bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Visible‐Photo‐Assisted Phase Switching of Antiferroelectric‐to‐Ferroelectric Orders in an I3−‐Intercalated 2D Perovskite
Authors: Liu Yi , Li Fu , Tang Liwei , Liu Xitao , Zeng Xi , Li Wenjing , Rong Hao , Zhang Hongbin , Luo Junhua , Sun Zhihua
Published: September 2024

Antiferroelectric (AFE) has emerged as a promising branch of electroactive materials, due to intriguing physical attributes stemming from the electric field‐induced antipolar‐to‐polar phase transformation. However, the requirement of extremely high electric field strength to switch adjacent sublattice polarization poses great challenges for exploiting new molecular AFE system. Although photoirradiation is striking as a noncontact and nondestructive manipulation tool to optimize physical properties, optical control of antiferroelectricity still remains unexplored. Here, by adopting light‐sensitive I3− anion into 2D perovskite family, we design a new I3−‐intercalated molecular AFE of (t‐ACH)2EA2Pb3I10(I3)0.5 ⋅ ((H3O)(H2O))0.5 (1, t‐ACH=trans‐4‐aminomethyl‐1‐cyclohexanecarboxylate, EA=ethylammonium). The I3−‐intercalating gives an ultra‐narrow band gap of 1.65 eV with strong absorption. In term of AFE structure, the anti‐parallel alignment of electric dipoles results in a large spontaneous polarization of 4.3 μC/cm2. Strikingly, 1 merely shows AFE behaviour in the dark even under ultrahigh voltage, while the field‐induced ferroelectric state can be facilely obtained upon visible illumination. Such unprecedented visible‐photo‐assisted phase switching ascribes to the incorporation of photoactive I3− anions that reduces AFE‐to‐ferroelectric switching barrier. This pioneering work on the photo‐assisting transformation of ferroic orders paves a way to develop future photoactive materials with potential applications.
Inorganic nanoparticles: An effective antibiofilm strategy
Authors: Tanwar Shruti Nandkishor , Parauha Yatish Ratn , There Yogesh , Ameen Faud , Dhoble Sanjay Janraoji
Published: September 2024

Biofilm is a common problem associated with human health. Pathogenicity and increase in resistance of bacteria require urgent development of effective ways for the treatment of bacterial diseases. Different strategies have been developed for the treatment of bacterial infections among which nanoparticles have shown greater prospects in battling with infections. Biofilms are resistant microbial colonies that possess resistance and, hence, cannot be killed by conventional drugs. Nanoparticles offer new avenues for treating biofilm‐related infections involving multi‐drug resistant organisms. They possess great antibiofilm properties, disrupting cell architecture and preventing colony formation. Green‐synthesised nanoparticles are more effective and less toxic to human cells than commercially available or chemically synthesised antibiofilm nanoparticles. This review summarises the antibiofilm efficiency of plant‐mediated nanoparticles and knowledge about biofilm inhibition.
Sport participation as a tool for promoting wellness for youth of colour
Authors: Gamble Alexander , Economou Peter , Swarbrick Margaret
Published: September 2024

Youth of colour, especially from low socioeconomic status (SES) backgrounds, are at higher risk for experiencing mental and physical health challenges due to poverty and racism; however, they are less likely to seek and engage in formal mental health services and medical care due to stigma, time constraints, financial burdens, and cultural mistrust for the medical field more broadly. This commentary will describe how participation in sport for youth of colour from low SES backgrounds has benefits that extend across the Eight Dimensions of Wellness Model, illustrating the power of sport as a tool for prevention and support. The authors conclude with a call to action to mobilize government officials, healthcare providers, educators and coaches to encourage sport participation as a tool to improve individual wellness for today's youth of colour and uplift communities. Please refer to the Supplementary Material section to find this article's Community and Social Impact Statement.
Attending to the big picture: Balancing strategic visioning with daily tasks
Authors: Schwebel David C.
Published: September 2024

We university administrators face a seemingly endless stream of daily tasks. We approve budgets and timesheets. We attend and lead meetings. We read and respond to emails, texts, and phone calls. We supervise, encourage, congratulate, and mentor, and we make decisions on how to allocate funds, assign duties, and interpret policies.
Antibacterial Indole‐Diterpenoid Alkaloids from the Marine Fungus Penicillium sp. ZYX‐Z‐718
Authors: Yang Li , Quan Miao‐Miao , Ma Qing‐Yun , Xie Qing‐Yi , Gai Cui‐Juan , Dai Hao‐Fu , Hao Yu.‐E. , Zhao You‐Xing
Published: September 2024

Two new indole‐diterpenoids, penpaxilloids F and G (1 and 2), along with 11 known analogues (3–13), were isolated from the marine fungus Penicillium sp. ZYX‐Z‐718. The structures of the new compounds were identified by extensive spectroscopic analyses including HR‐ESI‐MS, UV, and NMR, as well as theoretical NMR chemical shifts and ECD calculations. Compounds 6 and 10 showed antibacterial activity against Gram‐positive bacteria including Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, and MRSA with MIC values ranging from 16.0–32.0 μg/mL.
Bioactive Microgels with Tunable Microenvironment as a 3D Platform to Guide the Complex Physiology of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Spheroids
Authors: Kim Suntae , Yeop Baek Seung , Cha Chaenyung
Published: September 2024

Miniaturized three‐dimensional tissue models, such as spheroids, have become a highly useful and efficient platform to investigate tumor physiology and explore the effect of chemotherapeutic efficacy over traditional two‐dimensional monolayer culture, since they can provide more in‐depth analysis, especially in regards to intercellular interactions and diffusion. The development of most tumor spheroids relies on the high proliferative capacity and self‐aggregation behavior of tumor cells. However, it often disregards the effect of microenvironmental factors mediated by extracellular matrix, which are indispensable components of tissue structure. In this study, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells are encapsulated in bioactive microgels consisting of gelatin and hyaluronic acid designed to emulate tumor microenvironment in order to induce hepatic tumor spheroid formation. Two different subtypes of HCC's, HepG2 and Hep3B cell lines, are explored. The physicomechanical and biochemical properties of the microgels, controlled by changing the crosslinking density and polymer composition, are clearly shown to have substantial influence over the formation and spheroid formation. Moreover, the spheroids made from different cells and microgel properties display highly variable chemoresistance effects, further highlighting the importance of microenvironmental factors guiding tumor spheroid physiology.
Perfect Partners: Biocatalytic Halogenation and Metal Catalysis for Protein Bioconjugation
Authors: Montua Nicolai , Sewald Norbert
Published: September 2024

Flavin‐dependent halogenases (FDHs) are the most extensively researched halogenases and show great potential for biotransformation applications. These enzymes use chloride, bromide, or iodide ions as halogen donors to catalyze the oxygen‐dependent halogenation of electron‐rich aryl moieties, requiring stochiometric amounts of FADH2 in the process. This makes FDH‐catalyzed aryl halogenation a highly selective and environmentally friendly tool for the synthesis of aryl halides. The latter in turn serve as valuable intermediates for transition metal catalyzed cross coupling reactions for C−C bond formation. Previous research made extensive use of this approach to halogenate small molecules as building blocks for late‐stage functionalization by transition‐metal catalyzed cross‐coupling reactions. Based on these results, several groups have managed to expand this research to protein targets over the past two years. Their work indicates an emerging methodology for bioconjugation using late‐stage biocatalytic halogenation in conjunction with biorthogonal Suzuki‐Miyaura cross‐coupling. This strategy could present an attractive alternative to existing approaches due to the stability of the C−C bond bridging the generated biaryl moiety and the ease of late‐stage enzymatic modification while maintaining excellent selectivity under mild conditions.
Discovery and Heterologous Expression of Trilenodin, an Antimicrobial Lasso Peptide with a Unique Tri‐Isoleucine Motif
Authors: Pulliam Conor , Xue Dan , Campbell Andrew , Older Ethan , Li Jie
Published: September 2024

Lasso peptides are an increasingly relevant class of peptide natural products with diverse biological activities, intriguing physical properties, and unique chemical structures. Most characterized lasso peptides have been from Actinobacteria and Proteobacteria, despite bioinformatic analyses suggesting that other bacterial taxa, particularly those from Firmicutes, are rich in biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) encoding lasso peptides. Herein, we report the bioinformatic identification of a lasso peptide BGC from Paenibacillus taiwanensis DSM18679 which we termed pats. We used a bioinformatics‐guided isolation approach and high‐resolution tandem mass spectrometry (HRMS/MS) to isolate and subsequently characterize a new lasso peptide produced from the pats BGC, which we named trilenodin, after the tri‐isoleucine motif present in its primary sequence. This tri‐isoleucine motif is unique among currently characterized lasso peptides. We confirmed the connection between the pats BGC and trilenodin production by establishing the first Bacillus subtilis 168‐based heterologous expression system for expressing Firmicutes lasso peptides. We finally determined that trilenodin exhibits potent antimicrobial activity against B. subtilis and Klebsiella pneumoniae, making trilenodin the first characterized biologically active lasso peptide from Firmicutes. Collectively, we demonstrate that bacteria from Firmicutes can serve as high‐potential sources of chemically and biologically diverse lasso peptides.
Severe generalized edema in a premature neonate: A case report and literature review
Authors: Zong Haifeng , Huang Yingsui , Xiong Ying , Gong Wentao , Lin Bingchun , Yang Chuanzhong
Published: September 2024

Key Clinical Message

With no family history, and an atypical phenotype, the clinical diagnosing of Noonan syndrome (NS) can be very difficult. The present case emphasized that generalized edema in neonates may be the potential first symptom of NS.

Severe generalized edema is a rare pathological condition with high mortality in newborns, in particular the premature infants. It is characterized by the extensive subcutaneous tissue edema and the accumulation of fluid in neonatal body fluid compartments. The etiology and pathogenesis of hydrops in neonates are quite complex. Generally speaking, hydrops can be divided into immune hydrops and non‐immune hydrops according to the etiology. It is still challenging in treating severe neonatal edema. In this study, we presented a preterm newborn with severe generalized edema after birth, which was finally diagnosed with Noonan syndrome (NS). The infant clinically manifested as severe generalized edema alone, without the involvement of multiple organ malformation. Generalized edema in neonates was probably the first symptom of NS. Therefore, differential diagnosis of NS is necessary for infants developing generalized edema.
An unusual cause of headache: Expanding your differential
Authors: Orabueze Ijeoma , Mohamed Hazique , Grewal Sehneet , Ojeda‐Martinez Hector
Published: September 2024

Key Clinical Message

Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is an inflammatory vasculitis that affects larger blood vessels, like the temporal arteries and the aorta. It is systemic and tends to affect individuals over 50. Common symptoms include headache, jaw pain provoked by chewing, and fever. We present an interesting case of a GCA variant.
Atypical case of tuberous sclerosis with isolated neurologic findings: A case report
Authors: Devkota Shritik , Bhatta Om Prakash , Kalikote Arun , Gyawali Prakash , Lamichhane Samiksha
Published: September 2024

Key Clinical Message

Tuberous sclerosis (TSC) is an autosomal dominant neurocutaneous disorder. This case highlights rare isolated neurologic finding in a TSC patient emphasizing the need for heightened suspicion even in the absence of any cutaneous findings and family history.
Low cholesterol levels are good markers for central hypothyroidism in case with dialysis using roxadustat
Authors: Kita Serina , Okuyama Hiroshi , Kondo Takaya , Hayashi Mizuki , Nakao Shinichiro , Sawamura Toshitaka , Fujimoto Keiji , Nakagawa Atsushi , Yokoyama Hitoshi , Furuichi Kengo
Published: September 2024

Key Clinical Message

Recently, hypoxia‐inducible factor prolyl hydroxylase (HIF‐PH) inhibitors have been used for renal anemia, but side effects have also been reported. We report on the association of central hypothyroidism and cholesterol with roxadustat. Based on this case and previous reports, we believe that patients receiving roxadustat should have their thyroid function and cholesterol levels checked regularly.
Femoral neck fracture in sickle cell anemia: A comprehensive case study
Authors: Babiker Ayman Taj Elsir Mustafa , Yousif Yousif Omer Elgaili , Ahmed Mohammed Mubarak Mohammed , MohammedAhmed Mohammed Alssir , Abd‐Elmaged Hozifa Mohammed Ali
Published: September 2024

Key Clinical Message

The significance of taking femoral neck stress fractures into account as a possible consequence in sickle cell anemia patients is underscored by this case report. In this high‐risk group, early identification, timely diagnosis, and suitable care are crucial for averting major problems and improving results. When sickle cell anemia patients complain with hip or groin discomfort, healthcare practitioners should keep a high index of suspicion for femoral neck stress fractures to assure prompt management and prevent long‐term impairment.

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a prevalent genetic hemoglobinopathy with significant global implications, affecting a substantial portion of the population. Avascular necrosis of the femoral head is a common complication in SCD, leading to severe joint damage and immobility. This case report is of a 20‐year‐old male who presented with severe hip pain due to a femoral neck stress fracture, which progressed to a complete fracture. This patient had a past medical history of sickle cell anemia and a malunited subtrochanteric fracture that resulted in shortening, external rotation, and a limping gait. Surgical treatment via subtrochanteric osteotomy with fixation using a dynamic hip screw with or without iliac crest bone graft was planned, with a satisfactory reduction and closure of the fracture gap, postoperatively. In cases of sickle cell anemia patients, bone complications such as both osteonecrosis and stress fractures are common. As a healthcare provider, it is important to manage and address these not only through medical interventions, but also through counseling and patient education. Patients must be reminded about the importance of compliance with medical advice to avoid progression or recurrence of complications.
Simultaneous closure of a perilymphatic fistula and placement of cochlear implant in a case of complex inner ear malformation
Authors: Almuzaini Hanan , Müller J. , Wilhelm Flatz , Polterauer D. , Schuster M.
Published: September 2024

Key Clinical Message

In young infants, under the age of one‐year, cochlear malformation with profound hearing loss complicated by a perilymphatic fistula (PLF), presents a serious clinical challenge, warranting immediate audiological and surgical intervention. Timely PLF detection and closure, along with an early CI can significantly improve the prognosis of such patients and helps them in achieving their maximum hearing and developmental potential, in the long term.

Inner ear malformation (IEM) with incomplete partition and cystic cochlea is mostly accompanied by profound hearing loss. It gets further complicated with other malformations such as a perilymphatic fistula (PLF). This case concerns an 8‐month‐old child cochlear malformation and profound hearing loss. Surgical intervention identified a PLF at the stapedial footplate, which was successfully closed. The surgery also included the placement of a cochlear implant (CI) in the right ear, via the round window. The left ear was equipped with hearing aids, with persistent hearing thresholds at 70–80 db. At the age of 6 years, the child showed a good hearing outcome with the CI, with only moderate speech delay. Cochlear malformation accompanied by a perilymphatic leakage warrants immediate surgical closure of the PLF, to minimize the risk of bacterial meningitis. Wherever possible, the feasibility of a CI should be explored in such cases and a CI should be placed for treatment of hearing loss. Audiological and speech outcomes may vary with the use of the CI, especially in cases of IEM. However, an early CI coupled with timely PLF detection and closure can help children with profound hearing loss, in achieving their maximum hearing and developmental potential, in the long run.
Impact of Light on Coexistence of Memresistance, Meminductance, and Memcapacitance (MEMRIC) in Nanostructured Copper Oxide (CuO) Based Random Access Memory Devices
Authors: Prakash Chandra , Yadav Ankit K. , Dixit Ambesh
Published: September 2024

We demonstrated the coexistence of memresistance, memcapacitance, and meminductance non‐volatile bipolar analog resistive switching in Cu (top electrode)/CuO (active layer)/SS (bottom electrode) memory devices with and without presence of the light. The onset of memcapacitance and meminductance is noticed from the pinched‐shaped characteristics in the first and third quadrants. The variation in the scan rate also impacts the coexistence characteristics by shifting the intercept point for low resistance (LRS) and high resistance (HRS) states in positive and negative biasing voltages. The durability and retention are measured over a period of 150 cycles and 1500 s with and without light illumination. The slopes for the Weibull cumulative distribution plot for set/reset state with and without light are 106.80/114.23 and 70.21/102.25, respectively, suggesting that the stability of the device increases with light illumination. Interestingly, the memcapacitance disappears after 600 cycles and after 60 
. The double logarithmic I−V characteristics suggest the trap‐assisted conduction (higher slope >2) in the higher external electric field, and Ohmic behavior in the lower applied field region. Thus, the present study provides a way for low‐power electronics and photoresistors together with memresistance, memcapacitance, and meminductance, simultaneously, i. e., MEMRIC in a single device.
Effectiveness of South Africa's network of protected areas: Unassessed vascular plants predicted to be threatened using deep neural networks are all located in protected areas
Authors: Kandolo Bahati Samuel , Yessoufou Kowiyou , Kganyago Mahlatse
Published: September 2024

Globally, we are in the midst of a biodiversity crisis and megadiverse countries become key targets for conservation. South Africa, the only country in the world hosting three biodiversity hotspots within its borders, harbours a tremendous diversity of at‐risk species deserving to be protected. However, the lengthy risk assessment process and the lack of required data to complete assessments is a serious limitation to conservation since several species may slide into extinction while awaiting risk assessment. Here, we employed a deep neural network model integrating species climatic and geographic features to predict the conservation status of 116 unassessed plant species. Our analysis involved in total of 1072 plant species and 96,938 occurrence points. The best‐performing model exhibits high accuracy, reaching up to 83.6% at the binary classification and 56.8% at the detailed classification. Our best‐performing model at the binary classification predicts that 32% (25 species) and 8% (3 species) of Data Deficient and Not‐Evaluated species respectively, are likely threatened, amounting to a proportion of 24.1% of unassessed species facing a risk of extinction. Interestingly, all unassessed species predicted to be threatened are in protected areas, revealing the effectiveness of South Africa's network of protected areas in conservation, although these likely threatened species are more abundant outside protected areas. Considering the limitation in assessing only species with available data, there remains a possibility of a higher proportion of unassessed species being imperilled.
Patterns of non‐migratory fish metacommunity from Neotropical floodplains: Local mechanisms, regional scale and hydrological dynamics
Authors: Sacramento Patricia Almeida , Simões Nadson Ressyé , Alves Gustavo Henrique Zaia , Amadio Sidineia , Padial Andre Andrian , Benedito Evanilde
Published: September 2024

The spatial distribution of biological communities may be regulated by environmental and spatial processes, and the intensity of these processes depend on the species characteristics, spatial heterogeneity and spatial extent. We investigated the relationship between the non‐migratory fish metacommunity with environmental and spatial variables using the variance partitioning procedure. We used data from lakes of four Neotropical floodplains: Amazon, Araguaia, Pantanal and Paraná. We hypothesised that the processes that drive the spatial distribution of non‐migratory fish in floodplain systems depend on connectivity driven by flood pulse. We predict that spatial variables are less important to explaining the fish community structures during rainy periods when there is no dispersal limitation. In contrast, environmental variables influence these structures during rainy and dry periods. During dry periods, metacommunities depend on species' dispersal abilities, but during rainy and dry periods, spatial distribution depends on the environmental filters selected by each species. For most of the environmental variables, it was possible to observe more similarity in the rainy period. Our results showed different patterns of fish communities for the lakes of the four floodplains systems, which led us to reject our hypothesis. Non‐migratory fish remain in their natal environment and perform only small lateral movements. In this scenario, we found a little influence from spatial variables in both periods and a great contribution of environmental variables for Amazon (16%) and Pantanal (32%) floodplains in structuring fishes' distribution in the rainy period.
Exploring the therapeutic potential of Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum CCFM1029 in Parkinson's disease: Insights from behavioral, neurophysiological, gut microbiota, and microbial metabolites analysis
Authors: Li Tiantian , Zhang Chuan , Wang Qiannan , Wang Shuan , Yu Leilei , Zhai Qixiao , Tian Fengwei
Published: September 2024

The pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease (PD) is closely related to the gut microbiota, and microecological therapies based on gut probiotics have received widespread attention, among which Bifidobacterium has been demonstrated to have a potential neuroprotective effect, but specific mechanisms have been lacking in the investigation. Here, we show that Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum CCFM1029 significantly inhibited LPS‐induced inflammatory responses in microglia and alleviated 1‐methyl‐4‐phenyl‐1,2,3,6‐tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)‐induced motor dysfunction, dopaminergic neuronal damage, and neuroinflammation in PD mice. Subsequently, the mechanism of action of CCFM1029 in PD was systematically elucidated by the neurochemical and biochemical analysis in PD mice, together with microbiomic and metabolomic analysis. It was found that CCFM1029 intervention restores dysbiosis in the gut microbiota linked to PD and reverses alterations in microbial metabolites. We established the interactions among the gut microbiota, metabolites, and brain by integrating behavioral and neurophysiological data with changes in the composition of the gut microbiota and metabolomic characteristics. We found that CCFM1029 intervention increases levels of the beneficial gut microbial metabolites indole‐3‐acrylic acid and short‐chain fatty acid (acetic and butyric acid) and decreases levels of the neuroinflammation‐associated metabolite N‐acetylhistamine. To summarize, our findings suggest CCFM1029 as a novel dietary supplement can prevent and mitigate the progression of PD through the microbiota‐gut‐brain axis.
Characteristics and outcomes of heart failure in Japan: A hospital‐based administrative database analysis
Authors: Ono Yasuhisa , Yoneda Kazuhiro , Okuyama Naoki , Nagai Toshiyuki
Published: September 2024

Aims

Epidemiological and outcome studies on patients in Japan with heart failure (HF) categorized by left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) are currently limited. The aim of this non‐interventional database study was to provide further information on these patients.

Methods and results

Administrative claims data and electronic medical records from hospitals participating in the Voluntary Hospitals in Japan (VHJ) organization were used. Patients hospitalized with a primary diagnosis of HF between 1 April 2017 and 30 March 2020 were categorized by baseline LVEF on echocardiogram: HF with reduced EF (HFrEF, LVEF <40%); HF with preserved EF (HFpEF, LVEF ≥50%); and HF with mildly reduced EF (HFmrEF, 40% to <50% LVEF). Patients were evaluated for baseline characteristics, pre‐admission diagnosis, prescription drugs, length of hospitalization, HF treatment cost, overall cost of hospitalization, and in‐hospital prescription. An exploratory analysis compared post‐hospitalization mortality and re‐hospitalization rates. In total, 10 646 hospitalized patients from 17 VHJ hospitals were enrolled. Of these, 7212 were included in the analysis set and categorized into HFpEF (3183, 44.1%), HFmrEF (1280, 17.7%), and HFrEF (2749, 38.1%) groups based on baseline LVEF. Beta‐blocker use increased during hospitalization, with a mean (95% confidence interval [CI]) of 23.3% (22.3–24.3) of patients receiving these agents before admission versus 69.4% (68.3–70.5) at discharge. Administration of diuretics, angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, and angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) showed a similar trend. Differences in treatments were observed between HF categories at discharge, with a higher proportion (95% CI) of ACE inhibitor use in the HFrEF group (40.6% [38.7–42.4]) versus HFmrEF (27.5% [25.1–30.0]) and HFpEF (20.6% [19.2–22.1]) groups (P < 0.0001), and more ARB use in the HFmrEF and HFpEF groups (32.5% [29.9–35.1] and 31.2% [29.6–32.9], respectively) versus HFrEF (25.1% [23.5–26.8]; P < 0.0001). Mean (standard deviation [SD]) length of hospitalization was 22.2 (23.3) days, and the median (interquartile range) was 17 (11‐25) days. Estimated average cost of HF treatment per patient during index hospitalization was 300 090 yen with HFrEF treatment costing the most. Average total healthcare expenditure during hospitalization was 1 225 650 yen per index hospitalization per patient, with HFrEF also the most expensive. During a mean (SD) observation period of 324 (304) days, ~21% of patients in each group required re‐hospitalization for HF, and 625 patients (8.7%) died.

Conclusions

The proportion of patients in each HF category was largely consistent with existing data. Discharge medications indicated high prescription of guideline‐directed therapy. This study provides real‐world data on patients with HF in Japan that can help inform future clinical decision‐making.
Double‐Walled Honeycomb‐Like Metal‐Organophosphonium Framework with High H2 Gas Adsorption Capacities
Authors: Xia Sa‐Sa , Li Lan , Bao Chen‐Hao , Wang Xu‐Sheng , Chen Zhi
Published: September 2024

This study successfully synthesized a new Metal‐Organic Framework (MOF) named CJLU−L2, which was constructed from phosphorus‐containing ligands and Co(II) ions. The structure revealed through single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction (SCXRD), features a double‐walled honeycomb‐shaped structure with a one‐dimensional channel of ~6.5 Å. According to the PLATON calculation, the pore volume per unit cell of CJLU−L2 was determined to be 6825.0 Å3, constituting 57.5 % of the total crystal volume (11874.9 Å3). The Brunauer‐Emmett‐Teller (BET) surface area of CJLU−L2 was determined to be 954 m2/g by N2 adsorption measurement at 77 K. The phase purity of CJLU−L2 was verified by powder X‐ray diffraction (PXRD) and infrared spectroscopy (IR), while its thermal stability was confirmed by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Hydrogen adsorption experiments demonstrate that CJLU−L2 exhibits a high hydrogen adsorption capacity, indicating significant potential for gas adsorption applications.
Age of the examiner and older people's memory performances: A test of the stereotype threat theory using variations on negative age stereotypes across 18 European countries
Authors: Heiser Neele H. , Desrichard Olivier
Published: September 2024

This study investigated whether the age of examiner effect, that is, the positive relation between cognitive performance of older people and age of their examiner, relies on stereotype threat. Data from the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE), European Social Survey, European Statistical Office (Eurostat) and the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe were crossed. Older people from different countries were tested on verbal short‐ and long‐term recall components of memory, by examiners of different ages. Country‐specific indicators of negative age stereotypes, related to the stereotype threat mechanism, were used. We expected that the age of examiner effect would be stronger in countries with more negative age stereotypes. The results replicated the age of examiner effect, but contrary to our hypothesis, this effect was not moderated by countries’ indicators of negative age stereotypes. Negative age stereotypes across countries, such as experienced discrimination among older people, lack of active ageing index, unemployment ratio and perceived negative competence of older people decrease memory. The results are discussed in relation to stereotype threat theory.
A Study of Asymmetric Hyperbolic Heat Storage Unit
Authors: Luo Huanting , Du Wenjing , Wang Zhan
Published: September 2024

Due to the advantages of high energy density and constant temperature, phase change energy storage technology has attracted much attention in energy saving and efficient utilization of energy. In this paper, Fluent software is used to simulate and analyze the heat storage characteristics of six new thermal storage units: corrugated tube, hyperbolic‐shape, non‐hyperbolic‐shape, symmetric frustum‐shape, non‐frustum‐shape, and bow‐shape. The results show that the melting rate of the non‐hyperbolic‐shape phase change unit is significantly higher than that of the circular tube, the heat storage time is shortened by 22.52%, and Ra* reaches 0.0086. Second, the effects of the radius difference (δ) between the inlet and outlet of the non‐hyperbolic‐shape phase change unit and the asymmetric position (s) on the heat storage process are studied. The results show that when δ increases from 2 to 10 mm, the melting time of phase change material (PCM) is shortened by 22.89%, that is, the average heat transfer rate between PCM and heat transfer fluid increases with the increase of δ. On the other hand, the average heat storage rate of the heat storage unit decreases first and then increases with the increase of s. When δ = 10 mm, s = 35 mm is the best working condition, the average heat storage rate of the non‐hyperbolic‐shape thermal storage unit reaches 34.3 J/s. This study can provide new ideas and references for the optimization design of latent heat storage units and the progress of experiments.
Urban Lake Health Assessment Based on the Synergistic Perspective of Water Environment and Social Service Functions
Authors: Wang Xueyuan , Cheng Yuning
Published: September 2024

Urban lakes serve as vital ecological and recreational anchors within built environments, essential for enhancing urban resilience. Evaluating lake health predominantly focuses on water quality, assessing indicators such as nutrient levels, toxicity, pH balance, and water clarity to monitor changes. This study proposes a comprehensive evaluation framework that systematically describes specific spatiotemporal manifestations and periodic exogenous regulation characteristics across five dimensions: physical structure, water quality, shoreline dynamics, external regulation, and social service. Furthermore, it introduces an urban lake health assessment model based on synergistic development to evaluate the integrated development and interaction between water environments and social services. This model is applied across urban lakes in various developmental stages in China. Key findings include: 1) Urban development often impacts lake health disparately, with varying degrees of synergy observed between water environments and social services across different urban lakes. However, shifts in urban ideologies and improvements in governance, along with protective policies and project implementations, have contributed to improving water quality to some extent. 2) Engineering interventions do not consistently correspond with improvements in water quality, and governance measures sometimes yield mixed outcomes, underscoring the necessity for systematic solutions to lake health. Restoring hydrological processes emerges as crucial for enhancing sustainability.
A closer look at depression and sleep quality relation: A cross‐sectional study of taxi drivers in Tabriz metropolis
Authors: Abedi Leili , Naghizad Mohammad Bagher , Habibpour Zeinab , Shahsavarinia Kavous , Yazdani Mir Bahador , Saadati Mohammad
Published: September 2024

Background and Aim

Taxi drivers play a significant role in urban mobility and safety as professional drivers. They typically have poor incomes, long work hours, lack of sleep, and high levels of stress, which increase the risk of physical and mental illnesses. The goal of this study was to explore the relationship between sleep disorders and depression among Tabriz metropolis taxi drivers.

Methods

Using the street intercept technique, a cross‐sectional study was conducted with the participation of 402 taxi drivers in Tabriz during January and March 2020. Data collection tools included the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and Patient Health Questionnaire as well as demographic information. Twenty taxi stops were used as sampling sites, and the method used was random sampling based on the number of drivers at each stop. Statistical analysis was performed using Stata 13.

Results

The majority of drivers worked an average of 6 days each week, with a mean tenure of 13.3 years. The sleep quality mean score for drivers was 5 (SD = 2.3). Approximately, 21% of them had sleep disorder (PSQI >6). Moderate depression was recognized in 13% of drivers and moderately severe depression has been found in 5% of them. Drivers were more likely to experience sleep disorders if they had mild (odds ratio [OR] = 3.9), moderate (OR = 16.4), or fairly severe depression symptoms (OR = 35.3). A seven times higher risk of depression was identified among drivers with sleep disorders.

Conclusion

It might be contended that a mutual relationship has been found between sleep disorders and depression, and disregarding this will deteriorate sleep turbulences. Considering the pivotal role of taxi drivers in urban mobility, accommodating initiatives that give a break time for drivers and improve their mental health is recommended.
Endocan as a biomarker for acute respiratory distress syndrome: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Behnoush Amir Hossein , Khalaji Amirmohammad , Ghasemi Hoomaan , Tabatabaei Ghazaal Alavi , Samavarchitehrani Amirsaeed , Vaziri Zahra , Najafi Morvarid , Norouzi Mitra , Ghondaghsaz Elina , Amini Elahe , Gaudet Alexandre
Published: September 2024

Background and Aims

Endocan is a marker of endothelial damage. Data regarding the association of this proteoglycan and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is discrepant. Hence, this study sought to investigate the possible correlation between serum/plasma endocan concentration and ARDS.

Methods

A systematic review and meta‐analysis of international online databases was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. PubMed, SCOPUS, Embase, and Web of Science were searched in March 2023, with the leading search terms being “ARDS” OR “respiratory distress” AND “endocan” and other associated terms. Studies that measured endocan levels in patients with ARDS and compared it with non‐ARDS controls or within different severities of ARDS were included. We performed a random‐effect meta‐analysis for pooling the differences using standardized mean difference (SMD) and 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results

We included 14 studies involving 1,058 patients. Those developing ARDS had significantly higher levels of endocan compared to those without ARDS (SMD: 0.47, 95% CI: 0.10–0.84, p = 0.01). Our meta‐analysis of three studies found that endocan levels in ARDS nonsurvivors were significantly higher than in survivors (SMD: 0.31, 95% CI: 0.02–0.60, p = 0.03). Three studies investigated endocan levels in different severities of ARDS. Only one of these studies reported significantly higher endocan levels in patients with worsening acute respiratory failure at Day 15. The other two reported no significant association between ARDS severity and circulating endocan levels.

Conclusion

Blood endocan levels were significantly higher in patients with ARDS than those without. Additionally, among patients with ARDS, blood endocan values were significantly elevated in nonsurvivors compared to survivors. These findings could help researchers design future studies and solidify these findings and finally, clinicians to take advantage of measuring endocan in clinical settings for assessment of patients with ARDS.
Role of women in the water–energy–food (WEF) nexus—challenges and opportunities
Authors: Zohrabi Narges , Ragab Ragab , Navidi Nassaj Behzad , Farahani Firoozeh , Nairizi Saeed
Published: September 2024

Water, food and energy are crucial for human survival and sustainable development, being interconnected through the water–energy–food (WEF) nexus. Despite extensive research, the significant roles women play in these sectors are often underappreciated. Women are vital in water management, enhancing resource management, water quality and access, particularly in rural areas. In agriculture, they make up a large proportion of the workforce, boosting productivity, promoting sustainable farming practices and ensuring food security. Their deep knowledge of traditional food systems, coupled with their caregiving roles, contributes to providing nutritious and culturally appropriate diets. In the energy sector, women are key advocates for sustainable solutions and grassroots adoption of renewable energy technologies. Recognizing gender equality and empowering women are essential for maximizing their potential in the WEF nexus. Implementing gender‐responsive policies, inclusive decision‐making processes, and investing in education and skills training can significantly enhance women's roles in sustainable management. Empowered women drive innovation and transformative change, leading to more resilient and inclusive governance structures. This article emphasizes the importance of recognizing and supporting women's contributions within the WEF nexus, as this leads to more sustainable and equitable outcomes for all.
Efficacy of arch contouring foot orthoses for midfoot osteoarthritis: Protocol for a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Lim Polly Q. X. , Menz Hylton B. , Landorf Karl B. , Kaminski Michelle R. , Buldt Andrew K. , Lithgow Merridy J. , Paterson Kade L. , Halstead Jill , Munteanu Shannon E.
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Midfoot osteoarthritis (OA) is a painful and disabling condition. Arch contouring foot orthoses have been recommended for midfoot OA, yet there is no high‐quality evidence from randomised controlled trials to support their use. This clinical trial aims to evaluate the efficacy of arch contouring foot orthoses for midfoot OA.

Methods

This will be a parallel‐group randomised controlled superiority trial. One‐hundred and forty community‐dwelling people with painful midfoot OA will be randomised to receive either arch contouring foot orthoses or flat sham inserts. Outcome measures will be obtained at baseline, 4, 8 and 12 weeks; the primary endpoint for assessing efficacy being 12 weeks. The primary outcome measure will be average midfoot pain whilst walking over the last 7 days on an 11‐point numerical rating scale. Secondary outcome measures include function (walking/standing subscale of the Manchester–Oxford Foot Questionnaire), participants' perception of overall treatment effect (self‐reported global rating of change on a 15‐point Likert scale), physical activity (Incidental and Planned Exercise Questionnaire), general health‐related quality of life (Short Form‐12 Version® 2.0), use of co‐interventions and adverse events.

Discussion

This trial will evaluate the efficacy of arch contouring foot orthoses for relieving pain and improving function, physical activity and health‐related quality of life in people with midfoot OA. The findings will provide high‐quality evidence as to whether arch contouring foot orthoses are efficacious and will help to inform clinical guidelines about the use of foot orthoses for midfoot OA.

Trial registration

Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry (ACTRN12623000953639).
Concise Synthesis of Azaphenanthrene Alkaloid Eupolauramine Via Au(I)‐Catalyzed Cycloisomerization and Intramolecular Ullmann‐Type Coupling Reaction
Authors: Kim Eunyeong , Han Young Taek
Published: September 2024

A concise and efficient synthesis of the γ‐lactam‐fused azaphenanthrene alkaloid eupolauramine has been achieved. The key feature of the synthesis involves Au(I)‐catalyzed cycloisomerization of N‐naphthyl aminobutynamide intermediate and subsequent intramolecular Ullmann‐type coupling reaction. This study clearly demonstrated the usefulness of coinage metal‐catalyzed cycloisomerization strategy in the construction of architecturally sophisticated pyridine‐fused heterocyclic scaffolds.
Intra‐annual dynamics of soil and microbial C, N, and P pools in a Central Amazon Terra Firme forest
Authors: Schaap Karst J. , Fuchslueger Lucia , Hofhansl Florian , Valverde‐Barrantes Oscar , Quesada Carlos Alberto , Hoosbeek Marcel R.
Published: September 2024

Background

Tropical ecosystem functioning is influenced by seasonal fluctuations in precipitation, but the impact on soil nutrient cycling and microbial stoichiometry is not fully understood.

Aim

This study investigates the magnitude of intra‐annual fluctuations in nutrient availability and microbial biomass in a tropical forest soil by examining carbon (C), nitrogen (N), and phosphorus (P) pools.

Methods

We analyzed the total, extractable, and microbial C, N, and P contents and their stoichiometry in Terra Firme Ferralsols, representative for the central Amazon basin.

Results

We observed intra‐annual variations in resource availability, particularly between wet and dry seasons. Despite relatively stable total C, N, and P stocks throughout the year, we observed a decrease in extractable organic C and available (Olsen) P and an increase in extractable N in the dry season compared to the wet season. Microbial biomass pools and stoichiometry also varied across sampling dates and soil depths: relative to microbial‐C and ‐N, microbial‐P decreased in both wet and dry season and increased in the transition from wet to dry season.

Conclusions

Our research highlights intra‐annual variation in nutrient pools, particularly dynamic microbial carbon and nutrient fractions, in weathered tropical forest soils.
Functional preoperative assessment of coronal knee laxity better predicts postoperative patient outcomes than intraoperative surgeon‐defined laxity in total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Jagota Ishaan , Al‐Dirini Rami M. A. , Taylor Mark , Twiggs Joshua , Miles Brad , Liu David
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Intraoperative laxity assessments in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) are subjective, with few studies comparing against standardised preoperative and postoperative assessments. This study compares coronal knee laxity in TKA patients awake and anaesthetised, preprosthesis and postprosthesis implantation, evaluating relationships to patient‐reported outcome measures.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of 49 TKA joints included preoperative and postoperative computed tomography scans, stress radiographs and knee injury and osteoarthritis outcome score (KOOS) questionnaire results preoperatively and 12 months postoperatively. The imaging was used to assess functional laxity (FL) in awake patients, whereas computer navigation measured intraoperative surgical laxity (SL) preimplantation and postimplantation, with patients anaesthetised. Varus and valgus stress states and their difference, joint laxity, were measured.

Results

SL was greater than FL in both preimplantation [8.1° (interquartile range, IQR 2.0°) and 3.8° (IQR 2.9°), respectively] and postimplantation [3.5° (IQR 2.3°) and 2.5° (IQR 2.7°), respectively]. Preimplantation, SL was more likely than FL to categorise knees as correctable to ±3° of the mechanical axis. Preoperative FL correlated with KOOS Symptoms (r = 0.33, p = .02) and quality of life (QOL) (r = 0.38, p = .01), whereas reducing medial laxity with TKA enhanced postoperative QOL outcomes (p = .02).

Conclusions

Functional coronal knee laxity assessment of awake patients is generally lower than intraoperative surgical assessments of anaesthetised patients. Preoperative SL may result in overcorrection of coronal TKA alignment, whereas preoperative FL better predicts postoperative patient outcomes and reflects the patients' native and tolerable knee laxity. Preoperative FL assessment can be used to guide surgical planning.

Level of Evidence

Level II.
Joint‐line obliquity angle is significantly affected by hip abduction and adduction: A simulated analysis
Authors: Bechis Marco , Liberace Francesco , Cantivalli Antonino , Rosso Federica , Rossi Roberto , Bonasia Davide E.
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Different methods for quantifying joint‐line obliquity (JLO) have been described, including joint‐line obliquity angle (JLOA), Mikulicz joint‐line angle (MJLA) and medial proximal tibial angle (MPTA). The goal of the present study was to quantify the variation of JLOA based on the position of the hip. The hypothesis of our study is that JLO is significantly influenced by the abduction/adduction of the limb, unlike MJLA.

Methods

One hundred long‐leg‐weightbearing X‐rays were used. At time 0 and after 30 days, two observers performed different measurements, including (1) distance between pubic symphysis and center of the femoral head, (2) distance between center of the femoral head and center of the ankle joint, (3) distance between center of the ankle and medial malleolus, (4) hip‐knee‐ankle angle, (5) MPTA, (6) lateral distal femoral angle, (7) joint‐line congruency angle, (8) JLOA, (9) MJL and (10) angle between Mikulicz line and line perpendicular to the ground. The changes of the JLOA based on the position of the hip (abducted, neutral, bipedal stance adduction and monopodal stance adduction) were calculated with trigonometric formulas and with simulation on an orthopaedic planning digital software.

Results

The JLOA change between adducted and abducted positions was on average 12.8° (SD 0.9 mm). The MJL did not vary significantly based on hip position.

Conclusions

The adduction/abduction of the lower limb has a considerable impact on JLOA. Methods like MJLA which are not affected by hip position should be preferred for JLO evaluation.

Level of Evidence

Level III, diagnostic study.