bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hesperetin blocks poxvirus replication with a low tendency to select for drug‐resistant viral variants
Authors: Verma Assim , Dedar Ramesh Kumar , Kumar Ram , Chander Yogesh , Kamboj Himanshu , Kumar Garvit , Verma Rekha , Kumari Santosh , Sharma Shalini , Tripathi Bhupendra N. , Barua Sanjay , Kumar Naveen
Published: March 2024

In this study, we demonstrated the antiviral efficacy of hesperetin against multiple poxviruses, including buffalopox virus (BPXV), vaccinia virus (VACV), and lumpy skin disease virus (LSDV). The time‐of‐addition and virus step‐specific assays indicated that hesperetin reduces the levels of viral DNA, mRNA, and proteins in the target cells. Further, by immunoprecipitation (IP) of the viral RNA from BPXV‐infected Vero cells and a cell‐free RNA‐IP assay, we demonstrated that hesperetin‐induced reduction in BPXV protein synthesis is also consistent with diminished interaction between eukaryotic translation initiation factor eIF4E and the 5′ cap of viral mRNA. Molecular docking and MD simulation studies were also consistent with the binding of hesperetin to the cap‐binding pocket of eIF4E, adopting a conformation similar to m7GTP binding. Furthermore, in a BPXV egg infection model, hesperetin was shown to suppress the development of pock lesions on the chorioallantoic membrane and associated mortality in the chicken embryos. Most importantly, long‐term culture of BPXV in the presence of hesperetin did not induce the generation of drug‐resistant viral mutants. In conclusion, we, for the first time, demonstrated the antiviral activity of hesperetin against multiple poxviruses, besides providing some insights into its potential mechanisms of action.
Impact of sex and age on the lateralisation of the tibial tubercle in normal paediatric and adolescent populations
Authors: Chen Jiebo , Sha Lin , Zhang Xueying , Bao Lei , Li Hai , Zhao Jinzhong , Xie Guoming
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Numerous methods have been proposed to characterise tubercle lateralisation. However, their normal values and related changes remain unclear. Accordingly, it was aimed to determine the potential sex and age effects and determined the optimal individualised method of diagnosing lateralisation of the tibial tubercle in patients with recurrent patellar dislocation (RPD).

Methods

Measurements included the tibial tubercle–trochlear groove (TT‐TG) distance, tibial tubercle‐posterior cruciate ligament (TT‐PCL) distance and tibial tubercle lateralisation (TTL); and the proximal tibial width (PTW), trochlear width (TW) and trochlear dysplasia index (TDI), for adjustment. A two‐way analysis of variance was used to determine the effect of age, sex and their interaction within the normal group. When the age effect was statistically significant, a nonlinear regression was created. Areas under the receiver‐operating characteristic curve (AUCs) were calculated to assess diagnostic accuracy.

Results

A total of 277 normal participants (mean [SD] age, 13.5 [2.6] years; 125 [45.1%] female) and 227 patients with RPD (mean [SD] age, 13.5 [2.6] years; 161 [58.1%] female) were analysed. It was found that in the normal group, in patients aged 7–10, TT‐PCL distance (p = 0.006), TTL (p = 0.007) and TT‐PCL/PTW (p < 0.001) were significantly larger in females than in males. A significant sex effect was also detected on TT‐TG/TW (p = 0.014). TT‐TG distance, TT‐PCL distance, TTL and TT‐PCL/PTW (in male patients) approached an established normal adult value of 12.3 mm, 20.9 mm, 0.64 and 0.28, respectively, with increasing age (p < 0.001). The AUC was greater for TT‐TG/TDI and TT‐TG/TW (p ≤ 0.01) and TT‐TG/TDI outperformed TT‐TG/TW in patients aged 15–18 (p = 0.004).

Conclusions

Tubercle lateralisation increased with age and was affected by sex, with the exception of TT‐TG distance and TT‐TG/TDI. TT‐TG/TDI is the optimal method of diagnosing a lateralized tibial tubercle in patients with RPD. These findings assist with the evaluation of tubercle lateralisation in that they provide a proper protocol for paediatric and adolescent populations with RPD; and thus, will help determine whether medial tubercle transfer should be included among the tailored surgical procedures considered for the treatment of patients with RPD.

Level of Evidence

Level III.
Inferior patellar mobility before and after knee arthroplasty: A comparison with healthy knees
Authors: Lachowski Krzysztof , Prill Robert , Salzmann Mikhail , Becker Roland
Published: March 2024

Purpose

The aim of this study was to evaluate patellar mobility in patients before and after knee arthroplasty (KA) and compare it with that of healthy subjects. It was hypothesised that patellar mobility is diminished in patients with osteoarthritis (OA) and remains unchanged after KA.

Methods

A total of 101 patients (59 females and 42 males) with a mean age of 70.9 ± 9.9 years underwent KA and were compared with 25 healthy individuals (seven females and 18 males) with a mean age of 32.3 ± 9.3 years. Mediolateral patellar displacement was measured by applying a force of 10 N, and the medial and lateral patellar shifts were recorded separately using a validated novel patellostabilometer. Patients were examined preoperatively and at 3 months postoperatively, assessing the range of knee motion and the clinical and functional status based on the Oxford Knee Score (OKS), Kujala Score, subjective Knee Society Score (sKSS), Forgotten Joint Score (FJS) and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC).

Results

Total patellar displacement was 42.1 ± 6 mm for healthy subjects, 31 ± 6 mm before surgery and 32.8 ± 7.8 mm after surgery in osteoarthritic patients (p < 0.01). The mean lateral patellar shift differed significantly between healthy individuals (17.9 ± 4 mm) and osteoarthritic patients (15.1 ± 6 mm) (p < 0.01). The mean medial patellar mobility of healthy individuals (24.2 ± 7 mm) was significantly greater than that of osteoarthritic patients (15.8 ± 4.8 mm) (p < 0.01). All scores improved significantly postoperatively. No correlation was found between patellar mobility and OKS, Kujala Score, sKSS, FJS and WOMAC (r = −0.11). Improvement in patellar mobility also showed no correlation with clinical outcomes according to OKS, Kujala Score, sKSS, FJS and WOMAC (r = 0.08).

Conclusion

This study has demonstrated reduced patellar mobility in patients with OA. While patellar mobility significantly improved after KA, it may not hold clinical significance (p = 0.04). No impact on clinical outcome can be expected when the presurgical patella mobility is preserved in KA.

Level of Evidence

Level IV.
Tibial spine volume is smaller in ACL‐injured athletes compared to healthy athletes
Authors: Yahagi Yoshiyuki , Gale Tom , Nukuto Koji , Irrgang James , Musahl Volker , Anderst William
Published: March 2024

Purpose

The aim of this study was to investigate whether the whole tibial spine volume and femoral intercondylar notch volume are risk factors for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. The hypothesis was that the whole tibial spine volume and femoral notch volume would be smaller in athletes who sustained ACL injury than in athletes with no history of ACL injury.

Methods

Computed tomography scans of both knees were acquired and three‐dimensional bone models were created using Mimics to measure whole tibial spine volume and femoral notch volume. Tibial spine volume, femoral notch volume and each of these volumes normalised by tibial plateau area were compared between the ACL‐injured and the ACL‐intact group.

Results

Fifty‐one athletes undergoing unilateral anatomical ACL reconstruction (17 female, 34 male: average age 22.0 ± 7.5) and 19 healthy collegiate athletes with no previous knee injury (eight female, 11 male: average age 20.1 ± 1.3) were included in this study. The whole tibial spine volume in the ACL‐injured group (2.1 ± 0.5 cm3) was 20.7% smaller than in the ACL‐intact group (2.7 ± 0.7 cm3) (p = 0.005). No differences were observed between the femoral notch volume in the ACL‐injured group (9.5 ± 2.1 cm3) and the ACL‐intact group (8.7 ± 2.7 cm3) (n.s.).

Conclusions

The main finding of this study was that the whole tibial spine volume of the ACL‐injured group was smaller than the ACL‐intact group. A small tibial spine volume can be added to the list of anatomical risk factors that may predispose athletes to ACL injury.

Level of Evidence

Level Ⅲ.
Harnessing the Potential of Self‐Assembled Peptide Hydrogels for Neural Regeneration and Tissue Engineering
Authors: Najafi Haniyeh , Farahavar Ghazal , Jafari Mahboobeh , Abolmaali Samira Sadat , Azarpira Negar , Tamaddon Ali Mohammad
Published: March 2024

Spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury, and neurosurgery procedures usually lead to neural tissue damage. Self‐assembled peptide (SAP) hydrogels, a type of innovative hierarchical nanofiber‐forming peptide sequences serving as hydrogelators, have emerged as a promising solution for repairing tissue defects and promoting neural tissue regeneration. SAPs possess numerous features, such as adaptable morphologies, biocompatibility, injectability, tunable mechanical stability, and mimicking of the native extracellular matrix. This review explores the capacity of neural cell regeneration and examines the critical aspects of SAPs in neuroregeneration, including their biochemical composition, topology, mechanical behavior, conductivity, and degradability. Additionally, it delves into the latest strategies involving SAPs for central or peripheral neural tissue engineering. Finally, the prospects of SAP hydrogel design and development in the realm of neuroregeneration are discussed.
Evaluating the performance of corn peptone in preventing the corrosion of mild steel immersed in HCl
Authors: Rabizadeh Taher
Published: March 2024

The effects of biodegradable corn peptone on the corrosion behavior of mild steel in 0.1M HCl were evaluated. The results from the weight loss experiments indicate that changing the amount of corn peptone from 50 to 500 ppm considerably decreased the corrosion rate of the coupons from 28.24 to 4.67 mpy. However, heating the solutions had negative effects on this trend. According to the calculations, dissolving the inhibitor modified the thermodynamic parameters of the corrosion phenomenon. In addition, the adsorption of corn peptone was best fitted with the Langmuir isotherm. The Tafel polarization plots revealed that the presence of corn peptone decreased the corrosion current density from 134.9 to 6.7 µA cm−2. This was compatible with the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy data. Furthermore, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis confirmed the adsorption of the tested peptone on the surface of the working electrodes, which based on the atomic force microscope images, reduced the surface roughness of the specimens.
Study on superhydrophobicity and excellent corrosion resistance of a novel Ni‐SiC nanocomposite coating
Authors: Liu Jianguo , Bai Yujie , Xing Xiao , Cui Gan
Published: March 2024

Carbon steel is widely used, but it is prone to corrosion, which can lead to safety accidents. In this study, a novel Ni‐SiC coating was synthesized on the surface of carbon steel using a one‐step electrodeposition method, and the influence of electrodeposition parameters on the wettability of the coating was investigated. This coating possesses abundant micro‐nanostructures on its surface, which, after being placed in a vacuum drying environment for 2 weeks, endows it with superhydrophobic characteristics. Due to its superhydrophobic properties and the rich micro‐nanostructures, the corrosion current density of this coating is 1/18.95 that of bare steel. After immersion in a corrosive medium for some time, the polarization resistance value of the coated sample was observed to be 13.05 times greater than that of bare steel, demonstrating its remarkable ability to enhance the corrosion resistance of the surface. The results of this study can provide a reference for the anticorrosion work on carbon steel.
The effects of government subsidy on manufacturers' technology sharing behavior with risk consideration
Authors: Lin Yufei , Zeng Weijun
Published: March 2024

This study focuses on how consumer subsidy (COS) and manufacturer subsidy (MAS) influence a focal risk‐averse manufacturer's technology sharing, who balances between risk pooling effect and competition effect along with new entry for decision. When consumers' uncertain valuations are highly positively (or negatively) correlated for the manufacturers' products, the higher COS and the higher MAS can (or cannot) enhance the manufacturer's technology sharing because the risk pooling effect is strong (or weak), but the competition effect is weak (or strong). Only when the risk pooling effect dominates the competition effect, COS is more conducive than MAS to promoting technology sharing.
Reconstructing the life histories of a noble couple from the Joseon period, Korea, based on skeletal evidence and historical records
Authors: Woo Eun Jin , Cho Helen , Ryu Joon Yeol , Lee Won Joon , Seo Min Woo , Jeong Yangseung
Published: March 2024

This study is an osteobiography of a noble couple who were members of the “ruling elite” in the 18th‐century Joseon period, Korea. The archaeological context and historical records indicate that the couple lived and died during a period marked by strict observance of social hierarchy. The husband's skeleton exhibits clear evidence of craniosynostosis and spinal scoliosis. In particular, congenital craniosynostosis of the skull likely caused deformities in his craniofacial morphology during his lifetime. The physical deformities and discomforts revealed by his craniofacial and vertebral skeleton shed light on the documented passivity and frequent disruptions to his government positions. Meanwhile, his wife's age at death, 93 years, is exceptionally long. The osteological investigation suggests that she seems to have lived without severe stressors. Her skeletal remains show no evidence of occupational stress or chronic disease. Until now, our understanding of the Joseon period nobility has predominantly relied on artifacts and summaries of the deceased's life discovered in tombs, as well as written documents such as diaries, evaluation records, and letters. This study reconstructs the lives of this couple through osteological evidence, historical records, and social context. This holistic approach will provide a novel perspective for a more comprehensive understanding of the lives of nobility and intellectuals of the period.
Microbiome and Otic Quinolone Levels Following Tympanoplasty Assessed by Gelatin Sponge Analysis
Authors: Vijay Arunima , Dirain Carolyn O. , Chen Si , Haberman Rex , Sharma Abhisheak , Chiang Yi‐Hua , Antonelli Patrick J.
Published: March 2024

Objective

To determine if absorbable gelatin sponge (AGS) can be used to assess the posttympanoplasty microbiome and otic antibiotic exposure.

Study Design

Prospective.

Setting

Tertiary hospital.

Methods

Patients undergoing tympanoplasty were prospectively enrolled. Intraoperatively, AGS was applied to the medial ear canal/tympanic membrane (TM) for 1 minute after canal incision, then saved for analysis. Ear canals were packed with AGS at the end of surgery. Otic ofloxacin was administered until the first postoperative visit, when AGS was collected. Microbial presence was assessed by culture. Ofloxacin levels were assessed by liquid‐chromatography mass‐spectrometry.

Results

Fifty‐three patients were included. AGS was collected in 92.9% of patients seen within 21 days compared to 70.8% of those seen at 22 to 35 days. At surgery, AGS yielded bacteria and fungi in 81% and 11%, respectively, includingStaphylococcusspecies (55%) andPseudomonasspecies (25%). Postoperatively, AGS yielded bacteria in 71% and fungi in 21% at the meatus, (staphylococci 57% and pseudomonas 25%). TM samples yielded bacteria in 69%, fungi in 6%, staphylococci in 53%, and pseudomonas in 19%. Ofloxacin concentration at the meatus was 248 μg/mL (95% confidence interval [CI]: 119‐377) and at the TM was 126 μg/mL (95% CI: 58‐194). Ofloxacin‐resistant colonies were found in 75% of patients.

Conclusion

Analysis of AGS is a viable technique for noninvasively studying healing metrics posttympanoplasty, including the microbiome and otic antibiotic exposure. Despite exposure to a high concentration of quinolones, the tympanoplasty wound is far from sterile, which may impact healing outcomes.
A meta‐analysis of SES framework case studies: Identifying dyad and triad archetypes
Authors: Partelow Stefan , Villamayor‐Tomas Sergio , Eisenack Klaus , Epstein Graham , Kellner Elke , Roggero Matteo , Tschopp Maurice
Published: March 2024

There is a need to synthesize the vast amount of empirical case study research on social‐ecological systems (SES) to advance theory. Innovative methods are needed to identify patterns of system interactions and outcomes at different levels of abstraction. Many identifiable patterns may only be relevant to small sets of cases, a sector or regional context, and some more broadly. Theory needs to match these levels while still retaining enough details to inform context‐specific governance. Archetype analysis offers concepts and methods for synthesizing and explaining patterns of interactions across cases. At the most basic level, there is a need to identify two and three independent variable groupings (i.e. dyads and triads) as a starting point for archetype identification (i.e. as theoretical building blocks). The causal explanations of dyads and triads are easier to understand than larger models, and once identified, can be used as building blocks to construct or explain larger theoretical models.

We analyse the recurrence of independent variable interactions across 71 quantitative SES models generated from qualitative case study research applying Ostrom's SES framework and examine their relationships to specific outcomes (positive or negative, social or ecological). We use hierarchical clustering, principal component analysis and network analysis tools to identify the frequency and recurrence of dyads and triads across models of different sizes and outcome groups. We also measure the novelty of model composition as models get larger. We support our quantitative model findings with illustrative visual and narrative examples in four case study boxes covering deforestation in Indonesia, pollution in the Rhine River, fisheries management in Chile and renewable wind energy management in Belgium.

Findings indicate which pairs of two (dyads) and three (triads) variables are most frequently linked to either positive or negative, social or ecological outcomes. We show which pairs account for most of the variation of interactions across all the models (i.e. the optimal suite). Both the most frequent and optimal suite sets are good starting points for assessing how dyads and triads can fulfil the role of explanatory archetype candidates. We further discuss challenges and opportunities for future SES modelling and synthesis research using archetype analysis.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Ensemble regression method for predicting the dependence of electrical resistance on the elongation of polymer composite materials
Authors: Stepashkina Anna , Yakushev Aleksei
Published: March 2024

Composite materials are actively used as protection against electromagnetic fields, as conductors and to remove excess heat from microcircuits and boards. Such products are often subjected to mechanical stress during operation, and stretched polymer‐film composite materials suffer from deterioration in electrical conductivity, which leads to loss of electrically conductive properties. In this work, the effect of mechanical deformation (stretching) on electrical conductivity properties was studied. A predictive model was built based on Boltzmann statistics, which allows predicting the loss of electrically conductive properties when materials are under mechanical stress. The resulting model was refined by introducing coefficients calculated using an ensemble regression machine learning method. The mean absolute percentage error of the predicted electrical conductivity value for the materials under mechanical stress is about 5%–20%.

Highlights

Stretching influence on conductivity and shielding.

An expression for description and prediction resistance during stretching.

Machine learning for predictive modeling.
Mechanical, fracture, and environmental performance of greener polymer composites containing low to high micro fillers with recycled and byproduct origins
Authors: Khedri Ehsan , Karimi Hamid Reza , Mohamadi Razie , Aliha M.R.M. , Masoudi Nejad Reza
Published: March 2024

Polymer adhesives have considerable mechanical and environmental privileges; however, their high price makes them uncommercial for common uses. This study investigates the incorporation of recycled or byproduct fillers in epoxy resin‐based composites to assess their mechanical properties, environmental impacts, and cost efficiency. The fillers examined include fly ash, glass powder, slag, silica powder, and limestone powder. Tensile, compressive, and fracture tests were conducted on composites with various filler proportions (0%–80% by weight). From microstructure observations, round (fly ash, glass powder) and rough (slag, silica, and limestone powder) morphologies are seen. Also, it is seen that all the fillers are well distributed in the matrix; with the increase of filler content, the air voids increase. The tensile and compressive results indicate that adding fillers improves the composite's strengths, with up to a 20% increase compared to neat epoxy resin. However, when filler contents exceed 40%, the strengths decrease. Fracture toughness values also decrease with increasing filler content. Comparing the results with those of other studies indicates the similarity of trends. Cost‐strength and CO2eq‐strength curves were evaluated to assess the financial and environmental aspects. The composites show potential for cost efficiency but may have some environmental drawbacks compared to traditional construction materials like cement concrete.

Highlights

The incorporation of recycled or byproduct fillers in epoxy resin composites.

Examined fillers include fly ash, glass, slag, silica, and limestone powder.

Tensile, compressive, flexural, and fracture tests were conducted.

SEM and failure patterns were analyzed, and similar studies were compared.

Cost‐strength and CO2eq‐strength data evaluated.
Association between the Big Five personality traits and suicide‐related behaviors in Japanese institutionalized youths
Authors: Takahashi Masaru , Imahara Kasumi , Miyamoto Yukiko , Myojo Kayoko , Yasuda Michiko
Published: March 2024

Aim

Inmates in correctional institutions experience higher rates of suicide attempt (SA), suicidal ideation (SI), and nonsuicidal self‐injury (NSSI) than the general population. This study aimed to examine the association between the Big Five personality traits and suicide‐related behavior, and to estimate the prevalence rate of such behaviors among Japanese institutionalized youth.

Methods

The participants were 436 youths who had been admitted to four juvenile classification homes (JCHs) between September 2021 and March 2023; they were asked to respond to a self‐report questionnaire after obtaining informed consent.

Results

A total of 8.1% and 19.3%, 29.4% and 44.7%, and 46.3% and 75.3% of males and females had experienced SA, SI, and NSSI in their lifetime, respectively. Females reported significantly higher instances of suicide‐related behaviors than males considering all suicide‐related behaviors. Logistic regression analyses revealed that neuroticism significantly increased the odds ratios for SA, SI, and NSSI on controlling for sex, age, and number of admissions to JCHs. For NSSI, the odds ratio for agreeableness was significantly lower than 1, indicating a lower probability of NSSI.

Conclusion

The findings of our study demonstrate that neuroticism, one of the Big Five traits, was consistently and significantly associated with all suicide‐related behaviors, including SA, SI, and NSSI, among youth offenders, while agreeableness was found as a protective factor only against NSSI. The results of this study might help correctional officers identify justice‐involved youth at higher risk for suicide and allow the development of early interventions to prevent suicide.
Roles of Metal Nanoparticles for Supercapacitors: A Review
Authors: Yan Ailan , Wang Xinchang , Cheng Jipeng
Published: March 2024

Recent research on supercapacitors (SCs) has been attractive due to the potential application in a variety of fields related to energy storage. Electrode materials play a very important role for the performance of SCs and various metal nanoparticles are involved in the SC electrodes. In this paper, the roles of metal nanoparticles for SCs are reviewed and discussed. They can serve as a dopant to modify the surface of electrode materials, or be embedded in a composite to effectively reduce the resistance and lead to an enhanced specific capacitance. Some metal nanoparticles can be also employed as electrode materials directly, but easily being oxidized. Metallic nanoparticles can even act as current collectors, especially for these noble metals with excellent stability and high conductivity. Nanoporous metals prepared by dealloying and electrochemical method can be used as both pseudocapacitive materials and current collector of SCs. Some important experimental data on this issue are summarized. A brief discussion on the future directions, challenges and opportunities in this topic is also provided.
Variable gut pH as a potential mechanism of tolerance to Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. israelensis toxins in the biting midge Culicoides sonorensis
Authors: Osborne Cameron J , Su Tianyun , Silver Kristopher S , Cohnstaedt Lee W
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

Toxins of Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. israelensis (Bti) are safer alternatives for controlling dipteran pests such as black flies and mosquitoes. The biting midge Culicoides sonorensis (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) is an important pest of livestock in much of the United States and larval midges utilize semi‐aquatic habitats which are permissive for Bti product application. Reports suggest that Bti products are ineffective at killing biting midges despite their taxonomic relation to black flies and mosquitoes. Here, we investigate the toxicity of a Bti‐based commercial insecticide and its active ingredient in larval Culicoides sonorensis. A suspected mechanism of Bti tolerance is an acidic larval gut, and we used a pH indicator dye to examine larval Culicoides sonorensis gut pH after exposure to Bti.

RESULTS

The lethal concentration to kill 90% (LC90) of larvae of the commercial product (386 mg/L) was determined to be almost 10 000 times more than that of some mosquito species, and no concentration of active ingredient tested achieved 50% larval mortality. The larval gut was found to be more acidic after exposure to Bti which inhibits Bti toxin activity. By comparison, 100% mortality was achieved in larval Aedes aegypti at the product's label rate for this species and mosquito larvae had alkaline guts regardless of treatment. Altering the larval rearing water to alkaline conditions enhanced Bti efficacy when using the active ingredient.

CONCLUSION

We conclude that Bti is not practical for larval Culicoides sonorensis control at the same rates as mosquitos but show that alterations or additives to the environment could make the products more effective. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Design and analysis of a bionic‐inspired single‐rotor MAV with a foldable wing
Authors: Liu Wenju , Qu Haibo , Wang Xiaolei , Bao Junyu , Chen Guangrong , Guo Sheng
Published: March 2024

Microaerial vehicles (MAVs) have achieved rapid advancement and vast applications. Energy efficiency and friction loss are common problems of MAVs, and exploring novel structural design and enhancing flight performance are critical research directions. Here, a bionic‐inspired single‐rotor MAV with a foldable wing is fabricated by imitating winged achene in nature. The structural design of the wing based on origami principle, overall aerodynamic modeling analysis, kinematic analysis, and control system design is carried out. The prototype weighs 75 g and equipped with only one motor, achieved the desired flight attitude of vertical takeoff and landing, hovering and horizontal flight, and so forth. During nonflight, the wings fold down can reduce 70% storage area for easier transportation. The vehicle combines high flight efficiency with compactness, superior stability, simple structure, economical manufacturing cost, low flight noise, and spin deceleration safety protection, which has good potential for application in the aerial vehicle fields.
Model‐agnostic explanations for survival prediction models
Authors: Suresh Krithika , Görg Carsten , Ghosh Debashis
Published: March 2024

Advanced machine learning methods capable of capturing complex and nonlinear relationships can be used in biomedical research to accurately predict time‐to‐event outcomes. However, these methods have been criticized as “black boxes” that are not interpretable and thus are difficult to trust in making important clinical decisions. Explainable machine learning proposes the use of model‐agnostic explainers that can be applied to predictions from any complex model. These explainers describe how a patient's characteristics are contributing to their prediction, and thus provide insight into how the model is arriving at that prediction. The specific application of these explainers to survival prediction models can be used to obtain explanations for (i) survival predictions at particular follow‐up times, and (ii) a patient's overall predicted survival curve. Here, we present a model‐agnostic approach for obtaining these explanations from any survival prediction model. We extend the local interpretable model‐agnostic explainer framework for classification outcomes to survival prediction models. Using simulated data, we assess the performance of the proposed approaches under various settings. We illustrate application of the new methodology using prostate cancer data.
Exploring Cutaneous Lymphoproliferative Disorders in the Wake of COVID-19 Vaccination
Authors: Gordon Emily R. , Adeuyan Oluwaseyi , Kwinta Bradley D. , Schreidah Celine M. , Fahmy Lauren M. , Queen Dawn , Trager Megan H. , Magro Cynthia M. , Geskin Larisa J.
Published: March 2024

Background

Individual reports have described lymphoproliferative disorders (LPDs) and cutaneous lymphomas emerging after administration of the COVID-19 vaccine; however, the relationship between reactions and vaccine types has not yet been examined.

Objective

Determine if there are cases of cutaneous LPDs associated with certain COVID-19 vaccines and their outcomes.

Methods

We analysed PubMed, the Vaccine Adverse Events Reporting System (VAERS), and our database for instances of biopsy-proven LPDs following COVID-19 vaccines.

Results

Fifty cases of biopsy-proven LPDs arising after COVID-19 vaccination were found: 37 from medical literature, 11 from VAERS and two from our institution. Geographical distribution revealed the most cases in the United States, Italy, and Greece, with single cases in Spain, Colombia, Canada, Japan, and Romania. The average age of patients was 53; with a slight male predominance (male-to-female ratio of 1.5:1). The Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine was associated with LPDs in 36/50 (72%) cases, aligning with its 70% share of the global vaccine market. Histopathology revealed CD30+ in 80% of cases. The most prevalent form of LPD was lymphomatoid papulosis (LyP, 30%). All reported cases produced favourable outcomes (either complete or near-complete remission). Therapeutic approaches ranged from observation to treatment with steroids, methotrexate, or excision.

Conclusion

LPDs after COVID-19 vaccination appear in the context of the same vaccines (proportionally to their global market shares), share clinical and pathological findings, and have indolent, self-limited character.
Characterization and Antimicrobial Properties of Zinc Oxide Nanoflakes Prepared Via Green Chemistry Method Using Corn Silk Extract of Zea Mays
Authors: Ahmed Ishfaq , Mir Feroz A. , Bhat Mamta , Aasif Mohammad , Yatoo Gulam N. , Banday Javid A.
Published: March 2024

The pathogen‐based diseases are prime concern for modern society. Some oxide‐based nanomaterials have been found to show promising antimicrobial activities. However, the industrial synthesis of these oxide materials are harmful to environment. Zinc oxide nano‐flakes were prepared using corn silk (Zea mays) extract. The material was characterized by spectral and microscopic techniques. XRD data shows rutile structure and nano‐crystal size of 36.15 nm. SEM indicates morphology consisting of nano size particles with porous structure. EDX confirms presence of Zn and O. UV‐Vis data shows band gap of 3.62 eV. On excitation, PL exhibits a variety of emission bands in visible spectrum. Dielectric properties suggest the dielectric constant has a well‐dispersed real and imaginary portion. The ZnO NFs were subjected to antimicrobial activities (in dark and under white light) against various strains like E. coli, K. pneumonia and S. aureus. The light induced antibacterial activity is slightly higher as compared to that in dark. Best part of this study is that minimum concentration of ZnO can be used in presence of light thereby reducing the toxicity to the environment due to these metal oxides. Based on the observed results, this material could be used as multi‐dimensional functional material in day‐to‐day life.
Ultrahigh Photo‐Responsivity and Detectivity in 2D Bismuth Sulfide Photodetector for Vis–NIR Radiation
Authors: Panwar Vinod , Dey Manoj , Sharma Pragya , Sundar Karthick , Nandi Sukanta , Tripathi Rahul , Mondal Anindita , Makineni Surendra K. , Shukla Alok , Singh Abhishek , Misra Abha
Published: March 2024

Bismuth sulfide (Bi2S3) exhibits a direct energy bandgap and an exceptional optical absorption capability over a broadband radiation, thus presents a novel class of 2D photodetector material. The field effect transistor (FET) photodetector device is fabricated from 2D Bi2S3. An anomalous variation in the transport characteristics of 2D Bi2S3 is observed with the variation in temperature. The electrical resistance reduces by 99.26% at 10 K compared to the response at 300 K. Defects due to the bismuth and sulfur vacancies play a critical role in the dramatic behavior, which is confirmed using photoluminescence, time‐resolved photoluminescence, Hall measurements, and energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy. The density functional theory calculations provide a significant insight into the thermodynamic properties of intrinsic defects in Bi2S3. Moreover, the effect of gate bias on responsivity additionally confirms its invariance at low temperature. The Bi2S3 based FET photodetector achieves ultrahigh responsivity in the order of ≈106 A W−1 and detectivity of ≈1014 Jones. Moreover, the external quantum efficiency of ≈107% is measured in a wide spectrum of optical illumination (532 to 1064 nm) with a noise‐equivalent power of 3.5 × 10−18 W/√Hz at a bias of 0.2 V. The extraordinary performance of Bi2S3 photodetector outstands 2D photodetectors.
Advanced Hollow Cubic FeCo‐N‐C Cathode Electrocatalyst for Ultrahigh‐Power Aluminum–Air Battery
Authors: Tian Zhidong , Liang Yiqi , Chen Kai , Gao Jiyuan , Lu Zhiwen , Hu Xiang , Ding Yichun , Wen Zhenhai
Published: March 2024

The exploration of electrocatalysts toward oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is pivotal in the development of diverse batteries and fuel cells that rely on ORR. Here, a FeCo‐N‐C electrocatalyst (FeCo–HNC) featuring with atomically dispersed dual metal sites (Fe–Co) and hollow cubic structure is reported, which exhibits high activity for electrocatalysis of ORR in alkaline electrolyte, as evidenced by a half‐wave potential of 0.907 V, outperforming that of the commercial Pt/C catalyst. The practicality of such FeCo–HNC catalyst is demonstrated by integrating it as the cathode catalyst into an alkaline aluminum–air battery (AAB) paring with an aluminum plate serving as the anode. This AAB demonstrates an unprecedented power density of 804 mW cm−2 in ambient air and an impressive 1200 mW cm−2 in an oxygen‐rich environment. These results not only establish a new benchmark but also set a groundbreaking record for the highest power density among all AABs reported to date. Moreover, they stand shoulder to shoulder with state‐of‐the‐art H2–O2 fuel cells. This AAB exhibits robust stability with continuous operation for an impressive 200 h. This groundbreaking achievement underscores the immense potential and forward strides that the present work brings to the field.
MXene‐Based Pressure Sensor with a Self‐Healing Property for Joule Heating and Friction Sliding
Authors: Chen Yu , Gao Mengyao , Chen Kun , Sun Huili , Xing Haonan , Liu Xiaoqing , Liu Weijie , Guo Haizhong
Published: March 2024

As a kind of flexible electronic device, flexible pressure sensor has attracted wide attention in medical monitoring and human‐machine interaction. With the continuous deepening of research, high‐sensitivity sensor is developing from single function to multi‐function. However, Current multifunctional sensors lack the ability to integrate joule heating, detect sliding friction, and self‐healing. Herein, a MXene/polyurethane (PU) flexible pressure sensor with a self‐healing property for joule heating and friction sliding is fabricated. The MXene/PU sensitive layer with special spinosum structure is prepared by a simple spraying method. After face‐to‐face assembly of the sensitive layers, the MXene/PU flexible pressure sensor is obtained and showed excellent sensitivity (150.65 kPa−1), fast response/recovery speed (75.5/63.9 ms), and good stability (10 000 cycles). Based on the self‐healing property of PU, the sensor also has the ability to heal after mechanical damage. In addition, the sensor realizes the joule heating function under low voltage, and has the real‐time monitoring ability of sliding objects. Combined with low cost and simple manufacturing method, the multi‐functional MXene/PU flexible sensor shows a wide range of application potential in human activity monitoring, thermal management, and slip recognition.
Hybrid Hydrogen Bonding Strategy to Construct Instantaneous Self‐Healing Highly Elastic Ionohydrogel for Multi‐Functional Electronics
Authors: Huang Hongfei , Sun Lijie , Zhang Luzhi , Zhang Yalin , Zhang Youwei , Zhao Shunan , Gu Shijia , Sun Wei , You Zhengwei
Published: March 2024

Gels show great promise for applications in wearable electronics, biomedical devices, and energy storage systems due to their exceptional stretchability and adjustable electrical conductivity. However, the challenge lies in integrating multiple functions like elasticity, instantaneous self‐healing, and a wide operating temperature range into a single gel. To address this issue, a hybrid hydrogen bonding strategy to construct gel with these desirable properties is proposed. The intricate network of hybrid strong weak hydrogen bonds within the polymer matrix enables these ionohydrogel to exhibit remarkable instantaneous self‐healing, stretching up to five times their original length within seconds. Leveraging these properties, the incorporation of ionic liquids, water, and zinc salts into hybrid hydrogen bond crosslinked network enables conductivity and redox reaction, making it a versatile ionic skin for real‐time monitoring of human movements and respiratory. Moreover, the ionohydrogel can be used as electrolyte in the assembly of a zinc‐ion battery, ensuring a reliable power supply for wearable electronics, even in extreme conditions (−20 °C and extreme deformations). This ionohydrogel electrolyte simplifies the diverse structural requirements of gels to meet the needs of various electronic applications, offering a new approach for multi‐functional electronics.
A Stable Matrix Assisting Highly Compatible and Maintainable Lithium‐Garnet Interface for Solid‐State Batteries
Authors: Ye Xiaolu , Wang Tengrui , Wen Jiayun , Yu Qian , Chen Yuwei , Cai Kefeng , Luo Wei
Published: March 2024

Solid‐state Li metal batteries (SSLMBs) are attractive due to their capability to simultaneously offer high energy density and high‐level safety when combining Li metal anodes, solid‐state electrolytes (SSEs), and high‐voltage cathodes together. However, SSLMBs may well incur short circuits caused by Li dendrites penetrations, which mainly originate from the instability and poor contact between Li metal and SSEs. Herein, by taking full advantage of the reaction products of Li and Li1.3Al0.3Ti1.7(PO4)3 (LATP), a lithium‐LATP composite anode (Li‐LATP) is obtained, in which a stable matrix is formed to enhance the contact between Li and the garnet‐type SSEs, alleviating the volume change and preserving an intact interface during the charge/discharge process. Consequently, the Li‐LATP/garnet/Li‐LATP symmetric cell displays a fairly low interfacial resistance of 6 Ω cm2 and stable cycling performance for over 2500 h with a low overpotential. Furthermore, the LiCoO2/garnet/Li‐LATP full cell also shows a high discharge capacity of 159 mAh g−1 and great cycling performance.
Machine Learning‐Assisted Survey on Charge Storage of MXenes in Aqueous Electrolytes
Authors: Kawai Kosuke , Ando Yasunobu , Okubo Masashi
Published: March 2024

Pseudocapacitance is capable of both high power and energy densities owing to its fast chemical adsorption with substantial charge transfer. 2D transition‐metal carbides/nitrides (MXenes) are an emerging class of pseudocapacitive electrode materials. However, the factors that dominate the physical and chemical properties of MXenes are intercorrelated with each other, giving rise to challenges in the quantitative assessment of their discriminating importance. In this perspective, literature data on the specific capacitance of MXene electrodes in aqueous electrolytes is comprehensively surveyed and analyzed using machine‐learning techniques. The specific capacitance of MXene electrodes shows strong dependency on their interlayer spacing, where confined H2O in the interlayer space should play a key role in the charge storage mechanism. The electrochemical behavior of MXene electrodes is overviewed based on atomistic insights obtained from data‐driven approaches.
Effect of Energy‐driven Molecular Precursor Decomposition on the Crystal Orientation of Antimony Selenide Film and Solar Cell Efficiency
Authors: Li Ke , Yang Junjie , Cai Zhiyuan , Gu Yuehao , Liu Aoxing , Zhu Changfei , Tang Rongfeng , Chen Tao
Published: March 2024

Antimony selenide (Sb2Se3) consists of 1D (Sb4Se6)n ribbons, along which the carriers exhibit high transport efficiency. By adjusting the deposition parameters of vacuum‐deposited methods, such as evaporation temperature, chamber pressure, and vapor concentration, it is possible to grow the (Sb4Se6)n ribbons vertically or highly inclined towards the substrate, resulting in films with [hk1] orientation. However, the specific mechanisms by which these deposition parameters affect the orientation of thin films require a deeper understanding. Herein, a molecular beam epitaxy technique is developed for the preparation of highly [hk1]‐oriented Sb2Se3 films, and the effect of evaporation parameters on the film orientation is investigated. It is found that the evaporation temperature can affect the decomposition degree of Sb2Se3, which in turn determines the vapor composition and film orientation. Additionally, the decomposition of Sb2Se3 related to evaporation temperature leads to significant changes in the elemental composition of the film, thereby passivating deep‐level defects under Se‐rich conditions. Consequently, the Sb2Se3 films with highly [hk1] orientation achieve a power conversion efficiency of 8.42% for the solar cells. This study provides new insights into the control of orientation in antimony‐based chalcogenide films and points out new directions for improving the photovoltaic performance of solar cells.
Poly[Bis(4‐Phenyl)(2,4,6‐Trimethylphenyl)Amine] in Perovskite Solar Cells: Advances via Molecular Engineering
Authors: Kim Chanhyeok , Lee Dae Hwan , Kim Sunkyu , Kim Jeongsu , Park Taiho , Arockiam Jesin Beneto , Lim Jongchul
Published: March 2024

To improve the performance of perovskite solar cells (PSCs), studying the materials that constitute each layer of the device is important. Among the commonly used materials in the hole‐transport layer (HTL), poly[bis(4‐phenyl)(2,4,6‐trimethylphenyl)amine] (PTAA) stands out as one of the most employed. This hole‐transport material (HTM) offers many advantages, including thin‐film fabricating feasibility, ease of synthesis, and sufficient energy levels. Further, PSCs employing PTAA as the HTL exhibit a high‐power conversion efficiency. However, it has some drawbacks, including low crystallinity and poor device stability. To overcome these limitations, extensive studies focusing on improving its properties by molecular engineering have been conducted. In this review, the strategies for engineering the molecular structures of triaryl amine polymers are introduced. The strategies are classified into three groups: backbone engineering, side‐chain substitution, and a combination of both. Furthermore, future directions for achieving HTMs with various properties for high‐performance PSCs are suggested.
Investigation on deformation behavior and bearing capacity of a segmental ring based on the horizontal convergence
Authors: Yuan Qiang , Zhao Xu , Li Yang , Yuan Bingxiang
Published: March 2024

In this study, a refined numerical model, which contains the detailed geometric construction of the longitudinal joints, is established to investigate the bearing performance of the segmental ring based on the horizontal convergence. Firstly, the model is verified by comparing it with the reported results of a documented full‐scale model test. Then, according to the load‐structure method, this numerical model is employed to investigate the deformation behavior and bearing capacity of the segmental ring. Moreover, the effects of the coefficient of lateral pressure and subgrade reaction are extensively taken into consideration through comprehensive numerical analyses. According to the numerical results, a bilinear model is proposed to describe the relation between the convergent displacement and the stratum pressure, which could be used to preliminarily estimate the convergence after the completion of tunnel construction. Otherwise, the development of structural defects, such as the joint opening and the water leakage, has close association with the horizontal convergence. Therefore, a simple evaluation method for tunnel structure safety assessment is proposed using horizontal convergence deformation as an indicator to predict the tunnel service state. Since this indicator is easy to obtain during the tunnel operation, it is convenient for the engineers to assess the bearing capacity of the segmental ring and the service state of the tunnel structure quickly.