bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hemodynamic Parameters in the Parent Arteries of Unruptured Intracranial Aneurysms Depend on Aneurysm Size and Are Different Compared to Contralateral Arteries: A 7 Tesla 4D Flow MRI Study
Authors: van Tuijl Rick J. , Timmins Kimberley M. , Velthuis Birgitta K. , van Ooij Pim , Zwanenburg Jaco J.M. , Ruigrok Ynte M. , van der Schaaf Irene C.
Published: May 2023

Background

Different Circle of Willis (CoW) variants have variable prevalences of aneurysm development, but the hemodynamic variation along the CoW and its relation to presence and size of unruptured intracranial aneurysms (UIAs) are not well known.

Purpose

Gain insight into hemodynamic imaging markers of the CoW for UIA development by comparing these outcomes to the corresponding contralateral artery without an UIA using 4D flow magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Study Type

Retrospective, cross‐sectional study.

Subjects

Thirty‐eight patients with an UIA, whereby 27 were women and a mean age of 62 years old.

Field Strength/Sequence

Four‐dimensional phase‐contrast (PC) MRI with a 3D time‐resolved velocity encoded gradient echo sequence at 7 T.

Assessment

Hemodynamic parameters (blood flow, velocity pulsatility index [vPI], mean velocity, distensibility, and wall shear stress [peak systolic (WSSMAX), and time‐averaged (WSSMEAN)]) in the parent artery of the UIA were compared to the corresponding contralateral artery without an UIA and were related to UIA size.

Statistical Tests

Paired t‐tests and Pearson Correlation tests. The threshold for statistical significance was P < 0.05 (two‐tailed).

Results

Blood flow, mean velocity, WSSMAX, and WSSMEAN were significantly higher, while vPI was lower, in the parent artery relative to contralateral artery. The WSSMAX of the parent artery significantly increased linearly while the WSSMEAN decreased linearly with increasing UIA size.

Conclusions

Hemodynamic parameters and WSS differ between parent vessels of UIAs and corresponding contralateral vessels. WSS correlates with UIA size, supporting a potential hemodynamic role in aneurysm pathology.

Level of Evidence

2

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2
Comparative evaluation of static and dynamic simulated digestion models
Authors: Wang Yanan , Liu Kun , Lu Meishan , Shi Jiachen , Xu Yong‐Jiang , Liu Yuanfa
Published: May 2023

BACKGROUND

The digestion behavior of lipids plays a crucial role in their nutritional values. Currently, the complex dynamic variations of human gastrointestinal conditions are considered in simulated digestion models. The present study compared the digestion behavior of glycerol trilaurate (GTL), glycerol tripalmitate (GTP) and glycerol tristearate (GTS) in a static in vitro digestion model and a dynamic in vitro digestion model. In the dynamic digestion model, the parameters of gastric juice secretion, the rate of gastric emptying, the secretion of intestinal juice and the pH variations were estimated.

RESULTS

The dynamic digestion model showed a certain extent of gastric lipase hydrolysis, while almost no lipolysis happened in the gastric phase of the static digestion model. A smoother digestive behavior was observed in the dynamic model than that in the static model. In the static model, the particle size distribution in gastric and intestinal phase changed rapidly in all triacylglycerol (TAG) groups. The change of particle size during the whole digestion period in GTL is more moderate than GTP and GTS. In addition, the final free fatty acids release degree was 58.558%, 54.36%, and 52.97% for GTL, GTP, and GTS, respectively.

CONCLUSION

This study illustrated the different digestion profiles of TAGs in two digestion models and the results will contribute to a better understanding of different in vitro digestion models in lipid digestion. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
The Diagnostic Role of Shear Wave Elastography and Superb Microvascular Imaging in the Evaluation of Suspicious Microcalcifications
Authors: Kayadibi Yasemin , Deger Enes , Kurt Seda Aladag , Ucar Ayse Kalyoncu , Adaletli Ibrahim , Ozturk Tulin , Kocael Cigdem Pinar , Velidedeoglu Mehmet , Icten Gul Esen
Published: May 2023

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate the role of superb microvascular imaging (SMI) and shear wave elastography (SWE) in the prediction of malignancy and invasiveness of isolated microcalcifications (MC) that can be visualized by ultrasonography (US).

Material and Methods

Sixty‐seven women with MC, who were considered suspicious on mammography were evaluated. Only those lesions that could be visualized by US and presented as non‐mass lesion were included. They were evaluated by B‐mode US, SMI, and SWE before US‐guided core‐needle biopsy. B‐mode US, SMI (vascular index (SMIvi)), and SWE (E‐mean, E‐ratio) findings were compared with histopathologic features.

Results

Pathology confirmed 45 malignant (21 invasive and 24 in situ carcinomas) and 22 benign lesions. There was a statistically significant difference between malignant and benign groups in terms of size (P = .015), distortion (P = .028), cystic component (P < .001), E‐mean (P < .001), E‐ratio (P < .001), and SMIvi (P = .006). For differentiation of invasiveness E‐mean (P = .002), E‐ratio (P = .002), and SMIvi (P = .030) were statistically significant. According to ROC analysis E‐mean (cut‐off point at 38 kPa) was the most sensitive (78%) and the most specific (95%) value among four numeric parameters (size, SMI, E‐mean, and E‐ratio) with AUC = 0.895, PPV = 97%, and NPV = 68% in detecting malignancy. In the evaluation of invasiveness, the most sensitive (71.4%) method was SMI (cut‐off point at 3.4) and the most specific (72%) method was E‐mean (cut‐off point at 91.5 kPa).

Conclusion

Our study shows that adding SWE and SMI to the sonographic evaluation of MC would be an advantage for US‐guided biopsy. Including suspicious areas according to SMI and SWE in the sampling area can help target the invasive part of the lesion and avoid underestimation of core biopsy.
Holocene deglaciation of the northern Fildes Peninsula, King George Island, Antarctica
Authors: Oliva Marc , Palacios David , Fernández‐Fernández José M. , Fernandes Marcelo , Schimmelpfennig Irene , Vieira Gonçalo , Antoniades Dermot , Pérez‐Alberti Augusto , García‐Oteyza Julia ,   ASTER TEAM
Published: May 2023

The timing and magnitude of Holocene glacial oscillations in most currently ice‐free areas of Antarctica remain unknown. This work focuses on the recent deglaciation in the northern sector of the Fildes Peninsula, King George Island, northern Antarctic Peninsula. The ice cap covering ca. 90% of the island has receded since the Last Glacial Maximum and exposed ca. 29 km2 of ice‐free land. We reconstruct its glacial history based on a dataset of 12 36Cl exposure ages obtained through cosmic‐ray exposure (CRE) dating of moraine boulders, polished surfaces and erratic boulders surrounding the peninsula's northern plateau. Results reveal that the deglaciation of the northern Fildes Peninsula took place during the Holocene Thermal Maximum at 7–6 ka, when warm conditions promoted a massive glacial retreat. The present arrangement of ice‐free areas was in place by 6 ka. Small cirque moraines suggest the subsequent occurrence of favourable climate conditions for glacial expansion fed by intense snow deflation at 4.6 and 1 ka at the foot of the northern plateau. The deglaciation pattern of the Fildes Peninsula resulted from the combined shrinkage of different ice masses, rather than of the long‐term retreat of the King George Ice Cap. No evidence of glacier expansion during more recent cold periods (i.e. the Little Ice Age) was found. These results fit well with regional deglacial histories inferred from lacustrine sediments and raised beaches and complement the existing chronological framework to help better understand the peninsula's Holocene geoecological dynamics.
Response of corrosion protection coating systems for offshore components to high compressive loads during lifting
Authors: Momber Andreas W. , Irmer Michael , Kelm Daniel
Published: May 2023

The paper is concerned with the damage of protective coatings and with the estimation of parameters that can characterize their performance under high compressive loads. A test device was designed that duplicated the situation when coated curved steel sections were loaded compressively with commercial hoisting belts. Fourteen multilayer coatings were tested at three different intensity levels. Inspections of the damaged areas revealed a number of damage types in the coatings, namely plastic flow, permanent deformation, crack formation, and delamination. Force‐displacement curves were recorded. Two parameters from the force‐displacement curves—the contact stiffness, and a typical maximum contact force—could characterize the performance of the coatings. The force‐deformation curves were categorized into three types: type I (hoisting strap deformation and coating deformation), type II (hoisting strap rupture and coating deformation), and type III (hoisting strap rupture, coating cracking, and delamination). Coating systems with type III‐response were particularly susceptible to compressive loads.
How to make vertical farming more attractive: Effects of vegetable growing conditions on consumer assessment
Authors: Son Jeyoung , Hwang Kyusung
Published: May 2023

Vertical farming is emerging as a new agricultural technology. Following this trend, we compare vertical farming with conventional farming and derive various results by examining consumer perceptions. Specifically, Study 1 investigates the difference between product evaluation and purchase intention according to growing conditions and suggests an underlying mechanism in the relationship between the two. Consequently, consumers prefer crops grown on conventional farms over those grown on vertical farms. This is because consumers perceive higher naturalness and healthfulness in conventional farming methods. Studies 2 and 3 suggest human touch to evaluate vertical farming more favorably. In these experiments, we consider whether similar results could be obtained by presenting different conditions under which the human touch was utilized. According to the results of examining the moderating effect of human touch, consumers positively evaluate high human touch conditions, even for vegetables grown on vertical farms.
DNA origami technology for biomedical applications: Challenges and opportunities
Authors: Li Ling , Nie Shihong , Du Ting , Zhao Jiaxuan , Chen Xiaoyuan
Published: May 2023

DNA origami, a promising branch of structural DNA technology, refers to the technique of folding a single‐stranded DNA scaffold into well‐defined nanostructures. In recent years, DNA origami nanostructures have shown considerable promise in a variety of biomedical applications, owing to their biodegradability, unique programmability, and addressability. Despite their popularity, the biomedical application of DNA origami techniques, which exploits their unique programmability and addressability, is rare in previous studies. Most recently, mounting evidence has demonstrated the robustness of DNA origami nanostructures in the spatial organization of functional components at the nanoscale in the biomedical field. These examples provide typical paradigms to fully realize the potential of DNA origami techniques by taking advantage of their unique programmability and addressability. This minireview summarizes the recent advancements of DNA origami techniques in biosensing, biocatalysis, and drug delivery, and the representative examples using DNA origami nanostructures for the spatial organization of functional molecules with nanometric precision are highlighted. We further discuss the possible limitations and challenges for in vivo applications, including stability issues and potential immunogenicity, and finally, propose some strategies to overcome these obstacles to fully realize the potential of DNA origami techniques in biomedical applications.
PRMT1 inhibition promotes ferroptosis sensitivity via ACSL1 upregulation in acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Zhou Lixin , Jia Xiaoqing , Shang Yingying , Sun Yanni , Liu Zhilong , Liu Jifeng , Jiang Wen , Deng Siyuan , Yao Qi , Chen Jieping , Li Hui
Published: May 2023

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a hematological malignancy with an alarming mortality rate. The development of novel therapeutic targets or drugs for AML is urgently needed. Ferroptosis is a form of regulated cell death driven by iron‐dependent lipid peroxidation. Recently, ferroptosis has emerged as a novel method for targeting cancer, including AML. Epigenetic dysregulation is a hallmark of AML, and a growing body of evidence suggests that ferroptosis is subject to epigenetic regulation. Here, we identified protein arginine methyltransferase 1 (PRMT1) as a ferroptosis regulator in AML. The type I PRMT inhibitor GSK3368715 promoted ferroptosis sensitivity in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, PRMT1‐knockout cells exhibited significantly increased sensitivity to ferroptosis, suggesting that PRMT1 is the primary target of GSK3368715 in AML. Mechanistically, both GSK3368715 and PRMT1 knockout upregulated acyl‐CoA synthetase long‐chain family member 1 (ACSL1), which acts as a ferroptosis promoter by increasing lipid peroxidation. Knockout ACSL1 reduced the ferroptosis sensitivity of AML cells following GSK3368715 treatment. Additionally, the GSK3368715 treatment reduced the abundance of H4R3me2a, the main histone methylation modification mediated byPRMT1, in both genome‐wide andACSL1promoter regions. Overall, our results demonstrated a previously unknown role of thePRMT1/ACSL1axis in ferroptosis and suggested the potential value and applications of the combination of PRMT1 inhibitor and ferroptosis inducers in AML treatment.
Bioactive phytocompounds for oral cancer prevention and treatment: A comprehensive and critical evaluation
Authors: Burcher Jack T. , DeLiberto Lindsay K. , Allen Andrea M. , Kilpatrick Kaitlyn L. , Bishayee Anupam
Published: May 2023

The high incidence of oral cancer combined with excessive treatment cost underscores the need for novel oral cancer preventive and therapeutic options. The value of natural agents, including plant secondary metabolites (phytochemicals), in preventing carcinogenesis and representing expansive source of anticancer drugs have been established. While fragmentary research data are available on antioral cancer effects of phytochemicals, a comprehensive and critical evaluation of the potential of these agents for the prevention and intervention of human oral malignancies has not been conducted according to our knowledge. This study presents a complete and critical analysis of current preclinical and clinical results on the prevention and treatment of oral cancer using phytochemicals. Our in‐depth analysis highlights anticancer effects of various phytochemicals, such as phenolics, terpenoids, alkaloids, and sulfur‐containing compounds, against numerous oral cancer cells and/or in vivo oral cancer models by antiproliferative, proapoptotic, cell cycle‐regulatory, antiinvasive, antiangiogenic, and antimetastatic effects. Bioactive phytochemicals exert their antineoplastic effects by modulating various signaling pathways, specifically involving the epidermal growth factor receptor, cytokine receptors, toll‐like receptors, and tumor necrosis factor receptor and consequently alter the expression of downstream genes and proteins. Interestingly, phytochemicals demonstrate encouraging effects in clinical trials, such as reduction of oral lesion size, cell growth, pain score, and development of new lesions. While most phytochemicals displayed minimal toxicity, concerns with bioavailability may limit their clinical application. Future directions for research include more in‐depth mechanistic in vivo studies, administration of phytochemicals using novel formulations, investigation of phytocompounds as adjuvants to conventional treatment, and randomized clinical trials.
Design and realization of a multi‐coil array for B0 field control in a compact 1.5T head‐only MRI scanner
Authors: Theilenberg Sebastian , Shang Yun , Ghazouani Jalal , Kumaragamage Chathura , Nixon Terence W. , McIntyre Scott , Vaughan J. Thomas , Parkinson Ben , Garwood Mike , de Graaf Robin A. , Juchem Christoph
Published: May 2023

Purpose

To design and implement a multi‐coil (MC) array for B0 field generation for image encoding and simultaneous advanced shimming in a novel 1.5T head‐only MRI scanner.

Methods

A 31‐channel MC array was designed following the unique constraints of this scanner design: The vertically oriented magnet is very short, stopping shortly above the shoulders of a sitting subject, and includes a window for the subject to see through. Key characteristics of the MC hardware, the B0 field generation capabilities, and thermal behavior, were optimized in simulations prior to its construction. The unit was characterized via bench testing. B0 field generation capabilities were validated on a human 4T MR scanner by analysis of experimental B0 fields and by comparing images for several MRI sequences acquired with the MC array to those acquired with the system's linear gradients.

Results

The MC system was designed to produce a multitude of linear and nonlinear magnetic fields including linear gradients of up to 10 kHz/cm (23.5 mT/m) with MC currents of 5 A per channel. With water cooling it can be driven with a duty cycle of up to 74% and ramp times of 500 μs. MR imaging experiments encoded with the developed multi‐coil hardware were largely artifact‐free; residual imperfections were predictable, and correctable.

Conclusion

The presented compact multi‐coil array is capable of generating image encoding fields with amplitudes and quality comparable to clinical systems at very high duty cycles, while additionally enabling high‐order B0 shimming capabilities and the potential for nonlinear encoding fields.
A nonlinear stochastic finite element method for solving elastoplastic problems with uncertainties
Authors: Zheng Zhibao , Nackenhorst Udo
Published: May 2023

This article presents an efficient nonlinear stochastic finite element method to solve stochastic elastoplastic problems. Similar to deterministic elastoplastic problems, we describe history‐dependent stochastic elastoplastic behavior utilizing a series of (pseudo) time steps and go further to solve the corresponding stochastic solutions. For each time step, the original stochastic elastoplastic problem is considered as a time‐independent nonlinear stochastic problem with initial values given by stochastic displacements, stochastic strains, and internal variables of the previous time step. To solve the stochastic solution at each time step, the corresponding nonlinear stochastic problem is transformed into a set of linearized stochastic finite element equations by means of finite element discretization and a stochastic Newton linearization, while the stochastic solution at each time step is approximated by a sum of the products of random variables and deterministic vectors. Each couple of the random variable and the deterministic vector is also used to approximate the stochastic solution of the corresponding linearized stochastic finite element equation that can be solved via a weakly intrusive method. In this method, the deterministic vector is computed by solving deterministic linear finite element equations, and corresponding random variables are solved by a non‐intrusive method. Further, the proposed method avoids the curse of dimensionality successfully since its computational effort does not increase dramatically as the stochastic dimensionality increases. Four numerical cases are used to demonstrate the good performance of the proposed method.
The Impact of Hearing Loss on Health Care Access During the COVID‐19 Pandemic
Authors: Huang Emily Y. , Joo Hyonoo , Schoo Desi , Agrawal Yuri , Chen Jenny X.
Published: May 2023

Individuals with hearing loss are at increased risk of having poor access to health care compared with hearing peers. The impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on health care access for adults with hearing loss in the United States was investigated through weighted analyses of the 2021 National Health Interview Survey. The association of hearing loss and disruptions to health care use during the pandemic was examined using multivariable logistic regression controlling for demographic characteristics including sex, race/ethnicity, education, socioeconomic status, insurance status, and medical comorbidities. Adults with hearing loss had significantly higher odds of reporting receiving no medical care (odds ratio [OR] = 1.63, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.46‐1.82,p < .001) or delayed medical care (OR = 1.57, 95% CI: 1.43‐1.71,p < .001) due to the pandemic. Individuals with hearing loss did not have higher odds of COVID‐19 diagnosis or vaccination. Strategies should be developed to support adults with hearing loss to improve their access to care during public health emergencies.
Lung function at 16–19 years in males and females born very prematurely
Authors: Harris Christopher , Lunt Alan , Peacock Janet , Greenough Anne
Published: May 2023

Objectives

To determine if there were differences in lung function at 16–19 years of age between males and females born very prematurely.

Working Hypothesis

Females compared with males would have superior lung function and exercise capacity.

Study Design

Cohort study.

Patient‐Subject Selection

Those born at less than 29 weeks of gestational age.

Methodology

Lung function testing (spirometry, oscillometry, diffusion capacity, lung clearance index, and plethysmography), a shuttle sprint test for exercise capacity, and a respiratory symptoms questionnaire.

Results

Amongst 150 participants, males had poorer lung function compared with females with mean z score differences (95% CI [confidence interval]) after adjustment: forced expiratory flow at 75% (FEF75) (–0.60 [–0.97,–0.24]), forced expiratory flow at 50% (FEF50) (−0.39 [−0.72,−0.07]), forced expiratory flow at 25%–75% (FEF25‐75) (−0.62 [−0.98,−0.26]), the ratio of the forced expiratory volume in the first one second to the forced vital capacity of the lungs (FEV1:FVC ratio) (−0.71 [−1.09,−0.34]), diffusing capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide (DLCO) (−0.41 [−0.78,−0.03]), diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide divided by alveolar volume (DLCO/VA) (−0.57 [−0.86,−0.28]).

Exercise capacity and self‐reported exercise were both significantly better in males than females (46% males achieving between 1250 and 1500 m shuttle sprint distance vs. 4.8% females) and 74% males versus 67% females undertaking some exercise. There were no significant differences by sex in the prevalence of either wheeze or current asthma.

Conclusions

Males had poorer lung function than females at age 16–19 years, but their exercise capacity was superior to females.
Pilot of a therapist‐guided digital mental health intervention (eHealth CF‐CBT) for adults with cystic fibrosis
Authors: Verkleij Marieke , Georgiopoulos Anna M. , Barendrecht Heleen , Friedman Deborah
Published: May 2023

Background

eHealth CF‐CBT is the first digital mental health intervention for depression/anxiety in adults with cystic fibrosis (awCF); an 8‐session therapist‐guided internet‐delivered program that was developed in English and Dutch with stakeholder input and evaluation indicating high acceptability and usability.

Methods

Dutch eHealth CF‐CBT was piloted in awCF with mild‐moderate symptoms of depression and/or anxiety. Feasibility, usability, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy were assessed, measuring pre‐post changes in depression (PHQ‐9), anxiety (GAD‐7), perceived stress (PSS), and health‐related quality of life (CFQ‐R).

Results

All participants (n = 10, seven female, mean age 29 [range 21–43], mean FEV1 71%pred [range 31–115]) completed all sessions. Patient‐rated feasibility, usability, and acceptability of eHealth CF‐CBT were positive on validated scales, as were qualitative assessments of content and format. GAD‐7 improved in 90% of participants; in 50% by ≥the minimally important difference (MID) of four points. PHQ‐9 improved in 90%; 40% by ≥the MID of 5. PSS improved in 80%. CFQ‐R improved in the domain health perceptions (70%).

Conclusions

eHealth CF‐CBT demonstrated feasibility, usability, acceptability, and promising preliminary efficacy in this pilot trial with Dutch awCF with mild to moderate symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Effects of caffeine on diaphragmatic activity in preterm infants
Authors: Dani Carlo , Fusco Monica , Manti Sara , Marseglia Lucia , Ciarcià Martina , Leonardi Valentina , Corsini Iuri , Gitto Eloisa
Published: May 2023

Background

Caffeine is the first‐choice drug for the treatment for apnea of prematurity (AOP) in preterm infants and it has been reported that it improves the diaphragm activity. The aim of this study was to evaluate by ultrasound possible changes in diaphragm contractility and motility induced by caffeine.

Methods

We studied 26 preterm infants with gestational age ≤34 weeks treated with caffeine for the prevention or treatment of AOP. Diaphragmatic ultrasound was performed 15 min (T0) before and 60 min (T60) after the loading (20 mg/kg) or maintenance (5 mg/kg) dose of caffeine.

Results

Diaphragmatic excursion (DE) and thickness at the end of inspiration (DT‐in) and expiration (DT‐ex), as well as peak velocity of the excursion at the end of inspiration (DT‐in) and expiration (DT‐ex) increased after administration of both loading and maintenance dose of caffeine.

Conclusions

Ultrasounds confirmed that caffeine improves the activity of diaphragm in preterm infants improving its thickness, amplitude of excursions, and contraction velocity. These results are consistent with the effectiveness of caffeine in treating AOP and decreasing the risk of failure of noninvasive respiratory support in preterm infants with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS).
Pyrotechnic whistles: An overview**
Authors: Verbovytskyy Yuriy , Juknelevicius Dominykas
Published: May 2023

A series of pyrotechnic compositions based on aromatic compounds and/or their salts in combination with pyrotechnic oxidizers possess a distinct feature: when being pressed into a tube and ignited, they burn, emitting a loud whistling noise. Such pyrotechnic effects have been known for over 100 years and are widely used for military and civil applications. The presented paper includes variable examples of pyrotechnic whistle compositions, their properties, and application examples. Additional information is provided on historical facts associated with the invention of the pyrotechnic whistles and the current state of knowledge of the whistling mechanism from both chemical and physical standpoints.
Swertia L.: A comprehensive review of its genetic relationship, chemical compositions, pharmacological effects, toxicities, and applications
Authors: Guo Sa , Du Qinyun , Xing Nan , Qin Jing , Liu Xinwei , Li Rui , Wang Shaohui , Zhang Yi
Published: May 2023

Swertia L., as a commonly used ethnic medicine, is widely distributed in Sichuan, Yunnan, and Xizang in China. Moreover, the medicinal plants of Swertia L. have been widely used and constitute one of the most important sources of various traditional medicines in China due to their prominent activities. In this review, the information on the classification, distribution, genetic relationship, chemical composition, pharmacological effects, toxicities, and applications of the medicinal plants in Swertia L. was summarized based on the scientific literature. The results indicated that the medicinal plants of Swertia L. mainly contained chemical components including triterpenes, xanthones, and iridoids. These compounds exert pharmacological effects including ameliorating diseases related to the liver and gallbladder. They also exert antiviral and antibacterial effects and can alleviate the increase in blood glucose levels. Especially, prescriptions related to Swertia L. have been widely adopted in preclinical and clinical studies to protect against diseases affecting the liver and the gallbladder, including hepatitis, cirrhosis, and cholecystitis. In addition, it also discusses toxicity studies and future perspectives and provides a reference for their clinical development and utilization.
Fatigue reliability assessment of offshore catenary risers conveying internal slug flow
Authors: Liu Depeng , Ai Shangmao , Kang Zhuang , Sun Liping
Published: May 2023

This paper proposes a fatigue reliability assessment method of offshore steel catenary risers (SCRs) caused by internal slug flow. Offshore risers subject to slug flow are modeled first by employing a finite element method scheme. Subsequently, a combination of Kriging metamodel and Monte Carlo simulation (MCS) is established to assess the fatigue reliability of SCRs conveying internal slug flow. An explanatory example of a 16‐inch SCR is presented to validate the performance of the proposed method and the results indicate that the failure rates of the SCR are significantly affected by the frequency of slug flow. Moreover, the accuracy and feasibility of the present method are validated by a comprehensive comparison with the existing experiments and numerical results. The present method contributes to the design and maintenance of offshore risers with internal slug flow.
Differentially‐regulated miRNAs in COVID‐19: A systematic review
Authors: Ahmad Waqar , Gull Bushra , Baby Jasmin , Panicker Neena G. , Khader Thanumol A. , Akhlaq Shaima , Rizvi Tahir A. , Mustafa Farah
Published: May 2023

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus‐2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) is responsible for coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID‐19) that infected more than 760 million people worldwide with over 6.8 million deaths to date. COVID‐19 is one of the most challenging diseases of our times due to the nature of its spread, its effect on multiple organs, and an inability to predict disease prognosis, ranging from being completely asymptomatic to death. Upon infection, SARS‐CoV‐2 alters the host immune response by changing host‐transcriptional machinery. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are regarded as post‐transcriptional regulators of gene expression that can be perturbed by invading viruses. Several in vitro and in vivo studies have reported such dysregulation of host miRNA expression upon SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. Some of this could occur as an anti‐viral response of the host to the viral infection. Viruses themselves can counteract that response by mounting their own pro‐viral response that facilitates virus infection, an aspect which may cause pathogenesis. Thus, miRNAs could serve as possible disease biomarkers in infected people. In the current review, we have summarised and analysed the existing data about miRNA dysregulation in patients infected with SARS‐CoV‐2 to determine their concordance between studies, and identified those that could serve as potential biomarkers during infection, disease progression, and death, even in people with other co‐morbidities. Having such biomarkers can be vital in not only predicting COVID‐19 prognosis, but also the development of novel miRNA‐based anti‐virals and therapeutics which can become invaluable in case of the emergence of new viral variants with pandemic potential in the future.
A comprehensive survey on non‐cooperative collision avoidance for micro aerial vehicles: Sensing and obstacle detection
Authors: Lu Liang , Fasano Giancarmine , Carrio Adrian , Lei Maolin , Bavle Hriday , Campoy Pascual
Published: May 2023

In recent years, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have been confirmed as a powerful tool for countless applications in nearly every industry, in which collision avoidance plays a vital role for micro aerial vehicles (MAVs) performing autonomous missions. The complexity of collision avoidance systems is directly related to the complexity of the navigation environment, the avoidance of highly uncertain obstacles being a more thoroughly researched critical aspect. The non‐cooperative collision avoidance strategy is necessary when communication between the agents is unavailable, under the case with many existing passive obstacles and non‐cooperative flying objects. In this article, we review the topic of non‐cooperative collision avoidance for MAVs in dynamic environments by covering two main issues: onboard sensing and obstacle description algorithms. A detailed discussion of these two topics is provided to face non‐cooperative collision avoidance technology for MAVs. Finally, the paper summarizes the open challenges and foreseen future directions in this field.
Striving for sustainable development: The impact of corporate social responsibility on corporate performance of Chinese manufacturing multinationals in Africa
Authors: Zhang Qiaowen , de Vries Annalien
Published: May 2023

The Forum of China‐Africa Cooperation benefits both China and Africa in tackling development issues. Increased foreign direct investment from China can specifically help to reduce Africa's struggles to meet its 2030 sustainable development goals. Due to insufficient global investment experience and stigmatization, Chinese multinational companies (MNCs) often experience unsatisfactory corporate performance in host countries. A successful strategy to mitigate stigma and be perceived by stakeholders as “legitimate” is through corporate social responsibility (CSR) engagement. Exploring how Chinese MNCs in Africa can achieve desirable corporate performance through CSR engagement is important to promote mutual benefits for both Chinese MNCs and African societies. This study aimed to contribute to emerging market CSR literature by examining the relationship between CSR engagement and corporate performance of Chinese manufacturing MNCs operating in Africa, with emphasis on moral legitimacy as a mediating factor and institutional distance as a moderating factor. Survey data were collected between June 2019 and January 2020 from a sample of 203 Chinese manufacturing MNCs subsidiaries in Africa. By using hierarchical regression and bootstrapping, we find that the positive relationship between CSR engagement and corporate performance is fully mediated by moral legitimacy gaining. This mediation effect is moderated by institutional distance. The results enrich our understanding of how Chinese manufacturing MNCs' corporate performance can be enhanced by addressing social challenges and promoting sustainable investment cooperation with African countries. These results are important for Chinese MNCs and authorities, as well as African public authorities when designing policies to promote China‐Africa sustainable investment cooperation.
Strategic or substantive innovation? The effect of government environmental punishment on enterprise green technology innovation
Authors: Li Xin , Guo Fei , Xu Qiong , Wang Siwei , Huang Hongyun
Published: May 2023

Under the conduction of decentralized environmental governance, environmental punishment has become a pivotal complementary tool for local government environment management and an intuitive reflection of governance efficiency. However, the literature concerning the effect of local government environmental punishment towards the green technology innovation of enterprises is void. To bridge this gap, this paper adopts the fixed‐effect model to investigate the impact of government environmental punishment on green technology innovation based on the data of China's A‐share listed enterprises from 2010 to 2020. The study finds that the punishment can significantly promote enterprises' green technology innovation. The distinction between the type of innovation reveals that environmental punishment promotes substantive green technology innovation of enterprises, while the effect on strategic green technology innovation is not significant. As far as the influence path is concerned, external pressure and internal incentive are both important mechanisms for environmental punishment to facilitate the green technology innovation of enterprises. Heterogeneity analysis demonstrates that the positive effect of punishment on green technology innovation is more prominent in non‐state‐owned enterprises, heavily polluting industries and regions with strong public awareness of environmental protection. Further discussion reveals that the facilitative effect of punishment on green technology innovation also significantly improves the environmental performance of enterprises. This paper not only confirms the positive role of government intervention in environmental protection, but also provides practical reference for how to improve enterprises' competitiveness.
Fe‐Regulated Amorphous‐Crystal Ni(Fe)P2 Nanosheets Coupled with Ru Powerfully Drive Seawater Splitting at Large Current Density
Authors: Wu Dulan , Liu Bo , Li Ruidong , Chen Ding , Zeng Weihao , Zhao Hongyu , Yao Youtao , Qin Rui , Yu Jun , Chen Lei , Zhang Jianan , Li Bei , Mu Shichun
Published: May 2023

Water electrolysis is an ideal method for industrial green hydrogen production. However, due to increasing scarcity of freshwater, it is inevitable to develop advanced catalysts for electrolyzing seawater especially at large current density. This work reports a unique Ru nanocrystal coupled amorphous‐crystal Ni(Fe)P2 nanosheet bifunctional catalyst (Ru‐Ni(Fe)P2/NF), caused by partial substitution of Fe to Ni atoms in Ni(Fe)P2, and explores its electrocatalytic mechanism by density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Owing to high electrical conductivity of crystalline phases, unsaturated coordination of amorphous phases, and couple of Ru species, Ru‐Ni(Fe)P2/NF only requires overpotentials of 375/295 and 520/361 mV to drive a large current density of 1 A cm−2 for oxygen/hydrogen evolution reaction (OER/HER) in alkaline water/seawater, respectively, significantly outperforming commercial Pt/C/NF and RuO2/NF catalysts. In addition, it maintains stable performance at large current density of 1 A cm−2 and 600 mA cm−2 for 50 h in alkaline water and seawater, respectively. This work provides a new way for design of catalysts toward industrial‐level seawater splitting.
A Unique Etching‐Doping Route to Fe/Mo Co‐Doped Ni Oxyhydroxide Catalyst for Enhanced Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Wei Yunpeng , Yi Lingya , Wang Rongfei , Li Junying , Li Dazhi , Li Tianhao , Sun Wei , Hu Weihua
Published: May 2023

Fe‐doped Ni (oxy)hydroxide shows intriguing activity toward oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in alkaline solution, yet it remains challenging to further boost its performance. In this work, a ferric/molybdate (Fe3+/MoO42−) co‐doping strategy is reported to promote the OER activity of Ni oxyhydroxide. The reinforced Fe/Mo‐doped Ni oxyhydroxide catalyst supported by nickel foam (p‐NiFeMo/NF) is synthesized via a unique oxygen plasma etching‐electrochemical doping route, in which precursor Ni(OH)2 nanosheets are first etched by oxygen plasma to form defect‐rich amorphous nanosheets, followed by electrochemical cycling to trigger simultaneously Fe3+/MoO42− co‐doping and phase transition. This p‐NiFeMo/NF catalyst requires an overpotential of only 274 mV to reach 100 mA cm−2 in alkaline media, exhibiting significantly enhanced OER activity compared to NiFe layered double hydroxide (LDH) catalyst and other analogs. Its activity does not fade even after 72 h uninterrupted operation. In situ Raman analysis reveals that the intercalation of MoO42− is able to prevent the over‐oxidation of NiOOH matrix from β to γ phase, thus keeping the Fe‐doped NiOOH at the most active state.
Ultrathin Co‐N‐C Layer Modified Pt–Co Intermetallic Nanoparticles Leading to a High‐Performance Electrocatalyst toward Oxygen Reduction and Methanol Oxidation
Authors: Chen Jiaxiang , Dong Jiangbo , Huo Junlang , Li Chaozhong , Du Li , Cui Zhiming , Liao Shijun
Published: May 2023

The development of low platinum‐based alloy electrocatalysts is crucial to accelerate the commercialization of fuel cells, yet remains a synthetic challenge and an incompatibility between activity and stability. Herein, a facile procedure to fabricate a high‐performance composite that comprises Pt–Co intermetallic nanoparticles (IMNs) and Co, N co‐doped carbon (Co‐N‐C) electrocatalyst is proposed. It is prepared by direct annealing of homemade carbon black‐supported Pt nanoparticles (Pt/KB) covered with a Co‐phenanthroline complex. During this process, most of Co atoms in the complex are alloyed with Pt to form ordered Pt–Co IMNs, while some Co atoms are atomically dispersed and doped in the framework of superthin carbon layer derived from phenanthroline, which is coordinated with N to form Co–Nx moieties. Moreover, the Co‐N‐C film obtained from complex is observed to cover the surface of Pt–Co IMNs, which prevent the dissolution and agglomeration of nanoparticles. The composite catalyst exhibits high activity and stability toward oxygen reduction reactions (ORR) and methanol oxidation reactions (MOR), delivering outstanding mass activities of 1.96 and 2.92 A mgPt−1 for ORR and MOR respectively, owing to the synergistic effect of Pt–Co IMNs and Co‐N‐C film. This study may provide a promising strategy to improve the electrocatalytic performance of Pt‐based catalysts.
Performance Improvement of Lead‐Based Halide Perovskites through B‐Site Ion‐Doping Strategies
Authors: Bian Liukang , Cao Fengren , Li Liang
Published: May 2023

Owing to their excellent properties, lead halide perovskites have attracted extensive attention in the photoelectric field. Presently, the certified power conversion efficiency of perovskite solar cells has reached 25.7%, the specific detectivity of perovskite photodetectors has exceeded 1014 Jones, and the external quantum efficiency of perovskite‐based light‐emitting diode has exceeded 26%. However, their practical applications are limited by the inherent instability induced by the perovskite structure due to moisture, heat, and light. Therefore, one of the widely used strategies to address the issue is to replace partial ions of the perovskites with ions of smaller radii to shorten the bond length between halides and metal cations, improving the bond energy and enhancing the perovskite stability. Particularly, the B‐site cation in the perovskite structure can affect the size of eight cubic octahedrons and their gap. However, the X‐site can only affect four such voids. This review comprehensively summarizes the recent progress in B‐site ion‐doping strategies for lead halide perovskites and provides some perspectives for further performance improvements.
Investigation of the effect of trapezoidal infill plate angle on the behavior of the corrugated steel shear walls – An experimental and numerical study
Authors: Hosseinzadeh Leila , Ghamari Ali
Published: May 2023

Studies on corrugated steel shear walls (CSSWs) generally indicate a noticeable increase in energy absorption, as well as an increasing shear buckling capacity of corrugated plates more than the flat plates. In this article, the effect of changing the angle of the trapezoidal panel on the behavior of CSSWs has extensively been investigated. Three specimens of CSSW with one story and single bay in half‐scale are tested under cyclic load. Gravity loads are not applied at the top of the walls; however, the horizontal load has been applied at the top of each specimen. The loading sequence has been implemented through “displacement control” with increasing and decreasing amplitudes. The observations of the experiment do indicate that stress concentration has been increased in the corner of subpanels, by increasing the corrugation angle. Also, the stiffness and energy dissipation are getting decreased, by growing the corrugation angle. Investigating the numerical models has been showing that in CSSW, seismic factors are affected by corrugation angle; however, varying parameters against changing angles do not show any reasonable relationship. The obtained results of investigating the effect of surrounding frame stiffness variation on the behavior of walls have also been indicating that increasing frame stiffness shall not be leading to improving all seismic parameters.
A new fib Model Code proposal for a beam‐end type bond test
Authors: Metelli Giovanni , Cairns John , Plizzari Giovanni
Published: May 2023

A beam‐end test is proposed in this paper and in the new fib Model Code 2020 to determine the effects of concrete type, confinement effects, and casting position on the anchorage strength of reinforcing bars. Two bars are cast in each specimen (in the two opposite corners), one in a “good” casting position and the other in “poor” casting position. The proposed test aims to be an economical bond test capable to represent actual conditions of anchored bars in real design practice. The test is also intended to verify whether existing provisions for bond and anchorage in the fib Model Code are suitable in nonconventional concrete. The validity of the proposed beam end type bond test is assessed by the results of more 60 tests on rebars having anchorage length of about 20 times the bar diameter in plain concrete, in fiber reinforced concrete, and in recycled aggregate concrete. Experimental results provide information both on the “top cast effect” in three types of concrete and on the effectiveness of fib Model Code provisions for anchorage when nonconventional concrete is used.
Disseminated intramuscular anaplastic plasma cell tumour in a dog
Authors: Lecot Lorris , Chamel Gabriel , Marchal Thierry , Fournel‐Fleury Corinne , Bouzouraa Tarek
Published: May 2023

A 12‐year‐old, neutered, male Jack Russell terrier was diagnosed with a disseminated intramuscular anaplastic round cell tumour with primary hepatic, splenic, subcutaneous and medullary involvement. The tumour was confirmed by histopathology, immunohistochemistry and polymerase chain reaction analysis of antigen receptor gene rearrangements to be of plasma cell origin. Tumour cells were lambda light chain‐positive, multiple myeloma 1‐positive and pan‐B marker‐negative (paired box protein 5, CD20 and CD79) and showed clonal immunoglobulin heavy chain gene rearrangement. Computed tomography did not identify osteolytic lesions. Plasma cells represented 14% of bone marrow cells. Serum and urine electrophoresis were not performed because of a normal serum globulin concentration. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first case report describing a disseminated diffuse intramuscular anaplastic plasma cell tumour in a dog without evidence of multiple myeloma on initial presentation or progression to multiple myeloma or plasma cell leukaemia during follow‐up.
Contribution of three‐dimensional printed models to neurosurgery: Description of a feline intracranial meningioma treated by rostrotentorial craniectomy
Authors: Daval Julien , Guillemot Alexandre , Dutil Guillaume , Testault Isabelle
Published: May 2023

A 10‐year‐old, male, neutered, domestic shorthair cat with generalised tonic‐clonic seizures was suspected of parietal meningioma. After segmentation from computed tomography images, real‐scale three‐dimensional prints of the skull and tumour were made using stereolithography. Intraoperative use of this model enabled identification of the craniectomy margins and exposed suitable tumour edges. Debulking was straightforward with no serious complications such as severe haemorrhage or untreatable cerebral oedema. Recovery was uneventful, and the cat showed normal neurological status postoperatively. Based on histopathological findings, a meningioma was confirmed. This is the first report of a three‐dimensional printed resin anatomic model of the skull with an intracranial tumour in companion animals. Such three‐dimensional prints are easily designed, inexpensive and accurate tools to study anatomic features of the patient and improve surgical procedures. The simple three‐dimensional printed replica presented here is a starting point for more detailed prints and extended applications such as craniectomy and cranioplasty procedures in veterinary neurosurgery.