bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterising the HLA‐I immunopeptidome of plasma‐derived extracellular vesicles in patients with melanoma
Authors: Boyne Caitlin , Coote Abigail , Synowsky Silvia , Naden Aaron , Shirran Sally , Powis Simon J.
Published: March 2024

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) frequently express human leukocyte antigen class I (HLA‐I) molecules. The immunopeptidomes presented on EV HLA‐I are being mapped to provide key information on both specific cancer‐related peptides, and for larger immunopeptidomic signatures associated with disease. Utilizing HLA‐I immunoisolation and mass spectrometry, we characterised the HLA‐I immunopeptidome of EVs derived from the melanoma cancer cell line, ESTDAB‐026, and the plasma of 12 patients diagnosed with advanced stage melanoma, alongside 11 healthy controls. The EV HLA‐I immunopeptidome derived from melanoma cells features T cell epitopes with known immunogenicity and peptides derived from known tumour associated antigens (TAAs). Both T cell epitopes with known immunogenicity and peptides derived from known TAAs were also identifiable in the melanoma patient samples. Patient stratification into two distinct groups with varying immunological profiles was also observed. The data obtained in this study suggests for the first time that the HLA‐I immunopeptidome of EVs derived from blood may aid in the detection of important diagnostic or prognostic biomarkers and also provide new immunotherapy targets.
Cloning and expression profile of the alanine aminotransferase gene from kuruma shrimp Penaeus japonicus exposed to different salinities
Authors: Koyama Hiroki , Yamashita Kyoko , Narita Hinano , Hiraoka Haruki , Sasaki Yuka , Kamiya Kanna , Yamakawa Rin , Kuniyoshi Hisato , Piyapattanakorn Sanit , Watabe Shugo
Published: March 2024

Several crustaceans including shrimps change the amount of specific free amino acids to regulate the osmotic pressure in their bodies. Kuruma shrimp Penaeus japonicus also increases the concentration of alanine (Ala) in the abdominal muscle following the increase of environmental salinity. In the present study, to elucidate the mechanisms of changes in Ala accumulation of kuruma shrimp depending on salinity, we cloned the gene encoding alanine aminotransferase (ALT), an enzyme involved in Ala biosynthesis, and examined its expression profile. It was found that the full‐length kuruma shrimp ALT1 cDNA consisted of 3,301 bp, encoding 514 amino acids, and that all amino acid residues important for ALT activity were conserved. Phylogenetic analysis also indicated that the ALT gene cloned in this study was classified as ALT1. Moreover, we examined the expression levels of the ALT1 gene in the abdominal muscle and the hepatopancreas of kuruma shrimp acclimated at 17‰, 34‰, and 40‰ salinities, resulting that the mRNA levels of the ALT1 genes in both tissues of the shrimp acclimated at 40‰ were significantly higher than those at 17‰ for 12 h (p < 0.05). The mRNA levels of the ALT1 gene in the abdominal muscle of the shrimp acclimated for more than 24 h tended to increase following the increase of environmental salinity. These results indicate that ALT1 is responsible for the increase of free Ala concentration in the abdominal muscle of kuruma shrimp to regulate osmotic pressure at high salinity.
Global value chains and economic growth: A study of resilience during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Jangam Bhushan Praveen , Venkatesh Hari , Tiwari Aviral Kumar
Published: March 2024

This research examines the impact of trade related to global value chains (GVCs) and the COVID‐19 pandemic on economic growth. To achieve this, we analyse a panel of 60 countries spanning from 2007 to 2021. Various models are estimated using the system generalized method of moments technique. The primary findings are as follows: Firstly, GVC trade is identified as a positive and beneficial factor influencing economic growth. Secondly, the interaction between COVID and GVCs reveals that GVCs continue to have a positive impact on economic growth even during the pandemic. Lastly, consistent and comparable results are observed across different GVC components, sectors and country groups. These outcomes provide valuable insights for policymakers, emphasizing the importance of GVC trade in fostering economic growth.
Estimated cytomegalovirus seroprevalence in the general population of the United States and Canada
Authors: Dana Flanders W. , Lally Cathy , Dilley Anne , Diaz‐Decaro John
Published: March 2024

Seroprevalence data for cytomegalovirus (CMV), a widespread virus causing lifelong infection, vary widely, and contemporary data from the United States (US) and Canada are limited. Utilizing a modeling approach based on a literature review (conducted August, 2022) of data published since 2005, we determine age‐, sex‐, and country‐specific CMV seroprevalence in the general US and Canadian populations. Sex‐specific data were extracted by age categories, and a random‐effects meta‐regression model was used to fit the reported data (incorporating splines for the US). Seven studies reported US CMV seroprevalence (both sexes, aged 1‒89 years); all used National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data. Due to limited population‐based studies, Canadian estimates were modeled using other limited country data. In both countries, modeled seroprevalence estimates increased with age and were higher in females versus males (US: 49.0% vs. 41.6% at 18‒19 years; 61.5% vs. 50.0% at 38‒39 years; Canada: 23.7% vs. 13.7% at 18‒19 years; 32.6% vs. 22.6% at 38‒39 years). Notably, by young adulthood, one‐half of US and one‐quarter of Canadian females have acquired CMV. The observed differences in CMV seroprevalence in the US and Canada may partially reflect variations in general population characteristics.
Juveniles, young adults, and infants with hepatitis B virus infection: A genomic study
Authors: Zhang Hanwen , Li Meina , Liu Huijuan , Dong Yi , Li Weijie , Zhao Pan
Published: March 2024

Integration of hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA into the human genome is recognized as an oncogenic factor and a barrier to hepatitis B cure. In the study, biopsy liver tissues were collected from adolescents and young adults with acute HBV infection younger than or equal to 35 years of age and from HBV‐infected infant patients younger than or equal to 6 months of age. A high‐throughput sequencing method was used to detect HBV DNA integration. Totally, 12 adolescents, young adults, and 6 infants were included. Among the 12 patients with acute HBV infection, immunohistochemical staining of intrahepatic hepatitis B surface antigen for all displayed negative results, and no HBV DNA integrants in the hepatocyte DNA were confirmed. All infant patients had elevated levels of alanine aminotransferase and high levels of serum HBV DNA. Numerous gene sites of hepatocyte DNA were integrated by HBV DNA for each infant patient, ranging from 120 to 430 integration sites. The fragile histidine triad gene was the high‐frequency integrated site in the intragenic region for infant patients. In conclusion, hepatocyte DNA is integrated by HBV DNA in babies with active hepatitis B but seems seldom affected among adolescents and young adults with acute HBV infection. Infantile hepatitis B should be taken seriously considering abundant HBV DNA integration events.
Cultivating optimal analgesic prescribing practices in a metropolitan hospital network: evaluating an analgesic stewardship program
Authors: Szmerling Jeremy , Maleki Sam , Mar Gordon , Goulopoulos Anne
Published: March 2024

Background

The increasing incidence of opioid‐related harm associated with inappropriate opioid prescription underscores the need for effective interventions directed at enhancing analgesic prescribing practices. Analgesic stewardship (AGS) programs have emerged to facilitate appropriate analgesic use, reducing analgesic‐related harm and optimising patient outcomes.

Aim

This study aimed to assess the impact of an AGS program on the appropriateness of opioid analgesia prescribing for adult inpatients within a metropolitan health network during the initial two months following program implementation.

Method

This retrospective audit examined de‐identified aggregate data of 100 adult inpatients of a major Australian metropolitan hospital network between August–September 2022. The multidisciplinary AGS program involving pharmacy, nursing, and medical staff provided clinical interventions and recommendations for patients, supported by organisational interventions, including education and guideline reinforcement. Data collection included patient demographics, clinical data, and AGS program recommendations documented in patient medical records. Ethical approval was granted by the Eastern Health Office of Research and Ethics (Reference no: QA23‐015‐91886) and the study confirms to the Australian Statement on Ethical Conduct in Human Research.

Results

It was found that 51% of opioid‐naïve patients were prescribed modified‐release opioids for acute non‐cancer pain, contrary to local guidelines. The AGS program recommendations resulted in an 89.7% cessation of these prescriptions. For non‐opioid‐naïve patients, there was a statistically significant reduction in mean Oral Morphine Equivalent Daily Dose of 19.85 mg (95% confidence interval [CI] 10.3–29.4 mg, p < 0.05). AGS recommendations were predominantly adhered to, with 82% showing full or partial compliance.

Conclusion

This study highlights the positive impact of an AGS program on the appropriateness of opioid analgesic prescribing for adult inpatients. These findings support the implementation of AGS programs into healthcare systems to mitigate opioid‐related harm and improve patient outcomes.
Visceral leishmaniasis as a rare cause of granulomatous hepatitis
Authors: Ben Sabbahia Dalal , Atrassi Meriem , Msaaf Halima , Chahid Imane , Khoaja Ayoub , Bennani Nissrine , Karkouri Mehdi , Abkari Abdelhak
Published: March 2024

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a potentially fatal infection caused by species of Leishmania. It is characterized by fever, weight loss, anemia, and enlargement of the spleen and liver. Hepatitis due to VL is one of the causes of granulomatous hepatitis rarely described in the literature. It poses a problem of differential diagnosis with other causes, notably infectious and autoimmune. Hence the need for a global clinical, biological, and histological evaluation to orientate this entity, especially in endemic countries like ours. In the present case study, a 2‐year 8‐month‐old boy was diagnosed with VL and treated with meglumine antimoniate; the evolution was marked after 2 months by the persistence of a large liver; laboratory results showed elevated liver functions and anemia. A liver biopsy was performed, and the histological findings confirmed the diagnosis of granulomatous hepatitis.
Chemical kinetic model reduction based on species‐targeted local sensitivity analysis
Authors: Wu You , Lin Shengqiang , Law Chung K. , Yang Bin
Published: March 2024

Reduction of large combustion mechanisms is usually conducted based on the detection and elimination of redundant species and reactions. Reaction elimination methods are mostly based on sensitivity analysis, which can provide insight into the kinetic system, while species elimination methods are more efficient. In this work, the species‐targeted local sensitivity analysis (STLSA) method is proposed to evaluate the importance of species and eliminate non‐crucial species and their related reactions to simplify kinetic models. This paper comprehensively evaluates the effectiveness of STLSA across various combustion scenarios, including high and low‐temperature ignition and laminar flame speed, using diverse mechanisms like USC Mech II, JetSurf 1.0, POLIMI_TOT_1412, NUIGMech1.1 and so on. Comparisons with graph‐based methods, such as DRG and DRGEP, highlight STLSA's superior efficiency and accuracy. Moreover, STLSA is compared to species‐targeted global sensitivity analysis (STGSA), demonstrating significant computation cost savings and comparable model reduction capabilities. The study concludes that STLSA is a robust and versatile tool for mechanism reduction, offering substantial improvements in computational efficiency while maintaining high accuracy in predicting key combustion properties.
The Effects of Nebulized Lidocaine on the Laryngeal Adductor Reflex
Authors: Sánchez Roldán M. Ángeles , Duque Héctor , Masso Bernat , Moncho Dulce , Vilallonga Ramón , Armengol Manuel , González Óscar
Published: March 2024

The laryngeal adductor reflex (LAR) is a brainstem reflex that closes the vocal fold and constitutes a new method for continuously monitoring the vagus and laryngeal nerves during different surgeries. Previous reports concluded that topical lidocaine in spray inhibited LAR responses. However, topical anesthesia in the upper airway may be necessary in awake intubation. We present six patients who underwent neck endocrine surgery due to an intrathoracic goiter that compromised the airway. Before awake intubation, a nebulization of lidocaine 5% was applied for at least 10 min. The intubation procedure was well tolerated, and bilateral LAR with suitable amplitudes for monitoring was obtained in all cases. In our series, the nebulization of lidocaine 5% did not affect the laryngeal adductor reflex. Laryngoscope, 134:4161–4164, 2024
Factors Associated with Research Productivity and National Institutes of Health Funding in Academic Otology
Authors: Revercomb Lucy , Patel Aman M. , Tripathi Om B. , Filimonov Andrey
Published: March 2024

Objectives

Bibliometrics, such as the Hirsch index (h‐index) and the more recently developed relative citation ratio (RCR), are utilized to evaluate research productivity. Our study evaluates demographics, research productivity, and National Institutes of Health (NIH) funding in academic otology.

Methods

Academic otologists were identified, and their demographics were collected using institutional faculty profiles (N = 265). Funding data were obtained using the NIH Research Portfolio Online Reporting Tools Expenditures and Reports Database. The h‐index was calculated using Scopus and mean (m‐RCR) and weighted RCR (w‐RCR) were calculated using the NIH iCite tool.

Results

H‐index (aOR 1.18, 95% CI 1.10–1.27, p < 0.001), but not m‐RCR (aOR 1.50, 95% CI 0.97–2.31, p = 0.069) or w‐RCR (aOR 1.00, 95% CI 0.99–1.00, p = 0.231), was associated with receiving NIH funding. Men had greater h‐index (16 vs. 9, p < 0.001) and w‐RCR (51.8 vs. 23.0, p < 0.001), but not m‐RCR (1.3 vs. 1.3, p = 0.269) than women. Higher academic rank was associated with greater h‐index and w‐RCR (p < 0.001). Among assistant professors, men had greater h‐index than women (9.0 vs. 8.0, p = 0.025). At career duration 11–20 years, men had greater h‐index (14.0 vs. 8.0, p = 0.009) and w‐RCR (52.7 vs. 25.8, p = 0.022) than women.

Conclusion

The h‐index has a strong relationship with NIH funding in academic otology. Similar h‐index, m‐RCR, and w‐RCR between men and women across most academic ranks and career durations suggests production of similarly impactful research. The m‐RCR may correct some deficiencies of time‐dependent bibliometrics and its consideration in academic promotion and research funding allocation may promote representation of women in otology.

Level of Evidence

N/A Laryngoscope, 134:3786–3794, 2024
Free flap reconstruction of elbow soft tissue defects: Lessons learned from 15 years of experience
Authors: McGraw J. Reed , Sulkar Reena S. , Bascone Corey M. , Othman Sammy , Mauch Jaclyn T. , Naga Hani I. , Levin L. Scott , Kovach Stephen J.
Published: March 2024

Background

The elbow is a complex joint that is vital for proper function of the upper extremity. Reconstruction of soft tissue defects over the joint space remains challenging, and outcomes following free tissue transfer remain underreported in the literature. The purpose of this analysis was to evaluate the rate of limb salvage, joint function, and clinical complications following microvascular free flap coverage of the elbow.

Methods

This retrospective case series utilized surgical logs of the senior authors (Stephen J Kovach and L Scott Levin) to identify patients who underwent microvascular free flap elbow reconstruction between January 2007 and December 2021. Patient demographics and medical history were collected from the medical chart. Operative notes were reviewed to determine the type of flap procedure performed. The achievement of definitive soft tissue coverage, joint function, and limb salvage status at 1 year was determined from postoperative visit notes.

Results

Twenty‐one patients (14 male, 7 female, median age 43) underwent free tissue transfer for coverage of soft tissue defects of the elbow. The most common indication for free tissue transfer was traumatic elbow fracture with soft tissue loss (n = 12, [57%]). Among the 21 free flaps performed, 71% (n = 15) were anterolateral thigh flaps, 14% (n = 3) were latissimus dorsi flaps, and 5% (n = 1) were transverse rectus abdominis flaps. The mean flap size was 107.5 cm2. Flap success was 100% (n = 21). The following postoperative wound complications were reported: surgical site infection (n = 1, [5%]); partial dehiscence (n = 5, [24%]); seroma (n = 2, [10%]); donor‐site hematoma (n = 1, [5%]); and delayed wound healing (n = 5, [24%]). At 1 year, all 21 patients achieved limb salvage and definitive soft tissue coverage. Of the 17 patients with functional data available, 47% (n = 8) had regained at least 120 degrees of elbow flexion/extension. All patients had greater than 1 year of follow‐up.

Conclusion

Microvascular free flap reconstruction is a safe and effective method of providing definitive soft tissue coverage of elbow defects, as evidenced by high rates of limb salvage and functional recovery following reconstruction.
The Wind Is Always Blowing: Generative Crosscurrents of Ethnographic Dialogue in Australia
Authors: Curkpatrick Samuel , Wilfred Daniel
Published: March 2024

Live conversations and writing play an important role in ethnographic research that seeks to develop understanding across cultural differences. Both forms of communication need not remain distinct: written dialogue can develop critical thought while foregrounding the shared contexts and relational impetuses of communication across cultures. Set against the background of recent styles in ethnographic writing about and with Yolŋu people, this article extends from conversations about wata (wind), exploring collaborative practices (music performance and teaching) and approaches to writing ethnography that respond to a core quality of wind as a medium that connects. Wata is a significant theme within manikay (public ceremonial song) that connects Wägilak with their ancestral lands, even as it blows through the country of other groups, allowing new relationships and understandings to be formed. Giving rise to concerns of connection, difference, and movement, wata is a significant theme for considering the ways narrative traditions can shape relationality and give impetus to intellectual inquiry.
Development and characterization of microwave‐processed linear low‐density polyethylene based sisal/jute hybrid laminates
Authors: Maurya Hari Om , Kumar Gaurav , Prasad Lalta , Gupta Pranjal
Published: March 2024

Natural fiber‐reinforced composites are gaining significant popularity for their biodegradability and eco‐friendliness. Fiber modifications and hybridization have been used to address issues like hydrophilicity and fiber inhomogeneity. However, efficient manufacturing is still a challenge for natural fiber‐reinforced polymer composites. The present study explores the potential of microwave processing of hybrid laminates composed of sisal and jute fibers. The laminates, consisting of linear low‐density polyethylene (LLDPE) as matrix and sisal and jute as reinforcement materials were subjected to microwave processing at specific power, time, frequency, and loads. Four types of laminates with different stacking sequences: sisal‐sisal‐sisal (SSS), sisal‐jute‐sisal (SJS), jute‐sisal‐jute (JSJ), and jute‐jute‐jute (JJJ) were developed. The developed composites showed ~3% void content, with the SJS and JSJ composite having the least and highest void content, respectively. The SJS composite showed the highest tensile and flexural strength of 15.27 and 20.40 MPa, respectively, out of all the configurations and an improvement of 42% and 85% over pure LLDPE. Hybrid composites having high‐strength fibers in the skin layer exhibited superior mechanical properties. Microscopic examination of the fractured specimens revealed that fiber pull‐out and fiber breakage were the primary failure mechanisms of failure. Lateral failure due to delamination between matrix and fiber was predominant with grip and gauge regions as frequent failure points. The incorporation of sisal and jute fiber reinforcement into the polymers doesn't change the thermal stability of the fabricated composites significantly. The above results show that microwave‐assisted processing is a promising method for producing natural fiber‐reinforced hybrid polymer composites.

Highlights

Development of hybrid laminates using microwave energy at 2.45 GHz.

The mechanism of microwave‐based processing of polymer composites has been discussed.

Effect of layering sequence on mechanical and thermal properties of the developed composite.

Assessment of tensile strength with morphology, flexural strength and thermo‐gravimetric analysis.
“Always online”: How and when task interdependence and dispositional workplace anxiety affect workplace telepressure after hours
Authors: He Xiaoyan , Gao Qin , Cao Ya , Bian Ran , Wang Xiao‐Hua (Frank)
Published: March 2024

Information and communication technology (ICT) provides employees with convenience in communication. However, it also creates a preoccupation with and urges to respond quickly to work‐related ICT messages during nonworking time, which is defined as workplace telepressure after hours (WTA). Drawing on the job demand–resource model, conservation of resource theory, and workplace anxiety theory, this study explores how and when task interdependence and dispositional workplace anxiety affect WTA and how individuals cope with WTA. A total of 269 full‐time workers from an online survey panel completed questionnaires at three time‐points. We found that both task interdependence and dispositional workplace anxiety are positively related to WTA. The perception of pay‐for‐responsiveness moderates the relationship between task interdependence and WTA, such that the relationship is significant only for employees with a strong perception of pay‐for‐responsiveness. Others' approval contingency of self‐worth moderates the relationship between dispositional workplace anxiety and WTA, and the relationship is significant only for employees with high degrees of others' approval contingency of self‐worth. Finally, WTA arising from external work requirements or the internal pursuit of achieving work goals prompts employees to generate responsiveness coping strategies. Overall, these findings suggest that task interdependence and dispositional workplace anxiety are important factors affecting employees' WTA and highlight the importance of being responsive to WTA.
Cross‐sectional analyses of factors associated with the presence and aggravation of chronic insomnia by symptom subtypes
Authors: Osao Masumi , Okajima Isa , Inoue Yuichi
Published: March 2024

Aim

The aim of this study was to investigate the association of psychological and chronobiological factors with the presence and severity of chronic insomnia by symptom subtypes and their impacts on daytime dysfunctions.

Methods

Participants of the present web‐based epidemiological study were classified as follows: difficulty initiating sleep (DIS) (n = 91); difficulty maintaining sleep (DMS) (n = 13); early morning awakening (EMA) (n = 48); DIS + DMS (n = 67); DIS + EMA (n = 23); DMS + EMA (n = 24); triplet of DIS, DMS, and EMA symptoms (TRP) (n = 69); and normal sleepers (n = 4590). The Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), Munich Chronotype Questionnaire (MCTQ), insomnia‐related psychological measures (including the Ford Insomnia Response to Stress Test [FIRST] and the Dysfunctional Beliefs and Attitudes about Sleep Scale [DBAS]), and the cognitive and somatic domains of the Pre‐Sleep Arousal Scale (PSAS) were evaluated.

Results

The presence of DIS and DIS + DMS were significantly associated with an evening preference, and EMA and EMA + DMS with a morning preference, while TRP showed no significant association with either chronotype. The increase in DBAS scores was associated with higher ISI scores in all subtypes. Meanwhile, the associations of each psychological measure varied among insomnia subtypes, with the association of PSAS cognitive arousal to DIS and PSAS somatic arousal to both DMS + EMA and TRP. Pathological HADS score was associated with all subtypes.

Conclusion

Chronotypes may be associated with the presence of some insomnia subtypes; however, only psychological factors were speculated to contribute to the aggravation of all subtypes. All insomnia subtypes possibly contribute to the formation of depression.
Role of crosslinkers on the properties of bio‐based wood adhesives
Authors: Patel Pratik , Patel Rutu , Chaudhari Janvi , Gupta Ram K.
Published: March 2024

As people became more conscious of the risks associated with pollution in the early 21st century, eco‐friendly adhesives made from plant oil began to be used. Bio‐based adhesives are widely used due to their low price, easy accessibility, and high biodegradability; however, their low adhesive strength is an issue. This work incorporates three natural crosslinkers: tannic acid (TA), sorbitol (SR), and cellulose (CL) to address the drawbacks of bio‐based adhesives, such as low adhesive strength, inferior output in humidity and longer curing time that result from excess water. Methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI) was used to react with soybean oil‐based polyol (SOP) plus the crosslinkers to make bio‐based polyurethane adhesives. The maximum bonding strength of the soybean‐based adhesive containing 10 wt.% of SR (SR‐10%) was measured at 6.19 MPa which is about 44% higher than the sample without SR. The higher strength is due to the crosslinking ability of SR. The effect of crosslinking is also observed in the study of polar protic and polar aprotic solvents used to dissolve the adhesive. As compared with the polar aprotic solvent tetrahydrofuran, TA‐containing adhesive samples showed a maximum tensile strength of 3.69 MPa in methanol; a polar protic solvent that can participate in further hydrogen bonding to form a higher crosslinked complex. The glass transition temperature (Tg) increases with the increase in crosslinker amount. The observed increase in Tg may be attributable to an increase in crosslinking density, which reduces polymer chain flexibility and causes a stronger material.

Highlights

Bio‐adhesives based on soybean oil and diisocyanate were synthesized.

Natural crosslinking agents such as tannic acid, sorbitol, and cellulose were used.

The effect of crosslinking using polar protic and aprotic solvents was studied.

The glass transition temperature increases with the increase in crosslinker amount.
Gender‐specific hip strength disparities correlate with injury patterns in NCAA men's and women's soccer players
Authors: Bakal David R. , Hussain Farah S. , Dzierzawski Justin T. , Meyer Daniel T. , Dawson Holli E. , Olufade Oluseun A.
Published: March 2024

Background

In National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) soccer athletes, men have higher rates of hip and groin strains, whereas women have higher rates of knee ligament injuries. Strength imbalances of the hip and thigh, specifically in agonist–antagonist muscles, are known risk factors for these injuries.

Objective

To perform hip and thigh strength assessments in NCAA soccer players to evaluate for differences between genders and correlations with gender‐specific injury patterns.

Design

With a handheld dynamometer, weight‐normalized isometric strength of six muscle groups (hip abductors, hip adductors, hip flexors, hip extensors, knee flexors, knee extensors) was calculated in NCAA soccer players. The strength ratio of each agonist–antagonist muscle was also calculated (hip abductors/adductors, hip flexors/extensors, knee extensors/flexors).

Participants

Thirty‐six NCAA soccer players (18 men, 18 women) from a single NCAA Division III institution.

Interventions

Not applicable.

Main Outcome Measures

Weight‐normalized strength of six muscle groups and their agonist–antagonist strength ratios were compared between genders using linear mixed‐effects models.

Results

Compared with male players, female players had decreased weight‐normalized strength for hip abduction (0.170 vs. 0.204, p = .012) and hip extension (0.172 vs. 0.211, p = .021). Otherwise, weight‐normalized strength was similar between genders. When comparing agonist–antagonist strength ratios, there was a significant difference between female and male players for hip flexion:extension (1.70 vs. 1.35, p = .008), whereas the hip abduction: adduction ratio did not reach statistical significance (1.45 vs. 1.62, p = .080).

Conclusions

NCAA male and female soccer players had different hip strength profiles that fit their injury patterns. Male NCAA soccer players have higher rates of hip and groin strains, and men in the cohort had strength ratios that were deficient in the hip flexors and adductors compared with women. Female NCAA soccer players have higher rates of knee sprains and anterior cruciate ligament tears, and women in the cohort had strength ratios that were deficient in the hip abductors and extensors, which function to stabilize the knee. These strength disparities could be the focus of future gender‐specific soccer injury prevention programs.
Population pharmacokinetic‐pharmacodynamic modeling of serum biomarkers as predictors of tumor dynamics following lenvatinib treatment in patients with radioiodine‐refractory differentiated thyroid cancer (RR‐DTC)
Authors: Majid Oneeb , Hayato Seiichi , Sreerama Reddy Sree Harsha , Lalovic Bojan , Hihara Taro , Hoshi Taisuke , Funahashi Yasuhiro , Aluri Jagadeesh , Takenaka Osamu , Yasuda Sanae , Hussein Ziad
Published: March 2024

Lenvatinib is a receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) inhibitor targeting vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) receptors 1–3, fibroblast growth factor (FGF) receptors 1–4, platelet‐derived growth factor receptor‐α (PDGFRα), KIT, and RET that have been implicated in pathogenic angiogenesis, tumor growth, and cancer. The primary objective of this work was to evaluate, by establishing quantitative relationships, whether lenvatinib exposure and longitudinal serum biomarker data (VEGF, Ang‐2, Tie‐2, and FGF‐23) are predictors for change in longitudinal tumor size which was assessed based on data from 558 patients with radioiodine‐refractory differentiated thyroid cancer (RR‐DTC) receiving either lenvatinib or placebo treatment. Lenvatinib PK was best described by a 3‐compartment model with simultaneous first‐ and zero‐order absorption and linear elimination from the central compartment with significant covariates (body weight, albumin <30 g/dL, ALP>ULN, RR‐DTC, RCC, HCC subjects, and concomitant CYP3A inhibitors). Except for body weight, none of the covariates have any clinically meaningful effect on exposure to lenvatinib. Longitudinal biomarker measurements over time were reasonably well defined by a PK/PD model with common EC50, Emax, and a slope for disease progression for all biomarkers. Longitudinal tumor measurements over time were reasonably well defined by a tumor growth inhibition Emax model, which in addition to lenvatinib exposure, included model‐predicted relative changes from baseline over time for Tie‐2 and Ang‐2 as having significant association with tumor response. The developed PK/PD models pave the way for dose optimization and potential prediction of clinical response.
Towards a constructivist view of instructional explanations as a core practice of science teachers
Authors: Kulgemeyer Christoph , Geelan David
Published: March 2024

Instructional explanations are sometimes viewed as part of a nonconstructivist, solely teacher‐centered learning environment, leading to the perception that they are ineffective or inappropriate for teaching science. Consequently, teacher education programmes seldom focus on preparing teachers to explain scientific concepts effectively. Interestingly, the perception of a specific kind of instructional explanation in teaching has evolved in recent years: explanatory videos, in particular, are being viewed as promising digital tools for learning. This article asserts that instructional explanations constitute integral components within nearly all learning environments where communication about science takes place. It has two goals. Firstly, the article aims to develop a coherent, constructivist theory of explaining, including both teacher explanations and explanatory videos. This theory offers an inductive‐statistical explanation of the underlying mechanisms of communicative situations that involve experts and novices. Secondly, based on this constructivist perspective, the article distinguishes instructional explanations from scientific explanations and argumentation. It contends that (a) reducing instructional explanations solely to teacher‐centered, didactic teaching represents a misconception with potentially adverse effects and (b) it also is a misconception that instructional explanations, scientific explanations, and argumentation are (nearly) interchangeable. The paper argues that instructional explanations, including both teacher explanations and explanatory videos, are not only a potentially effective part of all kinds of science teaching but also a core practice of science teachers.
Circular supply chain management: Antecedent effect of social capital and big data analysis capability and their impact on sustainable performance
Authors: Zhou Xiaochen , Jiang Jijiao , Zhou Cong , Li Xiang , Yin Ming
Published: March 2024

The circular economy era has begun, and circular supply chain management (CSCM) is widely acknowledged as a management paradigm that promotes firm sustainability. Through previous research, we have learned that the key challenge in the circular transformation of manufacturing firms is to encourage supply chain partners to collaborate and effectively participate in resource cycles. Drawing inspiration from social capital theory and resource‐based views, we explored how social capital effect sustainable performance through CSCM and the moderating effect of big data analytics capability (BDAC). We tested this by collecting data from 414 Chinese manufacturing firms. The results indicate that both internal and external social capital are positively correlated with CSCM. In addition, CSCM mediates the relationship between social capital and organizational environmental and social sustainability. The results also indicate that BDAC strengthen the impact of external social capital on CSCM, but the moderating effect on the relationship between internal social capital and CSCM is not significant. This essay advances the theory and practice of CSCM by offering fresh perspectives on how social capital influences sustainable performance of firms.
Bayesian Optimization of Environmentally Sustainable Graphene Inks Produced by Wet Jet Milling
Authors: Chaney Lindsay E. , van Beek Anton , Downing Julia R. , Zhang Jinrui , Zhang Hengrui , Hui Janan , Sorensen E. Alexander , Khalaj Maryam , Dunn Jennifer B. , Chen Wei , Hersam Mark C.
Published: March 2024

Liquid phase exfoliation (LPE) of graphene is a potentially scalable method to produce conductive graphene inks for printed electronic applications. Among LPE methods, wet jet milling (WJM) is an emerging approach that uses high‐speed, turbulent flow to exfoliate graphene nanoplatelets from graphite in a continuous flow manner. Unlike prior WJM work based on toxic, high‐boiling‐point solvents such as n‐methyl‐2‐pyrollidone (NMP), this study uses the environmentally friendly solvent ethanol and the polymer stabilizer ethyl cellulose (EC). Bayesian optimization and iterative batch sampling are employed to guide the exploration of the experimental phase space (namely, concentrations of graphite and EC in ethanol) in order to identify the Pareto frontier that simultaneously optimizes three performance criteria (graphene yield, conversion rate, and film conductivity). This data‐driven strategy identifies vastly different optimal WJM conditions compared to literature precedent, including an optimal loading of 15 wt% graphite in ethanol compared to 1 wt% graphite in NMP. These WJM conditions provide superlative graphene production rates of 3.2 g hr−1 with the resulting graphene nanoplatelets being suitable for screen‐printed micro‐supercapacitors. Finally, life cycle assessment reveals that ethanol‐based WJM graphene exfoliation presents distinct environmental sustainability advantages for greenhouse gas emissions, fossil fuel consumption, and toxicity.
Ni─Co─O─S Derived Catalysts on Hierarchical N‐doped Carbon Supports with Strong Interfacial Interactions for Improved Hybrid Water Splitting Performance
Authors: Qiu Yunfeng , Zhang Yongxia , Yu Miao , Li Xinyi , Wang Yanxia , Ma Zhuo , Liu Shaoqin
Published: March 2024

Simultaneously improving electrochemical activity and stability is a long‐term goal for water splitting. Herein, hierarchical N‐doped carbon nanotubes on carbon nanowires derived from PPy are grown on carbon cloth, serving as a support for NiCo oxides/sulfides. The hierarchical electrodes annealed in N2 or H2/N2 display improved intrinsic activity and stability for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and glucose oxidation reaction. Compared with Pt/C||Ir/C in alkaline media, the glucose electrolysis assembled with electrodes exhibits a cell voltage of 1.38 V at 10 mA cm−2, durability for >12 h at 50 mA cm−2, and resistance to glucose/gluconic acid poisoning. In addition, electrocatalysts can also be applied in ethanol oxidation reactions. Systematic characterizations reveal the strong interactions between NiCo and N‐doped carbon support‐induced partial charge transfer at the interface and regulate the local electronic structure of active sites. Density functional theory calculations demonstrate that the synergistic effect between N‐doped carbon supports, metallic NiCo, and NiCo oxides/sulfides optimize the adsorption energy of H2O and the H* free energy for HER. The energy barrier of the dehydrogenation of glucose effectively decreased. This work will attract attention to the role of metal‐support interactions in enhancing the intrinsic activity and stability of electrocatalysts.
Hybrid Membrane of Sulfonated Poly(aryl ether ketone sulfone) Modified by Molybdenum Clusters with Enhanced Proton Conductivity
Authors: Ji Fang , Jiang Fengyu , Luo Hongwei , He Wen‐Wen , Han Xu , Shen Wangwang , Liu Menglong , Zhou Tao , Xu Jingmei , Wang Zhe , Lan Ya‐Qian
Published: March 2024

Developing novel proton exchange membranes (PEMs) with low cost and superior performance to replace Nafion is of great significance. Polyoxometalate‐doped sulfonated poly(aryl ether ketone sulfone) (SPAEKS) allows for the amalgamation of the advantages in each constituent, thereby achieving an optimized performance for the hybrid PEMs. Herein, the hybrid membranes by introducing 2MeIm‐{Mo132} into SPAEKS are obtained. Excellent hydrophilic properties of 2MeIm‐{Mo132} can help more water molecules be retained in the hybrid membrane, providing abundant carriers for proton transport and proton hopping sites to build successive hydrophilic channels, thus lowering the energy barrier, accelerating the proton migration, and significantly fostering the proton conductivity of hybrid membranes. Especially, SP‐2MIMo132‐5 exhibits an enhanced proton conductivity of 75 mS cm−1 at 80 °C, which is 82.9% higher than pristine SPAEKS membrane. Additionally, this membrane is suitable for application in proton exchange membrane fuel cells, and a maximum power density of 266.2 mW cm−2 can be achieved at 80 °C, which far exceeds that of pristine SPAEKS membrane (54.6 mW cm−2). This work demonstrates that polyoxometalate‐based clusters can serve as excellent proton conduction sites, opening up the choice of proton conduction carriers in hybrid membrane design and providing a novel idea to manufacture high‐performance PEMs.
Tunable Gas Admission via a “Molecular Trapdoor” Mechanism in a Flexible Cationic Metal–Organic Framework Featuring 1D Channels
Authors: Tian Yuanmeng , Tao Zeyu , Sun Mingzhe , Wang Tianqi , Li Liangchun , Gu Qinfen , Shang Jin
Published: March 2024

Achieving high gas selectivity is challenging when dealing with gas pairs of similar size and physiochemical properties. The “molecular trapdoor” mechanism discovered in zeolites holds promise for highly selective gas adsorption separation but faces limitations like constrained pore volume and slow adsorption kinetics. To address these challenges, for the first time, a flexible metal–organic framework (MOF) featuring 1D channels and functioning as a “molecular trapdoor” material is intoduced. Extra‐framework anions act as “gate‐keeping” groups at the narrowest points of channels, permitting gas admissions via gate opening induced by thermal/pressure stimuli and guest interactions. Different guest molecules induce varied energy barriers for anion movement, enabling gas separation based on distinct threshold temperatures for gas admission. The flexible framework of Pytpy MOFs, featuring swelling structure with rotatable pyridine rings, facilitates faster gas adsorption than zeolite. Analyzing anion properties of Pytpy MOFs reveals a guiding principle for selecting anions to tailor threshold gas admission. This study not only overcomes the kinetic limitations related to gas admission in the “molecular trapdoor” zeolites but also underscores the potential of developing MOFs as molecular trapdoor adsorbents, providing valuable insights for designing ionic MOFs tailored to diverse gas separation applications.
Achieving High Rate and Long Cycle Performance of Na2FePO4F Cathode Through Co‐Modification of Ti Doping and Carbon Coating
Authors: Deng Ze‐Rong , Zhang Lu‐Lu , Pei Feng , Liu Wen , Sun Chang , Sun Hua‐Bin , Ding Xiao‐Kai , Yang Xue‐Lin
Published: March 2024

Layered Na2FePO4F (NFPF) cathode material has received widespread attention due to its green nontoxicity, abundant raw materials, and low cost. However, its poor inherent electronic conductivity and sluggish sodium ion transportation seriously impede its capacity delivery and cycling stability. In this work, NFPF by Ti doping and conformal carbon layer coating via solid‐state reaction is modified. The results of experimental study and density functional theory calculations reveal that Ti doping enhances intrinsic conductivity, accelerates Na‐ion transport, and generates more Na‐ion storage sites, and pyrolytic carbon from polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) uniformly coated on the NFPF surface improves the surface/interface conductivity and suppresses the side reactions. Under the combined effect of Ti doping and carbon coating, the optimized NFPF (marked as 5T‐NF@C) exhibits excellent electrochemical performance, with a high capacity of 108.4 mAh g−1 at 0.2C, a considerable capacity of 80.0 mAh g−1 even at high current density of 10C, and a high capacity retention rate of 81.8% after 2000 cycles at 10C. When assembled into a full cell with a hard carbon anode, 5T‐NF@C also show good applicability. This work indicates that co‐modification of Ti doping and carbon coating makes NFPF achieve high rate and long cycle performance for sodium‐ion batteries.
Straightforward Creation of Multishell Hollow Hybrids for an Integrated Metabolic Monitoring System in Disease Management
Authors: Zhang Man , Shi Fangying , Chen Yijie , Yang Chenyu , Zhang Xiangmin , Deng Chunhui , Sun Nianrong
Published: March 2024

Multidimensional metabolic analysis has become a new trend in establishing efficient disease monitoring systems, as the constraints associated with relying solely on a single dimension in refined monitoring are increasingly pronounced. Here, coordination polymers are employed as derivative precursors to create multishell hollow hybrids, developing an integrated metabolic monitoring system. Briefly, metabolic fingerprints are extracted from hundreds of serum samples and urine samples, encompassing not only membranous nephropathy but also related diseases, using high‐throughput mass spectrometry. With optimized algorithm and initial feature selection, the established combined panel demonstrates enhanced accuracy in both subtype differentiation (over 98.1%) and prognostic monitoring (over 95.6%), even during double blind test. This surpasses the serum biomarker panel (≈90.7% for subtyping, ≈89.7% for prognosis) and urine biomarker panel (≈94.4% for subtyping, ≈76.5% for prognosis). Moreover, after attempting to further refine the marker panel, the blind test maintains equal sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy, showcasing a comprehensive improvement over the single‐fluid approach. This underscores the remarkable effectiveness and superiority of the integrated strategy in discriminating between MN and other groups. This work has the potential to significantly advance diagnostic medicine, leading to the establishment of more effective strategies for patient management.
Membrane‐Free Selective Semi‐Hydrogenation of Alkynes Over an In Situ Formed Copper Nanoparticle Electrode
Authors: Guo Pengyu , Xu Yousen , Wu Hao , Zhang Lei
Published: March 2024

Selective semi‐hydrogenation of alkynes is a significant reaction for preparing functionalized alkenes. Electrochemical semi‐hydrogenation presents a sustainable alternative to the traditional thermal process. In this research, affordable copper acetylacetonate is employed as a catalyst precursor for the electrocatalytic hydrogenation of alkynes, using MeOH as the hydrogen source in an undivided cell. Good to excellent yields for both aromatic and aliphatic internal/terminal alkynes are obtained under constant current conditions. Notably, up to 99% Z selectivity is achieved for various internal alkynes. Mechanistic investigations revealed the formation of copper nanoparticles (NPs) at the cathode during electrolysis, acting as the catalyst for the selective semireduction of alkynes. The copper NPs deposited cathode demonstrated reusable for further hydrogenation.
Visualizing Noncovalent Interactions and Property Prediction of Submicron‐Sized Charge‐Transfer Crystals from ab‐initio Determined Structures
Authors: Lv Zhong‐Peng , Srivastava Divya , Conley Kevin , Ruoko Tero‐Petri , Xu Hongyi , Lightowler Molly , Hong Xiaodan , Cui Xiaoqi , Huang Zhehao , Yang Taimin , Wang Hai‐Ying , Karttunen Antti J. , Bergström Lennart
Published: March 2024

The charge‐transfer (CT) interactions between organic compounds are reflected in the (opto)electronic properties. Determining and visualizing crystal structures of CT complexes are essential for the design of functional materials with desirable properties. Complexes of pyranine (PYR), methyl viologen (MV), and their derivatives are the most studied water‐based CT complexes. Nevertheless, very few crystal structures of CT complexes have been reported so far. In this study, the structures of two PYRs‐MVs CT crystals and a map of the noncovalent interactions using 3D electron diffraction (3DED) are reported. Physical properties, e.g., band structure, conductivity, and electronic spectra of the CT complexes and their crystals are investigated and compared with a range of methods, including solid and liquid state spectroscopies and highly accurate quantum chemical calculations based on density functional theory (DFT). The combination of 3DED, spectroscopy, and DFT calculation can provide important insight into the structure‐property relationship of crystalline CT materials, especially for submicrometer‐sized crystals.