bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association between racial residential segregation and screening uptake for colorectal and cervical cancer among Black and White patients in five US health care systems
Authors: Issaka Rachel B. , Ibekwe Lynn N. , Todd Kaitlin W. , Burnett‐Hartman Andrea N. , Clark Cheryl R. , Del Vecchio Natalie J. , Kamineni Aruna , Neslund‐Dudas Christine , Chubak Jessica , Corley Douglas A. , Haas Jennifer S. , Honda Stacey A. , Li Christopher I. , Winer Rachel L. , Pruitt Sandi L.
Published: August 2024

Background

Despite increased recognition that structural racism contributes to poorer health outcomes for racial and ethnic minorities, there are knowledge gaps about how current patterns of racial residential segregation are associated with cancer screening uptake. The authors examined associations between Black residential segregation and screening for colorectal cancer (CRC) and cervical cancer among non‐Hispanic Black and non‐Hispanic White adults.

Methods

This was a retrospective study of CRC and cervical cancer screening‐eligible adults from five health care systems within the Population‐Based Research to Optimize the Screening Process (PROSPR II) Consortium (cohort entry, 2010–2012). Residential segregation was measured using site‐specific quartiles of the Black local isolation score (LIS). The outcome was receipt of CRC or cervical cancer screening within 3 years of cohort entry (2010–2015). Logistic regression was used to calculate associations between the LIS and screening completion, adjusting for patient‐level covariates.

Results

Among CRC (n = 642,661) and cervical cancer (n = 163,340) screening‐eligible patients, 456,526 (71.0%) and 106,124 (65.0%), respectively, received screening. Across PROSPR sites, living in neighborhoods with higher LIS tended to be associated with lower odds of CRC screening (Kaiser Permanente Northern California: adjusted odds ratio [aOR] LIS trend in Black patients, 0.95 [p < .001]; aOR LIS trend in White patients, 0.98 [p < .001]; Kaiser Permanente Southern California: aOR LIS trend in Black patients, 0.98 [p = .026]; aOR LIS trend in White patients, 1.01 [p = .023]; Kaiser Permanente Washington: aOR LIS trend in White patients, 0.97 [p = .002]. However, for cervical cancer screening, associations with the LIS varied by site and race (Kaiser Permanente Washington: aOR LIS trend in White patients, 0.95 [p < .001]; Mass General Brigham: aOR LIS trend in Black patients, 1.12 [p < .001]; aOR LIS trend in White patients, 1.03 [p < .001]).

Conclusions

Across five diverse health care systems, the direction of the association between Black residential segregation and screening varied by PROSPR site, race, and screening type. Additional research, including studies that examine multiple dimensions of segregation and structural racism using intersectional approaches, are needed to further disentangle these relationships.
RNF135 Promotes Human Osteosarcoma Cell Growth and Inhibits Apoptosis by Upregulating the PI3K/AKT Pathway
Authors: Chen Bingyao , Zhang Yinglong , Song Guangze , Wei Xing
Published: August 2024

Background

Ring finger protein 135 (RNF135) is an E3 ubiquitin ligase that has been implicated in the tumorigenesis of multiple human malignancies. However, whether RNF135 plays a role in the development of human osteosarcoma (OS) remains unknown.

Methods

RNF135 expression in 20 human OS and 20 human osteochondroma specimens were evaluated by means of immunohistochemistry staining. The effects of shRNA‐mediated RNF135 knockdown on human OS cell growth and apoptosis were evaluated through a panel of in vitro studies on cell proliferation, colony formation, exposure of phosphatidylserine on the cell surface, and caspase 3/7 activation. The protein levels of PI3K, AKT, and p‐AKT were determined by western blot analysis.

Results

We detected significantly higher RNF135 levels in human OS tissues than human osteochondroma tissues. In in vitro studies, shRNA‐mediated RNF135 knockdown in human OS cells inhibited proliferation and induced apoptosis. In addition, RNF135 knockdown reduced PI3K and p‐AKT protein levels and activated caspase 3 and 7.

Conclusions

These results supported that RNF135 contributes to human OS development through PI3K/AKT‐dependent mechanisms. Targeting RNF135 may provide a new therapeutic approach for treating this human malignancy.
Survival Outcomes in Older Adult Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Patients Analyzed by Facility Volume and Type: A National Cancer Database Analysis
Authors: Dykes Kaitlyn C. , Chou Jiling , Taylor Allison O. , Shu Albert C. , Mudra Sarah E. , Ma Xiaoyang , Ahn Jaeil , Lai Catherine E.
Published: August 2024

Bakground

It is important to understand the outcomes of adult acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) patients at different facilities as treatment paradigms change.

Aims

Our primary objective was to determine adult ALL overall survival (OS) by facility volume and type. Secondary objectives included identifying sociodemographic factors that may have impacted outcomes and analyzing treatment patterns by facility volume and type.

Methods

This was a retrospective analysis of the National Cancer Database (NCDB) that included patients ≥40 years diagnosed with ALL between 2004 and 2016.

Results

A total of 14 593 patients were included in this study. Univariate OS was greatest at low volume (LV) and community programs (CPs) and the least at high volume (HV) and academic programs (AP). This difference was lost after multivariable Cox proportional hazards model analysis, which found no difference in survival by facility volume or type, however, survival was significantly influenced by age, race, Hispanic ethnicity, insurance, and residence location (p < 0.05). Patients treated at HV and APs compared to LV and CP received more anti‐neoplastic directed therapy.

Conclusion

Our results suggest treatment facility volume and type do not impact older adult ALL patient (≥40 years) survival, however confounding sociodemographic differences do impact survival outcomes, despite more aggressive and novel treatment approaches provided at HV and APs.
Sex differences in the impact of frailty on patients with heart failure: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Tian Jiangyue , Lin Zongwei , Sun Xiaoqian , Jia Xiaoning , Zhang Yanling , Zhang Guihua , Xiao Jie , Lu Huixia , Zhang Xinyu
Published: August 2024

Aims

Limited literature shows the existence of sex differences in the long‐term prognosis of heart failure (HF) patients with frailty. In this study, whether sex differences exist in the impact of frailty on death from cardiovascular causes in patients with HF was investigated by conducting a retrospective cohort study.

Methods and results

Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) study (2009–2018) were used to conduct a retrospective cohort study of 958 participants with HF. Patients were grouped based on sex and frailty index (FI). The relationship between death from cardiovascular causes and baseline frailty was assessed by Cox proportional hazard analysis and the Kaplan–Meier (K‐M) plot. The study population had an age of 67.3 ± 12.3. Among them, around 54.5% were male. A median follow‐up of 3.6 years was performed. After that, females who died from cardiovascular causes exhibited higher baseline FI values, while males did not show this trend (P < 0.05; P = 0.1253). Cox regression analysis demonstrated a significant association between FI and cardiovascular mortality in females (most frail: hazard ratio (HR) = 3.65, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.07 ~ 12.39, P < 0.05; per 1‐unit increase in FI: HR = 1.78, 95% CI: 1.33 ~ 2.39, P < 0.001). A dose–response association between FI and cardiovascular mortality was presented by restricted cubic splines.

Conclusions

Frailty is related to an increased risk of cardiovascular mortality in HF patients, particularly female patients.
Assessing the viability of hybrid renewable energy systems in Nigeria
Authors: Mas'ud Abdullahi Abubakar , Yunusa‐Kaltungo Akilu , Rufa'I Nabila Ahmed , Yusuf Najib
Published: August 2024

The implementation of renewable energy strategies has been on the rise due to recent global initiatives on sustainable development. In this work, meteorological data obtained from geographically separated stations in Nigeria is utilized to assess the economic benefits of off‐grid renewable energy projects specifically WT/battery, PV/battery, and PV/WT/battery systems for upcoming projects in six different sites, with anticipated start dates in 2023, 2026, and 2029. By utilizing future forecasts of capital costs, this analysis aims to facilitate the decision‐making process regarding the optimal timing and placement of these installations. The WT/battery systems have a levelised cost of electricity (LCOE) that is 20–35 times more in comparison to both PV/WT/battery and PV/battery systems. In 2023, the LCOE for photovoltaic (PV)/battery systems varies from $0.16/kWh in Yola to $0.169/kWh in Port Harcourt. On the other hand, PV/WT/battery systems have the lowest LCOE, ranging from $0.261/kWh in Jos to $0.319/kWh in Port Harcourt. The analysis additionally demonstrated that in the event of project delays, PV/battery systems are projected to exhibit the lowest LCOE across all locations by 2029. This is attributed to the anticipated accelerated reduction in PV and battery expenses compared to the decline in costs associated with WTs. In the specified year, Yola exhibited the most favorable LCOE at $0.0748 per kilowatt‐hour, while Port Harcourt recorded the highest LCOE at $0.113 per kilowatt‐hour. It has been discovered that solar energy exhibits more cost‐effectiveness compared to wind energy, mostly attributable to its superior ability to match generation with load on an hourly and monthly basis, particularly in the presence of heavy loads. This study provides a comprehensive geographical overview that will assist policymakers in the strategic selection of cities in Nigeria for the deployment of off‐grid renewable energy (RE) systems.
Genetic Heterogeneity in Cellular Angiofibromas
Authors: Panagopoulos Ioannis , Andersen Kristin , Lobmaier Ingvild , Lund‐Iversen Marius
Published: August 2024

Background

Cellular angiofibroma, a rare benign mesenchymal neoplasm, is classified within the 13q/RB1 family of tumors due to morphological, immunohistochemical, and genetic similarities with spindle cell lipoma. Here, genetic data reveal pathogenetic heterogeneity in cellular angiofibroma.

Methods

Three cellular angiofibromas were studied using G‐banding/Karyotyping, array comparative genomic hybridization, RNA sequencing, and direct cycling sequencing.

Results

The first tumor carried a del(13)(q12) together with heterozygous loss and minimal expression of the RB1 gene. Tumors two and three displayed chromosome 8 abnormalities associated with chimeras of the pleomorphic adenoma gene 1 (PLAG1). In tumor 2, the cathepsin B (CTSB) fused to PLAG1 (CTSB::PLAG1) while in tumor 3, the mir‐99a‐let‐7c cluster host gene (MIR99AHG) fused to PLAG1 (MIR99AHG::PLAG1), both leading to elevated expression of PLAG1 and insulin growth factor 2.

Conclusion

This study uncovers two genetic pathways contributing to the pathogenetic heterogeneity within cellular angiofibromas. The first aligns with the 13q/RB1 family of tumors and the second involves PLAG1‐chimeras. These findings highlight the diverse genetic landscape of cellular angiofibromas, providing insights into potential diagnostic strategies.
Manipulating crystallographic growth orientation by cation‐enhanced gel‐polymer electrolytes toward reversible low‐temperature zinc‐ion batteries
Authors: Mu Yanlu , Chu Fulu , Wang Baolei , Huang Taizhong , Ding Zhanyu , Ma Delong , Liu Feng , Liu Hong , Wang Haiqing
Published: August 2024

Aqueous zinc‐ion batteries (AZIBs) have garnered significant research interest as promising next‐generation energy storage technologies owing to their affordability and high level of safety. However, their restricted ionic conductivity at subzero temperatures, along with dendrite formation and subsequent side reactions, unavoidably hinder the implementation of grid‐scale applications. In this study, a novel bimetallic cation‐enhanced gel polymer electrolyte (Ni/Zn‐GPE) was engineered to address these issues. The Ni/Zn‐GPE effectively disrupted the hydrogen‐bonding network of water, resulting in a significant reduction in the freezing point of the electrolyte. Consequently, the designed electrolyte demonstrates an impressive ionic conductivity of 28.70 mS cm−1 at −20°C. In addition, Ni2+ creates an electrostatic shielding interphase on the Zn surface, which confines the sequential Zn2+ nucleation and deposition to the Zn (002) crystal plane. Moreover, the intrinsically high activation energy of the Zn (002) crystal plane generated a dense and dendrite‐free plating/stripping morphology and resisted side reactions. Consequently, symmetrical batteries can achieve over 2700 hours of reversible cycling at 5 mA cm−2, while the Zn || V2O5 battery retains 85.3% capacity after 1000 cycles at −20°C. This study provides novel insights for the development and design of reversible low‐temperature zinc‐ion batteries.

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From illness to inactivity: Exploring the influence of physical diseases on youth Not in Education, Employment, or Training status in Europe: A systematic literature review
Authors: Lindblad Victoria , Kragholm Kristian Hay , Gaardsted Pernille Skou , Hansen Line Elise Møller , Lauritzen Fie Falk , Melgaard Dorte
Published: August 2024

Introduction

In 2010, 33% of young Europeans (ages 15–29) were Not in Education, Employment, or Training (NEET), rising to 40 million by 2015. Those with disabilities or health challenges are 40% more likely to be NEET. Hence, we conducted a systematic search to identify health challenges as NEET risk factors.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted across four databases on February 21, 2023, with an update on January 15, 2024. Data collected after 1980 were included. The main findings from this search concerning risk factors are summarized in a chart.

Results

A total of 33,314 articles were screened, resulting in the inclusion of 32 articles in this review. The review identified multiple physical risk factors associated with NEET status, which were categorized into two primary domains: congenital conditions and birth‐related factors, for example, factors encompassed neonatal life in utero and experiences related to birth, and health conditions during childhood and adolescence, for example, survivors of childhood cancer and other severe health conditions during childhood and adolescents.

Conclusions

Our findings highlight that varying congenital conditions and birth‐related factors as well as diseases from childhood to adulthood challenges or even hinder educational and job market participation, this emphasizing the importance of targeted support for children facing health challenges. These findings highlight the immediate requirement for comprehensive interventions specifically designed for children and adolescents who are for example, preterm, have experienced severe illness, or are coping with chronic diseases. These interventions should address the challenges encountered by youth in NEET. However, limited evidence on the impact of health conditions on NEET status underscores the necessity for further research into both short‐ and long‐term effects.
Broad versus narrow research questions in evidence synthesis: A parallel to (and plea for) estimands
Authors: Remiro‐Azócar Antonio , Gorst‐Rasmussen Anders
Published: August 2024

There has been a transition from broad to more specific research questions in the practice of network meta‐analysis (NMA). Such convergence is also taking place in the context of individual registrational trials, following the recent introduction of the estimand framework, which is impacting the design, data collection strategy, analysis and interpretation of clinical trials. The language of estimands has much to offer to NMA, particularly given the “narrow” perspective of treatments and target populations taken in health technology assessment.
A layered solid finite element formulation with interlaminar enhanced displacements for the modeling of laminated composite structures
Authors: Giffin Brian D. , Zoller Miklos J.
Published: August 2024

Accurate modeling of layered composite structures often requires the use of detailed finite element models which can sufficiently resolve the kinematics and material behavior within each layer of the composite. However, individually discretizing each material layer into finite elements presents a prohibitive computational expensive given the large number of thin layers comprising some laminated composites. To address these challenges, an 8‐node layered solid hexahedral finite element is formulated with the aim of striking an appropriate balance between efficiency and fidelity. The element is discretized into an arbitrary number of distinct material layers, and employs reduced in‐plane integration within each layer. The chosen reduced integration scheme is supplemented by a novel physical stabilization approach which includes layerwise enhancements to mitigate various forms of locking phenomena. The proposed framework additionally supports the inclusion of interlaminar enhanced displacements to better represent the kinematics of general layered composite materials. The described element formulation has been implemented in the ParaDyn finite element code, and its efficacy for modeling laminated composite structures is demonstrated on a variety of verification problems.
Reducing Length of Stay in Reconstructive Head and Neck Surgery Patients: A Quality Improvement Initiative
Authors: Bhatt Nupur , Yang Jackie , DeBaere Lauren , Wang Ronald Shen , Most Allison , Zhang Yan , Dayanov Elan , Yang Wenqing , Santacatterina Michele , Kamberi Maria , Mojica Jacqueline , Kamen Emily , Savitski Justin , Stein John , Jacobson Adam
Published: August 2024

Objective

To investigate whether a new preoperative education and discharge planning protocol reduced unexpected discharge delays for patients undergoing reconstructive surgery for head and neck cancer.

Methods

A quality improvement (QI) intervention was implemented in January 2021 with several components to address historically prolonged observed lengths of stay (LOS) with head and neck cancer patients. The intervention added a preoperative educational visit with a head and neck cancer advanced practice provider, a standardized preoperative speech and swallow assessment, a personalized patient care plan document, discussion of inpatient hospital stay expectations, and early discharge planning. The intervention group included patients who underwent the preoperative education protocol from February to December 2021. For comparison, an age and sex‐matched control group was constructed from inpatients who had been admitted for similar procedures in the 2 years prior to the QI intervention (2019‐2020) and received standard of care counseling.

Results

Our study demonstrated a significant reduction in observed to expected LOS ratio after implementation of the intervention (1.24 ± 0.74 control, 0.95 ± 0.52 intervention; P = .012).

Discussion

We discuss a preoperative education QI intervention at our institution. Our findings demonstrate that our intervention was associated with decreased LOS for patients undergoing head and neck reconstructive surgeries.

Implications for Practice

This QI study shows the benefit of a new standardized preoperative education and discharge planning protocol for patients undergoing head and neck reconstructive surgeries.
Mechanical behavior of hybrid glass‐flax‐carbon fiber‐reinforced polymer composites under static and dynamic loading
Authors: Mabrouk Osama M. , Khair‐Eldeen Wael , Hassanin Ahmed H. , Hassan Mohsen A.
Published: August 2024

The present study investigates the quasi‐static and dynamic mechanical properties of the composite laminates reinforced by flax hybridized with E‐glass and/or carbon fabrics. Epoxy resin was used as the polymeric matrix. Three different hybrid composite laminates were prepared: Glass/flax (HGF), carbon/flax (HCF), and carbon/glass/flax (HCGF) composite laminates. Non‐hybrid flax composite laminate (NHF) was prepared as a reference material. The quasi‐static mechanical properties were investigated by performing tensile and flexural tests. The dynamic mechanical behavior was evaluated using the split Hopkinson pressure bar test and dynamic mechanical analysis technique. The results showed that hybridizing flax with glass and/or carbon fibers significantly enhanced both the quasi‐static and dynamic mechanical properties of the composite system. Due to hybridization, the tensile strength increased from 50.5 MPa for NHF to 71.5, 162, and 107 MPa for HGF, HCF, and HCGF, respectively. Similarly, the flexural strength increased from 33.4 MPa for NHF to 104, 149, and 112 MPa for HGF, HCF, and HCGF, respectively. All the composite laminates showed a strain rate‐dependent behavior when tested using the SHPB test. Moreover, the dynamic compressive strength was substantially improved due to hybridization. DMA results showed that hybridization significantly improved the storage modulus and loss modulus of hybrid composites.

Highlights

Polymer composites reinforced with flax fabric hybridized with glass and/or carbon fabrics were fabricated.

The fabricated hybrid composites were subjected to quasi‐static mechanical tests (tensile and flexural) and dynamic mechanical tests (DMA and SHPB).

The hybridization approach was effective in improving the static and dynamic mechanical properties of hybrid composites.

The static and dynamic behavior of hybrid composites can be tailored by controlling the type of synthetic fibers hybridized with natural ones.
Whole genome resequencing reveals the evolutionary history and geographic isolation of the eastern Asian Hickory (Carya)
Authors: Zhang Da , Yang Rui‐Feng , Chen Jia‐Hui , Pan Lang‐Bo , Duan Wei , Xia Guo‐Hua , Zhang Qi‐Xiang , Huang You‐Jun
Published: August 2024

Societal Impact Statement

Unraveling the genetic intricacies and evolutionary history of Asian Hickories through advanced genome sequencing gives valuable insights into their ecological adaptations. Understanding the impact of historical dynamics, climate fluctuations, and geographical barriers on Asian hickories not only contributes to scientific knowledge but also empowers policymakers with evidence‐based decisions and guides conservationists in their efforts to protect vulnerable species. The identification of potential habitats, especially for the endangered Carya kweichowensis, offers a promising avenue for targeted conservation efforts, aligning with global initiatives to preserve Earth's precious biodiversity, but also ensures the conservation of a vital genetic reservoir for nut‐bearing economic tree species.

Biogeographic characteristics of disjunct distribution play a vital role in plant geography and the endangered mechanism. The whole genome resequencing provides an opportunity to study the genetic relationship, population diffusion, and floristic evolution of disjunctive‐distribution flora. Based on the SNPs (single nucleotide polymorphisms) data generated by the whole genome deep resequencing of five EA (Eastern Asian) Carya species, we constructed the phylogenetic tree, genetic structure, and species distribution modeling to clarify the phylogenetic relationships and to predict the potential distribution area of EA Carya. Phylogenetic analysis of Carya revealed two distinct clades, separating EA Carya from NA (North America) Carya. C. kweichowensis, an endangered species, showed the lowest nucleotide diversity and the earliest divergence among studied EA Carya species. Species distribution modeling predicted suitable habitats for five EA Carya species, revealing the potential distribution of endangered C. kweichowensis. Importantly, minimal spatial overlap was observed among distribution regions of EA Carya species during different time periods. The uneven regional distribution of EA Carya is believed to be a consequence of Quaternary climate fluctuations, mountain barriers hindering species dispersal, and the limited cold tolerance of these trees. EA Carya highlights the significant role of climate and geological changes in their regional distribution and migration routes in Asia. Furthermore, the discovery of potential habitats offers a promising avenue for the conservation of C. kweichowensis.
Induction of antiherbivore defense responses in poplars using a methyl jasmonate and mesoporous silica nanoparticle complex
Authors: Fang Jiaxing , Gan Wei , Wang Zheng , Zhang Rong , Zhang Sufang , Liu Fu , Zhao Xiyang , Kong Xiangbo
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND

Poplar in China has long been plagued by the fall webworm Hyphantria cunea. Enhancing plant immunity using chemical elicitors is an environmentally friendly approach to pest control. The phytohormone methyl jasmonate (MeJA) can stimulate the chemical defenses of poplars against herbivores but has been shown to have limited efficacy in practice. Here, we studied the effects of a MeJA and mesoporous silica nanoparticle (MSN) complex (MeJA@MSN) regarding the induction of poplar resistance to H. cunea, which may provide strategies for the effective use of MeJA.

RESULTS

The silicon‐based phytohormone complex (MeJA@MSNs) exhibited excellent biological and physiochemical properties, such as excellent biocompatibility and plant tissue transportability. The changes in metabolites in poplar leaves induced by MeJA, MSNs, and MeJA@MSNs were investigated by metabolic analysis. MeJA@MSNs led to highly potent induced resistance along with elevated salicylaldehyde content, which increased with the dose administered. The salicylaldehyde metabolite showed a strong antifeedant effect on H. cunea larvae at a dosage of 1 μg, with the 50% lethal dose being 20.4 μg/mg. Furthermore, transcriptional analysis showed that MeJA@MSNs upregulated key genes in biosynthetic pathways more than MeJA and MSNs.

CONCLUSION

Our results show that MeJA and MSNs interact positively in poplar, leading to salicylaldehyde accumulation and increased induced resistance to H. cunea, providing new insights into the underlying resistance mechanisms induced by MeJA@MSNs. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Plant natural product‐based pesticides in crop protection: semi‐synthesis, mono‐crystal structures and agrochemical activities of osthole ester derivatives, and study of their toxicology against Tetranychus cinnabarinus (Boisduval)
Authors: Hao Meng , Jiang Linlin , Lv Min , Ding Haixia , Zhou Yimeng , Xu Hui
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND

Owing to large amounts of synthetic pesticides being extensively and unreasonably used for crop protection, currently, resistance and negative impacts on human health and environment safety have appeared. Therefore, development of potential pesticide candidates is highly urgent. Herein, a series of ester derivatives of osthole were designed and synthesized as pesticidal agents.

RESULTS

Six spatial configurations of 4′‐(p‐toluenoyloxy)osthole (4b), 4′‐(m‐fluorobenzoyloxy)osthole (4f), 4′‐(p‐fluorophenylacetyloxy)osthole (4m), 4′‐(3′′,4′′‐methylenedioxybenzoyloxy)osthole (4q), 4′‐formyloxyosthole (4u) and 4′‐acetyloxyosthole (4v) were determined by X‐ray mono‐crystal diffraction. Compounds 4b, 4′‐(p‐chlorobenzoyloxy)osthole (4g), 4′‐(m‐chlorobenzoyloxy)osthole (4h), 4′‐(p‐bromobenzoyloxy)osthole (4i) and 4′‐(2′′‐chloropyridin‐3′′‐ylcarbonyloxy)osthole (4p) showed higher insecticidal activity than toosendanin against Mythimna separata Walker; notably, compound 4b displayed 1.8 times insecticidal activity of the precursor osthole. Against Tetranychus cinnabarinus Boisduval, compounds 4g and 4h showed 3.3 and 2.6 times acaricidal activity of osthole, and good control effects in the glasshouse. Scanning electron microscopy assay demonstrated that compound 4g can damage the cuticle layer of T. cinnabarinus resulting in death.

CONCLUSION

Compounds 4g and 4h can be further studied as lead pesticidal agents for the management of M. separata and T. cinnabarinus. These results will pave the way for application of osthole derivatives as agrochemicals. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Ramsey numbers of cycles in random graphs
Authors: Araújo Pedro , Pavez‐Signé Matías , Sanhueza‐Matamala Nicolás
Published: August 2024

Let be the Ramsey number of the cycle on vertices. We prove that, for some , with high probability every 2‐coloring of the edges of has a monochromatic copy of , as long as and . This is sharp up to the value of and it improves results of Letzter and of Krivelevich, Kronenberg, and Mond.
Customizing Pore Structure and Lithiophilic Sites Dual‐Gradient Free‐Standing 3D Lithium‐Based Anode to Enable Excellent Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Fu Xiangxiang , Hu Yangming , Li Wanting , He Jiafeng , Deng Yuanfu , Zhang Rui , Chen Guohua
Published: August 2024

Developing 3D hosts is one of the most promising strategies for putting forward the practical application of lithium(Li)‐based anodes. However, the concentration polarization and uniform electric field of the traditional 3D hosts result in undesirable “top growth” of Li, reduced space utilization, and obnoxious dendrites. Herein, a novel dual‐gradient 3D host (GDPL‐3DH) simultaneously possessing gradient‐distributed pore structure and lithiophilic sites is constructed by an electrospinning route. Under the synergistic effect of the gradient‐distributed pore and lithiophilic sites, the GDPL‐3DH exhibits the gradient‐increased electrical conductivity from top to bottom. Also, Li is preferentially and uniformly deposited at the bottom of the GDPL‐3DH with a typical “bottom‐top” mode confirmed by the optical and SEM images, without Li dendrites. Consequently, an ultra‐long lifespan of 5250 h of a symmetrical cell at 2 mA cm−2 with a fixed capacity of 2 mAh cm−2 is achieved. Also, the full cells based on the LiFePO4, S/C, and LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 cathodes all exhibit excellent performances. Specifically, the LiFePO4‐based cell maintains a high capacity of 136.8 mAh g−1 after 700 cycles at 1 C (1 C = 170 mA g−1) with 94.7% capacity retention. The novel dual‐gradient strategy broadens the perspective of regulating the mechanism of lithium deposition.
Mechanical Tuning of Fluorescence Lifetime and Bandgap in an Elastically Flexible Molecular Semiconductor Crystal
Authors: Dar Arif Hassan , Rahman Atiqur , Mondal Srijan , Barman Argha , Gupta Monika , Chowdhury Pramit K. , Thomas Sajesh P.
Published: August 2024

Despite having superior transport properties, lack of mechanical flexibility is a major drawback of crystalline molecular semiconductors as compared to their polymer analogues. Here single crystals of an organic semiconductor are reported that are not only flexible but exhibit systematic tuning of bandgaps, fluorescence lifetime, and emission wavelengths upon elastically bending. Spatially resolved fluorescence lifetime imaging and confocal fluorescence microscopy reveals systematic trends in the lifetime decay across the bent crystal region along with shifts in the emission wavelength. From the outer arc to the inner arc of the bent crystal, a significant decrease in the lifetime of ≈1.9 ns is observed, with a gradual bathochromic shift of ≈10 nm in the emission wavelength. For the crystal having a bandgap of 2.73 eV, the directional stress arising from bending leads to molecular reorientation effects and variations in the extent of intermolecular interactions– which are correlated to the lowering of bandgap and the evolution of the projected density of states. The systematic changes in the interactions quantified using electron density topological analysis in the compressed inner arc and elongated outer arc region are correlated to the non‐radiative decay processes, thus rationalizing the tuning of fluorescence lifetime.
Unraveling Differences in the Effects of Ammonium/Amine‐Based Additives on the Performance and Stability of Inverted Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Kao Shih‐Feng , Yu Ming‐Hsuan , Chen Jing‐Chun , Yu Hao‐Wei , Yu Hsin‐Yu , Lin Bi‐Hsuan , Ni I‐Chih , Li Yi‐Pei , Chueh Chu‐Chen
Published: August 2024

Additive engineering, with its excellent ability to passivate bulk or surface perovskite defects, has become a common strategy to improve the performance and stability of perovskite solar cells (PVSCs). Among the various additives reported so far, ammonium salts are considered an important branch. It is worth noting that although both ammonium‐based additives (R‐NH3+) and amine‐based additives (R‐NH2) are derivatives of ammonia (NH3), the functions of the two can be easily confused due to their structural similarities. Moreover, there is no comprehensive comparative analysis of them in the literature. Here, the differences between phenethylammonium iodide (PEA+) and phenethylamine (PEA) additives are revealed experimentally and theoretically. The results clearly show that PEA outperforms PEA+ in terms of device performance and stability based on the following three factors: i) PEA's defect passivation capability is superior to that of PEA+; ii) PEA has better hydrophobicity to hinder water ingress; and iii) PEA completely improves the stability of PVSCs by enhancing thermal stability and inhibiting iodide migration in perovskite more effectively than PEA+. As a result, the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of the inverted methylammonium triiodide (MAPbI3) device using PEA increases by ≈15% to over 21%. More importantly, this device exhibits greater ability to prevent water invasion, thermal‐induce degradation, and inhibit iodide ion migration, resulting in better long‐term stability.
Popcorn‐Inspired Expanded Graphite Microspheres with Controlled Morphology and Considerable Conductivity
Authors: Guan Rongting , Lin Weizhi , Zhang Guorui , Ni Zhaoyang , Ma Yusong , Chen Feng , Fu Qiang
Published: August 2024

The structured processing of graphite is complex and challenging, in which expanded graphite plays a crucial role. Given its superior physical and chemical properties, expanded graphite finds extensive application in diverse domains such as electrochemistry and thermal management. However, the traditional preparation process is inconvenient in effectively meeting the design requirements on the macro and micro scales, which presents a challenge for the structured processing of expanded graphite materials. Here, an innovative method is first proposed for the controllable preparation of expanded graphite microspheres. Inspired by the explosion process of popcorn, the controlled gas release inside the natural flake graphite during chemical expansion is regulated by fuming sulfuric acid, realizing the controllable preparation of expanded graphite microspheres. Subsequently, sulfur trioxide can also intensify the degree of oxidation on the surface of the microspheres. The controllable microsphere morphology endows the composite with good isotropic network bonding, with considerable thermal conductivity of 1.703 W m−1 K−1 at low loading of 10 wt.% and reliable cyclic stability. This work opens up a new way for the morphology control of expanded graphite and provides a novel design thought for the physical and chemical structure control of carbon materials in the future.
A Novel Aerogel‐Based Solar Evaporator with Triple‐Layered Low‐Tortuosity Pore Structures for Ultra‐High Salt Resistance
Authors: Li Yunqi , Li Qing , Qiu Yu , Feng Haixiang , Deng Renzhong
Published: August 2024

Solar‐driven interfacial evaporation is a potential strategy to address freshwater scarcity. However, simultaneously achieving high evaporation performance and effective salt resistance remains a significant challenge. Herein, a triple‐layered aerogel‐based solar evaporator with low‐tortuosity pore structures (Tri‐ASEL) is constructed. Benefiting from the unique pore structures of Tri‐ASEL, it not only exhibits excellent water transport capacity, which is significantly increased by 237.5% compared to that of the aerogel‐based solar evaporator with uniform pore structures, but also effectively reduces the downward heat transfer owing to the low thermal conductivity of the top layer. Meanwhile, compared with the aerogel‐based solar evaporator with triple‐layered pore structures (Tri‐ASE), Tri‐ASEL can reduce the resistance of ion diffusion and shorten the diffusion pathways through the low‐tortuosity pore structures. Because of the effective coordination of the contradiction among the water transport, ion diffusion, and thermal insulation, Tri‐ASEL achieves a high evaporation rate of 2.803 kg m−2 h−1 and exhibits a remarkable evaporation efficiency of 97.95% under 1 sun. More importantly, it demonstrates excellent salt resistance and can operate stably in ultra‐high salinity brine (25 wt%) for more than 8 h without salt crystallization. This study provides a new approach for optimizing the structure design of evaporators.
Mechanical and rheological properties of fiber‐reinforced 3D printable concrete; in terms of fiber content and aspect ratio
Authors: Şahin Hatice Gizem , Akgümüş Fatih Eren , Mardani Ali
Published: August 2024

The aim of this study is to improve the mechanical and dimensional stability properties of 3D printable concrete by using fibers. Ten mixtures containing polypropylene fiber in three different lengths (3, 6, and 12 mm) and ratios (0.2%, 0.4%, and 0.6%) were prepared. Rheological properties, compressive strength, three‐point flexural strength, and drying‐shrinkage performance of 3D printable concrete mixtures were examined in this study. Strength properties were determined by perpendicular and lateral loading. Thixotropic properties of the mixtures were determined using three different approaches (structural build‐up development, hysteresis area and dynamic structural build‐up). The dynamic yield stress value increased with fiber addition up to 0.4% of the total volume. It was determined that this value decreases with the use of fiber above this rate. In terms of mechanical and dimensional stability properties of 3D printable concrete, the optimum fiber length and utilization ratio were 6 mm and 0.4%, respectively. This parameters were adversely affected when fiber utilization ratio was 0.6% and length was 12 mm. Also, there is a strong correlation between structural build‐up development and dynamic structural build‐up.
Vom User zum Bürger: Durch Digitalisierung zu mehr Bürger:innenorientierung im SGB II
Authors: Funke Corinna , Christ Friedemann
Published: August 2024

Die Jobcenter haben deutlich vor anderen deutschen Behörden ihr Leistungsangebot gegenüber den Bürgerinnen und Bürgern digitalisiert. Dies gilt sowohl für die gemeinsamen Einrichtungen als auch die kommunalen Jobcenter. Im Zuge ihrer Digitalisierungsbemühungen ist die Jobcenterwelt mit den Prinzipien, Methoden und Haltungen des nutzerzentrierten Service Designs konfrontiert worden. Dieser Beitrag argumentiert, dass der bei der Entwicklung von Online-Services unvermeidliche Fokus auf die Bedürfnisse der Nutzer:innen in der öffentlichen Verwaltung eine Bürger:innenorientierung logischerweise nach sich zieht. Die vom Bürgergeld-Gesetz angestrebte stärkere Bürger:innenorientierung wurde folglich durch die Digitalisierung in den Jobcentern teilweise vorweggenommen. Ob die gesetzgeberische Intention des Bürgergeldes erzielt wird, nämlich einen einfachen und nicht stigmatisierenden Zugang zu Grundsicherungsleistungen zu schaffen, hängt auch künftig maßgeblich von einem gelungenen Onlineangebot ab. Hierzu sind noch weitere Schritte in den Jobcentern vor Ort zu gehen, insbesondere auf organisationskultureller und ablauforganisatorischer Ebene.
Das Problem mit der Arbeit. Zur Kritik der erwerbszentrierten Sozialpolitik
Authors: Laufenberg Mike
Published: August 2024

Anders als die Kritik von Konservativen, Rechtspopulisten und Arbeitgeberverbänden suggeriert, hat die Bürgergeldreform mit dem System von Hartz IV nicht grundsätzlich gebrochen. Das Bürgergeld bleibt als soziale Mindestsicherung vielmehr einem Erwerbszentrismus verhaftet, der in diesem Text einer systematischen Kritik unterzogen wird. In vier Schritten wird der herrschaftsförmige, ungleichheitsgenerierende, reduktionistische und polit-ökonomisch widersprüchliche Charakter der Lohnarbeitszentrierung in der Sozialpolitik dargelegt und in Hinsicht auf das Bürgergeld reflektiert. Das Bürgergeld und die politische Kontroverse, die sich an ihm entzündet, erscheinen in diesem Licht als symptomatisch für die fortbestehenden Hürden für eine emanzipatorische und zeitgemäße Sozialpolitik.
Von den „Sanktionen“ des Arbeitslosengeldes II zu „Leistungsminderungen“ des Bürgergeldes
Authors: Beetz Claudia , von Harbou Frederik
Published: August 2024

Der Beitrag zeichnet die Entwicklung von SGB II-Sanktionen zu Leistungsminderungen aus juristischer Sicht nach. Dazu werden die Sanktionsnormen aus dem alten „Hartz IV“-System dargestellt, die bis Ende 2022 galten, um so die Entscheidung des Bundesverfassungsgerichts vom 5. November 2019 zu der teilweisen Verfassungswidrigkeit der damaligen Regelungen zu erläutern. Anschließend skizzieren die Autor:innen die Datenlage zu Sanktionierungen unter Berücksichtigung des Zwecks solcher Leistungsminderungen, um schließlich die Neuregelungen durch das Bürgergeld-Gesetz vorzustellen und verfassungsrechtlich zu bewerten.
Zeit-Armut. Einblicke in die Lebenswirklichkeiten von Bürgergeldempfänger:innen
Authors: Welskop-Deffaa Eva M.
Published: August 2024

Das Bürgergeld zielt darauf ab, die Möglichkeit zur Teilhabe am gesellschaftlichen Leben zu verbessern. Doch genügen die damit verbundenen Sozialleistungen dafür? Menschen in belasteten Lebenslagen, die es schwer haben, ihre Existenz durch eigene Erwerbsarbeit zu sichern, sind oft in ihrer Zeitsouveränität eingeschränkt oder brauchen mehr Zeit für Alltagsobliegenheiten, z. B. weil sie in einem Stadtteil wohnen, der eine schlechte ÖPNV-Anbindung hat. Ein teilhabestärkendes Bürgergeldregime muss diese Lebenswirklichkeiten beachten, wie sozialarbeiterische Erfahrungen aus der Caritas-Praxis zeigen.
In-situ valve opening response of eastern oysters to estuarine conditions
Authors: Lavaud Romain , Archer Stephanie K. , La Peyre Megan K. , Campanino Finella M. , Casas Sandra M. , La Peyre Jerome F.
Published: August 2024

High-frequency recordings of valve opening behavior (VOB) in bivalves are often used to detect changes in environmental conditions. However, generally a single variable such as temperature or the presence of toxicants in the water is the focus. A description of routine VOB under non-stressful conditions is also important for interpreting responses to environmental changes. Here we present the first detailed quantitative investigation of the in-situ VOB of eastern oysters (Crassostrea virginica) to environmental variables typically not considered stressful. The VOB of eight individuals was monitored for seven weeks in a Louisiana estuary. We examined the relationships between VOB metrics (variance in mean % max opening among oysters, the probability of an oyster being closed, and the rate of valve closure), and temperature, salinity, chlorophyll-a (chl-a) concentration, the rate of change in those environmental variables, and the rate of change in water depth. Relationships were analyzed through statistical models including rates of change over 0, 0.25, 1-, 6-, 12-, and 24-hours. All the responses were best explained by the 12-hour time step model. The interaction effect between salinity and the rate of change of salinity had the greatest impact on variance in oysters’ behavior. Oysters closed faster at higher salinities and were more likely to be closed at lower chl-a concentrations. Significant interactions were found between many environmental variables, indicating a high level of complexity of oyster behavior in the natural environment. This study contributes to a better understanding of the impact of environmental conditions on oyster behavior and can help inform predictive tools for restoration initiatives and fisheries practices.
Monitoring lung and cerebral oxygenation using near-infrared spectroscopy in preterm infants during kangaroo mother care
Authors: Dani Carlo , Perugi Silvia , Pizzetti Camilla , Poggi Chiara , Corsini Iuri , Pratesi Simone
Published: August 2024

Lung function has never been assessed during kangaroo mother care (KMC) in preterm infants. We measured lung (rSO2L) and cerebral (rSO2C) oxygenation by near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) in infants born at less than 32 weeks of gestation or weighing ≤ 1500 g during KMC. rSO2L, rSO2C, and pulmonary (FOEL) and cerebral (FOEC) tissue oxygen extraction fraction were measured in 20 preterm infants before, during, and after a 2-h period of KMC at a mean postnatal age of 36 ± 21 days of life. We found that rSO2L, rSO2C, FOEL, and FOEC did not change in our patients. After 120 min of KMC, rSO2L was lower (71.3 ± 1.4 vs. 76.7 ± 4.6%; P = 0.012) in infants with BPD (n = 6; 30%) than in infants without BPD (n = 14 = 60%), while FOEL was higher (0.26 ± 0.02 vs. 0.20 ± 0.05; P = 0.012).

Conclusion: Cerebral and lung oxygenation did not change in preterm infants during KMC. A transient decrease in lung oxygenation was offset by the increase in oxygen extraction, but these changes were clinically insignificant. These results confirm the safety of KMC in preterm infants who are in stable clinical conditions.

What is Known

• Kangaroo mother care (KMC) is widely used to improve the care of preterm newborns since it improves their outcome.

• KMC is safe as patients’ vital parameters, are not negatively affected, but lung function has never been directly assessed.

What is New

• Cerebral and lung oxygenation measured by near-infrared spectroscopy did not change during KMC.

• A transient decrease in lung oxygenation compensated for by the increase in oxygen extraction occurred only in infants with BPD, but these changes were clinically insignificant.
Indentation and reading time: a randomized control trial on the differences between generated indented and non-indented if-statements
Authors: Hanenberg Stefan , Morzeck Johannes , Gruhn Volker
Published: August 2024

Indentation is an old technique that emphasizes elements in source code using white spaces or tabs. But while this technique has been taught and applied for decades, evidence for its effectiveness is weak: up to 2022 relatively few experiments can be found – the present authors are only aware of one single experiment that revealed an effect of indentation and reported the effect size, but even in that experiment the effect of indentation was found to be weak. The situation changed recently, where an experiment was published that suddenly revealed a strong and large effect of indentation in control flows on reaction time. However, although the experiment provided an initial indication of a possible cause for the difference between indented and non-indented code (the length of the code that can be skipped in indented code), the evidence for this indicator was rather weak. The present paper presents a formal model on the differences in reading times (measured in terms of reaction times) between indented and non-indented code. Based on that model a controlled experiment on generated tasks was designed and executed on 27 participants (undergraduate students, PhD students, professionals). The experiment (again) confirms a strong (p < .001) and large ($$\eta _{p}^{2}$$ηp2= .198,$$\frac{M_{Non-Indented}}{M_{Indented}}$$MNon-IndentedMIndented= 2.13) effect of indentation. Furthermore, it confirms that the larger the skippable code is, the larger is the difference between reading time of indented and non-indented code (p = .001,$$\eta _{p}^{2}$$ηp2= .072). I.e., the experiment goes beyond the point “indented vs non-indented code” and explains the difference by revealing a factor that controls this difference. However, although the previous statements holds true for the whole sample in the experiment, this effect could only be shown for a subset of individual participants.