bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental study of flexural behaviour of layered steel fibre reinforced concrete beams
Authors: MARTÍNEZ-PÉREZ Inmaculada , VALIVONIS Juozas , ŠALNA Remigijus , COBO-ESCAMILLA Alfonso
Published: June 2017

The building of structures from steel fibre reinforced concrete (SFRC) in the external and conventional rein­forced concrete (RC) in the internal layer represents an economical alternative of structures effectively using SFRC. The paper presents test results of flexural behaviour of layered beams with SFRC external layers and RC internal layer. The behaviour of these beams is compared to test results of SFRC and conventional RC beams. The test results show, that the flexural load capacity for all series of beams is nearly similar, but the deflections of layered beams are less comparing to monolithic ones. It also been shown that the equations indicated in the Eurocode 2 can be used to design the flexural reinforcement in layered SFRC beams.
Resolved Stellar Streams around NGC 4631 from a Subaru/Hyper Suprime-Cam Survey
Authors: Tanaka Mikito , Chiba Masashi , Komiyama Yutaka
Published: June 2017

We present the first results of the Subaru/Hyper Suprime-Cam survey of the interacting galaxy system, NGC 4631 and NGC 4656. From the maps of resolved stellar populations, we identify 11 dwarf galaxies (including already-known dwarfs) in the outer region of NGC 4631 and the two tidal stellar streams around NGC 4631, named Stream SE and Stream NW, respectively. This paper describes the fundamental properties of these tidal streams. Based on the tip of the red giant branch method and the Bayesian statistics, we find that Stream SE (7.10 Mpc in expected a posteriori, EAP, with 90% credible intervals of [6.22, 7.29] Mpc) and Stream NW (7.91 Mpc in EAP with 90% credible intervals of [6.44, 7.97] Mpc) are located in front of and behind NGC 4631, respectively. We also calculate the metallicity distribution of stellar streams by comparing the member stars with theoretical isochrones on the color–magnitude diagram. We find that both streams have the same stellar population based on the Bayesian model selection method, suggesting that they originated from a tidal interaction between NGC 4631 and a single dwarf satellite. The expected progenitor has a positively skewed metallicity distribution function with

, with 90% credible intervals of [−1.46, −0.51]. The stellar mass of the progenitor is estimated as

, with 90% credible intervals of

] 

based on the mass–metallicity relation for Local group dwarf galaxies. This is in good agreement with the initial stellar mass of the progenitor that was presumed in the previous N-body simulation.
Nature of Kinetic Scale Turbulence in the Earth's Magnetosheath
Authors: Chen C. H. K. , Boldyrev S.
Published: June 2017

We present a combined observational and theoretical analysis to investigate the nature of plasma turbulence at kinetic scales in the Earth’s magnetosheath. In the first decade of the kinetic range, just below the ion gyroscale, the turbulence was found to be similar to that in the upstream solar wind: predominantly anisotropic, low-frequency and kinetic Alfvén in nature. A key difference, however, is that the magnetosheath ions are typically much hotter than the electrons,

, which, together with

, leads to a change in behavior in the second decade, close to electron scales. The turbulence here is characterized by an increased magnetic compressibility, following a mode we term the inertial kinetic Alfvén wave, and a steeper spectrum of magnetic fluctuations, consistent with the prediction

that we obtain from a set of nonlinear equations. This regime of plasma turbulence may also be relevant for other astrophysical environments with

, such as the solar corona, hot accretion flows, and regions downstream of collisionless shocks.
Comparison of Two Coronal Magnetic Field Models to Reconstruct a Sigmoidal Solar Active Region with Coronal Loops
Authors: Duan Aiying , Jiang Chaowei , Hu Qiang , Zhang Huai , Gary G. Allen , Wu S. T. , Cao Jinbin
Published: June 2017

Magnetic field extrapolation is an important tool to study the three-dimensional (3D) solar coronal magnetic field, which is difficult to directly measure. Various analytic models and numerical codes exist, but their results often drastically differ. Thus, a critical comparison of the modeled magnetic field lines with the observed coronal loops is strongly required to establish the credibility of the model. Here we compare two different non-potential extrapolation codes, a nonlinear force-free field code (CESE–MHD–NLFFF) and a non-force-free field (NFFF) code, in modeling a solar active region (AR) that has a sigmoidal configuration just before a major flare erupted from the region. A 2D coronal-loop tracing and fitting method is employed to study the 3D misalignment angles between the extrapolated magnetic field lines and the EUV loops as imaged by SDO/AIA. It is found that the CESE–MHD–NLFFF code with preprocessed magnetogram performs the best, outputting a field that matches the coronal loops in the AR core imaged in AIA 94 Å with a misalignment angle of ∼10°. This suggests that the CESE–MHD–NLFFF code, even without using the information of the coronal loops in constraining the magnetic field, performs as good as some coronal-loop forward-fitting models. For the loops as imaged by AIA 171 Å in the outskirts of the AR, all the codes including the potential field give comparable results of the mean misalignment angle (∼30°). Thus, further improvement of the codes is needed for a better reconstruction of the long loops enveloping the core region.
Vital force as a triangulated concept of nature and s(S)pirit
Authors: Nalwamba Kuzipa M.B. , Buitendag Johan
Published: June 2017

This article explores and seeks to appropriate theologically the African notion of vital force as a relational, non-reductionist ecological concept that would enrich the Christian doctrine of pneumatheology. The understanding that relational and pneumatological categories are viable within the theology–science dialogue is the broader framework within which this article is conceived. The relationship between natural theology and revelation provides an epistemological standpoint that does not divorce Spirit and reality.
Hip Arthroscopy in Patients Less than 25 Years of Age in the Treatment of Labral Tears: Aetiology and Clinical Outcomes
Authors: Bayley Gillian , Poitras Stephane , Parker Gillian , Beaulé Paul E.
Published: June 2017

Background

Hip arthroscopy has evolved into a well-established and rapidly growing field of orthopedic surgery for the management of labral tears. The purpose of this study was to review clinical outcomes of patients less than 25 years of age undergoing hip arthroscopy for treatment of a labral tear.

Methods

From 2005 to 2013, 82 hips in 76 patients with mean age of 20.4 (16-25 range) underwent hip arthroscopy for treatment of labral-chondral damage. The Western Ontario McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) and hip disability and osteoarthritis outcome score (HOOS) were recorded at latest follow-up.

Results

36 of 86 hips (42%) had isolated labral pathology with no associated bony pathology (normal alpha and centre-edge angle; no retroversion). Beck score (intraoperative cartilage damage) of 3 or more was significantly associated with an alpha angle of more than 55 degrees (odds ratio [OR], 3.6; confidence interval [CI], 1.2-11.0) and presence of femeroacetabular impingement (OR, 4.5; CI, 1.3-15.2). HOOS pain, sports/recreation, and quality of life significantly improved from preoperative to one year after surgery (p<0.05). 8 patients had re-operations for persistent pain; 5 underwent arthroscopic labral repair; 2 underwent arthroscopy with subsequent periacetabular osteotomy (PAO); 1 had only a periacetabular osteotomy (PAO). Complications included 2 lateral femoral cutaneous nerve deficits and 1 deep vein thrombosis.

Conclusions

Labral tears in patients less than 25 years of age occurs commonly without bony deformities, with those with normal head/neck contour demonstrating significantly less early cartilage damage than those with bony pathology. Hip arthroscopy in young patients can improve function and quality of life with minimal morbidity.
Outcomes of Gluteus Maximus and Tensor Fascia Lata Transfer for Primary Deficiency of the Abductors of the Hip
Authors: Chandrasekaran Sivashankar , Darwish Nader , Vemula S. Pavan , Lodhia Parth , Suarez-Ahedo Carlos , Domb Benjamin G.
Published: June 2017

Purpose

This study aims to present 3 patients’ results after undergoing gluteus maximus and tensor fascia lata (TFL) transfer for chronic abductor tears unable to be repaired primarily.

Methods

3 patients were identified intraoperatively as having an abductor tear unable to be repaired primarily. The anterior 1/3 of the gluteus maximus and the posterior 1/3 of the TFL were mobilised and transferred to the greater trochanter in order to reproduce the normal force vector of the gluteus medius and minimus. Data was prospectively collected for changes in gait, abductor strength, and the following patient reported outcomes (PROs): modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS), Nonarthritic Hip Score (NAHS), Hip Outcome Score-Sports Specific Subscale (HOS-SSS), Hip Outcome Score-Activities of Daily Living (HOS-ADL), visual analogue scale (VAS), and satisfaction.

Results

The patients were female, 63-75 years old, with BMIs of 23-28. All patients had follow-up at mean 2.1 years (1.25-2.5) with positive Trendelenburg signs preoperatively; 2 patients normalised postoperatively. For 2 patients, abductor strength improved by 2 grades postoperatively; the other patient maintained grade four. 2 patients’ PROs all improved; the other patient's PROs all improved except mHHS. Postoperative VAS scores were 0, 0, 1. 2 patients reported maximum satisfaction.

Conclusions

This case series suggests that gluteus maximus and TFL transfer for irreparable abductor deficiency may be effective for pain relief, improving abductor strength, and reconstructing abductor function. Although this is a small series, it is to our knowledge the first report of clinical outcomes of this procedure.
Figura y semblanza de Ignacio Ellacuría
Authors: Samour Héctor
Published: June 2017

Esta semblanza de Ignacio Ellacuría, resalta no sólo su trabajo de conciencia crítica de la realidad salvadoreña en un momento especialmente difícil de la historia del país, sino su papel protagónico en el proceso de paz, que fue consecuencia de su talante intelectual y humano. Reconocido teólogo de la liberación, Ellacuría también elaboró un proyecto de filosofía liberadora, riguroso y bien fundamentado, que constituye una contribución relevante a la tradición latinoamericana. Destaca en este ensayo, su contribución a pensar la ideologización como proceso negador de la realidad que solo puede ser develada a partir de un pensamiento y una praxis liberadora. Dicha liberación se realiza en el ámbito de la realidad histórica, que este pensador concibe de carácter abierta, no sujeta a determinismos o leyes inmutables. Esta filosofía liberadora la denomina una filosofía cristiana, no porque obedezca fines doctrinales, sino porque está marcada por la cruz como esperanza y liberación.Realidad: Revista de Ciencias Sociales y Humanidades No. 143-144, 2015: 3-20
Methane Emission from Pineapple Cultivation on a Tropical Peatland at Saratok, Malaysia
Authors: Lim Kim Choo Liza Nuriati , Ahmed Osumanu Haruna
Published: June 2017

Information on methane emission in pineapple cultivation on peatlands is scarce. Methane emission in pineapple cultivation is important as 90% of pineapples are grown on the peat soils of Malaysia. It is essential to determine methane emission in pineapple cultivation because pineapples are Crassulacean acid metabolism plants whose effects on methane could be different from other crops grown on tropical peat soils. Methane emissions from root respiration, microbial respiration, and oxidative peat decomposition were determined in a lysimeter experiment. There were three treatments: peat soil cultivated with pineapple, bare peat soil, and bare peat soil fumigated with chloroform. Methane emissions from peat soil cultivated with pineapple, bare peat soil, and bare peat soil fumigated with chloroform were 0.65 t/ha/yr, 0.75 t/ha/yr, and 0.75 t/ha/yr, respectively. The lower methane emissions are consistent with the general believe that methane emission from cultivated peat soils is lower than those of anaerobic or water logged peat soils. Soil methane emission was affected by nitrogen fertilization under pineapple cultivation but the converse was true for soil temperature nor soil moisture.
Nitrous Oxide Emission of a Tropical Peat Soil Grown with Pineapple at Saratok, Malaysia
Authors: Lim Kim Choo Liza Nuriati , Ahmed Osumanu Haruna
Published: June 2017

Draining of peatland for agriculture could affect the release of nitrous oxide into the atmosphere. Presently, there is dearth of information on soil nitrous oxide emission from tropical peat soils cultivated with pineapples. Lysimeter and closed chamber methods were used to quantify nitrous oxide emission from root respiration, microbial respiration, and oxidative peat decomposition under controlled water table condition. Treatments evaluated were: peat soil grown with pineapple, uncultivated peat soils, and bare peat soil fumigated with chloroform. Cultivation of Moris pineapple on drained peat soils resulted in the higher release of nitrous oxide emission (15.7 t N2O ha/yr), followed by fumigated peat soil with chloroform (14.3 t N2O ha/yr), and uncultivated peat soil (10.2 t N2O ha/yr). Soil nitrous oxide emission was affected by nitrate fertilization but emission was not affected by soil temperature nor soil moisture.
Shifts of Cohesion and Coherence in the Translation of Political Speeches
Authors: Al-Kharabsheh Aladdin , Hamadeh Nadeen
Published: June 2017

Discourse Markers (DMs) are central to maintaining cohesive and coherent translations. Drawing on Halliday and Hassan’s (1976) model to investigate the translation of DMs in political speeches, the study has verified the premise that tampering with the SLT's cohesion grid can adversely affect its relevant undergirding coherence grid. The study has revealed that any incurred cohesion shift in the act of translating would necessarily inscribe a parallel coherence shift, which fuse together to procure a noticeable translation loss. Analysis has isolated three major problems pertinent to translating English DMs into Arabic: (a) mistranslating explicit SL DMs, (b) no translation is given for implicit SL DMs, and (c) no translation is given for explicit SL DMs.
Transitivity in Stylistics: Protest Through Animal Proverbs in Bole Butake’s and Palm Wine Will Flow
Authors: Agwa Fomukong SEINO Evangeline
Published: June 2017

Stylistic effects of transitivity in the use of animal proverbs in Bole Butake’s And Palm Wine Will Flow, analyses the message the author is passing through the use of animal proverbs. Systemic functional theory views language as a resource people use to accomplish their purposes by expressing meaning in context. Particular aspects of a given context define the meanings likely to be expressed and the language likely to be used to express those meanings. The method of analysis is a descriptive approach that describes the proverbs and the relationship between the animals used in the proverbs, showing opposition in the animal camp. Butake brings man to the level of the animal because he wants reconciliation in the human society. This is the reason for the excess use of the material process which shows action. Transitivity as used in this study correlates linguistic choices and social aspects of language use, and brings out the underlying message of protest in the play.
A simple electroelution method for rapid protein purification: isolation and antibody production of alpha toxin fromClostridium septicum
Authors: Vázquez-Iglesias Lorena , Estefanell-Ucha Borja , Barcia-Castro Leticia , Páez de la Cadena María , Álvarez-Chaver Paula , Ayude-Vázquez Daniel , Rodríguez-Berrocal Francisco Javier
Published: June 2017

Clostridium septicumproduces a number of diseases in human and farm animals which, in most of the cases, are fatal without clinical intervention. Alpha toxin is an important agent and the unique lethal virulent factor produced byClostridium septicum.This toxin is haemolytic, highly lethal and necrotizing activities but is being used as an antigen to develop animal vaccines. The aim of this study was to isolate the alpha toxin ofClostridium septicumand produce highly specific antibodies against it. In this work, we have developed a simple and efficient method for alpha toxin purification, based on electroelution that can be used as a time-saving method for purifying proteins. This technique avoids contamination by other proteins that could appear during other protein purification techniques such chromatography. The highly purified toxin was used to produce polyclonal antibodies. The specificity of the antibodies was tested by western blot and these antibodies can be applied to the quantitative determination of alpha toxin by slot blot.
Phytochemical-rich medicinal plant extracts suppress bacterial antigens-induced inflammation in human tonsil epithelial cells
Authors: Wijesundara Niluni M. , Sekhon-Loodu Satvir , Rupasinghe HP Vasantha
Published: June 2017

Background

Pharyngitis is an inflammatory condition of the pharynx and associated structures commonly caused by the Group A streptococci (GAS). There is a growing interest in discovering plant-based anti-inflammatory compounds as potential alternatives to conventional drugs. This study evaluated anti-inflammatory activity of phytochemical-rich extracts prepared from 12 herbal plants using human tonsil epithelial cells (HTonEpiC)in vitro.

Methods

The HTonEpiC were induced by a mixture of lipoteichoic acid (LTA) and peptidoglycan (PGN) (10 µg/mL; bacterial antigens) for 4 h and then exposed to ethanol extracts (EE) or aqueous extracts (AE) for 20 h. The secretion of four pro-inflammatory cytokines was measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). Total phenolic and total flavonoid contents of the extracts were determined using spectrophotometric methods.

Results

The herbal plant extracts (≤5 µg/mL) were not cytotoxic to HTonEpiC. The extracts exhibited a broad range of reduction (1.2%–92.6%) of secretion of interleukin-8 (IL-8), human beta defensin-2 (hBD-2), epithelial-derived neutrophil activating protein-78 (ENA-78), and granulocyte chemotactic protein-2 (GCP-2). Both EE and AE of clove, ginger, and echinacea flower and EE from danshen root significantly inhibited the pro-inflammatory cytokine production as induced by LTA and PGN in HTonEpiCs at the concentrations of 1 and 5 µg/mL.

Discussion

Our observations indicate that danshen root, clove, ginger, and echinacea flower extracts exhibit an anti-inflammatory effect in HTonEpiCs. The most efficacious extracts from danshen root, clove, ginger and echinacea flowers have potential to be used as natural sources for developing phytotherapeutic products in the management of painful inflammation due to streptococcal pharyngitis.
The VA Was an Early Adopter of Artificial Intelligence to Improve Care—Here’s What They Learned
Authors: Perlis Roy
Published: October 2024

This Medical News story is an interview about the US Department of Veterans Affairs’ pioneering work in using artificial intelligence to improve patient care.
The winner of the 2024 FEBS Letters Award—an interview with Rachel Flynn
Authors: Flynn Rachel Litman , Wright Duncan E.
Published: October 2024

Since 2003, FEBS Letters has awarded an annual prize to the corresponding author of the best research paper published in the journal in the previous calendar year. The award‐winning article is selected by a special committee formed by appointed members of the Editorial Board, plus one external member. The winner of the 2024 FEBS Letters Award is Professor Rachel Flynn of Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, for the outstanding paper “The exoribonuclease XRN2 mediates degradation of the long non‐coding telomeric RNA TERRA.” In this interview, Rachel Flynn talks about her award‐winning research.
A clinically feasible algorithm for the parallel detection of glioma‐associated copy number variation markers based on shallow whole genome sequencing
Authors: Wu Shuai , Ma Chenyu , Cai Jiawei , Yang Chenkang , Liu Xiaojia , Luo Chen , Yang Jingyi , Xiong Zhang , Cao Dandan , Chen Hong
Published: October 2024

Molecular features are incorporated into the integrated diagnostic system for adult diffuse gliomas. Of these, copy number variation (CNV) markers, including both arm‐level (1p/19q codeletion, +7/−10 signature) and gene‐level (EGFR gene amplification, CDKN2A/B homozygous deletion) changes, have revolutionized the diagnostic paradigm by updating the subtyping and grading schemes. Shallow whole genome sequencing (sWGS) has been widely used for CNV detection due to its cost‐effectiveness and versatility. However, the parallel detection of glioma‐associated CNV markers using sWGS has not been optimized in a clinical setting. Herein, we established a model‐based approach to classify the CNV status of glioma‐associated diagnostic markers with a single test. To enhance its clinical utility, we carried out hypothesis testing model‐based analysis through the estimation of copy ratio fluctuation level, which was implemented individually and independently and, thus, avoided the necessity for normal controls. Besides, the customization of required minimal tumor fraction (TF) was evaluated and recommended for each glioma‐associated marker to ensure robust classification. As a result, with 1× sequencing depth and 0.05 TF, arm‐level CNVs could be reliably detected with at least 99.5% sensitivity and specificity. For EGFR gene amplification and CDKN2A/B homozygous deletion, the corresponding TF limits were 0.15 and 0.45 to ensure the evaluation metrics were both higher than 97%. Furthermore, we applied the algorithm to an independent glioma cohort and observed the expected sample distribution and prognostic stratification patterns. In conclusion, we provide a clinically applicable algorithm to classify the CNV status of glioma‐associated markers in parallel.
Breaking Barriers in Chalcogenide Perovskite Synthesis: A Generalized Framework for Fabrication of BaMS3 (M═Ti, Zr, Hf) Materials
Authors: Agarwal Shubhanshu , Vincent Kiruba Catherine , Turnley Jonathan W. , Hayes Daniel C. , Uible Madeleine C. , Durán Inés , Canizales Alison Sofia Mesa , Khandelwal Shriya , Panicker Isabel , Andoh Zion , Spilker Robert M. , Ma Qiushi , Huang Libai , Hwang Sooyeon , Kisslinger Kim , Svatek Simon , Antolin Elisa , Bart Suzanne C. , Agrawal Rakesh
Published: October 2024

Chalcogenide perovskites have garnered increasing attention as stable, non‐toxic alternatives to lead halide perovskites. However, their conventional synthesis at high temperatures (>1000 °C) has hindered widespread adoption. Recent studies have developed low‐to‐moderate temperature synthesis methods (<600 °C) using reactive precursors, yet a comprehensive understanding of the pivotal factors affecting reproducibility and repeatability remains elusive. This study delineates the critical factors in the low‐temperature synthesis of BaMS3 (M═Zr, Hf, Ti) compounds and presents a generalized framework. Innovative approaches are developed for synthesizing BaMS3 compounds using this framework involving organometallics for solution deposition. The molecular precursor routes, employing metal acetylacetonates to generate soluble metal–sulfur bonded complexes and metal–organic compounds to produce soluble metal‐thiolate, metal‐isothiocyanate, and metal‐trithiocarbonate species, are demonstrated to yield carbon‐free BaMS3. These methods have achieved the most contiguous films of BaZrS3 and BaHfS3 using solution deposition to date. Furthermore, a hybrid solution processing method involving stacking sputter‐deposited Zr and solution‐deposited BaS layers is employed to synthesize a contiguous, oxygen‐free BaZrS3 film. The diffuse reflectance measurements indicate a direct bandgap of ≈ 1.85 eV for the BaZrS3 films and ≈ 2.1 eV for the BaHfS3 film under investigation.
Engineering of Kidney‐Targeting Fluorophores with Tunable Emission from NIR‐I to NIR‐II for Early Diagnosis of Kidney Disease
Authors: Jiang Yulan , Wang Liping , Hu Bangping , Nong Chengkun , Shen Xing‐Can , Chen Hua
Published: October 2024

The development of rapidly distributed and retained probes within the kidneys is important for accurately diagnosing kidney diseases. Although molecular imaging shows the potential for non‐intrusively interrogating kidney disease‐related biomarkers, the limited kidney contrast of many fluorophores, owing to their relatively low distribution in the kidney, hinders their effectiveness for kidney disease detection. Herein, for the first time, an amino‐functionalization strategy is proposed to construct a library of kidney‐targeting fluorophores NHcy with tunable emissions from NIR‐I to NIR‐II. Among these, NHcy‐8 is the first small‐molecule NIR‐II dye without a renal clearance moiety, designed specifically for kidney‐targeting imaging. Building on this class of NIR‐II fluorophore, the first NIR‐II small‐molecule kidney‐targeting pH probe NIR‐II‐pH is developed, which exhibits a desirable kidney distribution after intravenous injection and is fluorescent only after activation by acidosis. NIR‐II in vivo fluorescence/photoacoustic imaging of kidney disease models induced by cisplatin and renal I/R injury using NIR‐II‐pH reveals increasingly severe metabolic acidosis as the disease progressed, enabling sensitive detection of the onset of acidosis 36 h (cisplatin group) earlier than clinical methods. Thus, this study introduces a practical NIR‐II kidney‐targeting probe and provides a useful molecular blueprint for guiding kidney‐targeting NIR‐II fluorophores as diagnostic aids for kidney diseases.
Scalable Layered Heterogeneous Hydrogel Fibers with Strain‐Induced Crystallization for Tough, Resilient, and Highly Conductive Soft Bioelectronics
Authors: Cao Pengle , Wang Yu , Yang Jian , Niu Shichao , Pan Xinglong , Lu Wanheng , Li Luhong , Xu Yiming , Cui Jiabin , Ho Ghim Wei , Wang Xiao‐Qiao
Published: October 2024

The advancement of soft bioelectronics hinges critically on the electromechanical properties of hydrogels. Despite ongoing research into diverse material and structural strategies to enhance these properties, producing hydrogels that are simultaneously tough, resilient, and highly conductive for long‐term, dynamic physiological monitoring remains a formidable challenge. Here, a strategy utilizing scalable layered heterogeneous hydrogel fibers (LHHFs) is introduced that enables synergistic electromechanical modulation of hydrogels. High toughness (1.4 MJ m−3) and resilience (over 92% recovery from 200% strain) of LHHFs are achieved through a damage‐free toughening mechanism that involves dense long‐chain entanglements and reversible strain‐induced crystallization of sodium polyacrylate. The unique symmetrical layered structure of LHHFs, featuring distinct electrical and mechanical functional layers, facilitates the mixing of multi‐walled carbon nanotubes to significantly enhance electrical conductivity (192.7 S m−1) without compromising toughness and resilience. Furthermore, high‐performance LHHF capacitive iontronic strain/pressure sensors and epidermal electrodes are developed, capable of accurately and stably capturing biomechanical and bioelectrical signals from the human body under long‐term, dynamic conditions. The LHHF offers a promising route for developing hydrogels with uniquely integrated electromechanical attributes, advancing practical wearable healthcare applications.
Artificial Intelligence‐Enhanced Metamaterial Bragg Multilayers for Radiative Cooling
Authors: Osuna Ruiz David , Aznarez‐Sanado Maite , Herrera‐Plaza Pilar , Beruete Miguel
Published: October 2024

A full numerical study combining artificial intelligence (AI) methods and electromagnetic simulation software on a multilayered structure for radiative cooling (RC) is investigated. The original structure is made of SiO2/Si nanometer‐thick layers that make a Bragg mirror for wavelengths in the solar irradiance window (0.3–4 μm). The structures are then optimized in terms of the calculated net cooling power and characterized via the reflected and absorbed incident light as a function of their structural parameters. This investigation provides with optimal designs of beyond‐Bragg, all‐dielectric, ultra‐broadband mirrors that provide net cooling powers in the order of ≈100 W m−2, similar to the best‐performing structures in literature. Furthermore, it explains AI's success in producing these structures and enables the analysis of resonant conditions in metal‐free multilayers with unconventional layer thickness distributions, offering innovative tools for designing highly efficient structures in RC.
Fiber‐Integrated Diamond Quantum Sensor for High‐Voltage Current Measurements
Authors: Liu Qihui , Nie Shaoxiong , Peng Xiao , Zhu Yaochen , Wang Nan , Hu Yuqiang , Luo Xin , li Chun , Jing Maoheng , Zhang Chunji , Liu Wei , Chen Hao , Cheng Jiangong , Wu Zhenyu
Published: October 2024

In power network systems, there is an urgent demand for highly accurate and miniaturized sensors, owing to their high safety level and limited installation space. Current sensors in high‐voltage grids are required to accommodate harsh environments and provide accurate measurements of several kiloamperes. Thus, this study proposed an integrated quantum diamond sensor to facilitate high‐accuracy, large‐dynamic‐range current measurements. The design incorporated optical fiber and directional microwave (MW) antennas to drive the diamond sensor, which significantly reduced the size and power consumption on the high‐voltage side. Remote‐control and demodulation systems are installed more than 10 m away from the low‐voltage side. The proposed approach achieved zero power consumption on the high‐voltage side and ensured efficient signal transmission. A passive diamond probe manufactured using microfabrication processes facilitated miniaturization and practical deployment. Through parameter optimization, a magnetic detection sensitivity of 4.86 nT·Hz−1/2 is achieved at a safe distance of 11 m, which can be further optimized to 0.77 nT·Hz−1/2 with enhanced MW power. This sensor achieved a current measurement error of ±0.4% in the 1000 A measurement range. Thus, this study provides a new solution for the application of diamond quantum sensors in power systems.
Post‐Translational Modifications of RNA‐Modifying Proteins in Cellular Dynamics and Disease Progression
Authors: Lin Yunfan , Lin Pei , Lu Ye , Zheng Jiarong , Zheng Yucheng , Huang Xiangyu , Zhao Xinyuan , Cui Li
Published: October 2024

RNA‐modifying proteins, classified as “writers,” “erasers,” and “readers,” dynamically modulate RNA by adding, removing, or interpreting chemical groups, thereby influencing RNA stability, functionality, and interactions. To date, over 170 distinct RNA chemical modifications and more than 100 RNA‐modifying enzymes have been identified, with ongoing research expanding these numbers. Although significant progress has been made in understanding RNA modification, the regulatory mechanisms that govern RNA‐modifying proteins themselves remain insufficiently explored. Post‐translational modifications (PTMs) such as phosphorylation, ubiquitination, and acetylation are crucial in modulating the function and behavior of these proteins. However, the full extent of PTM influence on RNA‐modifying proteins and their role in disease development remains to be fully elucidated. This review addresses these gaps by offering a comprehensive analysis of the roles PTMs play in regulating RNA‐modifying proteins. Mechanistic insights are provided into how these modifications alter biological processes, contribute to cellular function, and drive disease progression. In addition, the current research landscape is examined, highlighting the therapeutic potential of targeting PTMs on RNA‐modifying proteins for precision medicine. By advancing understanding of these regulatory networks, this review seeks to facilitate the development of more effective therapeutic strategies and inspire future research in the critical area of PTMs in RNA‐modifying proteins.
Significant Improvement in Magnetorheological Performance by Controlling Micron Interspaces with High Permeability Submicron Particles
Authors: Du Tianxiang , Ma Ning , Zhao Zenghui , Liu Yitong , Dong Xufeng , Huang Hao
Published: October 2024

The shear yield strength, sedimentation stability and zero‐field viscosity of magnetorheological fluids (MRFs) are crucial for practical vibration damping applications, yet achieving a balanced combination of these performances remains challenging. Developing MRFs with excellent comprehensive performance is key to advancing smart vibration damping technologies further. Theoretically, incorporating a multiscale particle system and leveraging synergistic effects between their can somewhat enhance MRFs’ performance. However, this approach often faces issues such as insignificant increases in shear yield strength and excessive rise in zero‐field viscosity. In response, this study employs a DC arc plasma method to synthesize a high magnetic permeability, low coercivity submicron FeNi particles, and further develops a novel CIPs‐FeNi bidisperse MRFs. The introduction of submicron FeNi particles not only significantly enhances the shear2019 yield strength of MRFs under low magnetic fields but also promotes improvements in sedimentation stability and redispersibility without excessively increasing viscosity. Comprehensive performance analysis is conducted to explore the optimal content ratio, and detailed mechanisms for the enhancement of performance are elucidated through analysis of parameters such as chain‐like structure, magnetic flux density and friction coefficient. Most importantly, the superior comprehensive performance combined with straightforward fabrication methods significantly enhances the engineering applicability of the CIPs‐FeNi bidisperse MRFs.
The Relationship Between Interest Rates and Agricultural Commodity Price Dynamics
Authors: Sun Zhining , Katchova Ani L.
Published: October 2024

The U.S. Federal Reserve has undertaken several interest rate interventions in the past decade. This study explores the relationship between U.S. corn and soybean prices and Federal Reserve monetary policy interventions, in the short and long run. We use a nonlinear autoregressive distributed lag model to capture three key features of agricultural commodity price responses to changes in interest rates. First, we observe that corn and soybean prices initially overreact to changes in interest rates, overshooting their long‐run equilibrium before gradually reverting. Second, in the short run, the relationship between soybean prices and interest rates is asymmetric; the initial price change is more pronounced for an interest rate increase than for a decrease of the same magnitude. Lastly, both corn and soybean prices display symmetry in the long run. These results help to understand how changes in interest rates affect commodity prices. Assessing the relationship between agricultural commodity prices and interest rates can assist farmers and processors in planning investments and loans based on interest rate forecasts.
Development of a Machine‐Learning Model for Diagnosis of Pancreatic Cancer from Serum Samples Analyzed by Thermal Liquid Biopsy
Authors: Hermoso‐Durán Sonia , Fraunhoffer Nicolas , Millastre‐Bocos Judith , Sanchez‐Gracia Oscar , Garrido Pablo F. , Vega Sonia , Lanas Ángel , Iovanna Juan , Velázquez‐Campoy Adrián , Abian Olga
Published: October 2024

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) poses a considerable diagnostic and therapeutic challenge due to the lack of specific biomarkers and late diagnosis. Early detection is crucial for improving prognosis, but current techniques are insufficient. An innovative approach based on differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) of blood serum samples, thermal liquid biopsy (TLB), combined with machine‐learning (ML) analysis, may offer a more efficient method for diagnosing PDAC. Serum samples from a cohort of 212 PDAC patients and 184 healthy controls are studied. DSC thermograms are analyzed using ML models. The generated models are built applying algorithms based on penalized regression, resampling, categorization, cross validation, and variable selection. The ML‐based model demonstrates outstanding ability to discriminate between PDAC patients and control subjects, with a sensitivity of 90% and an area under the ROC receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.83 in the training and test groups. Application of the model to an independent validation cohort of 113 PDAC patients confirms its robustness and utility as a diagnosis tool. The application of ML to serum TLB data emerges as a promising  methodology for early diagnosis, representing a significant advance for detecting and managing PDAC, envisaging a minimally invasive and more efficient methodology for identifying biomarkers.
H‐PME: Development of a Robot Skin Using Halbach Array Permanent Magnet Elastomer
Authors: Wang Qichen , Abhyankar Devesh , Wang Yushi , Zhang Peizhi , Tomo Tito Pradhono , Sugano Shigeki , Kamezaki Mitsuhiro
Published: October 2024

This article presents a novel 3‐axis Halbach permanent magnet elastomer (H‐PME) sensor for the robotic application, which effectively reduces crosstalk along when two sensors are used simultaneously in close proximity, for example, during grasping of thin and delicate objects, needle threading, etc. This sensor integrates a Halbach‐array magnetic elastomer, a 3×3 Hall sensor matrix, and a silicone layer. The magnetic elastomer is produced by combining NdFeB powders with a diameter of 5 μm into silicone, following a weight ratio of 50%, and then magnetized using 2D Halbach‐array magnets. Simulation results reveal the capability to adjust magnetic field strength and distribution by altering the magnet's orientation. The sensor's efficacy in 3‐axis sensing is validated through calibration with a linear model, achieving a good root‐mean‐square error below 0.7 N in force measurement. The H‐PME sensor, with a thickness of merely 4.5 mm, can detect forces up to 50 N. It's simple 3‐layer design allows the thickness to be reduced to as low as 2 mm, while also offering ease of replacement. Crucially, crosstalk evaluation experiments show that the proposed H‐PME sensor can dramatically mitigate crosstalk interference.
Multistable Composite Laminate Grids as a Design Tool for Soft Reconfigurable Multirotors
Authors: Girardi Luca , Risso Giada , Pesaresi Laura , Ermanni Paolo , Mintchev Stefano
Published: October 2024

Adaptive‐morphology multirotors exhibit superior versatility and task‐specific performance compared to traditional multirotors owing to their functional morphological adaptability. However, a notable challenge lies in the contrasting requirements of locking each morphology for flight controllability and efficiency while permitting low‐energy reconfiguration. A novel design approach is proposed for reconfigurable multirotors utilizing soft multistable composite laminate airframes. These airframes show kinematically determinate morphologies corresponding to multiple minima in their elastic potential energy landscape. By varying design parameters, the methodology allows for tuning the energy landscape characteristics governing each morphology's structural stability and reconfiguration energetics. The airframe, composed of multistable composite laminate grids, is optimized to maximize rigidity under flight loads and minimize reconfiguration work. The 130‐g reconfigurable multirotor design demonstrates self‐locking properties in an open and a folded configuration, enabling a 48% reduction in width‐span without compromising stability during flight. Soft pneumatic actuators, actuated using a tethered compressed air supply, enable reversible reconfiguration on the ground between open and folded configurations. The design resolves the conflicting requirements of high‐stiffness to lock each flight configuration and low‐actuation work for reconfigurability. By exploiting soft yet multistable structures, the approach combines the stability observed in rigid‐linked reconfigurable multirotors with the low‐effort reconfigurability of soft multirotors, offering new methods for designing adaptive‐morphology multirotors.
Impacts of ramet density and herbivory on floral volatile emissions and seed production in Solidago altissima
Authors: Herschberger Jacob E. , Ciesla Lukasz , Stieha Christopher R. , Kersch‐Becker Mônica F.
Published: October 2024

Premise

Plants produce an array of floral olfactory and visual cues to attract pollinators, including volatile organic compounds (VOC), which mediate plant–pollinator interactions and may be influenced by herbivory and neighboring plants. Consequently, these factors may affect plant fitness by disrupting pollination. However, most evidence comes from controlled experiments, limiting our understanding of how VOCs function in natural populations. This study investigated how herbivory and conspecific ramet density influence floral VOC profile, pollination, and seed production in a naturally occurring population of Solidago altissima.

Methods

We recorded leaf herbivory and ramet density surrounding one focal ramet in 1‐m2 plots. We collected VOCs from the floral headspace and measured ovary fertilization as a proxy for pollination success and the number of seeds produced by the focal ramet.

Results

Our findings revealed interactive effects between ramet density and herbivory on floral VOC emission, richness, and diversity. Specifically, at lower ramet densities, herbivory did not affect floral volatile emissions. However, in highly dense stands, herbivory suppressed floral volatile emissions. Despite these changes, floral volatiles did not affect pollination and the number of seeds in S. altissima.

Conclusions

Our field‐based findings underscore the importance of understanding the complex responses of floral VOCs to environmental stressors and their contributions to plant reproduction within natural communities. Our results suggest that while herbivory and ramet density influence floral scent, these changes do not affect reproduction in our study. Ultimately, generalist‐pollinated plants like S. altissima might not rely heavily on chemical signaling during pollination.
LEAP! Rx: A randomized trial of a pragmatic approach to lifestyle medicine
Authors: Watts Amber , Szabo‐Reed Amanda , Baker Jordan , Morris Jill K. , Vacek James , Clutton Jonathan , Mahnken Jonathan , Key Mickeal N. , Vidoni Eric D. , Burns Jeffrey M.
Published: October 2024

INTRODUCTION

Clinicians lack the tools to incorporate physical activity into clinical care for Alzheimer's disease prevention. We tested a 52‐week exercise and health education program (Lifestyle Empowerment for Alzheimer's Prevention [LEAP! Rx]) that integrates clinician referrals and community‐based fitness resources.

METHODS

We randomized 219 participants to the LEAP! Rx (ie, exercise and monthly brain health education) or a standard‐of‐care control group and tested the effects on cardiorespiratory fitness, insulin resistance, body composition, lipids, and cognitive performance.

RESULTS

Physicians were able to connect their patients to a community lifestyle intervention. The intervention group increased in cardiorespiratory fitness at 12 and 52 weeks (p = 0.005). We observed no effects on secondary measures. Participants meeting 80% of weekly goals (150 min, moderate to vigorous activity) saw greater fitness improvements than those with less than 80% (p < 0.001).

DISCUSSION

These results hold promise for broad implementation of exercise interventions into larger healthcare systems and have implications for improved research recruitment strategies.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

NCT No. NCT03253341.

Highlights

Our community‐based exercise program increased cardiorespiratory fitness.

Our digital physician referral method increased the diversity of the participant sample.

Our findings have implications for personalized dementia risk reduction strategies.
Sequence‐Sensitivity in Functional Synthetic Polymer Properties
Authors: Jin Tianyi , Coley Connor W. , Alexander‐Katz Alfredo
Published: October 2024

Recently, a new class of synthetic methyl methacrylate‐based random heteropolymers (MMA‐based RHPs) has displayed protein‐like properties. Their function appears to be insensitive to the precise sequence. Here, through atomistic molecular dynamics simulation, we show that there are universal protein‐like features of MMA‐based RHPs that are insensitive to the sequence, and mostly depend on the overall composition. In particular, we find that MMA‐based RHPs “fold” into globules with heterogeneous hydration patterns. However, the insensitivity to sequence identity observed in MMA‐based RHPs dramatically changes when we substitute the backbone architecture with acrylate or replace the oxygen atom in the side chain with a nitrogen atom (methacrylamide or acrylamide). In such scenarios, the sequence contributes significantly to the compactness and the hydration of monomers. Using principal component analysis and an intersection‐over‐union based index, we demonstrate that different sequences may not overlap in the property space, meaning that their properties are controlled by the sequence rather than fixed composition. We further investigate the sequence‐insensitive capability of the MMA‐based RHPs as previously reported on bacterial phospholipase OmpLA stabilization through heterodimerization. As experimentally observed, such polymers enhance the stability of OmpLA as reliably as its native bilayer environment. The design of such MMA‐based RHPs provides a sequence‐insensitive alternative to protein‐mimetic biomaterials that is orthogonal to the sequence‐structure‐function paradigm of proteins.
Affecting Charges and Structures of {Bi6} Architectures by 12‐Electron Transition Metal Fragments
Authors: Schmidt Andreas , Rienmüller Julia , Weigend Florian , Dehnen Stefanie
Published: October 2024

Molecules based on polyatomic bismuth substructures are currently attracting a lot of attention owing to this heavy and essentially non‐toxic element's uncommon chemical and physical properties, which include unprecedented bonding properties. Hexaatomic {Bi6} substructures that underly more complex cluster structures were recently reported to adopt different structures or exhibit different structural details as a consequence of the charge of the {Bi6} unit. This leads to either crown‐shaped cycles for a nominal Bi66− or differently distorted trigonal prisms for compositions close to Bi62−. It was predicted by quantum chemistry that Bi64− should adopt a distinctly distorted boat‐like shape, yet a corresponding compound has remained elusive. Here, we report a proof of this assumption by the synthesis of [K(crypt‐222)]2[Bi6{Zn(hmds)}2] ⋅ 1.5THF (1), comprising a bimetallic [Bi6{Zn(hmds)}2]2− cluster that fulfills the prediction for the geometric and electronic structure of the missing link (crypt‐222=4,7,13,16,21,24‐hexaoxa‐1,10‐diazabicyclo‐[8.8.8]hexa‐cosane, hmds=hexamethyldisilazanid). A detailed quantum chemical study shows how the nature of Lewis‐acidic transition metal complexes—in particular, 12‐electron fragments—control and fine‐tune the resulting {Bi6} architectures in accordance with the degree of electron‐withdrawal from the polybismuthide core.