bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Current progress and future perspectives in total‐body positron emission tomography/computed tomography. Part II: Clinical applications
Authors: Chen Ruohua , Sun Tao , Huang Gang , Zhou Yun , Liu Jianjun
Published: March 2024

Total‐body positron emission tomography (TB‐PET) has significantly advanced from initial conception to global commercial availability. The high sensitivity of TB‐PET has led to superior lesion detection, thereby expanding the range of clinical applications. TB‐PET technology offers several advantages: (a) It enables the detection of small lesions, facilitating precise cancer staging and targeted cancer formulation. (b) The technology shortens the acquisition time while maintaining the quality of diagnostic images. (c) TB‐PET allows for a reduction in the amount of administered radiotracer, which minimizes image noise, reduces the effective radiation dose to patients, and enhances staff safety. (d) The scanner supports the development of new tracers and the dynamic imaging of these tracers throughout the entire body. (e) TB‐PET accommodates delayed scanning, which has been shown to improve the detection of small and previously undetected malignant lesions by enhancing the clearance in areas of significant background activity. (f) Owing to its high‐quality images, TB‐PET is suitable for parametric imaging, which offers several advantages over conventional standardized uptake value imaging. However, TB‐PET still faces several challenges. There is a lack of consensus on the optimal dose and scan duration for clinical diagnosis using TB‐PET. Additionally, unified standards for parametric imaging via TB‐PET are yet to be established, and the full clinical significance of this technology remains under‐explored. The accompanying review (Part 1) covers TB‐PET data manipulation and analysis.
Particulate matters 2.5 induce tumor progression in lung cancer by increasing the activity of hnRNPA2B1 resulting in retarding mRNA decay of oxidative phosphorylation
Authors: Bian Wen , Yu Haifeng , Zhang Xiaofei , Wang Yuxuan , Ni Bin
Published: March 2024

Particulate matter 2.5 (PM2.5) has been implicated in lung injury and various cancers, yet its precise mechanistic role remains elusive. To elucidate the key signaling pathways underpinning PM2.5‐induced lung cancer progression, we embarked on a study examining the impact of PM2.5 both in vitro and in vivo. Lung cancer cell lines, A549 and H157, were employed for the in vitro investigations. Overexpression or knockdown techniques targeting the hnRNPA2B1 protein were implemented. Lung cancer cells were treated with a medium containing PM2.5 and subsequently prepared for in vitro evaluations. Cell growth, invasion, and migration were gauged using transwell and CCK‐8 assays. Apoptosis was ascertained through flow cytometry and western blotting of pertinent proteins. Seahorse analyses probed the influence of PM2.5 on lung cancer energy metabolism. The RNA stability assay was employed to discern the impact of PM2.5 on the stability of oxidative phosphorylation‐related genes in lung cancer. Our findings revealed that PM2.5 augmented cell proliferation, migration, and invasion rates. Similarly, a diminished apoptosis rate was observed in PM2.5‐treated cells. Elevated expression of hnRNPA2B1 was detected in lung cancer cells exposed to PM2.5. Moreover, in cells treated with PM2.5, hnRNPA2B1 knockdown markedly curtailed cell proliferation by inducing G1–S cell cycle arrest and bolstered lung cancer cell apoptosis in vitro; it also curbed xenograft tumor growth. Mechanistically, our data suggest that PM2.5 undermines the stability of mRNA transcripts associated with oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) and augments the formation of processing bodies (P‐bodies), leading to an upsurge in OXPHOS levels. In conclusion, PM2.5 appears to drive lung cancer progression and migration by modulating the energy metabolism of lung cancer in a hnRNPA2B1‐dependent manner.
30–100 kHz, 2 ns passively Q‐switched laser for fast and efficient photoacoustic microscopy
Authors: He Hongsen , Wang Hanjie , You Huiyue , Dong Xin , Shi Jiawei , Dong Jun
Published: March 2024

Actively Q‐switched (AQS) fiber laser and solid‐state laser (SSL) are widely used for photoacoustic microscopy (PAM). In contrast, passively Q‐switched (PQS) SSL not only maintains most of the merits of AQS lasers, but also exhibits unique advantages, including the pulse width (PW), pulse repetition rate (PRR) tunability, wavelength, compactness, and cost. These advantages all benefit the PAM. However, there are few reports demonstrating the performance of PQS‐SSL on PA imaging. Here, we demonstrate a compact PQS‐SSL for fast and efficient PA imaging. The laser uniquely maintains a constant PW (~2 ns) and pulse energy (~3 μJ) during the PRR variation (30–100 kHz), which is valuable for preserving a stabilized imaging performance at different scanning rates. The PA imaging performance is compared by a resolution target and showcased by whole‐body scanning of an embryonic zebrafish in vivo. The performance indicates that PQS‐SSL is a promising candidate for PAM.
On the performance of composite schemes in determining equilibrium molecular structures
Authors: Sahoo Nitai P. , Franke Peter R. , Stanton John F.
Published: March 2024

Determination of equilibrium molecular structures is an essential ingredient in predicting spectroscopic parameters that help in identifying molecular carriers of microwave transitions. Here, the performance of two different ab initio composite approaches for obtaining equilibrium structures, “energy scheme” and “geometry scheme,” is explored and compared to semi‐experimental equilibrium structures. This study is performed for a set of 11 molecules which includes diatomics, linear triatomics, and a few non‐linear molecules. The ab initio calculations were performed using three tiers of composite chemical recipes. The current results show that as the overall rigor of calculation is increased, the semi‐experimental and the ab initio numbers agree to within 0.0003 Å for all molecules in the test set. The composite approach based on correcting the potential energy surface (energy scheme) and the one based on correcting the geometry directly (geometry scheme) show excellent agreement with each other. This work represents a step toward development of efficient and highly accurate procedures for computing ab initio equilibrium structures.
Interleukin‐35 protein inhibits osteoclastogenesis and attenuates collagen‐induced arthritis in mice
Authors: Yuan Lin , Li Yuxuan , Liu Dan , Zhang Hui , Yang Jie , Shen Hui , Xia Liping , Yao Lutian , Lu Jing
Published: March 2024

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease. Its pathological features include synovial inflammation, bone erosion, and joint structural damage. Our previous studies have shown that interleukin (IL)‐35 is involved in the pathogenesis of bone loss in RA patients. In this study, we are further evaluating the efficacy of IL‐35 on collagen‐induced arthritis (CIA) in the mouse model. Male DBA/1J mice (n = 10) were initially immunized, 2 μg/mouse IL‐35 was injected intraperitoneally every week for 3 weeks after the establishment of the CIA model. Clinical arthritis, histopathological analysis, and three‐dimensional micro‑computed tomography (3D micro‑CT) were determined after the mice were anesthetized on the 42th day. In vitro, RANKL/M‐CSF induced mouse preosteoclasts (RAW264.7 cells line) was subjected to antiarthritis mechanism study in the presence of IL‐35. The results of clinical arthritis, histopathological analysis, and 3D micro‑CT, the expression of RANK/RANKL/OPG axis, inflammatory cytokines, and osteoclastogenesis‐related makers demonstrated decreasing severity of synovitis and bone destruction in the ankle joints after IL‐35 treatment. Furthermore, IL‐35 attenuated inflammatory cytokine production and the expression of osteoclastogenesis‐related makers in a mouse preosteoclasts cell line RAW264.7. The osteoclastogenesis‐related makers were significantly reduced in IL‐35 treated RAW264.7 cells line after blockage with the JAK/STAT1 signaling pathway. These results demonstrated that IL‐35 protein could inhibits osteoclastogenesis and attenuates CIA in mice. We concluded that IL‐35 can exhibit anti‐osteoclastogenesis effects by reducing the expression of inflammatory cytokines and osteoclastogenesis‐related makers, thus alleviating bone destruction in the ankle joint and could be a potential therapeutic target for RA.
Ultrasound contrast‐enhanced diagnosis of testicular Leydig cell tumor: A case report and literature review
Authors: Yang Xu , Quan Li‐juan
Published: March 2024

Leydig cell tumor (LCT) is a rare testicular tumor. We report a case of an elderly male patient who discovered a left testicular mass during a regular health examination four years ago. The patient did not experience any significant discomfort and opted for regular follow‐up visits. During the most recent visit, we performed routine ultrasound and contrast‐enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) examinations. By observing the lesion's location, echogenicity, margins, vascular distribution, as well as the rapid enhancement and slow washout characteristics on contrast‐enhanced ultrasound, we arrived at a diagnosis of LCT. Subsequently, the patient underwent left inguinal orchiectomy. Postoperative pathology and immunohistochemistry confirmed the diagnosis of LCT. Additionally, we conducted a comprehensive review of LCT‐related literature from PubMed and SCOPUS, summarizing the clinical features, follow‐up duration, prognosis, and ultrasound characteristics associated with LCT.
Structure‐based design of diarylpyrimidines and triarylpyrimidines as potent HIV‐1 NNRTIs with improved metabolic stability and drug resistance profiles
Authors: Xie Minghui , Wang Zhao , Zhao Fabao , Li Ye , Zhuo Zongji , Li Xin , De Clercq Erik , Pannecouque Christophe , Zhan Peng , Liu Xinyong , Kang Dongwei
Published: March 2024

Non‐nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs) are an important component of anti‐acquired immunodeficiency syndrome treatment regimen. In the present work, with the previously reported compound K‐16c as lead, a series of novel 2,4,5‐trisubstituted pyrimidine derivatives were designed based on the cocrystal structure of K‐16c/RT, with the aim to improve the anti‐human immunodeficiency virus type‐1 (HIV‐1) activities and metabolic stability properties. Compound 11b1 exhibited the most potent antiviral activity against wild‐type (WT) and a panel of single mutant HIV‐1 strains (EC50 = 2.4−12.4 nM), being superior to or comparable to those of the approved drug etravirine. Meanwhile, 11b1 exhibited moderate cytotoxicity (CC50 = 4.96 μM) and high selectivity index (SI = 1189) toward HIV‐1 WT strain. As for HIV‐1 RT inhibition test, 11b1 possessed excellent inhibitory potency (IC50 = 0.04 μM) and confirmed its target was RT. Moreover, the molecular dynamics simulation was performed to elucidate the improved drug resistance profiles. Moreover, 11b1 was demonstrated with favorable safety profiles and pharmacokinetic properties in vivo, indicating that 11b1 is a potential anti‐HIV‐1 drug candidate worthy of further development.
Prognostic impact of oral anticoagulation therapy and atrial fibrillation in patients with type B acute aortic dissection
Authors: Ishizue Naruya , Fukaya Hidehira , Oikawa Jun , Sato Nobuhiro , Ogiso Sho , Murayama Yusuke , Nakamura Hironori , Kishihara Jun , Niwano Shinichi , Ako Junya
Published: March 2024

Background

The prognostic impact of atrial fibrillation (AF) and oral anticoagulation (OAC) therapy in patients with type B acute aortic dissection (AAD) remains unclear. Therefore, we investigated the prognostic impact of AF and OAC therapy in patients with type B AAD.

Methods

Consecutive patients diagnosed with AAD were included in this single‐center, retrospective study. Patients with type B AAD were selected from the study population and divided into three groups: AF(+)/OAC(+), AF(+)/OAC(−), and AF(−)/OAC(−). The primary end point was major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCE), including all‐cause death, progressive aortic events, cerebral infarction, and organ malperfusion.

Results

In total, 139 patients diagnosed with type B AAD were analyzed. AF was observed in 27 patients (19%). Among them, 13 patients (9%) received OAC therapy for AF. MACCE occurred in 32 patients (23%) during the observation period: all‐cause death in four patients, progressive aortic events in 24 patients, cerebral infarction events in two patients, and malperfusion events in two patients. The incidence of MACCE was higher in the AF(+)/OAC(+) group than in the AF(+)/OAC(−) group (hazard ratio[HR]: 3.875; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.153–17.496). In contrast, there was no significant difference in the incidence of MACCE between the AF(+)/OAC(−) and AF(−)/OAC(−) groups (HR: 1.001, 95% CI: 0.509–1.802).

Conclusion

Among patients with type B AAD, the use of OAC for AF was associated with a higher risk of MACCE.
Robustness of hydrometeorological extremes in surrogated seasonal forecasts
Authors: Klehmet Katharina , Berg Peter , Bozhinova Denica , Crochemore Louise , Du Yiheng , Pechlivanidis Ilias , Photiadou Christiana , Yang Wei
Published: March 2024

Water and disaster risk management require accurate information about hydrometeorological extremes. However, estimation of rare events using extreme value analysis is hampered by short observational records, with large resulting uncertainties. Here, we present a surrogate world setup that makes use of data samples from meteorological and hydrological seasonal re‐forecasts to explore extremes for long return periods. The surrogate timeseries allow us to pool the re‐forecasts into 1000‐year‐long timeseries. We can then calculate return values of extremes and explore how they are affected by the size of sub‐samples as method for estimating the uncertainty. The approach relies on the fact that probabilistic seasonal re‐forecasts, initialized with perturbed initial conditions, have limited predictive skill with increasing lead time. At long lead times re‐forecasts will diverge into independent samples. The meteorological seasonal re‐forecasts are taken from the SEAS5 system, and hydrological re‐forecasts are generated with the E‐HYPE process‐based model for the pan‐European domain. Extreme value analysis is applied to annual maxima of precipitation and streamflow for return periods of 100 years. The analysis clearly demonstrates the large uncertainty in long return period estimates with typical available samples of only few decades. The uncertainty is somewhat reduced for 100‐year samples, but several 100 years seem to be necessary to have robust estimates. The bootstrap with replacement approach is applied to shorter timeseries, and is shown to well reproduce the uncertainty range of the longer samples. However, the main estimate of the return value can be significantly offset. Although the method is model based, with the associated uncertainties and bias compared to the real world, the surrogate approach is likely useful to explore rare and compounding extremes.
A multicenter registry study on percutaneous electrical nerve field stimulation for pediatric disorders of gut–brain interaction
Authors: Chogle Ashish , El‐Chammas Khalil , Santucci Neha , Grimm Monica , Dorfman Lev , Graham Kahleb , Kelly Daniel R. , Dranove Jason E. , Rosen Rachel , Nurko Samuel , Croffie Joseph , Balakrishnan Keshawadhana , Chiou Eric H. , Zhang Liyun , Simpson Pippa , Karrento Katja
Published: March 2024

Objectives

Percutaneous electrical nerve field stimulation (PENFS) has demonstrated promise in single‐center trials for pediatric abdominal pain‐related disorders of gut–brain interaction (DGBI). Our aim was to explore efficacy of PENFS as standard therapy for DGBI in a registry involving multiple pediatric gastroenterology referral centers.

Methods

This was a multicenter, prospective open‐label registry of children (8–18 years) undergoing PENFS for DGBI at seven tertiary care gastroenterology clinics. DGBI subtypes were classified by Rome IV criteria. Parents and patients completed Abdominal Pain Index (API), Nausea Severity Scale (NSS), and Functional Disability Inventory (FDI) questionnaires before, during therapy and at follow‐up visits up to 1 year later.

Results

A total of 292 subjects were included. Majority (74%) were female with median (interquartile range [IQR]) age 16.3 (14.0, 17.7) years. Most (68%) met criteria for functional dyspepsia and 61% had failed ≥4 pharmacologic therapies. API, NSS, and FDI scores showed significant declines within 3 weeks of therapy, persisting long‐term in a subset. Baseline (n = 288) median (IQR) child‐reported API scores decreased from 2.68 (1.84, 3.58) to 1.99 (1.13, 3.27) at 3 weeks (p < 0.001) and 1.81 (0.85, 3.20) at 3 months (n = 75; p < 0.001). NSS scores similarly improved from baseline, persisting at three (n = 74; p < 0.001) and 6 months later (n = 55; p < 0.001). FDI scores displayed similar reductions at 3 months (n = 76; p = 0.01) but not beyond. Parent‐reported scores were consistent with child reports.

Conclusions

This large, comprehensive, multicenter registry highlights efficacy of PENFS for gastrointestinal symptoms and functionality for pediatric DGBI.
Catheter salvage from central line‐related bloodstream infections in pediatric intestinal failure
Authors: Larson‐Nath Catherine , Wendt Linder , Rahhal Riad
Published: March 2024

Objectives

Patients with intestinal failure require central venous access which puts them at risk for central line‐associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI). Maintaining vascular patency is critical for this population to receive nutrition support. When CLABSIs occur line salvage can help maintain vascular access. The aim of this study is to assess factors associated with safe and successful central venous catheter salvage.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study of patients with intestinal failure at two tertiary care institutions between 2012 and 2020. The study examined the rates of attempted salvage, factors associated with successful salvage, and complications associated with salvage attempts.

Results

Over the study period, 76 patients with intestinal failure were include while central venous access was in place. There were a total of 94 CLABSIs. Salvage was more likely to be attempted when patients were under the direct care of an intestinal rehabilitation service (95% vs. 68%, p = 0.04). The overall successful salvage rate was 91.6% (n = 77). Gram‐positive, Gram‐negative, and polymicrobial infections had successful salvage rates of 97%, 92%, and 94% respectively. The successful salvage rate for fungal infections was 40%. There was no difference in 30‐day complication rates for hospital readmission, intensive care unit admission, and death between patients who underwent salvage attempt and those who did not.

Conclusions

Central line salvage can be safely attempted for many infections in patients with intestinal failure, leading to vascular access preservation.
Persistent and newly developed gastrointestinal symptoms after surgery for intestinal malrotation in children: Dysmotility or disorders of gut and brain interaction?
Authors: Patel Dhiren , Banks Darnna , Hira Bindi , Ford Madeline , Ambartsumyan Lusine , Rodriguez Leonel
Published: March 2024

Objectives

Surgery for intestinal malrotation (IM) aims to correct the defect and improve symptoms; however, many have persistent gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms postoperatively. We evaluated the incidence, clinical presentation, and long‐term outcomes of children with surgically repaired IM and its possible association with disorders of gut and brain interaction (DGBI).

Methods

Multicenter retrospective study was conducted in patients from 0 to 21 years old, who had surgery for IM from 2000 to 2021 across three pediatric tertiary care centers. Data analyzed included demographics, time to diagnosis, idiopathic diagnosis, incidental diagnosis, postoperative follow‐up, surgical time, and the need for surgery including bowel detorsion. Outcome variables were the presence of postoperative GI symptoms and DGBIs, and overall resolution of symptoms. We also evaluated the potential association of demographics and other included variables with our outcome variables.

Results

Ninety‐two patients with surgically corrected IM were included, 54% were male, and median age of diagnosis and surgical correction was 4.9 and 7.8 months, respectively. Median follow‐up after surgery was 64 months. A total of 77% had postoperative GI symptoms, and notably, 78% of patients without symptoms before surgery (incidental diagnosis) developed GI symptoms postoperatively and 27% of patients met Rome IV criteria for a one or more DGBI. No factors were associated to the presence of postoperative symptoms or DGBIs in multivariate analysis. Female gender was the only factor associated with lack of resolution of symptoms at follow‐up.

Conclusion

Pediatric IM is commonly associated with postoperative GI symptoms and DGBI well beyond surgery. An increased awareness about the prevalence of DGBI in these patients may help reach a prompt and accurate diagnosis, and improve their quality of life.
Defining the Shape of the Mylohyoid Muscle: A Morphometric Imaging Study
Authors: Magaña Linda C. , Branstetter Barton F. , Soose Ryan J.
Published: March 2024

Objectives

Implantable hypoglossal nerve stimulation (HNS) therapy is an evolving therapeutic alternative for patients with refractory obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The muscular anatomy of this region has implications for surgical access through this zone as well as positioning and anchoring of hardware in this area. The purpose of this study was to radiologically describe the topography of the mylohyoid muscle and adjacent structures across a wide age spectrum.

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated computed tomography scans of the neck in 102 patients who were imaged for reasons unrelated to the floor of mouth or submental space. Patients with prior surgery or pathology in the area of interest were excluded. Fourteen relevant muscle measurements were made on a midline sagittal image and a coronal image positioned at the midpoint between the hyoid bone and the mandible.

Results

We included 49 men and 53 women with an average age of 44 years (range 19–70). The average mylohyoid length was 42 mm; the average distance between the anterior digastric bellies was 17 mm. The average angle of the central mylohyoid was 174° in the sagittal plane and 164° in the coronal plane. Several measurements were significantly correlated with patient age, including the angle measurements and the distance between the digastric muscles. Aberrant digastric anatomy was common.

Conclusions

The mylohyoid muscle has multiple radiologically distinct segments with predictable curvatures. An understanding of submental muscular anatomy, along with its variability between patients, may be beneficial to the development of bilateral implantable neurostimulation technology for the treatment of refractory OSA.

Level of Evidence

N/A Laryngoscope, 134:2970–2975, 2024
Integrated Multi‐Color Raman Microlasers with Ultra‐Low Pump Levels in Single High‐Q Lithium Niobate Microdisks
Authors: Zhao Guanghui , Lin Jintian , Fu Botao , Gao Renhong , Li Chuntao , Yao Ni , Guan Jianglin , Li Minghui , Wang Min , Qiao Lingling , Cheng Ya
Published: March 2024

Integrated Raman microlasers, particularly discrete multi‐color lasers which are crucial for extending the emission wavelength range of chip‐scale laser sources to much shorter wavelengths, are highly in demand for various spectroscopy, microscopy analysis, and biological detection applications. However, integrated multi‐color Raman microlasers have yet to be demonstrated because of the requirement of high‐Q microresonators possessing large χ(2) nonlinearity, strong Raman phonon branches, and the challenge in the cavity‐enhanced multi‐photon hyper‐Raman scattering parametric process. In this work, integrated multi‐color Raman lasers have been demonstrated for the first time at weak pump levels, via the excitation of high‐Q (> 6 × 106) phase‐matched modes in single thin‐film lithium niobate (TFLN) microresonators by dispersion engineering. Raman lasing is observed at 1712 nm for a 1547‐nm pump threshold power of only 620 µW, representing the state of the art in the TFLN platform. Furthermore, multi‐color Raman lasers are realized at discrete wavelengths of 1712, 813, 533, and 406 nm with pump levels as low as 1.60 mW, which is more than two orders of magnitude lower than the current records (i.e., 200 mW) in bulk resonators, allowed by the fulfillment of the requisite conditions consisting of broadband natural phase match, multiple‐resonance, and high‐Q factors.
Environmental, social, and governance performance analysis of financially constrained firms: Does executives' managerial ability make a difference?
Authors: Zahid R. M. Ammar , Khan Muhammad Kaleem , Maqsood Umer Sahil , Nazir Marina
Published: March 2024

Managers at all levels have been making efforts to improve environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance in response to mounting pressure from stakeholders. This research examines the relationship between the managers capabilities and their ability to achieve high ESG performance, particularly in challenging and restricting financial environments. This research also uncovers the process through which competent managers reduce the financial restrictions of businesses. Panel regressions are estimated on a dataset of 6294 firm years of Chinese listed companies from 2010 to 2019. Our study findings demonstrate that chief executive officers (CEOs) with strong management skills exhibit a positive correlation with their company's ESG performance and its subcomponents. Moreover, financial constraints exert a negative moderating effect on the relationship between CEO management competence and ESG performance. Specifically, competent CEOs of financially constrained organizations prioritize ESG performance more significantly than their counterparts in companies without financial limitations. The findings are robust to various estimating methods.
Resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging reveals functional connectivity alteration in the experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis model of multiple sclerosis
Authors: Bontempi Pietro , Piccolantonio Giusi , Busato Alice , Conti Anita , Angelini Gabriele , Lopez Nicola , Bani Alessandro , Constantin Gabriela , Marzola Pasquina
Published: March 2024

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune degenerative disease targeting white matter in the central nervous system. The most common animal model that mimics MS is experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) and it plays a crucial role in pharmacological research, from the identification of a therapeutic target to the in vivo validation of efficacy. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is largely used to detect MS lesions, and resting‐state functional MRI (rsfMRI) to investigate alterations in the brain functional connectivity (FC). MRI was mainly used in EAE studies to detect lesions in the spinal cord and brain. The current longitudinal MRI study aims to validate rsfMRI as a biomarker of the disease progression in the myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein 35–55 induced EAE animal model of MS. MR images were acquired 14, 25, and 50 days postimmunization. Seed‐based analysis was used to investigate the whole‐brain FC with some predefined areas, such as the thalamic regions, cerebellum, motor and somatosensory cortex. When compared with the control group, the EAE group exhibited a slightly altered FC and a decreasing trend in the total number of activated voxels along the disease progression. The most interesting result regards the whole‐brain FC with the cerebellum. A hyperconnectivity behavior was found at an early phase and a significant reduced connectivity at a late phase. Moreover, we found a negative correlation between the total number of activated voxels during the late phase and the cumulative disease index. The results obtained provide a clinically relevant experimental platform that may be pivotal for the elucidation of the key mechanisms of accumulation of irreversible disability, as well as the development of innovative therapies for MS. Moreover, the negative correlation between the disease severity and the size of the activated area suggests a possible research pathway to follow for the resolution of the clinico‐radiological paradox.
Measuring returns to experience using supervisor ratings of observed performance: The case of classroom teachers
Authors: Bell Courtney , James Jessalynn , Taylor Eric S. , Wyckoff James
Published: March 2024

We study the returns to experience in teaching, estimated using supervisor ratings from classroom observations. We describe the assumptions required to interpret changes in observation ratings over time as the causal effect of experience on performance. We compare two difference‐in‐differences strategies: the two‐way fixed effects estimator common in the literature, and an alternative which avoids potential bias arising from effect heterogeneity. Using data from Tennessee and Washington, DC, we show empirical tests relevant to assessing the identifying assumptions and substantive threats—e.g., leniency bias, manipulation, changes in incentives or job assignments—and find our estimates are robust to several threats.
Impact of strain rate on mechanical properties of polylatic acid fabricated by fusion deposition modeling
Authors: Balasubramanian Muthuselvan , Saravanan R. , Shanmugam Vigneshwaran
Published: March 2024

The primary objective of this research is to investigate the impact of strain rate on the mechanical properties of polylactic acid (PLA) fabricated through fused deposition modeling. PLA material was fabricated in a grid pattern with 75% infill density, a 0.16 mm layer height, and a ± 45° printing direction. This study specifically investigated tensile strength, flexural strength, and interlaminar strength with respect to varying crosshead speeds (1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 mm/min). The highest tensile strength noted was 40.13 MPa at a cross—head speed of 5 mm/min. Maximum elongation of 7.1% was noted on cross head velocity of 1 mm/min, and the maximum interlaminar strength reached 76.04 MPa at 4 mm/min. At a crosshead speed of 4 mm/min, the tensile strength measured was 38.36 MPa, which is a value close to the maximum result achieved in the tensile test. Interlaminar strength was notably higher at a crosshead speed of 4 mm/min, indicating a strong integrity of the printed layers. The values for elongation percentage and flexural strength were also moderate at a crosshead speed of 4 mm/min, which was 4.9% and 55 MPa, respectively. Therefore, crosshead speed of 4 mm/min appears to be an optimum factor for testing 3D printed PLA parts. This research sheds light on understanding the critical influence of strain rate in the mechanical performance of 3D printed PLA.
Fabrication of liquid crystal Fe3O4 composites and their magnetorheological properties
Authors: Wang Keyi , Chang Xiaolong , Diao Yi , Li Mingda , Liu Fan , Meng Fanbao
Published: March 2024

Some supramolecular polyacrylate‐based liquid crystal polymers (PLCPs) were prepared by polyacrylic acid, a liquid crystal monomer and 3,5‐pyridinedicarboxylic acid. Series of magnetic liquid crystal particles (Fe3O4@PLCPs) with core‐shell structure were prepared by modifying surface of magnetic nanoparticles Fe3O4 by the PLCPs. The Fe3O4@PLCPs showed a saturation magnetization strength above 51.17 emu/g, which is similar to pure magnetic Fe3O4, indicating good magnetism and magnetic field dependence. Series of magnetorheological fluids were fabricated by Fe3O4@PLCPs (using as dispersed phase) and silicone oil (using as carrier liquid). The effects of mesogen, magnetic particle, and the polymer matrix on magnetorheological performance and settling stability were investigated. The magnetorheological fluid based on 10% Fe3O4@PLCP‐1 showed the best performance at an applied magnetic field of 100 mT in this study. Furthermore, the magnetorheological fluids showed excellent settling stability because the density of Fe3O4@PLCPs was lower than that of Fe3O4. The Fe3O4@PLCPs‐based fluids presented certain application potential in the field of magnetic fluid due to the excellent magnetorheological effect and settling stability.
Labyrinthine cor triatriatum sinister in fetal hypoplastic left heart syndrome is associated with poor outcomes
Authors: Qasim Amna , Doan Tam T. , Furtun Betul Yilmaz , Binsalamah Ziyad , Adachi Iki , Morris Shaine A.
Published: March 2024

Objectives

A subset of hypoplastic‐left‐heart‐syndrome (HLHS) fetuses have a complex cor‐triatriatum sinister that we named “labyrinthine‐cor (L‐cor)”. We sought to determine the prevalence of L‐cor in HLHS fetuses and hypothesized that it is associated with increased mortality.

Methods

This single‐center retrospective cohort study included all HLHS fetuses from January 2010‐December 2020. Fetuses with other hypoplastic‐left‐heart variants, inadequate images, lack of follow‐up and fetal atrial‐septal interventions were excluded. RAS was defined as the ratio of pulmonary‐vein forward‐to‐reverse velocity‐time‐integral (VTI) ≤ 5 and severe‐RAS defined as VTI‐ratio <3. Kaplan‐Meier survival‐analysis was performed for the primary outcome of transplant‐free survival for 62 weeks after gestational‐age of 30 weeks (∼1 year).

Results

Of the 156 consecutive fetuses with HLHS, 11 (7.7%) had L‐cor and 8/11 (72.7%) of these had RAS. When compared to HLHS‐RAS without L‐cor, fetuses with HLHS‐RAS and L‐cor were less likely to survive to 28 days (87% vs. 62.5%, p = 0.017) and to 1 year (69.6% vs. 25%, p = 0.029). When comparing by survival analysis, fetuses with severe‐RAS with L‐cor had lower survival compared severe‐RAS without L‐cor (p = 0.020).

Conclusion

L‐cor in fetal HLHS is associated with increased mortality. Recognition of this finding is important for prognostication and atrial‐septal‐intervention planning.
A case of nephrocalcinosis in a 7‐month‐old with congenital hypothyroidism: Insights from targeted exome sequencing
Authors: Zgheib Omar , Quteineh Lina , Parvex Paloma , Marconi Caterina , Schwitzgebel Valerie , Bertacchi Massimiliano
Published: March 2024

Nephrocalcinosis is a complex disease with a multitude of triggering factors. An association with congenital hypothyroidism has been described in the literature, but the mechanisms leading to its development remain unclear. A 7‐month‐old infant presented with muscular hypotonia and signs of malnutrition was diagnosed with congenital hypothyroidism, nephrocalcinosis of unclear origin, and multiple kidney stones. Urine analysis revealed the presence of calcium oxalate crystals and slightly elevated oxaluria without hypercalciuria. Targeted exome sequencing found no variants in the four causative genes of primary oxaluria, namely AGXT, CBX5, GRHPR, and HOGA1. The clinical outcome was favorable with thyroid hormone and potassium citrate treatment. Ultrasound follow‐up showed progressive improvement of nephrocalcinosis. The low level of urinary oxalate and the prevalence of dihydrate calcium oxalate crystals spoke against primary or secondary oxaluria. Recent evidence from mitochondrial research shows that thyroid hormone T3 enhances mitochondrial calcium levels by stimulating calcium uptake by the mitochondrial calcium uniporter. A reduced calcium uptake and metabolism in mitochondria might represent an explanation for cytoplasmic calcium accumulation in tubular cells, subsequently precipitating nephrocalcinosis in the absence of thyroid hormone. Even if the pathophysiological mechanisms are not yet fully understood, recent evidence is supportive of a causal relationship between hypothyroidism and nephrocalcinosis, a sometimes overlooked association.
Effect and mechanism of transient receptor potential canonical channel 3 on hyperoxic lung injury in neonatal rats
Authors: Fu Xingmeng , Gong Xiaoxia , Wu Tianyi , Chen Lirou , Fu Zhou , Shu Chang
Published: March 2024

The aim of this study is to research the expression of the transient receptor potential canonical channel 3 (TRPC3) in a neonatal hyperoxic lung injury model of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), and to further investigate the role of the TRPC3/nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) signaling pathway in hyperoxia‐induced BPD by a TRPC3 agonist (GSK1702934A). The hyperoxic lung injury model of BPD was established in Sprague–Dawley neonatal rats. Hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining and radial alveolar count (RAC) values showed that the hyperoxic lung injury model of BPD was successfully established in the neonatal rats, and pulmonary edema was found in the neonatal rats with BPD. The results of reference transcriptome sequencing, Quantitative real‐time PCR (qPCR), and western blot showed lower pulmonary expression of TRPC3 in the BPD group than in the control group. Immunofluorescence showed predominant expression of TRPC3 in airways and pulmonary vessels, and the fluorescence intensity of the BPD group was lower than that of the control group. Lung dry‐to‐wet weight ratio, HE staining, and RAC value showed that the lung histomorphology significantly improved in the BPD + TRPC3 agonist group compared with the BPD group on day 14 but did not revert to the level of the control group. According to qPCR results, compared with the control group, the expression of NF‐κB1 decreased and the expression of NF‐κBiz increased in the BPD group, whereas the expression of NF‐κBiz decreased in the BPD + TRPC3 agonist group. Therefore, we draw the conclusion that TRPC3 may activate NF‐κB by inhibiting NF‐κBiz to promote cell proliferation and lung growth and development.
Efficacious constrained layer damping of carbon black‐reinforced nitrile butadiene rubber‐polyvinyl chloride blend vulcanizates: A comprehensive study
Authors: Sharma Gaurav , Kumaraswamy Adepu , S Praveen , Ratna D , Chakraborty Bikash Chandra , Ahire Nitin , Rath Sangram K.
Published: March 2024

We report efficacious vibration damping of carbon black reinforced nitrile butadiene rubber‐polyvinyl chloride blend (NVC) vulcanizates in a constrained layer damping (CLD) configuration. The objective is to compare numerical simulations using finite element method (FEM) and the widely used Ross‐Kerwin‐Ungar (RKU) model with the experimental results. NVC blend (50:50 by weight), was compounded with carbon black as reinforcing filler and vulcanized using a sulfur‐based curative system. Significant reinforcement and toughening were observed for the carbon black reinforced vulcanizates compared to the pristine blend. The viscoelastic properties of the vulcanizates were assessed using dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), exploring their behavior concerning temperature variations and different frequencies to generate the Prony series coefficients for input in FEM analysis. Vibration damping experiments were conducted using the Oberst beam method in a single cantilever mode, with steel as the vibrating substrate, aluminum as the constraining layer, and the NVC vulcanizates as viscoelastic materials (VEM). Numerical simulations were performed using FEM to analyze mode shapes and frequency response function (FRF), and the RKU model was employed to quantify CLD system loss factors (SLF). The salient finding of this study was the observed SLF values in the range of 0.08–0.20 in the frequency regime of 200–2000 Hz. These values qualify the studied material as effective VEMs for CLD treatment of structural vibrations. This study supports design optimization efforts in a wide range of engineering applications where effective vibration damping is critical.

Highlights

Enhancement of NVC blend properties through carbon black reinforcement.

Detailed analysis of viscoelastic behavior using DMA.

Validation of findings through experimental modal analysis.

Promising results in terms of system loss factors for CLD applications.
A novel mutation in mitochondrial cytochrome b conferring resistance to bifenazate in two‐spotted spider mite Tetranychus urticae Koch (Acarina: Tetranychidae)
Authors: Chen Yizhou , Nguyen Duong T. , Wheeler David , Herron Grant A.
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

The two‐spotted spider mite Tetranychus urticae causes significant damage to ornamental, cotton, sugarcane and horticultural crops in Australia. It has a long history of developing resistance to many acaricides including bifenazate. A mutation in the conserved cd1‐ and ef‐helices of the Qo pocket of cytochrome b is recognized as the primary mechanism of bifenazate resistance. To investigate the resistance mechanisms against bifenazate in Australian two‐spotted spider mite, we sequenced the complete mitochondrion genome of five mite strains including a susceptible and bifenazate‐resistant strain.

RESULTS

We identified a novel mutation D252N in the G126S background at cytochrome b being the cause of bifenazate resistance in a bifenazate‐resistant strain, Bram. We validated the role of this mutation combination by reciprocal crosses between a bifenazate resistant and susceptible strain. By doing these crosses we confirmed the pattern of inheritance was maternal. Additionally, mitochondrial heteroplasmy was not observed by single mite genotyping of the mutations in cytb in a known bifenazate‐resistant strain Bram. The phylogenetic analysis with the complete mitochondrion genome sequences revealed that Australian two‐spotted spider mite strains are closely related to the green form of T. urticae found in China.

CONCLUSIONS

The novel mutation D252N found in the cytochrome b in the G126S background was revealed to be the main cause of bifenazate resistance in the Australian T. urticae strain Bram. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Electronic, Elastic, Piezoelectric, and Infrared Properties of 2D Phosphorus Oxynitride by First Principles
Authors: Lv Zhen‐Long , Lv Shi‐Jie , Wang Kai‐Tong , Cui Hong‐Ling
Published: March 2024

Bulk phosphorus oxynitride (PON), isoelectronic with SiO2, is confirmed to have many polymorphs as the latter. However, its 2D counterparts have not been studied. In this work, crystal structure exploration and property study are performed on 2D PON with the help of first‐principle calculation. Three 2D PON sheets are found with thermal, dynamical, and mechanical stability and all of them can be viewed as oxygen‐doped known 2D γ phosphorus nitride (γ‐PN). In the studies, it is indicated that they are indirect bandgap materials with gap values larger than 3 eV. The situations of orbital hybridization are discussed and their bonding properties are analyzed. Infrared vibrational spectra of these 2D materials are simulated and the vibrational modes at the Brillouin center are assigned by the factor group analysis. The reasons for the disappearance of some infrared peaks in the simulated spectra are revealed based on the calculated Born effective charges and vibrational eigenvectors. Their piezoelectric stress tensors are computed via density‐functional perturbation method and the piezoelectric strain tensors are also deduced via the calculated elastic constants. In the results, it is uncovered that these 2D PON sheets have considerably greater piezoelectric coefficients than the primitive 2D γ‐PN, which make them promising for nanopiezoelectric use.
Quercetin inhibits necroptosis in cardiomyocytes after ischemia–reperfusion via DNA‐PKcs‐SIRT5‐orchestrated mitochondrial quality control
Authors: Chang Xing , Zhang Qin , Huang Yu , Liu Jinfeng , Wang Yanli , Guan Xuanke , Wu Qiaomin , Liu Zhiming , Liu Ruxiu
Published: March 2024

We investigated the mechanism by which quercetin preserves mitochondrial quality control (MQC) in cardiomyocytes subjected to ischemia–reperfusion stress. An enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay was employed in the in vivo experiments to assess myocardial injury markers, measure the transcript levels of SIRT5/DNAPK‐cs/MLKL during various time intervals of ischemia–reperfusion, and observe structural changes in cardiomyocytes using transmission electron microscopy. In in vitro investigations, adenovirus transfection was employed to establish a gene‐modified model of DNA‐PKcs, and primary cardiomyocytes were obtained from a mouse model with modified SIRT5 gene. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, laser confocal microscopy, immunofluorescence localization, JC‐1 fluorescence assay, Seahorse energy analysis, and various other assays were applied to corroborate the regulatory influence of quercetin on the MQC network in cardiomyocytes after ischemia–reperfusion. In vitro experiments demonstrated that ischemia–reperfusion injury caused changes in the structure of the myocardium. It was seen that quercetin had a beneficial effect on the myocardial tissue, providing protection. As the ischemia–reperfusion process continued, the levels of DNA‐PKcs/SIRT5/MLKL transcripts were also found to change. In vitro investigations revealed that quercetin mitigated cardiomyocyte injury caused by mitochondrial oxidative stress through DNA‐PKcs, and regulated mitophagy and mitochondrial kinetics to sustain optimal mitochondrial energy metabolism levels. Quercetin, through SIRT5 desuccinylation, modulated the stability of DNA‐PKcs, and together they regulated the “mitophagy‐unfolded protein response.” This preserved the integrity of mitochondrial membrane and genome, mitochondrial dynamics, and mitochondrial energy metabolism. Quercetin may operate synergistically to oversee the regulation of mitophagy and the unfolded protein response through DNA‐PKcs‐SIRT5 interaction.
Dynamic data model and robust controller with high‐frequency component reduction for unknown time‐varying discrete‐time systems
Authors: Treesatayapun C.
Published: March 2024

This article presents an adaptive controller tailored for discrete‐time systems, emphasizing robustness and addressing time‐varying constraints. An equivalent model is constructed solely from input‐output data collected from an unknown plant. Performance optimization involves determining an appropriate learning rate guided by theoretical analysis. A control law is derived from the equivalent model and a proposed auxiliary controller, with parameter settings guided by theoretical analysis to achieve robust convergence in closed‐loop performance. Comprehensive experimental and comparative assessments confirm the superior performance of both the equivalent model and the proposed controller, especially in brushless DC motor position control. Moreover, compared to similar schemes, the proposed controller generates fewer high‐frequency control effort components. The investigation validates the approach's robustness in real‐world conditions, including uncertainties, disturbances, and common time‐varying constraints in practical plant scenarios.
Do unpriced natural and ecosystem capital affect economic output? Growth regression analyses
Authors: Thia Jang Ping , Kong Xinyu , Su Jiaqi
Published: March 2024

Services provided by nature and ecosystem capital are unpriced and their contributions cannot be observed through factor payments. Estimates of nature's gross domestic product contribution are thus based on bottom‐up extrapolations of local ecological valuations or various sectoral dependency assumptions. These estimates are hence partial and wide‐ranging. On the other hand, omission of nature and ecosystem capital in standard growth regressions potentially biases estimated returns to other factors of production. This paper incorporates various categories of natural capital and biodiversity into growth regressions, with annual data covering more than 100 economies over more than two decades. A range of econometric specifications are used, including fixed effect panel regressions, Arellano and Bond, and Pseudo Poisson Maximum Likelihood. The estimates point to natural capital, especially the narrower and specific ecosystem capital, having a sizeable positive elasticity of around one‐third of total gross fixed capital. Ecosystem capital is thus estimated to contribute around USD6–12 trillion (or 10–20 trillion in purchasing power parity terms) annually for the global economy. This estimated contribution is significantly higher than what is implied by existing stock valuations, underscoring the importance of ecosystem capital to sustainable growth.