bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neighborhood poverty prospectively predicts PTSD symptoms six‐months following trauma exposure
Authors: Ravi Meghna , Powers Abigail , Rothbaum Barbara O. , Stevens Jennifer S. , Michopoulos Vasiliki
Published: August 2023

Individuals living in areas with high rates of poverty are disproportionately affected by posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Despite this association, little is known about how neighborhood poverty rates impact risk for PTSD development. In the current prospective study, we determined the relationship between neighborhood poverty rate and PTSD symptoms 6‐months after experiencing a traumatic event in a sample of varied race, gender, and socioeconomic status. Participants (N = 252) were enrolled in a hospital emergency department after experiencing a traumatic event. Demographic information (including zip code of residence), baseline PTSD symptoms, and baseline trauma history was assessed in the emergency department. PTSD symptoms were again assessed 6‐months posttrauma. Neighborhood poverty rate was determined using the American Community Survey. Correlation analyses revealed that neighborhood poverty was significantly associated with baseline PTSD symptoms (r = 0.181, p = 0.004) and PTSD symptoms 6‐months posttrauma (r = 0.163, p = 0.009). A regression analysis controlling for baseline trauma exposure, clinician‐rated trauma severity, and individual socioeconomic status demonstrated that neighborhood poverty predicted PTSD symptoms six‐months posttrauma (R2 = 0.099, B = 0.15, p = 0.04), but this relationship was no longer significant when baseline PTSD symptoms was added as an additional covariate (R2 = 0.304, B = 0.07, p > 0.05). Overall, results suggest that neighborhood poverty generally increases PTSD symptom severity, and the context in which an individual lives should be considered when conceptualizing risk for PTSD.
Mathematical modeling analysis and simulation of human papillomavirus infection and cervical cancer in Xinjiang, China
Authors: Rifhat Ramziya , Teng Zhidong , Wang Lei , Zeng Ting , Zhang Liping , Wang Kai
Published: August 2023

A dynamical model of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and secondary cervical cancer transmission with a two‐stage recovery of HPV infection and precancerous lesions is constructed based on the transmission features relating HPV infection and secondary cervical cancer in Xinjiang, China. First, the dynamical behavior of the model is investigated, including the positivity and boundedness of solutions, the calculation regarding basic reproduction number, the existence and stability of equilibrium, and the uniform persistence of the model. The theoretical results show that the basic reproduction number completely decided the dynamical properties of the model. Second, the parameters and current basic reproduction number specific to the model are fitted and estimated considering the actual data of HPV infection and secondary cervical cancer cases in Xinjiang from January 2003 to December 2019. Furthermore, the sensitivity of main parameters to the basic reproduction number is discussed by the numerical simulations. Finally, some practical control strategies are proposed to control the further spread of HPV infection and cervical cancer in the region.
Hilfer fractional neutral stochastic integro‐differential evolution hemivariational inequalities and optimal controls
Authors: Sivasankar S. , Udhayakumar R. , Muthukumaran V.
Published: August 2023

The focus of this study is a control system with a nonlocal state that is driven by a neutral stochastic integro‐differential evolution hemivariational inequality known as Hilfer fractional (HF). In order to demonstrate effective requirements for the existence of mild solutions to the relevant control system, we first make use of the features of the extended Clarke subdifferential and a fixed point theorem for multivalued functions. We next prove that there are optimal state‐control sets that are induced by HF neutral stochastic integro‐differential evolution hemivariational inequalities with a nonlocal condition by using limited Lagrange optimal structures. The distinctiveness of the control system's solutions is not taken into consideration while developing optimal control outcomes. At last, an example is employed to go over the major findings.
cGAS‐STING signaling in cancer: Regulation and therapeutic targeting
Authors: Fan Xinzou , Song Xiaoshuang , Chen Wenjing , Liang Hantian , Nakatsukasa Hiroko , Zhang Dunfang
Published: August 2023

Immunotherapy has revolutionized antitumor therapy. Since the discovery of stimulators of interferon genes (STING), efforts have been made to elucidate their mechanisms and physiological functions and explore the potential of STING as a therapeutic target in immune‐related diseases and malignant tumors. In recent years, STING agonists have become a popular research topic. Activation of the cyclic GMP–AMP synthase (cGAS)‐STING pathway produces large amounts of type I interferons, which play key roles in activating innate and acquired immune responses. The cGAS‐STING pathway influences almost all aspects of tumorigenesis and has great antitumor potential. In addition, the activation of the cGAS‐STING pathway is associated with tumor regression, prolonged survival of patients with cancer, and enhanced immunotherapy. Given the positive role of STING in antitumor immunity, the development of STING‐targeted drugs is important. In this review, we summarize the activation and potential mechanisms of the cGAS‐STING pathway, discuss the association of the cGAS‐STING pathway with tumors and autoimmune diseases, and highlight research progress, clinical applications, and combination drug strategies for STING agonists.
Exploration of the pulse pileup effects in a clinical CdTe‐based photon‐counting computed tomography
Authors: Bhattarai Mridul , Bache Steve , Abadi Ehsan , Samei Ehsan
Published: August 2023

Background

High tube current generates a high flux of x‐rays to photon counting detectors (PCDs) that can potentially result in the piling up of pulses formed by concurrent photons, which can cause count loss and energy resolution degradation.

Purpose

To evaluate the performance of clinical photon‐counting CT (PCCT) systems in high flux, potentially influenced by pulse pileup effects, in terms of task‐generic image quality metrics.

Methods

A clinical phantom was scanned on a commercial PCCT scanner (NAEOTOM Alpha, Siemens) at 120 kV under fourteen different tube current levels (40–1000 mA) with a rotation time of 0.25 s and a pitch of 1. The dose levels corresponded to CTDIvol(32 cm phantom) of 0.79–19.8 mGy. CT sinograms were reconstructed using QIR‐off mode (noniterative reconstruction algorithm), Br44 kernel, and a voxel size of . imQuest, an open‐source MATLAB‐based software package was used to calculate noise power spectrum (NPS), task transfer function (TTF), contrast‐to‐noise ratio (CNR), and CT number according to AAPM Task Group 233 metrology.

Results

The 50% cut‐off frequency of TTF (f50) remained mostly constant across all higher tube currents for all inserts, namely polyethylene, bone, air, and acrylic. Using the lowest two data points (40 and 80 mA), the expected relationship between noise magnitude and tube current was determined to be noise mA−0.47. The measured noise magnitude were up to 11.1% higher than the expected value at the highest tube current. The average frequency of NPS (fav) decreased from 0.32 to 0.29 mm−1as tube current increased from 40 to 1000 mA. No considerable effects were observed in CT number measurement of any insert; however, CT numbers for air and bone changed almost monotonically as tube current increased. Absolute CNR increased monotonically for all inserts; however, the difference between measured and expected CNRs were approximately −6% to 12% across all tube currents.

Conclusions

Increasing tube currents did not affect the spatial resolution, but slightly affected the CT number and noise measurements of the clinical PCCT system. However, the effects were only considerable at clinically irrelevant tube currents used on a small 20‐cm phantom. In general clinical practices, automatic exposure control techniques are used to decrease the variation of flux on the detector, which alleviates the chances of detector saturation due to high count rates. The observed effects could be due to pulse pileup, signal‐dependent filtration of the system, or nonlinearities in the reconstruction algorithm. In conclusion, either the deadtime of the detector used in the photon‐counting CT system is shorter such that count losses due to pulse pileup are negligible, or pulse pileup has inconsiderable effects on the image quality of clinical photon‐counting CT systems in routine clinical practice due to possible corrections applied on the system.
High resolution simulation and measurement demonstrate oscillatory spatiotemporal B0 fluctuations across the human cardiac cycle
Authors: Shang Yun , Theilenberg Sebastian , Gajdošík Martin , Schreiber Laura M. , Juchem Christoph
Published: August 2023

Purpose

Functional cardiac MRI scans employing balanced steady‐state free precession sequences suffer from dark band artifacts in the myocardium due to B0 inhomogeneity. We recently introduced a novel method for the theoretical derivation of B0 distributions in the human heart. This study aims to simulate the B0 distributions in the heart across the cardiac cycle using structural MR images and validate the simulations via in vivo measured cardiac phase‐specific B0 maps on the same subjects at 3T.

Methods

Cardiac phase‐specific B0 field maps were acquired from eight healthy subjects at 3T. B0 conditions were simulated based on tissue masks created from the cardiac‐phase specific structural images from the in vivo B0 map scan and anatomical images from a thoracic MRI scan, adopting our recently published approach. The simulations and in vivo measurements were compared by calculating the spatial correlation of their B0 distributions and temporal correlation of the derived spherical harmonic coefficients throughout the cardiac cycle.

Results

The spatial comparison of B0 maps between the simulation and in vivo measurement indicates an overall average correlation coefficient of 0.91 across the cardiac cycle in all subjects. Both groups show consistent high‐level B0 patterns. Temporal variations of B0 conditions exhibit sinusoidal characteristics and are strongly correlated between simulation and in vivo.

Conclusion

Theoretical simulations employing regional anatomical features were validated by direct in vivo B0 mapping in the same subjects. The spatial B0 condition throughout the cardiac cycle exhibits oscillatory characteristics due to structural distortions of cardiac motion.
Combining profit and purpose: Paradoxical leadership skills and social–business tensions during the formation and sustenance of a social enterprise
Authors: Gopakumar K. V. , Gupta Vishal
Published: August 2023

Borrowing from paradoxical leadership literature and using the case of a social enterprise formed from a traditional nonprofit, the present study identifies a set of multilevel skills that helped the leader address the two social–business tensions, namely, continuance as a nonprofit and the forming of a social enterprise and the sustenance of a social enterprise and preventing the drift towards a for‐profit orientation during the formation of social enterprise and in its sustenance thereafter. The individual‐level paradoxical leadership skill of balancing idealism and pragmatism, the organizational‐level paradoxical leadership skill of navigating organizing contradictions, and the societal‐level skill of gauging societal developments and their organizational implications helped address the two different manifestations of social–business tensions during the formation and sustenance of a social enterprise. Implications for paradoxical leadership, social–business tensions, and social enterprise literature are discussed.
Quantitative effect of plasma‐processed multi‐walled carbon nanotubes for mechanical property of in situ polymerized polyurethane composite
Authors: Ogawa Daisuke , Morimune‐Moriya Seira , Fukuda Hikaru , Nakamura Keiji
Published: August 2023

This article reports the quantitative effect on carbon nanotubes (CNTs), which are exposed to low‐temperature plasma, for the purpose of a filler application of polyurethane (PU) composite. The plasma exposure provides an opportunity for the surface modification of the CNTs, so the exposure possibly enhances the interfacial interaction in PU composite. In this article, we carried out a wear‐resistant examination to investigate the mechanical property of the PU composite with plasma‐treated CNTs with a variation of the CNT concentration in the PU composite. Our results showed that plasma treatment assisted the resistance of the PU composite. Furthermore, our observation showed that plasma treatment gives a good dispersion in the composite and possibly enhances interfacial interaction due to surface modification.
Oncofertility patient navigation: The frontlines of fertility and reproductive health care in cancer
Authors: Whiteside Stacy L. , Frias Olivia Jaworek , Clifford Lindsey , Schultz Katie , Erickson Laura , Caldwell Mary , Prebus Olivia , Pruett Megan , Smith Kristin
Published: August 2023

Oncofertility is an emerging field that incorporates diverse disciplines working together to care for oncology patients from birth to adulthood who are facing surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy that may impact their fertility potential and reproductive function. Providing this care to newly diagnosed oncology patients in an expedited manner can be challenging. There is currently a paucity of published data about how this care is provided, training and education of individuals providing this care, and patient‐reported outcomes related specifically to oncofertility care. The role of the oncofertility patient navigator is to bridge the institutional and disciplinary boundaries so oncology patients of all ages can receive timely information regarding fertility risk and preservation options at diagnosis and throughout survivorship care. The purpose of this paper is to define the role of the oncofertility patient navigator within diverse models of care and health care systems, and provide a framework for ongoing efforts to improve reproductive care for those affected by cancer in their years of child‐bearing potential.
Effect of 3D printing process parameters on the mechanical properties of silica/polyethyleneimine composites using direct‐ink writing
Authors: Feng Hui , Wang Shuo , Cui Yanjun , Xiang Yongsheng , Liu Xiaofei , Sun Xiaoliang , Zhang Wenli , Tu Peng
Published: August 2023

Direct‐ink writing (DIW) 3D printing technology has the advantages of simple process and high efficiency, and enables the molding of materials at room temperature. These characteristics make DIW technology widely applicable in the field of monolithic molding. In this study, a composite slurry of SiO2 and polyethyleneimine (PEI) was molded using direct‐ink writing 3D printing technology. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, x‐ray diffraction, and thermogravimetric were used to analyze the structure and thermal characteristics of the composites. Additionally, the study investigated the extrusion flow under different pressures and the impact of ink formula on their rheological behavior and printability, along with an examination of the effects of printing parameters on the mechanical properties of the monolithic structures. The results indicate that the tensile strength of the dumbbell‐shaped specimen increases with greater sample density and reduced nozzle diameter. At a filling angle of ±45°, the void rate is minimal, and the tensile strength reaches a maximum of 1.73 MPa. The tensile strength is maximum when the nozzle diameter is 0.8 mm. On the other hand, the compressive strength of the specimen is directly proportional to the layer thickness – it increases upon reducing the layer thickness. When the layer thickness is 0.3 mm, the compressive strength reaches 0.13 MPa. This study provides insights into direct‐ink writing 3D printing technology and its relationship with the mechanical properties of SiO2/PEI composites monolithic structures.

Highlights

Self‐standing fumed silica/polyethyleneimine (PEI) composite monoliths were shaped by Direct Ink Writing (DIW) technology. The impact of composite slurry composition on their rheological behavior and printability was examined.

Printing parameters effects on mechanical properties of monolithic structures assessed.

Significant insights into the relationship between extrusion pressure and forming structure of the composite monoliths are revealed by our research, thereby contributing to the optimization of printing processes.
A coarse‐grained molecular dynamics study on the mechanical behavior of carbon nanotubes reinforced vulcanized natural rubber composites
Authors: Cui Jianzheng , Zeng Fanlin , Wang Youshan
Published: August 2023

In the present study, coarse‐grained (CG) molecular models of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) strengthened vulcanized natural rubber (VNR) composites are constructed to systematically investigate the effects of length, inter‐tube cross‐linking, and polymer‐grafting of CNTs on the stress–strain behavior of VNR composites under uniaxial tension. The interfacial CG force field between CNTs and VNR is derived via the energy matching approach. The results demonstrate that increasing the length of CNTs is able to effectively enhance the mechanical performance of VNR composites, and the reinforcing efficiency increases gradually and tends to stabilize with increasing CNT length. Moreover, the cross‐linking and polymer‐grafting of CNTs are also effective approaches to significantly enhance the mechanical performance of VNR composites. The enhancement mechanism of CNTs is interpreted from the perspective of CNT networks, VNR networks, CNT‐VNR interface networks, and the interfacial load‐transfer behavior. Specifically, the dispersion of CNTs, the orientation of CNTs and VNR molecular chains, and the wrapping and interlocking behaviors between CNTs and the VNR matrix reveal a detailed structure‐mechanics relationship of CNTs‐reinforced VNR composites at the molecular level. These findings present theoretical instruction for the structural design of high‐performance rubber composites.

Highlights

A coarse‐grained model of carbon nanotube‐natural rubber composites is built.

The composite network structures are quantitatively characterized.

The length, cross‐linking, and grafting effects of carbon nanotubes are studied.

The reinforcement mechanisms of carbon nanotubes are revealed.
Thermal insulation and mechanical properties of carbon fiber‐reinforced thermoplastic polyphthalazine ether sulfone ketone composites reinforced by hollow glass beads
Authors: Feng Jingyao , Li Nan , Wang Bing , Cheng Shan , Bao Qingguang , Wang Heming , Jian Xigao
Published: August 2023

In the high‐tech field, there is an urgent need for materials that possess thermal insulation, mechanical properties, and processing properties. One promising option is Carbon fiber reinforced thermoplastic composites (CFRTPs), which exhibit excellent characteristics such as light weight, high strength, and high temperature resistance. The effects and mechanisms of hollow glass beads (HGB) on the thermal insulation and mechanical properties of carbon fiber‐reinforced thermoplastic polyphthalazine ether sulfone ketone composites (CF/PPESK) were investigated. The introduction of 15 wt% HGB improved the material's thermal insulation performance by 32.74% perpendicular to the fiber direction and 44.95% parallel to the fiber direction. Furthermore, the addition of 3 wt% HGB increased the interlaminar shear strength, compression strength, and flexural strength by 21.34%, 17.49%, and 5.53%, respectively. Additionally, the dynamic mechanical analysis confirmed that the HGB/CF/PPESK composite has superior high‐temperature mechanical properties, which holds great promise for CFRTPs applications.

Highlights

Modification of CF/PPESK with HGB improved its thermal insulation properties.

Analysis of the mechanism of CF/PPESK for thermal insulation performance.

HGB improved the mechanical properties by delaying the expansion of microcracks.

Agglomeration of HGB leads to a rapid rise in thermal insulation properties.
Understanding teacher‐directed violence and related turnover through a school climate framework
Authors: Peist Eric , McMahon Susan D. , Davis‐Wright Jacqueline O. , Keys Christopher B.
Published: August 2023

Teacher turnover is an issue of national significance and has worsened since the start of the COVID‐19 pandemic. Teacher‐directed violence and teacher turnover can significantly impact school life for students, staff, and communities. Using Wang and Degol's school climate framework, we examined school characteristics that contribute to teacher‐directed violence and related turnover. The current study examines the qualitative experiences of 403 teachers who reported that their most upsetting incidents of violence contributed to desires to leave the profession, transfer, or retire. Many teachers indicated concerns about safety and community factors, including parent–teacher relationships and community violence. Educators emphasized issues related to administrators, describing a lack of support and poor leadership. Finally, teachers discussed concerns with policy on both school and government levels. Improving school climate may be one avenue for decreasing teacher‐directed violence and preventing turnover.
The low odds of poor women with small business loans emerging from poverty: Critical social policy implications for Pakistan
Authors: Rizvi Jafree Sara , Ahsan Humna , Mustafa Mudasir
Published: August 2023

The government of Pakistan has been relying on the microfinance industry to reduce poverty among poor women in Pakistan. Using a theoretical framework that argues for limiting the abilities and capacity of existing microfinance services, we empirically investigate the odds of poor women remaining in poverty despite microfinance loan provision. We collected data from four provinces in Pakistan and analyzed it using multivariate logistic regression. Three‐fourths of the 442 women respondents live below poverty lines and are unable to emerge from poverty due to factors such as: housing instability, food insecurity, lack of savings, insufficient loan size and high installment rates, lack of gender solidarity through group borrowing, and threats of domestic violence. Lack of health insurance and critical health problems such as infectious diseases, having suffered an injury, chronic ailments, and mental health challenges are also preventing poverty emergence. We conclude by recommending key social policy development agendas that need to be introduced by the state, in partnership with the microfinance sector, to support women borrowers and help them emerge from poverty.
The impact of COVID‐19 lockdown measures on symptoms control in children with asthma: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of observational cohort studies
Authors: Kouis Panayiotis , Lemonaris Marios , Xenophontos Eleana , Panayiotou Andrie , Yiallouros Panayiotis K.
Published: August 2023

Objectives

Reported reductions in emergency department visits and hospitalizations for asthma in previous studies have suggested a beneficial effect of the coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID‐19) lockdown measures on asthma morbidity. Nevertheless, studies relying on administrative data may overestimate the true impact of lockdowns due to changes in health‐seeking behavior and reduced availability of pediatric asthma services during the pandemic. In this study, we systematically reviewed the literature and identified observational cohort studies that focused on nonadministrative data to assess the true impact of COVID‐19 lockdowns on symptom control in children with asthma.

Methods

A systematic literature search was conducted between January 2020 and August 2022 (International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews ID: CRD42022354369). The impact of COVID‐19 lockdowns across studies was expressed as a standardized mean difference (SMD) for continuous outcomes and as a summary relative risk (RR) for binary outcomes.

Results

During the lockdown periods, the pooled asthma symptoms control test score (SMD: 1.99, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.75, 3.24, I2: 98.4%) and the proportion of children with well‐controlled asthma (RR: 1.35, 95% CI: 1.06, 1.71, I2: 77.6%) were significantly increased. On the other hand, the pooled proportion of children with poorly controlled asthma (RR: 0.47, 95% CI: 0.38, 0.57, I2: 0.0%) was significantly decreased.

Conclusions

During COVID‐19 lockdowns, asthma symptoms and breakthrough disease exacerbations were significantly reduced in children with asthma. Further research is warranted on potential interventions aiming to enhance asthma control after the pandemic while taking into consideration their acceptability and potential tradeoffs.
The Timescales of Quantum Breaking
Authors: Michel Marco , Zell Sebastian
Published: August 2023

Due to the inevitable existence of quantum effects, a classical description generically breaks down after a finite quantum break‐time . We aim to find criteria for determining . To this end, we construct a new prototype model that features numerous dynamically accessible quantum modes. Using explicit numerical time evolution, we establish how depends on the parameters of the system such as its particle number N. The presence of a classical instability leads to or . In the stable case, we observe , although full quantum breaking may not take place at all. We find that the different regimes merge smoothly with (). As an outlook, we point out possibilities for transferring our results to black holes and expanding spacetimes.
The energetics and evolution of oxidoreductases in deep time
Authors: McGuinness Kenneth N. , Fehon Nolan , Feehan Ryan , Miller Michelle , Mutter Andrew C. , Rybak Laryssa A. , Nam Justin , AbuSalim Jenna E. , Atkinson Joshua T. , Heidari Hirbod , Losada Natalie , Kim J. Dongun , Koder Ronald L. , Lu Yi , Silberg Jonathan J. , Slusky Joanna S. G. , Falkowski Paul G. , Nanda Vikas
Published: August 2023

The core metabolic reactions of life drive electrons through a class of redox protein enzymes, the oxidoreductases. The energetics of electron flow is determined by the redox potentials of organic and inorganic cofactors as tuned by the protein environment. Understanding how protein structure affects oxidation–reduction energetics is crucial for studying metabolism, creating bioelectronic systems, and tracing the history of biological energy utilization on Earth. We constructed ProtReDox (https://protein-redox-potential.web.app), a manually curated database of experimentally determined redox potentials. With over 500 measurements, we can begin to identify how proteins modulate oxidation–reduction energetics across the tree of life. By mapping redox potentials onto networks of oxidoreductase fold evolution, we can infer the evolution of electron transfer energetics over deep time. ProtReDox is designed to include user‐contributed submissions with the intention of making it a valuable resource for researchers in this field.
Old and new association of Cotesia icipe (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) with alien invasive and native Spodoptera species and key stemborer species: implication for their management
Authors: Obala Francis , Mohamed Samira A , Magomere Titus Obidi , Subramanian Sevgan
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND

Maize production in Africa is hindered by a myriad of biotic challenges, key among them being invasive and native lepidopteran stemborers. Recent invasion of the continent by fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda, has further exacerbated the situation. Fortunately, Cotesia icipe was found to be very promising against S. frugiperda. However, the co‐occurrence and interaction between S. frugiperda and the stemborers (Busseola fusca, Sesamia calamistis, and Chilo partellus) in maize agroecosystem may jeopardize the efficiency of C. icipe as a biocontrol agent of S. frugiperda. This study investigated the performance of C. icipe on S. frugiperda, Spodoptera littoralis and the stemborers. Specifically, the preference and acceptability of C. icipe to the host insects, the physiological suitability of the hosts for its development, and the effect of these hosts on the fitness parameters of the offspring were assessed.

RESULTS

Cotesia icipe accepted all the tested hosts, albeit with higher preference for Spodoptera species than for stemborers under multiple‐choice tests. Also, the highest parasitism of up to 97% was recorded on S. frugiperda compared with parasitism on the stemborers of 43% in B. fusca. Moreover, physiological suitability and fitness traits (except for per cent female offspring) varied with host species, again being optimal on Spodoptera species.

CONCLUSION

Cotesia icipe demonstrated strong potential to control S. frugiperda in maize due to its high affinity for parasitization and developmental success in this host; and despite its non‐specific parasitization, the presence of other hosts may not prevent its maximum control of S. frugiperda. © 2023 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Frequency of acute vasodilator response (AVR) in incident and prevalent patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension: Results from the pulmonary vascular disease phenomics study
Authors: Naranjo Mario , Rosenzweig Erika B. , Hemnes Anna R. , Jacob Miriam , Desai Ankit , Hill Nicholas S. , Larive A. Brett , Finet J. Emanuel , Leopold Jane , Horn Evelyn , Frantz Robert , Rischard Franz , Erzurum Serpil , Beck Gerald , Mathai Stephen C. , Hassoun Paul M. ,   the PVDOMICS Study Group
Published: August 2023

The prevalence of acute vasodilator response (AVR) to inhaled nitric oxide (iNO) during right heart catheterization (RHC) is 12% in idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension (IPAH). AVR, however, is reportedly lower in other disease‐associated pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), such as connective tissue disease (CTD). The prevalence of AVR in patients on PAH therapy (prevalent cases) is unknown. We sought to determine AVR prevalence in Group 1 PH in the PVDOMICS cohort of incident and prevalent patients undergoing RHC. AVR was measured in response to 100% O2 and O2 plus iNO, with positivity defined as (1) decrease in mean pulmonary artery pressure (mPAP) by ≥10 mmHg to a value ≤40 mmHg, with no change or an increase in cardiac output (definition 1); or (2) decrease in mPAP by ≥12% and pulmonary vascular resistance by ≥30% (definition 2). AVR rates and cumulative survival were compared between incident and prevalent patients. In 338 mainly prevalent (86%) patients, positive AVR to O2‐only was <2%, and 5.1% to 16.9%, based on definition 1 and 2 criteria, respectively; following O2 + iNO. IPAH AVR prevalence (4.1%–18.7%) was similar to prior reports. AVR positivity was 7.7% to 15.4% in mostly CTD‐PAH prevalent cases, and 2.6% to 11.8% in other PAH groups. Survival was 89% in AVR responders versus 77% in nonresponders from PAH diagnosis, and 91% versus 86% from PVDOMICS enrollment (log‐rank test p = 0.04 and p = 0.05, respectively). In conclusion, AVR in IPAH patients is similar to prior studies. AVR in non‐IPAH patients was higher than previously reported. The relationship between PAH therapy, AVR response, and survival warrants further investigation.
Associated radiation exposure from medical imaging and excess lifetime risk of developing cancer in pediatric patients with pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Mahendra Malini , Chu Philip , Amin Elena K. , Nawaytou Hythem , Duncan James R. , Fineman Jeffrey R. , Smith‐Bindman Rebecca
Published: August 2023

Pediatric patients with pulmonary hypertension (PH) receive imaging studies that use ionizing radiation (radiation) such as computed tomography (CT) and cardiac catheterization to guide clinical care. Radiation exposure is associated with increased cancer risk. It is unknown how much radiation pediatric PH patients receive. The objective of this study is to quantify radiation received from imaging and compute associated lifetime cancer risks for pediatric patients with PH. Electronic health records between 2012 and 2022 were reviewed and radiation dose data were extracted. Organ doses were estimated using Monte Carlo modeling. Cancer risks for each patient were calculated from accumulated exposures using National Cancer Institute tools. Two hundred and forty‐nine patients with PH comprised the study cohort; 97% of patients had pulmonary arterial hypertension, PH due to left heart disease, or PH due to chronic lung disease. Mean age at the time of the first imaging study was 2.5 years (standard deviation [SD] = 4.9 years). Patients underwent a mean of 12 studies per patient per year, SD = 32. Most (90%) exams were done in children <5 years of age. Radiation from CT and cardiac catheterization accounted for 88% of the total radiation dose received. Cumulative mean effective dose was 19 mSv per patient (SD = 30). Radiation dose exposure resulted in a mean increased estimated lifetime cancer risk of 7.6% (90% uncertainty interval 3.0%−14.2%) in females and 2.8% (1.2%−5.3%) in males. Careful consideration for the need of radiation‐based imaging studies is warranted, especially in the youngest of children.
Photophysics of Intrinsic Single‐Photon Emitters in Silicon Nitride at Low Temperatures
Authors: Martin Zachariah O. , Senichev Alexander , Peana Samuel , Lawrie Benjamin J. , Lagutchev Alexei S. , Boltasseva Alexandra , Shalaev Vladimir M.
Published: August 2023

A robust process for fabricating intrinsic single‐photon emitters in silicon nitride is recently established. These emitters show promise for quantum applications due to room‐temperature operation and monolithic integration with technologically mature silicon nitride photonics platforms. Here, the fundamental photophysical properties of these emitters are probed through measurements of optical transition wavelengths, linewidths, and photon antibunching as a function of temperature from 4.2 to 300 K. Important insight into the potential for lifetime‐limited linewidths is provided through measurements of inhomogeneous and temperature‐dependent broadening of the zero‐phonon lines. At 4.2 K, spectral diffusion is found to be the main broadening mechanism, while spectroscopy time series reveal zero‐phonon lines with instrument‐limited linewidths.
Double‐balloon catheter for induction of labour: Rates of caesarean birth and outcomes when used beyond 12 and 24 h
Authors: Chen Debbie , Okano Sayaka , Oyston Charlotte
Published: August 2023

Objective

The double‐balloon (dB) catheter is commonly used for cervical ripening before induction of labour (IoL), and is the preferred method of cervical ripening when prostaglandin is contraindicated. Manufacturer's instructions contraindicate use beyond 12 h. There is limited published evidence to support this restriction. This study aims to describe the mode of birth and other maternal and neonatal outcomes where dB‐IoL was used beyond the timeframe recommended by the manufacturer.

Methods

Retrospective observational study of patients undergoing dB‐IoL at a single tertiary unit. Mode of birth, maternal and neonatal birth outcomes were described for those where the balloon was in situ for 12–24 and >24 h, compared to those where the balloon was in situ for <12 h.

Results

Of 491 patients undergoing dB‐IoL, there were no observed differences in proportion undergoing emergency caesarean or composite maternal/perinatal adverse outcomes when dB‐IoL was continued beyond 12 or 24 h.

Conclusion

dB‐IoL is often being performed outside the manufacturer's recommendation to limit use to 12 h. In our cohort, dB‐IOL for >12 and >24 h is not associated with a higher proportion of caesarean birth and does not appear to impose harm on the mother or baby.
Extremal results on feedback arc sets in digraphs
Authors: Fox Jacob , Himwich Zoe , Mani Nitya
Published: August 2023

For an oriented graph , let denote the size of a minimum feedback arc set, a smallest edge subset whose deletion leaves an acyclic subgraph. Berger and Shor proved that any ‐edge oriented graph satisfies . We observe that if an oriented graph has a fixed forbidden subgraph , the bound is sharp as a function of if is not bipartite, but the exponent in the lower order term can be improved if is bipartite. Using a result of Bukh and Conlon on Turán numbers, we prove that any rational number in is optimal as an exponent for some finite family of forbidden subgraphs. Our upper bounds come equipped with randomized linear‐time algorithms that construct feedback arc sets achieving those bounds. We also characterize directed quasirandomness via minimum feedback arc sets.
Carbon trading practices adoption for sustainable construction: A study of the barriers in a developing country
Authors: Oke Ayodeji Emmanuel , Oyediran Abiola Oluwasogo , Koriko Gbemisola , Tang Liyaning Maggie
Published: August 2023

The construction industry provides infrastructure and structures to society by consuming a substantial quantity of non‐renewable energy, which results in significant carbon dioxide emissions. Carbon dioxide (CO2) could pose a serious danger to the economy of any nation if proper measures are not put in place with the country being one of the leading producers and end‐users of fossil fuels in the world. This article seeks to evaluate the barriers to the adoption of carbon trading practices (CTP) in the construction sector with the view to ensuring low carbon usage. The article adopted quantitative approach with data obtained using questionnaire. Mean Item Score (MIS), standard deviation (SD), factor analysis and Kruskal–Wallis test was carried out in relation to the research questions. The study showed that the most significant barriers to the adoption of carbon trading are difficulties in obtaining finance, attitude to environmental sustainability and climate change, lack of cost‐effective abatement options and methods, lack of awareness of carbon market opportunties and risk in changes in the rules governing participation and credit among others. This study provides valuable insights into barriers of CTP in construction and will help stakeholders concerned with building energy performance to develop a functional framework for energy analysis in buildings to prepare possible risk analysis from the onset of project design spanning through completion.
Premetastatic Niche Mimicking Bone‐On‐A‐Chip: A Microfluidic Platform to Study Bone Metastasis in Cancer Patients
Authors: Ji Xiongfa , Bei Ho‐Pan , Zhong Guoqing , Shao Hongwei , He Xuecheng , Qian Xin , Zhang Yu , Zhao Xin
Published: August 2023

Primary cancer modulates the bone microenvironment to sow the seeds of dormancy and metastasis in tumor cells, leading to multiple organ metastasis and death. In this study, 3D printing and bone‐on‐a‐chip (BOC) are combined to develop a BOC platform that mimics the pre‐metastatic niches (PMNs) and facilitates elucidation of the interactions between bone‐resident cells and metastatic tumor cells under the influence of primary cancer. Photocrosslinkable gelatin methacrylate (GelMA) is used as a 3D culturing hydrogel to encapsulate cells, and circulate tumor culture medium (CM) adjacent to the hydrogel to verify the critical role of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and osteoclasts (RAW264.7s). Three niches: the dormancy niche, the perivascular niche, and the “vicious cycle” niche, are devised to recapitulate bone metastasis in one chip with high cell viability and excellent nutrient exchange. With respect to tumor dormancy and reactivation, the invadopodia formation of A549 lung cancer cells in communication with MSCs and RAW264.7 via the cortactin pathway is researched. As a proof of concept, the functionality and practicality of the platform are demonstrated by analyzing the invadopodia formation and the influence of various cells, and the establishment of the dynamic niches paves the way to understanding PMN formation and related drug discovery.
Anti‐Tumor Immunity Induced by a Ternary Membrane System Derived From Cancer Cells, Dendritic Cells, and Bacteria
Authors: Ren He , Li Jiexin , Zhang Jingyu , Liu Jingang , Yang Xingyue , Zhang Nan , Qiu Qian , Li Dan , Yu Yue , Liu Xiaofeng , Lovell Jonathan F. , Zhang Yumiao
Published: August 2023

Cancer vaccines generally are limited by insufficient tumor‐specific cellular immunogenicity. Herein, a potent “ABC” ternary membrane‐derived vaccine system blended from antigen‐presenting mature dendritic cell membranes (“A”), bacterial E. coli cytoplasmic membranes (“B”), and cancer cell membranes (“C”) is developed using a block‐copolymer micelle‐enabled approach. The respective ABC membrane components provide for a source of cellular immune communication/activation and enhanced accumulation in lymph nodes (A), immunological adjuvant (B), and tumor antigens (C). The introduction of dendritic cell (DC) membranes enables multiple cell‐to‐cell communication and powerful immune activation. ABC activates dendritic cells and promotes T‐cell activation and proliferation in vitro. In vivo, ABC is 14‐ and 304‐fold more immunogenic than binary (BC) and single (C) membrane vaccines, and immunization with ABC enhances the frequency of tumor‐specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes, leading to an 80% cure rate in tumor‐bearing mice. In a surgical resection and recurrence model, ABC prevents recurrence with vaccination from autologous cancer membranes, and therapeutic effects are observed in a lung metastasis model even with heterologous cancer cell membranes. ABCs formed from human cancer patient‐derived tumor cells activate human monocyte‐derived dendritic cells (moDC). Taken together, the ternary ABC membrane system provides the needed functional components for personalized cancer immunotherapy.
Writing Into Water
Authors: Möller Nadir , Hecht Lukas , Niu Ran , Liebchen Benno , Palberg Thomas
Published: August 2023

Writing is an ancient communication technique dating back at least 30 000 years. While even sophisticated contemporary writing techniques hinge on solid surfaces for engraving or the deposition of ink, writing within a liquid medium requires a fundamentally different approach. The study here demonstrates the writing of lines, letters, and complex patterns in water by assembling lines of colloidal particles. Unlike established techniques for underwater writing on solid substrates, these lines are fully reconfigurable and do not require any fixation onto the substrate. Exploiting gravity, an ion‐exchange bead (pen) is rolled across a layer of sedimented colloidal particles (ink). The pen evokes a hydrodynamic flow collecting ink‐particles into a durable, high‐contrast line along its trajectory. Deliberate substrate‐tilting sequences facilitate pen‐steering and thus drawing and writing. The experiments are complemented with a minimal model that quantitatively predicts the observed parameter dependence for writing in fluids and highlights the generic character of writing by line‐assembly. Overall, the approach opens a versatile route for writing, drawing, and patterning fluids—even at the micro‐scale.
NiCo2O4/Hollow Mesoporous Carbon Nanosphere Hybrids Enabling Super‐Hydrophobicity, Thermal Insulation, and Highly Efficient Microwave Absorption
Authors: Ma Wenjun , He Peng , Zhou Yukang , Xie Chao , Chen Yi , Liu Xiaoyun , Lin Shaoliang , Zuo Peiyuan , Zhuang Qixin
Published: August 2023

The combination of 2D magnetic nanosheets and mesoporous carbon with unique interfaces shows considerable prospects for microwave absorption (MA). However, traditional assembly procedures make it impossible to accurately manage the assembly of magnetic nanosheets in carbon matrices. Herein, a reverse strategy for preparing complex magnetic nanosheet cores inside carbon‐based yolk–shell structures is developed. This innovative approach focuses on controlling the initial crystallite formation sites in a hydrothermal reaction as well as the inflow and in situ growth behavior of 2D NiCo‐layered double hydroxide precursors based on the capillary force induced by hollow mesoporous carbon nanospheres. Accordingly, the as‐prepared YS‐CNC‐2 absorber exhibits remarkable MA performances, with an optimal reflection loss as low as −60.30 dB at 2.5 mm and an effective absorption bandwidth of 5.20 GHz at 2.0 mm. The loss of electromagnetic waves (EMW) depends on natural resonance loss, dipole polarization relaxation, and multiple scattering behavior. On top of that, the functionalized super‐hydrophobic MA coating is produced in spraying and curing processes utilizing YS‐CNC‐2 nanoparticles and fumed silica additives in the polydimethylsiloxane matrix. The excellent thermal insulation, self‐cleaning capability, and durability in diverse solutions of the coating promise potential applications for military equipment in moist situations.
Clinically Translatable Phosphonated Silica Microspheres for Selective Internal Radiation Therapy of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Zhou Yi , Ge Jianxian , Gao Yun , Yang Zhe , Afshari Mohammad Javad , Chen Can , Wu Manran , Chen Lei , Wu Shuwang , Duan Guangxin , Zeng Jianfeng , Gao Mingyuan
Published: August 2023

Selective internal radiation therapy (SIRT) is used as a locoregional therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) to delay the progression of HCC. Thus far, various kinds of radioactive microspheres with different materials and radionuclides have been developed to be utilized in SIRT, but they remain unsatisfactory in some ways. Herein, using a facile method, phosphonated silica microspheres (PSMs) are prepared and further radiolabeled with 177Lu in a rapid and effective manner. The results suggest that the radiolabeling efficiency is higher than 99%, and the specific activity of the product is 10 kBq per microsphere. 177Lu‐PSM exhibits outstanding in vivo radiolabeling stability, excellent antitumor activity, and single‐photon‐emission computed tomography–computed tomography (SPECT/CT) imaging capability. In addition, it is shown that PSM can be produced in large quantities at a relatively low cost. The results indicate that 177Lu‐PSM might hold considerable potential for translation to clinical applications.
Biomimetic Protocells Featuring Macrophage‐Like Capture and Digestion of Protein Pathogens
Authors: Xu Xiaoying , Moreno Silvia , Gentzel Marc , Zhang Kehu , Wang Dishi , Voit Brigitte , Appelhans Dietmar
Published: August 2023

Modern medical research develops interest in sophisticated artificial nano‐ and microdevices for future treatment of human diseases related to biological dysfunctions. This covers the design of protocells capable of mimicking the structure and functionality of eukaryotic cells. The authors use artificial organelles based on trypsin‐loaded pH‐sensitive polymeric vesicles to provide macrophage‐like digestive functions under physiological conditions. Herein, an artificial cell is established where digestive artificial organelles (nanosize) are integrated into a protocell (microsize). With this method, mimicking crossing of different biological barriers, capture of model protein pathogens, and compartmentalized digestive function are possible. This allows the integration of different components (e.g., dextran as stabilizing block) and the diffusion of pathogens in simulated cytosolic environment under physiological conditions. An integrated characterization approach is carried out, with identifying electrospray ionization mass spectrometry as an excellent detection method for the degradation of a small peptide such as β‐amyloid. The degradation of model enzymes is measured by enzyme activity assays. This work is an important contribution to effective biomimicry with the design of cell‐like functions having potential for therapeutic action.