bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pharmaceutical Manipulation of Mitochondrial F0F1‐ATP Synthase Enables Imaging and Protection of Myocardial Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury Through Stress‐induced Selective Enrichment
Authors: Chen Zelin , Tan Xu , Jin Taotao , Wang Yu , Dai Linyong , Shen Gufang , Zhang Can , Qu Langfan , Long Lei , Shen Chongxing , Cao Xiaohui , Wang Jianwu , Li Huijuan , Yue Xiaofeng , Shi Chunmeng
Published: December 2023

To rescue ischemic myocardium from progressing to myocardial infarction, timely identification of the infarct size and reperfusion is crucial. However, fast and accurate identification, as well as the targeted protection of injured cardiomyocytes following ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury, remain significantly challenging. Here, a near infrared heptamethine dye IR‐780 is shown that has the potential to quickly monitor the area at risk following I/R injury by selectively entering the cardiomyocytes of the at‐risk heart tissues. Preconditioning with IR‐780 or timely IR‐780 administration before reperfusion significantly protects the heart from ischemia and oxidative stress‐induced cell death, myocardial remodeling, and heart failure in both rat and pig models. Furthermore, IR‐780 can directly bind to F0F1‐ATP synthase of cardiomyocytes, rapidly decrease the mitochondrial membrane potential, and subsequently slow down the mitochondrial energy metabolism, which induces the mitochondria into a “quiescent state” and results in mitochondrial permeability transition pore inhibition by preventing mitochondrial calcium overload. Collectively, the findings show the feasibility of IR‐780‐based imaging and protection strategy for I/R injury in a preclinical context and indicate that moderate mitochondrial function depression is a mode of action that can be targeted in the development of cardioprotective reagents.
To DISP or Not? The Far‐Reaching Reaction Mechanisms Underpinning Lithium‐Air Batteries
Authors: Jethwa Rajesh B. , Mondal Soumyadip , Pant Bhargavi , Freunberger Stefan A.
Published: December 2023

The short history of research on Li−O2 batteries has seen a remarkable number of mechanistic U‐turns over the years. From the initial use of carbonate electrolytes, that were then found to be entirely unsuitable, to the belief that (su)peroxide was solely responsible for degradation, before the more reactive singlet oxygen was found to form, to the hypothesis that capacity depends on a competing surface/solution mechanism before a practically exclusive solution mechanism was identified. Herein, we argue for an ever‐fresh look at the reported data without bias towards supposedly established explanations. We explain how the latest findings on rate and capacity limits, as well as the origin of side reactions, are connected via the disproportionation (DISP) step in the (dis)charge mechanism. Therefrom, directions emerge for the design of electrolytes and mediators on how to suppress side reactions and to enable high rate and high reversible capacity.
Swelling effect on the microwave pyrolysis of waste car tires
Authors: Song Zhanlong , Tao Shuanghua , Han Yuankai , Hu Yuting , Zhao Xiqiang , Wang Wenlong , Mao Yanpeng , Sun Jing
Published: December 2023

Swelling can change the mechanical properties and structural characteristics of waste car tires (WCTs), so that the rubber molecular chain stretching, porousness becomes larger, which is conducive to improving the mass transfer effect and pyrolysis efficiency. Based on the modification characteristics of swelling, the swelling effects of different swelling agents, temperatures, tire types, and particle sizes were investigated. The results showed that coal tar can effectively swell WCTs, and the higher temperature and smaller particle size, contribute to better swelling. When the temperature is 40°C and the particle size is 1 × 1 cm, the equilibrium mass absorption rate of WCTs can reach up to 1.67 g/g, and the swelling effect is the best. In addition, combined with the unique microwave advantages, the swelling rate was further accelerated, WCTs reached swelling saturation 58.5 h earlier than in natural swelling. Moreover, the swelling effect on the three‐phase product output of microwave pyrolysis of WCTs was investigated. After swelling treatment, we achieved the deeper pyrolysis degree of WCTs and the yield of pyrolysis oil was relatively increased by about 39.2%, while the yield of both gases and solids decreased.
Enhancement in the mechanical properties of in situ microfibrillar PLA/POE composites
Authors: Sun Jing , Li Jian , Huang Anrong , Li Juan , Luo Shanshan , Shi Min , Gao Chengtao , Luo Zhu
Published: December 2023

In situ microfibrillar poly(lactic acid) (PLA)/polyolefin elastomer (POE) composites (MFCs) with and without compatibilizer POE‐g‐GMA were prepared using a multistage stretching equipment. The results showed that the distribution of PLA inside the POE matrix for the MFCs without compatibilizer was in the form of microfibrils, and most of the PLA microfibrils were well‐oriented and arranged in the matrix. Further, the high PLA content was more likely to form longer PLA microfibrils in MFCs. With the increase in the amount of POE‐g‐GMA for (PLA/POE, 20/80) system, the length of PLA microfibrils significantly decreased, whereas the average diameter increased. The addition of 2 wt% POE‐g‐GMA increased the tensile strength and elongation at the break of POE‐20‐2 by 52.7% and 53.5%, respectively, and the crystallization temperature increased by about 4°C.
Characterization of the molecular structure of masticated natural rubber using rheological techniques
Authors: Jiang Shuangyan , Kong Hao , Luo Kangyu , Wang Maohui , Yong Zhanfu
Published: December 2023

Mastication can improve the plasticity and reduce the molar mass of natural rubber (NR). The end product properties greatly depend on the efficiency of mastication. For NR before and after mastication, the changes in molecular properties are mainly attributed to the effects of mechanical and thermo‐oxidative degradation. We investigated the variations in molecular weight, molecular weight distribution, degree of branching, and thermal stability of NR after mastication at 35, 75, and 110 rpm for 20 min. The results show that NR has a smaller molecular weight, broader molecular weight distribution, and a lower degree of structural branching at higher rotor speeds. Additionally, the rheological measurements were compared with gel permeation chromatography results, and the comparative outcomes reflect a strong correlation between these data. Rheological analysis reveals considerable complex relationships, and this measurement is more efficient, simple, and convenient than the other technique.
A Mobile Health Application Integrated in the Electronic Health Record for Rheumatoid Arthritis Patient–Reported Outcomes: A Controlled Interrupted Time‐Series Analysis of Impact on Visit Efficiency
Authors: Solomon Daniel H. , Altwies Hallie , Santacroce Leah , Ellrodt Jack , Pham Tammy , Stratton Jacklyn , Landman Adam , Dalal Anuj , Collins Jamie , Rudin Robert S.
Published: December 2023

Objective

Patient‐reported outcome (PRO) collection between visits for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) could improve visit efficiency, reducing in‐person visits for patients with stable symptoms while facilitating access for those with symptoms. We examined whether a mobile health PRO application integrated in the electronic health record (EHR) could reduce visit volume for those with RA.

Methods

We developed an application for RA that prompted patients every other day to complete brief PRO questionnaires. Results of the application were integrated into the EHR. We tested the application in a controlled interrupted time‐series analysis between 2020 and 2023. Rheumatologists received EHR‐based messages based on PRO results recommending the patient receive a visit earlier or later than scheduled. The primary outcome was monthly visit volume during the year before versus the year after initiation.

Results

A total of 150 patients with RA consented and used the application. The median age was 62 years, 83% were female, 7% had fewer than 2 years of disease, and 50% were seropositive; 150 controls were well matched. Among those in the application cohort, the estimated monthly median visit volume in the year before use of the application was 31.2 (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 28.0–34.3); in controls, this was 30.4 (95% CI 27.3–33.6). In the year using the application, the estimated monthly visit volume was 36.8 (95% CI 33.4–40.3) compared to 38.7 (95% CI 35.2–42.3) in controls. The difference in the differences between the cohorts was not statistically significant (−2.7 visits, 95% CI −9.3 to 4.0). No differences were noted in flare rates or visit delays.

Conclusion

In this initial trial of a PRO application intervention to improve visit efficiency, we found no association with reduced visit volume.

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Ultrasound intensification of two‐stage biodiesel production: optimization for palm empty fruit bunch oil as a palm oil industry by‐product
Authors: Seithtanabutara Varinrumpai , Pholsawang Thanaphol , Wongwuttanasatian Tanakorn
Published: December 2023

Palm empty fruit bunch oil (palm EFB oil) is a waste product that can be used to produce biodiesel at a low cost. However, high free fatty acid (FFA) content is the primary obstacle to biodiesel production. Before the transesterification process can begin, the oil must be esterified to reduce its acid content. This study seeks to employ dual‐frequency ultrasound at frequencies of 28 kHz (200 W) and 40 kHz (200 W) to aid in the esterification and transesterification of ZSM‐5‐38 and CaO catalysts, respectively. Central composite design and response surface methodology were used to determine the optimal conditions for the three primary parameters of methanol to oil (M:O molar ratio), catalyst loading and reaction time. A 12:1 M:O molar ratio, 11.36 wt% catalyst loading (ZSM‐5‐38) and 60 min of reaction duration were the optimal conditions for esterification to achieve a FFA conversion of 91.51%. The reusability of ZSM‐5‐38 revealed a decrease in FFA conversions of 87.36, 75.11, 67.13 and 58.68% with each reused cycle. The optimal transesterification conditions were a 3.28:1 M:O molar ratio, 4.62 wt% catalyst loading (CaO) and 64 min of reaction time, yielding 83.58% biodiesel. The viscosity value (D 445), the flash point (D 93) and the heating value (ASTM D240) of biodiesel produced under optimal conditions were evaluated. The biodiesel properties were determined to be 4.7931 mm2/s, 176°C and 40 398 kJ/kg, respectively.
Unexpected Low Temperature Activity with Low N2O Emission of Stabilized Al‐rich Zeolite Beta for Selective Catalytic Reduction of NOx
Authors: Yu Jingyun , Iyoki Kenta , Elangovan Shanmugam P. , Fujinuma Haruko , Okubo Tatsuya , Wakihara Toru
Published: December 2023

The low temperature activity of Fe‐loaded zeolites as selective catalytic reduction of NOx by NH3 (NH3‐SCR) catalysts is a critical drawback for practical application. Here, we found unexpected improvement of low temperature activity by our proposed post‐synthetic treatment. An Al‐rich zeolite beta (Si/Al=5) is employed as the catalyst support, and the parent sample is dealuminated for higher hydrothermal stability, followed by the liquid‐mediated stabilization treatment and impregnation. It is found that stabilized samples feature excellent low temperature activity and high N2 selectivity even for a long‐term operation, along with the ability to maintain high NOx conversion after aging. The improved SCR activity should be attributed to abundant acid sites in Al‐rich framework and better stabilization of monomeric iron species after the stabilization treatment. Furthermore, the low yield of side product N2O is probably due to the absence of the generation of NH4NO3 during NH3‐SCR catalyzed by Fe‐loaded zeolites.
Hexakispyrazolylethane: New Strategy for Stabilization of Hexaarylethane
Authors: Takemasa Yuta , Nozaki Kyoko
Published: December 2023

Hexakis(4‐trimethylsilylpyrazol‐1‐yl)ethane was synthesized by the oxidative dimerization of tris(4‐trimethylsilylpyrazol‐1‐yl)methane. Single‐crystal X‐ray structural analysis of hexakis(4‐trimethylsilylpyrazol‐1‐yl)ethane showed that the ethane C−C bond (1.623(4) Å) is shorter than that in hexaphenylethane (1.67(3) Å). In solution, hexakis(4‐trimethylsilylpyrazol‐1‐yl)ethane existed as a single species, contrastive that conventional hexaphenylethanes can keep the central C−C bond only by the aid of additional bridges between the two triarylmethyl units. Theoretical calculations indicated that the tris(pyrazol‐1‐yl)methyl radical, which is anticipated to be under equilibrium with hexakis(pyrazol‐1‐yl)ethane, is less stable than trityl radicals due to lack of delocalization of the radicals. Furthermore, introduction of pyrazole groups allowed additional bridging between the two triarylmethyl moieties through metal coordination to the adjacent N atoms: hexakis(4‐trimethylsilylpyrazol‐1‐yl)ethane exhibited unique coordination to three Ag atoms affording a hexaarylethane analog bearing three N−Ag−N bridges.
A fog‐driven three‐factor authentication protocol for secure data sharing in Internet of Vehicles cyber‐physical systems
Authors: Katyal Siddharth , Gupta Shashank , Rawlley Oshin , Ghosh Debjani
Published: December 2023

The Internet of Vehicles (IoV) has potentially escalated the management of vehicle and route planning. However, as the IoV becomes more prevalent, safeguarding the privacy and security of IoV data becomes crucial. Additionally, because vehicles often operate with minimal human interference, they become susceptible to various types of attacks that can compromise their privacy and security. In this article, we propose a three‐factor authentication system based on CROPUF (Crossover Ring Oscillator Physically Unclonable Function) that not only secures transmissions but also ensures safety against physical intervention. The three‐factor authentication protocol (passwords, biometrics, and PUF) avoids registering any confidential information in the user device eliminating the possibility of intrusion by an intruder. We also propose the use of aggregators (charging stations that act as mediators between the IoV and the data center) as a fog layer communication which will reduce load and improve the efficiency of communication between vehicles and the data center. Finally, the security analysis validates that our proposed method can survive several well‐known assaults and achieve the required features of security by maintaining the user anonymity.
Utilization of Nickel Ferrite (NiFe2O4) in Hematite (α‐Fe2O3) Photoanode for Photoelectrochemical Water Splitting as a Blocking Layer
Authors: Lee Na Kyung , Sohn Woon Yong
Published: December 2023

We found a new blocking layer (nickel ferrite, NiFe2O4), that could be utilized for the suppression of the back recombination, occurring in the hematite (α‐Fe2O3) photoanode. The photoanode in which the NiFe2O4 layer was introduced showed a cathodic shift of the onset potential in the current density versus applied voltage curve. We successfully demonstrated that the NiFe2O4 layer effectively inhibited the back recombination in the hematite film through the use of electrochemical and time‐resolved spectroscopic methods.
Efficient Noble‐Metal‐Free Integration Electrolysis for Solar H2 and Supercapacitor Electrode Coproduction in Acidic Water
Authors: Zhu Zhiwei , Zhao Xin , Xia Bao Yu , You Bo
Published: December 2023

Solar driven proton exchange membrane water electrolysis (PEMWE) is of great promise for stable and high‐purity H2 production, but often limited by the serious partial loading issue due to the intermittent nature of solar energy, the kinetically sluggish oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and the usage of noble metal‐based anodes (e. g., Pt, Ir, and Ru). Herein, we report an efficient integrated water electrolysis by replacing OER with favorable pyrrole electrooxidation polymerization for H2 generation in acidic solutions, wherein nonprecious Co2P and carbon cloth (CC) served as cathode and anode, respectively. A voltage of only 1.0 V was needed to afford 10 mA cm−2, 590 mV smaller than that in traditional PEMWE based on noble Pt/C@RuO2 benchmark couple. Moreover, simple carbonization of the resulting polypyrrole/CC at anode yielded a supercapacitor electrode with a high specific capacitance of 290 F g−1 at 1 A g−1 and robust stability, which then functioned as energy reservoir to alleviate the partial loading issue for coproduction of solar H2 and supercapacitor electrode.
Numerical study of limits of neoclassical theory in the plateau regime in the presence of impurities
Authors: Iorio Riccardo Nicolò , Kiviniemi T. P. , Hirvijoki E. , Chône L. , Janhunen S. , Albert F. , Leerink S.
Published: December 2023

This paper presents a numerical simulation to test the corrections to the radial electric field in the presence of impurities for tokamak devices whose main ions are in the plateau regime. The effects due to the presence of impurity density variation in a pedestal tokamak are known to generate conditions where conventional neoclassical theory is no longer valid. It is found that for a specific axisymmetric concentric magnetic field, the presence of steep radial gradients for both temperature and density translates in a correction to the radial electric field. We anticipate that comparisons to the Landreman–Fülöp–Guszejnov model display good agreement for both the analytic approximation and numerically solved value of the normalized density when low impurity concentration and atomic charge state cases are considered, coupled with values of the ordering parameter . Higher values of the latter reveal better agreement to the neoclassical Hazeltine–Hinton formula, suggesting a discrepancy with the validity threshold of the model.
Why cuckoos remove host eggs: Biting eggs facilitates faster parasitic egg‐laying
Authors: Wang Longwu , Zhao Huahua , Yan Hanlin , Feeney William E. , Liang Wei
Published: December 2023

Brood parasitism by cuckoos relies on manipulating hosts to raise their offspring and has evolved stunning adaptations to aid in their deception. The fact that cuckoos usually but not always, remove one or two host eggs while laying their eggs has been a longstanding focus of intensive research. However, the benefit of this behavior remains elusive. Moreover, the recently proposed help delivery hypothesis, predicting that egg removal by cuckoos may decrease the egg‐laying duration in the parasitism process caused by biting action, lacks experimental verification. Therefore, in this study, we examined the effects of egg removal/biting on the egg‐laying speed in the common cuckoo (Cuculus canorus) to experimentally test this hypothesis. We compared the duration of cuckoo egg‐laying in empty nests, nests with host eggs, and nests with artificial blue stick models to test whether cuckoos biting an egg/stick can significantly hasten the egg‐laying speed than no biting action. Our results showed that biting an egg or an object is associated with cuckoos laying approximately 37% faster than when they do not bite an egg or an object. This study provides the first experimental evidence for the help delivery hypothesis and demonstrates that when cuckoos bite eggs or other objects in the nest, they lay eggs more quickly and thereby avoid suffering the hosts' injurious attack.
Variation in flower size and shape of Impatiens capensis is correlated with urbanization in Montreal, Canada
Authors: Faure Julie , Volz Valentine , Joly Simon
Published: December 2023

Urbanization is changing the conditions in which many species live, forcing them to adjust to these novel environments. Floral size and shape are critical traits for the reproduction of plants pollinated by animals as they are involved in the attraction of pollinators and in efficient pollination. Variation in size and shape could be affected by urbanization via its modification of the abiotic environment (habitat fragmentation, water availability, temperature, soil properties), or via its impact on the biotic environment of plants (pollination, herbivory). Although numerous studies have assessed the impact of urbanization on pollinator communities and many plant traits, few have investigated its impact on floral size and shape while quantifying the proportion of the total urbanization effect that is due to biotic interactions. In this study, we tested if urbanization and pollinator visitation rates affect the flower shape of the spotted jewelweed, Impatiens capensis. We quantified the size and shape of flowers in frontal and profile views using geometric morphometrics for 228 individuals from six populations from the region of Montreal, Canada. Pollinator visitation rates were estimated at each site and the main pollinators were found to be bumblebees, honeybees and hummingbirds. We found that floral size and shape are significantly correlated with urbanization as measured by the amount of vegetation in the surrounding environment of the plants (mean normalized vegetation index, NDVI) and by the visitation rates of bumblebees and honey bees. Partitioning of the total flower shape variation suggests that urbanization affects flower shape through abiotic factors and via its impact on pollinator visitation rates. While further studies from other cities are necessary to confirm the role of urbanization in shaping the floral shape of I. capensis, these results support the idea that urbanization could affect flower shapes.
Ion mobility in gas and liquid phases: How much orthogonality is obtained in capillary electrophoresis–ion mobility–mass spectrometry?
Authors: Schairer Jasmin , Plathe Florian , Hudelmaier Sonja , Belau Eckhard , Pengelley Stuart , Kruse Lena , Neusüß Christian
Published: December 2023

Ion mobility–mass spectrometry (IM–MS) is an ever‐evolving tool to separate ions in the gas phase according to electrophoretic mobility with subsequent mass determination. CE is rarely coupled to IM–MS, possibly due to similar separation mechanisms based on electrophoretic mobility. Here, we investigate the orthogonality of CE and ion mobility (IM) by analyzing a complex peptide mixture (tryptic digest of HeLa proteins) with trapped ion mobility mass spectrometry (TIMS–MS). Using the nanoCEasy interface, excellent sensitivity was achieved by identifying thousands of peptides and achieving a peak capacity of 7500 (CE: 203–323 in a 150 cm long capillary, IM: 27–31). Plotting CE versus mass and CE versus (inverse) mobility, a clear grouping in curved striped patterns is observed according to the charge‐to‐size and mass‐to‐charge ratios. The peptide charge in the acidic background electrolyte can be estimated from the number of basic amino acids, with a few exceptions where neighboring effects reduce the positive charge. A surprisingly high orthogonality of CE and IM is observed, which is obviously caused by solvation effects leading to different charges and sizes in the liquid phase compared to the gas phase. A high orthogonality of CE and ion mobility is expected to be observed for other peptide samples as well as other substance classes, making CE–IM–MS a promising tool for various applications.
Screening of Filler Material for a Packed‐Bed Thermocline Energy Storage Test Facility with Lead–Bismuth Eutectic as the Heat Transfer Fluid
Authors: Müller‐Trefzer Franziska , Heinzel Annette , Hesse Robin , Weisenburger Alfons , Wetzel Thomas , Niedermeier Klarissa
Published: December 2023

Suitable solid filler materials are investigated for use in a packed‐bed heat storage test facility for high temperatures with lead–bismuth eutectic (LBE) as the heat transfer fluid. Accordingly, first, the thermophysical properties of six different candidate materials, two glasses and four ceramics, are determined. The density and heat capacity are measured experimentally and the thermal conductivity is discussed based on literature data. Subsequently, a static corrosion test is performed at 500 °C for 1 and 4 weeks in LBE under reducing conditions. The glasses are found to be unsuitable due to corrosion attack. Among the ceramics, zirconium silicate and zirconium oxide are identified to be highly resistant to corrosion. Zirconium silicate is subsequently also successfully tested as a storage material in a laboratory experiment under cyclic conditions.
Iron Oxide‐Carbon Black Promotional Effect on Palladium Nanoparticles Toward Ethylene Glycol Oxidation in Alkaline Medium: Experimental and Computational Studies
Authors: Chabalala Makhaokane P. , Matthews Thabo , Mbokazi Siyabonga P. , Mugadza Kudzai , Bellamkonda Sankeerthana , Mamlouk Mohamed , Adegoke Kayode A. , Maxakato Nobanathi W.
Published: December 2023

Direct alcohol fuel cells are the next‐generation energy sources of the future due to their high power density. Palladium electrocatalysts are promising prospects for enhancing alcohol oxidation in alkaline media, but the higher cost and susceptibility to CO poisoning limit their application and commercialization. Thus, there is a need to improve the performance of the Pd electrocatalysts by utilizing a double supporting system. A microwave‐assisted polyol method is used to synthesize the palladium nanoparticles supported on iron oxide‐carbon black material (Pd/Fe2O3‐CB). Physiochemical and electrochemical characterization of the obtained electrocatalysts materials is conducted to study morphology and the electrochemical behaviour of the as‐synthesized electrocatalysts. The Pd/Fe2O3‐CB displayed higher kinetics approved by a higher current density of 58.7 mA cm−2, stability, and durability, owing to Fe2O3, and CB incorporation. Density functional theory (DFT) proves that C from CO has more robust interactions with surface Pd, thereby explaining the stronger C‐O binding property of Pd. The orbital analysis revealed that 3d orbitals of Pd participate in the hybridization with 2p orbitals of C and O. As a result, the overlap between C2p and Pd3d/Fe3d orbitals significantly broadened, leading to solid adsorption of CO over Pd/Fe2O3.
Empirical prediction intervals for additive Holt–Winters methods under misspecification
Authors: Yang Boning , Tang Xinyi , Yau Chun Yip
Published: December 2023

Holt–Winters (HW) methods have been widely used by practitioners for the prediction of time series. However, traditional prediction intervals associated with the HW methods are only theoretically justified for a few types of SARIMA processes. In this article, we propose an empirical prediction interval for a general class of prediction procedures containing the HW methods as special cases. We establish the asymptotic validity of the prediction intervals under mild conditions, which allow model misspecification. Simulation experiments and an application to financial time series are provided to illustrate the good performance of the prediction intervals.
Performance of hybrid vaccine freezer that combined thermoelectric coolers with vapor compression refrigeration: Experimental assessment
Authors: Ashour Ali M. , Salman Ali D. , Al Jubori Ayad M.
Published: December 2023

In the medical field, refrigeration systems are used to store and transport vaccines, blood, and other medical supplies that require specific temperature ranges to remain effective. As technology continues to advance, the demand for more efficient and sustainable refrigeration systems is also increasing. The freezer compartment is typically designed to maintain a temperature of −18°C to −23°C for storing frozen items. Consequently, this work aims to develop a hybrid refrigeration system that combines a thermoelectric cooler system (TEC) and a vapor compression refrigeration cycle (VCC) system to achieve lower temperatures than conventional refrigerators. Also, the performance of the proposed hybrid refrigeration system is experimentally assessed with various operating conditions, including varying the voltage delivered to the system. The experimental results exhibited that the temperature inside the freezer room reached −33°C, while the cold side temperature is −47°C. Also, the maximum coefficient of performance of the VCC system, TEC, and hybrid system is 2.07, 1.06, and 0.37, respectively, at a DC voltage applied of 6 V. Moreover, the results revealed that the hybrid system combining a TEC and a VCC system can be a valuable technology for specific applications with low temperatures and limited capacity requirements.
Identification of Public Service Logic (PSL) and Public Service Motivation (PSM) elements in Open Government Data (OGD) initiatives
Authors: Ishengoma Fredrick , Shao Deo , da Silva Raphael Gouvêa , Wiedenhöft Guilherme Costa , Matheus Ricardo , Alexopoulos Charalampos , Rizun Nina , Saxena Stuti
Published: December 2023

While previous research on Open Government Data (OGD) has primarily focused on reuse and adoption, this study aims to explore the implications of the Public Service Logic (PSL) and Public Service Motivation (PSM) dimensions in the context of OGD initiatives. This study is contextualized in Tanzania wherein the OGD initiatives are at an evolving stage. For the present study, the perspectives of the 15 public officials involved in the management of the OGD initiatives are being solicited. Findings underscore the need for furthering the marketing and refurbishing the OGD initiatives' quality alongside the increased involvement of the stakeholders to engage in value co‐creation. Furthermore, as a study contextualized in a developing country to understand the involvement of the public personnel in the refurbishment of the OGD initiatives, the study contributes to the extant OGD literature while identifying the OGD publisher‐side challenges and strengths in a still‐evolving OGD initiative. Finally, with its societal implications in terms of the impact on societal stakeholders' engagement with OGD given the PSL‐PSM of the public officials, the study's relevance is also clinched.
Implementing preemptive, multigene, pharmacogenomic testing in the inpatient setting: Preliminary results from a small, rural facility
Authors: Cole Jennifer L.
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Preemptive pharmacogenomic (PGx) testing is on the rise among United States health care centers, with the majority of testing performed in the primary care setting. For broader implementation, there is a call for descriptions of the implementation and workflow of successful PGx programs in a large variety of health care settings.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to describe the implementation and initial outcomes of preemptive PGx (11‐gene, multipanel) testing in inpatient workflow at a Veterans Affairs medical center.

Methods

The inpatient clinical pharmacist incorporated patient screening, informed consent, and PGx lab ordering into their daily workflow in March 2023. Included adult patients had to be enrolled into the facility's primary care program and able to provide informed consent. Patients were excluded if they had a history of bone marrow or liver transplant, were consulted for palliative or hospice care, or had altered mental status at the time of screening. A retrospective chart review was used to collect demographics and PGx results from March to August 2023.

Results

There were 247 patients screened for PGx testing in the 6‐month study period. Of these, 74 already had PGx performed, 31 declined or deferred testing, and 142 consented to testing. Laboratory blood draw was not performed as ordered on 12 patients, leaving 130 samples with results. Of 130 patients, 129 (99%) had an actionable PGx variant, with most having multiple variants: one variant (6%), two variants (15%), three variants (32%), four variants (24%), five variants (18%), and six variants (3%). At the time of follow‐up, 64 (49%) patients were prescribed an affected medication: one medication (38%), two medications (8%), and three medications (3%).

Conclusion

Incorporating preemptive PGx testing into inpatient workflow is feasible in a rural facility with a significant proportion of patients being affected by the results.
Epigallocatechin gallate alleviated the in vivo toxicity of ZnO nanoparticles to mouse intestine
Authors: Wang Canyang , Huang Chaobo , Cao Yi
Published: December 2023

To evaluate the oral toxicity of nanoparticles (NPs), it is necessary to consider the interactions between NPs and nutrient molecules. Recently, we reported that epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a healthy component in green tea, alleviated the toxicity of ZnO NPs to 3D Caco‐2 spheroids in vitro. The present study investigated the combined effects of EGCG and ZnO NPs to mice in vivo. Mice were administrated with 35 or 105 mg/kg bodyweight ZnO NPs with or without the presence of 80 mg/kg bodyweight EGCG via gastric route, once a day, for 21 days, and the influences of EGCG on the toxicity of ZnO NPs to intestine were investigated. We found that EGCG altered the colloidal properties of ZnO NPs both in water and artificial intestine juice. As expected, ZnO NPs induced toxicological effects, such as decreased bodyweight, higher Chiu's scores, and ultrastructural changes in intestine, whereas EGCG alleviated these effects. Combined exposure to EGCG and ZnO NPs also changed trace element levels in mouse intestine. For example, the levels of Ti, Co, and Ni were only significantly elevated after co‐exposure to EGCG and ZnO NPs, and Fe levels were only significantly decreased by ZnO NPs. Western blot analysis suggested that tight junction (TJ) and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) proteins were elevated by ZnO NPs, but EGCG inhibited this trend. Combined, these data suggested that gastric exposure to ZnO NPs induced intestinal damage, trace element imbalance, and TJ/ER protein expression in mouse intestine, whereas EGCG alleviated these effects of ZnO NPs.
Performance assessment of an injectable hyaluronic acid/polylactic acid complex hydrogel with enhanced biological properties as a dermal filler
Authors: Zhao Jiajing , Chen Ziwei , Li Xiaoshuo , Tong Zheren , Xu Zijin , Feng Peishi , Wang Ping
Published: December 2023

Injectable hyaluronic acid (HA) hydrogel plays an important role in dermal filling. However, conventional HA dermal fillers mostly lack bio‐functional diversity and frequently cause adverse reactions because of the chemical stiffness of highly modified degree and crosslinker residues. In this study, polylactic acid (PLA) was embedded into HA hydrogel as a bioactive substance and 1,4‐butanediol diglycidyl ether was used as a crosslinker to prepare the HA/PLA composite hydrogel with enhanced biocompatibility and biological performance. We aimed to investigate the properties of HA/PLA composite hydrogels as dermal fillers by assessing the rheological properties, surface microstructure, enzymolysis stability, swelling ratio, degradation rate, cytotoxicity, and anti‐wrinkle effect on photo‐aged skin. The results showed that the stability and stiffness of the composite hydrogel decreased with an increasing amount of PLA, while the in vivo safety of the HA/PLA hydrogel was enhanced, showing no adverse reactions such as edema, redness, or swelling. Moreover, the composite hydrogel with 2 wt% PLA exhibited excellent anti‐wrinkle effects, showing the highest collagen production. Thus, the PLA‐embedded HA composite hydrogel showed potential as a dermal filler with high safety, easy injectability, and excellent anti‐wrinkle effects.
Upadacitinib in end stage renal disease: A case of acute severe ulcerative colitis
Authors: Hilley Patrick , Con Danny , Choy Matthew C. , Srinivasan Ashish , De Cruz Peter
Published: December 2023

Recent data, indicating that inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) may be a risk factor for future chronic kidney disease, highlight the need to study the safety and clinical effectiveness of advanced IBD therapies in patients with end stage renal disease (ESRD), defined as an eGFR <15 mL/min/1.73m2. Upadacitinib, a selective oral Janus kinase (JAK) 1 inhibitor, has demonstrated efficacy in the management of moderate to severe ulcerative colitis. There is also emerging data indicating that JAK inhibition may be clinically effective in the setting of steroid‐refractory acute severe ulcerative colitis (ASUC). There is, however, a lack of “real‐world” data documenting the use of JAK inhibitors in patients with ESRD. Here, we report the use of upadacitinib in a patient with ESRD for the management of steroid‐refractory ASUC, demonstrating, for the first time, the safe and clinically effective use of upadacitinib in this population.
4‐substituted push‐pull quinazoline chromophores with extended π‐conjugated linker
Authors: Bonnaud Thibault , Scaviner Mathieu , Robin‐le Guen Françoise , Achelle Sylvain
Published: December 2023

A series of four push‐pull compounds based on a 4‐phenylquinazoline scaffold were designed. Three of these compounds exhibit dual state emission with intense fluorescence in solution and solid state. Their emission properties are sensible to environement stimuli with intense emission solvatochromism and halochromism. In case of methoxy derivative, both neutral and protonated form are luminescent and white light emission can be observed by controlled partial protonation.
Impact of temperature variation on linearity parameters of nanotube surrounding gate (NT‐SG) MOSFETs
Authors: Garg Nitin , Pandey Ashish , Pandey Avanish Kumar , Tyagi Ashutosh , Singh Aniket Pratap
Published: December 2023

The work investigates the effect of temperature variation on the linearity performance of Nanotube Junctionless Surrounding Gate (NT‐SG) MOSFET. In this study, the linearity parameters of NT‐SG MOSFET is investigated by changing the temperature range from 300 to 500 K using the Silvaco 3D Simulator. For the specified temperature range, characteristics including high‐order trans‐conductance (gm2 and gm3), IIP3, VIP3, and VIP2 have been assessed. All of these metrics exhibit great linearity and little distortion at the NT‐SG MOSFET's zero crossover point for Vds = 0.01 V. The VIP2 and VIP3 are found to be increased when the temperature range increases from 300 to 500 K and thus the device is found to be more suitable for high‐frequency applications. In addition to this, the NT‐SG MOSFET manifests enhanced analog performance and is also more immune toward SCEs.
Metal cation‐induced conformational changes of soybean protein isolate/soybean soluble polysaccharide and their effects on high‐internal‐phase emulsion properties
Authors: Zhao Guilan , Wang Shengnan , Li Yangyang , Liu Xiulin , Yang Lina , Song Hong , Liu He
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND

Metal ions commonly inevitably appear in food products and have adverse effects on high‐internal‐phase emulsions (HIPEs) foods, but conformational conversion of soybean protein isolate (SPI)/soybean soluble polysaccharide (SSPS) on the interface layer of HIPEs influenced by different metal ions has rarely been reported.

RESULTS

Here, the conformational conversion of SPI/SSPS induced by Na+, K+, Ca2+, Mg2+ and Fe3+ ions and its effects on HIPEs were investigated. After adding the ions to SPI and SPI/SSPS dispersions, the particle size and zeta potential results showed different degrees of flocculation; the zeta potential and Fourier transform infrared spectra indicated that SPI and SPI/SSPS changes in structure involve electrostatic interactions and hydrogen bonding. Moreover, Raman spectra showed that the content of β‐sheet of SPI/SSPS HIPEs increased with the addition of Ca2+, Mg2+ and Fe3+, suggesting that SPI molecules at the interface formed a more orderly structure. The ultraviolet and fluorescence results showed that the hydrophobic environment of tryptophan and tyrosine residues inside protein molecules played a vital role in the emulsifying stability of SPI.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggested that the SPI/SSPS complexes for food applications were not susceptible to ions, thus ensuring complex stability, showing potential for commercial application in the production of emulsions. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Agroclimatic mapping for olive cultivation in Brazil: pinpointing optimal growing regions
Authors: de Oliveira Aparecido Lucas Eduardo , Torsoni Guilherme Botega , de Lima Rafael Fausto , Mesquita Daniel Zimmermann , Peche Pedro Maranha
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND

This research aimed to identify the agroclimatic zones in Brazil, excluding Rio Grande do Sul, that are suitable for olive (Olea europaea L.) cultivation, considering both climatic and topographical factors. Olives require specific conditions: moderate winter temperatures (7–15 °C), warmer summers (25–35 °C) and sufficient water during growth and fruit maturation. They can endure some drought, making them a viable option for agricultural diversification. Using daily meteorological data from 1989 to 2023 from NASA‐POWER, this study analyzed variables like air temperature (minimum and maximum) and rainfall. Key climate variables were the mean air temperature in winter (T_w), spring (T_s), summer (T_su) and autumn (T_a) and total annual precipitation (Prec). Criteria for suitability included: T_w between 5 and 20 °C, T_s between 15 and 23 °C, T_su between 15 and 30 °C, T_a between 15 and 22 °C, annual precipitation over 900 mm and altitude below 900 m. Geographic information system software and Python 3.8 were employed for data analysis and zoning.

RESULTS

Results indicated that only 1.92% of the analyzed area, mainly in Minas Gerais, was suitable for olive cultivation. High temperatures and low rainfall in Brazil, particularly in the North and Midwest, make 59.56% of the country unsuitable for olive farming. Additionally, 18.58% of the land, mainly in the Northeast, faces challenges due to extreme heat (T_w) and insufficient water supply. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Spatiotemporal heterogeneity of soil available nitrogen during freeze–thaw cycles in a watershed: A 3‐year investigation
Authors: Zhang Shaoliang , Aurangzeib Muhammad , Xiao Ziliang , Wang Hao , Xu Weitao
Published: December 2023

The spatial pattern of soil available nitrogen (AN) is the key reference for farmland fertilization however, it is still unclear how freeze–thaw cycles (FTC) altered the spatiotemporal heterogeneity of AN at the watershed scale. In this study, the geostatistical, traditional analysis and structural equation models were used to detect how topography, land management, and soil properties influence the spatiotemporal heterogeneity of AN in both before‐ and after FTCs of Mollisols of a watershed in Northeast China for three consecutive years. The results showed that AN decreased in >88% of areas of the watershed after FTCs, and the mean value significantly decreased by >7.6% (>10.4 mg kg−1) in 0–20 cm soil depth during 2016–2017 years and 2017–2018 years. The AN distribution, especially in the surface soil layer, tended to be aggregated after FTCs. The AN decreased in the areas near the areas of top slope position, while it tended to increase in areas of downslope position covered by forest although the total N decreased here after FTCs. The AN‐change (ANbefore FTCs minus ANafter FTCs) influenced by land use types was greater than slope steepness. The slope aspect as the key factor combined with slope steepness, slope position, and previous crops influenced the spatiotemporal heterogeneity of AN‐change after FTCs. The higher content of AN before FTCs accelerated more N loss during FTCs, and this process was mainly influenced by soil pH, nitrogen (N), and phosphorus. The N loss (5.7%) did not significantly alter the AN‐change after FTCs in the watershed. Generally, the spatial heterogeneity of AN‐change was mainly influenced by topography, land management, and soil properties (before FTCs) during FTCs in the watershed. In order to sustain a high level of AN, the mediation of N transformation and both vertical‐ and horizontal migration, caused by the dynamics of soil water potential and snowmelt erosion should be considered during FTCs.
The perceived ecological and human well‐being benefits of ecosystem restoration
Authors: Jurjonas Matthew , May Christopher A. , Cardinale Bradley , Kyriakakis Stephanie , Pearsall Douglas R. , Doran Patrick J.
Published: December 2023

Traditionally, ecosystem restoration has focussed on standard ecological indicators like water or habitat quality, species population abundance or vegetation cover to determine success. However, there is growing interest in how restoration might impact people and communities. For example, researchers have documented positive socio‐ecological links between restoration and human well‐being indicators like property value, natural hazard mitigation, recreation opportunity and happiness. Furthermore, public health benefits from restoration have been linked to public support for programmes.

Drawing from this research, the United Nations declared 2021–2030 the ‘Decade of Ecosystem Restoration’ and set a goal to promote more socio‐ecological goals in ecosystem restoration. Nonetheless, there is still a lack of information on the extent to which restoration practitioners consider well‐being because many granting programmes only require ecological goals and monitoring.

To explore how restoration practitioners design, implement and measure the success of their projects, we used the federally funded Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) as a case study. Since 2010, GLRI has awarded over $3.5 Billion to over 5300 projects across the midwestern United States, but it does not presently require human well‐being considerations. We performed an online survey targeting project managers with a sample of GLRI projects (N = 1574). We received 437 responses and found that almost half set a human well‐being goal, and more than 70% of those who did believe they reached it. In comparison, 90% of project managers believed they met their ecological goals.

These documented perceptions of positive impacts for both people and nature suggest that restoration may already transcend traditional indicators and monitoring for socio‐ecological metrics could capture many ‘unseen’ benefits. Therefore, we recommend that ecosystem restoration programmes adopt a socio‐ecological lens to document the full extent of their restoration outcomes.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Conductive polymer nanocomposite incorporated with carbon nanotubes for effective electromagnetic interference shielding: A numerical study
Authors: Dubey Prakhar , Gupta Madhur , Kundalwal S. I.
Published: December 2023

This study presents a comprehensive numerical investigation of the electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding capabilities of a conductive polymer nanocomposite incorporated with carbon nanotubes (CPNC) in the X‐band. The investigation is conducted using a commercial finite element simulation package, Ansys HFSS. The study focuses on analyzing the EMI shielding effectiveness (SE) of CPNC by varying the weight percent (wt%) of carbon nanotubes (CNTs), thickness, and shape of the shielding material. Our outcomes show that the EMI SE of CPNC increases with the wt% of CNTs. Notably, a maximum EMI SE is observed around ~90 dB due to absorption (SEA) at a 4 mm pallet‐shaped CPNC and ~180 dB for a hollow cylindrical CPNC (22.86 mm outer diameter and 3 mm thickness) with 2 wt% of CNT. The EMI SE due to absorption (SEA) at a pallet thickness of 4 mm exhibits a significant improvement of ~107% compared to the SEA observed at a thickness of 1 mm. These findings highlight the exceptional absorption capabilities and lightweight nature of CPNC, rendering it a promising shielding material for aerospace and satellite communication applications.

Highlights

EMI SE of CPNC increases with the wt% of CNT in the polypyrrole (PPy) matrix.

The percolation threshold is observed at a low 2 wt% concentration of CNT.

Thickness of the shielding material influences the EMI SE of CPNC.

CPNC provides absorption‐dominated shielding.