bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Species Distribution Models Reveal Varying Degrees of Refugia From the Invasive Asian Needle Ant for Native Ants Versus Ant‐Plant Seed Dispersal Mutualisms
Authors: Kanes Drew , Malagon Daniel , Camper Ben , Hewitt Anna , Dunn Simon , Purcell Eva , Bewick Sharon
Published: January 2025

The Asian Needle Ant, Brachyponera chinensis (Hymenoptera: Formicidae), has spread throughout a substantial portion of the southeastern United States where it has primarily been restricted to low elevations. We focused on the B. chinensis invasion in Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GSMNP). Records in and near the park represent some of the highest elevation locations of B. chinensis in North America. The goals of this study were to characterize the status of the B. chinensis invasion in GSMNP, to assess the role that disturbance and human visitation play in B. chinensis invasion within GSMNP, to identify the potential of B. chinensis to spread into higher elevations in the park and the southern Appalachians and to determine the impact that this might have on native species, including keystone seed‐dispersers within the Aphaenogaster rudis complex and their myrmecochorous plants. We surveyed GSMNP for B. chinensis at 45 sites, including sites that were burned during the 2016 Gatlinburg fire, sites with high human visitation, and undisturbed sites. We then built species distribution models (SDMs) for B. chinensis and some of the native species that B. chinensis is most likely to impact. This allowed us to assess the potential for high‐elevation refugia within the southern Appalachians. We did not find B. chinensis at any undisturbed sites in GSMNP. We did find B. chinensis at five high‐visitation sites. Field findings were consistent with our SDMs, which suggested that GSMNP's unique precipitation regimes may act as a barrier to invasion. Unfortunately, SDMs indicated moderate suitability for B. chinensis across a sizable proportion of the northern border of the park. This is a region where B. chinensis may have disproportionate impacts on myrmecochorous plant species. Thus, although southern Appalachian precipitation and temperature regimes may provide a refuge from B. chinensis at high elevations, this will not protect all species likely to be impacted by this invasive ant.
Numerical Simulation Study on Fish Habitats in the Downstream Section of Yangqu Hydropower Station
Authors: Zhang Qiaoling , Ou Youjie , Wang Weiying , Zhang Guoyong , Liu Zijun , Li Shanshan , Li Guodong
Published: January 2025

To promote the coordinated and sustainable development of hydropower exploitation and ecological environment in the upper reaches of the Yellow River, a fine simulation of the downstream riverway of Yangqu Hydropower Station was carried out to analyze the impact of the changes in water depth and flow velocity on fish habitats after the impoundment of Yangqu Hydropower Station. In this paper, Gymnocypris eckloni was selected as the target fish species. The fish habitat model was constructed using MIKE21. The habitat quality of the target fish species was graded by the fuzzy logic method with suitable flow velocity and water depth as conditions. The Weighted Usable Area (WUA)—flow response relationship of fish habitats under different qualities was studied, and the ecological flow required by the target fish species was obtained. The results indicated that the suitable ecological flow range, derived from the relationship between the weighted total area of habitats of different qualities and flow variations, ranged from 350 to 1100 m3/s. Furthermore, the suitable flow range determined through the proportion of WUA of habitats of different qualities was between 600 and 1150 m3/s. After a comprehensive analysis, the final suitable ecological flow range was determined to be 600 to 1150 m3/s. The proportion of high‐quality habitat WUA ranged from 0.26 to 0.50, As the traffic increased, it first increased and then decreased, and was most affected by changes in traffic, the proportion of medium‐quality habitat WUA fluctuated between 0.40 and 0.55, showing an overall upward trend. Meanwhile, the proportion of low‐quality habitat WUA increased from 0.11 to 0.21, indicating the smallest impact from flow variations. The research results could provide a certain reference for the ecological scheduling of hydropower stations in the upper reaches of the Yellow River.
TSLP and TSLPr Expression and Localization in the Airways of COPD and Non‐COPD Patients
Authors: Saber Cherif Lynda , Devilliers Maëva A , Perotin Jeanne‐Marie , Ancel Julien , Vivien Alexandre , Bonnomet Arnaud , Delepine Gonzague , Durlach Anne , Polette Myriam , Deslée Gaëtan , Dormoy Valérian
Published: January 2025

Thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) is an alarmin cytokine activated by allergens, pathogens, and air pollutants. Recent studies suggest TSLP dysregulation in chronic inflammatory diseases. It was highlighted as a key player in the context of asthma‐associated mucosal immunity. This study investigated the production and localization of TSLP and its receptors in airway epithelial cells and the related inflammatory response in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and non‐COPD patients. TSLP transcripts and proteins were detected in epithelial cells but were not abundant at a steady state. The secretion of airway inflammatory mediators was altered in COPD in association with TSLP production. The cellular and molecular characterization of TSLP signaling may identify COPD patients that could benefit from anti‐alarmin therapeutic approaches.
Effects of Exergame Training on Executive Function and Heart Rate Variability in Middle‐Aged and Older Adults: A Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Yu Tzu‐Cheng , Wu Pei‐Tzu , Wu Wen‐Lan , Chang Yu‐Kai , Chiang Che‐Hsien , Chu I‐Hua
Published: January 2025

Exergame has become widely popular and offers great levels of cognitive demands, thus may facilitate cognitive benefits. In addition, researchers have proposed that cardiac autonomic function, assessed via heart rate variability (HRV), is associated with cognitive executive function. However, few exergame training studies have investigated this relationship. This study aimed to investigate the effects of 10‐week exergame training on executive function and HRV in middle‐aged and older adults. Ninety‐one participants were randomly assigned to either an exergame training group (63.73 ± 4.48 years) or a control group (62.46 ± 4.77 years). The training program was 50 min per session, twice per week for 10 weeks. The control group was instructed to maintain their usual lifestyle. All participants completed questionnaires and received assessments of executive functions and electrocardiography at baseline and postintervention. Results revealed significant group‐by‐time interaction effects for the three indices of the digit span test and the total initiation time of the Tower of London task with better postintervention performances achieved by the exergame group. The 6 min walk test also improved significantly in the exergame group but not in the control group. No significant change in HRV was observed for both groups. There were significant correlations between HRV and digit span test scores. Our results suggest that the 10‐week exergame training program was effective in improving executive functions of working memory, inhibitory control, and planning ability as well as aerobic fitness in middle‐aged and older adults. Moreover, HRV was associated with improved executive function.
A Comprehensive Analysis of Moist Versus Non‐Moist Dressings for Split‐Thickness Skin Graft Donor Sites: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Ho Chun‐Yee , Chou Hsuan‐Yu , Wang Szu‐Han , Lan Ching‐Yu , Shyu Victor Bong‐Hang , Chen Chih‐Hao , Tsai Chia‐Hsuan
Published: January 2025

Background and Aims

This systematic review and meta‐analysis evaluate the efficacy of moist versus non‐moist dressings for split‐thickness skin graft (STSG) donor sites, focusing on time to healing, pain management, and adverse events to guide clinical practice.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search was conducted across databases including Ovid/MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane CENTRAL, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and Scopus up to November 28, 2023. The study adhered to PRISMA guidelines. Eligible randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were assessed for quality using the Newcastle‐Ottawa Scale and Cochrane risk‐of‐bias tool, with meta‐analysis performed using the DerSimonian and Laird random‐effects model.

Results

Out of 464 identified studies, 16 RCTs involving 1129 patients were included. Moist dressings such as Tegaderm, Hydrocolloid, Alginate, polyurethane, and hydrofiber showed a faster mean time to healing compared to non‐moist dressings like Mepitel and paraffin‐impregnated gauze. Hydrocolloid dressings were particularly effective in accelerating wound healing. Additionally, moist dressings were associated with lower pain levels during dressing removal and had comparable rates of adverse events.

Conclusion

The evidence strongly supports the use of moist dressings, particularly Hydrocolloid, for STSG donor site coverage. These dressings promote faster healing and superior pain management. The study highlights the need for further research to address existing limitations and refine recommendations for optimal wound care interventions.
Decoding the Hysteretic Behaviour of Hydraulic Variables in Lowland Rivers Using Multivariate Monitoring Approaches
Authors: Muste Marian , Kim Kyeongdong , Kim Dongsu , Fleit Gábor
Published: January 2025

This paper demonstrates that the multivariate monitoring methods are capable to underpin the systematic investigation of the hysteretic behaviour occurring during gradually‐varied flows. For this purpose, we present simultaneous measurements of stage, index velocity and free‐surface slope acquired continuously with high‐frequency sampling instruments deployed at several river gaging sites exposed to different storm magnitudes. The experimental evidence reveals intrinsic features of unsteady open‐channel flow mechanics that are hinted by pertinent governing equations but rarely substantiated with in situ measurements. The illustrations are intentionally made for fluvial waves propagating in lowland rivers where the relationships among flow variables are most likely displaying hysteretic phasing in the progression of the hydraulic variables and loops in their relationships. The presented measurements highlight that: (a) the hysteretic behaviour is apparent in both time‐independent and time‐dependent graphical representations of any two of the hydraulic variables; (b) the severity of the hysteresis is commensurate with the geomorphic, hydraulic and hydrological characteristics of the measurement site; and (c) there are flow monitoring paradigms that can more accurately track changes of the flow variables during gradually‐varied flows than those currently used in practice. Also discussed are research needs for advancing the understanding of the mechanisms underlying the movement and storage of water in the lowland river environments as well as for increasing the accuracy of streamflow monitoring, modelling and forecasting.
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Authors: Liu Jidong , Gan Haibo , Hao Qiaoyan , Zeng Yonghong , Gong Youning , Zhu Jiaqi , Huang Jiarui , Liu Fei , Zhang Wenjing
Published: January 2025

2D NbS; photodetector exhibits outstanding dual‐band detection performances by switching the polarization angle of the incident light from 0 to 90”.

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Authors: Ligani Fereja Shemsu , Mehmood Andleeb , Ji Qianqian , Raza Waseem , Hussen Ahmed , Hu Jie , Zhai Shuo , Cai Xingke
Published: January 2025

The cover image showcases the application of a cutting‐edge two‐dimensional material in the electrocatalytic direct seawater splitting process. The central figure depicts an electrode made from this two‐dimensional material, featuring easily accessible active sites that symbolize its high efficiency in seawater splitting. The surrounding gradient of green indicates the flow of seawater, while the light spheres around the electrode represent the bubbles of water molecules. The light blue and orange spheres signify the hydrogen and oxygen produced during the electrocatalytic process. The overall design emphasizes the crucial role of two‐dimensional materials in advancing seawater splitting technology, suggesting potential for future sustainable energy production.

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Compensating the Meniscus Effect in Phase Contrast Microscopy Using an LCD for Adaptive Condenser Annulus Shifting
Authors: Nienhaus Florian , Burkhardt Finn , König Niels , Schmitt Robert H.
Published: January 2025

The meniscus effect in cell culture vessels limits the observable areas with phase contrast microscopy. For meniscus effect compensation in microtiter plates (MTPs), we present a method using an LCD to replace the fixed condenser annulus, which enables adaptive annulus shifting based on image analysis. This approach led to an increase in phase contrast area by a factor of 8.3. Utilizing a standard phase contrast microscope, we substituted the static condenser annulus with a transparent LCD that displays an adaptive annulus, which can be repositioned to counteract meniscus‐induced refraction across an entire MTP‐24 well. We developed image analysis using Bertrand lens images to determine the misalignment between annulus center and phase ring, enabling the calculation of the required annulus shift. Experiments demonstrate the effectiveness of this image analysis technique. The detected shift was translated into new LCD settings through a linear regression model to ensure proper alignment for the following image. We proved that an algorithm based on background brightness yields a reliable metric for assessing phase contrast conditions within well‐plates. The proposed approach substantially increased the phase contrast area in 24‐well MTPs at 10× magnification from 5.0% with conventional microscopy to 41.9%, thereby restoring phase contrast conditions throughout the well, except near the edges.
Brain penetration of peripheral extracellular vesicles from Alzheimer's patients and induction of microglia activation
Authors: Counil Hermine , Silva Rummenigge Oliveira , Rabanel Jean‐Michel , Zaouter Charlotte , Haddad Mohamed , Ben Khedher Mohamed Raâfet , Brambilla Davide , Fülöp Tamas , Patten Shunmoogum A. , Ramassamy Charles
Published: January 2025

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is an age‐related neurodegenerative pathology. Brain‐derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) have been demonstrated to be implicated in AD pathogenesis by facilitating the propagation of Tau, amyloid‐β and inflammatory cytokines. However, the impact of peripheral EVs (pEVs) in AD pathogenesis remains poorly investigated. The objective of our study was to compare the passage of pEVs from adults, cognitively healthy elderly, and AD patients through the blood‐brain barrier (BBB), to evaluate their uptake in the brain and to assess their impact on the microglia activity using in vitro and in vivo models. To this end, pEVs were enriched, characterized, and fluorescently labelled. The passage of pEVs through the endothelial bEnd.3 cells was studied in a Transwell device with either neuronal or microglia cells seeded at the bottom of the well. Following the internalization of pEVs from AD patients, microglia adopted an amoeboid morphology and released a heightened level of pro‐inflammatory cytokine IL‐6. To further assess their in vivo transport across the BBB, pEVs were injected into the blood circulation of 2‐days post‐fertilization Tg(flk1:EGFP) zebrafish. The biodistribution of pEVs was monitored at 1 and 24 h post‐injection using confocal microscopy. We demonstrated that pEVs traverse the BBB by transcytosis and subsequently diffuse progressively into the brain. pEVs were then internalized by neuronal and radial glial cells as seen in Tg(huc:EGFP) and Tg(gfap:EGFP) zebrafish, respectively. Additional experiments were performed with the intrahippocampal injection of pEVs in the mouse, indicating their spreading throughout the brain and their uptake by neuronal and glial cells. These findings contribute to novel insights into the fate of pEVs following their passage through the BBB in vitro and in vivo, and demonstrate for the first time that pEVs from AD patients affect microglia activity. This suggests a potential mechanism through which peripheral tissue cues may contribute to AD pathogenesis.
Upwelling of cold water in the South Yellow Sea alleviates phosphorus and silicon limitations
Authors: Chen Xiaona , Mi Tiezhu , Yu Zhigang , Yang Fuxia , Wang Ke , Zhang Shasha , Zhang Yinan , Yuan Liping , Yao Qingzhen
Published: January 2025

Upwelling in the South Yellow Sea is a phenomenon that plays an important role in nutrient transport and biological productivity. Based on remote sensing data from 2000 to 2022 and in situ observations from 2012 to 2022, we investigated the interannual variability of cold‐water mass frontal upwelling and its contribution to the transport of nutrients in the South Yellow Sea. The results showed that the upwelling positions during summer were consistent with the fronts of the cold‐water masses. The influence of upwelling on nutrient distribution and transport varied interannually, and the El Niño‐Southern Oscillation during winter might influence the intensity of summer frontal upwelling by modulating summer winds. Nutrient fluxes via upwelling from 2012 to 2022 were estimated: 0.08 × 108–25.9 × 108 mol month−1 of dissolved inorganic nitrogen, 0.003 × 108–0.67 × 108 mol month−1 of dissolved inorganic phosphate, and 0.12 × 108–40.8 × 108 mol month−1 of dissolved silicate. Nutrient fluxes during summer were comparable to the summer inputs from the Changjiang River. The dissolved inorganic nitrogen/dissolved inorganic phosphate ratio in frontal upwelling decreased from 38.6 in 2012 to 20.0 in 2022, and the dissolved silicate/dissolved inorganic nitrogen ratio increased from 0.93 in 2012 to 2.48 in 2022. Nutrient composition and fluxes carried by upwelling can alleviate the limitations of both phosphorus and silicon in the South Yellow Sea. Upwelling nutrients in the frontal zone of the Yellow Sea Cold Water Mass could promote local phytoplankton growth and contribute to the development of Ulva prolifera.
Novel vaccine strategies to induce respiratory mucosal immunity: advances and implications
Authors: Zhou Ming , Xiao Haiqin , Yang Xinyi , Cheng Tong , Yuan Lunzhi , Xia Ningshao
Published: January 2025

Rapid advances in vaccine technology are becoming increasingly important in tackling global health crises caused by respiratory virus infections. While traditional vaccines, primarily administered by intramuscular injection, have proven effective, they often fail to provide the broad upper respiratory tract mucosal immunity, which is urgently needed for first‐line control of respiratory viral infections. Furthermore, traditional intramuscular vaccines may not adequately address the immune escape of emerging virus variants. In contrast, respiratory mucosal vaccines developed using the body's mucosal immune response mechanism can simultaneously establish both systemic and mucosal immunity. This dual action effectively allows the respiratory mucosal immune system to function as the first line of defense, preventing infections at the entry points. This review highlights the efficacy of respiratory mucosal vaccines, including innovative delivery methods such as nasal and oral formulations, in enhancing local and systemic immune barriers. Notably, respiratory mucosal vaccines offer potential advantages in protecting against emerging virus variants and maintaining long‐term and multidimensional immune memory in the upper respiratory tract. In addition, a combination of intramuscular and respiratory mucosal delivery of vaccines largely improves their coverage and effectiveness, providing valuable insights for future vaccine development and public inoculation strategies.
Data‐driven prediction of phase formation in graphene–metal systems based on phase diagram insights
Authors: Chen Leilei , Li Changheng , Xu Kai , Zhou Ruonan , Lou Ming , Du Yujie , Music Denis , Chang Keke
Published: January 2025

Graphene–metal (G‐M) composites have attracted tremendous interests due to their promising applications in electronics, optics, energy‐storage devices and nano‐electromechanical systems. Especially, phase formations of graphene combined with different metals are considered valuable for discovering and designing advanced G‐M composites. However, the phase formations in G‐M systems have rarely been systematically described since graphene was first extracted from graphite in 2004. Here, we propose a data‐driven approach to predict the phase formations in G‐M systems leveraging G‐M binary phase diagrams, which were established using the calculation of phase diagrams method. Phase relationships obtained from G‐M phase diagrams of 34 systems and formation enthalpies of corresponding carbides were employed as the training dataset in a machine learning model to further predict the phase formations in additional 13 G‐M systems. Phase formation predictions achieved an accuracy of 87.5% in the test dataset. Three distinct phase formations were characterised in G‐M systems. Finally, we propose a general phase formation rule in the G‐M systems: metals with smaller atomic numbers in the same period are more likely to form secondary solutions with graphene.
Hierarchical Porous Ovalbumine‐Chitosan Cryogel: Structural Dynamics in Broadband Dielectric Spectroscopy
Authors: Serin Merih , Çalışkan Murat
Published: January 2025

Temperature‐dependent A.C. conductivity and dielectric behavior of the Ovalbumin (OVA)‐chitosan‐n (n‐butanol) cryogel as the natural polymer‐based hierarchical porous scaffold sample, fabricated by cryogelation/phase separation method, was examined in the frequency range 0.1 Hz–20 MHz and within a temperature range of 293–373 K using Novocontrol Alpha‐A high‐resolution dielectric, conductivity, and impedance analyzer. The frequency and temperature dependence of the dielectric behavior are explained by the polarization mechanisms in the structure. It was found that the dielectric constant of the samples at heating has higher values than their dielectric constant at cooling. This indicates that the samples need annealing to remove the solvent residue present in their structure. Jonscher's power law fitting has been used to verify our experimental data of conductivity spectra. The nature of variation of exponent (s) obtained from the fitting follows the correlated barrier hopping (CBH), as the predominant conduction mechanism in the sample where the s is found strongly temperature dependent, was observed for the A.C. conductivity σac. According to the impedance data simulation, the system's dielectric behavior can be accurately represented using a parallel RC electrical equivalent circuit. The fittings of the experimental results were performed using equivalent circuits.
Antifungal Potency of Biosynthesized Silver Nanoparticles Derived from Marine Diatoms Against Multidrug‐Resistant Candida auris and Pichia kudriavzevii
Authors: Jain Kusum , Mishra Bharti , Tiwari Archana , Siddiqui Sharf Ilahi , Areeshi Mohammed Yahya , Haque Shafiul , Chowdhary Anuradha , Kaur Hardeep
Published: January 2025

Candida auris and Pichia kudriavzevii are emerging multidrug‐resistant fungal pathogens that pose a significant threat to public health. The limited efficacy of conventional antifungals against these species has prompted the development of novel antifungal compounds. In recent years, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) synthesized using marine diatoms have held promise as potent antifungal agents. In this study, three marine diatom species (Chaetoceros spp., Skeletonema spp., and Thalassiosira spp.) were utilized for the biosynthesis of AgNPs (Ag‐DE/NPs). The biosynthesis was confirmed by a color change of the culture from colorless to brown and further validated by UV–vis spectroscopy, showing distinct surface plasmon resonance peaks at 425, 430, and 440 nm, respectively. Comprehensive characterization using FTIR, XRD, DLS, and SEM revealed the functionalized nature, crystalline structure, particle size, and surface morphology of the Ag‐DE/NPs. The antifungal efficacy of these AgNPs was evaluated against 20 clinical isolates and 2 reference strains of C. auris and P. kudriavzevii, which exhibited high resistance to fluconazole. AgNPs synthesized from Chaetoceros spp. displayed the lowest geometric mean minimum inhibitory concentrations (0.23 µg/mL for C. auris and 0.19 µg/mL for P. kudriavzevii), showing a >250‐fold greater potency compared to fluconazole and comparable efficacy to amphotericin B. Growth curve analysis and sorbitol supplementation assays indicated that Ag‐DE/NPs disrupt fungal cell walls, while SEM imaging and ergosterol quantitation confirmed membrane damage and sterol depletion. These findings underscore the potential of Ag‐DE/NPs, particularly those synthesized from Chaetoceros spp., as promising candidates for combating drug‐resistant fungal infections.
Guar Gum Hydrogel as a Biosorbent for Cd(II) and Cu(II) Ions: Kinetic, Equilibrium, and Thermodynamic Insights
Authors: Mubark Amal E. , Zaki Elsayed G. , Hakem Habiba A. , Abdel‐Rahman Adel A.‐H. , Elsaeed Shimaa M. , Elkelish Amr
Published: January 2025

The effectiveness of modified guar gum (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba) as a Cd(II) and Cu(II) adsorbent in aquatic media was investigated. Synthesis of modified guar gum based on copolymerization with 2‐Acrylamido‐2‐methyl‐1‐propane sulfonic acid and acrylamide in presence of methylene bis‐acrylamide as a cross linker and in the form of hydrogel adsorbent. Various analytical techniques were employed to describe the surface morphology of the modified adsorbent. Adsorption tests were carried out under different conditions of adsorbent dose (10–50 mg), Cd(II) and Cu(II) initial concentration (25–150 mg/L), pH (1.0–7.0), temperature (∼25–55 °C), and time (∼15–120 min). The maximum uptakes (88 and 82 mg/g) were achieved at pH 6.0 and 5.0 for cadmium (II) and copper (II) ions, respectively. For both metal ions, the kinetics data for the adsorption process obeyed a pseudo second‐order rate equation (R2 = 0.9814 and 0.9845, respectively). The adsorption isotherm data were described using 3 models. Thermodynamic parameters such as enthalpy (∆H), entropy (∆S), and Gibbs free energy (∆G) changes were calculated. Cadmium and copper ions adsorption on modified guar gum was discovered to be endothermic and non‐spontaneous. For both metal ions, 5  M HCl and 1  M EDTA were utilized as de‐sorbents, with the latter having a higher desorption efficiency. The prepared hydrogel was proved as an effective promising adsorbent at capturing cadmium and copper ions from laboratory wastewaters and it could be used for further treatment of other effluent wastes.
Synthesis, Molecular Docking, DFT, ADMET, and Antimicrobial Activity Studies of New 2‐Substituted‐5‐(methyl/ethylsulfonyl)benzoxazole Derivatives
Authors: Faydali Nagihan , Erol Meryem , Arpaci Ozlem Temiz , Kuyucuklu Gulcan , Salan Alparslan Semih
Published: January 2025

In this study, synthesis, characterization, and biological activities of 30 original 5‐methyl/ethylsulfonyl‐2‐(4‐(4‐substituted piperazine/piperidine)acetamido)phenylbenzoxazole derivatives were investigated. The structures of the final compounds were characterized using 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and mass spectroscopy. Then, all the newly synthesized compounds were screened for their antimicrobial activities against S. aureus ATCC 29213, E. faecalis ATCC 29212, E. coli ATCC 25922, P. aeruginosa ATCC 27853, C. albicans ATCC 10231, and their drug‐resistant isolates by applying MIC analyses using ampicillin, gentamicin, vancomycin, ciprofloxacin, and fluconazole as standards. Microbiological results showed that N17, N18, N20, N25–N28, and N30–N32 exhibited activity against VREF at 32 µg/mL, comparable to ampicillin and vancomycin. The interactions of the compounds on the DNA gyrase enzyme were evaluated by molecular docking (PDB: 4KTN). Using DFT/B3LYP theory and the 6‐311G(d,p) basis set, HOMO–LUMO orbital energies and other electronic characteristics obtained from these energies and MEP analysis were carried out. These results were then correlated with experimental data. Furthermore, computational prediction was performed to predict the in silico ADMET properties of all compounds.
Karaya Gum‐Containing Thermosensitive Hydrogels for Controlled Release of Lidocaine in Short‐ and Long‐Term Analgesia
Authors: González Palafox Daniel A. , Torres‐Figueroa Ana V. , Ramírez‐Irigoyen Andya J. , Castillo Jesús M. Quiroz , Fernández‐Quiroz Daniel , SantacruzOrtega Hisila del Carmen , Burruel‐Ibarra Silvia , Chan‐Chan Lerma H. , Pérez‐Martínez Cinthia J. , Silvas‐García María I. , Castillo‐Castro Teresa del
Published: January 2025

Natural gums are widely available, biocompatible polymers that can be strategically employed to design novel stimuli‐responsive materials to fulfill the specific requirements of the drug delivery carriers. This study developed multifunctional semi‐interpenetrating networks (s‐IPNs) by integrating karaya gum (KG), a bioactive adhesive biopolymer, with a thermosensitive poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) (pNIPAAm) network. KG improved the compressive strength of pNIPAAm up to threefold and enhanced the hydrogel swelling at pH 7.4 and 5.5, at 25 and 37 °C. The s‐IPNs exhibited a lower volume phase transition temperature than pNIPAAm alone. Additionally, KG increased the lidocaine hydrochloride (LH)‐entrapment efficiency of the s‐IPN to 65% compared to 47% in the hydrogel without KG. The synergistic effect of KG content, LH loading, and physiological skin conditions (pH 5.5, 37 °C) enhanced the bioadhesiveness of the hydrogels. Notable, 71% of the drug was released from the s‐IPN in its relaxed state within 3 h under normal skin conditions, while 80% of LH was delivered sustainably over 17 h from initially dehydrated s‐IPN. The dual temperature‐ and pH‐responsive s‐IPNs demonstrated the promising potential for biomedical applications, particularly for controlled LH release, supporting both short‐ and long‐term analgesic effects.
Ultrasmall α‐MnO2 with Low Aspect Ratio: Applications to Electrochemical Multivalent‐Ion Intercalation Hosts and Aerobic Oxidation Catalysts
Authors: Iimura Reona , Kawasaki Shiori , Yabu Takashi , Tachibana Shinnosuke , Yamaguchi Kazuya , Mandai Toshihiko , Kisu Kazuaki , Kitamura Naoto , Zhao‐Karger Zhirong , Orimo Shin‐ichi , Idemoto Yasushi , Matsui Masaki , Fichtner Maximilian , Honma Itaru , Ichitsubo Tetsu , Kobayashi Hiroaki
Published: January 2025

Hollandite‐type α‐MnO2 exhibits exceptional promise in current industrial applications and in advancing next‐generation green energy technologies, such as multivalent (Mg2+, Ca2+, and Zn2+) ion battery cathodes and aerobic oxidation catalysts. Considering the slow diffusion of multivalent cations within α‐MnO2 tunnels and the catalytic activity at edge surfaces, ultrasmall α‐MnO2 particles with a lower aspect ratio are expected to unlock the full potential. In this study, ultrasmall α‐MnO2 (<10 nm) with a low aspect ratio (c/a ≈ 2) is synthesized using a newly developed alcohol solution process. This material demonstrates exceptional performance across various multivalent battery systems, primarily due to the significantly reduced cation diffusion distance. Notably, an ultrasmall α‐MnO2‐graphene composite achieves high capacity with low overpotential when paired with an F‐free electrolyte in Ca battery. Regarding aerobic oxidation catalysis, the nanosizing of α‐MnO2 has a profound impact on aerobic oxidation catalysis. The increased efficiency of oxidative conversion reactions, such as the oxidation of 1‐phenylethanol, is attributed to the greatly expanded active surface area of the catalyst. The versatile functionality of ultrasmall α‐MnO2 underscores its potential to revolutionize energy storage and catalysis, offering broad applicability in next‐generation green energy technologies.
Commercial Strip‐Inspired One‐Pot CRISPR‐Based Chip for Multiplexed Detection of Respiratory Viruses
Authors: Zhang Hong , Hu Xiaolin , Bao Xudong , Tu Wei , Wan Qiwu , Yu Zhengheng , Xie Jie , Qiu Xiaopei , Gu Wei , Gao Zhaoli , Wang Yongzhong , Wang Chuanxin , Luo Yang
Published: January 2025

The absence of sensitive, multiplexed, and point‐of‐care assays poses a critical obstacle in promptly responding to emerging human respiratory virus (HRV) pandemics. Herein, RECOGNIZER (re‐building commercial pregnancy strips via large‐size nanoflowers), an innovative one‐pot CRISPR assay, is presented that employs commercially available strips to identify several types of HRVs. The superiority of the RECOGNIZER assay mainly relies on two aspects: (i) DNA nanoflowers possessing a high surface‐to‐volume ratio and well‐defined surface allow for a considerable probe loading density and minimized non‐specific interaction, achieving an impressive signal‐to‐noise proportion exceeding tenfold at 1 nM target. (ii) The design of the one‐pot reaction, multi‐channel chip, and custom‐made app enables the rapid, sample‐to‐answer, and multiplexed analysis of four HRVs in 25 min. This assay demonstrates a sensitivity of 5.42 pM for synthetic SARS‐CoV‐2 RNA and 10 copies µL−1 for SARS‐CoV‐2 plasmids after pre‐amplification. Finally, the proposed approach indicated 100% accuracy in 50 clinical swab samples, demonstrating the robust performance in distinguishing SARS‐CoV‐2 from other HRVs. The versatility and scalability of RECOGNIZER renders it a user‐friendly platform for virus infection monitoring, offering significant potential for improving pandemic response efforts.
Prediction Interval Transfer Learning for Linear Regression Using an Empirical Bayes Approach
Authors: Dixit Anand , Shen Weining , Zhang Min , Zhang Dabao
Published: January 2025

Current literature on transfer learning has been focused on improving the predictive performance corresponding to a small dataset by transferring information to it from a larger but possibly biassed dataset. However, the transfer learning methods currently available do not allow the computation of prediction intervals, and hence, one has to rely on using either the small dataset alone or combining it with the possibly biassed dataset to obtain prediction intervals using traditional linear regression methods. In this article, we propose an Empirical Bayes approach for Prediction Interval Transfer Learning (EB‐PITL), to compute prediction intervals for transfer learning in linear regression tasks. We have proved that the Gibbs sampler associated with EB‐PITL is geometrically ergodic, so EB‐PITL can also quantify the Monte Carlo uncertainty associated with its predicted value. The efficiency of EB‐PITL against currently available methods is demonstrated using simulation studies and by analysing the Tetouan City power consumption dataset.
Book Expansion for Language and Linguistic Justice
Authors: Panther Leah , Gitonga Lucy , Sanchez Rosi , Hedeeb Alaa , Cleaves Ebonie , Granda Gabriela
Published: January 2025

Book expansion brings voices to the page, celebrating linguistic diversity and building a more inclusive community.
Viscoelastic monitoring of a horse with infarctive purpura haemorrhagica and respiratory failure
Authors: Hobbs Kallie J. , Farina Lisa L. , Abbott Jeffrey R. , Holbrook Todd
Published: January 2025

A 3‐year‐old Tennessee Walking Horse gelding presented on emergency for evaluation of fever and oedema in all four limbs for 72 h duration and bilateral epistaxis for 8 h duration. History of exposure to an unknown respiratory illness, clinical signs and initial diagnostics were suggestive of infarctive purpura haemorrhagica. This diagnosis was further supported by haematological parameters consistent with coagulopathy, high Streptococcus equi M protein ELISA and initial favourable response to therapy, which included corticosteroids, broad‐spectrum antimicrobials and supportive care. Seven days after starting treatment the gelding developed acute respiratory distress associated with pulmonary oedema and haemorrhage and was euthanased. Necropsy findings were consistent with infarctive purpura haemorrhagica. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first report describing the use of viscoelastic monitoring in infarctive purpura haemorrhagica. Secondary respiratory failure without gastrointestinal involvement has been rarely reported in horses with purpura haemorrhagica.
Climate Change‐Conscious Methodologies: Ethical Research in a Changing World
Authors: Berseth Valerie , Letourneau Angeline
Published: January 2025

Changes in the frequency and intensity of climate‐related disasters are changing the social landscape for environmental research. Even in the most optimistic scenarios, the proportion of researchers forced to deal with the effects of climate change will continue to grow. Methodologies across disciplines need to be adaptable to meaningfully address the ethical and practical challenges of conducting research in an increasingly disaster‐prone world. In this article, we draw on insights from fields including disaster and emergency literatures and our personal experiences as researchers directly impacted by climate disasters to put forward a framework for climate change‐conscious research methodologies. This review offers considerations for ethical research in climate change‐affected communities and outlines critical areas for future research.
Colchicine as a food contaminant: rare occurrence but persistent in stored honey and during yogurt fermentation
Authors: Kaltner Florian , Hamscher Gerd
Published: January 2025

Colchicine, a plant toxin with aneugenic and potentially genotoxic properties, is predominately derived from the autumn crocus (Colchicum autumnale). Although it has been used as a drug since ancient times, severe poisoning or even death may occur in humans and animals when colchicine is ingested in larger amounts. If consumed by food-producing animals, the transfer of colchicine to animal-based food products, as observed with other plant toxins, seems likely, posing a potential health risk to consumers. In the late flowering period of C. autumnale, honey bees may have limited alternatives and may collect its nectar and pollen, potentially transferring colchicine to honey. A literature research on the relevance of colchicine as food contaminant was conducted, followed by experiments to examine its stability in stored honey and milk fermented into yoghurt. The literature review revealed that colchicine is rarely detected as a food contaminant. However, it has been shown to transfer into milk of ruminants following the ingestion of C. autumnale. Experiments with artificially contaminated samples demonstrated, for the first time, the persistence of colchicine in honey stored for 4 weeks under dark conditions and during the fermentation of milk into yoghurt. Although the overall risk to consumers currently appears low, further research is needed to determine whether the continued spread of C. autumnale poses a higher risk to livestock and consumers than previously assumed.
Individual capture history affects site use and defensive behavior of foraging eastern copperheads at a recreational site
Authors: Stratton J. Benjamin , Richter Stephen C.
Published: January 2025

To maximize energy available for foraging or reproduction, optimality theory suggests individuals allocate energy toward defensive behaviors equivalent to risk of predation. In this framework, repeat encounters with humans by wildlife that do not reduce individual fitness could result in a decreased defensive response toward humans in subsequent encounters. We investigated whether individual experience influenced the defensive behaviors and frequency of site use of foraging eastern copperheads (Agkistrodon contortrix) at Koomer Ridge Campground in the Daniel Boone National Forest, Kentucky. Beginning in 2015, this site has been used for annual mark-recapture studies of copperhead foraging ecology as they predate emerging annual cicadas (Neotibicen tibicen). Using a standardized behavioral trial, we tested how copperhead defensive behavior toward humans was influenced by capture history, body size, and soil temperature. Model averaging results indicated that the overall intensity of copperhead defensive response to humans increased with capture history length, and soil temperature was positively associated with likelihood to respond when touched. Number of years recaptured was a significant, positive predictor of foraging frequency in 2022. Therefore, copperheads with longer capture histories visit the site to forage more frequently and are more willing to defend their opportunity to forage, suggesting a degree of acquired tolerance absent from naïve snakes that fled readily. Collectively, these results provide evidence that eastern copperheads at our site modulate their foraging and defensive behavior based on previous capture experience to more efficiently predate a seasonally abundant prey item.
Optimising diagnostics for hard-of-hearing infants: factors associated with successful MRI scanning without general anaesthesia
Authors: van der Veen Marlise D. , Kaman Ithri , Jasperse Bas , Goderie Thadé , Ebbens Fenna A. , Slot K. Mariam , van der Knaap Marjo S. , Merkus Paul
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Scanning during infancy is often required in otology, preferably without general anaesthesia. This study aims to determine the success rate of MRI of the head without general anaesthesia for infants, and to identify predictors for a successful scan.

Methods

Data was extracted from the electronic patient file for patients who received MRI of the head without general anaesthesia between 01-01-2019 and 31-12-2022 at an age younger than 6 months. Each MRI-session was dichotomised into success (i.e., of sufficient quality to answer the clinical question) or failure, and success percentages were calculated. A logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the association between success and variables of interest, which were selected based on interviews with medical specialists.

Results

Eighty-seven patients were included, showing an overall success rate of 75.9% for MRI of the head without anaesthesia. Success rates for MRI brain were higher than for MRI cerebellopontine angle (CPA), respectively 91.2% and 66.0% (p = 0.013). For MRI CPA the odds of success decreased for infants aged 3–5 months, compared to infants under 2 months (respectively 84.6% and 48.1%, p = 0.009). For MRI CPA the success percentage was lower for boys (51.9%) than for girls (80.8%, p = 0.039). Time of day and hearing loss showed no significant effect on the success rate.

Conclusion

Obtaining MRI of the head without anaesthesia for infants under six months is feasible. For MRI CPA the success rate is higher for infants scanned at a younger age, as well as for female infants compared to male infants.
An activity concentration-based proposal for radon management in workplaces involving NORM in Canada
Authors: Chen Jing , Quayle Debora
Published: January 2025

The Canadian Guidelines for the Management of Naturally Occurring Radioactive Materials (NORM) have been developed to manage radiation doses received in workplaces involving NORM, such as mineral extraction and processing, oil and gas production, metal recycling or water treatment facilities. This management strategy works well for most naturally occurring radioactive materials in workplaces, with the exception of radon. Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas generated by the decay of uranium-bearing minerals in rocks and soils. Because radon exists everywhere in varying concentrations, it is not feasible to use incremental radon generated or enhanced by a practice as a means for assessing the need for radon management programs. Drawing from lessons learned through implementing the current NORM Guidelines, we propose decoupling the decision thresholds for NORM management (excluding radon) and radon management so that the two are considered separately, and quantifying decision-points for managing occupational radon exposure as average annual activity concentrations, with no requirement for dose calculations. Proposed application of this approach in the updated Canadian NORM Guidelines is described.
Multi-stage stochastic districting: optimization models and solution algorithms
Authors: Pomes Anika , Diglio Antonio , Nickel Stefan , Saldanha-da-Gama Francisco
Published: January 2025

This paper investigates a Multi-Stage Stochastic Districting Problem (MSSDP). The goal is to devise a districting plan (i.e., clusters of Territorial Units—TUs) accounting for uncertain parameters changing over a discrete multi-period planning horizon. The problem is cast as a multi-stage stochastic programming problem. It is assumed that uncertainty can be captured by a finite set of scenarios, which induces a scenario tree. Each node in the tree corresponds to the realization of all the stochastic parameters from the root node—the state of nature—up to that node. A mathematical programming model is proposed that embeds redistricting recourse decisions and other recourse actions to ensure that the districts are balanced regarding their activity. The model is tested on instances generated using literature data containing real geographical data. The results demonstrate the relevance of hedging against uncertainty in multi-period districting. Since the model is challenging to tackle using a general-purpose solver, a heuristic algorithm is proposed based on a restricted model. The computational results obtained give evidence that the approximate algorithm can produce high-quality feasible solutions within acceptable computation times.
The first 20 years at the Cape of Good Hope (1652–1671): weather, climate and society
Authors: Grab Stefan , Naidoo Ravanya
Published: January 2025

The Dutch arrived at the Cape (southernmost Africa) in April 1652 to establish a permanent station to replenish ships sailing between Europe and the East. We use the Dutch East India Company day registers to construct a weather and climate chronology for central Cape Town (CT) over the years 1652–1671. We also investigate weather/climate impacts on society over these years, and the associated coping/adaptive measures undertaken. Daily weather information (e.g. rainfall, wind, perceived temperature, storms, hail, snow, frost) was extracted from the registers and chronologically organized. Weather-related impacts (including on shipping) and societal responses are explored within temporal contexts (monthly to inter-annual). The CT climate of 1652–1671 had relatively (compared with more recent times) few rain days, yet experienced heavy rains at times, with consequential flooding. Summers were windy, very dry and felt hot at times. Winters seemed particularly cold, stormy and harsh at times, more so than those of the 19th -21st centuries, as evidenced by accounts of snow, frost and hail. The early 1650s and early to mid-1660s were particularly anomalous climatic periods and likely reflect conditions associated with reduced solar heating and increased volcanic forcing during the early Maunder Minimum.