bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An AI‐based imaging flow cytometry approach to study erythrophagocytosis
Authors: Neri S. , Brandsma E. T. , Mul F. P. J. , Kuijpers T. W. , Matlung H. L. , van Bruggen R.
Published: September 2024

Erythrophagocytosis is a process consisting of recognition, engulfment and digestion by phagocytes of antibody‐coated or damaged erythrocytes. Understanding the dynamics that are behind erythrophagocytosis is fundamental to comprehend this cellular process under specific circumstances. Several techniques have been used to study phagocytosis. Among these, an interesting approach is the use of Imaging Flow Cytometry (IFC) to distinguish internalization and binding of cells or particles. However, this method requires laborious analysis. Here, we introduce a novel approach to analyze the phagocytosis process by combining Artificial Intelligence (AI) with IFC. Our study demonstrates that this approach is highly suitable to study erythrophagocytosis, categorizing internalized, bound and non‐bound erythrocytes. Validation experiments showed that our pipeline performs with high accuracy and reproducibility.
Routing algorithm for sparse unstructured P2P networks using honey bee behavior
Authors: Verma Aman , Thakur Sanat , Kumar Ankush , Prasad Mahato Dharmendra
Published: September 2024

Unstructured peer‐to‐peer (P2P) networks pose unique challenges for efficient and scalable routing. In this study, we introduce a novel routing algorithm inspired by the foraging behavior of honey bees named Honey Bee Optimization in P2P Networks (HBO_P2P) to address the inherent limitations of routing in unstructured P2P networks, focusing on improving packet delivery, minimizing hop count, reducing message overhead, and optimizing overall throughput. To evaluate the performance of our proposed algorithm, we conducted comprehensive experiments comparing it with existing algorithms commonly used in P2P networks, namely, particle swarm optimization (PSO), genetic algorithm (GA), and ant colony optimization (ACO). After the simulation, we got the results as follows: Our algorithm outperforms ACO, GA, and PSO by exhibiting the highest number of data hops indicating potential efficiency in route optimization. Routing overhead is also minimal as compared to ACO, GA, and PSO. The average data packet delay is also low in our algorithm as compared to ACO, GA, and PSO. HBO_P2P achieves the highest throughput, nearly reaching 100 Mbps. While ACO and GA exhibit similar throughput of around 80 Mbps, and PSO has the lowest throughput, approximately 60 Mbps.
Dynamic primary resources, not just wild prey availability, underpin lion depredation of livestock in a savanna ecosystem
Authors: Mills Kirby L. , Bennitt Emily , Zhu Kai , Bartlam‐Brooks Hattie L. A. , Hubel Tatjana Y. , Wilson Alan M. , Carter Neil H. , Sanders Nathan J.
Published: September 2024

Because it can lead to retaliatory killing, livestock depredation by large carnivores is among the foremost threats to carnivore conservation, and it severely impacts human well‐being worldwide. Ongoing climate change can amplify these human–wildlife conflicts, but such issues are largely unexplored, though are becoming increasingly recognized. Here, we assessed how the availability of primary resources and wild prey interact to shape large carnivore selection for livestock rather than wild prey (i.e., via prey switching or apparent competition). Specifically, we combined remotely sensed estimates of primary resources (i.e., water availability and primary productivity), wild prey movement, and 7 years (2015–2021) of reports for livestock depredation by African lions (Panthera leo) in the Makgadikgadi Pans ecosystem, Botswana. Although livestock depredation did not vary between wet versus dry seasons, analyses at finer temporal scales revealed higher incidences of livestock depredation when primary production, water availability, and wild prey availability were lower, though the effects of wild prey availability were mediated by water availability. Increased precipitation also amplified livestock depredation events despite having no influence on wild prey availability. Our results suggest that livestock depredation is influenced by the diverse responses of livestock, wild prey, and lions to primary resource availability, a driver that is largely overlooked or oversimplified in studies of human–carnivore conflict. Our findings provide insight into tailoring potential conflict mitigation strategies to fine‐scale changes in resource conditions to efficiently reduce conflict and support human livelihoods.
Approximation of ice phenology of Maine lakes using Aqua MODIS surface temperature data
Authors: Skoglund Sophia K. , Bah Abdou Rachid , Norouzi Hamidreza , Weathers Kathleen C. , Ewing Holly A. , Steele Bethel G. , Bacon Linda C.
Published: September 2024

Studies of lake ice phenology have historically relied on limited in situ data. Relatively few observations exist for ice out and fewer still for ice in, both of which are necessary to determine the temporal extent of ice cover. Satellite data provide an opportunity to better document patterns of ice phenology across landscapes and relate them to the climatological drivers behind changing ice phenology. We developed a model, the Cumulative Sum Method (CSM), that uses daytime and nighttime surface temperature observations from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) sensor on board the Earth‐observing Aqua satellite to approximate ice in (the onset of ice cover) and ice out from training datasets of 13 and 58 Maine lakes, respectively, during the 2002/2003 through 2017/2018 ice seasons. Ice in was signaled by reaching a threshold of cumulative negative degrees following the first day of the season below 0°C. Ice out was signaled by reaching a threshold of cumulative positive degrees following the first day of the year above 0°C. The comparison of observed and remotely sensed ice‐in dates showed relative agreement with a correlation coefficient of 0.71 and a mean absolute error (MAE) of 9.8 days. Ice‐out approximations had a correlation coefficient of 0.67 and an MAE of 8.8 days. Lakes smaller in surface area and nearer the Atlantic coast had the greatest error in approximation. Application of the CSM to 20 additional lakes in Maine produced a comparable ice‐out MAE of 8.9 days. Ice‐out model performance was weaker for the warmest years; there was a larger MAE of 12.0 days when the model was applied to the years 2019–2023 for the original 58 lakes. The development of this model, which utilizes daily satellite data, demonstrates the promise of remote sensing for quantifying ice phenology over short, temporal scales, and wider geographic regions than can be observed in situ, and allows exploration of the influence of surface temperature patterns on the process and timing of ice in and ice out.
The long odyssey for the DEE‐CDKL5 diagnosis: A call for action
Authors: Valente Kette D. , Melo Fernanda , Marin Rachel , Vega Gustavo , Neves‐Borg Ana , Spagnol Bianca , Montenegro Maria Augusta , Vincentiis Silvia
Published: September 2024

Objectives

This study aims to determine the current state of CDD diagnosis and epilepsy treatment in an upper‐middle‐income country.

Methods

Forty‐seven families of the Brazilian CDD Association were invited to participate in an online survey to gather information about the diagnosis and treatment of epilepsy.

Results

Forty‐three families (91.5%) of unrelated patients with confirmed genetic diagnosis of CDD participated. The median age was 7 years (ranging from 1.3–25 years) and the male: female ratio was 1:6. Early and severe epilepsy started during infancy in 74.4%. Seizures occurred daily in 61.9% and 83.7% had clusters of seizures. The mean age of diagnosis was 3.3 years (ranging from 37 days to 16 years), and younger patients had an earlier diagnosis (p < 0.001). Patients were seen by an average of 4.4 physicians (1–15) before the diagnosis. The most relevant obstacles to genetic testing were cost (55.8%) and late requests by physicians (27.9%). At the moment of the assessment, patients received a mean of 3.6 ASMs/day (ranging from 1 to 5). Thirty‐four (79.1%) caregivers reported side effects throughout life, including life‐threatening events in 16.3%.

Significance

Based on our findings, a sense of urgency for genetic assessment implementation is evident since the delay in the diagnosis with unnecessary use of resources and excessive polytherapy with serious side effects cause a higher burden to the healthcare system, caregivers, and patients.

Plain Language Summary

In this study, we assessed the diagnosis and treatment of patients with genetically confirmed DEE‐CDKL5 from the Brazilian Association of CDD with an online survey. Caregivers reported a long delay in the diagnosis associated with cost and late referral to genetic testing, considered the last resource for one‐third of the patients. Patients received a high number of ASM, mainly under polytherapy, with serious side effects. Although it is promising that younger patients received earlier diagnosis, public policies for genetic testing are needed to improve CDD patients' care.
Regional perspective on prospects and risks of the renewable energy in Russia
Authors: Chebotareva Galina , Strielkowski Wadim , Berdnikov Alexey , Tinarsky Danil
Published: September 2024

The expansion of renewable energy (RE) relies on both natural factors and socioeconomic conditions fostered at the regional level. This paper examines the key factors influencing RE development in selected Russian regions. We conducted a literature review, surveyed 250 industry experts, and analyzed reports from energy and rating agencies, along with natural resource maps, to identify specific risks and indicators. Our expert survey revealed that the most significant technical risks are low resource potential (68%), energy system surplus (68%), and the absence of transport logistics with neighboring regions (58%). Politically, the lack of additional sector initiatives (6%) was noted. Economically, the high cost of RE (56%) and insufficient experience with “green” investments (54%) were highlighted. Social factors included low unemployment rates (74%), and the absence of remote areas without power supply (72%). Environmentally, the lack of enterprises for energy unit utilization (84%), low greenhouse gas emissions (60%), and insufficient accessible territories for facilities (58%) were significant concerns. We developed risk profiles for nine Russian regions, categorizing them into leaders, intermediates, and nascent stages of RE market formation. Our findings indicate that the most impactful factors include resource potential, space limitations for energy facilities, proximity to equipment manufacturers, regional support measures, and the development of “green” investment instruments. Conversely, regional investment attractiveness had a lesser influence. On the basis of these insights, we recommend enhancing RE development through refined federal and regional support programs. We propose additional criteria for project selection: (1) minimum construction costs covered by “green” investments and (2) quantitative restrictions on new capacities, considering regional energy system status. Practical recommendations also include developing regional centers for servicing generating facilities and increasing the sector's investment attractiveness to stimulate private investment.
Clinical insights into the immunomodulatory effects of food‐derived peptides
Authors: Chen Kangkai , Ma Dongwei , Yang Xin , Liu Ping , Wang Jin , Liao Wang
Published: September 2024

The interaction between diet and the immune system has garnered considerable attention, especially regarding the immunomodulatory effects of food‐derived peptides. These peptides, derived from dietary proteins, exhibit diverse mechanisms of action, influencing cytokine production, immune cell function, and gut barrier integrity. Although there are numerous in vitro and animal studies supporting its therapeutic potential in immune‐related diseases, clinical relevance requires further investigation. This review synthesizes current knowledge on food‐derived peptides as immunomodulators, highlighting clinical insights and discussing challenges in their application. Additionally, it expands beyond peptides to encompass various dietary compounds influencing immune function. By integrating structural and functional diversity, this review provides a comprehensive understanding of how nutrition shapes immune responses, offering insights for personalized health strategies.
Effects of low‐frequency pulsed electrical stimulation at the common peroneal nerve on chronic refractory wounds of the lower limb: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Ma Yu , He Chuan , Gong Youhui , Qian Lifang , Lu Qian , Li Jinhua , Zong Li‐Juan , Song Jie , Yin Zhifei , Shen Ying
Published: September 2024

Background and aims

Electrical stimulation (ES) has been shown to substantially enhance the quality of life by alleviating pain in patients with chronic wounds. This study aimed to observe the effects of low‐frequency pulsed wearable ES at the common peroneal nerve on chronic refractory wounds of the lower limb.

Methods

Forty‐eight participants were randomly divided into control group (n = 24) and treatment group (n = 24) in this study. The control group received standard wound care (SWC) exclusively, whereas the treatment group was administered both SWC and the wearable low‐frequency ES targeting the common peroneal nerve. Measurements of wound area, pain intensity, wound status, and quality of life scores were systematically recorded both before and after 4 weeks treatment.

Results

After 4 weeks of intervention, the percentage area reduction was significantly higher in the treatment group compared to the control group (Z = −3.9, p < 0.001), and the healing rate of the treatment group was significantly higher than that of the control group (33% vs. 4%). Moreover, the Visual Analog Scale for Pain score (β = −0.65, p = 0.019), the Bates‐Jensen Wound Assessment Tool score (p < 0.05), and the questionnaire on quality of life with chronic wounds (Wound‐Qol) score (β = −4.23, p = 0.003) were significantly decreased in the patients in the treatment group compared to the control group.

Conclusion

The wearable low‐frequency pulsed ES at the common peroneal nerve for the treatment of chronic refractory wounds showed significant improvement and were far superior compared to SWC. Future research should broaden its scope to include a diverse range of wound types and benefit from collaboration across multiple research centers.
Thermal convection in a Brinkman–Darcy and Kelvin–Voigt fluid of order one with coupled stresses effect
Authors: Afluk Zaid Abbas , Harfash Akil J.
Published: September 2024

Our paper thoroughly examines a model for the thermal convection of specific viscoelastic fluids within a porous medium characterized by Brinkman–Darcy properties. These fluids demonstrate first‐order Kelvin–Voigt behavior as they permeate the medium. This investigation considers the influence of couple stresses on the system. We calculate the critical Rayleigh number required for linear instability theory, focusing on both stationary and oscillatory types of convection. Additionally, we conduct the nonlinear stability theory. In the latter cases, it is demonstrated that oscillatory convection can occur. A detailed investigation is conducted into the characteristics of both stationary and oscillatory convection branches, including the points at which the transition occurs.
Review on layered oxide cathodes for sodium‐ion batteries: Degradation mechanisms, modification strategies, and applications
Authors: Li Yong , Liu Guoliang , Che Jiangxuan , Chen Liping , Wang Xuan , Wang Guangming , Lei Lanlan , Hou Jie , Li Shuyue , Wang Juan , Xu Yunhua , Zhao Yufeng
Published: September 2024

Exploiting high‐capacity cathode materials with superior reliability is vital to advancing the commercialization of sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs). Layered oxides, known for their eco‐friendliness, adaptability, commercial viability, and significant recent advancements, are prominent cathode materials. However, electrochemical cycling over an extended period can trigger capacity fade, voltage hysteresis, structural instability, and adverse interface reactions which shorten the battery life and cause safety issues. Thus, it is essential to require an in‐depth understanding of degradation mechanisms of layered oxides. In this review, the crystal and electronic structures of layered oxides are revisited first, and a renewed understanding is also presented. Three critical degradation mechanisms are highlighted and deeply discussed for layered oxides, namely Jahn–Teller effect, phase transition, and surface decomposition, which are directly responsible for the inferior electrochemical performances. Furthermore, a comprehensive overview of recently reported modification strategies related to degradation mechanisms are proposed. Additionally, this review discusses challenges in practical application, primarily from a degradation mechanism standpoint. Finally, it outlines future research directions, offering perspectives to further develop superior layered cathode materials for SIBs, driving the industrialization of SIBs.
The associations between self‐construal, emotional expressivity and acculturation among Arab immigrants
Authors: Van Assche Jasper , Amin Azzam , Abu‐Rayya Hisham M.
Published: September 2024

This contribution investigates differences in self‐construal and emotional expressivity among Arab immigrants and non‐immigrants. Furthermore, it examines the role of acculturation styles and perceived emotional acculturation in predicting these outcomes among Arab immigrants. Using a sample of 1249 self‐identified Arabs (629 immigrants in Western Europe and North America; 620 non‐immigrant Arabs in the Mashriq and Maghrib regions), we found that collectivist self‐construal was significantly lower, and positive emotional expressivity was significantly higher among immigrant, than non‐immigrant, Arabs. High home country acculturation (also in combination with high host country acculturation) was the strongest predictor of collectivist self‐construal. Immigrants' perception of the positive emotional expressivity of people in their host culture was the strongest predictor of their personal positive emotional expressivity. These results were replicated using the Euclidean distance method to measure acculturation. Hence, the study provides valuable insights into the relationships between self‐construal, emotional expressivity and acculturation styles, specifically among Arab immigrants.
Improved health by combining dietary restriction and promoting muscle growth in DNA repair‐deficient progeroid mice
Authors: Vermeij Wilbert P. , Alyodawi Khalid , van Galen Ivar , von der Heide Jennie L. , Birkisdóttir María B. , van't Sant Lisanne J. , Ozinga Rutger A. , Komninos Daphne S.J. , Smit Kimberly , Rijksen Yvonne M.A. , Brandt Renata M.C. , Barnhoorn Sander , Jaarsma Dick , Vaiyapuri Sathivel , Ritvos Olli , Huber Tobias B. , Kretz Oliver , Patel Ketan
Published: September 2024

Background

Ageing is a complex multifactorial process, impacting all organs and tissues, with DNA damage accumulation serving as a common underlying cause. To decelerate ageing, various strategies have been applied to model organisms and evaluated for health and lifespan benefits. Dietary restriction (DR, also known as caloric restriction) is a well‐established long‐term intervention recognized for its universal anti‐ageing effects. DR temporarily suppresses growth, and when applied to progeroid DNA repair‐deficient mice doubles lifespan with systemic health benefits. Counterintuitively, attenuation of myostatin/activin signalling by soluble activin receptor (sActRIIB), boosts the growth of muscle and, in these animals, prevents muscle wasting, improves kidney functioning, and compresses morbidity.

Methods

Here, we investigated a combined approach, applying an anabolic regime (sActRIIB) at the same time as DR to Ercc1Δ/− progeroid mice. Following both single treatments and combined, we monitored global effects on body weight, lifespan and behaviour, and local effects on muscle and tissue weight, muscle morphology and function, and ultrastructural and transcriptomic changes in muscle and kidney.

Results

Lifespan was mostly influenced by DR (extended from approximately 20 to 40 weeks; P < 0.001), with sActRIIB clearly increasing muscle mass (35–65%) and tetanic force (P < 0.001). The combined regime yielded a stable uniform body weight, but increased compared with DR alone, synergistically improved motor coordination and further delayed the onset and development of balance problems. sActRIIB significantly increased muscle fibre size (P < 0.05) in mice subjected to DR and lowered all signs of muscle damage. Ercc1Δ/− mice showed abnormal neuromuscular junctions. Single interventions by sActRIIB treatment or DR only partially rescued this phenotype, while in the double intervention group, the regularly shaped junctional foldings were maintained. In kidney of Ercc1Δ/− mice, we observed a mild but significant foot process effacement, which was restored by either intervention. Transcriptome analysis also pointed towards reduced levels of DNA damage in muscle and kidney by DR, but not sActRIIB, while these levels retained lower in the double intervention.

Conclusions

In muscle, we found synergistic effects of combining sActRIIB with DR, but not in kidney, with an overall better health in the double intervention group. Crucially, the benefits of each single intervention are not lost when administered in combination, but rather strengthened, even when sActRIIB was applied late in life, opening opportunities for translation to human.
Causal effects of female reproductive features on nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: A mendelian randomization study
Authors: Fu Haoshuang , Song Shuying , Du Bingying , Zhou Tianhui , Cai Minghao , Jiang Shaowen , Chen Yaoxing , Zang Xinya , Huang Yan , Wang Weijing , Xie Qing
Published: September 2024

Background and aims

Epidemiological evidence on the associations between female reproductive features and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is conflicting. To explore their causalities, we conducted a Mendelian randomization (MR) study.

Methods

Summary‐level data were obtained, and univariable MR was performed to explore the causalities between female reproductive features and NAFLD. And we performed multivariable MR and MR mediation analysis to explore the mediation effects of educational attainment (EA) and body mass index (BMI) for these associations. Sensitivity analyses were performed to evaluate pleiotropy and heterogeneity.

Results

There were causal effects of age at menarche (AAMA) (odds ratio [OR]: 0.817, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.736–0.907, per year‐increase), age at first birth (AFB) (OR: 0.851, 95%CI: 0.791–0.926, per year‐increase) and age at first sexual intercourse (AFS) (OR: 0.676, 95%CI: 0.511–0.896, per standard deviation‐increase) on NAFLD risk. Besides, the causal effects were also observed on NAFLD phenotypes including liver fat content (LFC) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT). Further mediation analysis showed that BMI mediated partial proportion of effects of AAMA and AFS on NAFLD/ALT, AFB on NAFLD/LFC/ALT, while EA mediated partial proportion of effects of AFB on NAFLD/LFC/ALT, and AFS on NAFLD/ALT.

Conclusions

This study provided convincing evidence that early AAMA, AFB, and AFS were risk factors for NAFLD. Reproductive health education, obesity management, and education spread might be the beneficial strategies for NAFLD prevention.
Fused Thiazolo[2,3‐b]Quinazolinone–Chromone Hybrids: Synthesis, Characterization, In Vitro Antibacterial Activity and In Silico Screening
Authors: Gali Rajitha , Banothu Janardhan , Salaria Punam , Subrahmanyeswara Rao N. N. , Badampudi Santosh Kumar , Amarendar Reddy M.
Published: September 2024

Antimicrobial resistance is one of the biggest threats to public health across the globe. Bacteria, fungi, viruses, and protozoans have been exhibiting resistance against antimicrobial drugs making them ineffective. Hence, the development of new antibiotics with a different mode of action is highly desirable. In this study, 10 new chromone‐incorporated fused thiazolo[2,3‐b]quinazolinone derivatives, 8a‐j, have been prepared via Biginelli reaction involving aromatic aldehydes, 1‐tetralone, and thiourea followed by a reaction with 2‐chloro‐N‐phenylacetamide, and Knoevenagel condensation with 3‐formylchromone. All the structures of the compounds were characterized by NMR, FTIR, and mass spectrometry. The in vitro antibacterial activities of all the synthesized compounds against the four different microbial strains were evaluated. Among them, few compounds demonstrated prominent activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. No appreciable activity of any compound against Klebsiella pneumoniae was observed. Molecular docking studies were employed to reveal the interactions responsible for the potent compounds' activities against S. aureus, S. pyogenes, and P. aeruginosa. Both in vitro and in silico studies have been carried out by using standard agar well diffusion protocol and Auto Dock Vina in PyRx. The results indicated that compound 8c was the potential compound as it showed good affinity toward the receptors of all three organisms. Molecular dynamics simulation of the 8c‐1JIJ complex for 100 ns further confirmed the potentiality of 8c. The pharmacokinetic properties of the compounds indicate that the studied molecules have exhibited a favorable profile.
Surface Vibration‐Mediated and Multiphonon Relaxation‐Assisted Antithermal‐Quenching Shortwave Infrared Emission in Ho‐Based Double Perovskite With Long Lifetime
Authors: Duan Qiudong , Zha Yu , Xu Yusheng , Yang Yougui , Guo Tianyu , Meng Fanju , Wu Yuting , Hong Dongfeng , Han Jin , Yang Yong , Wang Qi , Zhou Dacheng , Wen Ming , Wen Yugeng , Qiu Jianbei
Published: September 2024

Thermal quenching generally predominates in Er3+ 1540 nm luminescence quenching at elevated temperatures, due to intensified lattice vibration and efficient overtone vibrational relaxation by O─H stretch. This issue impedes practical device applications of shortwave infrared Er‐doped phosphors. Herein, with the mediation of surface vibrational phonons, anti‐thermal quenching of Er3+ 1540 nm emission is reported in (220)‐dominated Er3+‐doped Cs2NaHoCl6 double perovskite. The downshifting emissions can be boosted with rising temperatures from 303 to 543 K, reaching 225%@483 K of the initial intensity at 303 K, accompanied with a long lifetime of 33.02 ms at 483 K. By combining temperature‐dependent in situ Raman and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopies with the excited‐state dynamics results, the coordination role of water molecules is verified, serving as promoters instead of quenchers on the (220) facet at high temperatures. Furthermore, efficient energy transfer from Ho3+ to Er3+ enables intense 1540 nm emission with a photoluminescence quantum yield of 78.1% under 450 nm excitation. Finally, a compact thermally stable phosphor‐converted light‐emitting diode (LED) is designed as a narrowband shortwave infrared light source with a blue LED chip. This work pushes the improved understanding of achieving thermal‐enhanced Er3+ luminescence for potential broad applications.
We Hope You're Listening: Qualitative Study of Advice Given by Individuals with Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Kinger Shraddha B. , Moran Jacqueline , McLarin Amber , Fox‐Fuller Joshua T. , Salazar Robert D. , Gordillo Monica L. , Long Kristin A. , Cronin‐Golomb Alice
Published: September 2024

Background

Patient‐centered care for persons with Parkinson's disease (PwPD) is associated with positive outcomes, but is lacking in current healthcare systems.

Objective

In this qualitative study, we solicited advice from PwPD to medical professionals, family members/friends, and newly‐diagnosed PwPD.

Methods

Through an online survey, 275 PwPD answered open‐ended questions asking for their advice. Responses were analyzed using content analysis. Interrater reliability was 94.5%.

Results

Three qualitative themes were identified. First, participants advised enhancing care and communication, with healthcare professionals balancing clinical constraints with compassion, and family/friends balancing support with appreciating autonomy of PwPD. The second theme was empowering PwPD through increasing their knowledge of the disease and care options. The third reflected the importance of focusing on well‐being and connection.

Conclusion

The results highlight several gaps in meeting the needs of PwPD in healthcare settings and personal relationships, underscoring the importance of integrating their perspectives in shaping approaches to care.
Variations of heat equation on the half‐line via the Fokas method
Authors: Chatziafratis Andreas , Fokas Athanasios S. , Aifantis Elias C.
Published: September 2024

In this review paper, we discuss some of our recent results concerning the rigorous analysis of initial boundary value problems (IBVPs) and newly discovered effects for certain evolution partial differential equations (PDEs). These equations arise in the applied sciences as models of phenomena and processes pertaining, for example, to continuum mechanics, heat‐mass transfer, solid–fluid dynamics, electron physics and radiation, chemical and petroleum engineering, and nanotechnology. The mathematical problems we address include certain well‐known classical variations of the traditional heat (diffusion) equation, including (i) the Sobolev–Barenblatt pseudoparabolic PDE (or modified heat or second‐order fluid equation), (ii) a fourth‐order heat equation and the associated Cahn–Hilliard (or Kuramoto–Sivashinsky) model, and (iii) the Rubinshtein–Aifantis double‐diffusion system. Our work is based on the synergy of (i) the celebrated Fokas unified transform method (UTM) and (ii) a new approach to the rigorous analysis of this method recently introduced by one of the authors. In recent works, we considered forced versions of the aforementioned PDEs posed in a spatiotemporal quarter‐plane with arbitrary, fully non‐homogeneous initial and boundary data, and we derived formally effective solution representations, for the first time in the history of the models, justifying a posteriori their validity. This included the reconstruction of the prescribed initial and boundary conditions, which required careful analysis of the various integral terms appearing in the formulae, proving that they converge in a strictly defined sense. In each IBVP, the novel formula was utilized to rigorously deduce the solution's regularity properties near the boundaries of the spatiotemporal domain. Importantly, this analysis is indispensable for proving (non)uniqueness of solution. These works extend previous investigations. The usefulness of our closed‐form solutions will be demonstrated by studying their long‐time asymptotics. Specifically, we will briefly review some asymptotic results about Barenblatt's equation.
Particle‐based MR modeling with diffusion, microstructure, and enzymatic reactions
Authors: Dingwell Dylan Archer , Cunningham Charles H.
Published: September 2024

Purpose

To develop a novel particle‐based in silico MR model and demonstrate applications of this model to signal mechanisms which are affected by the spatial organization of particles, including metabolic reaction kinetics, microstructural effects on diffusion, and radiofrequency (RF) refocusing effects in gradient‐echo sequences.

Methods

The model was developed by integrating a forward solution of the Bloch equations with a Brownian dynamics simulator. Simulation configurations were then designed to model MR signal dynamics of interest, with a primary focus on hyperpolarized 13C MRI methods. Phantom scans and spectrophotometric assays were conducted to validate model results in vitro.

Results

The model accurately reproduced the reaction kinetics of enzyme‐mediated conversion of pyruvate to lactate. When varying proportions of restrictive structure were added to the reaction volume, nonlinear changes in the reaction rate measured in vitro were replicated in silico. Modeling of RF refocusing effects characterized the degree of diffusion‐weighted contribution from preserved residual magnetization in nonspoiled gradient‐echo sequences.

Conclusions

These results show accurate reproduction of a range of MR signal mechanisms, establishing the model's capability to investigate the multifactorial signal dynamics such as those underlying hyperpolarized 13C MRI data.
Training potential of a teleoperated humanoid robot for use by a young psychiatrist during childcare leave
Authors: Kawahara Hiroko , Kanchi Nobukazu , Kawata Megumi , Yoshikawa Yuichiro , Baba Jun , Muramatsu Taro , Ishiguro Hiroshi , Kumazaki Hirokazu
Published: September 2024

Background

Childcare leave extensions can sometimes negatively affect the professional clinical training of early‐career psychiatrists in Japan. During childcare leave, being able to learn in the examination room while staying at home would be useful. Therefore, we developed a training system using a teleoperated robot (Sota) for young psychiatrists who wanted to participate in the examination room during childcare leave while remaining at home.

Case Presentation

We report the case of a patient with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) comorbid with Tourette's disorders (P). A young female psychiatrist (D) used the training system to learn from a board‐certified psychiatrist. In this case, the board‐certified psychiatrist, P, and the robot were placed in the examination room. D teleoperated Sota from home, allowing her to talk to the board‐certified psychiatrist and P. She learned about the clinical features of Tourette's syndrome by observing the examination of the board‐certified psychiatrist and hearing the patient's distress. P was satisfied with the fact that he was seen not only by a board‐certified psychiatrist but also by D.

Conclusion

These case findings suggest that our system is helpful for young psychiatrists who want to study in the examination room during childcare leave while staying at home. Future studies should include a single‐case experimental design with information regarding key outcome variables and other relevant variables gathered regularly over time.
Comparative evaluation of vat photopolymerization and steel tool molds on the performance of injection molded and overmolded tensile specimens
Authors: Jian Xun , Gong Ke , Moritz Vicente , Portela Alexandre , Lu Yinshi , Du Wenyi , Major Ian
Published: September 2024

This study explores the use of vat polymerization stereolithography (SLA) for fabricating mold tooling, subsequently utilized in injection molding (IM) and overmolding of tensile specimens and directly compared to those produced using metal molds. The results first find the manufacturing time for an SLA‐fabricated mold is remarkably short, approximately 6 h, presenting a substantial improvement over traditional methods. Mechanical testing revealed that the tensile specimens from the SLA‐fabricated molds exhibited the highest tensile strength among all overmolding batches. This performance was consistent with the tensile bars produced using metal molds, demonstrating the viability of SLA‐fabricated molds for overmolding applications and highlighting the potential of FDM to customize the properties of final products. However, variations in mold types impacted the dimensional tolerance and tensile strength of the final specimens. Metal mold‐fabricated tensile bars exhibited superior dimensional accuracy and maximum tensile strength (50.6–61.7 MPa) compared to those produced with SLA‐fabricated molds (46.9–55.9 MPa). These differences are attributed to the rougher surface finish inherent to the layer‐by‐layer construction of SLA and the internal stresses and defects resulting from lower thermal conductivity and uneven cooling. In conclusion, this study underscores the promising future applications of SLA‐fabricated molds in overmolding, offering reduced manufacturing costs and enhanced design freedom. The findings support the potential of SLA to revolutionize mold fabrication, thereby extending its utility and optimizing the production of polymer components with customized properties.

Highlights

SLA molds compared to metal molds for direct injection molding and overmolding.

FFF preforms with varied geometries were overmolded to finalize the specimens.

Joint configurations in overmolding improved tensile performance.

Overmolding showed better dimensional accuracy than FFF specimens.

SLA mold preparation significantly reduced manufacturing costs.
Application of wet carbon black masterbatch in green mining radial tires
Authors: Luo Kangyu , Wang Zifeng , Yong Zhanfu
Published: September 2024

In the context of environmental protection and energy consumption reduction, reducing the rolling resistance of mining machinery tires is one of the important methods to achieve the goal of green mining. This study probes the effects of wet mixing with a wet carbon black masterbatch on the rolling resistance and grounding performance of wide‐body vehicle tire treads by investigating the cross‐linking structure, rubber–filler (R–F) interaction force, and physicomechanical properties of the wet mixing rubber compounded with a wet carbon black masterbatch. The results indicate decreases in the maximum torque‐minimum torque difference, cross‐link density, and R–F interaction of the wet mixing rubber and increased filler–filler (F–F) interaction and carbon black dispersion. Meanwhile, the tensile elongation of the wet mixing rubber increases, its DIN abrasion property improves, and its Tanδ decreases at 60°C. A numerical method to estimate tire steady‐state rolling resistance is also developed. Finite element simulation analysis reveals that the steady‐state rolling resistance of the wet mixing rubber is reduced by 7.04% at 100% standard load, and its grounding performance is enhanced. By proposing a method to reduce the rolling resistance of tires, this study also provides a reference for the development of wide‐body vehicle tires.

Highlights

Explored the filler interaction of wet mixing rubber.

Explained the low energy loss of wet mixing rubber.

Proposed a new finite element method for calculating tire rolling resistance.
Effects of graphene oxide and silane‐grafted graphene oxide on chitosan packaging nanocomposite films for bread preservation
Authors: Eskitoros‐Togay Ş. Melda
Published: September 2024

This study aims to investigate the dual effects of (3‐aminopropyl)triethoxysilane (APTES)‐grafted‐GO (A‐g‐GO), and titanium dioxide (TiO2) on the novel chitosan (CS) packaging nanocomposite films developed via the solution‐casting method. The chemical properties of GO and A‐g‐GO were assessed using FTIR and XRD. Subsequently, the chemical, structural, and physical attributes of all chitosan packaging nanocomposite films were analyzed through FTIR, XRD, TGA, DSC, AFM, water contact angle analysis, and food packaging tests. Successful silanization of GO by APTES was first confirmed. The highest surface roughness value was observed in the CS/A‐g‐GO/TiO2 film (16.574 nm) compared to pristine CS and other nanocomposite films. Incorporating GO into the CS matrix improved its thermal stability, suggesting robust bonding between GO and the polymer matrix. The addition of A‐g‐GO slightly decreased the contact angle value (107.7° for CS/A‐g‐GO), whereas TiO2 increased contact angles (117.3° for CS/GO/TiO2 and 119.4° for CS/A‐g‐GO/TiO2), suggesting a more hydrophilic structure with GO and A‐g‐GO and a more hydrophobic structure with TiO2. Bread samples showed no structural distortion over 40 days. Therefore, the dual impacts of A‐g‐GO and TiO2 on the pristine CS film imply that the resulting CS/A‐g‐GO/TiO2 film exhibits potential as an exceptionally efficient packaging material for prolonging the freshness of bread.
The Impact of Bromine Surface Doping on the Structural, Optical, and Morphological Properties of Bismuth‐Based Perovskite Film as a Light‐Absorber in Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Amrollahi Bioki Hojjat , Erfani Enayatullah , Ihsas Mohammad Ismail
Published: September 2024

Bismuth‐based perovskite materials have concerned significant attention due to their low‐toxic and stable properties. However, achieving smooth and dense thin films for the preferential growth of bismuth‐based perovskite along the c‐axis, which is conducive to the preparation of solar cells, is challenging. Therefore, using halogen atoms to partially replace iodine atoms and constrain anisotropic growth has been shown to be an effective method for obtaining high‐quality perovskite films. Herein, Br doping with varying concentrations is used to treat bismuth‐based perovskite films with larger and denser grains compared to those without doping. When a small amount of Br ions is doped, the surface of the perovskite layer becomes more uniform, significantly improving the compactness of the perovskite film. Additionally, proper Br doping can reduce internal defects in the films, effectively inhibiting nonradiative recombination, enhancing light absorption, and increasing carrier lifetime. The optimal power conversion efficiency of Br‐doped bismuth halide perovskite solar cells is found to be 0.136%, compared to 0.087% for pristine devices.
Surgical treatment of lung cancer associated with Werner's syndrome: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Ishibashi Fumihiro , Horio Joji , Tachibana Kaori , Terada Jiro , Shibuya Kiyoshi
Published: September 2024

Werner's syndrome is a rare progressive disorder that is characterized by a variety of clinical manifestations which mimic features of advanced ageing. Malignancy is one of the most problematic complications of Werner's syndrome. Lung cancer associated with Werner's syndrome is rare. A 54‐year‐old woman with Werner's syndrome was referred to our department because an abnormal shadow had been detected on routine chest radiography. Chest computed tomography revealed an abnormal nodule in the left upper lobe. Bronchoscopic examination revealed the presence of squamous cell carcinoma. Other imaging studies showed no metastatic lesions; therefore, the patient was diagnosed with stage IA3 squamous cell carcinoma. She underwent left upper lobectomy and lymph node dissection without major complications, and no recurrence was found for 2 years postoperatively.
Eosinophilic reactive airways disease after immune checkpoint inhibitor treatment
Authors: Cordial Parker , Bentley Ian D. , Horowitz Jeffrey C. , Ho Kevin
Published: September 2024

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) are increasingly utilized as first‐line treatment for many solid tumour malignancies. One downside of ICI therapy is autoimmune‐mediated organ inflammation, or immune‐related adverse events (irAE). ICI‐related pneumonitis, or non‐infectious inflammation of the lung, is a well‐described irAE. While guidelines surrounding ICI‐related pneumonitis are well established, other ICI‐related pulmonary toxicities, including reactive airways disease, are rarely described in the literature. Here, we present a series of patients without pre‐existing COPD or asthma who developed reactive airways disease with peripheral eosinophilia after ICI therapy and without radiographic evidence of pneumonitis. The patients were treated with typical therapies for reactive airways disease, including– inhaled steroids, bronchodilators, systemic steroids, and in one instance, dupilumab. All experienced symptomatic improvement with these therapies, enabling some of the patients to continue receiving ICI therapy.
Localized data‐driven consensus control for continuous‐time multi‐agent systems
Authors: Chang Zeze , Li Zhongkui
Published: September 2024

This article proposes a localized data‐driven consensus framework for leader‐follower multi‐agent systems with unknown continuous‐time agent dynamics for both noiseless and noisy data scenarios. In this setting, each follower calculates its feedback control gain based on its locally sampled data, including the states, state derivatives, and inputs. We propose novel distributed control protocols that synchronize the distinct dynamic feedback gains and achieve leader‐follower consensus. Design methods are provided for the devised data‐based consensus control algorithms, which rely on low‐dimensional linear matrix inequalities. The validity of the developed algorithms is demonstrated via simulation examples.
High Photocytotoxicity Iridium(III) Complex Photosensitizer for Photodynamic Therapy Induces Antitumor Effect Through GPX4‐Dependent Ferroptosis
Authors: Zhang Qing , Chen Dezhi , Liu Xiaomeng , Deng Zhewen , Li Jiaqi , Zhu Senqiang , Ma Bo , Liu Rui , Zhu Hongjun
Published: September 2024

The development of small molecule photosensitizers based on iridium complex is limited by the mismatch between therapeutic effect and systemic toxicity, as well as the incomplete understanding of the molecular mechanism underlying cell death induction. Herein, a small molecule iridium complex IrC with high photocytotoxicity is synthesized, with half maximal inhibitory concentration as low as 91 nm, demonstrating excellent anti‐tumor, relief of splenomegaly, and negligible side effects. Starting from the factors of effective photosensitizers, the in‐depth theoretical analysis on photon absorption efficiency, energy transfer level matching, and properties of the triplet excited state of IrC is conducted. This also elucidates the feasibility of generating the high singlet oxygen quantum yield. In addition, the death mechanism induced by IrC is focused, innovatively utilizing GPX4‐overexpression and GPX4‐knockout cells via CRISPR/Cas9 technique to comprehensively verify ferroptosis and its further molecular mechanism. The generation of ROS mediated by IrC, along with the direct inhibition of GPX4 and glutathione, synergistically increased cellular oxidative stress and the level of lipid peroxidation. This study provides an effective approach for small molecule complexes to induce GPX4‐dependent ferroptosis at low‐dose photodynamic therapy.
True Random Number Generator Based on Chaotic Oscillation of a Tunable Double‐Well MEMS Resonator
Authors: Wu Junhui , Sun Haoyang , Zhou Guangya
Published: September 2024

Chaotic systems have aroused interest across various scientific disciplines such as physics, biology, chemistry, and meteorology. The deterministic but unpredictable nature of a chaotic system is an ideal feature for random number generation. Microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) are a promising technology that effectively harnesses chaos, offering advantages such as a compact footprint, scalability, and low power consumption. This paper presents a true random number generator (TRNG) based on a double‐well MEMS resonator integrated with an actuator and position sensor. The potential energy landscape of the proposed MEMS resonator is actively tunable with a direct current voltage. Experimental demonstrations of tunable bistability and chaotic resonance are reported in this paper. A chaotic time sequence is generated through piezoresistive sensing of the position of the MEMS resonator once it is driven into the chaotic regime. Subsequently, the randomness of the bit sequence, achieved by applying the exclusive or function to a digital chaotic sequence and its delayed differential is confirmed to meet the National Institute of Standards and Technology specifications. Moreover, the throughput and energy efficiency of the proposed MEMS‐based TRNG can be adjusted from 50 kb s–1 and 0.44 pJ per bit at a low energy barrier to 167 kb s–1 and 6.74 pJ per bit at a high energy barrier by changing the MEMS device's potential well. The tunability of the proposed double‐well MEMS resonator not only offers continuous adjustments in the energy efficiency of TNRG but also unveils vast and diverse research opportunities in analog computing, encryption, and secure communications.