bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhancing silkworm protein yield, extraction efficiency, structure, functionality, and antioxidant activity using ultrasound‐, microwave‐, and freeze–thaw‐assisted methods
Authors: Phuangjit Uraiwun , Klinkesorn Utai , Tan Chin Ping , Katekhong Wattinee
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND

Silkworm protein applications are limited in the food industry because of their low emulsifying and foaming properties. This study investigated the effect of ultrasound‐assisted extraction (UAE) for 15 and 30 min, microwave‐assisted extraction (MAE) for 1 and 2 min, and freeze–thaw‐assisted extraction (FTAE) for one and three cycles on the yield, extraction efficiency, functional properties, and antioxidant activities of proteins from silkworm pupae. Relationships of protein structure and functionality were also examined.

RESULTS

UAE for 15 and 30 min and MAE for 1 and 2 min significantly increased protein yield and extraction efficiency compared to the control. Both UAE and MAE processes, especially MAE for 2 min, greatly improved the emulsifying and foaming properties of extracted proteins. FTAE one and three cycles did not increase the protein yield and extraction efficiency but showed enhanced functional properties, especially foaming. All samples showed changes in protein structure, such as increased exposed sulfhydryl (SH) contents, denaturation temperatures, and enthalpy. Only MAE samples had low‐molecular‐weight proteins based on sodium dodecyl sulfate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. UAE and FTAE samples had significantly higher antioxidant activities, while the MAE process showed the opposite.

CONCLUSION

UAE and MAE processes improved the yield and functionality of extracted silkworm proteins, while MAE negatively impacted protein antioxidant activities. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Magnetic functionalized graphene oxide combined with ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography for trace detection of succinate dehydrogenase inhibitor fungicides in food
Authors: Yang Jiajie , Li Minmin , Liu Xiaowei , Liao Yonghong , Zhao Haoran , Chen Jieyin , Dai Xiaofeng , Simal‐Gandara Jesus , Kong Zhiqiang , Zhang Minwei
Published: August 2023

In this study, an efficient, sensitive, and convenient magnetic solid‐phase extraction method combined with ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry (MSPE‐UHPLC‐MS/MS) was developed for the simultaneous determination of 19 succinate dehydrogenase inhibitor fungicide residues in six different food matrices The synthesized tetraethylenepentamine magnetic graphene oxide nanocomposite showed the advantages of good dispersibility, large specific surface area (113.93 m2/g) and large pore volume (0.25 cm3/g), making it an ideal succinate dehydrogenase inhibitor pretreatment adsorbent. The MSPE‐UHPLC‐MS/MS method showed linearity in the range of 5.0–800.0 μg/kg, with a correlation coefficient (R2) > 0.99, and a limit of quantification of 5 μg/kg. The recovery of succinate dehydrogenase inhibitor fungicides was in the range of 71.2%–119.4%. The MSPE method is simple, rapid, and efficient, making it an ideal alternative to sample pretreatment in the determination of trace succinate dehydrogenase inhibitor fungicides in complex matrices.
The Role of Contrast‐Enhanced Ultrasound Plus Color Parametric Imaging in the Differential Diagnosis of Subpleural Pulmonary Lesions
Authors: Bai Jing , Du Yu‐qing , Yang Wei , Bai Xiu‐mei , Wang Song , Wu Wei , Yan Kun , Chen Min‐hua
Published: August 2023

Objectives

To distinguish benign and malignant subpleural pulmonary lesions (SPLs) with contrast‐enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) and color parametric imaging (CPI), and evaluate the role of CEUS plus CPI in the differential diagnosis of pathological types of SPLs.

Methods

One hundred and thirty‐six patients underwent CEUS with a Logiq E9 XD Clear ultrasonic machine equipped with a 3.5‐ to 5.0‐MHz C5‐1 transducer in our center were enrolled in our study, including 27 cases of benign lesions and 109 cases of malignant lesions. The ultrasound contrast agent used in this study was SonoVue. CEUS images and CPI of all cases were reviewed and analyzed by the resident and staff radiologist groups separately.

Results

With CEUS alone, by both the two groups, the main enhancement pattern of benign SPLs was arborization (P < .001), while centripetal enhancement pattern occurred more frequently in malignant SPLs (P < .001). With CEUS plus CPI, by both the two groups, the main enhancement pattern of benign SPLs was arborization (P < .001), while those of malignant SPLs were centripetal (P < .001) and eccentric (P < .05). The diagnosis performance of CEUS plus CPI was significantly higher than that of CEUS alone in both the resident (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.857 vs 0.677, P < .001) and staff (AUC = 0.866 vs 0.681, P < .001) groups. Moreover, CPI offered remarkable inter‐consistency improvements in the enhancement pattern determination between the two groups.

Conclusion

The CEUS enhancement patterns would provide information of blood perfusion patterns in the differential diagnosis of benign and malignant SPLs. The diagnosis performance could be significantly improved by CEUS plus CPI compared with CEUS alone.
The use of swimming pools by bats on a game reserve in South Africa
Authors: McGee James E. , Bennett Victoria J. , Maartens Stephen J.
Published: August 2023

While the use of anthropogenic resources by wildlife in degraded habitats has been frequently documented, the use of such alternative resources in natural and semi‐natural habitats is not yet well understood. We explored the use of artificial water sources by bats in a semi‐natural habitat by conducting acoustic monitoring surveys at swimming pools on Amakhala Game Reserve in the Eastern Cape of South Africa from 2018 to 2020. We identified 7 of 23 local species in 24,909 recorded activities associated with resource use at the swimming pools, including 1,374 feeding buzzes and 9,286 drinking buzzes. This study confirmed that bats were using swimming pools in the game reserve as a foraging and drinking resource and indicates that such anthropogenic features could be of value to bats and potentially other wildlife in natural and semi‐natural habitats.
Historical Therapies for Suspected Autonomic Dysregulation in Meniere's Disease
Authors: Jung Diane , Perdomo Dianela , Ward Bryan K.
Published: August 2023

Objective

This narrative review examines how speculative belief that the autonomic nervous system causes Meniere's Disease (MD) led otolaryngologists to adopt invasive surgical procedures and medical treatments still offered today.

Data Sources

Google Scholar, PubMed.

Review Methods

A comprehensive literature review (1860–2022) was performed using the terms “Meniere AND (sympathetic OR sympathectomy OR vasomotor OR cervical ganglion),” returning 5360 items. All abstracts were briefly reviewed, relevant publications selected for further study, and key articles discussed by all authors. As it became clear that betahistine was related to the historical narrative, an additional search was performed using “Betahistine AND Meniere AND (vasomotor OR sympathetic OR sympathectomy OR cervical ganglion OR autonomic),” which yielded 336 results.

Results

In the 19th and 20th centuries, growing knowledge of human anatomy led the scientific community to speculate that autonomic dysregulation caused many medical conditions. Excessive sympathetic mediated vasomotor changes were thought to cause hypertension, ischemia, and tissue damage. Clinicians applied the hypothesis to MD, assigning the sympathetic nervous system responsible for vertigo secondary to paroxysmal vasospasm and for hearing loss to poor cochlear nutrition. Despite limited animal experiments and isolated clinical observations, otolaryngologists performed sympathectomies, and, in the 1970s, replaced the procedure with betahistine as an alternative medical treatment.

Conclusion

Premature excitement about a plausible hypothesis led to unnecessary and unwarranted operations. Despite absent evidence of sympathetic overactivation in MD, surgeons eagerly adopted sympathectomies, and later betahistine. Rigorous evaluation of the validity of these treatment practices is needed.

Level of Evidence

5 Laryngoscope, 134:535–542, 2024
In Vivo Visualization and Quantification of Rat Laryngeal Blood Supply After Hydration Challenge
Authors: Duan Chenwei , Anderson Jennifer L. , Schepers Luke E. , Damen Frederick W. , Cox Abigail , Goergen Craig J. , Sivasankar M. Preeti
Published: August 2023

Objectives

Systemic dehydration decreases total body blood volume; however, hemodynamic alterations at the level of local organs, such as the larynx, remain unclear. Here we sought to quantify superior thyroid artery (STA) blood flow after dehydration and rehydration using in vivo magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) and ultrasound imaging in a rat model.

Methods

Male Sprague–Dawley rats (N = 17) were included in this prospective, repeated measures design. Rats first underwent MRA to determine baseline STA cross‐sectional area, followed by high‐frequency in vivo ultrasound imaging to measure STA blood velocity at baseline. Next, rats were systemically dehydrated (water withholding), followed by rehydration (water ad‐lib). Ultrasound imaging was repeated immediately after dehydration and following rehydration. The STA blood velocity and STA cross‐sectional area were used to compute STA blood flow. Three rats served as temporal controls for ultrasound imaging. To determine if the challenges to hydration status affected the STA cross‐sectional area, four rats underwent only MRA at baseline, dehydration, and rehydration.

Results

Systemic dehydration resulted in 10.5% average body weight loss. Rehydration resulted in average body weight gain of 10.9%. Statistically significant reductions were observed in STA mean blood flow rate after dehydration. Rehydration reversed these changes to pre‐dehydration levels. No significant differences were observed in STA cross‐sectional area with dehydration or rehydration.

Conclusion

Systemic dehydration decreased blood flow in the superior thyroid artery. Rehydration restored blood flow in the STA. Change in hydration status did not alter the STA cross‐sectional area. These preliminary findings demonstrate the feasibility of using ultrasound and MRA to quantify hemodynamic changes and visualize laryngeal blood vessels.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 134:779–785, 2024
Effects of afforestation on soil fungi in rocky mountain areas of North China
Authors: Zhang Zeyu , Li Xiao , Ji Xiaodong
Published: August 2023

Afforestation has a substantial influence on soil fungal communities by introducing ecological variations within forest ecosystems via the inclusion of distinct tree species (coniferous and broadleaf) and afforestation patterns (pure forests and mixed forests). However, the specific effects of these variations on soil fungal communities require further investigation. Soil samples from birch (B: Betula platyphylla Suk.), larch (L: Larix gmelinii (Rupr.) Kuzen.), and mixed birch and larch (B–L) forests were used in this study, and a shrub–grassland field (S–G) was used as a reference. The abundance, diversity, and community composition of fungi in the soil of the monoculture forest (B and L), mixed forest (B–L), and S–G were studied by high‐throughput sequencing. The results showed that Basidiomycota was the dominant fungus in B and B–L, and the dominant genera were Inocybe and Amanita, respectively. Ascomycota was the dominant fungus in L and S–G, and the dominant genus was Mortierella. Afforestation reduced the richness and diversity of soil fungi. Larch forests were richer in soil fungi than B and B–L forests. Soil organic carbon was the main soil factor affecting the soil fungal community structure. Soil fungal community network changed less after planting L than after planting B and B–L, and the soil fungal community structure was more complex and stable in L than in B and B–L. For soil fungal community composition and function, mixed forests did not show outstanding advantages. Planting monoculture forests may be a more effective afforestation strategy in the rocky mountain areas of North China.
Effect of deficit saline irrigation, tillage and rice straw mulch in wheat‐sorghum cropping system on yield and nutritive value of rainfed forage sorghum in salt‐affected soils
Authors: Soni Pooja Gupta , Rai Arvind Kumar , Basak Nirmalendu , Sundha Parul , Narjary Bhaskar , Kumar Parveen , Kumar Rakesh , Yadav Gajender , Kumar Satyendra , Yadav Rajender Kumar , Sharma Parbodh Chander
Published: August 2023

Soil and groundwater salinity associated with limited rainfall are the challenges for checking salinity build‐up in semi‐arid regions. This field experiment was conducted to test the impact of deficit saline irrigation (DSI) (in winter) with mulching and tillage on salinity build‐up, yield and nutritive value of rainfed‐forage sorghum. Tillage (reduced, conventional and zero), saline water (8.0 dS m−1) irrigation (100%, 80% and 60% of water requirement [WR] in wheat) and mulch were allocated following split factorial layout. DSI with mulching produced at par wheat and sorghum yield compared with 100WR irrigation with harvested rainwater. Mulching improved wheat grain yield and the soil water content by ~13% throughout the cropping season. Forage sorghum yield was increased by DSI and mulching in the previous season compared with irrigation with 100WR saline water. Reduced tillage declined the neutral detergent fibre (NDF), acid detergent fibre (ADF) and acid detergent lignin (ADL) with an increase in cell soluble constituents. DSI and mulching also increased the digestible nutrient, crude protein (CP), ash and reduced ADF of sorghum. Soil salinity showed a negative correlation with CP, positive correlation with ADF, ADL and cellulose. Therefore, it is recommended that DSI and reduced tillage with mulching can be a reliable option for productive use of saline soils and water by cropping system intensification. These results also showed the potential for achieving 2030 agenda for sustainable development goals as well as targets of land degradation neutrality in salt‐affected soils by savings irrigation, doubling cropping intensity and preventing salinity build‐up.
Integrating the impacts of vegetation coverage on ecosystem services to determine ecological restoration targets for adaptive management on the Loess Plateau, China
Authors: He Juan , Li Yao , Shi Xueyi , Hou Haiyan
Published: August 2023

Achieving sustainable resource management is essential to address the rising demand for ecosystem services. The absence of targeted vegetation restoration based on ecological function positioning has, nevertheless, made it challenging to effectively combat the ecological decline. This study attempted to classify four dominant ecological function areas based on the assessment of water conservation, soil retention, habitat quality, and food supply and determined the vegetation coverage threshold by exploring the trade‐offs among ecosystem services and constraint effects between ecosystem services and vegetation coverage. The results highlighted the impacts of ecosystem services on vegetation coverage across the years 1990, 2000, 2010, and 2020 and established differentiated ecological restoration targets. The optimal vegetation coverage in the water conservation area was found to be 58%–63%, in the soil retention area was 52%–56%, in the food supply area was 34%–40%, and in the habitat quality area was 65%–70%. Finally, the study identified the subwatersheds with reasonable vegetation coverage, excessive restoration, and those that failed to reach the optimal vegetation coverage to develop targeted restoration strategies for each subwatershed according to its unique vegetation conditions. This study provides valuable insights into the specification of differentiated vegetation coverage targets and serves as a useful tool for more effective ecosystem planning and management.
Gathering validity evidence for a3D‐printed simulator for training of myringotomy and ventilation tube insertion
Authors: Lüscher Michael , Konge Lars , Tingsgaard Peter , Barrett Thomas Qvist , Andersen Steven Arild Wuyts
Published: August 2023

Objectives

This study aimed to gather validity evidence according to Messick's framework for a novel 3D‐printed simulator for myringotomy with ventilation tube insertion for use in technical skills training of otorhinolaryngology (ORL) residents.

Methods

The study included 15 junior ORL residents (trainees) and 13 experienced teaching otolaryngologists (experts). Experts and trainees first received an identically structured introduction to the procedure, simulator, and simulation setup. Five procedures performed by each participant were video‐recorded and ordered randomly for blinded rating by two independent raters. The rating tools used were a global rating scale (GBRS) and a task‐specific checklist. Validity evidence was collected according to Messick's framework. Differences in time consumption and performance scores were analyzed. Finally, a pass/fail standard was established using the contrasting groups' method.

Results

Trainees used significantly more time per procedure (109 s, 95% CI: 99–120) than experts (82 s, 95% CI: 71–93;p < .001). Adjusted for repetition and rater leniency, experts achieved an average GBRS score of 18.8 (95% CI: 18.3–19.2) out of 20 points, whereas trainees achieved an average of 17.1 points (95% CI: 16.6–17.5;p < .001). In contrast to the task‐specific checklist, the GBRS score discriminated between repetition number and participant experience. The pass/fail standard for the GBRS was established at 18.4 points.

Conclusion

We established educational validity evidence for a novel 3D‐printed model for simulation‐based training of ventilation tube insertion and established a reliable pass/fail standard.

Level of Evidence

1b.
Free‐flap volume correlates with body mass index in patients with tongue squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Saito Mitsuko , Nakane Ayako , Asaumi Rieko , Kagifuku Yuko , Ishii Miki , Hasegawa Shohei , Yoshimi Kanako , Yamaguchi Kohei , Nakagawa Kazuharu , Hirai Hideaki , Kuroshima Takeshi , Tomioka Hirofumi , Tohara Haruka
Published: August 2023

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between postoperative reconstructed tongue flap volume (RTFV) and body mass index (BMI) and identify factors affecting the flap volume in patients with tongue squamous cell carcinoma.

Methods

Thirty‐two patients were evaluated for RTFV from computed tomography images and BMI. The first and second evaluations were done at 6 months and 1.5 years after surgery respectively. RTFV rate changes and BMI differences from the first and second evaluations were calculated. The correlation between RTFV rate change and BMI difference was assessed using Spearman's rank correlation coefficient. Multiple regression analysis evaluated the relationship between the flap volume rate change and age, sex, flap type, and BMI difference to identify influencing factors.

Results

The flap volume rate change and BMI difference correlated significantly (r = .594, p < .05). BMI difference and flap type were independent factors that affected reconstructed flap volume rate change in multiple regression analysis (p < .05).

Conclusion

The flap volume of patients with tongue squamous cell carcinoma correlates with the BMI change in the chronic phase. Patients after tongue reconstruction need to be well nourished to maintain BMI and thus postoperative tongue volume to maintain the quality of life.

Level of Evidence

Level 3.
High rates of carbon burial linked to autochthonous production in artificial ponds
Authors: Holgerson Meredith A. , Ray Nicholas E. , Russ Chelsea
Published: August 2023

Ponds are globally abundant and important to the global carbon cycle. Although ponds have large greenhouse gas emissions, they also sequester carbon in their sediments. Here, we studied organic carbon (OC) burial rates in 22 temperate experimental ponds with negligible watersheds, where carbon sequestration derives solely from autochthonous primary production. The ponds were built identically in 1964 and have since experienced different management strategies, allowing us to test how management actions influence burial rates. On average, the ponds accumulated 67.1 g OC m−2 yr−1 (range 38.3–113.6 g OC m−2 yr−1)—about double the global average burial rate for lakes and similar to global averages for wetlands. Carbon burial rates were higher in ponds with macrophytes, fish, and higher N : P loads. We contend that the global carbon sink for inland waters may be substantially underestimated due to the undervaluation of OC burial in natural and artificial ponds.
Combining superpulse dynamic CO2 laser and supramolecular salicylic acid in the treatment of dense comedones with higher clearance in a shorter time: A prospective, randomized, split‐face clinical trial
Authors: Yang Meng‐yao , Liu Jing , Ning Di‐chao , Liu Yan‐ting , Ye Dan , Tu Chen , Wang Zhao , Zeng Wei‐Hui
Published: August 2023

Objectives

Dense comedones are common in patients with acne vulgaris, and promoting treatment can prevent the progression of acne lesions. However, the efficacy‐time conflict makes the treatment challenging and the medication options are limited by the side effects.

Materials and methods

Thirty‐five patients with symmetrical dense comedones were enrolled and the two sides of the face were randomly assigned to receive 30% supramolecular salicylic acid (SSA) combined with CO2 laser or CO2 laser monotherapy at an interval of 2 weeks for six treatment sessions. Comedones count, porphyrin index (PI), texture index (TI), melanin index, erythema index, hydration index (HI), transepidermal water loss (TEWL), and side effects were recorded at each visit till the 12th week.

Results

Thirty‐one patients completed the study. Comedones on the combined‐SSA side were reduced more after six treatments, that the mean reduction rate of the combined‐SSA side was 85.76%, and that of the CO2 laser‐treated side was 62.32% (Pbetween < 0.001). Combining SSA also showed a better effect on reducing PI and TI than CO2 laser singly (Pbetween < 0.001). TEWL and HI between the two sides showed no significant differences after treatments. No permanent or severe side effects were observed on both side.

Conclusions

The treatment combined CO2 laser with 30% SSA dealt with the efficacy‐time conflict while significantly reducing comedones and improving skin texture in 12 weeks and no serious adverse reactions occurred.

Limitations

It is a single‐center study and the number of subjects was small.
Modeling of the corrosion behavior of B30 alloy in a deep‐sea environment by using the response surface methodology
Authors: Yin Tengfei , Meng Song , Zhao Yang , Zhang Tao , Wang Fuhui
Published: August 2023

The corrosion behavior of B30 copper‐nickel alloy in a deep‐sea environment was investigated by using the self‐built loop apparatus based on the response surface methodology. The results indicated that all the environmental factors accelerate the corrosion of alloys. The degree of effect of the individual factors decreased in the following order—dissolved oxygen > temperature > flow rate > pressure. Moreover, there exist interaction effects between any two of the environmental factors, of which the one between temperature and pressure is the most significant. A mathematical relationship between these factors and the corrosion behavior for B30 alloy was established. The accuracy of the corrosion model was verified by immersion and electrochemical testing.
Recent Progress in Polymers with Dynamic Covalent Bonds
Authors: Li Liqiang , Peng Xiaotong , Zhu Di , Zhang Jing , Xiao Pu
Published: August 2023

Dynamic covalent bonds (DCBs) have attracted huge interest in the past two decades, particularly in polymer materials, due to their reversibility. The introduction of DCBs into polymers often endows the polymers with unprecedented properties such as self‐healing, shape memory, enhanced mechanical strength, and stimuli responsiveness. Specifically, DCBs offer unique opportunities for self‐healing materials by enabling the spontaneous reformation of covalent linkages and restoring structural integrity upon damaged or mechanical stress. Additionally, shape memory behavior allows polymers to retain programmed shapes and undergo reversible transformations triggered by external stimuli. This property finds applications in various fields such as biomedical devices and smart textiles. Furthermore, DCBs enhance mechanical strength, making polymers resilient and durable, thus expanding their applications in structural materials. Their stimuli responsiveness allows for dynamic modulation of properties based on environmental triggers, enabling the development of intelligent materials for sensors, drug delivery systems, and responsive coatings. This review provides an overview of commonly employed DCBs in polymer materials, explaining their dynamic behaviors, reversibility, and stabilities. It also explores the diverse applications of DCB‐based polymers, from self‐healing coatings to shape memory polymers. Through these advancements, the potential for future breakthroughs in materials science becomes evident.
Review on Polymer Materials for Solid Desiccant Cooling System
Authors: Liu Hongyan , Sundarrajan Subramanian , Kumar Ganesh Vijay , Ramakrishna Seeram
Published: August 2023

As an alternative form of vapor compression air conditioning devices, solid desiccant cooling (SDC) techniques have increasingly been explored recently. The overall performances of SDC primarily rely on the capability of dehumidification and regeneration of desiccant. A desiccant with a great uptake capability and excellent regeneration potential is preferred in an SDC system. Although traditional desiccants like silica gels and zeolites are able to absorb moisture at moderate levels, hygroscopic polymers show a superior ability in moisture sorption and desorption. Significant research has been conducted to investigate the hygroscopic polymers in SDC for household and industrial applications. Here, first, an introduction to SDC systems is presented, and then hygroscopic polymers from natural and synthetic origins are discussed. Synthetic polymers discussed are metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), covalent organic frameworks (COFs), covalent triazine frameworks (CTFs), amorphous porous organic polymers (POPs), polyelectrolytes, and polymer‐based composites. Their dehumidification behaviors in SDC systems, primarily desiccant‐coated heat exchanger (DCHE) systems, are compared and summarized. Binders employed in SDC systems are also summarized, as a proper binder enhances the overall performance of the desiccant system. It can be anticipated that hygroscopic polymers and binder materials would witness extensive applications in the future.
Generation Z's psychology and new‐age technologies: Implications for future research
Authors: Ameen Nisreen , Hosany Sameer , Taheri Babak
Published: August 2023

Generation Z (Gen Z), also known as digital natives, constitutes one‐third of the world' population. Despite notable contributions and progress explaining Gen Z's behavior, significant gaps remain in our understanding of digital natives, their interactions with new‐age technologies and how these technologies can be utilized to provide a better quality of life for this group of consumers. In this review article, we provide a background on Gen Z's consumer psychology and interactions with new‐age technologies, followed by an overview of the articles published in our special section. Finally, we suggest new areas for future research on Gen Z's consumer psychology and interactions with new‐age technologies. Specifically, we propose four main themes for future research in this area: (1) Gen Z and new‐age technologies, specifically generative artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing, the metaverse, virtual influencers, and live streaming; (2) Gen Z consumers and global issues, specifically economic and social issues, sustainability and environmental issues, and health and wellbeing; (3) combining theories, concepts and disciplines to understand Gen Z and new‐age technologies; and (4) new methods and forms of collaboration.
Study of a Multiple Responses, High Deformation, and Programmable PLA–PPC/PVA–PDA Actuator
Authors: Zhang Yan , Sun Tianyi , Zhang Dashuai , Sun Shishu , Liu Jinrui , Li Bangsen , Zhu Wenya , Shi Zaifeng
Published: August 2023

The intelligent response actuators based on bilayer polymer can deform under the stimulation of temperature, humidity, light, and other external environment, which is the focus of research. However, achieving multiple responses, high deformation, and programmability is still one of the challenges for these actuators. Herein, a nondetachable bilayer structure, polylactic acid–polypropylene carbonate/polyvinyl alcohol–polydopamine (PLA–PPC/PVA–PDA) multiresponse programmable actuator is prepared by a simple scraping film method. Using PLA–PPC as the solvent‐driven response layer, the effects of length, thickness, shape, and solvent vapor on the deformation of PLA–PPC/PVA–PDA actuators are studied. Among them, the high curvature of the film stimulated by ethyl acetate (EA) solution is 29.85 cm−1. Using PVA–PDA as the response layer to water molecules and infrared (IR) light, the bilayer film shows excellent curling performance. Moreover, the dynamic processes of human clothing and biomimetic squid under solvent stimulation, the picture rolling motion under water molecule stimulation, the biomimetic flower blooming and merging under the synergistic of water molecules and IR light, and the deformation process of biomimetic mimosa under the competition between water molecules and IR light are simulated, which broadens the road for the development of intelligent driving materials.
An update on multiplexed mass spectrometry‐based lysosomal storage disease diagnosis
Authors: Darie‐Ion Laura , Petre Brînduşa Alina
Published: August 2023

Lysosomal storage disorders (LSDs) are a type of inherited metabolic disorders in which biomolecules, accumulate as a specific substrate in lysosomes due to specific individual enzyme deficiencies. Despite the fact that LSDs are incurable, various approaches, including enzyme replacement therapy, hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, or gene therapy are now available. Therefore, a timely diagnosis is a critical initial step in patient treatment. The‐state‐of‐the‐art in LSD diagnostic uses, in the first stage, enzymatic activity determination by fluorimetry or by mass spectrometry (MS) with the aid of dry blood spots, based on different enzymatic substrate structures. Due to its sensitivity, high precision, and ability to screen for an unprecedented number of diseases in a single assay, multiplexed tandem MS‐based enzyme activity assays for the screening of LSDs in newborns have recently received a lot of attention. Here, (i) we review the current approaches used for simultaneous enzymatic activity determination of LSDs in dried blood spots using multiplex—LC‐MS/MS; (ii) we explore the need for designing novel enzymatic substrates that generate different enzymatic products with distinct molecular masses in multiplexed‐MS studies; and (iii) we give examples of the relevance of affinity‐MS technique as a basis for reversing undesirable immune‐reactivity in enzyme replacement therapy.
Comparison of Linear and Ring Polymers Partitioning into Pores Using Random Walks and Self‐Avoiding Walks Models
Authors: Litle Christopher Alexander , Wang Yongmei
Published: August 2023

Monte Carlo simulations that examine the partitioning of dilute solutions of ring or linear chains into a slit pore using two chain models, the random‐walk (RW) model and the self‐avoiding walk (SAW) model are presented. The partitioning coefficients K for the ring and the linear chains at the surface interaction both under the critical adsorption point (CAP) and above the CAP are compared. In both chain models, K for the ring remains larger than K for the linear chains. The ring chain crosses over the point K = 1 at a weaker surface interaction than the linear chain. When extrapolated to infinite chain length, the cross‐over point for the ring and linear chain becomes the same (within statistical errors) for the RW model but remains different for the SAW model. The density profiles of the ring within the pore reveal the development of humps near the wall as the surface interaction crosses over the CAP. The excluded volume interaction in the SAW model additionally impacts the partitioning of chains in a solution consisting of a binary mixture of ring and linear chains and makes the K values in a binary mixture differ from the monodispersed solutions.
Nucleosome assembly protein 1 like 1 (NAP1L1) promotes cardiac fibrosis by inhibiting YAP1 ubiquitination and degradation
Authors: Li Tianyu , Niu Zhihui , Yu Tong , Li Jinrui , Lu Xin , Huang Mengqin , Wang Qianqian , Yu Xiaojiang , Feng Jiayue , Xu Bingqian , Bing Danyang , Li Xuelian , Lu Lifang , Liang Haihai , Yang Rui , Wang Bin , Shan Hongli
Published: August 2023

Myocardial fibrosis post myocardial infarction (MI) is characterized by abnormal extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition and cardiac dysfunction could finally develop into serious heart disease, like heart failure. Lots of regulating factors involved in this pathological process have been reported while the specific mediators and underlying mechanisms remain to need to be further investigated. As part of the NAP1 family, Nucleosome assembly protein 1 like 1 (NAP1L1) is expressed in a wide variety of tissues. Here, we report that NAP1L1 is a significant regulator of cardiac fibrosis and is upregulated in ischemic cardiomyopathy patient hearts. Enhanced expression of NAP1L1 can promote cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) proliferation, migration, and differentiation into myofibroblasts. In contrast, loss of NAP1L1 decreased fibrosis‐related mRNA and protein levels, inhibited the trans‐differentiation, and blunted migration and proliferation of CFs after Transforming Growth Factorβ1（TGF‐β1）stimulation. In vivo, NAP1L1 knockout mice enhanced cardiac function and reduced fibrosis area in response to MI stimuli. Mechanically, NAP1L1 binding to Yes‐associated protein 1 (YAP1) protein influences its stability, and silencing NAP1L1 can inhibit YAP1 expression by promoting its ubiquitination and degradation in CFs. Collectively, NAP1L1 could potentially be a new therapeutic target for various cardiac disorders, including myocardial fibrosis.
Asymptotic collective behaviors of a delayed multi‐particle system with multiple processes
Authors: Liu Ze , Liu Yicheng
Published: August 2023

It is a significant issue to explore the collective behaviors of the delayed complex systems. This paper studies asymptotic collective behaviors of a delayed multi‐particle system with multiple processes while particles interact directionally and locally. Up to now, the studies on dynamic behaviors of multi‐particle systems do not involve limited processing capacity, that is, the information queuing phenomenon is ignored. To this aim, we introduce multiple processes to formulate the evolution of a delayed multi‐particle system. To optimize the delay parameters, we choose the greedy principle to set the processing order. The main idea is to decompose the velocity into each process and use functional differential equation theory and matrix theory to constrain the velocity variation rate while the processing order is fixed. As the new results, in the non‐critical and general situation, when the time delay is less than or equal to the threshold value and the eigenvalue 1 of the average matrix is semi‐simple, we achieve the criterion of flocking and multi‐cluster with exponential convergence rate involving multiple processes. Furthermore, we get the lower bound estimate of the processing capacity.
Homogenization of a semilinear elliptic problem in a thin composite domain with an imperfect interface
Authors: Ma Hongru , Tang Yanbin
Published: August 2023

In this paper, we consider the asymptotic behavior of a semilinear elliptic problem in a thin two‐composite domain with an imperfect interface, where the flux is discontinuous. For this thin domain, both the height and the period are of order
. We first use Minty–Browder theorem to prove the well‐posedness of the problem and then apply the periodic unfolding method to obtain the limit problems and some corrector results for three cases of a real parameter
,
and
, respectively. To deal with the semilinear terms, the extension operator and the averaged function are used.
Microtubule‐targeting agents for cancer treatment: Seven binding sites and three strategies
Authors: Wang Xingyu , Gigant Benoît , Zheng Xi , Chen Qiang
Published: August 2023

Microtubules are pivotal in diverse cellular functions encompassing cell signaling, morphology, intracellular trafficking, and cell mitosis/division. They are validated targets for disease treatment, notably hematological cancers and solid tumors. Microtubule‐targeting agents (MTAs) exert their effects by modulating microtubule dynamics, impeding cell proliferation, and promoting cell death. Recent advances in structural biology have unveiled novel perspectives for investigating multiple binding sites and mechanisms of action used by MTAs. In this review, we first provide an overview of the intricate structure and dynamics of microtubules. Then we explore the seven binding sites and the three primary strategies (stabilization, destabilization, and degradation) harnessed by MTAs. Furthermore, we introduce the emerging domain of microtubule‐targeting degraders, exemplified by PROteolysis TArgeting Chimeras and small‐molecule degraders, which enable precise degradation of specific microtubule‐associated proteins implicated in cancer pathogenesis. Additionally, we discuss the promising realm of precision‐targeted approaches, including antibody–drug conjugates and the utilization of photopharmacology in MTAs. Lastly, we provide a comprehensive overview of the clinical applications of microtubule‐targeting therapies, assessing their efficacy and current challenges. We aim to provide a global picture of MTAs development as well as insights into the microtubule‐targeting drug discovery for cancer treatment.
A low‐cost broadband millimeter‐wave bias tee network using SICL technology
Authors: Shukla Saurabh , Mukherjee Soumava
Published: August 2023

This article presents a substrate integrated coaxial line (SICL)‐based low‐cost bias tee network operating in K‐ and Ka‐band (20–29 GHz). A butterfly stub is introduced in the direct current (DC) circuit path for the radiofrequency (RF) isolation. A single‐layer ceramic capacitor is used along the RF mainline to provide the DC isolation. The size of the proposed circuit is , where is the guided wavelength at the center frequency of 24.5 GHz. The proposed design exhibits 0.5–1 dB insertion loss in 20–25 GHz and 1–2 dB insertion loss in 25–29 GHz, along with more than 30 dB isolation between RF and DC circuits with good impedance matching. The isolation is improved by adding a series of butterfly stubs. Moreover, a design method for realizing a mounting pad to connect the surface‐mount device (SMD) capacitor with the SICL line is proposed. The proposed method helps integrate SMD component in the SICL environment. The parasitic effects of the pad are analyzed with the help of an equivalent circuit. This circuit is most suitable for 5G FR2 (millimeter‐wave) band application.
Staff experiences of integrating community and secondary care musculoskeletal services: A qualitative investigation
Authors: Alvarado Natasha , Hargreaves Gerard , Storey Karen , Montague Jane , Broughton Rowena , Randell Rebecca
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Integrated models of care intend to provide seamless and timely access to health and social care services. This study investigated the integration of musculoskeletal services across community and secondary care boundaries, including the introduction of a single point of access from which patients were triaged.

Methods

Staff (n = 15) involved in service development and delivery were interviewed about how, why and to what extent integration impacted service delivery. The analysis focused on staff experiences of using an on‐line patient self‐referral form and co‐located clinics to enhance decision‐making in triage, and on the provision of educational materials and de‐medicalising language in patient consultations to support self‐management.

Results

Single point of access, including online self‐referral, were operationalised during data collection, but co‐located clinics were not. Triage staff explained that the volume of referrals and quality of information provided in online self‐referrals sometimes constrained decision‐making in triage. Secondary care staff discussed concerns that the single point of access might not consistently identify patients with hard to diagnose conditions that require timely surgical intervention. This concern appeared to constrain staff engagement with integration, potentially inhibiting the delivery of co‐located clinics. However, triage staff accessed support to inform secondary care referral via alternate modes. Patient circumstances, for example, need for reassurance, necessitated multiple self‐management strategies and innovative approaches were developed to provide patients ongoing and professionally led support.

Conclusion

Findings emphasise that restructuring services requires engagement from diverse stakeholders. Collaborating with stakeholders to address their concerns about the impact of restructures on well‐established pathways may help cultivate this engagement.
Survival and Growth in Multiple Size-Classes of Hatchery Red Drum over Three Simulated Seasons
Authors: Swinford Jillian L. , Anderson Joel D.
Published: August 2023

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department's (TPWD) Marine Stock Enhancement Program has introduced an average of 20 million fingerling Red Drum Sciaenops ocellatus into bays across Texas annually since 1983. Red Drum fingerlings are released during seasons outside of wild juvenile Red Drum recruitment, exposing them to conditions that they would not normally encounter as early stage juveniles in the wild. Furthermore, releases encompass a wide range of sizes outside of the target release size of 35 mm (20–60 mm), implying that survival and growth in the wild may vary with body size and body condition upon release. This study determined the impacts of season and initial release size on overall growth rate, body condition, and survival of Red Drum fingerlings by exposing two discrete size-classes to a laboratory simulation of conditions expected to be encountered in the wild for 1 month after harvest from grow-out ponds. Fish with an initial size of 35 mm TL or greater had higher overall survival over all three seasons of release than smaller fingerlings; however, final body condition (Fulton's K) was not significant across size-classes. Growth rates of both size-classes were highest in summer, indicating that elevated temperatures can benefit fish within the full range of release sizes. Fitted multiple linear regression modeling also determined that water temperature and size-class were significant indicators of estimated growth rate. In addition, growth rates in wild fish as estimated from TPWD fisheries-independent samples were consistently lower than those in experimental fish of both size-classes during all three simulated seasons. This research suggests that releasing larger-sized (>35-mm TL) Red Drum may significantly improve survival, especially during seasons with more variable temperature conditions at the beginning and end of the TPWD hatchery release season.
Safety in parenteral nutrition compounding
Authors: Mays Andrew , Ayers Phil , Monczka Jessica , Cober Mary Petrea
Published: August 2023

Parenteral nutrition (PN) compounding is a complex process that requires knowledge and training to ensure the safety and efficacy of this form of nutrition support therapy. Unfortunately, errors and lack of adherence to safe PN compounding recommendations and sterile compounding requirements have resulted in patient injury and death. These lapses in the safe provision of PN have been the result of various factors, including a lack of understanding of PN compatibility, stability, and sterility requirements, as well as drug product shortages and order entry errors. This review will describe the current challenges with the education and training regarding PN compounding, compatibility and stability of PN admixtures, simultaneous administration of nonnutrient medications with PN admixtures, and specific challenges with special populations such as neonates, pediatrics, and those receiving home care.
A granular iterated local search for the asymmetric single truck and trailer routing problem with satellite depots at DHL Group
Authors: Cavagnini Rossana , Schneider Michael , Theiß Alina
Published: August 2023

To plan the postal deliveries of our industry partner DHL Group (DHL), the single truck and trailer routing problem with satellite depots (STTRPSD) is solved to optimize mail carriers routes. In this application context, instances feature a high number of customers and satellites, and they are based on real street networks. This motivates the study of the asymmetric STTRPSD (ASTTRPSD). The heuristic solution methods proposed in the literature for the STTRPSD can either solve only the symmetric problem variant, or it is unclear whether they can also be used to solve the ASTTRPSD. We introduce an iterated local search, called ILS‐ASTTRPSD, which generates different first‐level tours in the perturbation phase, and improves the second‐level tours in the local search phase. To speed up the search, granular neighborhoods are used. The computational results on instances from the literature prove the capability of ILS‐ASTTRPSD to return high‐quality solutions. On DHL instances, ILS‐ASTTRPSD significantly decreases total travel times of the mail carriers and returns solutions with a different structure compared to the ones provided by DHL. Based on these differences, we give recommendations on how DHL could design more efficient mail carrier practices. Dedicated computational experiments reveal that considering parking and loading times when solving the ASTTRPSD leads to lower travel times, and that ignoring parking times is more counterproductive than ignoring loading times. Moreover, we assess the robustness of our solutions under parking time fluctuations. Finally, we derive properties of instances for which optimal solutions contain multiple second‐level tours rooted at the same parking spot and for which the optimal solutions of the ASTTRPSD correspond to the ones of a pure traveling salesman problem.