bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Influence of porosity and microstructure on compression behavior of methacrylate polymers in flow‐through applications
Authors: Poljanec Nikola , Mravljak Rok , Podgornik Aleš 
Published: May 2024

Mechanical properties of a material play a pivotal role in its performance when such porous material is used in a flow‐through mode. This study delves into the effect of porosity and microstructure on the compressibility of methacrylate polymer, focusing on two distinct microstructures: cauliflower and high internal phase emulsion. Samples with various porosities yet identical chemical composition were prepared and their Young's modulus was measured. The effect of porosity on Young's modulus was described by an exponential law model with the cauliflower microstructure exhibiting an exponent of 3.61, while the high internal phase emulsion of only 1.86. A mathematical analysis of the compression caused by a liquid flow unveiled significant disparities in the porosity threshold where minimal compression is observed, being around 0.45 for the cauliflower while there is monotone decrease in compression with porosity increase for the high internal phase emulsion microstructure. Evaluating exponent integer values between 1 and 5 over entire porosity range reveals that the porosity where the minimal compression occurs increases with a decrease in exponent value, being approximately 0.33 for n = 5, 0.4 for n = 4, 0.55 for n = 3, 0.65 for n = 2 while no minimum occurs for n = 1. These findings indicate that lower exponent value results in lower compression under identical experimental conditions.
Multi‐Instance Learning for Vocal Fold Leukoplakia Diagnosis Using White Light and Narrow‐Band Imaging: A Multicenter Study
Authors: Tie Cheng‐Wei , Li De‐Yang , Zhu Ji‐Qing , Wang Mei‐Ling , Wang Jian‐Hui , Chen Bing‐Hong , Li Ying , Zhang Sen , Liu Lin , Guo Li , Yang Long , Yang Li‐Qun , Wei Jiao , Jiang Feng , Zhao Zhi‐Qiang , Wang Gui‐Qi , Zhang Wei , Zhang Quan‐Mao , Ni Xiao‐Guang 
Published: May 2024

ObjectivesVocal fold leukoplakia (VFL) is a precancerous lesion of laryngeal cancer, and its endoscopic diagnosis poses challenges. We aim to develop an artificial intelligence (AI) model using white light imaging (WLI) and narrow‐band imaging (NBI) to distinguish benign from malignant VFL.MethodsA total of 7057 images from 426 patients were used for model development and internal validation. Additionally, 1617 images from two other hospitals were used for model external validation. Modeling learning based on WLI and NBI modalities was conducted using deep learning combined with a multi‐instance learning approach (MIL). Furthermore, 50 prospectively collected videos were used to evaluate real‐time model performance. A human‐machine comparison involving 100 patients and 12 laryngologists assessed the real‐world effectiveness of the model.ResultsThe model achieved the highest area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) values of 0.868 and 0.884 in the internal and external validation sets, respectively. AUC in the video validation set was 0.825 (95% CI: 0.704–0.946). In the human‐machine comparison, AI significantly improved AUC and accuracy for all laryngologists (p < 0.05). With the assistance of AI, the diagnostic abilities and consistency of all laryngologists improved.ConclusionsOur multicenter study developed an effective AI model using MIL and fusion of WLI and NBI images for VFL diagnosis, particularly aiding junior laryngologists. However, further optimization and validation are necessary to fully assess its potential impact in clinical settings.Level of Evidence3 Laryngoscope, 134:4321–4328, 2024
The efficacy and safety of EGFR‐TKI in recurrent/metastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: An Zeqi , He Libin , Chen Tuo , Liang Bosen , Wu Qiang 
Published: May 2024

AbstractObjectivesEGFR‐tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) is used to treat recurrent and metastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma (rmNPC). This meta‐analysis aims to study the efficacy and safety of EGFR‐TKI in treating patients with rmNPC.MethodsWe conducted a systematic search of PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science up to November 2023, and included literature that met the criteria. We extracted objective response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR), median progression‐free survival (mPFS), median overall survival (mOS), and adverse reaction‐related events and performed meta‐analysis using Stata 14.0.ResultsA total of nine articles were included. The summary results showed that the ORR for patients treated with EGFR‐TKI for rmNPC was 38% (95% CI = 27%–49%), the DCR was 71% (95% CI = 61%–80%), the mPFS was 6.29 months (95% CI = 5.22–7.35), and the mOS was 15.94 months (95% CI = 14.68–17.20). The most common grade 3–4 adverse reaction events in these patients were mucositis, nasopharyngeal necrosis, and oral ulceration. We found an incidence rate of 49% (95% CI = 38%–61%) for grade 3–4 adverse events (AEs). The anti‐PD1 combined with TKI treatment method is more effective than the EGFR‐TKI alone for treating rmNPC.ConclusionThe study shows that EGFR‐TKI has good efficacy in treating rmNPC but does not translate into survival benefits and owns a high incidence of grade 3–4 AEs. More RCT trials are needed in the future to verify the efficacy of anti‐PD1 combined with TKI treatment method.
Sedimentary ancient DNA and HBI biomarkers as sea‐ice indicators: A complementary approach in Antarctic fjord environments
Authors: Pieńkowski Anna J. , Szczuciński Witold , Breszka Agnieszka , Chyleński Maciej , Juras Anna , Romel Paulina , Rozwalak Piotr , Trzebny Artur , Dabert Mirosława , Belt Simon T. , Jagodziński Robert , Smik Lukas , Włodarski Wojciech 
Published: May 2024

AbstractReliable high‐resolution, pre‐observational‐period sea‐ice datasets are rare but critical for contextualizing recent sea‐ice declines and future scenarios. We combine sedimentary ancient DNA of the sea‐ice dinoflagellate Polarella glacialis (Pgla‐sedaDNA) with selected highly branched isoprenoid (HBI) biomarkers alongside other indicators to reconstruct sub‐decadal sea‐ice changes in a marine archive from the Antarctic Peninsula that extends to ~ 1900 CE. Pre‐1940 CE, the continuously present sea‐ice biomarker IPSO25 yet absent Pgla‐sedaDNA, along with low open‐water biomarkers and total organic carbon (TOC), imply more prominent seasonal sea ice and lower productivity under cooler climate. Post‐1940 CE, rising Pgla‐sedaDNA and open‐water HBIs under climate warming reflect young ice with a retreating sea‐ice edge. Over the last two decades, lower Pgla‐sedaDNA, higher open‐water HBIs and TOC infer known warming, sea‐ice reduction, and increased productivity. Our multiproxy‐based palaeo‐histories agree well with observational data, highlighting the potential of this combination of proxies for nuanced and long‐term sea‐ice reconstructions.
The power of personas: Exploring an innovative model for understanding stakeholder perspectives in an oncology learning health network
Authors: Cooper Dylan J. , Karten Jessie , Hoffe Sarah E. , King Daniel A. , Weiss Matthew , DePeralta Danielle K. , Coveler Andrew L. , Hingorani Sunil R. , Shefter Tracey , Meguid Cheryl , Roberts Hannah , Hong Theodore S. , Narang Amol , Hacker‐Prietz Amy , Fisher George A. , Sandler Jay , Singer Laurie , Korah Bobby , Hoos William , Stricker Carrie T. , Herman Joseph M. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractIntroductionLearning health networks (LHNs) improve clinical outcomes by applying core tenets of continuous quality improvements (QI) to reach community‐defined outcomes, data‐sharing, and empowered interdisciplinary teams including patients and caregivers. LHNs provide an ideal environment for the rapid adoption of evidence‐based guidelines and translation of research and best practices at scale. When an LHN is established, it is critical to understand the needs of all stakeholders. To accomplish this, we used ethnographic methods to develop personas of different stakeholders within The Canopy Cancer Collective, the first oncology LHN.MethodsWe partnered with a firm experienced in qualitative research and human‐centered design to conduct interviews with stakeholders of The Canopy Cancer Collective, a newly developed pancreatic cancer LHN. Together with the firm, we developed a personas model approach to represent the wide range of diverse perspectives among the representative stakeholders, which included care team members, patients, and caregivers.ResultsThirty‐one stakeholders from all facets of pancreatic cancer care were interviewed, including 20 care team members, 8 patients, and 3 caregivers. Interview transcripts were analyzed to construct 10 personas felt to represent the broad spectrum of stakeholders within The Cancer Canopy Collective. These personas were used as a foundation for the design and development of The Cancer Canopy Cancer Collective key drivers and aims.ConclusionsAs LHNs continue to facilitate comprehensive approaches to patient‐centered care, interdisciplinary teams who understand each other's needs can improve Network unity and cohesion. We present the first model utilizing personas for LHNs, demonstrating this framework holds significant promise for further study. If validated, such an approach could be used as a dynamic foundation for understanding individual stakeholder needs in similar LHN ecosystems in the future.
Using a participatory approach to identify priorities to advance LHS implementation at an academic medical center
Authors: Eagleson Reid M. , Gibson Madeline , Dobbins Carletta , Van Pelt Frederick , Hall Allyson , Hearld Larry , Cherrington Andrea L. , McMahon Jacob , Jones Keith Tony , Mugavero Michael J. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractIntroductionLike many other academic medical centers, the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) aspires to adopt learning health system (LHS) principles and practices more fully. Applying LHS principles establishes a culture where clinical and operational practices constantly generate questions and leverage information technology (IT) and methodological expertise to facilitate systematic evaluation of care delivery, health outcomes, and the effects of improvement initiatives. Despite the potential benefits, differences in priorities, timelines, and expectations spanning an academic medical center's clinical care, administrative operations, and research arms create barriers to adopting and implementing an LHS.MethodsUAB's Center for Outcomes and Effectiveness Research and Education, in partnership with UAB Medicine's Department of Clinical Practice Transformation, applied part of the Precision Problem Solving methodology to advance the implementation of LHS principles at UAB.ResultsSixty‐two stakeholders across the UAB health system and academic schools noted 131 concerns regarding the development of an LHS at UAB. From the 131 items, eight major themes were identified, named, and prioritized through a series of focus groups. Of the eight major themes, “Creating a Structure for Aligned and Informed Prioritization” and “Right Data, Right Time, Improved Performance” ranked in the top three most important themes across all focus groups and became the critical priorities as UAB enhances its LHS. A task force comprised of diverse constituents from across UAB's academic medical center is taking first steps toward addressing these priority areas. Initial funding supports a prototype for enhanced health system data access and pilot projects conducted by researchers embedded in health system teams.ConclusionWe suggest that our experience conducting a deliberate process with broad engagement across both the health system and academic arms of the university may be informative to others seeking to advance LHS principles at academic health centers across a myriad of settings.
Compactness in team semantics
Authors: Puljujärvi Joni , Quadrellaro Davide Emilio 
Published: May 2024

AbstractWe provide two proofs of the compactness theorem for extensions of first‐order logic based on team semantics. First, we build upon Lück's [16] ultraproduct construction for team semantics and prove a suitable version of Łoś' Theorem. Second, we show that by working with suitably saturated models, we can generalize the proof of Kontinen and Yang [13] to sets of formulas with arbitrarily many variables.
Microstructural Simulations of Polymer Composites by a Viscoelastic Spring Lattice Model
Authors: Xu Zhuoran , Hu Xu , Huang Yongmin 
Published: May 2024

AbstractAn improved viscoelastic spring lattice model is used to analyze the mechanical properties of polymer composites containing different microstructures, as exemplified by hydroxyl‐terminated polybutadiene‐based solid propellants. A drop‐on‐demand structural model is programmed using the C language to simulate the real solid propellant microstructure. The results show that increasing the particle content has a positive effect on the tensile strength of the propellant, but is detrimental to the ductility. The increase in particle size decreases the maximum tensile strength of the material, reflecting the importance of the dewetting process in the microstructure analysis. Finally, the model accurately predicts that initial defects have a destructive effect on the mechanical properties of the material.
Role of Bβ1 overexpression in the pathogenesis of SCA12
Authors: Zhou Chengqian , Tang Fan , Dong Tao , Liu Hans B. , Deng Leon , Margolis Russell L. , Li Pan P. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractBackgroundSpinocerebellar ataxia type 12 (SCA12) is a neurodegenerative disease caused by a CAG/CTG repeat expansion at the PPP2R2B locus.ObjectiveWe investigated how the CAG repeat expansion within the PPP2R2B 7B7D transcript influences the expression of Bβ1 and a potential protein containing a long polyserine tract.MethodsTranscript and protein expression were measured using quantitative PCR (qPCR) and Western blot, respectively, in an SK‐N‐MC cell model that overexpresses the full‐length PPP2R2B 7B7D transcript. The apoptotic effect of a protein containing a long polyserine tract on SK‐N‐MC cells was evaluated using caspase 3/7 activity.ResultsThe CAG repeat expansion increases the expression of the PPP2R2B 7B7D transcript, as well as Bβ1 protein, in an SK‐N‐MC cell model in which the full‐length PPP2R2B 7B7D transcript is overexpressed. The CAG repeat expansion within the 7B7D transcript is translated into a long polyserine tract that triggers apoptosis in SK‐N‐MC cells.ConclusionsThe SCA12 mutation leads to overexpression of PPP2R2B Bβ1 and to expression of a protein containing a long polyserine tract; both these effects potentially contribute to SCA12 pathogenesis. © 2024 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Microbiome‐driven anticancer therapy: A step forward from natural products
Authors: Guan Yunxuan , Wu Di , Wang Hui , Liu Ning‐Ning 
Published: May 2024

AbstractHuman microbiomes, considered as a new emerging and enabling cancer hallmark, are increasingly recognized as critical effectors in cancer development and progression. Manipulation of microbiome revitalizing anticancer therapy from natural products shows promise toward improving cancer outcomes. Herein, we summarize our current understanding of the human microbiome‐driven molecular mechanisms impacting cancer progression and anticancer therapy. We highlight the potential translational and clinical implications of natural products for cancer prevention and treatment by developing targeted therapeutic strategies as adjuvants for chemotherapy and immunotherapy against tumorigenesis. The challenges and opportunities for future investigations using modulation of the microbiome for cancer treatment are further discussed in this review.
Phage‐displayed heptapeptide sequence conjugation significantly improves the specific targeting ability of antimicrobial peptides against Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Wang Tao , Tan Peng , Tang Qi , Zhou Chenlong , Ding Yakun , Xu Shenrui , Song Mengda , Fu Huiyang , Zhang Yucheng , Zhang Xiaohui , Bai Yueyu , Sun Zhihong , Ma Xi 
Published: May 2024

AbstractBroad‐spectrum antibacterial drugs often lack specificity, leading to indiscriminate bactericidal activity, which can disrupt the normal microbial balance of the host flora and cause unnecessary cytotoxicity during systemic administration. In this study, we constructed a specifically targeted antimicrobial peptide against Staphylococcus aureus by introducing a phage‐displayed peptide onto a broad‐spectrum antimicrobial peptide and explored its structure–function relationship through one‐factor modification. SFK2 obtained by screening based on the selectivity index and the targeting index showed specific killing ability against S. aureus. Moreover, SFK2 showed excellent biocompatibility in mice and piglet, and demonstrated significant therapeutic efficacy against S. aureus infection. In conclusion, our screening of phage‐derived heptapeptides effectively enhances the specific bactericidal ability of the antimicrobial peptides against S. aureus, providing a theoretical basis for developing targeted antimicrobial peptides.
Decoding the effect of photoperiodic cues in transducing kisspeptin‐melatonin circuit during the pubertal onset in common carp
Authors: Dan Nehareeka , Shah Harsh , Bhatt Himadri , Ladumor Rahul , Salunke Ankita , Ramachandran A. V. , Pandya Parth 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThis study unravels the intricate interplay between photoperiod, melatonin, and kisspeptin to orchestrate the pubertal onset of Common carp. Female fingerlings exposed to long days (LD) exhibited a hormonal crescendo, with upregulated hypothalamic‐pituitary‐ovarian (HPO) axis genes (kiss1, kiss1r, kiss2, gnrh2, gnrh3) and their downstream targets (lhr, fshr, ar1, esr1). However, the expression of the melatonin receptor (mtnr1a) diminished in LD, suggesting a potential inhibitory role. This hormonal symphony was further amplified by increased activity of key transcriptional regulators (gata1, gata2, cdx1, sp1, n‐myc, hoxc8, plc, tac3, tacr3) and decreased expression of delayed puberty genes (mkrn1, dlk1). In contrast, short days (SD) muted this hormonal chorus, with decreased gnrh gene and regulator expression, elevated mtnr1a, and suppressed gonadal development. In in‐vitro, estradiol mimicked the LD effect, boosting gnrh and regulator genes while dampening mtnr1a and melatonin‐responsive genes. Conversely, melatonin acted as a conductor, downregulating gnrh and regulator genes and amplifying mtnr1a. Our findings illuminate the crucial roles of melatonin and kisspeptin as opposing forces in regulating pubertal timing. LD‐induced melatonin suppression allows the kisspeptin symphony to flourish, triggering GnRH release and, ultimately, gonadal maturation. This delicate dance between photoperiod, melatonin, and kisspeptin orchestrates common carp's transition from juvenile to reproductive life.
A novel 3D mixed finite element for flexoelectricity in piezoelectric materials
Authors: Serrao Prince Henry , Kozinov Sergey 
Published: May 2024

AbstractFlexoelectricity is the intrinsic length‐scale dependent higher‐order electromechanical response of all centro‐ and non‐centro‐symmetric dielectrics, including piezoelectrics. Direct flexoelectricity is defined as the appearance of an electric field due to induced strain gradients. The numerical modeling of flexoelectricity is largely carried out using mixed FE, which has its historical foundations in strain gradient theories. However, existing finite elements are either limited to 2D or have inherited numerical instabilities due to the known saddle‐point structuring. The current work presents a numerically robust three‐dimensional mixed FE for higher‐order electromechanical applications without the use of stabilization or penalty parameters. After its verification, the new finite element is applied to the new problem of truncated semicone torsion, taking into account flexoelectricity in piezoelectric solids, and the original findings are reported. Current research reveals the complex interaction between first‐order (piezoelectricity) and higher‐order (flexoelectricity) electromechanical coupling.
Nkx1.2 deletion decreases fat production in zebrafish
Authors: Wang Xinyuan , Li Xinyi , Wang Yunsheng , Ren Zhongmei , Du Xueqing , Gao Jing , Ji Guangdong , Liu Zhenhui 
Published: May 2024

AbstractObjectiveThis study aimed to investigate the role of Nkx1‐2, a transcription factor with the NK homeobox domain, in the regulation of fat production.MethodsGene expression was analyzed using quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction or transcriptome sequencing. CRISPR/Cas9 technology was employed to generate nkx1.2 knockout zebrafish and nkx1.2‐deleted 3T3‐L1 cells. Lipid droplet production in zebrafish larvae was visually quantified using Nile red staining, whereas lipid droplets in 3T3‐L1 cells were stained with Oil red O. The binding of Nkx1‐2 to the promoter was verified through an electrophoretic mobility shift assay experiment.ResultsNkx1‐2 plays crucial roles in the regulation of fat production in zebrafish. Knockout of nkx1.2 in zebrafish leads to weight loss, accompanied by significantly reduced lipid droplet production and decreased visceral and liver fat content. Furthermore, genes related to lipid biosynthesis are significantly downregulated. In 3T3‐L1 preadipocytes, Nkx1‐2 induces differentiation into mature adipocytes by binding to the cebpa promoter, thereby activating its transcription. Additionally, the expression of nkx1.2 is regulated by the p38 MAPK, JNK, or Smad2/3 signaling pathways in 3T3‐L1 cells.ConclusionsOur findings suggest that Nkx1‐2 functions as a positive regulator of fat production, playing a critical role in adipocyte differentiation and lipid biosynthesis.
Biophobia: What it is, how it works and why it matters
Authors: Soga Masashi , Evans Maldwyn J. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThroughout history, humans have maintained an intricate connection with nature, often finding fascination with, and deriving numerous benefits from, the natural world. This positive emotional bond with nature, which is considered to have a genetic basis, is known as “biophilia”.However, biophilia represents just one facet of our relationship with nature. People can also harbour strong negative emotions and attitudes towards nature, increasingly referred to as “biophobia”. Current evidence suggests that the prevalence of biophobia is high and increasing, especially in more developed and urbanised societies. Despite this, the importance of biophobia has largely been overlooked in discussions about human‐nature interactions.This special feature: ‘Biophobia: a hidden dimension of human‐nature relationships’ includes seven papers from different disciplinary perspectives, including biodiversity conservation, psychology, and behavioral science. These studies explore diverse aspects of biophobia, with a particular emphasis on its drivers and consequences. They also provide key insights into how to mitigate excessive phobic responses towards nature.In this introductory paper, we will briefly explore what biophobia entails, how it operates, and why it is important in the context of the human‐nature relationship. We outline that biophobia can manifest in response to a wide range of organisms and natural environments, and it can have significant adverse impacts on both human health and well‐being and efforts to address the ongoing biodiversity crisis.We hope that this special feature will serve as a catalyst for more biophobia research, encouraging collaboration among researchers from diverse backgrounds.Read the freePlain Language Summaryfor this article on the Journal blog.