bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anatomical and functional changes of the fetal adrenal gland in intrauterine growth restriction
Authors: Martinelli Serena , Rolfo Alessandro , Pace Carlotta , Canu Letizia , Nuzzo Anna Maria , Giuffrida Domenica , Gaglioti Pietro , Todros Tullia
Published: March 2024

Objective

The aim of this study was to demonstrate the establishment of adrenal sparing in intrauterine growth restricted (IUGR) human fetuses. IUGR fetuses are a subgroup of small for gestational age (SGA) fetuses that are unable to reach their own growth potential because of chronic hypoxia and undernutrition. We hypothesized that in IUGR fetuses the adrenal gland is relatively larger and secretion of noradrenaline (NA), adrenaline (A), and cortisol is increased.

Study Design

This is a prospective observational study including 65 singleton pregnancies (42 IUGR and 23 controls). Using two‐dimensional ultrasound, we measured fetal adrenal diameters and adrenal/abdominal circumference (AD/AC) ratio between 25 and 37 weeks. We considered only one measurement per fetus. In 21 pregnancies we also measured NA, A, and cortisol levels in arterial and venous fetal cord blood collected at the time of delivery.

Results

The AD/AC ratio was significantly higher in IUGR fetuses than in controls. Cord NA and A levels were significantly higher in IUGR fetuses than in controls. An increase in cortisol secretion in IUGR fetuses was observed but the difference was not statistically significant.

Conclusions

Adrenal sparing correlates with a relative increase in adrenal measurements and function.
Social justice content in counseling journals: Comparison of publication rates
Authors: Dollarhide Colette T. , Middleton Tanya , Burciaga Liliana , Casani Jennifer , Dockery Natese , Fraley Audia M. , Karkhanis Sailee , Levine Allison , Lynn Michele , Mushunje Rumbidzai , Osei Twerefour Ildico Harriet , Shrewsbury‐Braxton Sarah
Published: March 2024

Social justice is listed as a professional value for the American Counseling Association (ACA) (2014), yet professional publication in this topic may not be commensurate with its importance to the profession. This article presents the results of a qualitative content analysis (QCA, Schreier, 2012) of titles and abstracts of 917 articles in 18 ACA journals and one American School Counselor Association journal to document each journal's publication rate of social justice‐related articles for 2 years: 2018 (2 years before the ACA Anti‐Racism Statement, 2020) and 2022 (2 years after the statement). Results for each journal are presented, and topics of social justice content are listed. Implications are provided for researchers, association leaders, editors, and reviewers.
Morphoanatomical study of the species Zanthoxylum kleinii (R.S. Cowan) P.G. Waterman (Rutaceae)
Authors: Fladzinski Karine Amorim , Armstrong Lorene , dos Anjos Cintia Aparecida , da Rocha Leandro Taborda , Miguel Obdulio Gomes , Miguel Marilis Dallarmi , Montrucchio Deise Prehs , de Fátima Gaspari Dias Josiane
Published: March 2024

The order Sapindales is comprised of nine families and in Brazil it is represented by six, including Rutaceae Juss., which constitutes the largest group of this order. A variety of species of Zanthoxylum L. are distributed throughout the country, and among them is the species Zanthoxylum kleinii (R.S. Cowan) P.G. Waterman, which is found in the states of Brazil. This study aimed to characterize the morphoanatomy of the leaf, petiole, rachis, and stem of the species Z. kleinii. Histochemical tests were performed, and the sections were visualized under optical and scanning electron microscopy. The analysis showed that the morphoanatomical characteristics of the species are: hypoestomatic leaflets; stomata classified as anomocytic, tetracytic, and anisocytic; dorsiventral mesophyll; cavities that produce a secretion of lipid nature, present in the leaflet, rachis, and petiole; colleters distributed in the leaf; presence of simple non‐glandular trichomes in all structures; and prismatic crystals in the petiole. Histochemical tests indicated the presence of phenolic and lipophilic compounds, mucilage, and lignin. With the result of this research, it was possible to identify the nature of the compounds secreted by the secretory structures of the leaves; in addition, the morphoanatomical characterization of Z. kleinii can provide relevant data for future studies for other organs of the species not yet described. Furthermore, contributing concomitantly with data for the genus, in this way, supporting to differentiate them.

Research Highlights

Ultrastructural features observed by microscopic techniques.

Calcium oxalate crystals present in the rachis.

Microchemical tests confirmed the presence of colleters in the leaflet.
Impact of left ventricular diastolic function and direct oral anticoagulant use for predicting embolic events in patients with heart failure and atrial fibrillation
Authors: Yamamoto Jumpei , Hayama Hiromasa , Enomoto Yoshinari , Yamamoto Masaya , Hara Hisao , Hiroi Yukio
Published: March 2024

Background

Patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) and heart failure (HF) have high stroke risk owing to left atrial dysfunction. However, anticoagulation is a concern in patients with high bleeding risk. We aimed to identify independent predictors of stroke in HF patients with AF.

Methods

We retrospectively examined 320 patients (mean age 79 ± 12 years, 163 women) hospitalized with acute HF complicated by AF between January 2014 and December 2018. Patients were followed from admission until ischemic stroke or systemic embolism (SSE) onset or death or were censored at the last contact date or September 2023.

Results

SSE occurred in 40 patients (median follow‐up of 528 days). Multivariate Cox regression analysis identified age (hazard ratio [HR] 1.04, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.00–1.07, p = .034), direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC) use (HR 0.26, 95% CI 0.11–0.60, p = .002), and early diastolic peak flow velocity to early diastolic peak annular velocity (E/e'; HR 1.05, 95% CI 1.02–1.08, p < .001) to be independent predictors of SSE, whereas left atrial reservoir strain was not. After determining an appropriate E/e' cutoff by receiver‐operating characteristic curve analysis and adjusting the multivariate Cox model, E/e' ≥17.5 (HR 3.30, 95% CI 1.56–6.83, p = .001) independently predicted SSE. The results were consistent with no interaction in the subanalysis except for gender.

Conclusion

Elderly patients not on DOACs with elevated E/e' may be at higher risk of stroke, suggesting that DOACs should be the first choice for patients with elevated E/e' and aggressive additional prophylaxis and careful follow‐up are needed.
A national database analysis of the evolution of outcomes of surgery for anal melanoma
Authors: Emile Sameh H. , Horesh Nir , Garoufalia Zoe , Gefen Rachel , Dourado Justin , Wexner Steven D.
Published: March 2024

Background

This study assessed trends in treatment and outcomes of anal melanomas over a 17‐year period.

Methods

NCDB was searched for patients with anal melanoma (2004–2020). Receiver‐operating characteristic curve analysis was used to determine cutoff year marking increased overall survival (OS) of anal melanoma. Characteristics, treatments, and outcomes in consecutive time periods were compared.

Results

A total of 815 patients (mean age: 67.2 years; 59.4% female) were included: 354 in Period 1 (2004–2012) and 461 in Period 2 (2013–2020). Period 2 included fewer abdominoperineal resections (18% vs. 28%, p = 0.002), more local tumor excisions (61.1% vs. 55%, p = 0.002), more often immunotherapy (odds ratio [OR]: 3.41, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.22–5.22, p < 0.001) and less often chemotherapy (OR: 0.516, 95% CI: 0.352–0.755, p < 0.001) administered and longer median OS (25.2 vs. 19.8 months, p = 0.006). Independent predictors of worse OS were older age (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.02, p = 0.012), higher Charlson score (HR: 2.32, p = 0.02), and greater number of positive lymph nodes (HR: 1.15, p < 0.001); conversely private insurance (HR: 0.385, p = 0.008) was predictive of increased OS.

Conclusions

Anal melanoma patients diagnosed between 2013 and 2020 underwent fewer abdominoperineal resections and more local excisions than patients diagnosed between 2004 and 2013. Increased immunotherapy and longer median OS were noted in period two. Age and private insurance were significant predictors of OS, remaining constant across time periods.
Adjusting metabolic rates and critical oxygen tension in planktonic copepods under increasing hypoxia in highly productive coastal upwelling zones
Authors: Frederick Leissing , Urbina Mauricio A. , Jorquera Erika , Escribano Ruben
Published: March 2024

Ongoing ocean deoxygenation is threatening marine organisms globally. In eastern boundary upwelling systems, planktonic copepods dominate the epipelagic zooplankton, being crucial in the marine food web. Yet, they must cope with severe hypoxia caused by shoaling of the oxygen minimum zone. Based on laboratory experiments during 2021, we found differential responses in the metabolic rate (MR) and critical oxygen partial pressure of three abundant copepods. Calanoides patagoniensis doubled its MR during the upwelling season, so better exploiting the spring phytoplankton bloom for feeding and reproduction while maintaining their critical oxygen partial pressure unchanged between seasons. Contrastingly, Paracalanus cf. indicus and Acartia tonsa, maintained their MRs throughout seasons, but significantly increased their critical oxygen partial pressure during the upwelling period, becoming less tolerant to hypoxia. Field observations showed that oxygen levels equal to or lower than the critical oxygen partial pressure is a common condition (70% of occurrence) that copepods encounter during the year in the upper 50 m layer. These findings suggest a species‐dependent trade‐off between the MR and the critical oxygen partial pressure, where some species can maintain the latter despite fluctuations in their MR (improved hypoxia tolerance) or maintain their MR at the expenses of a larger critical oxygen partial pressure (improved energy expenditures). These adaptive responses, under oxygen levels equal to or lower than the critical oxygen partial pressure, suggest that exacerbated hypoxia, driven by ocean deoxygenation and increased upwelling, will alter copepod distribution and cause higher copepod mortality, with potentially drastic consequences for marine food webs.
Intense Imagery Movements May Lead to Maladaptive Daydreaming: A Case Series and Literature Review
Authors: Hedderly Tammy , Eccles Claire , Malik Osman , Abdulsatar Farah , Mitchell Clare , Owen Tamsin , Soffer‐Dudek Nirit , Grose Claire , Fernandez Thomas V. , Robinson Sally , Somer Eli
Published: March 2024

Background

This case series highlights the connection between childhood intense imagery movements (IIM) and adult‐reported maladaptive daydreaming (MD). Motor stereotypies occur in typically developing children and also with co‐occurring neurodevelopmental differences. A subgroup with complex motor stereotypies reports accompanying intense imagery, often enhanced by the movements. This phenomenon can persist into adulthood and, in some cases, will need active management to prevent significant distress and impairment.

Cases

Six adults, self‐reporting maladaptive daydreaming associated with stereotypies, are presented to demonstrate the associations.

Literature Review

The clinical significance and function of IIM and MD are unclear, but several hypotheses are discussed, including the mechanism of emotional regulation through sensory seeking, as a process for processing childhood psychological trauma, as intrusive thoughts or images as part of a subtype of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, or as a result of diverse attentional networks seen in neurodevelopmental disorders.

Conclusions

This paper highlights important connections between IIM and MD. Many adults with MD show a childhood origin of stereotypical movements. Whilst immersive daydreaming may provide creativity and emotional regulation, there is evidence of distress and impairment of function for some adults, leading to MD diagnoses. Recognizing this phenomenon is important for all neurologists and physicians working with stereotypical movements.
Contribution of Nutritional, Lifestyle, and Metabolic Risk Factors to Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Veronese Nicola , Nova Andrea , Fazia Teresa , Riggi Emilia , Yang Lin , Piccio Laura , Huang Bo‐Huei , Ahmadi Matthew , Barbagallo Mario , Notarnicola Maria , Giannelli Gianluigi , De Pergola Giovanni , Stamatakis Emmanuel , Cereda Emanuele , Bernardinelli Luisa , Fontana Luigi
Published: March 2024

Background

Modifiable risk factors for Parkinson's disease (PD) are poorly known.

Objectives

The aim is to evaluate independent associations of different nutritional components, physical activity, and sedentary behavior and metabolic factors with the risk of PD.

Methods

In this population‐based prospective cohort study using the data of the United Kingdom Biobank (from 2006–2010), 502,017 men and women who were free from PD (International Classification of Diseases 10th edition; “G20”) at baseline were included. We implemented a Cox proportion hazard's model to evaluate the associations of different levels of physical activity, sitting time, sleep habits, diet quality, alcohol and coffee consumption, smoking, and body mass index with PD risk, adjusting for several confounding variables.

Results

During a median follow‐up of 12.8 years, lifestyle factors including vigorous physical activity (hazard ration [HR] = 0.84; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.75–0.94), low‐to‐moderate sitting time (HR = 0.89; 95% CI, 0.81–0.97), and high sleep quality (HR = 0.89; 95% CI, 0.80–0.99) were associated with a reduced risk of PD. Small amounts of coffee (HR = 0.88; 95% CI, 0.82–0.95), red meat (HR = 0.86; 95% CI, 0.76–0.97), and current smoking (HR = 0.65; 95% CI, 0.56–0.75) were also associated with a lower risk of PD, whereas alcohol intake (HR = 1.29; 95% CI, 1.06–1.56) with higher PD risk. Secondary analysis, including metabolic risk factors, confirmed these findings and highlighted the potential protective effect of plasma vitamin D and uric acid, but of low‐density lipoprotein‐cholesterol, triglycerides, and C‐reactive protein as well.

Conclusions

Vigorous physical activity, reduced sitting time, good sleep quality together with small coffee intake and vitamin D supplementation are potentially neuroprotective lifestyle interventions for the prevention of PD. © 2024 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Benzopyrone, a privileged scaffold in drug discovery: An overview of FDA‐approved drugs and clinical candidates
Authors: Sharma Venu , Sharma Ankita , Wadje Bhagyashri N. , Bharate Sandip B.
Published: March 2024

Natural products have always served as an important source of drugs for treating various diseases. Among various privileged natural product scaffolds, the benzopyrone class of compounds has a substantial presence among biologically active compounds. One of the pioneering anticoagulant drugs, warfarin approved in 1954 bears a benzo‐α‐pyrone (coumarin) nucleus. The widely investigated psoriasis drugs, methoxsalen, and trioxsalen, also contain a benzo‐α‐pyrone nucleus. Benzo‐γ‐pyrone (chromone) containing drugs, cromoglic acid, and pranlukast were approved as treatments for asthma in 1982 and 2007, respectively. Numerous other small molecules with a benzopyrone core are under clinical investigation. The present review discusses the discovery, absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion properties, and synthetic approaches for the Food and Drug Administration‐approved and clinical‐stage benzopyrone class of compounds. The role of the pyrone core in biological activity has also been discussed. The present review unravels the potential of benzopyrone core in medicinal chemistry and drug development.
Improvement of lower urinary tract dysfunction by a monoacylglycerol lipase inhibitor in mice with spinal cord injury
Authors: Cho Kang Jun , Hashimoto Mamoru , Karnup Sergei , Matsuoka Kanako , Kamijo Tadanobu , Kim Joon Chul , Koh Jun Sung , Yoshimura Naoki
Published: March 2024

Aims

Activation of the endocannabinoid system by monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) blockade may affect the lower urinary tract function. We investigated the effect of an MAGL inhibitor, MJN110, on neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (LUTD) in the mouse model of spinal cord injury (SCI).

Methods

Female C57BL/6 mice that underwent spinal cord transection at T8–10 level were divided into three groups consisting of (1) vehicle‐treated SCI mice, (2) 5 mg/kg, or (3) 10 mg/kg of MJN110‐treated SCI mice. MJN110 and vehicle were administered intraperitoneally for 7 days from 4 weeks after spinal cord transection. We then conducted awake cystometrograms and compared urodynamic parameters between three groups. The expression of cannabinoid (CB) receptors, TRP receptors, and inflammatory cytokines in L6‐S1 dorsal root ganglia (DRG) or the bladder mucosa were evaluated and compared among three groups. Changes in the level of serum 2‐arachidonoylglycerol (2‐AG) and bladder MAGL were also evaluated.

Results

In the cystometrogram, detrusor overactivity (DO) parameters, such as the number of nonvoiding contraction (NVC), a ratio of time to the 1st NVC to intercontraction interval (ICI), and NVC integrals were improved by MJN110 treatment, and some effects were dose dependent. Although MJN110 did not improve voiding efficiency, it decreased bladder capacity, ICI, and residual urine volume compared to vehicle injection. MJN110 treatment groups had lower CB2, TRPV1, TRPA1, and inflammatory cytokines mRNA levels in DRG and bladder mucosa. Serum 2‐AG was increased, and bladder MAGL was decreased after MAGL inhibitor treatment.

Conclusions

MAGL inhibition improved LUTD including attenuation of DO after SCI. Thus, MAGL can be a therapeutic target for neurogenic LUTD after SCI.
Registration, incidence patterns, and survival trends of central nervous system tumors among children in Germany 1980–2019: An analysis of 40 years based on data from the German Childhood Cancer Registry
Authors: Wellbrock Maike , Voigt Mathias , Ronckers Cecile , Grabow Desiree , Spix Claudia , Erdmann Friederike
Published: March 2024

Background

Tumors of the central nervous system (CNS) are the second most common type of pediatric cancer in Germany. We aimed to describe registration practice, incidence, and survival patterns for childhood CNS tumors in Germany for the past 40 years.

Procedure

Including all CNS tumor cases in children diagnosed at ages 0–14 years registered at the German Childhood Cancer Registry (GCCR) in 1980–2019 (for survival analysis 1980–2016), we calculated age‐specific and age‐standardized incidence rates (ASIR) over time, average annual percentage changes (AAPC), and 1‐ and 5‐year overall survival.

Results

While we observed a pronounced increase in ASIR after the establishment of the GCCR during the 1980s, ASIR for all pediatric CNS tumors combined continued to increase markedly from 28.6 per million in 1990–1999 to 43.3 in 2010–2019 (AAPC = 2.7% in 1991–2010, AAPC = 0.3% in 2010–2019). The 5‐year overall survival from CNS tumors improved from 63% in the 1980s, 70% in the 1990s to 79% in 2010–2016. These improvements have occurred across all age groups. Children diagnosed with ependymomas and choroid plexus tumors experienced the strongest increase (from 54% to 81%).

Conclusions

Observed increases in incidence rates for pediatric CNS tumors are likely only partially caused by actual increasing case numbers. The majority is a function of improved registration and, to a minor extent, improvements in diagnostics. Survival from pediatric CNS tumors has, by and large, improved consistently, leading to a growing population of childhood cancer survivors with diverse health biographies and risk of lifelong adverse impact on health and wellbeing.
A novel finite element for the vibration analysis of tapered laminated plates
Authors: Hosseinian Nima , Attarnejad Reza
Published: March 2024

In the present study, a new tapered finite element is developed by incorporating the in‐plane effect in our recently introduced element for the vibration analysis of internally tapered laminated plates. Stress and strain fields for a laminated plate with varying thickness along two orthogonal directions are expressed through extending classical laminated plate theory. Shape functions regarding bending and membrane behavior are extracted from the bending and axial basic displacement functions of the Euler‐Bernoulli beam, respectively. Several laminated plates with different taper configurations have been studied, and the results obtained from vibration analysis are compared with those of the literature. Since the element can capture the exact form of variation in thickness, the solution has shown to be competitively accurate with considerably fewer total degrees of freedom and elements in comparison with conventional finite elements.

Highlight

A new finite element for thin, tapered, laminated plates is introduced.

Laminates' stiffness matrix is obtained for arbitrary thickness variation.

A novel method is adopted to derive in‐plane shape functions.

C1 continuity is guaranteed along the edges of elements.

Calculation cost is considerably reduced.
Construction of a rough surface in EPDM/CB composite through peroxide curing: A mechanism for optimizing physico‐mechanical properties in automotive paint‐compatible applications
Authors: Buhari Sudheer , Vinayak Manikkedath V. , Rhee KyongYop , Asif A.
Published: March 2024

This study investigates the profound impact of vulcanization methods on ethylene–propylene–diene monomer (EPDM) composites, with a particular focus on elucidating significant findings and achievements. Exploring eight composites, including sulfur and peroxide‐cured variations, we conducted an in‐depth evaluation of the crucial physico‐mechanical properties of the composites. The study extends to encompass the effects of vulcanization on heat aging parameters, providing a comprehensive understanding of the materials' resilience. Utilizing thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, our research delves into the processes, revealing critical insights into the thermal behavior and composition of the composites. Paint compatibility, a pivotal aspect in automotive applications, was rigorously examined through four different test methods. Surface morphology, investigated through scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy, yielded valuable findings on the role of vulcanization in shaping surface roughness and enhancing paint compatibility. Additionally, the quantitative measurement of surface energy using the sessile drop method provided a deeper understanding of the adhesion properties. The findings distinctly underscore the superiority of peroxide‐cured composites, marking a significant stride toward their potential to revolutionize automotive applications. This research not only contributes to the knowledge base but also sets a foundation for advancements in EPDM composite materials, positioning them as key players in driving innovation within the automotive industry.

Highlights

Developed a peroxide‐cured EPDM rubber composite with a rough surface.

A rough surface is more paint‐compatible than a smooth surface.

The roughness of peroxide‐cured EPDM is greater than that of sulfur‐cured one.

Peroxide curing introduces more polar functional groups and cross‐links.

Peroxide‐cured EPDM has higher thermal stability than sulfur‐cured EPDM.
KCD: A prediction web server of knowledge‐based circular dichroism
Authors: Jacinto‐Méndez Damián , Granados‐Ramírez Carmen Giovana , Carbajal‐Tinoco Mauricio D.
Published: March 2024

We present a web server that predicts the far‐UV circular dichroism (CD) spectra of proteins by utilizing their three‐dimensional (3D) structures from the Protein Data Bank (PDB). The main algorithm is based on the classical theory of optical activity together with a set of atomic complex polarizabilities, which are obtained from the analysis of a series of synchrotron radiation CD spectra and their related 3D structures from the PDB. The results of our knowledge‐based CD method (KCD) are in good agreement with measured spectra that could include the effect of D‐amino acids. Our method also delivers some of the most accurate predictions, in comparison with the calculated spectra from well‐established models. Specifically, using a metric of closeness based on normalized absolute deviations between experimental and calculated spectra, the mean values for a series of 57 test proteins give the following figures for such models: 0.26 KCD, 0.27 PDBMD2CD, 0.30 SESCA, and 0.47 DichroCalc. From another point of view, it is worth mentioning the remarkable capabilities of the recent approaches based on artificial intelligence, which can precisely predict the native structure of proteins. The structure of proteins, however, is flexible and can be modified by a diversity of environmental factors such as interactions with other molecules, mechanical stresses, variations of temperature, pH, or ionic strength. Experimental CD spectra together with reliable predictions can be utilized to assess eventual secondary structural changes. A similar kind of evaluation can be done for the case of an incomplete protein structure that has been reconstructed by using different approaches. The KCD method can be freely accessed from: https://kcd.cinvestav.mx/.
A computational and experimental study of cis–trans isomeric pesticides based on collision‐induced dissociation of high‐resolution mass spectrometry
Authors: Zhang Hongyan , Chang Qiaoying , Chen Hui , Xie Yujie , Bai Yuting , Wang Xingzhi , Li Ling , Pang Guofang
Published: March 2024

Rationale

Pesticide isomers are widely available in agricultural production and may vary widely in biological activity, potency, and toxicity. Chromatographic and mass spectrometric analysis of pesticide isomers is challenging due to structural similarities.

Methods

Based on liquid chromatography time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry, identification of cis–trans isomeric pesticides was achieved through retention time, characteristic fragment ions, and relative abundance ratio. Furthermore, theoretical and basic research has been conducted on the differences in characteristic fragment ions and their relative abundance ratios of cis–trans isomers. On the one hand, the cleavage pathways of six cis–trans isomers were elucidated through collision‐induced dissociation to explain different fragment ions of the isomers. On the other hand, for those with the same fragment ions but different abundance ratios, energy‐resolved mass spectrometry combined with computational chemical density functional theory in terms of kinetics, thermodynamics, and bond lengths was employed to explain the reasons for the differences in characteristic fragment ions and their abundance ratios.

Results

A high‐resolution mass spectrometry method was developed for the separation and analysis of cis–trans isomers of pesticides in traditional Chinese medicine Radix Codonopsis, and six pesticide isomers were distinguished by retention time, product ions, and relative abundance ratios. The limits of quantification of the six pesticides were up to 10 μg/kg, and the linear ranges of them were 10–200 μg/kg, with coefficients of determination (R2) > 0.99, which demonstrated the good linearity of the six pesticides. The recoveries of the pesticides at spiked concentrations of 10, 20, and 100 μg/kg reached 70–120% with relative standard deviations ≤20%.

Conclusions

It was demonstrated that the application of the method was well suited for accurate qualitative and quantitative analysis for isomers with different structures, which could avoid false‐negative results caused by ignoring other isomers effectively.
Enhancement of Photostability Ageing of Samarium Complexes in PMMA Films
Authors: Essahili Othmane , Ilsouk Mohamed , Duhayon Carine , Almaggoussi Abdelmajid , Moudam Omar
Published: March 2024

In this study, a set of β‐diketonate samarium(III) complexes–namely, [Sm(TTA)3Phen], [Sm(TTA)3DPEPO], [Sm(TTA)3Bipy], and [Sm(TTA)3Pyra]–has been synthesized and comprehensively characterized. Upon excitation, these complexes exhibit distinct emissions at 566 nm, 610 nm, 650 nm, and 710 nm, respectively, corresponding to the electronic transitions 4G5/2→6H5/2, 4G5/2→6H7/2, 4G5/2→6H9/2, and 4G5/2→6H11/2. Notably, the most pronounced pinkish‐red emission is associated with the peak at 650 nm. Furthermore, the [Sm(TTA)3DPEPO] complex displays a remarkable photoluminescence quantum yield, reaching up to 15.77 % in a PMMA film matrix. The investigation also involved a prolonged examination lasting over 1200 hours, during which PMMA films doped with the samarium complexes were subjected to humidity and weather conditions to evaluate their photoluminescence stability. The results indicate consistent emissions throughout the humidity test, with an eventual cessation after 1200 hours–except in the case of [Sm(TTA)3Phen] under weather conditions. The enduring emission in this scenario is attributed to the robustness of the phenanthroline ligand, thus highlighting its role in enhancing the durability of the complex.
Fabrication of Carbon Paste Sensor Activated with Electropolymerized DL‐Phenylalanine for the analysis of Levofloxacin
Authors: Sumanth D. , Manjunatha J. G. , Kanthappa B. , Raril C. , Aldossari S. A. , Mushab M. S.
Published: March 2024

Voltammetric analysis of Levofloxacin (LF) using an electrochemically polymerized composite of DL‐phenylalanine (DLP) alongside a bare carbon paste electrode. The constructed electrodes are polymerized DL‐phenylalanine modified carbon paste electrodes P(DLP/MCPE) and bare carbon paste electrodes (BCPE). Cyclic voltammetry (CV), differential pulse voltammetry (DPV), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and other electrochemical techniques used for characterization of P(DLP/MCPE) and BCPE in 0.2 M phosphate buffer solution (PBS) with pH 4.5 were conformed using the P(DLP/MCPE), and it shows the highest current responses compared to the BCPE. This research work examines the effect of pH in PBS, scan rate, and LF concentration on the surface of P(DLP/MCPE). The outcome result shows that the oxidation reaction of LF pH is an adsorption‐controlled path. The detection limit of LF ranges from 0.2 μM to 7.0 μM, and the lower limits of detection (LOD) is 0.613x10−7 M and the lower limits of quantification (LOQ) is 2.051X10−7 M. The electrochemical P(DLP/MCPE) shows good repeatability, reproducibility, and stability. Finally, by analyzing LF in a pharmacological sample, the real time application of the sensor was assessed, and significant recoveries were observed.
Low‐Carbon‐Footprint Plasma‐Functionalized Coconut‐Coir‐Based Porous Carbon as an Efficient and Sustainable Adsorbent
Authors: Jayasinghe Sehan , Munaweera Imalka , Perera Chandani , Siriwardena Dumindu P. , Kottegoda Nilwala
Published: March 2024

Herein, the surface of pyrolyzed coconut coir (PCC) dust has been functionalized using atmospheric plasma under non‐equilibrium conditions without utilizing vacuum chambers. The reactive species present in the plasma such as, molecular ions, electrons, and radicals interact with PCC's surface, leading to the introduction of epoxy, carbonyl and amino functional groups on carbon surface. The resulting plasma functionalized carbon (PFC) material was characterized using several advanced material characterization techniques, including PXRD, FTIR, XPS, N2 BET specific surface area, SEM and TEM imaging techniques, etc. Moreover, it has been used in diverse applications in toxic gas removal (CO2, CO, NOx), fluoride (F−) removal from drinking water and cationic organic dye (methylene blue–MB) removal. The reported method for synthesis of functional carbon introduces a platform technology for low carbon footprint, green synthesis of advanced functional materials.
Toward a Practical Catalyst for Direct Amidation of Carboxylic Acids with Pyridine‐Borane Complexes
Authors: Wang Ming‐Chuan , Fan Jing‐Yi , Zhou Jian‐Feng , Zhang Wan‐Xuan , Li Bin‐Jie
Published: March 2024

Pyridine‐borane complex was widely used as a reducing agent, but the exploration of such reagent as a catalyst for amidation of carboxylic acids are still unknown. Here we reported the first example of direct amidation of carboxylic acids catalyzed by pyridine‐borane complexes. This protocol features a low catalyst loading (0.2–10 mol %), broad substrate scope, good functional group compatibility, and affording the amides in high yields.
Therapeutic Potential of Natural Metabolites Coupled Pyrazole and Its Bio‐Isosteres: Medicinal Perspectives and SAR Studies
Authors: Nehra Bhupender , Kumar Manoj , Chawla Pooja A. , Chawla Viney
Published: March 2024

Natural products have been extensively explored for their role in drug design and development to eradicate numerous types of diseases. Also, heterocycles‐based motifs are known to possess a wide range of therapeutic applications. Among them, pyrazole is a well‐exploited scaffold by researchers in the different fields of medicinal chemistry. Recently, pharmacophoric hybridization became most urged approach in which two biologically active pharmacophoric skeletons tend to fuse together in any structural portion. Hence, pyrazole and its cyclic bio‐isosteres may clubbed together to design and develop novel potent molecules against clinical disorders with least toxicity profile. In the present review, we aim to compile the numerous recent advancements in the medicinal chemistry of natural metabolites containing pyrazole and its bio‐isosteres hybrid compounds with the following objectives: (1) To summarize the recent literature reports of last six years that are focused on the biological potential of natural pyrazole and its bio‐isosteres hybrid derivatives; (2) To deliberate current developments in the medicinal aspect of natural compounds through their structural alteration by introducing pyrazole and its cyclic analogues; (3) To emphasize the complete correlation between structure activity relationship (SAR) and therapeutic response to disclose productive concepts for the generation of potential semi‐synthetic candidates.
Ultrasound Induces Local Disorder of FeOOH on CdIn2S4 Photoanode for High Efficiency Photoelectrochemical Water Oxidation
Authors: Shao Bo , Meng Linxing , Chen Fang , Wang Jianyuan , Zhai Wei , Li Liang
Published: March 2024

The regulation of the crystal structure of oxygen evolution cocatalyst (OEC) is a promising strategy for enhancing the photoelectrochemical efficiency of photoanodes. However, the prevailing regulating approach typically requires a multistep procedure, presenting a significant challenge for maintaining the structural integrity and performance of the photoanode. Herein, FeOOH with a local disordered structure is directly grown on a CdIn2S4 (CIS) photoanode via a simple and mild sonochemical approach. By modulating the localized supersaturation of Ni ions, ultrasonic cavitation induces Ni ions to participate in the nucleation and growth of FeOOH clusters to cause local disorder of FeOOH. Consequently, the local disordered FeOOH facilitates the exposure of additional active sites, boosting OER kinetics and extending charge carrier lifetimes. Finally, the optimal photoanode reaches 4.52 mA cm−2 at 1.23 VRHE, and the onset potential shifts negatively by 330 mV, exhibiting excellent performance compared with that of other metal sulfide‐based photoelectrodes reported thus far. This work provides a mild and controllable sonochemical method for regulating the phase structure of OECs to construct high‐performance photoanodes.
Greener and Easily Available Solvent‐Assisted Preparation of High‐Efficiency Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Zhang Xisheng , Cao Yang , Feng Jiangshan , Liu Shengzhong (Frank)
Published: March 2024

To replace or reduce toxic solvents in perovskite solar cell (PSC) manufacturing, 2‐Methyltetrahydrofolate (2‐MTHF), as an important raw material for organic synthesis and an excellent solvent, is incorporated in PSCs as an additive cosoluble precursor to fabricate photolayer (FAPbI3) for the first time. It is investigated that this is not only a toxicity‐reducing strategy, but also an effective defect passivation method for manufacturing PSCs. The introduction of 2‐MTHF in a stoichiometric precursor solution is capable of inducing precursor film to generate perovskite films through a simple one‐step spin‐coating process, more than 15% of toxic solvents can be reduced. The perovskite trap state is decreased by the passivated perovskite crystal surface thus improving carrier lifetime, extraction rate, and photovoltaic performance. The maximum PCE of the solar cell when the 2‐MTHF volume fraction is optimized at 15% is improved to 23.58%, up from 7% in the control. Meanwhile, the notorious J–V hysteresis is much suppressed. Hence, it is expected that novel 2‐MTHF will find applications in PSCs and optoelectronic devices.
The Class Podcast: Reimagining the Literary Essay to Honor Student Identity and Agency
Authors: Senatore Krista
Published: March 2024

The author, a fifth‐grade teacher, describes how she reimagined the literary essay curriculum to amplify student identity, agency, and voice by creating a class podcast. Because of their similar structure and organization, teaching students literary analysis and interpretation through podcast writing offered entry into literary essays. The author provides the steps for teaching students how to create a class podcast and write episodes reviewing diverse, inspiring, and thought‐provoking texts. She explains how to support students to transfer their voice, energy, and skills when writing literary essays. The article shares insights about how engaging students as talkers and thinkers supports their identities as readers and writers.
Investigation of the effect of lithium salt doping in gel polymer electrolytes for symmetrical solid‐state supercapacitors
Authors: Thanh Hop Tran Thi , Thi Mai Dang , Trinh Tung Ngo , Tung Son Pham , Cong Trinh Duc , Nhi Tran Thi Y. , Le Phuoc Anh , Huong Do Thi Mai
Published: March 2024

Stable and high‐mechanical‐strength gel polymer electrolytes have been investigated by doping lithium salts (LiBr, LiClO4, and Li2SO4) as additive factors into PVA‐CH3COONa systems and highly activated carbon electrodes for symmetrical solid‐state supercapacitors (SSCs). The investigation of the supercapacitors with the presence of lithium salts in the electrolyte not only enhances the mechanical property of gel polymer electrolytes (GPEs) but also improves the energy capability of supercapacitor devices. The electrode‐specific capacitance of supercapacitor‐doped LiClO4 salt was at its maximum value at 100 F g−1 (current density: 1.5 A g−1). These symmetrical SSCs are considered to have potential for developing eco‐friendly energy storage devices.
An examination of US pet owners’ use of veterinary services, 2006–2018
Authors: Zhang Xumin , House Lisa , Salois Matthew J.
Published: March 2024

Objectives

Examine US consumer pet‐related and veterinary service expenditures and factors influencing US households’ use of veterinary services.

Methods

Descriptive analysis on pet‐related and veterinary service expenditures and regression analysis on pet owners’ use of veterinary services, using data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics Consumer Expenditure from 2006 to 2018, with the sample size of 257,836 households, of which 73,593 had pet expenses.

Results

From 1980 to 2018, the proportion of households with pet‐related and veterinary service expenditures increased. Since 2010, the percentage of pet‐owning households using veterinary services has increased substantially. Household characteristics were examined and significantly affected the probability of both pet and veterinary expenditures. Non‐White and Hispanic groups had increased pet ownership, but the likelihood of veterinary service use has not surpassed White and non‐Hispanic pet owners.

Conclusions

Understanding the effects of household sociodemographics, particularly race and ethnicity, on using veterinary services provides insights for optimizing strategic planning for the pet industry and veterinarians. Reviewing the implications helps adjust and fine‐tune strategies and influence the sustainability of the veterinary service sector by attracting different racial and ethnic groups. Future research might focus on other social and cultural factors influencing the utilization of veterinary care. The veterinary service sector can then effectively address pet care disparities, bridge existing gaps and improve economic viability.
Conditional Statements in Requirements Artifacts: Logical Interpretation, Use Cases for Automated Software Engineering, and Fine-Grained Extraction
Authors: Fischbach Jannik , Vogelsang Andreas
Published: March 2024

This thesis constitutes the first work in the RE community that studies the potential of extracting conditional statements from requirements. It is intended to stimulate further engagement of researchers and practitioners in the field of conditionals in RE artifacts. In essence, we present fundamental research on the notion of conditionals in requirements as well as methods for their fine-grained extraction. We show that conditionals are prevalent in requirements and mainly occur in explicit, marked form. Further, we reveal that conditionals are a source of ambiguity, and there is not just one way to interpret them formally. This affects any automated analysis that builds upon formalized requirements (e.g., inconsistency checking) and may also influence guidelines for writing requirements. We also present our tool-supported approach , capable of detecting conditionals in NL requirements and extracting them in fine-grained form. We evaluate our approach in a case study with three industry partners, namely, Allianz Deutschland AG (insurance), Ericsson (telecommunication), and Leopold Kostal GmbH & Co. KG (automotive), and highlight that automated conditional extraction facilitates automated acceptance test creation. is available at http://www.cira.bth.se/demo/.
Model-Driven Engineering of Microservice Architectures—The LEMMA Approach
Authors: Rademacher Florian , Wizenty Philip , Sorgalla Jonas , Sachweh Sabine , Zündorf Albert
Published: March 2024

This chapter presents LEMMA (Language Ecosystem for Modeling Microservice Architecture). LEMMA enables the application of Model-Driven Engineering (MDE) to Microservice Architecture (MSA). LEMMA mitigates the complexity of MSA by decomposing it along four viewpoints on microservice architectures, each capturing the concerns of different MSA stakeholders in dedicated architecture models. LEMMA formalizes the syntax and semantics of these models with specialized modeling languages that are integrated based on an import mechanism, thus enabling holistic MSA modeling. LEMMA also bundles its own model processing framework (MPF) to facilitate model processor implementation for technology-savvy MSA stakeholders without a background in MDE.

We describe the design and development of LEMMA and exemplify the usage of its modeling languages and MPF for a case study microservice architecture. In addition, we present practical applications of LEMMA for microservice code generation, architecture reconstruction, quality analysis, defect resolution, and establishing a common architecture understanding. A comparison of LEMMA with related approaches reveals that LEMMA has particular strengths in (i) language-level extensibility, allowing model-based reification of architectural patterns; (ii) model processing, by bundling sophisticated code generators and static quality analyzers; and (iii) versatility, making LEMMA applicable in microservice development, operation, architecture reconstruction, and quality assessment.
Verstehen im Störschall mit räumlich getrennten Signalquellen und Richtungshören mit Sprachstimuli
Authors: Buth Svenja , Baljić Izet , Mewes Alexander , Hey Matthias
Published: March 2024

Hintergrund

Binaurales Hören ermöglicht das bessere Sprachverstehen in geräuschvollen Umgebungen und stellt eine Voraussetzung für die akustische Raumorientierung dar. Deshalb soll im Rahmen dieser Studie das Sprachverstehen im Störschall bei separierten Signalquellen und das Richtungshören untersucht werden. Ziel war es dabei, Kennwerte und Reproduzierbarkeiten für zwei ausgewählte Testverfahren, welche für die Beschreibung der beiden genannten Aspekte des binauralen Hörens als geeignet scheinen, zu erheben.

Methode

Bei 55 normalhörenden Erwachsenen wurden die Sprachverständlichkeitsschwellen im Störschall („speech reception thresholds“ [SRT]) und die Test-Retest-Reliabilität bei räumlich getrennten Signalquellen im 45°- und 90°-Winkel für den Oldenburger Satztest erhoben. Die Untersuchung des Richtungshörens erfolgte für den Halb- und Vollkreis (7 und 12 äquidistante Lautsprecher).

Ergebnisse

Es wurden SRT (S−45N45: −14,1 dB SNR, S45N−45: −16,4 dB SNR, S0N90: −13,1 dB SNR, S0N−90: −13,4 dB SNR) und die Test-Retest-Reliabilität (4 bis 6 dB SNR) für das Sprachverstehen im Störschall bei separierten Schallquellen erhoben. Der prozedurale Lerneffekt konnte erst bei Einsatz von 120 Trainingssätzen minimiert werden. Es wurde eine signifikant niedrigere SRT für die Prüfsituation des rechten Ohrs im Vergleich zum linken ermittelt. Für das Richtungshören im Halbkreis konnten RMS-Werte von (1,9°) und für den Vollkreis von (11,1°) erhoben werden. Hierbei zeigten sich in der Wiederholungsmessung des Vollkreises bessere Ergebnisse.

Schlussfolgerung

Beim Einsatz des Oldenburger Satztests im Störschall mit separierten Signalquellen besteht die Notwendigkeit eines ausgedehnten Trainings mit mehr als 120 Sätzen, um den prozeduralen Lerneffekt zu minimieren. Es sind seitenspezifische SRT-Werte erforderlich, welche vermutlich durch den Right-Ear-Advantage-Effekt bedingt sind. Für die Durchführung des Richtungshörens im Vollkreis wird ein Training empfohlen.
On the feasibility and the impact resistance of a 3D cross-based fractal produced by powder bed fusion additive manufacturing
Authors: Viccica Marco , Serra Gabriel Ferreira , de Sousa Ricardo Alves , Galati Manuela
Published: March 2024

Designers have been fascinated by exploring new geometries made by high-performance structures. In more specific terms, biological systems have always been proven to be characterised by sophisticated structures with adapting properties to nature challenges. Insightful analyses have shown how these natural structures are dominated by characteristics such as high energy absorption and elevated strength-weight proportion. Fractal geometries are examples of bio-inspired mathematical objects whose complex 3D structures can be obtained only by advanced manufacturing systems, such as additive manufacturing (AM). This study investigates the feasibility and energy absorption properties of a novel fractal structure based on a 3D Greek cross (3D-CFS). The structure was designed with different volume fractions and produced by powder bed fusion (PBF) AM processes in polyamide (PA12) and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). The 3D-CFS properties are investigated under quasi-static and dynamic compression tests. The analysis revealed that for certain geometrical parameters, the manufacturing of the structures is constrained by the sintered powder entrapped in the structure. However, in the case of powder-free structures, the results showed a high impact resistance and cushioning capability. Overall, in terms of specific energy absorption (SEA), the TPU structures showed values between 2.5 and 3.5 kJ/kg, while PA12 ones are between 7.5 and 17.4 kJ/kg, making the 3D-CFS structure compatible with personal protective equipment (PPE) applications. Compared to the literature data on cellular structures made by AM, 3D-CFS performs considerably better. Also, PA12 3D-CFS is better, with a SEA value up to 170% higher than that of a typical material employed for head PPE (e.g. EPS-60 SEA equal to 2.76 kJ/kg). In contrast, TPU 3D-CFS looks more promising in the case of multiple impact conditions.