bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optymalizacja współczynników modelu BELLS3 w celu zwiększenia precyzji obliczeń temperatury warstw asfaltowych w pomiarach FWD i TSD
Authors: Sudyka Jacek , Mechowski Tomasz , Harasim Przemysław , Graczyk Mirosław , Matysek Andrzej
Published: February 2025

W artykule omówiono proces optymalizacji modelu BELLS3, służącego do prognozowania temperatury warstw asfaltowych, szczególnie w pomiarach ugięć na polskich drogach. Model BELLS3, oparty na danych z programu Long-Term Pavement Performance, jest popularnym narzędziem umożliwiającym szybkie i bezkontaktowe oszacowanie temperatury warstw asfaltowych na różnych głębokościach. Jednakże jego dokładność może być ograniczona w kontekście lokalnych warunków klimatycznych, które różnią się od tych uwzględnionych w oryginalnym modelu. W pracy przeprowadzono analizę weryfikacyjną, testując model na danych z pomiarów FWD, a następnie dokonano jego optymalizacji za pomocą metody najmniejszych kwadratów (MNK). To podejście dało niewielką poprawę dokładności (zaledwie o 1%) przy jednoczesnej redukcji błędu do 2,12°C. Dlatego zdecydowano o rozszerzeniu analizy o zastosowanie metody uczenia maszynowego (MARS), która pozwala na uzyskanie postaci jawnej modelu. Rozwiązanie to poprawiło dokładność o 6%, redukując błąd do 1,84°C. Na tej podstawie zasugerowano dalsze badania nad modelami hybrydowymi i opartymi na sztucznej inteligencji, które mogłyby zwiększyć skuteczność prognozowania temperatury warstw asfaltowych w lokalnych warunkach klimatycznych.
A thermodynamic framework for nonequilibrium self-assembly and force morphology tradeoffs in branched actin networks
Authors: Rennert Elisabeth , Vaikuntanathan Suriyanarayanan
Published: February 2025

Branched actin networks are involved in a variety of cellular processes, most notably the formation of lamellipodia in the leading edge of the cell. These systems adapt to varying loads through force dependent assembly rates that allow the network density and material properties to be modulated. Recent experimental work has described growth and force feedback mechanisms in these systems. Here, we consider the role played by energy dissipation in determining the kind of growth-force-morphology curves obtained in experiments. We construct a minimal model of the branched actin network self assembly process incorporating some of the established mechanisms. Our minimal analytically tractable model is able to reproduce experimental trends in density and growth rate. Further, we show how these trends depend crucially on entropy dissipation and change quantitatively if the entropy dissipation is parametrically set to values corresponding to a quasistatic state. Finally, we also identify the potential energy costs of adaptive behavior by branched actin networks, using insights from our minimal models. We suggest that the dissipative cost in the system beyond what is necessary to move the load may be necessary to maintain an adaptive steady state. Our results hence show how constraints from stochastic thermodynamics and non-equilibrium thermodynamics may bound or constrain the structures that result in such force generating processes.
Sex chromosome gene expression associated with vocal learning following hormonal manipulation in female zebra finches
Authors: Davenport Matthew H , Choe Ha Na , Matsunami Hiroaki , Jarvis Erich D
Published: February 2025

Zebra finches are sexually dimorphic vocal learners. Males learn to sing by imitating mature conspecifics, but females do not. Absence of song in females is associated with partial atrophy and apparent repression of several vocal learning brain regions during development. However, atrophy can be prevented and vocal learning retained in females when given early pharmacological estrogen treatment. To screen for candidate drivers of this sexual dimorphism, we performed an unbiased transcriptomic analysis of song learning nuclei specializations relative to the surrounding regions from either sex, treated with vehicle or estrogen until 30 days old when divergence between the sexes becomes anatomically apparent. Analyses of transcriptomes by RNA sequencing identified song nuclei-specialized gene expressed modules associated with sex and estrogen manipulation. Female HVC and Area X gene modules were specialized by estrogen supplementation, exhibiting a subset of the transcriptomic specializations observed in males. Female RA and LMAN specialized modules were less dependent on estrogen. The estrogen-induced gene modules in females were enriched for anatomical development functions and strongly correlated to the expression of several Z sex chromosome genes. We present a hypothesis where reduced dosage and expression of these Z chromosome genes suppresses the full development of the song system and thus song learning behavior, which is partially rescued by estrogen treatment.
Adult neurogenesis through glial transdifferentiation in a CNS injury paradigm
Authors: Casas-Tintó Sergio , García-Guillen Nuria , Losada-Pérez Maria
Published: February 2025

As the global population ages, the prevalence of neurodegenerative disorders is fast increasing. This neurodegeneration as well as other CNS injuries cause permanent disabilities. Thus, generation of new neurons is the rosetta stone in contemporary neuroscience.Glial cells support central nervous system (CNS) homeostasis through evolutionary conserved mechanisms. Upon damage, glial cells activate an immune and inflammatory response to clear the injury site from debris, and proliferate to restore cell number. This glial regenerative response (GRR) is mediated by the neuropil associated glia (NG) in
Drosophila
, equivalent to vertebrate astrocytes, oligodendrocytes (OL) and oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs). Here, we examine the contribution of NG lineages and the GRR in response to injury. The results indicate that NG exchanges identities between ensheathing glia (EG) and astrocyte like glia (ALG). Additionally, we found that NG cells undergo transdifferentiation to yield neurons. Moreover, this transdifferentiation increases in injury conditions. Thus, these data demonstrate that glial cells are able to generate new neurons through direct transdifferentiation. The present work makes a fundamental contribution to the CNS regeneration field and describes a new physiological mechanism to generate new neurons.
Chemogenetic stimulation of phrenic motor output and diaphragm activity
Authors: Benevides Ethan S , Thakre Prajwal P , Rana Sabhya , Sunshine Michael D , Jensen Victoria N , Oweiss Karim , Fuller David D
Published: February 2025

Impaired respiratory motor output contributes to morbidity and mortality in many neurodegenerative diseases and neurologic injuries. We investigated if expressing designer receptors exclusively activated by designer drugs (DREADDs) in the mid-cervical spinal cord could effectively stimulate phrenic motor output to increase diaphragm activation. Two primary questions were addressed: 1) does effective DREADD-mediated diaphragm activation require focal expression in phrenic motoneurons (vs. non-specific mid-cervical expression), and 2) can this method produce a sustained increase in inspiratory tidal volume? Wild type (C57/bl6) and ChAT-Cre mice received bilateral intraspinal (C4) injections of an adeno-associated virus (AAV) encoding the hM3D(Gq) excitatory DREADD. In wild-type mice, this produced non-specific DREADD expression throughout the mid-cervical ventral horn. In ChAT-Cre mice, a Cre-dependent viral construct was used to drive neuronal DREADD expression in the C4 ventral horn, targeting phrenic motoneurons. Diaphragm EMG was recorded in isoflurane-anesthetized spontaneously breathing mice at 4-9 weeks post-AAV delivery. The DREADD ligand JHU37160 (J60) caused a bilateral, sustained (>1 hour) increase in inspiratory EMG bursting in both groups; the relative increase was greater in ChAT-Cre mice. Additional experiments in ChAT-Cre rats were conducted to determine if spinal DREADD activation could increase inspiratory tidal volume (VT) during spontaneous breathing, assessed using whole-body plethysmography without anesthesia. Three-to-four months after intraspinal (C4) injection of AAV driving Cre-dependent hM3D(Gq) expression, intravenous J60 resulted in a sustained (>30 min) increase in VT. Subsequently, phrenic nerve recordings performed under urethane anesthesia confirmed that J60 evoked a > 200% increase in inspiratory output. We conclude that targeting mid-cervical spinal DREADD expression to the phrenic motoneuron pool enables ligand-induced, sustained increases in phrenic motor output and VT. Further development of this technology may enable application to clinical conditions associated with impaired diaphragm activation and hypoventilation.
Comparative effectiveness of nonpharmacological interventions for the nutritional status of maintenance hemodialysis patients: a systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Ma Xiaolan , Tang Chun , Tan Hong , Lei Jingmei , Li Li
Published: February 2025

Objective

We aim to analyze the effects of different nonpharmacological interventions on the nutritional status of patients on maintenance hemodialysis (MHD).

Methods

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) conducted up to October 12, 2023 were searched in the Cochrane Library, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wan Fang Database, VIP databases, and China Biomedical Literature Database. R and Review Manager software were used for data analysis, the quality of the literature was assessed using the Cochrane Risk Bias Tool RoB2.0, the reliability of evidence was evaluated using Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation guidelines, and sources of heterogeneity were explored through sensitivity analyses. This study was registered in PROSPERO with registration number CRD42023458187.

Results

A total of 54 studies met the criteria, 3,861 patients were enrolled in this study, and 11 interventions were explored. The results of the network meta-analysis (NMA) showed that dietary intervention is the best intervention in terms of improving patients’ body mass index and serum albumin levels and health education is the best intervention in terms of improving patients’ hemoglobin levels.

Conclusion

This NMA confirmed that different nonpharmacological interventions benefit the nutritional status of patients on MHD, providing novel insights for healthcare practitioners. However, high-quality RCTs should be designed to validate the stability of the level of evidence for different nonpharmacological interventions.
The Hidden Burden: Emotional Labor and Well-being of School Teachers
Authors: Nath Rinku , Pandey Chandra Prabha
Published: February 2025

Emotional labor involves regulating emotions to meet professional expectations, often at the expense of personal well-being. Studying emotional labor in teaching is crucial due to its significant impact on educators' well-being, job satisfaction, and effectiveness. Constant emotional regulation can lead to burnout and attrition, exacerbating teacher shortages. Addressing this issue is essential for teacher retention, student success, and the sustainability of the education system. This study reviews literature from 2000 to 2024 across multiple databases, selecting 41 publications out of 182 for analysis. It explores the challenges and implications of emotional labor among school teachers. Educators frequently engage in emotional regulation to create conducive learning environments, maintain relationships with students, parents, and colleagues, and manage classroom dynamics. However, this often results in emotional exhaustion, stress, and burnout, further aggravated by inadequate institutional support and excessive workload. Additionally, this review highlights coping mechanisms adopted by teachers, including mindfulness and peer support, while emphasizing the need for organizational policies that acknowledge and mitigate the effects of emotional labor. By identifying key concerns and proposing actionable recommendations, this study aims to enhance the understanding of emotional labor in educational settings and its impact on teachers' mental health and job performance.
Review on Algorithmic Approaches to Solving Knapsack Problem
Authors: Hassan Yosra Ali , Ibrahim Ibrahim Mahmood
Published: February 2025

The knapsack problem is a classic optimization challenge where the objective is to maximize the total value of items packed into a knapsack without exceeding its weight capacity It comes in several variants, including the 0–1 Knapsack Problem (0-1KP), the Multidimensional Knapsack Problem (MDKP), and the Quadratic Knapsack Problem (QKP). This Review paper conducts a detailed exploration and analysis of algorithmic strategies developed for solving the knapsack problem (KP). The paper delves into various algorithmic approaches, including advanced dynamic programming, heuristic and metaheuristic algorithms like genetic algorithms and simulated annealing. The goal is to provide a comprehensive comparison and evaluation of these diverse algorithmic approaches, examining their performance, efficiency, and applicability in various real-world scenarios. By highlighting the strengths, weaknesses, and recent developments in knapsack problem-solving algorithms, this review aims to guide future research and help practitioners make informed choices.
Banana Value Chain Factors and Marketing Channels: A Case Study of Meru, Embu and Tharaka-Nithi Counties in Kenya
Authors: Nyariki I. , Koech E. , Kiramana J. K. , Isutsa D. K. , Abucheli G. O. , Mwove J. , Irungu F. G. , Orwa J. D. , Njoki J. W.
Published: February 2025

Banana is a tropical crop grown in most developing countries, where it is commercialized by smallholder farmers. Banana is a major source of income, improved food security and possess great potential for value addition and export. Kenya is the largest producer of banana in East Africa, where it is a major source of food and income for smallholders. However, despite all these benefits, little is reported about its value chain factors and marketing channels in Kenya. Apparently, there are many restricting constraints in terms of banana supply and marketing management. Therefore, this study mapped socio-economic factors in the banana value chain and identified marketing channels in one banana-rich region, comprising Meru, Embu, and Tharaka-Nithi in Kenya. The study employed a cross-sectional survey design and multi-stage sampling of 384 respondents, comprising farmers, traders, and middlemen. A structured questionnaire was administered to respondents to collect primary data, which was subjected to descriptive and econometric analyses. The study found that majority of the farmers were small-scale, who used family labour (60%) and had limited access to credit and extension services. Middlemen were the dominant actors in marketing channels, compared to direct marketing. Farming experience and land allocated to banana were significant predictors with P=.030 and .040, respectively in Tharaka-Nithi, and P=.030 and .014, respectively in Embu. In Meru, land allocated to banana, type of labour, farming experience and education level were significant predictors with P=.012, .009, .059 and .080, respectively. Most farmers did not have a specific buyer of their bananas and hence were prone to exploitation by middlemen. Also few farmers got information on marketing channels. These findings provide insights into challenges faced by small-scale banana farmers in the region and recommends enactment of policies that support farmer access to credit, extension services, and direct marketing channels. Sustained sensitization of farmers on value chain requirements should instill the right marketing channel to adopt and consistently use.
Chemical and Biochemical Mechanisms of Purple Bacteria in Wastewater Treatment: Optimization and Resource Recovery
Authors: Mahali Mahmud Jan , ZAHIR Abdul Manan , Alizada Abdul Majid , Halimi Mila Joya , Joya Muhammad Babur
Published: February 2025

Given the environmental concerns arising from industrial wastewater pollution and the need for sustainable treatment solutions, this study investigates the performance of the purple bacterial strain Rhodobacter capsulatus Z08 in wastewater treatment and resource recovery through its chemical and biochemical reactions. The primary aim was to determine the effects of optimal conditions—including pH = 7.5, temperature of 30°C, and continuous illumination (500–1000 lux)—as well as various light conditions (natural light, darkness, and infrared) combined with different sulfate concentrations (0.1, 0.5, and 1 g S/L) on pollutant removal efficiency and biomass enhancement. The methodology involved conducting controlled experiments to measure the reduction in chemical oxygen demand (COD), changes in biomass, and heavy metal removal, alongside assessing the impact of sulfate-induced stress on the system’s performance. Results demonstrated that under optimal conditions, COD was reduced by up to 88%, biomass increased by 38%, and heavy metal removal reached 90%; additionally, natural light under microaerobic conditions yielded a 74% COD reduction, while dark aerobic conditions achieved a 62% reduction. In sulfate stress tests, a concentration of 0.1 g S/L resulted in nearly zero effluent COD, whereas increasing sulfate to 0.5 and 1 g S/L produced effluent COD values of 100–200 mg/L and approximately 600 mg/L, respectively. Furthermore, switching the light source to infrared led to complete COD removal (0 mg/L) and stabilization of ammonium levels between 10 and 15 mg N/L. Overall, these findings underscore that precise optimization of operational parameters, particularly light exposure and sulfate concentration, is essential for achieving higher efficiency in industrial wastewater treatment and effective biomass recovery, thereby advancing sustainable and economically viable technologies.
Numerical Investigation of Variable Viscosity and Thermal Conductivity on Natural Convection Flow along a Vertical Flat Plate with Heat Conduction
Authors: Al-Amin Md. , Alam Md. M. , Sarker Sree Pradip Kumer
Published: February 2025

This study numerically investigates the effects of variable viscosity and thermal conductivity on natural convection flow along a vertical flat plate with Joule heating and heat generation. Using the implicit finite difference method, specifically the Crank-Nicolson scheme, this work solves the dimensionless governing equations derived from the two-dimensional, laminar, and unsteady boundary layer equations. The study focuses on viscous incompressible fluids where both thermal conductivity and viscosity are temperature-dependent. Key findings from the research include detailed insights into how these variable properties influence fluid dynamics and heat transfer processes. Notably, increased thermal conductivity results in up to a 15% increase in local Nusselt numbers, indicating enhanced heat transfer rates. Conversely, reductions in viscosity lead to lower skin friction coefficients, suggesting less resistance to flow and potentially higher flow rates. The study also demonstrates variable effects on temperature profiles and velocity fields, where higher thermal conductivity correlates with higher overall temperatures and velocities across the studied range. These results, displayed through comprehensive tables and graphs, provide a significant contribution to the understanding of complex interactions in natural convection flows and offer practical insights for optimizing thermal management systems in engineering applications. Comparisons with existing studies affirm the validity of the numerical approaches used and the relevance of the findings to ongoing research in thermal sciences.
Comparative Analysis of Indigenous Tree Seed Germination for a Revamping Biodiverse Reforestation
Authors: W-M Ndayitwayeko , R Habonayo , A Nduwimana , O Ndayitwayeko
Published: February 2025

Aims: This paper is to carry out a comparative analysis on seed germination of four indigenous tree varieties so that they may be used for reforestation and enhancing biodiversity in their ecosystems.
Study Design: An experimental research was on four indigenous tree varieties were chosen based on their socio-economic and biodiversity importance: Maesopsis eminii (Umuhumure) ; Albizia gummifera (umusebeyi), Entandrophragma excelsum (Umuyove)  and Prunus africana (Umuremera). Three substracts were separately prepared in which 100 seeds of each varieties were planted and their growth were monitored daily in were controlled nursery.
Place and Duration of Study: From October to December 2023, data were collected after 5 days on the following indicators, growth, cinetic and duration of germination. Analytical tools such as anova and regression were applied.
Methodology: Three substracts were separately prepared in which 100 seeds of each varieties were planted and their growth were monitored daily in were controlled nursery.
Results: The number of grain germinated increased as the time goes by but it is the variety Umuhumure which marked with a higher and steady growth than other variety and Umusebeyi, 80 out of 100, tops in the number of grain germinated after three months. The study shows that rates of growth were 74, 37, 29 and 14 out of 100 for Umusebeyi, Umuremera, Umuyove and Umuhumure respectively. On overall, with one-way ANOVA, means of grains germinated of the three indigenous trees are significantly different (<0.01) when grain variety factor is considered but when the interaction between variety and replication are also considered (two-way ANOVA), the two have a significant effect on the number of grains germinated (<0.01).  Other findings are the effect of the germinated grains depends on the number of replication and period of grains growth (in terms of days). 6% and 48% variations explain the interaction between replication and type of variety on one hand and the number of variety growth on the other hand.
Conclusion: the Albizia gummifera (Umusebeyi) to be considered when the reforestation of indigenous tree is undertaken. However, other varieties may be used if the right substracts and growth conditions are found.
A Study on Determining Marketing Problems of Agricultural Commodities Faced by Farmers of Longleng District of Nagaland, India
Authors: Phukan Pallabi , Barman Utpal , Kalita H. C.
Published: February 2025

Production and productivity of agricultural commodities are increasing in Nagaland, India. Farmers were facing the marketing of produced commodities rather than increasing production. Therefore, a study was conducted in the state to determine different types of marketing problems faced by the farmers. Among the districts, Longleng district was selected randomly. The Ex-post Facto research design was followed to collect data from 150 randomly selected farmers from the district by face-to-face contact method. The study used the Garret ranking method to rank different marketing problems in the Longleng district of Nagaland. The study revealed that most (68. 67%) farmers were 26-41 years old. About one-third of farmers had an educational level up to high school. Above half of the respondents were female farmers, lived in nuclear families, and had annual incomes ranging from ₹ 24,312. 00 to ₹ 52,648. 00. The study found that the lack of an organised market became one of the serious problems in the district that ranked Ist, followed by a 'lack of awareness of market information'. 'Lack of storage facilities' was the third major market problem. The study suggested that a properly and systematically organised market and conducting different awareness cum training programmes, establishing market linkages with different digital market portals may enhance the knowledge of marketing information. Developing storage facilities like small warehouses and small cold storage near the marketplace might be a suitable solution to solve the main market problems, which will enhance farmers' income and improve the standard of living among farmers in Longleng district.
Enhancing ICT Literacy among Rural Women: A Case Study on Capacity Building through Targeted Interventions
Authors: Malakar Pompy , Deka Manoshi Baruah
Published: February 2025

Information plays an essential role in improving rural women's decision-making in agriculture and related fields by increasing their understanding of new technologies, inputs, pricing and market demand of various agricultural commodities. Integration of Information Communication Technology (ICT) with agriculture may transform the agricultural industry and enhance the overall economy of the country. The present study involves a multistage random sampling design and a total of 30 numbers of respondents were selected as the respondents for the present study. The study was conducted to assess the impact of the intervention programme on knowledge and practice on use of selected ICT applications among the rural women. Based on the existing knowledge of respondents on ICTs an intervention programme was organized. The intervention programme includes a detailed module related to the use of different ICT tools in a vernacular language so that the respondents can assess the information easily and comfortably at their doorstep. The study reveals that before interventions mean score of their knowledge was 18.4 and after intervention immediate post knowledge scores was 41.26. Further it was found that before interventions mean score of their existing practices was 7.76 and after intervention immediate adoption of practices scores was 13.33. Through this intervention, the rural women become able to gain knowledge and enhance their skills in use of different information through ICT. This knowledge could help them in developing their socio- economic status. Hence the study states that similar type of intervention programmes on ICT applications among the rural women may increase their knowledge and enhance their practice on different aspects related to agriculture and allied areas.
Representation Quotients to Examine Diversity in Ophthalmology Residency Applicants and Matriculants
Authors: Paracha Saba S. , Williams Shani A. , Shamshad Alizeh , Persad-Paisley Elijah M. , Migliori Michael E.
Published: January 2025

Importance

A diverse ophthalmic workforce is key to equitable care, and identifying areas of underrepresentation is important in tackling vision care disparities.

Objective

To evaluate the diversity of applicants and matriculants in ophthalmology residency programs relative to medical school graduates and analyze the intersection of race and gender within this pathway.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective cross-sectional study conducted from 2022 to 2024 used representation quotients (RQs) using reports from the Association of University Professors of Ophthalmology and San Francisco Match, along with demographic data from the Association of American Medical Colleges from 2008 to 2021. RQs measure equity by dividing a racial, ethnic, or gender group’s proportion in a specific population by its proportion in a larger reference population. Individuals who graduated from US medical schools from 2008 to 2021 or who applied to or matriculated into US ophthalmology residency programs from 2015 to 2021 and from 2008 to 2021, respectively, were eligible for inclusion.

Exposure

Applying to or matriculating into ophthalmology residency.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was median RQs and trends among racial, ethnic, and gender groups for ophthalmology applicants (RQapp) and matriculants (RQmat), with RQ differences evaluated using Mann-Whitney U tests.

Results

Among total applicants (n = 5304) and matriculants (n = 6139), 36% and 42% of applicants and matriculants, respectively, were female (applicants: 28% Asian, 4% Black, 7% Hispanic, and 47% White; matriculants: 31% Asian, 3% Black, 5% Hispanic, and 57% White). Self-identified Black individuals had the lowest median (IQR) RQs (RQapp, 0.604 [0.437-0.771]; RQmat, 0.469 [0.341-0.597]). Regression analysis revealed increased representation for male applicants (slope, 0.036; 95% CI, 0.015-0.057; P = .007) and matriculants (slope, 0.009; 95% CI, 0.002-0.016; P = .02), but decreased representation for female applicants (slope, –0.031; 95% CI, –0.010 to –0.102; P = .01) and matriculants (slope, –0.009; 95% CI, –0.016 to –0.002; P = .02). Black (RQapp, 0.604 vs RQmat, 0.469; P = .047) and Hispanic (RQapp, 1.46 vs RQmat, 1.04; P = .03) groups experienced a decrease between applicant and matriculants.

Conclusions and Relevance

This cross-sectional retrospective study found persistent underrepresentation of Black and female individuals in ophthalmology residency programs, with increases in Black and Hispanic applicants failing to translate into higher matriculation rates. Barriers that female or Black medical students face when applying or matriculating into ophthalmology residency may contribute to their underrepresentation in the field.
Temperature Excursion of Intravitreal Anti-VEGF Agents During Home Storage
Authors: Ben Ghezala Inès , Steinberg Laure-Anne , Sibert Maxime , Lazzarotti Aline , Ambresin Aude , Gabrielle Pierre-Henry , Creuzot-Garcher Catherine
Published: January 2025

Importance

Some patients worldwide are asked to acquire an anti–vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) agent from a pharmacy, store it, and then bring it to a physician for intravitreal injection (IVT). Anti-VEGF agents must be stored in the refrigerator to avoid bacterial contamination or denaturation. Some cases of severe intraocular inflammation have been reported following IVT of more recently approved anti-VEGF agents, which might be explained by thermal instability.

Objective

To investigate whether patients followed the storage temperature guidelines for intravitreal anti-VEGF agents in daily clinical practice.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This quality improvement study, performed between May 27 and June 7, 2024, at the Ophthalmology Department of Dijon University Hospital in Dijon, France, included all consecutive patients with new or renewed prescriptions for intravitreal anti-VEGF agents for any macular disease.

Main Outcomes and Measures

All participants were given a time-temperature indicator that changed color according to brief (2-12 hours), moderate (12-48 hours), and prolonged (≥48 hours) exposure over 8 °C. The indicator was activated at the time of the anti-VEGF agent delivery to the participant in community pharmacies.

Results

During the study period, 50 participants were prescribed intravitreal anti-VEGF agents and were given a time-temperature indicator. A total of 38 participants (24 [63.2%] female; median age, 79.3 [IQR, 74.3-86.3] years) returned for their IVT with an analyzable indicator. Of the 38 analyzable indicators, all showed temperature excursions above the threshold of 8 °C, including 26 (68.4%) for 12 to 48 hours and 11 (28.9%) for 48 hours or longer. Following anti-VEGF agent IVT, no participant experienced any ocular adverse effect that might be associated with severe intraocular inflammation.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this quality improvement study, temperature excursions of anti-VEGF agents above 8 °C for 48 hours or longer were recorded for 28.9% of participants during home storage. While it is unknown how these 38 participants relate to other patients worldwide who are required to obtain their own anti-VEGF agents, these findings suggest that patients need education about the importance of rigorous maintenance of cold storage of their anti-VEGF agents.
Competitive Solvation Structures via Hetero‐Salt Additive Strategy Enables Temperature‐Adaptive Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Huang Pei , Lin Jialin , Wang Zian , Li Weijie , Chen Yuejiao , Zhou Liangjun , Chen Libao , Zhang Chunxiao , Wei Weifeng
Published: January 2025

Sodium metal batteries (SMBs) are the ultimate choice for high‐energy density sodium‐based batteries. However, their practicality is still constrained by the uncontrolled side reactions and unstable solid electrolyte interface (SEI) between the electrolyte and Na‐metal anode. Herein, a hetero‐salt additive (Lithium difluorophosphate, LiDFP) strategy is proposed to optimize the solvation structure of pseudo gel‐polymer electrolyte (pGPE) and construct robust SEI on Na metal anode, thereby enhancing Na+ deposition/stripping kinetics. Detailed characterization reveals that Li+ with lower binding energy to solvent molecules can steal solvent molecules from Na+ coordination environment, and then push anions to further coordinate with Na+. The formed anion‐enriched solvation structure can assist to restrain side reactions and form a robust inorganics‐dominated SEI on Na metal anode. Consequently, such optimization effectively realizes outstanding electrochemical performance of the cells under wide operation temperature (−20 to 70 °C) and prolongs cycling life (1900 h) of Na plating/stripping. Furthermore, paired with commercial NaNi1/3Fe1/3Mn1/3O2 (NFM) cathode and hard carbon (HC) anode, the pouch cell using pGPE+0.5%LiDFP delivers a high‐capacity retention of 87.5% at 45 °C after 250 cycles. It is believed that this work affords emerging chances for the rational electrolyte design of stable wide‐temperate SIBs.
Rod‐Shaped Microgel Scaffolds with Interconnective Pores and Oxygen‐generating Functions Promote Skin Wound Healing and Alleviate Hypertrophic Scar Formation
Authors: Kang Yongyuan , Liu Xiaoqing , Wang Jie , Peng Pai , Liang Min , Wang Qiaoxuan , Zheng Weiwei , Li Shifen , Gao Changyou
Published: January 2025

The processes of skin wound healing and scar formation are complex, often involving hypoxia and inflammation, which create a pathological microenvironment that impedes normal healing. Improving wound oxygenation and reducing inflammation are crucial for accelerating healing and reducing scarring. Traditional dressings like sponges, gauze, and hydrogels struggle to balance moisture retention, breathability, and exudate absorption. To address these challenges, rod‐shaped microgel scaffolds with larger surface areas and interconnected porous structures are explored to enhance gas transport, promoting wound oxygenation and moisture retention, thus accelerating healing and reducing scarring. Nanoparticles (NPs) are used to mediate the formation of microgels‐assembled scaffold and to load catalase (CAT) for enhanced bioactivity. In vitro experiments showed that this material alleviated oxidative stress and reduced the activity of hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α (HIF‐1α), nuclear factor kappa B (NF‐κB), and the downstream transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGF‐β)/Smad pathway in fibroblasts. The incorporation of CAT showed a significant promotion of M2‐phenotype macrophage polarization. In vivo studies on rat and rabbit wounds demonstrated that the microgel scaffolds significantly improved exudate absorption and breathability, maintaining a moist and oxygenated environment. These scaffolds reduced tissue hypoxia, accelerated wound healing, and decreased hypertrophic scar formation in vivo. This innovative method leveraged the unique properties of microgels to effectively enhance skin tissue regeneration.
Smart Polymeric 3D Microscaffolds Hosting Spheroids for Neuronal Research via Quantum Metrology
Authors: Costa Beatriz N. L. , Marote Ana , Barbosa Catarina , Campos Jonas , Salgado António J. , Nieder Jana B.
Published: January 2025

Toward the aim of reducing animal testing, innovative in vitro models are required. Here, this study proposes a novel smart polymeric microscaffold to establish an advanced 3D model of dopaminergic neurons. These scaffolds are fabricated with Ormocomp via Two‐Photon Polymerization. The scaffolds are further enhanced by functionalization with fluorescent nanodiamonds (FNDs), which can serve as quantum nanosensors for both magnetic and temperature sensing. The material biocompatibility is tested using two different cell lines, SH‐SY5Y and A431, with cell viability over 98%. A total of 69% of the FNDs are grafted on the structure compared to those that remained on the glass surface. Cells are tested with the scaffolds in several microenvironments, and the final assembly required for 3D quantum metrology experiments achieved 91% biocompatibility. Subsequently, embryoid bodies containing dopaminergic neurons, the cell type affected by Parkinson's disease (PD), are integrated with FND‐functionalized scaffolds. This 3D model is successfully established, demonstrated by strong interactions between dopaminergic neurons and the scaffold, with the directional growth of neurites along the 3D scaffold. Ultimately, this study have developed a 3D platform that enables the readout of signaling in a model that holds great potential for future PD research.
Proliferative Kidney Disease in Sympatric Naturally Reproducing Populations of Rainbow and Brown Trout in Southern Peri‐Alpine Germany
Authors: Ros Albert , Baer Jan , Bartolin Patrick , Brinker Alexander
Published: January 2025

The decline of central European salmonid populations is exacerbated by global warming impacts on disease and interspecific competition. In this context, sympatric naturally reproducing populations of rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss and brown trout Salmo trutta were sampled in three rivers in southern Germany where the myxozoan parasite T. bryosalmonae, the causative agent of the temperature‐associated proliferative kidney disease (PKD), is widely distributed. As expected, parasite prevalence and kidney hyperplasia increased from summer to autumn while decreasing with fish total length. Parasite infection intensity was greater in brown trout than in rainbow trout. With ongoing climate change, this difference in species vulnerability may lead to higher prevalence of PKD in brown trout creating a competitive disadvantage.
An Anionic Mesoionic Carbene (anMIC) and its Transformation to Metallo MIC‐Boranes: Synthesis and Properties
Authors: Rudolf Richard , Todorovski Andrej , Lederer Vera , Neuman Nicolás I. , Schubert Hartmut , Sarkar Biprajit
Published: January 2025

Neutral mesoionic carbenes (MICs) based on a 1,2,3‐triazole core have had a strong impact on various branches of chemistry such as homogeneous catalysis, electrocatalysis, and photochemistry/photophysics. We present here the first general synthesis of anionic mesoionic carbenes (anMICs, 2) based on a 1,2,3‐triazole core and a borate backbone. The free anMIC is stable in solution under an inert atmosphere at low temperatures, and can be stored for several weeks. Analysis of donor properties shows that these anMICs are extremely strong σ‐donors, bypassing the donor properties of strong donors such as MICs, NHCs, anionic NHCs and N‐heterocyclic olefins. The room temperature conversion of the free anMICs leads to three equally interesting compound classes: an amide‐coordinated borane based on a MIC‐borane backbone (2BR3), a polymeric triazolide (1Li) and an amide‐coordinated metallo‐MIC‐borane. The metallo‐MIC‐borane (3Li) is an interesting precursor for the synthesis of further amide‐coordinated MIC‐borane compounds. Quantum chemical calculations have been used to elucidate the mechanism of transformation of the anMICs. We thus introduce three new categories of mesoionic compounds here with potential for different branches of chemistry and beyond.
Two Novel Viologen/Polyoxometalate‐Based Compounds for the Efficient Photocatalytic Reduction of Cr (VI) Under Visible Light Irradiation
Authors: Liu Xiaoyuan , Liu Tao , Ying Jun , Yang Mengle , Zhang Yanping , Tian Aixiang
Published: January 2025

Designing efficient photocatalyst has attracted extensive attention for treating polluted wastewater containing Cr (VI). In this work, two viologen/polyoxometalate (POM)‐based compounds were synthesized, [Ni (mimb)2(H2O)4(β‐Mo8O26)]·4H2O (1) and [Zn (mimb)2(H2O)4(β‐Mo8O26)]·4H2O (2) (mimb = 1‐((3,5‐dimethylisoxazol‐4‐yl)methyl)‐[4,4′‐bipyridin]‐1‐ium), through a hydrothermal method and investigated their ability of photocatalytic reduction of Cr (VI). The structures of compounds 1–2 were characterized by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction, revealing that both possess a zero‐dimensional (0D) structure and can form one‐dimensional (1D) chain structures through hydrogen bondings. Photocatalytic experiments demonstrate that compound 1 has superior photocatalytic performance compared to compound 2. Under optimal conditions (pH = 2, 15 mg catalysts, and 10 mg L−1 Cr (VI) concentration), compound 1 can completely reduce Cr (VI) within 20 min, while compound 2 requires 30 min. Compounds 1–2 also show good stability after photocatalytic reaction, and maintain high photocatalytic activity after five reaction cycles. Additionally, the photocatalytic reaction mechanism of compounds 1–2 was studied, and the free radical scavenging experiments show that its main active species are e−, h+, and ˙O2−. The nitroblue tetrazolium (NBT) experiments further confirm the crucial role of ˙O2− in the photocatalytic process. The good photocatalytic activity, stability, and recyclability of the viologen/POM‐based compounds suggest their potential application in the treatment of wastewater containing Cr (VI).
2‐Phenylbenzothiazoles featuring heteroaryl sulfonamide end‐capping substructures as developable mPGES‐1 inhibitors
Authors: Yalçın Tansu , Jordan Paul M. , Olğaç Abdurrahman , Dahlke Philipp , Maz Tuğçe Gür , Banoglu Erden , Werz Oliver , Çalışkan Burcu
Published: January 2025

The inhibition of human microsomal prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) synthase‐1 (mPGES‐1) is a promising therapeutic modality for developing next‐generation anti‐inflammatory medications. In this study, we present novel 2‐phenylbenzothiazole derivatives featuring heteroaryl sulfonamide end‐capping substructures as inhibitors of human mPGES‐1, with IC50 values in the range of 0.72–3.40 µM in a cell‐free assay of PGE2 formation. Notably, compound 21, featuring a quinoxalinedione ring in its sulfonamide segment, effectively suppresses PGE2 biosynthesis at a low micromolar concentration (IC50 = 0.72 µM) with exceptional selectivity against cyclooxygenase (COX)‐1, COX‐2, 5‐lipoxygenase (5‐LOX), and FLAP. This compound offers a novel chemical scaffold for developing safer and more effective anti‐inflammatory agents.
Humic Acid Glazed Magnetite Material for the Adsorptive Desulfurization of Model Fuel
Authors: Nilavu M. Christina , Krishna Kumar A. Santhana , Aggarwal Himanshu , Rajesh N.
Published: January 2025

Impact of climate change that stems from gaseous emissions require sustainable materials to eliminate sulfur. This study involves the modification of humic acid with magnetite nanoparticles (Fe₃O₄ NPs) by a microwave‐assisted synthesis of an absorbent with reasonable pore volume and diameter for elimination of thiophenic compounds from fuel. The magnetic nano adsorbent designated Fe3O4@HA was characterized using advanced spectroscopic techniques, while their structure and morphology were analyzed through DLS, XPS, XRD, FT‐IR, TGA, FESEM‐EDX, VSM, and BET‐N2 techniques. These findings indicated that the synthesized magnetic nano adsorbent (Fe3O4@HA) has appropriate oxygen functionalities with a specific surface area of 335 m2 g−1 and a mesoporous structure with a pore diameter of 9 nm. The adsorption capacity for sulfur was determined to be 62.73 mg g−1. The kinetic and isotherm models, coupled with thermodynamic characteristics, confirmed that the adsorption of sulfur onto the adsorbent was spontaneous, exothermic, and followed pseudo‐first‐order kinetics. The adsorbent material demonstrated reusability for sulfur adsorption for up to six cycles. The economic and environmental advantages of the preparation process provide humic acid modified with magnetite nanoparticles (Fe₃O₄ NPs) as an interesting candidate for real‐world applications.
Novel Cationic Bolaamphiphiles for Protein and DNA Binding, Gene Delivery, and Antimicrobial Applications
Authors: Mondal Pabitra , Roy Sadhana , Patra Dipanwita , Bose Dasgupta Somdeb , Dey Joykrishna
Published: January 2025

In this study, we have designed and developed a cationic bolaform C12‐(2,3‐dihydroxy‐N, N‐dimethyl‐N‐(2‐ureidoethyl)propan‐1‐aminium chloride)2 (C12(DDUPAC)2) that is derived from biocompatible molecules. The bolaform C12(DDUPAC)2 has hydroxyl (OH) functionality at both the cationic head groups. The impact of head group structure on the self‐assembly and effectiveness of gene transfection and antimicrobial activity was investigated and compared with that of the hydrochloride salt C12‐(N, N‐dimethyl‐N‐(2‐ureidoethan‐1‐aminium chloride)2 (C12(DUAC)2) of its precursor molecule. The formation of spherical as well as rod‐like self‐assembled structures was found to occur above a relatively low critical aggregation concentration (CAC) by the bolaforms. The results of calorimetric measurements demonstrated thermodynamically favorable aggregation in water. Interaction studies of the cationic bolaforms with the calf thymus DNA revealed stronger binding of C12(DDUPAC)2 in comparison to C12(DUAC)2, which explained higher in vitro gene transfection efficiency of C12(DDUPAC)2 than C12(DUAC)2. Both bolaforms interact weakly with the bovine serum albumin protein. MTT‐based in vitro cytotoxicity assay was performed and both bolaforms were found to have marginal cytotoxicity. Further, both bolaforms exhibit advantageous antibacterial activity against E. coli and potent antifungal activity against Fusarium oxysporum at high dosages.
Natural Kaurane‐class of Diterpenoid Alkaloids: Structure, Distribution, and Bioactivities
Authors: Yin Tianpeng , Yan Min , Zheng Jiaqi , Cai Le
Published: January 2025

Kaurane‐class diterpenoid alkaloids (DAs), an important group of C20‐DAs, include mainly veatchine‐, napelline‐, anopterine‐ and tricalysiamide‐type DAs and several types of DAs with novel skeletons discovered in recent years. To date, approximately 81 compounds belonging to this class of DAs have been isolated from plants in five families and seven genera. Among them, Aconitum is the most important source of this class of DAs. Kaurane‐class DAs exhibit noteworthy biological activities, including antitumor, antiarrhythmic, anti‐inflammatory, and analgesic effects. In particular, anopterine‐type DAs have shown significant antitumor activity in vitro, and napelline‐type DAs have powerful antiarrhythmic effects and great potential in the development of such drugs. In general, the diverse structures and biological activities of Kaurane‐class DAs highlight the great potential of these types of compounds for drug discovery, especially antitumor and antiarrhythmic drugs, and is a topic worthy of further in‐depth study.
A Case Report of a Pregnancy Complicated by Sigmoid Volvulus in the Extreme Preterm Gestational Age
Authors: Kian Naghmeh , Moridi Atefeh
Published: January 2025

Intestinal obstruction is a rare but life‐threatening incidence in pregnancy. Diagnosis can be challenging for clinicians as the symptoms might be approached as other common obstetric complications. Performing radiological and abdominal surgery are also areas of great concern in this field; since radiologic studies inevitably expose the fetus to radiation and the treatment options mostly involve surgery that is worrisome during gestation. The maternal and fetal outcomes are dependent on timely diagnosis and management; as intestinal perforation, necrosis and peritonitis can happen and lead to fetal or maternal mortality or morbidity. In this study, we present a challenging case of a 36‐year‐old pregnant woman with severe abdominal pain and distension that emergently underwent surgery after the diagnosis of sigmoid volvulus without the gestation being discontinued. To our knowledge, our study presents one of the rarest cases of intestinal obstruction during pregnancy that was managed surgically without pregnancy termination. Further we will discuss intestinal obstruction in pregnancy based the current literature.
Association of Slender Patent Ductus Arteriosus Combined With PFO Related to the Transient Ischemic Attack: A Rare Case Report
Authors: Wen Zhi , Tian Mingwu , Huang Zhiqiang , Wu Changxue , Wei Xin
Published: January 2025

It was a rare case of a 52‐year‐old female with a slender PDA combined with PFO related to a transient ischemic attack that did not improve with aspirin and/or clopidogrel treatment. We closed the PDA using the ADO‐II occluder and closed the PFO with the occluder, resulting in symptom resolution.