bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Size‐Dependent Copper Nanoparticles Supported on Carbon Nanotubes with Balanced Cu+ and Cu0 Dual Sites for the Selective Hydrogenation of Ethylene Carbonate
Authors: Li Huabo , Ji Deyuan , Zhang Yanfei , Cui Yuanyuan , Cheng Yinfeng , Wang Songlin , Dai Wei‐Lin
Published: October 2024

Cyclic carbonate hydrogenation offers an alternative for the efficient indirect CO2 utilization. In this study, a series of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) supported xCu/CNTs catalysts with different Cu loadings were fabricated using a convenient impregnation method, and exhibited excellent catalytic activity for the hydrogenation of ethylene carbonate to methanol and ethylene glycol. The structural and physicochemical properties revealed that acid treatment of CNTs resulted in plentiful oxygen‐containing functional groups, providing sufficient anchoring sites for copper species. The calcination process conducted under an inert atmosphere resulted in the formation of ternary CuO, Cu2O, and Cu composites, enhancing the metal‐support interaction and facilitating the formation of balanced Cu0 and Cu+ dual sites as well as high active surface area after reduction. Contributed to the synergetic effect of balanced Cu+ and Cu0 species proved by density functional theory calculation and the electron‐rich CNTs surface, the 40Cu/CNTs catalyst achieved strengthened catalytic performance with methanol yield of 83 %, ethylene glycol yield of 99 % at ethylene carbonate conversion of >99 %, and 150 h of long‐term running stability. Consequently, CNTs supported Cu serve as efficient non‐silica based catalyst for ester hydrogenation.
Evaluating the efficacy of palm waste in adsorption processes for wastewater treatment: A review
Authors: Putra Nicky Rahmana , Zaini Muhammad Abbas Ahmad , Zaini Ahmad Syahmi , Airlangga Bramantyo , Rizkiyah Dwila Nur , Kusuma Heri Septya , Agustini Sri , Abdullah Syahrial , Yustisia Yustisia , Khairullah Izhar , Dana Arsana I. Gusti Komang
Published: October 2024

The growing environmental concerns related to industrial effluents and waste underscore the urgent need for sustainable and cost‐effective wastewater treatment solutions. This review investigates the efficacy of palm waste‐derived adsorbents for removing heavy metals and organic pollutants from wastewater. It explores various modifications—including physical, chemical, and nanomaterial enhancements—applied to palm waste materials such as palm kernel shells, empty fruit bunches, and palm oil fuel ash, aimed at improving their adsorption capacities. The review reveals that these modified palm waste adsorbents demonstrate high removal efficiencies for contaminants like Cu(II), Pb(II), and organic dyes, often surpassing conventional adsorbents. Nonetheless, challenges remain, such as optimizing adsorbent preparation, understanding adsorption mechanisms in multi‐component systems, and enhancing adsorbent reusability. This review highlights the need for continued research to address these issues and advance the application of palm waste‐based materials in sustainable wastewater treatment.
LIN28‐Targeting Chromenopyrazoles and Tetrahydroquinolines Induced Cellular Morphological Changes and Showed High Biosimilarity with BRD PROTACs
Authors: Jiang Mao , Giannino Nicole , Goebel Georg L. , Sievers Sonja , Wu Peng
Published: October 2024

The probing of small molecules with heterocyclic scaffolds covering unexplored chemical space and the evaluation of their biological relevance are essential parts of forward chemical genetics approaches and for the development of potential small‐molecule therapeutics. In this study, we profiled sets of chromenopyrazoles (CMPs) and tetrahydroquinolines (THQs), originally developed to target the protein–RNA interaction of LIN28–let‐7, in a cell painting assay (CPA) measuring cellular morphological changes. Selected LIN28‐inactive CMPs and THQs induced cellular morphological changes to different extents. The most CPA‐active CMPs 2 and 3 exhibited high bio‐similarity with the LCH and BET clusters, while the most CPA‐active THQs 13 and 20 indicated a mechanism of action beyond the currently established biosimilarity clusters. Overall, this work demonstrated that CPA is useful in revealing “hidden” biological targets and mechanisms of action for biologically inactive small molecules, which are CMPs and THQs targeting the RNA‐binding protein LIN28 in this case, evaluated in target‐based strategies. When compared with annotated reference compounds, CMP 3 exhibited a high biosimilarity with the dual BRD7/9 degrading PROTAC VZ185, suggesting that CPA could potentially function as a new phenotypic approach to identify degrader molecules.
Pharmacokinetic, Safety, and Pharmacodynamic Profiles of Saroglitazar Magnesium in Cholestatic Cirrhosis With Hepatic Impairment and Participants With Renal Impairment
Authors: Vuppalanchi Raj , Cruz Mary M. , Momin Taufik , Shaikh Farheen , Swint Kimberly , Patel Harilal , Parmar Deven
Published: October 2024

Saroglitazar magnesium, a dual PPAR α/γ agonist, currently in Phase III for treating primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), was evaluated for its pharmacokinetic (PK) profile, safety, and pharmacodynamics in participants with cholestatic liver disease (CLD) across different levels of hepatic impairment (HI) and participants with severe renal impairment (RI). Three PK studies comparing saroglitazar with healthy controls were conducted: Study 1 involved daily oral doses of 1 or 2 mg for 4 weeks in 12 PBC cirrhosis participants with mild or moderate HI; Study 2 assessed single‐dose PK (2 or 4 mg) in eight non‐cirrhotic CLD participants; Study 3 evaluated single‐dose PK (2 mg) in eight participants with severe RI. On day 1, saroglitazar exposure increased by 14.6–42% in mild HI vs. normal, but by day 28, levels were similar, indicating no accumulation. In moderate HI, exposure was significantly increased by 50.4–85% on days 1 and 28, with 34–46% lower clearance despite a similar half‐life. The moderate HI group had a 59% higher exposure than the non‐cirrhotic group. Saroglitazar (1 and 2 mg) reduced alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels by 17–40% after 4 weeks in participants with abnormal baseline ALP. Single‐dose PK in non‐cirrhotic CLD (2 and 4 mg) and severe RI (2 mg) was comparable to matched controls without significant safety issues. Overall, saroglitazar (1 and 2 mg) was safe and well‐tolerated in cholestatic cirrhosis with mild HI and participants with severe RI without major PK changes. Moderate HI increased exposure and decreased clearance without any safety concerns.
Deterioration of Vestibular Motion Perception: A Risk Factor for Postural Instability and Falls in Elderly With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: La Scaleia Barbara , Siena Antonio , D'Onofrio Luca , Celli Alessia , Capuzzi Giorgio , Latino Alessandro , Nateri Cara Giada , Maddaloni Ernesto , Zampetti Simona , Buzzetti Raffaella , Zago Myrka , Lacquaniti Francesco
Published: October 2024

Aims

To assess whether impaired vestibular perception of self‐motion is a risk factor for unsteadiness and falls in elderly patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D).

Materials and methods

113 participants (65–75 years old) with T2D underwent tests of roll and pitch discrimination, postural stability (Berg Balance Scale, Modified Romberg Test, and quantitative posturography), clinical examination and blood chemistry analyses. Falls 1‐year after enrolment were self‐reported. We performed cluster analysis based on the values of the vestibular motion thresholds, and logistic stepwise regression to compare the clinical‐biochemical parameters between clusters.

Results

We identified two clusters (VC1 n = 65 and VC2 n = 48 participants). VC2 had significantly (p < 0.001) higher (poorer) thresholds than VC1: mean pitch threshold 1.62°/s (95% CI 1.48–1.78) in VC2 and 0.91°/s (95% CI 0.84–0.98) in VC1, mean roll threshold 1.34°/s (95% CI 1.21–1.48) in VC2 and 0.69°/s (95% CI 0.64–0.74) in VC1. Diabetes duration was significantly (p = 0.024) longer in VC2 (11.96 years, 95% CI 9.23–14.68) than in VC1 (8.37 years, 95% CI 6.85–9.88). Glycaemic control was significantly (p = 0.014) poorer in VC2 (mean HbA1c 6.74%, 95% CI 6.47–7.06) than in VC1 (mean HbA1c 6.34%, 95% CI 6.16–6.53). VC2 had a significantly higher incidence of postural instability than VC1, with a higher risk of failing the Modified Romberg Test C4 (RR = 1.57, χ2 = 5.33, p = 0.021), reporting falls during follow‐up (RR = 11.48, χ2 = 9.40, p = 0.002), and greater postural sway in the medio‐lateral direction (p < 0.025).

Conclusions

Assessing vestibular motion thresholds identifies individuals with T2D at risk of postural instability due to altered motion perception and guides vestibular rehabilitation.
Dynamic evolution of meteorological and hydrological droughts under climatic and anthropogenic pressures in water‐scarce regions
Authors: Singh Achala , Solanki Harshvardhan , Sharma Priyank J.
Published: October 2024

Climate change and anthropogenic influences amplify drought complexity, entangle non‐stationarity (NS) and further challenge drought comprehension. This study aims to understand the dynamic evolution of drought propagation patterns due to climatic and anthropogenic pressures by assessing the non‐stationary linkages between hydrological variables and drought characteristics. It employs four standardized drought indicators to comprehensively examine the spatio‐temporal evolution of meteorological (MD) and hydrological (HD) drought characteristics. Data from 29 semi‐arid catchments from six river basins in Peninsular India, are analyzed to uncover distinct drought propagation patterns. This study utilizes a novel Non‐overlapping Block‐stratified Random Sampling (NBRS) approach to detect NS in drought characteristics and hydrological variables, shedding light on the underlying drivers of this dynamic behavior. The results indicate similarities in drought behavior for the Sabarmati, Mahi and Tapi (SMT) basins compared with the Godavari, Krishna and Pennar (GKP) basins, with shorter (longer) propagation times noted for SMT (GKP) basins. While HD severity decreases over time in SMT basins, it intensifies in GKP basins, which are linked to intensive anthropogenic interventions such as river regulation and reservoir operations, thus resulting in prolonged and intensified droughts. Rainfall primarily exhibits time‐invariance, while significant NS is observed in potential evapotranspiration (particularly in the Krishna and Pennar basins), streamflow and baseflow across all basins. The study also identified three distinct drought propagation patterns in these basins, highlighting cases where MD did not transition to HD, instances of HD occurring without preceding MD and synchronous propagation of MD to HD. The study outcomes provide profound insights into the evolution of drought dynamics under climatic and anthropogenic pressures, which will aid policymakers and stakeholders in formulating strategies for drought preparedness and response.
MFH‐Net: A Hybrid CNN‐Transformer Network Based Multi‐Scale Fusion for Medical Image Segmentation
Authors: Wang Ying , Zhang Meng , Liang Jian'an , Liang Meiyan
Published: October 2024

In recent years, U‐Net and its variants have gained widespread use in medical image segmentation. One key aspect of U‐Net's design is the skip connection, facilitating the retention of detailed information and leading to finer segmentation results. However, existing research often concentrates on enhancing either the encoder or decoder, neglecting the semantic gap between them, and resulting in suboptimal model performance. In response, we introduce Multi‐Scale Fusion module aimed at enhancing the original skip connections and addressing the semantic gap. Our approach fully incorporates the correlation between outputs from adjacent encoder layers and facilitates bidirectional information exchange across multiple layers. Additionally, we introduce Channel Relation Perception module to guide the fused multi‐scale information for efficient connection with decoder features. These two modules collectively bridge the semantic gap by capturing spatial and channel dependencies in the features, contributing to accurate medical image segmentation. Building upon these innovations, we propose a novel network called MFH‐Net. On three publicly available datasets, ISIC2016, ISIC2017, and Kvasir‐SEG, we perform a comprehensive evaluation of the network. The experimental results show that MFH‐Net exhibits higher segmentation accuracy in comparison with other competing methods. Importantly, the modules we have devised can be seamlessly incorporated into various networks, such as U‐Net and its variants, offering a potential avenue for further improving model performance.
Harnessing gut microbiota for longevity: Insights into mechanisms and genetic manipulation
Authors: Shi Peng , Xu Simin , Yang Ziling , Wang Liying , Wu Yalun , Li Ying , Zhu Zuobin
Published: October 2024

The gut microbiota is pivotal in maintaining health, with most microorganisms being beneficial, except for a few pathogens. Emerging evidence suggests a link between the gut microbiome and aging, hinting at its potential role in longevity. However, understanding the relationship is challenging due to the microbiota's complexity. This perspective summarizes the mechanisms by which gut microbes regulate host lifespan and explores genetic manipulation strategies to promote healthy aging in the elderly.
Potential of Tambo Dam implementation as a flood control measure
Authors: Yoshikawa Natsuki , Koshiyama Naoko
Published: October 2024

Recent climate change has resulted in severe and frequent natural disasters globally, prompting the need for adaptation to these events. As an adaptation measure, disaster prevention and mitigation using natural processes and mechanisms (or ‘green infrastructure’) have become widely recognized in many countries. Ecosystem‐based disaster risk reduction has been promoted in Japan since 2015. The ‘Tambo Dam’, a flood mitigation project using paddy fields in which the authors have participated, has the potential to become one of the most extensive forms of green infrastructure in Japan. This study outlines the runoff control mechanisms of Tambo Dams, demonstrates their effectiveness in reducing flood damage at the watershed scale, and discusses two key factors for successful sustainable efforts: the design of appropriate runoff control equipment and administrative schemes that support incentives for the efforts of farmers. The results indicated that Tambo Dam implementation represented a crucial strategy for managing agricultural resources. The functionality of paddy fields could be preserved by managing them as Tambo Dams. This approach not only contributes to flood control but also ensures a swift return to rice cultivation during emergencies. Moreover, establishing a system akin to the Tambo Dam initiative of Mitsuke City, supported by the ‘Direct Payment Scheme for Multifunctional Activities’ for maintenance and management, could ensure the feasibility of Tambo Dam implementation.
Discovery of Promising Sulfadiazine Derivatives With Anti‐Proliferative Activity Against Tumor Cell Lines
Authors: Mohamed‐Ezzat Reham A. , Kariuki Benson M. , Azzam Rasha A.
Published: October 2024

A novel series of pyrimidine sulfonamide derivatives was synthesized through a strategic approach involving the creation of substituted dihydropyrimidinyl‐benzenesulfonamides and subsequent transformation into their chlorinated analogues. These compounds were then subjected to reactions with various amines and phenols, yielding unique substituted sulfapyrimidines. These novel structures integrated essential pharmacophores such as phenols, secondary amines, and benzenesulfonamide moieties, each contributing distinct biological potencies, chemical reactivity, and enhanced pharmacological features. In the pursuit of effective anticancer agents, the newly substituted pyrimidine sulfonamides were characterized using spectroscopic and x‐ray diffraction techniques. The compounds were evaluated for their anti‐proliferative potency against the NCI 60‐cell lines panel, revealing that compound 7c exhibited significant growth inhibition across multiple cancer cell lines. Further assessment through MTT assay on HCT‐116 and MCF‐7 cell lines demonstrated cytotoxicity, while cell cycle analysis of MCF‐7 cells treated with compound 7c revealed arrest at the S phase. Moreover, the effect of 7c on programmed cell death was evaluated using the Annexin V/PI apoptosis assay. The observed promising activity positions these pyrimidine‐based scaffolds as potential candidates for future drug development, offering valuable insights for medicinal chemists engaged in the design and synthesis of anticancer drugs.
N‐Methoxy Pyrazole‐4‐Carboxamide Derivatives: Synthesis, Spectral Analyses, Antifungal Activity, In Silico Molecular Docking, ADMET, and DFT Studies
Authors: Luo Zi‐Ting , Wang Bin , Wu Hong‐Ke , Min Li‐Jing , Zhang Li‐Qin , Liu Xing‐Hai
Published: October 2024

Succinate dehydrogenase inhibitor (SDHI) is an important fungicide to control grain diseases. For this reason, a series of novel pyrazole‐4‐carboxamide derivatives with an N‐methoxy group were designed and synthesized. All the target compounds were characterized by 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and HRMS. The compound 3c was further confirmed by X‐ray diffraction, which crystallized in the triclinic system, space group P‐1, Z = 2. The fungicidal activity results indicated that most of these compounds possessed good activity against Sclerotinia sclerotiorum at 50 ppm. Especially, compound 3h exhibited the best activity with the EC50 is 7.80 μg/mL, which is comparable with the positive control bixafen (EC50 = 6.70 μg/mL). Furthermore, the physicochemical properties, molecular docking simulation, ADMET analyses, DFT of compounds 3h, 3k and two commercial SDHIs, isoflucypram and pydiflumetofen, were investigated in this study.
How accurately do finite element models predict the fall impact response of ex vivo specimens augmented by prophylactic intramedullary nailing?
Authors: Bliven Emily K. , Fung Anita , Baker Alexander , Fleps Ingmar , Ferguson Stephen J. , Guy Pierre , Helgason Benedikt , Cripton Peter A.
Published: October 2024

Hip fracture prevention approaches like prophylactic augmentation devices have been proposed to strengthen the femur and prevent hip fracture in a fall scenario. The aim of this study was to validate the finite element model (FEM) of specimens augmented by prophylactic intramedullary nailing in a simulated sideways fall impact against ex vivo experimental data. A dynamic inertia‐driven sideways fall simulator was used to test six cadaveric specimens (3 females, 3 males, age 63–83 years) prophylactically implanted with an intramedullary nailing system used to augment the femur. Impact force measurements, pelvic deformation, effective pelvic stiffness, and fracture outcomes were compared between the ex vivo experiments and the FEMs. The FEMs over‐predicted the effective pelvic stiffness for most specimens and showed variability in terms of under‐ and over‐predicting peak impact force and pelvis compression depending on the specimen. A significant correlation was found for time to peak impact force when comparing ex vivo and FEM data. No femoral fractures were found in the ex vivo experiments, but two specimens sustained pelvic fractures. These two pelvis fractures were correctly identified by the FEMs, but the FEMs made three additional false‐positive fracture identifications. These validation results highlight current limitations of these sideways fall impact models specific to the inclusion of an orthopaedic implant. These FEMs present a conservative strategy for fracture prediction in future applications. Further evaluation of the modelling approaches used for the bone‐implant interface is recommended for modelling augmented specimens, alongside the importance of maintaining well‐controlled experimental conditions.
Advancing the common good through business excellence awards: A legitimacy‐seeking perspective
Authors: Asante Shadrack , Sarpong David , Aidoo Eunice , Ogunsade Adekunle Isaac
Published: October 2024

Competing for and winning business excellence awards (BEAs) is essential for firms' long‐term performance. However, the role of these BEAs in inspiring good and generating sustainable business practices has often been overlooked. In this article, we draw on the legitimacy‐seeking theory to explore the “socially good” transformations firms go through by competing for BEAs. Data for the inquiry come from semi‐structured interviews with managers whose firms competed in two BEAs in the United Kingdom. Providing insight into BEAs as a competitive legitimating frame in organizing, our findings shed light on how BEAs may serve as competitive crucibles that provide opportunities for feedback and learning, potentiality for brand positioning, and a possibility for stimulating excellence in the adoption of good business practices. The implications of these findings for the theory and practice of advancing the “common good” are outlined.
Effects of different enzymatic hydrolysis techniques on volatile flavor compounds and nutritional metabolites of soybean meal yogurt
Authors: Yan Yaxin , Fan Xiangrong , Hua Dong , Liu Xiaoqing , Li Chunling , Li Zixuan , Bai Miao , Zhang Yaru , Liu He
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND

This study explores enzymatic hydrolysis as a method of modifying soybean meal (SM). It can reduce the particle size, improve flavor, and convert macromolecules into absorbable nutrients. The purpose is to provide technical information regarding the use of SM. Papain alone, and a combination of papain and acid protease, and a mixture of papain, acid protease, and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum were employed for the enzymatic hydrolysis of SM.

RESULTS

Sensory evaluation and nutritional and flavor analyses were performed with yogurt produced after SM enzymatic hydrolysis. The enzymatic hydrolysis improved yogurt quality significantly in comparison with non‐enzymatically hydrolyzed soybean meal yogurt (SMY) by accelerating the decrease in pH and shortening the duration of fermentation. Enzymatic hydrolysis also reduced beany flavors and bitterness and enhanced the aromatic compound, flavor‐related amino acid, and organic acid content, rendering the yogurt more appealing to consumers. Microstructural analysis revealed favorable characteristics that textural and rheological properties of the yogurt produced after enzymatically hydrolyzed SM were improved.

CONCLUSION

In this study, the biotechnological approach was used to demonstrate the efficacy of enzymatic hydrolysis in improving the quality and value of SM, promoting the efficient application of SM in the food industry. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Ferulic acid: extraction, estimation, bioactivity and applications for human health and food
Authors: Kumar Mukul , Kaushik Deepika , Shubham Shubham , Kumar Ashwani , Kumar Vishal , Oz Emel , Brennan Charles , Zeng Maomao , Proestos Charalampos , Çadırcı Kenan , Bayrak Muharrem , Elobeid Tahra , Karav Sercan , Oz Fatih
Published: October 2024

Ferulic acid ((E)‐3‐(4‐hydroxy‐3‐methoxy‐phenyl) prop‐2‐enoic acid) is a derivative of caffeic acid found in most plants. This abundant phenolic compound exhibits significant antioxidant capacity and a broad spectrum of therapeutic effects, including anti‐inflammatory, antimicrobial, anticancer, antidiabetic, cardiovascular and neuroprotective activities. It is absorbed more quickly by the body and stays in the bloodstream for a longer period compared with other phenolic acids. It is widely used in the food (namely whole grains, fruits, vegetables and coffee), pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries. The current review highlights ferulic acid and its pharmacological activities, reported mechanisms of action, food applications (food preservative, food additive, food processing, food supplements and in food packaging in the form of edible films) and role in human health. In the future, the demand for ferulic acid in the food and pharmaceutical industries will increase. © 2024 The Author(s). Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
The influence of storage conditions on hygiene condition and eicosapentaenoic acid oxidation in Nannochloropsis algae for sustainable food supply
Authors: Lu Yiran , Lan Hao , Wu Yixiao , Abukhadra Mostafa R. , El‐Sherbeeny Ahmed M. , He Shan , Deng Shanggui , Gao Jingrong
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND

Nannochloropsis algae contain approximately 20% polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) and hold significant potential for high‐quality eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) food industrialization. However, EPA in Nannochloropsis sp. is prone to oxidation, and microbial growth is a critical factor affecting the shelf life of fresh food. Storage composition and temperature are primary factors influencing microbial growth, yet these aspects are not fully understood. This study investigates the effects of temperature and encapsulation on EPA content in nano‐products over time. Nano‐powder and nanobeads derived from Nannochloropsis sp. served as raw materials. Additionally, changes in aerobic plate counts and coliform groups were monitored.

RESULTS

The results indicated that nanobeads, due to their more complex processing and less mature packaging, were more susceptible to coliform contamination compared to nano‐powder. In terms of EPA stability, nanobeads exhibited a longer storage life than nano‐powder. The oxidation rate of both nano‐powder and nanobeads was faster at 37 °C than at 25 °C.

CONCLUSION

These findings can inform general shelf life estimation, rapid detection of total lipid content in nano‐products and macro extraction of nano‐oil. Moreover, they have significant implications for delaying EPA oxidation in nano‐products and improving hygienic quality control for microbial detection. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Assessing the political vulnerability of National Parks in sub‐Saharan Africa using data on digital trends and engagement
Authors: Azevedo Karoline , Alves‐Martins Fernanda , Martinez‐Arribas Javier , Correia Ricardo A. , Malhado Ana C. M. , Ladle Richard
Published: October 2024

National Parks (NPs) and other protected areas in sub‐Saharan Africa are crucial in attracting international tourists interested in wildlife tourism, contributing to national economies. Despite their cultural, economic, and conservation significance, these areas face diverse development threats, leading to pressures for protected area downgrading, downsizing, or degazettement (known as PADDD).

We comprehensively analyse the geographical, historical, and structural aspects of 322 NPs in sub‐Saharan Africa and assess their political vulnerability by exploring the interplay of development pressures and public interest (as measured through Wikipedia page views).

Fewer than 30% of these NPs possess or report information regarding management plans, even among the five most frequently viewed areas on Wikipedia. This is particularly concerning, since among those who underwent a PADDD event (51 NPs), almost 90% of them also had no information about the existence of management plans.

Although we did not identify a statistically significant association between tourism and public interest online, tourism emerges as a potential mitigating factor against PADDD, along with high levels of peace.

NPs that garner significant public interest online do not share the same socio‐geographic profile as parks that are most resilient to PADDD events. While digital metrics of public interest have potential as indicators of political resilience in NP, our research has shown that these metrics need refinement to fully understand which biophysical and cultural aspects of parks attract more public attention. Overall, effective conservation strategies in sub‐Saharan Africa require a more holistic understanding of historical, socio‐economic, and cultural factors.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Synergic effects of physio‐mechanical performances on sliding‐rolling tribological and abrasion behaviors of polyisoprene based aviation tire treads
Authors: Wang Yan , Pei Xianqiang , Zhang Yaoming , Zhang Zhancheng , Chen Shoubing , Wang Qihua , Wang Tingmei
Published: October 2024

Abrasion and tribological properties of tread rubber play a crucial role in governing the service life of aviation tires and the safety of aircrafts. Polyisoprene (IR) with the same chemical structure as natural rubber shows great potential for application in aviation tires. Herein, the abrasion and tribological behaviors of IR based composites under sliding‐rolling conditions were investigated in relation to the carbon black (CB N234) content, sliding‐rolling ratio, ambient temperature, and counterparts in order to provide guidance for the development of high‐performance aviation tire treads. Moreover, the relationship between wear performances and physical–mechanical properties was discussed to establish a prediction model. The results revealed that physical and mechanical properties affected wear performances in a synergetic manner, which could be described as a negative linear correlation of the folding wear with the product of hardness and rebound resilience (H4R) and the ratio between rebound resilience and tensile strength ((1‐R)/σ) even at elevated temperature and sliding‐rolling ratio regardless of the counterpart. The increase in CB N234 content and sliding‐rolling (s‐r) ratio resulted in a transition of the wear mechanism from folding to abrasion due to the formation of soft rubber particles with a certain fluidity and a lubricating transfer film that was located at the friction interface and was generated by the thermal‐mechanical degradation of the IR matrix when it was rubbed against steel counterparts, which marred the aforementioned negative linear relationship.

Highlights

The increase in temperature improved the abrasion resistance of tire treads.

The folding wear was negatively and linearly related to H4R and (1‐R)/σ.

Increasing CB N234 content and s‐r ratio made a transition of wear mechanism.
Assessment of female students' perception on access and utilization of water and sanitation facilities for menstruation management in higher education institutions in Uganda
Authors: Nassozi Pomlet , Kebirungi Harriet , Opit Elizabeth , Muweesi Charles , Taddeo Kaahwa Yuda , Sserwadda Lawrence , Kaweesi Muhamadi , Kuteesa Mugenyi Disan , Mutebi Abubaker , Isabirye Christopher , Tomusange Robert , Kabasiita Jessica , Mugagga Muwagga Anthony
Published: October 2024

The main purpose of this study was to assess female students' perception of access and utilization of water and sanitation facilities for menstruation management in HEIs. A qualitative research design was embraced, and it was exploratory while gathering responses from the participating respondents using semi‐structured interviews, focus group discussions and observation from course coordinators from six faculties, students guild leadership, and selected university managers who were purposively selected and regarded to be more knowledgeable with university affairs as far as learners' social welfare was concerned. The study found that many students did not have adequate access to water and sanitation facilities for menstruation management. They also lack adequate menstrual hygiene management education and their rights to sanitation and water facilities for menstruation management in terms of the menstrual cycle, the importance of washing body parts, and the issue of stigma during the menstruation period. The study recommended that the Directorate of Gender at the university should review and work very closely with the Department of Estates and Works to improve the maintenance and provision of water and sanitation facilities for menstruation management.
Extract of Papaver Rhoeas for Daylight Imaging of Latent Fingerprints
Authors: Kumar Sanjeev , Kaur Kulwant , Singh Prabhpreet
Published: October 2024

The extraction of natural red dye (PR) from the flower Papaver rhoeas (common poppy) and its adsorption on montmorillonite clay (PR@MM) was reported. The powder PR@MM was used for the development and visualization of LFPs taken on common household, nonporous, and colored surfaces in daylight using powder dusting method without any pre‐ or posttreatment and equipment. The information of level 1 (ridge classification) and level 2 (minutiae details) from the fingerprint can be obtained using PR@MM powder.
Therapeutic Porphyrin “Hemin” Binds and Unfolds Hen Egg White Lysozyme: Experimental and In Silico Approaches to Study the Interaction
Authors: Ali Mohd Sajid , Bhati Rittik , Muthukumaran Jayaraman , Al‐Lohedan Hamad A.
Published: October 2024

Hemin is an important iron‐containing porphyrin that has important therapeutic properties to control the symptoms of porphyria attacks that include pain, high blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, mental changes, and so forth. Lysozyme has many applications, which include from therapeutic to preservation of foods. The interaction of hemin with an important model protein, hen egg white lysozyme (HEWL), has been observed in this study through hybrid in silico with biophysical studies. There was a strong 1:1 cooperative binding between hemin and HEWL, which was revealed from the strong quenching of the latter by the former. The binding was favored by the decrease in temperature, which is due to the involvement of static type of quenching mechanism in the interaction. Experimental analyses suggested that the major forces involved in the binding were polar ones, and there was an efficient energy transfer from the fluorophore to the ligand. The combination of far‐UV CD spectroscopy and Rayleigh light scattering experiments established that hemin has the strong tendency to unfold HEWL. An extensive molecular docking investigation involving 2000 docking runs recognized the preferred binding site of hemin within HEWL, and also suggested that apart from the polar forces, hydrophobic interactions have also played an important role in the binding.
A computational study of Eyring‐Powell fluid model over a rotating cone with magnetic field and joule heating effect
Authors: Liaqat Usama Bin , Ashraf Muhammad Bilal , Ul Haq Sami , Tahir Muhammad Ateeq , Shflot Abdulsalam Saeed , Alhushaybari Abdullah , Garalleh Hakim AL
Published: October 2024

In this research, we investigate mixed convection transport of mass and heat transfer in the unsteady boundary layer flow of the Eyring‐Powell fluid around a rotating cone in the presence of Brownian and thermophoresis effects. Rotating cones are widely used in conical diffusers, medical devices, Aerospace Engineering and a variety of rheometric and viscosimetry applications. Specifically, we focus on the flow of the Eyring‐Powell fluid around the cone in the presence of magnetohydrodynamics and nanofluid. The modeled momentum, energy, and concentration equations of the problem are transformed into nonlinear dimensionless, nonlinear ordinary equations by utilizing the similarity variables. These nonlinear coupled ordinary differential equations are solved numerically via Bvp4c, and the outcomes for important physical parameters on momentum, energy, and concentration equations are presented graphically. The computational outcomes of physical parameters for skin friction coefficient, local Nusselt number, and Sherwood are also presented in tabular form.
Improving Rural Quality of Life by Combining Public Transportation with Demand Responsive Transport Systems
Authors: Lieszkovszky József Pál , Tordai Dániel , Hörcher Daniel , Fleischer Tamás , Munkácsy András
Published: October 2024

We recommend improving rural quality of life by combining public transport with demand responsive transport systems. To achieve this policy recommendation, we propose the following: (1) Promote the creation of demand responsive transport (DRT) systems that fit well into the region’s or nation’s larger transport strategy and system, are cost effective and sustainable in the long run; (2) Identify and clarify the societal goals that DRT operations are intended to support. Subsidising DRT operations cannot be justified just for their own sake; (3) Define the intended demand intensity to be served with this transport service explicitly; (4) Integrate DRT services with complementary incentive mechanisms that preserve the benefits of the spatial concentration of the population and workplaces; (5) Ensure a reasonable level of long-term public funding for DRT systems right from the planning phase; and (6) Reduce the barriers of entry to the DRT market and develop a service model, enabling the utilisation of excess transport capacity that local SMEs and public institutions as minibus owners may have.
Enabling Inclusive Urban Transport Planning Through Civic Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Michailidis Dimitris , Khutsishvili Kristina , Konstantis Konstantinos , Tympas Aristotle , Ibrahim Imad Antoine , Ghebreab Sennay
Published: October 2024

We recommend enabling inclusive urban transport planning through civic artificial intelligence. To achieve this policy recommendation, we propose the following: (1) Encourage and provide resources for experimentation with new technologies that enable local community participation in urban transport planning; (2) Recognize the potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to assist in complex urban transport planning decisions; (3) Acknowledge that AI is embedded in society, instead of treating it as a neutral technology; and (4) Foster community engagement in transport planning and evaluation, via a Civic AI framework that directly integrates preferences and feedback into planning.
Deep Intra-operative Illumination Calibration of Hyperspectral Cameras
Authors: Baumann Alexander , Ayala Leonardo , Studier-Fischer Alexander , Sellner Jan , Özdemir Berkin , Kowalewski Karl-Friedrich , Ilic Slobodan , Seidlitz Silvia , Maier-Hein Lena
Published: October 2024

Hyperspectral imaging (HSI) is emerging as a promising novel imaging modality with various potential surgical applications. Currently available cameras, however, suffer from poor integration into the clinical workflow because they require the lights to be switched off, or the camera to be manually recalibrated as soon as lighting conditions change. Given this critical bottleneck, the contribution of this paper is threefold: (1) We demonstrate that dynamically changing lighting conditions in the operating room dramatically affect the performance of HSI applications, namely physiological parameter estimation, and surgical scene segmentation. (2) We propose a novel learning-based approach to automatically recalibrating hyperspectral images during surgery and show that it is sufficiently accurate to replace the tedious process of white reference-based recalibration. (3) Based on a total of 742 HSI cubes from a phantom, porcine models, and rats we show that our recalibration method not only outperforms previously proposed methods, but also generalizes across species, lighting conditions, and image processing tasks. Due to its simple workflow integration as well as high accuracy, speed, and generalization capabilities, our method could evolve as a central component in clinical surgical HSI.
Short baseline neutrino anomalies at stopped pion experiments
Authors: Bisset Iain A. , Dutta Bhaskar , Huang Wei-Chih , Strigari Louis E.
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Stopped-pion experiments that measure coherent elastic neutrino-nucleus scattering (CEνNS) are sensitive to sterile neutrinos via disappearance. Using timing and energy spectra to perform flavor decomposition, we show that the delayed electron neutrino component provides an independent test of short-baseline anomalies that hint at ~ eV-mass sterile neutrinos. Dedicated experiments will be sensitive to nearly the entire sterile neutrino parameter space consistent with short-baseline data.
Prähospitale Bluttransfusion
Authors: Schwietring Jens , Wähnert Dirk , Scholl Lucas Sebastian , Thies Karl-Christian
Published: October 2024

Hintergrund

Blutverlust ist die Hauptursache potenziell vermeidbarer Todesfälle bei schweren Verletzungen. Behandlungsprioritäten sind die sofortige Kontrolle der Blutung und die Transfusion von Blutprodukten zur Aufrechterhaltung des Sauerstofftransports und zur Therapie der traumainduzierten Koagulopathie. Während die prähospitale Transfusion von Blutprodukten (PHBT) in unseren Nachbarländern etabliert ist, hat die fragmentierte Struktur der Rettungsdienste die Einführung von PHBT-Programmen in Deutschland verzögert. Unsere Arbeit bietet eine aktuelle Perspektive auf die Entwicklung, internationale Praktiken und den Forschungsbedarf zur Anwendung von PHBT im deutschen Kontext.

Methodik

Diese narrative Übersicht basiert auf einer PubMed-Suche mit den Schlüsselwörtern „prehospital“ und „blood*“. Von 4738 gefundenen Artikeln bezogen sich 333 auf PHBT und wurden einer weiteren detaillierten Sichtung unterzogen. Die Literatur, einschließlich zitierter Studien, wurde in Bereiche wie Geschichte, Rationale, internationale Praktiken und Evidenz kategorisiert und entsprechend ihrer Qualität in die Auswertung einbezogen.

Ergebnisse

Der Nutzen der frühzeitigen Bluttransfusion bei schwerem Trauma ist seit dem Ersten Weltkrieg belegt, was die Bestrebungen erklärt, diese lebensrettende Maßnahme schon im prähospitalen Bereich einzuleiten. Neuere randomisierte Studien, die aufgrund der komplexen Fragestellung mit Design- und Rekrutierungsproblemen kämpften, haben widersprüchliche Ergebnisse hinsichtlich des Überlebensvorteils im zivilen Bereich geliefert. Die Lehren aus diesen Arbeiten lassen bezweifeln, ob randomisierte Studien tatsächlich in der Lage sind, Fragen zum Überlebensvorteil zu klären. Trotz der genannten Schwierigkeiten gibt es einen erkennbaren Trend, der bei transfundierten Patienten auf Verbesserungen des Outcome hindeutet. In Deutschland beträgt die Inzidenz des traumaassoziierten Schocks 38/100.000 Einwohner pro Jahr. Geschätzt wird, dass zwischen 300 und 1800 Patienten jährlich von PHBT profitieren könnten.

Schlussfolgerungen

Die prähospitale Gabe von Blutprodukten erscheint vielversprechend, doch bleibt offen, welche Patientengruppen davon profitieren und welche Blutprodukte am besten geeignet sind. In Deutschland sind PHBT-Programme noch nicht weit verbreitet. Paradoxerweise bietet diese Situation, zusammen mit dem umfangreichen Trauma Register der Deutschen Gesellschaft für Unfallchirurgie, eine hervorragende Ausgangssituation für umfassende prospektive Kohortenstudien, um Patienten-Outcome, Logistik und Implementierungsstrategien zu untersuchen. Solche Studien könnten helfen, evidenzbasierte PHBT-Richtlinien auszuarbeiten und in deutsche Traumaversorgungsprotokolle zu integrieren.
Vitamin D3 mitigates myopathy and metabolic dysfunction in rats with metabolic syndrome: the potential role of dipeptidyl peptidase-4
Authors: Shoier Nourhan O. , Ghareib Salah A. , Kothayer Hend , Alsemeh Amira Ebrahim , El-Sayed Shaimaa S.
Published: October 2024

Metabolic syndrome is associated with vitamin D3 deficiency. This work aims to examine the efficacy of vitamin D3 in inhibiting MetS-induced myopathy and to determine whether the beneficial effects of vitamin D3 are mediated by the inhibition of dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4). An in silico study investigated the potential effectiveness of vitamin D3 on the inhibition of the DPP-4 enzyme. An in vitro assay of the DPP-4 inhibitory effect of vitamin D3 was performed. In vivo and over 12 weeks, both diet (with 3% salt) and drinking water (with 10% fructose) were utilized to induce MetS. In the seventh week, rats received either vitamin D3, vildagliptin, a combination of both, or vehicles. Serum lipids, adipokines, glycemic indices, and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), muscular glucose transporter type-4 (GLUT-4) content, DPP-4, adenosine monophosphate kinase (AMPK) activities, and Sudan Black B-stained lipids were assessed. Muscular reactive oxygen species (ROS), caspase-3, and desmin immunostaining were used to determine myopathy. MetS-induced metabolic dysfunction was ameliorated by vitamin D3, which also reduced intramuscular glycogen and lipid accumulation. This is demonstrated by the attenuation of MetS-induced myopathy by vitamin D3, decreased oxidative stress, increased desmin immuno-expression, and caspase-3 activity. Our in silico data demonstrated that vitamin D3 is capable of inhibiting DPP-4, which is further supported by biochemical findings. Vitamin D3 increased serum GLP-1, muscular AMPK activity, and GLUT-4 content, whereas the levels of muscular ROS were decreased in MetS. Vildagliptin and its combination with vitamin D3 yielded comparable results. It is suggested that the DPP-4 inhibitory potential of vitamin D3 is responsible for the amelioration of MetS-induced metabolic changes and myopathy.
Short-Term Changes in Bone Metabolism Among Transgender Men Starting Gender-Affirming Hormone Therapy: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Tienforti Daniele , Marinelli Lorenzo , Vervalcke Jeroen , Spagnolo Luca , Antolini Federica , Bichiri Andreina , Baroni Marco Giorgio , Motta Giovanna , T’Sjoen Guy , Barbonetti Arcangelo
Published: October 2024

Transgender and gender diverse individuals experience a gender identity that differs from the sex assigned at birth. Some transgender men may request testosterone to induce virilization; however, its impact on bone health remains to be fully elucidated. The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the modifications in bone metabolism over a short-term period among transgender men initiating testosterone therapy. A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library. The articles of interest had to report longitudinal evaluation conducted among transgender men, before starting testosterone and after 12 and 24 months of therapy. The analyzed parameters were BMD, calcium, phosphate, 25OHD, PTH, P1NP, BAP, osteocalcin and CTx. Mean differences with 95% coefficient intervals were combined using random effects models. Funnel plot, Egger’s test, and trim-and-fill analysis were used to assess publication bias. Fourteen studies met the inclusion criteria, including 1484 subjects. In absence of heterogeneity, BMD did not significantly change at lumbar spine, hip, femoral neck, and whole-body evaluations. Calcium, phosphate, 25OHD and PTH remained stable over time. Regarding bone turnover markers, only P1NP showed a statistically significant increase after 12 months of T therapy, in absence of heterogeneity (SMD 0.61 mcg/l; 95% CI: 0.40–0.83; p < 0.0001; I2 = 0%, Pforheterogeneity = 0.48). Testosterone therapy among transgender men seems not to disrupt bone health after 12 and 24 months. A statistically significant elevation in P1NP levels after 12 months of therapy may indicate a positive anabolic effect of testosterone in the short-term.
Die internationale manualmedizinische Dachgesellschaft: die FIMM mit ihren aktuellen Zielen, Stärken und Aktivitäten
Authors: Vinzelberg Stephan
Published: October 2024

In Bezug auf die laufenden Aktivitäten der International Federation for Manual/Musculoskeletal Medicine (FIMM) ist es wichtig zu beachten, dass der Verband kontinuierlich an der Weiterentwicklung der manuellen Medizin arbeitet. Zu den aktuellen Zielen gehört es, die internationale Zusammenarbeit und den Wissensaustausch zwischen den Mitgliedsländern zu fördern. Durch eine SWOT-Analyse werden die Stärken, Schwächen, Chancen und Risiken des Verbands identifiziert, um gezielt an der Verbesserung und Weiterentwicklung zu arbeiten. Zudem engagiert sich die FIMM aktiv in gesundheitspolitischen Diskussionen und setzt sich für die Anerkennung der manuellen Medizin als wichtige Behandlungsmethode ein. Durch das Education Board wurden Zertifizierungen nationaler Lehrpläne einzelner Mitgliedsgesellschaften durchgeführt, um die Qualität und den internationalen Standard der Mitglieder zu fördern. Darüber hinaus legt die FIMM großen Wert auf die Gewinnung neuer Mitglieder und die Erweiterung des internationalen Netzwerks. Trotz der Herausforderungen durch die COVID-19-Pandemie hat die FIMM innovative Wege gefunden, um weiterhin mit seinen Mitgliedern in Verbindung zu bleiben und relevante Informationen bereitzustellen.