bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transplanting Human Neural Stem Cells with ≈50% Reduction of SOX9 Gene Dosage Promotes Tissue Repair and Functional Recovery from Severe Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Liu Jessica Aijia , Tam Kin Wai , Chen Yong Long , Feng Xianglan , Chan Christy Wing Lam , Lo Amos Lok Hang , Wu Kenneth Lap‐Kei , Hui Man‐Ning , Wu Ming‐Hoi , Chan Ken Kwok‐Keung , Cheung May Pui Lai , Cheung Chi Wai , Shum Daisy Kwok‐Yan , Chan Ying‐Shing , Cheung Martin
Published: June 2023

Neural stem cells (NSCs) derived from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) are considered a major cell source for reconstructing damaged neural circuitry and enabling axonal regeneration. However, the microenvironment at the site of spinal cord injury (SCI) and inadequate intrinsic factors limit the therapeutic potential of transplanted NSCs. Here, it is shown that half dose of SOX9 in hPSCs‐derived NSCs (hNSCs) results in robust neuronal differentiation bias toward motor neuron lineage. The enhanced neurogenic potency is partly attributed to the reduction of glycolysis. These neurogenic and metabolic properties retain after transplantation of hNSCs with reduced SOX9 expression in a contusive SCI rat model without the need for growth factor‐enriched matrices. Importantly, the grafts exhibit excellent integration properties, predominantly differentiate into motor neurons, reduce glial scar matrix accumulation to facilitate long‐distance axon growth and neuronal connectivity with the host as well as dramatically improve locomotor and somatosensory function in recipient animals. These results demonstrate that hNSCs with half SOX9 gene dosage can overcome extrinsic and intrinsic barriers, representing a powerful therapeutic potential for transplantation treatments for SCI.
IGFBP1 Sustains Cell Survival during Spatially‐Confined Migration and Promotes Tumor Metastasis
Authors: Cai Guoqing , Qi Yijun , Wei Ping , Gao Hong , Xu Chenqi , Zhao Yun , Qu Xiujuan , Yao Feng , Yang Weiwei
Published: June 2023

Cell migration is a pivotal step in metastatic process, which requires cancer cells to navigate a complex spatially‐confined environment, including tracks within blood vessels and in the vasculature of target organs. Here it is shown that during spatially‐confined migration, the expression of insulin‐like growth factor‐binding protein 1 (IGFBP1) is upregulated in tumor cells. Secreted IGFBP1 inhibits AKT1‐mediated phosphorylation of mitochondrial superoxide dismutase (SOD2) serine (S) 27 and enhances SOD2 activity. Enhanced SOD2 attenuates mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation in confined cells, which supports tumor cell survival in blood vessels of lung tissues, thereby accelerating tumor metastasis in mice. The levels of blood IGFBP1 correlate with metastatic recurrence of lung cancer patients. This finding reveals a unique mechanism by which IGFBP1 sustains cell survival during confined migration by enhancing mitochondrial ROS detoxification, thereby promoting tumor metastasis.
High‐Performance Poly(1‐naphthylamine)/Mesoporous Carbon Cathode for Lithium‐Ion Batteries with Ultralong Cycle Life of 45000 Cycles at ‐15 °C
Authors: Yang Junkai , Zhao Xiaoru , Yang Jixing , Xu Yunhua , Li Yuesheng
Published: June 2023

Organic electrode materials for lithium‐ion batteries have attracted significant attention in recent years. Polymer electrode materials, as compared to small‐molecule electrode materials, have the advantage of poor solubility, which is beneficial for achieving high cycling stability. However, the severe entanglement of polymer chains often leads to difficulties in preparing nanostructured polymer electrodes, which is vital for achieving fast reaction kinetics and high utilization of active sites. This study demonstrates that these problems can be solved by the in situ electropolymerization of electrochemically active monomers in nanopores of ordered mesoporous carbon (CMK‐3), combining the advantages of the nano‐dispersion and nano‐confinement effects of CMK‐3 and the insolubility of the polymer materials. The as‐prepared nanostructured poly(1‐naphthylamine)/CMK‐3 cathode exhibits a high active site utilization of 93.7%, ultrafast rate capability of 60 A g−1 (≈320 C), and an ultralong cycle life of 10000 cycles at room temperature and 45000 cycles at −15 °C. The study herein provides a facile and effective method that can simultaneously solve both the dissolution problem of small‐molecule electrode materials and the inhomogeneous dispersion issue of polymer electrode materials.
Covalent Coating of Micro‐Sized Silicon With Dynamically Bonded Graphene Layers Toward Stably Cycled Lithium Storage
Authors: Li Zhenshen , Zhao Ziyun , Pan Siyuan , Wang Yaogang , Chi Sijia , Yi Xuerui , Han Junwei , Kong Debin , Xiao Jing , Wei Wei , Wu Shichao , Yang Quan‐Hong
Published: June 2023

State‐of‐the‐art carbon coatings are sought to protect high‐capacity silicon anodes, which suffer from low conductivity, large volume change and fast degradation. However, this approach falls short when handling physical–electrical disconnections between carbon shells and silicon microparticulate (SiMP) with drastic size variations. Here, a strategy of covalent coating is developed to establish a robust encapsulation structure. The obtained covalent SiC bonds enable an effectively dynamic connection between the electrochemically deforming SiMP and the sliding graphene layers, preventing the evolution of gaps between SiMP and the carbon shell and maintaining persistent electrical connections as well as mechanical toughness. As a result of high structure reversibility, the cycling stability of thick SiMP anodes is greatly improved, up to a high areal capacity of 5.6 mAh cm−2 and volumetric capacity of 2564 mAh cm−3. This interface bonding effect demonstrates the great potential for suppressing deformation involved degradation of high‐capacity materials through coating strategies.
Morphological variation of the Pan talus relative to that of Gorilla
Authors: Harper Christine M. , Roach Caleigh S. , Goldstein Deanna M. , Sylvester Adam D.
Published: June 2023

Objectives

Differences in talar articular morphology relative to locomotion have recently been found within Pan and Gorilla. Whole‐bone talar morphology within, and shared variation among, Pan and Gorilla (sub)species, however, has yet to be investigated. Here we separately analyze talar external shape within Pan (P. t. troglodytes, P. t. schweinfurthii, P. t. verus, P. paniscus) and Gorilla (G. g. gorilla, G. b. beringei, G. b. graueri) relative to degree of arboreality and body size. Pan and Gorilla are additionally analyzed together to determine if consistent shape differences exist within the genera.

Materials and Methods

Talar external shape was quantified using a weighted spherical harmonic analysis. Shape variation both within and among Pan and Gorilla was described using principal component analyses. Root mean square distances were calculated between taxon averages, and resampling statistics conducted to test for pairwise differences.

Results

P. t. verus (most arboreal Pan) talar shape significantly differs from other Pan taxa (p < 0.05 for pairwise comparisons) driven by more asymmetrical trochlear rims and a medially‐set talar head. P. t. troglodytes, P. t. schweinfurthii, and P. paniscus do not significantly differ (p > 0.05 for pairwise comparisons). All gorilla taxa exhibit significantly different talar morphologies (p < 0.007 for pairwise comparisons). The more terrestrial subspecies of G. beringei and P. troglodytes exhibit a superoinferiorly taller talar head/neck complex.

Discussion

P. t. verus exhibits talar morphologies that have been previously related to more frequent arboreality. The adaptations in the more terrestrial G. beringei and P. troglodytes subspecies may serve to facilitate load transmission.
Evaluation and treatment of rhinosinusitis with primary antibody deficiency in adults: Evidence‐based review with recommendations
Authors: Makary Chadi A. , Luong Amber U. , Azar Antoine , Kim Jean , Ahmed Omar G. , Chaaban Mohamad R. , Damask Cecilia C. , Hannikainen Paavali , Joe Stephanie , Lam Kent , Peppers Brian P. , Peters Anju T. , Toskala Elina , Lin Sandra Y.
Published: June 2023

Background

There is clear evidence that the prevalence of primary antibody deficiency (PAD) is higher in patients with recurrent and chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) than in the general population. The purpose of this multi‐institutional and multidisciplinary evidence‐based review with recommendations (EBRR) is to thoroughly review the literature on rhinosinusitis with PAD, summarize the existing evidence, and provide recommendations on the evaluation and management of rhinosinusitis in patients with PAD.

Methods

The PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases were systematically reviewed from inception through August 2022. Studies on the evaluation and management of rhinosinusitis in PAD patients were included. An iterative review process was utilized in accordance with EBRR guidelines. Levels of evidence and recommendations on the evaluation and management principles for PAD were generated.

Results

A total of 42 studies were included in this evidence‐based review. These studies were evaluated on incidence of PAD in rhinosinusitis patients, incidence of rhinosinusitis in PAD patients, and on the different treatment modalities used and their outcome. The aggregate quality of evidence was varied across reviewed domains.

Conclusion

Based on the currently available evidence, PAD can occur in up to 50% of patients with recalcitrant CRS. Despite the presence of multiple studies addressing rhinosinusitis and PAD, the level of evidence supporting different treatment options continues to be lacking. Optimal management requires a multidisciplinary approach through collaboration with clinical immunology. There is need for higher‐level studies that compare different treatments in patients with PAD and rhinosinusitis.
Identifying the Role of Lewis‐base Sites for the Chemistry in Lithium‐Oxygen Batteries
Authors: Zhao Chuan , Yan Zhongfu , Zhou Bo , Pan Yu , Hu Anjun , He Miao , Liu Jing , Long Jianping
Published: June 2023

Lewis‐base sites have been widely applied to regulate the properties of Lewis‐acid sites in electrocatalysts for achieving a drastic technological leap of lithium‐oxygen batteries (LOBs). Whereas, the direct role and underlying mechanism of Lewis‐base in the chemistry for LOBs are still rarely elucidated. Herein, we comprehensively shed light on the pivotal mechanism of Lewis‐base sites in promoting the electrocatalytic reaction processes of LOBs by constructing the metal–organic framework containing Lewis‐base sites (named as UIO‐66‐NH2). The density functional theory (DFT) calculations demonstrate the Lewis‐base sites can act as electron donors that boost the activation of O2/Li2O2 during the discharged‐charged process, resulting in the accelerated reaction kinetics of LOBs. More importantly, the in situ Fourier transform infrared spectra and DFT calculations firstly demonstrate the Lewis‐base sites can convert Li2O2 growth mechanism from surface‐adsorption growth to solvation‐mediated growth due to the capture of Li+ by Lewis‐base sites upon discharged process, which weakens the adsorption energy of UIO‐66‐NH2 towards LiO2. As a proof of concept, LOB based on UIO‐66‐NH2 can achieve a high discharge specific capacity (12 661 mAh g−1), low discharged‐charged overpotential (0.87 V) and long cycling life (169 cycles). This work reveals the direct role of Lewis‐base sites, which can guide the design of electrocatalysts featuring Lewis‐acid/base dual centers for LOBs.
Hydrogen‐Transfer Reductive Catalytic Fractionation of Lignocellulose: High Monomeric Yield with Switchable Selectivity
Authors: Li Yilin , Yu Yanyan , Lou Yuhan , Zeng Suqing , Sun Yaxu , Liu Yongzhuang , Yu Haipeng
Published: June 2023

Lignin solubilization and in situ hydrogenolysis are crucial for reductive catalytic fractionation (RCF) of lignocellulose to aromatic monomers. In this study, we reported a typical hydrogen bond acceptor of choline chloride (ChCl) to tailor the hydrogen‐donating environment of the Ru/C‐catalyzed hydrogen‐transfer RCF of lignocellulose. The ChCl‐tailored hydrogen‐transfer RCF of lignocellulose was conducted under mild temperature and low‐pressure (<1 bar) conditions, which was applicable to other lignocellulosic biomass sources. We obtained an approximate theoretical yield of propylphenol monomer of 59.2 wt % and selectivity of 97.3 % using an optimal content of ChCl (10 wt %) in ethylene glycol at 190 °C for 8 h. When the content of ChCl in ethylene glycol was increased to 110 wt %, the selectivity of propylphenol switched toward propylenephenol (yield of 36.2 wt % and selectivity of 87.6 %). The findings in this work provide valuable information for transforming lignin from lignocellulose into value‐added products.
Aging ofhigh‐performancefibers used in firefighters' protective clothing: State of the knowledge and path forward
Authors: Hoque Md. Saiful , Dolez Patricia I.
Published: June 2023

High‐performance fibers developed since the 1960s have a wide range of applications including firefighters' protective clothing. Firefighters' protective clothing made of inherently flame‐resistant high‐performance fibers offers excellent protection in the new condition. However, these fibers experience aging as any polymer material. The situation is amplified due to the severe conditions associated with the firefighters' activities. And the consequences of a loss in the performance of the protective clothing can be dramatic for the firefighter's safety. This article provides a comprehensively review of the aging behavior of high‐performance fibers used in firefighters' protective clothing. Residual performance data have been identified both for used firefighter garments as well as fabric specimens subjected to accelerated aging. Research shows that different aging conditions affect the different fibers to a different degree. The specific conditions in which the aging is applied also affects the outcome in terms of loss in performance. Techniques successfully used to quantify the effect of aging on the performance of fire‐resistant fabrics are also briefly mentioned. Finally, the knowledge gained from this analysis of the literature as well as research gaps and further areas of investigation are discussed in this neglected yet critical topic of firefighters' protective clothing aging.
Hydrothermal deposition synthesis of dual‐mode luminescent material GdVO4:Eu3+/carbon dots with optimal luminescence and its application in anti‐counterfeiting
Authors: Shu Zhan , Du Mingzhe , Li Mengqi , Liu Yanghui , Gan Lu , Zhang Xiaohang , Gui Weijun
Published: June 2023

To obtain optimal luminescence, 0.12 g of GdVO4:3%Eu3+ nanocrystals (NCs) and different volumes of nitrogen‐doped carbon dots (N‐CDs) crude solution were used as precursors, and the composite synthesized using the hydrothermal deposition method showed optimal luminescence when 11 ml (2.45 mmol) crude solution was used. In addition, similar composites with the same molar ratio as GVE/cCDs(11) were also prepared with the hydrothermal and physical mixing processes. Based on the test results of XRD, XPS, and PL spectra, for the composite GVE/cCDs(11), the highest (lowest) peak intensity of the C–C/C=C (C=O/C=N) bond, which was 1.18 (0.75) times that of GVE/cCDs‐m, indicated most N‐CDs deposition and led to their highest emission intensity under 365 nm excitation, although nitrogen atoms in the composite were shed slightly during the deposition process. Finally, as can be seen from the patterns designed for security applications that the optimally luminescent composite is one of the most promising candidates in the anti‐counterfeiting field.
Designing gene manipulation schedules for high throughput parallel construction of objective strains
Authors: Cai Jingyi , Liao Xiaoping , Mao Yufeng , Wang Ruoyu , Li Haoran , Ma Hongwu
Published: June 2023

Recent advances in biofoundries have enabled the construction of a large quantity of strains in parallel, accelerating the design‐build‐test‐learn (DBTL) cycles for strain development. However, the construction of a large number of strains by iterative gene manipulation is still time‐consuming and costly, posing a challenge for the development of commercial strains. Common gene manipulations among different objective strains open up the possibility of reducing cost and time for strain construction in biofoundries by optimizing genetic manipulation schedules. A method is introduced consisting of two complementary algorithms for designing optimal parent‐children manipulation schedules for strain construction: greedy search of common ancestor strains (GSCAS) and minimizing total manipulations (MTM). By reusing common ancestor strains, the number of strains to be constructed can be effectively reduced, resulting in a tree‐like structure of descendants instead of linear lineages for each strain. The GSCAS algorithm can quickly find common ancestor strains and clusters them together based on their genetic makeup, and the MTM algorithm subsequently minimize the genetic manipulations required, resulting in a further reduction in the total number of genetic manipulations. The effectiveness of our method is demonstrated through a case study of 94 target strains, where GSCAS reduces an average of 36% of the total gene manipulations, and MTM reduces an additional 10%. The performance of both algorithms is robust among case studies with different average occurrences of gene manipulations across objective strains. Our method potentially improves cost efficiency and accelerate the development of commercial strains significantly. The implementation of the methods can be freely accessed via https://gscas‐mtm.biodesign.ac.cn/
Generation of IL‐2‐Fc‐antibody conjugates by click chemistry
Authors: Williams Lindsay , Li Lin , Yazaki Paul J. , Wong Patty , Miller Aaron , Hong Teresa , Poku Erasmus K. , Bhattacharya Supriyo , Shively John E. , Kujawski Maciej
Published: June 2023

Background

Immunocytokines (ICKs) are antibody directed cytokines produced by genetic fusion of an antibody to a cytokine.

Methods

We now show that antibodies conjugated by click chemistry to interleukin‐2 (IL‐2)‐Fc form fully active conjugates, and in one example, equivalent activity to a genetically produced ICK.

Results

An IL‐2‐Fc fusion protein was optimized for click chemistry at hinge cysteines using protein stabilizing IL‐2 mutations at Lys35 and Cys125 and Fc hinge mutations at Cys142 and Cys148. The IL‐2‐Fc fusion protein with K35E and C125S mutations with 3 intact hinge cysteines, designated as IL‐2‐Fc Par, was selected based on its minimal tendency to aggregate. IL‐2‐Fc‐antibody clicked conjugates retained high IL‐2 activity and bound target antigens comparable to parent antibodies. An IL‐2‐Fc‐anti‐CEA click conjugate showed comparable anti‐tumor activity to an anti‐CEA‐IL‐2 ICK in immunocompetent CEA transgenic mice bearing CEA positive orthotopic breast tumors. Significant increases in IFNγ+/CD8+ and decreases in FoxP3+/CD4+ T‐cells were found for the clicked conjugate and ICK therapies, suggesting a common mechanism of tumor reduction.

Conclusion

The production of antibody targeted IL‐2 therapy via a click chemistry approach is feasible with comparable activity to genetically produced ICKs with the added advantage of multiplexing with other monoclonal antibodies.
The evaluation of biotechnological potential of Gp144, the key molecule of natural predator bacteriophage K in Staphylococcus aureus hunting mechanism
Authors: Tasdurmazli Semra , Dokuz Senanur , Erdogdu Berna , Var Isil , Chen John Yu‐Shen , Ozbek Tulin
Published: June 2023

Bacteriophages, which selectively infect bacteria, and phage‐derived structures are considered promising agents for the diagnosis and treatment of bacterial infections due to the increasing antibiotic resistance. The binding of phages to their specific receptors on host bacteria is highly specific and irreversible, and therefore, the characterization of receptor‐binding proteins(RBPs), which are key determinants of phage specificity, is crucial for the development of new diagnostic and therapeutic products. This study highlights the biotechnological potential of Gp144, an RBP located in the tail baseplate of bacteriophage K and responsible for adsorption of phageK to S. aureus. Once it was established that recombinant Gp144 (rGp144)is biocompatible and does not exhibit lytic effects on bacteria, its interaction with the host, the binding efficiency and performance were assessed in vitro using microscopic and serological methods. Results showed that rGp144 has a capture efficiency (CE) of over 87% and the best CE score is %96 which captured 9 CFU mL−1 out of 10 CFU mL−1 bacteria, indicating that very low number of bacteria could be detected. Additionally, it was shown for the first time in the literature that rGp144 binds to both S. aureus and methicillin‐resistant S. aureus (MRSA) cells in vitro, while its affinity to different Gram‐positive bacteria (E. faecalis and B. cereus) was not observed. The findings suggest that rGp144 can be effectively used for the diagnosis of S. aureus and MRSA, and that the use of RBPs in host‐phage interaction can be a novel and effective strategy for imaging and diagnosing the site of infection.
Balloon assisted hematoma fenestration in spontaneous coronary artery dissection. Case presentation and literature review
Authors: Besis George , De Biase Chiara , Subkovas Eduardas , Rakhit Roby
Published: June 2023

The management of spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) is lacking randomized data. This also holds for SCAD with ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction where stenting has been used to restore coronary flow. This approach can be associated with many drawbacks. Therefore, we present an alternative approach to stenting when coronary flow cannot be restored using cutting balloons alone.
Theory‐guided Design of Atomically Dispersed Dual‐Metal Catalysts for Superior Oxygen Reduction Reaction Activity
Authors: Yang Yuqi , Wang Qing , Mei Bingbao , Han Zengyu , Sun Fanfei , Shang Lu , Yang Shuai , Wei Yao , Wu Dongshuang , Jiang Zheng
Published: June 2023

The widespread application of electrochemical energy conversion devices, such as proton exchange membrane fuel cells, is hindered by the kinetically sluggish oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) at the cathode. Transition‐metal and nitrogen codoped carbon materials (TM−N−C) are among the most promising catalysts to solve this problem. Particularly, dual‐metal TM−N−C have already displayed excellent performance. However, further knowledge on the reaction mechanism and the structure−activity relationship is still required. In this study, we established three dual‐metal TM−N−C models (FeMn−N−C, FeCo−N−C, and FeNi−N−C) to investigate the electronic interaction between the metallic sites and their corresponding adsorption strength for oxygenated intermediates in ORR electrocatalysis. Then, using density functional theory calculations, we determined that the ORR activity of the dual‐metal TM−N−C models followed the order of FeCo−N−C > FeNi−N−C > FeMn−N−C. We confirmed the theoretically predicted activity by synthesizing atomically dispersed FeMn−N−C, FeCo−N−C, and FeNi−N−C catalysts using metal‐organic framework precursors, among which FeCo−N−C showed the best results in terms of ORR onset potential and half‐wave potential (0.92 and 0.81 V vs. the reference hydrogen electrode in 0.1 M HClO4, respectively.). The results demonstrate the feasibility of the theory‐guided rational design of efficient dual‐metal catalysts for ORR electrocatalysis.
Surface Engineering in Covalent Organic Polymers for High‐Performance Li−S Batteries
Authors: Lu Bing‐Yi , Chen Zhi‐Peng , Wang Hong‐Rui , Li Jiang‐Yu , Qi Qiao‐Yan , Cui Fu‐Zhi , Jiang Guo‐Fang , Zhao Xin
Published: June 2023

Lithium−sulfur (Li−S) batteries are a promising energy storage technology due to their tempting high theoretical capacity and energy density. Nevertheless, the wastage of active materials that originates from the shuttling effect of polysulfides still hinders advancement of Li−S batteries. The effective design of cathode materials is extremely pivotal to solve this thorny problem. Herein, surface engineering in covalent organic polymers (COPs) has been performed to investigate the influence of pore wall polarity on the performance of COP‐based cathodes used for Li−S batteries. With the assistance of experimental investigation and theoretical calculations, performance improvement by increasing pore surface polarity and a synergy effect of the polarized functionalities, along with nano‐confinement effect of the COPs, are disclosed, to which the improved performance of Li−S batteries including outstanding Coulombic efficiency (99.0 %) and extremely low capacity decay (0.08 % over 425 cycles at 1.0 C) is attributed. This work not only enlightens the designable synthesis and applications of covalent polymers as polar sulfur hosts with high utilization of active materials, but also provides a feasible guide for the design of effective cathode materials for future advanced Li−S batteries.
Corrosion Engineering towards NiFe‐Layered Double Hydroxide Macroporous Arrays with Enhanced Activity and Stability for Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Song Yi‐Fu , Zhang Zi‐Yang , Tian Hao , Bian Lei , Bai Yu , Wang Zhong‐Li
Published: June 2023

NiFe‐layered double hydroxide (NiFe‐LDH) is the benchmark catalyst for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in alkaline medium, however, it is still challenging to improve its activity and stability. Herein, NiFe‐LDH macroporous array electrodes are demonstrated to significantly enhance the activity and stability for oxygen evolution reaction. The electrodes are fabricated by the chemical and electrochemical corrosion process of Ni foam induced by ferric nitrate, hydrochloric acid and oxygen. By optimizing the amount of iron salt and acid and selecting the appropriate reaction temperature and time, the NiFe‐LDH electrodes only need the overpotential of 180 mV and 248 mV to reach the current density of 10 mA cm−2 and 500 mA cm−2, respectively, and remain highly stable for 1000 h at 500 mA cm−2. The unique macroporous array not only significantly increases the active area of NiFe‐LDH catalyst, but also creates a stable nanostructure that avoids severe reconstruction.
Homage to Georgios Papanikolaou: A pilgrimage to his birthplace
Authors: Franco Eduardo L.
Published: June 2023

As a cancer epidemiologist focused on the science of cervical cancer prevention and control, the author journeyed to the home of his hero, Georgios Nikolaou Papanikolaou, whose pioneering contribution of the cervicovaginal cytology test (the Pap test) has saved countless female lives over generations throughout the world, laying the groundwork for one of the most beautiful stories in public health.
Mechanochemical Ammonia Synthesis: Old is New Again
Authors: Lee Jae Seong , Han Gao‐Feng , Baek Jong‐Beom
Published: June 2023

Hydrogen is a promising clean energy source, an alternative to fossil fuels, and can potentially play a crucial role in reducing carbon emissions. The transportation and storage of hydrogen are the biggest hurdles to realizing a hydrogen economy. Ammonia is considered to be one of the most promising hydrogen carriers, because of its high hydrogen content and easy liquefaction in mild conditions. To date, ammonia is mostly produced by the ‘thermocatalytic’ Haber‐Bosch process, which requires high temperature and pressure. As a result, it can only produce ammonia in ‘centralized’ manufacturing systems. Mechanochemistry, a newly emerging method for efficient ammonia synthesis, offers potential advantages over the Haber‐Bosch process. Mechanochemical ammonia synthesis under near ambient conditions can be connected with ‘localized’ sustainable energy systems. In this perspective, the state‐of‐the‐art mechanochemical ammonia synthesis processes will be introduced. Challenges and opportunities are also discussed in relation to its role in a hydrogen economy.
Sampling methodology influences habitat suitability modeling for chiropteran species
Authors: Gaulke Sarah M. , Hohoff Tara , Rogness Brittany A. , Davis Mark A.
Published: June 2023

Technological advances increase opportunities for novel wildlife survey methods. With increased detection methods, many organizations and agencies are creating habitat suitability models (HSMs) to identify critical habitats and prioritize conservation measures. However, multiple occurrence data types are used independently to create these HSMs with little understanding of how biases inherent to those data might impact HSM efficacy. We sought to understand how different data types can influence HSMs using three bat species (Lasiurus borealis, Lasiurus cinereus, and Perimyotis subflavus). We compared the overlap of models created from passive‐only (acoustics), active‐only (mist‐netting and wind turbine mortalities), and combined occurrences to identify the effect of multiple data types and detection bias. For each species, the active‐only models had the highest discriminatory ability to tell occurrence from background points and for two of the three species, active‐only models preformed best at maximizing the discrimination between presence and absence values. By comparing the niche overlaps of HSMs between data types, we found a high amount of variation with no species having over 45% overlap between the models. Passive models showed more suitable habitat in agricultural lands, while active models showed higher suitability in forested land, reflecting sampling bias. Overall, our results emphasize the need to carefully consider the influences of detection and survey biases on modeling, especially when combining multiple data types or using single data types to inform management interventions. Biases from sampling, behavior at the time of detection, false positive rates, and species life history intertwine to create striking differences among models. The final model output should consider biases of each detection type, particularly when the goal is to inform management decisions, as one data type may support very different management strategies than another.
Generalized gamma ARMA process for synthetic aperture radar amplitude and intensity data
Authors: da Silva Willams B. F. , Almeida‐Junior Pedro M. , Nascimento Abraão D. C.
Published: June 2023

We propose a new autoregressive moving average (ARMA) process with generalized gamma (G) marginal law, called G‐ARMA. We derive some of its mathematical properties: moment‐based closed‐form expressions, score function, and Fisher information matrix. We provide a procedure for obtaining maximum likelihood estimates for the G‐ARMA parameters. Its performance is quantified and discussed using Monte Carlo experiments, considering (among others) various link functions. Finally, our proposal is applied to solve remote sensing problems using synthetic aperture radar (SAR) imagery. In particular, the G‐ARMA process is applied to real data from images taken in the Munich and San Francisco regions. The results show that G‐ARMA describes the neighborhoods of SAR features better than the gamma‐ARMA process (a reference for asymmetric positive data). For pixel ray modeling, our proposal outperforms and gamma‐ARMA.
Vibration characteristics and comfort evaluation of a large shake table during operation
Authors: Guo Tong , Zong Yueran , Zhu Ruizhao , Zhang Minte , Soh Chee Kiong
Published: June 2023

Shake tables are useful instruments for investigating structural seismic responses, while they may introduce excessive vibrations on surrounding environments during operation. This study investigates the impact of vibration generated by a 6 m×9 m large shake table on the shake table laboratory and the surrounding buildings. To begin, vibration sensors were strategically installed throughout the shake table laboratory and the surrounding buildings to investigate their vibration characteristics during operations of the shake table. Subsequently, the vibration comfort of the shake table laboratory and the surrounding buildings was thoroughly evaluated. Finally, the overall finite element model of the ground‐shake table laboratory‐surrounding buildings was established by simulating the infinite soil with a viscoelastic boundary, and the parametric study of the vibration isolation trench was conducted. This study is the first to accurately, objectively, and quantitatively investigate the impact of large shake table operation on the surrounding environment. The results presented will be useful for the laboratory managers to develop reasonable loading schemes, as well as to optimize the design of other similar laboratories and vibration isolation measures.
Hybrid simulation of a steel dual system with buckling‐induced first‐story column shortening: A mixed control mode approach
Authors: Wang Kung‐Juin , Chou Chung‐Che , Huang Cheng‐Wei , Shen Hou‐Kuan , Sepulveda Claudio , Mosqueda Gilberto , Uang Chia‐Ming
Published: June 2023

This paper presents a hybrid simulation (HS) with a proposed substructuring technique that captures the effect of first‐story column local buckling and axial shortening on the frame behavior. The HS is applied to examine the seismic response of a two‐dimensional seven‐story, two‐bay steel dual system. The experimental substructure consists of a full‐scale interior column and beam cruciform subassemblage, including a moderately ductile first‐story built‐up box column and two I‐shaped beams. Under combined axial and lateral loads, local buckling can occur near the column base, resulting in column shortening. The specimen is loaded through a four‐degree‐of‐freedom (DOF) mixed‐mode control (three displacement‐ and one force‐control) actuation system that simplifies the actual complex boundary conditions of the frame structure. To account for column shortening in the HS, a new approach consisting of a set of fictitious equivalent forces applied to columns in the numerical model to achieve compatible displacements with the experiment is implemented. Shortening of the two exterior columns in the model is simulated through finite element analysis using the computer program ABAQUS in an attempt to capture the redistribution of axial loads with column shortening. The test results confirm that the proposed modeling and control methods successfully integrate the experimental substructure and ABAQUS simulation into the HS, resulting in a more realistic frame response that captures the effect of column shortening in the analysis. The moderately ductile built‐up box column is verified to perform well in near‐fault earthquake loadings.
Machine learning‐based prediction of the seismic response of fault‐crossing natural gas pipelines
Authors: Zhang Wenyang , Ayello Francois , Honegger Doug , Bozorgnia Yousef , Taciroglu Ertugrul
Published: June 2023

Herein, we utilized machine‐learning (ML) and data‐driven (regression) techniques to tackle a critical infrastructure engineering problem—namely, predicting the seismic response of natural gas pipelines crossing earthquake faults. Such a 3D nonlinear problem can take up to 10 h to solve by performing finite element analysis (FEA), considering the length of the pipeline and a large number of pipe and soil elements. However, the ML and data‐driven techniques can learn the projection rule of input‐output and predict the pipeline response instantaneously given a set of input features. In addition, the well‐trained ML model can be implemented for regional‐scale risk and rapid post‐event damage assessments. In this study, the input for ML comprised approximately 217K nonlinear FEAs, which covered a wide range of combinations of soil, structural and fault properties and yielded critical pipe strain responses under fault‐rupture displacements. We adopted various regression models and physics‐constrained neural networks, which can accurately and rapidly predict the tensile and compressive strains for a broad range of probable fault‐rupture displacements. Performances of various ML and conventional statistical models were systematically examined. Not surprisingly, neural networks exhibited the best performance for this multi‐output regression problem, in whichR2 > 0.95 was achieved for a wide range of fault displacement (FD) levels. Further, we used the trained neural network with 14.5 million Monte‐Carlo‐generated input samples to predict the maximum tensile and compressive strain curves of pipelines. This new dataset aimed at filling the missing input‐output points from the 217K FEAs, and improved the accuracy of the prediction of probability of failure for natural gas pipelines under FD hazards.
Fast recognition model of Fusarium in agaric based on hyperspectral imaging
Authors: Sun Yuhan , Wang Huanzi , Gan Yuan , Qing Yudie , Yue Tianli , Yuan Yahong , Shi Yiheng
Published: June 2023

Agaric is a dual‐purpose fungus for medicine and food, which is considered a healthcare product. However, in cultivation and production, agaric is contaminated by a variety of molds, resulting in a decline in quality and yield. Fusarium, as one of the poisonous filamentous fungi, seriously threatens the healthy development of the agaric industry and even affects human health. Therefore, it is necessary to establish timely and accurate identification and rapid detection of pathogens and crops. In this study, the visible near infrared hyperspectral imaging was used to obtain the image and spectral information, and the best classification model was selected and established to quickly distinguish Fusarium oxysporum from Fusarium verticillioides, which was also successfully applied for the preliminary identification of agaric infection. This approach could provide a nondestructive manner for rapid identification and detection of pathogenic fungi contamination in agaric.
Applications of finite difference‐based physics‐informed neural networks to steady incompressible isothermal and thermal flows
Authors: Jiang Qinghua , Shu Chang , Zhu Lailai , Yang Liming , Liu Yangyang , Zhang Zhilang
Published: June 2023

Physics‐informed neural networks (PINNs) have aroused an upsurge in scientific machine/deep learning community, especially in research areas involving solving partial differential equations. In this work, based on the multilayer perceptron neural network and finite difference (FD) method, we apply the finite difference‐based PINNs (FD‐PINNs) to simulate the steady incompressible flows. The spatial derivatives in nonlinear governing equations are discretized by the central FD scheme, and the physical boundary conditions can be exactly satisfied in a similar way to conventional fluid flow solvers. Compared to original PINNs using automatic differentiation (AD) to discretize the governing equations, FD‐PINNs hold three‐fold potential advantages in decoupling the predictive accuracy of derivatives from the network's approximating accuracy, fulfilling the physical boundary conditions, and saving computational costs when large‐size networks or meshes are used. We first attempt to make relatively fair comparisons between AD‐PINNs, FD‐PINNs and conventional flow solvers using a benchmark flow problem—steady incompressible laminar isothermal lid‐driven cavity flow across a wide range of Reynolds numbers (Re). Our results indicate that FD‐PINNs are superior to AD‐PINNs in both predictive precision, computational efficiency and training convergence. Moreover, FD‐PINNs exhibit higher accuracy than flow solvers when insufficient mesh points are used to solve high‐Re cavity flow. Even at Re = 10,000, with only 10 internal samples, FD‐PINNs can still precisely recover the flow details on a uniform mesh of size 51 × 51. Besides, the time consumption of FD‐PINNs grows much slower than that of conventional flow solvers. We also investigate the robustness of FD‐PINNs w.r.t. the noise level of samples and the effects of pressure boundary condition imposed on solid cavity walls. Furthermore, FD‐PINNs are extensively applied to predict the incompressible thermal flows: natural convective flows in a square cavity and in a concentric annulus, where the effects of governing equations on the predictive accuracy are discovered and discussed for the first time.
Effect of oleaster (Elaeagnus angustifolia L.) flour addition combined with high‐pressure homogenization on the acidification kinetics, physicochemical, functional, and rheological properties of kefir
Authors: Gül Latife Betül , Bekbay Saya , Akgün Abdullah , Gül Osman
Published: June 2023

In this study, the effects of peeled oleaster flour (OF) addition (0.5% and 1%) with high‐pressure homogenization (HPH) at 100 MPa on acidification kinetics, physicochemical, functional, and rheological properties of kefir made from bovine whole milk were investigated. The fermentation kinetic parameters such as Vmax and Tf decreased by 23.63% and 20%, respectively, with 1% OF and application of HPH. The combined use of two treatments had a positive effect on Lactobacillus and Lactococcus counts, reaching a maximum of 9.63 and 9.31 log cfu/mL, respectively. Also, total phenolic contents and antioxidant activity reached maximum values of 85.31 mg GAE/g and 17.22%, respectively. The ΔE value was more limited with HPH. The maximum firmness and water‐holding capacity values were determined in the sample produced with 1% OF and application of HPH. Rheological analysis revealed that all kefirs exhibited shear thinning behavior, and the Ostwald–de‐Waele (R2 > .99) model was suitable to describe the rheological behavior of all kefir samples. The highest viscosity (0.049 Pa.s, at 50/s shear rate) and consistency index (1.115 Pa.sn) were observed in kefir with 1% OF and application of HPH. Kefir samples were characterized as weak gel behavior because storage modulus (G') was much greater than loss modulus (G") and the power‐law model was used to characterize the viscoelasticity. The overall quality assessment indicated that the improvement of the fermentation process and the enhancement of textural and functional properties of kefir samples could be achieved with the addition of 1% OF and application of HPH.
Characteristics, comorbidities, and treatment practices of lichen planus in Northern Finland: A register‐based study among 619 subjects
Authors: Anttonen Veera , Pöykkö Elia , Kiviniemi Eetu , Jokelainen Jari , Huilaja Laura , Sinikumpu Suvi‐Päivikki
Published: June 2023

Background and Aims

Lichen planus (LP) is a common itching skin disease where lesions appear on the skin and mucous membranes. However, the epidemiology of LP is not yet sufficiently understood. The aim of this study was to retrospectively map out the characteristics, comorbidities and treatments of patients diagnosed with LP.

Methods

This is a retrospective hospital patient registry‐based study performed between 2009 and 2021 in a secondary care hospital (Oulu University Hospital) in Northern Finland. All patients with recorded diagnosis of LP were included in the study. Characteristics, comorbidities, and treatments of LP patients were studied.

Results

In total, 619 patients were verified from the hospital health records. The mean age of patients was 54.2 years and the majority were female (58.3%). Most of the patients had symptoms in more than two skin areas (mean 2.7 skin areas), lower limbs being the most common site (74.0%). A third of patients (34.7%) had oral LP lesions. Nearly fifth (19.4%) of the subjects had a history of previous LP. Of comorbidities found among LP subjects, obesity (22.5%), malignancies (19.4%), depression (12.8%), and thyroiditis (12.4%) were seen more often than in general Finnish population. The most used form of treatment was topical corticosteroids (97.6%), followed by phototherapy 26.8%. Systemic treatments such as prednisolone and methotrexate had been used in 7.6% and 1.1% of the patients, respectively.

Conclusion

LP patients had a heightened risk for several comorbidities, which should be considered when managing patients with LP.
Poly(ε‐caprolactone)/bioactive glass composite electrospun fibers for tissue engineering applications
Authors: Piatti Elisa , Miola Marta , Liverani Liliana , Verné Enrica , Boccaccini Aldo R.
Published: June 2023

In this work, composite electrospun fibers containing innovative bioactive glass nanoparticles were produced and characterized. Poly(ε‐caprolactone), benign solvents, and sol–gel B‐ and Cu‐doped bioactive glass powders were used to fabricate fibrous scaffolds. The retention of bioactive glass nanoparticles in the polymer matrix, the electrospinnability of this novel solution and the obtained electrospun composites were extensively characterized. As a result, composite electrospun fibers characterized by biocompatibility, bioactivity, and exhibiting overall properties adequate for both hard and soft tissue engineering applications, have been produced. The addition of these bioactive glass nanoparticles was, indeed, able to impart bioactive properties to the fibers. Cell culture studies show promising results, demonstrating proliferation and growth of cells on the composite fibers. Wettability, degradation rate, and mechanical performance were also tested and are in line with previous results.
Ursolic acid‐downregulated long noncoding RNA ASMTL‐AS1 inhibits renal cell carcinoma growth via binding to HuR and reducing vascular endothelial growth factor expression
Authors: Cai Chengkuan , Zhi Yunlai , Xie Cheng , Geng Shen , Sun Fanghu , Ji Zhengshuai , Zhang Pengcheng , Wang Hui , Tang Jingyuan
Published: June 2023

It has been reported ursolic acid (UA), one of the naturally abundant pentacyclic triterpenes, possesses a wide range of biological activities including anti‐inflammatory, anti‐atherosclerotic, and anticancer properties. Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is a severe malignancy due to its asymptomatically spreading ability. Our study aimed to investigate the role and molecular mechanism of UA in RCC. RCC cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and angiogenesis were assessed using 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide, Transwell, and tube formation assays. Xenograft tumor models were established to confirm the role of UA and long noncoding RNA ASMTL antisense RNA 1 (ASMTL‐AS1) in vivo. Expression levels of ASMTL‐AS1 and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were measured using reverse transcriptase quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blot analysis. The interaction probabilities of ASMTL‐AS1 or VEGF with RNA‐binding protein human antigen R (HuR) were verified by RNA immunoprecipitation experiment. The half‐life period of messenger RNA (mRNA) was determined using actinomycin D. UA inhibited RCC cell growth in vivo and tumorigenesis in vitro. ASMTL‐AS1 was highly expressed in RCC cell lines. Of note, UA downregulated ASMTL‐AS1 expression, and overexpressed ASMTL‐AS1 reversed the UA‐induced suppression on RCC cell migration, invasion, and tube formation. Additionally, ASMTL‐AS1 bound to HuR to maintain the stability of VEGF mRNA. Rescue experiments showed that the suppressed malignancy of RCC cells mediated by ASMTL‐AS1 knockdown was counteracted by overexpression of VEGF. Moreover, silenced ASMTL‐AS1 inhibited RCC tumor growth and metastasis in vivo. The obtained data suggest UA as a promising therapeutic agent to attenuate the development of RCC via regulation of the targeted molecules.