bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Federated Learning: A Cross‐Institutional Feasibility Study of Deep Learning Based Intracranial Tumor Delineation Framework for Stereotactic Radiosurgery
Authors: Lee Wei‐Kai , Hong Jia‐Sheng , Lin Yi‐Hui , Lu Yung‐Fa , Hsu Ying‐Yi , Lee Cheng‐Chia , Yang Huai‐Che , Wu Chih‐Chun , Lu Chia‐Feng , Sun Ming‐His , Pan Hung‐Chuan , Wu Hsiu‐Mei , Chung Wen‐Yuh , Guo Wan‐Yuo , You Weir‐Chiang , Wu Yu‐Te
Published: August 2023

Background

Deep learning–based segmentation algorithms usually required large or multi‐institute data sets to improve the performance and ability of generalization. However, protecting patient privacy is a key concern in the multi‐institutional studies when conventional centralized learning (CL) is used.

Purpose

To explores the feasibility of a proposed lesion delineation for stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) scheme for federated learning (FL), which can solve decentralization and privacy protection concerns.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Subjects

506 and 118 vestibular schwannoma patients aged 15–88 and 22–85 from two institutes, respectively; 1069 and 256 meningioma patients aged 12–91 and 23–85, respectively; 574 and 705 brain metastasis patients aged 26–92 and 28–89, respectively.

Field Strength/Sequence

1.5T, spin‐echo, and gradient‐echo [Correction added after first online publication on 21 August 2023. Field Strength has been changed to “1.5T” from “5T” in this sentence.].

Assessment

The proposed lesion delineation method was integrated into an FL framework, and CL models were established as the baseline. The effect of image standardization strategies was also explored. The dice coefficient was used to evaluate the segmentation between the predicted delineation and the ground truth, which was manual delineated by neurosurgeons and a neuroradiologist.

Statistical Tests

The paired t‐test was applied to compare the mean for the evaluated dice scores (p < 0.05).

Results

FL performed the comparable mean dice coefficient to CL for the testing set of Taipei Veterans General Hospital regardless of standardization and parameter; for the Taichung Veterans General Hospital data, CL significantly (p < 0.05) outperformed FL while using bi‐parameter, but comparable results while using single‐parameter. For the non‐SRS data, FL achieved the comparable applicability to CL with mean dice 0.78 versus 0.78 (without standardization), and outperformed to the baseline models of two institutes.

Data Conclusion

The proposed lesion delineation successfully implemented into an FL framework. The FL models were applicable on SRS data of each participating institute, and the FL exhibited comparable mean dice coefficient to CL on non‐SRS dataset. Standardization strategies would be recommended when FL is used.

Level of Evidence

4

Technical Efficacy

Stage 1
On the coupled interdecadal variations of the extra‐tropical surface air temperature and the isentropic meridional airmass transport in Northern winter
Authors: Liu Bowen , Ren Rongcai , Yu Yueyue
Published: August 2023

Based on the ERA5 reanalysis since the 1950s, this study investigates the coherent inter‐decadal variations of the winter continental surface air temperature (SAT) between the Eurasian (EUA) and the North American continents in the past 70 years. The SAT variation over the two continents can be characterized with five typical periods successively from a ‘both‐warmer’ (1950s–1960s), to a ‘both‐colder’ (1960s–1980s), and then a ‘EUA‐warmer’ (1980s–1990s) followed by another ‘both‐warmer’ (1990s–2000s) and a ‘EUA‐colder’ (2000s–2010s) period. Such periodic variation of the SAT is closely coupled with changes of the low isentropic‐level meridional mass transport (IMMT), as manifested by the coupling relationship between the midlatitude SAT and the net IMMT out of the polar circle, in terms of their zonal patterns and geographical patterns. The SAT variation can be well reconstructed with the first two leading maximum covariance analysis (MCA) modes between the SAT and IMMT. The first leading MCA mode (MCA1) mainly dominates a ‘EUA‐warmer/colder’ pattern, while the second (MCA2) dominates the ‘both‐warmer/colder’ pattern. There exists a significant lead–lag correlation between the MCA1 and MCA2, which determines the changing SAT pattern in the five successive periods. Furthermore, the MCA1 and MCA2, especially their lead–lag coupling after the 1975 is significantly associated with the Pacific decadal oscillation (PDO) which dominates the much‐intensified MCA1 and the related ‘EUA‐warmer/colder’ SAT pattern since then. The Atlantic multi‐decadal oscillation mainly dominates the third leading MCA mode with it's effects on the SAT over Europe coincidently to amplify the PDO‐related SAT changes.
Synergistic mechanism of processing method for Qixue Shuangbu prescription in the treatment of chronic heart failure based on plasma metabolomics—Systematic bioinformatics
Authors: Wang Qin , Liu Qing , Jiang Yong , Xu Luwei , Chen Yan , Li Jindong , Zhu Lusha , Chen Linwei
Published: August 2023

Previous clinical studies have found that the efficacy of processed Qixue Shuangbu Prescription has been significantly improved in the treatment of chronic heart failure. However, the absorbed constituents and synergistic mechanisms of processed Qixue Shuangbu Prescription to enhance the therapeutic effect of chronic heart failure remain unclear. In this study, we propose an integrated strategy combining plasma metabolomics, network pharmacology, and molecular docking to study the absorbed constituents and synergistic mechanisms of processed Qixue Shuangbu Prescription. A total of 34 prototype constituents and 24 metabolites were identified in rat plasma after administration of crude and processed Qixue Shuangbu Prescription. As a result, six potential absorbed constituents and six potential targets for the treatment of chronic heart failure were identified. In addition, the result of molecular docking indicated that the key constituents exhibited good affinity to hub targets. This study showed that the multiomics approach could effectively clarify absorbed constituents and synergistic mechanisms of traditional Chinese medicine processing from a new perspective.
Selectivity optimization in liquid chromatography via stationary phase tuning
Authors: Jaekel Alexander , Legelli Mo , Wirtz Michaela , Meyer Daniel , Schräder Nicole , Streckel Kevin , Lamotte Stefan
Published: August 2023

In striving for the best possible separation, the selectivity of stationary phases as an optimization parameter is often underestimated although there are many ways to influence this powerful tool. This review serves to provide an insight into the various ways of adapting the selectivity of a separation in liquid chromatography. Approaches via temperature and flow rate tuning are discussed as a basis followed by focusing on the stationary phase as the superior optimization parameter. Highly selective stationary phases hereby provide an advantage for groups of similar analytes. For more complex mixtures, separations can be improved using mixed‐mode technologies where different retention mechanisms are combined. Serial coupling, mixed‐bed columns, and stationary phase optimized selectivity liquid chromatography provide solutions to various degrees. Finally, the advantages of stationary phase tuning over adaption of mobile phase and/or temperature are presented in terms of optimum application range.
Columns in analytical‐scale supercritical fluid chromatography: From traditional to unconventional chemistries
Authors: Plachká Kateřina , Pilařová Veronika , Horáček Ondřej , Gazárková Taťána , Vlčková Hana Kočová , Kučera Radim , Nováková Lucie
Published: August 2023

Within this review, we thoroughly explored supercritical fluid chromatography (SFC) columns used across > 3000 papers published from the first study carried out under SFC conditions in 1962 to the end of 2022. We focused on the open tubular capillary, packed capillary, and packed columns, their chemistries, dimensions, and trends in used stationary phases with correlation to their specific interactions, advantages, drawbacks, used instrumentation, and application field. Since the 1990s, packed columns with liquid chromatography and SFC‐dedicated stationary phases for chiral and achiral separation are predominantly used. These stationary phases are based on silica support modified with a wide range of chemical moieties. Moreover, numerous unconventional stationary phases were evaluated, including porous graphitic carbon, titania, zirconia, alumina, liquid crystals, and ionic liquids. The applications of unconventional stationary phases are described in detail as they bring essential findings required for further development of the supercritical fluid chromatography technique.
A multidimensional journal evaluation framework based on the Pareto‐dominated set measured by the Manhattan distance
Authors: Xu Xinxin , Zeng Ziqiang , Chang Yurui
Published: August 2023

Journal evaluation is a multifaceted issue, and multidimensional information cannot be conflated into one metric due to the inability of a single indicator to reflect the quality of a journal. The goal of this paper is to develop a multidimensional journal evaluation framework based on the Pareto‐dominated set through integrating information measured by the Manhattan distance related to article performance, academic communities, and publishing platforms. This paper identifies 29 related indexes to form a three‐dimensional (3D) journal evaluation framework with metrics involving stakeholders in journal publication. To reduce multicollinearity among related indexes, a factor analysis‐based entropy weight method is proposed to integrate the multidimensional information into five aggregated indicators and then transform them into a 3D‐weighted influence factor coordinate system. A journal evaluation framework is defined based on the Pareto‐dominated set of a journal in the 3D‐coordinate system measured by the Manhattan distance to assess journal impact. A case study has been implemented based on 124 journals selected from the “Statistics & Probability” category in the 2019 Journal Citation Report to demonstrate the validity of the proposed method.
Electrical Stimulation of Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells on Conductive Substrates Promotes Neural Priming
Authors: Eftekhari Behnaz Sadat , Song Dawei , Janmey Paul A.
Published: August 2023

Electrical stimulation (ES) within a conductive scaffold is potentially beneficial in encouraging the differentiation of stem cells toward a neuronal phenotype. To improve stem cell‐based regenerative therapies, it is essential to use electroconductive scaffolds with appropriate stiffnesses to regulate the amount and location of ES delivery. Herein, biodegradable electroconductive substrates with different stiffnesses are fabricated from chitosan‐grafted‐polyaniline (CS‐g‐PANI) copolymers. Human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) cultured on soft conductive scaffolds show a morphological change with significant filopodial elongation after electrically stimulated culture along with upregulation of neuronal markers and downregulation of glial markers. Compared to stiff conductive scaffolds and non‐conductive CS scaffolds, soft conductive CS‐g‐PANI scaffolds promote increased expression of microtubule‐associated protein 2 (MAP2) and neurofilament heavy chain (NF‐H) after application of ES. At the same time, there is a decrease in the expression of the glial markers glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and vimentin after ES. Furthermore, the elevation of intracellular calcium [Ca2+] during spontaneous, cell‐generated Ca2+ transients further suggests that electric field stimulation of hMSCs cultured on conductive substrates can promote a neural‐like phenotype. The findings suggest that the combination of the soft conductive CS‐g‐PANI substrate and ES is a promising new tool for enhancing neuronal tissue engineering outcomes.
Asymmetric Block Extension of Star‐Shaped [PEG‐SH]4 – toward Poly(dehydroalanine)‐Functionalized PEG Hydrogels for Catch and Release of Charged Guest Molecules
Authors: Kowalczuk Kathrin , Mons Peter J. , Ulrich Hans F. , Wegner Valentin D. , Brendel Johannes C. , Mosig Alexander S. , Schacher Felix H.
Published: August 2023

With the incorporation of polyampholytic segments into soft matter, hydrogels can serve as a reservoir for a variety of charged molecules which can be caught and released upon changes in pH value. Asymmetric block extension of one arm for star‐shaped poly(ethylene glycol) [PEG26‐SH]4 using short segments of polyampholytic poly(dehydroalanine) (PDha) is herein demonstrated while maintaining the functional thiol end groups for network formation. For subsequent hydrogel synthesis with up to 10 wt.% PDha a straightforward and biocompatible photoinitiated thiol‐ene click reaction is exploited. The investigation of the swelling properties of the hydrogel revealed responsive behavior toward ionic strength and variations in pH value. Moreover, the reversible adsorption of the model dyes methylene blue (MB) and acid orange 7 (AO7) is investigated by UV–vis measurements and the procedure can be successfully transferred to the adsorption of the adhesion peptide RGDS resulting in an uptake of 1.5 wt% RGDS with regard to the dry weight of the hydrogel.
Nanoclay‐Modified Hyaluronic Acid Microspheres for Bone Induction by Sustained rhBMP‐2 Delivery
Authors: Zhang Yi‐ding , Ma Ao‐bo , Sun Lu , Chen Jun‐duo , Hong Guang , Wu Hong‐kun
Published: August 2023

Microspheres (MSs) are ideal candidates as biological scaffolds loading with growth factors or cells for bone tissue engineering to repair irregular alveolar bone defects by minimally invasive injection. However, the high initial burst release of growth factor and low cell attachment limit the application of microspheres. The modification of microspheres often needs expensive experiments facility or complex chemical reactions, which is difficult to achieve and may bring other problems. In this study, a sol‐grade nanoclay, laponite XLS is used to modify the surface of MSs to enhance its affinity to either positively or negatively charged proteins and cells without changing the interior structure of the MSs. Recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein‐2 (rhBMP‐2) is used as a representation of growth factor to check the osteoinduction ability of laponite XLS‐modified MSs. By modification, the protein sustained release, cell loading, and osteoinduction ability of MSs are improved. Modified by 1% laponite XLS, the MSs can not only promote osteogenic differentiation of MC3T3‐E1 cells by themselves, but also enhance the effect of the rhBMP‐2 below the effective dose. Collectively, the study provides an easy and viable method to modify the biological behavior of microspheres for bone tissue regeneration.
Design and Applications of Dynamic Hydrogels Based on Reversible C═N Bonds
Authors: Yang Hui , Fustin Charles‐André
Published: August 2023

Dynamic hydrogels offer the opportunity to meet the expectations of smart materials with adaptable properties such as stimuli responsiveness, self‐healing, shear thinning, stress relaxation, dynamic viscoelasticity, energy dissipation mechanisms, time‐dependent adaptation, etc. In the past decades, reversible C═N bonds including imine, hydrazone, and oxime have received great research interest in the design of dynamic polymer networks (DPNs). Moreover, reversible C═N bonds can be well‐integrated into DPNs in combination with permanent covalent crosslinks and/or other dynamic bonds (supramolecular interactions and dynamic covalent bonds), thus outfitting the hydrogels with enhanced mechanical properties, multiresponsiveness, printability, adhesion, and various other functions. This literature review first describes how reversible C═N bonds can be introduced into hydrogels from the perspective of dynamic bonds and network topologies. The design strategies (building blocks, crosslink type combinations, network topologies) reported in the literature are then discussed, as well as the effects of dynamic crosslinking on the hydrogel properties and the potential applications.
The role of emotions in augmented reality
Authors: Soon Pei‐Shan , Lim Weng Marc , Gaur Sanjaya Singh
Published: August 2023

Augmented reality (AR) can induce emotions among its users. However, emotional valence is often studied with a singular focus (e.g., enjoyment), which disregards and overlooks the multifaceted nature of emotional valence. Taking a multifaceted perspective of emotional valence, this study aims to broaden understanding of how induced emotions can drive consumers’ inclination to use AR. A multifaceted emotion measurement scale was modified and utilized (nStudy1: 224), followed by two experimental studies (nStudy2: 214;nStudy3: 200). These experiments entailed a design wherein the experimental group explored products using an AR app while the control group navigated the mobile website of the same company devoid of any AR features. Our findings indicate that the use of AR instigates expressive emotions, further eliciting emotion components spanning both affective and physiological dimensions. In instances of positive emotions, at least two out of the three elicited emotion components consistently led to a heightened desire to engage with AR. Negative emotions produce no significant effects. Taken collectively, the principal theoretical contribution of this study lies in its elucidation of the components and elicitation patterns of emotions tied to AR, whereas the practical standpoint of these findings underscores the necessity for both developers and marketers to comprehend the pivotal role that the induction of positive expressive emotions plays in designing effective AR apps. These insights should therefore pave the way for more intuitively engaging and emotionally satisfying AR experiences for consumers.
Eco‐Friendly One‐Pot Supramolecular‐Assembly of P‐N Flame Retardant for Fire‐Safe Epoxy Resin
Authors: Xiang Simeng , Tang Bin , Feng Jiao , Lin Xiang , Liu Feng , Yang Hongyu , Feng Xiaming , Wan Chaojun
Published: August 2023

Flame retardant treatment of epoxy resins (EP) to reduce their flammability for extending their range of applications attracts considerable attention. However, the synthesis process of conventional flame retardants is complicated and involves organic hazardous solvents. Meanwhile, how to ensure both the flame‐retardant and mechanical properties is a long‐standing and actual difficult problem. In this work, a supramolecular flame retardant (named ATPFR) is facilely created by one‐pot reaction, using cheap and accessible raw materials in an ecologically benign aqueous solvent. ATPFR is applied to improve the fire safety of EP. With only 5 wt% ATPFR addition, EP can reach the limiting oxygen index of 28.5% and the UL‐94 V‐0 rating with a significant “blow‐out effect.” The cone calorimetry test reveals that the EP thermoset with 5 wt% ATPFR has a 75.8% reduction in the peak heat release rate (p‐HRR) and a 67.3% reduction in the peak smoke production rate (p‐SPR), respectively, compared with the pure EP. Additionally, EP composites with the small amount of ATPFR exhibit a slight decrease and maintain good mechanical properties. Therefore, the facile synthesis and application of this supramolecular flame retardant provide a reliable way for the construction of polymer materials with environment‐friendly and effective flame‐retardant system.
Recent progress in thermosensitive hydrogels and their applications in drug delivery area
Authors: Khan Bangul , Arbab Areesha , Khan Samiullah , Fatima Hajira , Bibi Isha , Chowdhry Narinder P. , Ansari Abdul Q. , Ursani Ahsan A. , Kumar Sanjay , Hussain Jawad , Abdullah Saad
Published: August 2023

The scientific community has widely recognized thermosensitive hydrogels as highly biocompatible material with immense potential in drug delivery systems. When the temperature of these hydrogels approaches that of human body, a phase change occurs, enhancing their usefulness in a range of medical scenarios. This review article highlighted the background of thermosensitive hydrogels, their properties, and their applications in transdermal, oral, ophthalmic, intravaginal, nasal, rectal, cancer therapy, and cell‐loaded drug delivery systems. The literature suggests numerous advantages of these hydrogels over conventional drug delivery systems and find applications in various fields, such as therapeutic systems, filling processes, and sustained drug delivery systems. One of their key benefits is the ability to eliminate invasive procedures like surgery, providing a noninvasive alternative for drug administration. Moreover, they streamline the formulation process for both hydrophilic and hydrophobic drug delivery systems, simplifying the development of effective treatments. The thermosensitive hydrogels have been found to be green materials with negligible side effects and desirable drug delivery properties. The thermosensitive hydrogel's sustained‐release characteristics, immunogenicity, and biodegradability have also gained increased interest. Some of the disadvantages of thermosensitive hydrogels include delayed temperature response, weak mechanical characteristics, and poor biocompatibility, which limits their potential use in drug delivery applications.
Multisite and multitimepoint proteomics reveal that patent foramen ovale closure improves migraine and epilepsy by reducing right‐to‐left shunt‐induced hypoxia
Authors: Dong Bosi , Lu Ying , He Siyu , Li Baichuan , Li Yajiao , Lai Qi , Li Wanling , Ji Shuming , Chen Yucheng , Dai Lunzhi , Chen Lei
Published: August 2023

Patent foramen ovale (PFO) is a congenital defect in the partition between two atria, which may cause right‐to‐left shunt (RLS), leading to neurological chronic diseases with episodic manifestations (NCDEMs), such as migraine and epilepsy. However, whether PFO closure was effective in improving NCDEMs and the mechanism were unclear. Twenty‐eight patients with migraine or epilepsy who underwent PFO closure were recruited. Notably, approximately half of patients received 50% or more reduction in seizure or headache attacks. Meanwhile, the postoperative blood oxygen partial pressure and oxygen saturation were elevated after PFO closure. Multisite (peripheral, right, and left atrial) and multitimepoint (before and after surgery) plasma proteomics from patients showed that the levels of free hemoglobin and cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) were significantly increased after PFO closure, which may be related to the relief of the hypoxic state. Furtherly, the omics data from multiple brain regions of mice revealed that a large number of proteins were differentially expressed in the occipital region in response to PFO, including redox molecules and CAMs, suggesting PFO‐caused hypoxia may have great impacts on occipital region. Collectively, PFO may cause NCDEMs due to RLS‐induced hypoxia, and PFO closure could prevent RLS to improve migraine and epilepsy.
Clinical evaluation of a multitarget fecal immunochemical test‐sDNA test for colorectal cancer screening in a high‐risk population: a prospective, multicenter clinical study
Authors: Hu Ye‐Ting , Chen Xiao‐Feng , Zhai Chun‐Bao , Yu Xiao‐Tian , Liu Gang , Xiong Zhi‐Guo , Wang Zi‐Qiang , Cai San‐Jun , Li Wen‐Cai , Kong Xiang‐Xing , Xiao Qian , Wang Cai‐Hua , Tao Zhi‐Hua , Niu Li‐Yun , Men Jian‐Long , Wang Qing , Wei Shao‐Zhong , Hu Jun‐Jie , Yang Ting‐Han , Peng Jun‐Jie , Jiang Guo‐Zhong , Lv Ning , Chen Yi‐You , Zheng Shu , Gu Yan‐Hong , Ding Ke‐Feng
Published: August 2023

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a major malignancy threatening the health of people in China and screening could be effective for preventing the occurrence and reducing the mortality of CRC. We conducted a multicenter, prospective clinical study which recruited 4,245 high‐risk CRC individuals defined as having positive risk‐adapted scores or fecal immunochemical test (FIT) results, to evaluate the clinical performance of the multitarget fecal immunochemical and stool DNA (FIT‐sDNA) test for CRC screening. Each participant was asked to provide a stool sample prior to bowel preparation, and FIT‐sDNA test and FIT were performed independently of colonoscopy. We found that 186 (4.4%) were confirmed to have CRC, and 375 (8.8%) had advanced precancerous neoplasia among the high CRC risk individuals. The sensitivity of detecting CRC for FIT‐sDNA test was 91.9% (95% CI, 86.8–95.3), compared with 62.4% (95% CI, 54.9–69.3) for FIT (P < 0.001). The sensitivity for detecting advanced precancerous neoplasia was 63.5% (95% CI, 58.3–68.3) for FIT‐sDNA test, compared with 30.9% (95% CI, 26.3–35.6) for FIT (P < 0.001). Multitarget FIT‐sDNA test detected more colorectal advanced neoplasia than FIT. Overall, these findings indicated that in areas with limited colonoscopy resources, FIT‐sDNA test could be a promising further risk triaging modality to select patients for colonoscopy in CRC screening.
Unpacking ‘public silence’: Civil society activism under authoritarian rule in Ethiopia
Authors: Pellerin Camille Louise
Published: August 2023

How do civil society organisations (CSOs) and the state interact in non‐democratic settings? Non‐democratic regimes often meet civil society activism with repression, however, on an every‐day basis contestation and control take more diverse forms. To capture how CSOs bargain with and contest state power, as well as how states police CSOs, this article draws on the case of Ethiopia (1991–2018). It analyses different types of interactions between service providing CSOs and state actors and studies when and how CSOs have been able to place their demands on state actors and when and to what extend their demands have been adhered to. Looking beyond the absence of public protests against the ruling government by CSOs, the article argues that CSOs, including those formally aligned to or co‐opted by the regime, have been resourceful in devising strategies that promote the interests of their members and beneficiaries. Defying co‐optation, they have constantly negotiated space through a combination of cooperation, coexistence and contestation.
Potential hemostatic compounds targeting urokinase plasminogen activator explored from three Euphorbiaceae species: Euphorbia maculata, Euphorbia humifusa, and Acalypha australis, with bio‐affinity ultrafiltration UPLC‐MS
Authors: Rakotondrabe Tojofaniry Fabien , Fan Minxia , Hu Guangwan , Guo Mingquan
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Numerous species of the Euphorbiaceae family, including Euphorbia maculata, Euphorbia humifusa, and Acalypha australis, have been used to manage bleeding disorders. However, few investigations have demonstrated their hemostatic potential, and their procoagulant compounds remain elusive.

Objective

This study aimed to determine the most active procoagulant extracts from the three species' crude extract (CE) and fractions in order to screen out the active compounds and to analyze their possible mechanisms of action.

Methods

An integrative approach, comprising prothrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time evaluations and urokinase‐type plasminogen activator (uPA) inhibitory assessment, followed by bio‐affinity ultrafiltration paired with UPLC/QTOF‐MS targeting uPA and docking simulations, was used.

Results

The extracts with highest procoagulant activity were the CE for both E. maculata (EMCE) and E. humifusa (EHCE) and the n‐butanol fraction (NB) for A. australis (AANB). The most promising ligands, namely, isoquercetin, orientin, rutin, and brevifolin carboxylic acid, were selected from these lead extracts. All of these compounds exhibited pronounced specific binding values to the uPA target and showed tight intercalation with the crucial side chains forming the uPA active pocket, which may explain their mode of action. The activity validation substantiated their hemostatic effectivity in inhibiting uPA as they had better inhibition constant (Ki) values than the reference drug tranexamic acid.

Conclusion

Collectively, the integrative strategy applied to these three species allowed the elucidation of the mechanisms underlying their therapeutic effects on bleeding disorders, resulting in the fast detection of four potential hemostatic compounds and their mode of action.
A review of Madagascar's derived grasslands: Low palatability following anthropogenic fires may threaten food security
Authors: Joseph Grant S. , Rakotoarivelo Andrinajoro R. , Seymour Colleen L.
Published: August 2023

Societal Impact Statement

The 26th United Nations Climate Change Conference emphasised the need to modify practices that negatively impact biodiversity and food security in the context of global change. Following Madagascar's drought‐induced famine, our systematic review supports the theory that grasslands of the Malagasy Central Highland that are subjected to human‐lit fires are anthropogenically derived. Furthermore, these overly frequent fires that characterise much of the Malagasy Central Highland grasslands select poorly palatable grasses. Given the reliance on pastoralism as insurance against crop failure in Madagascar, fire‐dependent practices that degrade rangeland emerge as a threat to food security and biodiversity. Education can mitigate against future humanitarian crises.

Food insecurity is greatest in countries where impacts of global change are predicted to be severe. Many, like Madagascar, rely on livestock‐based pastoralism (and consequently palatable rangelands) for insurance against natural disasters and crop failure. It is recognised that derived grasslands can impact climate and biodiversity. Furthermore, the well‐established palatability‐flammability trade‐off predicts that overly‐frequent fires select increasingly unpalatable, fire‐adapted grassland. The drought‐induced Malagasy famine of 2021 highlights the need to identify factors that threaten food security. Given the ubiquitous practice of rangeland preparation through annual, landscape‐scale human‐lit fires, we evaluate whether Malagasy grasslands are derived and then test for fire‐driven selection of increasingly degraded and unpalatable rangelands across Madagascar's largest grassland system, the Malagasy Central Highland (MCH). We conducted a systematic literature review, evaluating for a palatability‐flammability trade‐off, by determining dominant Malagasy grass species, and then applying functional traits, and palatability ratings to these species. Data were extracted using a suite of relevant search terms, and of 1977 studies identified, 145 were directly relevant to the questions posed. Evidence from the review is compelling for much of the Malagasy highland grassland being derived. Furthermore, Malagasy dominant grass species are fire‐adapted with poor forage‐value, suggesting current burning practices negatively impact both biodiversity and pastoralism. Decreasing rangeland palatability caused by human‐lit fires in a society suffering food insecurity emphasises the need to re‐evaluate pastoralist burning practices. Identifying optimal fire frequencies can avert breaching fire‐induced tipping points to rangeland palatability and the humanitarian crises that may follow.
The structural principles underlying molybdenum insertase complex assembly
Authors: Hassan Ahmed H. , Ihling Christian , Iacobucci Claudio , Kastritis Panagiotis L. , Sinz Andrea , Kruse Tobias
Published: August 2023

Within the cell, the trace element molybdenum (Mo) is only biologically active when complexed either within the nitrogenase‐specific FeMo cofactor or within the molybdenum cofactor (Moco). Moco consists of an organic part, called molybdopterin (MPT) and an inorganic part, that is, the Mo‐center. The enzyme which catalyzes the Mo‐center formation is the molybdenum insertase (Mo‐insertase). Mo‐insertases consist of two functional domains called G‐ and E‐domain. The G‐domain catalyzes the formation of adenylated MPT (MPT‐AMP), which is the substrate for the E‐domain, that catalyzes the actual molybdate insertion reaction. Though the functions of E‐ and G‐domain have been elucidated to great structural and mechanistic detail, their combined function is poorly characterized. In this work, we describe a structural model of the eukaryotic Mo‐insertase Cnx1 complex that was generated based on cross‐linking mass spectrometry combined with computational modeling. We revealed Cnx1 to form an asymmetric hexameric complex which allows the E‐ and G‐domain active sites to align in a catalytic productive orientation toward each other.
The nuclear receptor LRH‐1 discriminates between ligands using distinct allosteric signaling circuits
Authors: Mays Suzanne G. , Hercules David , Ortlund Eric A. , Okafor C. Denise
Published: August 2023

Nuclear receptors (NRs) are transcription factors that regulate essential biological processes in response to cognate ligands. An important part of NR function involves ligand‐induced conformational changes that recruit coregulator proteins to the activation function surface (AFS), ~15 Å away from the ligand‐binding pocket. Ligands must communicate with the AFS to recruit appropriate coregulators and elicit different transcriptional outcomes, but this communication is poorly understood. These studies illuminate allosteric communication networks underlying activation of liver receptor homolog‐1 (LRH‐1), a NR that regulates development, metabolism, cancer progression, and intestinal inflammation. Using >100 μs of all‐atom molecular dynamics simulations involving 74 LRH‐1 complexes, we identify distinct signaling circuits used by active and inactive ligands for AFS communication. Inactive ligands communicate via strong, coordinated motions along paths through the receptor to the AFS. Activating ligands disrupt the “inactive” circuit and induce connectivity with a second allosteric site. Ligand‐contacting residues in helix 7 help mediate the switch between circuits, suggesting new avenues for developing LRH‐1‐targeted therapeutics. We also elucidate aspects of coregulator signaling, showing that localized, destabilizing fluctuations are induced by inappropriate ligand‐coregulator pairings. These studies have uncovered novel features of LRH‐1 allostery, and the quantitative approach used to analyze many simulations provides a framework to study allosteric signaling in other receptors.
Fabrication and Characterization of Bifacial Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells Utilizing Indoline Dye with Iodine‐ and Cobalt‐Based Redox Electrolytes
Authors: Shaban Suraya , Pradhan Safalmani , Pandey Shyam S.
Published: August 2023

Bifacial solar cells are gaining popularity due to their compactness, space‐saving property, and higher photoconversion efficiency (PCE) than mono‐facial solar cells. Bifacial dye‐sensitized solar cells (BF‐DSSCs) are fabricated and characterized utilizing D‐205 as a dye sensitizer in combination with I−/I3− and Co2+/Co3+ redox electrolytes. BF‐DSSCs using iodine‐based electrolytes demonstrate a cumulative PCE and bifaciality factor (BFF) of 13.05% and 85%, respectively. The hampered PCE under backside light illumination is attributed to the absorption of photons by the electrolyte itself. Contrary to this, BF‐DSSCs fabricated using cobalt‐complex‐based redox electrolyte exhibits an exceptionally high BFF of nearly 100% with a PCE of 4.77% and 4.75% under the front‐ and rear‐light illumination, respectively. Although the open‐circuit voltage of the BF‐DSSCs fabricated using cobalt electrolyte (with deeper redox potential) is slightly higher than that of BF‐DSSCs fabricated using iodine electrolyte, their cumulative PCE (9.52%) is much lower than that of iodine‐based device counterparts (13.05%). This decrease in PCE is attributed to the relatively fast charge recombination in the cobalt‐electrolyte‐based BF‐DSSCs.
Progress of island health in the Maldives
Authors: Eya Lawson Ifeanyi , Adam Imran Mohamed , Ibrahim Muiz , Miranda Adriana Viola , Kannan Subbaram , Lucero‐Prisno Don Eliseo
Published: August 2023

The provision of equitable healthcare on remote islands is critical in the fight to attain the sustainable development goals (SDGs). Many island countries, particularly the Small Island Developing States (SIDS), are confronted with numerous obstacles to accessing quality healthcare. Many SIDS are located in the Asia‐Pacific region, and they suffer shared challenges such as a lack of infrastructure, logistical concerns, and a shortage of health staff. As a SIDS, the Maldives has made significant progress in the health sector, when compared to its neighbours. Part of this is due to spending a large portion of the national budget on the social sector, and a well‐structured health system. Despite these accomplishments, it continues to struggle to provide equitable health care across the whole nation, especially to the small and underpopulated islands. One contributing factor is the dispersed geography. The pandemic highlighted the importance of telemedicine and its capacity to bridge the barriers to healthcare delivery, and its potential in the Maldives is huge. There is also a need to strengthen integrated health services through primary healthcare, train a larger workforce, and upgrade hospitals to be able to provide comprehensive medical services. This will limit the frequency of travel to the capital and abroad in search of better healthcare.
Design of an ultrasound‐emitting drill guide for freehand pedicle screw navigation
Authors: MacLean Luke J. , Street John , Hodgson Antony J.
Published: August 2023

Background

Accurate pedicle screw placement in spinal surgery is critical as inaccuracies can lead to morbidity and suboptimal outcomes. Navigation and robotics have reduced malplacement rates, but their adoption is limited by high costs, learning curves, surgical time, and radiation. The authors propose an ultrasound‐emitting and self‐localising drill guide for precise screw placement that overcomes the limitations of current techniques.

Materials and Methods

The preliminary configuration analysis involves systematically varying design parameters and assessing localization performance using lumbar spine MRI based simulations. The authors evaluate localization techniques based on accuracy and optimization capture range.

Results

Results suggest that feasible designs can accurately estimate position. A promising design features a 5 mm radius cannula with ten 35mm‐long ultrasound strips, 32 elements per strip, and a fanned‐out emission profile. A multi‐start active‐set optimization algorithm with six initial estimates ensures reliable and efficient localization.

Conclusions

The simulation suggests that the proposed design can achieve sufficient localization accuracy for pedicle screw navigation. These findings will guide the fabrication of a novel ultrasound‐emitting drill guide for further evaluation and physical testing.
Reading Development from Kindergarten to Age 18: The Role of Gender and Parental Education
Authors: Manu Mari , Torppa Minna , Vasalampi Kati , Lerkkanen Marja‐Kristiina , Poikkeus Anna‐Maija , Niemi Pekka
Published: August 2023

The gender difference in reading achievement in favor of adolescent girls is a robust finding in the literature, but the evidence is mixed when considering younger children. The present study followed the development of reading skills among Finnish children (N = 1867) from kindergarten age (6 years) to 18 years of age to determine the onset of gender differences and to identify the subskills which present gender differences. Additionally, associations between parents' educational levels and children's reading development from kindergarten to the end of comprehensive school were examined to determine whether the effect of parental education varied by child's gender. The results showed that girls outperformed boys in almost all prereading and reading skills from kindergarten age onwards. The gender difference in reading fluency increased steadily across the school years (Cohen's d = .26–.59) and remained evident also among 18‐year‐olds (d = .42). In terms of reading comprehension, the gender difference was small but increased with age (d = .17–.36). Parents' education levels were associated with children's reading development and children of higher educated parents manifested the best performance. Interaction effects were found between child's gender and their fathers' education levels: lower education levels were associated with poorer PISA reading performance among boys, but not among girls. The results suggest that gender differences in reading performance have an early onset, they increase throughout the school years, and boys of fathers with low education are particularly at risk of falling behind in their development of reading comprehension skill.
A Novel Anode Material Li2FeGeO4 with Lithium Storage Mechanism Controlled by Both Iron and Germanium Elements
Authors: Gao Yang , Tang Yakun , Liu Lang , Li Xiaohui , Qian Mao , Ma Wenjie
Published: August 2023

To obtain anode materials with high capacity/energy density for lithium‐ion batteries, a polyanionic compound Li2FeGeO4 is prepared, which combines the conversion‐type Fe‐based oxide and the alloy‐type Ge‐based oxide at the atomic scale. The influence of citric acid in the sol–gel process on the structure and performance of the calcined products (LFG0, LFG1, and LFG2) is investigated. The results demonstrate that citric acid does not affect the phase of Li2FeGeO4. However, with the increase of citric acid, the crystallinity and grain size of the final product are reduced and its dispersion becomes better. Among the as‐prepared samples, LFG1 exhibits moderate particle size and more uniform dispersion, providing a high discharge capacity of 669.7 mAh g−1 at 0.5 A g−1 after 200 cycles. Based on the ex situ XPS and operando XRD tests, it is found that the electrochemical reaction process of LFG1 is controlled by both the conversion of iron/germanium and the alloying of germanium. In addition, it is verified that the reaction mechanism of LFG1 for aqueous lithium‐ion capacitors is also controlled by iron and germanium elements. Importantly, Li2FeGeO4 is first proved to be a novel anode for lithium‐ion batteries and lithium‐ion capacitors.
Recent Progress in Design Principles of Covalent Organic Frameworks for Rechargeable Metal‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhang Lin , Zhang Xiaofei , Han Diandian , Zhai Lipeng , Mi Liwei
Published: August 2023

Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) are acknowledged as a new generation of crystalline organic materials and have garnered tremendous attention owing to their unique advantages of structural tunability, frameworks diversity, functional versatility, and diverse applications in drug delivery, adsorption/separation, catalysis, optoelectronics, and sensing, etc. Recently, COFs is proven to be promising candidates for electrochemical energy storage materials. Their chemical compositions and structures can be precisely tuned and functionalized at the molecular level, allowing a comprehensive understanding of COFs that helps to make full use of their features and addresses the inherent drawback based on the components and functions of the devices. In this review, the working mechanisms and the distinguishing advantages of COFs as electrodes for rechargeable Li‐ion batteries are discussed in detail. Especially, principles and strategies for the rational design of COFs as advanced electrode materials in Li‐ion batteries are systematically summarized. Finally, this review is structured to cover recent explorations and applications of COF electrode materials in other rechargeable metal‐ion batteries.
Strain Regulation and Photophysical Properties in Halide Perovskite
Authors: Song Chunpeng , Lou Shihui , Deng Shenyi , Yu Zhenhao , Liu Jingfan , Feng Haoren , Lin Chenyang , Xin Jingming , Liang Qiuju , Liu Jiangang
Published: August 2023

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are regarded as the most promising new generation of green energy technology due to their outstanding device performance and simple processing technology. The strain in the active layer of PSCs is primarily caused by lower interionic and intercrystal forces, leading to an increase in defect density and high recombination of carriers, which can negatively impact the performance and stability of perovskite devices. Herein, the origins of strain in perovskite film of solution processing are revealed by conducting strain tests and characterizing photophysical processes. The impacts of strain on optical and electrical properties are summarized, including its effects on molecular interaction force, band structure, defect formation energy, activation energy of ion migration, phase segregation, and phase transition. To mitigate these negative effects, the review introduces several methods for modulating strain in perovskite films, including crystallization, component tailoring, adding additives, and modifying contact layers, which are aimed at improving carrier transport and collection efficiency. It is believed that these approaches will provide scientists with new ways of thinking and system schemes for improving the performance and stability of perovskite solar cells.
Study on Slag Splashing Behavior in a 120 t Converter Based on Physical and Mathematical Simulation
Authors: He Longlong , Chen Min
Published: August 2023

The service life of converter linings is crucial for efficiency and emission reduction. Slag splashing performance is essential in steelmaking. This study constructs a physical model based on a specific 120 ton converter using similarity principles. Dimensional analysis is employed to investigate process parameters and fluid properties. The influence of various process parameters on slag splashing performance is analyzed. Mathematical simulations using the volume of fluid method are conducted to quantitatively assess the volume of slag splashing, determine the optimum lance height, and examine the effects of nitrogen flow rate on the impact crater profile, splashing shape, and angle. The results demonstrate that when the fluid viscosity and surface tension meet specific conditions, the lance height in the physical model and the prototype satisfy geometric similarity. However, as no suitable fluid meeting the conditions is found, a corrective relation for the lance height between the physical model and the prototype is established to optimize the process parameters. By adjusting the lance height and bottom gas flow rate, damaged areas can be repaired, while modifying the nitrogen flow rate alters the shape of the slag splashing, resulting in uniform slag splashing.
Inorganic‐Based Aggregation‐Induced Luminescent Materials: Recent Advances and Perspectives
Authors: Zhang Yu , Huang Yuefeng , Miao Runjie , Chen Hangrong
Published: August 2023

Luminogens with aggregation‐induced emission properties (AIEgens), as a novel and attractive fluorescent molecule, have been used in various fields, such as detection, imaging, and disease treatment, which can overcome the traditional aggregation‐caused quenching of organic fluorescent molecules. Nevertheless, AIEgens still have the problems of water solubility and fluorescence stability in practical applications. Aiming for improving the AIEgens’ performance and promoting the development of diverse applications of AIEgens, it is an available strategy to bind AIEgens to those inorganic materials with abundant variety, easy synthesis, and a unique rigid pore structure. The constructed inorganic‐based AIE materials not only inherit the unique luminescence characteristics of AIEgens, but also retain the biocompatibility and degradability of inorganic materials, endowing AIEgens with more attractive versatility. Herein, the up‐to‐date researches of several representative inorganic‐based AIE materials are introduced, with emphasis on their structure design, synthesis strategy, regulation of fluorescence properties of AIE, and their application in the biological field. Finally, the current situation, challenges, and future development potential of inorganic‐based AIE materials are discussed and prospected.