bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Circumventing volumetric locking in stabilized smoothed particle finite element method and its application to dynamic large deformation problems
Authors: Liu Ming , Huang Wen‐Xiong , Gou Zheng‐Hong , Yuan Wei‐Hai , Zhang Wei 
Published: September 2023

AbstractThe smoothed particle finite element method (SPFEM) is an effective framework for large deformation analysis. The original SPFEM possesses the rank deficiency issue due to the direct nodal integration technique, which can be overcome by incorporating the strain gradient stabilization method. However, an extra volumetric locking due to the strain gradient stabilization term has been found. In this study, we propose a simple and efficient approach, the B‐dev approach, which only considers the deviatoric part of the smoothed strain gradient for stabilization to overcome the volumetric locking issue. First, the correctness of the stabilized SPFEM method is verified by an elastic cantilever beam vibration problem without considering incompressibility. Then, through the example of the strip footing penetration problem, the volumetric locking in the stabilized SPFEM is demonstrated and the capability of the proposed B‐dev approach in terms of overcoming the volumetric locking is verified. Furthermore, the stabilized SPFEM with B‐dev approach is applied to two types of elastoplastic problems in geotechnical engineering. All numerical results illustrate that the proposed approach can improve the performance of the stabilized SPFEM in dealing with incompressible and large deformation problems in geomechanics.
Static, dynamic mechanical, and thermal analysis of coir/epoxy composites: Effect of hollow glass microspheres reinforcement
Authors: Singh Amarjeet , Trivedi Alok Kumar , Gupta M. K. , Singh Harinder 
Published: September 2023

AbstractNowadays, various types of biocomposites are being developed using different types of natural fibers and polymers to fulfill the requirement for sustainable products. Recently, the addition of fillers in biocomposites has been a useful approach to improve their performance and overwhelm their limitations. The hollow glass microspheres (HGMs) were uniformly distributed into epoxy using a magnetic stirrer and subsequently, a hand lay‐up technique was employed to produce the HGMs/coir/epoxy composites under a static loading condition. In the current study, the effect of varying weight percentages (i.e., 1, 3, and 5) of HGMs on the mechanical, dynamic mechanical, and thermal properties of coir/epoxy composites has been studied. Further, morphological analysis of fractured surfaces of samples was also performed. The results suggested that the addition of HGMs caused a significant improvement in the tensile and impact properties of the composites but could not extensively improve the flexural strength, thermal stability, storage modulus, and loss modulus. There was a significant improvement of 80.5% in tensile strength and 24.7% in impact strength of composites after the addition of 1 wt%. HGMs. Further, tensile and flexural moduli were found to be gradually improved with increased HGMs weight percentages in the composites.Highlights
Development of HGMs/coir/epoxy composites.
Addition of HGMs increases tensile and impact strength of coir/epoxy composites.
Microstructural analysis of HGMs/coir/epoxy composites.
Multi‐omic analyses and network biology in cardiovascular disease
Authors: Reitz Cristine J. , Kuzmanov Uros , Gramolini Anthony O. 
Published: September 2023

AbstractHeart disease remains a leading cause of death in North America and worldwide. Despite advances in therapies, the chronic nature of cardiovascular diseases ultimately results in frequent hospitalizations and steady rates of mortality. Systems biology approaches have provided a new frontier toward unraveling the underlying mechanisms of cell, tissue, and organ dysfunction in disease. Mapping the complex networks of molecular functions across the genome, transcriptome, proteome, and metabolome has enormous potential to advance our understanding of cardiovascular disease, discover new disease biomarkers, and develop novel therapies. Computational workflows to interpret these data‐intensive analyses as well as integration between different levels of interrogation remain important challenges in the advancement and application of systems biology‐based analyses in cardiovascular research. This review will focus on summarizing the recent developments in network biology‐level profiling in the heart, with particular emphasis on modeling of human heart failure. We will provide new perspectives on integration between different levels of large “omics” datasets, including integration of gene regulatory networks, protein–protein interactions, signaling networks, and metabolic networks in the heart.
New progress in an old debate? Applying the DSM‐5 criteria to assess traumatic events and stressor‐related disorders in cancer survivors
Authors: Springer Franziska , Friedrich Michael , Kuba Katharina , Ernst Jochen , Glaesmer Heide , Platzbecker Uwe , Vucinic Vladan , Heyne Svenja , Mehnert‐Theuerkauf Anja , Esser Peter 
Published: September 2023

AbstractObjectiveThe rather broad definition of medical trauma within DSM‐IV has contributed to long‐lasting debates on the applicability of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in oncological patients and its differentiation from Adjustment Disorder (AjD) which results from non‐traumatic critical life events. The DSM‐5 criteria have introduced a narrower definition of medical traumatization. However, studies on updated prevalence rates in cancer patients are missing.MethodsWithin a cross‐sectional study, we assessed hematological cancer survivors using the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM‐5. We investigated (i) the frequency and type of cancer‐related stressors, (ii) the proportion of stressors qualifying as traumatic according to DSM‐5 (i.e., an event of sudden and catastrophic character) and (iii) the prevalence of PTSD, AjD and cancer‐related PTSD according to DSM‐5.Results291 patients participated (response rate: 58%). Mean age was 54 years, 60% were male. 168 patients (59%) reported cancer‐related stressors, with the most frequent being cancer diagnosis disclosure (n = 58, 27%). Eight percent of reported stressors qualified as traumatic events according to DSM‐5. Five (1.8%), 15 (5.3%) and 20 (7.0%) cancer survivors met DSM‐5 criteria for current PTSD, lifetime PTSD and AjD, respectively. Among all PTSD cases, three were cancer‐related (1.1%). In addition, seven patients (2.5%) met all symptoms for cancer‐related PTSD, but not the DSM‐5 criterion for medical trauma. Considering receiving the cancer diagnosis as traumatic event, which is debatable according to DSM‐5, 38% of stressors qualified as traumatic and six patients (2.1%) met criteria for cancer‐related PTSD.ConclusionsDSM‐5 criteria enable a clear identification of traumatic events in the context of cancer. This change may inform discussions on the appropriateness of PTSD in cancer patients and facilitates its differentiation from AjD. Larger studies need to validate our findings.
Targeting the NLRP3 inflammasome for the treatment of hypertensive target organ damage: Role of natural products and formulations
Authors: Liao Xiaolin , Han Yuanshan , Shen Chuanpu , Liu Jianjun , Wang Yuhong 
Published: September 2023

AbstractBackground and AimHypertension is a major global health problem that causes target organ damage (TOD) in the heart, brain, kidney, and blood vessels. The mechanisms of hypertensive TOD are not fully understood, and its treatment is challenging. This review provides an overview of the current knowledge on the role of Nod‐like receptor pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome in hypertensive TOD and the natural products and formulations that inhibit it.MethodsWe searched PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and CNKI for relevant articles using the keywords “hypertension,” “target organ damage,” “NLRP3 inflammasome,” “natural products,” and “formulations.” We reviewed the effects of the NLRP3 inflammasome on hypertensive TOD in different organs and discussed the natural products and formulations that modulate it.Key resultsIn hypertensive TOD, the NLRP3 inflammasome is activated by various stimuli such as oxidative stress and inflammation. Activation of NLRP3 inflammasome leads to the production of pro‐inflammatory cytokines that exacerbate tissue damage and dysfunction. Natural products and formulations, including curcumin, resveratrol, triptolide, and allicin, have shown protective effects against hypertensive TOD by inhibiting the NLRP3 inflammasome.Conclusions and ImplicationsThe NLRP3 inflammasome is a promising therapeutic target in hypertensive TOD. Natural products and formulations that inhibit the NLRP3 inflammasome may provide novel drug candidates or therapies for hypertensive TOD. Further studies are needed to elucidate the molecular mechanisms and optimize the dosages of these natural products and formulations and evaluate their clinical efficacy and safety.
Hypericin as a promising natural bioactive naphthodianthrone: A review of its pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, toxicity, and safety
Authors: Peng Zhaolei , Lu Jing , Liu Kai , Xie Long , Wang Yulin , Cai Chunyan , Yang Dejun , Xi Jingjing , Yan Chunmei , Li Xiaofang , Shi Mingyi 
Published: September 2023

AbstractHypericin can be derived from St. John's wort, which is widely spread around the world. As a natural product, it has been put into clinical practice such as wound healing and depression for a long time. In this article, we review the pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, and safety of hypericin, aiming to introduce the research advances and provide a full evaluation of it. Turns out hypericin, as a natural photosensitizer, exhibits an excellent capacity for anticancer, neuroprotection, and elimination of microorganisms, especially when activated by light, potent anticancer and antimicrobial effects are obtained after photodynamic therapy. The mechanisms of its therapeutic effects involve the induction of cell death, inhibition of cell cycle progression, inhibition of the reuptake of amines, and inhibition of virus replication. The pharmacokinetics properties indicate that hypericin has poor water solubility and bioavailability. The distribution and excretion are fast, and it is metabolized in bile. The toxicity of hypericin is rarely reported and the conventional use of it rarely causes adverse effects except for photosensitization. Therefore, we may conclude that hypericin can be used safely and effectively against a variety of diseases. We hope to provide researchers with detailed guidance and enlighten the development of it.
Unconstrained Piezoelectric Vascular Electronics for Wireless Monitoring of Hemodynamics and Cardiovascular Health
Authors: Tang Chuyu , Liu Zhirong , Hu Quanhong , Jiang Zhuoheng , Zheng Mingjia , Xiong Cheng , Wang Shaobo , Yao Shuncheng , Zhao Yunchao , Wan Xingyi , Liu Guanlin , Sun Qijun , Wang Zhong Lin , Li Linlin 
Published: September 2023

AbstractThe patient‐centered healthcare requires timely disease diagnosis and prognostic assessment, calling for individualized physiological monitoring. To assess the postoperative hemodynamic status of patients, implantable blood flow monitoring devices are highly expected to deliver real time, long‐term, sensitive, and reliable hemodynamic signals, which can accurately reflect multiple physiological conditions. Herein, an implantable and unconstrained vascular electronic system based on a piezoelectric sensor immobilized is presented by a “growable” sheath around continuously growing arterial vessels for real‐timely and wirelessly monitoring of hemodynamics. The piezoelectric sensor made of circumferentially aligned polyvinylidene fluoride nanofibers around pulsating artery can sensitively perceive mechanical signals, and the growable sheath bioinspired by the structure and function of leaf sheath has elasticity and conformal shape adaptive to the dynamically growing arterial vessels to avoid growth constriction. With this integrated and smart design, long‐term, wireless, and sensitive monitoring of hemodynamics are achieved and demonstrated in rats and rabbits. It provides a simple and versatile strategy for designing implantable sensors in a less invasive way.
Electrolyte Modulation Strategies for Low‐Temperature Zn Batteries
Authors: Han Mingming , Li Tian Chen , Chen Xiang , Yang Hui Ying 
Published: September 2023

AbstractAqueous rechargeable Zn metal batteries (ARZBs) are extensively studied recently because of their low‐cost, high‐safety, long lifespan, and other unique merits. However, the terrible ion conductivity and insufficient interfacial redox dynamics at low temperatures restrict their extended applications under harsh environments such as polar inspections, deep sea exploration, and daily use in cold regions. Electrolyte modulation is considered to be an effective way to achieve low‐temperature operation for ARZBs. In this review, first, the fundamentals of the liquid–solid transition of water at low temperatures are revealed, and an in‐depth understanding of the critical factors for inferior performance at low temperatures is given. Furthermore, the electrolyte modulation strategies are categorized into anion/concentration regulation, organic co‐solvent/additive introduction, anti‐freezing hydrogels construction, and eutectic mixture design strategies, and emphasize the recent progress of these strategies in low‐temperature Zn batteries. Finally, promising design principles for better electrolytes are recommended and future research directions about high‐performance ARZBs at low temperatures are provided.
Mechanism of Thermoelectric Performance Enhancement in CaMg2Bi2‐Based Materials with Different Cation Site Doping
Authors: Guo Muchun , Liu Ming , Zhu Jianbo , Zhu Yuke , Guo Fengkai , Cai Wei , Zhang Yongsheng , Zhang QinYong , Sui Jiehe 
Published: September 2023

AbstractChemical bonds determine electron and phonon transport in solids. Tailoring chemical bonding in thermoelectric materials causes desirable or compromise thermoelectric transport properties. In this work, taking an example of CaMg2Bi2 with covalent and ionic bonds, density functional theory calculations uncover that element Zn, respectively, replacing Ca and Mg sites cause the weakness of ionic and covalent bonding. Electrically, Zn doping at both Ca and Mg sites increases carrier concentration, while the former leads to higher carrier concentration than that of the latter because of its lower vacancy formation energy. Both doping types increase density‐of‐state effective mass but their mechanisms are different. The Zn doping Ca site induces resonance level in valence band and Zn doping Mg site promotes orbital alignment. Thermally, point defect and the change of phonon dispersion introduced by doping result in pronounced reduction of lattice thermal conductivity. Finally, combining with the further increase of carrier concentration caused by Na doping and the modulation of band structure and the decrease of lattice thermal conductivity caused by Ba doping, a high figure‐of‐merit ZT of 1.1 at 823 K in Zn doping Ca sample is realized, which is competitive in 1–2–2 Zintl phase thermoelectric systems.
Design's secret partner in research: Cybernetic practices for design research pedagogy
Authors: Sweeting Ben , Sutherland Sally 
Published: September 2023

AbstractHow to understand the relation between design and research is a longstanding question in design theory and practice. It is also a question in design pedagogy, especially in taught postgraduate programmes where students are expected to engage with and conduct research in formal ways, often for the first time. In this article, we discuss a curriculum that we have developed for introducing research literacy to taught postgraduate students in architecture and design disciplines. The curriculum draws both explicitly and implicitly on an analogy between designing and researching developed through the lens of cybernetics, a transdisciplinary field that relates to both design and science. When cybernetics has been invoked in the context of design, it has usually been as a form of explanatory theory, contributing to the theoretical foundations of design research and its relations with other disciplines. Our approach instead positions cybernetics as a mode of transdisciplinary engagement within students' own learning where an unfamiliar topic (research) is approached through analogy to a familiar one (design). We begin by contextualizing the curriculum and introducing the rationale for this approach in the context of design research. We then summarize key moments in the curriculum and our observations of its impact in students' work. We conclude by speculating on the extent to which enacted analogies such as the example presented here may be taken up in other practical situations, and the potential value of doing so in reformulating cybernetics in ways that are practiced (rather than abstract) and methodological (not just explanatory).
Effect of Soluble Potato Starch on the Pregelatinization Properties of Non‐Conventional Elephant Foot Yam Starch
Authors: Banerjee Riya , Kumar K. Jayaram 
Published: September 2023

AbstractIn recent years, researchers have been exploring alternative sources of starch for drug delivery. Traditional options like corn, potato, and rice starches have been widely used, but sustainability concerns have prompted the investigation of nonconventional starches. Elephant foot yam starch, derived from an agricultural polymer, has gained popularity due to its wide availability. Starches are fundamentally unsuited for the majority of applications; they must be physically and/or chemically altered to maximize their advantages and/or minimize their drawbacks. Due to the chemical toxicity, starch modification is often done using physical techniques that are inexpensive. This study aims to evaluate the impact of elephant foot yam starch on the physicochemical properties and drug delivery of potato starch. Pregelatinization, a crucial process, is found to increase amylose content and improves starch flow properties, as confirmed by Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy analysis showing gelatinization in the mixture. Field emission scanning electron microscopy images reveal complete disruption of the starch granular structure after modification. Tablets made with a mixture of pregelatinized starches exhibit a slower drug release compared to those with pregelatinized starch alone. Notably, inclusion of potato starch in the mixture results in a more sustained drug release. Hence, modified starches have diverse applications for enhancing solubility of poorly soluble drugs.
Effect of hybrid steel, polypropylene, polyvinyl alcohol, and jute fibers on the properties of ultra‐high performance fiber reinforced concrete exposed to elevated temperature
Authors: Ali Manar , Elsayed Mahmoud , Tayeh Bassam A. , Maglad Ahmed M. , El‐Azim Ahmed Abd 
Published: September 2023

AbstractEvaluation of the effects of different fiber types with different ratios on the mechanical properties and explosive spalling prevention of Ultra‐High Performance Fiber Reinforced Concrete (UHPFRC) at elevated temperatures is the primary objective of the experimental work. Several fiber types, including steel fiber, polypropylene fiber, polyvinyl alcohol fiber, and natural jute fiber were used. Eight UHPFRC mixes were cast comprising the different hybrid fiber types. The results show that replacing polypropylene, polyvinyl alcohol, and jute fibers with steel fiber decreases the fresh and hardened properties of unheated UHPFRC while increasing durability. The existence of hybrid fibers improves the fire resistance of UHPFRC and fully prevents explosive spalling because of a considerable improvement in permeability. According to the test results, the optimum replacement ratio for UHPFRC mix is to replace polyvinyl alcohol fiber with an equivalent volume fraction of steel fiber, as it has a slight influence on the mechanical properties and prevented explosive spalling.
A waterproof, environment‐friendly, multifunctional, and stretchable thermoelectric fabric for continuous self‐powered personal health signal collection at high humidity
Authors: He Xinyang , Li Bingyi , Cai Jiaxin , Zhang Honghua , Li Chengzu , Li Xinxin , Yu Jianyong , Wang Liming , Qin Xiaohong 
Published: September 2023

AbstractThermoelectric sensors have attracted increasing attention in smart wearables due to the recognition of multiple signals in self‐powered mode. However, present thermoelectric devices show disadvantages of low durability, weak wearability, and complex preparation processes and are susceptible to moisture in the microenvironment of the human body, which hinders their further application in wearable electronics. Herein, we prepared a new thermoelectric fabric with thermoplastic polyurethane/carbon nanotubes (TPU/CNTs) by combining vacuum filtration and electrospraying techniques. Electrospraying TPU microsphere coating with good biocompatibility and environmental friendliness made the fabric worn directly and exhibits preferred water resistance, mechanical durability, and stability even after being bent 4000 times, stretched 1000 times, and washed 1000 times. Moreover, this fabric showed a Seebeck coefficient of 49 μV K−1 and strain range of 250% and could collect signals well and avoided interference from moisture. Based on the biocompatibility and safety of the fabric, it can be fabricated into devices and mounted on the human face and elbow for long‐term and continuous collection of data on the body's motion and breathing simultaneously to provide collaborative support information. This thermoelectric fabric‐based sensor will show great potential in advanced smart wearables for health monitoring, motion detection, and human–computer interaction.
Fluoride exposure confers NRF2 activation in hepatocyte through both canonical and non‐canonical signaling pathways
Authors: Li Miaomiao , Wang Yi , Liu Rongrong , Shi Mengjiao , Zhao Yishu , Zeng Kaixuan , Fu Rongguo , Liu Pengfei 
Published: September 2023

AbstractDue to the high abundance in the Earth's crust and industrial application, fluoride is widely present in our living environment. However, excessive fluoride exposure causes toxicity in different organs. As the most important detoxification and excretion organ, liver is more easily involved in fluoride toxicity than other organs, and oxidative stress is considered as the key mechanism related with fluoride hepatotoxicity. In this study, we mainly investigated the role of nuclear factor erythroid‐derived 2‐like 2 (NRF2, a core transcription factor in oxidative stress) in fluoride exposure‐induced hepatotoxicity as well as the related mechanism. Herein, liver cells (BNL CL.2) were treated with fluoride in different concentrations. The hepatotoxicity and NRF2 signaling pathway were analyzed respectively. Our results indicated that excessive fluoride (over 1 mM) resulted in obvious toxicity in hepatocyte and activated NRF2 and NRF2 target genes. The increased ROS generation after fluoride exposure suppressed KEAP1‐induced NRF2 ubiquitylation and degradation. Meanwhile, fluoride exposure also led to blockage of autophagic flux and upregulation of p62, which contributed to activation of NRF2 via competitive binding with KEAP1. Both pharmaceutical activation and genetic activation of NRF2 accelerated fluoride exposure‐induced hepatotoxicity. Thus, the upregulation of NRF2 in hepatocyte after fluoride exposure can be regarded as a cellular self‐defense, and NRF2‐KEAP1 system could be a novel molecular target against fluoride exposure‐induced hepatotoxicity.