bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sleep fragmentation reduces explorative behaviors and impairs motor coordination in male mice
Authors: Xiong Yanyu , Zhu Jian , He Yifan , Qu Weimin , Huang Zhili , Ding Fengfei
Published: November 2023

Sleep fragmentation (SF), which refers to discontinuous and fragmented sleep, induces cognitive impairment and anxiety‐like behavior in mice. However, whether SF can affect motor capability in healthy young wild‐type mice and the underlying mechanisms remain unknown. We performed seven days of sleep fragmentation (SF 7d) interventions in young wild‐type male mice. While SF mice experienced regular sleep disruption between Zeitgeber time (ZT) 0–12, control mice were allowed to have natural sleep (NS) cycles. Homecage analysis and conventional behavioral tests were conducted to assess the behavioral alterations in behavioral patterns in general and motor‐related behaviors. Sleep structures and the power spectrum of electroencephalograms (EEGs) were compared between SF 7d and NS groups. Neuronal activation was measured using c‐Fos immunostaining and quantified in multiple brain regions. SF of 7 days significantly decreased bouts of rearing and sniffing and the duration of rearing and impaired motor coordination. An increase in the total sleep time and a decrease in wakefulness between ZT12–24 was found in SF 7d mice. In SF 7d mice, EEG beta1 power was increased in rapid eye movement (REM) sleep while theta power was decreased during wakefulness. SF 7d resulted in significant suppression in c‐Fos (+) cell counts in the motor cortex and hippocampus but an increase in c‐Fos (+) cell counts in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc). In summary, SF 7d suppressed explorative behaviors and impaired motor coordination as compared to NS. EEG power and altered neuronal activity detected by c‐Fos staining might contribute to the behavioral changes.
Tissue and serum miR‐149‐3p/5p in hospitalized patients with inflammatory bowel disease: Correlation with disease severity and inflammatory markers
Authors: Luo Shuang , Chen Xi‐Han
Published: November 2023

This study aimed to investigate the expression levels of tissue and serum miR‐149‐3p and miR‐149‐5p in hospitalized patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). A total of 35 ulcerative colitis (UC) patients, 12 Crohn's disease (CD) patients, and 25 healthy controls were included in the study. The miRNAs expressions were measured in tissue and serum samples using quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR). Inflammatory biomarkers were measured, including serum albumin, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C‐reactive protein (CRP), tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), and interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), and fecal calprotectin. MiR‐149‐3p and miR‐149‐5p were significantly decreased in the inflamed areas of both CD and UC patients compared to tissue controls, which was consistent with decreased serum levels in IBD patients compared to healthy controls. When distinguishing UC patients from healthy controls, serum miR‐149‐3p showed 74% sensitivity and 96% specificity, while serum miR‐149‐5p exhibited 63% sensitivity and 96% specificity. In the CD versus healthy control comparison, miR‐149‐3p achieved 100% sensitivity and 96% specificity, while miR‐149‐5p demonstrated 92% sensitivity and 96% specificity. In the UC versus CD comparison, miR‐149‐5p showed 75% sensitivity and 77% specificity, while miR‐149‐3p displayed 67% sensitivity and 80% specificity. Significant correlations were identified between the tissue and serum expression of miR‐149‐3p/5p and disease activity scores, as well as inflammatory biomarkers in both CD and UC patients. Decreased expression of miR‐149‐3p and miR‐149‐5p is associated with disease activity in IBD patients. These miRNAs demonstrate diagnostic potential and may serve as biomarkers for monitoring disease activity in IBD.
Molecular mechanism of WWP1‐mediated ubiquitination modification affecting proliferation and invasion/migration of liver cancer cells
Authors: Zhang Chao , Wang Wei , Wu Biao
Published: November 2023

Liver cancer is the most prevalent fatal malignancy across the globe. The present study aims to explore the molecular mechanism of E3 ligase WWP1 in liver cancer cell proliferation and invasion/migration. RT‐qPCR and Western blot were performed to detect WWP1, KLF14, and VEPH1 expressions in liver cancer cell lines. Furthermore, WWP1 expression was silenced in cells, followed by the detection of cell viability, proliferation, and invasion/migration by CCK‐8, colony formation, and Transwell assays, respectively. ChIP was used to analyze the binding relationship between WWP1 and KLF14. We measured the KLF14 ubiquitination level and KLF14 enrichment on the VEPH1 promoter after MG132 treatment. Dual‐luciferase reporter assay was used to validate the binding relationship between KLF14 and VEPH1. Consequently, WWP1 was highly expressed in liver cancer cells; WWP1 silencing reduced the proliferation and invasion/migration of liver cancer cells. Mechanistically, WWP1 promoted KLF14 ubiquitination degradation; KLF14 was enriched on the VEPH1 promoter to promote its transcription and protein expression. Inhibiting KLF14 or VEPH1 partially minimized the inhibitory effect of WWP1 silencing on liver cancer cell proliferation and invasion/migration. In summary, WWP1 degrades KLF14 through ubiquitination, hence repressing VEPH1 expression and accelerating proliferation and invasion/migration of liver cancer cells.
Soil physical quality response to management systems in a long‐term sugarcane trial
Authors: Martíni Aline Fachin , Valani Gustavo Pereira , da Silva Laura Fernanda Simões , de Paula Samuel , Bolonhezi Denizart , Cooper Miguel
Published: November 2023

In order to support sugarcane growth for biofuel production without compromising the environmental sustainability, this work aims to assess the physical quality of soils cultivated under different long‐term tillage and management systems to identify the system that most contributes for a sustainable sugarcane production. Visual assessments and soil sampling to determine physical soil quality indicators were performed in sugarcane plots managed with no‐tillage (NT) and conventional tillage (CT) with 0 (CT0–NT0) and 4 (CT4–NT4) Mg ha−1 of lime and in an adjoining area with native forest. In general, the results from traditional indicators showed no statistical difference between the different sugarcane cultivation systems and the different depths, so were not sensitive to identify the best tillage and management system in relation to soil physical quality for soils cultivated with sugarcane. However, even without statistical difference, three indicators presented limiting values for plant growth and development (Bd, ASW, and S index) in at least two sugarcane cultivation systems and one depth. Although all the systems showed a good soil structural quality in surface, the visual assessments suggest a poor and unsatisfactory soil structural quality in the subsurface of CT0, CT4, and NT0 (3.7 ± 0.2, 3.3 ± 0.6, and 3.7 ± 0.7 in Visual Evaluation of Soil Structure [VESS] and 2.2 ± 0.3, 3.1 ± 1.0, and 3.6 ± 1.1 in Rapid Diagnosis of Soil Structure [DRES], respectively), requiring immediate management changes, while structural quality in NT4 (2.6 ± 0.9 and 3.9 ± 0.7, in VESS and DRES, respectively) was considered good. Thus, NT4 is suggested as the tillage and management system that least compromises structural quality of soils cultivated with sugarcane, and it is considered a viable alternative to promote soil conservation, as well as environmental and economical sustainability for sugarcane cultivation, as this system corrects soil acidity, minimally disturbs the soil, and maintains the soil cover, thus delivering ecosystem services.
Dietary triacetin, but not medium chain triacylglycerides, blunts weight gain in diet‐induced rat model of obesity
Authors: Cisbani Giulia , Chouinard‐Watkins Raphaël , Smith Mackenzie E. , Malekanian Arezou , Valenzuela Rodrigo , Metherel Adam H. , Bazinet Richard P.
Published: November 2023

Consumption of a Western diet (WD) is known to increase the risk of obesity. Short or medium chain fatty acids influence energy metabolism, and triacetin, a synthetic short chain triacylglyceride, has been shown to lower body fat under normal conditions. This study aimed to investigate if triacetin as part of a WD modifies rat weight and body fat. Male rats were fed a control diet or WD for 8 weeks. At week 8, rats in the WD group were maintained on a WD diet or switched to a WD diet containing 30% energy from medium‐chain triacylglyceride (WD‐MCT) or triacetin (WD‐T) for another 8 weeks. At week 16, rats were euthanized and liver, adipose and blood were collected. Tissue fatty acids (FAs) were quantified by gas chromatography (GC) and hepatic FAs were measured by GC‐combustion‐isotope ratio mass spectrometry for δ13C‐palmitic acid (PAM)—a novel marker of de novo lipogenesis (DNL). Rats fed WD‐T had a body weight not statistically different to the control group, and gained less body weight than rats fed WD alone. Furthermore, WD‐T fed rats had a lower fat mass, and lower total liver and plasma FAs compared to the WD group. Rats fed WD‐T did not differ from WD in blood ketone or glucose levels, however, had a significantly lower hepatic δ13C‐PAM value than WD fed rats; suggestive of lower DNL. In summary, we show that triacetin has the potential to blunt weight gain and adipose tissue accumulation in a rodent model of obesity, possibly due to a decrease in DNL.
Response of distributions and emissions of summer biogenic sulfur in the Pacific Arctic to enhanced Pacific Water inflow
Authors: Li Cheng‐Xuan , Wang Bao‐Dong , Chen Kan , Yang Gui‐Peng , Chen Jian‐Fang , Lin Li‐Na , Wang Zi‐Cheng
Published: November 2023

The inflow of warm and nutrient‐rich Pacific Water (PW) through the Bering Strait into the Arctic Ocean is likely to have far‐reaching consequences for the ecosystem and biogenic sulfur cycle in the Earth's sensitive subarctic–arctic region of the Pacific sector, even impacting climate change under global warming scenarios. We performed a detailed biogeochemical study of summer biogenic sulfur cycling from cold (2012) to warm (2014) years in the Bering Strait and the Chukchi Sea, so as to highlight the importance of enhanced Pacific inflow in driving dimethylsulfide (DMS) variability. In the Bering Strait, the enhanced Pacific inflow led to the vertical expansion of the eastern high‐DMS regions due to the vertical extension of Alaska Coastal Water, and the horizontal expansion of the western surface high‐DMS regions due to the westward intrusion of Bering Shelf Water. The enhanced extension of PW potentially stimulated seawater warming, the northward retreat of the ice edge, and the enlargement of sea ice‐free areas in the Chukchi Sea. The northern ice melting zone at 71°N with a bloom of phytoplankton was an area of locally high dimethylsulfoniopropionate concentrations and slow DMS consumption in 2012. A hotspot for dimethylated sulfur compound concentrations and DMS sea–air flux occurred in the convergence region near 67.7°N during 2014, due to enhanced mixing caused by increased Bering Sea Water. Owing to the increased advection of PW during 2012–2014, surface DMS and its emission to the atmosphere increased sharply by threefold in the Chukchi Sea.
Probing Dual Asymmetric Transverse Spin Angular Momentum in Tightly Focused Vector Beams in Optical Tweezers
Authors: Kumar Ram Nandan , Nayak Jeeban Kumar , Gupta Subhasish Dutta , Ghosh Nirmalya , Banerjee Ayan
Published: November 2023

The spin‐orbit interaction (SOI) of light generated by tight focusing in optical tweezers is regularly employed in generating angular momentum ‐ both spin and orbital ‐ the effects being extensively observed in trapped mesoscopic particles. Specifically, the transverse spin angular momentum (TSAM), which arises due to the longitudinal component of the electromagnetic field generated by tight focusing is of special interest, both in terms of fundamental studies and associated applications. This study provides an effective and optimal strategy for generating TSAM in optical tweezers by tightly focusing first‐order radially and azimuthally polarized vector beams with no intrinsic angular momentum (AM) into a refractive index stratified medium. The choice of such input fields ensures that the longitudinal spin angular momentum (LSAM) arising from the electric (magnetic) field for the radial (azimuthal) polarization is zero. As a result, the effects of the electric and magnetic TSAM are exclusively observed separately in the case of input first‐order radially and azimuthally polarized vector beams on single optically trapped birefringent particles. This research opens up new and simple avenues for exotic and complex particle manipulation in optical tweezers.
In‐Source High‐Resolution Spectroscopy Using an Integrated Tunable Raman Laser
Authors: Granados Eduardo , Stoikos Georgios , Bernerd Cyril , Chrysalidis Katerina , Echarri Daniel T. , Fedosseev Valentin N. , Heinke Reinhard , Marsh Bruce A.
Published: November 2023

Tunable single‐frequency lasers are the most prominent tool for high‐resolution spectroscopy, allowing for the study and exploitation of the electronic structure of atoms. A significant milestone relies on the demonstration of integrated laser technology for performing such a task. The device presented here is composed of a compact Fabry–Perot monolithic resonator capable of producing tunable and Fourier‐limited nanosecond pulses with a MHz‐class frequency stability without active cavity stabilization elements. It also has the remarkable capability of exploiting the Raman effect to funnel efficiently the broad spectrum of an input laser to a spectrally‐bright Stokes pulse at hard‐to‐access wavelength ranges. The targeted atom for the demonstrations is 152Sm, released as an atomic vapor in a hot cavity environment. Here, the Stokes field is tuned to a wavelength of 433.9 nm, while a crossed‐beams spectroscopy setup is used to minimize the Doppler broadened spectral features of the atoms. With this work, the suitability of integrated diamond Raman lasers as a high‐resolution in‐source spectroscopy tool is demonstrated, enabling many applications in atomic and nuclear physics. The integrated form‐factor and inherent simplicity makes such a laser an interesting prospect for quantum‐technology based sensing systems and related applications.
Highly Efficient Transfer of Quantum State and Robust Generation of Entanglement State Around Exceptional Lines
Authors: Tang Zan , Chen Tian , Zhang Xiangdong
Published: November 2023

Exceptional points (EPs) are non‐Hermitian degeneracies or branch points where eigenvalues and their corresponding eigenvectors coalesce. Due to the complex non‐trivial topology of Riemann surfaces associated with non‐Hermitian Hamiltonians, the dynamical encirclement or proximity of EPs in parameter space has been shown to lead to topological mode conversions and some novel physical phenomena. In fact, degeneracies can also form continuous line geometries, which are called exceptional lines (ELs). The problem is whether the state transfer around the ELs can show different characteristics from the EPs, which is less explored. Here, novel properties of quantum state transfer around the ELs based on a quantum walk platform are explored. It is found that the evolutionary state around the ELs is independent of the initial state and evolution direction, and the transfer of quantum state is more efficient than the case around the EPs. Furthermore, based on such a property, an entangled state generation insensitive to the incident state is realized experimentally. The work opens up a new way for the application of non‐Hermitian physics in the field of quantum information.
Piezoelectric Properties of Electrospun Polymer Nanofibers and Related Energy Harvesting Applications
Authors: Ren Kailiang , Shen Yue , Wang Zhong Lin
Published: November 2023

Electrospinning (ES) methods that can produce piezoelectricity in polymer nanofibers have attracted tremendous research attention. These electrospun polymer nanofibers can be employed for sensors, energy harvesting, tissue engineering, and filtration applications. This paper reviews the performance of a variety of electrospun piezoelectric polymer nanofibers produced by different ES methods, including near‐field electrospinning and conventional far‐field electrospinning methods. Herein, it is described how the ES method can affect the piezoelectric properties of various polymer nanofibers, including poly(vinylidene difluorine), poly(vinylidene fluoride‐trifluoroethylene), nylon 11, poly(l‐lactic acid), and poly(α‐benzyl‐l‐glutamate). Due to the varied matrix structures of piezoelectric polymer nanofibers, the ES method may conduct variable effects on the piezoelectric properties of polymer nanofibers. After characterizations by X‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectrum, dielectric spectra, and piezoelectric coefficient measurements, it is found that the piezoelectric properties of the polymer nanofibers can be significantly affected by the ES parameters. Most of previous review articles focus on the output performance of electrospun polymer nanofibers. A detailed description of how different ES methods affect the piezoelectricity of polymer nanofibers is still lacking. In this review paper, the basic principle behind ES methods and the way in which different ES methods affect the properties of polymer nanofibers are examined.
Low‐dose exercise protects the heart against established myocardial infarction via IGF‐1‐upregulated CTRP9 in male mice
Authors: Tan Yanzhen , Feng Pan , Feng Lele , Shi Lei , Song Yujie , Yang Jian , Duan Weixun , Gao Erhe , Liu Jincheng , Yi Dinghua , Zhang Bing , Sun Yang , Yi Wei
Published: November 2023

Regular exercise is recommended as an important component of therapy for cardiovascular diseases in clinical practice. However, there are still major challenges in prescribing an optimized exercise regimen to individual patients with established cardiac disease. Here, we tested the effects of different exercise doses on cardiac function in mice with established myocardial infarction (MI). Exercise was introduced to mice with MI after 4 weeks of surgery. Low‐dose exercise (15 min/day for 8 weeks) improved mortality and cardiac function by increasing 44.39% of ejection fractions while inhibiting fibrosis by decreasing 37.74% of distant region. Unlike higher doses of exercise, low‐dose exercise consecutively upregulated cardiac expression of C1q complement/tumor necrosis factor‐associated protein 9 (CTRP9) during exercise (>1.5‐fold). Cardiac‐specific knockdown of CTRP9 abolished the protective effects of low‐dose exercise against established MI, while cardiac‐specific overexpression of CTRP9 protected the heart against established MI. Mechanistically, low‐dose exercise upregulated the transcription factor nuclear receptor subfamily 2 group F member 2 by increasing circulating insulin‐like growth factor 1 (IGF‐1), therefore, upregulating cardiac CTRP9 expression. These results suggest that low‐dose exercise protects the heart against established MI via IGF‐1‐upregulated CTRP9 and may contribute to the development of optimized exercise prescriptions for patients with MI.
Oncogenic viral antigens for engineered T cell immunotherapy: Challenges and opportunities
Authors: Zhang Haipeng , Chen Jing , Zhang Qianbing , Yu Lingfeng , Li Xiaohong , Wu Sha
Published: November 2023

Viruses that cause malignancies such as hepatocellular carcinoma and cervical cancer are the cause of approximately 20% of all human cancers. In recent years, engineered T cell immunotherapy targeting tumor‐associated antigens (TAAs) has had some success against virus‐associated cancer, although these treatments are associated with side effects. TAA‐specific‐modified T cells may kill cancer cells but they also react with and damage healthy tissue. During an oncogenic virus infection, viral DNA integrates into the host genome, leading to the expression of viral‐specific antigens in the tumor in a restricted and durable manner. The cross‐reactive side‐effects of conventional TAA‐specific engineered T cell treatment can be avoided by creating engineered T cells that target oncogenic viral antigens. To chart a course for the discovery of additional viral‐specific antigens and their combination with immune checkpoint inhibition therapies, this review summarizes the development, preclinical research, and clinical application of oncogenic viral antigen–specific T cell immunotherapy. This review also addresses challenges such as virus mutation and diverse integration, which can result in the loss of the target.
A new framework for using weather‐sensitive surplus power reserves in critical infrastructure
Authors: Fallon James , Brayshaw David , Methven John , Jensen Kjeld , Krug Louise
Published: November 2023

Reserve power systems are widely used to provide power to critical infrastructure systems in the event of power outages. The reserve power system may be subject to regulation, typically focussing on a strict operational time commitment, but the energy involved in supplying reserve power may be highly variable. For example, if heating or cooling is involved, energy consumption may be strongly influenced by prevailing weather conditions and seasonality. Replacing legacy assets (often diesel generators) with modern technologies could offer potential benefits and services back to the wider electricity system when not in use, therefore supporting a transition to low‐carbon energy networks. Drawing on the Great Britain telecommunications systems as an example, this paper demonstrates that meteorological reanalyses can be used to evaluate capacity requirements to maintain the regulated target of 5‐days operational reserve. Across three case‐study regions with diverse weather sensitivities, infrastructure with cooling‐driven electricity demand is shown to increase energy consumption during summer, thus determining the overall capacity of the reserve required and the availability of ‘surplus’ capacity. Lower risk tolerance is shown to lead to a substantial cost increase in terms of capacity required but also enhanced opportunities for surplus capacity. The use of meteorological forecast information is shown to facilitate increased surplus capacity. Availability of surplus capacity is compared to a measure of supply–stress (demand‐net‐wind) on the wider energy network. For infrastructure with cooling‐driven demand (typical of most UK telecommunication assets), it is shown that surplus availability peaks during periods of supply–stress, offering the greatest potential benefit to the national electricity grid.
Dietary Achievable Dose of Protocatechuic Acid, a Metabolite of Flavonoids, Inhibits High‐Fat Diet‐Induced Obesity in Mice
Authors: Xiang Panyin , Du Yushi , Chen Guanyu , Mao Yihui , Li Shuangshuang , Li Qing , Yang Yuting , Li Xueyu , Wang Dongliang
Published: November 2023

Scope

Protocatechuic acid (PCA), a gut microbiota metabolite of flavonoids, inhibits dietary obesity and increases uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1), a critical regulator responsible for adipose thermogenesis; however, these effects are achieved at dietary unachievable (pharmacological) dose. It evaluates whether dietary achievable dose of PCA inhibits adiposity by activating adipose thermogenesis.

Methods and Results

Six‐week‐old male C57BL/6J mice are fed a high‐fat diet (HFD) alone (control) or supplemented with 0.003% PCA w/w for 16 weeks. PCA consumption does not affect food intake but appreciably reduces body weight gain, improves insulin sensitivity, and attenuates hepatic steatosis. These effects are associated with no significant changes in the abundance of UCP1 in adipose tissues. Instead, PCA consumption increases the abundance and enzymatic activity of carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1 (the first rate‐limiting enzyme in fatty acid oxidation) in the livers, inguinal white, and brown adipose tissues. Surprisingly, PCA at physiologically achievable dose does not affect the abundance and enzymatic activity of carnitine acyltransferase‐1 expression and the capacity of fatty acid oxidation in 3T3‐L1‐derived white or brown adipocytes and human hepatoma HepG2 cells.

Conclusions

Dietary achievable dose of PCA attenuates HFD‐induced adiposity, which is likely achieved by increasing fatty acid oxidation other than activating adipose thermogenesis.
Modelling dynamic breakage in rock blocks with different elongation and flatness ratios upon impact
Authors: Ye Yang , Li Changdong , Zeng Yawu , Tang Huiming
Published: November 2023

The two crucial shape factors (elongation ratio and flatness ratio) of brittle particles may influence the dynamic breakage of brittle particles upon impact. Hence, three‐dimensional discrete element method simulations of brittle rock blocks with different shapes upon normal impact were performed. The simulated results indicate that the elongation ratio, that is, ratio of width to length and flatness ratio, that is, ratio of thickness to width can significantly affect the breakage of brittle rock blocks. Three fracture mechanisms, that is, fragmentation, horizontal tensile fracture and vertical tensile fracture, were revealed, which determine the dynamic breakage of rock blocks. The fragmentation results in numerous single‐sphered fragments with velocities even larger than 2 times of the initial velocities. Fragmentation can provide a buffering effect at high impact velocities of larger than 4 m/s. With an increasing elongation ratio or flatness ratio, the phenomenon of fragmentation gradually disappears. The reflection of a compression stress wave results in horizontal tensile fracture. The expansion in the plane perpendicular to the impact velocity results in vertical tensile fracture.
Neuro‐PINN: A hybrid framework for efficient nonlinear projection equation solutions
Authors: Wu Dawen , Lisser Abdel
Published: November 2023

Nonlinear projection equations (NPEs) provide a unified framework for solving various constrained nonlinear optimization and engineering problems. This paper presents a deep learning approach for solving NPEs by incorporating neurodynamic optimization and physics‐informed neural networks (PINNs). First, we model the NPE as a system of ordinary differential equations (ODEs) using neurodynamic optimization, and the objective becomes solving this ODE system. Second, we use a modified PINN to serve as the solution for the ODE system. Third, the neural network is trained using a dedicated algorithm to optimize both the ODE system and the NPE. Unlike conventional numerical integration methods, the proposed approach predicts the end state without computing all the intermediate states, resulting in a more efficient solution. The effectiveness of the proposed framework is demonstrated on a collection of classical problems, such as variational inequalities and complementarity problems.
Modified Picard with multigrid method for two‐phase flow problems in rigid porous media
Authors: de Oliveira Michely Laís , Pinto Marcio Augusto Villela , Rodrigo Carmen , Gaspar Francisco José
Published: November 2023

Two‐phase flow problems in porous media can be found in several areas, such as Geomechanics, Hydrogeology, Engineering and Biomedicine, for example. Typically, these processes are mathematically modeled by a highly nonlinear system of coupled partial differential equations. The nonlinearity of the system makes the design and implementation of robust numerical solvers a challenging task. In this work we consider the flow of two immiscible and incompressible fluids within a non‐deformable porous medium. A mixed pressure‐saturation formulation is adopted, allowing the transition from the unsaturated to saturated zones and maintaining numerical mass conservation. A cell‐centered finite volume method and an implicit Euler scheme are considered for the spatial and time discretization of the problem. In this work, we propose a solution method for two‐phase flow problems which is based on the combination of the modified Picard linearization method and a very simple cell‐centered multigrid algorithm that performs efficiently even for heterogeneous random media. This is shown in the numerical experiments, where two test problems are presented to demonstrate the robustness of the proposed solver.
Adaptive material evaluation by stabilized octree and sandwich coarsening in FFT‐based computational micromechanics
Authors: Kabel Matthias , Schneider Matti
Published: November 2023

The computational efficiency of FFT‐based computational micromechanics is deeply rooted in the underlying regular, that is, Cartesian, discretization. The bottleneck for most industrial applications is evaluating the typically rather expensive constitutive law on the regular grid. In the work at hand, we exploit coarsening strategies to evaluate the material law with the intention of speeding up the overall computation time while retaining the level of achieved accuracy. Inspired by wavelet‐compression techniques, we form aggregates of voxels where the local strain tensors are close, and compute the stresses on these coarsened elements. If done naively, such a strategy will lead to intrinsic instabilities whose origin is apparent from a mathematical perspective. As a remedy, we introduce a stabilization technique which is inspired by hourglass control well‐known for underintegrated finite elements. We introduce octree as well as sandwich coarsening, discuss the handling of internal variables, report on the efficient implementation of the concepts and demonstrate the effectiveness of the developed technology on simple as well as industrial examples.
A high‐order discontinuous Galerkin approach for physics‐based thermospheric modeling
Authors: Vila‐Pérez Jordi , Nguyen Ngoc Cuong , Peraire Jaume
Published: November 2023

The accurate prediction of aerodynamic drag on satellites orbiting in the upper atmosphere is critical to the operational success of modern space technologies, such as satellite‐based communication or navigation systems, which have become increasingly popular in the last few years due to the deployment of constellations of satellites in low‐Earth orbit. As a result, physics‐based models of the ionosphere and thermosphere have emerged as a necessary tool for the prediction of atmospheric outputs under highly variable space weather conditions. This paper proposes a high‐fidelity approach for physics‐based space weather modeling based on the solution of the Navier–Stokes equations using a high‐order discontinuous Galerkin method, combined with a matrix‐free strategy suitable for high‐performance computing on GPU architectures. The approach consists of a thermospheric model that describes a chemically frozen neutral atmosphere in nonhydrostatic equilibrium driven by the external excitation of the Sun. A novel set of variables is considered to treat the low densities present in the upper atmosphere and to accommodate the wide range of scales present in the problem. At the same time, and unlike most existing approaches, radial and angular directions are treated in a nonsegregated approach. The study presents a set of numerical examples that demonstrate the accuracy of the approximation and validate the current approach against observational data along a satellite orbit, including estimates of established empirical and physics‐based models of the ionosphere‐thermosphere system. Finally, a one‐dimensional radial derivation of the physics‐based model is presented and utilized for conducting a parametric study of the main thermal quantities under various solar conditions.
Potential Treatments for Epiglottic Collapse in Obstructive Sleep Apnea: How Modified Drug‐Induced Sleep Endoscopy Help?
Authors: Shih Hua‐Wei , Chen Yu‐Lin , Lin Hung‐Che , Kuo Terry B.J. , Yang Cheryl C.H. , Chiu Feng‐Hsiang , Chang Yi , Jacobowitz Ofer , Lin Chia‐Mo , Hsu Ying‐Shuo
Published: November 2023

Objective

In patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), epiglottic collapse (EC) constitutes a major factor in the failure of continuous positive airway pressure therapy and uvulopalatopharyngoplasty. This study explored treatments that can improve EC in patients with OSA through drug‐induced sleep endoscopy with target‐controlled infusion (TCI‐DISE).

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Tertiary center.

Methods

This study screened 352 OSA patients who underwent TCI‐DISE between 2016 and 2022. Fifty‐four patients with EC were included in the final analysis. EC severity was assessed multiple times through TCI‐DISE with different interventions.

Results

The application of these interventions in patients with anteroposterior epiglottic collapse (apEC) led to a significant decrease in apEC severity from total to partial or no obstruction in 60.0% of patients by head rotation, in 53.6% by mouth closure, in 47.4% who received oral appliances (OA), and in 28.0% who received intermittent negative airway pressure (iNAP). With simultaneous head rotation, apEC severity decreased more significantly from total to partial or no obstruction in 77.8% of patients by mouth closure, in 70.3% who received OA, and in 68.0% who received iNAP. Lateral epiglottic collapse (latEC) severity decreased in 53.8% of patients after OA use and in 61.5% of patients with OA use and head rotation.

Conclusion

This study identified head rotation with mouth closure as the most effective treatment for apEC through TCI‐DISE. Patients with latEC had higher weight, apnea‐hypopnea index, and body mass index compared with patients with apEC. OA use with head rotation appeared more effective in latEC through TCI‐DISE.
Estimating the United States Patient Population Size Meeting Audiologic Candidacy for Cochlear Implantation
Authors: Yu Kevin , Shen Sarek , Bowditch Steve , Sun Daniel
Published: November 2023

Objective

This study aimed to estimate the size of the United States candidacy pool meeting expanded Center for Medicare Services criteria for cochlear implantation.

Study Design

Retrospective cross‐sectional.

Setting

Tertiary care center.

Methods

Preimplantation audiometric data from 486 patients seen at a single academic medical center were collected retrospectively and used to generate a predictive model of AzBio score based on audiometric pure tone thresholds. This model was then used to estimate nationally representative cochlear implantation (CI)‐candidacy using pure tone averages included in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Qualitative and quantitative analyses were performed.

Results

We find that the estimated prevalence of CI candidacy in individuals 65 years of age or older is expected to more than double with a change in the CI candidacy criteria from ≤40% to ≤60% (from 1.42%, 95% confidence interval [1.33, 1.63] to 3.73% [2.71, 6.56]) on speech testing. We also found the greatest absolute increase in candidacy in the 80+ age group, increasing from 4.14% [3.72, 5.1] of the population meeting the ≤40% criteria to 12.12% [9.19, 18.35] meeting the ≤60% criteria.

Conclusion

The United States population size meeting expanded CMS audiologic criteria for cochlear implantation is estimated to be 2.5 million adults and 2.1 million age 65 or older. Changing the CI candidacy criteria from ≤40% to ≤60% on CI testing has the greatest effect on the eligible patient population in the >65‐year‐old age group. The determination of utilization rates in newly eligible patients will require further study.
Latent heat effects in inductive heating of shape memory alloy fibers
Authors: Descher Stefan , Krooß Philipp , Ewald Felix , Wolf Sebastian , Kuhl Detlef
Published: November 2023

Motivation of the present work is an inductive heating process, used in manufacturing a new kind of improved ultra‐high performance concrete. In this novel material, fibers made out of shape memory alloys are used to increase the maximum possible fiber volume fraction, or to create an internal state of compressive stress. In contrast to other works, the underlying microstructure transformation from martensite to austenite is highlighted based on thermal analysis. Dynamic scanning calorimetry measurements are adapted as basis for development of a phenomenological phase transformation model. It relates local temperature and temperature rate to the rate of change of the phase indicator, modeling the transformation of martensite to austenite. Latent heat is considered by an enthalpy method, the inductive heating process is considered by a phenomenological model. Study results for a purely thermodynamic process of heating a single fiber embedded in concrete are presented. They show that latent heat effects delay phase transformation and the process of fiber activation is very sensitive to the induced heat. Furthermore, it is discovered that latent heat causes a strongly inhomogeneous state of transformation in radial direction of the fiber, which is of great importance for thermomechanical processes and the interpretation of experimental results.
The outdoor physical environment, inflammation and adult psychological distress in a UK general population sample
Authors: Midouhas Emily , Kokosi Theodora , Mueller Marie A. E. , Flouri Eirini
Published: November 2023

Inflammation is one of the suggested pathways linking exposure to neighbourhood air pollution and greenspace to psychological distress. Yet, inflammation has not been tested formally as a mediating factor in an adult human sample.

Using data from 6813 adults participating in Understanding Society, the present study examines longitudinally the joint role of the two neighbourhood‐level exposures in psychological distress and the mediating role of inflammation. Annual concentrations of nitrogen dioxide and availability of greenspace in participants' neighbourhoods across England and Wales were examined. Psychological distress was measured with the General Health Questionnaire. Inflammation was assessed with C‐reactive protein and fibrinogen.

A structural equation model path analysis showed that, in fully adjusted models, an increase in the amount of greenspace in one's neighbourhood was related to lower psychological distress 4 years later, but inflammation did not mediate this relationship.

Neighbourhood‐level air pollution, specifically nitrogen dioxide, was not associated with psychological distress.

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Structural energy storage system using electrospun carbon nanofibers with carbon nanotubes
Authors: Lee Dasom , Jung Jaemin , Lee Gyu Hee , Li Meixian , Lee Woo Il , Um Moon‐Kwang , Choi Sung‐Woong
Published: November 2023

In the present study, carbon nanofibers containing multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were fabricated and employed as electrodes for structural supercapacitors. Carbon nanofibers were utilized as the electrode material in structural supercapacitors to increase the specific surface area. Electrospun polyacrylonitrile (PAN) nanofibers underwent conversion to carbon nanofibers through stabilization and carbonization processes aided by thermal treatment. The specific surface area of the electrospun carbon nanofiber electrodes was further increased approximately 118 times (1946.9 m2/g) using an activation process in comparison with that of non‐activated carbon nanofibers (16.43 m2/g). Multifunctional supercapacitors were fabricated by employing electrospun carbon nanofibers and a vacuum resin infusion technique. The specific capacitance of activated carbon nanofibers (ACNF) and ACNF‐MWCNT exhibited significant improvement (14.87 and 48.25 mF/cm2, respectively) compared to non‐activated carbon nanofibers (CNF‐MWCNT: 1.71 mF/cm2). This improvement was attributed to the reduction in equivalent series resistance and the increase of the surface area of the nanofiber electrodes. Additionally, the carbon nanofiber electrodes contributed to an increased interlaminar fracture toughness of structural supercapacitors, acting akin to “Velcro” between fabric interfaces. This work serves as a “proof of concept” for a straightforward and efficient method to manufacture electrodes for structural supercapacitors based on the electrospinning technique.

Highlights

Fabrication of carbon nanofibers containing MWCNTs using electrospinning.

The carbon nanofiber as an electrode for structural supercapacitors.

Simple and effective method.

Dramatically improving specific capacitance of the supercapacitors.
Review on recent progress in epoxy‐based composite materials for Electromagnetic Interference(EMI) shielding applications
Authors: Albert Annie Aureen , Parthasarathy V. , Kumar P. Senthil
Published: November 2023

The densely packed electronic components in electronic devices emit electromagnetic (EM) radiations, and the interaction of the emitted EM radiations with external EM signals of neighboring components leads to device malfunctions and also creates health issues in human beings. Particularly, in aircraft, EM interference is a serious threat that leads to disastrous outcomes. The shielding of electronic components is an ideal way to reduce the pollution of electromagnetic interference (EMI). The mechanism of EMI shielding efficiency is discussed elaborately in this article. The factors associated with the EMI shielding of materials are discussed in detail. The EMI shielding by reflection and absorption are two possible routes to improve the shielding performance of the shielding materials. This article also highlights the EMI shielding mechanisms by reflection and absorption. However, the risk of secondary EM pollution is associated with the reflection of EM waves. This review also outlines the methods to improve the absorption‐based shielding performance of the materials. The significance of the microstructure of the shielding materials in enhancing the absorption‐dominant shielding efficiency is also presented with a detailed analysis. This helps to fabricate the absorption‐dominant EMI shielding materials with suitable microstructures. The EM loss is associated with the magnetic, dielectric, and conduction losses according to EM theory.

Highlights

This article highlights the recent progress in epoxy‐based EMI shielding materials.

EMI shielding mechanisms by reflection and absorption are discussed elaborately.

Reviewed the methods to improve the absorption‐based shielding performance in detail.

Materials with EMI shielding efficiency greater than 30 dB are highly preferable.
Tribological anisotropy of PEEK composites filled with highly oriented carbon fibers manufactured by fused deposition modeling
Authors: Lv Xiancheng , Yang Shuyan , Pei Xianqiang , Zhang Yaoming , Wang Qihua , Wang Tingmei
Published: November 2023

The orientation of fibers in polymer matrix plays a crucial role in governing the performance of composites including friction and wear. In the present work, the effect of fiber orientation on tribological behavior of 3D printed short carbon fiber reinforced PEEK composites (CF/PEEK) was studied by two series of tribo‐tests, namely macro‐scale continuous sliding and micro‐scale multiple scratching. Fiber orientations studied included parallel, tilted and anti‐parallel relative to the sliding direction in both macro sliding and micro scratching. It was revealed that the effect of fiber orientation showed strong dependence on applied loads. In most cases, lower wear were obtained when the fiber orientation was tilted rather than parallel or anti‐parallel in macro continuous sliding. With tilted orientation, the composite also exhibited the best scratching behavior except for that at the lowest normal load. To reveal the mechanisms behind this orientation effects, the composite's worn surface, as well as those of the counter rings, were characterized. Findings of the present work indicates that scratching tests can help understand the macro sliding mechanisms and appropriate fiber orientation is beneficial in improving the tribological properties of polymer composites, which can be realized through 3D printing.

Highlights

PEEK composites filled with highly oriented carbon fibers were manufactured by fused deposition modeling (FDM).

Tribological anisotropy was studied through macro sliding and micro scratching measurements with respect to carbon fiber orientation.

The coupling mechanism of load and fiber orientation was discussed in influencing the composites' friction and wear properties.
The effects of multiple‐sized compound fillers on the thermal, electrical, and processing properties of epoxy composites
Authors: Yang Wei , Zhao Yushun , Chen Yun , Qiao Jian , Chen Weijiang , Wang Kun , Zhang Chong , Zhang Jin , Chen Xin , Du Bin
Published: November 2023

The efficient filling of the multiple‐sized compound fillers can effectively increase the thermal conductivity of the polymer composite. However, determining the specific proportion of the compound fillers with different sizes is hard. This article proposes a random distribution model and the closest packing model to calculate the proportion of the compound fillers and prepare the epoxy composites with different compound fillers. By elaborately designing epoxy composites containing 75 wt% (48 vol%) ternary compound Al2O3fillers, its thermal conductivity reached 1.640 W/(m·K). In addition, the volume resistivity for all prepared Al2O3/epoxy composites was higher than 1016 Ω cm. Besides, the electrical and dielectric properties of the epoxy composite with multiple‐sized compound fillers were comparable or superior to the composite with single‐sized fillers. Last but not least, the viscosity of the ternary compound Al2O3/epoxy mixture was significantly lower than the single‐sized Al2O3/epoxy mixture, which is beneficial for improving the processability of the epoxy composite. The results of this article will guide the development and utilization of epoxy composites with high thermal conductivities.

Highlights

A random distribution model and the closest packing model were proposed.

The thermal conductivity of the designed epoxy composites reached 1.640 W/(m·K).

The compound filler can effectively improve the processability of the composite.
A descriptive analysis of postmarketing requirement studies and clinical trials
Authors: Choi Lauren , Etchey Beverly , Billings Monisha , Lee Cathryn , Weil Kathleen M. , Boxwell Debra , Edelberg Helen
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Under the Food and Drug Administration Amendments Act of 2007 (FDAAA), the FDA has the authority to require applicants to conduct postmarketing studies or clinical trials. These postmarketing requirements (PMRs) provide additional data on the safety of the drug product. The purpose of the study was to conduct a descriptive analysis of FDAAA PMRs and the resulting regulatory actions.

Methods

This study evaluated FDAAA PMRs established between 2013 and 2019. We used the Medical Dictionary for Regulatory Activities (MedDRA) to map preferred terms (PTs) for serious risks associated with the PMRs. Relevant documents available in the FDA's document archiving, reporting, and regulatory tracking system (DARRTS), including but not limited to internal letters and reviews, documents submitted by applicants, and publicly available data sources were assessed for data collection of study elements.

Results

Of the 1079 new FDAAA PMRs established between January 01, 2013, and December 31, 2019, 82% (n = 884) were associated with new drug applications (NDAs) and 18% (n = 195) with biologic license applications (BLAs). Most PMRs were established at the time of drug approval (73%, n = 789) compared to post‐approval (27%, n = 290). The majority of PMRs had an open status (59%, n = 639) and 41% (n = 440) were closed. The median time from the PMR establishment date to submission of the results to the FDA was 690 days (interquartile range [IQR]: 748 days) for 167 completed clinical trials and 483 days (IQR: 603 days) for 241 completed studies. Approximately 53% (180/339) of fulfilled FDAAA PMRs resulted in labeling changes.

Conclusions

FDAAA PMRs are useful in informing postmarket safety of drugs. Most FDAAA PMRs were established at the time of drug approval, reflecting safety signals identified during the review of the marketing application, and over half of fulfilled FDAAA PMRs resulted in regulatory action.