bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A prospective study of diagnostic testing and hospital charges after brief resolved unexplained event
Authors: Duncan Daniel R. , Golden Clare , Larson Kara , Growdon Amanda S. , Liu Enju
Published: January 2025

Objectives

To evaluate diagnostic testing frequency/yield and determine drivers of hospital charges in a prospective cohort of infants with brief resolved unexplained event (BRUE) to test the hypothesis that length of stay (LOS), low‐yield diagnostic testing, and repeat hospital visits increase costs.

Methods

We conducted a prospective cohort study of infants admitted after BRUE to determine how clinical practice impacts the cost of care. Charge data from our institution's billing records database included room and board, diagnostics, medications, and professional fees for index hospitalizations and 6‐month follow‐ups. Charts were reviewed for clinical data, testing results, and repeat hospitalizations. Parent‐reported symptoms and management changes were obtained by questionnaires. Multivariable analyses with linear regression were conducted to determine risk factors for hospitalization charges and total charges including hospitalization and 6‐month follow‐up.

Results

The cohort included 155 subjects with median index hospitalization charges of $11,256 and total charges of $15,675. Overall, 76% had persistent BRUE symptoms and 15% repeat hospitalization; 34% were treated with acid suppression. Only 9.7% of the tests performed provided a potential diagnosis, but the videofluoroscopic swallow study (VFSS) had the highest yield with 70% abnormal. On multivariable analysis, LOS, VFSS, flexible laryngoscopy, electroencephalogram, and repeat hospital visits were all associated with increased charges (fold change: 142%–354%).

Conclusions

Hospitalization and follow‐up care are costly after BRUE. Potentially modifiable drivers of charges include test number, LOS, and repeat hospital visits. Most testing is low‐yield, but timely performance of VFSS may allow for cost‐effective and appropriate treatment of oropharyngeal dysphagia and prevention of persistent symptoms. Gastroenterologists are frequently involved in caring for these children and are uniquely positioned to help guide testing and treatment related to gastroesophageal reflux disease and oropharyngeal dysphagia.
Early Division of the Paramedian Forehead Flap: A Systematic Review and Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Ma Connie C. , Si Clara , Adegboye Feyisayo , Lee Jaclyn , Lee Ina , Stephan Scott J. , Patel Priyesh N. , Yang Shiayin F.
Published: January 2025

Objective

To determine whether and when early division of the paramedian forehead flap may be safely performed.

Data Sources

PubMed (NLM), Scopus (Elsevier), and Embase (Elsevier).

Methods

A systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, and Embase was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines. Data extraction included time to pedicle division, patient and defect characteristics, and postoperative complications. Additionally, a retrospective analysis of patients at our institution was performed to augment the cohort.

Results

A total of 103 patients (85 from 6 studies identified via systematic review and 18 via retrospective review) underwent early flap division defined as 16 days and earlier. The average time to division was 9.89 days (3–16). There were no cases of flap loss, and complications were rare. Several studies excluded full thickness defects. Five studies included patients requiring cartilage grafting, although some limited this to less than 50% of the defect area. All patients in our retrospective cohort had partial thickness defects and none required cartilage grafting. Despite smoking being a major risk factor for vascular disease, 13.7% of patients were current smokers. Several studies utilized imaging tools such as indocyanine green angiography to assess flap perfusion. Notably, in these instances, no cases were delayed due to lack of adequate neovascularization.

Conclusion

Early paramedian forehead flap division may be an option in select patients with partial thickness nasal defects. Adjunct imaging may be a cost‐effective method of evaluating appropriate timing of division.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 2025
Resolution of Iatrogenic Spinal Accessory Neuropathy Following Delayed Surgical Intervention
Authors: Qu Yihuai , Entezami Payam , Cave Taylor B. , Klusovsky Laura E. , Chang Brent A.
Published: January 2025

We present an interesting case of a 74‐year‐old female who presented with spinal accessory neuropathy following an ipsilateral right‐sided carotid endarterectomy 6 months after the initial injury. Subsequent surgical exploration revealed a surgical clip that had been placed directly across the spinal accessory nerve. Clip removal and neurolysis was subsequently performed, leaving the nerve intact. After surgical intervention, she immediately demonstrated increased bilateral shoulder shrug motion and continues to improve her function with physical therapy. This case demonstrates a fascinating case of cranial nerve recovery after delayed intervention in the context of existing literature. Laryngoscope, 2025
Multitemporal Analysis of Land Cover Changes in the Rabanal Páramo Ecosystem (Colombia) From 2000 to 2020 and Its Planning Regulations
Authors: Vergara Paulina , Llorente Irene De Pellegrin
Published: January 2025

The páramos, with their high biodiversity and benefits to humanity, are crucial ecosystems in Colombia. Despite their importance, there is a significant knowledge gap regarding the extent of land cover changes and the identification of planning regulatory milestones on these ecosystems. The Rabanal Páramo Regional District, a water supplier for the capital city of Tunja, is under threat. The protected area faces land use conflicts, and updated information needs to be provided on how natural covers have been affected by grazing or the expansion of the agricultural frontier. Considering this, the main goal of this research was to recognize land cover changes in the Rabanal Páramo from 2000 to 2020. To achieve this, we conducted a multi‐temporal analysis using the Corine Land Cover methodology adapted for Colombia. Additionally, we identified the various planning regulations that have contributed to this ecosystem's conservation and restoration efforts. Results showed that the bush cover has significantly decreased, from 27.9% of the total area in 2000 to 20.5% in 2020. In contrast, the mosaic of crops, pastures, and natural spaces has expanded from 2.5% of the total area in 2000 to 8.1% in 2020. The primary strategy in the páramo management plan involves using zoning and land type regulations. Urgent action is needed to balance the demands of agricultural development with the preservation of the páramo ecosystem to ensure a sustainable existence between human activities and the environment.
Enhancing Detection Capability of Orbital Angular Momentum Sorter
Authors: Yan Rong , Ahmed Hammad , Ansari Muhammad Afnan , Wang Guanchao , Zhang Chunmei , Li Li , Tian Hao , Bian Liheng , Chen Xianzhong
Published: January 2025

Each photon in a vortex beam carries an orbital angular momentum (OAM). OAM detection plays a very important role in unlocking the new capability of vortex beams in both fundamental research and technological advancements. As the number of information channels continues to grow, there is an urgent need to improve the detection capability of the OAM sorting system. The unprecedented capability of optical metasurfaces has provided an opportunity to realize OAM detection in a compact platform. Different OAM modes are typically separated into distinct light spots in OAM sorting. However, each spot in an OAM sorting system is tailored to recognize only one predesigned OAM mode. A metasurface approach to detecting more OAM modes with the same number of light spots in the observation plane is demonstrated. The conservation of momentum in the design is realized with a customized multifoci metalens. The efficacy of this method is exemplified through the detection of two OAM modes in an individual light spot, dramatically increasing the detection capability of the OAM sorter. It is anticipated that this design will reduce the demand for spatial resources, creating new opportunities to explore OAM applications across many research fields such as optical communications and quantum science.
Synergistic Effect of MgO/ZnO on β‐Phase Crystallization in PVDF: A Comparative Study of Mode of Nanofiller Additions for Piezoelectric Applications
Authors: Bodhi T K Kavya , Kurup Hridya P , Verma Ankur , Karumuthil Subash Cherumannil
Published: January 2025

This study pioneers the investigation into the critical role of the nanofiller addition method in enhancing β‐phase crystallization in polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF). Hydrothermally synthesized magnesium oxide (MgO) nanoparticles are combined with zinc oxide (ZnO) in two approaches, yielding optimized electroactive properties. Characterization via Attenuated Total Reflectance Fourier Transformed Infrared Spectroscopy (ATR‐FTIR) and X‐ray Diffraction (XRD) confirmed the improved β‐phase crystallization in P/ZM10 film. The superior sensitivity with fast, linear and precise pattern detection of the optimised polymer composite device ensures its usage as a piezoelectric sensor system. Under the realistic irregular hand‐tapping of 22–23 N force, the fabricated prototype generated an output voltage of 96 V and displayed a maximum power density of 66.69 µW cm−2. A laboratory‐level demonstration of the prototype as a piezoelectric sensor in water filters enables its efficiency and feasibility for real‐time applications.
Stimuli‐Responsive Functional Polymeric Materials: Recent Advances and Future Perspectives
Authors: Dolui Subrata , Sahu Bhanendra , Banerjee Sanjib
Published: January 2025

Inspired by the extreme structural complexity and functional efficiency of biomolecules, researchers have developed stimuli‐responsive materials, capable of adapting their structural conformations and physicochemical properties upon external changes in temperature, pH, light, etc. These materials can expand, contract, or bend in response to external stimuli, which makes them useful for a variety of applications such as biomedicine, sensors, shape‐memory devices, and smart interface materials. Multistimuli‐responsive materials exhibit enhanced features than single‐/dual‐responsive materials, affording enhanced fine tuning of their parameters. Among such materials, reversibly cross‐linked networks have generated increasing interest recently due to their 3D architecture and unique properties, based on the low viscosity, good solubility, and high functionality of the building blocks, which can be further modified. In order to achieve dynamic self‐assembly, future research on stimuli‐responsive macromolecular self‐assembly should mimic thec structures, functions, and processes found in nature.
Salt‐inducible kinase 2 confers radioresistance in colorectal cancer by facilitating homologous recombination repair
Authors: Meng Yuan , Li Shuo , Lu Da‐Shan , Chen Xue , Li Lu , Duan You‐fa , Wang Gao‐yuan , Huang Wenlin , Liu Ran‐yi
Published: January 2025

Resistance to radiotherapy remains a critical barrier in treating colorectal cancer (CRC), particularly in cases of locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC). To identify key kinases involved in CRC radioresistance, we employed a kinase‐targeted CRISPR‐Cas9 library screen. This approach aimed to identify potential kinase inhibitors as radiosensitizers. Our screening identified salt‐inducible kinase 2 (SIK2) as a critical factor in CRC radioresistance. Increased SIK2 expression correlated with reduced tumor regression and poorer outcomes in LARC patients undergoing neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy. The depletion of SIK2 significantly enhanced radiation‐induced apoptosis and tumor regression. Mechanistically, SIK2 interacts with valosin‐containing protein (VCP), promoting its hyperphosphorylation. This modification improves VCP's capacity to extract K48‐linked ubiquitin‐conjugated proteins from chromatin, thus aiding the recruitment of RPA and RAD51 to DNA damage sites. This mechanism strengthens homologous recombination–mediated DNA repair, which contributes to radioresistance. Importantly, ARN‐3236, a SIK2 inhibitor, markedly sensitized CRC cells to radiation both in vivo and in vitro, providing a potential strategy to overcome radioresistance. In summary, our findings reveal a novel mechanism by which SIK2 contributes to the radioresistance of CRC, proposing SIK2 as a potential therapeutic target with its inhibitor significantly enhancing CRC radiotherapy efficacy.
Compensating College Football Players for Their Name, Image, and Likeness Rights From Live College Football Broadcasts
Authors: Brook Stacey L.
Published: January 2025

Recently, the NCAA has allowed student athletes to be compensated by third parties for their name, image, and likeness rights (NIL) but not their NIL rights from televised broadcasts. Yet these rights have an economic value. A counterfactual model is employed to determine how university media rights revenues relate to television viewership, and then, the model is empirically estimated to determine the value of these NIL rights. The results show the median athletic department would pay about 5.4% of their football media rights revenue to the football participants, and the median football participant would be paid $4739 for their NIL rights.
Extended Two‐Step Ulm‐Chebyshev‐Like Method for Inverse Singular Value Problems With Multiple And/Or Zero Singular Values
Authors: Ma Wei , Gao Jingli , Ji Nuo
Published: January 2025

In this article, we study the convergence of an extended two‐step Ulm–Chebyshev‐like method for solving the inverse singular value problems with multiple and/or zero singular values. Under the assumption of nonsingularity of the relative generalized Jacobian at a solution, the cubic convergence result is established for the extended two‐step Ulm–Chebyshev‐like method, and numerical experiments are provided to illustrate the convergence performance of the extended method. the research results in the present article significantly improve and expand Ma's corresponding results [18] for the special cases of distinct and positive singular values.
Measuring the Human Values That Predominate in the Organization's Culture: A Dynamic Multilevel Linear Mixed Model Based on Genetic Algorithms
Authors: Molina‐Sánchez Horacio , Ortiz‐Gomez Mar , Fernández‐Navarro Francisco
Published: January 2025

The alignment between organizational and employee human values is critical in institutions that base their management on values. This research aims to link Schwartz's 10 human values to workplace authenticity, determining prevalent values in organizations. In tandem, nonprofit organizations are intricately intertwined with the values held by their members, forming the bedrock of their identity. To achieve this goal, an in‐depth analysis is conducted on three nonprofit and faith‐based organizations. The study proposes a hybrid model, merging a genetic algorithm with a linear mixed model, to comprehensively explore the intricate relationship between employees’ human values and authenticity in organizational settings. The underlying model is estimated from data to theory using a genetic algorithm (global optimization) to dynamically determine the best set of human values regressors (also considering interaction effects). The regressors selected to explain the authenticity construct the most from two perspectives, namely, the general model (fixed effects) and the particular model (random effects).
Systemic Inflammatory Diseases in Children with Sickle Cell Disease: A French Multicenter Observational Study on Diagnostic and Therapeutic Issues
Authors: Vinit Caroline , Guitton Corinne , De Montalembert Mariane , Benhaim Patricia , Amor‐Chelihi Lahoueri , Bader‐Meunier Brigitte , Missud Florence , Melki Isabelle , Gajdos Vincent , Arnaud Cécile , Kamden Annie , Charara Oussama , Hentgen Véronique , Nathanson Sylvie , Bloch Coralie , Meinzer Ulrich , Quartier Pierre , Kone‐Paut Isabelle , De Pontual Loïc , Pham Luu‐Ly
Published: January 2025

Background

Systemic inflammatory diseases (SIDs) have been reported in patients with sickle cell disease (SCD), but clinical data in children are scarce.

Objectives

To identify clinical and laboratory features at diagnosis of SID in children with SCD and to describe their evolution.

Methods

Data from children with SCD and SIDs were retrospectively collected in a French multicenter study from 1991 to 2018. Information included clinical characteristics, inflammatory markers, autoantibodies patterns, treatments, and complications. Inflammatory marker levels were compared at SID diagnosis and at the last follow‐up. Statistical analyses were performed using Cran R software.

Results

Among a cohort of 3800 children with SCD, 43 SIDs were identified in 35 study participants: autoimmune liver disease (AILD, n = 13), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD, n = 7), juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA, n = 6), systemic lupus erythematosus (n = 4), autoimmune hemolytic anemia (n = 3), Sjögren syndrome (n = 1), histiocytic necrotizing lymphadenitis (n = 2), vasculitis (n = 2), myasthenia gravis (n = 1), sarcoidosis (n = 1), idiopathic inflammatory granulomatous uveitis (n = 1), mixed connective tissue disease (n = 2). Prevalence of SID was 0.9% in our cohort of children with SCD. The median time between initial symptoms and SID diagnosis was 10 (3–20) months, notably longer in children with JIA, IBD, and Sjögren syndrome. Sixteen patients (46%) exhibited hypergammaglobulinemia (>20 g/L) at diagnosis. No significant differences were observed for other inflammatory parameters. Twenty‐one children (60%) received systemic steroids and 13 (37%) biological therapies. Three patients (9%) underwent hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Nine patients (26%) had severe infections; one died.

Conclusion

Delayed diagnosis was frequent due to overlapping clinical presentations between SCD and SID. Clinicians must be aware of warning signs associated with elevated inflammatory markers, hypergammaglobulinemia, or specific antibodies. Therapeutic strategies remain challenging.
DFT Insights Into Non‐Catalytic Aminolysis of Polycarbonates
Authors: Samuilov Alexander Y. , Ali Amran Abdullah Ghilan , Samuilov Yakov D.
Published: January 2025

The problem of environmental pollution by plastic is becoming more and more obvious. In this study, the non‐catalytic reaction of diphenyl carbonate with methylamine as a model reaction for the depolymerization of polycarbonate was studied at the B3LYP/6‐31++G(d,p) and M062X/6‐31++G(d,p) levels. The reaction can proceed by the nucleophilic substitution and by the “addition–elimination” pathways. Calculations at the B3LYP/6‐31++G(d,p) level indicate that the reaction of diphenyl carbonate with methylamine monomer leading to the formation of N‐methyl‐O‐phenylcarbamate via the nucleophilic substitution pathway at 298 K is characterized by activation and reaction free energies equal to 174.0 and −57.1 kJ·mol−1. The same reaction with methylamine dimer is characterized by activation and reaction free energies equal to 147.1 and −77.7 kJ·mol−1, respectively. Thermodynamic and kinetic preference is also observed in the reaction of N‐methyl‐O‐phenylcarbamate with the monomer and dimer of methylamine. Reactions with the formation of tetrahedral intermediates are unlikely. Their formation is endothermic and occurs with a decrease in entropy. This leads to small values of equilibrium constants. The equilibrium constant of the reaction of diphenyl carbonate with methylamine monomer to form a tetrahedral intermediate is 1.64·10−16 at 298 K and 1.20·10−14 at 423 K. The same trends are observed in the reactions of N‐methyl‐O‐phenylcarbamate. The reactions of diphenyl carbonate, N‐methyl‐O‐phenylcarbamate with methylamine dimer via the “addition–elimination” pathway are also characterized by small values of equilibrium constants. In all cases, interactions involving the methylamine dimer are more favorable than reactions involving the methylamine monomer.
Cotton leaf curl Multan virus activates autophagy in the whitefly AsiaII7, weakening its vectorial capacity for transmission
Authors: Chen Ting , Jia Yanbo , Tang Yafei , Chen Jie , Xu Haiyun , Qi Guojun
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND

Autophagy plays an important role against pathogen infections in both insects and plants. Insect vectors employ autophagy as an intrinsic antiviral defense mechanism against viral infections, whereas viruses can exploit autophagy to enhance their transmission via insect vectors. The Cotton leaf curl Multan virus (CLCuMuV) is transmitted by the AsiaII7 cryptic species of Bemisia tabaci, however, the role of autophagy is involved in regulating the transmission of this virus remains unclear.

RESULT

In this study, it was observed that CLCuMuV infection induced autophagy in AsiaII7 whitefly, as evidenced by an elevated in the level of ATG8‐II and the upregulation of Atg3, Atg8, Atg9 and Atg12. Both the administration of the autophagy inhibitor bafilomycin A1 and the silencing of Atg9 expression increased the viral load and enhanced CLCuMuV transmission. Conversely, the activation of autophagy via rapamycin feeding significantly reduced the amount of CLCuMuV and inhibited the efficiency of virus transmission.

CONCLUSION

CLCuMuV infection can activate the autophagy pathway in whiteflies. The activation of autophagy leads to the subsequent degradation of the virus and suppresses CLCuMuV transmission efficiency, whereas suppression of autophagy promotes virus transmission. Our research provides insight into the potential role of autophagy in antiviral defense mechanisms. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.
Quercetin, a natural flavonoid induced by the spider mite Tetranychus urticae or alamethicin, is involved in the defense of lima bean against spider mites
Authors: Li Fengqi , Liu Junfang , Dewer Youssef , Ahsan Muhammad Haseeb , Wu Chunyan
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND

Phaseolus lunatus, commonly known as the lima bean, is a leguminous crop cultivated in various regions worldwide. It is native to tropical America and is extensively grown in both tropical and temperate climates. Lima beans are highly nutritious and versatile, serving not only as a food and vegetable, but also as a source of green manure. During cultivation, lima beans can be vulnerable to numerous pests, including the spider mite, Tetranychus urticae. In large‐scale outbreaks, T. urticae can cause significant yield losses or even crop failure, posing a serious threat to agricultural production. The treatment of lima bean plants with T. urticae or alamethicin (ALA) has been shown to enhance their insect‐resistant defense responses. Understanding the transcriptional and metabolic mechanisms underlying these defense responses to T. urticae and ALA is crucial for improving herbivore resistance in lima bean crops.

RESULT

By integrated analysis of transcriptomics and metabolomics data, we found that both T. urticae and ALA treatments significantly induced the flavonoid biosynthesis pathway. Both treatments increased the flavonoid content in lima bean leaves by upregulating the expression of key genes in this pathway, potentially contributing to enhanced resistance to phytophagous insects. Notably, quercetin has been shown to reduce the number of eggs per female and survival rate of T. urticae.

CONCLUSION

These findings provide a novel theoretical basis for understanding the response mechanisms of lima beans to T. urticae and ALA, while highlighting potential metabolites and genes that could be targeted to improve plant resistance to spider mite damage. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.
Cleaning Robots: A Review of Sensor Technologies and Intelligent Control Strategies for Cleaning
Authors: Megalingam Rajesh Kannan , Vadivel Shree Rajesh Raagul , Kotaprolu Sai Smaran , Nithul Bagathi , Kumar Devisetty Vijay , Rudravaram Gaurav
Published: January 2025

Cleaning robots have revolutionized the way spaces and surfaces are cleaned, accessing areas that are often difficult for humans to reach. A significant segment of the cleaning robot industry is dedicated to home cleaning robots, which have undergone numerous enhancements since their initial introduction. Through extensive research and development efforts, the application scope of cleaning robots has expanded beyond floors to encompass walls, staircases, pools, tanks, ventilation ducts, windows, and other surfaces. These robots have seen improvements in cleaning effectiveness through the integration of new designs, technologies, and control methods. This review paper presents a comprehensive analysis of cutting‐edge cleaning robots recently developed, exploring various sensor technologies and intelligent control strategies employed to enhance cleaning efficiency. Additionally, the paper discusses the challenges associated with deploying these robots in real‐world scenarios.
Mineralization potential of spent coffee grounds and other nutrient sources
Authors: Birnbaum Amanda L. , Howe Julie , Earp Ryan , Burke Joseph , Wherley Benjamin , Dhingra Amit
Published: January 2025

Industrial‐scale coffee ground waste has the potential to serve as a nutrient‐rich soil amendment, which would offer growers an opportunity to reduce applications of traditional fertilizers. Composted spent coffee grounds (CSCGs) and noncomposted spent coffee grounds (NCSCGs) were evaluated for their potential as organic N fertilizers. Nitrogen mineralization of NCSCGs and CSCGs was compared to commonly used synthetic and organic N fertilizers: urea and Milorganite. Net N mineralization and microbial activity were measured in a fine sandy loam field soil at 25°C and 60% water holding capacity weekly for 100 days. Despite a C:N of 13:1, the CSCGs appeared to have slow mineralization. Total inorganic N was lower in both CSCGs and NCSCGs than the control throughout the 100‐day incubation with no additional N to the system. Greater CO2─C respiration was recorded with SCGs, suggesting microbial activity is required for the breakdown of SCGs relative to other treatments. CSCGs may serve as a long‐term fertilizer due to the time it takes to mineralize; however, over a shorter period, it may increase the nutrient‐ and water‐holding capacity of soil, which can improve plant growth.
The Extra‐Tumoral Vaccine Effects of Apoptotic Bodies in the Advancement of Cancer Treatment
Authors: Wang Yulian , Liu Chunyan , Pang Jiayun , Li Zhenjiang , Zhang Junfeng , Dong Lei
Published: January 2025

The induction of apoptosis in tumor cells is a common target for the development of anti‐tumor therapies; however, these therapies still leave patients at increased risk of disease recurrence. For example, apoptotic tumor cells can promote tumor growth and immune evasion via the secretion of metabolites, apoptotic extracellular vesicles, and induction of pro‐tumorigenic macrophages. This paradox of apoptosis induction and the pro‐tumorigenic effects of tumor cell apoptosis has begged the question of whether apoptosis is a suitable cancer therapy, and led to further explorations into other immunogenic cell death‐based approaches. However, these strategies still face multiple challenges, the most critical of which is the tumor microenvironment. Contrary to the promotion of immune tolerance mediated by apoptotic tumor cells, apoptotic bodies with enriched tumor‐related antigens have demonstrated great immunogenic potential, as evidenced by their ability to initiate systemic T‐cell immune responses. These characteristics indicate that apoptotic body‐based therapies could be ideal “in situ” extra‐tumoral tumor vaccine candidates for the treatment of cancers, and further address the current issues with apoptosis‐based or immunotherapy treatments. Although not yet tested clinically, apoptotic body‐based vaccines have the potential to better treatment strategies and patient outcomes in the future.
Fabrication of Dual‐Functional MXene@NiCo2S4 Composites with Enhanced Nonlinear Optical and Electrochemical Properties
Authors: Wei Jinhe , Hu Fei , Lv Chenglong , Bian Limin , Quan Xinyu , Ouyang Qiuyun
Published: January 2025

The design and synthesis of multifunctional nanomaterials have attracted considerable attention for expanding the range of practical applications. Herein, a metal–organic framework (MOFs)‐derived NiCo2S4 attached to MXene is rationally designed and constructed for an optical limiter and supercapacitor. The MOF‐derived NiCo2S4 enhances the tendency of hydroxyl groups on the MXene surface to attract metal ions, resulting in the formation of sulfur vacancies. Moreover, MXene offers a high specific surface area to facilitate the rapid complexation of charge carriers. The resultant MXene@NiCo2S4 (MX@NCS) exhibits markedly enhanced nonlinear optical (NLO) and electrochemical properties through synergistic interactions between the components. The NLO properties can be further optimized by adjusting the amount of MX@NCS powder dispersed in methyl methacrylate (MX@NCS)2–6/PMMA) by using the Z‐scan technique. Specifically, the (MX@NCS)4/PMMA exhibits the strongest reverse saturable absorption (RSA) and self‐defocusing effects at 100 µJ with β = 3.87 × 102 cm·GW−1 and γ = −5.94 × 10−4 cm2·GW−1. Concurrently, the constructed supercapacitor shows a superior energy density of 51.21 Wh·kg−1 at a power density of 863.65 W·kg−1. Notably, the present study indicates a novel strategy to explore the application of materials in the development of efficient optical limiter and supercapacitor technologies.
Fabrication of AFM‐Compatible Hydrogel Probe to Achieve Hydration Superlubrication in Salt Solutions
Authors: Wu Zhuolin , Zhang Rui , Li Jinjin
Published: January 2025

Hydrogels demonstrate effective lubricating properties, but the underlying mechanisms at the nanoscale remain elucidated. In this study, a novel strategy is proposed by fabricating the hydrogel probes compatible with atomic force microscopy (AFM) to establish a superlubrication system based on the hydration interactions. The probe is made of polyethylene glycol diacrylate (PEGDA)‐based hydrogel microspheres, which can achieve an extremely low friction coefficient of 0.0014 when sliding on the mica surface in NaCl solution. The friction coefficients in salt solutions sequence μ(NaCl) < 0.01 < μ(KCl) < μ(LiCl), which contradicts the sequence based on the ion hydration capacity (K+ < Na+ < Li+), suggesting that the hydrogel‐based lubrication systems are governed by the interplay between ion hydration lubrication and ions‐polymer interactions simultaneously. The observed superlubrication in NaCl solution is ascribed to the superior hydration capacity of Na+ ions, which forms a stable and smooth hydration layer within the contact zone. This work provides new avenues for AFM‐based hydrogel studies, and also significantly advances the comprehension of hydrogel lubrication mechanisms at the nanoscale
Yeast Complementation Assays Demonstrating the Importance of the Affinity Tag Position in Membrane Protein Purification, as Exemplified by HpUreI, the pH‐Gated Urea Channel of Helicobacter pylori
Authors: Stoib Anna , Shojaei Sahar , Siligan Christine , Horner Andreas
Published: January 2025

Affinity tags are a crucial component in protein purification. Despite several indications that they can influence protein structure and function, this influence is often unknown or disregarded. This unnecessarily introduces ambiguity in the interpretation of in vitro data. To illustrate that, urea and ammonia yeast complementation assays are used as a screening tool to assess functional differences in various affinity tag positions, compared to the WT protein, using HpUreI, an acid‐gated urea channel of Helicobacter pylori. Yeast complementation assays test the pH‐dependent functionality of exogenous proteins expressed in deletion strains by observing growth. If the exogenous protein is able to replace the function of the deleted endogenous protein, yeast cells can demonstrate growth under specific assay conditions. The overall tag position and even a minor amount of residual N‐ or C‐terminal amino acids following tag cleavage exert a solute‐specific influence on HpUreI functionality, suggesting a complex solute selectivity mechanism and underscores the necessity for in vivo characterization. This cost‐effective yeast complementation assay can be adapted to test a broad range of solutes. It can be used as a preliminary screening tool for affinity tag positions or protein mutations before quantitative in vitro protein characterization.
Astaxanthin Alleviates Lung Injury by Regulating Oxidative Stress, Inflammatory Response, P2X7 Receptor, NF‐κB, Bcl‐2, and Caspase‐3 in LPS‐Induced Endotoxemia
Authors: Ozkanlar Seckin , Ozkanlar Yunusemre , Kara Adem , Dalkilinc Elif
Published: January 2025

Sepsis remains the leading cause of multiple‐organ injury due to endotoxemia. Astaxanthin (ASTA), widely used in marine aquaculture, has an extraordinary potential for antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory activity. Purinergic receptor (e.g., P2X7R) activation is a powerful signaling in the modulation of inflammation. The effect of ASTA was investigated on the regulation of oxidative stress, inflammatory response, apoptotic mediators, and P2X7R expression in the lung injury during lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced endotoxemia. Twenty‐four rats were blocked into four groups as Control, LPS, ASTA, and LPS + ASTA. LPS was administered by intraperitoneal injection and ASTA by gavage. Blood and lung samples were taken 6 h after the administrations. The methods were ELISA, western blotting, histopathology, and immunohistochemistry. Sepsis was confirmed by the elevations of IL‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐10, and TNF‐α levels in bloodstream. Lung injury was determined by histopathological changes. There were increased P2X7R expression, malondialdehyde (MDA), IL‐1β, TNF‐α, nuclear factor kappa B (NF‐κB), and Caspase‐3 and decreased B‐cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl‐2) and glutathione (GSH) in the septic lung tissue (p < 0.05). ASTA treatment improved MDA, GSH, IL‐1β, TNF‐α, P2X7R, NF‐κB, Caspase‐3, and Bcl‐2 levels and reduced P2X7R immunoreactivity and histological abnormalities in the lung (p < 0.05). The production of pro‐inflammatory cytokines, oxidative stress, P2X7R expression, and apoptotic mediators in the lung is associated with LPS‐induced endotoxemia. The ASTA administration appears to regulate the expressions of P2X7R, NF‐κB, Bcl‐2, and Caspase‐3 improving the antioxidative and anti‐inflammatory response of the lung tissue in sepsis, in vivo.
Variation of Surface Pollutants and Their Influence on Lightning Development in the Urban Cities of Northern India
Authors: Gautam Alka , Singh Vikram , Gautam Alok Sagar , Kumar Penki Ramesh , Soni Pushpendra Singh , Ambade Balram , Alshehri Mohammed , Singh Surendra Pratap
Published: January 2025

Lightning development and its variation with surface pollutants like particulate matter (PM10), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) were investigated in two urban cities of northern India, one from the high‐altitude region Haldwani (Uttarakhand) and the other from Indo‐Gangetic plain region, Agra (Uttar Pradesh). Lightning data is retrieved from Lightning Imaging Sensor (LIS) aboard the International Space Station (ISS) satellite for the period (2018–2022). Surface pollutants data is obtained from Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board for the same period. In the high altitude Haldwani region, it is observed that SO2 is very well correlated (CC = 0.95) with lightning flash frequency compared to other surface pollutants PM10 and NO2 in the pre‐monsoon season (March–May). Annual mean values of lightning and concentration of surface pollutants in both study regions indicate that lightning frequency is higher in the high‐altitude region of Haldwani than Agra, which is situated in the Indo‐Gangetic plain region of Uttar Pradesh. No significant correlation is observed between lightning and meteorological variables in Haldwani region. However, a significant correlation is observed between lightning and 2‐m air temperature in Agra. A distinct relation is observed between lightning and surface pollutants in the high‐altitude region of Haldwani and the Indo‐Gangetic plain region of Agra. The present study shows that high concentrations of SO2, associated with intense convection, are one of the reasons for the high lightning frequency in the high‐altitude region of Haldwani.
Enhanced gas permeability of HyIIR/CB/OMMT composites constructed from hydroxyl groups and OMMT/CB with strong interactions
Authors: Wang Si‐yi , Wang Hong‐gen , Shi Yan
Published: January 2025

Isobutylene‐isoprene rubber (IIR) has excellent airtightness, damping, and aging resistance due to its dense side groups and highly saturated main chain. However, the low unsaturation of IIR makes it weak in interaction with fillers. Therefore, the modification of IIR to improve the interaction of IIR with fillers will be critical for the preparation of high performance IIR composites. The introduction of reactive polar groups into IIR was an excellent solution. In this study, a novel modified IIR‐hydroxyl functionalized IIR (HyIIR) was prepared and compounded with organic montmorillonite (OMMT) and carbon black (CB) fillers. Due to the stronger interfacial interactions between the rubber and the filler, the dispersion of OMMT achieved nanoscale without adding any modifier, and the gas barrier property of the rubber composites was significantly improved as compared to those of IIR or brominated IIR (BIIR) composites. The HyIIR/CB/OMMT composites were prepared by mechanical blending and sulfur package was used to vulcanize HyIIR via the reaction with vinyl groups. The effects of the dosage of OMMT and sulfur on the processing and application properties of the rubber composites were investigated. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) results proved that hydroxyl groups on HyIIR were successfully reacted with the surface groups on OMMT. X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) confirmed the significant increase of the spacing of OMMT layer and nanoscale disperses of OMMT in HyIIR matrix. Payne's effect and dynamic thermo‐mechanical (DMA) results indicated that the OMMT and CB particles were more uniformly dispersed in HyIIR than in IIR and had stronger interfacial interactions with the rubber macromolecule. By adjusting the amount of S, the vulcanization time was shortened from 47 to 37 min after adding fillers (OMMT and CB) to the HyIIR matrix, and the tensile strength of HyIIR/CB/OMMT composites reached up to 13.9 MPa and the elongation at break was about 750%. More importantly, the air tightness of HyIIR/CB/OMMT composites was greatly improved. The gas permeability coefficient of HyIIR/CB/OMMT composites with only 1 phr OMMT was improved by 68% (61%) and 48% (44%) relative to IIR/CB (BIIR/CB) and IIR/CB/OMMT (BIIR/CB/OMMT) composites, respectively. The use of hydroxyl‐functionalized IIR species compounding with OMMT provides a new and innovative approach for improvement of the airtightness of IIR composites, which was expected to be widely used in the field of tire air‐sealing layers or inner tube with high demand for the airtightness.

Highlights

An novel functionalized IIR‐HyIIR was synthesized and compounded with fillers.

The fillers showed nano‐dispersion in HyIIR matrix.

Strong interfacial interaction forces were formed between the filler and HyIIR.

The airtightness of the composite was significantly improved.
Evidence-based policymaking and the crisis of Western Democracies
Authors: Santarelli Enrico
Published: January 2025

The paper examines the perceived crisis in Western liberal democracies, arguing that the true causes extend beyond the commonly cited symptoms of political party representation decline, partisan hostility, and the rise of charismatic leaders. It suggests that the roots lie in a deep-seated belief in traditional economic solutions such as promoting international trade, reducing state intervention, and encouraging competition. This belief unites diverse ideological movements and has led to a policy environment where evidence-based policymaking prioritizes practical effectiveness over political and ethical considerations, resulting in the marginalization of alternative viewpoints and the narrowing of democratic discourse. The dominance of economic liberalism and ordo-liberalism has shaped policy evaluation methodologies, favoring short-term effectiveness and quantitative measures while often neglecting broader impacts like income distribution. Additionally, the increasing use of AI in legislative processes may further entrench this “what works” paradigm, rendering traditional policy development obsolete. The paper concludes by emphasizing the importance of embracing diverse perspectives and fostering debate to ensure the vitality of liberal democracy.
Generalized Positive Energy Representations of the Group of Compactly Supported Diffeomorphisms
Authors: Janssens Bas , Niestijl Milan
Published: January 2025

Motivated by asymptotic symmetry groups in general relativity, we consider projective unitary representations

$$\overline{\rho }$$

ρ
¯

of the Lie group

$${{\,\textrm{Diff}\,}}_c(M)$$

Diff

c

(
M
)

of compactly supported diffeomorphisms of a smooth manifold M that satisfy a so-called generalized positive energy condition. In particular, this captures representations that are in a suitable sense compatible with a KMS state on the von Neumann algebra generated by

$$\overline{\rho }$$

ρ
¯

. We show that if M is connected and

$$\dim (M) > 1$$

dim
(
M
)
>
1

, then any such representation is necessarily trivial on the identity component

$${{\,\textrm{Diff}\,}}_c(M)_0$$

Diff

c

(
M
)

0

. As an intermediate step towards this result, we determine the continuous second Lie algebra cohomology

$$H^2_\textrm{ct}(\mathcal {X}_c(M), \mathbb {R})$$

H
ct
2

(

X
c

(
M
)

,
R
)

of the Lie algebra of compactly supported vector fields. This is subtly different from Gelfand–Fuks cohomology in view of the compact support condition.
Inoculum selection and hydraulic retention time impacts in a microbial fuel cell treating saline wastewater
Authors: Castellano-Hinojosa Antonio , Gallardo-Altamirano Manuel J. , Pozo Clementina , González-Martínez Alejandro , González-López Jesús
Published: January 2025

Microbial fuel cell (MFC) technology has received increased interest as a suitable approach for treating wastewater while producing electricity. However, there remains a lack of studies investigating the impact of inoculum type and hydraulic retention time (HRT) on the efficiency of MFCs in treating industrial saline wastewater. The effect of three different inocula (activated sludge from a fish-canning industry and two domestic wastewater treatment plants, WWTPs) on electrochemical and physicochemical parameters and the anodic microbiome of a two-chambered continuous-flow MFC was studied. For each inoculum, three different HRTs were tested (1 day, 3 days, and 6 days). The inoculum from the fish canning industry significantly increased voltage production (with a maximum value of 802 mV), power density (with a maximum value of 78 mW m−2), coulombic efficiency (with a maximum value of 19.3%), and organic removal rate (ORR) compared to the inocula from domestic WWTPs. This effect was linked to greater absolute and relative abundances of electroactive microorganisms (e.g., Geobacter, Desulfovibrio, and Rhodobacter) and predicted electron transfer genes in the anode microbiome likely due to better adaption to salinity conditions. The ORR and current production were also enhanced at shorter HRTs (1 day vs. 3 and 6 days) across all inocula. This effect was related to a greater abundance and diversity of bacterial communities at HRT of 1 day compared to longer HRTs. Our findings have important bioengineering implications and can help improve the performance of MFCs treating saline effluents such as those from the seafood industry.

Key points

• Inoculum type and HRT impact organic matter removal and current production.

• Changes in bioenergy generation were linked to the electroactive anodic microbiome.

• Shorter HRT favored increases in the performance of the MFC.

Graphical Abstract
Investigating the longitudinal bi-directional relationship between self-reported restrictive eating behaviours and sleep in UK adolescents within the Millennium Cohort Study
Authors: Opitz Marie-Christine , Gaggioni Giulia , Trompeter Nora , Rabelo-da-Ponte Francisco Diego , Desrivières Sylvane , Micali Nadia , Schmidt Ulrike , Sharpe Helen
Published: January 2025

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the longitudinal bi-directional relationship between self-reported restrictive eating behaviours and sleep characteristics within a sample of UK adolescents from the Millennium Cohort Study (MCS).

Method

Using a Structural Equation Modelling approach, the present study investigated the prospective associations between individual sleep behaviours (e.g., sleep timing, sleep onset latency, social jetlag) at age 14 and restrictive eating behaviours at age 17. Moreover, the association between restrictive eating behaviours (age 14) and self-reported sleep quality (age 17) was tested. A mediation analysis was conducted to explore the role of depressive symptoms in these relationships. In total, N = 6,041 young people provided self-report data at both timepoints (sweep 6 & 7) and a subsample of N = 2,164 additionally provided diary data on their sleep behaviours over two separate 24 h periods.

Results

Sleep indicators at age 14 did not significantly predict changes in restrictive eating behaviours across time. However, engagement in restrictive eating behaviours at age 14 significantly predicted poorer self-perceived sleep quality three years later (β = 0.06, SE = 0.01, p <.01). Depressive symptoms fully mediated this relationship (indirect effect: β = 0.05, SE = 0.04, p <.001).

Discussion

The present study provides evidence for a prospective positive association between restrictive eating behaviours and subsequent poorer sleep quality in a large, general population sample. Findings of the mediation analysis suggest mood as a potential target for tertiary prevention when addressing restrictive eating behaviours as an eating disorder risk factor in adolescents.
Die unionsrechtliche Regulierung von Hafenauffangeinrichtungen für Schiffsabfälle durch die PRF-Richtlinie
Authors: Schatz Valentin , Wanner Laura
Published: January 2025

Dieser Artikel analysiert den Regulierungsansatz der reformierten Richtlinie (EU) 2019/883 über
Hafenauffangeinrichtungen für die Abgabe von Abfällen von Schiffen (PRF-Richtlinie) am Beispiel
der Entsorgung von Ladungsrückständen fester Massengüter. Er untersucht den Anwendungsbereich
der PRF-Richtlinie und die wichtigsten Steuerungsinstrumente (Hafenauffangeinrichtungen, Abfallbewirtschaftungspläne,
Voranmeldepflicht, Pflicht zur Entladung von Schiffsabfällen, Kostendeckungssystem und Vollzug). Der
Artikel kommt zu dem Schluss, dass die PRF-Richtlinie einerseits einen wirksamen und innovativen Regelungsansatz
verfolgt, der ordnungsrechtliche Vorgaben mit (finanziellen) Anreizen für Schiffsabfälle im Allgemeinen
kombiniert. Andererseits nimmt die PRF-Richtlinie Ladungsrückstände von ihrem indirekten Steuerungsansatz
durch finanzielle Anreize aus, was die Wirksamkeit der PRF-Richtlinie in Bezug auf diese Kategorie von Schiffsabfällen
potenziell untergraben könnte.