bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
COX‐2 Inhibitor Prediction With KNIME: A Codeless Automated Machine Learning‐Based Virtual Screening Workflow
Authors: Ghosh Powsali , Kumar Ashok , Singh Sushil Kumar
Published: January 2025

Cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in inflammation by converting arachidonic acid into prostaglandins. The overexpression of enzyme is associated with conditions such as cancer, arthritis, and Alzheimer's disease (AD), where it contributes to neuroinflammation. In silico virtual screening is pivotal in early‐stage drug discovery; however, the absence of coding or machine learning expertise can impede the development of reliable computational models capable of accurately predicting inhibitor compounds based on their chemical structure. In this study, we developed an automated KNIME workflow for predicting the COX‐2 inhibitory potential of novel molecules by building a multi‐level ensemble model constructed with five machine learning algorithms (i.e., Logistic Regression, K‐Nearest Neighbors, Decision Tree, Random Forest, and Extreme Gradient Boosting) and various molecular and fingerprint descriptors (i.e., AtomPair, Avalon, MACCS, Morgan, RDKit, and Pattern). Post‐applicability domain filtering, the final majority voting‐based ensemble model achieved 90.0% balanced accuracy, 87.7% precision, and 86.4% recall on the external validation set. The freely accessible workflow empowers users to swiftly and effortlessly predict COX‐2 inhibitors, eliminating the need for any prior knowledge in machine learning, coding, or statistical modeling, significantly broadening its accessibility. While beginners can seamlessly use the tool as is, experienced KNIME users can leverage it as a foundation to build advanced workflows, driving further research and innovation.
Kotter's change management approach to transforming oral healthcare delivery: A case study
Authors: Patel Shalizeh , Gardner Amity L. , Valenza John A. , Novak Karen F. , Patel Tulsi , Hasbini Tala , Spears Robert D. , Jeske Arthur H. , Joy‐Thomas Anita R.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Despite progress in research and technological advancements, the delivery of oral health care continues to be plagued by disparities in accessibility and affordability. Dental caries and periodontal disease remain major issues, and new challenges such as socioeconomic disparities and emerging public health dangers also contribute to the complexity of the issue. To address these challenges, dental education and oral healthcare delivery must shift their focus from disease treatment to disease prevention and health promotion.

Methods

This paper presents the framework for implementing such a change at the UTHealth Houston School of Dentistry (UTSD) in keeping with its vision of improving both oral and overall health.

Results

To achieve this goal, the change process was guided by Kotter's 8‐stage change process, which has resulted in accomplishing various objectives, including specific curricular modifications and establishing a clinical Center for Health Promotion (CHP).

Conclusion

Overall, the change process at UTSD was a systematic and collaborative effort to move toward a comprehensive person‐centered clinical care model focused on disease prevention and health promotion. This approach reflects the commitment of the institution to improve oral and overall health for its patient population and to prepare the next generation of oral health care providers who practice within a compassionate, integrated, person‐centered framework.
Pollen and Stigma Morphology, Pollen Viability and Stigma Receptivity of Wittmackia Species (Bromeliaceae) by Light, Fluorescence and Scanning Electron Microscopy
Authors: Nascimento Gleice Quelle Silva dos Santos , Silva Tiago Abreu da , de Almeida Pedro Schwambach , Rossi Mônica Lanzoni , Souza Fernanda Vidigal Duarte , Aona Lidyanne Yuriko Saleme , de Carvalho Costa Maria Angélica Pereira , de Souza Everton Hilo
Published: January 2025

The genus Wittmackia has 44 species distributed in two centers of diversity: the Brazilian clade and the Caribbean clade. The Brazilian clade includes 29 species, with geographic distribution concentrated in the Northeast of Brazil. This study reports the morphology, ultrastructure, pollen viability and stigma receptivity by different microscopy techniques of 23 species of the genus Wittmackia endemic to Brazil and occurring in Atlantic Forest areas. Pollen morphology was evaluated by scanning electron microscopy and light microscopy by the weak lactic acetolysis method. Histochemical tests were performed with Alexander's solution and fluorescein diacetate. For in vitro germination of pollen grains, two culture media were evaluated. Stigma receptivity was evaluated with hydrogen peroxide and α‐naphthyl acetate. The Wittmackia genus presented biporate pollen grains, monads to tetrads, with oblate, suboblate or oblate‐spheroidal shape, circular or elliptical scope, and heteropolar or sub‐isopolar morphology. The stigmas are of the conduplicate‐spiral type, with differences in color and size. In both histochemical tests, high viability was observed, mainly at anthesis, coinciding with in vitro germination. The species presented high enzymatic activity during receptivity, with a very strong positive response, mainly at anthesis. Studies of pollen morphology and viability provide important information for the conservation and genetic improvement of Wittmackia species, also assisting in the taxonomy of the genus and the reproductive success of future controlled crosses.
Association between clinical and MRI‐detected imaging findings for people with midfoot pain, a cross‐sectional study
Authors: Halstead Jill , Martín‐Hervás Carmen , Hensor Elizabeth M. A. , Keenan Anne‐Maree , Conaghan Philip G. , McGonagle Dennis , Arnold John B. , Jones Jennifer , Redmond Anthony C.
Published: January 2025

Background

Midfoot pain is common but poorly understood, with radiographs often indicating no anomalies. This study aimed to describe bone, joint and soft tissue changes and to explore associations between MRI‐detected abnormalities and clinical symptoms (pain and disability) in a group of adults with midfoot pain, but who were radiographically negative for osteoarthritis.

Methods

Community‐based participants with midfoot pain underwent an MRI scan of one foot and scored semi‐quantitatively using the Foot OsteoArthritis MRI Score (FOAMRIS). Foot pain and disability were recorded using visual analog scales (VAS) and the Modified‐Manchester Foot Pain Disability Index (MMFPDI). Associations were assessed for continuous data using Spearman’s Rho, and for categorical data, a Wilcoxon signed rank test. Linear regression was used to explore the association between participant‐reported measures and MRI abnormalities, adjusted for age, sex and BMI.

Results

Sixty‐one participants (70% female, mean age 48.5 years, median BMI 28.6 kg/m2) were included. Median VAS pain was 31/100 mm (IQR 21–47) and median disability was 30/48 (IQR 26–36). There was a moderate association between midfoot pain severity and the number of joints exhibiting joint space narrowing; adjusted results suggested 31% (95% confidence interval 3%–68%) worse VAS pain with each additional affected joint. Greater numbers of joints with cysts were associated with worse VAS pain [14% (0%–31%)] and disability [1.1 units (0–2.2)]. Effusion/synovitis was associated with MMFPDI pain. No other MRI abnormalities were associated with sex, body mass and foot pain/disability measures. Bone marrow lesions, joint space narrowing, cysts and osteophytes occurred more frequently with age. MRI abnormalities were common, particularly in the talo‐navicular joint, first and second cuneo‐metatarsal joints. Those with dorsal foot pain had more multi‐joint involvement, bone marrow lesions, joint space narrowing and cysts and for those with pain on midfoot movement, bone marrow lesions and cysts were reported.

Conclusions

In people with midfoot pain, MRI‐detected features of osteoarthritis and soft‐tissue abnormalities were found, clustered in the medial and intermediate cuneiform joints. These features were more common with age but not associated with pain or disability measures. Younger people with dorsal midfoot pain exhibited early signs of bone and joint features of osteoarthritis and we recommend further imaging studies to determine the clinical and diagnostic significance.
A Star Is Born or Not: Understanding the Star Emergence Gender Gap
Authors: Bear Julia B. , Treviño Len J. , Aguinis Herman
Published: January 2025

Building on research on star performance, gender, and situational constraints, we introduce a longitudinal process model explaining the gender gap in star emergence. We argue that star emergence is less likely for women than men due to stardom's association with men and masculinity. As a result, situational constraints are more likely to insulate women's performance in terms of knowledge, skills, and abilities development and evaluation (e.g., access to vicarious deliberate practice, biased standards), motivation (e.g., competition intensity, negative interpersonal behavior), and opportunity (e.g., access to high potential tasks, partner supportiveness in the extra‐work environment). We theorize that these factors lead to insulation cycles that reduce the likelihood of women emerging as stars over time. We also offer propositions about mitigators (e.g., strategic diversity goals and influential sponsors) that might attenuate these insulating effects. Finally, we discuss theoretical implications of understanding gender gaps in star emergence (e.g., performance insulation as gender inequity, the importance of a longitudinal perspective, insulation cycles, and star longevity) and practical implications for organizations to create equitable environments for star emergence (e.g., focusing on performance equity and facilitating gender inclusivity). We conclude that greater insight into the role of gender in star performance can also contribute to the broader understanding of gender gaps in organizations.
Development of Sci‐Tech Journals in China Stimulated by the China Sci‐Tech Journal Excellence Action Plan
Authors: Li Chuwei , Li Yaping , Ding Zuoqi
Published: January 2025

This study aims to evaluate the influence of the China Sci‐Tech Journal Excellence Action Plan (CJEAP) on the development of Chinese science and technology (sci‐tech) journals. The performance of bibliometric indicators of these journals before and after the implementation of this plan is examined. In particular, a discipline richness algorithm is employed to evaluate whether and how the funding plan affected the disciplinal coverage of publications. The results show that the influence of CJEAP funding in sci‐tech journals published in China is not evenly distributed. Highly funded journals appear to have expanded both the range of research areas and disciplines, and the article volume, while poorly funded journals mainly focus on attracting manuscripts with higher scientific impact but display less expanded disciplinal range. New journals funded by CJEAP are characterised with high scientific levels focusing on highly sophisticated fields, but initially featuring a relatively small article volume. Notably, a positive relationship exists between the international collaboration rate and citation ranking score, and thus the expansion of article volume with manuscripts mainly from Chinese scholars may not be conducive for enhancing the international influence of journals published in China. In summary, our results indicate that CJEAP funding has elicited powerful influence in promoting sci‐tech journals published in China, suggesting continuous funding support should be both necessary and efficient for further promoting the development of sci‐tech journals published in China.
Potential of flaxseed oil blends to modulate tissue fatty acid composition and determination of safety parameters in Wistar rats
Authors: Joshi Asavari Anirudha , Hegde Mahabaleshwar Vishnu , Zanwar Anand Arvind
Published: January 2025

Non‐communicable diseases (NCD) are associated with inflammation and oxidative stress which is further associated with omega‐6 (ω6) and omega‐3 (ω3) fatty acid (FA) imbalance favoring ω6 FA. By improving ω3 FA consumption, this imbalance can be altered to control NCD. Previously we have reported blends of flaxseed oil (FSO, ω3 FA) with palm olein (PO) or coconut oil (CO) were thermo‐oxidatively stable with good storage stability and could improve ω6:ω3 ratio in cell lines. In the present study safety of these blends along with their efficacy to improve tissue FA composition particularly ω6:ω3 ratio was evaluated in Wistar rats. Institutional ethics committee approval was obtained initially. Wistar rats were supplemented with individual oils or blends (FSO with PO or CO, 20:80 by volume, 1.0 mL/day/200 gm body weight) for 3 months. Throughout the study period, there were no adverse effect of blends on feed intake and body weight gain. After 3 months, blood and serum were subjected for hematological, biochemical assessment. Vital organs were harvested for histopathological and FA composition investigations. Hematological, biochemical, and tissue histopathological parameters were comparable with Control (group receiving only normal diet). Interestingly serum lipid profile was improved by the blend supplementation. Except brain, FA composition was altered in liver, heart, adipose tissue, and RBC with lowering of ω6:ω3 ratio but there was no favorable effect on inflammatory markers and adipokines in the blend supplemented groups. Thus, to conclude, FSO blends with PO or CO were able to lower tissue ω6:ω3 ratio without adverse effects.
Liouville property and quasi‐isometries on non‐positively curved Riemannian surfaces
Authors: Granados Ana , Portilla Ana , Rodríguez‐García José M. , Tourís Eva
Published: January 2025

Kanai proved the stability under quasi‐isometries of several global properties for Riemannian manifolds with the restriction of having positive injectivity radius. This work shows the stability of the Liouville property for Riemannian surfaces with non‐positive curvature, where the restriction on the injectivity radius has been removed.
Evolutionary Game Analysis of Complex Networks in Enterprise Green Technology Innovation From a Prospect Theory Perspective
Authors: Guancen Wu , Xuan Chen , Xing Niu
Published: January 2025

Green technological innovation in enterprises is a key driving force for achieving sustainable development and industrial transformation. However, how enterprises formulate effective innovation strategies by integrating subjective factors with objective market conditions within complex industrial networks remains an area requiring further exploration. This study aims to construct a complex network evolution model based on prospect theory and examines how subjective factors, such as reference points, risk preferences, and loss aversion, influence the adoption of green technology innovation in different network environments. It further explores how network characteristics, including topology, size, and node degree, affect the diffusion of innovation. Numerical analysis results indicate that in scale‐free networks, lowering reference points for enterprise gains, reducing loss aversion, increasing risk preference, expanding network size, and raising average node degree generally promote higher adoption of green technology innovation. In small‐world networks, the dependence on reference points is relatively lower, risk preference and average node degree demonstrate more complex impacts. Additionally, a moderate rewiring probability can enhance green technology innovation adoption in small‐world networks. These findings provide new insights and practical implications for understanding the driving mechanisms of green technological innovation in enterprises. They further emphasize the importance of government interventions tailored to the specific characteristics of industrial networks to effectively facilitate the diffusion of green technological innovation.
A coastal lagoon-spawning Winter Flounder subpopulation during ecosystem and fisheries shifts
Authors: Balouskus Richard G. , Lake John M. , Rodrigue Katie E. , Olszewski Scott D. , McManus M. Conor
Published: January 2025

Objective

This research collates numerous data sets, including long-term fisheries monitoring surveys, predators, water quality, and fishing pressure, to explore possible biotic and abiotic correlates that may be hindering the recovery of a Winter Flounder Pseudopleuronectes americanus subpopulation.

Methods

Age-0 (i.e., young-of-year) Winter Flounder and spawning contingents within a single coastal lagoon, Point Judith Pond (Rhode Island), were evaluated across two decades (1999–2020) to determine how potential ecological drivers and harvest have contributed to the subpopulation's state. Available data sets describing predators of both age-0 and adult Winter Flounder, fecal coliform measurements, water temperature, and commercial and recreational harvest were run in a correlative analysis with age-0 and adult Winter Flounder.

Result

Despite decreases in fishing mortality within the pond, there has been no recovery within the Point Judith Pond subpopulation—a shared response across the stock unit. Although it is possible that an increase in predators of eggs, age-0 Winter Flounder, and spawning adults may be hindering the recovery of this subpopulation, other characteristics, such as water quality, habitat degradation, and prey availability, may also be important contributing factors. The survival rates of age-0 Winter Flounder through their first summer appear to have been relatively unchanged over the course of the research, but there has been a contraction in both the spawning period and the maximum size of adult female Winter Flounder in the study area.

Conclusion

By the time a fishing moratorium was implemented in Point Judith Pond, Winter Flounder abundance was already below time series historic minimums. With fishing pressure seemingly no longer regulating population size, other management strategies must be developed to address natural mortality and habitat degradation.
Fabrication of Three‐Dimensional Net‐Structured Polyvinyl Alcohol Nanofibers Using Spray‐Freeze‐Drying Technique
Authors: Razzaque Abdur , Katsumi Motoki , Shimokawa Riku , Hossain Md. Shakhawat , Nakane Koji
Published: January 2025

Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) nanofibers have potential importance in industrial applications. In this study, three‐dimensional (3D) net‐structured PVA nanofibers are successfully fabricated using the spray‐freeze‐drying (SFD) technique for the first time. At first, different concentrations of PVA solutions from 0.001 to 5 wt% are applied to prepare PVA nanofibers using liquid nitrogen at −196°C by the SFD method. These nanofibers are characterized by scanning electron microscopy for morphological analysis, photo ruler software for diameter measurement, thermogravimetric analysis and differential scanning calorimetry for thermal stability and crystallinity, as well as nitrogen adsorption isotherms and pore size distribution curves for specific surface area and porous surface quality. Prepared SFD nanofibers with finer nano diameters, fewer beads, more regular 3D net‐structures and without any massive blocks are obtained from 0.05 to 1 wt%. These are compared with the nanofibers prepared by the freeze‐drying (FD) technique. The SFD method shows better results than the FD method in respect to fiber morphology, finer nanoscale diameter, crystallinity, specific surface area, and surface porous property. The best results are obtained from the nanofibers fabricated by the SFD method at 0.1 wt% concentration. Finally, the findings of this work open the opportunities for potential industrial applications and further development of PVA nanofibers.
Influence of Patient Gender on In‐Hospital Mortality: A Population‐Based Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Vizuete‐Aldave Nahikari , Ugartemendia‐Yerobi Maider , Pereda‐Goikoetxea Beatriz , Zinkunegi‐Zubizarreta Nagore , Zubeldia‐Etxeberria Josune , Elordi‐Guenaga Udane , Arrieta Haritz , Labaka Ainitze
Published: January 2025

Aim

To analyse the association between gender and in‐hospital mortality odds ratios among patients in the Basque Country.

Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Methods

Admission data pertaining to the period between 1 January 2016 and 31 December 2018 were gathered for all registered acute care hospitals (both public and private) in the Basque Country. Odds ratios were calculated through binomial logistic regressions to determine the association between gender and mortality in each diagnostic category of the ICD‐10.

Results

Women had a higher in‐hospital mortality odds ratio for diseases of the circulatory system (OR 1.07 [1.01–1.14], p < 0.05). In contrast, men were at greater risk of in‐hospital death from neoplasms (OR 0.86 [0.83–0.94], p < 0.05), diseases of the nervous system (OR 0.83 [0.70–0.97], p < 0.05), diseases of the genitourinary system (OR 0.83 [0.71–0.96], p < 0.05), endocrine diseases (OR 0.67 [0.54–0.84], p < 0.05), injury, poisoning and other consequences of external causes (OR 0.60 [0.54–0.67], p < 0.05) and diseases of the musculoskeletal system and connective tissue (OR 0.69 [0.50–0.93], p < 0.05).

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contributions.
Investigation of Thiazolidine‐2,4‐Dione Derivatives as Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors: Synthesis, In Vitro Biological Activities and In Silico Studies
Authors: Naeimi Hanane , Taheri Maryam , Ghafouri Hossein , Mohammadi Asadollah
Published: January 2025

The inhibition of acetylcholinesterase (AChE), an enzyme responsible for the inactivation and decrease in acetylcholine in the cholinergic pathway, has been considered an attractive target for small‐molecule drug discovery in Alzheimer's disease (AD) therapy. In the present study, a series of TZD derivatives were designed, synthesized, and studied for drug likeness, blood–brain barrier (BBB) permeability, and adsorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity (ADMET). Additionally, docking studies of the designed compounds were performed on AChE. Additionally, all the TZD derivatives (CHT1‐5) showed an acceptable affinity for AChE inhibition, and the results showed convincing binding modes in the active site of AChE. Among them, 5‐(4‐methoxybenzylidene) thiazolidine‐2,4‐dione (CHT1) was identified as the most potent AChE inhibitor (IC50 of 165.93 nM) with the highest antioxidant activity. Following the exposure of PC12 cells to Aβ1‐42 (100 μM), a marked reduction in cell survival was observed. Pretreatment of PC12 cells with TZD derivatives had a neuroprotective effect and significantly enhanced cell survival in response to Aβ‐induced toxicity. Western blotting analysis revealed that CHT1 (5 and 8 μM) downregulated p‐Tau and HSP70 expression levels. The results indicate that CHT1 is a promising and effective AchE‐I that could be utilized as a powerful candidate against AD.
Tensile behavior of mechanical joint for GFRP/metal mesh hybrid laminate after low‐velocity impact
Authors: Chen Yilong , Wan Yun , Li Chaojiang , Zhang Jiangtao
Published: January 2025

This work investigates the effect of metal mesh reinforcement on the low‐velocity impact (LVI) resistance and post‐LVI tensile properties of bolted‐joint glass fiber‐reinforced polymer (GFRP). With the self‐designed fixtures, a total of nine different specimen types were tested, varying in stacking sequences and configurations. The analysis of the displacement‐force curves, damage morphology, and the progression strain contour captured by the digital image correlation (DIC) technology revealed that the incorporation of metal mesh disperses impact energy, and alters the stress distribution during tensile loading, thus, the compressive stress above the bolt hole is partially taken up by the tensile force below. Specifically, under an incident energy of 9 J, the metal mesh‐reinforced ply A specimens show a 10.17% increase in maximum contact force and a 36.63% enhancement in tensile ultimate strength compared to the unreinforced specimens.

Highlights

Inserted metal mesh to strengthen the bolted‐joint performance of post‐LVI GFRP.

Self‐designed fixtures and DIC for LVI and post‐LVI tensile tests.

Added metal mesh can effectively avoid concentrated failure in pure GFRP.

At the same layup, up to 36.63% rise in bearing loading of hybrid laminate.
Preparation and properties of compatible polybutylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate composites with high rice husk content
Authors: Tang Wen , Jiang Sike , Zhang Yaqing , Jian Kui , Weng Fangqing , Wu Qiangxian
Published: January 2025

To deal with the severe issue of non‐degradable “white pollution”, it is essential to use cheap and readily available biomass fillers and biodegradable polymers to prepare green plastics with good compatibility and excellent comprehensive properties. In this work, polybutylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate (PBAT) as the matrix, and polycaprolactone‐based polyurethane prepolymers (PCLPU) as compatibilizer were used to prepare bio‐composite materials with a high husk powder content. SEM results indicated that a compatible interface structure had been successfully established. The compatibility of the composite materials was achieved through novel interface structures with physical crosslinking and urethane bonds. Furthermore, compared with the control without compatibilizer, a significant increase in elongation at break from 2.01% to 31.98% was demonstrated, indicating a nearly 15‐fold improvement. A notable increase in impact strength from 3.33 to 11.67 KJ/m2 was observed, suggesting that the toughness and strength were enhanced by adding polyurethane prepolymer. Furthermore, it was revealed through thermogravimetric and water resistance tests that the addition of PCLPU enhanced the thermal stability and hydrophobicity of the composite material. The biomass content of composite materials can reach as high as 80%, significantly reducing their cost.

Highlights

The rice husk powder as a filler can be up to 80%, significantly reducing the cost of the composite materials.

Both strength at break and elongation at break of the biocompsite were improved obviously with PCLPU as compatibilizer.

The thermal stability and hydrophobicity of composite materials enhanced with the adding of PCLPU.

The compatibility of the composites was achieved through innovative interfacial structures, including physical crosslinking and urethane bonds.

The high‐biomass rice husk powder/PBAT composites showed excellent mechanical properties for its good compatibility.
Synergistic enhancement of the dynamic impact damage resistance and energy absorption of ultra‐high molecular weight polyethylene fiber reinforced composites with multiple plasma modification
Authors: Zhao Yuwei , Liu Zixuan , Wang Yican , Jia Lixia , Shi Bao , Chen Zhenhong , Zhang Xiayun , Yan Ruosi
Published: January 2025

The study reveals the dynamic impact damage resistance and energy absorption of oxygen/argon/nitrogen multiple plasma modified ultra‐high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fiber reinforced composites. The interface bonding properties and impact resistance of the composite were studied by microsphere debonding test, low‐velocity and high‐velocity impact test. The modified parameters are optimized based on quadratic polynomial equation. The impact resistance of the composite was evaluated from the aspects of ballistic limit velocity, failure mode and energy dissipation mechanism. The results showed that compared with untreated composites, the depth of dents and damage area of multiple plasma modified composites were reduced by 43.53% and 11.73%, respectively. The energy absorption and limit velocity of high‐velocity impact were increased by 14.64% and 25.58%, respectively. The modified composites formed an energy dissipation mechanism dominated by fiber breakage. The impact damage resistance and energy absorption of UHMWPE fiber reinforced composites were enhanced with multiple plasma modification.

Highlights

Multiple plasma modification enhance synergistic energy absorption of composites.

The optimum treatment parameters of composites plasma modification were analyzed.

Interface bonding properties were evaluated from microscopic perspective.
Secondary bonded and co‐bonded CFRP composite joints with innovative lamination technique: Flexural and failure analysis
Authors: Karthikeyan N. , Naveen Jesuarockiam , Rajesh M. , Reddy D. Mallikarjuna
Published: January 2025

Adhesively bonded techniques effectively fuse the structural components in an assembly in aerospace applications. The co‐bonding is more effective than secondary bonding for joining fuselage frames to skins, wing ribs, and spars to skin joints. The flexural behavior and failure analysis of a carbon fiber‐reinforced polymer composite single‐lap joint is one crucial factor in aerospace applications. This research involved the fabrication of co‐bonded carbon fiber‐reinforced polymer composite single‐lap joints utilizing the vacuum bag hand lay‐up method, incorporating geometric modification techniques, including interleaved and covered lamination. The flexural strength was examined through a three‐point bending test. The results indicate that the secondary bonded with covered lamination techniques has attained the maximum flexural strength compared to others. The values are 80% higher than the neat secondary bonded joints. Moreover, the carbon fiber‐reinforced polymer composite single lap joint samples were examined for failure analysis using the ASTM D5573 standard. Furthermore, these geometric modifications in CFRP composite joints confirmed the significant enhancement in experimental results with less than 5% error rates.

Highlights

Carbon fiber‐reinforced polymeric (CFRP) joints were made utilizing interleaved and covered lamination methods.

SB and CB methods were utilized to fabricate the CFRP composite joints.

CL‐SBT exhibits high flexural strength (639 MPa) and modulus (45.94 GPa).

A thin‐layer cohesive failure was observed in interleaved CFRP joints,

The fiber tear failure was observed in covered lamination CFRP joints.
Creation and validation of an extended‐spectrum beta‐lactamase‐producing Enterobacterales (ESBL‐E) clinical risk scoring tool for select Enterobacterales in non‐urinary isolates
Authors: Jones Jordan , Morrisette Taylor , Hamby Aaron , Hornback Krutika Mediwala , Burgoon Rachel
Published: January 2025

Background

Infections caused by extended‐spectrum β‐lactamase‐producing Enterobacterales (ESBL‐E) are increasing in the United States. Although many risk factor scoring tools exist, many are specific to bloodstream isolates and may not represent all patient populations. The purpose of this study was to create and validate an institution‐specific scoring tool for select ESBL‐E of non‐urinary origin based on previously identified risk factors.

Methods

This retrospective, case–control analysis included inpatient adults at an academic medical center from July 2021 through August 2023 with a documented ESBL‐E or non‐ESBL‐E infection of non‐urinary origin. Patients with ESBL‐E isolates were matched in a 1:1 ratio to non‐ESBL‐E isolates by organism and specimen type. Points for each risk factor were assigned by dividing their respective regression coefficient by half of the smallest regression coefficient and rounding to the nearest integer (prior ESBL‐E within the past 12 months: 6 points, urinary catheter: 3 points, central venous catheter: 2 points, cirrhosis: 2 points). Sensitivities, specificities, positive predictive values (PPV), and negative predictive values (NPV) were calculated for each score, and discriminatory power was assessed via the receiver operating characteristic (ROC)‐area under the curve (AUC).

Results

Of the 1139 identified cultures, 140 patients met the criteria for inclusion into the ESBL‐E case arm, thus 140 patients with non‐ESBL‐E cultures were matched as controls. Baseline characteristics were relatively similar between the groups. A score of 0 was associated with low risk of ESBL‐E (PPV 0.31, NPV 0.36), whereas scores between 2 and 5 were considered moderate risk (PPV 0.56, NPV 0.55), and scores ≥6 were associated with high risk (PPV 0.91, NPV 0.56). The ROC curve AUC was 0.705.

Conclusions

The majority of ESBL‐E risk factor scoring tools are specific to isolates causing bloodstream infections. This institution‐specific scoring tool may be used to tailor empiric antimicrobial regimens and decrease unnecessary exposure to carbapenems in non‐ESBL‐E infections of non‐urinary origin.
Health Care Utilisation and Unmet Needs in Survivors of Head and Neck Cancer in Regional Australia: A Cross‐Sectional Survey
Authors: Pradhan Poorva , Sharman Ashleigh R. , Lacey Judith , Dwyer Patrick , Hill Jacques , Davis Kimberley J. , Craig Steven , Wu Raymond , Ashford Bruce , Mitchell Jenny , Clark Jonathan R. , Elliott Michael S. , Palme Carsten E. , Venchiarutti Rebecca L.
Published: January 2025

Background

The post‐treatment survivorship period marks the transition away from acute care and poses distinct challenges for individuals with head and neck cancer (HNC). This can be especially challenging for people in regional areas who travel long distances to access care and experience unique challenges in accessing health services.

Aim

To investigate unmet needs and healthcare utilisation of survivors of HNC in regional areas.

Methods

Invitations were sent to 619 survivors of HNC living in rural New South Wales, Australia, who were 1–15 years post‐treatment. Participants self‐reported unmet survivorship needs and the strength of these needs using the Cancer Survivors' Unmet Needs Measure. Health care utilisation over the preceding 12 months was collected using an investigator‐designed questionnaire.

Results

One hundred and seventeen responses were received (19% response rate). Participants were predominantly male (65%), had oropharynx cancer (52%), with mean age of 70.2 years. Some 54% of participants reported at least one unmet need, and 40% rated these unmet needs as 'strong'. Top unmet needs included concern about recurrence (24%), access to local services (15%), and financial support (15%). 94% of participants reported seeing their GP, while 62% visited a dental clinic; only 10% sought professional psychosocial support despite prevalent unmet needs.

Conclusion

Rural survivors of HNC in Australia have substantial unmet psychosocial needs yet demonstrate low utilisation of professional psychosocial support. This may reflect the limited availability or accessibility of services for this population, which could be addressed with shared models of care utilising both GP‐led and telehealth services.
Longitudinal Psychological Distress After Malignant Brain Tumor Diagnosis: A Multilevel Analysis of Patients and Their Caregivers
Authors: Karger André , Kisić Anna‐Maria , Quente Caterina , Klett Maike K. , Schäfer Ralf , Sabel Michael , Rapp Marion
Published: January 2025

Objective

Malignant brain tumors are associated with debilitating symptoms and a poor prognosis, resulting in high psychological distress for patients and caregivers. There is a lack of longitudinal studies investigating psychological distress in this group. This study evaluated fear of progression (FoP), anxiety and depression in patients and their caregivers in the 6 months following malignant brain tumor diagnosis.

Methods

This prospective, observational study assessed FoP (FoP‐Q‐SF[P]), anxiety and depression (HADS) at diagnosis (T0) and after three (T1) and 6 months (T2) in patients with malignant brain tumors (primary, secondary) and their caregivers. Multilevel analyses were used to examine changes over time and differences between patients and caregivers, while accounting for the interdependence in their distress values.

Results

Seventy‐one patients and 68 caregivers were included in the analysis. Throughout the study period, over 50% reported clinically relevant FoP, almost 50% reported clinically relevant anxiety, and over 30% reported relevant depression. Over all time points, caregivers reported significantly higher anxiety and depression than patients. Anxiety decreased between T0 and T2 in both groups. Exploratory analyses showed that female sex was associated with higher anxiety, and older age with higher depression. No significant predictors were identified for FoP.

Conclusion

A substantial number of patients and caregivers experience clinically relevant psychological distress in the 6 months following a malignant brain tumor diagnosis. Caregivers are particularly distressed, reporting higher anxiety and depression. Integrating psycho‐oncological assessments and interventions for both patients and caregivers into clinical care is critical to address the psychological distress associated with malignant brain tumors.
Attraction of Bactrocera cucurbitae (Coquillett) to selected gut microbiota supernatants: implications for pest control
Authors: Liu Yanan , Tian Zhenya , Yang Jingfang , Zhou Zhongshi
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND

Bactrocera cucurbitae (Coquillett) is a distructive quarantine insect pest that causes significant economic losses on cucurbit crops. To explore a green control approach, we investigated the behavioral responses of B. cucurbitae larvae and adults to bacterial suspensions, sediments, and supernatants derived from eight gut microbial strains across four distinct genera. The proboscis extension response was used to evaluate the impact of these microbial strains. In addition, using food selection experiments, two‐choice trap methods, and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, we isolated and identified the predominant volatile compounds in the microbiota supernatants.

RESULTS

Among the tested gut microbial strains, Kluyvera, Morganella, and Providencia exhibited notable attraction toward B. cucurbitae. In particular, the supernatant of Providencia M38 revealed the most highly attractive effect on B. cucurbitae larvae, whereas the supernatant of Morganella M72 was highly attractive to B. cucurbitae adults. Primary components present in the supernatant of M38 and M72 were dimethyl disulfide, indole, 2‐nonone, phenethyl alcohol, and 1‐decanol.

CONCLUSION

Strains of M38 and M72 displayed remarkable attractive properties for B. cucurbitae larvae and adults, respectively, presenting promising potential for developing a novel attractant for this pest species. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.
Novel genomic features in entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria bassiana ILB308: accessory genomic regions and putative virulence genes involved in the infection process of soybean pest Piezodorus guildinii
Authors: Oberti Héctor , Sessa Lucia , Oliveira‐Rizzo Carolina , Di Paolo Andrés , Sanchez‐Vallet Andrea , Seidl Michael F. , Abreo Eduardo
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND

Biological control methods involving entomopathogenic fungi like Beauveria bassiana have been shown to be a valuable approach in integrated pest management as an environmentally friendly alternative to control pests and pathogens. Identifying genetic determinants of pathogenicity in B. bassiana is instrumental for enhancing its virulence against insects like the resistant soybean pest Piezodorus guildinii. This study focused on comparative genomics of different B. bassiana strains and gene expression analyses to identify virulence genes in the hypervirulent strain ILB308, especially in response to infection of P. guildinii and growth on hydrocarbon HC15, a known virulence enhancer.

RESULTS

Strain ILB308 showed the highest number of virulence‐related features, such as candidate virulence proteins, effectors, small secreted proteins and biosynthetic gene clusters. ILB308 also had a high percentage of unique DNA sequences, including six accessory scaffolds. Gene expression analysis at 4 days post inoculation revealed upregulation of known virulence factors, including Tudor domain proteins, LysM motif‐containing proteins, subtilisin‐like proteases and novel genes encoding secreted effectors and heat‐labile enterotoxins. Growth on HC15 led to the upregulation of genes associated with oxidoreductase activity related to cuticular alkane degradation and fermentation metabolism/antioxidant responses in the hemolymph. The low number of known B. bassiana virulence genes points to novel or unknown mechanisms acting on the interaction between P. guildinii and strain ILB308.

CONCLUSION

The presence of accessory genomic regions and unique virulence genes in ILB308 may contribute to its higher virulence. These genes could be considered as potential targets for enhancing fungal virulence through genetic manipulation. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.
Investigating non‐target site resistance to pyroxsulam in a glyphosate‐resistant Lolium rigidum population
Authors: Zeng Yalin , Liu Min , Qian Hong , Zhao Hui , Fang Yuhang , Yu Qin , Bai Lianyang , Pan Lang
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND

Resistance to multiple herbicides is common in Lolium rigidum. Here, resistance to acetolactate synthase (ALS)‐ and susceptibility to acetyl‐CoA carboxylase (ACCase)‐inhibiting herbicides was confirmed in a glyphosate‐resistant L. rigidum population (NLR70) from Australia and the mechanisms of pyroxsulam resistance were examined.

RESULTS

No ALS target‐site mutations nor gene overexpression were detected. Cytochrome P450 monooxygenase (P450) and glutathione S‐transferase (GST) inhibitors (indicators of some certain P450s or GSTs) did not significantly affect the resistance to pyroxsulam. Nevertheless, HPLC analysis showed that plants of the NLR70 population metabolized pyroxsulam faster than plants of the herbicide‐susceptible population (SVLR1). RNA sequencing analysis and RT‐qPCR validation confirmed that four P450s (CYP709B2, CYP72A14, CYP89A2, CYP94B3), one GT (UGT79), and one ABC transporter (ABCG41) genes were constitutively upregulated in NLR70 plants.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates that the glyphosate‐resistant L. rigidum population (NLR70) also exhibits resistance to pyroxsulam and identifies six candidate genes associated with non‐target site resistance to pyroxsulam. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.
Silencing of the plant‐derived horizontally transferred gene BtSC5DL effectively controls Bemisia tabaci MED
Authors: Liu Yifan , Gong Cheng , Hu Yuan , Han Haolin , Tian Tian , Luo Yili , Yang Xin , Xie Wen , Wu Qingjun , Wang Shaoli , Guo Zhaojiang , Zhang Youjun
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND

The whitefly Bemisia tabaci is a notorious agricultural pest known for its ability to cause significant crop damage through direct feeding and virus transmission. Its remarkable adaptability and reproductive capacity are linked to its ability to acquire and integrate horizontally transferred genes (HTGs) into its genome. These HTGs increase the physiological and metabolic capacities of this pest, including cholesterol synthesis, which is critical for its survival and reproductive success. Among these genes, we identified a plant‐derived B. tabaci Δ7‐sterol C5‐desaturase‐like gene (BtSC5DL), which plays a pivotal role in B. tabaci cholesterol metabolism and reproductive biology.

RESULTS

In this study, we cloned and identified the BtSC5DL gene from B. tabaci Mediterranean (MED). Bioinformatics and molecular analyses revealed that BtSC5DL was transferred from plants to B. tabaci millions of years ago and is now stably expressed in this species. Silencing BtSC5DL through dsRNA feeding resulted in significant reductions in egg production and cholesterol content in B. tabaci MED. Furthermore, virus‐induced gene silencing (VIGS) experiments confirmed that long‐term suppression of BtSC5DL had a notable ability to control whitefly populations.

CONCLUSION

Our results demonstrate the crucial role of BtSC5DL in cholesterol biosynthesis in B. tabaci MED and suggest that the acquisition of this gene significantly enhances the reproductive capacity of this species. These findings provide a theoretical basis for the development of RNA interference (RNAi)‐based pest control strategies targeting BtSC5DL, offering a potential new approach for the effective management of whitefly populations in agricultural settings. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.
Fungal effector genes involved in the suppression of chitin signaling as novel targets for the control of powdery mildew disease via a nontransgenic RNA interference approach
Authors: Bakhat Nisrine , Jiménez‐Sánchez Alejandro , Ruiz‐Jiménez Laura , Padilla‐Roji Isabel , Velasco Leonardo , Pérez‐García Alejandro , Fernández‐Ortuño Dolores
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND

Chitin is a crucial component of fungal cell walls and an effective elicitor of plant immunity; however, phytopathogenic fungi have developed virulence mechanisms to counteract the activation of this plant defensive response. In this study, the molecular mechanism of chitin‐induced suppression through effectors involved in chitin deacetylases (CDAs) and their degradation (EWCAs) was investigated with the idea of developing novel dsRNA‐biofungicides to control the cucurbit powdery mildew caused by Podosphaera xanthii.

RESULTS

The molecular mechanisms associated with the silencing effect of the PxCDA and PxEWCAs genes were first studied through dsRNA cotyledon infiltration assays, which revealed a ≈80% reduction in fungal biomass and a 50% decrease in gene expression. To assess the impact on powdery mildew disease control, in vitro and in planta assays were carried out in growth chamber and glasshouse experiments, with ≈50% reduction in disease symptoms after 8 days postinoculation (dpi) in leaf discs and 12 dpi in plants’ leaves, respectively. This control was extended for 21 days when the dsRNAs were protected on the carbon dot nanocarriers. Additionally, the uptake of the dsRNAs by fungal spores was observed 12 h postapplication via confocal microscopy, and efficient processing of dsRNAs into siRNAs by the melon RNAi machinery was observed 24 h postspraying through sRNA‐seq.

CONCLUSIONS

This study highlights notable advancements in environmentally friendly disease management, and features the technological potential of RNA‐based fungicides together with nanotechnology for cucurbit powdery mildew control. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.
Tumor‐Associated Macrophages Nano‐Reprogrammers Induce “Gear Effect” to Empower Glioblastoma Immunotherapy
Authors: Wang Yang , Li Guangzhe , Su Jianlong , Liu Yiming , Zhang Xiaomai , Zhang Guanyi , Wu Zhihao , Li Jinrong , Wang Xu , Zhang Yuxuan , Bai Mingrui , Yao Yuanhang , Wang Ruimin , Shao Kun
Published: January 2025

Glioblastoma (GBM), the most malignant brain tumor with high prevalence, remains highly resistant to the existing immunotherapies due to the significant immunosuppression within tumor microenvironment (TME), predominantly manipulated by M2‐phenotypic tumor‐associated macrophages (M2‐TAMs). Here in this work, an M2‐TAMs targeted nano‐reprogrammers, MG5‐S‐IMDQ, is established by decorating the mannose molecule as the targeting moiety as well as the toll‐like receptor (TLR) 7/8 agonist, imidazoquinoline (IMDQ) on the dendrimeric nanoscaffold. MG5‐S‐IMDQ demonstrated an excellent capacity of penetrating the blood‐brain barrier (BBB) as well as selectively targeting M2‐TAMs in the GBM microenvironment, leading to a phenotype transformation and function restoration of TAMs shown as heightened phagocytic activity toward tumor cells, enhanced cytotoxic effects, and improved tumor antigen cross‐presentation capability. In the meantime, by induction of a function‐oriented “gear effect”, MG5‐S‐IMDQ treatment extended its impact systemically by enhancing the infiltration of type I conventional dendritic cells (cDC1s) into the tumor sites and bolstering adaptive immune responses. In sum, by precisely working on M2‐TAMs as a unique target in tumor situ, the nano‐reprogrammers successfully established a robust immune network that worked synergistically to combat tumors. This facile nanoplatform‐based immunomodulatory strategy, serving as a powerful and convenient immune monotherapy or as a complementary treatment alongside other therapies like surgery, provided deep insights for advancing translational study in GBM.