unchanged. This study provides valuable insights into the roles of these Get genes, and the potential for alternative pathways which help maintain cellular function despite the disruption of the GET pathway.
Templated Droplet Evaporation‐Based Supraparticles in Environmental Applications
Authors: Dabodiya Tulsi Satyavir , Singh Kapil Dev , Verma Ravikant , Barman Bittesh , Zhang Xuehua
Published: October 2023

Designing of innovative technologies for the development of functional materials remain crucial for achieving sustainable technological advancements. In this regard, nanoparticles (NPs) possessing enormous potential properties can be obtained using various facile methods for several applications. Adopting NPs as primitive building blocks can initiate the formation of complex entities named supraparticle (SP) to create several advanced functional materials. Additionally, SPs enable entirely new material characteristics to the system, owing to their individual entities, intrinsic properties such as coupling, spatial arrangement, and co‐localization. Indeed, methods such as template‐induced evaporation‐based assembly of NPs direct the shape, size, and morphology of SPs from their respective colloidal dispersions on a solvent‐repellant solid surface. Therefore, it is important to comprehend the formation of SPs and their structure‐property relationship with respect to practical application. This review presents a brief overview of SPs assembly by outlining the templated‐assisted evaporation‐based methodologies for synthesizing SPs. Further, the effect of various factors on the interaction between colloidal entities, solvent, and substrate, leading to the genesis of SPs is elaborated. Conclusively, specific properties are described and applications of SPs for energy storage, generation, and environmental remediation are reported, which collectively brings many interdisciplinary research fields to the same podium.
Physical versus non‐physical effective nuclear masses for non‐adiabatic corrections to molecular spectra
Authors: Pinto J. Batista , Amaral Paulo H. R. , Diniz Leonardo G. , Mohallem José R.
Published: October 2023

Two types of developments for very accurate non‐adiabatic corrections to rovibrational molecular energy levels, one of a formal nature and the other of a heuristic nature, lead to fundamentally different approaches for effective nuclear masses. The former yields effective masses that have non‐physical interpretation at some ranges of nuclear distances. The later uses physical masses obtained from electronic structure calculations. This paper contains a brief review of the subject and proposes procedures to improve and generalize the heuristic approach. Comparisons are made of the results obtained by the two approaches for the H molecule, since no further calculations were found with the proper accuracy, but some issues involving the HeH ion and the water molecule are discussed. The conclusion is that the heuristic approach has many advantages over the formal one, namely, equivalent accuracy and physically grounded qualitative interpretation. But, moreover, it seems to be presently the only method that allows non‐adiabatic calculations for well isolated states of larger molecules.
Cryptozoospermia: Should we use ejaculated sperm or surgically retrieved sperm for assisted reproductive technology?
Authors: Hibi Hastuki , Tokoro Mikiko , Sonohara Megumi , Ihara Kazuho , Fukunaga Noritaka , Asada Yoshimasa
Published: October 2023

Purpose

In cryptozoospermic subjects, it may often may be difficult to secure motile sperm for assisted reproductive technology (ART). We examined the results of ART with frozen thawed ejaculated sperm in cryptozoospermic subjects and evaluated whether sperm retrieval surgery is necessary for such patients in our clinic.

Methods

Between 2013 and 2021, we evaluated 197 cryptozoospermic patients. Age, endocrine panel at the time of the initial semen analysis, and anti‐müllerian hormone levels at the time of the spouse's first egg retrieval were examined. Cryopreservation of ejaculated motile sperm collected essentially weekly over a 3‐month period was carried out. ART data recorded was the number of egg retrieval cycles, normal fertilization rate, and clinical pregnancy rate.

Results

ART using frozen sperm as well as sperm ejaculated on the day of egg retrieval was possible in all cases. The normal fertilization rate was 70.4%, the clinical pregnancy rate per embryo transferred was achieved in 31.5% (870 cycles), and the live birth rate per case was 73.8%.

Conclusions

Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) was possible without sperm retrieval surgery in cryptozoospermia, resulting in 73.8% of live births per patient. Sperm identification, sperm processing, and ICSI technique are especially important in cryptozoospermia. Sperm retrieval surgery can be avoided in cryptozoospermic patients.
A Holistic Additive Protocol Steers Dendrite‐Free Zn(101) Orientational Electrodeposition
Authors: Su Yiwen , Xu Liang , Sun Yingjie , Guo Wenyi , Yang Xianzhong , Zou Yuhan , Ding Meng , Zhang Qihui , Qiao Changpeng , Dou Shixue , Cheng Tao , Sun Jingyu
Published: October 2023

Orientation guidance has shown its cutting edges in electrodeposition modulation to promote Zn anode stability toward commercialized standards. Nevertheless, large‐scale orientational deposition is handicapped by the competition between Zn‐ion reduction and mass transfer. Herein, a holistic electrolyte additive protocol is put forward via incorporating bio‐derived dextrin molecules into a zinc sulfate electrolyte bath. Electrochemical tests in combination with molecular dynamics simulations demonstrate the alleviation of concentration polarization throughout accelerating Zn2+ diffusion and retarding their reduction. The predominant (101) texture on inert current collectors (i.e., Cu, Ti, and stainless steel) and (101)/(002) textures on Zn foils afford homogeneous electrical field distribution, which is contributed by the work difference to form the 2D nucleus and the adsorption of dextrin molecules, respectively. Consequently, the symmetric cell harvests a longevous cycling lifespan of over 4000 h at 0.5 mA cm−2/0.5 mAh cm−2 while the Zn@Cu electrode sustains for 240 h at a high depth of discharge of 40%.
CBD as a cure‐all? The impacts of state‐level legalization of prescription cannabidiol (CBD) on opioid prescriptions
Authors: Bersak Tim , Gearhart Richard , Michieka Nyakundi
Published: October 2023

We investigate the impacts of state legalization of products containing cannabidiol (CBD), a non‐psychoactive alternative to marijuana, on opioid prescribing rates. Research suggests that legalized medical marijuana may reduce opioid prescriptions, though no empirical link between CBD and opioids has been ascertained. Using county‐level prescribing rates between 2010 and 2019, as well as state‐level morphine milligram equivalent (MME) consumption of 8 common opioids, we estimate that state adoption of limited access cannabis product (CBD) laws leads to no change in opioid prescribing rates. Using supply‐side access measures for access to CBD through legal and open dispensaries, we find that the ability to purchase CBD legally leads to 6.6% to 8.1% fewer opioid prescriptions at pre‐legalization means, which suggests that access to CBD products is essential when evaluating the impacts of legalization; synthetic control model estimates suggest that legal and open dispensaries reduce opioid prescribing rates by nearly 3.5% 2 years post‐legalization. We also find that mandating CBD be purchased with an ID or through a patient registry offsets most potential benefits of CBD legalization. Our results provide the first empirical evidence that: (i) state legalization of prescription CBD alone does not reduce opioid usage; (ii) regulations limiting purchasing, such as ID laws, negate nearly all of the benefits of demand‐side legalization; and (iii) supply‐side access, either via interstate purchasing or legal and open dispensaries, are vital in using pain‐management substances to fully combat the opioid epidemic.
Persistent socket pain in a dog after the enucleation of the eye and its clinical management
Authors: Gómez Molins Andrea , Adami Chiara , Shing Hannah , Monticelli Paolo
Published: October 2023

Persistent socket pain is a condition described in humans after enucleation of the eye. This report aims at describing this condition in dogs.

A 10‐year‐old male‐neutered crossbreed was presented to the referral veterinary surgeon for enucleation of the right ocular globe. Anaesthesia and surgery were uneventful although during the postoperative period the dog was reluctant to open the mouth and to be explored by the referral veteterinary surgeon. Despite treatment with meloxicam, paracetamol and tramadol, no improvements were observed.

Ten weeks after surgery, the dog was referred to the Dick White referrals for further investigations. Ophthalmic examination was normal, though palpation of the wound triggered an avoidance response. Magnetic resonance imaging showed changes compatible with orbital cellulitis.

The area of interest was evaluated with the use of the mechanical Von Frey filaments. A response, characterised by sudden turning of the head and attempts to withdraw it, was evoked with filament 4.93 (8.0 g) during stimulation of the periorbital area.

After induction of anaesthesia, an ultrasound‐guided injection containing levobupivacaine 0.5% and methylprednisolone was performed within the retrobulbar area.

Three hours after recovery from anaesthesia, no discomfort was observed during palpation of the area. Re‐evaluation was performed with the Von Frey filaments; no response could be evoked during testing with all 20 filaments (from 2.36 to 6.65) applied on either side of the face.

The patient was discharged with a course of gabapentin and, 3 weeks after the intervention, the dog showed no clinical signs of pain.

Persistent socket pain is an unpleasant sensation at the level of the enucleated orbit, and it should be regarded as a challenging condition to diagnose and treat. The MRI findings appeared to be essential to select the most appropriate interventional treatment. The injection of local anaesthetic and steroid into the retrobulbar space was useful for both confirming the diagnosis and treating pain by reducing the peripheral signalling and decreasing the residual inflammation.
Electron Microscopy for Visualization of Interfaces in Adhesion and Adhesive Bonding
Authors: Horiuchi Shin
Published: October 2023

This chapter provides an overview of electron microscopy techniques to investigate interfaces in polymeric materials and adhesive bonds. First, how the instruments of energy-filtering transmission electron microscopy (EFTEM), scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) work and are operated is briefly described. The principles of electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry (EDX), which are spectroscopic techniques associated with these instruments, are described. Next, the specimen preparation techniques, such as ultramicrotomy, heavy metal staining, focused ion beam (FIB) fabrications, and replica method, which are essential for these electron microscopy tasks, are introduced. This chapter also reviews advanced electron microscopy techniques, such as STEM-EDX-tomography, chemical phase mapping using electron energy-loss near-edge structure (ELNES), and in situ tensile TEM. Numerous examples of the application of these techniques to various surfaces and interfaces present in polymer alloys and composites, crystalline polymers, adhesive bonds, and metal substrate surfaces are presented.
A heterotic Kodaira-Spencer theory at one-loop
Authors: Ashmore Anthony , Murgas Ibarra Javier José , McNutt David Duncan , Strickland-Constable Charles , Svanes Eirik Eik , Tennyson David , Winje Sander
Published: October 2023

Abstract

We consider a heterotic version of six-dimensional Kodaira-Spencer gravity derived from the heterotic superpotential. We compute the one-loop partition function and find it can be expressed as a product of holomorphic Ray-Singer torsions. We discuss its topological properties and potential gauge and gravitational anomalies. We show these anomalies can be cancelled using Green-Schwarz-like counter-terms. We also discuss the dependence on the background geometry, and in particular the choice of hermitian metric needed for quantisation. Given suitable topological constraints, this dependence may again be cancelled by the addition of purely background-dependent counter-terms. We also explain how our methods provide the one-loop partition functions of a large class of more general holomorphic field theories in terms of holomorphic Ray-Singer torsions.
Modulatory role of RNA helicases in MBNL-dependent alternative splicing regulation
Authors: Taylor Katarzyna , Piasecka Agnieszka , Kajdasz Arkadiusz , Brzęk Aleksandra , Polay Espinoza Micaela , Bourgeois Cyril F. , Jankowski Artur , Borowiak Małgorzata , Raczyńska Katarzyna D. , Sznajder Łukasz J. , Sobczak Krzysztof
Published: October 2023

Muscleblind-like splicing regulators (MBNLs) activate or repress the inclusion of alternative splicing (AS) events, enabling the developmental transition of fetal mRNA splicing isoforms to their adult forms. Herein, we sought to elaborate the mechanism by which MBNLs mediate AS related to biological processes. We evaluated the functional role of DEAD-box (DDX) RNA helicases, DDX5 and DDX17 in MBNL-dependent AS regulation. Whole-transcriptome analysis and validation approaches revealed a handful of MBNLs-dependent AS events to be affected by DDX5 and DDX17 in mostly an opposite manner. The opposite expression patterns of these two groups of factors during muscle development and coordination of fetal-to-adult splicing transition indicate the importance of these proteins at early stages of development. The identified pathways of how the helicases modulate MBNL splicing activity include DDX5 and DDX17-dependent changes in the ratio of MBNL splicing isoforms and most likely changes in accessibility of MBNL-binding sites. Another pathway involves the mode of action of the helicases independent of MBNL activity. These findings lead to a deeper understanding of the network of interdependencies between RNA-binding proteins and constitute a valuable element in the discussion on developmental homeostasis and pathological states in which the studied protein factors play a significant role.
IQA analysis of the two-particle density matrix: chemical insight and computational efficiency
Authors: Vincent Mark A. , Popelier Paul L. A.
Published: October 2023

The interacting quantum atoms (IQA) method offers a rigorous and minimal route to calculate atomic electron correlation energies from the two-particle density matrix (2PDM). The price paid is that this method is very time-consuming. However, employing CCSD and CCSD(T), we explore several approaches to speed up such calculations. We make the pivotal observation that the removal, from the true 2PDM, of both the Hartree–Fock part of the 2PDM and an approximate 2PDM (Müller) dramatically reduces the size of the quadrature grid needed to obtain accurate energies.
On the decomposition mechanism of propanal: rate constants evaluation and kinetic simulations
Authors: Della Libera Andrea , Di Teodoro Maristella , Pelucchi Matteo , Cavallotti Carlo
Published: October 2023

The reactivity of aldehydes has been the subject of considerable interest in chemical kinetics, with propanal often chosen as the representative species. Despite its relevance, the reactivity of propanal is currently estimated from analogy and fitting of experimental data measured in limited temperature and pressure ranges, while the few literature theoretical studies have focused more on the exploration the potential energy surface (PES) than on the estimation of rate constants. The purpose of this work is to reinvestigate the propanal decomposition kinetics using the ab initio transition state theory based master equation approach with the intent of: (1) Determining accurate rate constants of key reaction channels; (2) Updating and validating an existing kinetic model by simulating available experimental data on propanal pyrolysis. It is found that propanal decomposition at the initial stages of pyrolysis occurs through four unimolecular barrierless reactions to form CHO + C2H5, CH2CHO + CH3, CH3CHCHO + H, and CH3CH2CO + H, and a termolecular pathway leading to the formation of C2H4 + CO + H2. High pressure rate constants were determined for each barrierless reaction channel using Variable Reaction Coordinate Transition State Theory and used to estimate phenomenological temperature and pressure dependent channel specific rate constants integrating the 1 dimensional master equation over the whole PES. The decomposition rate constants so determined are in agreement with the few available experimental data and significantly faster than previous literature estimates. The estimated kinetic parameters were finally implemented into the CRECK kinetic mechanism, leading to an improved agreement with shock tube pyrolysis data from the literature.