bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deciphering the Role of Crown‐ether Receptor Orientation in C‐H Oxidation Catalyzed by Supramolecular Nonheme FeIV(O) Complexes
Authors: Fagnano Alessandro , Capocasa Giorgio , Frateloreto Federico , Latini Leonardo , Mortera Stefano Levi , Lanzalunga Osvaldo , Di Stefano Stefano , Olivo Giorgio
Published: December 2024

The outstanding efficiency and selectivity of enzymatic reactions, such as C−H oxidation by nonheme iron oxygenases, stems from a precise control of substrate positioning inside the active site. The resulting proximity between a specific moiety (a certain C−H bond) and the reactant (a FeIV(O) active species) translates into higher rates and selectivity, that can be in part replicated also with artificial supramolecular catalysts. However, structural modification of the position and orientation of the binding site both in enzymes and in artificial catalysts often leads to significant variations in reactivity that can be difficult to rationalize due to the system‘s complexity. Herein, we quantitatively analyzed the impact of such a structural modification (namely receptor orientation) on the C−H oxidation reactivity (kinetics, Effective Molarity) and selectivity by comparing simple supramolecular FeIV(O) models. Overall, we did not observe significant differences in reaction rates, but we noticed slight changes in the selectivity profile. These results indicate that, when a crown‐ether is employed as a recognition site, the key ingredient for enhanced reactivity is the presence of the supramolecular receptor itself rather than its exact orientation, providing a guide for the rational design of supramolecular catalysts.
Storage Failure Mechanisms and Modifications of Ni‐Rich Cathode Materials: From Polycrystalline to Single‐Crystal Forms†
Authors: An Ran , Su Yuefeng , Yang Chenxing , Zhu Xinyu , Wang Yihong , Li Yongjian , Chen Lai , Lu Yun , Huang Qing , Wang Meng , Li Ning , Wu Feng
Published: December 2024

Comprehensive Summary

Ni‐rich cathode materials, exemplified by LiNi1–x–yCoxMnyO2 (NCM), have significantly propelled Li‐ion battery (LIB) technology forward owing to their high energy density. However, the long‐term storage stability of these materials remains a critical challenge that must be addressed. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the storage failure mechanisms in both polycrystalline (PC‐NCM) and single crystal (SC‐NCM) forms, a topic that has been seldom reviewed. It delves into the microstructural changes and performance degradation that occur during storage, emphasizing the effects of environmental factors on NCM materials, including the formation of surface impurities and structural deterioration. Additionally, the review discusses various enhancement strategies, such as surface coatings, doping, and gas treatments, which are designed to improve storage stability. Furthermore, the review projects insights from current polycrystalline studies to suggest future research directions aimed at enhancing the air stability of SC‐NCM, which is vital for improving the safety and durability of LIBs.

Key Scientists
Probabilistic weighted Dirichlet process mixture with an application to stochastic volatility models
Authors: Sun Peng , Kim Inyoung , Lee Ki‐Ahm
Published: December 2024

In this article, we propose a flexible Bayesian modelling framework and investigate the probabilistic weighted Dirichlet process mixture (pWDPM). The construction and properties of a probabilistic weight function are illustrated. The advantage of the pWDPM under the log‐squared transformed stochastic volatility (SV) model is demonstrated. We achieve greater modelling flexibility by relaxing the distributional assumption of the error term. Bayesian inference for the pWDPM under SV and sampling procedures are provided. The performance of the pWDPM is evaluated using simulation studies and empirical results. Both computational efficiency and model accuracy are achieved through the pWDPM.
Dielectric and Thermal Behavior of Al‐Doped Cobalt Titanate Nanoparticles
Authors: Bharathi K. , Naidu K. Chandra Babu , Basha D. Baba , Chandrasekhar Madunuri , Reddy L. Siva Sankara
Published: December 2024

The AlxCo1‐xTiO3+δ (x = 0.2, 0.4, 0.6 & 0.8) (ACTO) nanoparticles are synthesized via hydrothermal method at low operating temperature of 423 K/8 h. The diiffraction patterns confirm the tetragonal phases of ACTO along with the secondary phases (*Co3O4). The morphology shows the homogeneous distribution of nanoparticles. In addition, for x = 0.2–0.4, a = b & c values are found to be decreasing from 0.3776 to 0.3771 nm & 0.8887–0.8878 nm, respectively, while for x = 0.6–0.8, the same values are found to be decreasing from 0.3780 to 0.3778 nm & 0.8881–0.8879 nm, respectively. The M–H curves provide the pure paramagnetic nature for x = 0.6 & 0.8 while the weak ferromagnetic nature for x = 0.2 & 0.4. At 8 MHz, the ɛ′ value of x = 0.2 (high cobalt content) shows the stabilized ɛ′ of ≈32.5 and the ɛ″ values of ACTO are changing from ≈1.6–10.6. Therefore, the x = 0.2 shows the high ɛ′ & ɛ″ suitable for high frequency dielectric absorber applications. The exponent “n” values determined using power law fit are noted to be increasing from 0.512 to 0.852 for x = 0.2–0.6 while the same is decreased to 0.664 for x = 0.8. All the “n” values are less than one and shows that the polaron hopping is slower than site relaxation. The mass loss, decomposition of various ingredient species, and other transition temperatures are evaluated by thermal study.
Mallard Hybridization With Domesticated Lineages Alters Spring Migration Behavior and Timing
Authors: Bakner Nicholas W. , Masto Nicholas M. , Lavretsky Philip , Highway Cory J. , Keever Allison C. , Blake‐Bradshaw Abigail G. , Askren Ryan J. , Hagy Heath M. , Feddersen Jamie C. , Osborne Douglas C. , Cohen Bradley S.
Published: December 2024

Introgressive hybridization, the interbreeding and gene flow between different species, has become increasingly common in the Anthropocene, where human‐induced ecological changes and the introduction of captively reared individuals are increasing secondary contact among closely related species, leading to gene flow between wild and domesticated lineages. As a result, domesticated‐wild hybridization may potentially affect individual fitness, leading to maladaptive effects such as shifts in behavior or life‐history decisions (e.g., migration patterns), which could influence population demographics. In North America, the release of captive‐reared game‐farm mallards (Anas platyrhynchos) for hunting has led to extensive hybridization with wild mallards, altering the genetic structure in the Atlantic and Mississippi flyways. We aimed to investigate differences in spring migratory behavior among 296 GPS‐tagged mallards captured during winter in Tennessee and Arkansas with varying levels of hybridization. Despite relatively low levels of genetic introgression of game‐farm genes, mallards with higher percentages of game‐farm ancestry exhibited later departure and arrival times, shorter migration distances, and a tendency to establish residency at lower latitudes. Specifically, for every 10% increase in game‐farm genetics, mallards departed 17.7% later, arrived 22.1% later, settled 3.3% farther south, and traveled 7.1% shorter distances during migration. These findings suggest that genetic introgression from game‐farm mallards influences migratory behavior, potentially reducing fitness, and contributing to population declines in wild mallards. Our study presents a need for understanding how domestic hybridization effects fitness and behavioral change of other species.
Controlled Signal Technique in VL‐NOMA Communication Under Interference‐Controlled Environment With Intelligent Reflecting Surfaces
Authors: Ngene C. E. , Thakur Prabhat , Singh Ghanshyam
Published: December 2024

This paper proposes a controlled signal technique for visible light non‐orthogonal multiple access (VL‐NOMA) communication in an interference‐controlled environment with intelligent reflecting surfaces (IRS) for beyond 5G (B5G) and 6G communication networks. The light‐emitting diode (LED) is used for carrier signal generation to transmit signals to the two users (photodiodes, PDs) due to its advantages, such as its programmable nature and flexibility. The potential challenge is how the signals could be controlled with an IRS approach, which prompted this research. We have used IRS, which is a cutting‐edge enabling technology that modifies the signal's reflection by utilizing numerous inexpensive passive reflecting elements to improve the signal's performance. Furthermore, deep reinforcement learning (DRL) is deployed to control the reflected signals, simulate, make decisions, and link LED‐IRS‐PDs, redirecting the signals. The entire system is successfully synchronized, and then the bit error rate (BER), line of sight (LOS), and non‐line of sight (NLOS) performances are investigated. Furthermore, we place a blocker at the center of the model as a NLOS to check how the transmitted signals will perform. We observed that the propagated signal improved the BER as per LOS, hence, the NLOS blocker reduced the signal's performance. Furthermore, we optimized the signals to investigate BER, LOS, and NLOS signal performance. We observed that LOS signals performed better than NLOS signals.
A Snapshot of Central Bank (Two‐Year) Forecasting: A Mixed Picture
Authors: Goodhart Charles A. E. , Pradhan Manoj
Published: December 2024

Between 2001 and 2023, Central Bank forecasts were patently inaccurate. In this paper, we argue that many of such forecast failings were already present during the earlier years of inflation targetry. Central Banks normally adjust monetary policy so that inflation hits the Inflation Target (IT) within two years. Since a central bank must believe its policy stance is appropriate to achieve this goal, its inflation forecast at the two‐year horizon should generally be close to target. We examine whether this has held for three main Central Banks, Bank of England, ECB, and Fed. Although over the IT period prior to 2020, both forecasts and outcomes were commendably close to target, we found that this was due to a sizeable forecast underestimate of the effects of policy and inherent resilience to revive inflation after the GFC crisis hit, largely offset by an overestimate of the effect of monetary policy to restore inflation to target during the more normal times. We attribute such latter overestimation to an unwarranted belief in forward‐looking, “well anchored”, expectations amongst households and firms, and to a failure to recognize the underlying disinflationary trends, especially in 2010–2019. We outline a novel means for assessing whether these latter trends were primarily demand driven, e.g. secular stagnation, or supply shocks, a labor supply surge. Finally, we examine how forecasts for the uncertainty of outcomes and relative risk (skew) to the central forecast have developed by examining the Bank of England's fan chart, again at the two‐year horizon.
Cost Outcomes of Virtual Surgical Planning in Head and Neck Reconstruction: A Systematic Review
Authors: Xiao Jenny B. , Banyi Norbert , Tran Khanh Linh , Prisman Eitan
Published: December 2024

Background

Virtual surgical planning (VSP) is an emerging method in head and neck reconstruction with demonstrated benefits, however, its economic viability is supported with mixed evidence.

Methods

A structured search was performed in five electronic databases. Studies that performed an economic evaluation on VSP in head and neck reconstruction were included. Data regarding VSP workflow, costs, and variables influencing costs were recorded and synthesized.

Results

Eighteen studies met the final inclusion criteria (n = 733). Fourteen out of 18 studies (78%) found that VSP either generated cost savings or was comparable to freehand surgery (FHS). The majority of cost savings were generated from reduced OR times and LOS/LOH. In addition, greater cost savings were associated with in‐house VSP workflows compared to those that are outsourced.

Conclusion

VSP is potentially cost‐beneficial compared to traditional unplanned surgery, however, substantial heterogeneity amongst methods and outcome measures impedes the generalizability of these findings.

Trial Registration: PROSPERO: CRD42024504398
Outcomes of Radical Radiotherapy (RT) or Chemoradiotherapy (CRT) in Surgically Inoperable Advanced Oral Cavity Cancer: A Single Center Experience
Authors: Shenoy Shashank , Mallick Ankita , Pati Sudipta , Chatterjee Sanjoy , Mallick Indranil
Published: December 2024

Background

Patients with locally advanced, surgically unresectable oral squamous cell cancers (SU‐OSCC) are often treated with palliative intent. There is limited information on the outcomes of radical intent treatment with radiotherapy (RT) or chemoradiotherapy (CRT).

Methods

We retrospectively examined patients with Stage III/IV previously untreated SU‐OSCC treated definitively from 2011 to 2021 in a single institution with RT or CRT with or without neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT).

Results

Sixty‐nine patients met the inclusion criteria. Oral tongue (38%) and buccal mucosa (32%) were the commonest subsites. T4a, T4b, and N2‐3 disease were present in 28 (40.6%), 26 (37.7%), and 39 (56.5%) patients, respectively. Median OS and PFS of the whole group were 16 months and 10 months. The 2‐year loco‐regional control was 60.4%. Bone involvement or NACT use did not affect outcomes.

Conclusions

Upfront radical RT/CRT in patients with SU‐OSCC with good performance status results in good outcomes and should be preferred to a palliative approach.
Adiposity and risks of gastrointestinal cancers: A 10‐year prospective study of 0.5 million Chinese adults
Authors: Chan Wing Ching , Millwood Iona , Kartsonaki Christiana , Du Huaidong , Schmidt Daniel , Stevens Rebecca , Chen Junshi , Pei Pei , Yu Canqing , Sun Dianjianyi , Lv Jun , Han Xianyong , Li Liming , Chen Zhengming , Yang Ling ,   for the China Kadoorie Biobank (CKB) Collaborative Group
Published: December 2024

Associations of adiposity with risks of oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) and non‐cardia stomach cancer, both prevalent in China, are still inconclusive. While adiposity is an established risk factor for colorectal cancer, the relevance of fat‐free mass and early‐adulthood adiposity remains to be explored. The prospective China Kadoorie Biobank study included 0.5 million adults (aged 30–79 years) from 10 areas in China. Participants' body size and composition were measured at baseline and at resurveys (amongst a subset). After >10 years of follow‐up, 2350, 3345 and 3059 incident cases of oesophageal (EC), stomach (SC) and colorectal (CRC) cancers were recorded, respectively. Cox regression was used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) for these cancers in relation to different adiposity traits. General and central adiposity were inversely associated with EC (primarily ESCC) risk, with HRs of 0.81 (95% CI 0.77–0.85), 0.76 (0.72–0.81) and 0.87 (0.83–0.92) per SD increase in usual levels of BMI, body fat percentage (BF%) and waist circumference (WC), respectively. Adiposity was also inversely associated with SC risk [HR = 0.79 (0.75–0.83) and 0.88 (0.84–0.92) per SD increase in usual BF% and WC], with heterogeneity by cardia and non‐cardia subsites, and positively associated with CRC [HR = 1.09 (1.03–1.15) and 1.17 (1.12–1.22) per SD higher usual BF% and WC]. Fat‐free mass was inversely associated with EC [HR = 0.93 (0.89–0.98) per SD increase] but positively associated with CRC [1.09 (1.04–1.14)], while BMI at age 25 was positively associated with all three cancers. After mutual adjustment, general adiposity remained inversely associated with EC and SC, while central adiposity remained positively associated with CRC.
Synergistic pincer catalysis by closely adjacent single atoms and nanoclusters for superior lithium‐sulfur batteries
Authors: Liu Jiabing , Zhang Xinyu , Li Hongyang , Jia Shufeng , Li Jianhui , Li Qiang , Zhang Yongguang , Li Gaoran
Published: December 2024

The practical application of lithium‐sulfur (Li‐S) batteries is seriously impeded by the notorious shuttle effect and sluggish reaction kinetics. Herein, we develop an advanced sulfur electrocatalyst that integrates single‐atom Co‐N4 moieties with Co nanoclusters on N‐rich hollow carbon nanospheres (Co‐ACSA@NC). The proximity of single atoms and nanoclusters establishes a synergistic “pincer” interaction with polysulfides through dual modes of coordinate and chemical bonding. Moreover, electron donation from the Co nanocluster enhances the bonding between polysulfide and Co‐N4, further improving the immobilization and catalytic conversion of sulfur species. The hollow and porous carbon support not only exposes the abundant active sites efficiently, but also serves as a confined nanoreactor for well‐tamed sulfur reactions. As a result, the S/Co‐ACSA@NC cathode exhibits excellent cyclability over 500 cycles with minimal attenuation of 0.018% per cycle. A high areal capacity of 11.15 mAh cm−2 can be obtained even under high sulfur loading (13.1 mg cm−2) and lean electrolyte (E/S = 4.0 μL mg−1), while a 2.38‐Ah pouch cell is also demonstrated with a commendable energy density over 307.7 Wh kg−1. This work offers a unique “pincer” catalysis strategy for boosting sulfur electrochemistry, paving the way to high‐performance and practically viable Li‐S batteries.

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Juvenile Incarceration in an Adult Facility and Violent Victimization During Adulthood
Authors: Silver Ian A. , Cohen Tova , Newsome Jamie
Published: December 2024

Introduction

A growing body of research indicates that being incarcerated in an adult jail or prison as a juvenile can elevate one's exposure to adverse childhood experiences, including violent and sexual victimization and neglect, and may lead to several long‐term difficulties. This study investigates the relationship between being confined in an adult jail or prison as a minor and experiencing violent victimization as an adult.

Methods

Data from the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth‐1997 cohort were used in the study. Subjects were between 12 and 33 years of age (N = 8526; 51% male, 49% female). A parametric survival model was estimated, and the estimates were used to predict the cumulative probability of experiencing a violent victimization from age 18 to 33.

Results

The cumulative probability of experiencing violent victimization by the age of 33 for juveniles who had been detained in an adult facility was approximately 70% higher than for juveniles who have not had contact with the justice system and 22% higher than for arrested juveniles.

Conclusions

Confining juveniles in an adult institution may be a punishment that extends far beyond the sentence, contributing to a unique set of difficulties during adulthood. These findings call into question the practice of bounding juveniles over to the adult court and sentencing them to serve time in adult correctional facilities.
Social participation challenges and response strategies identified by adults aging with a disability
Authors: Harris Maurita T. , Rogers Wendy A.
Published: December 2024

Social participation is likely to decrease among older adults as disability levels increase. However, it is a modifiable determinant of health that can impact older adults' well‐being and quality of life. Thus, this secondary data analysis aimed to understand what challenges older adults aging with a mobility or vision disability face with social participation, as well as their solutions for addressing those challenges. Interview data were obtained from the Aging, Challenges, Concerns, and Everyday Solution Strategies study. Six activities were chosen based on a taxonomy of social activities and a conceptual model of participation. Frequency counts were gathered through a thematic analysis to understand the number of challenges and response strategies. Over half of the older adults who had a mobility disability shared that visiting family and friends (57%) was their most challenging social activity. The identified challenges hindering them from completing the social activity were primarily personal, followed by accessibility and environmental. Older adults with a vision disability shared that going to entertainment events or activities (26%) was their most challenging social activity. Resources, such as community interventions, can support older adults with mobility or vision disabilities in participating in social activities. As such, future research, policy, and interventions should consider external support components to assist older adults with a mobility or vision disability with social participation.
T2 Clusters Are More Sensitive Than Mean T2 Change to Detect Early and Longitudinal Changes in Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstructed and Healthy Knees
Authors: Pai S Anoosha , Gatti Anthony A. , Black Marianne S. , Young Katherine A. , Desai Arjun D. , Barbieri Marco , Asay Jessica L. , Sherman Seth L. , Gold Garry E. , Kogan Feliks , Hargreaves Brian A. , Chaudhari Akshay S.
Published: December 2024

Background

Post‐traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA) often follows anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR), leading to early cartilage degradation. Change in mean T2 fails to capture subject‐specific spatial–temporal variations, highlighting the need for robust quantitative methods for early PTOA detection and monitoring.

Purpose/Hypothesis

Develop and apply 3D T2 cluster analysis to ACLR and healthy knees over 2.5 years.

Study Type

Longitudinal case–control study.

Subjects

ACLR and contralateral knees of 15 subjects (9 male/6 female, 37.7 ± 10 years) and right knee of 15 matched controls (9 male/6 female, 37.1 ± 12 years) were scanned at 3 weeks, 3, 9, 18, and 30 months post‐ACLR.

Sequence

3 T Quantitative double echo steady state sequence.

Assessment

“T2 cluster analysis” was developed, incorporating registration and thresholding methods to identify and quantify elevated T2 regions (T2 clusters, T2C) in femoral cartilage. Percentage of cartilage covered by T2 clusters (T2C%), mean cluster size (T2Csize), the number of clusters (T2Ccount), and ΔT2Mean (change in mean femoral cartilage T2 relative to visit 1) were computed for all knees.

Statistical Tests

A linear mixed model assessed knee, time, and knee‐time interaction effects on each outcome metric (P < 0.05), with effect sizes (ηp2) describing the sensitivity of these effects to longitudinal changes.

Results

T2C% (ηp2 = 0.22), T2Csize, (ηp2 = 0.14), and T2Ccount (ηp2 = 0.51) showed significant and systematic difference between knees (ACLR > contralateral > control). T2C% (ηp2 = 0.24), T2Csize (ηp2 = 0.17), and T2Ccount (ηp2 = 0.11) showed significant longitudinal change across all knees. Specifically, ACLR knees exhibited a significant increase in T2C% (ηp2 = 0.21), T2Csize (ηp2 = 0.13), and a decrease in T2Ccount (ηp2 = 0.07) with time. ΔT2Mean showed significant difference between knees (ηp2 = 0.15), increase with time (ηp2 = 0.04), with no significant knee‐time interaction (ηp2 = 0.00, P = 0.772 [contralateral], P = 0.482 [control]).

Conclusion

T2C metrics are more sensitive than ΔT2Mean for longitudinal monitoring of femoral cartilage post ACLR. Our findings suggest potential merging of T2 clusters overtime, forming larger areas of cartilage degradation in ACLR knees.

Level of Evidence

1

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2
Frailty in children with chronic liver disease: Prevalence and impact on outcomes
Authors: Yadav Deepika , Sood Vikrant , Lal Bikrant Bihari , Khanna Rajeev , Benjamin Jaya , Kumar Rakesh , Baweja Sukriti , Alam Seema
Published: December 2024

Objectives

Frailty is a well‐known complication of chronic liver disease and has been recognized as a poor prognostic factor in cirrhotic patients being associated with increased morbidity and mortality. There is limited available pediatric literature in this regard. The current study aimed to estimate the prevalence of frailty and analyze the predictive factors and their association with long‐term outcomes in children with liver disease.

Methods

Children (6–18 years of age) with cirrhotic liver disease (CLD) and noncirrhotic portal hypertension (NCPH) were prospectively enrolled. Frailty assessment was performed using the five classic Fried Frailty criteria. The children were followed up for 12 months to assess long‐term outcomes.

Results

The study included 170 children (CLD [n = 149; compensated CLD or CCLD, n = 109; decompensated CLD or DCLD, n = 40) and NCPH [n = 21]). The overall prevalence of frailty was 48% (40% in CCLD, 80% in DCLD group and 33% in NCPH group [p < 0.05]). Among the patients with CLD, 76 (51%) were identified as frail. Frail children had a significantly higher risk of decompensation and poorer hepatic synthetic functions, and their presence at baseline predicted future risk of decompensation, infectious complications, need for readmissions, and poor outcome (death) (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

There is a high prevalence of frailty in children with liver disease, which is associated with poorer clinical outcomes, including the risk of mortality. Thus, its presence in children with liver disease highlights the urgent unmet need for additional interventions to improve overall muscle mass and function.
Microwave‐Optics Entanglement via Coupled Opto‐ and Magnomechanical Microspheres
Authors: Li Hao‐Tian , Fan Zhi‐Yuan , Zhu Huai‐Bing , Gröblacher Simon , Li Jie
Published: December 2024

Microwave‐optics entanglement plays a crucial role in building hybrid quantum networks with quantum nodes working in the microwave and optical frequency bands. However, there are limited efficient ways to produce such entanglement due to the large frequency mismatch between the two regimes. Here, a new mechanism is presented to prepare microwave‐optics entanglement based on a hybrid system of two coupled opto‐ and magnomechanical microspheres, i.e., an yttrium‐iron‐garnet (YIG) sphere and a silica sphere. The YIG sphere holds a magnon mode and a vibration mode induced by magnetostriction, while the silica sphere supports an optical whispering‐gallery mode and a mechanical mode coupled via an optomechanical interaction. The two mechanical modes are close in frequency and directly coupled via physical contact of the two microspheres. It is shown that by simultaneously activating the magnomechanical (optomechanical) Stokes (anti‐Stokes) scattering, stationary entanglement can be established between the magnon and optical modes via mechanics‐mechanics coupling. This leads to stationary microwave‐optics entanglement by further coupling the YIG sphere to a microwave cavity and utilizing the magnon‐microwave state swapping. The protocol is within reach of current technology and may become a promising new approach for preparing microwave‐optics entanglement, which finds unique applications in hybrid quantum networks and quantum information processing with hybrid quantum systems.
Dynamics Analysis of a Delayed HIV Model With Latent Reservoir and Both Viral and Cellular Infections
Authors: Lv Lili , Yang Junxian , Hu Zihao , Fan Dongmei
Published: December 2024

This paper presents an HIV model with latent reservoir and a constant production rate of cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs). The system incorporates two delays, intracellular delay and immune response delay , and considers two mechanisms of viral transmission in vivo: cell‐to‐cell and virus‐to‐cell. Based on the initial condition, a key threshold in the model, namely, the basic reproduction number is obtained. Our focus is to investigate the impact of saturated immune delay on viral infection when CTLs are introduced at a constant rate. By constructing Lyapunov functionals, the stability conditions of equilibrium and equilibrium are established. Theoretical analysis indicates that equilibrium no longer remains stable and generates a Hopf bifurcation as immune delay changes. Numerical simulations are conducted to validate the main theoretical results, and sensitivity analysis is used to evaluate the impact of the parameters on the threshold. Through these simulations, the general patterns of dynamic behavior of the model are revealed. In particular, when and , the dynamics of the endemic equilibrium exhibit complex behavior.
Construction of Solutions in a Broad Sense of Systems of First‐Order Partial Differential Equations With Periodic Conditions
Authors: Bekbauova Altynshash , Meirambekuly Akylbek
Published: December 2024

The work considers the existence and uniqueness of a solution in the broad sense of systems of differential equations with the same principal part and periodic conditions. Characteristic vector is constructed ‐ functions of the system under study, solutions are defined in a broad sense. A matrix corresponding to a homogeneous system was constructed. Sufficient conditions for the existence and uniqueness of the solution in the broad sense of systems of partial differential equations with periodic conditions are obtained.
Analytical Porothermoelastodynamic Modeling of Stress Wave Through a Fluid‐Saturated Porous Cylinder
Authors: Liu Chao
Published: December 2024

Analytical porothermoelastodynamic (PTED) solutions are rare in the literature. The responses of fluid‐saturated porous materials subject to coupled mechanisms of loading frequency, fluid flow, stress, and temperature are unclear. In this paper, we use the PTED theory and derive the analytical solutions of pore pressure, temperature, stress, force, and displacement for an isotropic fluid‐saturated porous cylinder subject to a harmonic vibration. The coupled partial differential equations among pore pressure, displacement, and temperature are decoupled by matrix diagonalization and solved by further introducing a potential function and separation of variables. The PTED solution reproduces the poroelastodynamic (PED) one by easing the thermal effect. A demonstration example shows that the coupled mechanisms among pore pressure, stress, and displacement are highly frequency dependent. The thermal effect is more pronounced at low frequencies than at high frequencies when the inertial impact is more significant. Pore pressure is almost uniform in the ‐direction at low frequencies and becomes nonuniform at high frequencies for both PTED and PED cases. Displacements exhibit linear behavior at low frequencies and become nonlinear at high frequencies. Thermal stress and expansion significantly impact the pore pressure and displacement. A brief sensitivity analysis shows that pore pressure responds linearly and monotonically with the increase of the volumetric thermal expansion coefficient of the solid matrix at low frequencies and becomes nonlinear and nonmonotonic at high frequencies. The volumetric thermal expansion coefficient of the solid matrix has a minor effect on the vertical displacement and significantly influences the radial displacement.
Volunteers in Name Only: Implications of Court‐Mandated Service on Volunteer Management
Authors: Clerkin Richard M. , Coggburn Jerrell D. , Lawrence Kara L.
Published: December 2024

For nonprofits facing a shifting volunteer base and pressure to engage volunteers in new ways, mandatory service presents both opportunities and challenges for volunteer management that are similar yet distinct from episodic volunteers. In this manuscript, we use semi‐structured interview data from a sample of 26 nonprofit organizations to explore why and how nonprofits use court‐mandated volunteers (CMs). We find that nonprofits base their decisions on whether and how to use CMs on instrumental, expressive, and affiliative considerations. Our findings suggest that nonprofits who use CMs perceive that engaging with CMs aligns with their mission, can accommodate many volunteer hours in a short amount of time, and possess the capacity to effectively manage CMs. However, when nonprofits choose to use CMs, especially those with full‐time volunteer managers, they utilize them differently than traditional volunteers, tending to put them in sweat roles segregated from other volunteers and service beneficiaries. This differential use of CMs raises important concerns about whether this sort of mandated service can achieve its purpose of connecting CMs to their communities to curb recidivism. Further, it challenges the very notion of what it means to be a volunteer from both the coercive nature of the relationship and how this labor is used, leading us to consider individuals engaging in mandated service as volunteers in name only.
Enhanced biodegradable packaging composites: Performance of poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate‐co‐3‐hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) reinforced with propionylated abaca fiber mats
Authors: Iqbal Mohd , Rizal Samsul , Bairwan Rahul Dev , Zein Ikramullah , Abdul Khalil H. P. S.
Published: December 2024

This study investigates the development of a novel biocomposite tailored for sustainable packaging applications, integrating cellulosic woven fiber mats into poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate‐co‐3‐hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV), a biocompatible polymer. Utilizing hot press compression molding, composite boards with a thickness of 3 mm were fabricated. The cellulosic fiber mats were chemically modified with propionic anhydride, enhancing their compatibility with the PHBV matrix. Varied concentrations of reinforced propionylated cellulosic fiber mats (10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, and 50%) were investigated. The propionylated cellulosic abaca fiber composites exhibited superior functional properties, thermal stability, biodegradability, and mechanical performance compared to pure PHBV matrix. Notably, mechanical properties showed significant improvement with increased cellulosic fiber content, particularly achieving optimal strength at 30 wt% reinforcement. Chemical treatment enhanced interfacial bonding, evident in higher water contact angles and confirmed by Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE‐SEM) analysis. The biodegradation rate of biocomposites was faster compared to the control PHBV biopolymer. Despite potential agglomeration issues at higher concentrations, PHBV/chemically modified cellulosic fiber composites hold promise as sustainable packaging materials, contributing to a greener future in packaging applications.

Highlights

Successful preparation of PHBV composites with treated plant fibers.

Propionic anhydride treatment enhances fiber‐PHBV bonding and water resistance.

Improved strength at 30 wt% treated abaca fiber in PHBV composites.

Propionylated fibers enhance biodegradability compared to pure PHBV matrix.

Promising sustainable packaging with chemically modified cellulosic fibers.
Crystallographic Analysis of Short Helical Peptides Containing Homologs of Phenylalanine
Authors: Kalita Mrinal , Archana  , Ramapanicker Ramesh , Vasudev Prema G.
Published: December 2024

Interactions between aromatic side chains of amino acids stabilize the fold and assembly of short peptides. The aromatic π…π and C‐H…π interactions have been widely explored in the design of short peptides with specific folding and aggregation patterns. In the present study, we investigated the effect of homologated phenylalanine side chains on the conformation and assembly of peptide helices through X‐ray crystallographic structure determination and analysis of five pentapeptides. The parent peptide Boc‐Phe‐Aib‐Aib‐Leu‐Phe‐NHiPr (1) and its four variations were synthesized, in which either one or both of the Phe side chains have been modified by inserting one (homophenylalanine, hPhe; ‐CH2‐CH2‐C6H5) or two (h2Phe; ‐CH2‐CH2‐CH2‐C6H5) additional CH2 groups in the side chain, and their crystal structures were analyzed. The results show that intramolecular aromatic interactions are not present in the parent peptide but are present in the peptides containing the higher homologs of Phe. In peptides that did not show intramolecular aromatic interactions, the effect of increased length of the side chain of Phe residues manifested as intermolecular interactions leading to ordered packing in crystals. The results indicate the potential of hPhe and h2Phe residues to have aromatic interactions that could induce preferential folding and aggregation of peptides containing them.
What can we Learn from Quantum Convolutional Neural Networks?
Authors: Umeano Chukwudubem , Paine Annie E. , Elfving Vincent E. , Kyriienko Oleksandr
Published: December 2024

Quantum machine learning (QML) shows promise for analyzing quantum data. A notable example is the use of quantum convolutional neural networks (QCNNs), implemented as specific types of quantum circuits, to recognize phases of matter. In this approach, ground states of many‐body Hamiltonians are prepared to form a quantum dataset and classified in a supervised manner using only a few labeled examples. However, this type of dataset and model differs fundamentally from typical QML paradigms based on feature maps and parameterized circuits. In this study, how models utilizing quantum data can be interpreted through hidden feature maps, where physical features are implicitly embedded via ground‐state feature maps is demonstrated. By analyzing selected examples as case studies for understanding QCNNs, it is shown that high performance in quantum phase recognition comes from generating a highly effective basis set with sharp features at critical points. The learning process adapts the measurement to create sharp decision boundaries. The analysis highlights improved generalization when working with quantum data, particularly in the limited‐shots regime. Furthermore, translating these insights into the domain of quantum scientific machine learning, it is demonstrated that ground‐state feature maps can be applied to fluid dynamics problems, expressing shock wave solutions with good generalization and proven trainability.
Event‐Triggered Synchronization Control for Markov Jump Neural Networks With Partially Unknown Transition Probabilities
Authors: Fan Cheng , Su Lei , Wang Kang , Fei Xihong
Published: December 2024

This article studies the problem of static output feedback synchronization control of Markov jump neural networks. Given the randomness of the neural network topology and the limitations in acquiring transition probabilities, a Markov model with partially unknown transition probabilities is adopted, which aligns more closely with practical applications. To enhance communication efficiency in resource‐constrained environments, an event‐triggered mechanism is introduced. Additionally, in contrast to previous studies, this article employs the technique of free‐weighting matrix to address the decoupling issue in such neural networks, significantly reducing the conservativeness of the static output feedback control strategy. Finally, the theoretical findings are validated through simulation, demonstrating the practical applicability and effectiveness of the theoretical results.
Output Formation Containment of Heterogeneous Singular Multiagent Systems Using Adaptive Protocols
Authors: Liu Xiaofan , Sheng Kai , Yan Yunyi
Published: December 2024

In this study, the output formation containment control problem for heterogeneous singular multiagent systems is investigated. The purpose of this study is to drive the output of the leader agents to reach a time‐varying formation and take containment action for the follower agents. First, a novel distributed adaptive protocol is designed that relies on the relative output information of agents without measuring and transmitting their states information. Then, the formation containment control problem can be simplified into an admissible analysis of coupled nonlinear singular systems by constructing a model transformation. The output formation control conditions related to the spectral radius of the weighted adjacency matrix are obtained based on the bounded real lemma and admissible analysis. In addition, the adaptive protocols based on the state of the virtual leader are proposed, which can drive the agents to achieve formation containment control more quickly when the state of the virtual leader is known. Finally, the simulation results verify the feasibility of the output formation containment control.
In Vitro Evaluation of Niosomal Formulation for Controlled Delivery of 4‐Hydroxyisoleucine
Authors: Gavan Alireza Hoseeinzadeh , Baei Mazyar Sharifzadeh , Masoumi Mojtaba , Khanpour Mojtaba
Published: December 2024

The development of drug delivery systems has aimed to improve bioavailability and reduce limitations of traditional dosing schedules. Vesicular systems like niosomes have gained importance for their stability, cost‐effectiveness, and controlled release capabilities. Niosomes can encapsulate both hydrophobic and hydrophilic drugs, making them versatile carriers for various therapeutic agents. Recent research focuses on enhancing niosomes for targeted drug delivery, such as incorporating 4‐hydroxyisoleucine (4‐HIL) for diabetes treatment. In this study, 4‐HIL from fenugreek seeds was encapsulated in niosomes and PEGylated niosomes using a thin‐film hydration method. The 4‐HIL‐loaded niosomes showed semi‐spherical, smooth structures with a size of 200 nm, zeta potential of ‐22 mV, and entrapment efficiency ranging from 55.1% to 87.1%. FTIR spectroscopy confirmed hydrogen bonding between span 60 and cholesterol in the niosomal formulation. PEGylation increased vesicle size to 460–580 nm and enhanced encapsulation efficiency to 75.43–90.1%. The PEGylated niosomes significantly suppressed the in vitro release of 4‐HIL, making this formulation a promising drug delivery system for sustained release of anti‐diabetic drugs.
Development, Characterization, and Biomedical Applications of PVP–AgCl Nanomaterials: Antibacterial and Anticancer Properties
Authors: Varaprasad Kokkarachedu , Jayaramudu Tippabattini , Kartikeyan Chandrasekaran , Congreve Rodrigo Cáceres , Reddy G Venkata Subba
Published: December 2024

The demand for smaller nanomaterials with biocompatible properties has become increasingly imperative in the quest to combat microbial infections and cancer. This requires modifying the chemical process. In this investigation, polyvinylpyrrolidone–silver chloride (PVP–AgCl) nanomaterials (NMs) were developed via a sonochemical method involving Ag+ sourced from AgNO3 metal precursor and Cl− from NaCl, with the assistance of the capping agent PVP. Synthesized NMs were characterized using XRD, FTIR, SEM/EDS, DLS and TEM. The SEM analysis indicated spindle‐like structures with star‐shaped formations at the edges, whereas TEM showed a size of ∼24 ± 3 nm. Furthermore, the PVP–AgCl NMs exhibited a zeta potential of approximately −18.34 mV, with an average hydrodynamic diameter of 127.7 ± 1.287 nm and a polydispersity index of 0.1879. The anticancer activity of PVP–AgCl NMs were tested against cervical cancer cells (HeLa). In addition, toxicity studies using fibroblast cell (L929) revealed that the PVP–AgCl NMs demonstrate significant anticancer activity while showing minimal toxicity toward L929 cells. The antimicrobial activity of PVP–AgCl NMs was tested against S. aureus and E. coli strains. The prepared NMs exhibit potential antimicrobial properties. These findings suggest that the prepared PVP–AgCl NMs are used for potential biomedicine and antimicrobial coatings applications.
Plant‐Mediated Green Synthesis of α‐Fe2O3 Nanoparticles from Chrysanthemum indicum Flower Extract: Applications in Photolytic Dextromethorphan Degradation, Dye Removal, and Antibacterial Activity Assessment
Authors: Mukherjee Shantanu , Gupta Anjali , Bhatnagar Tripti
Published: December 2024

The risks that dyes, drugs, and pathogenic bacterial strains bring to ecosystems and public health when they contaminate water bodies, emphasize the need for adaptable materials that can efficiently treat a wide range of contaminants. In the current investigation, α‐Fe2O3 nanoparticles were fabricated via green synthesis and utilized to degrade dextromethorphan and dyes. The α‐Fe2O3 nanoparticles were initially characterized through visual assessment of color and subsequently analyzed using UV spectroscopy, FTIR, SEM/EDS, and XRD. The TGA curve for α‐Fe₂O₃ nanoparticles shows a multi‐step weight loss pattern as temperature increases from room temperature to 700 °C. The first weight loss occurs between 50 °C and 200 °C, followed by 9% between 200 °C and 350 °C, 3% between 350 °C and 500 °C, and 5% between 500 °C and 700 °C. The photocatalytic degradation efficiency of synthesized α‐Fe2O3 nanoparticles was investigated for the degradation of dextromethorphan and two dyes, phenol red, and eosin yellow. The α‐Fe2O3 nanoparticles exhibited exceptional photocatalytic performance, achieving approximately 99% degradation of dextromethorphan and 98% and 90% degradation of phenol red, and eosin yellow respectively within 120 min. In addition, α‐Fe2O3 nanoparticles exhibited promising antibacterial activity against both gram‐negative and gram‐positive pathogenic bacteria which describes their application against resistant organisms.
Green sol–gel synthesis of biogenic B‐ZnO nanoparticles: Enhancing antibacterial activity and solar‐driven photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue dye
Authors: Sekar Alagan , Murugan Palaniyapillai Jothi , Shanmugam Geetha , Kazachenko Aleksandr S. , Paularokiadoss Francisxavier , Belhocine Youghourta
Published: December 2024

Biological techniques based on plant extracts have attracted significant interest in the sustainable development era, exceeding the popularity of conventional physical and chemical synthesis methods. Current research biogenic boron‐doped zinc oxide nanoparticles (B‐ZnONPs) synthesized employing leaf extract from Lantana camara via the green synthesis approach with their inherent characteristics and solar‐driven photocatalytic activity was evaluated with chemically generated B‐ZnONPs. Numerous analytical methods, including field emission scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffractometry and UV–visible spectroscopy, have been applied to characterize the B‐ZnONPs, revealing the formation of monoclinic crystalline phase B‐ZnONPs. Notably, under sunlight irradiation at pH 11, the B‐ZnONPs exhibited significantly higher efficacy in the photocatalytic breakdown of methylene blue dye induced by sun radiation, achieving 96.2% photodegradation within 60 min. These results highlight the potential of L. camara leaf extract‐mediated B‐ZnONPs in solar‐based photocatalytic applications. Additionally, the biogenic B‐ZnONPs have been examined for their efficacy against gram‐positive and gram‐negative bacteria, exhibiting significant antibacterial properties.
Team Science and Infectious Disease Work: Exploring Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Alvarez Sonia , Salazar Maritza , LaBeaud A. Desiree
Published: December 2024

Collaborative global health research has been growing rapidly for approximately three decades now. This type of collaborative research, in contrast with a sole researcher approach, predominant in the past, has called for the integration of investigators, clinicians, practitioners, and others from outside of academia, often from different nations, in search of answers to a multitude of complex health problems. Team science is a novel way to conduct scientific research on individual and public health problems. Most areas of scientific inquiry today are multi-dimensional, and so are the teams studying them. Cross-disciplinary teams search for global applications of scientific advances to alleviate or eradicate human illness and suffering. These applications require consideration of social, political, and economic contexts across geographical boundaries. Integration of various bodies of knowledge, methods, approaches, and participating institutions’ protocols demand a new set of practices and considerations to improve the integrity of researchers as they operate within teams and the quality of scientific production. This chapter includes an overview of relevant team science topics and the study of team science research. It presents evidence of practices and elements that contribute to the integration and success of research teams. Concurrently, it narrates the experience of one laboratory team in their quest to anticipate and eventually integrate team science elements into their daily scientific and social practice. The authors believe that embracing team science practices is equally time-consuming and worthwhile, as both scientific production, research impact, and team members’ professional quality of life are maintained and improved. In addition, team members experience personal satisfaction and joy in establishing and maintaining trusting relationships.