bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimated Vaccine Effectiveness for Pediatric Patients With Severe Influenza, 2015-2020
Authors: Sumner Kelsey M. , Sahni Leila C. , Boom Julie A. , Halasa Natasha B. , Stewart Laura S. , Englund Janet A. , Klein Eileen J. , Staat Mary A. , Schlaudecker Elizabeth P. , Selvarangan Rangaraj , Harrison Christopher J. , Weinberg Geoffrey A. , Szilagyi Peter G. , Singer Monica N. , Azimi Parvin H. , Clopper Benjamin R. , Moline Heidi L. , Noble Emma K. , Williams John V. , Michaels Marian G. , Olson Samantha M. ,   New Vaccine Surveillance Network Collaborators, Schuster Jennifer E
Published: December 2024

Importance

Increasing the understanding of vaccine effectiveness (VE) against levels of severe influenza in children could help increase uptake of influenza vaccination and strengthen vaccine policies globally.

Objective

To investigate VE in children by severity of influenza illness.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This case-control study with a test-negative design used data from 8 participating medical centers located in geographically different US states in the New Vaccine Surveillance Network from November 6, 2015, through April 8, 2020. Participants included children 6 months through 17 years of age who were hospitalized or presented to an emergency department (ED) with acute respiratory illness.

Exposures

Receipt of at least 1 dose of the current season’s influenza vaccine.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Demographic and clinical characteristics of patients presenting to the hospital or ED with or without influenza were recorded and grouped by influenza vaccination status. Estimated VE against severe influenza illness was calculated using multiple measures to capture illness severity. Data were analyzed between June 1, 2022, and September 30, 2023.

Results

Among 15 728 children presenting for care with acute respiratory illness (8708 [55.4%] male; 13 450 [85.5%] 6 months to 8 years of age and 2278 [14.5%] 9-17 years of age), 2710 (17.2%) had positive influenza tests and 13 018 (82.8%) had negative influenza tests (controls). Of the influenza test–positive cases, 1676 children (61.8%) had an ED visit, 896 children (33.1%) required hospitalization for noncritical influenza, and 138 children (5.1%) required hospitalization for critical influenza. About half (7779 [49.5%]) of the children (both influenza test positive and test negative) were vaccinated. Receiving at least 1 influenza vaccine dose was estimated to have a VE of 55.7% (95% CI, 51.6%-59.6%) for preventing influenza-associated ED visits or hospitalizations among children of all ages. The estimated VE was similar across severity levels: 52.8% (95% CI, 46.6%-58.3%) for ED visits, 52.3% (95% CI, 44.8%-58.8%) for noncritical hospitalization, and 50.4% (95% CI, 29.7%-65.3%) for critical hospitalization.

Conclusions and Relevance

Findings from this case-control study with a test-negative design involving children with a spectrum of influenza severity suggest that influenza vaccination protects children against all levels of severe influenza illness.
Self‐Powered, Raw Material‐Based Sensor Arrays with Minimized Signal Channels for Human‐Machine Interaction
Authors: A. Shiwei , Wang Sen , Li Zhenhui , Shi Xiuxian , Wang Wei Dawid
Published: December 2024

Sensor arrays are essential for effective human‐machine interaction (HMI), enabling systems to perceive, interpret, and respond to human actions. However, traditional sensor arrays often involve complex manufacturing processes and excessive wiring due to point‐to‐point connections. To address these challenges, a type of self‐powered, low‐cost sensor array is described that minimizes these issues. Utilizing the principles of contact electrification and electrostatic induction, the array consists of two or more interconnected electrostatic induction units. When a unit is triggered, it generates a unique voltage signal relative to other connected units, resulting in diverse signals with specific waveforms and peak magnitudes. This diversity allows the sensor array to output multiple addressable signals through a limited number of channels or a single channel, enhancing efficiency and simplicity. The versatility of these sensor arrays in various HMI applications is demonstrated, including game joysticks, electronic skins, robot controllers, and leaf‐based electronic piano keyboards, showcasing their potential to transform HMI technology.
Prediction of Thermodynamically Stable Room‐Temperature Superconductors in Li─Na Hydrides Under High Pressure
Authors: An Decheng , Conway Lewis. J. , Duan Defang , Zhang Zihan , Jiang Qiwen , Song Hao , Huo Zihao , Pickard Chris J. , Cui Tian
Published: December 2024

Room‐temperature superconductivity has been a long‐standing goal in the scientific community. For computational predictions, thermodynamic stability plays a critical role. Here, a high‐throughput screening is performed to study high‐pressure ternary clathrate hydrides with hitherto unexplored compositions. Two thermodynamically stable room‐temperature superconductors in the Li─Na─H system, based on the type‐I and type‐II clathrate structure types, both exhibiting superconducting critical temperatures (Tc’s) exceeding 300 K under high pressure are uncovered. Remarkably, the type‐II structure, Li2NaH17, exhibits the highest Tc of 357 K at 220 GPa among all the reported thermodynamically stable hydrides. Random structure searches show that type‐II clathrate structures can also be stabilized with hydrogen deficiencies which lower the Tc. Superconductivity is shown to be the result of a Van‐Hove‐like singularity which can be tuned by the hydrogen content.
Regenerative Biomimetic Photosynthesis by Covalent‐Organic Framework‐Based Nanobiohybrids
Authors: Xue Jueyi , Ruan Juanfang , Hakobyan Karen , Xu Jiangtao , Liang Kang
Published: December 2024

Biomimetic photosynthesis, which leverages nanomaterials with light‐responsive capabilities, represents an innovative approach for replicating natural photosynthetic processes for green and sustainable energy conversion. In this study, a covalent‐organic framework (COF)‐based artificial photosynthesis system is realized through the co‐assembly of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) synthase and a light‐responsive proton generator onto an imine‐based COF, RT‐COF‐1. This system demonstrates an ATP production rate of 0.64 µmol ATP per mg protein within 90 s of light exposure and, for the first time, exhibites regenerative ATP production through multiple light on/off cycles. Furthermore, the ATP generated by the system facilitates the biocoupling of monosaccharides into disaccharides, confirming the hybrid system's capability to convert solar energy into chemical energy in the form of organic molecules. This approach shows significant potential for renewable bioenergy generation, offering precise and reliable control over biochemical processes through artificial photosynthesis.
The Structure‐Mechanics Relationship of Bamboo‐Epidermis and Inspired Composite Design by Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Qin Zhao , Destree Aymeric Pierre
Published: December 2024

Bamboo culm has been widely used in engineering for its high strength, lightweight, and low cost. Its outermost epidermis is a smooth and dense layer that contains cellulose, silica particles, and stomata and acts as a water and mechanical barrier. Recent experimental studies have shown that the layer has a higher mechanical strength than other inside regions. Still, the mechanism is unclear, especially for how the low silica concentration (<10%) can effectively reinforce the layer and prevent the inner fibers from splitting. Here, theoretical analysis is combined with experimental imaging and 3D printing to investigate the effect of the distribution of silica particles on composite mechanics. The anisotropic partial distribution function of silica particles in bamboo skin yields higher toughness (>10%) than randomly distributed particles. A generative artificial intelligence (AI) model inspired by bamboo epidermis is developed to generate particle‐reinforced composites. Besides the visual similarity, it is found that the samples by the generative model show failure processes and fracture toughness identical to the actual bamboo epidermis. This work reveals the micromechanics of the bamboo epidermis. It illustrates that generative AI can help design bio‐inspired composites of a complex structure that cannot be uniformly represented by a simple building block or optimized around local boundaries. It expands the design space of particle‐reinforced composites for enhanced toughness modulus, offering advantages in industries where mechanical reliability is critical.
Time‐Reversal Symmetry Breaking Superconductivity in HfRhGe: A Noncentrosymmetric Weyl Semimetal
Authors: P. Sajilesh. K. , Kushwaha Roshan Kumar , Samanta Dibyendu , Tula Tymoteusz , Meena Pavan Kumar , Srivastava Shashank , Singh Deepak , Biswas Pabitra Kumar , Kanigel Amit , Hillier Adrian D. , Ghosh Sudeep Kumar , Singh Ravi Prakash
Published: December 2024

Weyl semimetals are a novel class of topological materials with unique electronic structures and distinct properties. HfRhGe stands out as a noncentrosymmetric Weyl semimetal with unconventional superconducting characteristics. Using muon‐spin rotation and relaxation (µSR) spectroscopy and thermodynamic measurements, a fully gapped superconducting state is identified in HfRhGe that breaks time‐reversal symmetry at the superconducting transition. This breaking can trigger a topological phase transition, as time‐reversal symmetry protects the normal‐state Weyl topology characterized by comprehensive first‐principles calculations. Ginzburg‐Landau analysis suggests an unconventional loop supercurrent superconducting state realized in HfRhGe. The presence of multiple Weyl points near the Fermi level and surface Fermi arcs dispersing across the Fermi level further support HfRhGe as a promising platform for topological superconductivity. Additionally, its noncentrosymmetric nature with time‐reversal symmetry breaking superconducting state suggests that it can exhibit an intrinsic superconducting diode effect, offering novel optical and transport properties, with potential applications in dissipationless quantum electronics.
Complex Assemblies of Colloidal Microparticles with Compliant DNA Linkers and Magnetic Actuation
Authors: Imamura Taryn , Chung Nicholas , Sonmez Utku M. , Travers Matthew , Bergbreiter Sarah , Taylor Rebecca E.
Published: December 2024

Active colloids are modular assemblies of distinct micro‐ and nanoscale components that can perform complex robotic tasks. While recent advances in templated assembly methods enable high‐throughput fabrication of multi‐material active colloids, their limitations reduce the ability to construct flexibly linked colloidal systems, restricting their complexity, agility, and functionality. Here, templated assembly by selective removal (TASR) is leveraged to construct multicomponent colloidal microstructures that are connected with compliant DNA nanotube linkages. Polycarbonate heat (PCH) molding is employed to create high‐surface‐energy templates for improved polystyrene microsphere assembly via TASR. This increase in template surface energy improves microsphere assembly by more than 100‐fold for two‐sphere microstructures. An inverse relationship between microstructure complexity (i.e., the number of microspheres) and assembly yields is observed. PCH‐assisted TASR is leveraged to construct larger colloidal structures containing up to 26 microspheres, multi‐sphere microrotors, and structurally homogeneous populations of flexibly linked, two‐sphere microswimmers that locomote in fluid environments. Real‐time modification of a microswimmer is also demonstrated through nuclease‐mediated degradation of the DNA linkages, highlighting the DNA‐enabled reconfiguration and responsiveness capabilities of these microswimmers. These results establish PCH‐assisted TASR as a versatile method for constructing flexibly linked, modular microrobots with controlled geometry, enhanced agility, and dynamic response.
Going from Inner‐Skinned to Outer‐Skinned Polyelectrolyte Multilayer Based Hollow Fiber Nanofiltration Membranes
Authors: Watt Tjerk R. , van Dijk Kyra , te Brinke Esra , de Grooth Joris , de Vos Wiebe M.
Published: December 2024

Recently, hollow fiber polyelectrolyte multilayer membranes (PEMMs) have shown great potential for removing organic micropollutants from wastewater streams. Currently, these PEMMs are made with the selective layer on the inside of the hollow fiber. However, to reduce the physical footprint of PEMM modules, it would be beneficial to have the selective layer on the outside. This will lead to an increased surface area per fiber and enable the use of smaller mechanically stronger fibers, which further increases the surface area per membrane module. To prove that the concept of an outer‐skinned PEMM is feasible, the dry‐jet wet‐spinning process is used to fabricate charged outer‐skinned hollow fiber supports, and they are coated through the layer‐by‐layer self‐assembly process to form a PEMM. Scanning electron microscopy images of the hollow fibers confirm the existence of an asymmetric structure with an outer skin, while fluorescence imaging confirms that the polyelectrolyte multilayer is located on the outside of the hollow fiber. Filtration experiments showed that the PEMMs exhibited nanofiltration properties similar to the conventional inner‐skinned PEMMs. Overall, these membranes show a 3.8x increase in active membrane surface area to volume ratio compared to commercial PEMMs, clearly highlighting the benefits in terms of footprint.
High Open‐Circuit Voltage and Efficiency CsPbI3 Perovskite Solar Cells Achieved by Hole Transport Layer Modification
Authors: Fan Zihao , Duan Yuwei , Wu Meizi , Zou Hong , Yao Yao , Li Yong , Xu Dongfang , Tan Jieke , Li Yongzhe , Wang Hanye , Wang Yifan , Xie Zhuang , Lei Hongjie , Wang Zezhang , Zhao Tingxing , Peng Qiang , Liu Shengzhong , Liu Zhike
Published: December 2024

The lithium bis(trifluoromethane) sulfonimide salt (Li‐TFSI) and 4‐tert‐butylpyridine (t‐BP) codoped 2,2′,7,7′‐tetrakis(N,N‐di‐p‐methoxyphenylamine)‐9,9′‐spirobifluorene (Spiro‐OMeTAD) is a very classic and dominant hole transport layer (HTL) for the fabrication of high‐efficiency perovskite solar cells (PSCs). However, the PSCs based Spiro‐OMeTAD often shows poor stability due to the hygroscopic Li‐TFSI that is prone to ion migration, the volatile t‐BP, and the time‐consuming oxidation in air. Herein, hydrophobic 1,2‐Bis(perfluoropyridin‐4‐yl)disulfane (BPFPDS) is designed to optimize Spiro‐OMeTAD. The S‐Li, F‐Li, and N‐Li synergistic interaction between BPFPDS and Li‐TFSI inhibited Li+ ion migration, and the hydrophobic property of BPFPDS balanced the humidity sensitivity of Li‐TFSI, which prevented both Li+ ions and water molecules from corroding the perovskite layer. In addition, the F‐N superamolecular interaction between BPFPDS and t‐BP restricted the volatility of t‐BP, which indirectly prevented the migration of Li+ ions. As a result, the BPFPDS‐treated CsPbI3 PSC engendered a respectable efficiency of 21.95% and an impressive open‐circuit voltage (VOC) of 1.29 V. The BPFPDS‐treated devices sustained 96% and 98% of their efficiencies after aging in the air for 3000 h and tracking at maximum power point for 1200 h, respectively.
Promoted Electrochemical Reconstruction of Glassy Metal–Organic Frameworks for Efficient Electrocatalytic 5‐Hydroxymethylfurfural Oxidation
Authors: Shen Yi , Deng Hao , Huang Yu‐Cheng , Du Puyu , Zhou Haotian , Ma Meng , Shen Aijing , Wang Miao , Dong Chung‐Li , Xu Linpeng , Shen Shaohua
Published: December 2024

Glassy metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) featured with excellent ionic conductivity and processability have attracted tremendous attention, yet remaining unexplored for electrocatalytic 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) oxidation. Herein, developed as the first example of glassy MOFs for electrocatalytic HMF oxidation reaction (HMFOR), glassy ZIF‐CoNi (ZIF‐CoNi(g)) is prepared via a ball‐milling and melt‐quenching two‐step process, which is further electrochemically treated by cyclic voltammetry. The obtained surface reconstructed ZIF‐CoNi(g) (R‐ZIF‐CoNi(g)) exhibits excellent HMFOR performance, with 100% HMF conversion, 99.6% 2,5‐furandicar‐boxylic acid (FDCA) yield, and 98.5% FDCA faradaic efficiency (FE) achieved at 1.48 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE). Remarkably, with R‐ZIF‐CoNi(g) as the anode and Pt/C as the cathode, the integrated membrane electrode assembly (MEA) electrolyzer could reach a current density of 100 mA cm−2 at 1.68 V for simultaneous HMFOR and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Experimental results and theoretical calculations demonstrate that the disordered Co–N bond arrangement and then the weakened Co–N bond would promote electrochemical reconstruction happened to ZIF‐CoNi(g) with abundant CoOOH active sites created, which benefit HMF dynamic adsorption and HMFOR kinetics. This exemplar success in glassy MOFs for electrocatalytic HMFOR has exploited a novel strategy to the rational design of economic electrocatalysts with electrochemical reconstruction manipulated for efficient biomass upgrading.
Navigating the Institutional Review Board and other institutional entities: An ode to aspiring YPAR scholars
Authors: Kornbluh Mariah , Abraczinskas Michelle , Hoyt Lindsay Till , Bell Sherry , Kuchera Michele , Thomas LaNeia
Published: December 2024

Youth‐led participatory action research (YPAR) engages young people as partners in rigorous research inquiry to guide and inform collective action. Scholars interested in YPAR have notable investment in social justice and activist values, which at times come in direct tensions within their doctoral training and/or professional roles within academia. One monumental hurdle in conducting YPAR is obtaining approval from the Institutional Review Board (IRB). The goal of this manuscript, therefore, is to transparently and humbly share some of the heart work we have done in navigating the IRB. In partnership with IRB directors who are co‐authors, we discuss several choice points in obtaining IRB approval. Challenges include: (1) advocating for youth to have co‐investigator status on the IRB application, (2) training youth in research ethics, (3) strategically crafting a YPAR application that attends to the evolving and emerging nature of the research, (4) obtaining approval to compensate youth for their time as researchers, and (5) planning for diverse youth dissemination strategies that may challenge principles of anonymity. In discussing these choice points, we will share examples from our own work, strategies, and resources to support current and future aspiring YPAR scholars.
Characteristics and outcomes of subarachnoid hemorrhage from vertebral artery dissection: A comparative study with other non‐traumatic etiologies
Authors: Oshita Shu , Yumoto Tetsuya , Jinno Shunta , Matsuo Ippei , Hongo Takashi , Naito Hiromichi , Hiramatsu Masafumi , Haruma Jun , Sugiu Kenji , Tanaka Shota , Nakao Atsunori
Published: December 2024

Aim

Vertebral artery dissection (VAD) is a rare cause of non‐traumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) with significant clinical implications. This study compared the clinical characteristics and outcomes of SAH from intracranial VAD rupture to those from other etiologies, primarily aneurysmal rupture.

Methods

This single‐center retrospective cohort study at Okayama University Hospital included patients with non‐traumatic SAH diagnosed between 2019 and 2023. Patients were categorized into “VAD rupture” and “other etiologies” groups. The main outcome was clinical presentation and symptoms. Additional outcomes included ICU mortality, in‐hospital mortality, and unfavorable outcomes at discharge and 6 months, defined as a modified Rankin Scale score of 3–6.

Results

A total of 66 patients were included, with 14 in the VAD rupture group and 52 in the other etiologies group. The VAD rupture group was younger (median age 49 vs. 64 years, p = 0.003) and had a higher incidence of out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest (42.9% vs. 9.6%, p = 0.011). Preceding headache was more common in the VAD rupture group (78.6% vs. 11.5%, p < 0.001), with a median duration of 36 h before presentation. ICU and in‐hospital mortality was higher in the VAD rupture group (both 50.0% vs. 19.3%, p = 0.019). No significant differences were found in unfavorable neurological outcomes at hospital discharge and 6 months.

Conclusions

VAD‐related SAH often presents with prodromal headaches, severe symptoms like out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest, and higher ICU and in‐hospital mortality than other SAH causes, though long‐term outcomes are similar. Larger, prospective studies are needed to refine interventions.
Enhanced Dye Separation With Mixed Matrix Membranes Incorporating ZIF‐8@COF Binary Nanofillers
Authors: Li Wei , Wang Linghao , Lin Menghao , Chen Li , Zeng Xinjuan , Dong Lichun , Zhou Cailong
Published: December 2024

Mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) have emerged as a promising solution for the treatment of dye wastewater. A key challenge in advancing MMMs is how to effectively integrate two nanofillers with distinct advantages to mitigate the limitations of single‐nanofiller systems. In this study, we present a binary nanofiller strategy, utilizing metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) and covalent organic frameworks (COFs), to fabricate polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) based MMMs. By systematically adjusting the mass ratio of ZIF‐8 MOF and TFB‐BD(Me)2 COF, the separation efficiency of membranes for dyes with different charges, capitalizing on the molecular sieving properties of MOFs and the superior compatibility of COFs was evaluated. The optimized membrane demonstrated a rejection of 91.66% for Congo red (CR), along with a water permeance of 641.9 L m−2 h−1 bar−1. This work represents a novel attempt in the design of binary‐nanofiller MMMs, offering new insights into the synergistic effects of hybrid nanofillers in membrane technology.
Optimizing Melamine Sponges Modified With Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles for Environmental and Industrial Applications
Authors: Zhang Taochuan , Han Lei , Yang Guanda , Schubert Dirk W. , Duan Chunmei
Published: December 2024

This study explored the development and characterizations of a lightweight, cost‐effective, and easily accessible titanium dioxide (TiO2)/melamine sponge with outstanding hydrophobicity, oil absorption/separation, flame retardancy, durability, and electromagnetic wave absorption capacities. Commercial melamine sponges were modified using the silane coupling agent and TiO2 nanoparticles via a solution‐immersion method. Scanning Electron Microscopy revealed the structural integrity and surface morphology with increased surface roughness and uniform distribution of TiO2 particles. The hydrophobicity of the TiO2/sponge was confirmed by contact angle measurements, showing a high value of 145°. The oil absorption capacity and separation efficiency were also quantified, with the modified sponges able to absorb oils at 70 to 120 times their weight while maintaining a separation efficiency above 95% even after 10 reuse cycles. Additionally, the TiO2/sponge exhibited excellent flame resistance, strong mechanical abrasion resistance, and stability in saline environments. Electromagnetic absorption tests over the 2–18 GHz range showed efficient absorption, with reflection loss values below −10 dB at higher frequencies for thicker sponges. These results suggest that TiO2/sponge composites provide multifaceted enhancements, making them suitable for various environmental and industrial applications, including oil spill management and electromagnetic radiation mitigation.
Revealing the Relationship Between the Entanglement Densities and Tribological Performance of UHMWPE
Authors: Wei Peng , Sui Yang , Yan Kunhang , Han Junhao , Cui Yi , Cong Chuanbo , Zhou Qiong , Bai Pengpeng , Tian Yu
Published: December 2024

Ultra‐high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) can be used as the candidate material for mixed transmission pipelines due to its fabulous wear durability, corrosion resistance, and self‐lubricating qualities. Nonetheless, the connection between its microstructures and tribological performance is still unclear, and hence it is difficult to elucidate the mechanism of its wear resistance. Four types of UHMWPE samples (GUR 400Fine, GUR 4012, GUR 4130, and GUR 4150) were chosen for this study, and their tribological properties were tested. The results show that the coefficient of friction (COF) and wear rate (WR) of GUR 4130 decrease as the temperature increases, but its crystallinity would not be changed while its entanglement density increases and they were confirmed by dynamic mechanical analysis. Additionally, GUR 400Fine and GUR 4012 have similar molecular weight, GUR 400Fine's COF and WR are 1.12 and 1.37 times higher than those of GUR 4012 due to its lower entanglement density. Additionally, higher molecular weight causes higher entanglement density and better tribological performance. In conclusion, we have prepared UHMWPE with better wear resistance through a simple processing method.
Exploring developmental changes in femoral midneck cross‐sectional properties
Authors: Muñoz‐Guarinos Julia , Rodríguez Laura , Carretero José Miguel , García‐González Rebeca
Published: December 2024

This research delves deeper into previous works on femoral cross‐sectional properties during ontogeny by focusing for the first time on the human femoral midneck. The ontogenetic pattern of cross‐sectional properties at femoral midneck is established and compared with those at three different femoral locations: the proximal femur, the midshaft, and the distal femur. The study sample includes 99 femora (70 non‐adults and 29 adults) belonging to archaeological specimens. Cross‐sectional properties were extracted from computed tomographic scans and analyzed with the MomentMacro plugin of ImageJ. Ontogenetic trends of these variables were assessed using locally estimated scatterplot smoothing and segmented regressions, along with Wilcoxon post hoc tests for all possible age group pairings. Our results show that the femoral midneck exhibits a unique growth pattern. Area variables showed rapid growth until adolescence, followed by a more gradual increase leading into adulthood. Nonetheless, the relative cortical area does not demonstrate any significant drops or rise during growth. The morphology of the midneck section of the femur remains stable during ontogeny, with early adolescence and the onset of adulthood marking two periods of significant change. In contrast to the femoral diaphysis, the acquisition of a mature bipedal gait does not appear to constitute a period of significant morphological change at the femoral midneck cross section.
Hindlimb locomotor biomechanics of the derived therizinosaur Nothronychus: Functional changes in the line to birds and convergence with large‐bodied neornitheans
Authors: Smith David K.
Published: December 2024

Nothronychus graffami was a large therizinosaur represented by a single well‐preserved individual from the Turonian Tropic Shale of southern Utah. It is characterized by an enlarged abdomen, small tail, and an extensively pneumatized axial skeleton, and is frequently regarded as herbivorous. Given the overall tail reduction and the development of a wide fused synsacrum with widely spaced acetabulae, it is reconstructed with an anteriorly rotated femur and a displaced resting ground reaction force anterior to the center of mass. The axis of the ground reaction force would shift laterally during locomotion to maintain stability as observed in extant broad abdomened neornitheans. A waddling gait is inferred for Nothronychus. This pattern is significantly different than in Falcarius, a basal therizinosaurian, where a plesiomorphic narrow abdomen, narrowly spaced acetabulae, and altiliac ilium are observed. Falcarius was capable of a more cursorial gait than derived therizinosaurs. In contrast to Nothronychus, Falcarius was probably at least omnivorous to carnivorous, so herbivory almost certainly evolved within the therizinosaur lineage. Following previous work on Tyrannosaurus and Coelophysis, moment arms were computed for Nothronychus for major muscles spanning the hip, knee, and ankle. A ball‐and‐socket joint is present at the hip, so three‐dimensional movement was considered possible there. The knee and ankle were represented by two‐dimensional hinge joints. Some muscles altered their function as the pubis shifted from a propubic orientation to an opisthopubic one. These included flexion to extension and the addition of increased abduction/adduction in the affected muscles. The results supported convergence with an avian locomotor model, such as reduction in M. caudofemoralis longus.
Efficacy and Fate of RNA Interference Molecules in the Green Pea Aphid, Acyrthosiphon pisum
Authors: Arora Arinder K. , Kang David S.
Published: December 2024

RNA interference (RNAi) is a promising technology for controlling insect pests of agriculture. This technology is mediated through the application of double‐stranded RNAs (dsRNAs), which are processed within the insect cells into small interfering RNAs (siRNAs). These molecules then target and reduce the expression of the insect‐specific genes that can kill or reduce the performance of the pest. The application of these RNA biopesticides generally falls under two methods: foliar sprays and expression of RNAi constructs within transgenic plants. Here, we provide evidence supporting feasibility of using transgenic plants to deliver RNAi‐based biopesticides against their aphid pests. Our findings suggest that, under the Cucumis melo galactinol synthase 1 promoter, the companion cells of transformed Arabidopsis thaliana plants express dsRNAs but not siRNAs at detectable levels. Further, oral application of either siRNAs or dsRNAs is equally effective in reducing the expression of transcripts of the integral membrane protein aquaporin 1 in Acyrthosiphon pisum pea aphids. We did not find any dsRNAs or siRNAs remaining in the insects or honeydew 48 h post‐exposure, suggesting a low risk of contamination of these molecules beyond the target phloem‐piercing insect pests.
Curcumin and doxorubicin encapsulated in biocompatible clay‐based nanomaterial: A strategy to overcome multidrug resistance
Authors: Poma Paola , Massaro Marina , Rigogliuso Salvatrice , Condorelli Lucia , Sánchez‐Espejo Rita , Viseras César , Notarbartolo Monica , Riela Serena
Published: December 2024

Multidrug resistance (MDR) due to the overexpression of the P‐glycoprotein (P‐gp) efflux pump remains a significant challenge in cancer therapy, also in breast cancer. Traditional pharmacological approaches have focused on using inhibitors to modulate P‐gp expression and function. Curcumin, a polyphenol derived from Curcuma longa L., is one of the most extensively studied natural compounds with the potential as an effective P‐gp inhibitor. Despite its promising attributes, the clinical application of P‐gp inhibitors is complicated by P‐gp's presence in healthy cells, such as those in the intestinal barrier and blood–brain barrier, which can lead to increased toxicity. To address these challenges, we developed a novel multifunctional nanomaterial by covalently bonding halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) with hectorite (Ht) and loading it with curcumin and doxorubicin. The efficacy of the co‐delivery of curcumin and doxorubicin by HNTs‐Ht nanomaterial was evaluated by cytotoxicity assays on MCF‐7R cells, both in two‐dimensional (2D) and in three‐dimensional (3D) models. The obtained data show that curcumin causes increased doxorubicin accumulation by acting as a substrate for P‐gp transport and as a stimulator of the adenosine triphosphate (ATP)‐dependent drug efflux transporter on a doxorubicin‐resistant breast cancer cell line. The results suggest that the HNTs‐Ht nanomaterial could provide a promising approach to improve chemotherapy effectiveness by overcoming MDR and enhancing treatment outcomes.
The Transverse Humeral Ligament: An Anatomical Narrative Review
Authors: Shimizu Keigo , Tabira Yoko , Harano Tatsuya , Iwanaga Joe , Uchino Shota , Kikuchi Keishiro , Bubb Kathleen , Raeburn Kazzara , Tubbs R. Shane , Watanabe Koichi
Published: December 2024

Shoulder pain often involves the tendon of the long head of the biceps brachii (LHBT) and the transverse humeral ligament (THL). Traditionally, the THL is considered a ligament that prevents the LHBT from dislocating, but recent studies suggest that it may be part of the subscapularis tendon. This review evaluates the nature of the THL and its overlying structures. We reviewed the literature from PubMed and Scopus through April 2024 and selected seven studies. Four described the THL as a ligament, and three did not. THL measurements ranged from 14 to 21 mm in length and 14 to 17 mm in width. Histology was inconsistent, with some studies suggesting it is more tendon‐like. Clinically, LHBT injuries are associated with rotator cuff injuries. Biomechanical studies, such as those by Kwon et al. (2009), associate the LHBT with subscapularis tendon tears. Accurate diagnosis and treatment of shoulder pain should consider these anatomical variations. The structure covering LHBT in the intertubercular sulcus is most likely the subscapularis tendon, rather than a ligament. Understanding these variations is critical to improving the management of shoulder pain.
A Prebiotic Route to Lactate from Acetaldehyde, Cyanide and Carbon Dioxide
Authors: Sharma Shriaya , Yang Yang , Lee Ji‐Woong
Published: December 2024

The atmospheric concentration of carbon dioxide (CO2) has fluctuated throughout Earth's history. However, the role of CO2 in prebiotic chemistry has been predominantly and limitedly postulated as a C1 precursor, which can be reduced to carbon monoxide or methane mimicking the Wood‐Ljungdahl pathway. Herein we present neglected roles of CO2 as an active promoter in accessing biologically important C3‐builidng blocks such as lactate, via redox‐economic reaction cycles starting from cyanide (C1) and acetaldehyde (C2). We verified that Lewis acidic CO2 facilitates the formation of cyanohydrin of acetaldehyde under ambient conditions. Furthermore, selective protection of cyanohydrin to carbonate by atmospheric CO2 led to anchimeric assisted hydrolysis of the nitrile group to generate lactate. This work supports both warm pond and hydrothermal vent hypotheses, postulating that a CO2‐rich primordial atmosphere and the acidic aqueous solution could have fostered the emergence of biologically relevant molecules and life itself.
Association Between Incense Burning and the Risk of Lung Cancer in Asian Population: Meta‐Analysis of Nine Case–Control Studies
Authors: Tang Hui‐Wen , Voon Fui‐Ling , Sim Edmund Ui‐Hang
Published: December 2024

Background

Various studies have explored the potential association between incense burning and the risk of lung cancer. However, the findings from these studies have been inconsistent.

Objectives

This study aimed to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the relationship between incense burning and lung cancer risk in the Asian population through a meta‐analysis.

Methods

This meta‐analysis, which includes nine case–control studies conducted in Asia and identified through Google Scholar, PubMed, and ScienceDirect up to January 7, 2024, was performed to evaluate the relevant literature. Using a fixed‐effects model, the pooled odds ratio (OR) was calculated to determine the overall association between incense burning and lung cancer.

Results

The results of the meta‐analysis revealed a significant association between incense burning and the development of lung cancer (pooled OR = 1.33, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.20–1.48). Furthermore, a subgroup analysis was conducted based on smoking status. It was found that ever‐smokers had a significantly higher risk of developing lung cancer when exposed to incense burning (pooled OR = 1.34, 95% CI: 1.09–1.65). Both hospital‐based case–control studies (pooled OR = 1.28, 95% CI: 1.10–1.48) and population‐based case–control studies (pooled OR = 1.39, 95% CI: 1.21–1.60) yielded significant associations between incense burning and lung cancer. Limitations of this study include the lack of detailed histologic information in most of the selected studies, highlighting the need for future research to include cohort studies that can more accurately assess the association between incense smoke inhalation and specific lung cancer subtypes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the findings of this meta‐analysis, based on nine case–control studies, suggest that the risk of developing lung cancer among Asians may increase with exposure to incense burning.
Theoretical Design of a Single Cu Atom Supported on 1T‐WS2/Graphene Catalyst for Electrocatalytic Nitrate Reduction to Ammonia
Authors: He Y. X. , Wang Z. L. , Jiang Q.
Published: December 2024

Electrochemical reduction of nitrate to ammonia (NO3RR) offers a promising strategy for renewable ammonia (NH3) synthesis and wastewater treatment, but still suffers from limited activity and NH3 selectivity due to the lack of effective electrocatalyst. Here, we perform a four‐steps screening strategy to screen high performance NO3RR catalyst by density functional theory calculations using 23 single transition metals atom doped on 1T‐WS2/graphene (TM@1T‐WS2/graphene) as candidates. The results show that Cu@1T‐WS2/graphene exhibits the highest NO3RR performance among 23 candidates with a low rate determining step energy barrier of 0.12 eV, which is much lower than that of the most of recently reported NO3RR catalysts. Moreover, the Cu@1T‐WS2/graphene also possesses excellent NH3 selectivity by suppressing competing hydrogen evolution reaction. This work provides a new avenue for the design of effective electrocatalysts for NO3RR.
Crisis Management and Resilience Building Through the Women in Red Protest: The Handmaid's Tale Performances in Response to Israel's Judicial Overhaul
Authors: Ashwall‐Yakar Rachelly , Abboud Armaly Oriana , Bracha Smadar , Hashash Hadar
Published: December 2024

This paper examines the resilience building and public crisis management led by the “Building an Alternative” feminine NGO in Israel during the 2023 mass demonstrations against the judicial overhaul. The proposed judicial overhaul was perceived as a threat to both democratic foundations and women's rights in Israel. Raising awareness of women's rights through the “Women in Red” (WIR) protest using the “Handmaid's Tale” Parades was instrumental in restraining the planned reform's potential negative outcomes. The study discusses the importance of identifying a potential threat and using a crisis management approach through public performances to address it. We investigated the nature of the protest activity to assess its effectiveness, from the public perspective, in building resilience and raising awareness of women's rights issues. These issues were examined by an online questionnaire (N = 185) addressing attitudes regarding the protest. The results of the study show an increased awareness and engagement with women's rights issues, which was attributed to WIR protest efforts. The use of prominent visuals in the WIR protest led by the organization directly contributed to its ability to build resilience for women's rights and to enhance understanding of the potential threats of judicial overhaul among the Israeli public. This study emphasizes propaganda's role in women's protests as a significant tool for building resilience. It also stretches the boundaries of crisis management models by revealing an integration of pre‐crisis and response phases in the “Women in Red” protest.
“G” and ESG Strategy Integration and Disclosure: Exploring the Governance‐Related Factors That Influence Companies' Decision‐Making
Authors: Krasodomska Joanna , Eisenschmidt Karsten
Published: December 2024

Integrating environmental and social considerations into business strategies is critical to progress toward achieving sustainable development. The paper utilizes a sample comprising 364 companies listed on the Warsaw Stock Exchange (WSE) to identify the relationship between companies' corporate governance mechanisms and their environmental, social, and governance (ESG)‐related strategic and reporting decisions. The timeframe of the study takes into account a key moment characterized by significant changes to the WSE's corporate governance code of best practice. According to the study findings, companies are more likely to integrate social issues into business strategies than they are to integrate environmental concerns. The logit regression results suggest a significant positive relationship between the implementation of both a diversity policy on corporate governance bodies and remuneration mechanisms and the decision to integrate environmental and social issues into a company's business strategy and ESG strategy disclosure. In contrast, the implementation of effective internal management systems is significantly associated only with the decision to integrate social issues into a company's business strategy.
Improved Transformerless PV Inverter for Wide Input‐Voltage Range
Authors: Yao Zhilei , Zhang Ximing , Yang Jie
Published: December 2024

Voltage‐source inverters are widely used in solar applications. However, when the voltage of the PV array is less than the peak output voltage of the inverter under shading condition (SC), they should be shut down. Therefore, a boost converter should be inserted between the PV array and the PV inverter (PVI) to boost the voltage of the PV array under SC, but it sustains the full power of the PVI under normal conditions (NCs). To address the problem, an improved transformerless PVI with a minimum power processing unit (MPPU) is proposed. The MPPU is composed of a minimum voltage compensation unit (MVCU) parallelled with a diode. The MVCU does not work under NC, while it only works under SC. The output voltage of the MVCU is the differential voltage between the absolute value of the output voltage of the inverter and the voltage of the PV array under SC, so it sustains the minimum power under SC and can operate in a wide input‐voltage range. The inverter is a single‐stage system, so efficiency of the system is high. The operating principle of the system is illustrated. A cooperative control strategy of the PVI is depicted. Design guidelines and example are given. Finally, experimental results verify the theoretical analysis.
Biogeochemical evidence raises questions on the longevity of warming‐induced growth enhancements in wet boreal forests
Authors: Ziegler Susan E. , Billings Sharon A. , Podrebarac Frances A. , Edwards Kate A. , Skinner Andrea , Buckeridge Kate M. , VandenBoer Trevor C.
Published: December 2024

In wet regions, temperature increases can prompt increases in vegetation growth. Vegetation responses are determined in part by N and P availability, yet the relative importance of N‐ versus P‐cycling supporting growth is unclear. Prompted by studies demonstrating that warming‐enhanced N cycling supports greater productivity and soil C stocks in warmer forests along a wet boreal forest transect, we tested the hypothesis that enhanced organic matter cycling supports greater P demand in relatively warm forests. We further asked whether evidence from soil and litterfall fluxes indicates increases in P demand are met in these forests or potentially pose a limit on warming‐enhanced productivity. Elevated tree growth and litterfall rates coupled with similar litterfall P concentrations suggest P demand is greater at warmer sites. By assessing multiple soil N and P stocks, inputs, and stoichiometry, we observed three lines of evidence indicating that this greater P demand is met through a combination of plant tissue plasticity and adequate surface soil P supplies. First, warming‐enhanced N‐cycling results in an increase in N:P of surface soils and litterfall inputs indicating a reduction in needle litter P relative to N. Second, organic layer C:P and P stocks were maintained across latitude despite increases in litterfall P inputs in the warmest forests suggesting increased cycling and retention of P by trees. Third, in contrast with soil N, estimates of soil P residence times are not coupled with those of C, and soil C:P does not correlate with tree growth across sites signifying that N, not P, may limit tree growth in these forests. Results here provide evidence that increased productivity with warming and enhanced N cycling in wet boreal forests is not likely to be limited by available P over the decadal timescale represented by the temperature gradient along this climate transect. However, similarities observed between warming‐enhanced N availability in the current study's forests and that in boreal forests receiving high N additions indicate a need to better understand how boreal trees may adapt to shifts away from N limitation. Such new knowledge is needed to improve our understanding of the longevity of this important climate feedback.
Aligning urban forest management actions with urban sustainability goals: A multi‐city expert elicitation
Authors: Bassett Corinne G. , Day Susan D. , Konijnendijk Cecil C. , Roman Lara A. , Hemming Victoria
Published: December 2024

City leaders are setting ambitious plans to achieve critical urban sustainability goals such as reducing urban heat, mitigating flooding during storms, and conserving biodiversity, and increasingly rely on urban forests as a key nature‐based solution to such challenges. Current paradigms of urban forest management typically prioritize goals like increasing tree canopy cover that are often viewed as proxies for increased ecosystem service provision, in a general sense. However, urban foresters, the professionals with responsibility to manage urban forests, are increasingly faced with the complex challenge of managing for new goals related to ecosystem services, biodiversity, or people–nature relationships, as cities increasingly set goals centered on such outcomes, without robust guidelines to follow. We ask: How can urban foresters align their street tree management actions with specific urban sustainability goals? We conducted a structured expert elicitation of urban forest professionals in three cities: Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; Honolulu, Hawaiʻi, United States; and Washington, DC, United States. A socio‐ecological lens was used to examine urban foresters as agents of change in urban ecosystems. Participants assessed the impacts of 40 direct management actions on five goals: (1) canopy cover increase and tree risk reduction, (2) urban heat reduction, (3) people–nature relationships, (4) wildlife habitat, and (5) stormwater interception and infiltration. While certain actions (e.g., in the mature tree maintenance phase) were selected as needed to advance every goal, experts identified numerous actions which aligned with one or several goals, but not all. Preplanting actions, specifically site selection and species selection, presented the greatest opportunities to advance specific goals, suggesting that aligning this phase with city sustainability goals is critical. Participants were highly confident in being able to advance all goals through street tree management, but were more confident in being able to advance the goals of increasing canopy cover while reducing tree risk and of mitigating urban heat, possibly because these goals more closely align with traditional canopy cover goal setting. This research underscores the necessity of considering site‐level ecosystem management actions to advance strategic sustainability goals, while also revealing the complexity of the role and responsibilities of professionals who manage urban ecosystems.
Rhodium(III)‐Catalyzed [4+2] Annulation of N‐Hydroxyoximes with Maleate Esters/2‐Chloroacrylates: Synthesis of Isoquinoline‐3,4‐Dicarboxylates and Isoquinoline‐3‐Carboxylates
Authors: Li He , Chen Tao , Wang Zhiwei , Li Yuxin , Wu Baoheng , Xu Ning , Lu Ye , Jin Xinxin , Yu Jiaqi , Liu Jinglin , Bao Ming
Published: December 2024

A novel Rh(III)‐catalyzed [4+2] annulation of N‐hydroxyoximes with maleate esters/2‐chloroacrylates is disclosed, in which diverse isoquinoline skeleton compounds were generated in moderate to excellent yields. The protocol exhibits a good compatibility of functional groups and wide scope of substrates without using any external metal oxidants. Gram‐scale and derivatization reactions were performed to show the potential utility of this transformation.