bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The Role of Muscle Architecture as a Determinant of Functional Performance in Women With Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Cigercioglu Nazli , Bazancir‐Apaydin Zilan , Unuvar‐Yuksel Ezgi , Apaydin Hakan , Baltaci Gul , Guney‐Deniz Hande 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTBackground and PurposeKnee osteoarthritis (KOA) is associated with early muscular alterations and muscle weakness, which contribute to disease progression. However, limited knowledge exists regarding the potential exacerbation of lower extremity muscle architecture and its impact on functional performance. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between knee extensor and ankle plantar flexor muscle architecture, femoral cartilage thickness, age, body mass index (BMI), pain severity, and functional performance in middle‐aged women with KOA.MethodsA total of 87 patients diagnosed with KOA (mean age = 51.48 ± 4.89 years, mean BMI = 27.96 ± 4.66 kg/m2) were included in the study. Ultrasonography was used to assess muscle thickness, adipose tissue thickness, pennation angle, and the muscle/adipose tissue thickness ratio (MATR) of the Rectus Femoris (RF), Vastus Medialis (VM), Vastus Lateralis (VL), and Medial Gastrocnemius (MG) muscles. Physical performance was evaluated through the stair‐climbing test and the 10‐time sit to stand test. Pearson's correlation test and multiple linear regression analysis were used.ResultsThe pennation angle of the VL and pain level predicted sit to stand test results; the pennation angle of RF, age, BMI and pain level predicted stair‐climbing test results (p < 0.001). Femoral cartilage thickness at the medial condyle, intercondylar area, and lateral condyle correlated with performance in both tests (p < 0.001). Additionally, age, BMI, pain intensity, muscle thickness, pennation angle and MATR of RF, VL, and VM correlated with both functional tests (p < 0.05).DiscussionMuscle architecture alterations correlated with functional test results in patients with KOA. Understanding the influence of muscle architecture on functional parameters can facilitate the development of effective rehabilitation strategies to preserve and optimize patient function before it becomes compromised.Trial RegistrationEnrolled in clinical trials and awaiting approval.
Whole‐Body Vibration Without Visual Feedback on Postural Steadiness in Unilateral Trans‐Femoral Traumatic Amputees: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Elfeky Heba M. , Elfahl Ahmed M. , Mohamed Hanaa S. 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTBackgroundUnilateral traumatic trans‐femoral amputees exhibit a higher incidence of falling and become physically asymmetrical because the side that was amputated has different feelings and less muscle.ObjectivesTo explore the impact of Whole‐body vibration Without Visual Feedback (VFDWBV) on postural steadiness in unilateral traumatic trans‐ femoral amputees.MethodsA double‐blinded randomized controlled study of technology and information was conducted at a modern university. A total of 108 individuals, 40–55 years who had experienced a traumatic amputation of one leg above the knee were divided into three groups: group A received whole body vibration (WBV) with their eyes opened, group B received (VFDWBV), and group C received conservative treatment only. The stability of the prosthetic leg, stability limit, and sway index (m–CTSIB) were assessed at the beginning and after 12 weeks. Sessions occurred three times each week.ResultsSignificant statistical differences were seen in the stability of prosthetic legs, the limit of stability, and (m–CTSIB) between groups A and B, considering the treatment interaction (F = 24.8, p = 0.001). Additionally, the group receiving VFDWBV showed a more significant improvement in postural steadiness than those receiving WBV and the control group.ConclusionUtilizing VFDWBV at a frequency of 30 HZ can significantly enhance the stability of posture in individuals with unilateral traumatic trans‐femoral amputations.Trial RegistrationThe study was registered with the Clinical Trials.gov (NCT06284733).
Role of AMP‐activated protein kinase in regulating hatching of Nilaparvata lugens
Authors: Zhang Chao , Zhu Jin‐Xian , Abou El‐Ela Amr S , Wang Ni , Ali Soomro Abid , Shi Zhe‐Yi , Zhou Ying , Khan Muhammad Musa , Zhou Wen‐Wu , Zhu Zeng‐Rong 
Published: February 2025

AbstractBACKGROUNDRNA interference (RNAi) has been proposed as a promising strategy for sustainable and eco‐friendly pest management. Nutrient and energy signals are vital for embryonic development and hatching in insects. A key player in cellular energy sensing is adenosine monophosphate (AMP)‐activated protein kinase (AMPK), which functions in embryonic development and hatching, and remains poorly understood.RESULTSIn this study, we identified the three subunits of the NlAMPK gene, NlAMPKα, NlAMPKβ, and NlAMPKγ, in the brown planthopper (BPH), Nilaparvata lugens. Quantitative real‐time PCR analysis showed that all these three subunits were highly expressed in eggs and ovaries. RNAi of NlAMPKα, NlAMPKβ, and NlAMPKγ in newly emerged BPH females resulted in hatching failure of the eggs they laid. Transcriptomic analysis identified a significant down‐regulation of a chitinase (NlChit) gene's transcription on the NlAMPK subunits’ knockdown. Notably, NlChit knockdown led to up‐regulation of the three NlAMPK subunits, and reduced hatchability and thicker serosal cuticle.CONCLUSIONOur findings demonstrate that NlAMPK could serve as a potential RNAi target for BPH control, and its mechanism is probably by down‐regulating the expression of NlChit. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.
Preventative insecticides reduce seedling injury, but do not increase yield in Bt and non‐Bt corn grown in the mid‐Atlantic
Authors: Cramer Maria E , Hamby Kelly A 
Published: February 2025

AbstractBACKGROUNDField corn production systems rely on preventative insect management tactics, including hybrids expressing plant‐incorporated protectants that are treated with neonicotinoid seed treatments and sometimes in‐furrow pyrethroids. While effective seedling pest control can be crucial because of the cost of replanting, these treatments target many of the same pests and may add unnecessary costs for growers. Furthermore, seedling pests in the Mid‐Atlantic tend to be sporadic, and preventative insecticides may negatively impact natural enemies. To better understand the value of common preventative tactics, we evaluated pest pressure and compared a neonicotinoid seed treatment (clothianidin) and an in‐furrow pyrethroid (bifenthrin) in Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) and non‐Bt corn hybrids.RESULTSIn Bt hybrids, the in‐furrow pyrethroid did not decrease pest injury, increase stand, or increase yield, while the neonicotinoid seed treatment decreased pest injury and increased stand but did not increase yield. In a non‐Bt hybrid, both insecticides decreased pest injury, but neither increased stand or yield. Above‐ and below‐ground pest injury was scarce throughout the study, but even in the site‐year with the most extensive injury, insecticides did not result in yield gains.CONCLUSIONImplementing efficient economically and environmentally sustainable corn pest management requires a thorough understanding of the contributions of each component of the pest control system. By thoroughly exploring pest pressure in Bt and non‐Bt systems, this study shows that preventative insecticide use could be scaled back in many cases, especially given the environmental and economic costs associated with them. © 2025 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Attraction of cabbage stem flea beetle (Psylliodes chrysocephala) to host plant odors
Authors: Rüde Daniel , Ulber Bernd , Cook Samantha M. , Rostás Michael 
Published: February 2025

AbstractBACKGROUNDOilseed rape (OSR, Brassica napus) faces substantial yield losses in Europe due to the cabbage stem flea beetle (CSFB, Psylliodes chrysocephala). Synthetic insecticide use is constrained by resistance and environmental concerns, necessitating innovative pest control strategies. Understanding CSFB host plant selection, particularly through volatile organic compounds (VOCs), is essential for developing sustainable and efficient methods. This study investigated the olfactory response of CSFB in their pre‐aestivation stage to plant VOCs.RESULTSOlfactometer bioassays showed that female CSFB were attracted to VOCs from mechanically damaged OSR plants (BBCH 10 and BBCH 14), while undamaged OSR plants elicited no response. Damaged seedlings of Sinapis alba and Brassica rapa were not attractive. When testing individual isothiocyanates, again only female CSFB showed a positive response in the olfactometer bioassays, while no response was found for two green leaf volatiles.CONCLUSIONThis research provides insights into the olfactory behavior of CSFB and, to our knowledge, is the first to show behavioral responses of adult CSFB towards host plant volatiles in olfactometer tests. Interestingly, only females responded to VOCs, suggesting sexual dimorphism in olfactory sensitivity during this life stage. These findings may help to lay the groundwork for further studies aimed at improving pest management strategies in OSR cultivation. © 2025 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Contemporary American Literature in Distance Learning: Creating Reading Motivation and Student Engagement
Authors: Yu Lide , Cai Lianghui 
Published: February 2025

AbstractThe effectiveness of distance learning primarily depends on the motivation and engagement of students. The aim of this article is to determine whether the developed online course enhances students' motivation to read and their engagement with contemporary American literature. The methodology is based on an experimental design. A mixed‐methods approach was employed for data analysis, combining statistical data analysis (t‐test) with qualitative survey methods (pre‐ and post‐testing). The study was conducted with a sample of 150 Chinese students from two universities (Leshan Normal University and Wuhan Qingchuan University), who took the “Contemporary American Literature” course from September to December 2022. The pre‐and post‐testing data indicate significant improvements across most parameters. For instance, reading efficiency, students' confidence in their reading abilities, and their potential to succeed in reading tasks increased by 21.4%; the “Challenge” dimension showed a notable growth of 17.2%; curiosity rose by 16.7%; and engagement in reading also increased by 18.5%. This demonstrates that students developed a greater interest in stories, particularly those related to fantasy, mystery, and adventure, and formed a deeper connection with characters and narratives. Most notably, avoidance of reading tasks decreased by 16.7%, which is a positive outcome as it indicates a reduced likelihood of students avoiding reading assignments. Given the large sample size, the critical t‐value is approximately 1.96. Since all t‐values exceed the critical value of 1.96, the null hypothesis was rejected in favor of the alternative hypothesis for each dimension. This indicates that the course had a statistically significant impact on the students' motivation and engagement in reading. The practical significance of these results underscores the potential of contemporary American literature courses, particularly those utilizing interactive methods in distance learning.
The Influence of Environmental Variables on the Carbon Performance of Water Companies Across Time
Authors: Molinos‐Senante Maria , Maziotis Alexandros 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTOne of the main challenges that water companies face is to reduce carbon footprint in their transition to carbon neutrality. Past research assessing carbon performance of water companies has mostly ignored heterogeneity among the water companies evaluated. To overcome this limitation, this study employed a parametric metafrontier approach to assess and compare carbon performance of a sample of English and Welsh water companies, embracing water and sewerage companies (WaSCs) and water‐only companies (WoCs). This method allows for a comparison of the carbon performance of these two types of companies and analyses the impact of environmental variables on their performance. It was evidenced that water treatment complexity, main source of raw water, and population density significantly influence carbon performance of water companies. The average carbon efficiency for WaSCs was 0.816, indicating marginally superior performance compared to WoSCs, which had an average carbon efficiency of 0.803. Regarding carbon productivity between 2011 and 2020, WoSCs demonstrated an annual improvement in carbon performance of 2.9%, while WaSCs showed an annual decrease in carbon productivity of 4.2%. The insights gained from this study are highly significant for policymakers focused on transitioning the water industry toward net‐zero carbon emissions.
Tissue Clearing and Its Application in Nanoparticle Development
Authors: Rong Zhouyi , Ertürk Ali , Tang Yamei , Mai Hongcheng 
Published: February 2025

AbstractNanoparticles are widely used in biomedical applications due to their small size, large surface area, and unique physicochemical properties. These characteristics make them ideal for drug delivery, diagnostic imaging, and therapeutic interventions. Their ability to interact with biological systems at the cellular and molecular levels enables targeted treatments. Understanding the biodistribution of nanoparticles at the cellular level within whole organisms is crucial for assessing their safety and effectiveness; however, proper technologies have been lacking to achieve this. For example, traditional imaging techniques like magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) often lack the resolution needed, while tissue‐section‐based methods miss the whole‐body systemic view. Recent tissue clearing methods have emerged as a promising solution for 3D visualization of nanoparticles in entire organs, as they enable cellular‐level imaging of whole organisms without the need for sectioning. This review explores advancements in diverse tissue clearing techniques and their application in studying nanoparticle biodistribution, providing insights crucial for the development of nanoparticle‐based therapies.
Advanced Ir‐Based Alloy Electrocatalysts for Proton Exchange Membrane Water Electrolyzers
Authors: Yang Yuan , Chen Dongfang , Hu Song , Pei Pucheng , Xu Xiaoming 
Published: February 2025

AbstractProton exchange membrane water electrolyzer (PEMWE) coupled with renewable energy to produce hydrogen is an important part of clean energy acquisition in the future. However, the slow kinetics of the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) hinder the large‐scale application of PEM water electrolysis technology. To deal with the problems existing in the PEM electrolyzer and improve the electrolysis efficiency, substantial efforts are invested in the development of cost‐effective and stable electrocatalysts. Within this scenario, the different OER reaction mechanisms are first discussed here. Based on the in‐depth understanding of the reaction mechanism, the research progress of low‐iridium noble metal alloys is reviewed from the aspects of special effects, design strategies, reaction mechanisms, and synthesis methods. Finally, the challenges and prospects of the future development of high‐efficiency and low‐precious metal OER electrocatalysts are presented.
Fabrication of Silicon Surface Microstructures via Vortex Femtosecond Laser Irradiation for Reusable Substrates in SERS Applications
Authors: Du Wenhan , Zhao Bing , Lun Yinghao , Hu Yueming , Geng Yuanhai , Zhou Yifan , Zhao Xiaona , Wang Xuan 
Published: February 2025

AbstractSurface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) is a key technique in analytical chemistry because of its exceptional sensitivity and specificity for detecting a broad spectrum of substances. Herein, a silicon (Si) substrate fabricated using vortex femtosecond laser beams in ambient air is proposed as an innovative, highly sensitive, and reusable platform for advanced SERS applications. The substrate has composite nanostructures adorned with bush‐like formations on top of the elongated structures, which is a direct consequence of the orbital angular momentum of the vortex beam. Simulations conducted using COMSOL provide valuable insights into the distribution of hot spots and electromagnetic field across the substrate surface after gold nanoparticles deposition, underscoring the superior SERS detection capabilities of the fabricated substrate using vortex beams as compared to those processed by Gaussian beams. The vortex‐fabricated substrate possesses remarkable reusability, stability, and time‐resistance. It exhibited outstanding detection performance for malachite green and microcystin‐LR, achieving limits of detection values of 3.91 pM and 2.69 pg·mL−1, respectively. Therefore, the Si substrates fabricated using a vortex femtosecond laser beam is an ideal candidate for advancing SERS sensors to new heights.
Sulfur Vacancy‐Induced Enhancement of Piezocatalytic H2 Production in MoS2
Authors: Mondal Sneha , Dilly Rajan Karthik , Patra Lokanath , Rathinam Maheswaran , Ganesh Vattikondala 
Published: February 2025

AbstractThis study explores the role of S vacancies in MoS2 in enhancing its piezocatalytic efficiency. Sulfur vacancies in the crystal lattice introduce localized changes in the electronic structure and charge distribution, improving the material's piezoelectric response. Characterization of the catalysts involved techniques like field‐emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Electrochemical measurements, including impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and Mott–Schottky (M‐S) analysis, are performed to assess the piezocatalytic performance. The study also employed density functional theory (DFT) calculations to investigate the electronic structure and hydrogen adsorption properties of MoS2 with S vacancies. The results demonstrated that S‐deficient MoS2 significantly enhanced piezocatalytic H2 evolution. The piezocatalytic H2 production rates of MoS2 with different vacancy concentrations are measured under ultrasonic vibration. The sample with an optimal vacancy concentration (MS‐1) exhibited the highest H2 production rate of 1423.29 µmol g−1 h−1, compared to 439.06 µmol g−1 h−1 for pristine MoS2 (MS‐0). The improved performance is attributed to the increased piezoelectric polarization and efficient charge separation facilitated by S vacancies.
A Hydrogel Electrolyte‐Based Zn−CO2 Battery with Improved Life
Authors: Sun Xinyi , Wen Zhang , Liu Yiwen , Zhang Min , Li Wei , Sheng Chuanchao , Yang Sixie , Zhou Haoshen , He Ping 
Published: February 2025

AbstractEnvironmental‐friendly aqueous Zn−CO2 batteries present bifunctional potentials of achieving carbon neutrality and energy storage. Nonetheless, anode corrosions derived from H2O molecules and high risks of volatilization and leakage hinder the advancement of Zn−CO2 batteries. In this work, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)‐based hydrogel electrolyte with fast ion diffusion kinetics, high mechanical strength, and flexibility is developed to replace liquid electrolyte. Since hydroxyl radicals in the polymer chain can interact with H2O and Zn2+, electrode corrosion from free H2O and active H2O around Zn2+ is significantly inhibited, facilitating the uniform deposition of Zn2+ cations. The introduction of an ionic liquid plasticizer further enhances the interaction between Zn2+ and polymer backbone, as well as amorphous extent of the electrolyte. The hydrogel electrolyte possesses adequate self‐healing ability, whose ionic conductivity reaches 7.95 × 10−3 S cm−1. The symmetric Zn metal batteries containing the electrolyte remain steady for >2000 h under different current densities. Furthermore, the Zn−CO2 battery based on Ru nanoparticles cathode and hydrogel electrolyte realizes a discharge capacity of 6028 mAh g−1 and stable cyclicity for 90 times. The reaction path of hydrogel electrolyte‐based Zn−CO2 battery is that CO2 is reduced to ZnCO3 and C species followed by reversible decomposition of discharge products on recharge.
Size Effect and Interfacial Synergy Enhancement of 2D Ultrathin CoxZn1−x‐MOF/rGO for Boosting Lithium–Sulfur Battery Performance
Authors: Dong Yutao , Jin Ziqian , Peng Huaiqi , Wang Meili , Ma Shiyu , Li Xin , Ren Yunlai , Xie Lixia , Zhang Jianmin 
Published: February 2025

AbstractAdvanced cathode materials are developed to tackle the challenges of the polysulfide shuttle effect and slow sulfur redox kinetics in Li–S batteries. A particularly effective strategy is the creation of nanostructured sulfur‐host, which boast high levels of conductivity and catalytic activity. Here, a series of ultrathin cobalt–zinc bimetallic MOFs with varying ratios are synthesized on rGO via a one‐pot hydrothermal process. Furthermore, graphene's high specific surface area enhances electrical conductivity and structural integrity, thereby promoting the growth of 2D MOFs and synergistically optimizing sulfur contact and conversion kinetics. The CoxZn1‐x‐MOF/rGO has a disordered structure, resulting from the fine‐tuned ratio of cobalt to zinc in the bimetallic centers, generates active sites and modulates the electronic properties, thereby enhancing LiPSs adsorption and catalysis serve as sulfur hosts. Among the composites, the Co0.75Zn0.25‐MOF/rGO demonstrated exceptional LiPSs adsorption and catalytic activity, resulting in a high capacity of 649.69 mA h g−1 after the 250th cycle with an E/S ratio of 12.56 µL mg−1 at 0.2 C. This work deepens the insights into the controlled design of defective MOFs, modulating their structure‐activity correlations, and is expected to facilitate the integration of ultrathin defective MOFs with carbonaceous composites, thereby advancing the development of Li–S batteries.
Layer‐by‐Layer Assembly of Graphene Oxide and Silver Nanowire Thin Films with Interdigitated Nanostructure in Dendrite Suppressions of Li‐Metal Batteries
Authors: Won Sojeong , Jung Arum , Lim Kyeong Yeon , Cho Jinhan , Son Jeong Gon , Lim Hee‐Dae , Yeom Bongjun 
Published: February 2025

AbstractReducing the thickness of the Li‐metal anode is key to enhancing the energy density of batteries. However, poor initial lithium deposition on Cu current collectors can exacerbate the growth of lithium dendrites and limit performance. This study explores innovative strategies by fabricating graphene oxide (GO) and silver nanowire (AgNW) thin films onto Cu‐foil using the layer‐by‐layer (LbL) assembly method. The homogeneous LbL thin films are prepared with the assistance of bifunctional cross‐linkers, such as cysteamine, to strengthen the intermolecular interactions between the nano‐building blocks. The GO/AgNW LbL thin films possess a highly interdigitated nanostructure that combines the synergistic advantages of the individual building components. The GO layers facilitate the distribution of Li‐ionic flux through the films, which promotes the formation of stable solid electrolyte interphase layers. In addition, the AgNW layers provide electrical pathways and serve as nucleation sites for Li─Ag alloy reactions. These combined effects lead to a flat and stable initial Li‐deposition, as well as dense and compact Li growth, without significant dendrite formation. The full cell tests show excellent cycle longevity, 430 cycles with an N/P ratio of 3.36 at 1 C and 250 cycles with an N/P ratio of 1.81 at 3 C.