bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ruthenium Pincer Nitrosyl Complex Salts in Catalytic Transfer Hydrogenations Under Mild Conditions
Authors: Correia José Tiago M. , Pinheiro Danielle L. J. , Jørgensen Mike S. B. , Larsen René W. , Nielsen Martin
Published: January 2025

The nitrosyl ligand exhibits interesting features for catalysis, such as strong π‐acidity and potential noninnocent behavior. Pincer complexes are the extraordinarily stable yet tunable and often catalytically highly active. However, even though pincer nitrosyl complexes could open new possibilities within, they have been scarcely explored within catalysis. In this study, we have described the synthesis of a novel family of ruthenium PNP nitrosyl complex salts ([RuPNP(Cl)2NO]X) and their use for catalytic transfer hydrogenation. For the transfer hydrogenation of ketones, all catalysts (Ru‐1 to Ru‐4) are highly active at 90 °C, reaching up to full conversion already within 5 min. At 35 °C, Ru‐1 (X = Cl) and Ru‐2 (X = BF4) were more efficient than Ru‐3 (X = BPh4) and Ru‐4 (X = PF6). Interestingly, for the transfer hydrogenation of aldehydes, higher temperatures and longer reaction times were required. Thus, Ru‐1 and Ru‐3 performed better with the aldehydes, leading to full conversion after 7 h at 70 °C. Overall, a large substrate scope is presented for the first time with a pincer nitrosyl catalyst. Lastly, competition studies revealed that the hydrogenation of a ketone is suppressed by the presence of an aldehyde. The data indicates two different mechanisms for aldehyde and ketone transfer hydrogenation.
Nature‐inspired 3D hierarchical carbon nanotube matrices enable extraordinary solar steam generation
Authors: Dong Chuanshuai , Chen Lei , Lin Weiquan , Li Zipai , Wei Linjie , Peng Chaohua , Liu Huan , Qi Ronghui , Lu Lin , Zhang Lizhi
Published: January 2025

Interfacial solar evaporation, which captures solar energy and localizes the absorbed heat for water evaporation, is considered a promising technology for seawater desalination and solar energy conversion. However, it is currently limited by its low photothermal conversion efficiency, salt accumulation, and poor reliability. Herein, inspired by human intestinal villi structure, we design and fabricate a novel intestinal villi‐like nitrogen‐doped carbon nanotubes solar steam generator (N‐CNTs SSG) consisting of three‐dimensional (3D) hierarchical carbon nanotube matrices for ultrahigh solar evaporation efficiency. The 3D matrices with radial direction nitrogen‐doped carbon nanotube clusters achieve ultrahigh surface area, photothermal efficiency, and hydrophilicity, which significantly intensifies the whole interfacial solar evaporation process. The new solar evaporation efficiency reaches as high as 96.8%. Furthermore, our ab initio molecular dynamics simulation reveals that N‐doped carbon nanotubes exhibit a greater number of electronic states in close proximity to the Fermi level when compared to pristine carbon nanotubes. The outstanding absorptivity in the full solar spectrum and high solar altitude angles of the 3D hierarchical carbon nanotube matrices offer great potential to enable ultrahigh photothermal conversion under all‐day and all‐season circumstances.
Effect of sodium dodecylbenzene sulphonate additive on the electrochemical performance of aqueous zinc ion batteries
Authors: Huang Ying , Chen Na , Lv Yuan
Published: January 2025

Aqueous zinc ion batteries have shown great potential for large‐scale energy storage systems and have attracted widespread market interest. However, side reactions such as passivation of zinc anode hinder its further development towards practical applications. In this paper, sodium dodecylbenzene sulphonate (SDBS) was used as an aqueous electrolyte additive to improve the cycling performance. The experimental results show that SDBS can form a stable protective film on the electrode surface, inhibit the formation and growth of zinc dendrites, and reduce the side reactions of the electrolyte, thus improving the electrochemical performance of the battery. The application of SDBS as an electrolyte additive in Na3V2(PO4)3/Zn (NVP/Zn) full batteries significantly improves the cycling performance and the Coulombic efficiency of the batteries, inhibits the occurrence of the side reactions, and slows down the decay of the reversible specific capacity. The NVP/Zn full cell with the addition of SDBS achieved 81% capacity retention after 100 cycles at 0.5C magnification, and the cell polarization was significantly reduced. This work provides a simple and feasible method for aqueous zinc ion batteries to reduce polarization and increase the diffusion rate of Zn2+.
Green Light Activated Dual‐Action Pt(IV) Prodrug with Enhanced PDT Activity
Authors: Spector Daniil , Bykusov Vladislav , Isaeva Yulia , Akasov Roman , Zharova Anastasia , Rodin Igor , Vokuev Mikhail , Grishin Yuri , Nikitina Vita , Martynov Alexander , Kuzmin Vladimir , Beloglazkina Elena , Krasnovskaya Olga
Published: January 2025

Light induced release of cisplatin from Pt(IV) prodrugs is a promising tool for precise spatiotemporal control over the antiproliferative activity of Pt‐based chemotherapeutic drugs. A combination of light‐controlled chemotherapy (PACT) and photodynamic therapy (PDT) in one molecule has the potential to overcome crucial drawbacks of both Pt‐based chemotherapy and PDT via a synergetic effect. Herein we report green‐light‐activated Pt(IV) prodrug GreenPt with BODIPY‐based photosentitizer in the axial position with an incredible high light response and singlet oxygen generation ability. GreenPt demonstrated the ability to release cisplatin under low‐dose green light irradiation up to 1 J/cm2. The investigation of the photoreduction mechanism of GreenPt prodrug using DFT modeling and ΔG0 PET estimation revealed that the anion‐radical formation and substituent photoinduced electron transfer from the triplet excited state of the BODIPY axial ligand to the Pt(IV) center is the key step in the light‐induced release of cisplatin. Green‐light‐activated BODIPY‐based photosentitizers 5 and 8 demonstrated outstanding photosensitizing properties with an extraordinary phototoxicity index (PI)>1300. GreenPt prodrug demonstrated gradual intracellular accumulation and light‐induced phototoxicity with PI>100, thus demonstrating dual action through light‐controlled release of both cisplatin and a potent BODIPY‐based photosensitizer.
Population Pharmacokinetic Modeling of Certepetide in Human Subjects With Metastatic Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Winning Alex , Sietsema William K. , Buck Kristen K. , Linsmeier Abigail , Wiczling Pawel
Published: January 2025

Certepetide (aka LSTA1 and CEND‐1) is a novel cyclic tumor‐targeting internalizing arginyl glycylaspartic acid peptide being developed to treat solid tumors. Certepetide is designed to overcome existing challenges in treating solid tumors by delivering co‐administered anticancer drugs into the tumor while selectively depleting immunosuppressive T cells, enhancing cytotoxic T cells in the tumor microenvironment, and inhibiting the metastatic cascade. A population pharmacokinetic (PK) analysis was conducted to characterize the concentration‐time profile of patients with metastatic exocrine pancreatic cancer receiving certepetide in combination with nab‐paclitaxel and gemcitabine, and to investigate the effects of clinically relevant covariates on PK parameters. The PK of certepetide was characterized by a 2‐compartment model with linear elimination and a proportional residual error structure. Body weight and baseline creatinine clearance (CrCL) were found to have statistically significant effects on central and peripheral volume (Vc and Vp) and clearance (CL) parameters, respectively, during model development and were included as covariate effects in the final PK model. Forest plots demonstrated a potentially clinically meaningful impact of high body weight (100 kg) on certepetide exposure (steady‐state maximum concentration [Cmax,ss] and area under the concentration‐time curve [AUCss]), as well as low and high CrCL (50 and 150 mL/min) on AUCss. Exposure predictions illustrated a relationship between certepetide exposure (AUCss) and renal function, with increasing exposure and decreasing CL of certepetide observed with worsening renal function. Modeling will strengthen the understanding of certepetide's PKs and will inform dose optimization in ongoing drug development activities.
How Amino Acids Intercalate in CaFe Layered Double Hydroxides: A Combined RIXS and NEXAFS Study
Authors: Büchner R. , Born A. , Ruotsalainen K. , Decker R. , Pietzsch A.
Published: January 2025

Two‐dimensional layered double hydroxides (LDHs) are ideal candidates for a large number of (bio)catalytic applications due to their flexible composition and easy to tailor properties. Functionality can be achieved by intercalation of amino acids (as the basic units of peptides and proteins). To gain insight on the functionality, we apply resonant inelastic soft x‐ray scattering and near edge x‐ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy to CaFe LDH in its pristine form as well as intercalated with the amino acids proline and cysteine to probe the electronic structure and its changes upon intercalation. We observe the activation of pristine LDH defect states by soft x‐rays and their passivation by the intercalated molecules. The nitrogen at the amino amino is found to form C=NH+ bonds and thus generating positive charge at the amino group, moving it away from the positively charged LDH layers. The carboxyl group in cysteine is deprotonated and thus in zwitterionic state after intercalation. This negative charge is used to compensate the positive layer charge. For intercalated proline the spectral signature of a protonated carboxyl group is observed, however, we find orbital overlap to defects at the layer surfaces indicating strong interaction with the carboxyl groups.
Oxygen Atom Replacement in Coumarins: A Strategy to Tune Spectral Properties
Authors: Schniererová Karin , Orság Jakub , Putala Martin , Stankovičová Henrieta
Published: January 2025

Coumarins are highly polarized fluorophores with indispensable use in various applications, such as bioimaging, sensing, and optoelectronics, due to their inherent merits of tunable photophysical properties. Despite their established utility, ongoing research aims to further enhance and diversify their emission characteristics. Recent studies have demonstrated that strategic modifications, such as element replacement within the coumarin core, can significantly alter key attributes like absorption, emission, and quantum yields, all while preserving the fundamental benefits of their skeletal framework. This concept article highlights the latest progress in heteroatom substitution, including oxygen‐to‐nitrogen, silicon, sulfur, and carbon replacements, showcasing their impact on spectral tuning and their potential for the design of next‐generation fluorophores.
Comparative analysis of Polyethylene‐Degrading Laccases: Redox Properties and Enzyme‐Polyethylene Interaction Mechanism.
Authors: Orlando Carla , Bellei Marzia , Zampolli Jessica , Mangiagalli Marco , Di Gennaro Patrizia , Lotti Marina , De Gioia Luca , Marino Tiziana , Di Rocco Giulia , Greco Claudio , Arrigoni Federica , Bertini Luca
Published: January 2025

Laccases that oxidize low‐density polyethylene (LDPE) represent a promising strategy for bioremediation purposes. To rationalize or optimize their PE‐oxidative activity, two fundamental factors must be considered: the enzyme‘s redox potential and its binding affinity/mode towards LDPE. Indeed, a stable laccase‐PE complex may facilitate a thermodynamically unfavorable electron transfer, even without redox mediators. In this study, we compared the redox potential and the LDPE‐binding properties of three different PE‐oxidizing laccases: a fungal high‐redox potential laccase from Trametes versicolor, a bacterial low‐redox potential laccase from Bacillus subtilis, and the recently characterized LMCO2 from Rhodococcus opacus R7. First we found that LMCO2 is a low‐potential laccase (E°=413 mV), as reported in other bacterial variants. Using computational tools, we simulated the interactions of these laccases with a large LDPE model and highlighted the key role of hydrophobic residues surrounding the T1 site. Notably, a methionine‐rich loop in LMCO2 appears to enhance the formation of a stable complex with LDPE, potentially facilitating electron transfer. This study underscores the necessity for comprehensive computational strategies to analyze enzyme‐polymer interactions beyond simplistic models, uncovering critical binding determinants and informing future mutagenesis experiments, in order to enhance laccase performance and rationalize variations in enzymatic activity.
Genetic Diversity on Farm in Japanese Paper Mulberry
Authors: Lam Dinh Thi , Tanaka Katsunori , Takashima Akihiko , Shibutani Ayako , Ishikawa Ryuji
Published: January 2025

Paper mulberry is a fiber resource for paper making. Washi, a traditional paper in Japan, has been produced from Broussonetia × kazinoki, a hybrid between B. monoica and B. papyrifera. Elite strains have been vegetatively propagated and distributed within Japan. In this study, these three strains' complete chloroplast (cp) genomes were reconstructed as pseudomolecules consisting of 160,861, 160,868, and 160,878 bp, respectively. They were compared with other database strains to detect insertion/deletion (INDEL) polymorphisms. In total, 25 INDELs were identified in these cp genomes. ISSR‐based MIG‐seq polymorphisms were applied to determine whether varieties or regional groups can be discriminated. Although various types of cultivars exhibiting different appearances are hard to discriminate, principal component analysis (PCA) distinguished two major groups. Maternal lineages reflecting the diverse origins of Japanese paper mulberry were determined using hypervariable maternal markers. An NGS‐oriented nuclear marker system revealed the heterogeneous nature of domesticated paper mulberry, reflecting the complex origins of Japanese B. × kazinoki.
Size Influences on the Survival of Willow Cuttings Under Operational Field Conditions
Authors: Pollock Alan , Grant Kyle R. , Schoonmaker Amanda
Published: January 2025

Willows (genus Salix) are increasingly used in operational‐scale ecosystem reclamation; however, different opinions exist regarding the optimal cutting size for planting under field conditions. We compared the survival of field‐planted willow cuttings sourced from upland and lowland areas with varying diameters and lengths across two growing seasons. Cuttings were grouped into 15 size classes with different diameters (0.5, 1.0, 2.0, and 3.0 cm) and lengths (15, 30, 50, and 100 cm) and planted in groups according to their source (upland or lowland, each area potentially reflecting a different assemblage of species) within three reclaimed industrial borrow pits east of Peace River, Alberta. We considered cuttings that displayed leaf flushing as surviving individuals. Survival probability tended to be greater for larger diameter and length cuttings sourced from lowland habitats. Cutting survival was greatly reduced in year two, especially for upland‐sourced cuttings. The greater survival in larger sizes we observed may be due to greater total carbohydrates available for leaf flushing and rooting. As we did not control for species composition, the higher survival of cuttings from low‐lying areas may result from species‐specific differences among cutting sources, reflected by compositional differences we detected among surviving individuals in year two. Our findings suggest that under field settings, cuttings with > 2.0 cm diameter by 50–100 cm length sourced from low‐lying flood‐prone areas may be optimal for willow establishment. Further studies should examine the role of species and population‐level genetics in driving the upland versus lowland differences in observed willow‐cutting survival.
Synthesis of Mn‐P‐Na Based Nanocrystallite Composites and Investigation of Their Thermal Behavior Towards Heat Storage and Dissipation Applications
Authors: Aravind Rudrarapu , Sahu Akash Kumar , Pavuluri Naga Lakshmi , Brahma Gouri Sankhar , Deshmukh Sandip S.
Published: January 2025

In this study, we report the synthesis, characterization, and thermal behavior of sodium hydroxide based two manganese‐phosphate nanocrystallite composites, MnPNa1 = Mn2(PO4)OH. 0.2H3PO4. 0.1NaOH.H2O (calcined) and MnPNa2 = Mn2(PO4)OH. 2H2O. 0.8H3PO4. 0.1NaOH. H2O (non‐calcined), and the molecular weights of the composites are estimated to be 247.40 and 360.20 g/mol, respectively. Comprehensive characterization was carried out, which includes elemental analysis, X‐ray powder diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, derivative thermogravimetry, Fourier Transform Infrared (FT‐IR) Spectrometry, and scanning electron microscopy. Confirmation of the different functional groups within the composites was done through FT‐IR analysis. Differential scanning calorimetry analyses revealed distinct thermal behaviors: MnPNa1 exhibited consistent exothermic properties, making it suitable as a heat dissipation material (HDM) with high stability across a broad temperature range. In contrast, MnPNa2 displayed a high specific heat capacity (Cp) of 1.23 J/g·K, highlighting its potential as a sensible heat storage material. The crystallinity of MnPNa1 (89.83%) further supports its stability and application in heat dissipation technologies, while MnPNa2's smaller crystallite size enhances its surface interactions for efficient heat storage. The crystallite sizes of MnPNa1 and MnPNa2 are found to be 25.5 and 18.8 nm, respectively.
Direct Numerical Simulation and Implicit Large‐Eddy Simulation of Shock Train in Channel Flow Using High Order Optimised Targeted Essentially Non‐Oscillatory Schemes
Authors: Roy Agneev , Kumar Sandeep , Ghosh Somnath
Published: January 2025

Direct numerical simulation (DNS) and implicit large‐eddy simulation (LES) of turbulent channel flows with isothermal walls, with and without shock trains, are performed using a recently proposed high‐order optimized targeted essentially non‐oscillatory (TENO) scheme. Mean flow and turbulence statistics are presented and compared with those previously obtained from DNS using a bandwidth‐optimized weighted essentially non‐oscillatory (WENO) scheme with limiter. It is observed that the TENO scheme performs better than the WENO scheme in predicting the mean flow and Reynolds stresses in these flows. The optimized TENO scheme used here is found to be very suitable for performing implicit LES on a relatively coarse grid.
Physicochemical and Sensory Analysis of Sorghum, Rice, and Teff Flours Blending With Flaxseed Flour for Better Quality Injera
Authors: Amtataw Moges , Kassahun Estifanos , Tibebu Solomon , Andargie Tadele , Ayanaw Takele , Agazie Agimassie , Wogayehu Mesfin , Teshome Abebaw , Jemal Sadik , Teferi Deginet
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the optimization of four gluten free flours namely sorghum, rice, teff flours, and 3% flaxseed flour blends to enhance the quality injera, which was traditionally baked with only pure teff. Utilizing a D‐optimal mixture design, ratios were varied (sorghum 43%–50%, rice 20%–27%, teff 23%–30%). Methods followed AOAC and AACC standards, analyzed using Minitab 19.2 software with one‐way and two‐way ANOVA. Results show flaxseed supplementation significantly improves sorghum‐based injera's texture and sensory attributes, approaching teff injera quality. Hedonic ratings (color, rollability, softness, taste, eye distribution, mouthfeel, and overall acceptability) were favorable. Physical texture remained stable during storage, with variable titratable acidity among blends. This research supports integrating flaxseed flour in grain blends to enhance injera's nutritional and sensory qualities, proposing applications in both household and industrial settings. The purpose of this study is to investigate the supplementation of flaxseed flour in a blend of sorghum, rice, and teff flours, for its performance to improve the overall acceptability, and sensory appeals of the produced injera.
Bioactive Compounds and Antimicrobial Activities in Iranian Crataegus persica Ecotypes for Potential Food and Medicinal Uses
Authors: Eghlima Ghasem , Aghamir Fateme , Mohammadi Meisam , Seyed Hajizadeh Hanifeh , Kaya Ozkan
Published: January 2025

The genus Crataegus, belonging to the Rosaceae family, exhibits widespread distribution across Iran, comprising 17 species. Hawthorn has garnered significant attention in recent years as a prominent herbal remedy in phytotherapy and culinary applications. Various plant parts, including flowers, leaves, and fruits, have been traditionally employed to address cardiovascular conditions such as hypertension, hypotension, palpitations, and cardiac arrhythmias. The presence of bioactive phytochemicals, notably polyphenols and anthocyanins, confers antispasmodic and analgesic properties to hawthorn. This study investigated the bioactive capacity of mature fruits from five Crataegus persica ecotypes indigenous to Iran. High‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was utilized to elucidate the phenolic profile, although morphological characteristics and antimicrobial properties were also assessed. The ecotypes under investigation were sourced from elevations ranging from 1205 to 1681 m above sea level. Morphological analysis revealed that fruit weight varied from 0.84 to 2.53 g, whereas pericarp weight ranged from 0.21 to 1.19 g. The number of seeds per fruit fluctuated between 1 and 3. HPLC analysis identified the primary phenolic compounds in C. persica as catechin, p‐coumaric acid, quercetin, chlorogenic acid, and rutin. Biochemical characterization of the ecotypes yielded the following ranges: total soluble solids (TSS) 10.31°Brix–18.53°Brix, total soluble carbohydrates (TSC) 8.34%–16.65%, vitamin C content 4.24–12.38 mg g−1 DW, total carotenoid content 185.32–294.4 μg g−1 DW, and total anthocyanin content 43.21–85.34 mg C3G g−1 DW. Total phenolic compounds ranged from 170.52 to 254.31 mg GAE g−1 DW, whereas total flavonoid content varied between 59.28 and 84.41 mg RE g−1 DW. Antioxidant activity, as determined by IC50 values, ranged from 14.47 to 37.51 μg mL−1. Antimicrobial assays demonstrated that the C. persica extract exhibited maximum efficacy against Staphylococcus aureus, with the CP3 ecotype extract displaying a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 0.125 mg mL−1. In conclusion, this comprehensive analysis of five distinct C. persica ecotypes (CP1, CP2, CP3, CP4, and CP5) revealed substantial diversity in terms of morphological traits, functional bioactive compounds, and antimicrobial potential. These findings contribute to the growing body of knowledge regarding the phytochemical composition and potential therapeutic applications of Crataegus persica.
Assuring Energy Infrastructure Reliability and Resiliency
Authors: DeCotis Paul A.
Published: January 2025

As the political environment in Washington DC changes on Monday, January 20, 2025, one of the previous administration's priorities will not change: the demand for electricity and the need for a safe, reliable electricity grid to meet growing demand.
Modified Technique for Difficult Secondary Tracheoesophageal Puncture
Authors: Yoon Michelle , Joseph Justin , Ramirez Ricardo , Ganz Cindy , Smith Michael S. , Urken Mark L.
Published: January 2025

Tracheoesophageal puncture (TEP) with voice prosthesis (VP) placement is commonly used to restore voice in laryngectomy patients. The conventional procedure utilizes a rigid esophagoscope to open and visualize the pharyngeal inlet. However, this approach is challenging in patients with postradiation changes, reduced neck extension, or trismus. Here, we demonstrate a modified technique involving flexible endoscopy and endotracheal tube placement to reestablish the TEP tract in a patient with a challenging anatomic profile. This step‐by‐step video demonstrates retrieval of a dislodged prosthesis and TEP/VP placement under general anesthesia, which results in effective voice restoration. This modified technique can safely and effectively restore voice in patients with difficult exposure.
Effect of π‐Electron Conjugation on the Chiroptical Properties of Helicene Carbon Nanohoops
Authors: Kovida Kovida , Malinčík Juraj , Šolomek Tomáš
Published: January 2025

We designed, synthesized, and investigated a new chiral carbon nanohoop that formally incorporates a benzothiadiazole and [5]helicene units into the structure of [6]cycloparaphenylene. The connection of these units in the chiral nanohoop is designed to allow for π‐electron conjugation between the benzothiadiazole chromophore and the chirality‐inducing [5]helicene. We resolved the enantiomers of the highly fluorescent, near‐IR light emitting benzothiadiazole helicene nanohoop. Electronic circular dichroism spectroscopy then allowed us to investigate whether the selected molecular design leads to an increase in the lowest singlet excited state delocalization to improve the compound's electronic dissymmetry factor in comparison to the previously studied benzothiadiazole carbon nanohoop with planar chiral [2.2]paracyclophane unit with pseudo‐meta connection.
Whole exome sequencing reveals an FCGBP variant associated with spontaneous intraabdominal hemorrhage in severe acute pancreatitis
Authors: Tang Qiu‐Yi , Hu Yue‐Peng , Yang Qi , Zhou Jing , Zhang Jing‐Zhu , Yang Jie , Hao Hai‐Bin , Li Gang , Li Bai‐Qiang , Ke Lu , Tong Zhi‐Hui , Liu Yu‐Xiu , Yu Evan Yi‐Wen , Li Wei‐Qin
Published: January 2025

This study investigated the genetic basis of spontaneous intraabdominal hemorrhage (SIH) in severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) to facilitate the development of more effective treatments for this life‐threatening complication. A four‐phase study was conducted with a large cohort of acute pancreatitis (AP) patients (n = 600). In the first phase, whole‐exome sequencing identified a specific exonic variant (rs1326680184) in the human Fc gamma binding protein (FCGBP) gene consistently associated with SIH. The second phase employed serum ELISA tests, revealing that this variant altered FCGBP protein levels, increasing susceptibility to SIH. In the third phase, functional validation was performed through: (i) in vivo experiments using a Fcgbp‐knockdown mouse model demonstrated that reduced Fcgbp expression exacerbated AP severity and increased the risk of hemorrhage; and (ii) in vitro experiments with FCGBP‐knockdown in human vascular fibroblasts showed that decreased FCGBP expression destabilized the vascular wall, leading to vascular injury in SAP. Finally, the fourth phase compared clinical characteristics of FCGBP rs1326680184 carriers and non‐carriers, finding that carriers exhibited higher risks of severe complications, worse AP prognosis, and demonstrated enhanced diagnostic utility as a predictive indicator. These findings provide critical insights into the genetic basis of SIH in SAP, paving the way for precision therapies and effective prognostic tools to improve AP management and early intervention.
“Due to These Restrictions, Girls Think of Themselves as Nothing”: A Qualitative and Quantitative Description of Menstrual Restrictions and Stigma Among Adolescent Girls Across Religious and Other Sociocultural Contexts
Authors: King Aisha S. , Sikkema Kathleen J. , Rubli Jennifer , DeVries Britt , Cherenack Emily M.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Girls in Tanzania often experience menstrual restrictions (i.e., expectations about behaviors prohibited during menstruation) and menstrual stigma (i.e., negative attitudes toward people who menstruate). A better understanding of sociocultural contexts contributing to menstrual stigma and restrictions is needed.

Methods

In 2018, two conceptually linked quantitative and qualitative studies were conducted to describe menstrual restrictions and stigma among girls in Tanzania, examine how sociocultural contexts influence menstrual restrictions and stigma, and investigate the relationship between menstrual restrictions and stigma. A cross‐sectional survey of 509 post‐menarche girls from five schools assessed associations between religion, religion‐based menstrual restrictions, and menstrual stigma while controlling for differences between schools. In‐depth interviews with 10 adolescent girls and 10 adult key informants explored broader menstrual experiences. We analyzed themes pertaining to sociocultural contexts and other mechanisms that shape menstrual restrictions and stigma, their impacts on girls, and opportunities for intervention.

Results

In the surveys, 52% of Christian girls and 76% of Muslim girls experienced religion‐based menstrual restrictions. Some restrictions, such as prohibitions against praying during menstruation, were more common among Muslim girls, who also had higher menstrual stigma. Menstrual stigma differed by school. Although menstrual restrictions did not show an association with stigma in the surveys, interview participants described how menstrual restrictions contribute to stigma and indicated that religion, tribe, education, family support, and menstrual resources influence menstrual restrictions and stigma.

Conclusion

Sociocultural contexts influence menstrual restrictions and stigma. Working with religious, school, and family leaders may provide opportunities to implement interventions to reduce menstrual stigma.
Adeno‐Associated Virus 8 and 9 Myofibre Type/Size Tropism Profiling Reveals Therapeutic Effect of Microdystrophin in Canines
Authors: Burke Matthew J. , Blatt Braiden M. , Teixeira James A. , Pérez‐López Dennis O. , Yue Yongping , Pan Xiufang , Hakim Chady H. , Yao Gang , Herzog Roland W. , Duan Dongsheng
Published: January 2025

Background

Adeno‐associated virus (AAV) 8 and 9 are in clinical trials for treating neuromuscular diseases such as Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). Muscle consists of myofibres of different types and sizes. However, little is known about the fibre type and fibre size tropism of AAV in large mammals.

Methods

We evaluated fibre type‐ and size‐specific transduction properties of AAV8 and AAV9 in 17 dogs that received systemic gene transfer (dose 1.94 ± 0.52 × 1014 vg/kg; injected at 2.86 ± 0.30 months; harvested at 20.79 ± 3.30 months). For AAV8, two DMD dogs and three carrier dogs received an alkaline phosphatase (AP) reporter vector, and five DMD dogs received a four‐repeat microdystrophin (uDys) vector. For AAV9, one normal and one DMD dog received the AP vector, and five DMD dogs received a five‐repeat uDys vector. Association between AAV transduction and the fibre type/size was studied in three muscles that showed mosaic transgene expression, including the biceps femoris, teres major and latissimus dorsi.

Results

Transgene expression was detected in 30%–45% of myofibres. In the AP reporter vector–injected dogs, neither AAV8 nor AAV9 showed a statistically significant fibre type preference. Interestingly, AP expression was enriched in smaller fibres. In uDys‐treated DMD dogs, slow and fast myofibres were equally transduced. Notably, uDys‐expressing myofibres were significantly larger than uDys‐negative myofibres irrespective of the AAV serotype (p < 0.0001). In AAV8 uDys vector–injected dogs, the mini‐Feret diameter was 15%, 16% and 23% larger in uDys‐positive slow, fast and hybrid fibres, respectively; the cross‐sectional area was 30%, 34% and 46% larger in uDys‐positive slow, fast and hybrid fibres, respectively. In AAV9 uDys vector–injected dogs, the mini‐Feret diameter was 12%, 13% and 25% larger in uDys‐positive slow, fast and hybrid fibres, respectively; the cross‐sectional area was 25%, 28% and 59% larger in uDys‐positive slow, fast and hybrid fibres, respectively.

Conclusions

Our studies suggest that AAV8 and AAV9 transduce fast and slow myofibres at equivalent efficiency. Importantly, uDys therapy effectively prevented dystrophic myofibre atrophy. Our study provides important insight into systemic muscle AAV delivery in large mammals and supports further development of uDys gene therapy for DMD.
The Norwegian version of the Norwich Patellar Instability score has good validity and moderate reproducibility
Authors: Hysing‐Dahl T. , Faleide A. G. , Magnussen L. H. , Inderhaug E.
Published: January 2025

Purpose

To translate and adapt the Norwich Patellar Instability (NPI) score into Norwegian, and second, to examine the psychometric properties of the Norwegian version (NPI‐No).

Methods

NPI was translated according to international guidelines. A cohort of 107 patients surgically treated for recurrent patellofemoral instability completed NPI‐No, related questionnaires and functional tests prior to and six months post‐surgery. Validity (face, content and construct validity), internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha [α]), test–retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC]], measurement error (standard error of measurement [SEM] and smallest detectable change at individual [SDCind] and group level [SDCgroup]) and construct validity (hypotheses testing; independent t tests, Pearson's r) were examined.

Results

NPI‐No had good face and content validity. Internal consistency was satisfactory (α = 0.88), test–retest reliability was moderate ICC2.1 0.65 (95% confidence interval = 0.47–0.77) and measurement error low (SEM = 7.8). SDCind was 21.7 points and SDCgroup was 2.8. Seven of the 10 hypotheses about construct validity were confirmed. While there was no ceiling effect pre‐ or post‐operatively, a substantial floor effect (28%) was observed at the 6‐month follow‐up.

Conclusion

The NPI‐No is valid for assessment of self‐perceived patellar instability before and after surgery in Norwegian patients. However, reproducibility was found to be only moderate. This study adds further knowledge about the measurement properties of the NPI.

Level of Evidence

Level II.
Health conditions seen frequently in hospitalized United States Veterans who served after 9/11/2001: A scoping review
Authors: Boggan Joel C. , Allaudeen Nazima , Shaw Heather , Cantrell Sarah , Akwe Joyce
Published: January 2025

Background

Hospitalists working outside the Veterans Affairs (VA) system frequently will serve Veterans receiving care for acute conditions and/or awaiting transfer to VA facilities.

Objective

To perform a scoping review of health conditions and associated outcomes relevant to hospital medicine in US Veterans who served in active duty or reserve deployed roles after November 9, 2001.

Methods

A search of MEDLINE and Embase was performed using a combination of terms related to military service period and health conditions, yielding 5634 citations published after January 1, 2013.

Study Selection and Data Extraction

Two reviewers performed independent screening at the title/abstract and later at the full‐text levels. Conflicts at both stages were resolved through discussion. Single reviewers extracted data and synthesized results into three categories: (1) mental health and nonblast trauma, (2) neurologic outcomes, and (3) other conditions, including cardiovascular and respiratory outcomes.

Results

Of 85 included studies, 19 focused on cardiovascular, respiratory, autoimmune, and multisystem outcomes; 38 focused on mental health and nonblast trauma; and 28 focused on traumatic brain injury and neurologic outcomes. Studies showed high rates of comorbid mental health diagnoses and suicide‐related behaviors relative to non‐Veteran populations, as well as relatively younger incidence of cardiovascular and respiratory chronic conditions, such as atrial fibrillation.

Conclusions

Most studied health conditions among Veterans of post‐9/11 conflicts have focused on areas of particular importance to the VA. However, significant gaps remain, particularly in understanding the correlation between specific exposures and clinical outcomes currently observed and to be anticipated in the future in this population.
Dental Anomalies and Cranio‐Dental Ontogeny in a Captive Wild Boar Population From France
Authors: Gomes Rodrigues Helder , Le Gouellec Clémence , Ortiz Katia , Locatelli Yann , Neaux Dimitri , Cucchi Thomas
Published: January 2025

Dental anomalies are frequent in boars and pigs, and they generally affect the first premolar loci. The prevalence of these dental anomalies was investigated in a large number of populations around the world. These studies mainly focused on the influence of domestication, size, sexual dimorphism or food hardness on these anomalies. However, they rarely considered ontogenetic aspects, while these are crucial for understanding their aetiology during animal growth and how the dental row‐jaw complex is affected. Here, we studied the incidence of missing first upper and lower premolars in a French population of captive wild boars to discuss the functional and developmental reasons for missing teeth and to assess the impact of missing teeth on the growth of the dental row‐jaw complex. Using the CT‐scan data of the cranium and mandible of 24 wild boars investigated six times each during their growth, and presenting a balanced sex ratio, we recorded the number of missing teeth. We then quantified the shape of the upper and lower jaws using 3D geometric morphometrics. We found a similar prevalence of missing first premolar (37.5%) between the upper and the lower jaws, which is higher than the frequencies observed in most continental populations of wild boars. The increasing number of anomalies during ontogeny suggests a relaxed constraint on the dentition associated with a different feeding behaviour in captivity. The absence of first premolars does not appear to be associated with size variation or sexual dimorphism, nor does it affect the place of the dentition within the jaw, the latter being more influenced by the dimorphic shape of the canines and the timing of dental eruption.
Impact of Reaching the Medicare Part D Drug Benefit Threshold on Surgical Care and Health Outcomes Among Patients Newly Diagnosed With Gastrointestinal Cancer
Authors: Worku Eshetu , Woldesenbet Selamawit , Khalil Mujtaba , Pawlik Timothy M.
Published: January 2025

Background

Medicare Part D covers outpatient prescription drugs for elderly beneficiaries, but requires full cost coverage once the coverage gap threshold is reached. We assessed the impact of reaching Medicare Part D threshold on out‐of‐pocket costs (OOP), timely treatment, and outcomes for patients with gastrointestinal (GI) cancer.

Methods

Individuals newly diagnosed with GI cancer between 2007 and 2019 were identified from the SEER‐Medicare database. OOP costs were calculated for the year of diagnosis. Multivariable regression models compared timely surgical care and mortality risk among patients who did and did not reach the coverage gap threshold.

Results

Among 35 745 Medicare beneficiaries diagnosed with colorectal (50.7%), pancreatic (19%), and liver (30.4%) cancer, median age was 76 years (IQR: 71–82), and 56.6% were female. Notably, 48.9% (17 479) of patients reached the Medicare Part D threshold in the year of cancer diagnosis. Mean OOP cost for patients who reached the threshold was $1060 (SD: $1417) vs. $268 (SD: $270, p < 0.0001) for individuals who did not. On multivariable analysis, patients who reached the threshold were more likely to delay [OR: 1.13, 95% CI: 1.03–1.24] or not receive surgery [OR: 1.40, 95% CI: 1.27–1.54], and had a higher risk of 5‐year mortality [HR 5‐year: 1.12, 95% CI: 1.09–1.15, p < 0.0001] regardless of comorbidity status, cancer site, and disease stage.

Conclusion

Reaching the coverage gap threshold was associated with delayed or non receipt of surgical treatment, which resulted in increased long‐term mortality. Lowering the Part D threshold through policy adjustments may reduce financial strain and improve health outcomes for cancer patients.
Climate change–induced terrestrial matter runoff may decrease food web production in coastal ecosystems
Authors: Rowe Owen F. , Paczkowska Joanna , Brutemark Andreas , Brugel Sonia , Traving Sachia J. , Lefébure Robert , Miranda Fernanda , Guleikova Liudmyla , Griniene Evelina , Jurgensone Iveta , Byström Pär , Riemann Lasse , Andersson Agneta
Published: January 2025

Climate change is projected to cause elevated precipitation in northern Europe, leading to increased runoff of terrestrial matter to coastal areas. The consequences for food web production and ecosystem function remain unclear. A mesocosm experiment was performed to investigate the impacts of elevated terrestrial matter input, using a natural plankton community from the northern Baltic Sea with added young‐of‐the‐year perch as planktivorous top consumer. Addition of terrestrial matter caused water browning and increased dissolved organic carbon and inorganic nutrient concentrations. Phytoplankton primary production showed a negative response to terrestrial matter due to decreased light availability, while heterotrophic bacterial production increased. The trophic balance, calculated as the difference between primary production and heterotrophic bacterial production, indicated that net‐heterotrophy was triggered by terrestrial matter enrichment. Primary production was identified as the main basal energy source for fish. Addition of terrestrial matter reduced the food web efficiency, calculated as the ratio between fish production and basal production (primary production + heterotrophic bacterial production). Furthermore, stable isotope analysis of seston and fish indicated that the added terrestrial matter was not efficiently incorporated in the food web and only marginally altered the food web trophic positions. The results suggest that the main food chain consisted of phytoplankton, mesozooplankton, and fish, and that the ecosystem production was overall light driven. Under a changing climate, several negative effects can be expected, including a poorer light climate, reduced ecosystem production and net‐heterotrophy. These alterations have potentially significant consequences for ecosystem functioning, fish production, and thus ecosystem services.
Calcium carbonate cycling in the Southern Ocean: insights from dissolved calcium and potential alkalinity tracers
Authors: Sun Yaojia , Ellwood Michael J.
Published: January 2025

The cycling of calcium carbonate (CaCO3) plays a significant role in deep‐water carbon sequestration and affects the buffer capacity of the upper ocean for absorbing atmospheric CO2. This study investigates the role of dissolved calcium (Ca) and potential alkalinity (PA) as tracers for CaCO3 cycling in the Southern Ocean. The correlation between PA and Ca concentrations in subantarctic and polar waters supports their use as effective tracers of the process of CaCO3 dissolution and precipitation. Estimates of particulate inorganic carbon export flux based on Ca concentration reveals substantial contributions in the Southern Ocean, with higher values in the subantarctic waters. These findings highlight the value of Ca and PA as tracers for understanding CaCO3 cycling and its role in carbon sequestration and buffering atmospheric CO2.
Pricing Strategy of Power Supply Chain Considering Intermittent Generation
Authors: Ma Junhai , Liang Weihua , Qi Wenjing
Published: January 2025

The impact of weather conditions on renewable energy stability is profound, which amplifies the fragility and security risks of energy systems. The energy storage technology has effectively alleviated the problem of intermittent new energy generation, yet the safety of these systems is pivotal for further adoption of renewable energy. This article establishes Stackelberg and long‐term games for power supplier and energy storage operator dealing with intermittent energy sources. We analyze how the investment in energy storage safety and power supplier scale expansion affect the decisions and profits of both parties in the game. We also visualize the complex phenomena that occur during the long‐term dynamic game process. Results indicate that improved safety performance correlates with increased prices and profits for both energy storage operators and power suppliers. Additionally, enhanced safety accompany the profit margin reduction between these parties. When the probability of high production capacity of renewable energy increases, the electricity price of energy storage operator and power supplier shows a downward trend. In long‐term dynamic games, the stability of electricity price for energy storage operators is higher than that of electricity suppliers.
Global Mild Solution for a Fractional Chemotaxis–Fluid System Modeling Coral Fertilization With Tensor‐Valued Sensitivity
Authors: Ruan Heng , Liu Zuhan , Jiang Chao
Published: January 2025

In this paper, we consider the following a fractional chemotaxis–fluid system modeling coral fertilization with tensor‐valued sensitivity in .

Here the tensor‐valued sensitivity function satisfies . We show that if and the initial data satisfy or then this system admits a unique global mild solution, and we also determine the asymptotic behavior and optimal convergence rates of mild solution.
Amelioration of Obesity‐Related Disorders in High‐Fat Diet‐Fed C57BL/6 Mice Following Fecal Microbiota Transplantation From DL‐Norvaline‐Dosed Mice
Authors: Li Xin , Sun Bohan , Qin Yanting , Yue Fangfang , Lü Xin
Published: January 2025

Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) could significantly alter the recipient's gut bacteria composition and attenuate obesity and obesity‐related metabolic syndromes. DL‐norvaline is a nonproteinogenic amino acid and possesses anti‐obesity potential. However, the specific mechanisms by which gut microbiota might mediate beneficial effects of DL‐norvaline have not been completely elucidated. In this study, DL‐norvaline‐mediated FMT upregulated the beneficial bacteria (Clostridia_UCG_014, Christensenellales, Bacilli, Ileibacterium, Dubosiella, Lactobacillus, Muribaculaceae, and Bacteroidaceae) and downregulated the harmful bacteria (Tuzzerella and Marinifilaceae), further intestinal inflammation, oxidative stress, and intestinal barrier were alleviated as well as short chain fatty acids levels were increased, thus alleviating glucose and insulin metabolism, improving biochemical indexes and energy metabolism and decreasing body weight gain and tissue weight. However, heat‐inactivated FMT did not demonstrate any of those improvements in obese mice. Notably, both DL‐norvaline‐mediated FMT and heat‐inactivated FMT increased Bacteroidaceae and Muribaculaceae, this being a signature of alterations to the gut microbiota marker caused by DL‐norvaline. Therefore, the beneficial effects of DL‐norvaline were transmissible via FMT. This study highlighted the pivotal involvement of the gut microbiota in the development of obesity and provided a novel insight into the underlying mechanisms of FMT, thereby potentially enhancing the efficacy and refinement of FMT utilization.
Unraveling the underlying mechanisms of cancer stem cells in therapeutic resistance for optimizing treatment strategies
Authors: Tan Yunhan , Qin Siyuan , Zhang Zhe , Liu Yongen , Zhou Li , Li Bowen , Nice Edouard C. , Zhang Yuanyuan , Jing Jing
Published: January 2025

The success of cancer therapy has been significantly hampered by various mechanisms of therapeutic resistance. Chief among these mechanisms is the presence of clonal heterogeneity within an individual tumor mass. The introduction of the concept of cancer stem cells (CSCs)—a rare and immature subpopulation with tumorigenic potential that contributes to intratumoral heterogeneity—has deepened our understanding of drug resistance. Given the characteristics of CSCs, such as increased drug‐efflux activity, enhanced DNA‐repair capacity, high metabolic plasticity, adaptability to oxidative stress, and/or upregulated detoxifying aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) enzymes, CSCs have been recognized as a theoretical reservoir for resistant diseases. Implicit in this recognition is the possibility that CSC‐targeted therapeutic strategies might offer a breakthrough in overcoming drug resistance in cancer patients. Herein, we summarize the generation of CSCs and our current understanding of the mechanisms underlying CSC‐mediated therapeutic resistance. This extended knowledge has progressively been translated into novel anticancer therapeutic strategies and significantly enriched the available options for combination treatments, all of which are anticipated to improve clinical outcomes for patients experiencing CSC‐related relapse.