bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing the generalizability of a National Burn Database to the United States pediatric burn injury population
Authors: Dalal Sujata , Miles M. Victoria Purvis , Solis‐Beach Kyra Jeanine , Thakur Bhaskar , Suman‐Vejas Oscar E. , Ryan Colleen M. , Stewart Barclay T. , Carrougher Gretchen J. , Orton Caitlin , Kowalske Karen
Published: November 2024

Background

A national database is used to evaluate pediatric burn survivor outcomes, but the generalizability to the United States pediatric burn injury population is unclear, as only 60% of enrollees are U.S. residents. An increased understanding of population similarities and differences between residents of the United States and residents of Mexico treated in the United States within this database will help determine its ability to extrapolate.

Objective

Assess the generalizability of a national burn database to the U.S. pediatric burn injury population.

Design

This retrospective cohort study analyzed pediatric enrollees in a burn database. Data were stratified into children who were residents of the United States or Mexico at time of injury and grouped by age into <5 years, 5–10 years, and >10 years.

Setting

Not applicable.

Participants

A total of 2043 children enrolled in the database from 1998 to 2020.

Interventions

Not applicable.

Main Outcomes Measured

Determination of similarities and differences between gender, injury etiology, total body surface area injured, length of stay, and place of injury between the two groups.

Results

Both groups showed an increased incidence of burn injury among males as they aged. In U.S. residents, the most frequent etiology in patients <5 years was scald (292 [53.6%]), followed by fire/flame (157 [28.8%]). In residents of Mexico, fire/flame burns were more frequent in all ages and electric burns were more common among children >5 years. In both groups, outdoor injuries became more common as children aged. Children from Mexico had larger burns and longer lengths of hospital stay than children from the United States across all ages.

Conclusion

Differences between U.S. and Mexico groups were likely attributable to children with more severe burns being transferred to the United States for care, whereas those with low‐severity burns were treated locally. This suggests that children from Mexico in the database were not representative of the pediatric burn injury population of the United States or Mexico more broadly and caution should be used before generalizations are made using this database.
Ferrocenyl‐Containing Fe(II)‐Bipyridinedicarboxamide Polysiloxane Complexes With Multiredox Activity
Authors: Deriabin Kontantin V. , Gorodnyaya Elena V. , Kocheva Anastasia N. , Volkov Alexey I. , Levin Oleg V. , Islamova Regina M.
Published: November 2024

Ferrocenyl‐containing Fe(II)‐bipyridinedicarboxamide polysiloxane complexes with two redox metal centers were obtained by anionic ring‐opening polymerization, polycondensation, and complexation reactions utilizing various FeII:Bipy molar ratios of 1:(3–12). The polymer ligand was characterized by liquid‐state NMR, FTIR, and gel permeation chromatography (M

n
 = 8800). The structure of the polymer‐metal complexes (PMCs), that is, the presence of ferrocenyl groups and [FeII(Bipy)3] coordination cross‐links with FeII–NBipy bond formation, was confirmed by solid‐state NMR, FTIR, UV–vis, and EDX. The PMCs exhibit multiredox activity showing three redox waves at E

1/2
 ≈ −1.3, 0.2, and 1.0 V related to Fc/Fc+ couple, [Fe(Bipy)2]+/[FeII(Bipy)3]2+, and [Fe(Bipy)3]2+/[Fe(Bipy)3]3+ transformations. The PMCs possess electrochromic properties resulting from the reduction–oxidation of ferrocenyl (Fc/Fc+) and [FeII(Bipy)3] fragments and leading to changes in intensity of bands at 628, 542, and 380 nm in the UV–vis spectra (coloring efficiency reaches 13.4 cm2·C−1). The PMCs are flexible, stretchable, and mechanically strong silicone materials with elongation at break, tensile strength, and Young's modulus reaching 110%, 3.5 MPa, and 21.8 MPa, respectively, with self‐healing ability at 100°C. The described properties expand applications of PMCs as multiredox materials in polymer engineering for fabrication of (opto)electronic devices and protective coatings with a long service life compared to previously reported multiredox polymers.
Respiratory Morbidity Among Children Undergoing Surgical Resection for a Congenital Lung Malformation
Authors: Halbert‐Elliott Kyra M. , Sescleifer Anne M. , Mogayzel Peter J. , Kunisaki Shaun M.
Published: November 2024

Background

Congenital lung malformations (CLMs) are the most common condition requiring lung surgery in children. Although surgical resection is generally well tolerated in the immediate postoperative period, long‐term outcomes are not well studied. In this paper, we sought to define the risk of childhood respiratory morbidity, specifically asthma and pneumonia, in patients who underwent CLM resection.

Methods

After IRB approval, a retrospective study was conducted on all pediatric CLM resections performed at a single tertiary care children's hospital between January 2013 and December 2022. The primary outcome measures were the diagnosis of asthma and/or pneumonia more than 30 days after resection. Clinical and demographic characteristics were evaluated in univariate analysis and multivariable logistic regression as appropriate (p < 0.05).

Results

Of the 54 patients who underwent CLM resection, 36 (67%) met inclusion criteria. The median age at resection was 6.2 months (IQR: 4.3–9.0), and the median follow‐up period was 3.7 years (IQR: 1.7–5.7). Twelve were subsequently diagnosed with asthma at a median age of 3.3 years (IQR: 2.1–4.5). These observed asthma rates were significantly higher than expected when compared to nonlung surgery controls (33% vs. 6%, p < 0.01). Seven (21%) children were diagnosed with pneumonia, but this was not significantly different.

Conclusion

These data suggest that children undergoing lung resection for a CLM may be at an increased risk for the development of early childhood asthma. Given the potential implications for preoperative counseling and postoperative follow‐up, multicenter studies to validate these findings are warranted.
Internal Temperature of Neonatal Endotracheal Tube Predicted by Infrared Thermography: A Neonatal Bench Study
Authors: Hamada Keisuke , Hirakawa Eiji , Tanabe Takashi , Mine Takashi , Ichikawa Tatsuki , Nagata Yasuhiro
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Neonatal ventilators are managed by monitoring the inspiratory gas temperature with a probe placed outside the incubator, although the temperature decreases as the gases passe through the ventilator circuit extension tube and endotracheal tube (ETT). There are no established methods for measuring the internal temperature of the ETT. This bench study aimed to investigate the feasibility of using infrared thermography (IRT) to predict the internal temperature of the ETT.

Methods

A new method for predicting the internal ETT temperature using an IRT camera was established, and its accuracy and reliability were evaluated under various conditions. The external surface temperature of the ETT was measured with IRT, and the internal temperature was measured with thin thermocouples, which has minimal effect on ventilation and served as a true value. Temperature measurements were taken at two points, distal and proximal, respectively, to capture temperature changes during passage of gases through the ETT.

Results

This method allowed prediction of the internal ETT temperature with high accuracy (R2Adj = 0.946 and 0.974 at the proximal and distal ends, respectively). The internal and external temperatures of the ETT were related to the incubator temperature and ventilator mode. The effects of the size of the ETT, the set temperature of the constant‐temperature tank, and the heated humidifier temperature were limited.

Conclusion

This non‐contact method of internal temperature prediction allows continuous monitoring without interfering with ventilation, and will help airway management in the neonatal intensive care unit.
In vitro screening of UGT2B10 in silico prioritized putative ligands from drugs used in the pediatric hematopoietic stem cell transplantation setting
Authors: Bennani Yahia , Ben Hassine Khalil , Gencaslan Muhammed , Boudal‐Khoshbeen Mary , Samer Caroline , Ansari Marc , Daali Youssef , Satyanarayana Uppugunduri Chakradhara Rao
Published: November 2024

UGT2B10 is a phase II drug metabolizing enzyme with limited information on its role in the metabolism of drugs, especially in the pediatric hematopoietic stem cell transplantation setting. Previously, we investigated UGT2B10's role through in silico analyses and prioritized acetaminophen (APAP), lorazepam (LOR), mycophenolic acid (MPA), and voriconazole N‐oxide (VCZ N‐oxide) for in vitro investigations. In this report, we present in vitro screening of these candidates and of voriconazole (VCZ) to assess their potential to be substrates and/or inhibitors of UGT2B10. Enzyme kinetics experiments included recombinant UGT2B10 and analytical methods based on ultra high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (UHPLC–MS). To determine potential substrates, candidates were incubated at various therapeutically observed concentrations with recombinant UGT2B10 to identify the corresponding glucuronide metabolite. Inhibition capacity was tested using the selective probe cotinine for its glucuronidation to cotinine N‐ß‐d‐glucuronide. IC50 was determined for compounds exhibiting inhibition. Among the tested compounds, LOR (IC50 = 0.01 μM, R2 = 0.9257) and MPA (IC50 = 0.38 mM, R2 = 0.9212) exhibited inhibition potential for UGT2B10. None of the other tested compounds featured inhibition potential and none of the compounds tested exhibited metabolism through UGT2B10. Further exploration on the clinical relevance of this inhibition using modeling strategies, overlapping nature with other UGT isoforms, and screening other molecules for their inhibition potential on UGT2B10 is warranted.
Uptake and translocation of pesticides in pepper and tomato plants
Authors: Rein Arno , Trapp Stefan , Fantke Peter , Yalçın Melis , Turgut Nalan , Ahat Cansu , Camcı Elif , Turgut Cafer
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND

In this study, field and greenhouse experiments were done with spray application of the insecticides acetamiprid, indoxacarb, deltamethrin, λ‐cyhalothrin, spinosad, chlorantraniliprole on pepper and tomato plants. Results were interpreted with numerical modeling.

RESULTS

Observed fruit concentration dynamics could be described overall well by modeling. After application, concentrations decreased in pepper and (slower) in tomato fruits (lower degradation and dissipation for tomato). Chemical input to individual above‐ground compartments (fruit, leaf, stem, soil), arising from spray, was among the unknowns and hence estimated. Input to fruits was estimated 1–13% and 1–17% of the total applied amount; input to stem, leaf and/or soil 0–13% and 0–26% (pepper and tomato). Input showed high variation across compounds, with considerable uncertainty due to a partly low sensitivity of stem/leaf/soil input to fruit concentrations. The pathway stem‐fruit was relevant for all compounds except λ‐cyhalothrin (pepper, tomato) and deltamethrin (tomato). The pathways soil‐root‐stem‐fruit and leaf‐stem‐fruit (phloem) were only sensitive for acetamiprid and chlorantraniliprole.

CONCLUSION

The dynamic model approach, implementing the appearance and growth of individual fruits, was after calibration successful in describing insecticide fate in pepper and tomato plants. Special consideration was given to dynamic modelling of plant growth and connected xylem and phloem flow. The dynamic approach was superior to assuming constant plant mass and transpiration, where growth dilution is described by rate constants. Information on the time‐window of experiments within the vegetation period and on the number and appearance of individual fruits is important for adequately describing growth and thus chemical fate within plants. © 2024 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Bdyof is a Y‐chromosome‐specific gene required for male development in Bactrocera dorsalis
Authors: Zhang Qiuyuan , Chen Hao , Li Ziniu , Qiao Jiao , Liu Peipei , Zheng Chenjun , Deng Zhurong , Li Xiaoxue , Zhang Hongyu
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND

In many organisms, the Y chromosome contains important genes associated with sex determination and male reproductive development. However, there have been few studies of Y‐chromosome‐specific genes in non‐model species due to the incomplete information of Y chromosome genome and difficulty in sequencing. Here, we screened 90 candidate Y‐specific sequences in a constructed transcriptome assembly library by using the chromosome quotient method, among which 11 were unreported sequences associated with male reproductive development, including Bactrocera dorsalis Y‐specific Oligozoospermia factor (Bdyof) with the highest expression in the testis.

RESULTS

CRISPR/Cas9‐mediated knockout of Bdyof resulted in abnormal testis development, significantly reduced sperm count, and obviously lower egg hatching rate in homozygous mutant flies. In addition, Bdyof knockout decreased the expression of dsx‐M.

CONCLUSION

This results provides new insights into the biological processes related to male reproductive development controlled by the Y‐chromosome‐specific gene Bdyof, thus providing a promising molecular target for the study of agricultural pests. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Atomistic Simulations of Mechanical Properties and Deformation Mechanism of Gradient Nanograined α‐Ti
Authors: Alduma Adam Ibrahem Abdalrsoul , Zhang Yanqing , Gao Qing , Yang Xu , Zhang Wei , Li Wei , Wang Qi , Ren Junqiang , Lu Xuefeng
Published: November 2024

The tensile deformation behavior of pure titanium (Ti) gradient nanograined (GNG) is investigated based on molecular dynamics simulation. The effects of strain rate and temperature on the mechanical properties as well as deformation mechanism of GNG α‐Ti are systematically investigated. The increase of strain rate rises the tensile strength and decreases the dislocation density and stacking faults in the gradient structure of the material. This is because at higher strain rates, the time available for dislocation nucleation and proliferation is insufficient, delaying the critical point for plastic deformation. Additionally, as temperature increases, both the elastic modulus and tensile strength decrease. This is attributed to enhanced atomic activity and grain boundary migration, which reduce the material's ability to resist dislocation motion. Notably, at elevated temperatures, the material exhibits improved work‐hardening capacity due to significant grain boundary distortion, despite the overall reduction in strength. These findings provide a deeper understanding of the strain rate and temperature‐dependent mechanisms in GNG α‐Ti, which are crucial for optimizing its mechanical performance in practical applications.
Theaflavins Applications to Ameliorate Implant Failure and Eradicate Microbial Infections and Foodborne Pathogens: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Alavi Mehran , Pedro Sónia N. , Freire Mara G. , Ashengroph Morahem , Khan Haroon
Published: November 2024

Theaflavins, powerful antioxidants found in black tea (
Camellia sinensis
), have garnered increasing interest for their promising therapeutic potential. Experimental studies have contributed to enlightening about the advantages of theaflavins, including their antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, anticancer, antiosteoporosis, and antimicrobial properties. Theaflavin and its derivatives, particularly theaflavin‐3,3′‐digallate, have been particularly noted for their enhanced action in different areas. These compounds have found an important role as alternatives or adjuvants in the pharmaceutical sector, food industry, and in the improvement of health conditions. This review focuses on the antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory aspects of theaflavins, particularly their potential in addressing peri‐implant osteolysis. We explore mechanisms and pathways involved in this therapeutic action. Furthermore, we cover some of the relevant studies on the antimicrobial action of theaflavins in both the health and food sectors. Specifically, we explore the use of theaflavins for the treatment of dental infections, where these compounds have shown particular efficacy against several bacterial strains and their antimicrobial application in food matrices. Given the low solubility and stability of theaflavins in physiological conditions, we emphasize the benefits of the development of biocompatible and biodegradable nanoformulations to enhance the stability, bioavailability, and efficacy of these polyphenols, to promote their broader research and application. Given the potential demonstrated so far by in vitro and in vivo studies, the application of theaflavins stands as a promising alternative to enhance the existing strategies and fight prosthetic failure and antimicrobial resistance in the health and food sectors.
Automated Non‐Supervised Eye Disorder Screening System Using Virtual Reality
Authors: Chen Lijing , Miao Yinan , Nam Hyeonwoo , Heo Hwan , Park Sang Woo , Park Gyuhae
Published: November 2024

Background

Neglecting eye disorders can lead to visual impairment or even vision loss, making early diagnosis and medical treatment crucial. This paper presents the development of an automated non‐supervised eye disorder screening system that utilises Virtual Reality (VR) to provide a preliminary screening for common eye disorders.

Methods

The system integrates advanced pupil‐tracking techniques, image‐processing methods, and eye disorder screening algorithms into one package for comprehensive eye disorder monitoring, including a strabismus test, a pupil test, and a contrast sensitivity test. Patients can wear a VR headset and use a joystick to interact with the VR scenario.

Results

The system is validated through experiments conducted on both healthy subjects and patients in hospitals, demonstrating an agreement rate exceeding 90% when compared to diagnoses by doctors.

Conclusions

The test results highlight its potential for real‐world applications, ultimately improving the accessibility of early screening for eye disorders and remote healthcare.
Sarcoidosis and COVID‐19 Vaccines: A Systematic Review of Case Reports and Case Series
Authors: Al‐omoush Omar , Khalil Leen , Ramadan Alaa , Tarakhan Husam , Alzoubi Ahmad , Nabil Abdallah , Hajali Momen , Abdelazeem Basel , Saleh Othman
Published: November 2024

COVID‐19 vaccines play a crucial role in preventing complications and alleviating the impact of SARS‐CoV‐2. Nevertheless, these vaccines have been associated with side effects like pain, fatigue, fever, and, in rare instances, the development of sarcoidosis. This review seeks to provide an overview of research on sarcoidosis occurring after COVID‐19 vaccination and attempt to identify potential factors that may contribute to this uncommon yet concerning complication. Our review protocol was registered on PROSPERO with ID: (CRD42023463854). We comprehensively searched five electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, EMBASE, Cochrane) from August, 22 2023 until September, 1st 2023. We finally had 12 studies after the first and second scans. We used SPSS to analyse the extracted data. We included 31 participants who experienced lung sarcoidosis following COVID‐19 vaccination, with 61.3% female, and 38.7% male. The study showed that most events were observed in individuals who got Pfizer‐BioNTech or Moderna vaccines, particularly after the second dosage. Pain, local erythema, ulceration or swelling at the injection site, fever, urticaria, pityriasiform rash, and erythema multiforme were some of the most common presenting symptoms. A biopsy was the major diagnostic method. Other modalities were used, including a complete blood count, CT scans, and X‐rays. Sarcoidosis has been shown in a limited number of individuals who got the COVID‐19 vaccination; however, it is unclear if the vaccine is directly responsible for this condition. However, the COVID‐19 vaccines are both safe and effective in preventing the disease, and the advantages of immunisation outweigh any potential risks.
Enhanced Safety‐Critical Control of Hypersonic Vehicles With Multiple Constraints
Authors: Lu Qingli , Sun Ruisheng , Lu Yu , Zhao Ri
Published: November 2024

This paper proposes an enhanced safety‐critical control scheme for hypersonic vehicles (HSVs) with multiple constraints, where both safety constraints (e.g., actuator saturations and time‐varying angle‐of‐attack [AOA] limitation) and transient performance constraints are considered. In this scheme, the extended exponential control barrier function (EECBF) is constructed by incorporating extended states and robust terms to deal with time‐varying constraint boundaries and uncertainties simultaneously. An adaptive programming for optimal transient performance envelopes is conducted to make a trade‐off between safety and transient performance constraints. It is shown that the proposed scheme for HSVs can confine AOA to time‐varying safety boundaries in the presence of uncertainties while the velocity and height tracking errors can always maintain within the desired transient performance envelopes. Simulations and comparisons are provided to verify the effectiveness of our scheme.
How Do I Want to be Read? Embodied Autobiographical and Discoursal Selves in Preservice English Teachers' Feedback to High School Writers
Authors: Olinger Andrea R. , Heron‐Hruby Alison , Chisholm James S. , Dungan Braydon L. , Conn Hannah M. , Nitishin Julia P.
Published: November 2024

Research on writing pedagogy highlights effective feedback as dialogic and student‐centered. However, few studies have examined how preservice English teachers (PSETs) craft their feedback based on how they want their students to read them. Drawing on sociocultural approaches to writing, we examine the co‐construction of these “discoursal selves” by studying PSETs' talk and embodied actions during focus‐group conversations about their feedback to student writers. Data included videorecorded focus groups, transcripts, and written feedback. By navigating their life histories (“autobiographical selves”) and the identities they sought to convey in their feedback (“discoursal selves”), PSETs struggled to contend with their internalized grammarians while projecting a peer identity that was encouraging even when they offered critique. We argue that reflection with PSETs on how they want to be read can empower them to make intentional instructional choices.
The Structural Relations of Component Reading Comprehension Skills in Kiswahili: The Influence of Socio‐Economic Status and Home Literacy Environment
Authors: Wawire Brenda Aromu , Wawire Gorrety Nafula , Kiroro Francis
Published: November 2024

This research explores structural relations among the component skills of reading comprehension in Kiswahili. Furthermore, the study examines the relationship between socio‐economic status, home and school language use, and home literacy environment with Kiswahili reading outcomes. The study utilized secondary data from the baseline Tusome Literacy activity implemented in Kenya at scale from 2015 to 2022 by USAID, Research Triangle Institute in collaboration with the Ministry of Education Kenya and other partners. A three‐stage stratified sampling procedure was used to randomly select the schools and students from a sample frame compiled from multiple education databases of public formal and non‐formal schools in Kenya. The final sample comprised 4886 grade 1 and 2 learners who completed a battery of early grade literacy assessment in Kiswahili and a survey of the socio‐economic status (SES), home literacy environment (HLE), and school and home language use. We conducted a regression analysis to examine structural relations among the component skills of reading comprehension and the relationships between the SES, HLE, and early literacy skills. The findings indicate that the component skills are interconnected with the sub‐lexical skills, serving as the building block for the higher‐order skills. Letter sound knowledge, text reading fluency, and listening comprehension predict reading comprehension. Reading stories at home, reading aloud, and silent reading practice at school significantly influences reading outcomes. The mismatch between home and school language and low SES negatively impacts reading outcomes. These findings indicate that systematic and explicit instruction is critical in acquiring literacy skills, particularly for learners from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Reorienting Toward LGBTQ+ Belonging in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics by Feeling and Thinking With a Queer and Nonbinary Person in Virtual Reality
Authors: Paré Dylan
Published: November 2024

As part of the special issue Centering Affect and Emotion Toward Justice and Dignity in Science Education, this paper analyzes participants' experiences playing an immersive virtual reality (VR) experience that explores gender and sexuality‐based marginalization in STEM fields. The VR experience, designed and developed by the author and collaborators, addresses cisheteronormative ideologies embedded in science education by reimagining traditional STEM objects in queer representational forms while engaging players in a branching narrative dialog about gender and sexuality‐based oppression. My findings include three in‐depth analyses of participants' moment‐to‐moment interactions while playing the VR application. I argue that extending queer phenomenological approaches in education through the complimentary combination of ideological stance‐taking and emotional configurations can highlight how people become reoriented toward solidarity with marginalized people in moment‐to‐moment interactions. I focus my analysis on how participants' emotions, elicited by the VR experience, became the pivot for their ideological reorientations in solidarity with the VR narrator. In particular, the VR stories and research excerpts I have shared give concrete examples of how LGBTQ+ people are harmed in STEM learning environments. The analysis reveals how participants made choices in the branching narrative that showed emotional configurations of care toward the marginalized VR narrator and demonstrated recognition of how sociopolitical/socioscientific systems fail LGBTQ+ people. Further, I argue how designing learning environments that reorient learners toward social justice and solidarity with marginalized people could be productively used to engage people in challenging dominant cisheteronormative framings embedded in STEM education.
Recent Advances in Nanomaterial‐Based Biosignal Sensors
Authors: Kim Minwoo , Hong Sangwoo , Khan Rizwan , Park Jung Jae , In Jung Bin , Ko Seung Hwan
Published: November 2024

Recent research for medical fields, robotics, and wearable electronics aims to utilize biosignal sensors to gather bio‐originated information and generate new values such as evaluating user well‐being, predicting behavioral patterns, and supporting disease diagnosis and prevention. Notably, most biosignal sensors are designed for body placement to directly acquire signals, and the incorporation of nanomaterials such as metal‐based nanoparticles or nanowires, carbon‐based or polymer‐based nanomaterials—offering stretchability, high surface‐to‐volume ratio, and tunability for various properties—enhances their adaptability for such applications. This review categorizes nanomaterial‐based biosignal sensors into three types and analyzes them: 1) biophysical sensors that detect deformation such as folding, stretching, and even pulse, 2) bioelectric sensors that capture electric signal originating from human body such as heart and nerves, and 3) biochemical sensors that catch signals from bio‐originated fluids such as sweat, saliva and blood. Then, limitations and improvements to nanomaterial‐based biosignal sensors is depicted. Lastly, it is highlighted on deep learning‐based signal processing and human‐machine interface applications, which can enhance the potential of biosignal sensors. Through this paper, it is aim to provide an understanding of nanomaterial‐based biosignal sensors, outline the current state of the technology, discuss the challenges that be addressed, and suggest directions for development.
De Novo Design of Aminopropyl Quaternary Ammonium‐Functionalized Covalent Organic Frameworks for Enhanced Polybenzimidazole Anion Exchange Membranes
Authors: Chen Wanting , Liu Qiang , Pang Bo , Cui Fujun , Wang Leilei , Zhou Fengpu , He Gaohong , Wu Xuemei
Published: November 2024

Quaternary ammonium functionalized covalent organic frameworks (COFs) have great potential to enhance hydroxide transport owing to crystalline ordered 1D nanochannels, however, suffer from limited quaternary ammonium functional monomers and poor membrane‐forming ability. In this work, a novel aminopropyl quaternary ammonium‐functionalized COF (DCOF) is designed and synthesized via a bottom‐up strategy. The self‐supporting DCOF membrane exhibits high crystallinity with a dense and orderly arrangement of quaternary ammonium groups (IEC, 2.07 mmol g−1), achieving a high hydroxide conductivity of 172.5 mS cm−1 and an extremely low water swelling of 5.3% at 80 °C. The exfoliated DCOF colloidal suspension is further incorporated into quaternary ammonium di‐cation grafted polybenzimidazoles (DPBI) matrix. Molecular simulations reveal strong electrostatic and van der Waals interfacial interactions between DCOF and DPBI, which enable a high doping content of 20 wt.% and interconnected ionic channels through the surface and nanochannels of the DCOF. The DCOF/DPBI‐20% membrane exhibits a tensile strength of 29.7 MPa, a hydroxide conductivity of 135.3 mS cm−1, and a low swelling ratio of 37.2% at 80 °C. A H2/O2 single cell assembled with the membrane reaches a peak power density of 323 mW cm−2, surpassing most recently reported COF‐based membranes.
Polyphenol‐Scaffolded Modular Assembly of Heterotypic Cell–Cell Assemblies for Potentiating Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Gong Guidong , Yin Qimin , Liu Qinling , Zhang Yajing , Liu Jinyuan , Dai Mengyuan , Li Jiawen , He Xianglian , Pan Jiezhou , He Yunxiang , Wang Bo , Tong Jiyu , Guo Junling
Published: November 2024

Cells existing in the form of clusters often exhibit distinct biological functions from their single‐cell counterparts. However, the ability to modulate cell–cell interactions among multiple cell types through molecular scaffolds remains an ongoing challenge. Here, a supramolecular phenolic network on surfaces of live cells designed is engineered to act as modular scaffolds that promote intercellular interactions, presenting a universal platform for the construction of cell–cell assemblies (CCAs). Utilizing the inherent cell surface affinity of supramolecular phenolic network modules, a series of heterotypic CCAs is efficiently established by assembling five distinct microorganisms and five types of mammalian cells. A specific application of CCAs with the combination of L. casei and macrophages (L. casei@Mφ) is highlighted for enhanced cancer immunotherapy. Upon intravenous administration, L. casei@Mφ allows the chemotactic Mφ to facilitate the accumulation of L. casei at the tumor. The accumulated L. casei enables the polarization of tumor‐associated Mφ toward a pro‐inflammatory phenotype, markedly improving the immunotherapeutic response, slowing tumor progression, and mitigating lung metastasis. This work demonstrates the potential of polyphenol‐scaffolded modular assembly in manipulating cell–cell interactions to enhance multicellular cooperation, offering a general approach to controlling complex cellular behaviors.
Solvent‐Free Ball Milling Synthesis of Water‐Stable Tin‐Based Pseudohalide Perovskites for Photocatalytic CO2 Reduction
Authors: Tsai I‐Hua , Huang Chun‐Wei , Chang Chun‐Fu , Diau Eric Wei‐Guang
Published: November 2024

A pseudohalide (SCN−) tin‐based perovskite material using a solvent‐free ball milling method is developed. The synthesized perovskite exhibits long‐term water stability and demonstrated significant photocatalytic activity in reducing CO2 to CO under light irradiation. The structural transition from nanoparticles to planar perovskites is achieved by varying the ratios of dimethylammonium (DMA) and formamidinium (FA) cations, which is confirmed by X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analyses. The surface elemental distribution, absorption spectra, band gap and energy levels estimations using energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS), Kubelka‐Munk function, and ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy (UPS) are thoroughly investigated. These findings indicated that the incorporation of DMA cations increased the band gap and shifted the absorption spectra toward the blue region. The optimal photocatalytic performance is observed for the perovskite composition with a 50% DMA cation ratio (DMA0.5FA0.5SnI(SCN)2), achieving a CO production yield of 285 µmol g−1 with 12 hours irradiation in humid environment. The efficiency is critically dependent on the ball milling speed and duration, with 400 rpm and 1 hour being the optimal conditions. This research highlights the potential of environmentally friendly synthesis methods in developing stable and efficient lead‐free perovskites as photocatalytic materials, contributing to the goal of net‐zero carbon emissions.
Verticality Bridging Multilayered MXenes by NCNTs for Rapid Electron/Ion Bi‐Continuous Transport
Authors: Zhang Yongshang , Huang Songyue , Lu Quanbing , Zhang Linsen , Du Lulu , Lau Kin‐tak , Zhang Peng
Published: November 2024

Enlarging the interlayer structure of MXenes has been proven to be an effective strategy for enhancing the speed and efficiency of ion transport in assembled MXene‐based battery electrodes. However, the expanded interlayer space will inevitably lead to decreased interlayer conductivity because of the insufficient internal contact between isolated monolayered MXenes. Herein, the “rapid electron/ion bi‐continuous‐transport channels” are achieved by vertically growing N‐doped carbon nanotubes (NCNTs) into the interlamination to bridge multilayered MXenes. Importantly, both experimental and theoretical analyses demonstrate the co‐catalytic effect of Ni and MXenes on the growth of NCNTs, a phenomenon that has not been reported previously. The vertically grown NCNTs, serving as bridging pillars in the interlamination, not only significantly augment the interlayer structure but also forge a robust interconnection among the monolayered MXenes. Therefore, this design simultaneously realizes the enlargement of the interlayer space to facilitate electrolyte infiltration for fast ion transport and enhances the interlayer conductivity for rapid electron transport through the NCNTs bridging pillars. As a result, the as‐derived Ti3C2@NCNTs hybrids show a high reversible capacity of 610 mAh g−1 for Li+ storage and 158 mAh g−1 Na+ storage. This work provides a universal approach to regulating the properties of MXenes.
Hydrogen in Silicon Solar Cells: The Role of Diffusion
Authors: Schön Jonas , Hamer Phillip , Hammann Benjamin , Zechner Christoph , Kwapil Wolfram , Schubert Martin C.
Published: November 2024

A model for hydrogen in silicon is presented, which accounts for both in‐diffusion and out‐diffusion from a passivation layer (e.g., SiNx), as well as the known hydrogen reactions within the silicon matrix. The model is used to simulate hydrogen diffusion and reactions during contact firing in a solar cell process, with a particular focus on variations in the cooling process, the sample thickness, and boron doping levels. The model reproduces the measured differences in hydrogen concentration due to these variations and thus helps to understand hydrogen‐induced surface degradation and the dependencies of light and elevated temperature‐induced degradation (LeTID) on the cooling process due to the close relation of LeTID and hydrogen. The same model and parameters are utilized to simulate the subsequent annealing of the fired samples at temperatures ranging from 160 to 290 °C. By successfully modeling the development of boron–hydrogen pairs during dark annealing processes across varying temperatures and doping levels, it is demonstrated that diffusion toward the Si/SiNx interface explains the observed decrease in resistivity and reductions in boron–hydrogen concentrations over extended dark annealing durations. Our simulations show the necessity of considering the depth‐dependent hydrogen distributions after the firing process for analyzing the dark annealing.
Salmonella species infections in dogs: building the epidemiological picture
Authors: Bruno‐McClung Elizabeth , Mackintosh Adrienne , Rawlins Meg
Published: November 2024

This focus article was prepared by Elizabeth Bruno‐McClung of the APHA Small Animal Expert Group, and Adrienne Mackintosh and Meg Rawlins of the APHA Bacteriology Department.
The introduction of surgical telementoring systems in rural hospitals
Authors: Tokunaga Takuya , Yoshikawa Masato , Shimada Mitsuo
Published: November 2024

The shortage of surgeons in rural hospitals is a serious problem in Japan. In this study, we investigated the potential contribution of surgical telementoring systems to improving surgical skills and resolving the shortage of surgeons in rural hospitals. The conference room at Tokushima University was connected to the operating room at Miyoshi Hospital, a rural hospital approximately 75 km away, via a virtual private network. Telementoring was conducted for surgeries performed at Miyoshi Hospital from Tokushima University using ADMENIC ANNOTATOR (Carina Corporation). A questionnaire using the NASA Task Load Index was completed by two surgeons who received remote instruction. The surgeries when using the surgical telementoring system had significantly better “mental”, “performance”, and “frustration” scores compared with those performed without using the system. In a questionnaire about the surgical telementoring system, both surgeons did not notice a communication delay and indicated that annotation and voice instruction was easier to understand than voice only. In addition, fifty fifth‐year medical students completed a questionnaire. After experiencing the surgical telementoring system, the number of students who responded favorably to working in a rural hospital increased from 22 (44%) to 31 (62%) (p < 0.01). Surprisingly, 10 of the 27 students who were not interested in becoming a surgeon indicated that they were now interested in becoming a surgeon (p < 0.01). This study suggests that the introduction of a surgical telementoring system in rural hospitals may help improve the skills of rural surgeons and contribute to eliminating the maldistribution and shortage of surgeons in the future.
Ovarian Cell Accumulation of Model PVC Nanoplastics Labelled With CdSe‐QDs Investigated by X‐Ray Fluorescence Microscopy
Authors: Gianoncelli Alessandra , Tufoni Cristina , Žižić Milan , Zingaro Federica , Ceccone Giacomo , Bonanni Valentina , Salomé Murielle , Villalobos‐Portillo Eduardo , Spina Rita La , Cassano Domenico , Ricci Giuseppe , Pascolo Lorella
Published: November 2024

The distribution of micro‐ and nanoplastics (MNPs) in the environment is increasingly becoming a cause of concern for human health. The small size of these particles makes them prone to accumulate not only in the tissues of various organs but also enables them to enter cells and act as carriers of external materials and microbes. Since environmental pollutants influence both male and female reproductive function and foetal development, it is expected that this also applies to MNPs, as they can easily accumulate in reproductive organs. This highlights the potential risks associated with MNPs and the need for further research in this area. In the female reproductive system, the ovary plays a crucial role in producing oocytes. The SK‐OV‐3 human ovarian cancer cell line represents an epithelial‐like model for ovarian cells, and it has been widely used in nanomedicine and nanotoxicological studies. In the present study, x‐ray fluorescence (XRF) microscopy was used to investigate the accumulations of model polyvinyl chloride (PVC) nanoplastics (NPs), labelled with cadmium‐selenide quantum dots (CdSe‐QDs), in SK‐OV‐3 cells at sub‐micrometric spatial resolution. The Cd and Se QDs components distribution and the Cl of PVC were successfully used to track the NPs and to confirm that NPs do not leach the QDs, while endogenous elements such as Na, Mg, S and P were also monitored to investigate potential biochemical changes attributed to NPs toxicity. Our study suggests that nanoplastics made of PVC can accumulate in ovarian cells, even if they appear less incline than in other types of cells, such as macrophages. Moreover, our results demonstrate that XRF analyses are a useful tool for biological studies aimed at deepening our understanding on the toxicological mechanisms of pollutants on human fertility.
Tactile Travelling, Manual Space, and the Duality of Gothic Hands
Authors: Jacob Ramalho Joana
Published: November 2024

This chapter furthers the previous chapter’s exploration of dismemberment. It builds on Georges Braque’s notion of ‘manual space’ (Danchev, Georges Braque: A Life. London: Hamish Hamilton, 2005, 88) and Katherine Rowe’s ‘unexpected clutch’ and ‘mortmain control’ (1999) to examine the idea of independent agency and shifting discourses of power in the Gothic. This crystallises in an exploration of the image of the disembodied hand in La Belle et la Bête (Cocteau, 1946) and Wuthering Heights (Wyler, 1939), which present memory as disruptive and a threat to the sanity of the characters. Central here is an understanding of the hand as a locus of sublime terror, exile, and uncanny absence that challenges the integrity of the subject by violently emphasising its constructed nature and, consequently, its easy disassembly and destruction.
The State of Marriage in the Arab Maghreb: Tunisia, Algeria, Libya, Morocco, and Mauritania
Authors: El Harras Mokhtar , Saidani Mounir , Ait Mansour Hicham , Ould Hmeyada Mohamed
Published: November 2024

Existing literature suggests that marriage in the Arab Maghreb region continues to be the prime institution governing the cohabitation of men and women, despite increasing rates of celibacy, permanent celibacy, and divorce, as well as a rise in critiques of the institution of marriage. And although various forms of marriage are emerging, or re-emerging under new circumstances, it is certain—to date—that the institution of marriage is perpetually and widely reproduced in the consciousness and practices of individuals. In the process, it fosters the close domestic and public connection between two families, regardless of the prevalence of individuality in society.
The State of Marriage in Sudan
Authors: Badri Balghis , Eldin Mai Ezz , Farag Alawia , Awad Amani
Published: November 2024

This chapter analyzes previous studies on marriage in Sudan, with the aim of making recommendations to help decision-makers adopt policies and laws that maintain the institution of marriage.
Cooperation of GlycoPOST and UniCarb-DR towards a comprehensive glycomics data repository workflow
Authors: Takahashi Yushi , Karlsson Niclas G. , Okuda Shujiro , Aoki-Kinoshita Kiyoko F.
Published: November 2024

In glycomics, two data repositories, GlycoPOST and UniCarb-DR, have been developed to accumulate experimental data generated by glycomics and glycoproteomics mass spectrometry experiments. In order to enhance the interrelation between these two data repositories, we have upgraded the framework for both of them; we have unified their respective data submission systems and constructed a mechanism that can automatically cross-reference corresponding entries. In addition to this integration, the metadata registration system was also extended so that liquid chromatography experiments can be reported according to standard reporting guidelines specified by MIRAGE (Minimum Information Required for A Glycomics Experiment). Furthermore, by augmenting the visualization software used in UniCarb-DR, we have been able to introduce new functionality into GlycoPOST to enable the visualization of unpublished experimental identification result files during an embargo period defined by the data provider. As a result, this work introduces a new framework by which glycomics researchers can take advantage of GlycoPOST and UniCarb-DR in an integrated manner.

Graphical abstract
Synergizing Ecotoxicology and Microbiome Data Is Key for Developing Global Indicators of Environmental Antimicrobial Resistance
Authors: Makumbi John P. , Leareng Samuel K. , Pierneef Rian E. , Makhalanyane Thulani P.
Published: November 2024

The One Health concept recognises the interconnectedness of humans, plants, animals and the environment. Recent research strongly supports the idea that the environment serves as a significant reservoir for antimicrobial resistance (AMR). However, the complexity of natural environments makes efforts at AMR public health risk assessment difficult. We lack sufficient data on key ecological parameters that influence AMR, as well as the primary proxies necessary for evaluating risks to human health. Developing environmental AMR ‘early warning systems’ requires models with well-defined parameters. This is necessary to support the implementation of clear and targeted interventions. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the current tools used globally for environmental AMR human health risk assessment and the underlying knowledge gaps. We highlight the urgent need for standardised, cost-effective risk assessment frameworks that are adaptable across different environments and regions to enhance comparability and reliability. These frameworks must also account for previously understudied AMR sources, such as horticulture, and emerging threats like climate change. In addition, integrating traditional ecotoxicology with modern ‘omics’ approaches will be essential for developing more comprehensive risk models and informing targeted AMR mitigation strategies.
Bacteria-targeted imaging using vancomycin-based positron emission tomography tracers can distinguish infection from sterile inflammation
Authors: Spoelstra G. B. , Braams L. M. , IJpma F. F. A. , van Oosten M. , Feringa B. L. , Szymanski W. , Elsinga P. H. , van Dijl Jan Maarten
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Bacterial infections pose major challenges in medicine. To guide effective infection treatment, faster and more accurate diagnostic modalities are needed. Bacteria-targeted molecular imaging can meet these needs. The present study was aimed at the in vivo evaluation of two 18F-vancomycin-based PET tracers, for detection of deep-seated Gram-positive bacterial infections. These tracers were bench-marked against the current standard of care, [18F]FDG.

Methods

The potential of [18F]BODIPY-FL-vancomycin and [18F]PQ-VE1-vancomycin ([4+2]photocycloadduct of 9,10-phenanthrenequinone-vancomycin and [18F]fluorinated vinyl ether) to distinguish bacterial infections from sterile inflammation was evaluated in a murine myositis model. Tracer specificity was assessed by infecting mice either with the Gram-positive bacterium Staphylococcus aureus (n = 12) or the Gram-negative bacterium Escherichia coli (n = 12). The contralateral leg was injected with Cytodex beads to induce sterile inflammation, or with phosphate-buffered saline for control. In parallel, mice were imaged with [18F]FDG (n = 12). Dynamic positron emission tomography (PET) measurements, biodistribution analyses, and immunohistopathology were performed to determine tracer distribution and bacterial burden.

Results

Both 18F-vancomycin-PET tracers accumulated at sites of infection, but not at sites of sterile inflammation, in contrast to [18F]FDG. The tracers exhibited distinct biodistribution profiles, with [18F]BODIPY-FL-vancomycin being cleared more rapidly. Both 18F-vancomycin-PET tracers displayed significant target to non-target ratios of 2.95 for [18F]BODIPY-FL-vancomycin and 1.48 for [18F]PQ-VE1-vancomycin.

Conclusion

Vancomycin-based PET is a potentially attractive approach to distinguish Gram-positive bacterial infections from sterile inflammation.