bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Eco‐Friendly Self‐Adaptive Catalytic Strategy for Plastics Lifecycles: Achieving Green Preparation, Superior Flame Retardancy, and Self‐Driven Sustainability
Authors: Wu Ya‐Nan , Zhao Hai‐Bo , Chen Ming‐Jun , He Lei , Fang Dan‐Xuan , Guo Shuai‐Qi , Zeng Fu‐Rong , Wang Yu‐Zhong
Published: December 2024

Semi‐rigid polyurethane foams (SPUF) with high deformation resistance and strength are indispensable for cushioning applications. However, for high fire risk and cascaded pollutant effects, overused multifarious additives and foam wastes exacerbate global environmental concerns. One option to address this issue is to develop eco‐friendly multifunctional flame retardants that participate in the material lifecycles of preparation, safe service, waste management, and sustainable recycling. Herein, a novel self‐adaptive catalytic strategy is reported that exploits the temperature and agent structure‐responsive catalytic ability of eco‐friendly sodium propionate (SP), reconciling the often‐conflicting properties of fabrication and recycling while effectively mitigating combustion risks and additive pollution. The adaptive catalytic function of SP impressively involves all aspects of foam life cycles: 1) catalyzing foaming without complex/hazardous catalysts; 2) providing superior flame‐retardant efficiency with a high limiting oxygen index of 25.5% without relying on traditional flame retardants; 3) promoting in situ network fragmentation and reorganization into strong adhesives (5.8 MPa); and 4) further recycling of the newly formed adhesives in a self‐driven sustainable manner. A novel green strategy is presented that addresses fire hazards, plastic pollution, and the unsustainability of recycling, minimizing the ecological risks of foam, which will positively impact future sustainable material design involving diverse additives.
Efficient Quasi‐Homogenous Photocatalysis Enabled by Molecular Nanophotocatalysts with Donor‐Acceptor Motif
Authors: Liu Xueyan , Yu Miaojie , Huang Kai , Huang Haiyang , Gu Hongxu , Tian Changhao , Qi Jing , Guo Zhiqian , Lian Cheng , Wu Yongzhen , Zhang Weiwei , Zhu Wei‐Hong
Published: December 2024

Polymer semiconductors have attracted much attention for photocatalytic hydrogen evolution, but they typically exhibit micrometer‐sized particles in water‐suspension, causing severe loss in light absorption and exciton recombination. Here a molecular nanophotocatalyst featuring a donor‐acceptor motif is presented that solution is processed via a facile stirring nanoprecipitation method assisted by hydrophilic surfactants, enabling an efficient quasi‐homogenous hydrogen evolution. In contrast to the original bulk powder (heterogeneous system), these quasi‐homogenous nanophotocatalysts exhibit significantly improved light‐harvesting, water‐wettability, and exciton dissociation, resulting in distinctly enhanced (by four‐order‐of‐magnitude) photocatalytic hydrogen evolution rate. The optimized nanophotocatalysts (4CzPN/DDBAB/SDBS) generate an outstanding hydrogen evolution rate of 116.42 mmol g−1 h−1 and apparent quantum yield of 30.2% at 365 nm, which are among the highest reported for single‐junction organic photocatalysts. The scalability of the quasi‐homogenous photocatalysts is further demonstrated using a flow‐based flash nanoprecipitation (FNP) processing.
Inflammation and Ovarian Function in Reproductive‐Aged Women
Authors: Long Anneliese , Steiner Anne Z. , Thompson Amanda L. , Jahnke Hannah R. , Harris Benjamin S. , Jukic Anne Marie
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Inflammation is a marker of immune activation. Inflammation may have an effect on both ovarian function and luteal function, both essential to pregnancy. High inflammation may also signal dysregulated processes within the ovary, which could be in part measured through Anti‐Müllerian hormone, follicle‐stimulating hormone, and inhibin B levels.

Objective

To determine the relationship between inflammation, measured by C‐reactive protein, and three biomarkers of ovarian function during the early follicular phase: Anti‐Müllerian hormone, follicle‐stimulating hormone, and inhibin B.

Methods

Secondary cross‐sectional analysis of data and serum obtained in Time to Conceive, a prospective cohort study sample of 843 women attempting pregnancy in central North Carolina from 2008 to 2016. Participants were aged 30 and 44 years, had no history of infertility, endometriosis, or polycystic ovarian syndrome, and were not currently breastfeeding. Serum samples were obtained on days 2, 3, or 4 of the menstrual cycle. C‐reactive protein (natural‐log transformed), Anti‐Müllerian hormone (natural‐log transformed), follicle‐stimulating hormone (natural‐log transformed), and inhibin B (untransformed) were measured in serum. Diminished ovarian reserve was examined dichotomously and defined as an Anti‐Müllerian hormone level below 0.7 ng/mL.

Results

The analysis included 703 participants with C‐reactive protein measured. In an adjusted linear regression model, a 20% increase in C‐reactive protein was associated with a 0.57 pg/mL decrease in inhibin B (95% CI: −0.84 to −0.29 pg/mL) and a 0.535% decrease in follicle‐stimulating hormone (95% CI: −1.01 to −0.06). Although there was not a significant relationship between Anti‐Müllerian hormone and C‐reactive protein, a 20% increase in C‐reactive protein was associated with a 0.87% increase in Anti‐Müllerian hormone (95% CI: −0.27 to 2.01). C‐reactive protein was not associated with the odds of diminished ovarian reserve in an adjusted logistic regression model (OR: 0.97, 95% CI: 0.77–1.20).

Conclusions

Inflammation, as measured by C‐reactive protein, is associated with early follicular phase follicle‐stimulating hormone and inhibin B, although this is not true of AMH. Inflammation may exert an effect on ovarian function.
Regulating Interfacial Hydrogen‐Bonding Networks by Implanting Cu Sites with Perfluorooctane to Accelerate CO2 Electroreduction to Ethanol
Authors: Zhou Jing , He Bingling , Huang Pu , Wang Dongge , Zhuang Zechao , Xu Jing , Pan Chengsi , Dong Yuming , Wang Dingsheng , Wang Yao , Huang Hongwen , Zhang Jiawei , Zhu Yongfa
Published: December 2024

Efficient CO2 electroreduction (CO2RR) to ethanol holds promise to generate value‐added chemicals and harness renewable energy simultaneously. Yet, it remains an ongoing challenge due to the competition with thermodynamically more preferred ethylene production. Herein, we presented a CO2 reduction predilection switch from ethylene to ethanol (ethanol‐to‐ethylene ratio of ~5.4) by inherently implanting Cu sites with perfluorooctane to create interfacial noncovalent interactions. The 1.83 %F‐Cu2O organic–inorganic hybrids (OIHs) exhibited an extraordinary ethanol faradaic efficiency (FEethanol) of ∼55.2 %, with an impressive ethanol partial current density of 166 mA cm−2 and excellent robustness over 60 hours of continuous operation. This exceptional performance ranks our 1.83 %F‐Cu2O OIHs among the best‐performing ethanol‐oriented CO2RR electrocatalysts. Our findings identified that C8F18 could strengthen the interfacial hydrogen bonding connectivity, which consequently promotes the generation of active hydrogen species and preferentially favors the hydrogenation of *CHCOH to *CHCHOH, thus switching the reaction from ethylene‐preferred to ethanol‐oriented. The presented investigations highlight opportunities for using noncovalent interactions to tune the selectivity of CO2 electroreduction to ethanol, bringing it closer to practical implementation requirements.
Abnormal Freezing Effect on Electron Conduction of Ball‐milled Lanthanum Trihydride for Superionic Conductor
Authors: Zhang Weijin , Wang Shangshang , Liu Shukun , Cui Jirong , Chen Hetong , Zou Ren , Xia Yuanhua , Cao Hujun , Chen Ping
Published: December 2024

A recent finding shows that lattice deformation could transform the mixed electronic/hydride (H−) conducting lanthanum trihydride (LaH3) to a superionic H− conductor. Such a feature would enable the development of a brand‐new all‐solid‐state hydride ion battery. It is essential to elucidate the mechanism of such a phenomenon. Here, we disclose an abnormal freezing effect on the electronic conductivity (σe) of the ball‐milled LaH3; that is, σe can be lowered by over 2 orders of magnitude upon a low‐temperature treatment. Low‐temperature Raman reveals that at low temperatures, lattice deformation has a noticeable influence on the interaction of hydrogen at octahedral (Ho) and tetrahedral (Ht) sites, which may play a crucial role in hindering electron conduction. This freezing effect can significantly improve the ionic transfer number of rare earth‐based H− conductors and provide a new direction to the development of solid electrolytes for low‐temperature all‐solid‐state batteries.
High‐Performance Solution‐Processable Organic Light‐Emitting Diode Based on a Narrowband Near‐Ultraviolet Emitter and a Hot Exciton Strategy
Authors: Jiang Kai , Chang Xiang , Zhu Jieqiong , Zhu Tian , Yu Junting , Wang Yafei , Zhang Youming , Ma Dongge , Zhu Weiguo
Published: December 2024

Achieving high efficiency narrowband near‐ultraviolet (NUV) emitters in organic light emitting diode (OLED) is still a formidable challenge. Herein, a proof‐of‐concept hybridized local and charge transfer (HLCT) molecule, named ICz‐BO, is prepared and characterized, in which both multiresonant (MR) skeletons are integrated via conjugation connection. A slightly distorted structure and weak intramolecular charge transfer (CT) interaction between two MR subunits lead to a high‐lying reverse intersystem crossing (h‐RISC) channel of T6→S1, also evidenced by both experimental and calculated results. Impressively, the ICz‐BO emitter exhibits outstanding narrowband NUV emission at 404 nm with a full‐width at half maximum of 28 nm in toluene solution. The solution processable OLED shows an excellent device performance with the recorded maximum external quantum efficiency of 12.01 %, concomitant with an extremely low y‐axis Commission Internationale de l’Éclairage (CIEy) value of 0.031. To the best of our knowledge, this is the highest efficiency reported for the HLCT‐based NUV‐OLEDs to date. This research proves that the MR skeleton plays a positive effect on the narrowband hot exciton emitter, which provides an alternative paradigm for developing high‐efficiency NUV emitters.
Clinical, Immunologic, and Genetic Characteristics in Patients With Syndrome of Undifferentiated Recurrent Fevers
Authors: Macaraeg Marci , Baker Elizabeth , Handorf Elizabeth , Matt Michael , Baker Elizabeth K. , Brunner Hermine , Grom Alexei A. , Henrickson Michael , Huggins Jennifer , Zhang Wenying , Lee Pui , Marsh Rebecca , Schulert Grant S.
Published: December 2024

Objective

Syndrome of undifferentiated recurrent fevers (SURF) is characterized by recurrent fevers and autoinflammation without a confirmed molecular diagnosis of a hereditary recurrent fever syndrome, and not fulfilling criteria for periodic fever, adenitis, pharyngitis, aphthous stomatitis syndrome (PFAPA). The goal of this study was to characterize clinical features of patients with SURF compared to patients with PFAPA and to analyze their cytokine signature, genetic variations, and responses to treatment.

Methods

We enrolled 46 patients observed at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center. Baseline data and inflammatory cytokines were collected at enrollment, and their clinical course was followed. Cytokine analysis was performed using a cytokine multiplex assay. Many patients had specific or whole exome genetic testing.

Results

The prevalence of rash and arthralgias were higher in patients with SURF compared to patients with PFAPA. Pharyngitis and adenopathy were less frequent. A subset of patients with SURF clustered together with elevated proinflammatory cytokines and more frequently required biologic therapy. Focused analysis of whole exome sequencing  data revealed that variants of unknown clinical significance (VUCS) were frequently identified in genes implicated in B cell development, immunodeficiencies, and inflammatory bowel disease risk. Treatments for patients with SURF commonly included on‐demand steroids, colchicine, and anti–interleukin‐1 therapy.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest SURF is a heterogeneous group but has distinct clinical and immunologic features from disorders such as PFAPA. Patients have frequent VUCS, which may have relevance to disease pathogenesis. A subset of patients showed more inflammation and an increased need for biologic therapy. Further research is necessary to define whether there exist distinct SURF endotypes and to better predict treatment outcomes.
Multiple Carbazole‐Benzonitrile (CzBN) Derived TADF Molecules Targeting Efficient and Stable Blue OLEDs
Authors: Zhang Hai , Duan Lian , Zhang Dongdong
Published: December 2024

Thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) materials have emerged as a promising avenue for developing efficient and stable blue organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs) without incorporating heavy metals. Among the numerous donor‐acceptor architectures explored, the carbazole (Cz) and benzonitrile (BN) combination has demonstrated exceptional potential for blue OLED applications. Herein, we delve into the recent advances in TADF materials based on the Cz‐BN framework, with a particular focus on design strategies to accelerate exciton dynamics and improve material stability through kinetic and thermodynamic optimization. Eventually, challenges associated with the Cz‐BN systems in blue OLEDs, as well as prospective research directions that could unlock the full potential of this intriguing category of materials, are also discussed.
Materialminimierte Rippen‐ und Wabendecken aus extrudierten Carbonbetonstegen
Authors: Morales Cruz Cynthia , Bosbach Sven , Kalthoff Matthias , Beckmann Birgit , Matschei Thomas , Classen Martin
Published: December 2024

Um den Ressourcenverbrauch und den CO2‐Fußabdruck der Bauwirtschaft zu reduzieren, sind neue Konstruktionsprinzipien erforderlich, die einen minimalen Materialeinsatz ermöglichen. Besonders bei Wänden, Decken und Fundamenten, die mehr als 60 % des weltweit verwendeten Gesamtvolumens an Beton ausmachen, besteht ein hohes Potenzial zur Einsparung von Material und CO2‐Emissionen. Ein vielversprechender Ansatz ist der Einsatz von Carbonbewehrung, da diese aufgrund ihrer Korrosionsbeständigkeit eine geringere Betondeckung benötigt. In Bezug auf die Topologie des Bauteils wurden seit Jahrzehnten materialeffiziente Rippen‐ oder Waffelplatten gebaut. Jedoch werden diese aufgrund der arbeitsintensiven Herstellung in Europa nicht oft eingesetzt. Ein kürzlich entwickeltes Extrusionsfertigungsverfahren ermöglicht die schnelle schalungsfreie Herstellung von Carbonbetonstegen, die als Halbzeuge für die serielle Fertigung ein‐ und zweiachsig gespannter Deckensysteme eingesetzt werden können. Teile der Arbeiten zum Extrusionsprozess wurden bereits in [1] vorgestellt und werden in dem vorliegenden Beitrag genutzt, um neuartige materialminimierte Rippen‐ und Wabendeckenentwürfe aus vorgefertigten extrudierten Carbonbetonstegen bzw. ‐waben zu realisieren. Zudem wird ein Ausblick auf die großtechnische Herstellung von ein‐ und zweiachsigen Plattensystemen wie Rippen‐, Waffel‐ und Sandwichplatten mit Wabenstruktur im Großformat gegeben.
Sustainability Discourses in the Leadership and Management Literature: A Critical Review
Authors: Toft Kristian Høyer , Hansen Morten Balle
Published: December 2024

This review advances a critical discussion of prevalent sustainability discourses in the leadership and management literature. Since the 1990s, ecocentric approaches to management have been discussed in opposition to anthropocentric (human centered) management theory. However, limited attention has been given, so far, to clarifying how sustainability discourses have influenced the literature of leadership and management. The influence of rights‐based United Nations Sustainable Development dating back to the Brundtland report in 1987 is widely recognized, as are business and technology‐based discourses in sustainability (ecological modernism). Such discourses are united in a belief in green growth. However, a literature review shows that critical sustainability discourses about limits to growth, planetary boundaries and the need for degrowth, as well as ecocentric discourses, are only marginally present in the literature on leadership and management. In view of the need for leadership to address the “polycrisis” of entangled environmental and social crises, we problematize the lack of critical sustainability discourses in the leadership and management literature.
Nicotinamide N‐methyltransferase negatively regulates metastasis‐promoting property of cancer‐associated fibroblasts in lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Wang Peiyu , Wang Guangxi , Li Haoran , Yuan Yuyao , Chen Haiming , Wang Shaodong , Sun Zewen , Meng Fanjie , Li Yun , Yang Fan , Wang Jun , Chen Kezhong , Qiu Mantang
Published: December 2024

Background

Recurrence and metastasis remain significant challenges in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) after radical resection. The mechanisms behind the recurrence and metastasis of LUAD remain elusive, and deregulated cellular metabolism is suspected to play a significant role. This study explores the metabolic and epigenetic regulation mediated by nicotinamide N‐methyl transferase (NNMT) in LUAD.

Methods

Untargeted metabolomic analyses were performed to detect metabolism irregularities. Single‐cell RNA sequencing (RNA‐seq) databases and multiplex immunofluorescence analysis were used to identify the location of NNMT within the tumor microenvironment. The biological functions of NNMT were investigated both in vitro and in vivo, with RNA‐seq and chromatin immunoprecipitation‐PCR providing insights into underlying mechanisms. Finally, single‐cell RNA‐seq data and immunohistochemistry of primary tumors were analyzed to validate the main findings.

Results

Untargeted metabolomic analyses revealed metabolic aberrations in amino acids, organic acids, lipids, and nicotinamide pathways, which are linked to metastasis of non‐small cell lung cancer. NNMT is a key enzyme in nicotinamide metabolism, and we found the bulk tissue mRNA level of NNMT gene was inversely associated with LUAD metastasis. NNMT was proved to be predominantly expressed in cancer‐associated fibroblasts (CAFs) within the stromal regions of LUAD, and a low stromal NNMT expression was identified as a predictor of poor disease‐free survival following radical resection of LUAD. The isolation and primary culture of CAFs from LUAD enabled in vitro and in vivo experiments, which confirmed that NNMT negatively regulated the metastasis‐promoting properties of CAFs in LUAD. Mechanistically, the downregulation of NNMT led to an increase in intracellular methyl groups by reducing the activity of the methionine cycle, resulting in heightened methylation at H3K4me3. This alteration triggered the upregulation of genes involved in extracellular matrix remodeling in CAFs, including those encoding collagens, integrins, laminins, and matrix metalloproteinases, thereby facilitating cancer cell invasion and metastasis. Reanalysis of single‐cell RNA‐seq data and immunohistochemistry assays of primary LUAD tissues substantiated NNMT's negative regulation of these genes in CAFs.

Conclusions

This study provides novel insights into the metabolic and epigenetic regulatory functions of NNMT in CAFs, expanding the current understanding of LUAD metastasis regulation and suggesting potential avenues for future research and therapeutic development.
Subtype‐specific transcription factors affect polyamine metabolism and the tumor microenvironment in breast cancer
Authors: Song Qi , Wang Yixuan , Liu Sen
Published: December 2024

Background

Polyamines play important roles in cell growth and proliferation. Polyamine metabolism genes are dysregulated in various tumors. Some polyamine metabolism genes are regulated by transcription factors. However, the transcription factors that regulate polyamine metabolism genes have not been completely identified. Additionally, whether any of the transcriptional regulations depend on tumor heterogeneity and the tumor microenvironment has not been investigated.

Methods

We used bulk RNA‐seq data to identify dysregulated polyamine metabolism genes and their transcription factors across breast cancer subtypes. Genes highly correlated with polyamine changes were obtained, and their subtype‐specific expressions were checked in tumor microenvironment cells using single‐cell RNA (scRNA)‐seq data. Gene Ontology enrichment analysis was used to explore their molecular functions and biological processes, and survival analysis was used to examine the impact of these genes on therapeutic outcome.

Results

We first analyzed the dysregulation of polyamine synthesis, catabolism, and transport in four breast cancer subtypes. Genes such as AGMAT and CAV1 were dysregulated across all subtypes, while APRT, SAT1, and other genes were dysregulated in the more lethal subtypes. Among the dysregulated genes of polyamine metabolism, we focused on three genes (SRM, APRT, and SAT1) and identified their transcription factors (SPI1 and IRF1 correspond to SAT1, and IRF3 corresponds to SRM and APRT). With scRNA‐seq data, we verified that these three transcription factors also regulated these three polyamine metabolism genes in the tumor microenvironment. Both bulk RNA‐seq and scRNA‐seq data indicated that these genes were specifically upregulated in high‐risk breast cancer subtypes, such as the basal‐like type. High expression of these genes corresponded to worse outcomes in the basal‐like subtype under chemotherapy and radiation treatment.

Conclusion

Our work identified three subtype‐specific transcription factors that regulate three polyamine metabolism genes in high‐risk breast cancer subtypes and the tumor microenvironment. Our results deepen the understanding of the role of polyamine metabolism in breast cancer and may help the clinical therapy of advanced breast cancer subtypes.
Bucking Mid‐Life Inactivity: How Social Identity Processes Facilitate Zwift Participation for Mid‐Life Adults
Authors: Richards Toby , Day Melissa , Slater Matthew J. , Easterbrook Matthew J. , Figgins Sean G.
Published: December 2024

While physical activity generally declines in middle‐aged adults, group exercise participation among 40‐64‐year‐old is increasing. This rise may be due to the accessibility of online group exercise formats and their ability to reflect members' identities. This research explores how social identification processes facilitate participation in Zwift, an online group exercise platform. Seventeen Zwift participants aged 40–64 were recruited for three data collection stages: (1) an initial semi‐structured interview on exercise history and Zwift usage; (2) a two‐week post‐exercise diary capturing social identification experiences; and (3) a follow‐up interview to discuss topics from the first two stages. Data were analysed using abductive thematic analysis. Zwift supports three levels of social identity abstraction: (1) Identity Continuity, maintaining a cyclist identity through online cycling; (2) A Compatible New Identity as a Zwifter, formed through group interaction and social support; and (3) New Group Membership, developed through in‐team belonging, recognition, and social status. Mid‐life is a period of transition and identity change. Findings in this study suggest four ways that online platforms could facilitate social identification within online exercise platforms, namely (a) empower selection via perceived life‐stage similarity and age, (b) enable ‘digital proximity’ via text chat and participant on‐screen avatars, (c) enable the common fate of shared real‐time exercise experiences, and (d) facilitate interaction and belonging via a pre and post‐exercise ‘digital clubhouse’ via a social media page.
Insecticidal Activity of Fatty Acids From the Fruit Extract of Momordica cymbalaria Fenzl Ex Naudin, Has Insecticidal Activities on Mosquito Larvae
Authors: Monika Subramanian , Lavanya Mathiazhakan , Sethuraman Veeran , Arunthirumeni Murugan , Selvam Kuppusamy , Shivakumar Muthugounder Subramanian
Published: December 2024

The fruit and other parts of Momordica cymbalaria are known to have medicinal properties. The study investigates the chemical composition and functional groups of M. cymbalaria fruits to assess the insecticidal potential of its bioactive metabolites. In silico approach was used to understand the mechanism behind the insecticidal nature of these metabolites. Ethyl acetate extract has 18 compounds, whereas 20 compounds were identified in methanol using gas chromatography–mass spectroscopy analysis. The extracts contain several functional groups, including alkanes, esters, carboxylic acids, amides and aromatic groups. The insecticidal bioassay using methanol and ethyl acetate extracts of M. cymbalaria on Aedes aegypti and Culex quinquefasciatus mosquito larvae shows that the LC50 value for A. aegypti was 65.7 ppm, for C. quinquefasciatus was 96.9 ppm and for ethyl acetate and methanol extract is 282.36 and 388.09 ppm. Molecular docking of secondary metabolites was performed with five insect proteins, namely, odorant binding protein (OBP), cytochrome P450 (CYP450), prophenol oxidase (PPO), arylalkylamine n‐acetyltransferease (aaNAT) and sterol carrier protein (SCP). Results show that methyl 6‐cis, 9‐cis, 11‐trans‐octadecatrienoate has high binding affinity with sterol carrier protein (SCP‐2) besides showing binding with other insect proteins. The data suggest that methyl 6‐cis, 9‐cis, 11‐trans‐octadecatrienoate has multiple insecticidal actions and may serve as a green insecticide.
A Multiscale Mathematical Model for Fetal Gas Transport and Regulatory Systems During Second Half of Pregnancy
Authors: Van Willigen Bettine G. , van der Hout‐van der Jagt M. Beatrijs , Huberts Wouter , van de Vosse Frans N.
Published: December 2024

Fetal asphyxia, a condition resulting from the combined effects of hypoxia and hypercapnia, leads to approximately 900,000 annual deaths worldwide. One cause is umbilical cord compression during labor‐induced uterine contractions, disrupting the transport of metabolites to and from the placenta, and resulting in asphyxia. Current fetal well‐being assessment relies on monitoring fetal heart rate and uterine contractions as indicators of oxygen delivery to the brain. To enhance our understanding of this complex relationship, this study aims to develop a modular mathematical model including fetal blood gas dynamics, the autonomic nervous system, and cerebral blood flow regulation. The novelty of this study lies in the capability of the model to simulate fetal growth. These submodels are part of a larger multiscale mathematical model describing fetal circulation in the second half of pregnancy. The blood gas model realistically replicates partial oxygen and carbon dioxide pressures in umbilical arteries and veins during healthy fetal development reported in the literature. An in silico experiment is conducted to simulate umbilical cord occlusion and is compared with lamb experiments to verify the realism of the regulation models during fetal growth. Our findings suggest that premature infants are more susceptible to umbilical cord occlusion, exhibiting elevated cerebral perfusion pressure and flow. This modular mathematical model may serve as a valuable tool for testing hypotheses related to the fetal regulatory system.
The Moderating Role of Demoralization on the Association Between Exposure to War and Posttraumatic Stress Symptoms Among Israeli Civilians in Reaction to the October 7 War: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Sowan Wafaa , Baziliansky Svetlana
Published: December 2024

Background

During wartime, many people experience distress, uncertainty, helplessness and a lack of control. These negative feelings are at the root of demoralization symptoms.

Objectives

The present prospective study examined the impact of exposure to war and demoralization symptoms on PTSS 6 months later.

Methods

Participants were 338 Israeli citizens with indirect war exposure. Participants answered questionnaires on exposure to war, demoralization and PTSS at two time points (4 weeks and 6 months after the onset of the October 7 war).

Results

The study revealed that higher exposure to war (Time 1) was associated with higher levels of demoralization symptoms (Time 1) and PTSS (Time 2). Moreover, the moderation analysis indicated that the impact of exposure to war on PTSS was significant only for medium (b = 4.279, SE = 1.33, p < 0.001) and high (b = 8.304, SE = 1.88, p < 0.001) levels of demoralization.

Conclusion

Demoralization symptoms and PTSS are likely to occur during wartime. However, war exposure alone does not explain PTSS; it is contingent on demoralization levels. Demoralization shortly following the outbreak of war appears to be a predictor of PTSS. This finding suggests that screening for demoralization with a brief simple questionnaire might be a useful clinical tool to identify individuals in the short term who may have increased risk of PTSD in the long term.
Analytical and Pharmacological Characterization of 1‐(Furan‐2‐Carbonyl)‐LSD (1F‐LSD) and Comparison With 1‐(Thiophene‐2‐Carbonyl)‐LSD (1T‐LSD)
Authors: Brandt Simon D. , Kavanagh Pierce V. , Gare Sarah , Elliott Simon P. , Stratford Alexander , Halberstadt Adam L.
Published: December 2024

The classical psychedelic drug (+)‐lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) continues to attract considerable multidisciplinary interest, and over the last eight decades, many derivatives and analogs of LSD have been synthesized. One site on the ergoline scaffold of LSD that has been frequently modified is the N1‐position, with the N1‐acylated LSD derivative 1‐acetyl‐LSD (1A‐LSD, ALD‐52) being one of the earliest examples. In more recent years, several other alkylcarbonyl‐ and cycloalkylcarbonyl‐substituted LSD derivatives have been evaluated, including several distributed as research chemicals. Although N1‐substitution is detrimental for the activity of LSD at the 5‐HT2A receptor (the primary site of action of psychedelic drugs), N1‐acylated LSD derivatives are rapidly hydrolyzed in vivo and are believed to act as prodrugs for LSD. Recently, 1‐(thiophene‐2‐carbonyl)‐LSD (1T‐LSD, SYN‐L‐021) was detected as a new recreational drug, signaling a move towards N1‐acyl groups with an aromatic character. The present study was conducted to investigate the analytical profile and pharmacology of 1‐(2‐furoyl)‐lysergic acid diethylamide (1F‐LSD, SYN‐L‐005), a novel analog of 1T‐LSD. The binding of 1F‐LSD to the 5‐HT2A receptor and other monoamine sites was assessed using radioligand binding. Furthermore, the in vivo activities of 1F‐LSD and 1T‐LSD were assessed in C57BL/6 J mice by comparing their biotransformation to LSD and effects on the head‐twitch response (HTR), a 5‐HT2A‐mediated behavior. Both 1F‐LSD and 1T‐LSD induced the HTR in mice and were hydrolyzed to LSD after in vivo administration, indicating that both substances exhibit LSD‐like properties and may serve as prodrugs for LSD.
Phylogenetic Diversity of Plant and Insect Communities on Islands
Authors: Leclère Thomas , Gerhold Pille
Published: December 2024

Interactions between plants and insects have long fascinated scientists. While some plants rely on insects for pollination and seed dispersal, insects rely on plants for food or as a habitat. Despite extensive research investigating pair‐wise species interactions, few studies have characterized plant and insect communities simultaneously, making it unclear if diverse plant communities are generally associated with diverse insect communities. This work aims to better understand the historical and evolutionary relationships between plant and insect phylogenetic diversity (PD) on islands. We hypothesized that phylogenetically diverse plant communities (i.e., high PD) support diverse insect communities, with the relationship varying with island isolation, area, age, and latitude. Species lists for plants and insects were compiled from the published literature, and plant PD was calculated using ´standardized mean pairwise distance´ (SES.MPD) and ´standardized mean nearest taxon distance´ (SES.MNTD). For insects, PD was estimated using the number of genera, families, and orders. We found that plant diversity in evolutionary recent times (SES.MNTD) is associated with recent insect diversity (number of genera), but no relationship was found between plant and insect diversity across whole phylogenies (plant SES.MPD vs. number of insect families). Distant islands generally support high PD of plants (high SES.MPD and SES.MNTD) and insects (low number of genera). Plant and insect PD was generally high on small islands, except for plant SES.MPD revealing no relationship with island size. Insect PD was somewhat higher on young islands (low number of families), whereas there was no relationship between island age and plant PD. Plant SES.MPD was higher on high latitude islands, yet we did not find significant relationships between the latitude and the metrics of insect PD or plant SES.MNTD. These findings suggest that protecting high plant PD may also help conserve high insect PD, with a focus on small and distant islands as potential hotspots of phylogenetic diversity across multiple taxa.
Dynamics of Insects and Their Facultative Defensive Endosymbiotic Bacteria: A Simulation Model
Authors: Wajnberg Eric , Cônsoli Fernando L.
Published: December 2024

Most insects harbour endosymbionts that modify their physiology, reproductive mode, and ecology. One fascinating case is in aphids, which host endosymbionts that protect them against attacks from parasitoids. These symbionts are transmitted maternally with high fidelity but can also be transmitted horizontally from infected to uninfected hosts. Since symbionts can confer resistance to their host against parasitoids, levels of symbiont infection should rapidly spread to fixation. This is not the case in most aphid populations that have been studied. Furthermore, the defensive effect of symbionts has been thought to reduce the efficacy of biological control against crop pests, although this has never been properly quantified. We developed a Monte Carlo simulation model to examine changes in levels of endosymbiont infection in an insect population in the presence of parasitoids attacking them over several generations. We also used the model to quantify potential reductions in the efficacy of parasitoids in controlling host populations in biological control. Results suggest that longevity of parasitoids and the spatial aggregation of hosts likely play a major role in the dynamics of symbiont infection. This is the first evidence that these ecological parameters are potentially important for explaining levels of symbiont infection in insect populations.
Function and Spatial Organization of Tumor‐Invasive Human γδ T Cells—What Do We Know?
Authors: Wistuba‐Hamprecht Kilian , Oberg Hans‐Heinrich , Wesch Daniela
Published: December 2024

Human gammadelta (γδ) T cells not only infiltrate or reside in healthy tissues but also enter solid cancers. A large body of evidence suggests that γδ T cells can exert potent anti‐tumor effects, although conflicting or unfavorable effects have been reported in some cancer entities. Infiltration patterns are key to understanding the complexity of the tumor microenvironment (TME) and its interplay with γδ T cells. The limited data available describe different γδ T cell subsets that are located in different areas around and within tumors. Tumor‐infiltrating γδ lymphocytes (γδ TIL) exert cytotoxicity, for example, via the CD95‐ or TRAIL‐axis, produce high amounts of granzymes, and after their activation, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α or IFN‐γ and express immune checkpoint receptors. Under certain conditions, γδ T cell subsets can express low amounts of IL‐17 and seem to contribute to immune regulation/suppression. A polarization of γδ T cells can be influenced by the TME. Inflammatory cytokines, growth factors, or tumor promoters can suppress γδ T cell functionality or even push them toward tumor promotion. To avoid this and to exploit the unique features of γδ T cell–mediated anti‐cancer and immune‐orchestrating capabilities in future immune therapy approaches, a growing body of preclinical but also clinical studies can be observed.
Photoinduced Gem‐Difluoroallylic Ketones Formation via Selective Carbonyl – C(sp3) Bond Cleavage of β‐Ketone Alcohols
Authors: Zhu Qianwei , Zhang Zhong , Yu Hongquan , Yuan Chenglong , Wang Lu , Wang Zhixiang , Liu Tiantao , Xu Hongxia , Yang Youqing
Published: December 2024

A photoinduced reaction for the formation of gem‐difluoroallylic ketones via selective β‐scission of β‐ketone alcohols with α‐trifluoromethyl alkenes is described. This process demonstrates a broad substrate scope for both β‐ketone alcohols and α‐trifluoromethyl alkenes. The reaction is proposed to proceed via an intramolecular PCET mechanism. The core of the strategy involves the oxidative cleavage of the carbonyl – C(sp3) bond in β‐ketone alcohols, facilitated by a base, to release acyl radicals, followed by the rapid addition of α‐trifluoromethyl alkenes. Additionally, various downstream transformations were carried out with these compounds in a one‐step operation. This protocol is also applicable to corresponding alkynylation and Minisci reactions.
Elevated Soluble ACE2 Activity in Children and Adults After SARS‐CoV‐2 Exposure Irrespective of Laboratory‐Confirmed Infection
Authors: Stich Maximilian , Magalhães Vladimir Gonçalves , Bürger Friederike , Garbade Sven F. , Jeltsch Kathrin , Mohr Kerstin , Haddad Anneke , Elling Roland , Lang Peter , Rabsteyn Armin , Jacobsen Eva‐Maria , Bode Sebastian F. N. , Müller Barbara , Kräusslich Hans‐Georg , Hoffmann Georg Friedrich , Okun Jürgen G. , Bartenschlager Ralf , Binder Marco , Janda Aleš , Renk Hanna , Tönshoff Burkhard
Published: December 2024

The pivotal role of the cell entry receptor ACE2 for SARS‐CoV‐2 infection is well‐established. When ACE2 is shed from cell surface into plasma as soluble ACE2 (sACE2), it can effectively neutralize SARS‐CoV‐2. This longitudinal prospective cohort study analyzed sACE2 activity in 1192 participants, aged 4 months to 81 years, 3 and 12 months after SARS‐CoV‐2 household exposure. Following SARS‐CoV‐2 exposure, participants exhibited significantly elevated sACE2 activity, irrespective of confirmed infection, with the highest levels observed in exposed children. Longitudinal analysis revealed a decline in sACE2 levels over time, reaching levels comparable to age‐ and sex‐matched pre‐pandemic controls. An increase in sACE2 activity was also confirmed in vitro in Calu‐3 (human lung) cells within hours of SARS‐CoV‐2 exposure, providing a direct link between SARS‐CoV‐2 exposure and elevated sACE2. This study, therefore, challenges the dichotomy of categorizing SARS‐CoV‐2 exposed participants as infected or not infected solely on currently established diagnostic assays. It demonstrates lasting host responses independent of B‐ and T‐cell memory and may help to keep SARS‐CoV‐2 infections in balance and contribute to successful virus clearance in children and adults lacking humoral and cellular immune responses following SARS‐CoV‐2 exposure.

Trial Registration: German Registry for Clinical Studies; Identifier: D 00021521.
Mild Traumatic Brain Injury Is Associated With Increased Thalamic Subregion Volume in the Subacute Period Following Injury
Authors: Baird Maggie E. , Beare Richard , Seal Marc L. , Yang Joseph Yuan‐Mou , Anderson Jacqueline F. I.
Published: December 2024

Structural vulnerability of the thalamus remains underinvestigated in mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), and few studies have addressed its constituent nuclei using robust segmentation methods. This study aimed to investigate thalamic subnuclei volume in the subacute period following mTBI. Trauma control (TC) and mTBI patients aged 18–60 years old completed a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) protocol including both high resolution structural (T1w) and diffusion‐weighted sequences at 6–12 weeks following injury (mean: 57 days; SD 11). Each thalamus was segmented into its constituent subnuclei, which were grouped into eight lateralized subregions. Volumes of the subregions were calculated. Neurite Orientation Dispersion and Density (NODDI) maps with parameters optimized for gray matter were computed for the same subregions. Group differences in subregion volumes and NODDI parameters were investigated using Bayesian linear modeling, with age, sex, and estimated intracranial volume included as covariates. Comparisons of mTBI (n = 39) and TC (n = 28) groups revealed evidence of relatively increased gray matter volume in the mTBI group for the bilateral medial and right intralaminar subregions (BF10 > 3). Of the subregions which showed volume differences, there was no evidence for differences in NODDI metrics between groups. This study demonstrates that in the subacute period following mTBI, there is evidence of increased volume in specific thalamic subregions. Putative mechanisms underpinning the increased volume observed here are disordered remyelination or myelin debris yet to be cleared.
Matrix‐assisted autologous chondrocyte transplantation is effective at mid/long‐term for knee lesions: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Colombini Alessandra , Raffo Vincenzo , Gianola Silvia , Castellini Greta , Filardo Giuseppe , Lopa Silvia , Moretti Matteo , de Girolamo Laura
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This systematic review with meta‐analysis evaluates the long‐term efficacy of matrix‐assisted autologous chondrocyte transplantation (MACT) in terms of functional scores using scaffolds made of hyaluronic acid (HA) or collagen (C).

Methods

Nineteen articles met the eligibility criteria for the analysis. Fourteen studies focused on patients treated with MACT with HA‐based scaffolds, four studies with C‐based scaffolds, and one study compared both scaffold types.

Results

A higher percentage of patients in the HA subgroup had undergone previous cartilage repair procedures, whereas multiple lesions were more common in the C subgroup. Both HA‐ and C‐treated patients showed significant functional improvement in terms of International Knee Documentation Committee with overall mean differences at 2 and 5 years, and for HA‐treated patients at 10 years. Likewise, concerning the Tegner activity scale, both subgroups demonstrated significant improvement at 2 years, with the HA subgroup showing more sustained improvement up to 10 years. The HA subgroup also had EQ‐VAS reduction at 2, 5 and 10 years. Failure rates were similar between and within groups, with a range from 0% to 42% at different follow‐ups.

Conclusion

Patients experienced mid‐term benefits from MACT, using both HA‐based and C‐based scaffolds, and long‐term benefits from using HA‐based scaffolds. The low failure rate and the fact that most patients did not require knee replacement surgery are encouraging. Accordingly, despite their complexity and high costs, regenerative techniques like MACT are effective, as they can significantly delay or even prevent the need for total knee replacement.

Level of Evidence

Level IV.
Edge effects impact blue carbon dynamics across coastal ecotones in a tropical seascape
Authors: Yando Erik S. , Alemu Jahson B. , Lim Kiah Eng , Sloey Taylor M. , van Breugel Michiel , Bhatia Natasha , Friess Daniel A.
Published: December 2024

Coastal wetlands are important for their ability to regulate global climate through the sequestration and long‐term storage of carbon. Accurate quantification of ecosystem‐specific carbon dynamics (including sequestration, storage, and fluxes) is needed to develop accurate carbon budgets that inform climate change mitigation. Most work to quantify carbon dynamics either use subsampling in core habitats or benefit transfers to upscale values. While these approaches are valuable, our understanding of carbon dynamics across ecosystem transitions and overall heterogeneity remains a critical gap in coastal ecosystems as boundaries are not always clear. In this study, we established transects across both mangrove and seagrass ecotones into adjacent tidal flats in Singapore to quantifying vegetation cover, soil carbon storage, and CO2 fluxes. Vegetation cover in all transitions and soil carbon storage in most transitions followed a decreasing sigmoidal pattern from vegetated to unvegetated portions, but differed in rate and width. CO2 fluxes followed a peak distribution in mangrove–tidal flat transitions with maximum values occurring within the mangroves and were correlated with pneumatophore density, while seagrasses saw a linear increase in CO2 fluxes from the seagrass to tidal flat. Seascape analysis of soil carbon showed site‐specific impacts that resulted in differences in carbon stocks (0%–8%) as well as the width of these transitions. This study highlights the importance of understanding ecotones to better account for edge effects, which can lead to the over or under estimation of carbon, and provides a needed step in increasing the accuracy of blue carbon assessments in these critical ecosystems.
High Purcell Factor Driven by Simultaneous Bianisotropy and Anapole State in All‐Dielectric Metasurfaces
Authors: Pradhan Monica , Sharma Shubhanshi , Kislov Denis , Shalin Alexander S. , Varshney Shailendra K.
Published: December 2024

All‐dielectric nanophotonics is a rapidly evolving field, garnering increasing attention due to its potential in advancing nano‐optical technologies. Numerous groundbreaking phenomena have already been demonstrated through the unique optical properties of specially designed meta‐atoms, creating a new platform for nano‐optics. In particular, states characterized by strong near‐field confinement and magnetoelectric coupling have driven a paradigm shift, offering exciting possibilities for on‐chip optical devices, quantum applications, and light‐emitting technologies. In this paper, the coexistence of bianisotropy and the anapole state in a specifically engineered dielectric metasurface in the visible and near infrared (NIR) ranges is utilized to achieve extremely high values of electric and, specifically, magnetic Purcell factor for adjacent dipoles. The metasurface is composed of silicon meta‐atoms with a partially rectangular slot, which disrupts the in‐plane symmetry along the xy‐plane. Utilizing a theoretical framework based on polarizability and multipole decomposition, the system's bianisotropic response, driven by magnetoelectric coupling, and combine it with the anapole–a non‐radiating state known for its strong near‐field localization is analyzed. As a result of these two synergistic mechanisms, nearly a three‐order‐of‐magnitude increase is observed in both electric and magnetic Purcell factors, significantly enhancing light‐matter interaction. This remarkable effect opens new pathways for developing next‐generation photonic devices.
Limit models in strictly stable abstract elementary classes
Authors: Boney Will , VanDieren Monica M.
Published: December 2024

In this paper, we examine the locality condition for non‐splitting and determine the level of uniqueness of limit models that can be recovered in some stable, but not superstable, abstract elementary classes. In particular we prove the following. Suppose that is an abstract elementary class satisfying

the joint embedding and amalgamation properties with no maximal model of cardinality ,

stability in ,

,

continuity for (i.e., if and is a limit model witnessed by for some limit ordinal and there exists so that does not ‐split over for all , then does not ‐split over ).

Then for and limit ordinals both with cofinality , if satisfies symmetry for (or just ‐symmetry), then, for any and that are and ‐limit models over , respectively, we have that and are isomorphic over . Note that no tameness is assumed.