bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Silk Nanofiber Carriers for Both Hydrophilic and Hydrophobic Drugs to Achieve Improved Combination Chemotherapy
Authors: Xiao Liying , Yang Huaxiang , Lu Qiang , Kaplan David L.
Published: January 2024

Combination chemotherapy is considered an effective strategy to inhibit tumor growth. Here, beta‐sheet‐rich silk nanofibers are co‐loaded with hydrophilic doxorubicin (DOX) and hydrophobic paclitaxel (PTX) through a sequential physical blending‐centrifugation‐blending process. The ratio and amount of DOX and PTX on the nanofibers are regulated independently to optimize cooperative interaction. Both PTX and DOX are immobilized on the same nanofibers to avoid burst release problems. Besides the water‐insoluble PTX, more than half of the DOX remained fixed on the nanofibers for more than 28 days, which facilitated the co‐internalization of both DOX and PTX by tumor cells in vitro. Changing the ratio of co‐loaded DOX and PTX achieved optimal combination therapy in vitro. The DOX‐PTX co‐loaded nanofibers are assembled into injectable hydrogels to facilitate in situ injection around tumor tissues in vivo. Long‐term inhibition is achieved for tumors treated with DOX‐PTX co‐loaded hydrogels, superior to those treated with free DOX and PTX, and hydrogels loaded with only DOX or PTX. Considering the mild and controllable physical loading process and superior loading capacity for both hydrophilic and hydrophobic ingredients, these injectable silk nanofiber hydrogels are promising carriers to deliver multiple drug types simultaneously in situ, enhancing combination chemotherapies towards clinical applications.
A projection method based on the piecewise Chebyshev cardinal functions for nonlinear stochastic ABC fractional integro‐differential equations
Authors: Heydari M. H. , Zhagharian Sh. , Cattani C.
Published: January 2024

In this study, the Atangana–Baleanu fractional derivative in the Caputo type (as a kind of non‐local and non‐singular derivative) is used to define a new class of stochastic fractional integro‐differential equations. A projection method (more precisely, a Galerkin approach) based on the piecewise Chebyshev cardinal functions is developed to solve these stochastic fractional equations. To construct this method, the operational matrices of fractional and stochastic integrals of these basis functions are obtained and used in the established method. By approximating the solution of the problem with a finite expansion of the expressed basis functions (in which the expansion coefficients are unknown), a system of algebraic equations is obtained. By solving this system, the expansion coefficients and subsequently the solution of the original stochastic fractional problem are obtained. The convergence analysis of the proposed method is investigated, theoretically and numerically. The accuracy of the established procedure is illustrated by solving several numerical examples.
Effect of the structure of macromonomer in polycarboxylate superplasticizer on viscosity and workability of concrete
Authors: Pang Jianjun , Guo Jintang , Li Wenke , Chang Qinglu
Published: January 2024

Reducing the water‐to‐cement (w/c) ratio was the most direct way to decrease the dosage of cement while ensuring compressive strength of concrete. However, the concrete system tend to be more stickiness at low w/c ratio. Four types of polycarboxylate superplasticizers (PCEs) were synthesized using HPEG, IPEG, EPEG, or VPEG as macromonomers. The impact of PCEs on the viscosity and workability of cement and concrete was investigated. The mechanism behind the macroscopic properties exhibited by these four PCEs was explored through surface tension analysis, GPC analysis, NMR analysis, and adsorption capacity evaluation. The results indicated that, at high w/c ratio (≥0.35), concrete mixed with four types of PCEs demonstrated almost the same flow velocity and viscosity, at low w/c ratio (≤0.3), the V‐funnel time of concrete which mixed with 67EPC3.5 reached 8.5 s, showed the fastest flow velocity and lowest viscosity, due to the structure of 67EPC3.5 containing the highest content of combined units of AAA which resulted in rapid adsorption rate and maximum adsorption quantity, and the viscosity effect was independent of surface tension. Concrete mixed with 67IPC3.5 displayed the superior workability at any w/c ratio primarily because the structure of 67IPC3.5 contained the highest content of polyoxyethylene ether which effectively reduced surface tension.
Biosourced spherical microbeads from brewer's spent grain for sustainable personal hygiene products
Authors: McMackin Amy , Banville Vincent , Cardinal Sébastien
Published: January 2024

Many countries have recently banned the production and importation of petrochemical plastic microbeads for use as exfoliating agents in personal care products. Plastic particles in products of this nature are too small to be retrieved during wastewater treatment and they accumulate in the environment, negatively impacting living organisms and ecosystems. Sustainable alternatives that offer comparable mechanical properties to synthetic plastic microbeads could be developed using biowaste material. Brewer's spent grain (BSG), the primary residue of the brewery industry, is shown herein to be a promising starting material in the development of biodegradable, nontoxic microbeads. After dilute acid hydrolysis, pretreated lignocellulosic pulp from BSG is solubilized using an aqueous system of NaOH and ZnO. Solid microbeads may then be formed by dropping the resulting solution into an acid bath, filtering, and drying. The conditions of each step required optimization to successfully produce spherical microbeads with a mean diameter as small as 1.25 mm, a homogeneous size distribution, and an average hardness of 199 MPa. The beads also demonstrated superior cleansing abilities to commercially available natural exfoliating particles. BSG microbeads are therefore a promising option for use as a physical exfoliating agent in various personal hygiene products.
Current, former Kappa members share perspectives on males joining sororities
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: January 2024

You’ve likely heard about the lawsuit filed by several members of the University of Wyoming chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma who claimed that welcoming men into their all‐women's sorority violated its bylaws. (Read more about that lawsuit on page 5.) Now, you can hear directly from Patsy Levang, a former KKG National Foundation President, and Allie Coghan, a KKG member and plaintiff in the Westenbroek v. Kappa Kappa Gamma lawsuit, who recently graduated from UW and became an Independent Women's Forum Ambassador.
Student‐vets face gap between housing stipend, actual needs
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: January 2024

A pair of studies by the Pew Charitable Trusts point out the financial hardships student‐veterans face when transitioning to higher education, even when using the GI Bill. One study found student‐veterans may take out more student loans to cover gaps between the monthly housing allotment from the GI Bill and actual housing costs. The other analysis found living expenses — housing in particular — were the top expense covered by student loans for student‐veterans.
Know what to do when it's hard to fire someone
Authors: Schwebel David C.
Published: January 2024

In most industry settings, firing employees is straightforward. Emotional components aside, the legal act of separating employees from companies outside of higher education is often quick and simple. In the academy, however, the task can be more difficult. Releasing tenured faculty members requires substantial cause, and even staff member separations can be complicated by various university policies and requirements.
Did court dismiss Title IX retaliation claim?
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: January 2024

A member of the University of California‐San Diego rowing team committed suicide, allegedly due to psychological abuse from his coaches. The student‐athlete faced abuse from his coaches after he allegedly attempted to report a teammate for sexual misconduct against female students. The student‐athlete continued to speak up about the allegations and questioned his coach's failure to discipline the teammate or relay the sexual misconduct reports to the university administration.
Mercer on Mission program makes global impact by integrating study abroad with service‐learning
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: January 2024

Craig McMahan, M.Div., Ph.D., was just one year into working as Mercer University's Minister, Dean of Chapel, and Assistant Professor of Religion when the new University President gave him an assignment: Develop a program that integrates study abroad with meaningful service‐learning projects that go beyond “hugging babies and painting walls.” And that's how Mercer On Mission was born. In 14 years, the program has completed 163 trips with 2,877 Mercer students and faculty participants visiting 45 different international sites.
Decorated Magnetic Nanocatalyst with Trinitriloacetic Acid as a Heterogeneous Catalyst used in the Synthesis of Pyrimido[4,5]quinoline‐2,4‐diones
Authors: Rahmatzadeh Setareh , Sardarian Ali Reza , Nikmanesh Soudabeh
Published: January 2024

To answer the challenges of using nitrilotriacetic acid (NTAA) as an efficient, recyclable, and durable acidic nanocatalyst, a novel, versatile, engineerable, affordable, eco‐friendly acidic heterogeneous magnetic nanocatalyst has been synthesized with high thermal stability and excellent catalytic efficiency through immobilization of NTTA on the surface of the functionalized magnetite core‐shell. Fe3O4@SiO2‐NH‐NTAA, has been synthesized and presented here. This nanomagnetic catalyst, Fe3O4@SiO2‐NH‐NTAA, was fully identified and characterized through analytical techniques such as FTIR, FESEM, TEM, EDX, elemental mapping, TGA‐DSC, DLS, VSM, and XRD, in addition to theoretical calculations based on DFT/B3LYP/6‐311++G(d, p). Its catalytic capability as well as easy separation, recoverability, and reuseability were examined in the one‐pot preparation of pyrimido[4,5]quinolone‐2,4‐diones under mild conditions, where the high performance of the Fe3O4@SiO2‐NH‐NTAA magnetic nano‐catalyst was proved by excellent reaction yield (>98 %) and the catalyst's recovery efficiency (>98 %). Due to the presence of NTAA's zwitterionic forms in the outermost layer of Fe3O4@SiO2‐NH‐NTAA, this acidic catalyst causes the progress and control of the three‐component reaction in this article well and in the desired direction.
A Novel Multifunctional Photonic Film for Colored Passive Daytime Radiative Cooling and Energy Harvesting
Authors: Wu Yingjie , Wang Si , Zhang Renyan , Yu Tao , Xu Mingfeng , Li Xiong , Pu Mingbo , Ma Xiaoliang , Guo Yongcai , Su Yuanjie , Tai Huiling , Luo Xiangang
Published: January 2024

Passive daytime radiative cooling (PDRC) materials with sustainable energy harvesting capability is critical to concurrently reduce traditional cooling energy utilized for thermal comfort and transfer natural clean energies into electricity. Herein, a versatile photonic film (Ecoflex@BTO@UAFL) based on a novel fluorescent luminescence color passive radiative cooling with triboelectric and piezoelectric effect is developed by filling the dielectric BaTiO3 (BTO) nanoparticles and ultraviolet absorption fluorescent luminescence (UAFL) powder into the elastic Ecoflex matrix. Test results demonstrate that the Ecoflex@BTO@UAFL photonic film exhibits a maximum passive radiative cooling effect of ∽10.1 °C in the daytime. Meanwhile, its average temperature drop in the daytime is ~4.48 °C, which is 0.91 °C higher than that of the Ecoflex@BTO photonic film (3.56 °C) due to the addition of UAFL material. Owing to the high dielectric constant and piezoelectric effect of BTO nanoparticles, the maximum power density (0.53 W m−2, 1 Hz @ 10 N) of the Ecoflex@BTO photonic film‐based hybrid nanogenerator is promoted by 70.9% compared to the Ecoflex film‐based TENG. This work provides an ingenious strategy for combining PDRC effects with triboelectric and piezoelectric properties, which can spontaneously achieve thermal comfort and energy conservation, offering a new insight into multifunctional energy saving.
Obtaining Ligand‐Free Aqueous Au‐Nanoparticles Using Reversible CsPbBr3 ↔ Au@CsPbBr3 Nanocrystal Transformation
Authors: Samanta Subarna , Paul Sujay , Debnath Tushar
Published: January 2024

Water‐hexane interfacial preparation of photostable Au@CsPbBr3 (Au@CPB) hybrid nanocrystals (NCs) from pure CsPbBr3 (CPB) NCs is reported, with the coexistence of exciton and localized surface plasmon resonance with equal dominance. This enables strong exciton‐plasmon coupling in these plasmonic perovskite NCs where not only the photoluminescence is quenched intrinsically due to ultrafast charge separation, but also the light absorption property increases significantly, covering the entire visible region. Using a controlled interfacial strategy, a reversible chemical transformation between CPB and Au@CPB NCs is shown, with the simultaneous eruption of larger‐size ligand‐free aqueous Au nanoparticles (NPs). An adsorption‐desorption mechanism is proposed for the reversible transformation, while the overgrowth reaction of the Au NPs passes through the Au aggregation intermediate. This study further shows that the plasmonic Au@CPB hybrid NCs as well as ligand‐free Au NPs exhibit clear surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) effect of a commercially available probe molecule. Overall, the beautiful interfacial chemistry delivers two independent plasmonic materials, i.e., Au@CPB NCs and ligand‐free aqueous Au NPs, which may find important implications in photocatalytic and biomedical applications.
Sepsis and antimicrobial resistance
Authors: Kirby Roger
Published: January 2024

In this editorial, Professor Roger Kirby, Editor‐in‐Chief of Trends in Urology and Men's Health, considers the dilemma behind the management of this silent but deadly killer.
Co‐culturing microalgae with endophytic bacteria from bamboo for efficient nutrient and heavy metal removal coupling with biogas upgrading
Authors: Cheng Pu , Wang Zhengfang , Lu Bei , Zhao Yongjun , Zhang Hui
Published: January 2024

The construction of dominant algal species and bacterial strains in algal treatment technology was crucial for pollutant removal. In order to enhance the purification capability of microalgae toward heavy metals in water as well as biogas slurry and biogas, symbiotic systems were respectively constructed using Chlorella vulgaris and two different endogenous bacteria (microalgal endophytic bacteria S395–2 and plant endophytic bacteria BEB7). The results demonstrated that the endogenous bacteria (S395–2 and BEB7) effectively promote the growth, biomass yield, photosynthetic activity, and carbonic anhydrase activity of microalgae. Additionally, BEB7 exhibited superior promotion effects on microalgae compared to S395–2. Moreover, the BEB7‐microalgae co‐cultivation system not only efficiently removed heavy metals from water but also effectively purified the nutrients and CO2 in biogas slurry. The optimal effect was observed when the ratio of BEB7 to microalgae was 10:1. This study has established a solid theoretical foundation for the application of microalgae in pollutant purification.

Practitioner Points

Endogenous bacteria effectively promoted microalgal performance.

The optimal ratio of BEB7 to microalgae was 10:1.

Chlorella vulgaris‐BEB7 showed the best removal performance.
The intersection of virus infection and liver disease: A comprehensive review of pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment
Authors: Ren Meng , Lu Chenxia , Zhou Mingwei , Jiang Xiaobing , Li Xiaodong , Liu Ningning
Published: January 2024

Liver disease represents a significant global burden, placing individuals at a heightened risk of developing cirrhosis and liver cancer. Viral infections act as a primary cause of liver diseases on a worldwide scale. Infections involving hepatitis viruses, notably hepatitis B, C, and E viruses, stand out as the most prevalent contributors to acute and chronic intrahepatic adverse outcome, although the hepatitis C virus (HCV) can be effectively cured with antiviral drugs, but no preventative vaccination developed. Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and HCV can lead to both acute and chronic liver diseases, including liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), which are principal causes of worldwide morbidity and mortality. Other viruses, such as Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) and cytomegalovirus (CMV), are capable of causing liver damage. Therefore, it is essential to recognize that virus infections and liver diseases are intricate and interconnected processes. A profound understanding of the underlying relationship between virus infections and liver diseases proves pivotal in the effective prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of these conditions. In this review, we delve into the mechanisms by which virus infections induce liver diseases, as well as explore the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of liver diseases.

This article is categorized under:

Infectious Diseases > Biomedical Engineering
Isolation of an Osmium(III) Hydrido Complex
Authors: Alizadeh Niyaz , Abbenseth Josh , Bete Sarah , Finger Markus , Otte Matthias , Würtele Christian , Schneider Sven
Published: January 2024

Synthesis and characterization of [OsH(PNP)(bipy)]+ (PNP=N(CHCHPtBu2)2) are reported, as the second osmium(III) hydrido complex next to [OsH(en)2(py)]2+. While the osmium(II) precursor, [OsH(PNP)(bipy)], exhibits two reversible oxidations in the cyclic voltammogram, the product from 2‐electron oxidation could not be isolated due to rapid decay. Thermochemical examinations attribute the stability of the osmium(III) hydride to both thermodynamic and kinetic reasons. In contrast, the high estimated acidity of [OsH(PNP)(bipy)]2+ presumably leads to rapid decay.
Genetic diversity and inbreeding in an endangered island-dwelling parrot population following repeated population bottlenecks
Authors: Gautschi Daniel , Heinsohn Robert , Ortiz-Catedral Luis , Stojanovic Dejan , Wilson Melinda , Crates Ross , Macgregor Nicholas A. , Olsen Penny , Neaves Linda
Published: January 2024

Genetic diversity and population structure can have important implications for the management of threatened species. This is particularly true for small, isolated populations that have experienced significant declines or population bottlenecks. The Norfolk Island green parrot Cyanoramphus cookii is an endangered species at risk of inbreeding and loss of genetic diversity due to its restricted range and the population bottlenecks experienced in recent decades. To assess the severity of inbreeding and loss of genetic diversity in the population we analyzed single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) for 157 unique genetic samples collected from nestlings and randomly captured adult birds between 2015 and 2022. We also assessed the population for genetic structure, calculated sex ratios, and looked for evidence of past population bottlenecks. Our analysis revealed that 17.83% of individuals sampled were highly inbred (F > 0.125), although expected heterozygosity (HE) did not significantly differ from observed heterozygosity (HO) and the average inbreeding coefficient was low. The estimated effective population size (Ne) was 43.8 and we found no evidence of genetic structure. Demographic simulations provided support for scenarios including multiple population bottlenecks, when compared to those with a single population bottleneck or no past bottlenecks. We discuss the implications of our findings for the future management of the species including any potential attempt to establish an insurance population via translocation. Our study highlights the importance of considering population genetics when determining appropriate management actions for threatened species and the need to assess non-model species on an individual basis.
Failure analysis and continual improvement in the engineering design process: Teacher roles in children’s problem-solving processes
Authors: Erol Ahmet
Published: January 2024

STEM education, which means integrated thinking, attracts the attention of early childhood educators and researchers. Engineering education, which naturally serves STEM integration, contributes to children’s problem-solving skills with failure analysis and continual improvement habits of mind. Children need adult support in this process due to their developmental characteristics. This study focuses on the roles of teachers in situations where children fail to solve the problems they encounter in the engineering design process. In this direction, the research was carried out with a case study. The participants were 17 preschool teachers working in southwestern Turkey and 255 children in their classes. The data for the study were collected through observation and a semi-structured interview protocol. The data were analyzed by content analysis. According to the results, teachers facilitated failure analysis and continual improvement processes in the problems faced by children by encouraging them to rethink the problem, encouraging them to persist, and inviting communication and cooperation with friends. The findings highlight teacher encouragement as important in children’s failure analysis and continual improvement processes.
Facets of Constructive Voice Behavior: Construct Clarification, Theoretical Refinement, and Measurement
Authors: Krefft Anja , Marcus Bernd , Weigelt Oliver
Published: January 2024

Constructive voice encompasses a multitude of voice message content. However, existing measures of voice do not capture these differences in a precise way and contribute to inconclusive evidence. Based on existing conceptualizations of constructive voice, we suggest that employee voice messages differ along three main dimensions: (1) suggesting innovative opportunities versus highlighting harm (functional orientation), (2) offering specific suggestions versus pointing out problems (substantive orientation), and (3) addressing existing versus potential future issues (temporal orientation). Using this three-dimensional approach, we define five distinct prototypical facets of voice with well-defined conceptual boundaries. Through two expert studies (N = 12 and N = 10), we identify uncertainties in the content of current voice measures. We then introduce a newly developed measure that addresses these shortcomings. In two consecutive survey studies (N = 132 and N = 553), we present initial evidence supporting the reliability, convergent validity, and discriminant validity of this measure. The correlations among the five facets of voice were high. However, we also found evidence for differential associations with some antecedents.
Phase I study targeting newly diagnosed grade 4 astrocytoma with bispecific antibody armed T cells (EGFR BATs) in combination with radiation and temozolomide
Authors: Fadul Camilo E. , Thakur Archana , Kim Jungeun , Kassay-McAllister Jessica , Schalk Dana , Lopes M. Beatriz , Donahue Joseph , Purow Benjamin , Dillon Patrick , Le Tri , Schiff David , Liu Qin , Lum Lawrence G.
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to determine the safety, feasibility, and immunologic responses of treating grade 4 astrocytomas with multiple infusions of anti-CD3 x anti-EGFR bispecific antibody (EGFRBi) armed T cells (EGFR BATs) in combination with radiation and chemotherapy.

Methods

This phase I study used a 3 + 3 dose escalation design to test the safety and feasibility of intravenously infused EGFR BATs in combination with radiation and temozolomide (TMZ) in patients with newly diagnosed grade 4 astrocytomas (AG4). After finding the feasible dose, an expansion cohort with unmethylated O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) tumors received weekly EGFR BATs without TMZ.

Results

The highest feasible dose was 80 × 109 EGFR BATs without dose-limiting toxicities (DLTs) in seven patients. We could not escalate the dose because of the limited T-cell expansion. There were no DLTs in the additional cohort of three patients with unmethylated MGMT tumors who received eight weekly infusions of EGFR BATs without TMZ. EGFR BATs infusions induced increases in glioma specific anti-tumor cytotoxicity by peripheral blood mononuclear cells (p < 0.03) and NK cell activity (p < 0.002) ex vivo, and increased serum concentrations of IFN-γ (p < 0.03), IL-2 (p < 0.007), and GM-CSF (p < 0.009).

Conclusion

Targeting AG4 with EGFR BATs at the maximum feasible dose of 80 × 109, with or without TMZ was safe and induced significant anti-tumor-specific immune responses. These results support further clinical trials to examine the efficacy of this adoptive cell therapy in patients with MGMT-unmethylated GBM.

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03344250
Not seeing the forest for the trees? A systems approach to the entrepreneurial university
Authors: Wurth Bernd , MacKenzie Niall G. , Howick Susan
Published: January 2024

The idea and practice of the entrepreneurial university has emerged in response to growing expectations of universities contributing to economic development and has, in turn, been subject to a growing body of research. However, much of the work is focused on individual activities or institutions, typically overemphasising commercialisation activities and certain types of universities. Furthermore, much of this research is de-contextualised and does not consider the systems in which universities operate. As a result, we have a variety of unit theories of constituent parts of the entrepreneurial university without considering the wider (feedback) effects and implications — in other words: we are, in effect, not seeing the forest for the trees. Drawing on in-depth quantitative and qualitative field work and the literature, we develop a programmatic theory of the entrepreneurial university and the institutionalised entrepreneurial activities. Using causal loop diagrams, we capture the systemness and the interdependencies between universities’ entrepreneurial activities and their dynamic capabilities. The model highlights how universities are part of a larger system and how this influences their external engagement activities. The result is a more holistic understanding of entrepreneurial universities that reconciles existing work and guides future research. We discuss practical implications and policy levers derived from this systemic perspective.
Sunspots Identification Through Mathematical Morphology
Authors: Bourgeois Slava , Barata Teresa , Erdélyi Robertus , Gafeira Ricardo , Oliveira Orlando
Published: January 2024

The implementation of automated methods for sunspot detection is essential to obtain better objectivity, efficiency, and accuracy in identifying sunspots and analysing their morphological properties. A desired application is the contouring of sunspots. In this work, we construct sunspot contours from Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO)/ Helioseismic and Magnetic Imager intensity images by means of an automated method based on development and application of mathematical morphology. The method is validated qualitatively – the resulting contours accurately delimit sunspots. Here, it is applied to high-resolution data (SDO intensitygrams) and validated quantitatively by illustrating a good agreement between the measured sunspot areas and the ones provided by two standard reference catalogues. The method appears to be robust for sunspot identification, and our analysis suggests its application to more complex and irregular-shaped solar structures, such as polarity inversion lines inside delta-sunspots.
Research on a multi-dimensional image information fusion algorithm based on NSCT transform
Authors: Su Yuxiang , Liang Xi , Cao Danhua , Yang Zhenyu , Peng Yuanlong , Zhao Ming
Published: January 2024

Traditional inspection cameras determine targets and detect defects by capturing images of their light intensity, but in complex environments, the accuracy of inspection may decrease. Information based on polarization of light can characterize various features of a material, such as the roughness, texture, and refractive index, thus improving classification and recognition of targets. This paper uses a method based on noise template threshold matching to denoise and preprocess polarized images. It also reports on design of an image fusion algorithm, based on NSCT transform, to fuse light intensity images and polarized images. The results show that the fused image improves both subjective and objective evaluation indicators, relative to the source image, and can better preserve edge information and help to improve the accuracy of target recognition. This study provides a reference for the comprehensive application of multi-dimensional optical information in power inspection.

Graphical Abstract
Insights into the influences of biochar on the fate and transport of pesticides in the soil environment: a critical review
Authors: Twagirayezu Gratien , Cheng Hongguang , Wu Yanyou , Lu Hongyu , Huang Shenglan , Fang Xin , Irumva Olivier
Published: January 2024

Pesticide misuse and overuse severely pollute agricultural soils, water, and crop yields, harming people and animals. This situation raises serious concerns about environmental pollution on a global scale. As an eco-friendly material for soil remediation, biochar can efficiently immobilize pesticides in the soil. Several studies have focused on the feasibility of biochar in remediating polluted soil. However, its influences during the remediation of pesticide-polluted soils remain indistinct. The present review illuminates the positive and negative influences of biochar on the dissemination of pesticides, the underlying mechanisms, the regulating factors, and critical considerations in the ongoing development of biochar for pesticide use. It also delineates the positive and negative impacts of biochar on pesticides in the soil, evaluates potential pitfalls based on recent research, and offers suggestions for prospective biochar applications crucial for remediating contaminated soil. This review reveals that the fate and types of pesticides, along with the physicochemical properties of soil and biochar types, can significantly influence the remediation of pesticide-polluted soil using biochar. Biochar has the potential to enhance the abundance of certain bacteria and the colonization of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, both of which play crucial roles in soil remediation. Biochar can also modify soil moisture, microbial communities, and other factors that impact the rate of pesticide degradation while simultaneously reducing other types of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi. This review underscores the importance of thoroughly understanding the properties of biochar before its application to polluted soils. This review can serve as a basis for subsequent studies on the biochar-mediated remediation of contaminated soils.

Graphical Abstract
Multivariate analysis of pedestrian-related crashes on Vienna’s roads
Authors: Magusic Radmila
Published: January 2024

Pedestrians are the least protected traffic group when compared to other participants. When compared to moto riders (independent of engine power) they have head protection provided by helmet or vehicle metal shield along with airbag that is providing highest level of body protection for personal vehicles drivers. This vulnerable group is characterized by the high presence of very young participants whose psychological characteristics place them in a vulnerable risky subgroup. According to the police original data on crashes involving pedestrians in the town of Vienna, since 2010 there was highest number of crashes in 2012 and after slow decrease is recorded but still high in total number of crashes involving only pedestrians is an extremely worrying problem.

This research is essential to address leading characterizations in crashes with the aim to answer what is current trend in crash occurrence during 2010–2020 inside Vienna municipality, and what is predicted trend. Is there significant and distinctive difference based on gender and age with specific conditions under which crashes are occurring influencing different injury degree. Multiple regression undoubtedly points fields for action in statistically based findings providing the most important answer to this research: why crashes do occur so frequently and what is leading cause of injured pedestrians. Stepwise procedure in discriminant analysis at statistically significant level shows what differentiates injured and not injured pedestrians.
Nutritional considerations for people living with a Fontan circulation: a narrative review
Authors: Clode Melanie , Tran Derek , Majumdar Avik , Ayer Julian , Ferrie Suzie , Cordina Rachael
Published: January 2024

The population of people living with a Fontan circulation are highly heterogenous, including both children and adults, who have complex health issues and comorbidities associated with their unique physiology throughout life. Research focused on nutritional considerations and interventions in the Fontan population is extremely limited beyond childhood. This review article discusses the current literature examining nutritional considerations in the setting of Fontan physiology and provides an overview of the available evidence to support nutritional management strategies and future research directions. Protein-losing enteropathy, growth deficits, bone mineral loss, and malabsorption are well-recognised nutritional concerns within this population, but increased adiposity, altered glucose metabolism, and skeletal muscle deficiency are also more recently identified issues. Emergencing evidence suggets that abnormal body composition is associated with poor circulatory function and health outcomes. Many nutrition-related issues, including the impact of congenital heart disease on nutritional status, factors contributing to altered body composition and comorbidities, as well as the role of the microbiome and metabolomics, remain poodly understood.
The effects of percutaneous branch pulmonary artery interventions on exercise capacity, lung perfusion, and right ventricular function in biventricular CHD: a systematic review
Authors: Joosen Renée S. , Frissen Jules P. B. , van den Hoogen Agnes , Krings Gregor J. , Voskuil Michiel , Slieker Martijn G. , Breur Johannes M. P. J.
Published: January 2024

Background:

Branch pulmonary artery stenosis is common after surgical repair in patients with biventricular CHD and often requires reinterventions. However, (long-term) effects of percutaneous branch pulmonary artery interventions on exercise capacity, right ventricular function, and lung perfusion remain unclear. This review describes the (long-term) effects of percutaneous branch pulmonary artery interventions on exercise capacity, right ventricular function, and lung perfusion following PRISMA guidelines.

Methods:

We performed a systematic search in PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane including studies about right ventricular function, exercise capacity, and lung perfusion after percutaneous branch pulmonary artery interventions. Study selection, data extraction, and quality assessment were performed by two researchers independently.

Results:

In total, 7 eligible studies with low (n = 2) and moderate (n = 5) risk of bias with in total 330 patients reported on right ventricular function (n = 1), exercise capacity (n = 2), and lung perfusion (n = 7). Exercise capacity and lung perfusion seem to improve after a percutaneous intervention for branch pulmonary artery stenosis. No conclusions about right ventricular function or remodelling, differences between balloon and stent angioplasty or specific CHD populations could be made.

Conclusion:

Although pulmonary artery interventions are frequently performed in biventricular CHD, data on relevant outcome parameters such as exercise capacity, lung perfusion, and right ventricular function are largely lacking. An increase in exercise capacity and improvement of lung perfusion to the affected lung has been described in case of mild to more severe pulmonary artery stenosis during relatively short follow-up. However, there is need for future studies to evaluate the effect of pulmonary artery interventions in various CHD populations.
Human milk polyunsaturated fatty acids are related to neurodevelopmental, anthropometric, and allergic outcomes in early life: a systematic review
Authors: Mitguard Saori , Doucette Olivia , Miklavcic John
Published: January 2024

Polyunsaturated fatty acids are critically important for newborn nutrition and in the trajectory of growth and developmental processes throughout early life. This systematic review (PROSPERO ID: CRD42023400059) critically analyzes literature pertaining to how omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in human milk are related to health outcomes in early life. Literature selected for the review were published between 2005 and 2020 and included assessments in healthy term children between 0 and 5 years of age. The studies reported the relation between human milk fatty acids docosahexaenoic acid (C22:6n-3, DHA), eicosapentaenoic acid (C20:5n-3, EPA), alpha-linolenic acid (C18:3n-3, ALA), arachidonic acid (C20:4n-6, AA), and linoleic acid (C18:2n-6, LA) with three domains of health outcomes: neurodevelopment, body composition, and allergy, skin & eczema. Results from the 21 studies consistently suggested better health outcomes across the three domains for infants consuming milk with higher concentrations of total n-3, DHA, EPA, and ALA. Negative health outcomes across the three domains were associated with higher levels of total n-6, AA, and LA in milk. N-3 and n-6 content of milk were related to neurodevelopmental, body composition, and allergy, skin & eczema outcomes with moderate certainty. Maternal diet impacting milk fatty acid content and fatty acid desaturase genotype modifying physiologic responses to fatty acid intake were prominent gaps identified in the review using the NIH Quality Assessment Tool for Observational Cohort and Cross-Sectional Studies and GRADE approach. This research study can inform baby nutrition product development, and fatty acid intake recommendations or dietary interventions for mothers and children.
Copyright Protection for AI-Generated Works: Exploring Originality and Ownership in a Digital Landscape
Authors: GAFFAR Hafiz , ALBARASHDI Saleh
Published: January 2024

This research explores AI-generated originality's impact on copyright regulations. It meticulously examines legal frameworks such as the Berne Convention, EU Copyright Law, and national legislation. Rigorously analyzing cases, including Infopaq International A/S v Danske Dagblades Forening and Levola Hengelo BV v Smilde Foods BV, illuminates evolving originality and human involvement in AI creativity. The study also contemplates global perspectives, drawing from esteemed organizations such as the World Intellectual Property Organization and the European Court of Justice and exploring diverse approaches adopted by individual nations. The paper emphasizes the imperative need for legislative updates to address the challenges and opportunities of AI-generated works. It highlights the pivotal role of international collaboration and public awareness in shaping copyright policies for the AI-driven creativity era. It also offers insights and recommendations for policymakers and researchers navigating this complex terrain.
Uncertainty Analysis of the Prediction of Massive Ash Fallout From a Large Explosive Eruption at Sakurajima Volcano
Authors: Rahadianto Haris , Tatano Hirokazu , Iguchi Masato
Published: January 2024

Volcanic ash hazards present life‐threatening dangers to populations near volcanoes during large explosive eruptions. Vulnerable infrastructures demand a comprehensive disaster risk reduction strategy to protect residents from enormous ashfall accumulations. To prepare for the next large eruption of Sakurajima volcano, authorities in Kagoshima City are developing a countermeasure plan utilizing ash dispersal prediction 24 hr before an eruption. However, the absence of large eruptions in the last century makes it challenging to confirm the accuracy of predictions for hazard area designation. To ensure established protocols are effective, uncertainties in ashfall predictions must be addressed, enabling authorities to make appropriate responses. We simulated the previous large eruption of Sakurajima volcano using multiple wind forecast lead times as historical predictions from July 2018 to December 2022. The uncertainty in prediction results was evaluated by comparing simulation outputs with validation data from the ash dispersal data set. We examined uncertainty in hazard area assignment and its variation depending on risk items, wind field states, and the influences of seasonal patterns and events. Updating ashfall predictions with improved wind forecasts reduces uncertainty for all risk items and increases the precision of identified hazard zones. Furthermore, uncertainty levels are influenced by seasonality and can shift significantly with varying wind strengths controlling ash dispersal process. Providing uncertainty information is vital for decision‐making during ash fallout events, and it is recommended to update response decisions 12 hr after the initial prediction. This study's outcomes will aid in developing better disaster risk management strategies, focusing on volcanic ash hazards.
Simulated Tree‐Grass Competition in Drylands Is Modulated by CO2 Fertilization
Authors: Verbruggen Wim , Schurgers Guy , Meunier Félicien , Verbeeck Hans , Horion Stéphanie
Published: January 2024

Interannual variability in climatic drivers can have a strong impact on dryland ecosystem functioning globally. While interannual variations in dryland ecosystem processes are mainly driven by rainfall, other global change drivers such as CO2 fertilization and rising temperatures can play an increasingly important role for these ecosystems. Yet, the high complexity of dryland ecosystems makes it difficult to unravel the individual and interactive impacts of these different drivers. In this work we study the impacts of interannual climatic variability on the dryland ecosystems of the Sudano‐Sahel region for the period 1950–2022. By using a dynamic vegetation model (LPJ‐GUESS v4.0), we show that the year‐to‐year variability in dryland ecosystems that originates from interannual variability in rainfall is modulated by effects of CO2 fertilization, which can strongly impact woody encroachment and resource competition between vegetation types. In contrast, we found that increased temperatures had a relatively low influence at the ecosystem level. We also show that this response varies with aridity subtype, depending on the amount and type of woody cover. By untangling the impacts of climatic drivers on dryland vegetation, this study helps us to understand the different sensitivities of dryland ecosystems to climatic variability under global change.
More Frequent Abrupt Marine Environmental Changes Expected
Authors: Heinze C. , Michel C. , Torsvik T. , Schwinger J. , Tjiputra J. F.
Published: January 2024

We quantify an elevated occurrence of abrupt changes in ocean environmental conditions under human‐induced climate forcing using Earth system model output through a novel analysis method that compares the temporal evolution of the forcings applied with the development of local ocean state changes for temperature, oxygen concentration, and carbonate ion concentration. Through a multi‐centennial Earth system model experiment, we show that such an increase is not fully reversible after excess greenhouse gas emissions go back to zero. The increase in occurrence of regional abrupt changes in marine environmental conditions has not yet been accounted for adequately in climate impact analyses that usually associate ecosystem shifts large‐scale variability or extreme events. Estimates for remaining greenhouse gas emission targets need thus to be more conservative.
Light People: Professor Laura Na Liu
Authors: Wang Hui , Yu Cun
Published: January 2024

Editorial

The DNA nanotechnology outlines a new chapter in biological sciences, opening a new era of scientific and technological advancements. A pioneer of DNA nanotechnology, Professor Liu from the University of Stuttgart in Germany, our latest Light People, has been working at the interface, where nanophotonics meets biology and chemistry. On the path of scientific explorations, she believes in hard working and persistency, as indicated by a line of Chinese poetry she likes, “Don’t stop chasing the wind and the moon, the spring mountain is at the end of the plain.” She is an outstanding female researcher, radiating wisdom. She is a pioneer in exploring the power of DNA nanotechnology and applying it to other disciplines. Meanwhile, she struggles with work–life balance. Apart from being determined and persistent, Prof. Liu is also introspective. One sees the brilliance of a scientist and the struggles of a mother, as Prof. Laura Na Liu explains to us her very personal “philosophy of life”.
Cyclic increase in the ADAMTS1-L1CAM-EGFR axis promotes the EMT and cervical lymph node metastasis of oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Chien Ming-Hsien , Yang Yi-Chieh , Ho Kuo-Hao , Ding Yi-Fang , Chen Li-Hsin , Chiu Wen-Kuan , Chen Ji-Qing , Tung Min-Che , Hsiao Michael , Lee Wei-Jiunn
Published: January 2024

The matrix metalloprotease A disintegrin and metalloprotease with thrombospondin motifs 1 (ADAMTS1) was reported to be involved in tumor progression in several cancer types, but its contributions appear discrepant. At present, the role of ADAMTS1 in oral squamous cell carcinoma (SCC; OSCC) remains unclear. Herein, The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database showed that ADAMTS1 transcripts were downregulated in head and neck SCC (HNSCC) tissues compared to normal tissues, but ADAMTS1 levels were correlated with poorer prognoses of HNSCC patients. In vitro, we observed that ADAMTS1 expression levels were correlated with the invasive abilities of four OSCC cell lines, HSC-3, SCC9, HSC-3M, and SAS. Knockdown of ADAMTS1 in OSCC cells led to a decrease and its overexpression led to an increase in cell-invasive abilities in vitro as well as tumor growth and lymph node (LN) metastasis in OSCC xenografts. Mechanistic investigations showed that the cyclic increase in ADAMTS1-L1 cell adhesion molecule (L1CAM) axis-mediated epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) activation led to exacerbation of the invasive abilities of OSCC cells via inducing epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) progression. Clinical analyses revealed that ADAMTS1, L1CAM, and EGFR levels were all correlated with worse prognoses of HNSCC patients, and patients with ADAMTS1high/L1CAMhigh or EGFRhigh tumors had the shortest overall and disease-specific survival times. As to therapeutic aspects, we discovered that an edible plant-derived flavonoid, apigenin (API), drastically inhibited expression of the ADAMTS1-L1CAM-EGFR axis and reduced the ADAMTS1-triggered invasion and LN metastasis of OSCC cells in vitro and in vivo. Most importantly, API treatment significantly prolonged survival rates of xenograft mice with OSCC. In summary, ADAMTS1 may be a useful biomarker for predicting OSCC progression, and API potentially retarded OSCC progression by targeting the ADAMTS1-L1CAM-EGFR signaling pathway.