bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhanced Corrosion Resistance of Mild Steel in Acidic Media Using PVA‐Chitosan‐Dopamine Composite Coatings
Authors: Al‐Goul Soha Talal , Abdel‐Hamid Shereen M. S. , Bassyouni Mohamed
Published: August 2024

In this study, corrosion control of mild steel in acidic media was conducted in the presence of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)‐chitosan and PVA‐chitosan‐dopamine composite coatings. Weight loss, polarization, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) studies were conducted to study the protective mechanisms and performance of PVA‐chitosan coatings. The results showed a substantial reduction in weight loss, corrosion rates, and corrosion current densities for coated specimens indicating the effectiveness of the composite coatings. PVA‐chitosan and PVA‐chitosan‐dopamine coatings showed high inhibition efficiencies (IE) up to 90.65 % and 96.01 % respectively. The electrochemical findings were supported using surface characterization techniques such as SEM to obtain a complete understanding of the coatings’ morphology and composition. The topographical analysis confirmed that dopamine significantly influenced the surface morphology and behavior of the nanocomposite. The FTIR spectrum of composite B, which combined PVA and chitosan, exhibited notable changes, including a decrease in both the intensity and frequency of the OH band. The potential of PVA‐chitosan‐dopamine coatings as effective corrosion inhibitors for mild steel in acidic environments offered practical solutions for diverse industrial applications.
Development of Dual Cooperative Multi‐Urea Catalysts for Henry Reaction
Authors: Kimura Yuki , Kawai Hidetoshi
Published: August 2024

A dual cooperative multi‐urea catalyst for Henry reaction was developed in which four urea groups were introduced into a rigid and rotatable framework. The tetraurea catalyst 1 showed higher activity for Henry reaction than its analogues, close‐bisurea 2 or distal‐bisurea 3 with two urea units, demonstrating additional cooperativity between the two substrate‐pinching catalytic sites of tetraurea 1. Addition of the reaction product to the reaction system resulted in a small amount of further activation. This work would provide a basis for new cooperative molecular catalysts, leading to a high degree of regulation based on allosteric cooperativity, e.g. with a distinct ON/OFF threshold for reactivity, or feedback activation by using the product as a reaction template.
Optimizing Energy Storage Performance: In situ Synthesized Manganese Oxide (Mn3O4) Nanoparticle‐Based Symmetric Supercapacitor on a Paper Substrate
Authors: Ghosh Sarit K. , Kumari Pooja , Saha Chandan , Singh Harishchandra , Waziri Ibrahim , Mbileni‐Morema Charity N. , Mallick Kaushik
Published: August 2024

In this study, a redox reaction is employed to synthesize manganese oxide (Mn3O4) nanoparticles using potassium permanganate as a precursor in the presence of diethyl amine. The structural characterization reveals the formation of the tetragonal phase of Mn3O4 nanoparticles with a space group of I41/amd. A free‐standing Mn3O4‐based paper electrode is fabricated and its electrochemical performances are investigated. The electrode exhibits a maximum specific capacitance value of ~353 F g−1 and an areal capacitance of ~530 mF cm−2 at a current density of 0.2 A g−1. A symmetric supercapacitor‐based device is also designed using Mn3O4 nanoparticles as an active material in a gel electrolyte configuration. The Mn3O4 device achieves specific and areal capacity values of ~208 mAh g−1 and 260 mA cm−2, respectively, at a current density of 0.3 A g−1. The device delivers maximum energy and power density values of ~104 Wh kg−1 and ~220 W kg−1, respectively, with ~92 % specific capacity retention at 0.3 A g−1 after 5000 cycles. The above results suggest that the Mn3O4‐based device has the potential for energy storage applications.
Pseudocapacitive Electrode Based on MnO2 Loaded Activated Charcoal on Graphite Paper for Sustainable Energy Storage
Authors: Ivan Jebakumar D. S. , Jeyakumar U. , Dinesh Raja N.
Published: August 2024

The design of high‐performance electrode material without compromising energy and power density is critical for the advancement in hybrid electric vehicle technology. In this perspective, we have fabricated a MnO2 loaded activated charcoal‐based electrode on graphite paper as an endeavour to improve the energy storage capabilities. The electrode material is synthesized by employing a sustainable route and the structural, microstructural, and textural properties have been investigated. The electrochemical performance for energy storage is evaluated and the fabricated electrode on graphite paper exhibits remarkably high‐power density (811 W kg−1) maintaining high energy density (106 Wh kg−1) at the same time, along with high gravimetric specific capacitance value of 768 F g−1 at 2 mA cm−2. The obtained results demonstrate the excellent performance of the electrode material, suggesting MnO2 loaded activated charcoal as a prospective electrode material to meet the demand of hybrid electric vehicles as well as to contribute to our transitioning towards low‐to‐zero carbon emission technology.
Ionic Liquid Induced Aggregation and Precipitation Behavior of Pinacyanol
Authors: Saloni  , Kasana Preeti , Ahmed Jahangeer , Kumar Vinod
Published: August 2024

In this paper, we demonstrate the unique role of ionic liquids (ILs) as dye aggregation and precipitation promoter. Specifically, we have observed that the presence of small amount of IL such as 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium hexaflurophosphate ([bmim][PF6]), 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide ([bmim][Tf2N]), 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium trifluoromethanesulfonate ([bmim][OTf]), 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate ([bmim][BF4]) and 1‐butyl‐1‐methylpyrrolidinium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide ([bmpyrr][Tf2N]) in aqueous milieu can help in the conversion of a cyanine dye 1,1’‐Diethyl‐2,2’‐carbocyanine iodide (Pinacyanol iodide) into J‐ and H‐aggregates followed by time dependent precipitation of the dye. The anion of the added IL strongly affects the aggregation process in aqueous solution. Addition of small amount of BF4− anion based IL [bmim][BF4] to aqueous solution of the dye initially induces J‐ and H‐aggregation followed by quick precipitation of the dye in time dependent manner. Presence of small amount of other anion containing ILs such as ([bmim][PF6]), ([bmim][OTf]), ([bmim][Tf2N]) and ([bmpyrr][Tf2N]) strongly supports H‐aggregation of the dye in aqueous solution whereas higher wt % of added ILs also caused precipitation of the dye in a time dependent manner. The nature of the IL anion, wt % of added IL and temperature conditions decides efficiencies of aggregation and precipitation processes. The dual yet unique behavior of ILs as an additive influence the aggregation of cyanine dyes and precipitation has been demonstrated. The observed results can contribute towards various application for dye aggregates and in the removal of dyes from water. The developed process can find potential applications in the field of material science, wastewater treatment, future light harvesting systems, and opto‐electronics related fields.
Anxiety, post‐traumatic symptoms, media‐induced secondary trauma, post‐traumatic growth, and resilience among mental health workers during the Israel‐Hamas war
Authors: Dahan Sagit , Bloemhof‐Bris Esther , Segev Ronen , Abramovich Marina , Levy Galit , Shelef Assaf
Published: August 2024

The ongoing Israel‐Hamas war is posing additional challenges for mental health workers in an already stressful workplace. This study centres on the psychological effects of the shared traumatic reality on mental health workers, arising from the Israel‐Hamas war. One month after exposure to the terrorist attack of 7 October 2023 and the outbreak of war following this event, 147 mental health workers completed questionnaires regarding a variety of variables such as demographics, anxiety symptoms, acute stress symptoms, media‐induced secondary trauma, personal resilience, National resilience (NR), and post‐traumatic growth (PTG). The study found that mental health workers with previous trauma displayed higher anxiety symptoms, acute stress symptoms, and media‐induced secondary trauma. Additionally, acute stress and anxiety were positively correlated with media‐induced secondary trauma. Religiosity, personal resilience, and NR were found associated with lower anxiety and acute stress symptoms. Religiosity was also positively correlated with personal resilience, NR, and PTG. The PTG of mental health workers working with trauma survivors and evacuees was higher compared to that of other mental health workers. Both adverse and adaptive reactions were evident among mental health workers. While traumatic stress is expected, individual, professional, and NR factors may mitigate its effects. Providing training, social support, regulated media exposure, stress management, and meaning‐focused coping strategies can help safeguard workers' well‐being.
Enhancing Short‐Range Interactions to Broaden the Temperature Range for Coexistence of Antiferroelectricity and Ferroelasticity
Authors: Cai Zhuoer , Zhang Yinan , He Xiaofan , Chen Jian , Hua Xiu‐Ni , Shi Ping‐Ping , Sun Baiwang
Published: August 2024

Antiferroelectric (AFE) materials, characterized by double electric hysteresis loops, can be transformed to the ferroelectric (FE) phase under an external electric field, making them promising candidates for electronic energy storage and solid‐state refrigeration. Additionally, the field‐induced strain in AFE materials is contingent upon the direction of the electric field, rendering it with a switching characteristic. Although AFE materials have made progress in the field of energy storage and negative electrocaloric effect, the coexistence of AFE and ferroelasticity is still rarely reported. Here, two isomorphic organic‐inorganic hybrid perovskites, HDAEPbCl4 and HDAEPbBr4 (HDAE is [2‐(hydroxydimethylammonio)ethan‐1‐aminium]), exhibiting FE‐AFE‐PE (PE is paraelectric) phase transitions, are presented. Remarkably, the temperature range where AFE and ferroelasticity coexist is significantly broadened from 59.9 K to 115.1 K by strengthening short‐range forces via halogen substitution. This discovery extends the family of FE, AFE, and ferroelastic materials, contributing to the development of multifunctional materials and advancing multifunctional material development.
Direct Solution Deposition of Large‐Area Non‐Solvated Fullerene Single‐Crystal Films for High‐Performance n‐Type Field‐Effect Transistors
Authors: Zhao Yujie , Sheng Qiuyue , Ke Shifeng , Wu Ruihan , He Lihua , Ren Xiaochen , Peng Boyu , Li Hanying
Published: August 2024

Fullerene (C60) crystals have attracted considerable attention in the field of optoelectronic devices owing to their excellent performance as n‐type semiconductor material. However, a challenge still remains unbeaten as to the continuous crystallization of non‐solvated C60 single‐crystal films with high coverage and uniform alignment using low‐cost solution techniques. Here, a facile bar coating method is used to prepare ribbon‐shaped non‐solvated C60 crystals with a large area (up to centimeters) and high coverage (>95%) by precisely controlling the crystallization process from specific solvents. Benefiting from the non‐solvated crystalline structure, well‐distributed thickness, uniform morphological alignment, and crystallographic orientation, organic field‐effect transistors fabricated from the C60 single‐crystal films exhibit a high average electron mobility of 2.28 cm2 V−1s−1, along with the coefficient of variance (CV) as small as 13.6%. This efficient manufacturing method will lay a strong foundation for C60 single‐crystal films to fit into the future high‐performance integrated optoelectronic application.
Natural Polyphenol Delivered Methylprednisolone Achieve Targeted Enrichment for Acute Spinal Cord Injury Therapy
Authors: Yuan Taoyang , Liu Weijie , Wang Tianyou , Ye Feng , Zhang Jianhua , Gu Zhipeng , Xu Jianguo , Li Yiwen
Published: August 2024

The strong anti‐inflammatory effect of methylprednisolone (MP) is a necessary treatment for various severe cases including acute spinal cord injury (SCI). However, concerns have been raised regarding adverse effects from MP, which also severely limits its clinical application. Natural polyphenols, due to their rich phenolic hydroxyl chemical properties, can form dynamic structures without additional modification, achieving targeted enrichment and drug release at the disease lesion, making them a highly promising carrier. Considering the clinical application challenges of MP, a natural polyphenolic platform is employed for targeted and efficient delivery of MP, reducing its systemic side effects. Both in vitro and SCI models demonstrated polyphenols have multiple advantages as carriers for delivering MP: (1) Achieved maximum enrichment at the injured site in 2 h post‐administration, which met the desires of early treatment for diseases; (2) Traceless release of MP; (3) Reducing its side effects; (4) Endowed treatment system with new antioxidative properties, which is also an aspect that needs to be addressed for diseases treatment. This study highlighted a promising prospect of the robust delivery system based on natural polyphenols can successfully overcome the barrier of MP treatment, providing the possibility for its widespread clinical application.
Placenta‐Derived Mesenchymal Stromal‐Like Cells Promote 3D‐Engineered Muscle Tissue Differentiation and Vessel Network Maturation
Authors: Tsukerman Anna , Machour Majd , Shuhmaher Margarita , Fischer Eliana O. , Shoyhet Hagit , Bar‐Am Orit , Guterman Ram Gali , Debbi Lior , Safina Dina , Levenberg Shulamit
Published: August 2024

Placental‐derived stromal‐like cells (PLX‐PAD) have been shown to facilitate muscle tissue recovery after injury and stimulate angiogenesis. This work assesses the impact of PLX‐PAD cells on the vascularization and maturation of engineered skeletal muscle tissue. Specifically, their effects in direct co‐culture with endothelial cells, pericytes, and myoblasts seeded within microporous 3D scaffolds are characterized. Additionally, the impact of hypoxic PLX‐PAD cell‐conditioned medium (CM) on vascularization and muscle differentiation of engineered tissue is monitored. Co‐culture of PLX‐PAD with myocytes stimulated myocyte differentiation while PLX‐PAD CM promoted the formation of vascular networks. Implantation of a multi‐culture system of vascularized human skeletal muscle tissue and PLX‐PAD into a rectus abdominal defect in nude mice promoted myocyte differentiation, host vessel penetration, and tissue integration. These findings indicate the ability of placenta‐derived cells to induce the formation of vascularized engineered muscle constructs with potential therapeutic applications.
Downscaling of Organic Field‐Effect Transistors based on High‐Mobility Semiconducting Blends for High‐Frequency Operation
Authors: Losi Tommaso , Viola Fabrizio Antonio , Sala Elda , Heeney Martin , He Qiao , Kleemann Hans , Caironi Mario
Published: August 2024

Small molecule/polymer semiconductor blends are promising solutions for the development of high‐performing organic electronics. They are able to combine ease in solution processability, thanks to the tunable rheological properties of polymeric inks, with outstanding charge transport properties thanks to high crystalline phases of small molecules. However, because of charge injection issues, so far such good performances are only demonstrated in ad‐hoc device architectures, not suited for high‐frequency applications, where transistor dimensions require downscaling. Here, the successful integration of the most performing blend reported to date, based on 2,7‐dioctyl[1] benzothieno[3,2‐b][1]benzothiophene (C8‐BTBT) and poly(indacenodithiophene‐co‐benzothiadiazole) (C16IDT‐BT), in OFETs characterized by channel and overlap lengths equal to 1.3 and 1.9 µm, respectively, is demonstrated, enabling a transition frequency of 23 MHz at ‐8 V. Two key aspects allowed such result: molecular doping, leading to width‐normalized contact resistance of only 260 Ωcm, allowing to retain an apparent field‐effect mobility as high as 3 cm2/(Vs) in short channel devices, and the implementation of a high capacitance dielectric stack, enabling the reduction of operating voltages below 10 V and the overcoming of self‐heating issues. These results represent a fundamental step for the future development of low‐cost and high‐speed printed electronics for IoT applications.
Next generation sequencing: Forensic applications and policy considerations
Authors: Browne Tebah N. , Freeman Mikaelah
Published: August 2024

Next generation sequencing (NGS) or massively parallel sequencing (MPS) is a high‐throughput technology that can be used to analyze DNA and RNA molecules with greater sensitivity, scalability, and speed than traditional Sanger sequencing. NGS systems are slowly gaining popularity in forensic science and may eventually become the future of forensic DNA analysis. The data generated can be utilized to conduct an array of forensic biology analyses such as short tandem repeats (STR) profiling, forensic genetic genealogy, predictive DNA phenotyping, and more. However, the adoption of NGS for forensic casework is associated with a lot of ethical, social, and legal concerns. This article provides a comprehensive review of NGS systems, data analysis, and forensic applications. It also provides policy considerations that aim to reduce harm and bias, while promoting informed consent, standardization, transparency, and accountability.

This article is categorized under:

Forensic Biology > Interpretation of Biological Evidence

Forensic Biology > Ethical and Social Implications

Forensic Biology > Forensic DNA Technologies
Formulation of propositions for forensic handwriting examinations
Authors: Bird Carolyne , Ballantyne Kaye , Jones Kylie
Published: August 2024

The forensic examiner's role is to assist the court by explaining the significance of their findings within the context of the case. In “evaluative” reporting this is achieved by considering the probability of observing the evidence given at least two competing propositions. This article outlines the requirements of propositions within an evaluative framework, common sets of propositions used in handwriting examinations and their associated basic expectations. As the forensic handwriting examiner may be asked to undertake different types of comparisons depending on the material available and the case circumstances, it is critical that examiners carefully consider the most appropriate propositions against which the findings are to be evaluated. Further, as the propositions are derived from case information, and may require assumptions to be drawn, the necessary disclosure within reports is discussed. Although the examples given are specific to handwriting examinations, the concepts discussed in this article are applicable to other forensic disciplines utilizing an evaluative approach to evidence interpretation.

This article is categorized under:

Forensic Chemistry and Trace Evidence > Presentation and Evaluation of Forensic Science Output

Jurisprudence and Regulatory Oversight > Expert Evidence and Narrative
Universal constraints on energy flow and SYK thermalization
Authors: Almheiri Ahmed , Milekhin Alexey , Swingle Brian
Published: August 2024

Abstract

We study the dynamics of a quantum system in thermal equilibrium that is suddenly coupled to a bath at a different temperature, a situation inspired by a particular black hole evaporation protocol. We prove a universal positivity bound on the integrated rate of change of the system energy which holds perturbatively in the system-bath coupling. Applied to holographic systems, this bound implies a particular instance of the averaged null energy condition. We also study in detail the particular case of two coupled SYK models in the limit of many fermions using the Schwinger-Keldysh non-equilibrium formalism. We solve the resulting Kadanoff-Baym equations both numerically and analytically in various limits. In particular, by going to low temperature, this setup enables a detailed study of the evaporation of black holes in JT gravity.
Divisors and curves on logarithmic mapping spaces
Authors: Kennedy-Hunt Patrick , Nabijou Navid , Shafi Qaasim , Zheng Wanlong
Published: August 2024

We determine the rational class and Picard groups of the moduli space of stable logarithmic maps in genus zero, with target projective space relative a hyperplane. For the class group we exhibit an explicit basis consisting of boundary divisors. For the Picard group we exhibit a spanning set indexed by piecewise-linear functions on the tropicalisation. In both cases a complete set of boundary relations is obtained by pulling back the WDVV relations from the space of stable curves. Our proofs hinge on a controlled technique for manufacturing test curves in logarithmic mapping spaces, opening up the topology of these spaces to further study.
Utility of melatonin on brain injury, synaptic transmission, and energy metabolism in rats with sepsis
Authors: Ates Gulten , Tamer Sule , Ozkok Elif , Yorulmaz Hatice , Gundogan Gul Ipek , Aksu Abdullah , Balkis Nuray
Published: August 2024

Melatonin is a powerful endogenous antioxidant hormone. Its healing effects on energy balance and neuronal damage associated with oxidative metabolism disorders have been reported in pathologic conditions. We aimed to determinate the utility of melatonin on neuronal damage, synaptic transmission, and energy balance in the brain tissue of rats with sepsis induced with LPS. Rats was divided into four groups such as control, LPS (20 mg/kg i.p.), melatonin (10 mg/kg i.p. × 3), and LPS + Melatonin (LPS + Mel). After 6 h from the first injection, rats were decapitated, and also tissue and serum samples were taken. Lipid peroxidation and neuron-specific enolase (NSE) levels were determined from the serum in all group. High energy compounds, creatine, and creatine phosphate are measured by HPLC methods from the homogenized tissue. Counts of living neurons are marked with NeuN (neuronal nuclei), degenerated neurons are marked with S100-ß and synaptic vesicles transmission is analyzed with synaptophysin antibodies immunoreactivities. One-way ANOVA and post hoc Tukey tests were used to statistical analysis. In LPS group, AMP, ATP, creatine, and creatine phosphate levels were significantly decreased (p < 0.05), and also ADP levels were significantly increased compared with the other groups (p < 0.01). Living neurons counts were significantly decreased in LPS (p < 0.01), melatonin, and LPS + Melatonin (p < 0.05) groups compared with control. Degenerated neurons counts were increased in LPS group compared with control (p < 0.01) and also decreased in both of melatonin and LPS + Melatonin groups (p < 0.01). Synaptophysin immunoreactivity was decreased in LPS group compared with the other groups (p < 0.05). We observed that melatonin administration prevents neuronal damage, regulates energy metabolism, and protects synaptic vesicle proteins from sepsis-induced reduction.
Targeting PI3K-gamma in myeloid driven tumour immune suppression: a systematic review and meta-analysis of the preclinical literature
Authors: Xu Haonan , Russell Shannon Nicole , Steiner Katherine , O’Neill Eric , Jones Keaton Ian
Published: August 2024

The intricate interplay between immune and stromal cells within the tumour microenvironment (TME) significantly influences tumour progression. Myeloid cells, including tumour-associated macrophages (TAMs), neutrophils (TANs), and myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), contribute to immune suppression in the TME (Nakamura and Smyth in Cell Mol Immunol 17(1):1–12 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41423-019-0306-1; DeNardo and Ruffell in Nat Rev Immunol 19(6):369–382 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41577-019-0127-6). This poses a significant challenge for novel immunotherapeutics that rely on host immunity to exert their effect. This systematic review explores the preclinical evidence surrounding the inhibition of phosphoinositide 3-kinase gamma (PI3Kγ) as a strategy to reverse myeloid-driven immune suppression in solid tumours. EMBASE, MEDLINE, and PubMed databases were searched on 6 October 2022 using keyword and subject heading terms to capture relevant studies. The studies, focusing on PI3Kγ inhibition in animal models, were subjected to predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Extracted data included tumour growth kinetics, survival endpoints, and immunological responses which were meta-analysed. PRISMA and MOOSE guidelines were followed. A total of 36 studies covering 73 animal models were included in the review and meta-analysis. Tumour models covered breast, colorectal, lung, skin, pancreas, brain, liver, prostate, head and neck, soft tissue, gastric, and oral cancer. The predominant PI3Kγ inhibitors were IPI-549 and TG100-115, demonstrating favourable specificity for the gamma isoform. Combination therapies, often involving chemotherapy, radiotherapy, immune checkpoint inhibitors, biological agents, or vaccines, were explored in 81% of studies. Analysis of tumour growth kinetics revealed a statistically significant though heterogeneous response to PI3Kγ monotherapy, whereas the tumour growth in combination treated groups were more consistently reduced. Survival analysis showed a pronounced increase in median overall survival with combination therapy. This systematic review provides a comprehensive analysis of preclinical studies investigating PI3Kγ inhibition in myeloid-driven tumour immune suppression. The identified studies underscore the potential of PI3Kγ inhibition in reshaping the TME by modulating myeloid cell functions. The combination of PI3Kγ inhibition with other therapeutic modalities demonstrated enhanced antitumour effects, suggesting a synergistic approach to overcome immune suppression. These findings support the potential of PI3Kγ-targeted therapies, particularly in combination regimens, as a promising avenue for future clinical exploration in diverse solid tumour types.

Graphical abstract
The expression of PD-L1 on tumor-derived exosomes enhances infiltration and anti-tumor activity of αCD3 × αPD-L1 bispecific antibody-armed T cells
Authors: Cho Jaewon , Tae Nara , Song Yujeong , Kim Chae-Won , Lee Seung-Joo , Ahn Jae-Hee , Lee Kwang-Ho , Lee Byung-Hyun , Kim Byung Soo , Chang Sun-Young , Kim Dae Hee , Ko Hyun-Jeong
Published: August 2024

Anti-cluster of differentiation (CD) 3 × α programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) bispecific T-cell engager (BsTE)-bound T-cells (BsTE:T) are a promising new cancer treatment agent. However, the mechanisms of action of bispecific antibody-armed activated T-cells are poorly understood. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the anti-tumor mechanism and efficacy of BsTE:T. The BsTE:T migration was assessed in vivo and in vitro using syngeneic and xenogeneic tumor models, flow cytometry, immunofluorescence staining, transwell migration assays, microfluidic chips, Exo View R100, western blotting, and clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated protein 9 technology. In murine B16 melanoma, MC38 colon cancer, and human multiple myeloma cells, BsTE:T exhibited superior tumor elimination relative to that of T-cells or BsTE alone. Moreover, BsTE:T migration into tumors was significantly enhanced owing to the presence of PD-L1 in tumor cells and secretion of PD-L1-containing exosomes. Furthermore, increased infiltration of CD44highCD62Llow effector memory CD8+ T-cells into tumors was closely associated with the anti-tumor effect of BsTE:T. Therefore, BsTE:T is an innovative potential anti-tumor therapy, and exosomal PD-L1 plays a crucial role both in vitro and in vivo in the anti-tumor activity of BsTE:T.

Graphical abstract
Active facilitation of helper dispersal by parents and siblings in the cooperatively breeding acorn woodpecker
Authors: Hagemeyer Natasha D. G. , Koenig Walter D. , Walters Eric L.
Published: August 2024

Offspring that delay dispersal in cooperatively breeding species have been hypothesized to gain direct fitness benefits via parental facilitation—being passively tolerated on their natal territory by their parents—thereby enjoying enhanced survival and increased probability of acquiring a breeding position in the population. Here we describe active facilitation in the acorn woodpecker (Melanerpes formicivorus) by parents and siblings assisting the dispersal of helpers in their social group. Helpers in this species compete for reproductive opportunities in “power struggles” that take place when all breeders of one sex die or disappear, creating a reproductive vacancy. Individuals compete at power struggles in coalitions of relatives, in which larger coalitions are more likely to be victorious. Based on observations of banded birds, we found that an estimated 26% of individuals competing as part of a winning coalition at a power struggle returned to their home territory at its conclusion, suggesting that they were facilitating the dispersal of kin (generally parents or siblings) that stayed to become breeders on the new territory. In at least one group, sibling facilitation was reciprocated; that is, a bird that was helped at a power struggle by a sibling joined that same sibling as part of a coalition at a subsequent power struggle. Dispersal facilitation is a novel means by which parents can nepotistically enhance the direct fitness of offspring and siblings can enhance each other’s inclusive fitness in this highly social species.

Significance statement

Parental facilitation—being passively tolerated on the natal territory—may provide significant direct fitness benefits to helpers in cooperatively breeding species. We describe active facilitation of helper dispersal in the acorn woodpecker, where helpers compete in coalitions for reproductive opportunities at “power struggles” following the death or disappearance of all breeders of one sex. About one-fourth of individuals—including both parents and siblings—competing at power struggles were apparently facilitators who assisted related helpers by participating in the power struggle but then returned to their home territory rather than stay to breed on the new territory. In at least one group, dispersal facilitation was reciprocated; that is, a bird that was helped at a power struggle by a relative later joined that same relative as part of a coalition at a subsequent power struggle. Active dispersal facilitation by parents and siblings is an important, previously unrecognized, form of nepotistic behavior in this highly social species.
Attention-driven visual emphasis for medical volumetric image visualization
Authors: Li Mingjian , Jung Younhyun , Song Shaoli , Kim Jinman
Published: August 2024

Direct volume rendering (DVR) is a commonly utilized technique for three-dimensional visualization of volumetric medical images. A key goal of DVR is to enable users to visually emphasize regions of interest (ROIs) which may be occluded by other structures. Conventional methods for ROIs visual emphasis require extensive user involvement for the adjustment of rendering parameters to reduce the occlusion, dependent on the user’s viewing direction. Several works have been proposed to automatically preserve the view of the ROIs by eliminating the occluding structures of lower importance in a view-dependent manner. However, they require pre-segmentation labeling and manual importance assignment on the images. An alternative to ROIs segmentation is to use ‘saliency’ to identify important regions. This however lacks semantic information and thus leads to the inclusion of false positive regions. In this study, we propose an attention-driven visual emphasis method for volumetric medical image visualization. We developed a deep learning attention model, termed as focused-class attention map (F-CAM), trained with only image-wise labels for automated ROIs localization and importance estimation. Our F-CAM transfers the semantic information from the classification task for use in the localization of ROIs, with a focus on small ROIs that characterize medical images. Additionally, we propose an attention compositing module that integrates the generated attention map with transfer function within the DVR pipeline to automate the view-dependent visual emphasis of the ROIs. We demonstrate the superiority of our method compared to existing methods on a multi-modality PET-CT dataset and an MRI dataset.
Elevation-dependent biases of raw and bias-adjusted EURO-CORDEX regional climate models in the European Alps
Authors: Matiu Michael , Napoli Anna , Kotlarski Sven , Zardi Dino , Bellin Alberto , Majone Bruno
Published: August 2024

Data from the EURO-CORDEX ensemble of regional climate model simulations and the CORDEX-Adjust dataset were evaluated over the European Alps using multiple gridded observational datasets. Biases, which are here defined as the difference between models and observations, were assessed as a function of the elevation for different climate indices that span average and extreme conditions. Moreover, we assessed the impact of different observational datasets on the evaluation, including E-OBS, APGD, and high-resolution national datasets. Furthermore, we assessed the bi-variate dependency of temperature and precipitation biases, their temporal evolution, and the impact of different bias adjustment methods and bias adjustment reference datasets. Biases in seasonal temperature, seasonal precipitation, and wet-day frequency were found to increase with elevation. Differences in temporal trends between RCMs and observations caused a temporal dependency of biases, which could be removed by detrending both observations and RCMs. The choice of the reference observation datasets used for bias adjustment turned out to be more relevant than the choice of the bias adjustment method itself. Consequently, climate change assessments in mountain regions need to pay particular attention to the choice of observational dataset and, furthermore, to the elevation dependence of biases and the increasing observational uncertainty with elevation in order to provide robust information on future climate.
Predictors of maternal and neonatal outcomes in labors complicated by shoulder dystocia: a comparative analysis
Authors: Tairy Daniel , Frank Shalhevet , Lev Shir , Paz Yael Ganor , Bar Jacob , Barda Giulia , Weiner Eran , Levy Michal
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Studies investigating the risk factors associated with unfavorable maternal/neonatal outcomes in cases of shoulder dystocia are scarce. This study aims to uncover the predictive factors that give rise to unfavorable outcomes within the context of shoulder dystocia.

Materials and methods

Medical records of pregnancies complicated by shoulder dystocia was obtained between 2008–2022 from a single tertiary center. This study involved the comparison of sociodemographic, sonographic, and delivery characteristics among pregnancies complicated by shoulder dystocia resulting in favorable vs. unfavorable maternal/neonatal outcomes.

Results

A total of 275 pregnancies were analyzed, with 111 (40.3%) classified as unfavorable outcomes and 164 (59.7%) as favorable outcomes. Employing a multivariable regression analysis, several independent associations were identified with unfavorable maternal/neonatal outcomes. Specifically, short maternal stature, pre-gestational diabetes, vacuum extraction, Wood’s screw maneuver, and macrosomia merged as significant predictors of unfavorable maternal/neonatal outcomes.

Conclusion

Short maternal stature, pre-gestational diabetes, vacuum extraction, Wood’s screw maneuver, and macrosomia may all contribute to poor maternal/neonatal outcomes in shoulder dystocia cases. This knowledge allows clinicians to improve their decision-making, patient care, and counseling.
Variability and forensic efficiency of 12 X-STR markers in Namibian populations
Authors: Calò Luca , Gentile Fabiano , Baio Elisa , Raschellà Caterina , Capelli Cristian , Marino Alberto
Published: August 2024

STR loci localized on the X chromosome provide information additional to the autosomal markers routinely analyzed in forensic genetics, integrating genetic systems as Y-STRs and mitochondrial DNA in the investigation of complex kinship scenarios and mass disaster cases.

In this study we genotyped 12 X-STR loci in 251 male samples from four populations of Namibia in southern Africa using the Investigator Argus X-12 kit (Qiagen, Hilden, Germany). Forensic efficiency parameters indicated high power of discrimination in the considered populations. As part of our investigation, we highlighted partial linkage associations between loci within known linkage groups (LGs) and identified several occurrences of previously unreported out-of-ladder (OL) alleles.

Genetic distances between the Namibian populations here investigated and other African (Eritrea, Ethiopia, Somalia, Guinea, Cape Verde) and non-African (Germany, China, Philippines) populations using loci grouped in LGs mirrored their biogeographical distribution differently for each linkage group. Haplotype sharing within each LG revealed a high degree of population-specific types, hinting to the potential of these markers for ancestry applications.

These results highlight the importance to produce specific and freely available population databases especially for multi-ethnic countries. This novel dataset is expected to be of interest for population studies that need an accessible reference dataset of African regions not currently well represented, as well as possible relevance for forensic applications focusing on the biogeographic origin of samples.
Imaging buried anticlines in the Po Plain, northern Italy, based on HVSR frequency and amplitude analyses
Authors: Tarabusi G. , Sgattoni G. , Caputo R.
Published: August 2024

The use of the HVSR (Horizontal-to-Vertical Spectral Ratio) method on single-station microtremor measurements is well documented in small alluvial plains for bedrock mapping. In large sedimentary basins, like the Po Plain, its application is still debated. To shed some light on this issue, we investigated two seismogenic structures buried below the Po Plain Quaternary deposits: the Mirandola and Casaglia anticlines. We acquired and analysed a dense distribution of HVSR data covering the two areas and mapped the frequency and amplitude values of the observed resonance peaks. The top of both anticlines is highlighted by high amplitude peaks picturing E-W elongated sectors with high-impedance contrast, where Quaternary deposits are reduced in thickness to about 60–130 m and directly overlay the Pliocene (Mirandola) and Miocene (Casaglia) marine units. In Mirandola, the high-amplitude peaks also correspond to higher resonance frequencies, while in Casaglia, the distribution of resonance frequencies is relatively uniform suggesting a flatter crestal region and the lateral continuity of the resonance surface. The combination of peak frequency and amplitude information on a dense grid of measurement points is thus confirmed to be useful for identifying and mapping buried geological structures such as structural highs. Further modelling is being carried out to estimate the depth of the surface responsible for the observed resonances, through calibration with borehole information.

Graphical Abstract
Establishing a typology for stewardship: a nexus of opportunity for organisational and environmental management
Authors: Martin Christopher , Ishihara Hiroe
Published: August 2024

Stewardship is often conceptualised as a governance practice that is beneficial to the resources under management. However, the broad range of stewardship interpretations and practical applications in a variety of fields has led to a complex landscape of both competing and complementary initiatives. Whilst there has been significant discussion over the role of stewardship as an environmental ethic, there has been little attempt to find the synergies and connections between such activities and other establishes implementations—such as the pivotal role it plays in organisational management. In this paper, we conceptualise a transdisciplinary typology through which the landscape of stewardship initiatives can be understood. Additionally, we summarise the history of stewardship to colour the present day context, and explore the meaning of key differences that arise from the proposed archetypes. Specifically, this includes the varying role of the principal and the effect of the prevailing frame of reference. Finally, we also offer recommendations on developing future stewardship research.
Micro-solid phase extraction with in-lab-packed columns for cost-efficient drug extraction from urine samples
Authors: Chromiec Alicja , Wietecha-Posłuszny Renata
Published: August 2024

This study introduces a miniaturised solid-phase extraction (µ-SPE) method coupled with ultra-high performance liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) for the simultaneous quantification of 23 compounds, including psychoactive drugs, narcotics and their metabolites, in urine samples. The µ-SPE method, using standard laboratory equipment such as a centrifuge, was developed and validated, offering a practical and economical alternative to more traditional SPE methods. The key extraction parameters: elution solvent composition, sample and elution volumes, and sorbent mass were optimized to enhance performance. The method demonstrated high sensitivity, with detection limits between 0.06 and 0.41 ng cm−3and quantification limits from 0.19 to 1.24 ng cm−3. The precision was confirmed with an intra-day precision ranging from 0.2% to 7.5% and an inter-day precision from 1.2% to 13.4%. Recovery rates ranged from 84.2% to 109.4%, with minimal matrix effects observed for most analytes (|ME|< 10%). The relative error remained below 5%, indicating good accuracy. The method was also evaluated in terms of greenness, practical, and analytical aspects using the WAC model. Based on the validation results, it was concluded that the developed method could be a good confirmatory method for results obtained by immunochemical tests and could also be used in both clinical analyses and forensic toxicology.

Graphical abstract
Spectrofluorimetric and smartphone-based detection methods for determination of gentamicin
Authors: Kubacki Karol , Mermer Karolina , Paluch Justyna , Bąk Magdalena , Strzelak Kamil , Kozak Joanna
Published: August 2024

This paper presents the development of spectrofluorimetric and smartphone-based detection methods for gentamicin determination using fluorescamine as a reagent. The research included selecting excitation (415 nm) and emission (489 nm) wavelengths, reaction time, and conditions like reagent concentration, and pH of the reaction medium. Moreover, the optimal operating parameters of the smartphone camera, like ISO, white balance, camera shutter, and RGB model channel were selected. Analytical parameters of the developed spectrofluorimetric and smartphone-based methods were estimated including the linear range: 0.04–15.00 mg dm−3 and 0.18–1.20 mg dm−3, respectively, limits of detection and quantification: 0.01 and 0.04 mg dm−3, and 0.06 and 0.18 mg dm−3, respectively, and precision (CV, n = 6): 5.2% and 2.8%, respectively. The proposed approaches were successfully applied to determine gentamicin in pharmaceutical samples. The obtained results were consistent with values declared by manufacturers and satisfactory recovery values, 93.2–113.6% were obtained for both spectrofluorimetric and smartphone-based methods. The developed fluorimetric method with smartphone-based detection provides a low limit of detection specific to spectrofluorimetric methods whereas the measurement system is a simple, easily accessible, compact, and low-cost device. Hence, it can become a competitive alternative to other gentamicin determination methods.

Graphical abstract
Parameter optimization for proton density fat fraction quantification in skeletal muscle tissue at 7 T
Authors: Tkotz Katharina , Zeiger Paula , Hanspach Jannis , Mathy Claudius S. , Laun Frederik B. , Uder Michael , Nagel Armin M. , Gast Lena V.
Published: August 2024

Objective

To establish an image acquisition and post-processing workflow for the determination of the proton density fat fraction (PDFF) in calf muscle tissue at 7 T.

Materials and methods

Echo times (TEs) of the applied vendor-provided multi-echo gradient echo sequence were optimized based on simulations of the effective number of signal averages (NSA*). The resulting parameters were validated by measurements in phantom and in healthy calf muscle tissue (n = 12). Additionally, methods to reduce phase errors arising at 7 T were evaluated. Finally, PDFF values measured at 7 T in calf muscle tissue of healthy subjects (n = 9) and patients with fatty replacement of muscle tissue (n = 3) were compared to 3 T results.

Results

Simulations, phantom and in vivo measurements showed the importance of using optimized TEs for the fat–water separation at 7 T. Fat–water swaps could be mitigated using a phase demodulation with an additional B0 map, or by shifting the TEs to longer values. Muscular PDFF values measured at 7 T were comparable to measurements at 3 T in both healthy subjects and patients with increased fatty replacement.

Conclusion

PDFF determination in calf muscle tissue is feasible at 7 T using a chemical shift-based approach with optimized acquisition and post-processing parameters.
MHD lensing in inhomogeneous ISM for qualitative understanding of the morphology of supernova remnants
Authors: Sofue Yoshiaki
Published: August 2024

Morphological evolution of expanding shells of fast-mode magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) waves through an inhomogeneous ISM is investigated in order to qualitatively understand the complicated morphology of shell-type supernova remnants (SNR). Interstellar clouds with high Alfvén velocity act as concave lenses to diverge the MHD waves, while those with slow Alfvén velocity act as convex lenses to converge the waves to the focal points. By combination of various types of clouds and fluctuations with different Alfvén velocities, sizes, or wavelengths, the MHD-wave shells attain various morphological structures, exhibiting filaments, arcs, loops, holes, and focal strings, mimicking old and deformed SNRs.
Technologically mediated encounters with ‘nature’
Authors: Reyes Benavides Patricia D.
Published: August 2024

Despite well-founded critiques on the concept of nature and even claims that the concept is decidedly obsolete, evidence would suggest that nature continues to play a pivotal role in orienting people towards environmental practices and advocacy. Given nature’s unyielding relevance, this paper takes inspiration from Sally Haslanger’s project of conceptual amelioration to examine how meanings ascribed to nature can lead to the actualization of desired sociomaterial realities. By building on posthumanist political ecology and Michel Callon’s notion of performation, I illustrate a dynamic in which meanings of nature emerge through the engagement in practices with the environment which are, more often than not, mediated by different technologies. After exploring this proposal through the lens of different environmentalisms, I argue that technologies can play a significant role in mediating conceptualizations of nature. To support this argument, I introduce a few elements of mediation theory and examine the meaning of nature that may emerge when social media users interact with online content of climate and ecological collapse. Overall, this approach advances a postphenomenological contribution to the scholarly trend of examining how technologies may disrupt fundamental concepts with which we respond to ethical issues. This approach underscores the role of technologically mediated practices in processes of conceptualization, as well as the significant political dimension of conceptual engineering projects.