bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
What lies beneath: A qualitative review of misinformation on vulval lichen sclerosus
Authors: Goh Yixuan , O'Connor Cathal , Murphy Michelle
Published: November 2024

Background

Lichen sclerosus (LS) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that most commonly affects the vulva and can significantly affect quality of life. While websites and social media can offer helpful information, there is little known about the content of misinformation on LS online.

Objectives

This study aimed to qualitatively assess the content of misinformation surrounding vulval LS.

Methods

We reviewed misinformation related to LS on the internet through a search on PubMed, Google and various social media platforms.

Results

The key themes of misinformation included incorrect causes of LS such as gut dysbiosis and infections; fake ‘cures’ for LS such as elimination diets, homeopathic remedies, Borax, or unproven ‘ground‐breaking’ procedures like lasers and plasma‐rich protein injections; and criticism of topical corticosteroids and exaggeration of potential side‐effects, despite corticosteroids being the gold‐standard treatment.

Conclusions

Dermatologists, gynecologists and general practitioners should be aware of these misleading claims, be prepared to refute them, and steer patients to reliable sources of information and evidence based therapies.
Compressive force and valgus torque are the predominant applied loads during the pivot shift exam: An in vitro study
Authors: Marom Niv , Amirtharaj Mark J. , Jahandar Hamidreza , Shamritsky David Z. , Tao Matthew A. , Ouanezar Hervé , Nawabi Danyal H. , Wickiewicz Thomas L. , Imhauser Carl W. , Pearle Andrew D.
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Despite the clinical utility of the pivot shift exam, the requisite applied forces and torques to elicit a pivot shift remain unclear. The purposes of this study are (1) to identify the greatest forces and torques applied to the knee during the pivot shift exam and (2) to evaluate if the applied loads differ among experienced surgeons.

Methods

Three cadaveric hemipelvis‐to‐toe specimens (ages 53, 36 and 31 years; two males and one female) with no history of knee or hip injury were utilized. The experimental setup consisted of securing the hemipelvis to a mounting frame via an external fixator to simulate patient positioning during the clinical exam. The hemipelvis, femur, and tibia were spatially tracked by motion capture and the applied loads were measured using a 6‐axis force‐torque sensor. After sectioning the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), three board‐certified sports medicine surgeons then performed the pivot shift exam on each specimen utilizing their preferred technique. Forces (compression‐distraction, anterior‐posterior, and medial‐lateral) and torques (varus‐valgus, internal‐external rotation, and flexion‐extension) applied to the knee joint immediately preceding the reduction of the proximal lateral tibia during each pivot shift exam were calculated.

Results

Compression was the largest applied force averaging 95 N ± 15 N for all surgeons and knees, which was at least 4.5 times greater, on average, than the applied anterior and applied medial tibial forces (p < 0.0001). Valgus was the largest of the three applied torques, averaging 8.5 ± 2.1 Nm. Internal rotation torque was 3.7 times less, on average, than the applied valgus torque (p < 0.0001). Each surgeon applied compressive force. However, anterior force was more variable among surgeons, with one of the three surgeons applying minimal anterior force (p ≤ 0.024). The magnitude of applied torques was similar among examiners (n.s).

Conclusion

Compressive force and valgus torque were the predominant applied loads during the pivot shift exam. A lower magnitude of internal rotation torque was also applied. The anterior force was not consistently applied among examiners. These data can better inform clinical, cadaveric, and computational studies utilizing the pivot shift exam to assess knee biomechanics and can be used to educate trainees in conducting this complex manoeuvre.

Level of Evidence

An in vitro biomechanic study.
How Does the Three‐North Shelterbelt Engineering of China Improve Its Habitat Quality? A Study of 40 Years of Change Tracking and Driving Factors
Authors: Xu Yating , Zhou Guangsheng , Zhou Li , He Xiaohui , Tian Zhihui
Published: November 2024

The Three‐North Shelterbelt Engineering of China (TNSEC) is a large‐scale ecological restoration project that was initiated in 1978 to enhance the ecological environment of the Three‐North Shelterbelt Engineering Region (TNSER). However, the macro long‐term data and driving mechanisms behind habitat quality in the TNSER remain inadequately understood. Therefore, multi‐source observational data, the InVEST model, and spatial analysis techniques were employed to quantify the spatiotemporal evolution of habitat quality in the TNSER since 1980. Additionally, the Optimal Parameters‐based Geographical Detector (OPGD) model was utilized to quantitatively elucidate the driving mechanisms behind changes in habitat quality. The habitat quality of TNSER has remained stable from 1980 to 2020, exhibiting significant spatial agglomeration characteristics. Areas with higher habitat quality are demonstrating a trend of expansion, while regions with poor habitat quality are experiencing fragmentation and expansion. It is anticipated that the habitat quality of TNSER will continue to remain stable in the future; however, areas with poor habitat quality and their adjacent zones are showing signs of deterioration. Changes in habitat quality within TNSER are influenced by multiple factors, primarily socio‐economic factors in nature, with GDP accounting for 55% of the variations in habitat quality. This study offers valuable recommendations for policymakers from a sustainable development perspective, highlighting the critical role of large‐scale ecological projects in enhancing environmental quality amidst ongoing ecological challenges.
The Role of Bedrock Topography in the Runoff Process and Soil Erosion on Karst Steep Slopes
Authors: Ao Liman , Wu Yaoqin , Xu Qinxue , Zhou Yangchi , Chen Xiaona , Liang Peining , Fu Zhiyong , Chen Hongsong
Published: November 2024

The micro‐scale distribution patterns of rocks and soils are crucial to the hydrological processes of karst slopes. However, current research has provided detailed reports only on the aboveground rock–soil patterns, neglecting the role of underground rock–soil patterns. To address this, our study conducted simulated rainfall experiments and runoff supply tests to observe surface runoff, sediment yield and the migration characteristics of subsurface runoff under three types of bedrock topographies: mosaic bedrock topography (MBT), horizontal‐strip bedrock topography (HBT) and smooth bedrock topography (SBT), at rainfall intensities of 30, 60 and 90 mm/h. The results indicated that undulating bedrock topography significantly increases surface runoff and exacerbates surface erosion. The surface runoff yields in HBT and MBT were 184.68% and 131.77% higher, respectively, than in SBT, and their average surface soil losses were 4.56 and 3.35 times greater than those of SBT, respectively. The undulating bedrock topography impeded the movement of subsurface runoff; the average subsurface runoff yield in SBT was 42.36% and 82.86% greater than in MBT and HBT, respectively. The movement of subsurface runoff followed the ‘fill‐and‐spill’ theory, where the undulating bedrock topography controls subsurface runoff transport. Additionally, preferential pathways between bedrock depressions affected the rate of subsurface runoff movement. Similar to rock outcrops, underlying bedrock, influenced by its characteristics and other factors, may play two opposing roles in the erosion process. Therefore, it warrants as much attention as rock outcrops.
Shifts in the Climate Sensitivity of Tree Ring Growth in the Mountainous Regions of Northern China Through the 20th Century
Authors: Guo Hui , Fu Shaomin , Chen Shaoteng , Zhang Qindi , Li Zongshan
Published: November 2024

Ongoing climate change poses a major threat to forest growth, which in turn accelerates the rate of land degradation. Given the high sensitivity of mountain forests to climate, there is an urgent need for more detailed studies on the dynamics of montane forests affected by climate change. For this study, we selected 20 tree ring width chronologies in the mountainous regions of Northern China, and investigated the responses of tree growth to climate change in the 20th century. The results indicated that the tree growth trends shifted in 1953 in the mountainous regions of Northern China. The tree growth rates exhibited an increasing trend during 1900–1953 (first stage) followed by a significant decreasing trend from 1954 to 2000 (second stage). The temperature exhibited a continuing increasing trend, while precipitation showed an increase and then decrease in two stages, in tandem with the standardized precipitation evapotranspiration index (SPEI). Initially, rising temperatures positively influenced tree radial growth. However, after 1953, continued warming inhibited tree growth, with trees being increasingly constrained by the availability of water (precipitation and SPEI), particularly during the annual growing season. Our findings emphasized that climate warming and drought have been the main causes of tree growth declines in recent decades, which underscores the susceptibility of montane forest ecosystems to warming‐induced water deficits. Our findings can facilitate the conservation of forest ecosystems, reduce land degradation, increase forest cover, as well as gradually improve the regional environment.
Prognosis of asymptomatic endolymphatic hydrops in healthy volunteers: A five‐year cohort study
Authors: Kimura Takahiro , Kitahara Tadashi , Okayasu Tadao , Sakagami Masaharu , Shiozaki Tomoyuki , Inui Hiroshi , Koizumi Toshizo , Kakudo Mariko
Published: November 2024

Background

This study aimed to clarify the prognosis of asymptomatic endolymphatic hydrops (EH) in healthy volunteers via five‐year follow‐ups with inner ear magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Methods

Inner ear MRI was performed on 115 participants recruited as controls in a previous study on Meniere's disease. The endolymphatic space was visualized using Naganawa's method of contrast‐enhanced MRI with intravenous gadolinium injection and evaluated using Nakashima's method of 2D imaging analysis.

Results

Cochlear or vestibular EH was present in 7.0% of participants (n = 8), with all cases being unilateral (laterality), moderate (severity), and asymptomatic (onset). Only cochlear‐localized EH, only vestibular‐localized EH, and both EH were present in 1.7% (n = 2) (C group), 4.3% (n = 5) (V group), and 0.9% (n = 1) (CV group) of participants, respectively. Conducting inner ear MRI after 5 years showed that EH had almost disappeared in two participants in the C and V groups (4/8, 50.0%). EH was still present in three participants in the V group and one in the CV group (4/8, 50.0%). One participant in the V group and another in the CV group presented with residual inner ear EH and developed typical symptomatic Meniere's disease (2/8, 25.0%).

Conclusions

Approximately 7% of healthy participants showed asymptomatic EH. Therefore, EH is not the definitive marker for making a diagnosis of Meniere's disease or the suitable predictor for the development of Meniere's disease. Among these participants, 25% maintained EH and subsequently developed typical Meniere's disease within the next 5 years. Schellong‐positive participants maintained persistent EH in the inner ear, and participants with higher scores on the self‐rating depression scale developed Meniere's symptoms after 5 years.

Level of evidence

2a
Effect of betahistine on pro‐inflammatory cytokine expression in autoimmune inner ear disease and Meniere's disease patients
Authors: Yellin Ilana , Pathak Shresh , Vambutas Andrea
Published: November 2024

Objective

Betahistine is a partial H1 receptor agonist and a potent H3 receptor antagonist commonly used for the treatment of MD and peripheral vertigo. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of betahistine on the salt induced cytokine expression profiles of AIED and MD patients.

Methods

Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were obtained from 24 patients with autoimmune inner ear disease (AIED) or Meniere's disease (MD) during an acute exacerbation of hearing loss. These PBMCs were cultured with 80 mM NaCl or a combination of 80 mM NaCl and betahistine and IL‐1β and IL‐6 expression were measured by real time PCR and ELISA.

Results

In most patients, IL‐1β expression in response to NaCl exceeded the unstimulated condition and this expression was abrogated by the addition of betahistine, which was statistically significant at p = .004. mRNA expression of IL‐1β was not reduced when samples were treated with both salt and betahistine compared to samples treated with salt alone, inferring the mechanism of betahistine‐mediated IL‐1β suppression is post‐translational. Similarly, IL‐6 cellular release was augmented with salt exposure and reduced with co‐culture of betahistine. Unlike IL‐1 however, betahistine appeared to reduce IL‐6 mRNA expression.

Conclusion

We observe that betahistine abrogates salt‐induced IL‐1β expression, suggesting an additional treatment option for AIED and MD patients with inflammatory mediated disease.

Level of evidence

Level 4.
On damping a control system with global aftereffect on quantum graphs: Stochastic interpretation
Authors: Buterin Sergey
Published: November 2024

Quantum graphs model processes in complex systems represented as spatial networks in various fields of natural science and technology. An example is the oscillations of elastic string networks, the nodes of which, besides the continuity conditions, also obey the Kirchhoff conditions, expressing the balance of tensions. In this paper, we propose a new look at quantum graphs as temporal networks, which means that the variable parametrizing the edges of a graph is interpreted as time, while each internal vertex is a branching point giving several different scenarios for the further trajectory of a process. Then Kirchhoff‐type conditions may also arise. Namely, they will be satisfied by such a trajectory of the process that is optimal with account of all the scenarios simultaneously. By employing the recent concept of global delay, we extend the problem of damping a first‐order control system with aftereffect, considered earlier only on an interval, to an arbitrary tree graph. The first means that the delay, imposed starting from the initial moment of time, associated with the root of the tree, propagates through all internal vertices. Bringing the system into the equilibrium and minimizing the energy functional with account of the anticipated probability of each scenario, we come to a variational problem. Then, we establish its equivalence to a self‐adjoint boundary value problem on the tree for some second‐order equations involving both the global delay and the global advance. The unique solvability of both problems is proved. We also illustrate that the interval case when the coefficients of the equation are discrete stochastic processes in discrete time can be viewed as the extension to a tree.
Are there subgroup differences in the accuracy of ‘screening’ questions for mood and anxiety disorder diagnostic interviews?
Authors: Sunderland Matthew , Slade Tim
Published: November 2024

Objective

To examine the impact of potential measurement bias (i.e., differential item functioning [DIF]) across sex, age, employment, location, and substance use disorders on the screening properties of epidemiological surveys that utilise screening questions when estimating prevalence of mood and anxiety disorders.

Methods

Data comprised of 15,893 respondents who completed the 2020–2022 Australian National Survey of Mental Health and Wellbeing. Questions from the screening module of the Composite International Diagnostic Interview 3.0 were analysed using confirmatory factor analysis and DIF across subgroups of interest. Sensitivity, specificity, and classification rate were derived and compared across models that did and did not adjust for significant levels of DIF.

Results

Sources of DIF were identified across the items was due to age and sex at birth with relatively fewer items displaying DIF across employment, location, and substance use disorders. In terms of screening, the absolute differences in sensitivity and specificity between the DIF‐free and DIF models ranged from 0.001 to 0.091.

Conclusions

The current study found some evidence of DIF in the screening questions used to evaluate mental health disorder prevalence. However, the overall influence of DIF on screening into at least one mood and anxiety disorder module was found to be minimal.
Construction of Aligned Polycaprolactone/Poly(Glycerol Sebacate)/Polysulfone Nanofibrous Scaffolds for Tissue Engineering of the Ventricularis Layer of Heart Valves
Authors: Gürbüz Betül , Baran Erkan Türker , Tahmasebifar Aydın , Yilmaz Bengi
Published: November 2024

Heart valve diseases (HVDs) are a major health issue and are significant causes of mortality worldwide. Despite technological developments, current valve substitutes still face major challenges such as thrombogenicity, limited durability, and lack of growth or remodeling capabilities. To handle the limitations of currently used valve prostheses, heart valve tissue engineering (HVTE) has become a viable option for generating biological valve alternatives. However, a major challenge when designing functional HVTE is mimicking the structural and anisotropic mechanical characteristics of the valve leaflets in their natural state. To achieve a biomimetic structure, this study aims to create an anisotropic microenvironment by focusing on the ventricularis layer of the leaflet. Through this approach, we reported the fabrication and characterization of a novel composite nanofibrous radial aligned scaffold consisting of polycaprolactone (PCL), poly(glycerol sebacate) (PGS), and anticoagulant polysulfone (PSf) polymers by combining 3D printing and electrospinning techniques. Radially aligned PCL/PGS/PSf scaffolds enhanced human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) cell viability and induced alignment as shown from fluorescence microscopy analysis. Meeting the anisotropy requirements, the composite heart valves of PCL/PGS/PSf nanofibrous scaffolds would be a tissue engineering construct.
Adsorption Capacity Prediction and Optimization of Electrospun Nanofiber Membranes for Estrogenic Hormone Removal Using Machine Learning Algorithms
Authors: Yasir Muhammad , Haq Hamza Ul , Khan Muhammad Nouman Aslam , Gul Jawad , Zubair Mukarram , Sedlařík Vladimír
Published: November 2024

This study focuses on developing four machine learning (ML) models (Gaussian process regression (GPR), support vector machine (SVM), decision tree (DT), and ensemble learning tree (ELT)) optimized and hyperparameters tuned via genetic algorithm (GA) and particle swarm optimization (PSO) to analyze and predict the adsorption capacity of four estrogenic hormones. These hormones are a serious cause of fish femininity and various forms of cancer in humans. Their adsorption via electrospun nanofibers offers a sustainable and relatively environmentally friendly solution compared to nanoparticle adsorbents, which require secondary treatment. The intricate task is to find the relationship between input parameters to obtain optimum conditions, which requires an efficient ML model. The GPR integrated GA hybrid model performed the most accurate and precise results with R2 = 0.999 and RMSE = 2.4052e−06, followed by ELT (0.9976 and 4.3458e−17), DT (0.9586 and 2.4673e−16), and SVM (0.7110 and 0.0639). The 2D and 3D partial dependence plots showed temperature, dosage, initial concentration, contact time, and pH as vital adsorption parameters. Additionally, Shapley's analysis further revealed time and dosage as the most sensitive parameters. Finally, a user‐friendly graphical user interface (GUI) was developed as a predictor utilizing the optimum hybrid model (GPR‐GA), and the results were experimentally validated with a maximum error of < 3.3% for all tests. Thus, the GUI can legitimately work for any desired material with given input conditions to efficiently monitor the removal concentration of all four estrogenic hormones simultaneously at wastewater treatment plants.
Disparities in Global Authorship and Data Source in the Pediatric Blood and Cancer Journal 2011–2021: Realities and Strategies for Improvement
Authors: Burns Kathryn , Martiniuk Alexandra , Islam Md Irteja , Opoku Dominic Agyemang , Luo Yuanhui , Malahlela Dorcas , Pickard Anita , Sniderman Elizabeth , Challinor Julia
Published: November 2024

Background

Research expands knowledge and improves outcomes. Research is needed in all settings, but most often occurs in high‐income countries (HIC) compared to low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs). Publication in scientific peer‐reviewed journals and authorship position are important for academic/clinical advancement. We explored the current state of global authorship and data source distribution for publications in the Pediatric Blood and Cancer (PBC) journal.

Procedure

LMIC‐affiliated author inclusion and position in selected article categories of the PBC (2011–2021) were recorded. Articles with at least one LMIC‐affiliated author (first‐listed affiliation) and 5% of exclusively HIC‐authored articles were verified. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed.

Results

Of 4504 articles reviewed, 593 (13%) included at least one LMIC‐affiliated author (517/593 [87%] as first author and 488/593 [82%]) as senior author. In a subset of articles with LMIC‐sourced data, 148/675 (22%) included exclusively HIC authors. Within the LMIC‐sourced data subset, 81/675 (12%) articles were mixed HIC/LMIC affiliation and 446/675 (66%) were exclusively LMIC‐affiliated. The frequency of LMIC‐affiliated authors as first or senior author within HIC/LMIC‐affiliated collaborations was 31/81 (38%) and 9/81 (11%), respectively.

Conclusion

As more than 80% of children live in LMICs and the WHO Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer is increasingly engaged across LMICs, all researchers/clinicians must justly be given an opportunity to conduct, write, publish, and be recognized for their research. PBC is uniquely poised to promote equitable publishing practices and opportunities for professional recognition by drawing on emerging best practices for equitable authorship, including potentially restructuring authorship guidelines and requirements.
Epoxy composites produced via sodium alginate‐mediated Ca crosslinking of MXene and boron nitride fillers with excellent thermal conductivity and electromagnetic interference shielding effectiveness
Authors: Lee Jaekyung , Lee Wondu , Kim Jihoon , Kim Munho , Kim Jooheon
Published: November 2024

This study investigates novel polymer composites for enhanced thermal conductivity and electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding. By incorporating sodium alginate‐mediated Ca crosslinked MXene and boron nitride fillers into an epoxy matrix, the composites exhibit significantly improved thermal, electrical, and mechanical properties. Surface treatment enhanced filler dispersion and interfacial bonding by introducing hydroxyl groups, which improve compatibility between the fillers and the matrix, thereby reducing agglomeration and creating robust thermal and electrical conduction networks. Hot‐pressing method further increases composite density by eliminating internal voids and aligning the fillers more effectively, resulting in superior characteristics. The best performing hot‐pressed composite achieved a through‐plane thermal conductivity of 7.45 W/m K, excellent EMI shielding effectiveness of 58.3 dB, along with a tensile strength of 37.2 MPa and an elongation as high as 3.8%. These enhancements make the composites highly suitable for advanced electronic devices where efficient heat dissipation and EMI shielding are critical.

Highlights

Surface treatment improves filler dispersion and compatibility.

High‐filler composites are fabricated by hot‐pressing method.

MX‐CA‐BN/EPH composites achieve 7.45 W/m K thermal conductivity.

Enhanced EMI shielding effectiveness of 58.3 dB.
The association between coronavirus disease 2019 vaccination during pregnancy and neonatal health outcomes
Authors: Woestenberg Petra J. , Maas Veronique Y. F. , Vissers Lieke C. M. , Oliveri Nadia M. B. , Kant Agnes C. , de Feijter Maud
Published: November 2024

Importance

Pregnant women have a higher risk of severe illness or complications due to a severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection. To reduce these risks, pregnant women are advised to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) vaccination. Continued monitoring of the safety of maternal COVID‐19 vaccination remains important.

Objective

To evaluate the association between maternal COVID‐19 vaccination and neonatal health.

Methods

Data from the Dutch Pregnancy Drug Register were used. In this prospective cohort study, pregnant women self‐reported COVID‐19 vaccination and neonatal health outcomes. We included women with a due date between January 15, 2021, and May 15, 2022, and a singleton live birth after at least 24 weeks gestation. Using log‐binomial regression analysis we studied the association between COVID‐19 vaccination during pregnancy and the health outcomes; small for gestational age (SGA), large for gestational age (LGA), and neonatal health problems. We corrected for potential confounders using inverse probability of treatment weighting.

Results

In total, 3655 participants were included (92.1% COVID‐19 vaccinated during pregnancy). Of all participants, 8.9% reported SGA, 11.1% reported LGA, and 16.4% reported neonatal health problems. Maternal COVID‐19 vaccination was not statistically significantly associated with SGA (adjusted prevalence ratio [aPR]: 0.90; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.59–1.36), LGA (aPR: 1.07; 95% CI: 0.70–1.63), or neonatal health problems (aPR: 0.84; 95% CI: 0.63–1.11).

Interpretation

This study indicates that COVID‐19 vaccination during pregnancy is not associated with self‐reported adverse neonatal health outcomes. These findings contribute to the growing body of evidence on the safety of COVID‐19 vaccination during pregnancy.
Quantitative pharmacology of dual‐targeted bicistronic CAR‐T‐cell therapy using multiscale mechanistic modeling
Authors: Su Mei‐Chi , Dey Agnish , Maddah Erfan , Mugundu Ganesh M. , Singh Aman P.
Published: November 2024

Despite the initial success of single‐targeted chimeric‐antigen receptor (CAR) T‐cell therapy in hematological malignancies, its long‐term effectiveness is often hindered by antigen heterogeneity and escape. As a result, there is a growing interest in cell therapies targeting multiple antigens (≥2). However, the dose–exposure–response relationship and specific factors influencing the pharmacology of dual‐targeted CAR‐T‐cell therapy remain unclear. In this study, we have developed a multiscale cellular kinetic–pharmacodynamic (CK–PD) model using case studies from CD19/CD22 and GPRC5D/BCMA autologous CAR‐Ts. Initially, an in vitro tumor‐killing model characterized the impact of individual binder affinities and their contribution to overall potency across varying (1) effector: target (ET) ratios and (2) tumor‐associated antigen (TAA) expressing cell lines. Subsequently, an integrated CK–PD model was developed in pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) patients, which accounted for CAR‐T‐cell product composition and relative antigen abundance in patients' tumor burden to characterize patient‐level multiphasic cellular kinetics using multiple bioanalytical assays (e.g., flow and qPCR‐based readouts). Global sensitivity analysis highlighted relative antigen expression, maximum killing rate constant, and CAR‐T expansion rate constant as major determinants for observed exposure of dual‐targeted CAR‐T‐cell therapy. This modeling framework could facilitate dose‐optimization and construct refinement for dual‐targeted bicistronic CAR‐T‐cell therapies, serving as a valuable tool for both forward and reverse translation in drug development.
Three‐Dimensional Imaging of the Structural Phase Transition in a Single Vanadium Dioxide Nanocrystal
Authors: Najeeb Mansoor A. , Mokhtar Ahmed H. , Serban David A. , Porter Daniel G. , Collins Stephen , Bombardi Alessandro , Newton Marcus C.
Published: November 2024

Vanadium dioxide (VO2) is a strongly correlated material that exhibits a number of structural phase transitions (SPT) near to room temperature of considerable utility for various technological applications. When reduced to the nanoscale, a foreknowledge of surface and interface properties of VO2 during the SPT can facilitate the development of devices based on VO2. Herein, it is shown that Bragg coherent X‐ray diffractive imaging (BCDI) combined with machine learning is an effective means to recover three‐dimensional images of a single VO2 nanocrystal during a temperature‐induced SPT from a room‐temperature monoclinic phase to a high‐temperature rutile phase. The findings reveal the coexistence of multiple phases within the nanocrystal throughout the transition, along with missing density which indicates the presence of a newly formed rutile phase.
Epoxymicheliolide Reduces Radiation‐Induced Senescence and Extracellular Matrix Formation by Disrupting NF‐κB and TGF‐β/SMAD Pathways in Lung Cancer
Authors: Zhou Heng , Chen Yong , Jiang Ningzu , Ren Yanxian , Zhuang Jiayuan , Ren Yue , Shen Lin , Li Chenghao
Published: November 2024

Lung cancer is a major cause of cancer‐related mortality, and radiotherapy is often limited by tumor resistance and side effects. This study explores whether epoxymicheliolide (ECL), a compound from feverfew, can enhance radiotherapy efficacy in lung cancer. We tested ECL on A549 and PC‐9 lung cancer cell lines to evaluate its effect on x‐ray irradiation. We measured apoptosis, NF‐κB pathway inhibition, TGF‐β secretion reduction, and epithelial‐mesenchymal transition suppression. In vivo, C57BL/6 mice with lung tumors received ECL and radiotherapy. ECL enhanced the antiproliferative effects of x‐ray irradiation, induced apoptosis in senescent cells, inhibited the NF‐κB pathway, reduced TGF‐β levels, and suppressed epithelial‐mesenchymal transition. ECL also inhibited tumor growth and improved survival in mice. ECL is a promising adjunct to radiotherapy for lung cancer, improving treatment outcomes by targeting multiple tumor progression mechanisms. It offers potential for enhanced management of lung cancer.
Successful treatment of a persistent air leak with an endobronchial valve in a 17‐year‐old patient with necrotizing pneumonia
Authors: Janssen Nina M. , Posthuma Rein , Kienhorst Sophie , Bannier Michiel A. G. E. , Lalji Ulrich C. , Franssen Frits M. E. , Sprooten Roy T. M.
Published: November 2024

Pleural empyema is a severe condition associated with high morbidity and mortality. Treatment usually consists of pleural drainage with chest tube or surgery, in combination with antimicrobial treatment. Severe pneumonia can evolve in a necrotizing pneumonia, given a higher susceptibility to the occurrence of bronchopleural fistulas with persistent air leaks. This complicates recovery, and surgery may not always be the optimal treatment. We present a case involving a 17‐year‐old female patient who experienced a post‐operative persistent air leak due to necrotizing pneumonia after video‐assisted thoracic surgery decortication for empyema, which was successfully treated using an endobronchial valve. After 6 months the valve was removed without complications. Follow‐up imaging and lung function revealed a limited area of atelectasis and minimal pleural thickening with normal lung volumes.
Synthesis, In Vivo, ADME Determination, and Molecular Docking Studies of 1,3,4‐Oxadiazoles Containing Pyridine and Piperazine Moieties as New Diuretic Agents
Authors: Faizan Md , Kumar Rajnish , Mazumder Avijit , Salahuddin  , Tyagi Pankaj Kumar , Ataya Farid S. , Khanna Virat , Sobti Rajeev , Pavani A. Sai , Bushi Ganesh , Gaidhane Shilpa
Published: November 2024

A series of 1‐(piperazin‐1‐yl)‐2‐((5‐(pyridin‐4‐yl)‐1,3,4‐oxadiazol‐2‐yl)thio)ethan‐1‐one derivatives (9a–l) were prepared using a multistep reaction between 2‐chloro‐1‐(piperazin‐1yl)ethan‐1‐one derivatives (4a–l) and 5‐(pyridine‐4‐yl)‐1,3,4‐oxadiazole‐2‐thiol (8) and studied their diuretic potential by following established in vivo and in silico protocols. The data obtained from the experimental rat animal model in vivo diuretic studies indicated that synthesized derivatives 9d, 9e, 9g, 9i, and 9j possess excellent diuretic potential. The results obtained from in vivo study were also reinforced by the data of in silico studies performed using AutoDock (1.5.7) software. The molecular docking involved interactions of synthesized molecules with two target proteins, that is, human carbonic anhydrase II protein (hCA‐II, PDB ID: 3HS4) and human NKCCl K289NA492E protein (NKCCl, PDB ID: 7S1Y). The ADME properties of the synthesized molecules have also been determined using pkCSM software that established that the synthesized molecules are good candidates for oral absorption. All the data of in vivo and in silico studies synergized the results that state that the diuretic activity of all synthesized compounds is greater than that of the standard drug (furosemide), whereas compounds 9d, 9e, 9g, 9i, and 9j show excellent activity with values of 1.32, 1.33, 1.35, 1.39, and 1.35, respectively.
β‐Cyclodextrin‐SO3H as a Supramolecular Catalyst for Efficient Greener Synthesis of Substituted Bis(6‐aminouracil‐5‐yl)methanes in Water
Authors: Gosavi Swati D. , Kale Arun D. , Dalal Dipak S.
Published: November 2024

A simple, straightforward, and highly efficient greener approach for synthesizing bis(6‐aminouracil‐5‐yl)methane derivatives was developed by employing β‐cyclodextrin‐SO3H as supramolecular catalyst in water at 100 °C. A total of 16 bis(6‐aminouracil‐5‐yl)methanes were synthesized via a one‐pot reaction between substituted aromatic aldehydes, 6‐amino‐1,3‐dimethyluracil, and 10% β‐cyclodextrin‐SO3H in water with 84%–92% yield within 20–120 min. The salient features of this protocol included water as green solvent, β‐cyclodextrin‐SO3H as recyclable supramolecular catalyst, mild reaction conditions, easy isolation of pure products, and good to excellent yields.
Realizing the Electrode Engineering Significance Through Porous Organic Framework Materials for High‐Capacity Aqueous Zn–Alkaline Battery
Authors: Jesudass Sebastian Cyril , Surendran Subramani , Lim Yoongu , Jo Minjun , Janani Gnanaprakasam , Choi Heechae , Kwon Gibum , Jin Kyoungsuk , Park Hyunjung , Kim Tae‐Hoon , Sim Uk
Published: November 2024

Energy storage technologies are eminently developed to address renewable energy utilization efficiently. Porous framework materials possess high surface area and pore volume, allowing for efficient ion transportation and storage. Their unique structure facilitates fast electron transfer, leading to improved battery kinetics. Porous organic framework materials like metal–organic (MOF) and covalent organic (COF) frameworks have immense potential in enhancing the charge/discharge performances of aqueous Zn–alkaline batteries. Organic frameworks and their derivatives can be modified feasibly to exhibit significant chemical stability, enabling them to tolerate the harsh battery environment. Zn–alkaline batteries can achieve enhanced energy density, longer lifespan, and improved rechargeability by incorporating MOFs and COFs, such as electrodes, separators, or electrolyte additives, into the battery architecture. The present review highlights the significant electrode design strategies based on porous framework materials for aqueous Zn–alkaline batteries, such as Zn–Ni, Zn–Mn, Zn–air, and Zn–N2/NO3 batteries. Besides, the discussion on the issues faced by the Zn anode and the essential anode design strategies to solve the issues are also included.
Analysis of human wildlife conflict call volume variation during the COVID‐19 global pandemic protective measures in Florida
Authors: Diaz Rachael , Shea Colin , Latour Rhonda , Johnston Jayne
Published: November 2024

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's Wildlife Assistance Biologists (WABs) receive calls from the public experiencing a wildlife conflict and provide guidance on how to coexist with native wildlife. This analysis considered how the number of calls and nature of calls received by WABs were impacted by COVID‐19 pandemic protective measures in Florida. Total calls to WABs decreased during COVID‐19 protective measures but did not vary significantly from the previous year. There was a significant decrease in the average weekly number of “Sick/Injured” wildlife calls and “Property Damage” calls when protective measures were in place. This analysis provides insight into how widespread changes in human mobility may impact reports of human‐wildlife conflict.
Development of Self‐Adjuvants in mRNA Vaccine and Its Application in Disease Prevention and Treatment
Authors: Yu Huaibin , Lu Yafang , Miao Zhuorong , Zha Zhengbao , Liu Shaoqin
Published: November 2024

Adjuvants augment the immunogenicity of vaccines when co‐administered with messenger RNA (mRNA) antigens. In recent years, nanotechnology and nanoscience have seen significant growth, resulting in the discovery of synthetic small molecule compounds, natural extracts, and nanomaterials with self‐adjuvant properties for nano delivery. The materials exhibit robust immune activity and efficiently activate various innate immune signaling pathways. Moreover, they possess a comparatively simple chemical composition in contrast to conventional adjuvants. This significantly streamlines the manufacturing process of vaccine formulations. Therefore, these self‐adjuvant materials theoretically improve the reproducibility of adjuvant production and quality control. Herein, this review summarizes the current research and development progress of mRNA adjuvants, with a specific focus on various types of mRNA adjuvants, notably self‐adjuvant nanomaterials. It discusses the current research status on a range of diseases and investigates the potential development of mRNA vaccine adjuvants.
Application of IPv6 in the Intelligent Sensing Technology of Flood and Waterlogging Prevention
Authors: Chen Weichang , Wei Sangang , Zhang Bing , Zhang Binpei
Published: November 2024

Due to the special landform, complex river system and rapid development of urban agglomerations in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, the task of flood and waterlogging prevention in the Greater Bay Area is heavy and its responsibility is important. In order to effectively improve the effectiveness of flood and waterlogging prevention, this paper analyzes current problems facing flood and waterlogging prevention in the Greater Bay Area, and proposes building an intelligent sensing IoT network of Flood and Waterlogging Prevention based on IPv6 and IoT technology, making the flood warning’s response time be reduced from 60 ms to less than 30 ms, to provide more efficient, more precise and more secure network support and data protection for flood and waterlogging prevention.
Seismic Response Analysis of Subsea Tunnels Under the Influence of Overlying Seawater
Authors: Huang Weizhen , He Cong , Xu Guoyuan
Published: November 2024

The safety of subsea tunnels during earthquakes is a crucial factor in the design process. It is appropriate to consider the impact of the seawater above when assessing the seismic resistance of a subsea tunnel. In this paper, finite element models of the seawater-seabed-tunnel structure system are established using ABAQUS software to investigate the fluid–structure interaction and plastic damage of the lining. The seismic response and damage characteristics of the subsea tunnel are compared at various seawater depths. The study found that the overlying seawater inhibits the vertical movement of the seabed surface, but has minimal effect on the horizontal movement. With the increase in seawater depth, the stress on the tunnel structure will noticeably increase, with the spandrel and arch foot becoming the weak points in seismic design. Overlying seawater will increase the dissipation energy of the tunnel system, leading to tunnel damage. When the seawater depth exceeds 20 m, the tunnel system’s dissipation energy at varying depths of seawater will significantly increase.
Study on Joint Regulation of Runoff and Sediment of Water Supply Reservoirs in Sediment-Laden River Dongzhuang Reservoir of Jinghe River
Authors: Chen Cuixia , Wang Haixia , Luo Qiushi , Wen Zhichao , Liu Junxiu , Wang Tiange
Published: November 2024

There is independence and integration between water supply and sediment reduction in sediment-laden river reservoirs. How to maintain effective storage capacity and meet water supply requirements for a long time is one of the problems to be solved in the efficient operation of sediment-laden river reservoirs. In this paper, Dongzhuang Reservoir of Jinghe River is taken as the research object. Through the analysis of measured data and mathematical model calculation, the measured hydrological sediment and cross-section erosion and deposition in the lower reaches of Jinghe River and Weihe River are analyzed. The reservoir sediment discharge flow index which is beneficial to reduce the sediment deposition in the lower reaches of Weihe River and maintain the effective reservoir capacity for a long time is studied, and the joint regulation mode of reservoir runoff and sediment is put forward. The results show that the sediment regulation of Dongzhuang Reservoir during the sediment retention period is mainly to reduce the deposition of the lower reaches of the Weihe River, and the sediment regulation during the normal operation period of the reservoir is mainly to maintain the effective storage capacity of the reservoir for a long time. The joint regulation of the Dongzhuang Reservoir and the surrounding four storage reservoirs, such as the Ganhe Reservoir, the Xijiao Reservoir, the Longtan Reservoir, and the Helan Reservoir, can reduce the deposition of the lower reaches of the Weihe River by 11 million tons per year, increase the guarantee rate of agricultural irrigation from 30 to 50%, and increase the guarantee rate of industrial water supply from 57 to 95%. And the outflow of the reservoir meets the requirements of the ecological base flow of the river. The research results provide technical support for the optimal operation of reservoirs in sediment-laden rivers.
The Influence of Rain-Type on the Seepage and Stability of Purple Silty Cohesive Soil Slope
Authors: Jiang Ou , Yang Shiyi , Yan Xuancheng , Yang Can , Liu Tong
Published: November 2024

To study the variation law of internal seepage and stability of purple silty cohesive unsaturated soil slope under different rain patterns, we use GeoStudio to calculate and analyze the changes of pore water pressure and safety factor of the slope after undergoing three rain patterns, namely, front peak pattern, back peak pattern and step pattern, under the action of moderate rain, heavy rain and rainstorm. Research has found that under the same conditions, it takes the longest time for the pore water pressure under the back peak type to reach stability, and the slope safety factor decreases the most. Therefore, it is necessary to strengthen the management of slope stability protection after rainfall in the back peak type.
Hydraulic Calculation and Analysis of Head Cover Drainage System of Hydropower Station Based on PIPENET
Authors: Long Zhe , Lu Xing , Zheng Yingxia , Shu Lingfeng , Su Wenbo
Published: November 2024

In order to analyze the influence of the siphon effect in the pipeline on the actual operation of the head cover drainage system in different working conditions of a hydropower station, a reasonable and effective siphon failure device is set up. Based on PIPENET, the fluid calculation and analysis software of pipe network, this paper aims at the overall modeling of the head cover drainage system of the hydropower station, and then conducts hydraulic calculation and analysis on it, and studies the design scheme of damage siphon effect, which provides strong support for the optimal design of the head cover drainage system.
Observation of Navigational Hydraulic Characteristics in the Downstream Entrance Area
Authors: Wang Xin , Zhang Shouyuan
Published: November 2024

Strong transverse flows and fluctuations often occur in the downstream approach channel and entrance area during flood discharge at high dam hubs. This study takes a power station as a research sample. Flow velocities, transverse flow intensities, fluctuation characteristics and ship navigation status are analyzed and studied through field observations. The results show that during flood discharge the entrance area experiences transverse short-wave fluctuations and significant transverse currents. The oscillation of hydraulic jumps is the direct factor causing fluctuations in the downstream entrance area. The fluctuation amplitude of the center and edge of the entrance area was generally large, and the fluctuation spread to the approach channel and continuous attenuation. The main fluctuation attenuation occurs at the transition from the broad riverway to the downstream restricted approach channel. As the flood discharge increases, the lateral rolling of the ships becomes more pronounced. The change in power station discharge has a relatively small effect on the ships’ heeling and trim.
Analysis of the Influence of River Boundary Water Level on the Drainage Capacity of Pipe Network—A Case Study of Jiangnan Area in Yiwu City
Authors: Li Penghui , Zhou Yantan , Zhen Yiwei , Jin Qiannan , Meng Xiangyong
Published: November 2024

In order to ensure the safety of urban drainage and alleviate urban waterlogging, this study focuses on the impact of dynamic river water levels on pipeline drainage. The region south of Yiwu River in Yiwu City was selected as the study area. Utilizing the Mike modeling platform, simulations were conducted to assess pipeline drainage outlets under heavy rainfall conditions with return periods of 2-year, 3-year, and 5-year. These simulations considered connections to both the river's normal water level and various flood scenarios based on different design frequencies. The study also analyzed the influence of changes in river water levels on the drainage capacity of the pipeline network and their impact on urban waterlogging. This research provides a reference basis for understanding the causes of urban waterlogging in the study area and its mitigation.