bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The inhibition of baicalein on pancreatic lipase investigated in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Peng Rui‐Yan , Hu Meng‐Yao , Xu Hai‐Xia , Wang Wen‐Jun , Yin Zhong‐Ping , Chen Ji‐Guang , Zhang Qing‐Feng
Published: December 2024

Background

Obesity is increasing seriously worldwide. Inhibiting pancreatic lipase (PL) is an important way to prevent obesity. Baicalein, a dietary flavone, shows various physiological activities and has anti‐obesity potential. Therefore, the inhibitory activity of baicalein on PL was investigated in present study.

Results

Baicalein exhibited a significant inhibitory effect on PL with IC50 value of 68 μg/mL. Inhibition kinetics indicated that baicalein was a mixed‐type inhibitor of PL. Fluorescence titration showed that baicalein could induce fluorescence quenching of PL. The binding constant (logKa) and number of binding sites were calculated as 5.40 and 1.11, respectively. In addition, synchronous fluorescence analysis revealed that the quenching ratio of baicalein to tryptophan was greater than that of tyrosine. Circular dichroism (CD) spectrum showed that the binding of baicalein affected the secondary structure of the enzyme protein. Through molecular docking analysis, it confirmed that baicalein could interact with amino acid residues in lipase, thus reducing the enzyme catalytic activity. In vivo studies showed that oral administration of baicalein with a does of 50 mg/kg bwt significantly reduced fat absorption and increased its fecal excretion in rats.

Conclusion

Baicalein showed inhibitory activity on PL in both in vitro and in vivo studies. It may be a safe and effective dietary supplement for obesity prevention.
Blood flow restriction training with cross education for quadriceps muscle recovery after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: A prospective, randomized, controlled, single‐blind clinical trial
Authors: Sevinc Ceyda , Gürler Volkan , Harput Gulcan , Ocguder Ali , Ergen F. Bilge , Tunay Volga Bayrakcı
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Recently, blood flow restriction (BFR) and cross education (CE) trainings are the options for quadriceps strength recovery after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of CE combined with BFR on quadriceps strength and thickness after ACLR.

Methods

Twenty‐four male patients [(Age: 24.9 ± 6.3 years, body mass index: 24 ± 2.3 kg/m2) who had undergone ACLR with hamstring autograft were included. At 4 weeks after surgery, the patients were randomly divided into two groups (Group‐1: CE + BFR, n = 13, Group‐2: CE, n = 11). All patients had standardized rehabilitation for their reconstructed limb until 12 weeks postsurgery, and they all received CE training for uninjured limb at isokinetic system (quadriceps eccentric contraction, 60°/s 3‐set 12‐rep, 2‐days in a week) during 8 weeks. Group 2 performed the same CE procedure with BFR. Quadriceps isometric strength was measured using an isokinetic dynamometer, while the thickness of quadriceps (rectus femoris, vastus lateralis, vastus medialis obliquus) and cross‐sectional area of rectus femoris were evaluated using ultrasound pretraining (4th‐week postsurgery) and posttraining (12th‐week postsurgery). Analysis of variance was used for statistical analysis.

Results

Group‐by‐time interaction and the group main effect were not significant for any measured variables in both limbs (p > 0.05). There was a significant main effect of time observed for quadriceps strength and thickness in involved and uninvolved limbs (p < 0.001, p < 0.05, respectively). In Group 1, the limb symmetry index for quadriceps strength increased from 49.3% to 71.7%, while in Group 2, it increased from 50.9% to 75.2%.

Conclusion

BFR training, adapted to CE eccentric strengthening, may not be effective for quadriceps muscle strength recovery after ACLR. Further investigations with varied training protocols are needed to research the impact of BFR on CE.

Level of Evidence

Level II randomized controlled trial.
Superior pain relief and quality of life with autografts using semitendinosus or patellar ligament compared to allografts in meniscal reconstruction: A 2‐year prospective comparative study
Authors: Ghandour Maher , Pareek Ayoosh , Onishi Shintaro , Jacquet Christophe , Argenson Jean Noel , Ollivier Mathieu
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study aims to compare the 2‐year clinical outcomes of meniscal reconstructions using allograft versus autograft tissue, with a focus on patient‐reported outcomes, complication rates and surgical revision rates.

Methods

This prospective comparative cohort study included 60 patients (ages 18–60 years) undergoing meniscal reconstruction. Patients were divided into an allograft group (n = 31) and an autograft group (n = 29; Hamstring tendon = 25 and patellar tendons = 4). Clinical outcomes were assessed using the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) score and EuroQol‐5D (EQ‐5D) score. Surgical revision rates, reoperation rates and complication rates were recorded. Time‐to‐reoperation was analyzed using Kaplan–Meier survival curves and a Cox hazards model was used to identify predictors of time‐to‐reoperation/revision (failure).

Results

At 2 years, the autograft group had higher KOOS pain scores (89.93 vs. 86.87, p = 0.002) and EQ‐5D scores (0.884 vs. 0.802, p = 0.002) compared to the allograft group. There were no differences in KOOS sports, symptoms, activities of daily living or UCLA scores between the groups. The allograft group had a higher complication (relative risk [RR] = 2.34, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.49–11.13, p = 0.266), reoperation (RR = 1.87, 95% CI: 0.51–6.80, p = 0.329) and revision surgery rates (RR = 2.81, 95% CI: 0.31–25.48, p = 0.334), although not statistically significant. Cox modelling identified autograft as a significant predictor of reduced reoperation risk (hazards ratio = 0.057, 95% CI: 0.004–0.036, p = 0.036), with higher preoperative KOOS pain and sports scores also associated with reduced reoperation risk.

Conclusion

These preliminary results show that meniscal reconstruction using autograft tissue is associated with better clinical outcomes in terms of pain relief and quality of life, as well as lower reoperation and complication rates, compared to allograft tissue. However, these observations need to be validated by well‐powered research.

Level of Evidence

Level III prospective.
Effects of Eucalypt Monoculture Plantations on Soil Invertebrate Communities: A Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Juan‐Ovejero Raquel , Bartz Marie Luise Carolina , Baretta Dilmar , Sousa José Paulo , Ferreira Verónica
Published: December 2024

Eucalypt monoculture plantations can adversely impact soil properties. However, a thorough assessment of their effects on soil invertebrate communities is lacking, impeding our ability to acquire a deeper understanding about the potential impacts of these intensively managed plantations on soil functioning. To quantify the effects of eucalypt plantations on soil invertebrate communities, and to identify the main moderators driving these effects, we performed a meta‐analysis of studies reporting the effects of eucalypt monoculture plantations in comparison with other land use types involving different potential levels of disturbance to the soil matrix (native forests, other forestry plantations, croplands, grasslands, integrated crop‐livestock‐forestry, and invasive copses). We addressed these effects on the density (26 studies contributing 143 comparisons) and diversity (14 studies contributing 168 comparisons) of soil invertebrates. Density was lower in eucalypt plantations than in other forestry plantations, but higher than in grasslands and integrated crop‐livestock‐forestry. Diversity was lower in eucalypt plantations compared to native forests, yet higher when compared with other forestry plantations. When compared with other forestry plantations, the effects of eucalypt plantations on soil invertebrates depended on the type of other forestry plantation, the mean annual temperature, and the annual precipitation. Accounting for the diverse effects of eucalypt plantations relative to other land uses and climatic factors, along with the integration of data on soil physico‐chemical properties and different management practices, can contribute to a better understanding of how changes in land cover impact soil invertebrates and help managers to make informed decisions about the establishment of eucalypt plantations.
Obesity is a risk factor for prolonged mechanical ventilation after tracheotomy
Authors: Tucker Jacqueline , Ruszkay Nicole , Sandifer Sara , King Tonya S. , Goyal Neerav , Goldenberg David , Gniady John P.
Published: December 2024

Objective

To compare patient outcomes across body mass index (BMI) subgroups in the setting of recent tracheotomy.

Methods

This retrospective chart review included patients over 18 years old who underwent tracheotomy placement between February 2017 and March 2020. Patients were divided into five groups based on BMI: underweight, normal weight, overweight, obese, and morbidly obese. Data were collected from the electronic medical record (EMR). Statistical analyses were completed via Kruskal–Wallis, Chi‐square, log‐rank tests, and Cox proportional hazards regression. If significant differences were found between groups, then subsequent pairwise comparisons of BMI were completed.

Results

There were 391 patients included in the study. There were significant differences in length of stay (p = .015) and duration of mechanical ventilation (p < .001) among the groups. This was mainly driven by comparisons between the normal weight and obese groups, with patients of normal weight having shorter hospital stays and shorter ventilation durations. With each increasing BMI category from normal weight, a greater proportion of patients were ventilator‐dependent at the time of discharge (p < .001). Interestingly, after adjustment for comorbidities, the rate of tracheotomy change was 0.86 times lower for every increase in BMI category (95% CI 0.77–0.96). There was a significant difference among the BMI groups with respect to time to tracheotomy collar placement according to both the log‐rank test (p < .001) and the Cox model with adjustment for the presence of heart failure (p = .011).

Conclusions

Among patients undergoing tracheotomy, obese and morbidly obese patients have increased lengths of hospital stays. Additionally, they are dependent on ventilators for longer and are more likely to be ventilator‐dependent at the time of discharge. It is important to understand how BMI impacts the hospital course for patients undergoing tracheotomy so that patients and their families can be better informed.

Level of Evidence

Level 3.
Designing Age: The Impact of Logo Color Lightness on Brand Age Perception and Brand Attitude
Authors: Zeng Shuaifan , Wu Shuilong , Yuan Yongna , Xu Xiaobing
Published: December 2024

Color is a crucial aspect for companies in brand logo design. This research examines how the lightness of brand logo colors influences consumers' perceptions of brand age and brand attitudes. Five experiments demonstrate that darker logos are associated with an older brand image, while lighter logos are perceived as younger. Additionally, the research shows that brand positioning (modern vs. traditional) moderates the effect of logo color lightness on brand attitude. Traditional brands benefit from a darker logo design that conveys a sense of age, while modern brands are better suited with a lighter design that appears younger. Moreover, this research extends existing findings to consumer product choices, revealing that consumers prefer classic‐style products with dark colors and modern‐style products with light colors. These insights have significant implications for brand logo design and product appearance selection. Companies can strategically adjust the color lightness of their logos and products to convey a younger or older impression, aligning with their desired brand and product characteristics.
Is the Swallow Tail Sign a Useful Imaging Biomarker in Clinical Neurology? A Systematic Review
Authors: Tseriotis Vasilis‐Spyridon , Eleftheriadou Kyriaki , Mavridis Theodoros , Konstantis Georgios , Falkenburger Bjoern , Arnaoutoglou Marianthi
Published: December 2024

Background

Loss of dorsolateral nigral hyperintensity (DNH) in iron‐sensitive sequences of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), also described as “swallow tail sign” (STS) loss, has shown promising diagnostic value in Parkinson's Disease (PD) and Atypical Parkinsonian Syndromes (APS).

Objective

To conduct a bibliometric analysis on substantia nigra MRI and a systematic review on the clinical utility of STS visual assessment on Susceptibility‐Weighted Imaging in various clinical entities.

Methods

VOSviewer's keyword co‐occurrence network was employed using Web of Science (WOS). Complying with the PRISMA statement, we searched MEDLINE, WOS, SCOPUS, ProQuest and Google Scholar for peer‐reviewed studies conducted in vivo, excluding quantitative imaging techniques.

Results

DNH is a relatively novel parameter in substantia nigra MRI literature. Our SWI‐focused review included 42 studies (3281 patients). Diagnostic accuracy of STS loss for PD/APS differentiation from controls and for Lewy Body Dementia differentiation from other dementias was 47.8–98.5% and 76–90%, respectively, with poorer capacity, however, in delineating PD from APS. STS evaluation in idiopathic REM sleep behavior disorder, a sign of prodromal PD, was typically concordant with nuclear scans, identifying subjects with high conversion risk. Iron deposition can affect STS in Multiple Sclerosis and STS loss in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis is linked with multisystem degeneration, with poorer prognosis. In healthy individuals iron‐induced microvessel changes are suspected for false positive results.

Conclusion

STS assessment exhibits potential in different settings, with a possibly intermediate role in the diagnostic work‐up of various conditions. Its clinical utility should be explored further, through standardized MRI protocols on larger cohorts.
Utility of Cerebrospinal Fluid Transferrin Receptor per Ferritin Ratio in Progressive Supranuclear Palsy
Authors: Akiyama Natsuki , Kanazawa Masato , Kasuga Kensaku , Hatakeyama Masahiro , Ikeuchi Takeshi , Onodera Osamu
Published: December 2024

Background

Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) is a major atypical parkinsonism. Because diagnosis based on the cardinal clinical features is often difficult, misdiagnosis with Parkinson's disease (PD) and multiple system atrophy (MSA) is common in PSP patients. Iron metabolism genes are reportedly involved in tau‐accumulating neuronal cell death and ferroptosis in PSP, which is more severe than PD and MSA. The validity of transferrin receptor (TfR) expression as a biomarker of ferroptosis was also demonstrated.

Objective

We investigated whether TfR and the TfR to ferritin ratio in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is a diagnostic biomarker of PSP.

Methods

This study included 2 independent retrospective CSF cohorts comprising patients, respectively, from Niigata University and a multicenter memory clinic, consisting of patients with PSP, PD, and MSA. All patients were classified as clinically probable or higher based on the Society of Movement Disorders Criteria. TfR and ferritin levels in the CSF were measured using Luminex assay.

Results

The levels of TfR in patients with PSP were higher than those in patients with PD and MSA in cohort 1 (PSP: N = 16, PD: N = 13, MSA: N = 20). The TfR to ferritin ratio in patients with PSP was significantly higher than that in patients with MSA. Subsequently, we validated these results in cohort 2 (PSP: N = 23, MSA: N = 6). The TfR to ferritin ratio was significantly higher in patients with PSP than in those with MSA.

Conclusions

The CSF TfR to transferrin ratio was elevated in patients with PSP. These results should be validated in a larger cohort of patients.
Analytical Modeling of Effluent Discharges Spreading by Tidal Oscillation Currents on a Sloping Beach
Authors: Al Kasbi Ahmed , Purnama Anton , Al Mashrafi Khaled
Published: December 2024

An analytical solution of the two‐dimensional advection–diffusion equation is introduced that models the spreading of effluent discharges into coastal waters affected by tidal oscillation currents on a sloping beach. It is assumed that the advection part may be expressed as a vector of fluid velocity with two components. The first component presents the longshore flow, in the direction, by a simple tidal oscillation model. The weaker second component, in the direction, reflects the cross‐shore depth‐variation velocity. By separating the variables, the equation in two dimensions is reduced to the product of two time‐dependent equations in one dimension that can be solved analytically. Some analysis and graphical plotting with discussion related to the product solution are given. Comparisons with an available analytical solution for a steady‐state case and numerical simulations are also addressed.
Correction method for ionization chamber dosimetry in flattening filter free radiotherapy based on Monte Carlo simulation
Authors: Zhang Guolong , Huang Ji , Wu Guoxin , Jin Sunjun , Wang Kun , Wu Hao , Zhang Hui , Yue Haizheng , Yang Ruijie , Wang Yujie , Wang Zhipeng , Qi Yaping
Published: December 2024

Background

The clinical use of flattening filter free (FFF) radiotherapy has significantly increased in recent years due to its effective enhancement of dose rates and reduction of scatter dose. A proposal has been made to adjust the incident electron angle of the accelerator to expand the application of FFF beams in areas such as large planning target volumes (PTVs). However, the inherent softening characteristics and non‐uniformity of lateral dose distribution in FFF beams inevitably lead to increased dosimetry errors, especially for ionization chambers widely used in clinical practice, which may result in serious accidents during FFF radiotherapy.

Purpose

This study constructs a comprehensive Monte Carlo model that encompasses not only conventional FFF beams but also incorporates FFF beams with varying incident electron angles, to investigate dosimetry errors and correction methods in FFF radiotherapy.

Methods

We have innovatively introduced a FFF output correction factor () to address dosimetry errors in various ionization chambers under different incident electron angle conditions in FFF beams. The primary variations in were analytically determined to result from changes in and the perturbation correction terms of the ionization chamber.

Results

Ionization chambers with smaller sensitive volumes typically exhibit reduced dosimetry errors. Our findings indicate that for ionization chambers with sensitive volumes ranging from 0.016  to 0.125 cm3, the dosimetry error under various FFF beam conditions consistently remains below 1.15%. This study provides crucial guidance for selecting appropriate ionization chambers in FFF radiotherapy.

Conclusion

A correlation was established between the absorbed dose to water in beams with a flattening filter (WFF) and those without (FFF), defined by the FFF output factor (). Using the proposed Monte Carlo model, the can be derived and applied to theoretically calculate the absorbed dose to water in FFF beams at varying incident electron angles, with a relative standard uncertainty of 0.2. This study provides a valuable reference for clinical dose measurements and crucial support for establishing dose calibration standards in FFF radiotherapy.
Psychological attributes and eating behaviors in 5‐ to 12‐year‐old children during periods of stress
Authors: Sena Cecilia , Della Torre Julia , Garg Eshita , Zheng Hao , Partida Ivette , Thaker Shaleen K. , Woo Baidal Jennifer , Shamsian Deborah V. , Rausch John C. , Thaker Vidhu V.
Published: December 2024

Objective

The objective of this study was to investigate the association between psychological attributes and obesogenic behaviors in children during the period of COVID‐19 pandemic‐induced stress.

Methods

This observational study collected data from caregivers of 5‐ to 12‐year‐old children from three diverse groups assessing sociodemographic, economic, and perceived stress, along with the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) and the Family Eating and Activity Habits Questionnaire, revised (FEAHQ‐R), in October 2020 and June 2021. The outcome measures were SDQ and FEAHQ‐R scores. The SDQ subscales were compared with US child norms. Linear mixed models were used to examine the association between the SDQ subscales and FEAHQ‐R domains, adjusting for socioeconomic covariates.

Results

A total of 361 families (496 children) completed the SDQ and FEAHQ‐R. The SDQ subscale scores were higher than those of age/gender norms (p = 0.006–<0.001). Eating style (p < 0.001) and food stimulus exposure scores (p = 0.005–0.01) were associated with the SDQ subscales, but not satiety response. Perceived stress was a significant covariate (p < 0.01). The baseline obesity status of the children was not statistically significant.

Conclusions

Psychological stress is associated with higher hedonic behavior in children. Food stimulus exposure and leisure access can be targeted for intervention during periods of prolonged stress.

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Mechanically robust and thermal stable polyurethane elastomers with self‐healing and recycling ability
Authors: Pan Tian , Yuan Li , Liang Guozheng , Gu Aijuan
Published: December 2024

A series of supramolecular interaction‐based polyurethane elastomers (SPUEs) were synthesized from the reactions of hexamethylene diisocyanate‐functionalized 2‐ureido‐4[1H]‐pyrimidinone (UPy) derivatives and polytetrahydrofuran (PTHF), followed by reactions with polyether amines. The tensile strength, elongation at break and toughness of the optimum SPUE system can reach 62 MPa, 693%, and 189 MJ·m−3, respectively. All SPUEs have much higher tensile strength and toughness than the reference materials while maintaining large elongation at break owing to the increased hydrogen (H)‐bonding sites and favorable crosslinked networks. SPUEs possess double glass transition temperatures and display good multi‐shape memory behaviors resulting from different soft and hard domains. SPUEs have nanophase‐separated structures, which endow them with excellent transparency within visible light wavelengths ranging from 500 to 800 nm. Owing to adequate H‐bonds, SPUEs exhibit stress relaxation, shape‐reconfigurability, and outstanding healing/recycling properties. The damaged SPUEs show high healing efficiency of 77–97% after heat treatment at 100°C for 12 h. The used SPUEs can be recycled multiple times by dissolving them in N, N‐dimethylformamide (DMF) at ~110°C for 20–30 min, and the third recycled SPUEs can have high mechanical strength retention rate of up to 100%.

Highlights

Elastomer was constructed through H‐bonds and favorable crosslinked networks.

The elastomer has high comprehensive mechanical properties.

The elastomer has extremely low and high glass transition temperatures.

The elastomer has a high self‐healing efficiency of ~97% after treatment at 100°C.

The elastomer can be recycled multiple times.
Implementation of the Oxygen Saturation Index as a Predictor of Outcome in Prenatally Diagnosed CDH Neonates in the First 24 Hours of Life
Authors: Hale Lennart , Leyens Judith , Bo Bartolomeo , Engel Clara , Berg Christoph , Schroeder Lukas , Mueller Andreas , Kipfmueller Florian
Published: December 2024

Aims

This study aimed to evaluate the Oxygen Saturation Index (OSI) as a noninvasive measure for early postnatal management and outcome prediction in neonates with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). Additionally, the study analyzed the correlation and predictive ability of OSI, Oxygenation Index (OI), Horovitz Index (HI), and partial pressure of arterial oxygen (PaO2) regarding mortality and the need for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO).

Methods

A retrospective, single‐center study using data from 2013 to 2020. Parameters for calculating indices were extracted from patient charts every hour during the first 24 h of life. Statistical analyses included ROC analysis for predictive cut‐off values and Spearman's rank for correlation assessments.

Results

The study included 138 neonates. Postductal OSI demonstrated high sensitivity (80%–85%) and negative predictive value (NPV) for predicting mortality and ECMO need, with cut‐off values between 11.5 and 13. Optimal cut‐off values for predicting ECMO need were 10 at 12 and 24 h (sensitivity 96.7%). OSI, OI, HI, and PaO2 showed comparable predictive capabilities with strong correlations. The lowest OI of 18 predicted mortality with a sensitivity of 75% and specificity of 90.9%. Strong correlations were found between the lowest PaO2 and lowest HI (0.963–0.974), and between highest OI and lowest PaO2 (−0.922 to −0.945).

Conclusion

OSI is a promising index for predicting outcomes in CDH neonates, showing strong correlation with indices like OI and HI. Despite limitations, OSI provides continuous, bedside monitoring without invasive blood sampling. Further prospective studies are needed to validate these findings and establish new cut‐off values.
Influence of Precursor Concentration on the Determination of AlInGaAs Solid‐State Compositions Grown by Metalorganic Vapor Phase Epitaxy
Authors: Kleijn Steven , Kapoor Akanksha , Zyskowski Marcin
Published: December 2024

The epitaxial growth of AlInGaAs alloys on InP allows the manufacture of semiconductor lasers that emit in the wavelength range between 1200 and 1600 nm in which the optical telecommunication bands lie. These alloys are particularly well suited for manufacturing lasers intended for operation at higher temperatures. A model relating the metalorganic vapor phase epitaxy (MOVPE) growth settings for AlInGaAs on InP to the resultant bandgap energy is presented, for strained and unstrained compositions, based on a new dataset measured on epitaxial layers grown in a novel planetary epitaxy reactor, using the 12x4 inch configuration. Elemental analysis (ICP‐OES) was employed to relate the growth settings to the solid‐state composition of the resulting alloy, to ensure our model takes meaningful input. It was found that the MOVPE growth settings and the solid‐state composition as determined by ICP‐OES only showed a one‐to‐one correspondence once the right set of vapor pressure coefficients for the precursors was chosen.
Herbal Approaches to Diabetes Management: Pharmacological Mechanisms and Omics‐Driven Discoveries
Authors: Roy Debajyoti , Ghosh Maitrayee , Rangra Naresh Kumar
Published: December 2024

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder marked by hyperglycemia, resistance to insulin, and impaired function of the pancreatic β‐cells; it advances into more serious complications like nephropathy, neuropathy, cardiovascular disease, and retinopathy; herbal medicine has indicated promise in not just mitigating the symptoms but also in managing the complications. This review would aim to evaluate the pharmacological aspect of the botanical therapies Anacardium occidentale, Allium sativum, Urtica dioica, and Cinnamomum zeylanicum, as well as their bioactive phytochemicals, quercetin, resveratrol, berberine, and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). In this review, we discuss their mechanisms for secreting the insulin sensitizers, carbohydrate‐hydrolyzing enzymes, reduction in oxidative stress and effectiveness against diabetic complications‐all through sensitivity to insulin. Great emphasis is laid on the integration of multi‐omics technologies such as genomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and transcriptomics in the discovery of bioactive compounds. The nature of the technologies can evaluate the intrinsic complexities of herbal pharmacology and even identify therapeutic candidates. Finally, the review refers to the meagre clinical trials on the efficiency of these compounds in the metabolism of humans. High‐quality future research, such as human large‐scale trials, would be emphasized; improvement in the clinical validity of a drug might come from improved study design, better selection of potentially usable biomarkers, and enhanced safety profiles to guarantee efficacy with lessened risks.
Analysis of prevailing atmospheric conditions during wildfire events in the Indian Himalayan region
Authors: Prabhakaran Anandu , Srivastava Piyush
Published: December 2024

Wildfire incidents have seen an exponential rise in the past few decades in India, particularly over the Indian Himalayan region, which has led to a huge loss of life and property. To mitigate and manage the impact of wildfires, a better understanding of key physical atmospheric processes conducive to the spread of wildfires is required. This study aims to analyze the atmospheric conditions associated with the propagation of wildfires in the Himalayan state of Uttarakhand (India). For this, wildfire burned‐area data from the Uttarakhand (India) State Forest Department, in‐situ precipitation information from the India Meteorological Department, India, and atmospheric variables (temperature, relative humidity, soil moisture) from the European Centre for Medium‐Range Weather Forecasts Reanalysis v5 and Global Land Data Assimilation System datasets over the years 2000–2022 have been critically analyzed to infer the cause of the unprecedented spread of wildfires in Uttarakhand. The analysis suggests that the strength of the El Niño Southern Oscillation and Indian Ocean Dipole phases along with the precipitation pattern in the pre‐fire season due to western disturbances are dominant factors associated with the spread of fires. Further, the bimodal distribution of the vapor pressure deficit, having a peak during the fire season and post‐monsoon period, indicates increased dryness of fuels and increased susceptibility of vegetation to wildfires. These findings could be utilized to mitigate and manage the impacts of wildfire in the vulnerable Himalayan state.
Stochastic thermodynamics for biological functions
Authors: Cao Yuansheng , Liang Shiling
Published: December 2024

Living systems operate within physical constraints imposed by nonequilibrium thermodynamics. This review explores recent advancements in applying these principles to understand the fundamental limits of biological functions. We introduce the framework of stochastic thermodynamics and its recent developments, followed by its application to various biological systems. We emphasize the interconnectedness of kinetics and energetics within this framework, focusing on how network topology, kinetics, and energetics influence functions in thermodynamically consistent models. We discuss examples in the areas of molecular machine, error correction, biological sensing, and collective behaviors. This review aims to bridge physics and biology by fostering a quantitative understanding of biological functions.
Eco‐Friendly Synthesis of Cobalt Oxide Nanoparticles Using Gum Arabic Polymer: Examining Their Photocatalytic Efficiency and Cytotoxicity
Authors: Mohandes Ali , Aghamaali Mahmoud Reza , Sabouri Zahra , Darroudi Majid
Published: December 2024

In this paper, cobalt oxide nanoparticles (Co3O4 nanoparticles) were fabricated via a sol–gel method utilizing gum arabic polymer as a nontoxic reducing agent. To explore the characterization of the Co3O4 nanoparticles, different analyses were conducted. XRD outcome emphasized that the particle size of Co3O4 nanoparticles was between 36 nm and 42 nm, while the FESEM images showed that the Co3O4 nanoparticles were agglomerated due to their small size and spherical shape. Following these suitable characterization outcomes, the photocatalytic activity of Co3O4 nanoparticles was done on organic dye methylene blue (MB) decolorization under UVA light, and the outcomes were indicative of 92% degradation after 140 min. Over and above that, the cytotoxicity effects of Co3O4 nanoparticles were examined against the noncancer cells (L929) and HepG2 cells via MTT assay, and the IC50 amount for cancer cells was around 475 µg/mL.
Glycerol Modulated Collagen Fibril Evolution and Lamellar Organization for Biomimetic Corneal Substitutes Construction
Authors: Wu Kai , Li Gaowei , Gao Jiaze , Tian Yuan , Wei Dan , Wu Chengheng , Ding Jie , Zhu Jing , Luo Hongrong , Sun Jing , Ramakrishna Seeram , Fan Hongsong
Published: December 2024

Collagen as the main structural component of the cornea exhibits unique and highly organized fibril lamellae, which contribute to the maintenance of corneal structure and transparency. Nevertheless, collagen assembly in vitro to create ideal artificial corneal substitutes with human cornea comparable thickness and optics is still limited. Here, glycerol as a regulator can reconcile collagen thickness, transparency, and permeability, a conflicting goal by current keratoprosthesis strategies. Structure analysis reveals that glycerol treatment induces collagen hydrogels to undergo a sequential three‐step multiscale structural evolution: weakened collagen crystallization at the molecular level, followed by ordered and distanced microfibril packaging at the nanoscale, and ultimately lamellar structure as well as fibril diameter and spacing‐dependent optics at a macroscopic level. Such ultrastructure is then stabilized by oxazolidine crosslinking to obtain a collagen‐based artificial corneal substitute (Col‐Gly‐OX) with optimal integration of optical clarity, mechanical robustness, high permeability, manufacturability, easy preservation and in vitro biocompatibility. Further in vivo study demonstrates that Col‐Gly‐OX displays excellent tissue integration, epithelialization, and stromal remodeling in a rabbit lamellar keratectomy. Overall, this work illustrates the potential of glycerol regulator to mediate the multiscale structural organization of collagen, providing a green, simple and effective strategy for the development of bionic artificial cornea.
New Layered Chalcogenide‐Type Metal Sulfide Materials with Improved Properties for Solar Fuel Production Applications
Authors: Silva‐Gaspar Beatriz , Gonell Francisco , Martinez‐Franco Raquel , Fécant Antoine , Díaz Urbano , Corma Avelino
Published: December 2024

Novel lamellar chalcogenide materials, named as ITQ‐75, are synthesized, focusing on the advancement and alteration of metal (tin and zinc) sulfide‐based microstructured materials. These are achieved via hydro(solvo)thermal processes in the presence of N‐heterocyclic aromatic structural directing agents. The comprehensive characterization of these materials included fine‐tuning their electronic structure through a metal doping strategy and enhancing their accessibility by modifying the synthesis gel composition. This modification involved altering the gel's viscosity or incorporating mesoporogen agents such as saccharide moieties. The most promisingly modified ITQ‐75‐type materials demonstrated optical band gap values of ≈2.0 eV, falling within the optimal range for efficient solar fuel production processes. Furthermore, the photocatalytic performance of these optimized lamellar chalcogenides is assessed using the water‐splitting reaction for hydrogen generation in the gas phase and without any sacrificial reagent. These new noble metal‐free materials are revealed to be among the most efficient to date (up to 7 µmolH2 h cm−2). The results confirm the potential of these materials as promising photocatalysts for solar fuel production applications.
Highly Dispersed Ag Nanocrystals Anchored on N‐Doped Holey Carbon Aerogel as High‐Mass‐Loading Electrode for Cl− Capture in Hybrid Capacitive Deionization
Authors: Kong Weiqing , Lu Xiaoyuan , Wang Yaobin , Tan Kaixin , Liu Chenmiao , Sun Jianpeng , Zhang Meng , Feng Yuanyuan
Published: December 2024

Nanostructured Faradaic materials show extraordinary promise for capacitive deionization (CDI) toward the relief of global freshwater scarcity. But at present, there exist at least two shortages for the development of CDI electrode materials. In laboratory studies, evaluating their desalination performance is usually based on low mass loadings (<1 mg cm−2), which is far behind the practical demand for fabricating high‐mass‐loading CDI electrodes or devices. On the other hand, high efficient, high active anode materials are rather scarce. Herein, highly dispersed Ag nanocrystals are synthesized on N‐doped holey carbon (Ag@NHC) for use as a high‐performance Cl−‐capture electrode at practical levels of mass loading. The Ag@NHC material is characteristic of ultrafine Ag nanocrystals with size of ≈7 nm anchored on carbon through Ag─N bonds, abundant 1–20 nm in‐plane pores in carbon sheets, and an ultrahigh specific surface area (1827.9 m2 g−1). This ensures Ag@NHC electrode (at 6.4 mg cm−2 mass loading) with excellent structural and property stabilities, >80% atom‐economic utilization of Ag, as well as superior Cl−‐capture performances. This work provides a general guideline on how to estimate the optimal mass loadings for constructing highly active CDI electrodes in the future.
Reconfiguration of Intrinsic Depletion‐Mode Characteristics of MoS2 Field‐Effect Transistors to High‐Performance Enhancement‐Mode Operation Using an Argon Plasma‐Induced p‐Type Doping Technique
Authors: Rai Anand Kumar , Shah Asif A. , Dar Aadil Bashir , Kumar Jeevesh , Shrivastava Mayank
Published: December 2024

The intrinsic n‐type behavior and unavailability of the appropriate p‐type doping method for MoS2 allows only n‐type conduction with depletion mode (D‐mode) characteristics and forbids the implementation of p‐type field‐effect transistors (FETs). The D‐mode characteristic results in a high off‐current (IOFF) at zero gate bias, which limits the usage of MoS2 FETs for industry‐scale (n‐channel metal‐oxide semiconductor) NMOS/(complementary metal‐oxide semiconductor) CMOS‐logic‐based applications due to significant power dissipation. Both these issues, i.e., i) missing technique for p‐type doping and ii) D‐mode operation are addressed here through the application of argon (Ar) plasma and subsequent O2 bath. Here, Ar plasma results in the physical removal of sulfur (S) atoms from the MoS2 surface, introducing sulfur vacancies, and the O2 bath results in the chemical bonding of O2 molecules with molybdenum (Mo) atoms at the introduced S vacancy sites. This leads to the formation of shallow acceptor states near the valance band (VB) of MoS2, resulting in p‐type doping and enhancement mode (E‐mode) characteristics of MoS2 FETs. Moreover, using Ar plasma results in the reduction of contact resistance (RC) of E‐mode MoS2 FETs and hence facilitates achieving high‐performance top‐gated E‐mode MoS2 FETs with IOFF (at zero gate bias) in tens of picoamperes and ION/IOFF in seven orders.
Smart Compositional Design of B‐Site Ordered Double Perovskite for Advanced Oxygen Catalysis at Ultra‐High Current Densities
Authors: Christy Maria , Kwon Jiseok , Subramanian Sathya Sheela , Choi Seunggun , Choi Junghyun , Kim Jung Ho , Paik Ungyu , Song Taeseup
Published: December 2024

Perovskite oxides have been considered promising oxygen catalysts for oxygen reduction and evolution reactions (ORR and OER), owing to structural and compositional flexibility, and tailorable properties. Ingenious B‐site ordered La1.5Sr0.5NiMn0.5Fe0.5O6 (LSNMF) double perovskite is strategically designed by simultaneously interposing Ni0.5Mn0.5 and Ni0.5Fe0.5 into B′ and B″ sites. Controlling B‐site cation systematically tailors the electronic structure of the B‐site cation with a d‐band center (Md) upshift close to the Fermi level, increasing the overlap of the Md center and O 2p center (OP). The strong interaction of Md and Op facilitates the adsorption of oxygen and activates the lattice oxygen to participate in the OER process, thereby enhancing the ORR and OER activity. For ORR, LSNMF exhibited an onset potential of 0.9 V along with a high limiting current of −8.05 mA cm−2. At the same time, for OER at 1 m KOH, LSNMF effectively reached a maximum current density of 3000 mA cm−2. Most importantly, the difference between EORR (at −1 mA cm−2) and EOER (at 10 mA cm−2), ΔE is 0.69 V, which stands among the best of recently reported perovskites. The as‐designed LSNMF is stable, efficient, lucrative, and a promising candidate for practical application.
Unlocking Innovation, Enabling Sustainability: A Policy Framework for System‐Wide Change
Authors: Ali Jamshed
Published: December 2024

This study aims to provide comprehensive guidelines for effective and sustainable system‐wide transformation in innovation policies by considering emerging challenges and trends. For effective survival and growth in advanced technological environment and fast‐changing market environment, changes and innovation are integral for organizational structure. Our suggested framework explores the key challenges facing to contemporary innovation systems; these challenges are experimentation, demand assessment, directionality, coordination and learning. This also study considers the generic features of innovation systems like actor's capabilities and interest, network and proper institutional set‐up. These three generic features can translate experimentation, demand articulation, directionality, coordination and learning to quantifiable and make them policy analysis oriented. Our proposed framework advocates that organization innovation policy should consider actor, network and institution‐focused models. Otherwise, the transformational change will be overly abstract, a non‐actionable policy agenda, and unable to provide a complete picture of challenges at the operational level.
Structural Metals after Exposure to High Temperatures: Residual Mechanical Properties and Predictions
Authors: Cai Yancheng , Ho Hung Wai , Li Shuxiang , Mensinger Martin
Published: December 2024

Most research works have focused on studying the postfire (after exposure to high temperatures) mechanical properties of either carbon steel, stainless steel, or aluminum alloy. There are few studies directly comparing the mechanical properties of these structural metals after exposure to high temperatures, and there is no universal predictive equation describing their postfire retention factors. Herein, mechanical properties of structural metals (i.e., carbon steel, stainless steel, and aluminum alloy) after exposure to high temperatures are experimentally investigated. The mechanical properties of these structural metals are compared and rigorously analyzed. Existing equations are assessed by comparing their predictions against the corresponding postfire retention factors of the coupon specimens. A unified equation for the postfire mechanical properties of structural metals is developed, proposing different sets of coefficients for various structural metals based on the new test data from this study and the existing literature. The unified equation generally provides a safe and convenient assessment method, enabling practical engineers to determine the mechanical properties of metal structures after exposure to high temperatures in terms of Young's modulus, 0.2% proof stress (yield strength), and ultimate strength.
A spatial–functional analysis methodology of ultra‐thin free‐form shells
Authors: Vazquez Vitória , Tomé Ana , Vizotto Isaías
Published: December 2024

As part of the “Pre‐Shell—Prefabricated Ultra‐Thin Concrete Shells” research project, this study questions the architectural dimensions and functional potential of an ultra‐thin shell structure, by applying space syntax methodology to assess its spatial–functional performance in a real‐context case study, the Fátima Sanctuary precinct. Through space‐functional analysis models, it was analyzed how the shell impacts the visual fields of the location, and consequently, the spatial movements of users. Specific space syntax models were applied for particular analysis objectives. Visibility graph analysis identified the more integrated and more segregated areas of the precinct, in visual terms; isovist fields provided insights into the visual fields in specific key points of the precinct; and axial maps identified the most accessible axes, in visual and physical terms, determine user movement patterns. This approach validated optimal layouts, contributing to enhanced performance in future deployments of similar structures.
Adaptation of antibiotics and antifungal strategy to preoperative biliary drainage to improve postoperative outcomes after pancreatic head resection
Authors: Giannone Fabio , Lagarrigue Charles , Ligurgo Oronzo , Jazaerli Lina , Mertes Paul Michel , Collange Olivier , Pessaux Patrick
Published: December 2024

Background

Biliary contamination significantly correlates with major comorbidities during pancreatic head resection. Recently, a piperacillin‐tazobactam prophylaxis demonstrated a lower rate of infectious complications (IC) and postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) in this population. However, bacterial contamination is rare in patients without a preoperative biliary drainage (PBD) and probably could not benefit from this antibiotic. Furthermore, little is known about the role of biliary fungal contamination.

Method

All retrospective cases undergoing pancreatic head resection with intraoperative biliary sample were included. Postoperative outcomes of patients with a piperacillin‐tazobactam‐based treatment were compared to cases in which a narrow‐spectrum antibiotic was administrated, stratified according to the use of a PBD. The same analysis was repeated for antifungal treatment administration.

Results

Among the 205 cases included, PBD was necessary in 127 patients (62%). Broad‐spectrum treatment was associated with fewer overall and clinically relevant POPF (p = 0.001 and p = 0.004), overall morbidity (p = 0.044), and overall IC (p = 0.018), but only in the PBD group. Similarly, antifungal treatment was significantly associated with some specific IC only in the PBD group. At multivariable analysis, antifungal therapy in the whole cohort (p = 0.029) and the use of a piperacillin‐tazobactam (p = 0.007) treatment in patients with a PBD were independently associated with a reduced risk of a clinically relevant POPF.

Conclusions

A broad‐spectrum antibiotic therapy reduces overall morbidity after pancreatic head resection, but only in cases with a history of PBD. Furthermore, the use of an antifungal prophylaxis or therapy should be further investigated in these patients because it may reduce the risk of some IC.
Artificial Intellience, Digital Transformation, and Education, as a Combined Contribution to Society
Authors: Burgos Daniel , Branch John Willian , Tlili Ahmed , Stracke Christian M. , de la Higuera Colin
Published: December 2024

This book combines technology and humanism, applied to education. It focuses on digital transformation, artificial intelligence and the intangible components that link the two, such as ethics and learning, in a transversal and, at the same time, sufficiently specific way, through use cases and concrete application examples. We should not forget that technological progress, however exponential it may be, it is still a support to human development, as a collective and as individuals. If it does not serve its purpose, as much as shining that it might look, it will be useless by nature. Through a large dozen of chapters from the five continents, this edition provides a multicultural, polyhedric vision with a diversity of topics that revolve around the main concerns mentioned above. We hope that reading the book will provide some recommendations or, at least, reflections on these very current matters, which will continue to be relevant in the years to come.