bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tillandsia‐Inspired Asymmetric Covalent Organic Framework Membranes for Unidirectional Low‐Friction Water Collection
Authors: Yao Jiaao , Zuo Hongyu , Bi Jingjie , Liu Yanjun , Wu Huiqing , Yuan Jiayin , Chen Yiwang , Liao Yaozu , Zhang Weiyi
Published: December 2024

Friction plays a pivotal role in many phenomena of physical chemistry and has long been in the focus of research thereof. As a crucial parameter, friction in membranes’ inner and/or outer surface can be minimized to reduce solvent inlet resistance and enlarge inner pore fluid flux, ideally reaching near frictionless transport of water at nanoscale. Inspired by the leaf structure of Tillandsia, a porous membrane with a rough surface and a hydrophilic inlet together with hydrophobic pore channels was designed and fabricated, based on covalent organic frameworks (COFs). Combined with COFs’ inherent highly oriented pore structures, the as‐made asymmetric membranes through chemical etching can minimize the solvent critical intrusion pressure and enable inner pore low friction water transport. Ultimately, obtained COF membranes succeeded in trapping fog from air and achieved a water harvesting rate (WHR) of 1570 mg cm−2 h−1, together with small molecular pollutants filtrated off in the meantime. Intriguingly, the synthesized asymmetric COF membranes illustrated unidirectional low friction water collecting and transporting features, the successful imitation of T. macdougallii. This work presents a practical strategy to construct functional porous membranes for low friction water collection and transport, and created a model paradigm to design fluid transporting pore channels.
Insights Into the Thermal Stability and Proton Transport Mechanism of PTFE‐Nafion Composite Membranes
Authors: Zeng Sixiu , Zeng Yuexi , Song Jiangping , Meng Zihan
Published: December 2024

The controllable design of proton exchange membranes (PEMs) with outstanding temperature resistance and efficient proton conduction is essential for high‐temperature PEM fuel cells. In this study, a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)‐Nafion composite PEM was prepared using immersion and high‐temperature heat treatment methods. To understand the thermal stability, the glass transition temperatures of the PTFE‐Nafion and Nafion membranes were tested using static thermomechanical analysis. The PTFE‐Nafion membrane had a higher glass transition temperature than the Nafion membrane. In terms of the microstructure, the PTFE‐Nafion composite membrane exhibited a slightly larger ion domain structure than the Nafion membrane, and the first scattering peak of the PTFE‐Nafion composite membrane appeared at q ≈ 0.018 nm−1, while the pure Nafion membrane peak was located at q ≈ 0.022 nm−1. The PTFE‐Nafion composite membrane also exhibited higher proton conductivity than the Nafion membrane, and the activation energy of the Nafion membrane was approximately 3.5 times higher than that of the PTFE‐Nafion composite membrane. These results demonstrated the difference in proton transport mechanism for the PTFE‐Nafion composite and pure membranes, which may help guide the rational design of PEMs for fuel cells operating in high‐temperature and low‐humidity environments.
Plankton as an Evaluation Tool for Ecosystem Conservation: A Study Involving Different Habitats Associated With the Salado River in the Pampa Region of Argentina
Authors: Alvarez M. Fernanda , Solari Lía C. , Küppers Gabriela C. , Gabellone Néstor A. , Benítez Hernán H. , Vojkovic Matilde , Claps M. Cristina
Published: December 2024

Freshwater biodiversity is declining sharply. The conservation of these biodiverse habitats has generally depended on their designation as protected areas, but specific groups such as plankton tend to be overlooked. The Salado River (Argentina) constitutes a highly characteristic morphologic feature of the pampas, having a basin of 150,000 km2. The Las Flores system, particularly, is key in the development of the river, and the presence of two tributaries adds landscape heterogeneity with habitats such as shallow lakes, backwater ponds and wetlands. Our aim in this work was thus to evaluate the Salado River conservation status by measuring the specific richness of its planktonic community in order to argue for the Salado's establishment as a protected reserve. An analysis of the phytoplankton and zooplankton assemblages after several years of sampling in the river, streams and backwater ponds indicated that habitat heterogeneity increased the diversity of the region and that sites such as backwater ponds or streams were critical for the functioning of the river system as a whole through adding particular species or acting as species reservoirs. This supports habitat fragmentation in the area, which combined with environmental heterogeneity contributed to high ß diversity values. However, such separation also involves a trade‐off because prolonged isolation between subsystems can result in net species loss. Finally, the present work focused on the significance of biodiversity at the landscape level, with planktons as a model for the conservation of a principal site in one of the main rivers of Argentina.
Insight into the Metal‐Free Reduction of Isocyanates to N‐Methyl Anilines at Room Temperature
Authors: Nad Pinaki , Kisan Hemanta K. , Mukherjee Arup
Published: December 2024

A simple and sustainable protocol has been developed to reduce isocyanates to the N‐methyl anilines under metal‐free conditions. The reaction proceeds with BF3 ⋅ OEt2 as a catalyst and ammonia borane as a hydrogen source in THF at room temperature, leading to the formation of a wide range of substituted aniline derivatives. Control experiments and deuterium labeling studies were performed to understand the mechanism of the present procedure. A detailed computational study was also conducted to shed light on the possible mechanism and free energies of the intermediates and transition states involved in this present protocol.
Applications of a biocompatible alginate/pericardial fluid‐based hydrogel for the production of a bioink in tissue engineering
Authors: Sönmezer Açıkgöz Dilek , Latifoğlu Fatma , Toprak Güler , Baran Münevver
Published: December 2024

Enhancing the biocompatibility of biomaterials is a critical aspect of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Advances in 3D bioprinting technology, blending natural and synthetic materials for the production of bioink, offer new opportunities to develop highly biocompatible materials that can closely mimic the native tissue environment. In this study, we used pericardial fluid structure (PFS)‐based material together with alginate to mimic the extracellular matrix (ECM) and produce a bioink material. Thus, blended alginate with PFS material and MC3T3‐E1 pre‐osteoblast cell‐laden hydrogels characterized by comparing each other, especially alginate hydrogels, and evaluated in terms of biocompatibility for tissue engineering applications. According to the rheological analysis results, all hydrogel groups A, A‐PFS (150 mg), and A‐PFS (1:1) had viscoelastic properties. Mechanical tests showed that the A‐PFS (1:1) hydrogel had the most strength properties. Additionally, the viscosity values of the hydrogel solutions were in an applicable range for use in 3D bioprinters. It was also found out that PFS increased the biocompatibility of alginate‐based bioink, in terms of cell proliferation and differentiation. Overall, these findings suggest that alginate and pericardial fluid‐based materials can be successfully used for bioink production. The resulting hydrogels exhibit viscoelastic properties, appropriate viscosity for 3D bioprinting, and support cell viability, proliferation, and osteogenic differentiation. This research has the potential not only to produce bioink but also to produce injectable hydrogels and drug delivery systems, which can become biocompatible materials that can be used for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine applications.
Ionizable cationic lipid nanoparticles loaded with miRNA‐125b/BLZ945 for pancreatic cancer treatment
Authors: Zhang Jiajie , Qu Ming , Mo Zhanhao , Sui He , Liu Lin , Fu Deliang
Published: December 2024

In prior research, both miRNA‐125b and BLZ945 have shown potential in effectively inhibiting M2 macrophage polarization and producing antitumor effects. Nevertheless, their physicochemical characteristics present significant challenges for efficient in vivo delivery. Ionizable cationic lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), recognized for their superior biocompatibility and drug‐loading capacity, serve as a novel carrier for nucleic acid‐based therapeutics. In our study, we successfully encapsulated both agents within LNPs and conducted a thorough characterization. Subsequently, we investigated their potential to repolarize M2 macrophages in vitro and evaluated their in vivo distribution, biosafety, and antitumor efficacy. The findings revealed that the LNPs maintained excellent drug‐loading efficiency, consistent particle size, and stable zeta potential. All formulations effectively inhibited M2 macrophage polarization in vitro. Upon administration in vivo, the LNPs not only demonstrated favorable biosafety profiles but also accumulated efficiently in tumor tissues, substantially reducing tumor burden, particularly notable in co‐loaded LNPs. Our results affirm that LNPs are an effective carrier for miRNA‐125b and BLZ945, highlighting this encapsulation approach as promising for the treatment of solid tumors and meriting further investigation. Practitioner points: (i) Ionizable cationic nanoparticles provide high and stable encapsulation rates to efficiently load nucleic acid polymers into the LNP, avoiding the rapid accumulation of circulating macrophages, which can lead to reduced penetration of the LNP into target tissues. Therefore, it can be used as a novel drug delivery method to benefit clinical patients. (ii) miRNA‐125b LNP/BLZ945 LNP attenuated the depleting effect of BLZ945 on macrophages and significantly inhibited macrophage M2 polarization. It could be effectively distributed in tumors and showed good biosafety while exerting antitumor effects, bringing hope to clinical pancreatic tumor patients.
Phytotoxic and Antifungal Activity of (−)‐Penienone Produced by Penicillium palitans (Ascomycota) Isolated from Deep Sea Sediments in the Southern Ocean, Maritime Antarctica
Authors: Barreto Debora Luiza Costa , Lowell Cantrell Charles , Karla da Silva Mayanne , Rodrigues de Carvalho Camila , do Nascimento de Queiroz Sonia Claudia , Bajsa‐Hirschel Joanna , Tamang Prabin , Oscar Duke Stephen , Wagner Fernandes Duarte Alysson , Henrique Rosa Luiz
Published: December 2024

Metabolites isolated from Penicillium palitans, obtained from deep sea sediments in the maritime Antarctica, were investigated for phytotoxic and antifungal activities. The fungus was submitted to solid state fermentation, and its crude extract was produced. Chromatographic separations of the P. palitans methylene chloride crude extract led to the isolation of two analogous compounds: (−)‐penienone (1) and (−)‐palitantin (2). The phytotoxic activity of these compounds was assessed against seeds of Lactuca sativa and Agrostis stolonifera. Both compounds demonstrated activity exclusively in the monocotyledonous model, A. stolonifera. At a concentration of 1 mg mL−1, (−)‐penienone caused 100 % inhibition of seed germination, while (−)‐palitantin had only moderate activity on germination and growth of seedlings at this concentration after 7 days of treatment. Against Lemna paucicostata, at 57 μM, (−)‐penienone inhibited growth by 50 % (IC50). (−)‐Palitantin was much less active. When evaluated for their antifungal activity against Colletotrichum fragariae, only (−)‐penienone had an IC50 value of 0.3 μM. The strain P. palitans was shown to be a promising source of phytotoxic and antifungal compounds, suggesting that extremophilic fungi, such as wild Penicillium strains from Antarctica, have the potential to yield novel prototype molecules for new pesticide development.
A {Cr4Ln2} Complex with Exchange Coupled {Cr2} Units: Structural Description and Magnetic Study
Authors: Cabrosi Daiana , Mecchia Ortiz Juan H. , Cruz Carlos , Paredes‐García Verónica , Alborés Pablo
Published: December 2024

We have prepared and structurally characterized pivalate based {CrIII4LnIII2} complexes with Ln = Dy and Gd as well as the Y analogue, with the overall formula [CrIII4LnIII2(mdea)2(piv)10(OH)4], Ln = Gd, Dy and Y. We are reporting a detailed experimental magnetic properties study, including magnetization relaxation dynamics and calorimetric data, supported with quantum chemical calculations. The synthesis of the Y derivative, allowed to precisely identify the Cr(III)‐Cr(III) exchange interaction magnitude which proved moderately strong and in agreement with known magneto‐structural correlations. This result agrees with the observed double bridged {Cr2‐μOH‐μOR} units within the {Cr4Ln2} complexes. The Gd(III) complex magnetic properties can be properly described with the already established exchange coupled {Cr2} units, and a unique Gd(III)‐Cr(III) exchange coupling parameter which proved anti‐ferromagnetic in nature. The MCE characterization of this complex based on magnetization and calorimetric data down to 2 K affords a moderate entropy change value, mainly affected by the strong Cr‐Cr exchange interaction. The complex with Ln = Dy, showed SMM behaviour below 10 K under 0 DC applied field with negligible field dependence up to 3000 Oe and 10 kHz of AC field frequency. Two relaxation processes are clearly distinguished, with thermal barriers for an Orbach mechanism of ca. 20 cm−1 and 40 cm−1.
Enantiopure Macrocycles Based on Tröger‘s Base and Diphenyl Maleimide Exhibiting Strong Chiral Emission and Host‐Guest Properties
Authors: Song Zi‐Hang , Ma Yi‐Fan , Han Han , Li Dai‐Yuan , Fu Rong , Zhao Qing‐Yu , Wang Ruiguo , Guo Dong‐Sheng , Cai Kang
Published: December 2024

While a plenty of macrocyclic hosts have been developed in supramolecular chemistry, those that combine chiral luminescent properties and host‐guest recognition abilities are still uncommon. Herein, two pairs of enantiomeric macrocycles were synthesized via Suzuki‐Miyaura [2+2] cyclization reactions using Tröger's base and diphenyl maleimide as the building blocks. The diphenyl maleimide units impart these macrocycles with highly strong fluorescence, achieving quantum yields up to 100 % in apolar solvents. Furthermore, the chiral, V‐shaped Tröger's base units provide the macrocycles with circularly polarized luminescence (|glum|=1.68×10−3) and well‐define cavity for hosting electron‐deficient or positively charged guests with Ka up to 1.7×106 M−1.
Using Artificial Intelligence to Identify Effective Components of Computer‐Assisted Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
Authors: Coleman Jeremy J. , Owen Jesse , Wright Jesse H. , Eells Tracy D. , Antle Becky , McCoy Markessa , Soma Christina Signe
Published: December 2024

Although clinician‐supported computer‐assisted cognitive‐behaviour therapy (CCBT) is well established as an effective treatment for depression and anxiety, less is known about the specific interventions used during coaching sessions that contribute to outcomes. The current study used artificial intelligence (AI) to identify specific components of clinician‐supported CCBT and correlated those scores with therapy outcomes. Data from a randomized clinical trial comparing clinician‐supported CCBT with treatment as usual in a primary care setting were utilized. Participants (n = 95) engaged in CCBT with coaching sessions. The primary outcome was the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ‐9), with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD‐7), Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS) and Automatic Thoughts Questionnaire (ATQ) ratings as secondary outcomes, which were assessed at 12 weeks (post), 3‐ and 6‐month follow‐up. The Lyssn system utilized AI technology to code CBT techniques and common general psychotherapeutic techniques. After controlling for initial ratings, 13 Lyssn‐variables were observed to be significantly associated with reducing anxiety on the GAD‐7 after 12 weeks of treatment. Among the most effective CBT interventions for anxiety included the use of guided discovery, understanding, interpersonal effectiveness and agenda setting. The most beneficial intervention was the proportion of open questions across all variables. Lyssn did not identify any CBT‐specific interventions significantly associated with PHQ‐9, SWLS or ATQ. Therapist use of CBT‐specific techniques was significantly associated with reduction of anxiety symptoms after 12 weeks, but such gains were not observed at follow up. Therapist use of open questions was observed to be the most impactful technique contributing to treatment outcomes.
Exploring the influence of military experience directors on corporate governance: Evidence from Thai‐listed companies
Authors: Korphaibool Veerawin , Chatjuthamard Pattanaporn , Jiraporn Pornsit , Treepongkaruna Sirimon
Published: December 2024

Different board of directors (BODs) characteristics influence corporate strategy and performance. Essential attributes such as gender, education, and experience determine the preferences, opinions, and decisions to prioritize the strategy, which normally focuses on profitability. In 1997, during the Asian financial crisis, the Thai government and Thai firms adopted the sufficiency economy philosophy (SEP) approach to overcome financial catastrophes. This study explores the relationship between one distinct characteristic of the BOD, directors with direct and indirect military backgrounds, and the SEP performance. To minimize endogeneity and eliminate reverse causality, we apply a two‐stage least squares instrumental variable (2SLS‐IV) analysis. We find evidence supporting the upper echelons theory (UET), where the characteristics of the BOD, such as military experience, determine the organizational decision to enhance SEP performance.
Microbiota Associated With Ototyphlonemertes Species (Nemertea, Hoplonemertea, Monostilifera, Ototyphlonemertidae) Reveal Evidence of Phylosymbiosis
Authors: Leasi Francesca , Eckert Ester M. , Norenburg Jon L. , Thomas W. Kelley , Sevigny Joseph L. , Hall Jeffrey A. , Wirshing Herman H. , Fontaneto Diego
Published: December 2024

Phylosymbiosis, the association between the phylogenetic relatedness of hosts and the composition of their microbial communities, is a widespread phenomenon in diverse animal taxa. However, the generality of the existence of such a pattern has been questioned in many animals across the tree of life, including small‐sized aquatic invertebrates. This study aims to investigate the microbial communities associated with poorly known marine interstitial nemerteans to uncover their microbiota diversity and assess the occurrence of phylosymbiosis. Specimens from various Central American sites were analyzed using morphology‐based taxonomy and molecular techniques targeting the host 18S rRNA gene whereas their microbial association was analyzed by targeting the prokaryotic 16S rRNA gene. Phylogenetic and statistical analyses were conducted to examine the potential effects of host nemertean taxa and sampling locations on the host‐associated microbial communities. The results provide compelling evidence of phylosymbiosis in meiofaunal nemertean species, highlighting the significant impact of host genetic relatedness on microbiome diversity in small‐sized animals. This finding supports previous studies that demonstrate how certain nemertean species harbor distinct microbial communities with functional and ecological implications. Given the remarkable diversity of meiofaunal animals—spanning numerous phyla with varying lifestyles and co‐existing in the same habitat—combined with advancements in multi‐omics approaches, there is a promising opportunity to deepen our understanding of the evolutionary and ecological interactions between hosts and their microbiota throughout the animal tree of life.
Co‐Occurrence Patterns of Aquatic Macroinvertebrates in Laurentian Great Lakes Coastal Wetlands
Authors: Bozimowski Alexandra A. , Murry Brent A. , Uzarski Donald G.
Published: December 2024

In niche‐based community assembly theory, it is presumed that communities in habitats with high natural disturbance regimes are less likely to be structured by competitive mechanisms. Laurentian Great Lakes (hereafter Great Lakes) coastal wetlands can experience drastic diel fluctuations in dissolved oxygen levels, severe wave action, ice scour, and near complete freezing during the winter such that conditions are inhospitable for most organisms. The high natural disturbance levels are thought to cause high interannual turnover for aquatic macroinvertebrate communities and support the hypothesis that these communities are less likely to experience less competitive interactions and negative co‐occurrence structure. We hypothesize that non‐random co‐occurrence patterns will be rare in Great Lake coastal wetlands and non‐competitive processes (e.g., through shared or differential microhabitat affinities, pollution tolerances, or biotic homogenization) will be more common than competitively driven negative co‐occurrence patterns. Null model analysis was performed on 134 macroinvertebrate communities sampled from across the Great Lakes basin from 2000 to 2013. To disentangle the effects of alternative structuring mechanisms (i.e., shared/differential habitat affinities, shared/differential pollution tolerance, and biological homogenization/competitive exclusion), communities were parsed based on the year sampled, the vegetation type from which community samples were collected, and lastly species' functional feeding group assignment or taxonomic group. As expected, very few communities were non‐randomly structured; however, all of those that were non‐random exhibited showed more negative co‐occurrences than by chance. Upon further investigation, these communities consisted of species that are known to overwinter in wetlands, and therefore, avoid having to recolonize after each spring thaw. With expected changes in habitat conditions due to climate change, we propose that null model analyses can be used as an early warning system for community change.
Increased Temperature and Exposure to Ammonium Alter the Life Cycle of an Anuran Species
Authors: Zamora‐Camacho Francisco Javier , Aragón Pedro
Published: December 2024

Amphibian populations are undergoing a major recession worldwide, likely triggered by global change components such as the global warming and pollutants, among which agrochemicals, in general, and fertilizers, in particular, play a central role given their relevance in agriculture. Potential synergies among these stressors could maximize their individual effects. In this work, we investigated the consequences of a controlled chronic exposure to increased temperature and a sublethal dose of ammonium during the larval stage of Pelophylax perezi frogs on the growth, development, and locomotor performance of tadpoles and the metamorphs they gave rise to. To that end, tadpoles were reared either in heated or nonheated tanks, with or without ammonium added. The parents of these tadpoles came from either a pine grove or an agrosystem. Survival was reduced in agrosystem tadpoles reared with ammonium. Increased temperature potentiated tadpole growth while giving way to smaller metamorphs. Faster growth could be a consequence of increased metabolism, whereas the smaller size could follow an accelerated development and metamorphosis, which reduced the growth period. Also, swimming speed was greater in tadpoles reared in heated tanks, while jumping distance was greater in metamorphs reared in nonheated tanks. The effects of temperature were more marked in agrosystem than in pine grove individuals, which could mirror reduced adaptability. Thus, the ability to withstand the effects of these stressors was lower in agrosystem tadpoles.
Tree species controls over nitrogen and phosphorus cycling in a wet tropical forest
Authors: Russell Ann E. , Hall Steven J. , Bedoya Ricardo , Kivlin Stephanie N. , Hawkes Christine V.
Published: December 2024

Wet tropical forests play an important role in the global carbon (C) cycle, but given current rates of land‐use change, nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) limitation could reduce productivity in regenerating forests in this biome. Whereas the strong controls of climate and parent material over forest recovery are well known, the influence of vegetation can be difficult to determine. We addressed species‐specific differences in plant traits and their relationships to ecosystem properties and processes, relevant to N and P supply to regenerating vegetation in experimental plantations in a single site in lowland wet forest in Costa Rica. Single‐tree species were planted in a randomized block design, such that climate, soil (an Oxisol), and land‐use history were similar for all species. In years 15–25 of the experiment, we measured traits regarding N and P acquisition and use in four native, broad‐leaved, evergreen tree species, including differential effects on soil pH, in conjunction with biomass and soil stocks and fluxes of N and P. Carbon biomass stocks increased significantly with increasing soil pH (p = 0.0184, previously reported) as did biomass P stocks (p = 0.0011). Despite large soil N pools, biomass P stocks were weakly dependent on traits associated with N acquisition and use (N2 fixation and leaf C:N, p < 0.09). Mass‐balance budgets indicated that soil organic matter (SOM) could supply the N and P accumulated in biomass via the process of SOM mineralization. Secondary soil P pools were weakly correlated with biomass C and P stocks (R = 0.47, p = 0.08) and were large enough to have supplied sufficient P in these rapidly growing plantations, suggesting that alteration of soil pH provided a mechanism for liberation of soil P occluded in organo‐mineral soil complexes and thus supply P for plant uptake. These results highlight the importance of considering species' effect on soil pH for restoration projects in highly weathered soils. This study demonstrates mechanisms by which individual species can alter P availability, and thus productivity and C cycling in regenerating humid tropical forests, and the importance of including traits into global models of element cycling.
Enhanced Lung Cancer Prediction via Integrated Multi‐Space Feature Adaptation, Collaborative Alignment and Disentanglement Learning
Authors: Kawama Abigail , Mwangi Ronald Waweru , Nderu Lawrence
Published: December 2024

Lung cancer, marked by the rapid and uncontrolled proliferation of abnormal cells in the lungs, continues to be one of the leading causes of cancer‐related deaths globally. Early and accurate diagnosis is critical for improving patient outcomes. This research presents an enhanced lung cancer prediction model by integrating Adaptation Multiple Spaces Feature and L1‐norm Regularization (AMSF‐L1ELM) with Primitive Generation with Collaborative Relationship Alignment and Feature Disentanglement Learning (PADing). Initially, the AMSF‐L1ELM model was employed to address the challenges of feature alignment and multi‐domain adaptation, achieving a baseline performance with a test accuracy of 83.20%, precision of 83.43%, recall of 83.74%, and an F1‐score of 83.07%. After incorporating PADing, the model exhibited significant improvements, increasing the test accuracy to 98.07%, precision to 98.11%, recall to 98.05%, F1‐score to 98.06%, and achieving a ROC‐AUC of 100%. Cross‐validation results further validated the model's robustness, with an average precision of 99.73%, recall of 99.55%, F1‐score of 99.64%, and accuracy of 99.64% across five folds. The study utilized four distinct datasets covering a range of imaging modalities and diagnostic labels: the Chest CT‐Scan dataset from Kaggle, the NSCLC‐Radiomics‐Interobserver1 dataset from TCIA, the LungCT‐Diagnosis dataset from TCIA, and the IQ‐OTH/NCCD dataset from Kaggle. In total, 4085 images were selected, distributed between source and target domains. These results demonstrate the effectiveness of PADing in improving the model's performance and enhancing lung cancer prediction accuracy across multiple domains in complex medical imaging data.
Investigating Spatial Heterogeneity of Karst Water Storage Capacity and Nonclosure of Underground Watersheds in Karst Hydrological Simulation
Authors: Ren Zeling , Li Binquan , Xiao Yang , Li Kuang
Published: December 2024

Karst landforms interfere with the runoff generation and confluence process, resulting in generally poor hydrological simulation accuracy in karst watersheds. We proposed a new karst hydrological module, which has two cores. One is the karst water storage capacity distribution curve that represents the distribution of runoff generation thresholds in karst areas, and the other is the underground nonclosure coefficient that represents the nonclosure phenomenon of underground watersheds in karst areas. The new module was further coupled with the Xinanjiang rainfall–runoff (XAJ) model to establish a complete hydrological model for karst areas (referred to as XAJ‐karst model). The sensitivity of the XAJ‐karst model parameters was analysed using the Sobol method, and applied to a typical karst watershed in Guizhou Province, China, to test the model performance on daily and hourly time scales. In addition, we also explored the impact of dynamic changes in the nonclosure coefficient of underground watershed area in karst watersheds on model results. Results showed that the average value of Kling–Gupta efficiency (KGE) of the XAJ‐karst model on the daily and hourly time scales was 0.85 and 0.77, respectively. In comparison with the XAJ model, the average KGE value of the XAJ‐karst model on both daily and hourly scales improved by 10.8% and 6.4%, respectively, demonstrating better simulation accuracy. In addition, there is a underground nonclosure phenomenon in the Xiangyang watershed, and the actual area of underground watershed expands abruptly as the antecedent‐precipitation increases to the critical value. Moreover, the water storage and hysteresis effects of the karst landform result in a certain hysteresis in water exchange between the underground watershed and adjacent watersheds.
Effects of Different Spatial Distributions of Vegetation on the Hydraulic Characteristics of Overland Flow
Authors: Xiao Chengzhi , Liu Xiang , Ding Luqiang , Zhu Nan , Wang Zihan
Published: December 2024

Vegetation plays a crucial role in mitigating and controlling soil erosion caused by overland flow. However, variations in the hydraulic characteristics of overland flow induced by the spatial distribution of vegetation with different row and column spacings are often overlooked in existing literature, potentially leading to significant deviations in predicting these characteristics. In this study, 180 lab‐scale runoff tests were conducted to clarify the hydraulic characteristics of overland flow considering six α (the ratio of the lateral distance of vegetation to stem diameter) levels, six β (the ratio of the slope distance of vegetation to stem diameter) levels, and three slope angles (θ) under five flow discharges (Q) conditions. The results show that the observed flow regime of overland flow belongs to the transition flow regions, shifting from slow to rapid as α and/or β increase. The friction coefficient and the proportion of frictional resistance in the total flow resistance increase with increasing α and β. The local resistance dominates the total flow resistance of bare glass slopes. The local resistance coefficient ξ decreases with increasing α and β, however, it initially increases and then decreases with increasing θ. The impact of β on the local resistance is greater for gentle slopes, whereas the impact of α is more significant for steep slopes. ξ exhibits a negative correlation with Re and the ξ‐Re curves gradually level off as α or β increases, while they become steeper with increasing θ. A prediction model for the total flow resistance was established taking into account the combined effects of Re, α, β and θ, which provides better prediction performance than two other relevant models. The results obtained from this study provide valuable insights into the hydraulic characteristics of overland flow and offer clear guidance for vegetation management in controlling soil erosion on slopes with heterogeneous vegetation coverage.
Assessment of pain prevalence in cancer patients undergoing anticancer treatments and in cancer survivors after completion of anticancer treatments: A French nationwide cross‐sectional study
Authors: Ragusa Charles , Pereira Bruno , Balayssac David
Published: December 2024

Pain is a common and disabling symptom of cancer and its treatment. This study aimed to provide an update on the prevalence, characteristics, and impact of pain on quality of life (QoL) in cancer patients and survivors in France. Data were collected using self‐assessment questionnaires as part of a nationwide web‐based survey conducted between January and March 2023. Pain was reported by 44.7% of the study population (n = 1029), including by 49.2% (95% CI [44.8; 53.6]) of cancer patients (n = 255/518) and 40.1% (95% CI [35.8; 44.5]) of cancer survivors (n = 205/511). Chronic pain was more prevalent among survivors (99.0%) than patients (87%), but no between‐group differences in the prevalence of neuropathic pain (66.8% vs. 67.5%, respectively) or other pain characteristics (pain intensity, location, etc.) were observed. Pain had a negative impact on QoL in both groups, but the impact on global health status, functioning, symptom severity, and depression was greater among cancer patients. Analgesic use was also more frequent among patients than survivors. Breast cancer, being overweight or obese, and having a poorer global health status were identified as main factors increasing the likelihood of pain. Pain therefore remains a common symptom among cancer patients and survivors in France. Further improvements to management are needed, including strategies to target chronic and neuropathic pain, and the high frequency of pain associated with breast cancer. Multimodal interventions to improve global health status, help individuals maintain a healthy weight, and reduce the impact of cancer pain on QoL could also be evaluated.
Extracellular vesicles, RNA sequencing, and bioinformatic analyses: Challenges, solutions, and recommendations
Authors: Miceli Rebecca T. , Chen Tzu‐Yi , Nose Yohei , Tichkule Swapnil , Brown Briana , Fullard John F. , Saulsbury Marilyn D. , Heyliger Simon O. , Gnjatic Sacha , Kyprianou Natasha , Cordon‐Cardo Carlos , Sahoo Susmita , Taioli Emanuela , Roussos Panos , Stolovitzky Gustavo , Gonzalez‐Kozlova Edgar , Dogra Navneet
Published: December 2024

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are heterogeneous entities secreted by cells into their microenvironment and systemic circulation. Circulating EVs carry functional small RNAs and other molecular footprints from their cell of origin, and thus have evident applications in liquid biopsy, therapeutics, and intercellular communication. Yet, the complete transcriptomic landscape of EVs is poorly characterized due to critical limitations including variable protocols used for EV‐RNA extraction, quality control, cDNA library preparation, sequencing technologies, and bioinformatic analyses. Consequently, there is a gap in knowledge and the need for a standardized approach in delineating EV‐RNAs. Here, we address these gaps by describing the following points by (1) focusing on the large canopy of the EVs and particles (EVPs), which includes, but not limited to – exosomes and other large and small EVs, lipoproteins, exomeres/supermeres, mitochondrial‐derived vesicles, RNA binding proteins, and cell‐free DNA/RNA/proteins; (2) examining the potential functional roles and biogenesis of EVPs; (3) discussing various transcriptomic methods and technologies used in uncovering the cargoes of EVPs; (4) presenting a comprehensive list of RNA subtypes reported in EVPs; (5) describing different EV‐RNA databases and resources specific to EV‐RNA species; (6) reviewing established bioinformatics pipelines and novel strategies for reproducible EV transcriptomics analyses; (7) emphasizing the significant need for a gold standard approach in identifying EV‐RNAs across studies; (8) and finally, we highlight current challenges, discuss possible solutions, and present recommendations for robust and reproducible analyses of EVP‐associated small RNAs. Overall, we seek to provide clarity on the transcriptomics landscape, sequencing technologies, and bioinformatic analyses of EVP‐RNAs. Detailed portrayal of the current state of EVP transcriptomics will lead to a better understanding of how the RNA cargo of EVPs can be used in modern and targeted diagnostics and therapeutics. For the inclusion of different particles discussed in this article, we use the terms large/small EVs, non‐vesicular extracellular particles (NVEPs), EPs and EVPs as defined in MISEV guidelines by the International Society of Extracellular Vesicles (ISEV).
Spatiotemporal controls on organic matter sourcing to minerogenic salt marshes
Authors: Peck Erin K. , Goñi Miguel , Wheatcroft Robert A.
Published: December 2024

Salt marshes are important carbon sinks; however, identification of the drivers of carbon burial rates is challenging because estuaries sit at terrestrial and marine interfaces. Here, we address the questions: what are the sources of organic matter sequestered in minerogenic salt marshes, and how do sources change through time? We characterized down‐core sediment biogeochemistry (C : N, δ13C, δ15N) for the last century in seven Oregon USA high marshes and used a mixing model to elucidate differences in organic matter sources across estuaries and through time. Autochthonous biomass production consistently accounted for only half of overall organic matter accumulation, and the remainder was allochthonous, originating from a combination of estuarine and terrestrial sources. Salt marshes with high sediment loads buried more terrestrial organic matter, whereas those with low loads and substantial subtidal habitat buried more estuarine‐derived organic matter. When assessed through depth/time, stable isotope trends indicated that decomposition is not the primary control. Instead, organic matter became increasingly more terrestrial in recent decades, especially in salt marshes with low fluvial loads. We hypothesize that salt marshes with lower loads took longer to regain lost elevation following coseismic subsidence of the 1700 ce Cascadia earthquake. This result magnifies the role of river floods in sediment and carbon accumulation on the marsh surface. Ultimately, the highest carbon burial rates coincided with highest fractions of terrestrially sourced organic matter, though spatiotemporal complexities obscured any potentially significant trends. While the term “blue” typically excludes terrestrial carbon, minerogenic salt marshes still perform the important ecosystem function of burying organic matter.
Exploiting Response Surface Methodology to Engineer the Mechanical Properties of Alginate‐based Hydrogels
Authors: Bucciarelli Alessio , Zhao Chen , Bai Xue , Kay Rebekah , Latif Ayşe , Williams Kaye J. , Tirella Annalisa
Published: December 2024

Engineering human tissue microenvironments that recapitulate the composition and biomechanics of extracellular matrix (ECM) in vitro is challenging. New mechanically tunable alginate‐based hydrogels are presented, enabling to precise model multiple ECM features in the context of breast cancer. Combining alginate, oxidized alginate (OA), and gelatin with different crosslinking strategies a library of mechanically controlled hydrogels supporting human cell growth (MDA‐MB‐231) is obtained. The compressive moduli and stability of alginate‐based hydrogels are characterized and modeled using a response surface methodology (RSM); this enables to selection of precision‐hydrogels decoupling their biochemical composition with mechanical properties (1–30 kPa). Specific alginate‐based hydrogels are selected as enhanced technologies to model breast‐specific microenvironments in vitro to study the impact of biomechanical and biochemical properties on cell behavior. Doxorubicin is selected as a model drug and as first‐line treatment for breast cancer to investigate the correlation between drug efficacy and breast tumor ECM stiffness. Results demonstrate that doxorubicin is less effective (EC50 0.495 µm vs EC50 0.189 µm) in cells cultured in softer hydrogels (6.9 kPa) than in stiffer (21.0 kPa). In the context of breast cancer, engineered hydrogels prove valuable technologies to model tissue‐specific ECM in vitro for biological studies, advancing understanding of therapeutic response and resistance.
Optimising Musculoskeletal Patient Flow Through Digital Triage and Supported Self‐Management: A Service Evaluation Set Within Community Musculoskeletal Care
Authors: Burgess R. , Tucker K. , Smithson R. , Dimbleby P. , Casey C.
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions are one of the leading causes of years of living with disability in the UK, resulting in pressure on the health system and the UK economy. In response to the increasing levels of patients accessing NHS care with MSK conditions across Sandwell and West Birmingham (SWB), a digital triage and self‐management tool was implemented in 2023.

Aims

To optimise safety, efficiency, and choice within the community MSK service from the first contact through to specialist MSK care through digital triage and supported self‐management.

Methods

SWB's community MSK service implemented two digital tools in January 2023. Objectives included 1. Increase safety, through providing 24/7 access to rapid digital MSK triage; 2. Optimise workforce by releasing clinicians back to face‐to‐face care, increasing clinical capacity, 3. Increase patient choice by offering digitally supported self‐management to appropriate low risk patients.

Results

4804 patients self‐referred to the MSK service through the digital triage tool within the first 12 months. 378 of these patients were offered, accepted, and accessed self‐management support using the digital self‐management app. These innovations led to the release of 1240 clinical hours for face‐to‐face care, an average 8‐week reduction in waiting times and high patient satisfaction (80% good/very good).

Conclusion

Evaluation over the first 12 month showed that the digital innovations were safe, led to enhanced access to and choice of care pathways, optimised use of clinical staff, and received positive patient feedback. Research is needed in this newly emerging area of practice to support further adoption across the healthcare system.
Methodology of cfHPV‐DNA Detection in Head and Neck Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta‐analysis
Authors: Thomas Jerin , Mazzara Eden , Guller Meytal , Landsberger Hannah , Tham Tristan , Cooper Dylan , Pereira Lucio , Kamdar Dev , Frank Douglas , Miles Brett , Mandal Rajarsi
Published: December 2024

Objective

We aim to compare the diagnostic accuracy of the different methodologies used in the detection of cell‐free human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA in HPV‐associated head and neck squamous cell carcinoma detection using bivariate analysis methods.

Data Sources

Pubmed, Embase, and Scopus were queried using a broad search strategy to search for relevant studies.

Review Methods

Test characteristics were extracted from 33 studies following literature screening, and underwent analyses utilizing a bivariate approach. Summary statistics were identified for each type of methodology, and forest plots and summary receiver operating characteristic curves were constructed. Bias was estimated using Deek's Funnel Plot and the QUADAS‐2 tool.

Results

In terms of diagnostic accuracy, digital droplet polymerase chain reaction (ddPCR) based testing exhibited the highest diagnostics odds ratio at 138 (59.5, 318), followed closely by next‐generation sequencing (NGS) at 120 (39.7, 362), then by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) at 31.4 (14.4, 68.6), and quantitative PCR at 8.74 (4.63, 16.5).

Conclusion

NGS and ddPCR are comparable in overall diagnostic accuracy, bringing into question their relative roles in diagnosis and screening. Cost‐effective ddPCR assays may serve as useful diagnostic and screening tests in the clinic with their low false positive rates and high sensitivity. However, NGS assays also offer high sensitivity and companion metrics, suggesting they may have a more precise role in disease monitoring. Importantly, assay development and benchmarking need further standardization to improve comparison between assays. Finally, saliva‐based testing needs to be further investigated using NGS and ddPCR to further understand its limitations in disease detection and monitoring.
Assessing pest control treatments from phenology models and field data
Authors: Rincon Diego F. , Gutierrez‐Illan Javier , Crowder David W.
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND

Efficacy of insecticides is often determined from apparent yield loses due to a target pest. However, pests can affect yields even when controls work as expected. Further, most pest populations are monitored through adult counts without procedures to assess dynamics of immature stages. Here, we propose a framework to assess the efficacy of control treatments from adult counts in non‐experimental setups based on the shifts in temporal patterns of adult emergence caused during the residual period of treatments applied to kill immatures. We use phenology models scaled to field counts to track the stage structure of pest populations across a season and produce reference population trajectories with and without the treatment. Field‐collected trajectories are then classified as with or without an effective control through a time‐sequential probability ratio test. The method was evaluated using pheromone trap captures of codling moth, Cydia pomonella, and four of the most widely implemented treatment programs in apple and pear orchards.

RESULTS

Simulations revealed that when field‐collected trajectories are classified as treated with a control, there is 70% chance that the treatment program is > 50% effective, or that the program is < 66% effective when field‐collected trajectories are classified as untreated, provided the trajectories are made of ≥ 15 pheromone traps.

CONCLUSION

This framework is a powerful, evidence‐based tool to optimize the selection of inputs and application protocols for pest control and could be applied to virtually any pest that can be sampled regularly and whose phenology can be modeled as a function of degree‐days. © 2024 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.