bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The impact of digital literacy on personal health: Evidence from the China family panel study
Authors: Li Hao , Yang Zihan
Published: May 2024

Background

In the digital era, digital literacy is a fundamental indicator of a nation's quality and plays a crucial role in public health. Exploring the theoretical mechanisms and effects of digital literacy on individuals' health is of great practical importance, advancing the initiatives of ‘Digital China’ and ‘Healthy China’.

Methods

The study utilised three‐period survey panel data from the China Family Panel Study spanning 2016, 2018, and 2020 to measure and evaluate levels of digital literacy, physical health, mental health, healthy lifestyle, and integrated health among the participants. Subsequently, a series of empirical analyses were conducted to examine the general impact, heterogeneous effects and transmission pathways of digital literacy on various types of health levels.

Results

Digital literacy significantly enhances all aspects of respondents' health, and this conclusion remains valid even after conducting robustness tests and addressing endogeneity through variable substitution and selecting instrumental variables using the 2SLS method. Furthermore, examining heterogeneity by considering individual traits and the makeup of digital literacy reveals that the impact of digital literacy on individuals' health varies according to age, cultural background, personal income, and the components of digital literacy. Pathway analyses also demonstrate that medical accessibility, information access, social network, and planned behaviour are key routes through which digital literacy enhances the health of the population.

Conclusions

It is imperative for the government to actively promote the advancement of the digital healthcare industry, while individuals should strive to enhance their digital literacy. By collectively focussing on these efforts, national health can be significantly improved.
Assessing the survival time of hospitalized patients in Eastern Ethiopia during 2019–2020 using the Bayesian approach: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Gashu Chalachew , Kassa Yoseph , Geremew Habtamu , Mulugeta Mengestie
Published: May 2024

Background and Aims

Severe acute malnutrition remains a significant health challenge, particularly in low‐ and middle‐income countries. The aim of this study was to determine the survival time of under‐five children with severe acute malnutrition.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted at a hospital, focusing on under‐five children with severe acute malnutrition. The study included 322 inpatients admitted to the Chiro hospital in Chiro, Ethiopia, between September 2019 and August 2020, whose data was obtained from medical records. Survival functions were analysed using Kaplan‒Meier plots and log‐rank tests. The survival time of severe acute malnutrition was further analysed using the Cox proportional hazards model and Bayesian parametric survival models, employing integrated nested Laplace approximation methods.

Results

Among the 322 patients, 118 (36.6%) died as a result of severe acute malnutrition. The estimated median survival time for inpatients was found to be 2 weeks. Model selection criteria favored the Bayesian Weibull accelerated failure time model, which demonstrated that age, body temperature, pulse rate, nasogastric (NG) tube usage, hypoglycemia, anemia, diarrhea, dehydration, malaria, and pneumonia significantly influenced the survival time of severe acute malnutrition.

Conclusions

This study revealed that children below 24 months, those with altered body temperature and pulse rate, NG tube usage, hypoglycemia, and comorbidities such as anemia, diarrhea, dehydration, malaria, and pneumonia had a shorter survival time when affected by severe acute malnutrition under the age of five. To reduce the death rate of children under 5 years of age, it is necessary to design community management for acute malnutrition to ensure early detection and improve access to and coverage for children who are malnourished.
3E analyses of different blend fuels in an internal combustion engine
Authors: Leal Elisângela Martins , Silva Wiliam Nascimento
Published: May 2024

In response to the escalating emphasis on sustainability across diverse sectors, this study addresses the imperative to combat environmental degradation through conscientious development. The primary focus is on assessing the feasibility of replacing fossil fuels with renewable alternatives in internal combustion engines (ICEs) equipped with direct fuel injection. The research employs energy and exergy analyses, coupled with economic analysis, to comprehensively evaluate the performance of fuels and blends. Applying the Lotus Engine software, computational analyses are conducted, taking into account the specific geometry of the engine. Simulations explore different λ‐factors to identify optimal performance configurations for each fuel or blend. Noteworthy outcomes reveal that blends featuring green hydrogen yield remarkable improvements, showing high torque (max. +11.5%), power (max. +14.35%), thermal efficiency (max. +3%), and exergy efficiency (max. +21.56%). These blends also demonstrate reduced operating costs (max. −10%), although with higher exergy losses, indicating areas for potential enhancement. Conversely, fuels containing ethanol show intermediate values between the blends and pure fuels. Consequently, this study effectively establishes the significance of these fuels in ICEs, supported by comprehensive energy, exergy, and economic analyses. The findings underscore the promising potential of renewable fuels as viable alternatives to fossil fuels, marking a substantial stride towards sustainable energy solutions and environmental preservation.
Optimizing electrical and thermal performance in AlGaN/GaN HEMT devices using dual‐metal gate technology
Authors: Iype Preethi Elizabeth , Babu V Suresh , Paul Geenu
Published: May 2024

The investigation of aluminum gallium nitride/gallium nitride high electron mobility transistor (AlGaN/GaN HEMT) devices with a dual‐metal gate (DMG) structure encompasses both electrical and thermal characteristics. As efforts to enhance heat dissipation progress, there is a concurrent exploration of novel semiconductor materials boasting high thermal conductivity, like boron arsenide and phosphide. Combining these materials into a model and measuring their interface achieves efficient energy transport. Minimizing the self‐heating impact in AlGaN/GaN HEMTs is essential for enhancing device efficiency. This research exposes the heterogenous combination of boron arsenide and phosphide cooling substrates with metals, GaN semiconductors and HEMT. In this research, the autoencoder deep neural network techniques in GaN HEMT for self‐heat reduction is driven by the ability to effectively analyze and model the thermal behavior of the device. Autoencoders learn complex relationships within temperature data and identify patterns associated with self‐heating. By leveraging these learned representations, the deep neural network optimizes control strategies to mitigate self‐heating effects in GaN HEMT devices, ultimately contributing to improved thermal management and enhanced overall performance. In this research, the use of genetic algorithms in GaN HEMT aims to optimize device parameters systematically, to minimize self‐heating effects and enhance overall thermal performance. The structure also enhances electron mobility within the channel. Results show DMG structures, exhibiting higher saturation output currents and transconductance despite self‐heating. The DMG exhibits a maximum gm value of 0.164 S/mm, which is 10% higher significantly enhancing GaN‐based HEMTs for improved reliability and efficiency in various applications.
Do CEO gender and narcissism jointly affect CEO letter readability?
Authors: Maux Julien Le , Smaili Nadia
Published: May 2024

The objective of this paper is to explore the impact of two CEO characteristics, gender diversity and narcissism, on disclosure quality through an examination of the joint effect of gender diversity in management and CEO narcissism. Based on 452 shareholder letters (CEO letters in the annual report) issued by French firms, our results suggest that female CEOs enhance the readability level of corporate disclosures. Our findings provide evidence that narcissism mediates women CEOs’ positive effect on the readability of CEO letters. This study extends previous studies on gender diversity by providing new insights into how women CEOs affect the quality of disclosures.
Multimodal echocardiography for assessing whether left ventricular geometry affects right atrial phasic function in patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome: A cross‐sectional observational study
Authors: Zhang Yong , Xing Xueqing , Zhang Zhenxia , Li Juan , Wang Jian
Published: May 2024

Background

Recent studies have shown that right atrial (RA) function are important predictors of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. However, the study data about RA phasic function in obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) patients are scarce, especially based on the left ventricular geometry. So, we aimed to assess the influence of left ventricular geometry on RA phasic function in OSAS patients via a multimodal echocardiographic approach.

Methods

Total of 235 OSAS patients were enrolled in this cross‐section study and underwent complete clinical, polysomnography, and echocardiography examinations. The OSAS patients were divided into four groups based on left ventricular mass index (LVMI) and relative wall thickness (RWT): normal geometry (NG), concentric remodeling (CR), concentric hypertrophy (CH), and eccentric hypertrophy (EH). RA phasic function was evaluated via multimodal echocardiography approach (two‐dimensional echocardiography biplane method [2DE]; two‐dimensional speckle‐tracking echocardiography [2D‐STE]; and three‐dimensional echocardiography [3DE]). The multiple linear regression analysis was used to determine the relationship between left ventricular geometry and RA phasic function.

Results

The RA volume and indices increased from NG to CR to EH to CH. RA total emptying fraction and RA strain during systole decreased from NG to CR to EH to CH. RA passive emptying fraction and RA strain during early diastole similarly decreased. RA active emptying fraction and RA strain during late diastole also gradually increased similarly. In analyses that adjusted for gender, age, body mass index, systolic blood pressure, apnea‐hypopnea index, LVMI, systolic pulmonary artery pressure, and right ventricular free wall thickness, CH was associated with RA reservoir and conduit function via 2DE area‐length method, whereas CH and EH were associated with RA reservoir and conduit function via 2D‐STE and 3DE method. Further, CH was associated with RA booster pump function via 2DE area‐length method, 2D‐STE, and 3DE method.

Conclusion

The RA volumes and phasic function varied with left ventricular geometry via multimodal echocardiography approach. CH had the apparent negative effect on RA phasic function.
Alpha globin gene alterations modifying the phenotype of homozygous beta thalassaemia
Authors: Shaw Jyoti , Patra Abhilipsa , Khatun Anjumana , Ray Rudra , Ghosh Amit , Mahapatra Sonali , Panigrahi Ashutosh , Bhattacharyya Maitreyee
Published: May 2024

The phenotype of β‐thalassemia varies widely. The primary determinant is the type of beta‐globin gene mutation; however, there are secondary and tertiary modifiers also as associated alpha mutations, polymorphisms, as well as coinheritance of mutations affecting other related systems. Co‐inheritance of alpha thalassemia mutations is known to ameliorate the severity of HbE‐β thalassemia. However, the role of alpha globin gene alterations (deletions and triplication) is not well illustrated in homozygous β‐thalassemia. Here we evaluated the role of alpha globin gene alterations in 122 β‐thalassemia patients having IVS1‐5 (G > C) homozygous mutation. β‐thalassemia mutations were detected by ARMS PCR and alpha mutations by GAP‐PCR. Gene expression by qRT‐PCR. Out of 122 cases, 15 patients had alpha 3.7 triplications (ααα3.7anti), 24 had alpha 3.7 kb deletion (−α3.7) mutation and three patients had 4.2 kb deletion (−α4.2). Patients were divided into two groups, requiring less than 8 units (NTDT) and more than 8 units (TDT) of blood transfusion per year (≥8U BT/year). The percentage of alpha deletion was significantly (p = 0.0042) high in NTDT (42.1%) as compared with TDT (13.2%). Conversely, the proportion of alpha triplication is high in the TDT as compared with NTDT. Even mean serum ferritin level was found to be significantly high in patients having alpha triplication as compared with those having alpha deletions (p = 0.0184) and normal alpha gene (p = 0.0003). α/β globin ratio was highest in TDT patients with alpha triplication and lowest in NTDT patients with alpha‐del. The results show that concurrent inheritance of alpha gene alterations influences the phenotypic severity of homozygous β‐thalassemia.
Development of the treatment preference in myelodysplasia questionnaire for clinicians, carers, and patients
Authors: Morlock Robert , Fong Chun , Castaldi Francesco , Paine Taliesha , Collett Donna , Enjeti Anoop
Published: May 2024

This study reports the development activities for the Treatment Preference Myelodysplasia Questionnaires (TPMQ) for clinicians (mTPMQ), carers (cTPMQ), and patients (pTPMQ). These tools are intended to evaluate treatment preferences for patients with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). This was a non‐interventional, cross‐sectional qualitative interview study consisting of interviews with clinicians, patients, and those caring for patients with MDS. All participants were located in Australia and data were collected from qualitative mixed‐method interviews composed of concept elicitation and cognitive debriefing related to initial drafts of the questionnaires. Fifteen individuals participated in interviews (five from each group). Based on the concept elicitation portion of interviews, concepts of importance were classified and reasons for treatment preference were documented. From cognitive debriefing, the questionnaires were generally deemed to be clear and easy to understand. Participant input from both concept elicitation and cognitive debriefing portions was used to revise initial drafts of the questionnaires. The mTPMQ, cTPMQ, and pTPMQ were developed with direct input from clinicians, patients, and caregivers to assess the key concepts of interest related to the preference for the treatment of MDS and are ready to be used and evaluated further in clinical trials.
Repurposing SGLT2 inhibitors: Treatment of renal proximal tubulopathy in Fanconi‐Bickel syndrome with empagliflozin
Authors: Overduin Ruben J. , Grünert Sarah C. , Besouw Martine T. P. , Bolhuis Mathieu S. , Groen Joost , Schreuder Andrea B. , Woidy Mathias , Murko Simona , Santer René , Derks Terry G. J.
Published: May 2024

Renal proximal tubulopathy in Fanconi‐Bickel syndrome is caused by impaired basolateral glucose transport via GLUT2 and consequently, intracellular accumulation of glucose and glycogen. SGLT2 inhibitors act on apical glucose reabsorption of renal proximal tubular cells. The purpose of this study was to retrospectively describe the first experiences with repurposing the SGLT2 inhibitor empagliflozin to treat the generalized tubulopathy in Fanconi‐Bickel syndrome. A case series was conducted of seven persons from five families (five males, two females; three children, who were 14y5m, 2y9m, and 1y6m old) with genetically confirmed Fanconi‐Bickel syndrome, off‐label treated with empagliflozin. Median (range) age at start of empagliflozin was 27 years (1y6m – 61y) and duration of follow‐up under empagliflozin treatment was 169 days (57–344). Under empagliflozin (up to 25 mg/d), biochemical parameters of tubular cell integrity (urinary N‐acetyl‐glucosaminidase) and/or tubular functions (including urinary α1‐microglobulin) improved in all persons with Fanconi‐Bickel syndrome, albeit to varying degrees. Clinically, supplementations (i.e., phosphate, alkali, carnitine, and alfacalcidol) could be completely discontinued in the three children, whereas results in the four adult patients were more variable and not as significant. Empagliflozin was well‐tolerated and no symptomatic hypoglycemia was observed. In conclusion, SGLT2 inhibitors such as empagliflozin shift the metabolic block in Fanconi‐Bickel syndrome, that is, they intervene specifically in the underlying pathophysiology and can thus attenuate renal proximal tubulopathy, especially when started in early childhood.
Development of a single‐domain antibody to target a G‐quadruplex located on the hepatitis B virus covalently closed circular DNA genome
Authors: Figueroa Gerardo B. , D'souza Simmone , Pereira Higor S. , Vasudeva Gunjan , Figueroa Sara B. , Robinson Zachary E. , Badmalia Maulik D. , Meier‐Stephenson Vanessa , Corcoran Jennifer A. , van Marle Guido , Ni Yi , Urban Stephan , Coffin Carla S. , Patel Trushar R.
Published: May 2024

To achieve a virological cure for hepatitis B virus (HBV), innovative strategies are required to target the covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) genome. Guanine‐quadruplexes (G4s) are a secondary structure that can be adopted by DNA and play a significant role in regulating viral replication, transcription, and translation. Antibody‐based probes and small molecules have been developed to study the role of G4s in the context of the human genome, but none have been specifically made to target G4s in viral infection. Herein, we describe the development of a humanized single‐domain antibody (S10) that can target a G4 located in the PreCore (PreC) promoter of the HBV cccDNA genome. MicroScale Thermophoresis demonstrated that S10 has a strong nanomolar affinity to the PreC G4 in its quadruplex form and a structural electron density envelope of the complex was determined using Small‐Angle X‐ray Scattering. Lentiviral transduction of S10 into HepG2‐NTCP cells shows nuclear localization, and chromatin immunoprecipitation coupled with next‐generation sequencing demonstrated that S10 can bind to the HBV PreC G4 present on the cccDNA. This research validates the existence of a G4 in HBV cccDNA and demonstrates that this DNA secondary structure can be targeted with high structural and sequence specificity using S10.
Persistence of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection and viral intra‐ and inter‐host evolution in COVID‐19 hospitalized patients
Authors: Pavia Grazia , Quirino Angela , Marascio Nadia , Veneziano Claudia , Longhini Federico , Bruni Andrea , Garofalo Eugenio , Pantanella Marta , Manno Michele , Gigliotti Simona , Giancotti Aida , Barreca Giorgio Settimo , Branda Francesco , Torti Carlo , Rotundo Salvatore , Lionello Rosaria , La Gamba Valentina , Berardelli Lavinia , Gullì Sara Palma , Trecarichi Enrico Maria , Russo Alessandro , Palmieri Camillo , De Marco Carmela , Viglietto Giuseppe , Casu Marco , Sanna Daria , Ciccozzi Massimo , Scarpa Fabio , Matera Giovanni
Published: May 2024

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus‐2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) persistence in COVID‐19 patients could play a key role in the emergence of variants of concern. The rapid intra‐host evolution of SARS‐CoV‐2 may result in an increased transmissibility, immune and therapeutic escape which could be a direct consequence of COVID‐19 epidemic currents. In this context, a longitudinal retrospective study on eight consecutive COVID‐19 patients with persistent SARS‐CoV‐2 infection, from January 2022 to March 2023, was conducted. To characterize the intra‐ and inter‐host viral evolution, whole genome sequencing and phylogenetic analysis were performed on nasopharyngeal samples collected at different time points. Phylogenetic reconstruction revealed an accelerated SARS‐CoV‐2 intra‐host evolution and emergence of antigenically divergent variants. The Bayesian inference and principal coordinate analysis analysis showed a host‐based genomic structuring among antigenically divergent variants, that might reflect the positive effect of containment practices, within the critical hospital area. All longitudinal antigenically divergent isolates shared a wide range of amino acidic (aa) changes, particularly in the Spike (S) glycoprotein, that increased viral transmissibility (K417N, S477N, N501Y and Q498R), enhanced infectivity (R346T, S373P, R408S, T478K, Q498R, Y505H, D614G, H655Y, N679K and P681H), caused host immune escape (S371L, S375F, T376A, K417N, and K444T/R) and displayed partial or complete resistance to treatments (G339D, R346K/T, S371F/L, S375F, T376A, D405N, N440K, G446S, N460K, E484A, F486V, Q493R, G496S and Q498R). These results suggest that multiple novel variants which emerge in the patient during persistent infection, might spread to another individual and continue to evolve. A pro‐active genomic surveillance of persistent SARS‐CoV‐2 infected patients is recommended to identify genetically divergent lineages before their diffusion.
A prospective humoral immune monitoring study of kidney transplant recipients receiving three doses of SARS‐CoV‐2 mRNA vaccine
Authors: Borgogna Cinzia , Ferrante Daniela , Rosso Greta , Guglielmetti Gabriele , Lo Cigno Irene , Raviola Stefano , Caneparo Valeria , Quaglia Marco , Cantaluppi Vincenzo , Gariglio Marisa
Published: May 2024

Kidney transplant recipients (KTRs), like other solid organ transplant recipients display a suboptimal response to mRNA vaccines, with only about half achieving seroconversion after two doses. However, the effectiveness of a booster dose, particularly in generating neutralizing antibodies (NAbs), remains poorly understood, as most studies have mainly focused on non‐neutralizing antibodies. Here, we have longitudinally assessed the humoral response to the SARS‐CoV‐2 mRNA vaccine in 40 KTRs over a year, examining changes in both anti‐spike IgG and NAbs following a booster dose administered about 5 months post‐second dose. We found a significant humoral response increase 5 months post‐booster, a stark contrast to the attenuated response observed after the second dose. Of note, nearly a quarter of participants did not achieve protective plasma levels even after the booster dose. We also found that the higher estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) correlated with a more robust humoral response postvaccination. Altogether, these findings underscore the effectiveness of the booster dose in enhancing durable humoral immunity in KTRs, as evidenced by the protective level of NAbs found in 65% of the patients 5 months post‐ booster, especially those with higher eGFR rates.
Preservation of prearthritic coronal knee phenotype and prearthritic coronal alignment yielded improved Kujala scores following ligament‐guided medial unicompartmental knee arthroplasty
Authors: Vossen Roderick J. M. , Burger Joost A. , ten Noever de Brauw Gaby V. , Bayoumi Tarik , Fiore Jake A. , Ruderman Lindsey V. , Zuiderbaan Hendrik A. , Pearle Andrew D.
Published: May 2024

Purpose

There is a lack of literature evaluating outcomes of the ligament‐guided approach in medial unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA). An improved comprehension of the distribution of coronal plane alignment of the knee (CPAK) phenotypes and sagittal tibial wear patterns and their associations with patient‐reported outcome measures (PROMs) and implant survivorship could provide insights into its further application in daily practice.

Methods

A registry was reviewed for patients with a minimal 2‐year follow‐up who underwent robotic‐assisted, ligament‐guided, medial UKA between 2008 and 2016. Survivorship and postoperative PROMs were collected. CPAK phenotypes and sagittal tibial wear patterns were determined. Survivorship, Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), Kujala and patient satisfaction were compared between phenotypes and sagittal tibial wear patterns.

Results

A total of 618 knees were included at a mean follow‐up of 4.1 [2.0–9.6] years. Four‐year conversion to the TKA survival rate was 98.9% [98.4%–99.3%] and 94.3% [93.3%–95.3%] for all‐cause revision. Patients with preservation of the CPAK phenotype (84.5 ± 14.9, 81.8 ± 15.5, p = 0.033) and restoration of prearthritic coronal alignment (84.1 ± 14.9, 81.7 ± 15.9, p = 0.045) had a significantly higher Kujala score. No other significant differences in survivorship or PROMs were observed between phenotypes or sagittal tibial wear patterns. Additionally, no difference in survival rates was observed between preserved or altered phenotypes.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that preservation of CPAK phenotype and preservation of prearthritic coronal alignment yielded a significantly higher Kujala score. No other significant differences in PROMs or implant survivorship were observed, suggesting that robotic‐assisted, ligament‐guided medial UKA provides equal outcomes for all observed phenotypes and sagittal tibial wear patterns in medial compartment OA as long as preoperative CPAK phenotype is preserved postoperatively.

Level of Evidence

Level III.
Characterization of the MSAP Flap in Head and Neck Surgical Oncology: A 3D Cadaveric Study
Authors: Sampieri Gianluca , Tran John , Feng Allen L. , Agur Anne , Davies Joel
Published: May 2024

Objectives

The medial sural artery (MSA) perforator flap is a versatile free flap. However, the cutaneous perforators are not well characterized. The objectives of this pilot anatomical study were to: (1) visualize in three‐dimensions, as in‐situ, the origin, course, and distribution of the cutaneous perforators, (2) characterize the number and frequency of the perforators, and (3) quantify mean pedicle length.

Methods

Thirteen cadaveric specimens were dissected, digitized, and modeled in 3D. Three‐dimensional models and dissection photographs were used to determine the origin, course, number, distribution, and pedicle length of MSA perforators.

Results

The most common pattern consisted of three perforators (39% of specimens). The maximum number of perforators identified was four (23%). The majority of specimens (92%) had a cutaneous perforator originating from the lateral branch of the MSA and coursed most frequently in the second (43%) and third (37%) quartiles of the length of the tibia. Mean pedicle length was 19.1 ± 6.9 cm. Perforators originating from the medial branch of the MSA were significantly (p < 0.05) shorter than those from the lateral branch and were found to course only in the first quartile.

Conclusion

The 3D models constructed in this study provide a comprehensive overview of the location and course of the perforators, enabling measurement of parameters in 3D‐space. Anatomical characterization of the MSA perforator flap using 3D analysis can assist reconstructive surgeons in understanding the relevant anatomy and optimizing the surgical technique for flap harvest.

Level of Evidence

N/A Laryngoscope, 134:4298–4303, 2024
Solution‐Processed Disordered Plasmonic Surfaces as Optics for Infrared Imaging
Authors: Mandal Jyotirmoy , Brewer John , Mandal Sagar , Yang Robert , Raman Aaswath P.
Published: May 2024

In recent years, thermal imaging and sensing technologies have seen dramatic increases in usage for a range of applications. However, the material cost and manufacturing complexity of infrared optics remain a major barrier toward their democratization. Here, a solution‐processed plasmonic reflective filter (PRF) is presented as a scalable, disordered, and low‐cost thermal infrared (TIR) optic. The PRF selectively absorbs sunlight and specularly reflects TIR wavelengths, with a performance comparable to state‐of‐the‐art infrared optics made of materials like Germanium. Unlike the latter, however, the PRF is fabricated using low‐cost materials and a “dip‐and‐dry” chemical synthesis technique, which enables orders of magnitude lower manufacturing costs. The PRF's optical functionality and integration into infrared imaging systems are experimentally demonstrated. The chemical synthesis technique also affords exceptional spectral tuneability and material compatibility compared to traditional fabrication methods. The PRF's tuneable and broadband TIR yield can be augmented by inexpensive dielectric or polymeric filters to yield novel capabilities such as wide‐area ambient temperature surveys. Practically, the PRF represents a significant advance toward democratizing the benefits of thermal imaging and sensing. Scientifically, it represents a previously unexplored optical functionality of disordered materials, and a new direction for versatile chemical synthesis in designing optical components.
Polymerization Scheme and Chemical Structure of Aromatic Diamine‐Based Polybenzoxazines: New Details
Authors: Gorbunova Ekaterina A. , Shutov Vyacheslav V. , Sirotin Igor S.
Published: May 2024

The article discusses the polymerization scheme of benzoxazine monomer based on 4,4′‐diaminodiphenylmethane (P‐ddm) and the chemical structure of polybenzoxazine based on it poly(P‐ddm). The polymerization behavior of benzoxazine P‐ddm is studied using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Solid‐state 13C MAS NMR is used to determine the chemical structure of poly(P‐ddm). It is revealed that the сhemical structure of poly(P‐ddm) predominantly consists not of phenolic Mannich bridges, as expected, but of methylene bridges, which indicates the process of deamination of phenolic Mannich bridges. However, no weight loss associated with the expected release of free amine during this process is detected. This may indicate the incorporation of a diamine moiety into the polymer chain through the formation of imine bonds, the signal of which is detected in the 13C MAS NMR and FTIR spectra of the poly(P‐ddm), and on the 1H and 13C NMR spectra of model polybenzoxazine based on p‐cresol and 4,4′‐diaminodiphenylmethane poly(pC‐ddm). Based on the data obtained, a hypothesis is put forward about the formation of a network polymer, the structure of which consists mainly of methylene and imine units.
Recent Advances in Smart Self‐Assembled Bioinspired Hydrogels: A Bridging Weapon for Emerging Health Care Applications from Bench to Bedside
Authors: Ahuja Rishabh , Shivhare Vaibhav , Konar Anita Dutt
Published: May 2024

Stimuli‐responsive low molecular weight hydrogel interventions for Biomedical challenges are a rapidly evolving paradigm in the bottom‐up approach recently. Peptide‐based self‐assembled nano biomaterials present safer alternatives to their non‐degradable counterparts as demanded for today’s most urged clinical needs.Although a plethora of work has already been accomplished, programming hydrogelators with appropriate functionalities requires a better understanding as the impact of the macromolecular structure of the peptides and subsequently, their self‐assembled nanostructures remain unidentified. Henceforth this review focuses on two aspects: Firstly, the underlying guidelines for building biomimetic strategies to tailor scaffolds leading to hydrogelation along with the role of non‐covalent interactions that are the key components of various self‐assembly processes. In the second section, it is aimed to bring together the recent achievements with designer assembly concerning their self‐aggregation behaviour and applications mainly in the biomedical arena like drug delivery carrier design, antimicrobial, anti‐inflammatory as well as wound healing materials. Furthermore, it is anticipated that this article will provide a conceptual demonstration of the different approaches taken towards the construction of these task‐specific designer hydrogels. Finally, a collective effort among the material scientists is required to pave the path for the entrance of these intelligent materials into medicine from bench to bedside.
PKP2 induced by YAP/TEAD4 promotes malignant progression of gastric cancer
Authors: Liu Yunyun , Lu Yi , Xing Yuanxin , Zhu Wenshuai , Liu Duanrui , Ma Xiaoli , Wang Yunshan , Jia Yanfei
Published: May 2024

Gastric cancer (GC) exhibits significant heterogeneity and its prognosis remains dismal. Therefore, it is essential to investigate new approaches for diagnosing and treating GC. Desmosome proteins are crucial for the advancement and growth of cancer. Plakophilin‐2 (PKP2), a member of the desmosome protein family, frequently exhibits aberrant expression and is strongly associated with many tumor types’ progression. In this study, we found upregulation of PKP2 in GC. Further correlation analysis showed a notable association between increased PKP2 expression and both tumor stage and poor prognosis in individuals diagnosed with gastric adenocarcinoma. In addition, our research revealed that the Yes‐associated protein1 (YAP1)/TEAD4 complex could stimulate the transcriptional expression of PKP2 in GC. Elevated PKP2 levels facilitate activation of the AKT/mammalian target of rapamycin signaling pathway, thereby promoting the malignant progression of GC. By constructing a mouse model, we ultimately validated the molecular mechanism and function of PKP2 in GC. Taken together, these discoveries suggest that PKP2, as a direct gene target of YAP/TEAD4 regulation, has the potential to be used as an indication of GC progression and prognosis. PKP2 is expected to be a promising therapeutic target for GC.
Brassinin alleviates cancer cachexia by suppressing diverse inflammatory mechanisms in mice
Authors: Yang Min Hee , Jung Young Yun , Um Jae‐Young , Sethi Gautam , Ahn Kwang Seok
Published: May 2024

Cancer cachexia is a multifactorial condition that contributes to the death of about 20% of cancer patients. It has the potential to cause weight loss, reduction in muscle mass, and loss of fat tissue, significantly lowering the quality of life. Currently, there are no approved drugs for cancer cachexia. Here, we have explored the possible impact of brassinin (BSN) on cancer cachexia under in vitro and in vivo settings. After differentiation, C2C12 and 3T3‐L1 cells were incubated with colorectal carcinoma cells conditioned media or BSN. For preclinical studies, mice were injected with HT‐29 cells followed by intraperitoneal administration of BSN, and muscle and adipose tissues were evaluated by Western blotting and hematoxylin and eosin staining. BSN effectively suppressed muscle atrophy by down‐regulating the levels of Muscle RING‐finger protein‐1 and Atrogin‐1, while also increasing the expression of myosin heavy chain in cachexia‐induced‐C2C12 myotubes. The induction of adipogenesis by BSN prevented adipocyte atrophy in cachexia‐induced 3T3‐L1 adipocytes. We also noted that BSN disrupted the interaction between COX‐2 and signaling transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) promoter, leading to down‐regulation of STAT3 activation. Moreover, it was found that BSN inhibited weight loss in mice and demonstrated anti‐cachexic effects. Overall, our observations indicate that BSN can attenuate cancer cachexia through diverse mechanisms.
Statistical inference for a stochastic partial differential equation related to an ecological niche
Authors: Baltazar‐Larios Fernando , Delgado‐Vences Francisco , Peralta Liliana
Published: May 2024

In this paper, we use a stochastic partial differential equation (SPDE) as a model for the density of a population under the influence of random external forces/stimuli given by the environment. We study statistical properties for two crucial parameters of the SPDE that describe the dynamic of the system. To do that, we use the Galerkin projection to transform the problem, passing from the SPDE to a system of independent SDEs; in this manner, we are able to find the maximum likelihood estimator of the parameters. We validate the method by using simulations of the SDEs. We prove consistency and asymptotic normality of the estimators; the latter is showed using the Malliavin–Stein method. We illustrate our results with numerical experiments.
Robustness of consensus in double‐layer degree positive and negative correlation ring networks
Authors: Du Weiwei , Zhu Jian , Gao Haiping , Li Xianyong
Published: May 2024

The robustness of consensus in multilayer networks is affected by the network structure, especially the interlayer coupling approach. The article investigates the impact of two interlayer coupling approaches on the robustness of consensus in double‐layer ring networks, where the interlayer relationships are denoted as degree positive correlation (PC) and degree negative correlation (NC), respectively. The robustness of network consensus can be derived from network coherence. Two types of network coherence are first described using the Kirchhoff index and the number of spanning trees, providing a new calculation method for network coherence. The number of network nodes and the coupling strength have been shown to impact the coherence of the two types of networks. Combined with numerical simulation experiments, the NC model shows better consensus than the PC model under the same parameter set. In particular, the parameter values when the network consensus is optimal are obtained.
Implementation of an effective transform technique for convergence analysis of the fractional enzyme kinetic and blood alcohol level models
Authors: Obeidat Nazek A. , Rawashdeh Mahmoud S. , Yahya Rahaf S.
Published: May 2024

In the current study, we solve the nonlinear time fractional‐order enzyme kinematic system and the linear time fractional blood alcohol level using an effective method called the Adomian natural decomposition method (ANDM), which is a combination of the Adomian decomposition method (ADM) and the natural transform method (NTM). On the basis of the Banach fixed point theorem, we offer proofs for the existence and uniqueness theorems as they apply to nonlinear ordinary differential equations. Using the current method, approximate analytical solutions of nonlinear time fractional‐order enzyme kinematic system and exact solutions to the linear time fractional‐order blood alcohol level problem have been obtained. The outcomes indicate that the ANDM is highly efficient and useful. The method outlined in this paper is intended to be applied in subsequent work to handle comparable nonlinear problems connected to fractional calculus.
Analysis and design of broadband 2‐W power amplifier based on cascode transistors
Authors: Li Jiaxuan , Yuan Yang , Yuan Bin , Tan Cheng , Yu Zhongjun
Published: May 2024

In this article, a 7–11.5 GHz 2‐W power amplifier (PA) based on cascode transistors is developed using 0.15‐µm GaAs pHEMT. This design facilitates impedance matching in the broadband range by using a cascode structure. A double‐cascode transistors structure is used as a unit cell to combine radio frequency voltage swings to achieve a broad bandwidth (BW). In addition, power synthesis techniques are used to achieve higher power output. Ultimately, based on the above two structures, a four‐way power‐synthesized PA is designed. The fabricated PA shows a peak power of 33.8 dBm at 9 GHz with a power‐added efficiency (PAE) of 43%. The output power is higher than 32 dBm at frequencies from 6 to 11.5 GHz with a PAE of more than 25%. The fractional 3‐dB output power BW is 80%. The chip area is 3.6 × 1.8 mm2, including the input and output test pads.
Hydromechanical analysis of slurry infiltration with coupled CFD–DEM method
Authors: Cheng Yang , Wang Tuo , Wang Pei , Qin Su , Zhou Wan‐Huan , Yin Zhen‐Yu
Published: May 2024

The tunnel face stability is closely related to the migration behavior and clogging mechanism of the slurry particles in granular soils, which is not yet fully understood. In this study, the coupled computational fluid dynamics–discrete element method (CFD–DEM) is adopted to investigate the infiltration behavior of slurry at the particle scale. The full Johnson–Kendall–Roberts (JKR) contact model describing interparticle behavior that accounts for cohesion present even when particles are microseparated after collisions is adopted for clay‐clay or clay‐sand particles and the Hertz–Mindlin model is used for sand‐sand particles. Through simulations, the mechanism of the slurry particle's blockage is identified as physical, frictional and cohesive modes, and slurry particle migration usually undergoes the process of aggregation‐destruction‐migration‐reassembly. Meanwhile, the influences of pressure, cohesive force, and particle shape on infiltration are also analyzed. The results indicate that high pressure lengthens the infiltration path and increases the infiltration rate. The increase in cohesion enhances the effective clogging of the sand column by the slurry, and particles with smaller sphericity are more likely to clog in the sand column. These findings may enhance our understanding of the slurry infiltration mechanism and its practical application in TBM tunneling.
A decoupled probabilistic constrained topology optimization method based on the constraint shift
Authors: Li Kangjie
Published: May 2024

Topology optimization (TO) has recently emerged as an advanced design method. To ensure practical reliability in the design process, it is imperative to incorporate considerations of uncertainty. Consequently, performing reliability analysis (RA) during the design phase becomes necessary. However, RA itself constitutes an optimization problem. Combining these two optimization problems can result in inefficiency. To address this challenge, we propose a decoupled approach that integrates deterministic topology optimization (DTO) and RA cycles. The reliability‐based stress‐constrained TO (RBSCTO) problem is considered in this paper. The DTO constraint is derived based on shifting vectors derived from the previous cycle's RA outcomes, enabling low‐reliability constraint shift towards the feasible direction. The DTO is solved based on solid‐isotropic‐material‐with‐penalization (SIMP) and augmented Lagrangian method. Meanwhile, the optimization problem in RA is addressed using finite differences and the interior point method. To reduce the errors resulting from linear approximation and optimization in RA when the target reliability is very low, an outlier handling method is employed. Meantime, we utilize a probabilistic neural network to enhance the efficiency of reliability assessment. Comparative studies against traditional methods across four RBSCTO tasks are demonstrated to validate its effectiveness. Monte Carlo simulations are used to validate the reliability of results.
Validation of a PHIS Esophageal Atresia and Tracheoesophageal Fistula Cohort in ICD‐10
Authors: Lawlor Claire M. , Kamran Ali , Bennett John , Behzadpour Hengameh , Pattisapu Prasanth , Zendejas Benjamin , Choi Sukgi S.
Published: May 2024

Objective

Validation of a contemporary International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD‐10‐CM) congenital esophageal atresia/tracheoesophageal atresia (EA/TEF) cohort in the Pediatric Health Information System (PHIS) database.

Study Design

Database study, validation.

Setting

Tertiary care center.

Methods

Search methods used to validate an ICD‐9‐CM EA/TEF cohort in PHIS were modified for ICD‐10‐CM. A retrospectively and prospectively maintained clinical database at a single high‐volume EA/TEF center was used for comparison. Patients treated between October 1, 2015 and July 31, 2022 were included. Searches progressively narrowed the cohort by ICD‐10‐CM diagnosis codes, expansion to include incorrectly coded as ‘iatrogenic, age less than 30 days, and use of at least 1 ICD‐10‐CM procedure code. Results of PHIS data and institution data were compared for accuracy.

Results

The most refined search of PHIS and the EA/TEF clinical database yielded 93 and 84 patients, respectively. The sensitivity was 99% and positive predictive value was 94%. A PHIS search using these methods and encompassing 49 children's hospitals yielded an EA/TEF cohort of 2479 patients.

Conclusion

We present a validated search method in the PHIS database to identify a high‐fidelity cohort of EA/TEF patients for multi‐institutional study. We have demonstrated that a carefully maintained clinical database may be used to validate cohorts in PHIS. This cohort allows for improved practice variability and outcomes study of EA/TEF patients. Similar methods may be employed to generate other rare disease cohorts in PHIS.

Level of Evidence

Level 4.
Comparing Approaches for Repair of Superior Semicircular Canal Dehiscence
Authors: Tooker Evan L. , Hamilton Christopher A. , Takkoush Samira , Espahbodi Mana , Patel Neil S. , Gurgel Richard K.
Published: May 2024

Objective

Compare outcomes for subjects who underwent middle cranial fossa (MCF) or transmastoid (TM) repair of superior semicircular canal dehiscence (SSCD).

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Quaternary‐care, academic neurotology practice.

Methods

Subjects who underwent MCF or TM repair of SSCD between December 1999 and April 2023 were identified. Main outcome measures included demographic data, length of surgery and hospital stay, clinical presentation, and audiometric testing.

Results

Ninety‐three subjects (97 ears) who underwent surgery for SSCD met inclusion criteria: 58.8% (57) via MCF, 39.2% (38) via TM, and 2.0% (2) via TM + MCF. Median operative time was shorter for the TM (35) compared to the MCF (29) approach (118 vs 151 minutes, P < .001). Additionally, median hospital stays were shorter for TM (36) compared to the MCF (56) approach (15.3 vs 67.7 hours, P < .001). Overall, 92% (49/53) of MCF and 92% (33/36) of TM surgeries resulted in an improvement or resolution of one or more symptoms (P = .84). There was no significant preoperative to postoperative change in the median air conduction pure‐tone average (PTA), air‐bone gap, or word recognition score in both the MCF and TM groups (P > .05). Improvements of >10 dB in the pre‐ to postoperative absolute change in bone conduction PTA were noted in 3 subjects in the MCF group and 4 subjects in the TM group (P = .49).

Conclusion

The TM approach for SSCD demonstrates shorter operative times and length of hospital stay. The TM and MCF approaches have comparable audiometric and clinical outcomes.
Practical design of an optical filter for thermal management of photovoltaic modules
Authors: Lizcano Juan Camilo Ortiz , Kaaya Ismail , Ziar Hesan , da Silva Patricia Seoane , Zhou Yilong , Zeman Miro , Isabella Olindo
Published: May 2024

This work presents a practical approach to designing an optical filter for thermal management for photovoltaic modules. The approach emphasizes the practicality of manufacturing over optical performance. Simulation work demonstrates that, for an interdigitated back contact solar cell architecture, complete rejection of infrared radiation offers limited thermal benefits requiring highly complex optical filter designs. An alternative approach consists of reducing thermalization losses by providing reflectance at lower wavelength values. An optical filter design that fulfills this requirement is possible using simple structures based on two materials and taking advantage of the harmonics present in quarter wavelength optical thickness designs. The filter is later optimized for angular performance via second‐order algorithms, resulting in a device consisting of only 15 thin‐film layers. Performance simulations on two locations, Delft (the Netherlands) and Singapore, estimate a temperature reduction of 2.20°C and 2.45°C, respectively. In a single year, the optical loss produced by the filter is not compensated via temperature reduction. However, improvements in the annual degradation rate show that in Singapore, the overall effect of the filter on the lifetime DC energy yield is positive.