bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distinct cross talk of IL‐17 & TGF‐β with the immature CD11c+TRAF6(−/−)‐null myeloid dendritic cell‐derived osteoclast precursor (mDDOCp) may engage signaling toward an alternative pathway of osteoclastogenesis for arthritic bone loss in vivo
Authors: Liu Yen Chun G. , Teng Andy Yen‐Tung
Published: February 2024

Background

Dendritic cells (DCs), though borne heterogeneous, are the most potent antigen‐presenting cells, whose critical functions include triggering antigen‐specific naïve T‐cell responses and fine‐tuning the innate versus adaptive immunity at the osteo‐immune and/or mucosal mesenchyme interface. We previously reported that immature myeloid‐CD11c+DCs/mDCs may act like osteoclast (OC) precursors (OCp/mDDOCp) capable of developing into functional OCs via an alternative pathway of inflammation‐induced osteoclastogenesis; however, what are their contribution and signaling interactions with key osteotropic cytokines (i.e., interleukin‐17 [IL‐17] and transforming growth factor‐β [TGF‐β]) to bearing such inflammatory bone loss in vivo remain unclear to date.

Methods

Herein, we employed mature adult bone marrow‐reconstituted C57BL/6 TRAF6(−/−)‐null chimeras without the classical monocyte/macrophage (Mo/Mϕ)‐derived OCs to address their potential contribution to OCp/mDDOCp‐mediated osteoclastogenesis in the chicken type‐II‐collagen (CC‐II)‐induced joint inflammation versus arthritic bone loss and parallel associations with the double‐positive CD11c+TRAP+TRAF6‐null(−/−) DC‐like OCs detected in vivo via the quantitative dual‐immunohistochemistry and digital histomorphometry for analyses.

Results

The resulting findings revealed the unrecognized novel insight that (i) immature myeloid‐CD11c+TRAF6(−/−) TRAP+DC‐like OCs were involved, co‐localized, and strongly associated with joint inflammation and bone loss, independent of the Mo/Mϕ‐derived classical OCs, in CC‐II‐immunized TRAF6(−/−)‐null chimeras, and (ii) the osteotropic IL‐17 may engage distinct crosstalk with CD11c+mDCs/mDDOCp before developing the CD11c+TRAP+TRAF6(−/−)OCs via a TGF‐β‐dependent interaction toward inflammation‐induced arthritic bone loss in vivo.

Conclusion

These results confirm and substantiate the validity of TRAF6(−/−)‐null chimeras to address the significance of immature mCD11c+TRAP+DC‐like OCs/mDDOCp subset for an alternative pathway of arthritic bone loss in vivo. Such CD11c+mDCs/mDDOCp‐associated osteoclastogenesis through the step‐wise twist‐in‐turns osteo‐immune cross talks are thereby theme highlighted to depict a summative re‐visitation proposed.
Influential effect of C^N ligands containing O, S, and Se heteroatoms in the color tuning of four phosphorescent Ir(III) complexes
Authors: Chen Meng‐Sen , Ma Xiao‐Chong , Mo Zheng‐Rong , Guo Shu , Niu Zhi‐Gang , Li Gao‐Nan
Published: February 2024

A group of new iridium(III) complexes were rationally designed and synthesized with 2‐phenylbenzo[d]oxazole (bo), 2‐phenylbenzo[d]thiazole (bt), 2‐(thiophen‐2‐yl)benzo[d]thiazole (thbt), and 2‐(selenophen‐2‐yl)benzo[d]thiazole (sebt) as C^N ligands and bis(diphenylthiophosphoryl)amide (S‐tpip) as ancillary ligand. They are phosphorescent in a wide region of green to red with short lifetimes around 0.31–0.98 μs and quantum yields up to 64.7%. The detailed photophysical properties were investigated by experiment and further supported by density functional theory (DFT) calculation. These research results show that the spectroscopic properties are tuned by the replacement between oxygen, sulfur, and selenium or the change in aromatic ring. It has been demonstrated that the lowest energy‐level absorption and emission are dominated apparently by C^N ligands, and are ascribed to metal‐to‐ligand charge transfer (MLCT) and intra‐ligand charge transfer (ILCT) characters.
Specific GAG ratios in the diagnosis of mucopolysaccharidoses
Authors: Mathis Déborah , Prost Jean‐Christophe , Maeder Gabriela , Arackal Liya , Zhang Haoyue , Kurth Sandra , Freiburghaus Katrin , Nuoffer Jean‐Marc
Published: February 2024

Mucopolysaccharidoses (MPS) screening is tedious and still performed by analysis of total glycosaminoglycans (GAG) using 1,9‐dimethylmethylene blue (DMB) photometric assay, although false positive and negative tests have been reported. Analysis of differentiated GAGs have been pursued classically by gel electrophoresis or more recently by quantitative LC–MS assays. Secondary elevations of GAGs have been reported in urinary tract infections (UTI). In this manuscript, we describe the diagnostic accuracy of urinary GAG measurements by LC–MS for MPS typing in 68 untreated MPS and mucolipidosis (ML) patients, 183 controls and 153 UTI samples. We report age‐dependent reference values and cut‐offs for chondroitin sulfate (CS), dermatan sulfate (DS), heparan sulfate (HS) and keratan sulfate (KS) and specific GAG ratios. The use of HS/DS ratio in combination to GAG concentrations normalized to creatinine improves the diagnostic accuracy in MPS type I, II, VI and VII. In total 15 samples classified to the wrong MPS type could be correctly assigned using HS/DS ratio. Increased KS/HS ratio in addition to increased KS improves discrimination of MPS type IV by excluding false positives. Some samples of UTI patients showed elevation of specific GAGs, mainly CS, KS and KS/HS ratio and could be misclassified as MPS type IV. Finally, DMB photometric assay performed in MPS and ML samples reveal four false negative tests (sensitivity of 94%). In conclusion, specific GAG ratios in complement to quantitative GAG values obtained by LC–MS enhance discrimination of MPS types. Exclusion of patients with UTI improve diagnostic accuracy in MPS IV but not in other types.
Tropical nights in the Mediterranean: A spatiotemporal analysis of trends from 1950 to 2022
Authors: Yavaşlı Doğukan Doğu , Erlat Ecmel
Published: February 2024

The Mediterranean region, noted for its climatic uniqueness and rapid urban expansion, is a critical area for climate change studies. This research investigates the increase in extreme temperatures, particularly focusing on tropical nights and their socio‐economic implications. Our aim was to analyse the spatiotemporal changes, including long‐term variation and trends in the tropical night indices in the Mediterranean region over 73 years (1950–2022). To achieve this, we utilized ERA5‐Land reanalysis data, conducting a comparative analysis to highlight the differential impacts of urbanization on tropical nights in urban and non‐urban areas. The study reveals a significant rise in the frequency of tropical nights region‐wide. Specifically, the onset of the tropical night season is occurring earlier, with an advancement of approximately 17.3 days per decade, while the season's end is delayed by about 17.1 days per decade, effectively prolonging the duration of tropical nights. This change is most pronounced in urban areas, where tropical nights have increased more significantly compared to non‐urban regions, highlighting the exacerbating effect of urbanization on nocturnal temperature trends. Overall, our findings underline the combined effects of anthropogenic climate change and urban development on the increased occurrence and intensity of tropical nights in the Mediterranean region.
Effects of non‐nutritive sweeteners on growth and intestinal health by regulating hypothalamic RNA profile and ileum microbiota in guinea pigs
Authors: Zhu Shanli , Li Junrong , Li Ziqing , Wang Zhe , Wei Quanwei , Shi Fangxiong
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Non‐nutritive sweeteners (NNS) are commonly used in sweetened foods and beverages; however their role in metabolic regulation is still not clear. In this experiment, we used guinea pigs as an animal model to study the effect of NNS on body growth and intestinal health by modifying gut microbiota and hypothalamus‐related proteins.

RESULTS

For a 28‐day feeding experiment a total of 40 guinea pigs were randomly divided into four groups, one control (CN) group and three treatments, in which three NNS were added to the diet: rebaudioside A (RA, 330 mg kg−1), sodium saccharin (SS, 800 mg kg−1), and sucralose (TGS, 167 mg kg−1), respectively. The TGS group exhibited significantly reduced food consumption in comparison with the CN group (P < 0.05) whereas the RA group showed increased food consumption in comparison with the CN group (P < 0.05). Notably, Taste receptor type 1 subunit 2 (T1R2) expression in the hypothalamus was significantly higher in the RA group than in the CN group (P < 0.05). The mRNA expressions of appetite‐stimulated genes arouti‐related neuropeptide (AGRP), neuropeptide Y (NPY), and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSHB) were significantly higher than those in the CN group (P < 0.05) but mRNA expressions of appetite‐suppressed genes tryptophan hydroxylase 2(THP2) were significantly lower in the TGS group (P < 0.05). Furthermore, NNS in the guinea pig diets (RA, SS, TGS) significantly increased the relative abundance of Muribaculaceae but decreased the relative abundance of Clostridia_vadin BB60 in comparison with the CN group (P < 0.05). We also found that dietary supplementation with RA also significantly altered the relative abundance of Lactobacillus.

CONCLUSION

Our finding confirmed that dietary supplementation with RA and TGS affected body growth and intestinal health by modulating hypothalamic RNA profiles and ileum microbiota, suggesting that NNS should be included in guinea‐pig feeding. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Biomass difference between mixed plantations and monocultures and its influencing factors: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Meng Meiyue , Huang Linjia , Jiao Qiuyan , Chen Meng , Zhang Xu , Li Ming , Cao Yang
Published: February 2024

Establishing mixed‐species plantations has become the most promising planting method to provide various goods and improve multiple environmental services. Although mixed planting has the potential to increase tree biomass, the divergent findings make it challenging to understand the mixing effects on whole forest (trees, shrubs, herbs, and litter) biomass. Therefore, we conducted a meta‐analysis compiling 156 studies published from 1982 to 2021 across 128 sites in China. We aimed to quantify the mixing effects on forest biomass between mixed plantations and monocultures and disentangle the driving factors. Our results showed that mixed planting significantly increased the total biomass, biomass of tree, and shrub layer by 14.07%, 22.49%, and 34.84%, respectively, when compared with monocultures. The effects of mixed planting on biomass were more pronounced in plantations with both nitrogen‐fixing trees and non‐nitrogen‐fixing trees, plantations with both coniferous and broad‐leaved trees, as well as uneven‐aged plantations containing young‐ and middle‐aged species. Furthermore, our results demonstrated the effects of mixed planting were predominantly governed by climatic conditions and woodland characteristics. The effect size of total biomass exhibited a significant positive correlation with mean annual temperature and precipitation, while the shrub and herb layers showed a significant negative relationship with these climatic variables. Our findings highlighted the importance of complementarity effects in mixed plantations, especially establishing uneven‐aged plantations with different leaf morphology types and N acquisition strategies. Overall, our meta‐analysis could provide strategies for future sustainable ecosystem management and improving the terrestrial carbon sink.
A Theoretical Investigation of the Electrical and Dielectric Properties of PDMS‐CNT
Authors: Karuppiah Poovendran , Nambi Ramachary Ramanujam , Kulandai Samy Joseph Wilson , Vadivel Murugan Prasanna Venkatesh
Published: February 2024

In the present study, the dielectric and electrical properties of the carbon nanotube/polydimethylsiloxane (CNT/PDMS) composite are theoretically analyzed for various doping concentrations. For both single‐walled and multiwalled CNTs (SCNTs and MCNTs), the work is done between 75 and 750 THz. The behavior of the dielectric constant, loss factor, and conductivity are analyzed as functions of frequency. It is observed that there is no appreciable change in the real part of the dielectric constant at high frequencies in single‐walled CNT. The loss tangent is high at lower frequencies, and the loss peak is observed at a particular frequency. The Cole–Cole plot is used to interpret the static‐ and high‐frequency dielectric constants and relaxation time of the composite. With increasing concentrations of SCNT and MCNT, the conductivity at the obtained peak maximum shifts to a lower frequency.
Quality disclosure strategy in a competitive environment with consumers' homogeneity and heterogeneity
Authors: Tan Yong , Wang Chenyu , Zhou Ziwei , Dong Ruixiao , Guan Xu
Published: February 2024

This study examines the optimal pricing and disclosure strategies of sellers who possess private quality information. We consider two market structures, namely, monopoly market and duopoly market; under each market structure, we further consider two characteristics of consumer preferences for the same product: homogeneity and heterogeneity. How competition and whether consumers are heterogeneous affects sellers' disclosure strategies, and profitability is the focus of our attention. Interestingly, we show that the monopolistic seller's profit is likely to increase as the disclosure cost, which is not possible in a competitive environment. We indicate that when consumers are homogeneous, sellers can obtain higher returns and are more likely to engage in quality disclosure. Finally, we show that when the market is filled with homogeneous consumers, competition always increases the motivation for sellers to engage in quality disclosure. However, when the market is filled with heterogeneous consumers, competition actually hinders sellers from engaging in quality disclosure when the cost of disclosure is low. Our results help company managers in making better disclosure and pricing strategies.
The effects of working from home on technical efficiency within the service industry: A meta‐frontier approach
Authors: Yang Migyeong , Jang Soobin , Goh Michelle , Lee Daeho
Published: February 2024

The COVID‐19 pandemic has accelerated the introduction of working from home (WFH), but it has not been verified how it affects corporate performance, and many companies are still hesitant to introduce WFH. In this study, service companies were divided into a group that introduced WFH and a group that did not introduce WFH during the COVID‐19 pandemic, and the technical efficiencies of the two groups were compared through meta‐frontier analysis. As a result, the WFH group had a lower technical efficiency (TE) but a higher meta‐technology ratio (MTR) than the group that did not introduce WFH, suggesting that the introduction of WFH can be positive for improving corporate performance in the long run.
High SNR full brain relaxometry at 7T by accelerated MR‐STAT
Authors: Versteeg Edwin , Liu Hongyan , van der Heide Oscar , Fuderer Miha , van den Berg Cornelis A. T. , Sbrizzi Alessandro
Published: February 2024

Purpose

To demonstrate the feasibility and robustness of the Magnetic Resonance Spin TomogrAphy in Time‐domain (MR‐STAT) framework for fast, high SNR relaxometry at 7T.

Methods

To deploy MR‐STAT on 7T‐systems, we designed optimized flip‐angles using the BLAKJac‐framework that incorporates the SAR‐constraints. Transmit RF‐inhomogeneities were mitigated by including a measured ‐map in the reconstruction. Experiments were performed on a gel‐phantom and on five volunteers to explore the robustness of the sequence and its sensitivity to inhomogeneities. The SNR‐gain at 7T was explored by comparing phantom and in vivo results to MR‐STAT at 3T in terms of SNR‐efficiency.

Results

The higher SNR at 7T enabled two‐fold acceleration with respect to current 2D MR‐STAT protocols at lower field strengths. The resulting scan had whole‐brain coverage, with 1 x 1 x 3 mm3 resolution (1.5 mm slice‐gap) and was acquired within 3 min including the ‐mapping. After ‐correction, the estimated T1 and T2 in a phantom showed a mean relative error of, respectively, 1.7% and 4.4%. In vivo, the estimated T1 and T2 in gray and white matter corresponded to the range of values reported in literature with a variation over the subjects of 1.0%–2.1% (WM‐GM) for T1 and 4.3%–5.3% (WM‐GM) for T2. We measured a higher SNR‐efficiency at 7T (R = 2) than at 3T for both T1 and T2 with, respectively, a 4.1 and 2.3 times increase in SNR‐efficiency.

Conclusion

We presented an accelerated version of MR‐STAT tailored to high field (7T) MRI using a low‐SAR flip‐angle train and showed high quality parameter maps with an increased SNR‐efficiency compared to MR‐STAT at 3T.
An improved hybrid genetic search with data mining for the CVRP
Authors: Maia Marcelo Rodrigues de Holanda , Plastino Alexandre , Souza Uéverton dos Santos
Published: February 2024

The hybrid genetic search (HGS) metaheuristic has produced outstanding results for several variants of the vehicle routing problem. A recent implementation of HGS specialized to the capacitated vehicle routing problem (CVRP) is a state‐of‐the‐art method for this variant. This paper proposes an improved HGS for the CVRP obtained by incorporating a new solution generation method into its (re‐)initialization process to guide the search more efficiently and effectively. The solution generation method introduced in this work combines an approach based on frequent patterns extracted from good solutions by a data mining process and a randomized version of the Clarke and Wright savings heuristic. As observed in our experimental comparison, the proposed method significantly outperforms the original algorithm regarding the final gap to the best known solutions and the primal integral.
Medical Student Research Activity in Otolaryngology
Authors: Chen Tiffany , Ho Bethany , Decker Megan , Basta Daniel , Hong Ellen M. , Durrant Frederick , Eloy Jean Anderson , Benson Brian
Published: February 2024

Objective

To investigate medical student research productivity by institutions associated with otolaryngology residency programs and identify correlates of productivity.

Study Design

Retrospective review.

Setting

N/A.

Methods

A systematic search for articles indexed on PubMed published by 116 programs from January 1, 2016 to February 28, 2021 was conducted. Primary outcomes were number of faculty publications, first‐author medical student publications and medical students from each institution. Secondary outcomes included geographic region, number of otolaryngology faculty members, and program rankings.

Results

Nationally, the mean number of faculty per institution was 21.7 at the time of search. Over a 5‐year period, there was a mean 98.7 total publications and 15.8 medical student first‐author publications per institution consisting of a mean of 10.03 distinct medical students. One‐way analysis of variance showed no statistically significant difference in medical student productivity (P = .09) or department size (P = .12) between regions. Number of medical student first‐author publications positively correlated to number of faculty (R = .43, P < .05) and number of faculty publications (R = .63, P < .05). The top 30 programs ranked by United States News & World Report or National Institute of Health for funding had a statistically significantly greater mean number of medical student first‐author publications and distinct medical student first authors than all other programs (P < .05).

Conclusion

Greater numbers of faculty members likely provide more mentorship and opportunities that allow medical students to engage in projects that lead to first‐author publications. These findings allow institutions to reflect on efforts in medical student engagement and provide data to students for career planning.
Effect of an Outbound Scheduling Team on the Timeliness of Scheduling Referrals to Pediatric Otolaryngology
Authors: Allred Caleb M. , Nakamura Rina , Mull Helen , Wang Xing , Jio Jason , Messner Jack , Parikh Sanjay R. , Sie Kathleen , Bonilla‐Velez Juliana
Published: February 2024

Objective

Families preferring to receive care in a language‐other‐than‐English have disparities in access to care. We studied the effect of implementing an ambulatory outbound scheduling team on the timeliness of scheduling referrals to pediatric otolaryngology. We hypothesized this intervention could increase access to care.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort analysis.

Setting

Tertiary care academic center.

Methods

Data were abstracted from the hospital's enterprise database for patients referred to Otolaryngology over 3 years (October 2019‐August 2022; 7675 referrals). An outbound scheduling team was created April 2021 and tasked with calling out to schedule referrals within one business day of receipt. Referral lag was compared across patient cohorts before and after the scheduling intervention. Log‐transformed linear regression models were used to assess the impact of the scheduling intervention on referral lag for language cohorts.

Results

The median preintervention referral lag was 6 days (interquartile range [IQR] 2‐18), which was reduced to 1 day postintervention (IQR 0‐5; P < .001). Preintervention language‐other‐than‐English families had a median referral lag of 8 days (IQR 2‐23), which was 1.27 times higher than for patients speaking English (P < .001). With implementation of the scheduling intervention, language‐other‐than‐English families were scheduled in a median of 1 day (IQR 0‐6), and the disparity in timeliness of scheduling was eliminated (P = .131). Postintervention, referral lag was reduced by 58% in the English and 64% in the language other than English cohorts.

Conclusion

Implementation of an outbound ambulatory scheduling process reduces referral lag for all patients and eliminated a disparity in referral lag for language‐other‐than‐English families.
Access to Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss Care at Private Equity‐Owned Otolaryngology Clinics
Authors: Haleem Afash , Garcia Alejandro , Khan Sophia , Shakelly Purvi , Lee Daniel J.
Published: February 2024

Objective

Characterizing access to sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) care at private practice otolaryngology clinics of varying ownership models.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional prospective review.

Setting

Private practice otolaryngology clinics.

Methods

We employed a Secret Shopper study design with private equity (PE) owned and non‐PE‐owned clinics within 15 miles of one another. Using a standardized script, researchers randomly called 50% of each clinic type between October 2021 and January 2022 requesting an appointment on behalf of a family member enrolled in either Medicaid or private insurance (PI) experiencing SSNHL. Access to timely care was assessed between clinic ownership and insurance type.

Results

Seventy‐eight total PE‐owned otolaryngology clinics were identified across the United States. Only 40 non‐PE clinics could be matched to the PE clinics; 39 PE and 28 non‐PE clinics were called as Medicaid patients; 39 PE and 25 non‐PE clinics were called as PI patients; 48.7% of PE and 28.6% of non‐PE clinics accepted Medicaid. The mean wait time to new appointment ranged between 9.55 and 13.21 days for all insurance and ownership types but did not vary significantly (P > .480). Telehealth was significantly more likely to be offered for new Medicaid patients at non‐PE clinics compared to PE clinics (31.8% vs 0.0%, P = .001). The mean cost for an appointment was significantly greater at PE clinics than at non‐PE clinics ($291.18 vs $203.75, P = .004).

Conclusions

Patients seeking SSNHL care at PE‐owned otolaryngology clinics are likely to face long wait times prior to obtaining an initial appointment and reduced telehealth options.
Estimation of Nasal Airway Cross‐sectional Area From Endoscopy Using Depth Maps: A Proof‐of‐Concept Study
Authors: Garcia Guilherme J.M. , Catalano Dominic , Shum Axel , Larkee Christopher E. , Rhee John S.
Published: February 2024

Objective

Endoscopy is routinely used to diagnose obstructive airway diseases. Currently, endoscopy is only a visualization technique and does not allow quantification of airspace cross‐sectional areas (CSAs). This pilot study tested the hypothesis that CSAs can be accurately estimated from depth maps created from virtual endoscopy videos.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional.

Setting

Academic tertiary medical center.

Methods

Virtual endoscopy and depth map videos of the nasal cavity were digitally created based on anatomically accurate three‐dimensional (3D) models built from computed tomography scans of 30 subjects. A software tool was developed to outline the airway perimeter and estimate the airspace CSA from the depth maps. Two otolaryngologists used the software tool to estimate the nasopharynx CSA and the nasal valve minimal CSA (mCSA) in the left and right nasal cavities. Model validation statistics were performed.

Results

Nasopharynx CSA had a median percent error of 3.7% to 4.6% when compared to the true values measured in the 3D models. Nasal valve mCSA had a median percent error of 22.7% to 33.6% relative to the true values. Raters successfully used the software tool to identify subjects with nasal valve stenosis (ie, mCSA < 0.20 cm2) with a sensitivity of 83.3%, specificity ≥ 90.7%, and classification accuracy ≥ 90.0%. Interrater and intrarater agreements were high.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that airway CSAs in 3D models can be accurately estimated from depth maps. The development of artificial intelligence algorithms to compute depth maps may soon allow the quantification of airspace CSAs from clinical endoscopies.
Electrospun statin‐loaded nanofibers for treating diabetic wounds
Authors: Pamu Divya , Garikapati Kusuma Kumari , Kuppusamy Gowthamarajan , Krishnamurthy Praveen Thaggikuppe , Ganesan Srividhya , Naik Mudavath Ravi , Karri Veera Venkata Satyanarayana Reddy , Ponpandian Nagamony , Alexiou Athanasios , Antoniou Sofia , Khan Azmat Ali , Alanazi Amer M. , Papadakis Marios
Published: February 2024

This study aims to develop, characterize, and evaluate the best statin‐loaded Collagen Silver nanoparticle‐coated polycaprolactone nanofibers by electrospinning technique. The characterization and evaluation results reveal that nanofibers had shown an aligned Collagen Silver nanoparticle‐coated polycaprolactone nanofibers distribution of fibers and aliment of collagen and silver nanoparticle coating material on the surface of the nanofibers. Furthermore, the electrospun nanofibers have shown no interaction between the drug and collagen and PCL polymeric material and have demonstrated controlled drug release for 360 h and significant degradation for 60 days of the study. In vitro, among the nanofiber treatment groups and the control groups, Pravastatin Collagen Silver nanoparticle‐coated polycaprolactone nanofibers have shown cell proliferation and migration of NHDF cells and blood vessel development in the CAM assay and potential anti‐bacterial activity against S. aureus and E. coli. In vivo, the Pravastatin Collagen Silver nanoparticle‐coated polycaprolactone nanofibers have demonstrated improved wound recovery, re‐epithelization, fibroblast cell proliferation, angiogenesis, and ECM remodeling and enhanced VEGF‐sprouting in the excised tissues of streptozotocin‐induced diabetic rats for 7, 14, and 21 days of the study. Therefore, the developed Pravastatin Collagen Silver nanoparticle‐coated polycaprolactone nanofibers could be a promising wound‐dressing platform for effectively treating and managing diabetic wounds.

Highlights

Nanofiber wound dressings provide numerous structural features in biomaterials.

Polycaprolactone can release the repurposed statin molecules into the wound site in a controlled manner.

In diabetic wounds, ECM tissue remodeling stimulates repair and vessel growth.

Pravastatin has been demonstrated to improve angiogenesis and ECM secretion for wound healing in diabetic conditions.
Diverse genetic basis of Vip3Aa resistance in five independent field‐derived strains of Helicoverpa zea in the US
Authors: Yang Fei , Head Graham P , Kerns Dawson D , Jurat‐Fuentes Juan Luis , Santiago‐González José C , Kerns David L
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Practical resistance of Helicoverpa zea to Cry proteins has become widespread in the US, making Vip3Aa the only effective Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) protein for controlling this pest. Understanding the genetic basis of Vip3Aa resistance in H. zea is essential in sustaining the long‐term efficacy of Vip3Aa. The objectives of this study were to characterize the inheritance of Vip3Aa resistance in four distinct field‐derived H. zea strains (M1‐RR, AC4‐RR, R2‐RR and R15‐RR), and to test for shared genetic basis among these strains and a previously characterized Texas resistant strain (LT#70‐RR).

RESULTS

Maternal effects and sex linkage were absent, and the effective dominance level (DML) was 0.0 across Vip3Aa39 concentrations ranging from 1.0 to 31.6 μg cm−2, in all H. zea resistant strains. Mendelian monogenic model tests indicated that Vip3Aa resistance in each of the four strains was controlled by a single gene. However, interstrain complementation tests indicated that three distinct genetic loci are involved in Vip3Aa resistance in the five resistant H. zea strains: one shared by M1‐RR and LT#70‐RR; another shared by R2‐RR and R15‐RR; and a distinct one for AC4‐RR.

CONCLUSION

Results of this study indicate that Vip3Aa resistance in all H. zea strains was controlled by a single, recessive and autosomal gene. However, there were three distinct genetic loci associated with Vip3Aa resistance in the five resistant H. zea strains. The information generated from this study is valuable for exploring mechanisms of Vip3Aa resistance, monitoring the evolution of Vip3Aa resistance, and devising effective strategies for managing Vip3Aa resistance in H. zea. © 2024 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Transient‐Current Technique Characterization of Diamond Detector and Proposal of a Diamond Detector with Charge Amplification
Authors: Kholili Muhammad Jauhar , Shimaoka Takehiro , Hara Asuka , Tanaka Manobu M.
Published: February 2024

Diamond holds promise as a potential candidate for future particle detectors owing to its remarkable electronic, mechanical, and thermal properties. However, a notable limitation is the need for a comprehensive model characterizing intrinsic diamond detectors. To address this, a specialized model integrated into the technology computer‐aided design simulation program is developed. The model's validation is accomplished through its application to the evaluation of an intrinsic diamond detector. Our investigation emphasizes three key attributes: charge carrier mobility, charge carrier lifetime, and the effective charge density within the bulk material. These attributes are carefully assessed using the transient current technique. Furthermore, our model serves as a valuable tool in the analysis of the quality of an high‐pressure high‐temperature diamond crystal and in the optimization of a diamond detector's design, exploiting the charge multiplication effect. This comprehensive methodology advances our grasp of diamond detector behavior and facilitates the development of even more sophisticated devices.
Pulmonary adenoid cystic carcinoma ‐ a spectrum of disease: two case reports
Authors: Gleeson Margaret , Finan Megan , Redmond Karen
Published: February 2024

Adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) is a rare form of adenocarcinoma that usually begins in the oral cavity, with most cases arising from the salivary glands. Owing to its low incidence, the precise clinical and pathological features, including therapeutic strategy and survival data have not been conclusively reported. ACCs are typically characterized by slow growth, perineural invasion with local and often late recurrence after initial diagnosis. However, some cases demonstrate unusual aggressive biologic behaviour. Herein we describe our experience of two patients with a diagnosis of ACC. These cases highlight the spectrum of the disease with individualized treatment strategies.
Non‐Fullerene Acceptors Assisted Target Therapy for Interface Treatment Enable High Performance Inverted Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Pu Zhenwei , Li Jun , Xie Lisha , Tong Xinyu , Yang Shuncheng , Liu Jian , Chen Jiujiang , Yang Mengjin , Yang Daobin , Ge Ziyi
Published: February 2024

Targeted treatment of the interface between electron transport layers (ETL) and perovskite layers is highly desirable for achieving passivating effects and suppressing carrier nonradiative recombination, leading to high performance and long‐term stability in perovskite solar cells (PSCs). In this study, a series of non‐fullerene acceptors (NFAs, Y‐H, Y‐F, and Y‐Cl) are introduced to optimize the properties of the perovskite/ETL interface. This optimization involves passivating Pb2+ defects, releasing stress, and modulating carrier dynamics through interactions with the perovskite. Remarkably, after modifying with NFAs, the absorption range of perovskite films into the near‐infrared region is extended. As expected, Y‐F, with the largest electrostatic potential, facilitates the strongest interaction between the perovskite and its functional groups. Consequently, champion power conversion efficiencies of 21.17%, 22.21%, 23.25%, and 22.31% are achieved for control, Y‐H‐, Y‐F‐, and Y‐Cl‐based FA0.88Cs0.12PbI2.64Br0.36 (FACs) devices, respectively. This treatment also enhances the heat stability and air stability of the corresponding devices. Additionally, these modifier layers are applied to enhance the efficiency of Cs0.05(FA0.95MA0.05)0.95PbI2.64Br0.36 (FAMA) devices. Notably, a champion PCE exceeding 24% is achieved in the Y‐F‐based FAMA device. Therefore, this study provides a facile and effective approach to target the interface, thereby improving the efficiency and stability of PSCs.
Construction of Inorganic/Polymer Tandem Layer on Li Metal with Long‐Term Stability by LiNO3 Concentration Gradient Electrolyte
Authors: Liu Zewen , Zhang Qi , Song Xiaosheng , Shi Yue , Zhu Xuebing , Liu Xiao , Zhou Yamei , Chen Zhonghui , Feng Yunchong , Chen Silei , He Jinling , Guo Zhijie , Zhao Yong
Published: February 2024

Metal electrode with long cycle life is decisive for the actual use of metal rechargeable batteries, while the dendrite growth and side reaction limit their cyclic stability. Herein, the construction of polymer and inorganic‐rich SEI tandem layer structure on Li metal can be used for extraordinarily extending its cycle life is reported, which is generated by an in situ PVDF/LiF/LiNO3 (PLL) gel layer on the surface of Li metal with a chemically compatible ether solvent. The cycle life of Li//Li cells with the tandem layer structure is over 6000 h, six times longer than those with LiNO3 homogeneous electrolyte. It highlights the importance of LiNO3 concentration gradient electrolyte formed by the in situ PLL gel layer, in which highly concentrated LiNO3 is confined on the surface of Li metal to generate the uniform and inorganic‐rich LiF/Li2O/Li3N layer on the bottom of PVDF/LiF with good mechanical strength, resulting in the dendrite free anode in cell cycling. The assembled Li//LiFePO4 and Li//NMC811 batteries show the capacity retention rate of 80.9% after 800 cycles and 82.3% after 500 cycles, respectively, much higher than those of references.
Ionic Liquids Microenvironment Modulates the Interface Properties of g‐C3N4 for Boosting the Performance of Photodegradation and Infected Wound‐Healing Therapy
Authors: He Bin , Zhao Wanting , Li Wenjin , Wei Chunlei , Sun Jian
Published: February 2024

The improvement of photocatalytic activity of g‐C3N4 is expected for its advanced applications but remains a challenge due to the limitations of current strategies, such as single function, inefficiency, and uneconomical. Herein, a modified g‐C3N4 with improved interface properties is constructed through the modulation of the ionic microenvironment affected by ionic liquids (ILs) and exhibits a 2.3‐fold enhanced photodegradation efficiency and a 3.5‐fold enhanced reaction rate relative to pristine g‐C3N4. It has demonstrated excellent performance in photo‐therapy bacterial‐infected wounds. Theoretical calculation indicated that the precursor can be regulated by designing the specific ILs microenvironment to form “ILs‐Mel” clusters due to the diversity of interaction energy and electrostatic potential. The cluster results in uneven stress on the 2D plane, further inducing the reconstruction of the microstructure. The synergistic effect of cations and anions of ILs on regulating the interface properties of g‐C3N4 due to the change of skeleton structure during thermolysis of ILs. The microstructure, surface, and optical‐electrical properties can be adjusted by selecting different cations of ILs, and the custom‐made band structure and wettability can be obtained by selecting different anions. This work provides a facile strategy to modulate the interface properties of g‐C3N4 by building specific a microenvironment of precursor.
Pillar‐Structured Ti3C2Tx MXene with Engineered Interlayer Spacing for High‐Performance Magnesium Batteries
Authors: Raisi Bahareh , Liu Xudong , Rahmatinejad Jalal , Ye Zhibin
Published: February 2024

Two‐dimentional (2D) Ti3C2Tx MXene has attracted significant attention in non‐lithium‐ion batteries due to its excellent electrical conductivity, high volumetric capacity, and ability to accommodate intercalants. Rechargeable magnesium batteries with Mg metal anodes are noted for their high theoretical energy density, potential safety, earth abundance, dendrite‐free Mg2+ plating/stripping mechanism on the anode side, and low cost. Nevertheless, owing to the large polarity of divalent Mg2+ ions, the insertion of Mg2+ into the MXene layers suffers from sluggish kinetics, limiting the performance for storage of Mg2+ ions. Herein, a simple self‐assembly strategy is demonstrated to achieve high magnesium ion storage capability with pillar‐structured Ti3C2Tx MXene by intercalating a hyperbranched polyethylene ionomer containing quaternary ammonium ions. The ionomer intercalation/modification leads to the expansion of interlayer spacing of the MXene and, meanwhile, improves its affinity to low‐polarity THF‐based electrolyte. The delaminated ionomer‐modified MXene shows significantly improved electrochemical performance as a cathode material for Mg batteries. It shows a promising cycling stability with a capacity retention of 86% after 400 cycles at 200 mA g−1, as well as outstanding high‐rate performance with a capacity of 110 mAh g−1 retained at 1,000 mA g−1 relative to 213 mAh g−1 at 20 mA g−1.
Indoline‐Based Dopant‐Free Hole Transporting Material with Edge‐on Orientation for High Performance Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Yan Pengyu , Cheng Qinrong , Yang Daobin , Sun Kexuan , Yang Shuncheng , Sun He , Cao Xinyue , Zhang Jianqi , Li Yaowen , Ge Ziyi
Published: February 2024

Molecular stacking and orientation are of great importance in regulating optoelectronic properties. Typically, the face‐on orientation of hole transporting materials (HTMs) is considered to be a prerequisite for the realization of high efficiency perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Herein, a small molecule HTM, BDT‐p‐IDN, is developed with edge‐on orientation by replacing the terminal group from diphenylamine to indoline unit. Remarkably, the PSCs device based on dopant‐free BDT‐p‐IDN exhibits an efficiency of 23.28%, which is comparable to that of its face‐on control BDT‐DPA‐F. Compared to BDT‐DPA‐F, BDT‐p‐IDN has stronger interaction with the perovskite (PVK) film and therefore stronger hole extraction and defect passivation capabilities, resulting in an increased short circuit current density and improved efficiency. The results indicate that edge‐on orientation could be a powerful way for HTMs to realize efficient PSCs.
Systematic optimization of reverse phase ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography method for quantification of nilotinib and its related substances in bulk drug and pharmaceutical formulation using quality by design approach
Authors: Prasad Shishir Kumar , Kalpana Divekar
Published: February 2024

A sensitive ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) method was developed for the quantification of trace levels of nilotinib and its related substances (RSs) in the nilotinib capsule dosage form. Critical method parameters were optimized using the design of experiments, employing the ACQUITY UHPLC BEH Phenyl column (2.1 × 100 mm, 1.7 μm) at a constant flow rate of 0.6 mL/min. The isocratic mobile phase, consisting of aqueous and organic phases, achieved efficient chromatographic separation within 8 min at 261 nm. The mean retention time for nilotinib was 6.1339, and for RSs, it ranged from 2.10 to 6.91 min, with a resolution exceeding 2 for all peaks. The method demonstrated robustness, separating known impurities and degradation products. The linearity was assessed over a concentration range of 0.02–80 ppm for nilotinib and 0.015–0.12 ppm for impurities. The limit of detection and limit of quantitation (LOQ) for nilotinib were 0.01 and 0.02 μg/mL, respectively, and 0.01 and 0.015 μg/mL for individual impurities. Recovery studies at LOQ, 100%, and 150% of the specification limit yielded percent recoveries ranging from 92.27% to 102.45%. Precision results showed low relative standard deviations, below 2% for nilotinib and below 8% for impurities. This method is deemed suitable for pharmaceutical formulation quantification.
The SoS conductor: Orchestrating resources with iterative agent‐based reinforcement learning
Authors: Chen Qiliang , Heydari Babak
Published: February 2024

We introduce a novel resource management approach for Systems of Systems (SoS), utilizing hierarchical deep reinforcement learning, iterating with agent‐based simulation. A key innovation of this method is its ability to balance top‐down SoS management with the autonomy of individual systems. This is achieved by dynamically allocating resources to each system, thereby modifying the range of options they can autonomously choose from. This dynamic option adjustment is a powerful approach to managing the trade‐off between centralized efficiency and decentralized autonomous actions of the systems, enabling the SoS to maintain the systems' autonomy while ensuring efficient SoS governance. The method, validated through a case study, not only demonstrates the potential and efficacy of the learning framework but also reveals how, using this method, minor performance sacrifices can lead to substantial improvements in resource efficiency.
Nucleotide‐Protocell Interactions: A Reciprocal Relationship in Prebiotically Pertinent Environments
Authors: Deshpande Kshitij , Kulshreshtha Nishant Nitinidhi , Mulewar Sahil Sunil , Rajamani Sudha
Published: February 2024

Spontaneous interactions between nucleotides and lipid membranes are likely to have played a prominent role in the emergence of life on Earth. However, the effect of nucleotides on the physicochemical properties of model protocellular membranes is relatively less understood. To this end, we aimed to discern the effect of canonical nucleotides on the properties of single‐chain amphiphile membranes under prebiotically relevant conditions of multiple wet‐dry cycles. Furthermore, the change in the critical aggregation concentration of the membranes and their stability in the presence of nucleotides was also investigated in astrobiologically relevant analogue environments. We report that different nucleotides, lipid headgroups, and the ionic makeup of the system affect lipid‐nucleotide interactions, and these, in turn, modulate the effect of nucleotides on the membrane properties. Specifically, the presence of AMP, UMP, and CMP promoted self‐assembly of oleic acid membranes and increased their stability against certain prebiotically relevant selection pressures. This study takes us a step towards an appreciable understanding of how nucleotides might have shaped the protocellular landscape of the prebiotic Earth.
A Novel Ultrasound Imaging Assistance UI: Using Marker‐Based Coordinate System for Real‐Time Breathing Monitoring and Probe Positioning
Authors: Wang Yuanbo , Fujino Kento , Tsuchimoto Natsuki , Semba Hiroaki , Sugino Masato , Okuyama Hikaru , Jimbo Yasuhiko , Kotani Kiyoshi
Published: February 2024

Ultrasound is widely employed in medical examinations due to its noninvasive, radiation‐free, and convenient features. However, the quality of acquired ultrasound images is highly dependent on the skill of the operator and experience, which significantly limits the use of ultrasound. In this study, we propose a new user interface (UI) designed to assist novices in independently acquiring accurate ultrasound images. The operator can complete image acquisition by adjusting the position and angle of the actual probe to align the projected probe on the UI screen to a specific position, while simultaneously observing the breath state of the subject to capture ultrasound images at the appropriate position and moment. We compare our UI with a previous UI in an experiment. The results demonstrate that novice operators can acquire more accurate ultrasound images using our UI compared to the previous UI, indicating that our UI offers improved guidance. Regarding breath state observation, the experiment reveals a strong association between changes in lung air volume of a subject and respiratory level changes measured by our system. © 2024 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Centering relationships in collegiate leadership curricula
Authors: Holder Courtney , Pursley Dana
Published: February 2024

The relational leadership model and the five practices of exemplary leadership are widely used models that both emphasize a relational approach to leadership and center the collegiate context as a transformative environment for practicing and developing leadership. This article highlights two different applications of these models and provides important considerations for designing relational leadership curricula and programs for college students.
Culturally relevant leadership learning in action: Applying CRLL to curriculum development and program design
Authors: Chunoo Vivechkanand S. , Devies Brittany
Published: February 2024

Many leadership educators want to incorporate cultural relevance, cultural responsiveness, and social justice into their work but may be uncertain of how to begin. Others may already be working in culturally relevant leadership learning (CRLL) modalities and deeply desire advice on how to elevate their offerings. Here, the authors provide a brief overview of the CRLL model to explain how it can be applied in curricular and co‐curricular postsecondary educational settings. Each author then describes how they have found success implementing CRLL tenets in their areas of influence. Following those descriptions, we offer some critiques and considerations related to CRLL and conclude by suggesting resources to help educators apply CRLL to their efforts.
The craft of integrating and layering leadership theories and models for application
Authors: Correia‐Harker Benjamin P.
Published: February 2024

To develop transformative experiences, educators must meaningfully ground leadership development interventions in theories and models that reflect how leadership is conceptualized and operationalized within a community and/or institution. Since no single framework perfectly captures the socially constructed and multifaceted nature of leadership, educators must often pull from and weave together multiple theories and models when creating leadership development programs. This article explores consideration for leadership theory application through contextual and audience alignment, as well as considerations for integration of theory that address underlying theoretical assumptions, framework gaps, and developmental readiness. Reflection prompts are provided for each consideration so educators can envision practical implications from insights surfaced.