bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distribución y caracterización molecular de betalactamasas en bacterias Gram negativas en Colombia, 2001-2016
Authors: Rada Ana Mercedes , Hernández-Gómez Christian , Restrepo Eliana , Villegas Maria Virginia
Published: September 2019

Las betalactamasas, enzimas con capacidad hidrolítica frente a los antibióticos betalactámicos, son responsables del principal mecanismo de resistencia en bacterias Gram negativas; las de mayor impacto clínico y epidemiológico en los hospitales, son las betalactamasas de espectro extendido (BLEE), las de tipo AmpC y las carbapenemasas. El incremento en su frecuencia y su diseminación a nivel mundial ha limitado cada vez más las opciones terapéuticas tanto en infecciones adquiridas en los hospitales como las que se generan en la comunidad.En Colombia, las redes de vigilancia y los grupos de investigación iniciaron su estudio desde finales de los años 90 y, así, se logró la caracterización molecular de las diferentes variantes; además, se reportó una gran prevalencia y diseminación en los hospitales de mediana y alta complejidad, y se describió el impacto clínico de las infecciones que causan. Dichos estudios han evidenciado el alto grado de endemia de algunas de estas betalactamasas y, en consecuencia, la necesidad de una inmediata implementación de programas para inducir el uso prudente de los antibióticos y de medidas de vigilancia, que permitan controlar y prevenir su diseminación, con el fin de disminuir la morbimortalidad en los pacientes y preservar las opciones terapéuticas disponibles en la actualidad.En esta revisión, se recopiló la información sobre las variantes, la distribución geográfica y la caracterización molecular de las betalactamasas en Colombia, así como los estudios llevados a cabo desde finales de la década de 90 hasta el 2016.
Profitability of Charcoal Production and Marketing in Ibarapa Zone of Oyo State Nigeria
Authors: Oluwasola Babatunde, Taiye , Solomon Kehinde Abiodun , Johnson Kehinde, Olujide
Published: September 2019

This study analyzed the profitability of charcoal production and marketing in Ibarapa zone of Oyo state using a structured questionnaire. A multistage sampling technique was adopted to select one hundred (100) respondents for the study. The descriptive statistical method and budgetary analysis were used for data interpretation. Charcoal marketing is dominated by middle or old age mostly females (71.7%), the business are funded from personal saving and support from cooperative society. The finding reveals that 48.5% of respondent had no formal education and economic analysis showed that marketers require ₦50,000-₦500,000 as working capital with a resultant profit of ₦300,000-₦500,000 per annum and charcoal marketing efficiency was 1.32. In Conclusion, charcoal marketing is profitable with net returns of ₦58,000 on 200 bags sold.
Association of Depression, Anxiety and Stress in Medical Students Studying in Modular, Semester and Annual Examination System
Authors: Ali Akhtar , Shaheen Shehla , Ahmed Farah , Zahid Nisha , Israr Noor , Zehra Dabeeran
Published: September 2019

Background: When there are high demands besides less resources, a person experiences a feeling of fear that is known as “Stress”. Students of professional schools/colleges and universities are encounter more stress than the general population as they are in a transitory phase from adolescence to adulthood. It has been highlighted that medical education has greater association with stress. There are three examination systems that are been followed by medical colleges of Pakistan (modular, semester and annual systems). However, to the best of our knowledge, no data is available to show the association of stress with current examination systems in our country.

Aims: The objectives of our study were to find out the association of stress with different examination systems and to identify the frequency of stress causing and coping factors adopted by 1st, 2nd and 3rd year medical students studying in colleges having different examination systems i.e. modular, semester and annual.

Study Design: Comparative cross-sectional study.

Place & Duration of Study: This study was conducted from December 2018 to April 2019 in three medical colleges of Sindh having above mentioned examination systems.

Study Population: Medical students of 1st 2nd and 3rd year.

Methodology: To assess depression, anxiety and stress among study population, DASS Scale was used. To identify the stress causing and coping factors in the students Likert scale based proforma with 19 factors were given to the selected participants

Results: There was no significant association of examination system with depression, anxiety and stress, however various stress causing and coping factors were found significant in altering medical student`s life.

Conclusion: According to our study, the frequency of stress in the medial students has no association with the examination systems (modular, semester and annual), currently followed by the medical colleges in Sindh, Pakistan.
Digital‐Analog Integrated Optoelectronic Memristor Based on Carbon Dot for Ternary Opto‐Electronic Logic and Sen‐Memory Applications
Authors: Xu Jiaqi , Zhao Xiaoning , Xie Dan , Lin Ya , Wang Zhongqiang , Li Zhuangzhuang , Xu Haiyang , Liu Yichun
Published: December 2024

Optoelectronic memristor with light as an additional stimulus is generating interest in various remarkable optical‐electrical‐coupled applications. Herein, an optoelectronic memristor with hybrid digital‐analog switching behavior is developed by incorporating carbon dots (CDs) into the polymethylmethacrylate and the polystyrene layers as charge trapping medium. The memristor exhibits tri‐stable digital switching behavior under electro‐optical programming and analog switching behavior under optical programming. For the digital switching, the SET and RESET voltage of the memristor can be modulated through UV light illumination. Taking advantage of the cooperation of electrical and light stimuli, new ternary optoelectronic logic algorithm implementations with all‐electric or all‐optical signals as inputs are proposed. For the analog switching, the device resistance can be gradually modulated through UV light illumination and output intensity‐ and duration‐dependent characteristics. These features endow the memristor with fused image sensing‐and‐memory (sen‐memory) capability without an auxiliary bias. In addition, the sen‐memory can perform image contrast enhancement operation as the preprocessing operation of the human retina, which can improve the subsequent image recognition rate in the processing tasks. The multifunctional memristor highlights the potential for ternary optoelectronic computing and artificial vision applications, and also, is expected to expand the application scopes of CDs.
Al‐Doped LaTiO2N Prepared via Flame Spray Pyrolysis for Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Inose Mayu , Nakakura Shuhei , Hisatomi Takashi , Takata Tsuyoshi , Domen Kazunari
Published: December 2024

LaTiO2N photocatalysts are attractive because they are responsive to visible light up to a wavelength of 600 nm. However, during the nitridation process to produce LaTiO2N from La2Ti2O7, the introduction of defects can cause a reduction in the hydrogen evolution activity of the photocatalyst, which limits its application to overall water splitting. Such defects can arise due to the change in crystal structure and the occurrence of overnitridation. Herein, it is demonstrated that nitridation of a metastable La–Ti oxide obtained by flame spray pyrolysis (FSP) can suppress the formation of such defects. A detailed analysis of the transition pathway during nitridation reveals that a combination of FSP and Al doping is essential for suppressing mesopore formation resulting from the volume change and Ti4+ reduction due to overnitridation. This leads to an increase in the apparent quantum yield for Al‐doped LaTiO2N during the visible‐light‐driven hydrogen evolution reaction, compared to that for undoped LaTiO2N. In the present study, insights are provided into the importance of minimizing structural changes during the synthesis of oxynitride photocatalysts by designing isostructural precursors for enhanced photocatalytic activity.
ChatG‐PD? Comparing large language model artificial intelligence and faculty rankings of the competitiveness of standardized letters of evaluation
Authors: Schnapp Benjamin , Sehdev Morgan , Schrepel Caitlin , Bord Sharon , Pelletier‐Bui Alexis , Alvarez Al’ai , Dubosh Nicole M. , Park Yoon Soo , Shappell Eric
Published: December 2024

Background

While faculty have previously been shown to have high levels of agreement about the competitiveness of emergency medicine (EM) standardized letters of evaluation (SLOEs), reviewing SLOEs remains a highly time‐intensive process for faculty. Artificial intelligence large language models (LLMs) have shown promise for effectively analyzing large volumes of data across a variety of contexts, but their ability to interpret SLOEs is unknown.

Objective

The objective was to evaluate the ability of LLMs to rate EM SLOEs on competitiveness compared to faculty consensus and previously developed algorithms.

Methods

Fifty mock SLOE letters were drafted and analyzed seven times by a data‐focused LLM with instructions to rank them based on desirability for residency. The LLM was also asked to use its own criteria to decide which characteristics are most important for residency and revise its ranking of the SLOEs. LLM‐generated rank lists were compared with faculty consensus rankings.

Results

There was a high degree of correlation (r = 0.96) between the rank list initially generated by LLM consensus and the rank list generated by trained faculty. The correlation between the revised list generated by the LLM and the faculty consensus was lower (r = 0.86).

Conclusions

The LLM generated rankings showed strong correlation with expert faculty consensus rankings with minimal input of faculty time and effort.
Neuropathology of trisomy 21 mosaicism in a case with early‐onset dementia
Authors: Ngo Phong T. , Pascual Jesse R. , Wright Sierra , Williams Christopher K. , Magaki Shino , Yong William H. , Vinters Harry V. , Ringman John M. , Head Elizabeth
Published: December 2024

INTRODUCTION

This study investigated the impact of trisomy 21 mosaicism (mT21) on Alzheimer's disease (AD) neuropathology in a well‐characterized clinical case described by Ringman et al.

METHODS

We describe AD neuropathology in mT21 including amyloid beta, phosphorylated tau, astrogliosis, microgliosis, α‐synuclein, and TAR DNA‐binding protein 43 (TDP‐43) in cerebral cortex, hippocampal subregions, and amygdala using immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

We observed high AD neuropathologic change with a score of A3B3C3. In addition, there was widespread astrogliosis, cerebral amyloid angiopathy, and perivascular space widening throughout the brain. Lewy bodies and neurites were noted in the amygdala only and no TDP‐43 was observed.

DISCUSSION

The findings in this case report highlight that mT21 is sufficient to induce AD neuropathology and early‐onset dementia.

HIGHLIGHTS

Trisomy 21 mosaicism (mT21) occurs when three copies of chromosome 21 are present in some but not all somatic cells in an individual. mT21 accounts for ≈ 2% of people diagnosed with Down syndrome (DS).

Immunohistochemical identification of amyloid beta, tau, astrocytes, microglia, α‐synuclein, and TAR DNA‐binding protein 43 show that Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology in mT21 is similar to full trisomy 21.

The findings in this case report highlight that mT21 is sufficient to induce AD neuropathology and early‐onset dementia.
Novel Benzothiazole–Benzonitrile‐Based Fluorescent Chromophore: Synthesis, DFT, Antimicrobial Properties
Authors: Nami Samar Y. Al , Hossan Aisha
Published: December 2024

The synthetic strategy for the benzothiazole–benzonitrile chromophore 6 involved three sequences of reactions. It was initiated by condensation of 2‐amino‐4‐nitrothiophenol (2) with 4‐(piperidin‐1‐yl)benzaldehyde (1) to produce the corresponding 5‐nitrobenzothiazole compound 3 followed by reduction of compound 3 into the 5‐aminobenzothiazole compound 4 and then ended by condensation of 5‐aminobenzothiazole compound 4 with 4‐formylbenzonitrile (5). The chromophore's absorption and emission spectra have been measured in EtOH and presented good Stokes' shift ( = 8363 cm−1). The DFT configuration of the frontier molecular orbits in gas and solvated ground state (So) were compared with the solvated excited state (S1). The synthesized chromophore 6 was assessed for its antimicrobic properties against a group of bacterial and fungal strains. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values were determined using standard broth microdilution assay. Notably, chromophore 6 exhibited remarkable MIC values against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli (< 48 and < 118 μg/mL). Regarding the antibacterial effectiveness against both S. aureus and E. coli, molecular docking was performed to simulate their binding interactions with two protein structures, PDB:2eg7 and PDB:3u2k. The SwissADME study has been applied to explore the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic characteristics of chromophore 6.
Selective Recruitment of a Synthetic Histone Acetyltransferase Can Boost CHO Cell Productivity
Authors: Butterfield Sienna P. , Sizer Rebecca E. , Saunders Fay L. , White Robert J.
Published: December 2024

Industrial production of biologics typically involves the integration of transgenes into host cell genomes, most often Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells. Epigenetic control of transgene expression is a major determinant of production titers. Although the cytomegalovirus (CMV) promoter has long been used to drive industrial transgene expression, we found that its associated histones are suboptimally acetylated in CHO cells, providing an opportunity to enhance productivity through epigenetic manipulation. Expression of monoclonal antibody mRNAs increased up to 12‐fold when a CRISPR‐dCas9 system delivered the catalytic domain of a histone acetyltransferase to the CMV promoter. This effect was far stronger than when promoter DNA was selectively demethylated using dCas9 fused to a 5‐methylcytosine dioxygenase. Mechanistically, acetylation‐mediated transcriptional activation involved heightened phosphorylation and activity of RNA polymerase II, enabling it to escape promoter‐proximal pausing at the transgene. This approach almost doubled the titer and specific productivity of antibody‐producing CHO cells, demonstrating the potential for biomanufacturing.
Frequency of Child Abuse Before, During and After Confinement by COVID‐19: A Multicentre Cross‐Sectional Study in Bogotá
Authors: Zuloaga‐Sarmiento Maria Camila , Nofal‐Ladino Juan Jose , Palacios‐Ariza Maria Alejandra , Benavides‐Cruz Johana , Duran Maria Esperanza , Briceño German Darío
Published: December 2024

Child abuse represents a significant global issue with profound short‐ and long‐term social consequences. The COVID‐19 pandemic exacerbated risk factors associated with child abuse, particularly during confinement periods. This study aimed to assess the frequency of child abuse in three health institutions in Bogotá from 2019 to 2021, encompassing the pre‐pandemic, social isolation and social reopening phases. A cross‐sectional analysis was conducted involving patients under 18 years diagnosed with child abuse through the ‘Buen Trato’ program at Clinica Colsanitas S.A. The study calculated the overall frequency of abuse across different periods and utilized descriptive statistics to characterize the cases. A total of 294 cases were identified, with a median age of 9.3 years; 60.9% were female, and 42.5% were adolescents. Sexual abuse emerged as the most prevalent form of abuse, primarily perpetrated by parents. The overall confirmed child abuse frequency was 47.6%, with a notable rise in cases during the pandemic: pre‐pandemic (confirmed/reported: 104/207; 50.2%), social isolation (144/302; 47.7%) and social reopening (46/109; 42.2%). Interestingly, during the social isolation period, there was a decline in reported suspected abuse cases in health institutions, likely due to access barriers created by confinement measures.
Effect of Electrolyte pH in Additive‐Free NiFe Catalyst Electrodeposition for Electro‐Catalytic OER Applications
Authors: Cieluch Maximilian , Kazamer Norbert , Böhm Leonard , Sanden Sebastian , Zerebecki Swen , Wirkert Florian , Apfel Ulf–Peter , Brodmann Michael
Published: December 2024

This study presents the correlation between electrolyte pH, surface morphology, chemical speciation and electro‐catalytic oxygen evolution activity of additive‐free electrodeposited NiFe catalysts for application in anion exchange membrane water electrolysis. Spherical morphologies were identified at pH 0, shifting towards honey‐combed structures at pH 4 with increasing surface area, especially at pH 3. Further, the electrolyte pH was found to influence the NiFe composition and electro‐catalytic activity. Enhanced OER activity was noted at pH 2 with overpotentials of 214 mV at 10 mA cm−2 and 267 mV at 100 mA cm−2. The results reveal that the electrolyte pH is a parameter not only influencing the morphology but also tailoring the surface area, Fe oxide and Fe hydroxide composition and consequently the catalytic activity. Further, the outcomes highlight the electrolyte pH as a key process parameter that should be adjusted according to the application, and may substitute the addition of electrolyte‐additives, proposing a simpler method for improving catalyst electrodeposition.
A review of statistical process monitoring methods for non‐linear and non‐Gaussian industrial processes
Authors: Zhou Yang , Wang Kai , Zhang Yilan , Liang Dan , Jia Li
Published: December 2024

In modern industrial processes, the growing emphasis on product quality and efficiency has led to increased attention on safety and quality issues within industrial processes. Over the past two decades, there has been extensive research into multivariate statistical process monitoring methods. However, basic statistical process monitoring methods still face significant challenges when applied in diverse real‐world operating conditions. This paper offers a comprehensive review of statistical process monitoring methods for industrial processes. First, this paper begins by outlining the methodologies and modelling procedures commonly used in statistical process monitoring for industrial processes. Then, examine the current research landscape across various aspects of these methods. Finally, this paper delves into the extensions, opportunities, and challenges within statistical process monitoring for industrial processes, offering insights for future research directions.
Phylogeography, Historical Population Demography, and Climatic Modeling of Two Bird Species Uncover Past Connections Between Amazonia and the Atlantic Forest
Authors: Castro‐Astor Ivandy N. , Cracraft Joel , Tello José G. , Alves Maria Alice S. , Mauck William M. , Aleixo Alexandre , Duca Charles , Carnaval Ana Carolina
Published: December 2024

We combined mitochondrial DNA sequence data and paleoclimatic distribution models to document phylogeographic patterns and investigate the historical demography of two manakins, Ceratopipra rubrocapilla and Pseudopipra pipra, as well as to explore connections between Amazonia and the Atlantic Forest. ND2 sequences of C. rubrocapilla (75 individuals, 24 sites) and P. pipra (196, 77) were used in Bayesian inference and maximum likelihood analyses. We estimated mitochondrial nucleotide diversity, employed statistical tests to detect deviations from neutral evolution and constant population sizes, and used species distribution modeling to infer the location of suitable climate for both species under present‐day conditions, the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM), and the Last Interglacial Maximum (LIG). Mitochondrial sequence data from C. rubrocapilla indicate one Amazonian and one Atlantic Forest haplogroup. In P. pipra, we recovered a highly supported and differentiated Atlantic Forest haplogroup embedded within a large Southern Amazonian clade. Genetic and taxonomic structure in Amazonia differs widely between these two species; older P. pipra has a more marked genetic structure and taxonomic differentiation relative to the younger C. rubrocapilla. Both species have similar genetic patterns in the Atlantic Forest. Paleoclimatic distribution models suggest connections between southwestern Amazonia and the southern Atlantic Forest during the LIG, but not between eastern Amazonia and the northeastern Atlantic Forest, as suggested by previous studies. This indicates that multiple corridors, and at different locations, may have been available over the Pliocene and Pleistocene between these two regions.
Development of a 3D active movement extent discrimination apparatus for testing proprioception at the ankle joint with inversion movements made in plantarflexion
Authors: Zhao Yilin , Zhang Tongzhou , Wang Shuhui , Adams Roger , Waddington Gordon , Han Jia
Published: December 2024

Proprioception plays an important role in joint stability, and ankle sprains usually happen involving plantarflexion, internal rotation, and inversion. However, ankle 3D movement proprioception has never been measured in weight‐bearing. Accordingly, the active 3‐dimensional movement extent discrimination apparatus (AMEDA‐3D) was developed and its reliability and validity were investigated. A total of 58 subjects volunteered for this trial, with 12 subjects with chronic ankle instability (CAI) and 12 healthy controls in the test–retest reliability study. There were 17 subjects with CAI and 17 healthy controls in the validity study. An intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and Minimum Detectable Change at the 90% confidence interval (MDC90) were computed. AMEDA‐3D scores were analysed by independent samples t‐tests, and Youden's index was used to calculate the optimal AMEDA‐3D cut‐off for discriminating individuals with CAI. Pearson's correlation analysis was used to explore the relationship between AMEDA‐3D scores and Y Balance Test (YBT), Time In Balance Test (TIB), and Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool (CAIT) scores. The main results were as follows: (1) The ICC(3,1) value of AMEDA‐3D scores was 0.817 (95% CI = 0.452–0.945) in CAI subjects. (2) The AMEDA‐3D proprioceptive area under the curve score used to discriminate CAI subjects from healthy controls was 0.778, with a sensitivity of 94% and a specificity of 82%. (3) AMEDA‐3D proprioceptive scores were moderately correlated with CAIT scores (r = 0.58 and p < 0.001), YBT (r = 0.47 and p = 0.005), and TIB (r = 0.68 and p < 0.001). Our findings suggest that the AMEDA‐3D tool shows good reliability and validity for clinical assessment of proprioceptive deficits associated with CAI. Improved ankle 3D motor proprioception may positively impact subjects' balance control, self‐rated symptoms, and function.
“Security, first of all, begins at home”: How Finland, Latvia, and Germany prepare “ordinary people” for crises
Authors: Friede Alexandra M.
Published: December 2024

In Europe, and specifically in countries bordering the Baltic Sea, preparedness issues have moved up the policy agenda since Russia's 2014 and 2022 invasions of Ukraine. “Ordinary people” are encouraged to prepare for crises—be it through stockpiling food at home, fact‐checking information, or signing up for military training. This article unpacks the process through which individual subjects are “responsibilized.” More specifically, it analyses how the risk of war is communicated to make targets act responsibly, drawing on empirical evidence from Finland, Latvia, and Germany. A main tenet is that policy actors appeal to nationally distinct sets of moral codes to responsibilize publics. The Finnish war experience attests to the value of being united, willing and capable of fighting back. Latvia's defence is framed as an integrative force—with the ultimate aim to deter aggressors and ensure national survival. In Germany, inconsistent messaging prevails, simultaneously reassuring and alerting the public.
Anemia Predicts Physical Fitness Among Adolescent Athletes in Ghana
Authors: Eli‐Cophie Divine , Apprey Charles , Annan Reginald Adjetey.
Published: December 2024

Background

Anemia indicates low blood hemoglobin levels and has become a public health problem among adolescents in developing countries. The prevalence among adolescent athletes and its effect on physical fitness has not been studied in Ghana. The study aimed to assess the impact of anemia on physical fitness among adolescent athletes in Ghana.

Methodology

The sample of 194 adolescent athletes was randomly recruited from competitive athletic groups, boxing, and football clubs in Greater Accra, Ashanti, and Volta regions of Ghana. Anthropometric parameters and Hemoglobin concentration were measured. Physical fitness was assessed using, right and left‐hand grip strength, reaction time, flexibility, and the Cooper‐12‐min run test, all following standard procedure.

Results

The adolescent athletes of mean age (15.8 ± 2.5 yrs) and weight (54.0 ± 12.8 kg) were mostly of normal weight‐for‐age and height. The overall prevalence of anemia among the adolescent athletes was 14.3%. Anemia was however, more common among early adolescents (20.7%). The average hemoglobin level was lowest among the early adolescents (12.8 ± 1.1 g/dl), however, there was no association between anemia and the adolescent age group (X2 = 2.112 p = 0.348). Although the proportions of anemic males and females were similar (14.3%), the mean hemoglobin levels were significantly higher among males (13.6 ± 1.5 g/dl) than females (12.5 ± 1.2 g/dl). There was an association between hemoglobin and cardiorespiratory endurance (r = 0.324, p = 0.005), hand grip strength as well as relative handgrip strength (r = 0.379, p = 0.001). Hemoglobin significantly predicted 10.5% of the variation in cardiorespiratory endurance (R2 = 0.105, b = 0.623, p = 0.005) of the athletes.

Conclusion

Hemoglobin levels could predict the cardiorespiratory endurance and muscular strength of adolescent athletes. Anemia is a public health problem among adolescent athletes and must be given the needed attention to make these athletes competitive and win laurels.
A LysM Effector Mediates Adhesion and Plant Immunity Suppression in the Necrotrophic Fungus Botrytis cinerea
Authors: Crumière Mélanie , de Vallée Amélie , Rascle Christine , Gillet François‐Xavier , Nahar Shamsun , van Kan Jan A. L. , Bruel Christophe , Poussereau Nathalie , Choquer Mathias
Published: December 2024

LysM effectors are suppressors of chitin‐triggered plant immunity in biotrophic and hemibiotrophic fungi. In necrotrophic fungi, LysM effectors might induce a mechanism to suppress host immunity during the short asymptomatic phase they establish before these fungi activate plant defenses and induce host cell death leading to necrosis. Here, we characterize a secreted LysM protein from a major necrotrophic fungus, Botrytis cinerea, called BcLysM1. Transcriptional induction of BcLysM1 gene was observed in multicellular appressoria, called infection cushions, in unicellular appressoria and in the early phase of infection on bean leaves. We confirmed that BcLysM1 protein binds chitin in the fungus cell wall and protects hyphae against degradation by external chitinases. This effector is also able to suppress the chitin‐induced ROS burst in Arabidopsis thaliana, suggesting sequestration of chitooligosaccharides in apoplast during infection. Moreover, contribution of BcLysM1 in infection initiation and in adhesion to bean leaf surfaces were demonstrated. Our data show for the first time that a LysM effector can play a dual role in mycelial adhesion and suppression of chitin‐triggered host immunity, both of which occur during the early asymptomatic phase of infection by necrotrophic fungi.
Multi‐proxy analysis of early Holocene vegetation dynamics on the islands of proglacial Lake Ojibway (northeastern America)
Authors: Vogel Marianne F. S. , Joannin Sébastien , Lamara Mebarek , Asselin Hugo , Ali Adam A. , Leclercq Sabrina , Latapy Cécile , Richard Franck , Bergeron Yves
Published: December 2024

Following deglaciation, lowland sites in eastern Canada that were covered by proglacial Lake Ojibway recorded direct afforestation with boreal mixedwood taxa, without an initial tundra phase, contrary to sites that were never covered by this lake. Because former islands of proglacial Lake Ojibway were colonized by vegetation before lake drainage around 8200 cal a bp, we hypothesized that these paleo‐islands went through a non‐arboreal phase which eventually transitioned to boreal mixedwoods, hence providing a source of propagules for rapid and later colonization of the lowlands. We carried out a multi‐proxy analysis combining pollen, macro‐remains, sedimentary ancient DNA and charcoal to document vegetation composition and dynamics on two paleo‐islands. Both study sites recorded progressive vegetation establishment starting with a tundra‐like phase with only herbs and shrubs, followed by open forests dominated by either larch or pine, culminating with the establishment of the boreal mixedwoods about 300 years before the final drainage of proglacial Lake Ojibway. Fire regimes seem to have partially driven vegetation dynamics and diversity on the paleo‐islands. Paleo‐islands were sources of propagules, which helps explain how the former Lake Ojibway lowlands were directly colonized by boreal mixedwoods, without an initial tundra phase.
A review of photothermal and superhydrophobic polymer nanocomposites as anti‐icing nanocoatings
Authors: Nazari Ali , Eslami‐Farsani Reza
Published: December 2024

Freezing and ice formation at low temperatures have always caused numerous challenges in variant crafts such as aeronautical, transportation, power lines, oil platforms, etc. Anti‐icing and de‐icing approaches have been employed to reduce the contrary results of icing on surfaces. Due to the disadvantages of de‐icing methods, anti‐icing techniques are noteworthy, and extensive research has been done in this field. Anti‐icing techniques have been used to prevent ice accumulation or simplify separating once the ice has formed. Superhydrophobicity has the property that can neglect to ice or delay icing on the surface. Nowadays, nanocomposites, one of the most extremely used advanced substances, are used in various industries and usages. In the meantime, polymer nanocomposites as a nanocoating offer innovative solutions for the icing phenomenon by bridging the areas of polymer composite technology, nanoscience, and superhydrophobicity. Additionally, photothermal polymer nanocomposites are based on conventional superhydrophobic materials with high solar absorption rates and have unique anti‐icing properties. In this review, the types of ice were examined in terms of their appearance, formation order, and crystal structure. Also, various theories of wettability and freezing mechanisms were studied. Moreover, various methods of making surface superhydrophobic such as top‐down, and bottom‐top procedures were mentioned. Finally, superhydrophobic and photothermal polymer nanocomposite coatings were explained in‐depth.

Highlights

Types of ice and its structure were investigated.

Kinds of wettability theories and freezing mechanisms were studied.

Methods of ice formation prevention were summarized.

Superhydrophobic and photothermal polymer nanocomposites were explained.
The Multifaceted Applications of Seaweed and Its Derived Compounds in Biomedicine and Nutraceuticals: A Promising Resource for Future
Authors: Hyderi Zeeshan , Kannappan Arunachalam , Ravi Arumugam Veera
Published: December 2024

The increasing demand for global food resources and over‐dependence on terrestrial agroecosystems pose a significant challenge to the sustainable production of food commodities. Macroalgae are an essential source of food production in the marine environment, and their cultivation is a promising approach to alleviate the impending global food insecurity due to key factors, such as independence from terrestrial agriculture, rapid growth rate, unique biochemical composition, and carbon capture potential. Moreover, in many countries, seaweed has been used as food for decades because of its health and nutritional benefits. Seaweed contains bioactive components that are beneficial against various pathological conditions, including cancer, type 2 diabetes, and neurological disorders. Furthermore, the natural products derived from macroalgae have also been found to have immunostimulatory and antimicrobial properties. Macroalgae are also a significant source of rare sugars such as L‐fucose, L‐rhamnose, and glucuronic acid. Besides sugars, other bioactive components have been widely reported for their potential in cosmeceuticals. We have outlined the nutrient composition and functional properties of different species of macroalgae, with an emphasis on their potential as value‐added products to the functional food market. Beyond being nutritional powerhouses, the variety of biological activities in human health and biomedicine makes them excellent candidates for developing novel drugs. Therefore, this review summarizes the pharmaceutical applications of macroalgae and suggests potential strategies for incorporating macroalgae‐derived bioactive compounds into therapeutic products.
Fostering innovation and advancement in evidence‐based practice and guidelines within the field of pediatrics: The 2024 BRIGHT declaration
Authors: Wang Xu , Liu Hui , Estill Janne , Song Fujian , Ozaki Akihiko , Franco Juan V. A. , Florez Ivan D. , Ngeh Etienne , Persaud Nav , Ziganshina Liliya Eugenevna , Lee Myeong Soo , Zhang Lu , Chi Yuan , Duan Yuting , Liu Enmei , Chen Yaolong , Zhao Xiaodong
Published: December 2024

The first Better evidence and RecommendatIons for the next Generation HealTh—BRIGHT symposium was held in Chongqing, China between June 21 and 23, 2024. The symposium did not only showcase the recent progress made by multidisciplinary teams in generating and translating evidence for children's healthcare, guideline development and evaluation, and the utilization of AI applications in pediatrics but also fostered transnational and transregional cooperation to promote the advancement of high‐quality evidence and guidelines in this field. The symposium contributed significantly to the future development and transformation of research endeavors in pediatrics.
Combined Experimental and Computational Investigations of 4‐Amino‐2‐Chloro‐6,7‐Dimethoxyquinazoline as Potential Anti‐Alzheimer Agent
Authors: Asokan Karthikeyan , Nallasamy Karthik , Sivaraman Sumathi , Subbiah Jeyavijayan , Paranthaman Selvarengan
Published: December 2024

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative condition that leads to the deterioration of brain cells, resulting in memory loss, thinking, and executive skills. In this work, 4‐amino‐2‐chloro‐6,7‐dimethoxyquinazoline (ACDQ) has been studied using the 6–311++G(d,p) B3LYP functional of the density functional theory (DFT) approach utilizing a basis set. Geometry optimization and fundamental vibrational frequencies are calculated using the above method. The spectroscopic investigations such as FT‐IR, FT‐Raman, and UV–Vis spectra are performed on the selected compound. The time‐dependent DFT calculations are performed in the gas and water phases to determine electronic properties and energy gap using the same basis set. Charge density distributions have been used to illustrate the energy gap between the highest occupied and lowest unoccupied molecular orbitals. Mulliken population analysis is performed to determine the atomic charges of ACDQ. From the natural bond orbital analysis, it is observed that there is a significant electron delocalization in ACDQ due to the presence of intramolecular interactions. To evaluate ACDQ's anti‐Alzheimer potential, a molecular docking simulation is used to assess its structural stability and biological activity against proteins associated with Alzheimer's disease. Our docking study revealed that, ACDQ has a strong interaction with 4EY7 protein with binding energy of −8.1 kcal mol−1. Additionally, metrics such as the root mean square deviation (RMSD), root mean square fluctuation (RMSF), and the radius of gyration are considered (Rg) were computed using molecular dynamics simulations to evaluate the stability of the protein–ligand interaction. Studies on the ADMET prediction of ACDQ have also been carried out. The findings of the current study support the potential of ACDQ as an effective lead therapeutic for Alzheimer's disease.
Power Law Amplitude Estimation for Option Pricing with NISQ Devices
Authors: Lin Ge , Guo Zhengming , Song Tingting
Published: December 2024

The flourishing development of quantum computing has brought breakthroughs to many classical algorithms, particularly in fields like quantum finance, where quantum computers are employed for estimating the pricing of financial options. Compared to traditional Monte Carlo methods, quantum amplitude estimation (AE) algorithms offer exponential acceleration in estimating the pricing of financial options. However, the execution of quantum AE algorithms is limited by the quantum depth available in current Noisy Intermediate Scale Quantum (NISQ) devices. To explore more applications of quantum algorithms with NISQ devices, a power law AE algorithm for option pricing with NISQ devices is proposed and simulated on Qiskit to validate the theoretical performance. Compared with other AE algorithms, the power law AE algorithm achieves an overall accuracy improved by about 13.12%.
Organic Terahertz Generators with Wide Entire‐Molecular Phonon‐Free Range and Their Application in Broadband Terahertz Spectroscopy
Authors: Lee Yun‐Sang , Kim Chaeyoon , OH Jungkwon , Yoon Woojin , Yun Hoseop , Jazbinsek Mojca , Rotermund Fabian , Kwon O‐Pil
Published: December 2024

New organic nonlinear optical crystals with a broad range free from strong molecular phonon vibrations have been developed for dimple‐free THz wave generation. The newly designed 7‐fluoro‐2‐(4‐hydroxy‐3‐methylstyryl)‐1‐methylquinolin‐1‐ium (OM7FQ) crystals exhibiting an optimal order parameter feature a unique orthogonal cation–anion dipole coupling, in contrast to the parallel cation–anion dipole coupling found in benchmark organic crystals. The introduction of a fluoro substituent on the cationic electron acceptor, compared to nonfluorinated analogs, results in the additional formation of stronger cation–anion and cation–cation interactions, leading to increased crystal density and reduced void volume. OM7FQ single crystals exhibit a broad phonon‐free range from 0.9 to 2.3 THz, defined by an absorption coefficient ≤15 mm−1. This leads to efficient, dimple‐free THz wave generation with a dimple‐free flat spectral band spanning 0.5–2.7 THz when pumped at the technically significant wavelength of 800 nm. Additionally, OM7FQ crystals produce THz electric fields 3.6 times higher than analogous nonfluorinated benchmark crystals with parallel cation–anion dipole coupling. The application of OM7FQ crystals in broadband THz spectroscopy has been successfully demonstrated for sensing biologically important lactose in commercial infant formulas.
Comprehensive Review on the MXene Nanomaterial for the Catalytic Reduction and Toward Light‐Driven Photocatalytic Destruction of Emerging Contaminants
Authors: Raj C. Krishna , Siranjeevi R. , Shabnum S. Sameera , Nivetha P. , Benazir K. , Saravanan A. , Vickram A. S.
Published: December 2024

Hazardous inert pollutants, organic dyes, pharmaceuticals, and widespread discharge of pesticide contaminants into water sources due to population growth and global industrialization are becoming some of the world's most pressing health problems. A novel kind of carbonitride or transition metal carbide, known as two‐dimensional (2D) MXene materials, has shown promise in adsorbing several heavy pollutants, including lead, mercury, chromium, and copper. The removal of pollutants from watery environments using MXene nanocomposites is reviewed in this article. This review highlights the different synthesis methods and potential of MXene nanocomposites to improve water purification methods by offering a thorough overview of recent developments in their application for photocatalytic wastewater treatment. This review further explores existing constraints, looks at the mechanisms behind MXene‐mediated pollutant degradation, and suggests future research approaches to improve MXene nanomaterials for extensive ecological and wastewater treatment applications.
Sexual dysfunction after Rezum therapy for benign prostatic hyperplasia: A scoping review for the current insights and findings
Authors: Khalil Ibrahim A. , Khalafalla Kareim , Al‐Qudimat Ahmad R. , Al Rumaihi Khalid
Published: December 2024

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common condition among aging men, often leading to lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) of varying severity. Both medical and surgical treatments for BPH can negatively impact sexual function, affecting patients' overall quality of life. This has highlighted the need for minimally invasive interventions that minimize sexual side effects. Rezum, a water vapor therapy, has gained popularity in managing BPH and LUTS due to its proposed potential to preserve sexual function. This scoping review examines the impact of Rezum therapy on sexual function in patients treated for BPH. The review was conducted following the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology for scoping reviews. A comprehensive search was performed using the PubMed and Scopus databases up to August 2024. Articles were included if they involved patients treated with Rezum for BPH and reported the effect of Rezum on sexual function using validated scoring tools. A total of 15 studies encompassing 2,425 patients, met the inclusion criteria. Erectile function was assessed in all studies using the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) scores. Of these, seven studies reported no significant changes in erectile function scores, six demonstrated improvements, and two reported a significant decline. Ejaculatory function was evaluated using the Male Sexual Health Questionnaire (MSHQ). The MSHQ‐Bother score was reported in seven studies, with three indicating improvement and none reporting deterioration. The MSHQ‐Function score was reported in eight studies, with only one study reporting a decline, while the remaining studies found no significant changes. In conclusion, Rezum therapy for managing BPH shows favorable outcomes for sexual function or, at the very least, does not negatively impact it. These findings can guide patient counseling, especially for those seeking to preserve ejaculation. Further research is needed to compare Rezum with other treatment options regarding sexual function.
Nanomaterials for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Triple‐Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Sun Xuan , Li Dandan , Lv Yue , Zhang Mengnan , Qiao Dianhe , Zhang Zuyuan , Ren Han , Zhang Ying , Yang Zhimou , Gao Jie
Published: December 2024

In recent years, the diagnosis and treatment at the early stages significantly raise the survival rate of breast cancer patients. Moreover, antibody drugs pave the way toward precision target therapy. However, the treatment and survival of triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) patients is still worrying, which needs further understanding and study. During the last several years, nanomaterials attracted extensive research interests in TNBC diagnosis and therapy. In this review, we summarize recent advances of nanomaterial‐based strategies for diagnosing and treating TNBC. Specifically, treatments for TNBC utilizing nanomaterials are classified into monotherapy, combined therapy, and multimodal therapy based on the complexity of the treatment. Nanomaterials also offer the opportunity to integrating diagnosis with treatment, which are introduced and summarized in this review. By summarizing the design principles in detail, some insights into the challenges and opportunities are provided to inspire further research and clinical translation in this field. The scope of this review is to summarize the development of nanomaterials for diagnosis and treatment of TNBC, and to discuss future directions to improve the clinical outcome of TNBC patients.
Dynamic Real‐Time Biosensing Enabled Biorhythm Tracking for Psychiatric Disorders
Authors: Huizer Karin , Banga Ivneet Kaur , Kumar Ruchita Mahesh , Muthukumar Sriram , Prasad Shalini
Published: December 2024

This review article explores the transformative potential of dynamic, real‐time biosensing in biorhythm tracking for psychiatric disorders. Psychiatric diseases, characterized by a complex, heterogeneous, and multifactorial pathophysiology, pose challenges in both diagnosis and treatment. Common denominators in the pathophysiology of psychiatric diseases include disruptions in the stress response, sleep–wake cycle, energy metabolism, and immune response: all of these are characterized by a strong biorhythmic regulation (e.g., circadian), leading to dynamic changes in the levels of biomarkers involved. Technological and practical limitations have hindered the analysis of such dynamic processes to date. The integration of biosensors marks a paradigm shift in psychiatric research. These advanced technologies enable multiplex, non‐invasive, and near‐continuous analysis of biorhythmic biomarkers in real time, overcoming the constraints of conventional approaches. Focusing on the regulation of the stress response, sleep/wake cycle, energy metabolism, and immune response, biosensing allows for a deeper understanding of the heterogeneous and multifactorial pathophysiology of psychiatric diseases. The potential applications of nanobiosensing in biorhythm tracking, however, extend beyond observation. Continuous monitoring of biomarkers can provide a foundation for personalized medicine in Psychiatry, and allow for the transition from syndromal diagnostic entities to pathophysiology‐based psychiatric diagnoses. This evolution promises enhanced disease tracking, early relapse prediction, and tailored disease management and treatment strategies. As non‐invasive biosensing continues to advance, its integration into biorhythm tracking holds promise not only to unravel the intricate etiology of psychiatric disorders but also for ushering in a new era of precision medicine, ultimately improving the outcomes and quality of life for individuals grappling with these challenging conditions.
Changes in tumor and cardiac metabolism upon immune checkpoint
Authors: Leven Anna-Sophia , Wagner Natalie , Nienaber Stephan , Messiha Daniel , Tasdogan Alpaslan , Ugurel Selma
Published: December 2024

Cardiovascular disease and cancer are the leading causes of death in the Western world. The associated risk factors are increased by smoking, hypertension, diabetes, sedentary lifestyle, aging, unbalanced diet, and alcohol consumption. Therefore, the study of cellular metabolism has become of increasing importance, with current research focusing on the alterations and adjustments of the metabolism of cancer patients. This may also affect the efficacy and tolerability of anti-cancer therapies such as immune-checkpoint inhibition (ICI). This review will focus on metabolic adaptations and their consequences for various cell types, including cancer cells, cardiac myocytes, and immune cells. Focusing on ICI, we illustrate how anti-cancer therapies interact with metabolism. In addition to the desired tumor response, we highlight that ICI can also lead to a variety of side effects that may impact metabolism or vice versa. With regard to the cardiovascular system, ICI-induced cardiotoxicity is increasingly recognized as one of the most life-threatening adverse events with a mortality of up to 50%. As such, significant efforts are being made to assess the specific interactions and associated metabolic changes associated with ICIs to improve both efficacy and management of side effects.