bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Survival rate of teeth adjacent and nonadjacent to dental implants: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Chen Hsuan‐Hung , Lin Guo‐Hao , Kao Richard T. , Yeh Yu‐Ting
Published: May 2024

Background

The aim of this retrospective study was to investigate the risk of tooth loss for teeth adjacent and nonadjacent to dental implants.

Methods

A total of 787 patients with an average follow‐up of 57.1 months were examined to define the tooth loss, cumulative survival rate, and odds ratio (OR) for teeth adjacent versus nonadjacent to implants. A multivariate logistic regression was employed to assess the association between dental history and various recorded etiologies of tooth loss among teeth adjacent to implants.

Results

The incidence of tooth loss for teeth adjacent to implants was 8.1% at the tooth level and 15.1% at the patient level, while 0.7% and 9.5% at the tooth and patientlevel for teeth nonadjacent to implants. The 10‐year cumulative survival rate for teeth adjacent to implants was 89.2%, and the primary etiology of tooth loss was root fracture (45.2%). The risk of tooth loss among teeth adjacent versus nonadjacent to implants was significantly higher (OR 13.15). Among teeth adjacent to implants, root canal‐treated teeth had a significantly higher risk of tooth loss due to root fracture (OR 7.72), a history of existing restoration significantly increased the risk of tooth loss due to caries (OR 3.05), and a history of periodontitis significantly increased the risk of tooth loss due to periodontitis (OR 38.24).

Conclusion

The present study demonstrated that after patients received dental implant treatment, teeth adjacent to implants showed a 13.2‐fold higher risk of tooth loss compared to teeth nonadjacent to implants, with the primary etiology being root fracture.
Effects of garlic‐derived fructan and oligofructose mixtures on intestinal health and constipation relief in mice
Authors: Xie Chanyuan , Gao Wei , Liang Xingdi , Chye Fook Yee
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND

Garlic polysaccharides (GPs) constitute over 75% of the dry weight of garlic. They are characterized by fructan with a 2,1‐β‐d‐Fruf backbone and 2,6‐β‐d‐Fruf branches. Studies have suggested a role for GPs in regulating gut microbiota but whether they possess a comprehensive function in maintaining intestinal well‐being and can serve as effective prebiotics remains unknown. To explore this, varied doses of GPs (1.25–5.0 g kg−1 body weight) and inulin (as a positive control) were administered to Kunming mice via gavage, and their effects on the intestinal epithelial, chemical, and biological barriers were assessed. A constipation model was also established using loperamide to investigate the potential effects of GPs on the relief of constipation.

RESULTS

Administration of GPs significantly upregulated expression of tight‐junction proteins and mucins in Kunming mouse small‐intestine tissue. Garlic polysaccharides elevated cecal butyric acid content, reduced the abundance of Desulfobacterota, and decreased the ratio of Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes (the F/B ratio). Garlic polysaccharides also promoted the growth of Bacteroides acidifaciens and Clostridium saccharogumia. Tax4Fun functional predictions suggested the potential of GPs to prevent human diseases, reducing the risk of insulin resistance, infectious diseases, and drug resistance. Garlic polysaccharides also exhibited a beneficial effect in alleviating loperamide‐induced constipation symptoms by enhancing small intestinal transit, softening stool consistency, accelerating bowel movements, and promoting the release of excitatory neurotransmitters.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings highlight the important role of GPs in maintaining gut fitness by enhancing intestinal barrier function and peristalsis. Garlic polysaccharides are promising prebiotics, potentially contributing to overall intestinal well‐being and health. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Direct laser patterning of glass mask for micro display using GHz bursts
Authors: Jung Woohyun , Kim Hyungsik , Mishchik Konstantin , Lee Kisang , Ryu Jekil , Lee Seung Joo , Jeong Seong Ho , Roh Cheol Lae
Published: May 2024

Development of high‐precision RGB patterning process is needed to implement high‐resolution micro display (OLEDoS) for next‐generation VR/AR products. In general, specially designed and manufactured masks are required to realize above 3000‐ppi high‐resolution display in structured OLED material deposition. In this study, we developed direct laser patterning IR‐fs optical system operating in MHz and GHz burst modes and evaluated its capability for precise micro‐drilling of aluminoborosilicate glass materials. The fine hole‐shaped pattern is produced at a minimum of 5 μm pitch level for about 0.6 in. area without sacrificing the glass strength. It is expected to contribute to the high precise manufacture of ultra fine mask (UFM) using thin glass platform corresponding to micro displays in the future.
Electrochemical Performance of Polyaniline‐Polyvanadate‐Copper Nanomaterials for the Detection of Benzoic Acid
Authors: Gao Yiming , Zhuang Lihong , Zhang Yanan , Zhang Yong , Pei Lizhai , Li Xinjiong
Published: May 2024

The introduction of nanomaterials as modified electrode materials into the field of electrochemical sensing is expected to improve the reliability, sensitivity, selectivity and repeatability of electrochemical sensors in detecting pollutants in the water environment. In this study, copper vanadate nanomaterials (Cu3V2O7(OH)2·2H2O, referred to as CVO) and Cu3V2O7(OH)2·2H2O/polyyaniline (PANI) composite nanomaterials (referred to as CVO/PANI) are successfully prepared and characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectrum (FTIR), X‐ray traveling‐action (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR‐TEM). The modified glassy carbon electrodes (GCE) with these two materials are used for the detection of benzoic acid (BA) and exhibit excellent electrochemical sensing performance. The results show that two pairs of semi‐reversible redox peaks exist in both CVO and CVO/PANI modified glassy carbon electrode (GCE) in BA solution. The linear range of CVO and CVO/PANI nanomaterials‐modified GCE is 0.01–2 mm and 0.001–2 mm, and the limits of detection are 2.16 and 0.41 µm, respectively. PANI plays important role in the electrochemical responses of BA at CVO/PANI modified GCE. PANI enhances the intensities of CV peaks and electrochemical determination ability for BA.
BaTiO3 Catalyzed Ultrasonic‐Driven Piezoelectric‐Induced Reversible Addition‐Fragmentation Chain‐Transfer Polymerization in Aqueous Media
Authors: Zhang Yu , Zhang Junle , Xu Shuo , Shi Ge , He Yanjie , Qiao Xiaoguang , Pang Xinchang
Published: May 2024

Compared with normal stimulus such as light and heat, ultrasonic possesses much deeper penetration into tissues and organs and has lower scattering in heterogeneous systems as a noninvasive stimulus. Reversible addition‐fragmentation chain‐transfer polymerization (RAFT) in aqueous media is performed in a commercial ultrasonic wash bath with 40 kHz frequency ultrasonic, in the presence of piezoelectric tetragonal BaTiO3 (BTO) nanoparticles. Owing to the electron transfer from BTO under the ultrasonic action, the water can be decomposed to produce hydroxyl radical (HO•) and initiate the RAFT polymerization (piezo‐RAFT). The piezo‐RAFT polymerization exhibits features of controllable and livingness, such as linear increase of molar mass and narrow molar mass distributions (Mw/Mn < 1.20). Excellent temporal control of the polymerization and the chain fidelity of polymers are illustrated by “ON and OFF” experiment and chain extension, separately. Moreover, this ultrasonic‐driven piezoelectric‐induced RAFT polymerization in aqueous media can be directly used for the preparation of piezoelectric hydrogel which have potential application for stress sensor.
Associations of essential metals with the risk of aortic arch calcification: a cross‐sectional study in a mid‐aged and older population of Shenzhen, China
Authors: Mo Mingxing , Yin Li , Wang Tian , Lv Ziquan , Guo Yadi , Shen Jiangang , Zhang Huanji , Liu Ning , Wang Qiuling , Huang Suli , Huang Hui
Published: May 2024

Vascular calcification is a strong predictor of cardiovascular events. Essential metals play critical roles in maintaining human health. However, the association of essential metal levels with risk of aortic arch calcification (AoAC) remains unclear. We measured the plasma concentrations of nine essential metals in a cross‐sectional population and evaluated their individual and combined effects on AoAC risk using multiple statistical methods. We also explored the mediating role of fasting glucose. In the logistic regression model, higher quartiles of magnesium and copper were associated with the decreased AoAC risk, while higher quartile of manganese was associated with higher AoAC risk. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator penalized regression analysis identified magnesium, manganese, calcium, cobalt, and copper as key metals associated with AoAC risk. The weighted quantile sum regression suggested a combined effect of metal mixture. A linear and positive dose–response relationship was found between manganese and AoAC in males. Moreover, blood glucose might mediate a proportion of 9.38% of the association between manganese exposure and AoAC risk. In summary, five essential metal levels were associated with AoAC and showed combined effect. Fasting glucose might play a significant role in mediating manganese exposure‐associated AoAC risk.
A decentralized production approach to measure fuel performance of bus transportation systems
Authors: Kushwaha Shivam , Venkatesh Anand , Prawesh Shankar
Published: May 2024

This paper presents a comprehensive measure of fuel performance, considering economic and environmental factors using Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA). The study uses decentralized production approach, modeling two technology specifications, one with abatement and one without. The study focuses on the Indian public bus transport industry, treating carbon emissions as bad outputs with joint disposability alongside fossil fuels. Additionally, it examines fuel performance drivers through bootstrapped truncated regression. The findings reveal that maintenance practices and vehicle age negatively affect fuel performance, with the latter showing a non‐linear influence. As fuel prices rise, bus company managers increasingly adopt fuel‐saving practices.
Identification of two novel heterozygous variants of SMC3 with Cornelia de Lange syndrome
Authors: Lei Zhi , Song Xiaorui , Zheng Xuan , Wang Yanhong , Wang Yingyuan , Wu Zhirong , Fan Tian , Dong Shijie , Cao Honghui , Zhao Yuefang , Xia Zhiyi , Gao Liujiong , Shang Qing , Mei Shiyue
Published: May 2024

Background

Cornelia de Lange syndrome (CdLS) is a multisystem genetic disorder, and cases caused by variants in the structural maintenance of chromosomes protein 3 (SMC3) gene are uncommon. Here, we report two cases of CdLS associated with novel pathogenic variants in SMC3 from two Chinese families.

Methods

Clinical presentations of two patients with CdLS were evaluated, and specimens from the patients and other family members were collected for Trio‐based whole‐exome sequencing. Pyrosequencing, chip‐based digital PCR, minigene splicing assay, and in silico analysis were carried out to elucidate the impact of novel variants.

Results

Novel heterozygous variants in SMC3 were identified in each proband. One harbored a novel splicing and mosaic variant (c.2535+1G>A) in SMC3. The mutated allele G>A conversion was approximately 23.1% by digital PCR, which indicated that 46.2% of peripheral blood cells had this variant. Additionally, in vitro minigene splicing analysis validated that the c.2535+1G>A variant led to an exon skipping in messenger RNA splicing. The other carried a heterozygous variant (c.435C>A), which was predicted to be pathogenic as well as significantly altered in local electrical potential. The former showed multiple abnormalities and marked clinical severity, and the latter mainly exhibited a speech developmental disorder and slightly facial anomalies.

Conclusion

Both patients were clinically diagnosed with Cornelia de Lange syndrome 3 (CdLS3). The newly identified SMC3 gene variants can expand the understanding of CdLS3 and provide reliable evidence for genetic counseling to the affected family.
A solution to the ill‐conditioning of gradient‐enhanced covariance matrices for Gaussian processes
Authors: Marchildon André L. , Zingg David W.
Published: May 2024

Gaussian processes provide probabilistic surrogates for various applications including classification, uncertainty quantification, and optimization. Using a gradient‐enhanced covariance matrix can be beneficial since it provides a more accurate surrogate relative to its gradient‐free counterpart. An acute problem for Gaussian processes, particularly those that use gradients, is the ill‐conditioning of their covariance matrices. Several methods have been developed to address this problem for gradient‐enhanced Gaussian processes but they have various drawbacks such as limiting the data that can be used, imposing a minimum distance between evaluation points in the parameter space, or constraining the hyperparameters. In this paper a diagonal preconditioner is applied to the covariance matrix along with a modest nugget to ensure that the condition number of the covariance matrix is bounded, while avoiding the drawbacks listed above. The method can be applied with any twice‐differentiable kernel and when there are noisy function and gradient evaluations. Optimization results for a gradient‐enhanced Bayesian optimizer with the Gaussian kernel are compared with the use of the preconditioning method, a baseline method that constrains the hyperparameters, and a rescaling method that increases the distance between evaluation points. The Bayesian optimizer with the preconditioning method converges the optimality, that is, the norm of the gradient, an additional 5 to 9 orders of magnitude relative to when the baseline method is used and it does so in fewer iterations than with the rescaling method. The preconditioning method is available in the open source Python library GpGradPy, which can be found at https://github.com/marchildon/gpgradpy/tree/paper_precon.
Cranial injuries in ancient Egypt: Three cases of interpersonal violence in the dynastic necropolis of Qubbet el‐Hawa (Aswan, Egypt)
Authors: Guimarey Duarte R. , Rubio Salvador Á. , Alba Gómez J. M. , Alemán Aguilera I. , Bardoňová M. , Jiménez‐Serrano A. , Ismail Shehata T. , Botella López M. C.
Published: May 2024

Violence seems to have been a constant in Egyptian history, as attested by documentary sources. The material culture also reflects this state of violence; however, anthropological findings, although present, are not as numerous as might be expected. In the present study, we analyze the injuries found in three crania (New Kingdom, 1500–1070 BCE) from the necropolis of Qubbet el‐Hawa, near the island of Elephantine (Aswan, Egypt). All three cases are adult males with several injuries caused by a sharp‐edged weapon, with no signs of survival. The macroscopic analysis of the wounds was combined with archaeological and historical data to provide an explanation of the possible weapon used and the possible scenarios (intergroup or intragroup violence) where these deaths could have occurred. These cranial injuries leave no doubt as to the intentionality and repetition in the act of causing death. These findings offer clear evidence and reliable information that contributes to the understanding of interpersonal violence and its potential causes in ancient Egypt.
A PVDF/MWCNTs/GO@MWCNTs/AgNWs bilayer structured composite film with ultra‐high EMI shielding and conductivity performance
Authors: Yang Renyuan , Tan Yanyan , Zhou Teng , Xu Yuhuan , Qin Shuhao , Zhang Daohai , Liu Shan
Published: May 2024

Electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding materials with easy processing, high electrical conductivity, and excellent absorption loss are urgently needed in aerospace, military stealth and portable electronic devices. In this study, a polyvinylidene fluoride/multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (PVDF/MWCNTs)‐3 wt% composite film prepared by simple solution mixing and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) nonwoven scraping method was used as the substrate, and the PVDF/MWCNTs/graphene oxide@multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (PVDF/MWCNTs/GO@MWCNTs) and PVDF/MWCNTs/GO@MWCNTs/silver nanowires (PVDF/MWCNTs/GO@MWCNTs/AgNWs) bilayer composite films were prepared by vacuum‐assisted filtration (VAF). When the amount of GO@MWCNTs was 20 mL, the conductivity of PVDF/MWCNTs/GO@MWCNTs film is 3.5 × 101 S m−1, the total EMI shielding effectiveness (EMI SET) was 15.5 dB and the EMI absorption efficiency (EMI SEA) was 10.7 dB, the specific EMI SE (SSE/T) was 539.5 dB/ dB/(cm−2 g). When the amount of AgNWs was 25 mL, the conductivity of PVDF/MWCNTs/GO@MWCNTs/AgNWs film with 0.47 mm thickness was 1.6 × 104 S m−1, the EMI SET was 69.1 dB, the EMI SEA was 61.1 dB, and the SSE/T was 2320.0 dB cm2 g−1. The results show that the absorption was played a dominant role in the EMI shielding mechanism of obtained films. The addition of GO@MWCNTs/AgNWs increases the electrical conductivity and EMI shielding performance of the film more than the addition of GO@MWCNTs. This is mainly because GO， MWCNTs and AgNWs formed a novel three‐dimensional conductive network structure inside the composite film due to their hydrogen bonding and van der Waals forces, which increases the carrier channels and promotes the interaction between the internal microcurrents and the electromagnetic waves, achieving the purpose of attenuating the electromagnetic waves. The obtained PVDF/MWCNTs/GO@MWCNTs/AgNWs film has good potential in EMI shielding in aerospace, military and electronic intelligence applications.

Highlights

Well‐dispersed and highly conductive GO@MWCNTs were prepared by hydrothermal synthesis.

AgNWs with good conductivity and high aspect ratio were prepared.

PVDF‐based bilayer composite films with novel 3D conductive network were prepared.

The synergistic EMI shielding mechanism of the film is discussed.
Registration of upland cotton recombinant inbred lines MS‐4857 and MS‐4878 with resistance to root‐knot nematode and reniform nematode
Authors: Wubben Martin J. , McCarty Jack C. , Hayes Russell W. , Callahan Franklin E. , Deng Dewayne D. , Jenkins Johnie N.
Published: May 2024

The root‐knot nematode (RKN; Meloidogyne incognita Kofoid & White) and reniform nematode (RN; Rotylenchulus reniformis Linford & Oliveira) are serious pathogens of upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) that significantly affect yield and fiber quality annually. Here, we describe two upland cotton germplasm lines that have combined resistance to RKN and RN while maintaining good yield and fiber quality traits. Upland germplasm lines MS‐4857 (Reg. no. GP‐1147, PI 704481) and MS‐4878 (Reg. no. GP‐1148, PI 704482) are F6 recombinant inbred lines from a cross between M240 RNR (RKN resistant) and MT2468 Ren1 (moderately RN resistant). These lines are highly resistant to RKN and show ∼30% fewer RN eggs g−1 root than the MT2468 Ren1 parent due to significantly improved root system development compared with MT2468 Ren1. Yield and fiber quality traits are equivalent or superior to the parental lines. The upland‐derived RN resistance in these lines provides a valuable alternative source of resistance to cotton breeding programs, especially in combination with high‐level RKN resistance.
Serum neurofilament light chain levels as multiple sclerosis biomarker
Authors: Abd‐ElHady Mohamed E. , Hashish Ehab , Yassine Imane , Anani Maha , Negm Mohamed
Published: May 2024

Cumulative neuroaxonal damage is the main cause of disability in multiple sclerosis (MS), although it may remain clinically silent for many years. In this article, the authors describe their research study measuring serum levels of the neurofilament light chain in patients with MS to assess how they correlated to disease severity and degree of disability in an Egyptian population. They demonstrate how serum levels of the neurofilament light chain are associated with clinical and MRI‐related measures of disease activity, supporting their use as an easily accessible, low cost and non‐invasive biomarker.
Developmental surveillance and screening practices in a pediatric oncology clinic: Initial progress of a quality improvement study
Authors: Pereira Lila M. , Bono Madeline H. , Hilbert Samuel
Published: May 2024

Background

Pediatric cancer patients’ oncology teams regularly take on a primary care role, but due to the urgent nature of cancer treatment, developmental screenings may be deprioritized. This leaves patients at risk of developmental diagnoses and referrals being delayed.

Aims

Clarify the current developmental surveillance and screening practices of one pediatric oncology team.

Materials and methods

Researchers reviewed charts for patients (n = 66) seen at a pediatric oncology clinic in a suburban academic medical center to determine engagement in developmental screening (including functioning around related areas such as speech, neurocognition, etc.) and referrals for care in these areas.

Results

Developmental histories were collected from all patients through admission history and physical examination (H&P), but there was no routinized follow‐up. Physicians did not conduct regular developmental screening per American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines for any patients but identified n = 3 patients with needs while the psychology team routinely surveilled all patients seen during this time (n = 41) and identified n = 18 patients as having delays.

Discussion

Physicians did not routinely screen for development needs beyond H&P and were inconsistent in developmental follow‐up/referrals. Integrated psychologists were key in generating referrals for developmental‐based care. However, many oncology patients were not seen by psychologists quickly or at all, creating a significant gap in care during a crucial developmental period.

Conclusion

The case is made for further routinization of ongoing developmental screening in pediatric oncology care.
Sequencing complex plants on a budget: The development of Kalanchoë blossfeldiana as a C3, CAM comparative tool
Authors: Cowan‐Turner Daniel , Morris Bethan A. , Sandéhn Alexandra , Bernacka‐Wojcik Iwona , Stavrinidou Eleni , Powell Robyn F. , Leitch Ilia J. , Taylor Jessica , Walker Max , Nwokeocha Osita , Kapralov Maxim V. , Borland Anne M.
Published: May 2024

Societal Impact Statement

Research efforts in plant biology have often been focused on sequenced and well‐studied ‘model’ organisms. Despite the advent of relatively inexpensive genome sequencing, most plant taxonomic groups are underrepresented, with few species that ‘represent’ the diversity of whole genera. This study describes an economical guide to sequencing a non‐model organism, which may be useful in reducing the cost of sequencing more species within genera and across plant life. This method was used to develop Kalanchoë blossfeldiana as a resource for comparing C3 and the water‐conserving mode of photosynthesis known as Crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM) within the same plant.

Despite the increasing number of well‐studied plant species with well‐annotated genomes across plant life, there are few densely sampled genera with more than a couple of genome sequences representing the diversity of whole genera. Here, we develop an economic approach to full‐genome sequencing that could be used to sequence many species within a genus. We made use of the Nanopore rapid sequencing kit to assist in plant genome assembly, dramatically reducing the cost.

Here we applied this method to cost‐effectively develop genomic resources for Kalanchoë blossfeldiana, a commercially important ornamental, in which Crassulacean Acid Metabolism (CAM), a water‐conserving mode of photosynthesis can be induced. We present a physiological and biochemical characterisation of Kalanchoe blossfeldiana with its nuclear and chloroplastic genome and a comparative C3, CAM dusk transcriptome.

We apply this approach to a complex tetraploid genome, making use of a relative species for chromosomal scaffolding to reduce assembly ploidy, we provide a resource for future gene expression studies. We highlight its limitations, e.g. the need for deeper sequencing to accurately resolve genome structure and haplotypes without using a relative species for scaffolding.

The study demonstrates the merits of K. blossfeldiana as a comparative system for studying C3 and CAM within a plant and has identified substantial changes in the dusk transcriptome between young C3 and mature CAM K. blossfeldiana leaves in response to age‐induced CAM, and shows that in the absence of abiotic stress, CAM induction still involves the engagement of drought and abscisic acid (ABA) response pathways.
Telemonitoring of pediatric asthma in outpatient settings: A systematic review
Authors: Pais‐Cunha Inês , Fontoura Matias José , Almeida Ana Laura , Magalhães Manuel , Fonseca João A. , Azevedo Inês , Jácome Cristina
Published: May 2024

Telemonitoring technologies are rapidly evolving, offering a promising solution for remote monitoring and timely management of asthma acute episodes. We aimed to describe current pediatric asthma telemonitoring technologies. A systematic review was conducted until September 2023 on Medline, Scopus, and Web of Science. We included studies of children (0–18 years) with asthma or recurrent wheezing whose respiratory condition was telemonitored outside the healthcare setting. A narrative synthesis was performed. We identified 40 telemonitoring technologies described in 40 studies. The more frequently used technologies for telemonitoring were mobile applications (n = 21) and web‐based systems (n = 14). Telemonitoring duration varied between 2 weeks and 32 months. Data collection included asthma symptoms (n = 30), patient‐reported outcome measures (PROMs) (n = 11), spirometry/peak flow readings (n = 20), medication adherence (n = 17), inhaler technique (n = 3), air quality (n = 2), and respiratory sounds (n = 2). Both parents and children were the technology target users in most studies (n = 23). Technology training was reported in 23 studies of which 3 provided ongoing support. Automatic feedback was found in 30 studies, mostly related with asthma control. HCP were involved in data management in 27 studies. Technologies were tested in samples from 4 to 327 children, with most studies including school‐aged children and/or adolescents (n = 38) and eight including preschool children. This review provides an overview of existing technologies for the outpatient telemonitoring of pediatric asthma. Specific technologies for preschool children represent a gap in the literature that needs to be specifically addressed in future research.
Recent progress in neonatal hyperoxic lung injury
Authors: Rao Tian , Zhou Yiyang , Chen Chizhang , Chen Jiayi , Zhang Jie , Lin Wei , Jia Danyun
Published: May 2024

With the progress in neonatal intensive care, there has been an increase in the survival rates of premature infants. However, this has also led to an increased incidence of neonatal hyperoxia lung injury and bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), whose pathogenesis is believed to be influenced by various prenatal and postnatal factors, although the exact mechanisms remain unclear. Recent studies suggest that multiple mechanisms might be involved in neonatal hyperoxic lung injury and BPD, with sex also possibly playing an important role, and numerous drugs have been proposed and shown promise for improving the treatment outcomes of hyperoxic lung injury. Therefore, this paper aims to analyze and summarize sex differences in neonatal hyperoxic lung injury, potential pathogenesis and treatment progress to provide new ideas for basic and clinical research in this field.
Pickering Emulsion Edible Film Loaded With Oregano Essential Oil and Application in Muffin Preservation
Authors: Liu Zhuolin , Wang He , Yi Jiaxin , Ma Wenya , Liu Xiaofang , Chen Xiaohan , Cao Ying , Li Li
Published: May 2024

A functional edible film containing Pickering emulsion (PE) loaded with oregano essential oil (OEO) was developed. The sustained release of OEO in muffins significantly delayed muffin decay at 25°C (p < 0.05). According to the influence of oxygen permeability, antibacterial activity and mechanical properties of the active film, the optimum preparation conditions of PE were determined by orthogonal experiment. Peroxide values (POVs), total viable count (TVC) and yeast and mould count (YMC) were significantly lower compared with the blank group. On Day 6, the POV in the experimental group was 63% that of the blank group. TVC and YMC were 3.20 and 1.86 lg CFU/g on Day 9, respectively (TVC ≤ 1500 CFU/g; YMC ≤ 100 CFU/g), extending muffins shelf life to 6–7 days in practical preservation at 25°C. Thus, the edible PE loaded with OEO film provided sustained release, effectively slowing muffin quality deterioration and extending shelf life, making it a promising choice for future high‐fat food packaging.
Managing water gate operation and fish passage facilities in irrigated systems of the Nam Kam River, Thailand
Authors: Hanpongkittikul Apiradee , Cowx Ian G. , Ngoichansri Siranee , Sirimongkonthaworn Renu , Sricharoendham Boonsong , Thalerngkietleela Tiwarat , Phiwkham Paweena , Sukumasavin Naruepon , Kamonrat Wongpathom , Kensom Sornchai , Reekanong Yongyote , Pila Nakhorn
Published: May 2024

The migration of fishes through the Thoranit Naruemit water gate on the Nam Kam River, a tributary of the Mekong River in Thailand, was studied to understand the hydrological factors and improve the operational regime of the fish pass at the structure. Migration of fish from the Mekong River started in May, at the onset of the rainy season. During 60 days of operation, the fish pass supported the upstream migration of 83 species and ~440,000 fish, equivalent to about 11 tonnes of fish. The fish pass supported migration of a range of fish sizes between 45 and 700 mm, and most fish were larger than the size of first maturity for the species in question. The factors influencing migration into the Nam Kam included the lunar cycle, flow in the fish pass, water level in the river and flow variability. Migration tended to increase in the 3–4‐day period before or after a full moon. Discharge and water level changes associated with rising water levels in the Mekong River synchronize with the spawning season of most Mekong fish and trigger upstream migration. Many fish migrated through the pass at discharges through sluice gates between 8 and 323 m3/s and with a flow through the fish pass between 0.95 and 3.08 m/s. Restrictions to fish migration were found and recommendations for water gate and fish pass operation are provided.
Towards sustainable development in African countries: Are modern and combustible renewable energies effective?
Authors: Pata Ugur Korkut , Karlilar Pata Selin
Published: May 2024

Environmental degradation and climate change problems in the African continent seriously hit country economies and human health, negatively affecting the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). African countries have the potential to use economic development and renewable energy as a tool for their environmental sustainability. In this context, this study examines the effects of economic growth, modern renewable energy, and combustible renewable energy on ecological footprint (EF) in five African countries. To this end, the study uses novel regularization common correlated effects and half‐panel jackknife approaches on data from 2006 to 2020. The findings of the study show that economic progress effectively reduces the EF of African countries, but renewable energy does not contribute to ecological progress. Due to their insufficient and ineffective utilization, renewable energies are not an important tool for improving ecological systems. Therefore, African countries should prioritize their economic development as a priority goal. Based on the results, African countries experiencing economic advancement should bolster for SDGs objectives through green financial incentives.
Phospholipid‐Anchored Ligand Conjugation on Extracellular Vesicles for Enhanced Cancer Targeting
Authors: Chen Chaoxiang , Pan Xueping , Sun Mengdi , Wang Jialin , Su Xueqi , Zhang Tianyu , Chen Yulei , Wu Daren , Li Jian , Wu Shuqi , Yan Xiaomei
Published: May 2024

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are recognized as potential candidates for next‐generation drug delivery systems. However, the inherent cancer‐targeting efficiency is unsatisfactory, necessitating surface modification to attach cell‐binding ligands. By utilizing phospholipase D from Streptomyces in combination with maleimide‐containing primary alcohol, the authors successfully anchored ligands onto milk‐derived EVs (mEVs), overcoming the issues of ligand leakage or functional alteration seen in traditional methods. Quantitative nano‐flow cytometry demonstrated that over 90% of mEVs are effectively modified with hundreds to thousands of ligands. The resulting mEV formulations exhibited remarkable long‐term stability in conjugation proportion, ligand number, size distribution, and particle concentration, even after months of storage. It is further shown that conjugating transferrin onto mEVs significantly enhanced cellular uptake and induced pronounced cytotoxic effects when loaded with paclitaxel. Overall, this study presents a highly efficient, stable, cost‐effective, and scalable ligand conjugation approach, offering a promising strategy for targeted drug delivery of EVs.
Single‐Atom based Metal–Organic Framework Photocatalysts for Solar‐Fuel Generation
Authors: Haroon Haamid , Xiang Quanjun
Published: May 2024

The growing demand for fossil fuels and subsequent CO2 emissions prompted a search for alternate sources of energy and a reduction in CO2. Photocatalysis driven by solar light has been found as a potential research area to tackle both these problems. In this direction, SAC@MOF (Single‐atom loaded MOFs) photocatalysis is an emerging field and a promising technology. The unique properties of single‐atom catalysts (SACs), such as high catalytic activity and selectivity, are leveraged in these systems. Photocatalysis, focusing on the utilization of Metal–Organic Frameworks (MOFs) as platforms for creating single‐atom catalysts (SACs) characterized by metal single‐atoms (SAs) as their active sites, are noted for their unparalleled atomic efficiency, precisely defined active sites, and superior photocatalytic performance. The synergy between MOFs and SAs in photocatalytic systems is meticulously examined, highlighting how they collectively enhance photocatalytic efficiency. This review examines SAC@MOF development and applications in environmental and energy sectors, focusing on synthesis and stabilization methods for SACs on MOFs and also characterization techniques vital for understanding these catalysts. The potential of SAC@MOF in CO2 Photoreduction and Photocatalytic H2 evolution is highlighted, emphasizing its role in green energy technologies and advances in materials science and Photocatalysis.
Engineering Oxygen Vacancies in In2O3 with Enhanced Polysulfides Immobilization and Selective Catalytic Capability
Authors: Wang Ning , Li Huanhuan , Ji Jie , Liu Jingjie , Zhang Qing , Ma Shexia , Lu Jun , Bai Zhengyu
Published: May 2024

Lithium–sulfur (Li–S) battery is identified as an ideal candidate for next‐generation energy storage systems in consideration of its high theoretical energy density and abundant sulfur resources. However, the shuttling behavior of soluble polysulfides (LiPSs) and their sluggish reaction kinetics severely limit the practical application of the current Li–S battery. In this work, a series of In2O3 nanocubes with different oxygen vacancy concentrations are designed and prepared via a facile self‐template method. The introduced oxygen vacancy on In2O3 can effectively rearrange the charge distribution and enhance sulfiphilic property. Moreover, the In2O3 with high oxygen vacancy concentration (H‐In2O3) can slightly slow down the solid–liquid conversion process and significantly accelerate the liquid–solid conversion process, thus reducing the accumulation of LiPSs in electrolyte and inhibiting the shuttle effect. Contributed by the unique selective catalytic capability, the prepared H‐In2O3 exhibits excellent electrochemical performance when used as sulfur host. For instance, a high reversible capacity of 609 mAh g−1 is obtained with only 0.044% capacity decay per cycle over 1000 cycles at 1.0 C. This work presents a typical example for designing advanced sulfur hosts, which is crucial for the commercialization of Li–S battery.
Achiral Solvent Inversed Helical Pathway and Cosolvent Controlled Excited‐State “Majority Rule” in Enantiomeric Dansulfonamide Assemblies
Authors: Wen Xin , Wang Fulin , Du Sifan , Jiang Yuqian , Zhang Li , Liu Minghua
Published: May 2024

Achiral solvents are commonly utilized to induce the self‐assembly of chiral molecules. This study demonstrates that achiral solvents can trigger helicity inversion in the assemblies of dansyl amphiphiles and control the excited‐state “majority rule” in assemblies composed of pure enantiomers, through variation of the cosolvent ratio. Specifically, enantiomers of dansyl amphiphiles self‐assemble into helical structures with opposite handedness in methanol (MeOH) and acetonitrile (MeCN), together with inversed circular dichroism and circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) signals. When a mixture of MeOH and MeCN is employed, the achiral cosolvents collectively affect the CPL of the assemblies in a way similar to that of “mixed enantiomers”. The dominant cosolvent governs the CPL signal. As the cosolvent composition shifts from pure MeCN to MeOH, the CPL signals undergo a significant inversion and amplification, with two maxima observed at ≈20% MeOH and 20% MeCN. This study deepens the comprehension of how achiral solvents modulate helical nanostructures and their excited‐state chiroptical properties.
Intrinsically Stretchable Organic Thermoelectric Polymers Enabled by Incorporating Fused‐Ring Conjugated Breakers
Authors: Tseng Chi‐Chun , Wang Kuang‐Chieh , Lin Po‐Shen , Chang Chi , Yeh Li‐Lun , Tung Shih‐Huang , Liu Cheng‐Liang , Cheng Yen‐Ju
Published: May 2024

While research on organic thermoelectric polymers is making significant progress in recent years, realization of a single polymer material possessing both thermoelectric properties and stretchability for the next generation of self‐powered wearable electronics is a challenging task and remains an area yet to be explored. A new molecular engineering concept of “conjugated breaker” is employed to impart stretchability to a highly crystalline diketopyrrolepyrrole (DPP)‐based polymer. A hexacyclic diindenothieno[2,3‐b]thiophene (DITT) unit, with two 4‐octyloxyphenyl groups substituted at the tetrahedral sp3‐carbon bridges, is selected to function as the conjugated breaker that can sterically hinder intermolecular packing to reduce polymers’ crystallinity. A series of donor–acceptor random copolymers is thus developed via polymerizing the crystalline DPP units with the DITT conjugated breakers. By controlling the monomeric DPP/DITT ratios, DITT30 reaches the optimal balance of crystalline/amorphous regions, exhibiting an exceptional power factor (PF) value up to 12.5 µW m−1 K−2 after FeCl3‐doping; while, simultaneously displaying the capability to withstand strains exceeding 100%. More significantly, the doped DITT30 film possesses excellent mechanical endurance, retaining 80% of its initial PF value after 200 cycles of stretching/releasing at a strain of 50%. This research marks a pioneering achievement in creating intrinsically stretchable polymers with exceptional thermoelectric properties.
Laser‐Printed Photoanode: Femtosecond Laser‐Induced Crystalline Phase Transformation of WO3 Nanorods for Space‐Efficient and Flexible Thin‐Film Solar Water‐Splitting Cells
Authors: Kim Hyeonwoo , Lee Jehoon , Kong Heejung , Park Taeuk , Kim Tae Sung , Yang Haechang , Yeo Junyeob
Published: May 2024

Despite its potential for clean hydrogen harvesting, photoelectrochemical (PEC) water‐splitting cells face challenges in commercialization, particularly related its harvesting performance and productivity at an industrial scale. Herein, a facile fabrication method of flexible thin‐film photoanode for PEC water‐splitting to overcome these limitations, based on laser processing technologies, is proposed. Laser‐induced graphene, a carbon structure produced through direct laser writing carbonization (DLWC), plays a dual role: a flexible and stable current collector and a substrate for the hydrothermal synthesis of tungsten trioxide (WO3) nanorods (NRs). To facilitate water‐splitting, a femtosecond‐pulsed laser (fs laser) is focused on the WO3 NRs, converting their crystalline phase from pristine orthorhombic to monoclinic structure without thermal damage. With NiFe layered double hydroxide (LDH) catalyst, the flexible thin‐film photoanode exhibits good PEC performance (1.46 mA cm−2 at 1.23 VRHE) and retains ≈90% of its performance after 3000 bending cycles. With its excellent mechanical properties, the flexible photoanode can be operated in various shapes with different curvatures, enabling space‐efficient PEC water‐splitting by loading larger photoanode within a given space. This study is expected to contribute to the advancement of large‐scale solar water‐splitting cells, introducing a new approach to enhance H2/O2 production and expand its application range.
Bioinspired Bone Seed 3D‐Printed Scaffold via Trapping Black Phosphorus Nanosheet for Bone Regeneration
Authors: Cai Zhengwei , Chen Zhijie , Tang Yuan , Cheng Liang , Qiu Minglong , Wang Ningtao , Jiang Wei , Li Zhanchun , Pereira Catarina Leite , Zhang Yunhai , Sarmento Bruno , Cui Wenguo
Published: May 2024

Significance of endogenous mineralization in bone reconstruction is paramount, as it facilitates the accumulation of calcium ions for bone tissue deposition. However, conventional 3D‐printed scaffolds lack the capacity for calcium ion enrichment and mineralization, coupled with their low bone inductive activity. Inspired from the development of natural plant seeds, a biomimetic 3D printing scaffold is developed by implanting photosensitive black phosphorus “bone seeds” (BS), guiding a sequential process mirroring rooting (osteoblast recruitment), sprouting (fibrous callus mineralization), flowering (osseous callus formation), and fruiting (callus plasticity). BS were trapped onto porous 3D polycaprolactone (PCL) scaffolds with aminated surfaces via electrostatic interactions between phosphates and amino groups, creating the PCL‐BS scaffold that can actively capture calcium ions for accelerating the endogenous regeneration of critical bone defects. In vitro and in vivo experiments show that the PCL‐BS scaffold has good biocompatibility and strong osteogenic ability for rapid new bone regeneration under near‐infrared (NIR) stimulation. In addition, whole transcriptome sequencing analysis is performed to reveal the transcriptomic mechanism of BS involved in signal transduction and network regulation during bone regeneration. This NIR light‐regulated biomimetic BS inspired by seed planting, introduces a pioneering concept in the design of 3D printing bone repair scaffolds.
Visualizing Electrochemical CO2 Conversion via the Emerging Scanning Electrochemical Microscope: Fundamentals, Applications and Perspectives
Authors: Yu Mulin , Sui Peng‐Fei , Tang Yu‐Feng , Zhang Tong , Liu Shuo , Fu Xian‐Zhu , Luo Jing‐Li , Liu Subiao
Published: May 2024

With the rapid development and maturity of electrochemical CO2 conversion involving cathodic CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) and anodic oxygen evolution reaction (OER), conventional ex situ characterizations gradually fall behind in detecting real‐time products distribution, tracking intermediates, and monitoring structural evolution, etc. Nevertheless, advanced in situ techniques, with intriguing merits like good reproducibility, facile operability, high sensitivity, and short response time, can realize in situ detection and recording of dynamic data, and observe materials structural evolution in real time. As an emerging visual technique, scanning electrochemical microscope (SECM) presents local electrochemical signals on various materials surface through capturing micro‐current caused by reactants oxidation and reduction. Importantly, SECM holds particular potentials in visualizing reactive intermediates at active sites and obtaining instantaneous morphology evolution images to reveal the intrinsic reactivity of active sites. Therefore, this review focuses on SECM fundamentals and its specific applications toward CO2RR and OER, mainly including electrochemical behavior observation on local regions of various materials, target products and onset potentials identification in real‐time, reaction pathways clarification, reaction kinetics exploration under steady‐state conditions, electroactive materials screening and multi‐techniques coupling for a joint utilization. This review undoubtedly provides a leading guidance to extend various SECM applications to other energy‐related fields.
Microstructure Evolution and Homogenization Kinetics of 15Cr–30Ni–Fe Heat‐Resistant Alloy
Authors: Zhang Huai , Shi Chengbin , Wang Shizhou , Zhu Xin , Li Jing
Published: May 2024

The as‐cast microstructure, microsegregation of alloying elements, and microstructure evolution during homogenization of the newly designed 15Cr–30Ni–Fe heat‐resistant alloy are studied. Ti, Nb, Si, and Mo segregate at the interdendritic region. The brittle eutectic Laves phase contains Fe, Ti, Ni, Nb, Si, and Mo, which is identified as the Fe2Ti Laves phase. The activation energy for the Fe2Ti Laves phase dissolution is close to the activation energy for Ti diffusion in the γ matrix based on the Johnson–Mehl–Avrami–Kolmogorov analysis. The back‐diffusion of Ti to the γ matrix is the limiting step for the dissolution of Fe2Ti Laves phase. The kinetic equation of homogenization considering lattice parameters and pre‐exponential factor correction is established. After the double‐stage homogenization at 980 °C/10 h + 1140 °C/4 h, the volume fraction of the Laves phase decreases from 5.11% to 0.26%, and the large eutectic Laves phase is completely dissolved. The reduction in the standard deviation of microhardness at different soaking times effectively reflects the gradual decrease in the degree of microsegregation of alloying elements. The average grain size of the alloy after homogenization is 410 ± 63.1 μm, which is beneficial to control the further refinement of grain during the subsequent hot working.
Web‐based e‐portfolios for oral health students’ competency assessment and professional development
Authors: Gallagher Des , Radif Mustafa , Zheng Meixun , Iyer Parvati
Published: May 2024

This study describes the 4‐year experience of a dental school in implementing web‐based e‐portfolios for competency assessment and professional development. We discuss our adaptable strategies and the lessons learned, hoping to contribute to the literature and offer guidance to other institutions considering the implementation of e‐portfolios.