bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fluorophilic Sigma(σ)‐Lock Self‐Healable Copolymers
Authors: Gaikwad Samruddhi , Urban Marek W.
Published: May 2024

Although F‐Containing molecules and macromolecules are often used in molecular biology to increase the binding with Lewis acidic groups by introducing favorable C−F dipoles, there is virtually no experimental evidence and limited understanding of the nature of these interactions, especially their role in synthetic polymeric materials. These studies elucidate the molecular origin of inter‐ and intra‐Chain interactions responsible for self‐healing of F‐Containing copolymers composed of pentafluorostyrene and n‐butyl acrylate units (p(PFS/nBA). Guided by dynamic surface oscillating force (SOF) and spectroscopic measurements supported by molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, these studies show that the reformation of σ‐σ orbitals in −C−F of PFS and CH3CH2− of nBA units enables the recovery of entropic energy via fluorophilic‐σ‐lock van der Waals forces when PFS/nBA molar ratios are ~50/50. The strength of these interactions determined experimentally for self‐healable PFS/nBA compositions is in the order ~0.3 kcal/mol which primarily comes from fluorophilic‐σ‐lock (~70 %) contributions. These interactions are significantly diminished for non‐self‐healable counterparts. Strongly polarized −C−F σ orbitals create lateral dipolar forces enhancing the affinity towards −C−H orbitals, facilitating energetically favorable interactions. Entropic recovery driven by non‐Covalent bonding offers a valuable tool in designing materials with unique functionalities, particularly self‐healable batteries and energy storage devices.
Ruthenium Nanoclusters and Single Atoms on α‐MoC/N‐Doped Carbon Achieves Low‐Input/Input‐Free Hydrogen Evolution via Decoupled/Coupled Hydrazine Oxidation
Authors: Li Yapeng , Niu Shuwen , Liu Peigen , Pan Rongrong , Zhang Huaikun , Ahmad Nazir , Shi Yi , Liang Xiao , Cheng Mingyu , Chen Shenghua , Du Junyi , Hu Maolin , Wang Dingsheng , Chen Wei , Li Yadong
Published: May 2024

The hydrazine oxidation‐assisted H2 evolution method promises low‐input and input‐free hydrogen production. However, developing high‐performance catalysts for hydrazine oxidation (HzOR) and hydrogen evolution (HER) is challenging. Here, we introduce a bifunctional electrocatalyst α‐MoC/N−C/RuNSA, merging ruthenium (Ru) nanoclusters (NCs) and single atoms (SA) into cubic α‐MoC nanoparticles‐decorated N‐doped carbon (α‐MoC/N−C) nanowires, through electrodeposition. The composite showcases exceptional activity for both HzOR and HER, requiring −80 mV and −9 mV respectively to reach 10 mA cm−2. Theoretical and experimental insights confirm the importance of two Ru species for bifunctionality: NCs enhance the conductivity, and its coexistence with SA balances the H ad/desorption for HER and facilitates the initial dehydrogenation during the HzOR. In the overall hydrazine splitting (OHzS) system, α‐MoC/N−C/RuNSA excels as both anode and cathode materials, achieving 10 mA cm−2 at just 64 mV. The zinc hydrazine (Zn−Hz) battery assembled with α‐MoC/N−C/RuNSA cathode and Zn foil anode can exhibit 97.3 % energy efficiency, as well as temporary separation of hydrogen gas during the discharge process. Therefore, integrating Zn−Hz with OHzS system enables self‐powered H2 evolution, even in hydrazine sewage. Overall, the amalgamation of NCs with SA achieves diverse catalytic activities for yielding multifold hydrogen gas through advanced cell‐integrated‐electrolyzer system.
In Situ Self‐Assembled Active and Stable Ir@MnOx/La0.7Sr0.3Cr0.9Ir0.1O3−δ Interfaces for CO2 Electrolysis
Authors: Shen Yuxiang , Wang Shuo , Li Rongtan , Lv Houfu , Li Mingrun , Ta Na , Zhang Xiaomin , Song Yuefeng , Fu Qiang , Wang Guoxiong , Bao Xinhe
Published: May 2024

Solid oxide electrolysis cells are prospective approaches for CO2 utilization but face significant challenges due to the sluggish reaction kinetics and poor stability of the fuel electrodes. Herein, we strategically addressed the long‐standing trade‐off phenomenon between enhanced exsolution and improved structural stability via topotactic ion exchange. The surface dynamic reconstruction of the MnOx/La0.7Sr0.3Cr0.9Ir0.1O3−δ (LSCIr) catalyst was visualized at the atomic scale. Compared with the Ir@LSCIr interface, the in situ self‐assembled Ir@MnOx/LSCIr interface exhibited greater CO2 activation and easily removable carbonate intermediates, thus reached a 42 % improvement in CO2 electrolysis performance at 1.6 V. Furthermore, an improved CO2 electrolysis stability was achieved due to the uniformly wrapped MnOx shell of the Ir@MnOx/LSCIr cathode. Our approach enables a detailed understanding of the dynamic microstructure evolution at active interfaces and provides a roadmap for the rational design and evaluation of efficient metal/oxide catalysts for CO2 electrolysis.
Interfacial Super‐Assembly of Vacancy Engineered Ultrathin‐Nanosheets Toward Nanochannels for Smart Ion Transport and Salinity Gradient Power Conversion
Authors: Awati Abuduheiremu , Yang Ran , Shi Ting , Zhou Shan , Zhang Xin , Zeng Hui , Lv Yaokang , Liang Kang , Xie Lei , Zhu Dazhang , Liu Mingxian , Kong Biao
Published: May 2024

Ion‐selective nanochannel membranes assembled from two‐dimensional (2D) nanosheets hold immense promise for power conversion using salinity gradient. However, they face challenges stemming from insufficient surface charge density, which impairs both permselectivity and durability. Herein, we present a novel vacancy‐engineered, oxygen‐deficient NiCo layered double hydroxide (NiCoLDH)/cellulose nanofibers‐wrapped carbon nanotubes (VOLDH/CNF‐CNT) composite membrane. This membrane, featuring abundant angstrom‐scale, cation‐selective nanochannels, is designed and fabricated through a synergistic combination of vacancy engineering and interfacial super‐assembly. The composite membrane shows interlayer free‐spacing of ~3.62 Å, which validates the membrane size exclusion selectivity. This strategy, validated by DFT calculations and experimental data, improves hydrophilicity and surface charge density, leading to the strong interaction with K+ ions to benefit the low ion transport resistance and exceptional charge selectivity. When employed in an artificial river water|seawater salinity gradient power generator, it delivers a high‐power density of 5.35 W/m2 with long‐term durability (20,000s), which is almost 400 % higher than that of the pristine NiCoLDH membrane. Furthermore, it displays both pH‐ and temperature‐sensitive ion transport behavior, offering additional opportunities for optimization. This work establishes a basis for high‐performance salinity gradient power conversion and underscores the potential of vacancy engineering and super‐assembly in customizing 2D nanomaterials for diverse advanced nanofluidic energy devices.
The influence of in situ microfibrillation on the mechanical properties and warpage of low‐density polyethylene/polystyrene composite prepared by fused filament fabrication
Authors: Wang Peng bo , Yang Tao , Hu Jie wei , Zhang Jie
Published: May 2024

Fused filament fabrication (FFF) has been widely adopted due to its simplicity and cost‐effectiveness. But until now, its application materials are still limited. Polyolefin material is one of the most commonly used plastics. However, low‐density polyethylene (LDPE) is rarely used in FFF due to the inadequate strength of the filaments and the warpage of the printed parts. In this work, polystyrene (PS) is added to LDPE to obtain blend filaments. After that, the filaments are used to validate the possibility of in situ microfibrillation directly in the process. The results show that the addition of PS can significantly improve the bending strength, bending modulus, and hardness without affecting the heat resistance and crystal transition of the composite. Besides, the PS dispersed phase can form microfibers under the influence of the shear field. The formation of microfibers can significantly enhance the mechanical properties of composites. The tensile strength and Young's modulus increase by 140% and 221%, respectively. The warping deformation and surface morphology of printed parts are also improved. This study provides a new idea for utilizing low‐strength polyolefin in 3D printing and achieving performance enhancement.
Practice what you preach: Does the legal status of microfinance institutions matter in gender equality?
Authors: Mia Md Aslam , Soeparna Intan Inayatun , Dalla Pellegrina Lucia
Published: May 2024

Considering the importance of promoting gender equality, Microfinance Institutions (MFIs) have emerged to reduce the gender gap by supplying credit opportunities to women. However, the microfinance literature has largely focused on the role of women in the client base while devoting less attention to their representation in the organizational structure of MFIs. This study aims to fill this gap. Using ANOVA and random effects models, our purpose is to investigate which types of MFIs more intensively promote gender equality within their workforce, at any of the organizational ladders. We analyze data from 1222 MFIs across 102 developing countries from 2010 to 2018. Empirical evidence reveals that the presence of females in both the workforce and the client base is significantly lower in commercially motivated MFIs (e.g., banks and other for‐profit institutions) compared to non‐government organizations (NGOs), and —to a lesser extent— credit unions, cooperatives and rural banks. Our results suggest that the microfinance sector would benefit from a stronger emphasis on NGO‐driven initiatives to promote female representation in terms of both employment opportunities and access to credit.
Volatile Profiles and DNA Barcodes of Myrtaceae Species with Occurrence in the Brazilian Amazon
Authors: dos Santos Edimara L. , Xavier Júlia Karla A. M. , Galvão Paula Luely N. , Carneiro Nunes Adriana R. , Alegria Oscar Victor C. , Moreira Edith Cibelle O. , Maia José Guilherme S. , Setzer William N. , Figueiredo Pablo Luis B. , da Silva Joyce Kelly R.
Published: May 2024

Myrtaceae family includes many species with taxonomic challenges, making it one of the most complex families to identify. This study used DNA barcoding to find molecular markers for species authentication based on the Myrtaceae family‘s chemical composition and genetic diversity. Essential oils and genetic material were extracted from the leaves of six different species: Eugenia uniflora, E. patrisii, Myrcia splendens, Psidium guajava, P. guineense, and Psidium sp. The samples were analyzed based on compound classes and grouped into two categories. Group I included samples with high amounts of oxygenated sesquiterpenes (3.69–76.05 %) and fatty acid derivatives (0.04–43.59 %), such as E. uniflora, Myrcia splendens, and E. patrisii. Group II included samples P. guajava, P. guineense, and Psidium sp., which had a significant content of monoterpene hydrocarbons (0.69–72.35 %), oxygenated sesquiterpenes (8.06–68.1 %), phenylpropanoids (0.45–22.59 %), and sesquiterpene hydrocarbons (0.27–21.84 %). The PsbA‐trnH gene sequences had a high genetic variability, allowing the species to be distinguished. A phylogenetic analysis showed two main clusters with high Bootstrap values corresponding to the subtribes Eugeniineae, Myrciinae, and Pimentinae. The results suggest a weak correlation between genetic and chemical data in these Myrtaceae species.
Keplerate‐Type Polyoxometalates‐Based Triboelectric Nanogenerator for Higher Performance via the Morphology Modulation of Blackberry Structure
Authors: Du Wei , Hao Yijia , He Yi , Chen Yan , Peng Yi , Chen Weilin
Published: May 2024

The tribe‐material is the key factor affecting the performance of triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs). Inorganic materials have higher heat resistance and stability than widely used organic materials. However, the weaker tribe‐property limits the application of TENGs. Modulating surface roughness by changing particle shape and size is a simple way to increase performance for TENGs. Polyoxometalates (POMs) have unrivalled structural diversity and can self‐assemble to form different nanostructures. In this study, we propose [{(NH4)42[Mo72VIMo60VO372(CH3COO)30 (H2O)72] ⋅ ca.300H2O ⋅ ca.CH3COONH4)}‐Mo132] and [{Na8K14(VO)2[{(MoVI) (Mo5VIO21)(H2O)3]}10{(MoVI)Mo5VIO21(H2O)3 (SO4)}2{VIVO(H2O)20} {VIVO}10({KSO4}5)2] ⋅ 150H2O)}‐Mo72V30] with blackberry structure which are cured and prepared into film by spin‐coating technique, are used as positive tribe‐materials for the first time in the field of TENGs. Keplerate‐type POMs can form blackberry structures with higher dispersibility and flexibility, which can be used to control surface roughness by regulating the size of particles. The discovery proves that the particle size influences the surface roughness, which adjusts the output of TENGs. According to our findings, Mo132‐h‐TENG generates an output voltage of 29.3 V, an output charge of 8 Nc, which is 2–3 folds higher than Mo132‐TENG, and a maximum power density of 6.25 mW ⋅ m−2 at 300 MΩ. Our research provides that altering the dimensional size can be an available way to raise the output of TENGs.
Fluorination/Dearomatization of C6F5 Groups: An FLP Route to an Electrophilic Borane and Non‐Coordinating Anions
Authors: Kim Hyehwang , Mandal Dipendu , Ng Joshua Kye Jin , Qu Zheng‐Wang , Grimme Stefan , Stephan Douglas W.
Published: May 2024

B(C6F5)3 and the corresponding anion [B(C6F5)4]− are ubiquitous in main group and transition metal chemistry. Known derivatives are generally limited to the incorporation of electron donating substituents. Herein we describe electrophilic fluorination and dearomatization of such species using XeF2 in the presence of BF3 or Lewis acidic cations. In this fashion the anions [HB(C6F5)3]−, [B(C6F5)4]− and [(C6F5)3BC≡NB(C6F5)3]−, are converted to [FB(C6F7)3]−, [B(C6F7)4]−, and [(C6F7)3BC≡NB(C6F7)3]−, respectively. Similarly, the borane adducts (L)B(C6F7)3 (L=MeCN, OPEt3) are produced. These rare examples of electrophilic attack of electron deficient rings proceed as [XeF][BF4] acts as a frustrated Lewis pair effecting fluorination and dearomatization of C6F5 rings.
Sustainable dye extraction: Annatto powder production in a fountain confined spouted bed
Authors: Almeida Natalia Pazin , Duarte Cláudio Roberto , Tellabide Mikel , Estiati Idoia , Olazar Martin , de Souza Barrozo Marcos Antonio
Published: May 2024

This study proposes an efficient and sustainable process for annatto powder production using a fountain confined spouted bed. With widespread applications in industries such as food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics, conventional extraction methods face environmental and economic challenges. Our study explores a solvent‐free and eco‐friendly approach using mechanical attrition within a fountain confined spouted bed, offering a cost‐effective solution for annatto cultivation. We systematically investigated the impact of four parameters—fountain confiner position and length, draft tube diameter, and airflow velocity—employing experimental design, multiple regression analysis, particle swarm optimization, and computational fluid dynamics–discrete element method (CFD‐DEM) simulations. The proposed optimization condition shows significantly higher collision intensity, improving annatto powder production compared to other central composite design tests. This study contributes to developing of a sustainable and economically viable method for dye production, with potential implications for annatto‐producing regions globally.
Side‐Chain Engineering of Non‐Fullerene Acceptors with Trialkylsilyloxy Groups for Enhanced Photovoltaic Performance†
Authors: Wang Qingyuan , Chen Qi , Meng Shixin , Tian Li , Wang Haiqiao , Chen Yu , Liu Zitong , Xue Lingwei , Zhang Zhi‐Guo
Published: May 2024

Comprehensive Summary

Side‐chain engineering has emerged as a highly effective strategy for tailoring the aggregation behavior and charge transport properties of non‐fullerene small molecule acceptors (SMAs). In this study, we designed and synthesized two SMAs, namely BTPSi‐Bu and BTPSi‐Pr, respectively incorporating tributylsilyloxy and triisopropylsilyloxy groups in their outer positions. Notably, BTPSi‐Bu exhibited better planarity, crystallization, and favorable phase separation when paired with PM6 donor polymer compared to its counterpart, BTPSi‐Pr. The resulting organic solar cells, utilizing the PM6:BTPSi‐Bu blend, demonstrated a remarkable power conversion efficiency of 17.41% and a high open‐circuit voltage of 0.859 V. These findings underscore the significance of integrating trialkylsilyloxy side chains into SMAs as a rational design approach for enhancing the performance of photovoltaic systems.
CSR and ownership structure: Moderating role of board characteristics in an emerging country context
Authors: Kaimal Anjali , Uzma Shigufta Hena
Published: May 2024

The existing literature on the impact of ownership structure on corporate social responsibility (CSR) showed inconsistent results and disregarded the possibility of non‐linear patterns in the relationship. The present study examines the non‐linear relationship between ownership structure (family, foreign, institutional, and government) and CSR expenditure of listed non‐financial service sector firms in India. Further, the moderating effect of board variables, including board size, board independence, multiple directorships and gender diversity, is explored in the ownership structure‐CSR nexus. Based on a balanced panel dataset of 243 non‐financial service sector companies listed in India, the study observed an inverse U‐relationship between institutional ownership and CSR. The study also found that family, foreign, and government ownership positively influence the firm's social engagement. However, the study could find partial support for the moderating role of the four board characteristics; board size, board independence, multiple directorships and gender diversity in ownership‐CSR association. The study contributes to existing CSR and corporate governance literature by exploring one of the major factors (ownership structure) impacting CSR and the role of board variables in the association.
Connecting the dots: A systematic review of corporate social responsibility, information asymmetry, and economic implications
Authors: Wang Yadong , Albitar Khaldoon , Chbib Imad
Published: May 2024

This paper conducts a comprehensive review of the theoretical and empirical connections between Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), Information Asymmetry (IA), and their economic consequences. It employs a bibliometric analysis on 73 Web of Science manuscripts using VOSviewer1.6.18 software, combining this analysis with a literature review. The results reveal four thematic areas categorized into three clusters: CSR and IA, the impact of CSR and IA on internal risk control and corporate performance, and the broader effects of CSR and IA. The systematic literature review finds a prevailing consensus that CSR can alleviate IA issues, leading to positive economic outcomes like increased stock liquidity, enhanced investment efficiency, and reduced cost of capital. This study's uniqueness lies in its integration of bibliometric analysis and systematic literature review to provide a holistic summary of both theoretical frameworks and the economic implications of the CSR‐IA relationship. It offers valuable insights and recommendations for future research in this field.
Spatial and physical characteristics of bison wallows in the Flint Hills of Kansas
Authors: Horne Eva A. , Blackmore Pam , Bello Nora M. , Taylor Jeffrey , Skibbe Adam
Published: May 2024

Bison have long been considered a keystone species of North American prairies, increasing plant and animal diversity through a number of unique behaviors. One such behavior is wallowing, in which the repeated rolling of bison in the same spot leads to the formation of small, shallow, oval depressions called wallows. The objective of this study was to characterize spatial and physical attributes of bison wallows at the Konza Prairie Biological Station, a tallgrass prairie preserve in northeastern Kansas. We used aerial imagery from two different years (2011 and 2019) to assess the abundance and spatial distribution of these wallows in relation to fire frequency, elevation, and slope. We also recorded physical characteristics (2020) for a randomly selected subset of wallows and analyzed these data in relation to the same landscape features. Results from the analysis of the aerial images indicated that wallows were more abundant in areas characterized by combinations of more frequent burning, higher elevations, and little or no slope. In the 2020 physical measurements, we found that wallows were smaller in areas burned more often and shallower at higher elevations, particularly when located on grazing lawns. Terrestrial plants were found in approximately 72.1% of the wallows that were physically sampled, and their prevalence increased with increasing slope. We found some quantity of aquatic plants in approximately 7.1% of the sampled wallows. The probability of finding aquatic vegetation in wallows was higher on grazing lawns and in areas burned less frequently, particularly every 20 years. This study enhances the understanding of the distribution of wallows and their physical characteristics as a type of disturbance that could alter relationships within grassland communities.
Disparate home range dynamics reflect nutritional inadequacies on summer range for a large herbivore
Authors: Wagler Brittany L. , Smiley Rachel A. , Courtemanch Alyson B. , Lutz Daryl , McWhirter Doug , Brimeyer Doug , Hnilicka Patrick , Monteith Kevin L.
Published: May 2024

The spatial distribution of animals has consequences for nutrition, predator–prey dynamics, spread of diseases, and population dynamics in general. Animals must establish a home range to secure adequate resources to fuel their energy needs. Home ranges, therefore, are temporally and spatially dynamic, given the changing requirements of an animal and the availability of resources on the landscape. We used data from two populations of bighorn sheep with contrasting population dynamics following pneumonia epizootics and different habitat quality on their summer range to test the hypothesis that the distribution and size of home ranges are influenced by environmental conditions and reproductive status. We used a combination of data from 768 vegetation transects and remotely sensed metrics to index forage quality of consecutive biweekly home ranges for 27 bighorn sheep, June–August 2019–2021. There were population differences in home range dynamics that were consistent with resource limitations in the population declining in abundance. Animals in both populations increased the size of their home range through the summer in association with declining forage quality indexed by plant phenology. Furthermore, animals in the Whiskey Mountain population without offspring had home ranges more than twice the size of animals with offspring, whereas there were no differences in the home range size between animals with and without offspring in Jackson. We demonstrated that limitations young offspring impose on space use of a mother may have consequences for animals living where larger home ranges are needed to secure adequate resources—sheep on Whiskey Mountain had to travel 1000 m from escape terrain to access the same amount of biomass that the Jackson sheep could access directly adjacent to escape terrain. Forage quality and availability influence movement and space use. In the presence of disease, movement and space use may influence pathogen transmission and persistence. Thus, forage availability may play an indirect role in population dynamics in the presence of disease, which is another line of evidence for how environmental and nutritional conditions may influence population dynamics when coping with disease.
Metabolomics Signature in Prediabetes and Diabetes: Insights From Tandem Mass Spectrometry Analysis
Authors: Jabbar Al‐Rikabi Saad Ayyal , Etemadi Ali , Morad Maher Mohammed , Nowrouzi Azin , Panahi Ghodratollah , Mondeali Mozhgan , Toorani‐ghazvini Mahsa , Nasli‐Esfahani Ensieh , Razi Farideh , Bandarian Fatemeh
Published: May 2024

Objective

This study investigates the metabolic differences between normal, prediabetic and diabetic patients with good and poor glycaemic control (GGC and PGC).

Design

In this study, 1102 individuals were included, and 50 metabolites were analysed using tandem mass spectrometry. The diabetes diagnosis and treatment standards of the American Diabetes Association (ADA) were used to classify patients.

Methods

The nearest neighbour method was used to match controls and cases in each group on the basis of age, sex and BMI. Factor analysis was used to reduce the number of variables and find influential underlying factors. Finally, Pearson's correlation coefficient was used to check the correlation between both glucose and HbAc1 as independent factors with binary classes.

Results

Amino acids such as glycine, serine and proline, and acylcarnitines (AcylCs) such as C16 and C18 showed significant differences between the prediabetes and normal groups. Additionally, several metabolites, including C0, C5, C8 and C16, showed significant differences between the diabetes and normal groups. Moreover, the study found that several metabolites significantly differed between the GGC and PGC diabetes groups, such as C2, C6, C10, C16 and C18. The correlation analysis revealed that glucose and HbA1c levels significantly correlated with several metabolites, including glycine, serine and C16, in both the prediabetes and diabetes groups. Additionally, the correlation analysis showed that HbA1c significantly correlated with several metabolites, such as C2, C5 and C18, in the controlled and uncontrolled diabetes groups.

Conclusions

These findings could help identify new biomarkers or underlying markers for the early detection and management of diabetes.
Quantitative analysis of therapeutic peptides by CZE using multiple sample injection in hydrodynamically closed separation system
Authors: Stefanik Ondrej , Mikus Peter , Piestansky Juraj
Published: May 2024

Therapeutic peptides have emerged as an innovative and promising class of therapeutic compounds in modern medicine. Synthetic peptide analogs triptorelin and lanreotide are known for their pronounced clinical versatility and potency. In this study, we present the development and validation of novel methods based on capillary zone electrophoresis performed in hydrodynamically closed system (HCS) and paired with ultraviolet detection and repeated injection sample introduction. To the best of our knowledge, we developed the first capillary electrophoresis‐based method for the determination of lanreotide, and concurrently, the first HCS method for the determination of triptorelin. Maximal separation efficiency and signal intensity were achieved using background electrolytes composed of 50 mM formic acid with the addition of 0.05% (v/v) methyl‐hydroxyethyl cellulose. The proposed methods exhibit favorable performance characteristics, namely, calibration curve (r2 exceeding 0.99), low limits of detection (0.25 µg/mL in a water matrix and 0.5 µg/mL in synthetic urine), acceptable precision (relative standard deviation ranging from 2.2% to 9.6% for intraday repeatability and between 5.2% and 14.9% for interday reproducibility), and accuracy (relative errors falling within the 91.1%–107.8% range). The method for triptorelin determination was then used for its quantification in a commercially available drug dosage form (powder for injection) and in spiked synthetic urine samples. The developed methods were also evaluated according to the novel blue applicability grade index, revealing their superior applicability. The results collectively point out the potential of the proposed methods for both quality control and clinical investigations.
A GIS‐based approach to site vegetated buffer strips for erosion control within an agricultural catchment in southern England
Authors: Hudson Cat , Lovell Harold , Pearson Alastair W. , Schaefer Martin , Soar Philip J.
Published: May 2024

Agricultural soil erosion is largely attributed to arable intensification and increased mechanization. Runoff from arable land and intensively managed grassland transports sediment and contaminants across the landscape and into watercourses, causing crop loss, land degradation, and water quality issues. One low‐cost and low‐maintenance nature‐based mitigation approach is the implementation of vegetated buffer strips (VBS): grassland sited along field margins to trap sediment and contaminants, reducing transportation and diffuse pollution rates. GIS modelling using remotely sensed landscape indices and land parcel data can provide an efficient means of identifying priority areas for intervention at sub‐catchment or farm system scales. We develop and test a scalable runoff risk model in the lower Rother catchment, West Sussex. The model uses the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) applied to satellite images as an erodibility proxy and identifies locations along pathways that are conceivably at greatest risk of sediment accumulation and transfer, guided by field observations. We assess current and historical field boundaries near high‐risk locations, evaluating the potential capacity of their margins to contribute to runoff risk reduction using an innovative ranking system. Recommendations are made for VBS implementation and the value of historical field boundary and margin restoration is discussed. Our method offers a rapid approach with minimal data requirements to identify high‐risk sediment runoff locations and priority sites for intervention. The tool has the potential to guide decision‐makers responsible for targeting and implementing soil erosion and runoff control measures such as VBS, while also maximizing agri‐environmental and cultural benefits.
The interaction of PRDX1 with Cofilin promotes oral squamous cell carcinoma metastasis
Authors: Shen Yajun , You Zixuan , Li Lingyu , Tang Xiaofei , Shan Xiaofeng
Published: May 2024

Peroxiredoxin 1 (PRDX1) is an important member of the peroxiredoxin family (PRDX) and is upregulated in a variety of tumors. Previous studies have found that high PRDX1 expression is closely related to the metastasis of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), but the specific molecular mechanism is elusive. To elucidate the role of PRDX1 in the metastasis process of OSCC, we evaluated the expression of PRDX1 in OSCC clinical specimens and its impact on the prognosis of OSCC patients. Then, the effect of PRDX1 on OSCC metastasis and cytoskeletal reconstruction was explored in vitro and in nude mouse tongue cancer models, and the molecular mechanisms were also investigated. PRDX1 can directly interact with the actin‐binding protein Cofilin, inhibiting the phosphorylation of its Ser3 site, accelerating the depolymerization and turnover of actin, promoting OSCC cell movement, and aggravating the invasion and metastasis of OSCC. In clinical samples and mouse tongue cancer models, PRDX1 also increased lymph node metastasis of OSCC and was negatively correlated with the phosphorylation of Cofilin; PRDX1 also reduced the overall survival rate of OSCC patients. In summary, our study identified that PRDX1 may be a potential therapeutic target to inhibit OSCC metastasis.
Genomic landscape defines peritoneal metastatic pattern and related target of peritoneal metastasis in colorectal cancer
Authors: Hu Minhui , Luo Rui , Yang Keli , Yu Yang , Pan Qiwen , Yuan Mingming , Chen Rongrong , Wang Hui , Qin Qiyuan , Ma Tenghui , Wang Huaiming
Published: May 2024

The primary objective of this study is to develop a prediction model for peritoneal metastasis (PM) in colorectal cancer by integrating the genomic features of primary colorectal cancer, along with clinicopathological features. Concurrently, we aim to identify potential target implicated in the peritoneal dissemination of colorectal cancer through bioinformatics exploration and experimental validation. By analyzing the genomic landscape of primary colorectal cancer and clinicopathological features from 363 metastatic colorectal cancer patients, we identified 22 differently distributed variables, which were used for subsequent LASSO regression to construct a PM prediction model. The integrated model established by LASSO regression, which incorporated two clinicopathological variables and seven genomic variables, precisely discriminated PM cases (AUC 0.899; 95% CI 0.860–0.937) with good calibration (Hosmer–Lemeshow test p = .147). Model validation yielded AUCs of 0.898 (95% CI 0.896–0.899) and 0.704 (95% CI 0.622–0.787) internally and externally, respectively. Additionally, the peritoneal metastasis‐related genomic signature (PGS), which was composed of the seven genes in the integrated model, has prognostic stratification capability for colorectal cancer. The divergent genomic landscape drives the driver genes of PM. Bioinformatic analysis concerning these driver genes indicated SERINC1 may be associated with PM. Subsequent experiments indicate that knocking down of SERINC1 functionally suppresses peritoneal dissemination, emphasizing its importance in CRCPM. In summary, the genomic landscape of primary cancer in colorectal cancer defines peritoneal metastatic pattern and reveals the potential target of SERINC1 for PM in colorectal cancer.
The impact of inflation on inequality in the CEMAC and UEMOA zones of Sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Mutascu Mihai , Lessoua Albert , Ianc Nicolae Bogdan
Published: May 2024

This paper explores the impact of inflation on income inequality in Sub‐Saharan Africa, over the period from 1997 to 2019. The Bayesian model averaging method, à la De Luca and Magnus (2011), is employed to empirically support the main conclusions. The main finding highlights that inflation has an asymmetrical impact on inequality in the Sub‐Saharan African (SSA) region, diminishing income disparities among the wealthy while exacerbating them among the impoverished. The results are sensitive to the economic characteristics of the country as well as the level of income brackets. Education, health expenditures, size of agriculture, economic development and control of corruption play pivotal roles in modelling the relationship between inflation and income inequality in the SSA region. Social safety net programs, monetary policies aimed at addressing inflation, investments in education, fostering inclusive economic growth, enhancing access to financial services for the impoverished, reforms to advance land rights and promoting regional cooperation should be the primary policy objectives for SSA countries.
Risk prediction of advanced colorectal neoplasia among diabetic patients: A derivation and validation study
Authors: Wong Martin CS , Leung Eman YM , Wang Harry HX , Huang Junjie
Published: May 2024

Background and Aim

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer in the world. This study devises and validates a clinical scoring system for risk prediction of advanced colorectal neoplasia (ACN) to guide colonoscopy evaluation among diabetic patients.

Methods

We identified 55 964 diabetic patients who received colonoscopies from a large database in a Chinese population (2008–2018). We recruited a derivation cohort based on random sampling. The risk factors of CRC evaluated by univariate analysis were examined for ACN, defined as advanced adenoma, CRC, or any combination thereof using binary logistic regression analysis. We used the adjusted odds ratios (aORs) for independent risk factors to devise a risk score, ranging from 0 to 6: 0–4 “average risk” (AR) and 5–6 “high risk” (HR). The other subjects acted as an independent validation cohort.

Results

The prevalence of ACN in both the derivation and validation cohorts was 2.0%. Using the scoring system constructed, 78.5% and 21.5% of patients in the validation cohort were classified as AR and HR, respectively. The prevalence of ACN in the AR and HR groups was 1.5% and 4.1%, respectively. Individuals in the HR group had a 2.78‐fold increased prevalence of ACN than the AR group. The concordance (c‐) statistics was 0.70, implying a good discriminatory capability of the risk score to stratify high‐risk individuals who should consider colonoscopy.

Conclusion

The clinical risk scoring system based on age, gender, smoking, presence of hypertension, and use of aspirin is useful for ACN risk prediction among diabetic patients.
Emerging from the Fog: Reimagining Leadership and Generativity
Authors: Devies Brittany , Guthrie Kathy L.
Published: May 2024

The current article aims to reimagine what leadership and generativity can look like for generations to come. The article begins by defining and contextualizing generativity and leadership. Leadership capacity and efficacy are explored as important entities of generativity development followed by a critical conversation of how to proceed forward. The article concludes with a call to action, focused on honoring context and moving towards interconnectedness.
In‐Electrospray source Hydrogen/Deuterium exchange coupled to multistage fragmentation for the investigation of the protonation and fragmentation pathways of gas phase ions
Authors: Kostyukevich Yury , Osipenko Sergey , Borisova Liudmila , Kireev Albert
Published: May 2024

Identification of molecules in complex natural matrices relies on matching the fragmentation spectra of ions under investigation and the spectra acquired for the corresponding analytical standards. Currently, there are many databases of experimentally measured tandem mass spectrometry spectra (such as NIST, MzCloud, and Metlin), and considerable progress has been made in the development of software for predicting tandem mass spectrometry fragments in silico using combinatorial, machine learning, and quantum chemistry approaches (such as MetFrag, CFM‐ID, and QCxMS). However, the electrospray ionization molecules can be ionized at different sites (protonated or deprotonated), and the fragmentation spectra of such ions are different. Here, we are using the combination of the in‐ESI source hydrogen/deuterium exchange reaction and MSn fragmentation for the investigation of the fragmentation pathways for different protomers of organic molecules. It is shown that the distribution of the deuterium in the fragment ions reflects the presence of different protomers. For several molecules, the distribution of deuterium was traced up to the MS5 level of fragmentation revealing many unusual and unexpected effects. For example, we investigated the loss of HF from the ciprofloxacin and norfloxacin ions and observed that for ions protonated at –COOH group, the eliminating hydrogen always comes from –NH group. When ions are protonated at another site, the elimination of hydrogen with a probability of 30% occurs from the –NH group, and with a probability of 70%, it originates from other sites on the molecule. Such effects were not described previously. Quantum chemical simulation was used for the verification of the protonated structures and simulation of the corresponding fragmentation spectra.
Spatiotemporal characteristics of deep convection initiation in the Central United States
Authors: Shield Stephen A. , Houston Adam L.
Published: May 2024

This research examines the spatiotemporal characteristics of deep convection initiation (DCI) using a dataset of approximately 182,000 instances of DCI occurring over an 11‐year period in the Central United States. Spatial statistical analysis reveals differences in the frequency of DCI occurrence across the study area. Favoured areas of DCI are most common across areas of higher terrain and in proximity to the Gulf Coast, while DCI occurs less frequently over the northern Great Plains. Spatial differences in the degree of interannual variability of DCI are also noted, with higher (lower) interannual variability generally noted in areas of less (more) frequent DCI occurrence. Unsupervised machine learning is utilized to identify spatial variability in the diurnal cycle of DCI. The data and methods in this study are able to reliably identify more obvious differences in diurnal time series of DCI occurrence, while more subtle differences such as those resulting from localized or weaker mechanisms are identified less reliably. However, from these results it is obvious that spatial variability in the diurnal time series of DCI exists.
Impact of simultaneous increase in CO2 and temperature on soil aggregates, associated organic carbon, and nutritional quality of rice–wheat grains
Authors: Rao Karnena Koteswara , Dwivedi Sharad Kumar , Kumar Santosh , Samal Saubhagya Kumar , Singh N. Raju , Mishra Janki Sharan , Prakash Ved , Choubey Anup Kumar , Kumar Manoj , Bhatt Bhagwati Prasad
Published: May 2024

Background

Food and nutritional security remain a major thrust area in the under developed and developing countries. These problems are exaggerated by the unprecedented challenges of climate change.

Aims

The aim of this study was to assess the impact of climate change on grain quality of wheat and rice genotypes as well as their effect on soil aggregate fractions and aggregate associated carbon.

Methodology

In the context, the present study was formulated by considering four predicted climate scenarios, namely, T0C0 (ambient condition), T0C1 (approx. 25% higher CO2), T1C0 (2°C higher temperature) and T1C1 (25% higher CO2 + 2°C higher temperature) and their impact on grain quality of wheat (HD2967, HD2733, DBW17, and HD3093) and rice (IR83376‐B‐B‐24‐2, IR84895‐B‐127‐CRA‐5‐1‐1, R Bhagwati, and IR64) genotypes as well as soil aggregate fractions and aggregate associated carbon.

Results

The result revealed that T0C1 has a negative impact on grain nitrogen and protein content. On an average, nitrogen content in wheat and rice showed a decrease of about 15.55% (5.52%–25.32%) and 11.44% (3.33%–23.86%), respectively. Interestingly, the concurrent effect of elevated CO2 and temperature resulted in higher nitrogen and protein content as compared to other climate conditions. Further, P (P) content in the wheat and rice grains also improved under the elevated CO2 condition, whereas the content of potassium was not significantly influenced. Apart from major nutrients, micronutrients (Zn and Fe) were significantly influenced by climatic variables. The study revealed that grain Zn and Fe content of both the crops were reduced due to elevated CO2. The data on soil aggregate fractions revealed that elevated CO2 favors the formation of macro‐aggregate, whereas an increase in temperature favors micro‐aggregate fractions in the soil. Further, the elevation of CO2 also resulted in the accumulation of more carbon in the macro‐aggregates.

Conclusion

We conclude that elevated CO2 and temperature cause specific changes in soil aggregate formation and grain nutrient quality. Based on molar ratio of P/Zn and P/Fe, we identified varieties of rice (IR83376‐B‐B‐24‐2) and wheat (HD2733) with higher bioavailability to address the nutritional security with changing climate in developing countries.
An active‐matrix microLED display based on monolithic integration with IGZO backplane
Authors: Durnan Oliver , Kumar Vikrant , Alshanbari Reem , Noga Megan , Kymissis Ioannis
Published: May 2024

This paper presents a method of monolithically integrating gallium nitride micrometer‐scale light‐emitting diodes (microLEDs) with an indium gallium zinc oxide (IGZO) thin‐film transistor (TFT) backplane to produce an active‐matrix microdisplay. After discussion of the fabrication process, individual LEDs, TFTs, and the integrated system are characterized. Results demonstrate a 32 × 32 pixel, 78.4 PPI microdisplay with luminance exceeding 1500 nits. The dynamic set and hold behaviors of the active‐matrix pixel circuit are analyzed to verify the applicability of this technology for use in high and low refresh rate displays.
An OLED display driver IC with high‐gain fast‐slew circuit and on‐the‐fly self‐repair technique for high‐resolution display
Authors: Jo Yun‐Rae , Yu Chanbong , Kim Jungmoon , Eom Jeeyeon , Choi Jeonghoon , Jang Yunseok , Lee Woo‐Nyoung , Lee Jihyun , Lim Hyun‐Wook , Kim Siwoo , Lee Jae‐Youl
Published: May 2024

This paper presents an OLED display driver IC with high‐gain fast‐slew (HGFS) and on‐the‐fly self‐repair (OFSR) circuits for a spatial resolution of WQHD and a frame rate of 120 Hz. The proposed HGFS circuit increases the slewing current of the unity‐gain amplifier of the source driver when the input voltage is largely changed, reducing the settling time of the source driver as the resolution and frame rate increase. To enhance image quality by correcting line defects, the OFSR circuit replaces a faulty channel with a spare dummy channel. The OLED display driver IC was manufactured using a 28‐nm high‐voltage process with 8 V/20 V transistors and has 2880 source drivers for WQHD display. The measurement results indicate a horizontal line time of 2.7 μs with a slew rate of 7.675 V/μs, supporting WQHD resolution and 120‐Hz frame rate. The displayed image demonstrates that the vertical line defect has disappeared with the use of OFSR.
Identification of dominant subspaces for model reduction of structured parametric systems
Authors: Benner Peter , Goyal Pawan , Pontes Duff Igor
Published: May 2024

In this paper, we discuss a novel model reduction framework for linear structured dynamical systems. The transfer functions of these systems are assumed to have a special structure, for example, coming from second‐order linear systems or time‐delay systems, and they may also have parameter dependencies. Firstly, we investigate the connection between classic interpolation‐based model reduction methods with the reachability and observability subspaces of linear structured parametric systems. We show that if enough interpolation points are taken, the projection matrices of interpolation‐based model reduction encode these subspaces. Consequently, we are able to identify the dominant reachable and observable subspaces of the underlying system. Based on this, we propose a new model reduction algorithm combining these features and leading to reduced‐order systems. Furthermore, we discuss computational aspects of the approach and its applicability to a large‐scale setting. We illustrate the efficiency of the proposed approach with several numerical large‐scale benchmark examples.
High prevalence of severe pain is associated with low opioid availability in patients with advanced cancer: Combined database study and nationwide questionnaire survey in Japan
Authors: Hasegawa‐Moriyama Maiko , Morioka Yasuhide , Hiroi Shinzo , Naya Noriyuki , Suzuki Yura , Koretaka Yuichi , Hara Erina , Abe Hiroaki , Uchida Kanji , Sumitani Masahiko
Published: May 2024

Objectives

Opioid availability for the palliative care of patients with advanced cancer is increasing globally. However, opioid availability remains extremely low in Japan. We investigated whether pain is appropriately controlled by low‐dose opioid prescriptions in patients with advanced cancer in Japan.

Methods

A web‐based nationwide survey for caregivers from 2000 community comprehensive support care centers was performed in Japan to assess details about pain in the 30 days before patients died of end‐stage cancer. Separately, the data for opioid prescription doses and medical services in the 90 days before the death of patients with cancer were extracted from a health insurance claim database.

Results

Responses from 1034 responders were retrieved and 665 patients were included. In total, 254 patients (38.2%) complained of severe‐to‐intolerable cancer‐related pain. The median cumulative prescription dose of opioids in the 90 days before patient death was 311.0 mg by oral morphine equivalent doses. Multiple regression analyses across prefectures revealed that the proportion of patients with severe‐to‐intolerable cancer‐related pain was negatively associated with the cumulative opioid consumption expressed as morphine‐equivalent doses within 90 days before death.

Conclusions

The very low availability of opioids for patients with end‐stage cancer could result in high rate of severe‐to‐intolerable cancer‐related pain patients. There were several limitations in this study, and the interpretations of the findings should be carefully. However, the increase in the absolute dose of opioids could improve the palliative care framework to the pain control levels of the global standard.