bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bottom‐Up Extrusion‐Based Biofabrication of the Osteoid Niche
Authors: Parmentier Laurens , D'Haese Sophie , Carpentier Nathan , Dmitriev Ruslan I. , Van Vlierberghe Sandra
Published: November 2023

Bone regeneration remains a clinical challenge given the transplantation incidence rate and the associated economic burden. Bottom‐up osteoid tissue engineering has the potential to offer an alternative approach to current clinical solutions that suffer from various drawbacks. In this paper, deposition‐based bioprinting is exploited while the effect is explored of both the crosslinking mechanism (gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) versus gelatin norbornene (DS 91) crosslinked with thiolated gelatin (GelNBSH)) and the degree of substitution (GelNBSH versus norbornene‐norbornene‐modified gelatin (DS 169) crosslinked with thiolated gelatin (GelNBNBSH)) on the presented biophysical cues as well as on the osteogenic differentiation. The incorporation of tris(2‐carboxyethyl)phosphine (TCEP) to the step‐growth inks allows the production of reproducible and biocompatible scaffolds based on thiol‐ene chemistry. Dental pulp stem cell encapsulation in GelNBNBSH biofabricated constructs shows a favorable response due to the combination of its stress relaxation and substrate rigidity (bulk compressive modulus of 11–30 kPa) as reflected by a sevenfold increase in calcium production compared to the tissue engineering standard GelMA. This work is the first to exploit a controlled biocompatible and cell‐interactive thiolated macromolecular crosslinker (GelSH + TCEP) allowing the extrusion‐based biofabrication of low concentration (5 w/v%) modified osteogenic gelatin‐based inks (GelNBNBSH + TCEP).
3D Printed Tubulointerstitium Chip as an In Vitro Testing Platform
Authors: Addario Gabriele , Eussen Daphne , Djudjaj Sonja , Boor Peter , Moroni Lorenzo , Mota Carlos
Published: November 2023

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) ranks as the twelfth leading cause of death worldwide with limited treatment options. The development of in vitro models replicating defined segments of the kidney functional units, the nephrons, in a physiologically relevant and reproducible manner can facilitate drug testing. The aim of this study was to produce an in vitro organ‐on‐a‐chip platform with extrusion‐based three‐dimensional (3D) printing. The manufacturing of the tubular platform was produced by printing sacrificial fibers with varying diameters, providing a suitable structure for cell adhesion and proliferation. The chip platform was seeded with primary murine tubular epithelial cells and human umbilical vein endothelial cells. The effect of channel geometry, its reproducibility, coatings for cell adhesion, and specific cell markers were investigated. The developed chip presents single and dual channels, mimicking segments of a renal tubule and the capillary network, together with an extracellular matrix gel analogue placed in the middle of the two channels, envisioning the renal tubulointerstitium in vitro. The 3D printed platform enables perfusable circular cross‐section channels with fully automated, rapid, and reproducible manufacturing processes at low costs. This kidney tubulointerstitium on‐a‐chip provides the first step toward the production of more complex in vitro models for drug testing.
Logistics service strategy for e‐commerce supply chain: Interactive impacts of cost reduction effort and fairness concern
Authors: Chen Lin , Dong Ting , Pang Mo , Liu Qiurui , Wang Zhongrui , Rao Congjun
Published: November 2023

In recent years, the logistics industry has undergone tremendous development because of the growth of e‐commerce, providing supply chain members with various options for logistics service strategies. Furthermore, cost reduction effort (CRE) and fairness concern have become even more significant on the logistics operation for e‐commerce supply chain because of changing market conditions and consumer demands. Considering CRE and fairness concern, we propose a Stackelberg game model where the manufacturer acts as a leader to analyze how a manufacturer or a retailer strategically decides between two logistics service strategies, i.e., the manufacturer‐provided logistics service and the retailer‐provided logistics service. When the retailer provides logistics service in the absence of fairness concern, a “win‐win” outcome can be achieved. However, profit does not always increase in proportion to the logistics service cost factor when fairness concern is considered. Additionally, there is a situation where the optimal logistics service strategy for the manufacturer and the retailer is contrary to each other in different ranges of fairness concern intensity when the logistics service provider both has CRE and fairness concern. As a consequence, it becomes important for both the manufacturer and the retailer to balance their fairness concern and consider the effectiveness of CRE when making decisions about adopting logistics service strategy.
Improving seasonal prediction of summer rainfall over southern China using the BCC_CSM1.1m model‐circulation increment‐based dynamic statistical technique
Authors: Zhou Fang , Han Weiming , Zhang Dapeng , Cao Rong
Published: November 2023

A model‐circulation increment‐based dynamic statistical technique (MIDST) is proposed in this paper to improve the prediction of summer rainfall over southern China (SC) where quite low prediction skills have been found in the Beijing Climate Center Climate System Model version 1.1 with a moderate resolution (BCC_CSM1.1m). The results show that BCC_CSM1.1m can hardly represent the variability of the summer rainfall anomaly and its year‐to‐year increment over SC, and the skillful predictions are mostly confined over the middle reaches of the Yangtze River. Using the dynamic model output and statistical method, the MIDST is established to capture the coupled modes between the year‐to‐year increments of the summer rainfall anomaly and the associated simultaneous three‐dimensional coupled air‐sea circulation predictors. The cross‐validation indicates that the prediction skills of the MIDST are evidently improved for both the summer rainfall increment prediction and summer rainfall anomaly prediction compared with the direct BCC_CSM1.1m prediction. The skillful prediction can persist for long forecast leads over most regions except southwestern China. As the major predictability source of seasonal prediction, the intense response to changes in the circulation related to the El Niño‐Southern Oscillation (ENSO) is well captured, and thus, the performance improvement of the MIDST is primarily due to its more realistic representation of the incremental circulation related to the ENSO.
Tunable absorptive bandpass filter with two transmission zeros based on image parameter method
Authors: Cho Young‐Ho , Park Cheolsoo
Published: November 2023

A tunable absorptive bandpass filter with two transmission zeros is presented. A lowpass absorptive filter prototype consisting of a matching section and a m‐drive filter section is established based on image parameter method, and the filter elements are easily derived through the image impedance with the required return loss and transmission zeros. Moreover, the two transmission zeros are controlled by adjusting the parameters of the m‐drive filter section. A distributed tunable absorptive bandpass filter is realized based on the proposed lowpass filter prototype. The fabricated filter shows a return loss of 21–25 dB and an insertion loss of 2.1–2.8 dB at the center frequency within the tuning range of 1.35–1.58 GHz.
Proposed standard weight (W
s) equation and standard length categories for Goldeye
Authors: Miller Brett T. , Renner Elizabeth A. , Winders Kyle R. , Wellemeyer Juju C. , Kim Hae H.
Published: November 2023

Objective

Goldeye Hiodon alosoides relative weight (Wr) and proportional size distribution (PSD) have not been able to be evaluated in populations across their range. The objective of this project was to develop and assess standard weight (Ws) equations with three different techniques along with developing standard length categories for Goldeye.

Methods

Length and weight data for 64,435 Goldeye Hiodon alosoides from 96 populations across Canada and the United States were collected to develop a Ws equation. We developed standard weight equations for Goldeye with the regression-line-percentile (RLP), empirical-percentile linear (EmP-L), and empirical-percentile quadratic (EmP-Q) techniques.

Result

We propose the RLP equation as log10W = 2.979 × log10L − 4.979, the EmP-L equation as log10W = 3.048 × log10L − 5.151, and the EmP-Q equation as log10W = 1.254 × log10L + 0.365 × (log10L)2 − 2.950, where W is weight (g) and L is total length (TL, mm). We also developed PSD length categories of 13, 20, 26, 33, and 40 cm TL representing stock, quality, preferred, memorable, and trophy categories, respectively.

Conclusion

These Ws equations and standard length categories will aid fisheries biologists in assessing Goldeye populations holistically across their range when developing management strategies.
How we approach sharing child–caregiver PRO disagreement
Authors: Porter Amy S. , Hinds Pamela S. , Wiener Lori , Thompson Amanda L. , Weaver Meaghann S.
Published: November 2023

Researchers use patient‐reported outcomes (PRO) to capture the patient experience, and in pediatrics, parent report of symptom and function often accompanies the child's assessment. Children with cancer and their family caregivers frequently evaluate symptom burden and functional status differently. Child–caregiver PRO disagreement often worries pediatric oncology clinicians, who do not know how to best approach sharing it with families. Openly discussing differences in symptom and functional status reporting is a crucial element of supporting families and can improve family harmony throughout the child's illness journey. This paper offers strategies and language for communicating with families about PRO disagreement.
The effect of altered pH growth conditions on the production, composition, and proteomes of Helicobacter pylori outer membrane vesicles
Authors: Johnston Ella L. , Guy‐Von Stieglitz Sebastian , Zavan Lauren , Cross Jonathon , Greening David W. , Hill Andrew F. , Kaparakis‐Liaskos Maria
Published: November 2023

Gram‐negative bacteria release outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) that contain cargo derived from their parent bacteria. Helicobacter pylori is a Gram‐negative human pathogen that produces urease to increase the pH of the surrounding environment to facilitate colonization of the gastric mucosa. However, the effect of acidic growth conditions on the production and composition of H. pylori OMVs is unknown. In this study, we examined the production, composition, and proteome of H. pylori OMVs produced during acidic and neutral pH growth conditions. H. pylori growth in acidic conditions reduced the quantity and size of OMVs produced. Additionally, OMVs produced during acidic growth conditions had increased protein, DNA, and RNA cargo compared to OMVs produced during neutral conditions. Proteomic analysis comparing the proteomes of OMVs to their parent bacteria demonstrated significant differences in the enrichment of beta‐lactamases and outer membrane proteins between bacteria and OMVs, supporting that differing growth conditions impacts OMV composition. We also identified differences in the enrichment of proteins between OMVs produced during different pH growth conditions. Overall, our findings reveal that growth of H. pylori at different pH levels is a factor that alters OMV proteomes, which may affect their subsequent functions.
Recommending instead of taking down: YouTube hyperpartisan content promotion amid the Brazilian general elections
Authors: Santini Rose Marie , Salles Débora , Mattos Bruno
Published: November 2023

YouTube released a global commitment to reduce the spread of problematic content by actively recommending “trusted” news sources on their platform but did not disclose the criteria used to classify the reputation of channels and the list of trusted news sources favored by the company. We aim to understand the patterns of recommendation by YouTube's algorithm and identify what the platform classifies as “reliable informative sources.” In our experiment, we performed 205 tests on YouTube's recommendation system, simulating the behavior of new Brazilian users with no historical data on the platform looking for reliable news throughout the elections. We documented the Brazilian media groups that were suggested on the homepage, further analyzing the presence, position and content of Jovem Pan videos, Brazil's flagship conservative media group. We identified that, far from reigning in extremist content, YouTube systematically prioritized Jovem Pan and did not actively take down toxic Jovem Pan content. Our findings indicate that YouTube magnified the imbalance between candidates' portrayals, exposing the regulatory asymmetry between broadcast media and online platforms in the country. In spite of the opaque commercial agreements and business strategies, the platform's recommendation decisions may have an “advertising effect” of sponsorship and endorsement on users.
On the chemistry of furfuryl alcohol polymerization: A review
Authors: Iroegbu Austine Ofondu Chinomso , Ray Suprakas Sinha
Published: November 2023

This review dives into the intricate chemistry of furfuryl alcohol (FA) polymerization, a critical process for producing FA‐based resins (oligomers and polymers). Despite over a century of studies, the complexity of FA resinification continues to intrigue scientists, engendering extensive discourses. The inherent complexity and heterogeneity of FA resins have thwarted attempts to propose a universally applicable structural elucidation, prompting the investigation of numerous proposed mechanisms. Drawing upon an extensive corpus of literature, we survey various proposed mechanisms and representative structural attributes of a range of FA polymeric systems. The insights from a rich tapestry of experimental evidence collectively illuminate the manifold intermediates and pathways that characterize various FA polymerization techniques. A critical appraisal of prevailing debates and counterarguments offers a nuanced perspective on the diverse facets of FA polymerization chemistry. Moreover, this work underscores the latent potential of biobased chemistry, from the perspective of furan chemistry, as a potent catalyst for driving the essential objectives of de‐fossilization and sustainability within the chemical and materials industries. Subsequently, it provides valuable insights into the present state of knowledge on FA polymerization, thereby serving as a vanguard for delineating future research trajectories in this captivating field.
Cancer‐related stress in childhood cancer survivorship: Prevalence and associations with perceptions of health risks and quality of life
Authors: Himelhoch Alexandra C. , Olsavsky Anna L. , Darow Eva L. , Lipak Keagan G. , Kenney Ansley E. , Fisher Rachel S. , Prussien Kemar V. , Vannatta Kathryn A. , Compas Bruce E. , Gerhardt Cynthia A.
Published: November 2023

Objective

Limited research has characterized cancer‐related stress (CRS) among families of childhood cancer survivors. We examined the prevalence of CRS among survivors and caregivers, as well as its association with health risk perceptions (i.e., prognosis, risk for diminished quality of life) and views of survivor quality of life (QoL).

Methods

At five years post‐diagnosis or relapse, survivors (n = 100; Mage = 15.84 years; 89% White), mothers (n = 127), and fathers (n = 59) reported their CRS. Perceived prognosis and risk for diminished QoL were rated on a 0%–100% visual analogue scale, while the PedsQL assessed QoL.

Results

CRS was low (M = 1.6–1.8, scale: 1–4); mothers reported greater stress than survivors, p = 0.038, d = 0.25. There was an indirect effect of survivors' perceived prognosis on their QoL through CRS, CI = 0.04 to 0.25, R2 = 0.32. Among mothers, there was an indirect effect of perceived prognosis/risk for diminished QoL on their reports of survivor QoL through CRS, CI = 0.03 to 0.23 and −0.15 to −0.03, R2 = 0.28 and 0.32, respectively. There were no indirect effects among fathers.

Conclusions

CRS may be an important, modifiable factor that could improve survivors' QoL. Research is needed to examine how CRS changes over time to assess the utility of interventions among female survivors, mothers, and those with lower prognosis estimates.
Healthcare costs and resources utilization in children with difficult‐to‐control asthma treated with biologic therapies: A population‐based cohort study
Authors: Monzio Compagnoni Matteo , Conflitti Claudia , Capuano Veronica , Bonaiti Giulia , Franchi Matteo , Vimercati Chiara , Biondi Andrea , Luppi Fabrizio , Corrao Giovanni , Faverio Paola
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Asthma is one of the most common diseases in children, with a variable range of severity. In recent years, treatment for severe asthma has been largely improved by the availability of targeted biologic therapies. Nevertheless, studies reporting real‐world data and cost‐effectiveness analyses are lacking. The aim of this study was to evaluate, on a population‐based cohort of children with asthma, the impact of the treatment with biologics on healthcare service utilization and associated costs.

Methods

Data were retrieved from Healthcare Utilization database of Lombardy region (Italy). A cohort of 46 asthmatic children aged 6–11 in treatment with dupilumab, mepolizumab or omalizumab was identified during 2017–2021. We compared healthcare resources use between the year before (“baseline period”) and the year after the treatment initiation (“follow‐up period”). Average 1‐year healthcare costs were also calculated.

Results

Comparing the baseline with the follow‐up period, the number of patients with at least one exacerbation‐related hospitalization and ER access decreased by 75.0% and 85.7%, respectively. The use of biologic agents, namely omalizumab, mepolizumab and dupilumab, significantly reduced oral corticosteroids (OCS), short‐acting β2‐agonists and the association inhaled corticosteroids/long‐acting β2‐agonists use. ER admissions for non‐respiratory causes were also significantly reduced, while discontinuation rate was low (6.5%). The overall costs increased, due to the costs of the biologic agents, but the hospital admission‐related costs due to respiratory causes reduced significantly.

Conclusions

Our real‐world investigation suggests that biologic agents reduced hospital admissions for respiratory causes and use of anti‐asthmatic drugs, including OCS. However, long‐term healthcare sustainability still needs more in‐depth assessments.
Analysis of the thermal decomposition of munitions wastewater
Authors: Adhikari Roshan , Parziale Nick , Su Tsan‐Liang , Braida Washington , Christodoulatos Christos
Published: November 2023

The thermal decomposition of ammonium nitrate (AN) laden munitions wastewater and comparable control samples were studied under air and nitrogen environments at pressures from 0.1 MPa to 10 MPa. The decomposition enthalpies, measured using a Differential Scanning Calorimeter (DSC), and gaseous emissions, measured using a Fourier‐Transform Infrared Spectrometer (FTIR), were used to evaluate the quality of decomposition. Experiments demonstrated that higher pressures improved the energy yield and reduced the quantities of harmful
from the decomposition of all samples. At 10 MPa, experimentally measured decomposition enthalpy from the munitions wastewater was 1.8 MJ/kg, approximately 45 % of its standard enthalpy of decomposition, and NO and
accounted for only 0.7 % and 0.08 % of the nitrogen in the sample, respectively. The emissions stream from the wastewater was found to primarily consist of
,
,
and
. An analysis of the heat releases and the emissions showed that higher pressures improved the extent and enthalpy of decomposition by preventing premature loss of gaseous intermediates and sensible heat through the pin‐hole crucibles used in the experiments. Moreover, high pressures precluded the evaporation of water and promoted the decomposition of AN via a radical mechanism.
Preparation and performance characterization of temperature‐sensitive JP‐3 kerosene gel propellant
Authors: Yu Deng Han , Ang Zheng Zi , Xie A Ming , Lin Chen Ze , Cao Ping
Published: November 2023

Two types of JP‐3 kerosene gels were prepared using AC−C10 (N‐acetyl‐L‐isoleucyl decylamine, type A) and modified hydrogenated castor oil (type B) as gelling agents, and the gel formation mechanism between the two gelling agents and JP‐3 kerosene was investigated. The rheological properties of the gels, including stability, yield stress, shear thinning, and thixotropic behavior, were tested and discussed. The viscosity curves were fitted with the HBE constitutive equation and compared with the power‐law model. Non‐time‐dependent, time‐dependent, and temperature‐dependent constitutive equations of the kerosene gels were constructed. The effects of time and temperature on viscosity were analyzed. The results showed that the type B JP‐3 kerosene gel was more physically stable and less influenced by centrifugal force. Both types of gels exhibited a decrease in viscosity with increasing shear rate, indicating shear thinning behavior. Additionally, both gels demonstrated some degree of thixotropy, although the recoagulation was found to be weak. With an increase in temperature, the viscosity of the type A gel initially decreased, then increased, and finally decreased again until it approached the viscosity of kerosene at 75 °C. On the other hand, the viscosity of the type B kerosene gel gradually decreased and approached the viscosity of kerosene at 75 °C. Both types of gels exhibited high temperature sensitivity.
Characterizing lysine acetylation of glucokinase
Authors: Fatema Nour , Li Xinyu , Gan Qinglei , Fan Chenguang
Published: November 2023

Glucokinase (GK) catalyzes the phosphorylation of glucose to form glucose‐6‐phosphate as the substrate of glycolysis for energy production. Acetylation of lysine residues in Escherichia coli GK has been identified at multiple sites by a series of proteomic studies, but the impact of acetylation on GK functions remains largely unknown. In this study, we applied the genetic code expansion strategy to produce site‐specifically acetylated GK variants which naturally exist in cells. Enzyme assays and kinetic analyses showed that lysine acetylation decreases the GK activity, mostly resulting from acetylation of K214 and K216 at the entrance of the active site, which impairs the binding of substrates. We also compared results obtained from the glutamine substitution method and the genetic acetyllysine incorporation approach, showing that glutamine substitution is not always effective for mimicking acetylated lysine. Further genetic studies as well as in vitro acetylation and deacetylation assays were performed to determine acetylation and deacetylation mechanisms, which showed that E. coli GK could be acetylated by acetyl‐phosphate without enzymes and deacetylated by CobB deacetylase.
Toward a Laser‐Free Diamond Magnetometer for Microwave Fields
Authors: Zhao Pengju , Wang Haodong , Kong Fei , Wang Zhecheng , Guo Yuhang , Yu Huiyao , Shi Fazhan , Du Jiangfeng
Published: November 2023

The nitrogen‐vacancy (NV) center in diamond is a unique magnetometer. Its atomic size enables integrations of a tremendous amount (nNV) of NV centers in a bulk diamond with a sensitivity scaling as . However, such a bulk sensor requires a high‐power laser to polarize and read out the NV centers. The increasing thermal damage and additional noises associated with high‐power lasers hinder the growth of nNV, and thus limit the sensitivity at picotesla level. Here, it shows a relaxometry‐based microwave magnetometer that the power density is determined by the relaxation time T1. By cooling the diamond sensor to prolong the T1 (≈s), the required power density further reduces to , of the saturation value. This work paves the way for the utilization of large‐size diamond to promote the sensitivity of diamond magnetometer to femtotesla level and beyond.
Distributed extended state observer‐based fault‐tolerant control for nonlinear multi‐agent systems with switching topologies
Authors: Hua Xingxing , Dai Xin , Sun Shaoxin , Sun Yue
Published: November 2023

In this paper, a novel fault‐tolerant control scheme is designed and analyzed for multi‐agent systems (MASs) with incipient faults, disturbances, parameter uncertainties, time delay, and nonlinear terms, and the proposed MAS with switching communication topologies. Firstly, the proposed distributed extended state observer estimates the incipient fault and system states in follower agents, which extends the incipient fault vector to a new system state. Meanwhile, the designed observer considers the output errors of itself and other agents. Further, a state estimation feedback‐based fault‐tolerant controller is constructed, composed of a delay estimator and a non‐delay estimator to guarantee the proposed MASs have good operation performance. Then, some stability analysis conclusions of the MAS with incipient faults, time delay, disturbances, parameter uncertainties, and nonlinear terms are obtained. The proposed results can also be applied to practical systems like the wireless power transfer system. Finally, two simulation results are provided to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed fault‐tolerant control technique.
High‐Performance Li‐Ion and Na‐Ion Capacitors Based on a Spinel Li4Ti5O12 Anode and Carbonaceous Cathodes
Authors: Akshay Manohar , Jyothilakshmi Shaji , Lee Yun‐Sung , Aravindan Vanchiappan
Published: November 2023

Lithium‐ion hybrid capacitors (LICs) have become promising electrochemical energy storage systems that overcome the limitations of lithium‐ion batteries and electrical double‐layer capacitors. The asymmetric combination of these devices enhances the overall electrochemical performance by delivering simultaneous energy and power capabilities. Lithium titanate (Li4Ti5O12, LTO), a spinel zero‐strain material, has been studied extensively as an anode material for LIC applications because of its high‐rate capability, negligible volume change, and enhanced cycling performance. Here, the different synthetic methods and modifications of the intercalation‐type LTO to enhance the overall electrochemical performance of LICs are mainly focused. Moreover, the cathodic part (i.e., the activated carbon derived from various sources, including natural products, polymers, and inorganic materials) is also dealt with as it contributes substantially to the overall performance of the LIC. Not only do the anode and cathode, but also the electrolytes have a substantial influence on LIC performance. The electrolytes used in LTO‐based LICs as well as in flexible and bendable configurations are also mentioned. Overall, the previous work along with other available reports on LTO‐based LICs in a simplified way is analyzed.
Constructing tin oxides Interfacial Layer with Gradient Compositions for Efficient Perovskite/Silicon Tandem Solar Cells with Efficiency Exceeding 28%
Authors: Xiong Zhijun , Wu Long , Zhou Xiaoheng , Yang Shaofei , Liu Zhiliang , Liu Wentao , Zhao Jie , Li Wei , Yu Cao , Yao Kai
Published: November 2023

Atomic layer deposition (ALD) growth of conformal thin SnOx films on perovskite absorbers offers a promising method to improve carrier‐selective contacts, enable sputter processing, and prevent humidity ingress toward high‐performance tandem perovskite solar cells. However, the interaction between perovskite materials and reactive ALD precursor limits the process parameters of ALD‐SnOx film and requires an additional fullerene layer. Here, it demonstrates that reducing the water dose to deposit SnOx can reduce the degradation effect upon the perovskite underlayer while increasing the water dose to promote the oxidization can improve the electrical properties. Accordingly, a SnOx buffer layer with a gradient composition structure is designed, in which the compositionally varying are achieved by gradually increasing the oxygen source during the vapor deposition from the bottom to the top layer. In addition, the gradient SnOx structure with favorable energy funnels significantly enhances carrier extraction, further minimizing its dependence on the fullerene layer. Its broad applicability for different perovskite compositions and various textured morphology is demonstrated. Notably, the design boosts the efficiencies of perovskite/silicon tandem cells (1.0 cm2) on industrially textured Czochralski (CZ) silicon to a certified efficiency of 28.0%.
Precise Atomic Structure Regulation of Single‐Atom Platinum Catalysts toward Highly Efficient Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Jin Chunqiao , Huo Liuxiang , Tang Jianli , Li Shubing , Jiang Kai , He Qianqian , Dong Hongliang , Gong Yongji , Hu Zhigao
Published: November 2023

Noble metal single‐atom‐catalysts (SACs) have demonstrated significant potential to improve atom utilization efficiency and catalytic activity for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). However, challenges still remain in rationally modulating active sites and catalytic activities of SACs, which often results in sluggish kinetics and poor stability, especially in neutral/alkaline media. Herein, precise construction of Pt single atoms anchored on edge of 2D layered Ni(OH)2 (Pt‐Ni(OH)2‐E) is achieved utilizing in situ electrodeposition. Compared to the single‐atom Pt catalysts anchored on the basal plane of Ni(OH)2 (Pt‐Ni(OH)2‐BP), the Pt‐Ni(OH)2‐E possesses superior electron affinity and high intrinsic catalytic activity, which favors the strong adsorption and rapid dissociation toward water molecules. As a result, the Pt‐Ni(OH)2‐E catalyst requires low overpotentials of 21 and 34 mV at 10 mA cm−2 in alkaline and neutral conditions, respectively. Specifically, it shows the high mass activity of 23.6 A mg−1 for Pt at the overpotential of 100 mV, outperforming the reported catalysts and commercial Pt/C. This work provides new insights into the rational design of active sites for preparing high‐performance SACs.
High‐Performance Supercapacitors Using Hierarchical And Sulfur‐Doped Trimetallic NiCo/NiMn Layered Double Hydroxides
Authors: He Weikang , Li Jingjing , Zhang Yuanyuan , Yang Juan , Zeng Ting , Yang Nianjun
Published: November 2023

A supercapacitor features high power density and long cycling life. However, its energy density is low. To ensemble a supercapacitor with high power‐ and energy‐densities, the applied capacitor electrodes play the key roles. Herein, a high‐performance capacitive electrode is designed and grown on a flexible carbon cloth (CC) substrate via a hydrothermal reaction and a subsequent ion exchange sulfuration process. It has a 3D heterostructure, consisting of sulfur‐doped NiMn‐layered double hydroxide (LDH) nanosheets (NMLS) and sulfur‐doped NiCo‐LDH nanowires (NCLS). The electrode with sheet‐shaped NMLS and wire‐shaped NCLS on their top (NMLS@NCLS/CC) increases the available surface area, providing more pseudocapacitive sites. It exhibits a gravimetric capacity of 555.2 C g−1 at a current density of 1 A g−1, the retention rate of 75.1% when the current density reaches up to 20 A g−1, as well as superior cyclic stability. The assembled asymmetric supercapacitor that is composed of a NMLS@NCLS/CC positive electrode and a sulfurized activated carbon negative electrode presents a maximum energy density of 24.2 Wh kg−1 and a maximum power density of 16000 W kg−1. In this study, a facile strategy for designing hierarchical LDH materials is demonstrated as well as their applications in advanced energy storage systems.
Development of a VR Training System for Saito's Music Conducting Method
Authors: Fujiwara Katsuya , Sano Fumiya , Mitobe Kazutaka
Published: November 2023

It is important for university students studying elementary music education to master basic conducting gestures. We have developed a VR training system for self‐study of Saito's music conducting method. The system uses a depth camera and magnetic motion capture system to measure hand movements, and an HMD to superimpose the teacher's hand on the trainee's own hand. With the system, trainee can self‐study while visually and three‐dimensionally checking the motion and timing of the teacher's and the trainee's own hand gestures. In this paper, we describe an evaluation experiment with our system. The results showed that the VR environment is effective for learning three‐dimensional movements, and that the addition of a visual line display function for trajectories, a function to display trajectories from different viewpoints, and a replay function improves the learning effect. Specifically, the results of a short training session of 5 min revealed that the developed system was effective in bringing 75% of the trainees closer to the teacher's gesture. © 2023 Institute of Electrical Engineer of Japan and Wiley Periodicals LLC.
RETRACTED: Exploring the role of lactylation‐related genes in osteosarcoma: A deep dive into prognostic significance and therapeutic potential
Authors: Sun Jingdong , Li Yong , Chen Rui , Xie Yi , Wei Jie , Li Binbin
Published: November 2023

Osteosarcoma (OS), notorious for its complex pathogenesis and formidable prognosis, represents a significant medical quandary. This research embarked on a quest to unravel the implications of lactylation‐related genes (LRGs) in OS, offering a novel lens through which to interpret its intricacies. A meticulous evaluation of 329 LRGs within the TARGET dataset spotlighted 27 paramount genes, intricately intertwined with survival. These genes highlighted metabolic processes—particularly amino acid metabolism—as key players, as evidenced in both GO and KEGG analyses. Utilizing consensus clustering and principal component analysis, the 93 OS samples were segmented into two distinct groups, differing notably in overall and event‐free survival. Cluster 2 demonstrated a heightened immune response, contrasting the other cluster. Machine learning techniques, like generalized boosted model, CoxBoost, and RSF, spotlighted MYC and GOT2 as critical genes. Using multivariate Cox regression, a risk model was developed, categorizing patients into high and low‐risk groups, each displaying varied survival patterns. Additionally, a contrast was observed between MYC and GOT2's associations with HLA molecules, emphasizing their distinct roles in antigen presentation. Potential therapeutic avenues were identified for each risk group, with special attention to mutations in MYC, particularly amplifications, hinting at its role in tumor progression. Finally, delving deeper into the role of MYC, Western blot analyses exhibited amplified myc protein levels in OS cells U‐2 and MG‐63 when juxtaposed against human osteoblastic cells Hfob1.19. A focused knockdown of myc in OS cells subsequently confirmed its influence on cell proliferation and migration, with reduced myc expression resulting in inhibited cell activities. Furthermore, immunofluorescence assays corroborated myc's heightened expression in OS cells relative to normal osteoblastic cells. In summary, this study accentuates the vital role of LRGs and specifically MYC in OS, ushering in a horizon of tailored therapeutic strategies.
Citrate‐coated silver nanoparticles loaded with agomelatine provide neuronal therapy in acute cerebral ischemia/reperfusion of rats by inhibiting the oxidative stress, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and P2X7 receptor‐mediated inflammasome
Authors: Gelen Volkan , Özkanlar Seçkin , Kara Adem , Yeşildağ Ali
Published: November 2023

Cerebral ischemia and reperfusion are related to various situations like injuries after various traumas, oxidative stress, increased calcium ion, capillary hypoperfusion, microvascular hyperpermeability, leukocyte infiltration, and blood–brain barrier disruption. An antidepressant Agomelatine which is a melatonin receptor (MT1/MT2) agonist and serotonin receptor (5‐HT2C) antagonist has been reported by studies to have antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory effects. In our study, we aimed to detect the effects of citrate‐coated silver nanoparticle‐loaded agomelatine application on neurodegeneration, endoplasmic reticulum stress, autophagic and apoptotic cell death, inflammation, and P2X7R expression in the cerebral ischemia–reperfusion model to facilitate the passage of blood–brain barrier. Forty two Sprague–Dawley rats in total were divided into six equal groups (n:7) and applications were performed. Acute cerebral injury in the ischemia–reperfusion model was created 2 h after internal carotid artery ligation in rats and then at the 2nd hour of reperfusion citrate‐coated silver nanoparticles loaded with Agomelatine were applied. Twenty four hours later, neurologic analysis on animals in experimental groups was performed, animals were decapitated and GSH, GPx, SOD, CAT, MDA, IL‐1β, and TNF‐α parameters were examined after taking blood and the cerebral tissue samples. As a result, it was determined that ischemia–reperfusion caused endoplasmic reticulum stress in the cerebral tissues and thus caused cellular injury.
Assessment of Motor Unit Potentials Duration as the Biomarker of DT-DEC01 Cell Therapy Efficacy in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Patients up to 12 Months After Systemic–Intraosseous Administration
Authors: Niezgoda Adam , Biegański Grzegorz , Wachowiak Jacek , Czarnota Jarosław , Siemionow Krzysztof , Heydemann Ahlke , Ziemiecka Anna , Sikorska Maria H. , Bożyk Katarzyna , Siemionow Maria
Published: November 2023

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a lethal X-linked disease caused by mutations in the dystrophin gene, leading to muscle degeneration and wasting. Electromyography (EMG) is an objective electrophysiological biomarker of muscle fiber function in muscular dystrophies. A novel, DT-DEC01 therapy, consisting of Dystrophin Expressing Chimeric (DEC) cells created by fusing allogeneic myoblasts from normal donors with autologous myoblasts from DMD-affected patients, was assessed for safety and preliminary efficacy in boys of age 6–15 years old (n = 3). Assessments included EMG testing of selected muscles of upper (deltoideus, biceps brachii) and lower (rectus femoris and gastrocnemius) extremities at the screening visit and at 3, 6, and 12 months following systemic–intraosseous administration of a single low dose of DT-DEC01 therapy (Bioethics Committee approval no. 46/2019). No immunosuppression was administered. Safety of DT-DEC01 was confirmed by the lack of therapy-related Adverse Events or Serious Adverse Events up to 22 months following DT-DEC01 administration. EMG of selected muscles of both, ambulatory and non-ambulatory patients confirmed preliminary efficacy of DT-DEC01 therapy by an increase in motor unit potentials (MUP) duration, amplitudes, and polyphasic MUPs at 12 months. This study confirmed EMG as a reliable and objective biomarker of functional assessment in DMD patients after intraosseous administration of the novel DT-DEC01 therapy.
Strongly Proper Connected Coloring of Graphs
Authors: Dębski Michał , Grytczuk Jarosław , Naroski Paweł , Śleszyńska-Nowak Małgorzata
Published: November 2023

We study a new variant of connected coloring of graphs based on the concept of strong edge coloring (every color class forms an induced matching). In particular, an edge-colored path is strongly proper if its color sequence does not contain identical terms within a distance of at most two. A strong proper connected coloring of G is the one in which every pair of vertices is joined by at least one strongly proper path. Let $${{\,\textrm{spc}\,}}(G)$$

spc

(
G
)

denote the least number of colors needed for such coloring of a graph G. We prove that the upper bound $${{\,\textrm{spc}\,}}(G)\le 5$$

spc

(
G
)
≤
5

holds for any 2-connected graph G. On the other hand, we demonstrate that there are 2-connected graphs with arbitrarily large girth satisfying $${{\,\textrm{spc}\,}}(G)\ge 4$$

spc

(
G
)
≥
4

. Additionally, we prove that graphs whose cycle lengths are divisible by 3 satisfy $${{\,\textrm{spc}\,}}(G)\le 3$$

spc

(
G
)
≤
3

. We also consider briefly other connected colorings defined by various restrictions on color sequences of connecting paths. For instance, in a nonrepetitive connected coloring of G, every pair of vertices should be joined by a path whose color sequence is nonrepetitive, that is, it does not contain two adjacent identical blocks. We demonstrate that 2-connected graphs are 15-colorable, while 4-connected graphs are 6-colorable, in the connected nonrepetitive sense. A similar conclusion with a finite upper bound on the number of colors holds for a much wider variety of connected colorings corresponding to fairly general properties of sequences. We end the paper with some open problems of concrete and general nature.
Impact of physician-staffed ground emergency medical services-administered pre-hospital trauma care on in-hospital survival outcomes in Japan
Authors: Tsuboi Motohiro , Hibiya Manabu , Kawaura Hiroyuki , Seki Nozomu , Hasegawa Kazuki , Hayashi Tatsuhiko , Matsuo Kentaro , Furuya Shintaro , Nakajima Yukiko , Hitomi Suguru , Ogawa Kaoru , Suzuki Hajime , Yamamoto Daisuke , Asami Masahiro , Sakamoto Saki , Kamiyama Jiro , Okuda Yuko , Minami Kazu , Teshigahara Katsunobu , Gokita Masashi , Yasaka Koichi , Taguchi Shigemasa , Kiyota Kazuya
Published: November 2023

Purpose

In Japan, the vehicle used in pre-hospital trauma care systems with physician-staffed ground emergency medical services (GEMS) is referred to as a “doctor car”. Doctor cars are highly mobile physician-staffed GEMS that can provide complex pre-hospital trauma management using various treatment strategies. The number of doctor car operations for patients with severe trauma has increased. Considering facility factors, the association between doctor cars and patient outcomes remains unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the relationship between doctor cars for patients with severe trauma and survival outcomes in Japan.

Methods

A nationwide retrospective cohort study was conducted to compare the impact of the doctor car group with the non-physician-staffed GEMS group on in-hospital survival in adult patients with severe trauma. The data were analyzed using multivariable logistic regression models with generalized estimating equations.

Results

This study included 372,365 patients registered in the Japan Trauma Data Bank between April 2009 and March 2019. Of the 49,144 eligible patients, 2361 and 46,783 were classified into the doctor car and non-physician staffed GEMS groups, respectively. The adjusted odds ratio (OR) for survival was significantly higher in the doctor car group than in the non-physician staffed GEMS group (adjusted OR = 1.228 [95% confidence interval 1.065–1.415]).

Conclusion

Using nationwide data, this novel study suggests that doctor cars improve the in-hospital survival rate of patients with severe trauma in Japan. Therefore, doctor cars could be an option for trauma strategies.
Don’t let perfect be the enemy of good: how perfectionism influences human-centred designing engagement and communal design production in civil engineering
Authors: Al Kakoun Nathalie , Boy Frederic , Xavier Patricia
Published: November 2023

Perfectionism is a personality trait associated with a desire for flawlessness, high-standard expectations and criticism of the self and others. As engineering design seeks to address more wicked problems that move beyond technical considerations, it is possible that engineers with perfectionism may struggle to engage flexibly with complexity and more creativity-focused solutions. The present study seeks to understand perfectionism prevalence in an undergraduate cohort of civil engineers and the impact of this trait on complex design decisions and engagements that include social as well as technical considerations. 184 civil engineering students were involved in this study. We found that 74.5% of the engineers classify as perfectionists, with 68.5% of these perfectionists being maladaptive. Further, we examined how perfectionism associated with Communal Designs, a design approach that aims to meet physical community needs as well as more metaphysical, empathy-informed criteria. We found that although perfectionists were more likely to have higher scores of prosocialness and empathy, non-perfectionists were more likely to produce Communal Designs. This suggested an apparent intention-behaviour mismatch. Engineering students may have intended to but then failed to produce Communal Designs; this could also be explained via our finding that perfectionists tend to have higher social desirability scores. The results indicate that complex decision-making in engineering design cannot be separated from the mindsets and personalities of engineers. Strategies to mitigate the negative impact of perfectionism are discussed, including both supported exposure to open-ended, contextualised design, and the use of critical reflection. A regression model predictive of Communal Design production was also developed and discussed using engineering undergraduates’ personality characteristics’ scores as predictors.
Trauma-toxicology: concepts, causes, complications
Authors: Barth Holger , Worek Franz , Steinritz Dirk , Papatheodorou Panagiotis , Huber-Lang Markus
Published: November 2023

Trauma and toxic substances are connected in several aspects. On the one hand, toxic substances can be the reason for traumatic injuries in the context of accidental or violent and criminal circumstances. Examples for the first scenario is the release of toxic gases, chemicals, and particles during house fires, and for the second scenario, the use of chemical or biological weapons in the context of terroristic activities. Toxic substances can cause or enhance severe, life-threatening trauma, as described in this review for various chemical warfare, by inducing a tissue trauma accompanied by break down of important barriers in the body, such as the blood-air or the blood-gut barriers. This in turn initiates a “vicious circle” as the contribution of inflammatory responses to the traumatic damage enhances the macro- and micro-barrier breakdown and often results in fatal outcome. The development of sophisticated methods for detection and identification of toxic substances as well as the special treatment of the intoxicated trauma patient is summarized in this review. Moreover, some highly toxic substances, such as the protein toxins from the pathogenic bacterium Clostridioides (C.) difficile, cause severe post-traumatic complications which significantly worsens the outcome of hospitalized patients, in particular in multiply injured trauma patients. Therefore, novel pharmacological options for the treatment of such patients are necessarily needed and one promising strategy might be the neutralization of the toxins that cause the disease. This review summarizes recent findings on the molecular and cellular mechanisms of toxic chemicals and bacterial toxins that contribute to barrier breakdown in the human body as wells pharmacological options for treatment, in particular in the context of intoxicated trauma patients. “trauma-toxicology” comprises concepts regrading basic research, development of novel pharmacological/therapeutic options and clinical aspects in the complex interplay and “vicious circle” of severe tissue trauma, barrier breakdown, pathogen and toxin exposure, tissue damage, and subsequent clinical complications.