bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Beetle‐Inspired Gradient Slant Structures for Capacitive Pressure Sensor with a Broad Linear Response Range
Authors: Wu Lei , Li Xuan , Choi Jungrak , Zhao Zhi‐Jun , Qian Linmao , Yu Bingjun , Park Inkyu
Published: February 2024

Flexible pressure sensors with broad linearity range and excellent sensor‐to‐sensor uniformity have attracted unprecedented attention in the electronic skins, human–machine interfaces, and environmental monitoring. However, challenges including poor sensor‐to‐sensor uniformity owing to the randomness of the used nanomaterials or porous structures and saturated response that leads to a restricted linearity range because of structural stiffening have been yet addressed. Herein, a novel dielectric layer based on beetle‐inspired gradient slant structures (GSS) is proposed to endow capacitive pressure sensors with extensive linearity range and excellent sensor‐to‐sensor uniformity. The excellent compressibility of the GSS due to the bending deformation of the slant pillars significantly enhances sensor sensitivity. The broad linearity range comes from the compensation of contact area during sequential contact of the GSS dielectric layer from tall to low slant pillars with electrodes. The high sensor‐to‐sensor uniformity is ascribed to the excellent batch‐to‐batch consistency of prepared GSS via 3D printing‐based fabrication process. Moreover, the proposed GSS‐based pressure sensors present rapid response/recovery, low detection limit, excellent dynamic response, negligible hysteresis, and outstanding long‐term stability. Finally, the excellent applicabilities of proposed capacitive pressure sensors in diverse scenarios including external pressure stimuli detection, a flexible perception array, and a smart insole system are demonstrated.
Spectral and Temporal Manipulation of Ultralong Phosphorescence Based on Melt‐Quenched Glassy Metal–Organic Complexes for Multi‐Mode Photonic Functions
Authors: Gong Yuqing , Zhang Hao , Li Panpan , Bai Yuanqing , Yin Bozhao , Ouyang Min , Zheng Nan , Liu Xiaofeng , Zhao Zujin , Qiu Jianrong , Yang Zhongmin , Dong Guoping
Published: February 2024

Transparent glasses are ideal and robust hosts for a range of emission centers, while the simultaneous manipulation of the temporal and spectral characteristics of emission remains a tremendous challenge for inorganic glasses. Here, the development and functionalization of melt‐quenched transparent coordinate polymer glasses with a tailorable ultralong room‐temperature phosphorescence are demonstrated. Dynamic modulation of the phosphorescence is achieved by utilization of the high molecular rigidity and manipulation of the spin‐orbital coupling effects within the glass systems. By introducing dye molecules into the glasses, Phosphorescence resonance energy transfer from the glass matrix to the dye molecules is exploited and controllable multicolor long‐lived luminescence is demonstrated. Further design of the component and concentration of the encapsulated dyes allows for wavelength‐tunable long‐lived delayed fluorescence via an efficient delayed sensitization process, featuring a tunable emission spectrum covering a wide range from 520 to 630 nm. Leveraging the multiple spectral tuning channels of the hybrid glass, multi‐mode optical information storage, and dynamic anti‐counterfeiting applications are further demonstrated. This work provides a new hybrid material platform and design methodology for realizing lifetime‐adjustable and wavelength‐tunable long‐lived luminescence, which can find wide applications in time‐rsesolved information display, high‐density information storage, and dynamic anti‐counterfeiting.
Fast‐Charging Zinc‐Air Batteries with Stable Bifunctional Oxygen Electrocatalysis of Mo‐Induced Nanodefective Mo─Co/N─C Catalyst
Authors: Zhang Yan , Ma Xiaoyue , Cheng Zhendong , Wang Jingwen , Wen Guobin , Yang Lin , Bai Zhengyu
Published: February 2024

Fast‐charging technology plays a pivotal role in propelling the commercialization of zinc‐air batteries (ZABs). While the lifetime of ZABs under fast‐charging is severely shortened by the abundant O2 bubbles and the deactivation of the cathode catalysts. Herein, a defective Mo─Co/N─C electrocatalyst is presented with Co nanoparticles and molybdenum‐oxo subnano clusters by pyrolyzing the Lindqvist polyoxometalate incorporated ZIF‐67 precursor. The crystalline defects are exacerbated by doping the polyoxometalate into the pores of ZIF‐67. Furthermore, the accessibility of the pore defects is increased by Mo‐leaching during the pre‐activation. These accessible pore defects effectively prevent the exfoliation of catalysts from the support under the attack of O2 bubbles, and improve the electrolyte penetration. Besides, the pore defects offer numerous active sites for the electrocatalytic reactions, resulting in an active and stable Mo─Co/N─C catalyst. Hence, such a Mo─Co/N─C electrocatalyst achieves a long lifetime of 1538 h at 5 mA cm−2, and a long lifetime of 641 h under a fast charge of 50 mA cm−2 in the homemade ZAB. The unique components and operational mechanisms propel scientists to portray splendid blueprints for durable fast‐charging ZABs for potential industrial applications.
An Antioxidative and Active Shrinkage Hydrogel Integratedly Promotes Re‐Epithelization and Skin Constriction for Enhancing Wound Closure
Authors: Sun Jiacheng , Jia Wang , Qi Hedong , Huo Jiawei , Liao Xiaodan , Xu Yuan , Wang Jun , Sun Zihao , Liu Yang , Liu Jingchao , Zhen Mingming , Wang Chunru , Bai Chunli
Published: February 2024

Delayed re‐epithelization and weakened skin contractions are the two primary factors that hinder wound closure in large‐scale acute or chronic wounds. However, effective strategies for targeting these two aspects concurrently are still lacking. Herein, an antioxidative active‐shrinkage hydrogel (AHF@AS Gel) is constructed that can integratedly promote re‐epithelization and skin constriction to accelerate large‐scale acute and diabetic chronic wound closure. The AHF@AS Gel is encapsulated by antioxidative amino‐ and hydroxyl‐modified C70 fullerene (AHF) and a thermosensitive active shrinkage hydrogel (AS Gel). Specifically, AHF relieves overactivated inflammation, prevents cellular apoptosis, and promotes fibroblast migration in vitro by reducing excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS). Notably, the AHF@AS Gel achieved ≈2.7‐fold and ≈1.7‐fold better re‐epithelization in acute wounds and chronic diabetic wounds, respectively, significantly contributing to the promotion of wound closure. Using proteomic profiling and mechanistic studies, it is identified that the AHF@AS Gel efficiently promoted the transition of the inflammatory and proliferative phases to the remodeling phase. Notably, it is demonstrated that AS Gel alone activates the mechanosensitive epidermal growth factor receptor/Akt (EGFR/Akt) pathway and promotes cell proliferation. The antioxidative active shrinkage hydrogel offers a comprehensive strategy for acute wound and diabetic chronic wound closure via biochemistry regulation integrating with mechanical forces stimulation.
Ultrasensitive Touch Sensor for Simultaneous Tactile and Slip Sensing
Authors: Liu Yue , Tao Juan , Mo Yepei , Bao Rongrong , Pan Caofeng
Published: February 2024

Touch is a general term to describe mechanical stimuli. It is extremely difficult to develop touch sensors that can detect different modes of contact forces due to their low sensitivity and data decoupling. Simultaneously conducting tactile and slip sensing presents significant challenges for the design, structure, and performance of sensors. In this work, a highly sensitive sandwich‐structured sensor is achieved by exploiting the porosity and compressive modulus of the sensor's functional layer materials. The sensor shows an ultra‐high sensitivity of 1167 kPa−1and a low‐pressure detection limit of 1.34 Pa due to its considerably low compression modulus of 23.8 Pa. Due to this ultra‐high sensitivity, coupled with spectral analysis, it allows for dual‐mode detection of both tactile and slip sensations simultaneously. This novel fabrication strategy and signal analysis method provides a new direction for the development of tactile/slip sensors.
Secondary Amines Functionalized Organocatalytic Iodine Redox for High‐Performance Aqueous Dual‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Yang Rui , Yao Wenjiao , Zhou Liyu , Zhang Fan , Zheng Yongping , Lee Chun‐Sing , Tang Yongbing
Published: February 2024

Aqueous dual‐ion batteries (ADIBs) based on the cooperative redox of cations and iodine anions at the anode and cathode respectively, are attracting increasing interest because of high capacity and safety. However, the full‐cell performance is limited by the sluggish iodine redox kinetics between iodide and polyiodide involving multiple electron transfer steps, and the undesirable shuttling effect of polyiodides. Here, this work reports a versatile conjugated microporous polymer functionalized with secondary amine groups as an organocatalytic cathode for ADIB, which can be positively charged and electrostatically adsorb iodide, and organocatalyze iodine redox reactions through the amine groups. Both theoretical calculations and controlled experiments confirm that the secondary amine groups confine (poly)iodide species via hydrogen bonding, which is essential for accelerating iodine redox kinetics and reducing the polyiodide shuttling effect. The ADIB achieves an ultrahigh capacity of 730 mAh g−1 with an ultrasmall overpotential of 47 mV at 1 A g−1, which also exhibits excellent rate performance and long cycling stability with a capacity retention of 74% after 5000 cycles at a high current density of 5 A g−1. This work demonstrates the promise of developing organocatalysts for accelerating electrochemical processes, which remains a virtually unexplored area in electrocatalyst design for clean energy applications.
Mechano‐Bactericidal Activities of Orthopedic Implants with Nanostructured Surfaces: Recent Advances and Prospects
Authors: Wu Yuzheng , Liu Pei , Chu Paul K.
Published: February 2024

Orthopedic surgery enables patients to regain the functions of lost or damaged bone tissues, but success is often compromised by highly prevalent surgery site infections (SSIs). To prevent SSIs and avoid superbugs, mechano‐bactericidal strategies are being developed to inactivate bacteria on nanostructured surfaces based on contact killing. The antibacterial mechanism of nanostructured surfaces stems from the physical force exerted on the bacterial membrane while imposing lower lethality on host cells. Owing to the bactericidal ability and biocompatibility, mechano‐bactericidal approaches have become desirable in designing antibacterial surfaces for orthopedic implants. In this review, the latest advances in mechano‐bactericidal strategies are described by discussing three commercial orthopedic materials approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration: titanium, magnesium, and polyether‐ether‐ketone. The recent developments and requirements of these three types of biomaterials are presented, and the feasibility and future directions of mechano‐bactericidal surfaces are discussed.
The Asymmetric Strategy of Small‐Molecule Materials for Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Hu Haotian , Ge Jinfeng , Chen Zhenyu , Song Wei , Xie Lin , Ge Ziyi
Published: February 2024

The conjugated small‐molecule materials of organic solar cells have always played a crucial role in light‐harvesting, charge transport, morphology optimization, and the attainment of efficient devices. The advancement of novel materials and the understanding of underlying molecular design rules serve as the driving force for furthering efficient and stable photovoltaic devices. Among a variety of design principles, the symmetry‐breaking strategy, which is well developed in 3,9‐bis(2‐methylene‐(3‐(1,1‐dicyanomethylene)‐indanone))‐5,5,11,11‐tetrakis(4‐hexylphenyl)‐dithieno[2,3‐d:2′,3′‐d’]‐s‐indaceno[1,2‐b:5,6‐b’]dithiophene (ITIC)‐series acceptors, recently demonstrates great potential in small‐molecule acceptors and donors for realizing high power conversion efficiency. In this review, in order to give a deep insight on asymmetric strategy, the small‐molecule acceptors and donors are systematically summarized with asymmetric structure to elucidate structure‐performance relationship, molecular packing behaviors, and morphology evolution. Not only the delicate balance between open circuit voltage and short‐circuit current density, but also the reductions in charge recombination and non‐radiative recombination are considered to play the key points in improving the photovoltaic performance when the asymmetric molecule is used as host or guest materials. Finally, concise challenges and outlooks are provided for the future development and application of asymmetric molecules and symmetry‐breaking strategies.
Embracing uncertainty: The way forward in plant fossil phylogenetics
Authors: Coiro Mario
Published: February 2024

Although molecular phylogenetics remains the most widely used method of inferring the evolutionary history of living groups, the last decade has seen a renewed interest in morphological phylogenetics, mostly driven by the promises that integrating the fossil record in phylogenetic trees offers to our understanding of macroevolutionary processes and dynamics and the possibility that the inclusion of fossil taxa could lead to more accurate phylogenetic hypotheses. The plant fossil record presents some challenges to its integration in a phylogenetic framework. Phylogenies including plant fossils often retrieve uncertain relationships with low support, or lack of resolution. This low support is due to the pervasiveness of morphological convergence among plant organs and the fragmentary nature of many plant fossils, and it is often perceived as a fundamental weakness reducing the utility of plant fossils in phylogenetics. Here I discuss the importance of uncertainty in morphological phylogenetics and how we can identify important information from different patterns and types of uncertainty. I also review a set of methodologies that can allow us to understand the causes underpinning uncertainty and how these practices can help us to further our knowledge of plant fossils. I also propose that a new visual language, including the use of networks instead of trees, represents an improvement on the old visualization based on consensus trees and more adequately serves phylogeneticists working with plant fossils. This set of methods and visualization tools represents an important way forward in a fundamental field for our understanding of the evolutionary history of plants.
12 Connecting Sites Linked Three‐dimensional Covalent Organic Frameworks with Intrinsic Non‐interpenetrated shp Topology for Photocatalytic H2O2 Synthesis
Authors: Wang Xinxin , Jin Yucheng , Li Ning , Zhang Hao , Liu Xiaolin , Yang Xiya , Pan Houhe , Wang Tianyu , Wang Kang , Qi Dongdong , Jiang Jianzhuang
Published: February 2024

Developing high connectivity (>8) three‐dimensional (3D) covalent organic frameworks (COFs) towards new topologies and functions remains a great challenge owing to the difficulty in getting high connectivity organic building blocks. This however represents the most important step towards promoting the diversity of COFs due to the still limited dynamic covalent bonds available for constructing COFs at this stage. Herein, highly connected phthalocyanine‐based (Pc‐based) 3D COFs MPc‐THHI‐COFs (M=H2, Ni) were afforded from the reaction between 2,3,9,10,16,17,23,24‐octacarboxyphthalocyanine M(TAPc) (M=H2, Ni) and 5,5′,5′′,5′′′,5′′′′,5′′′′′‐(triphenylene‐2,3,6,7,10,11‐hexayl)hexa(isophthalohydrazide) (THHI) with 12 connecting sites. Powder X‐ray diffraction analysis together with theoretical simulations and transmission electron microscopy reveals their crystalline nature with an unprecedented non‐interpenetrated shp topology. Experimental and theoretical investigations disclose the broadened visible light absorption range and narrow optical band gap of MPc‐THHI‐COFs. This in combination with their 3D nanochannels endows them with efficient photocatalysis performance for H2O2 generation from O2 and H2O via 2e− oxygen reduction reaction and 2e− water oxidation reaction under visible‐light irradiation (λ >400 nm). This work provides valuable result for the development of high connectivity functional COFs towards diverse application potentials.
Effects of a generalized uncertainty principle on the MIT bag model equation of state
Authors: Netz‐Marzola Marcelo , Zen Vasconcellos César A. , Hadjimichef Dimiter
Published: February 2024

The Generalized Uncertainty Principle (GUP) is motivated by the premise that spacetime fluctuations near the Planck scale impose a lower bound on the achievable resolution of distances, leading to a minimum length. Inspired by a semiclassical method that integrates the GUP into the partition function by deforming its phase space, we induce a modification on the thermodynamic quantities of the MIT bag model that we propose serves as an effective semiclassical description of deconfined quark matter in a space with minimal length. We investigate the consequences of this deformation on the zero‐temperature limit, revealing a saturation limit for the energy density, pressure, and baryon number density and an overall decrease of the thermodynamic quantities which suggests an enhanced stability against gravitational collapse. These findings extend existing research on GUP‐deformed Fermi gases. Ultimately, our description introduces the effects of quantum gravity in the equations of state for compact stars in a mathematically simple manner, suggesting the potential for extension to more complex systems.
America's urban futures: In and beyond the city
Authors: Addie Jean‐Paul D.
Published: February 2024

This article assesses the changing dynamics of urbanization and urbanism in the contemporary US through three lenses. First, it examines economic shifts spurred by the rise of the knowledge economy, which position higher education institutions (HEIs) as drivers of innovation and urban growth. Second, it draws attention to new metropolitan geographies. Gentrifying inner cities and the suburbanization of race, poverty, and risk indicate a need for HEIs to reappraise their institutional structures, pedagogical practices, and responsibilities as urban place‐makers. Third, the article considers (post‐)pandemic futures and calls for racial justice to frame the city as both the setting and stake of social justice movements. The analysis pays particular attention to how these socio‐spatial transformations affect the landscape of post‐secondary urban education. The result is a contradictory portrait of an urban America with diverse futures forged at the intersection of rising inequality, segregation, and a desire for a more inclusive and just future.
Adaptive leadership in urban community colleges: Meeting new challenges through new ways of thinking
Authors: Cooney Matthew A. , Martin Quincy , Ayers‐Palmore Kenya , Garza Robert
Published: February 2024

The COVID‐19 pandemic illuminated the need for urban community colleges to utilize an adaptive leadership approach to thrive during times of uncertainty. Adaptive leaders encourage team members to address problems through new ways of thinking to meet organizational goals. The community college sector, especially institutions in urban environments, has utilized adaptive leadership throughout its history to best meet the needs of its students. It is against this background that urban community colleges adapted to the COVID‐19 pandemic by reconceptualizing career programs to be completed in virtual spaces, hosting COVID‐19 testing and vaccination centers on campus, and ensuring that students had access to faculty and staff in a digital learning environment. In this chapter, we highlight the importance of adaptive leadership in urban community colleges and provide examples from urban community college leaders on how they utilize adaptive leadership to meet new challenges.
A zebrafish model to elucidate the impact of host genes on the microbiota
Authors: Thormar Eiríkur Andri , Rasmussen Jacob Agerbo , Mathiessen Heidi , Marana Moonika Haahr , Clausen Cecilie Grønlund , Hansen Martin , Kodama Miyako , von Gersdorff Jørgensen Louise , Limborg Morten Tønsberg
Published: February 2024

Every host species and organism provides a unique environmental niche contributing to the overall diversity of microbial ecosystems from the intestine of an animal to the oceans and forests of our planet. The study of host–microbiota interactions has long focused on the well‐established effects the microbiota has on its host. In contrast, little focus has been allocated to the role of the host in these intricate interactions. However, understanding the role of the host may well be an essential key to understanding the complexity of the relationship between the host and its microbiota. In this study, we present a model in which the effects of host genes on the microbiota can be elucidated and how such genetic effects may shape host‐associated microbiota. We demonstrate a hologenomic approach implementing the CRISPR/Cas system in the zebrafish model to combine the effects of a host gene with 16S metabarcoding and metabolomics data. We show that knocking out the gene coding for the rate‐limiting enzyme in melanogenesis, tyrosinase (tyr), correlates with changes in the intestinal microbiota of zebrafish and differences in the abundance of specific metabolites illustrating the value of our model for studying the impact of host genes on the composition and function of the intestinal microbiota.
Intermolecular Insertion Reactions into the P−P Bond of Oligophosphorus Compounds
Authors: Gorbachuk Elena , Grell Toni , Hey‐Hawkins Evamarie , Yakhvarov Dmitry
Published: February 2024

The insertion of unsaturated organic molecules into a P−P bond of oligophosphorus compounds has the potential to expand the organophosphorus and organometallic chemistry and to make it more variable with the selective formation of desirable products. This article reviews the insertion reaction for oligophosphorus compounds and focuses in particular on non‐metals, unsaturated organic substrates, carbenes and carbene analogues as starting reagents.
Distinct voltage signals of sediment microbial fuel cell sensors in sensing various contaminants
Authors: Li Tao , Li Chenlu , Han Cheng , Jiang Yunbin , Chen Lixiang , Xu Yaqing , Li Ying , Deng Huan
Published: February 2024

The sediment microbial fuel cell (SMFC) sensors using cathode as sensing element exhibited attractive prospects for online and in‐situ monitoring. However, the sensing performance of SMFC sensors to different types of contaminants was seldom reported. In this study, SMFCs were constructed in stimulated wetland to sense five types of contaminants, including oxidative heavy metals (Cu2+ and Cr6+), non‐oxidative heavy metals (Ni2+ and Zn2+), salt (NaCl), acid (HCl), and alkali (NaOH). The addition of Cu2+, Cr6+ or H+ triggered voltage peaks whereas the voltage dropped immediately following the addition of OH−. The addition of Ni2+ and Zn2+ did not trigger any obvious peaks. The NaCl solutions caused slight voltage peaks which were not increased with increasing concentrations. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) illustrated the reduction of Cu2+ and Cr6+ to elemental Cu and Cr3+ on the cathodic surface, indicating the contaminants that promote or inhibit electron consumption on cathode would cause voltage peaks or drops. The addition of heavy metals, OH− and NaCl significantly increased Simpson's diversity whereas Cu2+, Cr6+ and OH− significantly decreased the abundance of exoelectrogenic bacteria‐associated genera in the top‐layer soil. However, the influence of the contaminants on the abundance and diversity was attenuated in the middle and bottom layers, indicating that the exoelectrogenic bacteria could to some extent withstand these contaminants and guarantee the operation of the SMFC sensors.
Recruiting grape‐isolated antagonistic yeasts for the sustainable bio‐management of Botrytis cinerea on grapes
Authors: Oztekin Sebahat , Karbancioglu‐Guler Funda
Published: February 2024

Botrytis cinerea is the causative agent of grey mould disease in grapes, which was linked to significant postharvest losses. This study examined three grape‐isolated yeasts (Metschnikowia aff. fructicola, Metschnikowia pulcherrima, and Hansenispora uvarum) through in vitro and in vivo tests on detached grape berries against grey mould, as well as the elucidation of their possible mechanisms of action. The antifungal mechanism of action of yeasts was determined by the lytic enzyme activity, inhibition of spore germination, biofilm activity, iron depletion, diffusible metabolites, wound‐site colonisation, mycocin, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) production. The highest in vitro efficacy (83.13%) was observed on M. aff. fructicola, followed by M. pulcherrima (82.10%) and H. uvarum (71.66%). Metschnikowia yeasts exhibited comparable enzyme activities, including protease, β‐1,3 glucanase, gelatinase chitinase, and cellulase, while H. uvarum had a poor enzymatic activity with chitinase and gelatinase. M. aff. fructicola showed relatively higher iron depletion activity than M. pulcherrima, while M. pulcherrima outperformed via diffusible metabolites. All yeast cultures significantly reduced spore germination by at least 86%. Overall, M. aff. fructicola exhibited the highest biocontrol activity with its iron depletion, inhibition of conidial germination, biofilm formation, VOCs, and well colonisation on grape berries. M. aff. fructicola 1‐UDM outperformed all other yeasts by significantly reducing disease incidence and lesion diameter values (93.4% and 94.3%, respectively). Remarkably, H. uvarum VOCs demonstrated potential as a biofumigant for suppressing grey mould. All yeasts are well adapted to their ecological niche to bio‐protect grapes from grey mould disease.
Vascular events in patients with head and neck cancer: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Monaghan Neil P. , Duckett Kelsey A. , Nguyen Shaun A. , Newman Jason G. , Albergotti W. Greer , Kejner Alexandra E.
Published: February 2024

Objective

To assess the incidence of vascular events in patients with head and neck cancer.

Review Methods

Primary studies identified through April 2023. Meta‐analysis was performed.

Results

There were 146 studies included in the systematic review. Rates of events were collected in the overall group, those with chemoprophylaxis, and those that underwent surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy. Of 1 184 160 patients, 4.3% had a vascular event. Radiation therapy had highest risk of overall events and stroke when compared to surgery and chemotherapy. Chemotherapy had a higher risk of stroke and overall events when compared to surgery.

Conclusions

Vascular events occur in 4%–5% of patients with head and neck cancer. Our data does not support the use of routine anticoagulation. Patients undergoing radiation therapy had the highest frequency of events.
Association between follicular fluid bacteria with inflammatory markers of the complete blood count and the outcomes of assisted reproductive technology in women with endometriosis: A case–control study
Authors: Kabodmehri Roya , Sharami Seyedeh Hajar , Tavakoli Sedigheh , Donyaei‐Mobarrez Yalda , Zahiri Sorouri Ziba , Ghanami Gashti Nasrin , Bahadori Mohammad hadi , Milani Forozan
Published: February 2024

Background and Aims

Endometriosis is a common reason for infertility and poor outcomes of assisted reproductive technology (ART). Inflammation is involved in the pathogenesis of this disease. The presence of microorganisms in women with endometriosis may increase levels of inflammatory markers. The purpose of this study is to determine the relationship between the presence of bacteria in the follicular fluid with the inflammatory markers of the complete blood count (CBC) and the outcomes of in vitro fertilization (IVF) in women with endometriosis.

Methods

This case–control study was conducted on 74 patients undergoing IVF, referred to Al‐Zahra Hospital in Rasht (Iran) in 2021. The patients were divided into two case groups including 37 women with endometrioma and the control group, including 37 infertile women with a male factor and normal ultrasound. In total, 74 follicular fluids were collected from the case and control groups and were cultured in the laboratory. The relationship between culture results with IVF outcomes and the levels of CBC inflammatory markers including the number of white blood cells (WBCs), lymphocytes, neutrophils, neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR), lymphocyte‐to‐monocyte ratio (LMR), and platelet‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (PLR), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and c‐reactive protein (CRP) was analyzed.

Results

There was no significant statistical difference between the frequency of bacteria present in the follicular fluid (p = 0.861), the mean rate of fertilization (p = 0.363), the frequency of CRP (p = 0.999), and the mean WBCs, lymphocytes, neutrophils, NLR, LMR, and PLR in the two groups. There was a significant statistical difference between the mean number of oocytes of metaphase II (p = 0.034) and the mean ESR (p = 0.018) in the two groups.

Conclusions

It seems necessary to evaluate follicular fluid as a biological substance that is considered an optimal factor for predicting oocyte quality, fertilization rate, embryo quality, and the success rate of ART.
A seed link connector protruding into the bladder formed a bladder stone
Authors: Aoyama Shuhei , Izumi Kouji , Makino Tomoyuki , Naito Renato , Kadomoto Suguru , Iwamoto Hiroaki , Yaegashi Hiroshi , Kawaguchi Shohei , Shigehara Kazuyoshi , Nohara Takahiro , Mizokami Atsushi
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Low‐dose‐rate brachytherapy is performed for localized prostate cancer. We report the first case of a bladder stone encompassing the seed migrated into the bladder in a patient treated with low‐dose‐rate brachytherapy.

Case presentation

A man was diagnosed with prostate cancer and underwent low‐dose‐rate brachytherapy. After 2 months, dysuria occurred, and ultrasonography revealed a needle‐shaped high‐intensity protruding from the prostate into the bladder. Cystoscopy examination found a seed link connector. With the possibility of natural dissolution of the seed link, careful observation was chosen. However, 16 months later, hematuria occurred, and an X‐ray revealed a bladder stone encompassing the seed. Compared with the X‐ray right after seeding, the seed located near the right bladder neck had fallen. The seed was removed by transurethral bladder lithotripsy.

Conclusion

Seeds should be carefully located within the prostate, otherwise a bladder stone may be formed encompassing the seed.
Longitudinal association between muscle and bone loss: Results of US and Japanese cohort studies
Authors: Osawa Yusuke , An Yang , Nishita Yukiko , Matsui Yasumoto , Takemura Marie , Simonsick Eleanor M. , Shimokata Hiroshi , Otsuka Rei , Arai Hidenori , Ferrucci Luigi
Published: February 2024

Background

Muscle and bone are physiologically interconnected, but joint changes of muscle and bone with aging, and whether the muscle‐bone changes are different by sex and by country has been little studied. We examined longitudinal associations of bone mineral density (BMD) and muscle mass or muscle strength in community‐dwelling 65 years or older in the United States and Japan.

Methods

The present analytic sample included 1129 women and men from the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging (BLSA) (mean age, 74.5 ± 7.5 years; women, 49.8%) and 1998 women and men from the National Institute for Longevity Sciences‐Longitudinal Study of Aging (NILS‐LSA) (mean age, 70.0 ± 4.5 years; women, 51.4%). Median follow‐up was 4.6 (min‐max, 0–15.4) years in the BLSA and 4.0 (min‐max, 0–13.4) years in the NILS‐LSA. We selected visits at which participants had BMD (whole body, pelvic, femoral neck, trochanter, and Ward's triangle BMDs) and muscle mass [appendicular lean mass, (ALM)] measured by DXA scan. In each bone site, we ran cohort‐specific bivariate linear mixed‐effects models adjusted for baseline age, sex, body height, body weight, fat mass, education year, and smoking status. Race was an additional adjustment in the BLSA. Additionally, we performed sex‐specific analyses.

Results

In the BLSA, the rate of change in ALM positively correlated with the rate of change in the whole body (rho = 0.30, P < 0.0001) and pelvic BMD (rho = 0.24, P < 0.0001), but not in trochanter, femoral neck, or Ward's triangle BMD (P > 0.05). In the NILS‐LSA, ALM positively correlated with the rate of change in all bone sites (rho ranged from 0.20 to 0.71, P < 0.01). In women, ALM positively correlated with the rate of change in all bone sites in both cohorts (in the NILS‐LSA, rho ranged from 0.35 to 0.91, P < 0.01; in the BLSA, rho ranged from 0.26 to 0.56, P < 0.05) except for femoral neck BMD in the BLSA. In men, ALM positively correlated with pelvic, trochanter, and Ward's triangle BMD in the NILS‐LSA (rho ranged from 0.45 to 0.68, P < 0.0001), and whole body and trochanter BMD in the BLSA (both, rho = 0.20, P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Muscle loss co‐occurred with bone loss in both cohorts, but the association in the NILS‐LSA tended to be stronger than in the BLSA, and the association was higher in women than in men, implying that the association may differ by sex and country.
HIV pre‐exposure prophylaxis programme preferences among sexually active HIV‐negative transgender and gender diverse adults in the United States: a conjoint analysis
Authors: Watson Dovie L. , Listerud Louis , Drab Ryan A. , Lin Willey Y. , Momplaisir Florence Marie , Bauermeister José A.
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Current implementation efforts have failed to achieve equitable HIV pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) provision for transgender and gender‐diverse (trans) populations. We conducted a choice‐based conjoint analysis to measure preferences for key attributes of hypothetical PrEP delivery programmes among a diverse online sample predominantly comprised of transmasculine and nonbinary individuals in the United States.

Methods

Between April 2022 and June 2022, a national online survey with an embedded conjoint analysis experiment was conducted among 304 trans individuals aged ≥18 years in the United States to assess five PrEP programme attributes: out‐of‐pocket cost; dispensing venue; frequency of visits for PrEP‐related care; travel time to PrEP provider; and ability to bundle PrEP‐related care with gender‐affirming hormone therapy services. Participants responded to five questions, each of which presented two PrEP programme scenarios and one opt‐out option per question and selected their preferred programme in each question. We used hierarchical Bayes estimation and multinomial logistic regression to measure part‐worth utility scores for the total sample and by respondents’ PrEP status.

Results

The median age was 24 years (range 18–56); 75% were assigned female sex at birth; 54% identified as transmasculine; 32% as nonbinary; 14% as transfeminine. Out‐of‐pocket cost had the highest attribute importance score (44.3%), followed by the ability to bundle with gender‐affirming hormone therapy services (18.7%). Minimal cost‐sharing ($0 out‐of‐pocket cost) most positively influenced the attribute importance of cost (average conjoint part‐worth utility coefficient of 2.5 [95% CI 2.4−2.6]). PrEP‐experienced respondents preferred PrEP delivery in primary care settings (relative utility score 4.7); however, PrEP‐naïve respondents preferred pharmacies (relative utility score 5.1).

Conclusions

Participants preferred programmes that offered PrEP services without cost‐sharing and bundled with gender‐affirming hormone therapy services. Bolstering federal regulations to cover PrEP services and prioritizing programmes to expand low‐barrier PrEP provision are critical to achieving equitable PrEP provision. Community‐engaged implementation research conducted by and in close collaboration with trans community stakeholders and researchers are needed to streamline the design of patient‐centred PrEP programmes and develop implementation strategies that are salient to the diverse sexual health needs of trans patients.
Synergistic effects of tilapia head protein hydrolysate and walnut protein hydrolysate on the amelioration of cognitive impairment in mice
Authors: Ji Jun , Yi Xiangzhou , Gao Xia , Wang Bohui , Zhang Xueying , Shen Xuanri , Xia Guanghua
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Cognitive impairment (CI) is a significant public health concern, and bioactive peptides have shown potential as therapeutic agents. However, information about their synergistic effects on cognitive function is still limited. Here, we investigated the synergistic effects of tilapia head protein hydrolysate (THPH) and walnut protein hydrolysate (WPH) in mitigating CI induced by scopolamine in mice.

RESULTS

The results showed that the combined supplementation of THPH and WPH (mass ratio, 1:1) was superior to either individual supplement in enhancing spatial memory and object recognition abilities in CI mice, and significantly lessened brain injury in CI mice by alleviating neuronal damage, reducing oxidative stress and stabilizing the cholinergic system. In addition, the combined supplementation was found to be more conducive to remodeling the gut microbiota structure in CI mice by not only remarkably reducing the ratio of Firmicutes to Bacteroidota, but also specifically enriching the genus Roseburia. On the other hand, the combined supplementation regulated the disorders of sphingolipid and amino acid metabolism in CI mice, particularly upregulating glutathione and histidine metabolism, and displayed a stronger ability to increase the expression of genes and proteins related to the brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)/TrkB/CrEB signaling pathway in the brain.

CONCLUSION

These findings demonstrate that tilapia head and walnut‐derived protein hydrolysates exerted synergistic effects in ameliorating CI, which was achieved through modulation of gut microbiota, serum metabolic pathways and BDNF signaling pathways. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Unlocking hot trub's potential: a simple method for extracting bitter acids and xanthohumol
Authors: Silva Klycia Fidélis Cerqueira e , Feltre Gabriela , Zandonadi Flávia S. , Rabelo Renata Santos , Sussulini Alessandra , Hubinger Miriam Dupas
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Hot trub is a macronutrient‐ and micronutrient‐rich by‐product generated in the brewing industry, which is still underrated as a raw material for reprocessing purposes. In this context, this study aimed to investigate the extraction of bitter acids' and xanthohumol from hot trub as well as identify the significance of parameters for the process. The research assessed various extraction parameters, such as pH, ethanol concentration, temperature, and solid‐to‐liquid ratio, using a Plackett–Burman design.

RESULTS

Ethanol concentration and pH were the most significant parameters affecting extraction yield. β‐acids were found to be the principal components of the bitter acids, with a maximum concentration near 16 mg g−1, followed by iso‐α‐acids and α‐acids achieving 6 and 3.6 mg g−1, respectively. The highest yields of bitter acids were observed in the highest ethanol concentration, while pH was relevant to extraction process in treatments with low ethanol ratios. Concerning the xanthohumol extraction, the approach achieved maximum concentration (239 μg g−1) in treatments with ethanol concentration above 30%. Despite their variances, the phytochemicals exhibited comparable extraction patterns, indicating similar interactions with macromolecules. Moreover, the characterization of the solid residues demonstrated that the extraction process did not bring about any alterations to the chemical and total protein profiles.

CONCLUSION

Ethanol concentration was found to have the most significant impact on the extraction of bitter acids and xanthohumol, while temperature had no significant effect. The solid remains resulting from the extraction showed potential for use as a protein source. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Strengthening the microbial community and flavor structure of jiupei by simulating strong‐aroma baijiu fermentation with Bacillus velezensis DQA21
Authors: Tong Wenhua , Wang Hui , Li Jiawei , Zhang Lingling , Huang Zhijiu , Yang Ying , Qiao Zongwei , Luo Huibo , Huang Dan
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Bacillus velezensis DQA21 is a functional strain used in the fermentation process of strong‐aroma baijiu; however, its specific role in the process is still unclear.

RESULTS

In this study, specific roles of B. velezensis DQA21 in the fermentation process were explored. Bioaugmentation of B. velezensis DQA21 increased the diversity and abundance of the bacterial community during the first 32 days of fermentation and significantly inhibited the diversity and richness of the fungal community during days 12 to 32. According to cluster analysis, changes in the microbial community structure were observed during fermentation, and the fermentation process could be divided into two stages: stage I, days 0–12; and stage II, days 12–45. Additionally, the microbial community structures during the two fermentation stages were significantly different. Co‐occurrence analysis showed that bioaugmentation with Bacillus increased the correlation between microorganisms in jiupei and had a significant impact on the overall network structure of the microbial community. In addition, Bacillus significantly increased the production of flavor substances in jiupei, causing the total esters, total alcohols, and total acids contents to increase by 19.1%, 81.1%, and 25.9% respectively.

CONCLUSION

The results suggested that bioaugmentation with B. velezensis DQA21 had a strong impact on the microbial community structure in strong‐aroma baijiu, enhancing the volatile flavor components. Additionally, the work also provides a better understanding on the effect of augmentation on the microbial community in jiupei, which could help better regulation of solid‐state fermentation in strong‐aroma baijiu. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Yellow mustard gum: pilot‐scale production and characterization
Authors: Wang Xinya , Liu Ruoyan , Goff H. Douglas , Cui Steve W.
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Yellow mustard gum (YMG), which is extracted from the mucilaginous part of yellow mustard bran, has been considered an emerging natural hydrocolloid gum but lacks commercial development and production. To promote the commercial utilization of YMG, this study developed a pilot‐scale YMG production protocol in an economic and environmentally friendly way to produce a clean‐label YMG product. This YMG produced at pilot scale (YMW) was characterized in terms of chemical composition, rheological properties, and interaction with a commercial gum, κ‐carrageenan, and was compared with purified YMG through ethanol precipitation (YME).

RESULTS

The protocol processed up to 100 L of raw material with zero solvent and a minimal number of steps and showed strong quasi‐industrial potential. The YMW showed a similar chemical composition as YME. However, the YMW contained a slightly lower amount of carbohydrate and a much larger amount of ash and potassium than the YME. The rheological results concluded that both the YMW and YME solutions exhibited shear‐thinning flow behavior and a weak gel, with YME showing higher viscosity and stronger gel structure. Most interestingly, YMW could form unpourable gels when blended with native κ‐carrageenan whereas YME barely achieved this despite the equivalent total gum concentration.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated the feasibility of YMG production at a large scale with economic and green procedures and discovered its new functionality for commercial utilization. The gelling ability of YMG could provide it with wider applications as a result of a new potential synergistic combination. All this information should accelerate the process of full commercialization of YMG as a clean‐label functional ingredient. © 2024 His Majesty the King in Right of Canada. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. Reproduced with the permission of the Minister of Agriculture and Agri‐Food Canada.
Improved Recovery after Vestibular Schwannoma Excision with Intratympanic Gentamicin Prehabilitation
Authors: Trudel Mathieu , Stapleton Emma J. , Wadeson Andrea M. , Spiller William , North Hannah J. , Heal Calvin , Sebastian Joseph , Freeman Simon R. , Rutherford Scott A. , Entwistle Helen , Hammerbeck‐Ward Charlotte L. , Pathmanaban Omar , King Andrew T. , Lloyd Simon K.W.
Published: February 2024

Objective

Translabyrinthine excision of a vestibular schwannoma is associated with acute vestibular failure. Preoperative intratympanic gentamicin (ITG) injections can improve objective balance function after surgery but its clinical benefits remain to be established.

Methods

Adult patients undergoing translabyrinthine removal of a vestibular schwannoma between January 2014 and February 2018 underwent preoperative vestibular function testing. Patients were divided in to 3 groups, those with vestibular function (VF) who received ITG injections, those with VF but did not receive ITG and those with no VF. Groups were compared according to degree of vertigo, length of stay, time to unassisted mobilization, and postoperative anti‐emetic consumption.

Results

Forty six patients had ITG injections (Group 1), 7 had residual VF but refused treatment (Group 2), 21 had no VF (Group 3). Group 1 had a significant improvement in vertigo over time whereas groups 2 and 3 did not. There was a statistically significant 70% decrease in time to independent mobilization between Group 1 and other groups and a 19% decrease in length of stay in Group 1 compared to other groups although this did not reach statistical significance. Two patients had injection‐related complications. Group 1 used less anti‐emetics than other groups but this was not statistically significant.

Conclusion

Preoperative intratympanic gentamicin injection with vestibular rehabilitation exercises is associated with less postoperative vertigo and earlier postoperative mobilization. There was reduced duration of hospitalization and decreased consumption of anti‐emetic but not significantly so possibly because of low numbers of patients in the no treatment group.

Level of Evidence

2 Laryngoscope, 134:3316–3322, 2024