bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Short-Term Combined Effects of Thoracic Spine Thrust Manipulation and Cervical Spine Nonthrust Manipulation in Individuals With Mechanical Neck Pain: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Masaracchio Michael , Cleland Joshua , Hellman Madeleine , Hagins Marshall
Published: December 2012

Study Design

Randomized clinical trial.

Objective

To investigate the short-term effects of thoracic spine thrust manipulation combined with cervical spine nonthrust manipulation (experimental group) versus cervical spine nonthrust manipulation alone (comparison group) in individuals with mechanical neck pain.

Background

Research has demonstrated improved outcomes with both nonthrust manipulation directed at the cervical spine and thrust manipulation directed at the thoracic spine in patients with neck pain. Previous studies have not determined if thoracic spine thrust manipulation may increase benefits beyond those provided by cervical nonthrust manipulation alone.

Methods

Sixty-four participants with mechanical neck pain were randomized into 1 of 2 groups, an experimental or comparison group. Both groups received 2 treatment sessions of cervical spine nonthrust manipulation and a home exercise program consisting of active range-of-motion exercises, and the experimental group received additional thoracic spine thrust manipulations. Outcome measures were collected at baseline and at a 1-week follow-up, and included the numeric pain rating scale, the Neck Disability Index, and the global rating of change.

Results

Participants in the experimental group demonstrated significantly greater improvements (P<.001) on both the numeric pain rating scale and Neck Disability Index at the 1-week follow-up compared to those in the comparison group. In addition, 31 of 33 (94%) participants in the experimental group, compared to 11 of 31 participants (35%) in the comparison group, indicated a global rating of change score of +4 or higher at the 1-week follow-up, with an associated number needed to treat of 2.

Conclusion

Individuals with neck pain who received a combination of thoracic spine thrust manipulation and cervical spine nonthrust manipulation plus exercise demonstrated better overall short-term outcomes on the numeric pain rating scale, the Neck Disability Index, and the global rating of change.

Level of Evidence

Therapy, level 1b. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2013;43(3):118–127. Epub 7 December 2012. doi:10.2519/jospt.2013.4221
Cell longevity and sustained primary growth in palm stems
Authors: Tomlinson P. Barry , Huggett Brett A.
Published: December 2012

Longevity, or organismal life span, is determined largely by the period over which constituent cells can function metabolically. Plants, withmodularorganization (the ability continually to develop new organs and tissues) differ from animals, withunitaryorganization (a fixed body plan), and this difference is reflected in their respective life spans, potentially much longer in plants than animals. We draw attention to the observation that palm trees, as a group of monocotyledons without secondary growth comparable to that of lignophytes (plants with secondary growth from a bifacial cambium), retain by means of sustained primary growth living cells in their trunks throughout their organismal life span. Does this make palms the longest‐lived trees because they can grow as individuals for several centuries? No conventional lignophyte retains living metabolically active differentiated cell types in its trunk for this length of time, even though the tree as a whole can exist for millennia. Does this contrast also imply that the long‐lived cells in a palm trunk have exceptional properties, which allows this seeming immortality? We document the long‐life of many tall palm species and their inherent long‐lived stem cell properties, comparing such plants to conventional trees. We provide a summary of aspects of cell age and life span in animals and plants. Cell replacement is a feature of animal function, whereas conventional trees rely on active growth centers (meristems) to sustain organismal development. However, the long persistence of living cells in palm trunks is seen not as evidence for unique metabolic processes that sustain longevity, but is a consequence of unique constructional features. This conclusion suggests that the life span of plant cells is not necessarily genetically determined.
Distribution of bulbil‐ and seed‐producing plants of Poa alpina (Poaceae) and their growth and reproduction in common gardens suggest adaptation to different elevations
Authors: Steiner Bigna L. , Armbruster Georg F. J. , Scheepens J. F. , Stöcklin Jürg
Published: December 2012

• Premise of the study: The European Alps harbor a spatially heterogeneous environment. Plants can be adapted genetically to this heterogeneity but may also respond to it by phenotypic plasticity. We expected the important fodder grass Poa alpina to be adapted to elevation either genetically or plastically.

• Methods: We investigated in three elevational common gardens whether growth and reproductive allocation of plants reproducing either by seeds or bulbils suggest adaptation to their elevation of origin and to what extent they can respond plastically to different elevations. Additionally, we analyzed genetic diversity using microsatellites and tested whether seeds are of sexual origin.

• Key results: In the field, bulbil‐producing plants occurred more often at higher elevations, whereas seed‐producing plants occurred more often at lower elevations, but bulbil‐producing plants were generally less vigorous in the common gardens. The response of plants to elevational transplantation was highly plastic, and vigor was always best at the highest location. The small genetic differences were not clinally related to elevation of origin, underlining the importance of phenotypic plasticity. Reproductive allocation was, however, independent of elevational treatments. Seed‐producing plants had higher genetic diversity than the bulbil‐producing plants even though we found that seed‐producing plants were facultative apomicts mostly reproducing asexually.

• Conclusions: Bulbil‐producing P. alpina, showing a fitness cost at lower elevations compared with seed‐producing plants, seem better adapted to higher elevations. By means of its two reproductive modes and the capacity to adjust plastically, P. alpina is able to occupy a broad ecological niche across a large elevational range.
Plastome sequences of two New World bamboos—Arundinaria gigantea and Cryptochloa strictiflora (Poaceae)—extend phylogenomic understanding of Bambusoideae
Authors: Burke Sean V. , Grennan Colin P. , Duvall Melvin R.
Published: December 2012

• Premise of the study: Two New World species of Bambusoideae, Arundinaria gigantea and Crytpochloa strictiflora, were investigated in a phylogenomic context. Complete plastome sequences have been previously determined and analyzed for nine bambusoid species that exclusively represent Old World lineages. The addition of New World species provides more complete information on relationships within Bambusoideae.

• Methods: Plastomes from A. gigantea and C. strictiflora were sequenced using Sanger methods. Phylogenomic and divergence estimate analyses were conducted on both species with 23 other Poaceae.

• Key Results: Phylogenomic and divergence analyses suggested that A. gigantea diverged from within Arundinarieae between 1.94–3.92 mya and that C. strictiflora diverged as the sister to tropical woody species between 24.83 and 40.22 mya. These results are correlated with modern relative diversities in the two lineages.

• Conclusions: The two New World bamboos show unique plastome features accumulated and maintained in biogeographic isolation from Old World taxa. The overall evidence for A. gigantea is consistent with recent dispersal, and that for C. strictiflora is consistent with vicariance.
Pour une sociologie des situations révolutionnaires
Authors: Bennani-Chraïbi Mounia , Fillieule Olivier
Published: December 2012

Résumé Dans ce texte, nous défendons une approche réfutant tout causalisme et centrée sur les situations révolutionnaires. Une revue de la littérature sur les récentes « révoltes arabes » montre à quel point une telle orientation est rare. Nous proposons, à partir de là, de ne pas nous en tenir à la description des propriétés des situations révolutionnaires pour tenter de retracer les séquences d’action, définies comme des chaînes d’interaction complexes mais observables, conduisant ­ ou pas ­ à ces situations. À partir de la mise en regard d’un certain nombre de situations révolutionnaires dans la région, nous tentons d’identifier dans les événements qui y conduisent une série de processus relationnels et cognitifs. L’on peut ce faisant approcher les modes de transformation d’états propres aux situations révolutionnaires.
Can Cooperative Learning Maximize the Effectiveness of WebQuest Used in Learning?
Authors: Spian Robitah , Ismail Issham , Abu Ziden Azidah
Published: December 2012

The purpose of this study is to investigate whether cooperative learning can maximize the effectiveness of webQuest used as a medium in teaching and learning in Islamic education. The present study also examined the perception of students towards WebQuest and cooperative learning method. Muslim students were selected from a rural school in Penang, Malaysia. Quantitative and qualitative approaches were used in this study. The results showed that WebQuest used in teaching and learning in Islamic education had positive impact on studentsâ?? learning'. However, cooperative learning method did not influence the studentsâ?? learning outcome. Nevertheless, students were interested in the medium of instruction used. Integration of ICT in class lesson in Islamic subject enables the creation of interactive and fun learning among students. Therefore, the application of WebQuest in lessons is suitable and should be applied by all teachers in their learning activities to increase studentsâ?? interest and performance in Islamic education.
Special Needs at Different Educational Levels: A Forecast of 2020
Authors: Karagiannidis Charalampos , Kouroupetroglou Christos , Koumpis Adamantios
Published: December 2012

This paper reports on the results of the eAccessibility 2020 study which was funded by the European Commission to explore and analyse the relationships between the emerging ICT landscape in the societal and economic context, and the development and provision of assistive technologies and eAccessibility within a perspective of the next 10 years. The methodology of the study included both desk research and direct contact with relevant actors through 2011 and 2012. The results of the study are summarised for different educational levels (from primary-school to post-university) and are presented in terms of core issues, which are the most important developments in the area that will concentrate research and development efforts; roadmaps, which are most probable elements of a future research agenda in the area; and potential scenarios, which are indicative and not necessarily representative examples of use cases that may appear in the field.
An Experiment of Introducing ePortfolio to Evaluate Students in the Tunisian Context
Authors: Mhiri Sellami Hedia
Published: December 2012

We present an experiment of ePortfolio use as a tool to assess students in a module taught in a master degree class. Each student is required to deposit an abstract for each chapter in his own ePortfolio. A mark is given to each assignment and then the average of all these marks is considered for the success criteria. At the end of the semester, students are submitted a questionnaire in order to evaluate their appreciation of the ePortfolio use. The formal analysis of the questionnaire confirms our overall idea that most students appreciate the ePortfolio use. They also express their wishes to extend the ePortfolio to the other modules. The teacher's perspective for this experiment is also presented.
Teaching English Medical Writing in a Blended Setting
Authors: Arani Jafar Asgari
Published: December 2012

Medical writing activities which may have a context and seem to be engaging may be perceived as demotivating by the students of medicine. This opinion was confirmed by the learners' responses to the open-ended question given to them prior to this study. In their responses students evaluated the writing section of English course negatively. The negative views about the writing course posed a problem to the class teacher. The computer technology and the Internet can easily be integrated into language classroom if activities are designed carefully, and carried out systematically. These attempts brought about a new understanding to teaching and learning: blended learning (BL).

The purpose of this research was to investigate students of medicine attitude to blended writing classes. It was conducted with second year learners in the Faculty of Medicine at Kashan University of Medical Sciences. The first reflection aimed at finding out medical students' attitude toward blended writing lessons. Although learners' attitude to writing lessons was negative in the first reflections, they changed into positive in the latter ones. The findings indicated that blended writing class had changed students' perception of writing lessons positively. Therefore, this kind of classes may help students develop a positive attitude towards writing by providing meaningful writing opportunities. Like the student portfolio before it, the weblog faces challenges with practicality and security, but ultimately provides an alternative way to teach and assess authentic writing and reading skills. Blog Assisted Language Learning not only provides teachers with an exciting new way to approach communicative language learning, it also gives the students a new reason to enjoy writing! The paper concludes that Internet tools have the potential to be a transformational technology for teaching and learning writing, and teachers ought to give strong consideration to the setting up their facilities within their learning management system.
Ubuntunet Alliance: A Collaborative Research Platform for Sharing of Technological Tools for Eradication of Brain Drain
Authors: Mbale Jameson , Kadzamina Z. D. , Martin D. , Kyalo V.
Published: December 2012

The UbuntuNet Alliance Alliance is well-placed to facilitate interaction between education and research institutions and the African academic and researcher in the Diaspora so that together they can strengthen research that will exploit new technological tools and increase the industrial base. It is envisaged that the Alliance will become an important vehicle for linkages that will facilitate repatriation of scientific knowledge and skills to Africa and even help reduce and eventually eradicate the brain drain which has taken so many excellent intellectuals to the developed world. As organisational vehicles for inter-institutional collaboration both established and emerging NRENs can play a critical role in reversing these trends and in mitigating what appears to be the negative impact of the brain drain.
Effects of Deer Density and Land Use on Mass of White-Tailed Deer
Authors: Hefley Trevor J. , Hygnstrom Scott E. , Gilsdorf Jason M. , Clements Gregory M. , Clements Myndi J. , Tyre Andrew J. , Baasch David M. , VerCauteren Kurt C.
Published: December 2012

Local and regional land use changes, such as the expansion of cropland for cellulosic biofuels, and the population density of white-tailed deer can affect the health and body mass of white-tailed deer Odocoileus virginianus. We collected hunter-harvest data for 1,731 white-tailed deer from DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge in eastern Nebraska and western Iowa from 2003 to 2010. We used linear mixed-effects models and information theoretic methods to estimate effects of density of white-tailed deer and proportion of total landcover area converted from cropland to cool- or warm-season grassland on body mass of white-tailed deer. Density of white-tailed deer at DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge ranged from 36.5 to 50.6 deer/km2, and the proportion of landcover at DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge that remained cropland each year ranged from 14.9 to 23.2%. Body mass was inversely related to population density (−1.4 kg/5.5 deer/km2) and proportion of cropland (−1.3 kg/3.1% conversion of total land area from cropland to grassland). We used auxiliary harvest data collected at Boyer Chute National Wildlife Refuge to validate our models and found our models performed well. We estimate densities of white-tailed deer must be reduced by 1.7 (SE  =  0.6) deer/km2 for every 1% change in total landcover from cropland to grassland in order for white-tailed deer to maintain body mass. Our results indicate increased harvest of white-tailed deer, resulting in a reduction in population density, may offset negative effects that a decline in the amount of available cropland could have on the body mass and health of white-tailed deer.
Immune-Mediated Regression of Established B16F10 Melanoma by Intratumoral Injection of Attenuated Toxoplasma gondii Protects against Rechallenge
Authors: Baird Jason R. , Byrne Katelyn T. , Lizotte Patrick H. , Toraya-Brown Seiko , Scarlett Uciane K. , Alexander Matthew P. , Sheen Mee Rie , Fox Barbara A. , Bzik David J. , Bosenberg Marcus , Mullins David W. , Turk Mary Jo , Fiering Steven
Published: December 2012

Immune recognition of tumors can limit cancer development, but antitumor immune responses are often blocked by tumor-mediated immunosuppression. Because microbes or microbial constituents are powerful adjuvants to stimulate immune responses, we evaluated whether intratumoral administration of a highly immunogenic but attenuated parasite could induce rejection of an established poorly immunogenic tumor. We treated intradermal B16F10 murine melanoma by intratumoral injection of an attenuated strain of Toxoplasma gondii (cps) that cannot replicate in vivo and therefore is not infective. The cps treatment stimulated a strong CD8+ T cell–mediated antitumor immune response in vivo that regressed established primary melanoma. The cps monotherapy rapidly modified the tumor microenvironment, halting tumor growth, and subsequently, as tumor-reactive T cells expanded, the tumors disappeared and rarely returned. The treatment required live cps that could invade cells and also required CD8+ T cells and NK cells, but did not require CD4+ T cells. Furthermore, we demonstrate that IL-12, IFN-γ, and the CXCR3-stimulating cytokines are required for full treatment efficacy. The treatment developed systemic antitumor immune activity as well as antitumor immune memory and therefore might have an impact against human metastatic disease. The approach is not specific for either B16F10 or melanoma. Direct intratumoral injection of cps has efficacy against an inducible genetic melanoma model and transplantable lung and ovarian tumors, demonstrating potential for broad clinical use. The combination of efficacy, systemic antitumor immune response, and complete attenuation with no observed host toxicity demonstrates the potential value of this novel cancer therapy.
In Vivo Processing of CXCL5 (LIX) by Matrix Metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and MMP-9 Promotes Early Neutrophil Recruitment in IL-1β–Induced Peritonitis
Authors: Song Jian , Wu Chuan , Zhang Xueli , Sorokin Lydia M.
Published: December 2012

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) have been implicated in the cleavage of several proinflammatory chemokines, thereby modulating their function and having an impact on the inflammatory process. However, in vivo evidence of such a role remains limited. In this study, we use IL-1β–induced peritonitis as a model for an acute immune response, which is initiated by neutrophil influx followed by macrophage infiltration within a few hours of IL-1β injection into the peritoneal cavity. Using single and double knockout mice for MMP-2 and MMP-9, we show that MMP-2 and MMP-9 act synergistically mainly at the initial step of neutrophil recruitment into the peritoneal cavity. The use of bone marrow chimeric mice revealed the cellular sources of MMP-2 and MMP-9 to be distinct, with resident cells being the source of the former and infiltrating leukocytes the source of the latter. We show that the omentum is the main site of neutrophil entry into the peritoneal cavity, where MMP-2 and MMP-9 act synergistically to potentiate the action of CXCL5 (ENA-78/ LIX), thereby, promoting neutrophil migration into the peritoneal cavity. To our knowledge, this is the first in vivo demonstration of MMP-2 and MMP-9 processing of a chemokine that has been directly correlated with an enhanced chemoattracting function.
Internal hydraulic jumps in a long narrow lake
Authors: Dorostkar Abbas , Boegman Leon
Published: December 2012

High‐resolution three‐dimensional numerical modeling and field observations were used to describe the nonlinear response of Cayuga Lake to surface wind forcing. The degeneration of the basin‐scale internal wave field was characterized according to the composite Froude number (G2), Wedderburn number (WN), and Lake number (LN), which are measures of hydraulic control and bulk and integral wind disturbance force to the baroclinic restoring force, respectively. The typical Cayuga Lake response was a nonlinear surge when ∼ 1 < WN (or LN) < ∼ 2–12 and a surge with emergent nonlinear internal waves when WN or LN < ∼ 2, in agreement with published laboratory studies. An observed shock front was simulated to be an internal hydraulic jump, occurring at midbasin during strong winds when WN < 0.8. To our knowledge, this is the first simulation of a midbasin seiche‐induced hydraulic jump (supported by field data) due to supercritical conditions (G2 > 1) in a lake. The occurrence of the hydraulic jump was correctly predicted using scaling parameters. It was also shown that topographically induced internal hydraulic jumps form when the nonlinear surges interact with a sill‐contraction topographic feature. In contrast to published literature, the observed high‐frequency nonlinear internal waves were preferentially associated with internal jumps, as opposed to steepened internal surges. Computed vertical diffusivities showed mixing was enhanced by two orders of magnitude within both the surges and hydraulic jumps as they propagated through the basin and interacted with topography. Our results can be generalized to other lakes and fjords with similar long‐narrow geometry and topographically separate side basins.
Trait‐based models of nutrient uptake in microbes extend the Michaelis‐Menten framework
Authors: Fiksen Øyvind , Follows Michael J. , Aksnes Dag L.
Published: December 2012

In microbial competition theory, the Michaelis‐Menten (MM) half‐saturation coefficient is often considered to be a trait of an organism defining competitive strength in a trade‐off conflict with maximum uptake rate. Theoretical studies have shown that a quadratic model characterizes the uptake rate, and that this model can be approximated by a MM model. Here, we review recent developments in nutrient uptake modeling with particular emphasis on cell size, uptake sites, and molecular diffusion. We quantify the bias of the MM approximation to be up to 50% in some configurations. More importantly, we find no mechanistic foundation for a trade‐off conflict between the half‐saturation coefficient and the maximum specific uptake rate. Measured MM coefficients need to be interpreted in an extended framework where nutrient uptake is explicitly parameterized in terms of cell size, uptake sites, and molecular diffusion. This provides a richer and more mechanistic picture of the way in which uptake rate varies with traits of the organism and environmental variables. Estimates of these key traits can be obtained from measured properties like affinity, the MM half saturation coefficient, and the maximum uptake rate. Using recent estimates of allometric scaling of MM coefficients, we find that handling time, uptake site density, and specific affinity decrease with cell size. Unlike the half‐saturation coefficient, specific affinity is a consistent and meaningful measure of competitive strength of microbes, but it is not in a trade‐off conflict with maximum uptake rate if the cell is surrounded by a diffusive boundary layer.
On the roles of cell size and trophic strategy in North Atlantic diatom and dinoflagellate communities
Authors: Barton Andrew D. , Finkel Zoe V. , Ward Ben A. , Johns David G. , Follows Michael J.
Published: December 2012

We have examined the inter‐ and intra‐group seasonal succession of 113 diatom and dinoflagellate taxa, as surveyed by the Continuous Plankton Recorder (CPR) in the North Atlantic, by grouping taxa according to two key functional traits: cell size (µg C cell−1) and trophic strategy (photoautotrophy, mixotrophy, or heterotrophy). Mixotrophic dinoflagellates follow photoautotrophic diatoms but precede their obligate heterotrophic counterparts in the succession because of the relative advantages afforded by photosynthesizing when light and nutrients are available in spring. The mean cell size of the sampled diatoms is smallest in the summer, likely because of the higher specific nutrient affinity of smaller relative to larger cells. Contrastingly, we hypothesize that mixotrophy diminishes the size selection based on nutrient limitation and accounts for the lack of a seasonal size shift among surveyed dinoflagellates. Relatively small, heterotrophic dinoflagellates (µg C cell−1 < 10−3) peak after other, larger dinoflagellates, in part because of the increased abundance of their small prey during nutrient‐deplete summer months. The largest surveyed diatoms (µg C cell−1 > 10−2) bloom later than others, and we hypothesize that this may be because of their relatively slow maximum potential growth rates and high internal nutrient storage, as well as to the slower predation of these larger cells. The new trait database and analysis presented here helps translate the taxonomic information of the CPR survey into metrics that can be directly compared with trait‐based models.
Enhancement of nitrogen fixation rates by unicellular diazotrophs vs. Trichodesmium after a dust deposition event in the Canary Islands
Authors: Benavides Mar , Arístegui Javier , Agawin Nona S. R. , Cancio José López , Hernàndez-León Santiago
Published: December 2012

We studied the relationship between atmospheric dust deposition, N2 fixation rates, and the abundance of unicellular diazotrophs and Trichodesmium in weekly or biweekly samplings over 3 months in the Canary Islands. On average, N2 fixation rates by unicellular diazotrophs and Trichodesmium were low (0.2 nmol N L−1 h−1 and 1.66 × 10−3 nmol N L−1 h−1, respectively). However, N2 fixation rates associated with unicellular diazotrophs increased by 86% and 92% after a peak of aerosol concentration in samples incubated in both light and dark, while the rates associated with Trichodesmium diminished by 34% and 92% in the light and in the dark, respectively. The abundance of unicellular diazotrophs ranged from 4 cells L−1 to 54 cells L−1. After the input of aerosols, 66% of the unicellular diazotrophs observed were attached to putatively organic matter particles. Trichodesmium abundance was low (average of 0.5 trichomes L−1), mainly in the form of free trichomes, which might hinder the ability of these organisms to take advantage of the Fe dissolved in the water column after dust deposition events. We also highlight the importance of monitoring short‐term variability of N2 fixation in order to have a better understanding of the nitrogen cycle in the ocean.
Dielectric Resonator Antenna Mounted on Cylindrical Ground Plane for Handheld RFID Reader at 5.8 GHz
Authors: Malhat H. A. E. , Zainud-deen S. , El-Shalaby N. , Awadalla K.
Published: December 2012

Dielectric resonator antenna (DRA) mounted on cylindrical ground plane is investigated for handheld RFID reader applications at 5.8 GHz. The simplicity of the structure makes it practical in terms of cost, space, and ease of fabrication. The radiation characteristics of the antenna in free space and in the presence of a proposed compact reader device model and human hand are calculated. The antenna is circularly polarized and exhibits peak gain of 7.62 dB at 5.8 GHz with high front to back ratio of 15.5 dB. Using the same reader device model, a sequentially feeding 2×2 DRA array mounted on the same cylindrical ground plane is used for RFID reader antenna at 5.8 GHz. The array introduces high gain of 9.36 dB at 5.8 GHz with high front to back ratio of 10.48 dB. The 2×2 DRA array elements exhibit circular polarization over a frequency band of 1.1 GHz. The axial ratio is 1.1 dB at 5.8 GHz. The proposed reader model is simple and has a small size compared with that in the case of planar ground plane. The results are calculated using the finite element method (FEM) and compared with that calculated using the finite integral technique (FIT).
On The Study of Development of X Band Metamaterial Radar Absorber
Authors: Abdalla M. A. , Hu Z.
Published: December 2012

A new development of metamaterial applications in radar absorbers for X band is introduced. Two modifications were suggested based on two different approaches which are a new called fan shaped resonator absorber and a modified high impedance metamaterial absorber. Both approaches introduce thin radar absorber (5.3% at centre frequency) with wide bandwidth and high absorption level. The theoretical concepts of each design are explained and validated using full wave simulation. Results illustrate that the new development can achieve wider bandwidth, multiple operating bands; the increase in bandwidth is up to 8 times the conventional one. Moreover, the reported absorbers have capability to operate with different polarizations.
COVID-19 Vaccination in the First Trimester and Major Structural Birth Defects Among Live Births
Authors: Kharbanda Elyse O. , DeSilva Malini B. , Lipkind Heather S. , Romitti Paul A. , Zhu Jingyi , Vesco Kimberly K. , Boyce Thomas G. , Daley Matthew F. , Fuller Candace C. , Getahun Darios , Jackson Lisa A. , Williams Joshua T. B. , Zerbo Ousseny , Weintraub Eric S. , Vazquez-Benitez Gabriela
Published: July 2024

Importance

COVID-19 vaccination is recommended throughout pregnancy to prevent pregnancy complications and adverse birth outcomes associated with COVID-19 disease. To date, data on birth defects after first-trimester vaccination are limited.

Objective

To evaluate the associated risks for selected major structural birth defects among live-born infants after first-trimester receipt of a messenger RNA (mRNA) COVID-19 vaccine.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This was a retrospective cohort study of singleton pregnancies with estimated last menstrual period (LMP) between September 13, 2020, and April 3, 2021, and ending in live birth from March 5, 2021, to January 25, 2022. Included were data from 8 health systems in California, Oregon, Washington, Colorado, Minnesota, and Wisconsin in the Vaccine Safety Datalink.

Exposures

Receipt of 1 or 2 mRNA COVID-19 vaccine doses in the first trimester, as part of the primary series.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Selected major structural birth defects among live-born infants, identified from electronic health data using validated algorithms, with neural tube defects confirmed via medical record review.

Results

Among 42 156 eligible pregnancies (mean [SD] maternal age, 30.9 [5.0] years) 7632 (18.1%) received an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine in the first trimester. Of 34 524 pregnancies without a first-trimester COVID-19 vaccination, 2045 (5.9%) were vaccinated before pregnancy, 13 494 (39.1%) during the second or third trimester, and 18 985 (55.0%) were unvaccinated before or during pregnancy. Compared with pregnant people unvaccinated in the first trimester, those vaccinated in the first trimester were older (mean [SD] age, 32.3 [4.5] years vs 30.6 [5.1] years) and differed by LMP date. After applying stabilized inverse probability weighting, differences in baseline characteristics between vaccinated and unvaccinated pregnant persons in the first trimester were negligible (standardized mean difference <0.20). Selected major structural birth defects occurred in 113 infants (1.48%) after first-trimester mRNA COVID-19 vaccination and in 488 infants (1.41%) without first-trimester vaccine exposure; the adjusted prevalence ratio was 1.02 (95% CI, 0.78-1.33). In secondary analyses, with major structural birth defect outcomes grouped by organ system, no significant differences between infants vaccinated or unvaccinated in the first trimester were identified.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this multisite cohort study, among live-born infants, first-trimester mRNA COVID-19 vaccine exposure was not associated with an increased risk for selected major structural birth defects.
Effects of Heat Treatment and Processing Conditions on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of a Novel Ti–6.3Cu–2.2Fe–2.1Al Alloy
Authors: Klein Martin , Staufer Ella , Edtmaier Christian , Horky Jelena , Schmitz‐Niederau Martin , Zhang Duyao , Qiu Dong , Easton Mark , Klein Thomas
Published: July 2024

Adding transition alloying elements to achieve a columnar to equiaxed transition (CET) in Ti alloys gains attention in additive manufacturing (AM). AM, which may be categorized as an advanced solidification process, is commonly a near‐net‐shaped process. This thus does not allow traditional thermomechanical processing to reduce grain size, which drives research toward novel alloys able to establish a primary grain structure with equiaxed grains upon solidification. The Ti–Cu alloy system catches attention through inducing the CET, but so far, no focus is placed on its secondary, solid‐state, and phase transformations during the heat treatment, therefore, requiring modified heat‐treatment strategies to accommodate for the inability of mechanical preforming prior to heat treating and thus achieving desired mechanical properties. In this work, insights are provided on microstructural evolution and tensile properties of a novel Ti–6.3Cu–2.2Fe–2.1Al alloy gained in an extensive heat‐treatment study. In the results, a lamellar α+β Widmannstätten microstructure with Ti2Cu precipitation and other features including grain boundary α, precipitate‐free zones, and very fine secondary α precipitates are shown. Utilizing micrographs and fractographic imaging, the fracture mode is identified as quasi‐cleavage mode with preferential crack initiation at grain boundary α layers. Tensile tests on heat‐treated samples show high strengths with simultaneously limited ductility.
Homologous Tumor Targeting Molybdenum‐Doped Prussian Blue for Enhancing Immunotherapy via PTT/CDT and Remodeled Tumor Immune Microenvironment
Authors: Ma Shuaining , Li Dan , Jia Xiuna , Xu Weiguo , Ding Guanyu , He Juyang , Wang Jin
Published: July 2024

Immunotherapy offers a promising avenue for reducing tumor metastasis and recurrence but faces challenges from the tumor immunosuppressive microenvironment (TIME) and restricted antigen presentation. To address these challenges, this study have developed an innovative approach utilizing molybdenum (Mo)‐doped Prussian blue nanoparticles coated with a cancer cell membrane (CCM), referred to as PMo@CCM. This novel nanoplatform excels in performing photothermal therapy (PTT), while the Mo and Fe components effectively deplete glutathione (GSH) and generate reactive oxygen species (ROS), thereby significantly enhancing chemodynamic therapy (CDT) and remodeling the TIME. The synergistic PTT/CDT approach not only induces tumor immunogenic cell death (ICD) but also facilitates antigen presentation. The CCM coating further supplies antigens and prompts dendritic cell (DC) maturation. This comprehensive strategy markedly enhances the effectiveness of immunotherapy, as evidenced by a significant increase in T cell activation. Moreover, the use of programmed cell death protein 1 antibodies (anti PD‐1) effectively blocks the PD‐1 immune checkpoint pathway. RNA sequencing analysis has identified genes associated with the observed substantial reduction in tumor growth. In conclusion, the PMo@CCM nanoplatform enables homologously targeted tumor synergistic therapy, guided by photothermal and magnetic resonance imaging (PTI&MRI), significantly impeding the progression of both primary and metastatic tumors.
Hermetic, Hybrid Multilayer, Sub‐5µm‐Thick Encapsulations Prepared with Vapor‐Phase Infiltration of Metal Oxides in Conformal Polymers for Flexible Bioelectronics
Authors: Mariello Massimo , von Allmen Marion , Wu Kangling , Van Gompel Matthias , Lacour Stéphanie P. , Leterrier Yves
Published: July 2024

Reliable long‐term function is crucial for flexible and soft bioelectronics. Mechanical defects and permeation of water molecules across the various device layers are the prime drivers of failure, and particularly in applications requiring continuous contact with biofluids (i.e. for implantable applications). To address demanding needs of miniaturization, mechanical compliance and water impermeability, ultra‐thin high‐barrier encapsulations are a promising way to improve device reliability. In this work, the encapsulation properties of vapour phase infiltration (VPI) of inorganic Al2O3 layers deposited by atomic layer deposition (ALD), as bilayers with TiO2, onto polyimide and parylene C organic substrates are investigated. The layers are grown in a single reactor and the infiltration is performed in a single process, with a resulting nanometric infiltration depth. Mechanical integrity and hermeticity are characterized through tensile fragmentation tests and accelerated aging tests. Flexible Magnesium sensors monitor water vapor permeability in situ. A remarkable improvement in the crack onset strain (∽2.56 times), interfacial shear strength (∽2.1 times), water vapour transmission rate (∽5.2 times) and lifetime performance (∽7.1 times) is achieved, compared to the non‐infiltrated ALD coatings. Pluri‐infiltrated multilayers are proposed as alternatives to conventional coatings. This work is envisioned to accelerate research progress on hermetic packaging of flexible bioelectronics.
Creation, Control, and Modeling of NV Centers in Nanodiamonds
Authors: Aprà Pietro , Amine Nour Hanne , Britel Adam , Sturari Sofia , Varzi Veronica , Ziino Matteo , Mino Lorenzo , Olivero Paolo , Picollo Federico
Published: July 2024

Sensing based on Nitrogen‐Vacancy (NV) centers in nanodiamonds (NDs) represents a potentially groundbreaking technology with broad applications. Nevertheless, the optimization of their quantum‐optical properties is still a challenging issue. The present work aims at enhancing and controlling NV centers optical properties in NDs by combining their surface chemistry tuning and proton beam irradiation. Systematic thermal oxidations are carried out to study the evolution of surface chemical groups (IR spectroscopy), as well as their influence on optical properties (photoluminescence spectroscopy, PL decay measurements). Proton irradiation is performed by exploring a wide range of fluences (1014 – 1017 cm−2) in order to precisely control the amount of NV centers, thus defining the conditions that maximize their creation and emission intensity. In addition, NV centers charge state control is achieved by assessing NV−/NV0 ratio upon different surface termination tuning and NV centers amount. Finally, a novel predictive mathematical model is developed, allowing for the evaluation of the efficiencies of the formation of both NV− and NV0. Although the model is tested in the specific case study with proton irradiated NDs, it offers a broad applicability, thus representing a key landmark in the prediction of the outcome of ion‐beam‐based color centers generation in diamond.
Insight Understanding of External Pressure on Lithium Plating in Commercial Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Yu Hanqing , Wang Li , Zhang Zhiguo , Li Yiding , Yang Shichun , He Xiangming
Published: July 2024

Lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs), as efficient electrochemical energy storage devices, have been successfully commercialized. Lithium plating at anodes has been attracting increasing attention as batteries advance toward high energy density and large size, given its pivotal role in affecting the lifespan, safety, and fast‐charging performance of LIBs. Lithium plating mostly happens during fast charging or charging at low temperatures. However, external pressure is often overlooked as an essential factor that influences lithium plating in LIBs. This review analyzes and discusses the influence of external pressure on performance for commercial LIBs, with a particular focus on lithium plating. Recent advances in this topic, including experimental results and mechanism analyses, are reviewed. Lithium plating is explored by examining the influence of pressure on the internal morphology and electrochemical behavior of batteries. It is emphasized that external pressure affects performance through ion transport, electron transport, and their heterogeneities, thereby increasing the risk of lithium plating in batteries. Subsequently, the rationale for external pressure mitigating lithium plating is elucidated from the perspective of the morphology optimization inside LIBs. Overall, this review provides valuable insights into the role of external pressure on lithium plating in commercial LIBs, practically guiding their rational design and development.
3D Bionic Water Harvesting System for Efficient Fog Capturing and Transporting
Authors: Zhang Huayang , Chen Guopeng , Xie Shangzhen , Fu Ye , Tian Guangyi , Zheng Jianyong , Wang Biao , Guo Zhiguang
Published: July 2024

Fog harvest has emerged as a direct and efficient water harvesting technology to relieve the intense pressure of freshwater scarcity worldwide. With the vagaries of climate and increasing amount of energy consumption, high‐efficiency fog harvest devices focus on the fast water droplet capture and transportation are highly desired. In this study, a novel harp structure is developed using cross‐twisted copper filaments arranged in a spatial triangular pattern to enhance water droplet capture and transportation. Inspired by the natural differences in Laplace pressure observed in cactus and spider silks, this design accelerates the movement of water bridges. Besides, drawing on the fruit waxes on the surface of hogweed and blueberries, a paraffin wax coating is applied on the copper sheet frame to create a solid slip frame, improving the synergy between filament capture and frame transportation. The monolithic fog collector (MFC) thus achieves a significant increase in fog harvest efficiency and demonstrates excellent durability. Integration of the MFCs into a 3D high‐efficiency fog harvest system results in a harvest rate of 0.5027 g cm−2 min−1, showing promise for practical applications due to its durability, simplicity, and environmental friendliness.
Self‐Floating Polymer Microreactor for High‐Efficiency Synergistic CO2 Photoreduction and Antibiotic Degradation in One Photoredox Cycle
Authors: Wang Mengmeng , Zhang Yingxue , Dong Shihong , Li Najun , Xu Qingfeng , Li Hua , Lu Jianmei , Chen Dongyun
Published: July 2024

Constructing a novel photocatalyst to realize both pollutant oxidation and evolved CO2 reduction in one photoredox cycle can significantly reframe the role of pollutant management. Here, self‐floating poly(bismaleimide‐co‐divinylbenzene) porous microspheres (PBMs) are filled with ZnSnO3 quantum dots (ZSO QDs) to construct a polymer composite microreactor with an S‐scheme heterojunction (ZSO QDs/AP‐PBMs). This microreactor realizes efficient catalytic oxidation and degradation of antibiotic pollutants under light, and the CO2 generated in this process is reduced to high value‐added CO, allowing for the direct conversion of pollutants to a resource in one photoredox cycle. The high specific surface area of the PBMs enables the rapid and efficient adsorption of levofloxacin (LVX), and the self‐floating porous design effectively solves the problem of CO2 adsorption and mass transfer in the gas–liquid–solid three‐phase system, while the S‐scheme heterostructure enhances charge carrier separation. As a result, ZSO QDs/AP‐PBMs achieves complete degradation of LVX in one redox cycle with 100% selectivity to produce 100.3 µmol g−1 CO, and further draw a conclusion that fluoroquinones antibiotics as excellent electron donors can significantly enhance co‐catalytic effect with CO2, which is not previously reported. Theoretical calculations and characterization experiments provide information on S‐scheme heterojunction transfer mechanism and possible degradation pathways, allowing for the rational design of photoredox bifunctional catalysts.
Wet Tissue Interfacial Water Triggers Ultrafast In Situ Gelation of Sprayable Dry Powder for Postoperative Anti‐Adhesion
Authors: Wen Chaoyao , Gong Yihang , Chen Haoyan , Tian Yu , Yu Hui , Xin Xudan , Wang Le , Xiang Chuyang , Chen Yisheng , Xiao Tianhua , Ning Chengyun , Yang Xuebin , Zhou Lei , Tan Guoxin
Published: July 2024

Postoperative adhesions complicate the majority of surgical procedures, imposing an excess medical burden. The segregation of injured tissue from healthy tissue is considered the optimal therapeutic strategy. However, achieving hemostasis while preventing adhesions in the immediate postoperative setting continues to pose a significant challenge. This paper presents the in situ formation of an asymmetrically adhesive hydrogel barrier via a sprayable dry powder (SDP) that enables interfacial water‐induced, ultra‐rapid gelation. Owing to SDP hydrophilicity and the interstitial spaces between particles, it can rapidly and efficiently absorb interfacial water, thereby facilitating smooth cross‐linking between material functional groups and tissue functional groups. In addition, SDP becomes less adhesive after gelation as a layer of interfacial water forms on the surface of the SDP hydrogel, enhancing its anti‐adhesion properties. Animal experiment outcomes demonstrate that SDP exhibits significant asymmetric adhesive properties before and after gelation, successfully preventing postoperative adhesions. As a result, SDP heralds a novel approach to the development of adhesives that can simultaneously mitigate adhesions and promptly arrest bleeding.
UK5099 Inhibits the NLRP3 Inflammasome Independently of its Long‐Established Target Mitochondrial Pyruvate Carrier
Authors: Ran Linyu , Chen Miao , Ye Jihui , Zhang Song , Luo Zhibing , Bai Tengfei , Qian Chenchen , Zhou Quan , Shan Mengtian , Chu Yong , Herrmann Joerg , Li Qiang , Wang Feilong
Published: July 2024

Targeting NLRP3 inflammasome has been recognized as a promising therapeutic strategy for the treatment of numerous common diseases. UK5099, a long‐established inhibitor of mitochondrial pyruvate carrier (MPC), is previously found to inhibit macrophage inflammatory responses independent of MPC expression. However, the mechanisms by which UK5099 inhibit inflammatory responses remain unclear. Here, it is shown that UK5099 is a potent inhibitor of the NLRP3 inflammasome in both mouse and human primary macrophages. UK5099 selectively suppresses the activation of the NLRP3 but not the NLRC4 or AIM2 inflammasomes. Of note, UK5099 retains activities on NLRP3 in macrophages devoid of MPC expression, indicating this inhibitory effect is MPC‐independent. Mechanistically, UK5099 abrogates mitochondria‐NLRP3 interaction and in turn inhibits the assembly of the NLRP3 inflammasome. Further, a single dose of UK5099 persistently reduces IL‐1β production in an endotoxemia mouse model. Importantly, structure modification reveals that the inhibitory activities of UK5099 on NLRP3 are unrelated to the existence of the activated double bond within the UK5099 molecule. Thus, this study uncovers a previously unknown molecular target for UK5099, which not only offers a new candidate for the treatment of NLRP3‐driven diseases but also confounds its use as an MPC inhibitor in immunometabolism studies.